Bloomberg News Now: Epstein Files, Venezuela Sanctions, Bondi Beach Vigil, and Economic Outlook

Missing Epstein Files

• 📌 The Justice Department is investigating why more than a dozen files related to Jeffrey Epstein have vanished from its website.
• 🖼️ Among the missing files was an image showing framed photos of Bill Clinton, the Pope, and President Trump with Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell.

Venezuela Sanctions and Oil Tanker Seizure

• 🚢 The U.S. Coast Guard has seized a sanctioned oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, following President Trump's order.
• 🤝 This action is part of an escalating pressure campaign on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and the nation's oil exports.
• ⚠️ Secretary of State Marco Rubio accused the Venezuelan government of cooperating with drug cartels.

Bondi Beach Vigil and Mass Shooting Aftermath

• 🇦🇺 Thousands gathered on Sydney's Bondi Beach for a moment of silence in memory of the 15 victims of a recent mass shooting.
• 🕊️ The Prime Minister declared Sunday a day of mourning and announced a review of federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

Local News and Business Updates

• 💡 Power outages affected 130,000 homes and businesses in San Francisco, with a fire at a PG&E substation cited as a cause.
• 💻 Target's digital operations have stabilized after a technology outage disrupted online orders and other functions during the holiday period.

Economic Outlook and Job Market

• 📈 Economists surveyed by Bloomberg expect unemployment to stay elevated through most of next year, despite economic growth.
• 🤖 This unusual combination is attributed to artificial intelligence spending driving expansion without significantly boosting hiring.
• 🏥 The healthcare sector is expected to be a primary source of job growth, accounting for nearly all of 2025's job gains.

Tracking Santa Claus

• 🎅 Volunteers are answering calls from children worldwide at Nora Aid to help track Santa Claus, bringing joy and answering questions.