Good morning. It's Thursday, June 11, 2026. Global tensions are on the rise as the U.S. military conducts strikes against Iran-linked targets, prompting a response from former President Trump.
In economic news, exchange-traded fund assets have grown significantly in recent months, as investors seek alternatives to traditional mutual funds.
The Top Stories
The U.S. military has conducted recent strikes against Iran-linked targets, prompting a response from former President Trump. Trump revealed that Iran contacted him after the strikes, making a request, although the details were not disclosed.
Why it matters: The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, with potential implications for global stability. The U.S. wholesale inventories increased 0.1% in April, following a 0.2% decline in March.
This modest gain suggests a cautious approach to inventory management. Why it matters: The rise in wholesale inventories may indicate a shift in business sentiment, potentially influencing future economic growth.
Israel conducted an airstrike on a Beirut suburb in response to a Hezbollah missile attack, resulting in at least two fatalities. Why it matters: The escalation of violence in the region raises concerns about the potential for wider conflict.
Washington & the Nation
The General Services Administration (GSA) announced the sale of the historic Old Post Office Building on Pennsylvania Avenue, which previously housed the Trump International Hotel. The sale includes preservation covenants to maintain the building's historic integrity.
Rep. Jim Jordan raised concerns about the UK's new surveillance laws and a reported request for an Apple encryption backdoor, citing potential risks to U.S. officials' communications.
A crowdfunding campaign for the family of convicted killer Karmelo Anthony collected nearly $634,000 before being taken down, with funds reportedly used for moving and living costs.
Around the World
The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, with potential implications for global stability. Israel's airstrike on a Beirut suburb in response to a Hezbollah missile attack resulted in at least two fatalities.
The escalation of violence in the region raises concerns about the potential for wider conflict.
Your Money
Exchange-traded fund (ETF) assets rose sharply in the first quarter of 2024, as investors seek alternatives to traditional mutual funds. Analysts note key differences in trading, tax treatment, and management between ETFs and mutual funds.
The 10-year Treasury yield is near 4.55%, while the Dow, S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Russell 2000 are all down, and oil is up. Gold is also down. Overall, stocks are experiencing a decline, while the oil market sees an increase.
Health & You
Doctors warn that ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, may signal early hearing loss. Early detection can help address related health risks, emphasizing the importance of regular hearing checks for adults 50+.
One Good Thing
Austrian Airlines has upgraded its transatlantic business class with lie-flat seats, upgraded dining, and access to Star Alliance lounges, enhancing the premium travel experience for passengers.
On This Day
In 1963, Governor George Wallace stood in a doorway at the University of Alabama to block two Black students before federal officials forced their enrollment. In 1979, Actor John Wayne, one of Hollywood's most enduring stars, died of cancer in Los Angeles.
In 1910, Jacques Cousteau, the French undersea explorer and filmmaker, was born in Saint-Andre-de-Cubzac. In 1925, William Styron, the novelist of Sophie's Choice, was born in Newport News, Virginia., from the 50PlusHub Nostalgia archive.
That's the way it is. As we conclude today's briefing, we encourage you to stay informed about global events and their potential impact on your life. By staying up-to-date on current events and economic trends, you can make more informed decisions about your future.
Sources
- Reuters, 'US strikes Iran-linked targets in Syria and Iraq,' (2026)
- Bloomberg, 'ETF Assets Reach Record High as Investors Seek Alternatives,' (2024)
- The New York Times, 'Israel Conducts Airstrike on Beirut Suburb,' (2026)
- U.S. Treasury (Treasury yields)
- Yahoo Finance (delayed market quotes)
- 50PlusHub Newsroom