Good morning, Quartz readers!
WHAT TO WATCH FOR TODAY
British lawmakers debate new surveillance legislation. Among other things, the proposed measure could compel telecom companies and internet service providers to store every person’s communications data for a year in the name of national security. Critics have dubbed it the ”snooper’s charter.”
The world’s top two economies talk. US treasury secretary Jacob Lew and secretary of state John Kerry are in Beijing for the annual US-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue. Talking points include South China Sea tensions and greater communication over the US Federal Reserve’s interest rate decisions.
Yellen speaks. Markets will listen carefully to Janet Yellen’s lunchtime speech in Philadelphia. The US Federal Reserve chair might give some hints as to whether Friday’s disappointing data on the US jobs market will slow the march toward further rate hikes.
Modi in Washington. Indian prime minister Narendra Modi arrives for a visit in the US during which he is set to visit president Barack Obama and address both houses of Congress. Some US lawmakers plan to ask Modi about India’s record on human trafficking.
OVER THE WEEKEND
Switzerland voted “no” on universal basic income. On Sunday voters overwhelmingly rejected a proposal to give $2,500 a month to citizens in guaranteed income. But the basic idea still intrigues leaders in other European countries and even Silicon Valley.
Europe was drenched. In Paris the Seine reached its highest levels in nearly 35 years, closing museums and landmarks, and president François Hollande said the government will likely declare a “natural catastrophe” this week. Germany canceled a music festival after 70-plus people were injured during lightning strikes.
The world mourned Muhammed Ali. People in the boxer’s hometown of Louisville, Kentucky weren’t the only ones to remember Ali and his illustrious career. This weekend, Muslims all over the world celebrated the unifying effect that he had for them.
The Philippines’ next president urged DIY law enforcement. President-elect Rodrigo Duterte condemned the illegal drug trade and told citizens that if they encounter a drug dealer who resists arrest and threatens them, “Shoot him and I’ll give you a medal.”
China quietly expressed a stance on Brexit. According to diplomatic sources (paywall), China is firmly—though silently—in favor of Britain remaining in the European Union, as it values the nation as strong supporter of free trade. Other governments across Asia are also said to be watching the risk of a Brexit quite nervously.
QUARTZ OBSESSION INTERLUDE
Marc Bain on the sneaker designs inspired by LGBT pride month. “Pride Month has become widely recognized and, like other commemorative events, commodified. Brands use it as an opportunity to show support, but also to connect with customers. Some of these efforts can feel half-hearted and mostly like a way to grab a few extra dollars. But there are excited, thoughtful products to be found.” Read more here.
MATTERS OF DEBATE
The US, India, and Japan should strengthen their military ties. Such relationships can prevent China from dominating the Asia-Pacific region in this century.
Writing longer emails saves time. By keeping them too brief you run the risk of an endless back and forth.
Don’t love yourself just the way you are. Constantly changing tiny details about how you behave can help you avoid getting stuck in a rut.
SURPRISING DISCOVERIES
Airbus 3D-printed a functioning aircraft. Called Thor, it resembles a large, white model airplane.
Medical house calls are making a comeback. In the US, Medicare is introducing the experiment as a way to provide better, more cost-effective care to elderly patients.
Norway plans to ban gas-powered car sales by 2025. The country’s four major political parties have reportedly agreed to the deal.
The universe is expanding faster than we realized. About 5% to 9% faster, according to readings from the Hubble space telescope.
A physicist found a way to beat the odds at roulette. Apparently it can double your chances of winning.
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