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What to watch for today
Stores and restaurants close in the UK. McDonald’s and grilled chicken chain Nando’s will temporarily shutter their branches, following a call by prime minister Boris Johnson on Friday that pubs, clubs, and restaurants should close. Bookstore chain Waterstone’s also closes its doors in the UK today.
Germany discusses a stimulus package. Chancellor Angela Merkel—who is in self-isolation after coming into contact with someone who tested positive for the novel coronavirus—and her cabinet will discuss a roughly $160 billion plan to support the economy. Germany also limited public gatherings to two people.
US lawmakers vote on a massive coronavirus relief plan. Democrats say that the $500 billion fund, which aims to reduce the economic damage to workers, small businesses, and industries, resembles a “slush fund.” The wrangling over the bill means that it will now go to a vote minutes after markets open.
The NYSE goes fully electronic. The trading floor at the New York Stock Exchange will be empty for the first time ever. New York state now has more Covid-19 cases than South Korea.
Over the weekend
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New Zealand made self-isolation mandatory. Prime minister Jacinda Ardern said this morning that citizens would have 48 hours to prepare to go into lockdown. Australia also began shutting non-essential services today, but schools remain open.
India took stronger measures against coronavirus. Following a nation-wide “people’s curfew” yesterday, Delhi’s lockdown came into effect this morning, while Mumbai’s commuter trains have suspended operations until March 31. India has 329 reported cases of Covid-19, but many believe the number is low due to a lack of testing.
The Olympics moved closer to postponement. Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe said for the first time that pushing back the games would be an option. The Canadian Olympic team announced it would not send athletes to the event this year, while Australia told its athletes to prepare for the games to be held in 2021.
Singapore shut its borders. Short-term visitors are barred from entering or transiting through the nation starting today. Widely praised for its approach to combating Covid-19, Singapore reported its first deaths from the disease Saturday as the number of imported cases rises.
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. Cuba also sent a brigade of doctors to Italy for the first time ever.
Rand Paul tested positive for Covid-19. He became the first US senator to contract the illness. Two House representatives have also tested positive. Harvey Weinstein, currently serving a prison sentence in New York state, also tested positive.
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Quartz daily obsession
Bubble wrap is more to us than just a shipping material. Children and adults alike obsess over the stuff, and 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. It offers a transition period for people to get familiar with the new role.
Covid-19 will rewrite the global order. Beijing could step in to fill the vacuum in global leadership as Washington falters.
Wear a mask. Among other reasons, Asian countries that have enjoyed success in containing the epidemic all have widespread mask usage.
Surprising discoveries
Beans are booming. Sales of pulses are skyrocketing as people stock up on foods with long shelf lives during the pandemic.
Orthodox priests in Moscow are doing their part to fight their pandemic. They’re patrolling streets and reciting prayers—while keeping a healthy distance from one another.
TV hospital dramas are helping 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, all kinds of beans, 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 written by Isabella Steger and edited by Mary Hui.