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In a time of economic uncertainty and hiring slowdowns, many workers may feel hesitant to ask for a raise. However, career experts suggest that it is still appropriate to advocate for fair compensation, especially if you have taken on more responsibilities or are paid significantly less than your peers. Timing is crucial, and it may be the right moment to request a pay adjustment if your current financial situation is impacting your job performance or if you have been excelling in your role.

Researching current salaries, discussing compensation with coworkers, and compiling a “brag sheet” of your accomplishments are all strategies that can help make your case for a raise. While there is no guarantee of success, having the conversation with your manager can set the stage for future negotiations, even if your request is initially denied. Remember, advocating for yourself is an important part of career advancement, and it’s better to know where you stand than to wait indefinitely for the perfect moment to ask for what you’re worth.

The European Commission imposed fines totaling over 157 million euros on luxury fashion houses Gucci, Chloé, and Loewe for engaging in anti-competitive practices that restricted independent retailers’ ability to set prices for their goods. This decision was made following a 2023 investigation which revealed that the companies’ fixing of resale prices breached the bloc’s competition rules and harmed consumers. Gucci’s owner, Kering, acknowledged the past commercial practices and cooperated with the investigation, resulting in a reduced fine of nearly 120 million euros. Chloé, owned by the Richemont group, also saw its fine reduced by 15% to nearly 20 million euros, while LVMH-owned Loewe had its fine halved to 18 million euros for cooperating with authorities. The commission stated that the practices adopted by these luxury brands limited the ability of independent retailers to set their own prices for high-end apparel, leather goods, footwear, and accessories, ultimately reducing competition in the market.

A federal judge in San Francisco has temporarily halted President Donald Trump’s administration from firing workers during the government shutdown. U.S. District Judge Susan Illston expressed concerns that the layoffs appeared to be politically motivated and were being carried out without proper consideration. The judge granted a temporary restraining order blocking the job cuts, stating that they were likely illegal and excessive.

The American Federation of Government Employees and other federal labor unions had requested the court to intervene, arguing that the firings were an abuse of power meant to punish workers and pressure Congress. As the shutdown entered its third week, Democratic lawmakers continued to demand concessions on healthcare funding before negotiating with Republicans. The administration, however, maintained its stance, cutting jobs in health and education while continuing military payments and immigration enforcement.

Google revealed its plans to invest $15 billion in India over the next five years to establish its first artificial intelligence hub in Visakhapatnam. This hub will feature gigawatt-scale data center operations, energy infrastructure, an expanded fiber-optic network, and a new international subsea gateway. The investment highlights India’s importance as a key technology and talent base in the global AI competition, bringing in high-value infrastructure and foreign investment that can boost the country’s digital transformation ambitions.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai discussed the ambitious plans with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who emphasized that the investment aligns with India’s vision of becoming a developed country and democratizing technology. The initiative is set to pioneer a generational shift in AI capability, creating economic and societal opportunities for both India and the United States. Business conglomerate Adani Group has also partnered with Google for developing the AI hub, showcasing the collaborative effort to drive AI innovation and growth across the country.

Amazon.com Inc announced its plan to hire 250,000 workers for the holiday season across its fulfillment and transportation networks in the U.S. This comes as concerns arise about cautious consumer spending due to President Donald Trump’s tariff policies. Despite projections of slower U.S. holiday online sales growth, e-commerce is expected to outshine overall sales growth. Amazon will offer competitive wages and benefits to full-time and part-time employees, as well as seasonal workers, as part of its efforts to support its workforce. With retailers issuing mixed outlooks for the holiday season, Amazon gears up for increased orders and maintains its commitment to investing in its employees’ well-being.

As California faces refinery closures and a transition away from fossil fuels, thousands of oil industry workers are uncertain about their future. The planned closures of the Valero and Phillips 66 refineries in the state will have a significant impact on jobs and communities. With efforts to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, state lawmakers are grappling with how to support displaced workers and provide opportunities for transitioning into new industries.

While initiatives like the Displaced Oil and Gas Worker Fund have provided some support, there is a need for a clear plan to ensure that workers can find new, sustainable employment. As workers navigate this uncertain time, there is a call for stronger policies to protect jobs and support a successful transition for those impacted by the changing energy landscape in California.

Former first lady Michelle Obama is leading the charge to ensure that girls in economically disadvantaged areas have access to education. The Obama Foundation’s Girls Opportunity Alliance has pledged $2.5 million to support grassroots groups working to break down barriers for adolescent girls, from covering school costs to challenging patriarchal practices like child marriage. This initiative aims to create future leaders and ensure that when girls succeed, everyone benefits.

With nearly three-quarters of out-of-school girls worldwide being of secondary school-age, the Girls Opportunity Alliance’s focus on helping girls between ages 10-19 graduate is crucial. As international aid groups warn of budget cuts leading to more girls dropping out of school, the Alliance’s efforts are more important than ever. By providing funding, support, and connections to community leaders, this initiative is making a real difference in the lives of girls who face challenges like child marriage, teenage pregnancy, and school dropout.