Good morning, Quartz readers!
What to watch for today
US lawmakers vote on a massive coronavirus relief bill—maybe. A bill they’ve been wrangling over aims to reduce the economic damage to workers, small businesses, and industries. Combined with other actions by the Fed and Trump administration, the bill would have a $2 trillion net impact on the US economy.
Beijing steps up screenings for international air travelers. All flights routed to Beijing will first land in one of 12 other airports, where passengers will be screened for coronavirus before being allowed to reboard and continue to the capital. Authorities aim to stifle imported cases of Covid-19, which have risen amid a drop in domestic transmissions.
Singapore shuts its borders. Short-term visitors will not be allowed to enter or transit through the nation starting today. Widely praised for its approach to combating Covid-19, Singapore reported its first deaths from the disease Saturday.
The NYSE goes fully electronic. The iconic trading floor at the New York Stock Exchange will be empty for the first time ever. Its home state now has more Covid-19 cases than South Korea.
Over the weekend
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Italy stopped all non-strategic business activities. Prime minister Giuseppe Conte said they should remain closed until April 3. On Saturday the country reported nearly 800 coronavirus deaths, bringing its toll to almost 5,000. No nation has been hit harder in terms of fatalities.
Japan urged against nonessential travel to the US. The foreign ministry noted the rapidly expanding coronavirus outbreak in America. Japan has made similar warnings about most European countries.
A key US lawmaker tested positive for Covid-19. Rand Paul became the first senator to contract the illness. He appeared regularly on the senate floor and at meetings with colleagues last week. Two House representatives have also tested positive.
Marriott announced furloughs of corporate staff. The world’s largest hotel operator said the move will affect thousands of workers in the US and abroad. CEO Arne Sorenson said the pandemic was worse than the 2008 financial crisis and post-9/11 period combined.
Emirates said it’d suspend all passenger flights—then backtracked. The initial announcement was nixed within hours following “requests from governments and customers to support the repatriation of travelers,” said the airline. Its routes are still being drastically reduced.
Quartz membership
Clear communication of risk is critical in stopping the spread of coronavirus. Visualizations often help, but aren’t always effective. To understand the psychology behind “risk literacy,” watch the first episode of our series RISK, exclusive to Quartz members.
Quartz daily obsession
Bubble wrap is more to us than just a shipping material. Children and adults alike obsess over the stuff; it’s had cameos in several films highlighting the simple joy it provides. There are even phone apps that allow users to pop simulated bubble wrap. How did it become so ingrained in our lives? The Quartz Daily Obsession is here to pop this bubble.
Matters of debate
Companies should start new hires remotely. Even if they ultimately commute into the physical office, remote work offers a transition period to get familiar with the new role.
Covid-19 could rewrite the global order. As Washington falters, Beijing is stepping in to fill the vacuum in global leadership.
Books are essential in a pandemic. They provide escape, perspective, and food for thought at a critical time.
Surprising discoveries
Covid-19 is dampening xenophobic propaganda in Italy… The far right wants to blame immigrants for the outbreak, but Italians aren’t listening.
…and softening cybercriminals’ hearts. Forums dedicated to selling malware and swapping fraud schemes have seen an outpouring of support for coronavirus victims.
TV hospital dramas are donating medical equipment to real doctors. Shows like The Resident and Station 19 have donated face masks and other items from their sets.
There are two more species of saw shark lurking in the sea. Sporting long, flat noses studded with teeth, the primitive creatures patrol the coast of eastern Africa.
California dubbed pot an “essential service.” Dispensaries have seen sales spike as the state’s residents face a long stint at home.
Our best wishes for a productive day. Please send any news, comments, well-worn books, and hospital-drama props to hi@qz.com. Get the most out of Quartz by downloading our app on iOS or Android and becoming a member. Today’s Daily Brief was brought to you by Steve Mollman and Nicolás Rivero.