As the U.K. looks into a central bank-backed digital currency, how is the Federal Reserve approaching the idea in the U.S.? Plus, the House passes a bill on the relationship between cannabis businesses and banks. And, a plastics ban in Mexico City raises questions about women’s access to female sanitary products.

The nation’s largest coal miners’ union is backing President Joe Biden’s transition to renewable energy — if miners aren’t left behind. Plus, the number of people seeking work increased between November and March, and that increase was primarily driven by women entering the job market, according to the New York Federal Reserve. And, a new survey finds a lot of Black Americans under the age of 40 started investing in the stock market during the pandemic.

From the BBC World Service: Aleksander Ceferin, president of UEFA, soccer’s governing body in Europe, told England’s “Big Six” Premier League clubs they could still change their mind. Some of Spain’s and Italy’s biggest soccer clubs are also joining the new league. Plus, as the Bank of England mulls a digital currency, we explore the advantages of a digital pound or dollar for consumers.

President Biden is expected to release U.S. proposals for reducing emissions at or before a virtual climate summit the U.S. is hosting later this week. China is not likely to make any new pledges at the summit. Plus, after a report on U.S. consumer prices last week, expectations of runaway inflation seem to have subsided … for now. And, are tablets more popular again thanks to the pandemic?

Four local governments in California are asking for $50 billion from four drug companies. Plus, technology to help companies better monitor and analyze their progress toward inclusivity. And, blocking middle seats on flights costs airlines money, but a new CDC study shows just how much it can reduce the risk of coronavirus exposure.

From the BBC World Service: Twelve of Europe’s biggest soccer clubs unveiled plans to form a breakaway league they’ve dubbed the European Super League. It’s aimed at bolstering pandemic-ravaged finances, but it’s been met with fierce opposition. Plus, a new travel bubble between Australia and New Zealand removes mandatory quarantine measures.

The House passed an equal pay measure along party lines. We look at how it would strengthen existing rules on pay discrimination and what Republicans are objecting to. Also, China’s GDP growth in the first quarter. Plus, an update on Americans’ willingness to get vaccinated. And, the rise in domestic violence during COVID lockdowns.

Those numbers: An 18.3% jump in GDP for China in the first quarter and U.S. stock market highs yesterday. They reflect an optimistic economic outlook going forward. Plus, a new Brookings Institution report on the “staggering” lack of diversity among the directors of the 12 regional Federal Reserve banks. And, continuing to gauge what’s ahead for the U.S. economy in terms of inflation.

From the BBC World Service: Economists say it’s difficult to compare the start of this year with the period between January and March 2020, because activity plunged when the pandemic started. Also, the boss of Europe’s biggest travel group TUI says vaccine passports and more testing will help save vacation season. And, why drone racing is a big money generator.