Month: December 2020

A fresh rise in coronavirus infections in the West has set back the global economy, but the impact is far less, thanks to new company tactics and Chinese demand.

Dueling moves to boost coronavirus stimulus checks and cut foreign aid were blocked, as President Trump remained silent on his plans after demanding that lawmakers increase direct payments.

The U.K. and the European Union secured an agreement over their future relations, calming the worst fears of a major economic disruption in coming weeks as Britain unmoors from its largest trading partner.

Here’s what we know about the status of pandemic unemployment programs scheduled to end Dec. 26.

Total U.S. retail sales edged up as Americans ditched shopping in physical stores in favor of digital outlets, and pandemic buying trends for household goods over apparel continued.

More vehicles are hitting showrooms with automated driving features, raising questions about driver distraction.

Spurred by the pandemic, business changes that normally might have taken years unfolded in months. Now, shifts that began as temporary fixes are likely to become permanent.

The nation’s plan to end sales of gas vehicles by the mid-2030s—combined with moves in China, Europe and California—adds pressure on global auto makers to shift more quickly to electric vehicles.

Coronavirus-case data and employee complaints suggest food-prep workers can face exposure.

Business groups are calling for more time to adjust to Britain’s new trade agreement with the EU, saying new rules risk disrupting the $590 billion-plus annual trade in goods that previously flowed freely.