Welcome to 2026, where the world seems to be playing a game of catch-up between corporate loopholes and cutting-edge tech. Just as the OECD wraps up its latest tax deal, declaring a "landmark decision" to stop multinational corporations from dodging taxes, it’s curious to see that U.S. companies, particularly the big players like Apple and Nike, are conveniently exempt from the global minimum tax of 15%[1]. It’s a classic case of “rules for thee, but not for me,” as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent hails it a “historic victory” for U.S. sovereignty. I can’t help but wonder how the average taxpayer feels about this shiny new arrangement that seems to favor the wealthy elite.
Meanwhile, on the tech front, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is buzzing with innovation that promises to simplify our lives—if we can afford the price tags. Enter Emerson’s SmartVoice devices, which allow you to control your air fryer or heater with just your voice, and get this—no Wi-Fi or apps required! It’s a refreshing change from the usual tech that requires a PhD to operate [2]. Imagine a household where you can shout at your appliances instead of scrolling through apps—sounds like a dream for those of us who sometimes feel more like tech support than homeowners.
And speaking of tech, the gaming world is getting a major boost with Nvidia rolling out new updates to its GeForce Now service, including native apps for Linux and Fire TV[3]. It’s almost poetic that while the OECD is busy crafting tax agreements, gamers are getting more access to high-performance gaming right in their living rooms. The juxtaposition of corporate tax deals and next-gen gaming technology feels a lot like the world we live in—where some folks are trying to innovate while others are figuring out how to cling to their profits.
In a more comedic twist, Jon Stewart and Seth Meyers took the stage to react to the recent military operation that saw former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro captured and whisked away, leaving the U.S. to take the reins of Venezuela temporarily. Stewart quipped, “This is all exhausting,” highlighting the absurdity of foreign interventions that seem to repeat history on loop [4]. It’s hard to ignore the irony that while some are focused on international power plays, others are just trying to figure out how to stop their air fryers from burning dinner.
Back in the world of sports, Kevin Durant savored a dramatic win against his former team, the Phoenix Suns, hitting the game-winning shot after feeling “kicked out” [5]. It’s a classic underdog story where the ex-player channels his past grievances into a triumphant moment. Similar to how Kewan Lacy, the standout running back from Ole Miss, is choosing to stay put rather than jump into the chaotic transfer portal after a successful season [6]. Both stories reflect a desire to carve out a home, whether in sports or in the bustling world of tech and finance.
As we step into this new year, it seems like a strange blend of triumphs and absurdities, from tech marvels that require no connectivity to tax deals that prioritize corporate interests. Here’s to hoping that amidst all this, we can find a way to balance innovation, fairness, and perhaps a little less drama.