Israeli Airstrikes in Gaza City Kill 30-38; Home Depot Acquires GMS for $4.3 Billion
Key Takeaways
- Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City on June 30 killed 30-38 people.
- Home Depot acquires GMS for $4.3 billion to strengthen contractor services.
- ECB warns global economic uncertainty will make inflation more unstable, requiring intervention.
- Taiwan President Lai launches 'Ten Lectures for National Unity' amid China threats.
- Synopsys and Ansys seek final merger approval from Chinese regulators.
Top Stories
Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City kill 30-38.
On June 30, 2025, Israeli forces conducted airstrikes in Gaza City, including an attack on a cafe, resulting in 30-38 deaths. The attacks occurred amid a worsening regional crisis and a US-led ceasefire push.
Home Depot acquires GMS for $4.3 billion.
Home Depot, through its SRS Distribution subsidiary, is acquiring GMS for $4.3 billion, with the deal valued at approximately $5.5 billion, including debt. The acquisition aims to strengthen Home Depot's position with professional contractors and is expected to close by the end of fiscal 2025.
ECB warns of economic uncertainty.
On June 30, 2025, the ECB warned that structural uncertainty in the global economy would make inflation more unstable, requiring more vigorous intervention. The ECB cited geopolitics and artificial intelligence as leading to increased uncertainty and volatility.
Taiwan President launches national unity lectures amid China threats.
President Lai Ching-te launched 'Ten Lectures for National Unity' in response to China's threats, with the fourth lecture focusing on national defense on July 1, 2025. The initiative aims to strengthen internal unity and enhance self-defense.
Synopsys and Ansys seek final merger approval from China.
Synopsys and Ansys are in advanced discussions with Chinese regulators to secure final approval for their merger. The merger has received regulatory clearance in all jurisdictions except China.
Business Today
European stock markets decline due to geopolitical tensions.
On June 30, 2025, European stock markets declined, influenced by geopolitical tensions and uncertainty around trade deals, with the Stoxx 600 index falling 0.4%. The focus is on the deadline of July 9 for agreements with the United States.
Shell denies rumors of acquiring BP.
On June 30, 2025, Shell refuted rumors of a potential acquisition of BP, stating it is not actively considering an offer. CEO Wael Sawan indicated share buybacks are a more beneficial use of capital.
Torrent Pharmaceuticals secures $2.3 billion credit line.
Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd. secured a credit line of up to $2.3 billion from global banks to finance its acquisition of a controlling stake in JB Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals Ltd. The funds will be raised through local currency bonds with tenors up to four years.
IDT Corporation featured in The New York Times.
IDT Corporation, a telecommunications and entertainment company, is featured in The New York Times today, June 30, 2025.
Planet Ventures Inc stock traded higher.
Planet Ventures Inc (PNXPF.PK) stock traded higher on June 30, 2025, at 0.05 USD with a +0.59% change.
Entertainment Scene
Aussie crime drama Scrublands returns for second season.
On June 30, 2025, the Aussie crime drama Scrublands returns for a second season on BBC Two at 9pm. Investigative journalist Martin Scarsden finds himself in another tangle as he returns to his home town.
Global Watch
Ransomware attack on Swiss health foundation.
On June 30, 2025, the Radix Foundation, a Swiss health-focused non-profit, was hit by a ransomware attack, with data stolen and encrypted. The NCSC confirmed the attack did not directly breach federal systems but accessed some data.
Health Matters
Japan allows medical care with expired health insurance cards.
The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare announced a provisional measure allowing individuals with expired health insurance cards to receive medical care until the end of March 2026. This is during the transition to My Number insurance cards.
Political Pulse
Polls show significant opposition to Trump's spending proposals.
Polls indicate significant public opposition to President Trump's federal spending proposals, with net approval ratings ranging from -19 to -29 percent as of June 30, 2025.
Democrats launch 'Project 2029' for policy agenda.
Democrats launch 'Project 2029' to create a policy agenda for their next presidential nominee. This initiative, led by Andrei Cherny, aims to develop a comprehensive policy agenda in quarterly installments over two years.
Science Discoveries
Antarctic ice melting due to rising salinity.
A study found rising salinity near Antarctica is causing warmer water to melt ice, preventing its winter regrowth. This phenomenon could double atmospheric CO₂ concentrations.
Social Issues
Charities call for withdrawal of Northern Ireland poverty strategy.
Almost fifty charities and anti-poverty organisations are calling for the Northern Ireland Executive to withdraw its draft strategy to tackle poverty. The strategy was released for public consultation earlier in June for a period of 14 weeks.
Top Headlines
Alastair Stewart criticizes BBC's handling of Huw Edwards scandal.
On June 30, 2025, Alastair Stewart criticized the BBC's handling of the Huw Edwards scandal. Edwards was found guilty of making indecent images of children in 2024.
BBC World Service presented The Newsroom.
BBC World Service presented The Newsroom today, June 30, 2025, covering global events. The program aired at 12:06 GMT.