1. Earthquake in Vanuatu: A magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck near the Pacific island nation of Vanuatu, causing damage and triggering a tsunami warning. The quake was reportedly felt in several nearby countries, including Fiji and New Caledonia. (Link: https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/magnitude-73-earthquake-hits-pacific-island-nation-vanuatu-116851766)

2. Walmart's DEI Pullback: Walmart defended its decision to pull back on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, amidst criticism from investors and leaders. The company argued that its focus on profitability and cost-cutting measures is not incompatible with promoting diversity. (Link: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/walmart-defends-pullback-dei-while-investors-and-leaders-debate-its-effects-on-performance-220230993.html)

3. Trump's Hush Money Conviction: A New York judge rejected Donald Trump's bid to dismiss his hush money conviction, ruling that he does not have immunity as a former president. The case revolves around payments made to Stormy Daniels to silence her allegations of an affair with Trump. (Link: https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/donald-trump-hush-money-judge-rejects-dismissal-1.7412118?cmp=rss)

4. Meta's Privacy Settlement: Meta Platforms Inc. (formerly Facebook) agreed to pay $31.85 million to settle a privacy lawsuit in Australia over its alleged handling of user data, including data shared with Cambridge Analytica. (Link: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/international-business/meta-to-pay-31-85-million-to-end-australian-privacy-lawsuit-linked-to-cambridge-analytica-scandal/articleshow/116383503.cms)

5. Iran's Dress Code Law: Iran paused its controversial new dress code law, which required women to wear the hijab in public, following widespread protests and international criticism. (Link: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0mv83m4z7vo)