Good morning. It's Friday, October 23, 2026. The US has ended its 12-year military mission in Iraq, marking a significant development in the country's history. This news comes as the economy is showing signs of stability, with low jobless claims and slower inflation growth, which may delay the next interest-rate hike until December.
The Top Stories
The US has ended its 12-year military mission in Iraq, with the departure of its forces from the country. All US forces and equipment have left Erbil Air Base in northern Iraq.
Why it matters: This development marks a significant shift in the US's military presence in the region. The Federal Reserve's preferred inflation gauge for August was lower than expected, which may delay the next interest-rate hike until December.
Why it matters: This development could have a significant impact on the economy, as interest rates affect borrowing costs and consumer spending. Jobless claims remained low in the latest week, indicating a stable labor market with minimal layoffs.
Why it matters: Low jobless claims are a sign of a strong labor market, which is good news for workers and the economy as a whole.
Washington & the Nation
The Federal Trade Commission has launched a website where individuals can report online platforms that fail to remove intimate images shared without permission. The law requires platforms to remove such images, and the FTC is taking steps to enforce this law.
The Federal Court has halted the execution of Christa Gail Pike in Tennessee, just before it was scheduled to start. The execution was halted about an hour before its planned beginning, due to an appeal filed by Pike's lawyers.
Around the World
European stocks started the day with losses after a weak finish on Wall Street, due to computer outages that affected trading. This development is a sign of the interconnectedness of global markets, and how events in one region can affect others.
A co-pilot allegedly stabbed the pilot on a FlyDubai flight headed to Israel, but passengers intervened to stop the co-pilot, who reportedly intended to crash the plane. This incident highlights the importance of airline safety and security protocols.
Your Money
The economy is showing signs of stability, with low jobless claims and slower inflation growth. The Dow is up, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq are down, and the Russell 2000 is up.
Gold is down, and oil is up, with the 10-year Treasury near 4.96%. This mixed market performance is a sign of the complex and dynamic nature of the economy, and the many factors that can affect it.
Plus500 has announced an 11% increase in quarterly revenue, and Charter Communications has announced a buyout deal for Liberty Broadband, which marks a significant development in the telecommunications industry.
Health & You
As people age, it's essential to prioritize health and wellness. According to the National Institutes of Health, regular exercise and a balanced diet can help prevent chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes.
The NIH recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, and a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. By following these guidelines, adults 50+ can reduce their risk of chronic diseases and maintain their overall health and well-being.
One Good Thing
In a positive development, the US has ended its 12-year military mission in Iraq, marking a significant step towards peace and stability in the region. This development is a testament to the hard work and dedication of US forces and their allies, and a reminder that even in challenging times, there is always hope for a better future.
As we look to the future, it's essential to recognize the progress that has been made and to continue working towards a more peaceful and stable world.
On This Day
In 1956, The Hungarian Revolution against Soviet domination began in Budapest. In 1983, A suicide bombing killed 241 American service members at the Marine barracks in Beirut.
In 1872, Théophile Gautier, French poet and critic. In 1925, Johnny Carson, American television host. (From the 50PlusHub Nostalgia archive.)
As we close out the week, it's essential to stay informed about the latest developments in the economy, politics, and healthcare. By staying up-to-date on the latest news and trends, adults 50+ can make informed decisions about their lives and stay ahead of the curve.
Thank you for joining us on The Daily Briefing, and we'll see you next time. And that's the way it is.
Sources
- National Institutes of Health, 'Exercise and Physical Activity,' NIH Publication (2026)
- Federal Reserve, 'Monetary Policy Report,' Federal Reserve (2026)
- Market Watch, 'Market Performance,' Market Watch (2026)
- US Department of Labor, 'Jobless Claims,' US Department of Labor (2026)
- U.S. Treasury (Treasury yields)
- Yahoo Finance (delayed market quotes)
- 50PlusHub Newsroom