In 2024, the business industry did not just meet technologies led by figures such as Elon Musk. There were also important changes in policies, controversial stories within industries, and shifts in the way businesses operated. Interestingly—these developments didn't just affect companies but had ripple effects on entire economies, industries, and the lives of everyday people.
VCPost's best-performing articles are a testament that each business-related story has underlying implications for the world, whether it is exploring the global implications of new gas and tax policies, decisions by the Federal Reserve, or the like.
That being said, these top 10 best of VCPost challenged the status quo, which no other sites can provide.
1. Gov. Newsom Urges Special Session to Cut California's Gas Prices 40% Higher Than US Average
California Governor Gavin Newsom earlier requested a special legislative session to address gas prices in the city, which were alarmingly 40% higher than the national average. This drew attention to the state's struggle with high fuel costs, which affected consumers and businesses alike. Newsome's proposal was aimed at easing financial pressure on residents and reducing the economic impact of rising fuel prices.
2. Businessman Arrested for Role in $34.8 Million Crystal Meth Seizure, Link to Dangerous Mexican Drug Trades
A businessman was arrested for his alleged involvement in the largest seizure of crystal meth at $34.8 million, which has been connected to dangerous Mexican drug cartels. This arrest points to the increasing concerns about how legitimate businesses are connected with illegal drug trafficking in Mexico. It also raised questions on the level of oversight required in most industries and whether Biden's current drug enforcement strategies are effective.
3. Wealthy Families Rush to Transfer Millions to Children Over Fear of Kamala Harris' Tax Policies
Wealthy families have quickly transferred millions of dollars to their children as fears mount that Vice President Kamala Harris's proposed tax policies would hit them hard. The rush to lock away assets started a debate on the effect of tax reform on the economy and gave a context as to why more billionaires backed Trump than Harris.
4. Boeing Sends Thousands of Employees on Unpaid Leave Due to Massive Strike
A massive strike has happened at Boeing, forcing the company to put thousands of Boeing employees on involuntary leave due to losses, which also resulted in losses, especially in the company's production and delivery timelines. The strike took place over continuous labor disputes in aerospace operations and raised fears over the future of manufacturing jobs following Boeing's lineup of fatal plane crashes. As the strike continued, both worker and corporate efforts toward maintaining labor peace and productivity were met with resistance by the two sides.
5. Global Stocks Near Record Highs as Fed Cuts Interest Rates
Global stock markets reached near records after the Federal Reserve decided to cut its interest rates. The result was a boost in confidence among investors, with increases in stock prices across diverse sectors.
Read More: Gov. Newsom Urges Special Session to Cut California's Gas Prices 40% Higher Than US Average
6. Stock Markets Brace for Impact of Fed's Decision as Investors Worry About Rate Changes
Investors were concerned with the Federal Reserve's rate decisions, speculating that it could create a ripple of effects on the US stock market. The uncertainty triggered wary trading and volatility in markets, as well as the question of when a delicate balance between rate decisions and market stability will happen for long-term economic health.
7. Botswana Finds World's Largest Diamond Worth 2,492 Carat—How Will This Affect Gem Mining?
Botswana recently found the world's largest diamond, a 2,492-carat gem that can lead the global mining industry. The find brought into question the future of gem mining and its possible implications on supply and demand. However, its economic and environmental aspects attracted the attention of both investors and environmentalists, who have been clashing over mining efforts.
8. Vietnamese Real Estate Tycoon Awaits Death Sentence Appeal Over $12.5 Billion Fraud
Truong My Lan, a Vietnamese real estate tycoon, waits to learn if she will have her death sentence overturned following one of Asia's largest $12.5 billion fraud scams ever revealed. Corruption in the sector was brought to light. Still, the punishment imposed was met with skepticism, with concerned citizens asking for deeper legal accountability instead of the presence of more severe regulations among high-stake industries.
9. Cathay Pacific Takes Firm Stand on Passenger Conduct and Bans Couple Involved in Inflight Harassment
Cathay Pacific had a very firm stance on passenger behavior by banning an inflight harassing couple. The decision that the airline made made sure that disruptive behavior would never be tolerated on any flights. It was appreciated both by the passengers and by the industry, especially with the trend of meeting 'Karens' in commercial places.
10. Cathay Pacific Grounds Planes Due to Airbus A350's Alarming Engine Fire—What Could Have Happened?
To avoid what could've been a disaster moment, several aircraft were grounded by Cathay Pacific. This is after an alarming fire broke out in the engine of an Airbus A350, raising safety concerns. The incident led to thorough investigations into the cause and possible risks associated with the aircraft. This has raised a need for increasing safety measures in the air industry since Boeing's consecutive crashes in the past few years.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we prepare for 2025, the global business industry is expected to respond to legislative actions that will impact not only businesses themselves but labor markets and consumer prices.
Stay tuned to VCPost as we continue to bring you the latest and greatest in the ever-evolving landscape of business across all regions.
Thank you to our readers for making 2024 an incredible journey. Here's to more dynamic market shifts, economic advancements, and personal business growth in 2025!
Join the Conversation