Also today: Diane Swonk talks the markets with us after data on jobless numbers reflect omicron’s damaging effects on the economy. 

Also today: Rising prices haven’t stopped people from buying products from big companies such as Procter & Gamble, data shows. Community colleges will be getting a billion-dollar boost from the Biden administration, so what can they do with it?

From the BBC World Service: Authorities in Peru say a tanker spill has caused an “ecological disaster” with hundreds of dead animals. Government officials have urged Repsol, the Spanish refinery operator, to do more to help cleanup efforts. Plus, a cyberattack on the International Red Cross exposes half a million vulnerable people. And, there are concerns the game-like nature of some stock trading apps encourages too much risk taking.

Also today: Susan Schmidt discusses the potential rise of interest rates in our daily chat about the markets. 

Ukraine’s defense minister told the BBC he encourages Western governments to impose immediate sanctions on Moscow amid rising concerns of an invasion of his country. Plus: Shares of Sony plunge after Microsoft announces a big acquisition. And, how China’s Xinjiang region hopes to benefit from the winter Olympic games.

Also today: A Bankrate survey has found that many Americans don’t feel they have the resources to cover a $1,000 emergency expense. Homebuilders are staying optimistic in the face of a hurricane of issues that range from supply shortages to rising mortgage rates.

Also today: Julia Coronado discusses the markets with us today. The BBC reports on how geopolitics could be a factor in the rise in global oil prices.

From the BBC World Service: The crude oil price spike is on rising geopolitical risks, with concerns over a Russian invasion of Ukraine and supply disruptions in the United Arab Emirates after a deadly drone attack. Plus, at the virtual Davos summit, Chinese President Xi Jinping defended his common prosperity strategy. And, concerns over China’s influence at Sri Lanka’s new port city development. 

Also today: Airlines are still wary of Verizon and AT&T’s launch of new 5G signals, as they offer fresh warnings about the signals’ effect on planes and equipment.