Morning Business Report: Wall Street braces for Fed rate decision, tech earnings as winter storm disrupts travel

It’s shaping up to be a big week on Wall Street, with major developments expected in monetary policy, corporate earnings, and the broader economy.

(LILAMAX)- It’s shaping up to be a big week on Wall Street, with major developments expected in monetary policy, corporate earnings, and the broader economy. The Federal Reserve begins its first policy meeting of 2026 on Tuesday, with its next interest rate decision due later this week. Economist Mark Zandi of Moody’s predicts the Fed could move quickly this year,…

Alex Honnold completes record-breaking rope-free climb of Taipei 101

For viewers watching the livestream at home, it was a death-defying, nerve-shredding, edge-of-the-seat experience.

(NBC)- For viewers watching the livestream at home, it was a death-defying, nerve-shredding, edge-of-the-seat experience. High above the streets of Taipei, Alex Honnold completed a historic climb — scaling Taipei 101, a 101-story skyscraper standing 1,667 feet tall, without ropes. The climb, streamed live on Netflix, had never been done untethered before. Unfazed by the height, the 40-year-old American climber…

Small jet crashes during takeoff at Bangor International Airport amid winter storm

Investigators are combing through wreckage this morning at Bangor International Airport after a small jet crashed on the runway Sunday night while attempting to take off.

(NBC)- Investigators are combing through wreckage this morning at Bangor International Airport after a small jet crashed on the runway Sunday night while attempting to take off. Air traffic control audio captured the initial emergency response, reporting an aircraft overturned with three crew members and possibly five passengers on board. The FAA confirms the aircraft was a Bombardier Challenger 600,…

Outrage grows in Minneapolis after federal agent kills ICU nurse

Outrage is growing in Minneapolis following the fatal shooting of a local ICU nurse by a federal agent.

(NBC)- Outrage is growing in Minneapolis following the fatal shooting of a local ICU nurse by a federal agent. Authorities say 37-year-old Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse, was shot and killed Saturday morning by a U.S. Border Patrol agent. The shooting has sparked protests across the city, with demonstrators gathering late Sunday night and attempting to enter a hotel where…

LIST: School closings due to winter weather on Monday

Here is a list of closures across Middle Georgia due to the winter weather.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – With possible icy conditions forecast for Monday, school districts and colleges across the region are monitoring the weather to make decisions about whether they will be open on Monday, January 26. 41NBC News will keep you updated here as we receive updates. Closed or shifting to virtual learning Monday (see school websites/social media pages for more…

Operation Softback Book partners with Georgia Power for Macon resource event Saturday

The event will connect families with utility assistance, community resources, and children’s activities.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Operation Softback Book is hosting its first resource day at Greater Little Rock Baptist Church on Felton Avenue in Macon. The event, set for Saturday, January 24 from noon until 3 p.m., is designed to connect community members with helpful resources, including assistance with lowering power bills during the winter months. “It is our goal to…

Icy weather remains possible this weekend

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – An incoming system could bring some freezing rain to Middle Georgia Saturday night/Sunday morning. This Evening   Skies have been overcast throughout the day today and will stay that way the rest of the evening and overnight. A few showers also remain possible. Expect low temperatures tonight in the low to mid 40s accompanied by north-northeast…

Weather, labor shortages among concerns for Middle Georgia economy in 2026

Economists point to weather risks, government action and workforce challenges as major influences.

Economic outlook luncheon (PHOTO: 41NBC/Bre’Anna Sheffield) MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — Economic experts shared their outlook for 2026 during an Economic Outlook luncheon in Macon, mentioning weather, government action and labor shortages as key factors that could impact Middle Georgia’s economy. The director of economic analysis at Middle Georgia State University, Dr. Greg George, said Macon has several plans moving forward…

Free men’s conference “Iron Sharpens Iron 2” coming to Macon this weekend

A free men’s conference focused on leadership, mentorship, and personal growth is set to take place this weekend in Macon.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The event, called “Iron Sharpens Iron 2,” will be held Saturday, January 24, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 283 Grant Avenue. Organizers say the conference is designed to encourage men to push beyond their limits while strengthening families and the community. Bibb County Commissioner Stanley Stewart says the event provides an opportunity for men…

Jack Smith defends Trump investigations in heated Capitol Hill hearing

Former special counsel Jack Smith forcefully defended his past investigations into Donald Trump during a sometimes combative hearing on Capitol Hill, pushing back against Republican accusations that the probes were politically motivated.

(NBC)- Former special counsel Jack Smith forcefully defended his past investigations into Donald Trump during a sometimes combative hearing on Capitol Hill, pushing back against Republican accusations that the probes were politically motivated. “Our investigation developed proof beyond a reasonable doubt that President Trump engaged in criminal activity,” Smith told lawmakers. Smith previously oversaw two federal cases involving Trump —…

Marine veteran killed in Facebook Marketplace robbery in Missouri

A 42-year-old Marine veteran is dead and four teenagers are in police custody following what authorities describe as an online sale turned robbery in Columbia, Missouri.

(NBC)- A 42-year-old Marine veteran is dead and four teenagers are in police custody following what authorities describe as an online sale turned robbery in Columbia, Missouri. Police say Michael Ryan Burke was fatally shot late Sunday after arranging to sell his phone through Facebook Marketplace. Investigators say the potential buyers arrived armed, stole the phone, and opened fire. Emergency…

Georgia shoppers stock up on essentials ahead of winter weather

As winter weather approaches, shoppers across metro Atlanta are focusing on the basics without overwhelming store aisles.

(NBC)- As winter weather approaches, shoppers across metro Atlanta are focusing on the basics — bread, milk, snacks, and emergency supplies — without overwhelming store aisles. At a Walmart in Chamblee, shopper Cristi McLean said she was picking up only what her household needs. “They ran out of bread and snacks and milk, so I’m just getting the little essentials…

Morning Business Report: Banks consider 10% credit card rates as Trump pressures industry

Bank of America and Citigroup are reportedly considering offering credit cards with interest rates capped at 10 percent, according to Bloomberg.

(LILAMAX)- Bank of America and Citigroup are reportedly considering offering credit cards with interest rates capped at 10 percent, according to Bloomberg. The move is seen as an effort to appease Donald Trump, who has repeatedly pushed for limits on credit card interest rates. Bloomberg reports the banks are exploring the idea, though neither institution has confirmed the plans. Supporters…

UPDATE: Man in custody after Smithville Church Road domestic situation in Houston County

Sheriff's office says heavy law enforcement presence is related to a possible domestic violence incident, with no threat to the public

UPDATE (12:42 p.m.): The Houston County Sheriff’s Office says one male suspect is in custody and the scene is secure. According to an update on social media, there were no injuries. We’ve reached out to the sheriff’s office for more information. ORIGINAL STORY (11:28 a.m.) – WARNER ROBINS, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- The Houston County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a possible domestic…

Macon-Bibb residents share input on county’s comprehensive plan

Community members attend first meeting to help guide long-term growth and youth representation

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Macon-Bibb Planning and Zoning invited community members to help shape the county’s next comprehensive plan, a long-term document county leaders say will guide future growth and development. County leaders and consultants helping guide the process say the comprehensive plan will serve as a roadmap for future growth, balancing long-term goals with near-term priorities. “A comprehensive plan…

UPDATE: GDC confirms fourth inmate death tied to Washington State Prison disturbance

The Georgia Department of Corrections says the inmate suffered a medical emergency days after the incident.

UPDATE (1/22/26): The Georgia Department of Corrections confirmed Thursday that a fourth inmate involved in a “disturbance” at Washington State Prison earlier this month has died. According to a response to a 41NBC inquiry, Silas Westbrook had been hospitalized for minor injuries sustained during the altercation. He was cleared to return to the facility and was transferred to Metro Reentry…

Clark Dean makes case for ‘outsider’ leadership in Georgia governor’s race

Clark Dean, a Republican business executive who is positioning himself as a political outsider in a crowded field that includes several well-known statewide officeholders.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Georgia voters will soon begin weighing their options in the race for governor, with the primary election set for May 19 and the general election scheduled for Nov. 3. Clark Dean says his decision to run is rooted in what he describes as a need for leadership that prioritizes Georgia families and focuses on practical solutions…

Millions brace for major winter storm as ice and snow threaten U.S.

Residents in more than two dozen states are preparing for a powerful winter storm expected to bring dangerous ice, heavy snow, and extreme cold across a wide swath of the country.

(CNN)- Residents in more than two dozen states are preparing for a powerful winter storm expected to bring dangerous ice, heavy snow, and extreme cold across a wide swath of the country. “Don’t ever wait until the last minute, because supplies run out,” said Craig Anderson, general manager of Blackhawk Hardware. Hardware stores are already seeing shortages as people rush…

Hollywood Minute: Kristen Bell to host The Actor Awards, Ang Lee honored, new Netflix series debuts

The actress is set to host this year’s “The Actor Awards,” formerly known as the SAG Awards.

(CNN)- The actress is set to host this year’s “The Actor Awards,” formerly known as the SAG Awards. This will mark Bell’s third time hosting the ceremony. The Actor Awards will stream live on Netflix on March 1. Meanwhile, acclaimed filmmaker Ang Lee is being recognized for his contributions to cinema. The Oscar-winning director of Brokeback Mountain and Life of…

Morning Business Report: Markets react to Trump’s Greenland decision, Bank of America stock awards, and consumer trends

President Donald Trump says he will not move forward with tariffs that were set to take effect February 1.

(LILAMAX)- President Donald Trump says he will not move forward with tariffs that were set to take effect February 1, citing what he calls a “framework of a future deal” with NATO involving Greenland and the Arctic region. The president suggested the framework could include U.S. access to mineral rights, as well as support for the Trump administration’s proposed “Golden…

Trump expands global focus in Davos amid Greenland dispute

President Donald Trump is continuing his foreign policy push in Davos, Switzerland, with the first meeting of the newly formed “Board of Peace.”

(NBC)- President Donald Trump is continuing his foreign policy push in Davos, Switzerland, with the first meeting of the newly formed “Board of Peace,” a group created to oversee the reconstruction of Gaza and now expanding its mission to address other global conflicts. “This board has the chance to be one of the most consequential bodies ever created,” Trump said…

Georgia economy sees forest industry losses, rail expansion, and new business growth

Mill closures, infrastructure investment, international outreach and a new Monroe County business shape this week's economic outlook

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- Georgia is facing a mix of economic challenges and development, from losses in the forest industry to new investments in infrastructure, international outreach, and small business growth. Forest industry faces significant losses Georgia’s forest industry is facing major challenges, according to a new report that shows recent mill closures are expected to cost the state $2.9 billion…

Cordele Motor Speedway Postpones 2026 Speedfest

Announcement of a new date will be coming in the "very near future", according to social media post

CORDELE, Georgia – (41NBC/WMGT) – Cordele Motor Speedway announced earlier this week they have postponed their 2026 Speedfest this weekend, due to inclement weather predicted to impact the state. according to a track social media post. The post went on to state they will be announcing the new date for Speedfest in the “very near future.” Categories: Across Georgia Sports,…

BS Report: Stefanksi is In

Well. The Atlanta Falcons have their man, Kevin Stefanski, the new head coach of the Falcons hired by Matt Ryan, who floated around a little bit with John Harbaugh. But it became obvious that Harbaugh was going to New York to coach the Giants and Jaxson Dart. So instead, Matt Ryan turns to Stefanski, an experience head coach for the…