SCROLL NEWS / DISCOVERY
Search headlines
Find the stories shaping the conversation.
Results for " WHO " 14,859 found 🔀 AI-powered Shuffle
The Latest Way to Create an Isolated Retreat: Buy a Whole Village
Wealthy buyers and tourism entrepreneurs are acquiring abandoned European villages — school, church and bar included.
How gene loss and monogamy built termite mega societies
Termites did not evolve complex societies by adding new genetic features. Instead, scientists found that they became more social by shedding genes tied to competition and independence. A shift to monogamy removed the need for sperm competition, while food sharing shaped who became workers or future kings and queens. Together, these changes helped termites build colonies that can number in the millions.
Business Insider's entertainment team predicts who will take home a Grammy
In this Saturday edition of Business Insider Today, our entertainment team discusses who they think will take home a golden statuette.
'We have weaknesses': How covering sports is like raising kid athletes
Top athletes, like our kids, are more human being than prodigy. Sometimes parents, and their kids who play sports, just need to calm down.
Why Amazon Fresh struggled to break through in grocery: store workers
As Amazon Fresh closes stores, workers say the chain struggled to resonate with customers and differentiate itself from Whole Foods
Nurses strike because health care is rigged for CEOs, not us
As a nurse for 31 years, I stand with the striking NYC nurses who refuse to accept exhaustion, injury and disposability as the cost of care.
The top five transfer additions for the Buffs (so far)
The Buffs have remained aggressive in the portal, so here’s a top five you need to know right now. We’ll count down from No. 5 to No. 1 and hit why each addition fits, and how they raise the floor this fall. #5 Liona Lefau, Texas Lefau is a senior transfer from Texas who comes […]
2026 heart health faculty experts list
February is American Heart Month. The University of South Carolina is home to many faculty members who are available to offer their expertise in cardio care and research.
Commentary: Catherine O'Hara remembered in 10 indelible roles
The Canadian actor was a versatile performer whose decades-long career took her from a comedy troupe to box office and television hits.
Beyond your insurance card: How Covered California is changing health care
A quality overhaul is improving chronic care--and sending grocery aid and college savings to families who need it most.
These New Orleans businesses and restaurants are participating in national ICE Out protest
“We're excited about the possibility of not only bringing attention to what we don't want to happen in our communities, and then hopefully, you know, raise some good money to give voice and enable those who are defending people who are our neighbors,” the owner of Flour Moon said.
Theo Rossi, Mario Van Peebles & Derek Wilson Sink Teeth Into WeBros’ Vampire Island Thriller ‘Young Blood’
EXCLUSIVE: Theo Rossi, Mario Van Peebles and Derek Wilson are headlining the Ari Schlossberg directed and written vampire island feature Young Blood currently shooting in Key Largo, Florida. The trio join previously announced Myles Truitt, Madison Wolfe, Marley Aliah, Genneya Walton, Alex Aiono and Mitchell Hoog in the WeBros Entertainment production. Young Blood follows three college best friends who …
Catherine O’Hara, ‘Home Alone’ and ‘Schitt’s Creek’ star, dead at 71
Catherine O’Hara, who starred in legendary films “Beetlejuice” and “Home Alone” before taking a star turn as Moira Rose on “Schitt’s Creek,” has died. She was 71.
‘It wasn’t about the scale:’ Austin moms find community, mental health benefits through strength training
A 2024 study shows women who strength train lower their risk of death and see benefits faster than men.
10 Questions With... Randall Milstein, who teaches about science, astronomy and the role of science fiction in popular culture
10 Questions with… Randall Milstein, professor of teaching. He teaches astronomy and energy alternatives classes in the physics department, and also teaches in the Honors College. He represents OSU as its affiliate representative for the Oregon Space Grant Consortium. He enjoys engaging with the public on topics of science, astronomy and the role of science fiction in popular culture.
Kevin Couch, senior official at Trump Kennedy Center, abruptly resigns
Kevin Couch, who was named senior vice president of artistic programming at The Trump Kennedy Center earlier this month, has resigned from his role.
Which free agents should the Denver Broncos re-sign?
Heading into the 2025 season, the Denver Broncos had several key players in the final year of their deals who would become free agents at the end of the year. However, the team did a lot of the heavy lifting throughout the year and signed defensive linemen Zach Allen and Malcolm Roach, wide receiver Courtland […]
Pokémon GO February 2026 Events
The Pokémon GO February 2026 events schedule is here! In February, featured Pokémon are Solgaleo, Lunala and Growlithe. A variety of different Pokémon will be featured throughout the month, and there is a whole host of in-game events to look forward to! Here are all the major events happening in February 2026 in Pokémon GO, as […]
Senior Bowl Day 3 Risers
The Senior Bowl practices have concluded and the final day ended with a triumphant and chaotic finale. Who rose their stock in their last chance to perform in front of scouts before the Saturday game and the Combine?
Louisiana has lengthy list of Grammy nominees. Here's who to look out for this year.
And the Grammys go to ...
Watch live: Whole Hog Politics with Chris Stirewalt and Bill Sammon
The Hill’s senior vice president of editorial content, Bill Sammon, joins NewsNation’s Chris Stirewalt to discuss the latest political hot topics and national news in “Whole Hog…
Coalition seeks LA County sales tax vote to offset federal healthcare funding cuts
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors will consider whether to place a half-cent sales tax measure in front of voters. Revenues would be used to create a coverage program for people who lose their Medi-Cal.
Canon Fodder: Parasite’s Cake
Welcome back to ye ol’ Canon Fodder in 2026, a year of rather significant proportions as Halo will be celebrating its twenty-fifth anniversary. A whole quarter of a century—our very own and very first quadranscentennial! Indeed, it has already been over a month since Halo: Edge of Dawn released, and the latest novel from Kelly […]
Whole Hog Politics: Georgia always on Trump’s mind
[Watch Whole Hog Politics live: Join us today at 9 a.m. ET at TheHill.com as Chris Stirewalt and host Bill Sammon break down this week’s political news and answer questions from a live online audie…
Prison Stocks Tumble With ICE Backlash Stoking Business Angst
Wall Street investors who drove a massive surge in the shares of the two biggest private prison operators when President Donald Trump won the US election are seeing the trade fizzle out barely a year into his second term.
Cooper Flagg breaks NBA teen record with 49-point game
Cooper Flagg scored 49 points -- the most ever by a teenager in a single NBA game -- but it was not enough to save the Dallas Mavericks from a 123-121 loss to the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday.It was a third consecutive loss for the Mavericks, but a fifth straight win for the lowly Hornets, who sit 11th in the Eastern Conference.
Cooper Flagg posts 49 points, unprecedented for a teenager, in reunion with Kon Knueppel
The Mavericks rookie keeps looking more and more special, but it was the Hornets who took the win.
Possible measles exposure at UNC Nash County Health Department after child tests positive
Nash County health leaders are sending out a warning about a potential measles exposure after a child who visited the UNC Health Nash Emergency Department on Tuesday tested positive for the disease. Anyone who was at the health department between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. Tuesday may have been exposed.
Gen X and millennial inheritance could take a hit due to health care costs and taxes
Generation X and millennials who may be receiving an inheritance from the previous generations may be receiving less than expected due to health care costs and taxes, according to experts. NBC News' Brian Cheung breaks down how this will impact the younger generation.
Nash County leaders warn of potential measles exposure at UNC Health Nash
The Nash County Health Department is alerting the public after an unvaccinated child who recently traveled internationally tested positive for measles following a visit to the UNC Health Nash Emergency Department.
Kennedy Overhauls Federal Autism Panel in His Own Image
The new panel, which advises the government on research and service priorities for people with autism, includes many members who have argued that vaccines cause the disorder.
Scaling innovations in public health systems: guidance and toolkit
This guidance is a strategic instrument to position governments as drivers of health systems transformation. By embracing the roles, processes and strategies outlined herein, public sector leaders can move beyond short-term initiatives and isolated successes toward lasting, large-scale improvements in health outcomes.
Testing the system: regional simulation exercises advance global health security
These exercises – South-East Asia Regional Practice of All-Hazard IHR Event Communications (SAPHIRE), Joint Assessment and Detection of Events (JADE) in the European Region, and IHR Exercise Crystal in the Western Pacific Region – bring together National Focal points (NFPs), who play a critical role under the IHR in safeguarding global health security. These annual exercises stress-test IHR event communication procedures and contingency plans, demonstrating a sustained commitment by countries to strengthening preparedness and learning.
The Observatory and WHO Ukraine reflect on productive partnership and continued collaboration
Why have some health systems coped better than others during the COVID-19 pandemic? Some answers might become clear if we could assess how resilient health systems are in response to crises or shocks, such as the current pandemic and other emergencies, including financial ones, or how well health systems were prepared for such events in the first place. The European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies has just published a new policy brief, “Strengthening health systems resilience”, which includes a framework to help policy-makers understand health system resilience and how to strengthen it. This policy brief highlights the key features of resilience and provides examples of strategies which have been applied in different countries.
Communities unite to address stigma and discrimination affecting people with neglected tropical diseases
Marking World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) warns that millions of people living with NTDs continue to face profound and often unseen suffering due to discrimination, social stigma and untreated mental health conditions. Under the rallying theme "Unite. Act. Eliminate.", WHO and partners urge governments to integrate mental health care into NTD elimination efforts, ensuring that no one is left behind in pain or isolation.
Packers losing QBs coach Sean Mannion to Philadelphia Eagles
The Packers will need a new QBs coach. Sean Mannion, who took over the job for Tom Clements in 2025, is headed to Philadelphia to be the Eagles OC.
Minnesota shooting blurs political lines around guns : The NPR Politics Podcast
Alex Pretti was carrying a permitted gun when he had a confrontation with federal agents who ultimately shot and killed him. While the Trump administration pointed to his gun as a reason for agents to fear for their safety, pro-gun groups argued Pretti had a right to carry. We discuss the rhetoric around guns and how marginalized communities in Minneapolis have been increasingly turning toward gun ownership.This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, domestic extremism correspondent Odette Yousef, and senior political editor and correspondent Mara Liasson.This podcast was produced and edited by Lexie Schapitl and Bria Suggs.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
Mavericks put their hope in health as the 1-year anniversary of the Luka Doncic trade approaches
Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving didn't play in that 118-105 loss to Minnesota — and might not be in a Mavericks uniform on the same night again — while it was a temporary injury absence for four-time NBA champion Klay Thompson and Cooper Flagg, the rookie No. 1 pick who landed in Dallas by crazy luck and is seen as the next face of the franchise after Doncic. Days shy of a year since the Mavs shipped their global superstar to the Los Angeles Lakers for Davis and rocked the core of a team that was just nine months removed from playing in the NBA Finals, Washington's hope for a return to contention rests with those four teammates being healthy alongside him.
ICE Will Play a Big Factor in the Maine Senate Race
Seems like Republican senator Susan Collins is trying to take credit for the agency’s removal from the state. Governor Janet Mills, who’s challenging for her seat, had a rebuttal.
Night owls may face higher risk of heart disease
Adults — especially women — who stay up late have a worse cardiovascular health score and a higher risk of heart attack or stroke, according to a new study.
A Business Owner Is Getting Divorced, Asks Dave Ramsey If He'll Lose The Business. 'She's Actually 98% Owner Of The Business And I'm 2% Owner'
A Texas business owner is facing a painful split, not just from his wife, but potentially from the company he helped build. He says he’s done almost all the work since 2021, but legally owns just 2% of the business. His wife holds the other 98%, a structure their accountant recommended for tax reasons. Divorce And Ownership Don't Match Up Manny, who shared his story on the “EntreLeadership” podcast recently with personal finance expert Dave Ramsey, said, “She’s actually 98% owner of the business
Barron Trump 'understands politics,' first lady says. Who is he?
Barron Trump, the youngest son of President Donald Trump, will be featured in the upcoming documentary 'Melania.' Who is he, and how tall is he?
Jackson Health CEO to step down. Who will be the new leader?
Carlos Migoya has led Jackson for nearly 15-years and is credited with saving the hospital system from financial ruin.
The chemical genius of Katharine Burr Blodgett
The story of a woman whose discoveries in materials science quietly shape our everyday world but whose legacy was long eclipsed by the famous scientist she worked with at the General Electric Company
An AI Toy Exposed 50,000 Logs of Its Chats With Kids to Anyone With a Gmail Account
AI chat toy company Bondu left its web console almost entirely unprotected. Researchers who accessed it found nearly all the conversations children had had with the company's stuffed animals.
Politics and Film: ‘Look Who's Back,’ Feb. 4
Politics and Film will present a screening of the German dark comedy "Look Who's Back" (2015), on Wednesday, Feb. 4, at 5 p.m. in Wehr Life Sciences 100.
The Next Era of Sports and Entertainment Technology: Info-Tech Research Group Partners With SEAT to Advance Innovation and Digital Excellence Across Industry
Info-Tech Research Group, a global leader in IT research and advisory, has announced a new partnership with SEAT, the Sports & Entertainment Alliance in Technology, to empower technology, marketing, and operations executives across the global sports and entertainment industry. The collaboration will bring Info-Tech's expertise to SEAT's influential community of North American entertainment venues, sports teams, and league leaders who are driving innovation in fan engagement, digital experience,
Xevant Named a 2025 Modern Healthcare Best in Business Company for AI
Xevant, a leader in real-time pharmacy benefits intelligence, today announced it has been named a 2025 Modern Healthcare Best in Business company in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) category. The recognition honors healthcare suppliers and technology partners whose innovations delivered measurable impact across the healthcare ecosystem in 2025.
Brandon Miller, Hornets aim to stay 'hungry' vs. Mavericks
These are heady times for the Charlotte Hornets, who have won four straight games for the first time in nearly two years.
Amy Klobuchar Announces Run for Minnesota Governor
The Democratic senator, who signaled her bid after Gov. Tim Walz said he wouldn’t run again, talked about moving past political divides in a video announcement.
Game Preview: Chicago Blackhawks @ Pittsburgh Penguins 1/29/2026
Who: Chicago Blackhawks (21-23-9, 51 points, 6th place Central Division) @ Pittsburgh Penguins (26-14-11, 63 points, 2nd place Metropolitan Division) When: 7:00 p.m. eastern How to Watch: Locally broadcast on Sportsnet Pittsburgh and CHSN in the local markets, streaming on ESPN+ Pens’ Path Ahead: It’s a week-long sprint to the Olympic break finish line for the Pens. […]
The US in brief: Agents who shot Alex Pretti on leave
The latest news in US politics, with coverage of Donald Trump’s second term.
College football transfer portal is 'train wreck.' Ask man who ignited it
One of the creators of the unrestricted transfer portal in college sports calls the current system 'awful' but doesn't regret his involvement.
How an inspiring home video launched a main event fighter
How Francesca Hennessy - who headlines on BBC Two on Saturday - went from weight and dyslexia struggles to viral fame and in sight of a world-title shot.
Throwback Thursday: Notre Dame Fighting Irish Football VS Michigan, 1992
This week’s Throwback Thursday takes us back to one of the most emotionally charged games ever played inside Notre Dame Stadium — the 1992 showdown between Notre Dame and Michigan. I chose this game in honor of Reggie Brooks, whose birthday we just celebrated on January 19th. Reggie’s legacy at Notre Dame extends far beyond […]
The accidental climate scientist who uncovered an unexpected force of global warming
The Swedish Royal Academy of Sciences has awarded the Crafoord Prize to climate scientist Veerabhadran Ramanathan. He discovered a powerful force of global warming.
Are men being misled over testosterone?
In part one of a miniseries exploring the popularity of testosterone, Madeleine Finlay hears from Professor Channa Jayasena of Imperial College London, who is chair of the Society for Endocrinology, about how this craze is manifesting in NHS clinics, and from ‘Sam’ who tells Madeleine about his own journey with the hormone
Lakers routed in LeBron's possible last game in Cleveland
Donovan Mitchell scored 25 points and the Cleveland Cavaliers routed the Los Angeles Lakers 129-99 on Wednesday, spoiling what might be the final Cleveland game for superstar LeBron James.Jaylon Tyson added 20 points for the Cavs and De'Andre Hunter scored 19 off the Cleveland bench while Luka Doncic had a game-high 29 points for the Lakers (28-18), who also had eight points from Bronny James, LeBron's son.
Palat scores, assists in Islanders' 5-2 win over Rangers
Ondrej Palat scored the opening goal and added an assist in his debut with the New York Islanders, who defeated their cross-town rival New York Rangers 5-2 on Wednesday night. Simon Holmstrom had a goal and two assists, David Rittich made 14 saves, and the Islanders won their second straight game. Mathew Barzal, Jean-Gabriel Pageau and Emil Heineman also scored.
Super Bowl 2026 odds: Seahawks vs. Patriots predictions and picks
Who's favored to win the Super Bowl? Find the latest odds, picks and predictions for Seahawks vs. Patriots.
Winners of 2026 Southwest Wyoming Regional Science Fair Announced
ROCK SPRINGS — Western Wyoming Community College hosted 68 students from five different schools participating in the Southwest Wyoming Regional Science Fair Jan. 22. “The science fair gives students statewide a chance to showcase their scientific creativity and ingenuity. We deeply appreciate the participating students and the teachers and families who support them,” David Tanner,
Older adults’ driving habits offer window into brain health, cognitive decline
Research Highlights: A study of over 200 adults followed for five years found that greater white matter damage in the brain was linked to decreased driving, fewer trips, repetitive routes and having more driving errors, especially in those who later ...
Bill Belichick snub: Here are the 23 Hall of Fame voters who have confirmed they voted for him — and the 1 'no' vote
Bill Belichick snub: Here are the 22 Hall of Fame voters who have confirmed they voted for him — and the 1 'no' vote
Grammy Nominee Laura Veltz on Writing Songs in Nashville: ‘Hate Not Welcome’
Laura Veltz explains how she is able to write songs in Nashville with artists who may not share her political views, on 'Nashville Now' podcast.
'Halide' Co-Founder Sebastiaan de With Joins Apple's Design Team
Sebastiaan de With, co-founder of the popular iPhone camera app Halide, today announced that he has joined the Human Interface Design team at Apple. "So excited to work with the very best team in the world on my favorite products," he said. This marks a return to Apple for de With, who previously worked on things such as iCloud, MobileMe, and the Find My app. He has also completed design work for other companies, such as Sony, Mozilla, Oracle, HP, and EA, in the past.
Alex Vindman pulls in $1.7M in first 24 hours of Senate campaign
The whistleblower who testified in Donald Trump's first impeachment saw a national profile translate into hard cash.
$10 million gift to fuel transdisciplinary data science
Tom and Cathie Woteki, an alumni couple who made profound contributions to the fields of public health and applications of enterprise computing in their careers, have made a $10 million estate gift commitment to endow multiple faculty positions or fellowships, as well as create graduate fellowships, in the College of Science and College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
Madina Ismail joins Essentia Health-Fargo to provide hospitalist care
Essentia Health-Fargo is proud to welcome Madina Ismail, an advanced practice registered nurse and certified nurse practitioner who will provide hospitalist care.
Some of ‘Star Search’s’ biggest losers became megastars. Can the revival live up to its past?
Aaliyah, Britney and Beyoncé famously lost when they appeared on “Star Search” back in the day. Those who bested them look back as a new reboot takes off.
The Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold's Nearly $3,000 Price Might Unfold Your Whole Wallet
This double-folding phone will be the most expensive mainstream handset released in the US.
Trump’s immigration approach is gumming up the courts, frustrating his DOJ and judges
The Justice Department and federal courts are struggling to keep up with the exponential increase in federal court cases of immigrants in custody who are challenging their detentions, another result of the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement policies across the country.
Tory peer’s punishment for fiddling expenses criticised as too lenient
Campaigners demand ‘real consequences’ for peer who claimed expenses for car journeys he did not take
Snap is spinning off its AR glasses into a separate business
Snap’s augmented reality glasses business will now be its own entity, with the company establishing Specs Inc. as a wholly-owned subsidiary.
Send Help is an ode to every worker who has had a bad boss
The scariest thing about Sam Raimi’s latest is how relatable it can feel.
Obituary: Ajit Pawar, the mercurial leader who stepped out of his uncle's shadow
Ajit Pawar, who died in a plane crash, reshaped Maharashtra's politics in surprising ways.
18 free agents with connections to Lions coach Mike Kafka
Taking a look at the 2026 NFL free agents who have connections to Detroit Lions coach Mike Kafka.
Kemi Badenoch apologises for Suella Braverman mental health claim
But she branded defectors from the Conservative party "drama queens", saying people who did not agree with the direction she was taking the party "need to get out the way".
Dispatch available now for the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems
Shop now on Nintendo.com or Nintendo eShop. Manage a group of ex-supervillains who are given one last shot at redemption!
What Happens to Your Body When You Take Vitamin D Supplements Every Day Long Term?
A daily vitamin D supplement can support bone strength, muscle function, and balance—especially in people who are vitamin D deficient.
As the U.S. bids adieu to the World Health Organization, California says hello
In the wake of the U.S. withdrawal from WHO, California is the first state to participate in the agency's disease monitoring network. Are others following?
Who was Ajit Pawar, the Indian politician killed in plane crash?
Pawar was a key political figure and served as second-highest elected official in Maharashtra, India's wealthiest state.
Who will win next year's Super Bowl? 2026 NFL power rankings using Super Bowl 2027 odds
The 2026 Super Bowl is just over one week away, but who are the early favorites to win a title next season? Here are the latest odds.
New Jacksonville health center to bring expanded services, welcome patients regardless of insurance
A Jacksonville health center is expanding its reach to treat more people, especially those who do not have insurance.
Expiration of federal health insurance subsidies: What to know in California
Thousands in California who rely on the state-run health insurance marketplace face premiums that are thousands of dollars higher as federal subsidies expire.
Frederick zoning amendment could change rules for home businesses
Frederick business owners who operate out of their homes could have new rules under a zoning amendment being considered by the city's Planning Commission.
Investment and Statecraft: The International Politics of Sovereign Wealth Funds - Georgetown Journal of International Affairs
In 1953, Kuwait established the world’s first sovereign wealth fund to invest the country’s oil revenues and generate returns that would reduce its reliance on a single resource. Since then, over 100 separate funds have been created to preserve national wealth and ensure long-term fiscal sustainability. Today, they manage over $10 trillion in global assets. In this discussion with GJIA, political economist Kathryn Lavelle explains the increasingly novel dynamics that surround fund behavior and what the world can come to expect from their growing presence in international financial markets. GJIA: When it comes to the roles sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) play in global markets and politics, what would you say makes them unique? Kathryn Lavelle: Sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) operate on behalf of governments as investors. That in itself is a strange relationship. Within them, a core contest takes place between the state’s interests (or sovereign) part of the dynamic, and the money interests (or wealth) part of it, and these two aspects are frequently in contradiction, serving fundamentally different goals. SWFs are also quite fascinating because when you talk to the people who manage these funds, they have an interest in convincing you that the decisions are made almost exclusively on a financial basis—they really will go to great lengths to differentiate their government owners and those who make the management decisions. At the same time, these people ultimately answer to someone in power. Therefore, for most SWFs, it remains deeply unclear who is actually making the investment decisions and for what purposes. Of course, it is not always clear how other vehicles, such as hedge funds and private equity make the decisions they do, but I think what a lot of people find particularly disconcerting about SWFs is that they seem to act on behalf of people who have a different identity from their own. People who could be trying to manipulate politics and markets in a way that would have a long-term effect on their own populations. Regular investors come and go at will, and they only share an interest in profit as far as most of us understand. However, SWFs have that extra “sovereign” part right behind them that obscures their true interest. GJIA: These funds can be found in countries all across the globe, in both authoritarian states and democracies. Would you say SWFs differ in their goals and structures between regime-type? KL: It is not necessarily regime type that makes the goals and structures of SWFs different. It has to do with their economies. Let’s look at a country like China. There’s going to be a debate about exactly how to characterize the regime, but it is a country with many different kinds of sovereign wealth funds, and a particularly opaque state connection to each. At one time, some of the state-owned Chinese oil companies created specialized investment vehicles listed outside Chinese markets that excluded parts of the firms that were more associated with human rights violations. At the same time, the China Investment Corporation (CIC)—China’s largest SWF—draws a lot of concern, not necessarily because of its investment activities, but because of the dynamics of global politics. So, I wouldn’t really tie differences to regime types themselves in a wholesale way, but rather to how such funds are perceived and how they are structured. Saudi Arabia’s SWF is getting all kinds of attention for its involvement in Hollywood, and this takes me right back to when I was a student in the 1980s, when people were concerned about Japanese investment entities buying assets in Hollywood. They aren’t quite the same in financial terms, but it’s the same kind of concern about foreign investment that drives people to be suspicious, and the whole idea that “foreigners are influencing Hollywood.” This holds true across industries, and it reflects where politics are in places like the United States right now. One metric we can try to look at is transparency, where all the funds will tell you, “we are transparent.” The problem you’ll keep running into with this approach is how you value things. When trying to do comparative studies of equity markets, you’ll find that every country doesn’t use Generally Accepted Accounting Principles like we do in the United States. A fund may appear opaque politically and not want people to show what they’re invested in or what their intent with that investment is, but they could also just not be able to report it because of the way it was purchased, or the kinds of shares they purchased. There are some assets out there that really are difficult to put a monetary value on. GJIA: To what extent do domestic politics shape SWF behavior in both the investing “home” country and the recipient “host” country? KL: This depends on the type of fund present and also on the extent to which voters’ political views are able to influence the fund. For example, in a democratic home state like Norway, the SWF doesn’t invest in nuclear weapons or tobacco because of social concerns, but there is a continuing debate over whether it should invest in oil, even though that’s where most of the money comes from. The degree to which Norway will continue to make those investments, and whether they contradict the government’s overall climate goals, is an open question in Norwegian politics. Because of the way the fund’s governance is structured, it may not be easy to resolve. On the other hand, some people consider pension funds, like the State Teachers Retirement System (STRS) in Ohio, to be quasi-SWF. They have a very strict separation between the people who make up the management division and the fund owners. No teacher or professor would want to invest in things that may harm the future of their students. At the same time, a fund manager might see an opportunity in a diversified multinational corporation that offers a good return, despite it deriving part of its revenue from e-cigarettes. These contests are very apparent. Domestic politics can work in host countries too. A good example is Singapore’s SWF, Temasek, investing in Thailand’s telecommunications sector. If you study political economy, you already know that countries everywhere are uncomfortable with foreign ownership of their telecom sectors because a foreign entity could monitor or manipulate our communications with each other. In the case of Temasek, there was significant pushback from Thai citizens surrounding the deal, which went on to influence national political sentiment toward Singapore as a whole, underscoring the risks some SWFs may face with their investment choices. In this case, fund behavior led to the dissolution of the entire Thai government in 2006 and a subsequent coup d’état. GJIA: To address some of this unease, the Santiago Principles were established in 2009 to ostensibly promote trust and transparency. From your perspective, have these mechanisms actually changed fund behavior? KL: In international relations theory, we always like to have a clear set of norms and best practices—the orientation we want the proverbial ship to be going in. In that regard, the Santiago Principles at least got the discussion going about which direction SWFs should take at a time when people were very skittish about the growing size of these funds. Nobody wanted them to be out there and potentially destabilizing economies, so talks about disclosure, conditions for withdrawal, and the independence of managers were helpful when initiated. The biggest stumbling block was that there wasn’t exactly a good way to measure compliance with the Principles, let alone how to hold funds to them. If you read the Principles, they’re overall quite vague. In general, a fund doesn’t want to reveal how and why they make certain investment decisions because that information is proprietary—a fund makes money off of how and why it makes decisions—so how do you reconcile that with loosely-defined ideas of openness? Some decisions might have a political purpose. The bottom line is that trying to figure out and assign a score to compliance is not easy, and it is therefore the reason why the Santiago Principles never really got off the ground to the point where they could truly direct fund behavior. GJIA: Many emerging markets are looking to build their own SWFs from mineral and oil revenues. Historically, have funds shaped development trajectories in these countries? KL: I think the big story in international emerging markets investment is that the investment is increasingly no longer unidirectional. In the past multinational corporations of primarily Western background were the main form of foreign direct investment in a country. That has changed dramatically, to the point where you have companies from so-called “developing countries” taking over companies in the United States. Therefore, the landscape of international investment has changed, and I think SWFs are certainly a possibility to be the next step in the game. Historically, you didn’t need an entire financial vehicle to reinvest commodity revenues in your country, but as emerging markets get more financially sophisticated, their capacity to operate such funds has increased. SWFs would allow treasuries to move from relying on holding foreign exchange assets like cash or government bonds to having broader financial markets and targeted growth areas, while easing pressure on welfare expenditures. GJIA: With their increasing financial weight, do you see the presence of SWFs being a factor in the political choices leaders will have to make with regard to domestic and foreign policy? KL: It will depend on just how big the funds get. One of the reasons people are already apprehensive is because of their scale, and if certain SWFs in certain countries achieve a large-enough size, the presence will absolutely be cause for concern. The other factor political leaders will have to consider are their objectives. It’s not always clear how to define a SWF, or even where its activity is concentrated, but it is certainly a worry from the perspective of national security of opaque external investment. More than that, I think one of the most interesting questions going forward is whether the United States, the home to the world’s largest financial markets, will develop its own fund, for which the Trump administration announced a plan. There have also been several proposals in Congress. Were it to come into being, it would have tremendous weight. At the same time, one of the hallmarks of U.S. capitalism is a lack of government ownership of shares, so it would not be clear how such a fund would be received in domestic politics, or which direction it would take. Given how politically fragmented the country is, a Democratic administration would likely be concerned about different sectors of the economy, such as healthcare, and want investment there, rather than a Republican administration, which might prefer defense industries. No investment vehicle could thrive under conditions of such instability. Moreover, it remains unclear where the money to fund a theoretical U.S. SWF would come from. It would be a fundamentally different entity depending on whether it is financed with debt, economic surplus, commodities, or the sale of state companies, as in the case of Singapore. If it is debt, or government borrowing of some form, then the fund would have to outperform whatever the cost of that debt is, which is not an easy thing to do. I think our political leaders have enough on their plate. Our system has worked well keeping political and investment functions generally separate. We have seen different forms of business rise and fall, and even the perception of different countries, all of which funds are tied to. Unless a major SWF either starts—like in the case of the United States—or collapses—an issue that concerns the Saudis, I don’t see any political tsunamis on the horizon. . . . Kathryn Lavelle is the Ellen and Dixon Long Professor of World Affairs at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. Her research explores the exchange between domestic and international and political institutions with a particular emphasis on political economy and multilateralism. Dr. Lavelle’s first book, The Politics of Equity Finance in Emerging Markets, explored the political circumstances that surround large issues of stock in the developing world. After being granted tenure at Case Western, she was awarded an American Political Science Association Congressional Fellowship and named the William A. Steiger fellow, a designation given to the most promising political scientist in her class of fellows. While in Washington during 2006-2007, she worked on the staff of the House Committee on Financial Services on issues related to domestic and international monetary policy. Dr. Lavelle holds a PhD in political science from Northwestern University; an M.A. in government and foreign affairs from the University of Virginia; and a bachelor’s degree in international economics from Georgetown University. She is a permanent member of the New York Council on Foreign Relations. This transcript has been lightly edited for clarity and length. Interview conducted by Sid Mehrotra. Image Credit: Jason Leung, Unsplash Content Licenses, via Unsplash
Thousands of Californians move to Idaho every year. Who are they?
They’ve faced, at times, a chilly welcome from Idahoans. What the data tell us about the state’s largest group of newcomers.
Parents of child who scootered alone for 4 minutes ruled neglectful
Mallerie Shirley and her husband were found to be neglectful of their 6-year-old after letting him scooter to a park alone.
Leaked Starbucks org chart shows who's who behind its turnaround
Org charts reveal a company's power structure. A copy of Starbucks' chart shows who's helping CEO Brian Niccol drive the chain's turnaround.
Ashley Capps named one of SPIN's 2026 most influential people in music
Ashley Capps, who created Big Ears and co-founded Bonnaroo, has enriched countless people by bringing them music from the world's best artists.
Parental firearm injury linked to increased mental health burden in children
Each year, 20,000 children and adolescents across the U.S. lose a parent to gun violence, while an estimated two to three times more have a parent who has been injured due to a firearm. To better understand ...
People who naturally stay up late may have worse heart health than early risers
Adults who described themselves as night owls, especially women, can minimize risks with healthy lifestyle behaviors.
Radiologists urge HHS secretary to overhaul US Preventive Services Task Force
Over 45 physicians, scientists and public health leaders believe a “fundamental shift” is needed to address how USPSTF develops and implements recommendations.
David Faustino saying he talks to 'Married With Children' costar Christina Applegate often as she lives with MS
Former 'Married... With Children' star David Faustino says he and Christina Applegate, who played his older sister on the Fox sitcom, speak often.
Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar attacked during town hall meeting
Ilhan Omar was sprayed with an unknown substance during the attack by man who was tackled to the ground.
‘Phoenix heat melts ICE’: Zipps Sports Grill Bar raids raise questions
Although the Department of Justice said it was not an official immigration action, Raul Piña, who serves on the Community Advisory Board for the Melendres v. MCSO case about racial profiling, disagreed. Piña said this technique of detaining undocumented immigrants was pioneered by former Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio.
Who Decides When a Home Is Safe? A California Bill Says Science, Not Insurers.
Following a Times investigation, a state lawmaker is proposing the first health-based standards for assessing smoke contamination after wildfires.
Gun-rights groups decried the administration’s rhetoric on Alex Pretti’s gun. Then Trump went even further.
The Trump administration didn’t have a whole lot to work with after a federal officer shot and killed someone again this weekend in Minneapolis.
From lunch tray to lifelong health: WHO sets global standards for school meals
For the first time ever, the World Health Organization (WHO) is providing recommendations for healthy and nutritious food in schools around the world.