Business
Amid rising obesity, Europe must not import MAHA’s sweeping campaign against UPFs
As governments in high-obesity countries ramp up efforts to improve nutritional health, ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are increasingly in the firing line, giving policymakers a highly visible target through which to project resolve.
Leading the global anti-UPF movement, US Health Secretary and ‘MAHA’ architect, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., revealed earlier this month that his administration had drafted a UPF definition, with the ever-elusive criteria, now pending White House approval, expected in the coming months.
While projecting a sense of action, such attempts to define and regulate UPFs face a basic obstacle; namely, that there is still no broadly-agreed scientific definition, with researchers’ classification of foods as UPFs under the NOVA system varying widely. Even FDA nutrition official Claudine Kavanaugh recently conceded that scientists are still trying to determine whether health outcomes stem from a food’s processing levels or nutrient composition, stating that “there’s a lot of gray areas, given the conflicting information that’s out there.”
Given this major informational gap, public policy must resist the blunt, hasty interventions advanced under the MAHA model. As Washington pushes this agenda onto the global stage, and signs emerge that Europe may look to RFK Jr.’s approach for inspiration, Brussels should avoid the trap by pursuing precise, evidence-based regulation while building a multi-faceted prevention strategy for obesity, heart disease and related non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
EU’s urgent search for answers
Europe’s nutritional health challenge has become impossible to ignore. Today, nearly 60% of adults and almost one in three children in the WHO European Region live with overweight or obesity, while cardiovascular disease claims 1.7 million EU lives each year. NCDs sit at the point where individual health, quality of life and strained public finances collide, confronting Europe with a challenge its health systems cannot meet through treatment alone. Prevention must therefore become the organising principle, reshaping the conditions in which people eat, move, work and age, rather than reducing the target to a single convenient villain.
Unveiled in December 2025, the EU’s ‘Safe Hearts Plan’ rightly recognises the scale of the cardiovascular burden and pays lip service to effective prevention. Yet its food agenda risks echoing the RFK approach by putting UPFs in the policy crosshairs before establishing whether such a broad and contested category can support coherent, science-based regulation. Concerningly, Commissioner Várhelyi has praised the RFK Jr.’s anti-UPF, “#eatrealfood,’ campaign, while signaling a will to cooperate with the US on this issue “to turn shared ambition into concrete results.”
However, embarking upon this path of imitation is unlikely to deliver the anticipated benefits, as it lacks not only firm scientific grounding but also broad political buy-in. The Plan’s initial UPF approach quickly proved divisive, with an earlier draft, steered by EU Health Commissioner, Olivér Várhelyi, reportedly exploring EU-wide levies on ultra-processed foods, prompting broad criticism from various DGs primarily centred around the absence of sufficient evidence to back such a policy. This opposition did not fall on deaf ears, with the current version of the bloc’s heart health plan dropping the concrete commitment to a UPF tax and instead vaguely referring to “possible financial actions.”
UPF debate exposes Brussels’ wider policy choice
The Brussels debate over UPFs in the Safe Hearts Plan captures a wider choice now facing the Commission: whether to pursue visible but narrow interventions, or to build a genuinely preventive health agenda rooted in evidence, proportionality and practical support for healthier lives. While certain public health actors have welcomed the plan’s preventive ambition, they have also warned that it still lacks the stronger measures needed to turn that vision into reality, making it all the more vital that Europe’s response delivers prevention in practice rather than in theory.
The first flaw in the current backlash against UPF is that the category is too crude for the certainty now attached to it. A recent Healthy Eating Research report, highlighted by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, points to the same weakness, showing foods grouped as UPFs vary sharply in composition, use and nutritional profile. As Noah Praamsma rightly asserts, “we need to be more nuanced.” In short, when the science remains unsettled, policymakers cannot simply treat UPFs as a self-evident marker of risk.
Secondly, the processing label may be obscuring the real biological mechanisms at work. The authors of a recent Perspectives report argue that many effects attributed to UPFs can be explained by better-established factors such as calorie density, fibre and protein content, texture and eating rate, rather than processing itself. That matters because these are also the variables increasingly identified in research on the microbiome, satiety, metabolic health and how different foods interact with human biology. In other words, the real question is not simply how processed a food is, but what that food actually does in the body.
Moreover, even the classification system underpinning the UPF debate is far less robust than the politics and media headlines would lead one to believe. Crucially, the NOVA system attempts to describe a product’s degree of processing, not its healthiness or potential contribution to diet-related disease, yet even in this regard its limits have become apparent. Indeed, one European Journal of Clinical Nutrition study found low agreement among French food and nutrition specialists assigning foods to NOVA groups. If even experts struggle to apply UPF designations consistently, policymakers should be wary of building labels, taxes or restrictions around it.
High stakes for Europe’s anti-obesity agenda
For Europe, the danger is not only regulatory overreach, but consumer confusion. A recent Food Standards Agency survey found that, among people who had changed their diets for health reasons, eating less processed food had become a higher priority than cutting high-sugar products or eating more fruit and vegetables – findings which should worry public health officials. When processing becomes the dominant health signal, people may make well-intentioned but poorly informed choices, treating a vague industrial marker as more important than a food’s nutritional profile or overall diet quality.
Moving forward, Europe cannot afford to confuse anxiety with effective prevention, nor does it need to choose between complacency and overreach. With obesity still high and governments setting ambitious reduction targets, the evidence gap around UPFs should push EU and national leaders toward smarter regulatory action, not superficial definitions and labels.
If the Commission is serious about reversing the rise of obesity, heart disease and other NCDs, they must instead invest in meaningful prevention measures capable of changing daily lives, from balanced diets, healthier school meals and more active cities to earlier screening, mental health support, less sedentary time and practical help to sustain healthier routines.
The “Thailand Surf Therapy Real Experience and Trust Building Journey” in Phang-nga, organized by TAT, showcases surf-based wellness for emotional healing, enhancing Thailand’s coastal tourism and wellness offerings.
Launch of Thailand Surf Therapy
In June 2026, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) organized the “Thailand Surf Therapy Real Experience and Trust Building Journey” in Phang-nga. This initiative precedes the concept’s official unveiling at Thailand Health Excellence 2026 on 30 June. Collaborating with Prince of Songkla University, La Vita Sana, and international partner Waves for Change, the event gathered 36 tourism and wellness stakeholders to explore surf therapy’s potential in boosting coastal tourism and wellness.
Integrating Wellness and Coastal Tourism
The event’s programme included a “Discover Talk” session on surf therapy, led by Waves for Change’s Lian Papier, and practical surf therapy experiences at Memories Beach. Participants learned about surf therapy’s role in emotional and mental well-being, advancing Thailand’s wellness tourism. The event continued with activities like “Wellness-Breath with the Ocean” using Tibetan bowls, enhancing coastal experiences, and preparing for diverse surf-based wellness programs aimed at stress management.
Future of Thailand Surf Therapy
The Thailand Surf Therapy model aims to integrate international surf therapy techniques with local Thai identities to enrich the wellness tourism landscape. Supported by Span Global through the Rise On Wave network, the initiative includes varied programs such as the Wave Reset and Ocean Balance initiatives. At Thailand Health Excellence 2026, TAT will position Thailand as a premier destination for science-based wellness and therapeutic tourism in Asia.
Source : TAT shapes Thailand Surf Therapy as science-based coastal wellness model
Other People are Reading
Jefferies quarterly profit more than doubles on dealmaking, equities strength
Microsoft: Don't Sit On Your Hands, We Might Never See Such A Discount Again
Operator
Hello, and welcome to the Energy Fuels Inc. 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Please note that this meeting is being recorded. [Operator Instructions].
Bruce Hansen
Good morning, everyone, and welcome again to the 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders of Energy Fuels Inc. My name is Bruce Hansen. I’m speaking to you from our corporate headquarters in Lakewood, Colorado.
I serve as the Chair of the Energy Fuels Board of Directors, and I will act as Chair of this meeting. Corporate Counsel and Corporate Secretary of the company, Julia Hoffmeier, will act as Secretary of the meeting.
Also with us today are Ross Bhappu, our President and Chief Executive Officer; Curtis Moore, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Development; Nathan Bennett, Chief Financial Officer; Nathan Longenecker, Chief Legal Officer and Executive Vice President of Global Government Relations; Kim Casey, Director of Investor Relations; and [ Brian Sheed ], KPMG Audit Partner. I would also like to acknowledge our Board of Directors, many of whom are in attendance with us today.
Finally, I’d like to pay special recognition to 2 directors that have chosen not to stand for reelection this year. That includes Birks Bovaird, who joined the Board in 2006 and served as its Chair from March 2007 to June of 2025, a period of more than 18 years in his notable 20-year tenure with Energy Fuels. Birks strong leadership, sound judgment and balanced perspective have helped support the company through numerous challenges, opportunities and successes.
Our longest-standing director and a member of various Board committees. Birks has
MIAMI — Lionel Messi turned 39 on Wednesday, yet the Argentine superstar continues to perform at an elite level that draws comparisons to players half his age, showcasing remarkable longevity in a physically demanding sport.
Messi’s latest displays of brilliance, including a goal against Austria where he evaded multiple defenders with precise control and finishing, have fueled discussions about the secrets behind his enduring excellence. Observers note his vision, anticipation and technical mastery remain as sharp as ever.
The Inter Miami and Argentina captain has long emphasized personal responsibility for his fitness. His approach combines disciplined nutrition, targeted training and an enduring passion for the game that keeps him motivated.
Messi began working with an Italian nutritionist around 2014, focusing on reducing inflammation through dietary changes. He significantly cut back on sugar and refined flour while emphasizing whole grains, fresh vegetables and balanced meals to fuel his body efficiently.
This regimen supports sustained energy levels and faster recovery, allowing him to maintain high performance despite the rigors of professional soccer. Messi’s commitment extends beyond the kitchen to recovery protocols and smart workload management.
Rather than heavy weightlifting, he prioritizes flexibility, speed and functional movements tailored to soccer’s demands. The strategy helps preserve his agility and reduce injury risk as he advances in his career.
In comments reflecting on his approach, Messi highlighted a mindset focused on the present. He avoids dwelling on age, instead concentrating on his physical condition and giving full effort in every training session and match.
The forward’s dedication has produced a trophy-laden career, including World Cup glory with Argentina and consistent club success. At an age when many players retire or see diminished roles, Messi remains a central figure capable of deciding matches.
Career Longevity in Focus
Messi’s ability to sustain world-class output stems from holistic self-management. Professional athletes often face accelerated physical decline, but targeted habits can extend prime years significantly.
His dietary discipline aligns with broader trends in sports science emphasizing anti-inflammatory foods and nutrient density. Avoiding processed items while prioritizing recovery nutrition has become a model for aspiring players.
Training philosophy also plays a key role. By focusing on sport-specific preparation over general strength building, Messi optimizes performance without unnecessary wear on his body. Regular monitoring and adjustments ensure he trains smart rather than simply training hard.
Mental resilience complements physical preparation. Messi has spoken about his deep love for football as a driving force, helping him maintain motivation through challenges and the natural aging process.
When asked about potential participation in the 2030 World Cup, he deflected speculation. “It’s still a long way off,” Messi said, preferring to concentrate on daily responsibilities and current commitments.
This grounded perspective allows him to avoid unnecessary pressure while maximizing present opportunities with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer and the Argentina national team.
Impact and Legacy
Messi’s influence extends far beyond statistics. His work ethic and professionalism set standards for younger teammates and global fans. Young players study his movement, decision-making and preparation routines in hopes of replicating aspects of his success.
At Inter Miami, he continues elevating the league’s profile while mentoring emerging talents. His presence draws sellout crowds and heightened competition whenever he steps on the pitch.
Argentina national team coach and teammates value his leadership and on-field intelligence. Despite turning 39, Messi’s contributions remain vital in competitive matches, where experience often proves decisive.
The soccer world watches with admiration as he challenges conventional notions of athletic prime. While genetics play a role, Messi’s consistent habits demonstrate the power of discipline and smart choices over decades.
Broader Context in Professional Soccer
Longevity has become an increasingly studied topic as athletes seek extended careers. Advances in sports medicine, nutrition and recovery technology enable top performers to compete longer than previous generations.
Messi joins a select group of players who have excelled into their late 30s, including contemporaries like Cristiano Ronaldo. Their sustained success highlights evolving approaches to training and lifestyle management.
Clubs and national teams invest heavily in player care to maximize return on talent. Individual responsibility, however, remains crucial as seen in Messi’s proactive management of his body and career.
As the 2026 season progresses, expectations around Messi will persist. His ability to contribute at the highest level continues inspiring debates about age and performance in elite sports.
For now, Messi focuses on daily improvement and team success. His journey offers valuable lessons on commitment, adaptability and finding joy in pursuit of excellence regardless of calendar years.
The soccer icon’s story resonates globally, reminding fans and athletes alike that sustained greatness requires more than natural talent — it demands unwavering dedication to craft and well-being.
Federal Reserve Board Governor Michelle Bowman, U.S. President Donald Trump’s nominee to be Federal Reserve vice chair for supervision, testifies before a Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee confirmation hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., U.S., April 10, 2025.
Kevin Mohatt | Reuters
The biggest U.S. banks would be able to absorb more than $708 billion in losses in a severe global recession while continuing to lend to households and businesses, according to the Federal Reserve’s annual stress test released Wednesday.
All 32 banks examined by the Fed remained above their minimum capital requirements under the regulator’s hypothetical scenario, which included unemployment surging to 10%, a 39% drop in commercial real estate prices and a 30% decline in home prices.
The industry’s common equity tier 1 capital ratio, a key capital measure that would absorb losses in a downturn, fell by 1.6 percentage points during the exercise, remaining comfortably above required minimums. Projected losses for the group included roughly $200 billion tied to credit cards, $160 billion from commercial and industrial loans and $75 billion from commercial real estate.
“Today’s results underscore the strength of the banking system,” Federal Reserve Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle Bowman said in a release.
The annual exercise comes at a pivotal moment for bank regulation because, unlike in previous years, the results will not affect the amount of capital large banks are required to hold.
That’s because the Fed said in February that it would leave the stress test buffers untouched until 2027 as regulators rework the methodology, heeding industry complaints, a move that could eventually reshape how much capital firms must hold against future downturns.
In a June 21 research note that described this year’s exercise as “going through the motions,” KBW analysts led by Christopher McGratty said banks are likely to remain focused on the pending Basel III Endgame proposal expected later this year rather than the stress test results themselves.
KBW estimated that if this year’s results had counted toward capital requirements, Morgan Stanley, Citigroup, Citizens Financial and KeyCorp would have seen some of the largest reductions in capital buffers.
This story is developing. Please check back for updates.
Jamie Levy
President, CEO & Director
Thank you all for attending. Good morning. Welcome to the 2026 Annual and Special Meeting of Generation Mining Limited. My name is Jamie Levy, and I am President and Chief Executive Officer and Director of the company. It’s my pleasure to welcome shareholders and others present in person and those watching the 3 of you in-person, thank you and those listening via Zoom to this meeting. Thank you for your interest in Generation Mining. Sorry, I’m just admitting more people here.
We will first proceed with the formal business of the meeting. As highlighted in our notice of meeting and management circular, shareholders joining us via Zoom shall not be able to vote or participate in the formal business of the meeting. Following the formal business of the meeting, I will present an update of the company and those joining us in person or participating via Zoom will have an opportunity to ask questions. Instructions on how to ask questions via Zoom will be provided after the formal business of the meeting has been completed.
The meeting now come to order. I, Jamie Levy, will act as Chair of the meeting. And with the consent of the meeting, I appoint Brian Jennings, the company’s Chief Financial Officer, act as Secretary of the meeting.
With the consent of the meeting, I appoint TSX Trust Company, the registrar and transfer agent for the company, acting through its representative, Ms. Julie Kim, to act as scrutineer of the meeting. In order for a quorum to be present in accordance with the bylaws of the company, the scrutineer reports must show that there are not less than 2
Athleisure brand Vuori bets Chinese consumers will shell out for its stylish workout clothes in a global push that primes it to challenge rivals like Lululemon LULU 3.14%increase; up pointing triangle overseas.
The brand—known for its jogger pants as well as attire for tennis, golf and other sports—grew out of California, gaining cachet for its knack for men’s activewear. As the company cements itself in the woman’s activewear segment, it is eyeing an expansion in Asia and could snag market share in the region from rivals like Lululemon and Alo Yoga.
Copyright ©2026 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8
Dorine is a financial journalist passionate about making crypto accessible. With three years covering digital assets, market trends, and blockchain innovation, she helps readers stay ahead of developments that move markets, without the jargon.
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha’s Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
Business
Home Depot Shares Surge Over 5 Percent as Retailer Strengthens Position in Housing Market Recovery
NEW YORK — Home Depot Inc. shares climbed sharply on Wednesday, rising more than 5 percent to around $342.49 as investors responded positively to the home improvement giant’s resilience amid shifting economic conditions.
The stock’s notable gain reflected broader optimism around consumer spending in the housing sector and the company’s strategic positioning for potential market recovery. Home Depot, a bellwether for both consumer confidence and the housing industry, has navigated challenges including elevated interest rates that previously dampened big-ticket purchases.
The retailer’s performance underscores its ability to adapt through diversified offerings, supply chain efficiencies and targeted investments in e-commerce and professional contractor services. As mortgage rates show signs of stabilization, analysts anticipate improved demand for home improvement projects.
Home Depot has consistently demonstrated strength in core categories such as building materials, appliances and seasonal products. Its vast store network and online platform provide customers with comprehensive solutions for renovations, repairs and new construction support.
Financial Performance and Strategy
The company has reported steady revenue despite macroeconomic headwinds. Comparable sales metrics have reflected a cautious consumer environment, but professional customer segments have offered relative stability.
Leadership continues emphasizing operational excellence, inventory management and customer experience enhancements. Investments in technology, including improved digital tools for contractors and DIY enthusiasts, aim to capture shifting shopping behaviors.
Home Depot’s balance sheet strength supports ongoing share repurchases, dividend growth and strategic capital expenditures. The retailer maintains a disciplined approach to expansion while returning capital to shareholders.
Analysts have highlighted the company’s market share leadership and competitive advantages in a fragmented home improvement landscape. Pricing strategies and supplier relationships help navigate inflationary pressures on key commodities.
Housing Market Context
The U.S. housing sector has faced affordability challenges due to higher borrowing costs and limited inventory in recent years. However, improving job markets and potential rate easing could unlock pent-up demand for repairs, upgrades and new home-related spending.
Existing homeowners represent a significant opportunity as many delay selling or moving. This dynamic benefits retailers like Home Depot, which cater to maintenance and improvement needs regardless of transaction volumes.
New construction activity, while variable, provides additional tailwinds through partnerships with builders and suppliers. Home Depot’s professional business segment has grown in importance as contractors rely on reliable, efficient sourcing.
Seasonal factors also influence performance, with spring and summer typically driving higher sales in outdoor living, gardening and project materials. The company optimizes merchandising and promotions to capitalize on these periods.
Competitive Landscape
Home Depot competes with Lowe’s and specialized retailers while facing pressure from online pure-plays and big-box general merchandisers. Its scale, assortment depth and omnichannel capabilities provide differentiation.
Recent initiatives focus on enhancing in-store experiences, faster fulfillment and personalized recommendations. Loyalty programs and credit offerings further strengthen customer relationships and repeat business.
Supply chain investments have improved product availability and reduced costs over time. These efficiencies contribute to margin stability even as product mix evolves with market trends.
Investment Outlook
For long-term investors, Home Depot offers exposure to essential consumer spending and housing-related cycles. The company’s dividend yield and history of consistent payouts appeal to income-oriented portfolios.
Valuation metrics reflect expectations for recovery and growth as economic conditions normalize. While sensitive to housing indicators, the retailer’s essential nature provides defensive characteristics during downturns.
Risks include prolonged high interest rates, material cost volatility and labor market shifts affecting contractor activity. Execution on digital transformation and cost management will influence future results.
The stock’s recent movement suggests renewed confidence in the company’s fundamentals and sector prospects. Market participants will monitor upcoming earnings for further insight into consumer trends and guidance.
Broader Retail Environment
Retail spending patterns have shown resilience supported by employment gains, though discretionary categories face selectivity. Home improvement remains a priority for many households focused on property value and livability.
Home Depot’s role as an economic indicator extends beyond its financial reports. Foot traffic, basket sizes and category performance offer glimpses into homeowner confidence and spending capacity.
Sustainability initiatives and product sourcing practices increasingly influence consumer preferences. The company continues adapting to demands for eco-friendly options and responsible supply chains.
As the year progresses, attention will center on interest rate trajectories, housing inventory levels and consumer sentiment. Home Depot appears well-prepared to capitalize on any upswing while maintaining discipline in challenging periods.
The retailer’s long track record of adaptation through economic cycles reinforces its position as a core holding for many portfolios. Continued innovation and customer focus should support sustained relevance in evolving markets.
Shane Mosley names the welterweight champion who would have beaten Terence Crawford
Public Records Bill Would Make California The ‘Most Secretive’ State In The US
Stormont Minister’s light up for USA 250 request approved in Lisburn despite Trump concerns
-
Fashion5 days agoWeekend Open Thread: Miami – Corporette.com
-
Entertainment4 days agoRenter of Home in Anne Heche Crash Denies Settlement With Son
-
Tech2 days agoMicrosoft accidentally kills epic Outlook email threads
-
Sports1 day agoTwo goals and an assist by sheer aura: Cristiano Ronaldo just entered the World Cup chat
-
Business4 days agoSoccer-U.S. defends Iran World Cup travel restrictions, says discussions ongoing
-
Crypto World17 hours ago
Bitcoin (BTC) Dips Below $62K, Ethereum (ETH) Plunges 6% Daily: Market Watch
-
Politics6 days agoBBC Reporter Discusses Cross Party Criticism Of Trumps Iran Deal
-
Crypto World14 hours agoSecuritize Wraps Roubini's SEC-Registered ETF as Dubai VARA Digital Security
-
Business20 hours ago
Entergy settles forward sale agreements, raises $672 million in cash proceeds
-
Business5 days agoWall Street Week Ahead: Investors see Micron earnings as pulse check of AI rally momentum
-
Politics4 days agoAndy Burnham and the meaning of Makerfield
-
Tech6 days agoAWS enters the context layer race with a graph that learns from agents, not manual curation
-
NewsBeat5 days agoKeir Starmer Allies Question His Chances For No 10
-
Crypto World4 days agoCan Charles Hoskinson Really Rescue Cardano?
-
Crypto World5 days agoHIVE shares jump as $220M AI deal speeds Bitcoin mining pivot
-
Crypto World4 days agoJake Chervinsky accuses CME of protecting derivatives monopoly
-
Tech3 days agoSignal’s Meredith Whittaker says AI chatbots ‘are not your friends’ and calls Copilot agents a backdoor
-
Entertainment5 days agoJose Alvarado Wants Taylor Swift at More Knicks Games
-
Tech2 days agoNearly 7,000 fake Amazon domains registered ahead of Prime Day 2026, researchers warn
-
Business6 days agoBrexit cost 6% of UK economy, Bank of England company data suggests
You must be logged in to post a comment Login