SMA
now browsing by category
Fed Expected to Begin Cutting Interest Rates Amid Cooling U.S. Economy

Economic indicators are adding pressure on the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates as early as its mid-September meeting. Recent data show a slowdown in the U.S. labor market, including weak job growth and rising unemployment, even as inflation remains elevated. These mixed signals have created what many analysts describe as a “difficult position” for the Fed.
🔍 What the Data Shows
A Reuters poll of over 100 economists expects a 25 basis points cut in September, with at least one more rate cut before the end of the year.
The CME FedWatch Tool, which reflects futures market bets, shows very high odds — over 90% — of a 25-bp cut in September.
Labor market data points to clear softening: job creation has slowed, unemployment has ticked up, and revised employment figures reveal weaker performance than earlier reported.
Inflation remains a concern: core inflation metrics, including the Fed’s preferred PCE measure, are above the 2% target. Some inflation pressures—food, housing, tariffs—are proving sticky.
⚖️ Why This Puts the Fed in a Tough Spot
The Fed has a dual mandate: price stability and maximum employment. With inflation above target but job growth weakening, deciding when and how much to ease becomes tricky. Cut too soon or too much, and inflation could resurge; wait too long, and the labor market could deteriorate further.
🔮 What’s Expected
A 25 basis-point rate cut at the FOMC meeting scheduled for September 16-17, 2025 is now widely expected.
Many economists forecast one to three additional rate cuts by year-end, depending on upcoming inflation reports and further labor market developments.
Do y
Tyler Robinson Arrested for Fatal Shooting of Charlie Kirk

On September 10, 2025, conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed during his “American Comeback Tour” event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. A single bullet struck him while he was speaking to a crowd, triggering a swift investigation.
Authorities have now arrested Tyler James Robinson, 22, in connection with the killing. He is being held without bail at Utah County Jail, facing state charges including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily harm, and obstruction of justice.
🔍 What the Evidence & Background Show
Robinson allegedly became “more political” in recent years and expressed strong disdain for Kirk’s views, according to family members. He reportedly told a family friend or relative that he was responsible for the shooting.
Key physical evidence includes bullet casings and digital messages. Some casings found at the scene were engraved with political or provocative messages. Authorities also report Discord messages from Robinson discussed obtaining the rifle used in the attack.
Robinson is believed to have acted alone.
⚖️ Legal and Social Fallout
Robinson is expected to be formally charged soon, with some counts possibly carrying the death penalty under Utah law.
Public reaction has been intense. Leaders across the political spectrum—state officials, campus administrators, and national figures—are condemning political violence and calling for calm and respectful discourse. Utah Governor Spencer Cox has emphasized that this moment demands reflection rather than further division.
Clem Ohameze: Nollywood Veteran and Pioneer of Powerful Roles

Clem Ohameze is widely regarded as one of Nollywood’s veteran actors, with a career spanning more than two decades and appearances in over 500 films. Known for his versatility and deep voice, he has built a reputation for portraying rulers, political leaders, and patriarchs—roles that helped define Nollywood’s storytelling during its formative years.
Early Life and Education
Born on June 27, 1965, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Ohameze attended Holy Family College and St. Paul’s College before studying Mass Communication at IMT Enugu. He later pursued Sociology and Anthropology at the University of Port Harcourt (Vanguard, 2021).
Rise in Nollywood
Ohameze began his professional acting career in the late 1990s, breaking through with the 1999 film End Time. He went on to feature in widely circulated VCD hits such as Last Burial (2000), Oganigwe, and Ije (Guardian, 2020). These roles cemented his place as one of Nollywood’s early stars, reaching audiences across West Africa and the diaspora.
Defining Archetypes
Through his portrayal of traditional rulers and power brokers, Ohameze helped shape the “powerful elder” archetype that remains common in Nollywood films today. His commanding presence and gravitas influenced how authority figures were represented on screen during the industry’s rapid expansion in the early 2000s.
Beyond Acting
In 2007, Ohameze entered politics, contesting for a seat in the House of Representatives under the PDP. While unsuccessful, his move reflected Nollywood’s growing influence in Nigeria’s civic space (Premium Times, 2015).
In 2021, he faced health challenges and publicly sought prayers before surgery. His resilience and openness during recovery earned him admiration from fans and colleagues (Vanguard, 2021).
Legacy
Today, as global platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video bring Nollywood films to wider audiences, Clem Ohameze represents a vital link between the VCD era and Nollywood’s digital future. His extensive body of work remains a reference point for how Nigerian cinema tells stories of power, family, and tradition.
Clem Ohameze’s enduring career underscores his role as a trailblazer in Nollywood—one whose artistry has helped transform local film into a global cultural force.
📌 Sources: Vanguard, Guardian Nigeria, Premium Times
AIG Fayoade Dismisses Rumours of Removal; Affirms He Still Heads Zone 2 Command

Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, has officially dismissed reports that he was removed from his position as head of Zone 2 Police Command (covering Lagos and Ogun states), affirming that he remains firmly in charge. (Vanguard) Vanguard News
Earlier reports alleging his removal some citing “corruption allegations” or internal plots to derail his possible elevation to the Inspector-General post—were swiftly refuted by both colleagues and his own office. Vanguard sources confirmed that Fayoade was working at his office until around 9 PM, performing all official duties without interruption. (Vanguard) Vanguard News
Multiple sources at the Force Headquarters emphasized that no official removal memo or redeployment order has been issued. One insider remarked, “He has not received any paper or anything… as we speak, there is no signal to that effect.” Vanguard News
Similarly, Naija News reported that Fayoade himself publicly debunked the claims, reiterating that he remains in command of Zone 2. Naija News
Further, the Integrity Youth Alliance weighed in, labeling the accusations as false and politically motivated. In a statement, the group maintained that the relationship between Fayoade and Inspector-General Egbetokun remains “cordial and professional,” and dismissed claims of disunity or succession intrigues as baseless. swiftreporters.com
UK Plans to Ban Energy Drink Sales to Under-16s

London, England The UK government is moving to ban the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks to under-16s, targeting beverages above 150 mg of caffeine per liter sold in retail stores, cafes, restaurants, vending machines, and online. The initiative aims to boost children’s physical and mental health by curbing risks like poor sleep, anxiety, weakened concentration, dental issues, and childhood obesity. (The Guardian, GOV.UK)
Health Secretary Wes Streeting emphasized the need for prevention over treatment in national health policy, stating:
“How can we expect children to do well at school if they have the equivalent of four cans of cola in their system on a daily basis?” (GOV.UK)
The initiative is part of the government’s 10-Year Health Plan and includes a 12-week public consultation to refine enforcement strategies. It also targets health inequalities, as research shows children from more deprived communities are more likely to consume these high-caffeine drinks, raising concerns over exacerbated disparities.
Health experts, educators, teaching unions, and dental professionals have welcomed the proposal, noting it may prevent obesity in up to 40,000 children and reduce classroom misbehavior linked to caffeine consumption. (The Guardian, The Independent)
Some critics argue that children might still access these drinks through adults or unregulated channels, but proponents underline strong regulatory enforcement mechanisms and high public health stakes as justification for bold action.
Key stakeholders have voiced support:
-
Katharine Jenner, Director of the Obesity Health Alliance, called the move “a common-sense, evidence-based step to protect children’s physical, mental, and dental health.”
-
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson linked the policy to improving behavior and concentration in schools.
-
Professor Steve Turner, President of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, remarked that young people do not need energy drinks and should rely on sleep, nutrition, and physical activity for energy.