THREAD: shocking us retail

WHITE BRITISH Minority Shock: Report Warns of Rapid UK Demographic Shift

05 June 2025 — A new report warns that White British people with two White British parents could become a minority in the United Kingdom by 2063. Professor Matt Goodwin’s study, from the Centre for Heterodox Social Science at the University of Buckingham, says their share of the population could drop from 73 percent today to just 22.7 percent by century’s end.

Professor Goodwin calls this an “enormous and historically unprecedented” change for Britain. He points out that only four in ten people will be able to trace their roots back several generations in the UK — down from eight in ten today.

The report blames high levels of migration and lower birth rates among native Britons for this shift. It also predicts one in five people could be Muslim by 2100, raising serious questions about whether leaders are ready for such sweeping changes.

Past forecasts missed how fast this would happen. Rising immigration has sped up predictions, moving up the date when White Britons become a minority by decades compared to warnings made just twenty years ago.

OIL PRICE Shock: Families Brace for Painful Spike After Middle East Turmoil

04 June 2025 — Oil prices shot up today after strikes and protests shut down major oil sites in key Gulf countries. This sudden stop in production has sparked fears of a worldwide supply crunch.

Crude oil futures jumped over 8% in a single day, one of the biggest leaps seen lately. Rising tensions in the Middle East are making many worry that prices could climb even higher if unrest continues.

Experts warn that ongoing disruptions may mean higher fuel costs for families and businesses everywhere. Transportation and factories could see bigger bills, putting more strain on already tight budgets.

Governments are now being urged to get ready for possible energy shortages if things don’t calm down soon. The story is still unfolding, with global markets bracing for more wild swings ahead.

BIDEN ADMINISTRATION Slams Bangladesh Ban, Sparks Outrage Over Double Standards

03 June 2025 — The Biden administration blasted Bangladesh’s interim government for banning the Awami League, a major opposition party. The U.S. State Department said this move “undermines democratic processes.” Officials warned that blocking political parties puts Bangladesh’s freedoms at risk.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken called on Bangladesh to respect democracy and allow open political activity. The White House spoke out as the country ramps up crackdowns on opposition voices.

This event shines a light on growing global worries about attacks on civil liberties. Many see it as another example of leaders targeting their critics to stay in power.

While Biden claims to defend democracy overseas, critics point out his own shaky record at home — raising questions about whether these warnings are honest or just more empty talk.;

UK AID SCANDAL: Secret Document Exposes Gaza Funds at Grave Risk of Reaching Hamas

02 June 2025 — A secret UK government paper has come to light, showing officials knew British aid sent to Gaza could end up in the hands of Hamas. The document, from November 2022 and uncovered by NGO Monitor, lays out Britain’s humanitarian plans for the region.

One part points to a UNICEF cash program in Gaza that works with the Ministry of Social Development. NGO Monitor says this ministry is linked to Hamas, raising fears that UK taxpayer money might be helping a terror group.

The report also reveals British officials were worried about damage to their reputation if these links ever got out. Anne Herzberg from NGO Monitor told Fox News Digital this language is telling and shows bigger problems are still being ignored.

TRUMP’S 50% Steel Tarif Shock: America’s Powerful Comeback Rattles Global Markets

02 June 2025 — President Trump has slapped a 50% tariff on imported steel and aluminum. He made the announcement at U.S. Steel’s Irvin Works in Pennsylvania, sending a clear message: America First is back in action.

Markets around the world took a hit after the news broke. Experts say prices could jump for companies that depend on foreign steel, which may lead to higher costs for everyday Americans.

The White House is getting ready for court fights over these tariffs. Some judges have questioned if the president has this much power over trade, making things even more uncertain.

At the same time, Japan is tightening its rules on cryptocurrency. Closer to home, federal agents stopped a migrant smuggling ring at our southern border — reminding us of the tough economic and security battles America still faces.

$150 MILLION CYBER Heist Shocks New York: Americans Outraged Over Bank Breach

02 June 2025 — A huge cyberattack has rocked a major New York bank, with hackers stealing $150 million. Thieves broke in using tricky malware and phishing scams. The attack was found late last night when strange computer activity set off alarms.

Federal cybercrime teams and private experts are now digging into the case. Officials say the stolen cash was quickly moved through foreign accounts, making it tough to get back. No suspects or bank names have been shared yet.

Leaders warn this attack shows how real the threat is to America’s banks as cyber warfare grows around the world. They’re telling all banks to boost their security right away.

This story is still unfolding as investigators race to find who did it and recover what was lost.

UK AID SHOCK: Secret Report Exposes Gaza Money Flow to Hamas

02 June 2025 — A secret UK government report shows officials knew British aid sent to Gaza could end up helping Hamas. The November 2022 document, uncovered by NGO Monitor, reveals a UNICEF cash program in Gaza worked with the Ministry of Social Development — an office tied to Hamas.

NGO Monitor said clearly: “UK Aid can be linked directly or indirectly with supporting the… authority in Gaza (Hamas), which is part of a banned group.” Even though UK officials deny it, critics say there are still big questions about who is watching where the money goes.

The report focused more on possible damage to the UK’s reputation than on breaking any laws. Anne Herzberg from NGO Monitor told Fox News Digital this wording matters and shows ongoing worries about how taxpayer money is used.

Many conservatives argue this proves foreign aid needs tougher checks. They say every dollar should be tracked so it doesn’t end up in dangerous hands.

RETAIL GIANT Collapse Shakes Main Street Hopes

01 June 2025 — A massive American retailer just filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, sending shockwaves through Main Street. The company, which runs over 1,000 stores across the country, is drowning in more than $4 billion of debt. Sales have plummeted by 35% in only one year.

This bankruptcy puts thousands of jobs at risk and could cause major problems for supply chains nationwide. Experts warn that smaller businesses might be next if the economy keeps getting worse. Everyday Americans may start to lose even more faith in the future.

Many see this collapse as proof that current economic policies are failing regular people and small businesses. It raises a big question: Is Washington ignoring what’s happening on Main Street?

The fallout will stretch far beyond just one company’s books. Communities everywhere are bracing themselves for even harder times ahead.

CRIME WAVE Panic: Supreme Court Shocks America as Violence Soars

01 June 2025 — Police are searching for a former officer accused of rape and murder in the Ozarks. He is believed to be hiding in caves or remote areas. Authorities say he is very dangerous. They have not released details about the victims yet.

In New Orleans, ten inmates broke out of jail through a hole behind a toilet. Fourteen escapees have now been caught, but two are still missing. Police are arresting people who may have helped them. The sheriff’s office faces harsh criticism for failing to stop the jailbreak.

Violent crime is rising across the country. Over Memorial Day weekend, shootings in Los Angeles, North Carolina, Philadelphia, Chicago, and near Myrtle Beach left many dead or hurt.

The Supreme Court has let the Trump administration end protections for 350,000 Venezuelans — undoing Biden’s policy on immigration. Federal agents also made big arrests against drug cartels in several states. At the same time, abortion clinics are closing as new legal fights begin over state laws.

HAMAS REJECTS Peace Deal: Outrage as Terror Group Demands Israel Retreat

01 June 2025 — Hamas has turned down a U.S.-backed ceasefire deal that would have paused fighting for 60 days and freed Israeli hostages. The plan, supported by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, offered the release of 10 living hostages and the return of 18 bodies. In exchange, Israel would free over 1,200 Palestinian prisoners and let more aid into Gaza.

Commenting on social media, Witkoff called Hamas’s answer “totally unacceptable.” He said their refusal only pushes peace talks further away. Witkoff urged Hamas to accept the proposal as the best path to bring hostages home.

Instead of saying yes, Hamas demanded changes to when and how hostages are released. They also want Israeli troops gone from areas taken since March before any agreement moves forward.

The Biden administration is feeling more heat as talks stall. Many critics warn that giving in to Hamas’s demands would reward terrorism and put Israel’s safety at risk.

“BANKRUPTCY SHOCKWAVE: Main Street Reeling as Retail Giant Collapses”

31 May 2025 — One of America’s biggest retail chains just filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, shaking Main Street to its core. The company runs over 1,000 stores nationwide and now faces more than $4 billion in debt after a steep 35% drop in sales this past year.

This bankruptcy puts thousands of jobs on the line. Suppliers who rely on this chain are left in limbo. Small towns that depend on these stores could be hit hardest as local economies struggle to cope with the loss.

The collapse raises new worries about the future of brick-and-mortar shops while online giants like Amazon keep growing stronger. Many conservatives point to heavy regulations and rising inflation as reasons why traditional businesses can’t keep up.

As another major retailer falls, Americans are asking what’s next for workers and communities across the country. Washington keeps debating solutions, but Main Street is still waiting for real help that makes a difference where it matters most.

NYC CORRUPTION Scandal Shakes City Hall: Outrage Grows Over Secret Bribes

31 May 2025 — A major CORRUPTION scandal is rocking New York City Hall. Federal agents are investigating a top city official accused of taking bribes from a construction company to hand out city contracts. The probe started after authorities found suspicious messages and money transfers.

Investigators say the official used fake companies and hidden bank accounts to cover up the kickbacks. Police have searched homes linked to the official and their close contacts. Witnesses are now being questioned as more evidence comes in.

This case has sent shockwaves through local politics, with many demanding tougher rules for how city contracts are given out. Legal experts warn that if charges stick, they could include corruption, conspiracy, and money laundering.

The scandal puts a spotlight on ongoing problems in Democrat-led cities like New York. As investigators dig deeper, public trust hangs in the balance — people want answers about just how far this scheme goes.

BORDER CHAOS, Wall Street Betrayal, and FED Fears Rattle America

30 May 2025 — Federal agents busted a major smuggling ring at the US-Mexico border. They found over 50 migrants packed inside a hidden compartment of a semi-truck. Three suspects were arrested. This shows just how serious the border crisis is and why America needs tougher security right now.

In New York City, police arrested financial analyst Mark Reynolds for leaking secret information to hedge funds in a huge insider trading scandal. Prosecutors say his actions broke trust in our markets and hurt everyday investors. The case could reveal even more corruption on Wall Street as it unfolds.

The Federal Reserve stunned everyone by raising interest rates by 0.75%. Now, families and businesses face higher borrowing costs while inflation stays high at 6.8%. The S&P 500 dropped sharply as Americans grow more worried about the economy under current leadership.

A deadly shooting outside a Jewish museum in Washington, D.C., left two Israeli Embassy staff dead and raised fears about safety for diplomats across the country. Police caught the suspect quickly, but Jewish communities remain on edge after this targeted attack.;

UK NEWS BLACKOUT: Outrage Grows as Tech Failures Silence Readers

30 May 2025 — Major tech failures have left thousands in the UK unable to read news online. People say they can’t get updates on breaking events, causing anger and worry about where to turn for facts.

These problems show just how weak the country’s digital systems are. Experts warn that unless Britain builds stronger networks, trust in online news will keep falling apart.

For many who rely on fast updates, this isn’t just annoying — it cuts them off from critical information when they need it most.

AMERICA’S Bold Ceasefire Deal Stops Dangerous India-Pakistan Fighting

29 May 2025 — The United States stepped in and brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan on May 22, 2025. Both countries agreed to stop fighting along the tense Line of Control in Kashmir. The State Department called this a big win for peace in the region.

American diplomats worked hard behind closed doors to get both sides talking instead of shooting. Now, India and Pakistan have promised to settle their arguments with words, not weapons.

U.S. officials say this deal is “a move toward peace” and that America will keep helping both sides find long-term answers. More details about how the agreement will be watched — and what comes next — are expected soon.

This shows America’s strength on the world stage. Conservatives may see it as proof that tough U.S. diplomacy can calm even nuclear rivals — without sending troops or starting another war.

NEW ORLEANS Jail Escape Shocks City: Security Blunders Spark Outrage

29 May 2025 — Ten inmates broke out of the Orleans Parish Jail on May 16 by cutting a hole behind a toilet and climbing over a wall. Security cameras caught them running across an interstate. The escape exposed serious problems, like broken locks, too few staff, and missing deputies during the breakout.

The words “To Easy LoL” were left above the hole, mocking jail security. Investigators think some inmates had help from inside. Three jail workers are now suspended while the investigation continues. Some of the escapees are violent criminals charged with murder and attacking staff.

Seven out of ten inmates are still on the run even after a massive manhunt by local, state, and federal officers. Public safety is at risk. Residents have been warned to stay alert, and some victims have even moved for their own safety.

Jail leaders admit they need urgent repairs—$5.2 million just for new locks — and more staff to stop another disaster like this one. District Attorney Jason Williams called these failures “inexcusable” as pressure grows for real change and accountability in New Orleans’ justice system.

CAPITAL SHOOTING Horror, Deadly JET Crash, and Supreme Court Shock on Immigration Rock America

28 May 2025 — Two Israeli Embassy staffers were shot and killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. on May 21. Police say the suspect, Elias Rodriguez, confessed to the murders and is now in custody. Authorities are treating this as both a terror attack and a hate crime.

In San Diego, a private jet crashed into military housing during heavy fog early May 22. The crash killed several people on board and injured residents as flames tore through homes.

The Supreme Court handed down a major decision allowing the Trump administration to end Temporary Protected Status for about 350,000 Venezuelans. This could lead to mass deportations and signals a strong shift in immigration policy.

Meanwhile, legal fights continue over President Trump’s tariffs under emergency powers law. A recent court ruling backed the president’s authority but left questions about Congress’s role unanswered.

EUROPEAN UNION Slams Porn Sites: Outrage Grows Over Child Safety Failures

28 May 2025 — The European Union is cracking down on major porn sites like Pornhub, Stripchat, XNXX, and XVideos. Officials say these websites are not doing enough to keep kids safe from adult content. The main concern is weak age checks that let minors slip through the cracks.

Regulators also claim the sites have failed to protect users’ privacy and have not done proper risk checks to stop harm to young people. If found guilty under the Digital Services Act, these companies could face huge fines — up to six percent of their yearly global income.

There’s no deadline for when this probe will end. The investigation could even widen as more evidence comes in.

In a separate move, the EU stripped Stripchat of its “Very Large Online Platform” status — a sign that Europe’s leaders are getting tough on Big Tech’s biggest players.

EU COURT SPARKS Outrage After Blocking Migrant Criminal Deportations

25 May 2025 — A group of European leaders is furious with the EUROPEAN COURT OF HUMAN RIGHTS for stopping countries from deporting criminal migrants. Denmark and eight other nations say these rulings make it harder to keep their citizens safe and protect national borders.

Leaders from Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Italy, Poland, and Denmark sent a strong letter demanding more power to expel immigrants who break the law. They said it’s shocking that some newcomers abuse their freedom by committing crimes instead of following the rules.

The group believes the court’s decisions are tying their hands. They argue that international judges are blocking necessary deportations and taking away choices from local voters and lawmakers.

With Denmark soon leading the EU presidency, this bold move shows growing anger across Europe. Many now worry that outside courts have too much control over national safety and security.

CRYPTOCURRENCY SHOCK: Investor Arrested in Horrific SoHo Torture Case

25 May 2025 — A New York crypto investor, John Woeltz, was arrested after police say he kidnapped and tortured an Italian tourist in a SoHo brownstone. Officers claim Woeltz and his group tricked the victim into coming from Italy with fake business promises. Once here, they held him for weeks to steal his crypto accounts.

The crime happened on Prince Street in Manhattan’s trendy SoHo area. Police charged Woeltz with assault, kidnapping, unlawful imprisonment, and having a gun without permission.

This disturbing case is raising alarm about rising crime linked to cryptocurrency deals in New York City.

Law enforcement warns that the dark side of digital currency is growing fast — and it’s getting harder for officials to keep up.

TRUMP’S Bold Week: Harvard Shock, Tax WIN, and Border Victory Rock America

23 May 2025 — The Trump administration just blocked Harvard from enrolling new international students. Current foreign students at Harvard must transfer or lose their legal status. Harvard is now suing the administration. The Department of Education says this will strengthen immigration rules at top schools.

In Congress, House Republicans passed “Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill.” This bill extends Trump-era tax cuts, gives more money for border security, and cuts Medicaid and food stamps. Democrats tried to stop it but failed in a heated debate before the midterms.

Oklahoma’s Republican leaders now require high schoolers to learn about Trump’s claims of 2020 election problems. Democrats say this is political, not educational. President Trump also challenged South Africa’s president over reported attacks on white farmers in a tense meeting.

A shooting at D.C.’s Capital Jewish Museum left two Israeli embassy staff dead and raised fears about anti-Semitic violence in America. Other news includes Congress moving to block California’s gas car ban and the Supreme Court stopping public money for religious charter schools as lawmakers push for spending cuts with tax relief measures.

UN SUMMIT FRENZY: Climate Fears Spark Costly Demands on America

22 May 2025 — The United Nations has called an emergency summit after climate activists sounded the alarm about rising global temperatures and more natural disasters. Scientists claim wildfires, hurricanes, and droughts are getting worse than ever before. Several countries say they’re facing their harshest weather in decades.

World leaders are meeting to discuss new rules and funding for climate programs. The goal is to push for a worldwide response to what they call a “crisis.”

Experts at the summit demand immediate action to stop what they describe as irreversible harm to economies and nature. But many conservatives warn these meetings only lead to expensive rules that hurt American workers without fixing the problem.

This story is still developing as of May 21, 2025, with world leaders feeling pressure from activists and government officials who want big changes in the name of fighting climate change.

UK BORDER SHOCK: Prime Minister’s Tough Immigration Crackdown Sparks Outrage

22 May 2025 — The UK Prime Minister just announced a strict new immigration plan. It brings tougher border checks, tighter visa rules, and more deportations for illegal immigrants. Supporters say these steps are needed to keep the country safe and bring order back to the borders.

Opponents, including left-wing leaders and activist groups, claim this policy could hurt the economy and damage Britain’s image overseas. Thousands have protested in city streets, accusing the government of turning its back on the world.

Debate is raging in Parliament and across British media. Some allied countries warn that these changes might strain relations with Britain.

Conservatives argue this bold move is long overdue. They believe it puts British citizens first by finally taking control of migration after years of weak policies. The story continues to unfold as lawmakers battle over what’s next for post-Brexit Britain.

UK TRAFFIC PLAN Sparks Outrage: £1 Billion Gamble or Needed FIX?

21 May 2025 — The UK government just revealed a £1 billion plan to dig 20 miles of tunnels under a major city. Leaders say this will ease traffic and help people get to work faster. But the news set off a firestorm among local residents and environmental groups.

Many critics warn the tunnels could damage the environment. They also question if taxpayers should pay for such an expensive project, especially now. Some lawmakers are worried about how much it will cost to keep up these tunnels in the years ahead.

Backers argue that big infrastructure is needed to keep cities running smoothly. But opponents see it as wasteful spending when families are already feeling squeezed by high prices and taxes.

This fierce debate shows how divided Britain is over fixing traffic problems — and whether massive projects like this really help or just create new headaches for everyone else.

TRUMP BROKERS Shock Ceasefire: Supreme Court Immigration Bombshell And Deadly Storms Rock America

20 May 2025 — Former President Trump says Russia and Ukraine will start immediate ceasefire talks. His push for peace is making headlines and stirring debate. Supporters call it bold leadership, while critics question his motives.

Severe tornadoes have ripped through Kentucky, Missouri, and Virginia. At least 28 people are dead, and many families are now homeless. Survivors are still waiting for federal help as relief teams struggle to reach everyone in need.

The Supreme Court just ended deportation protections for about 350,000 Venezuelans living here. This is a huge change in immigration policy under President Biden.

Other big stories: A Navy cadet ship crashed near the Brooklyn Bridge with deadly results. President Biden was diagnosed with prostate cancer. There was a shooting at a Las Vegas gym and even a cat caught smuggling drugs into a Costa Rica prison. Homeland Security also reported dozens of “self-deportations” on one flight — raising new questions about how immigration laws are enforced.

BIDEN CANCER Shock, Trump TAX Fight, And Jail Break Stir Fear Across America

19 May 2025 — President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer. The White House claims he is still able to lead, but many Americans are worried about his health and whether he can handle the job. Republicans are demanding more honesty about Biden’s condition as doubts grow over his ability to serve.

At the same time, Republican lawmakers are working hard to bring back Donald Trump’s tax cuts. They met on Sunday in a rare session to push these reforms forward. Conservatives say lower taxes will help families and businesses by boosting the economy.

In New Orleans, seven dangerous inmates broke out of the Orleans Parish Justice Center using homemade tools. Only three have been caught so far. Police warn that the others are armed and could hurt people, raising big questions about jail safety.

Other major news includes Homeland Security asking for 20,000 National Guard troops for border enforcement and Trump promising to call Putin about peace talks in Ukraine — slamming Biden’s handling of the war. America also lost its AAA credit rating because of rising debt, while new abortion rulings in Florida and Georgia show how divided our country has become.

TRAGIC SHOCK: Mexican Navy Ship Smashes Brooklyn Bridge, Americans PAY The Price

19 May 2025 — A Mexican Navy training ship slammed into the Brooklyn Bridge on May 18, 2025. Two people lost their lives and nineteen more were hurt. The ship was backing up near the bridge when it hit a support beam, causing heavy damage and panic across New York City.

The crash has sparked anger and fresh demands for tighter safety rules around key infrastructure. Investigators want to know how such a huge mistake happened in one of America’s busiest places.

This tragedy comes as President Biden’s steep tariffs on steel, aluminum, and cars shake global markets. His policies are making supply chains worse and pushing up prices for families.

Photos show the Cuauhtemoc surrounded by other navy ships next to the broken bridge — a painful reminder of lives lost and how fragile our vital structures can be.

CRIME WAVE Panic: America’S Prison Break Nightmare Ignites Outrage

17 May 2025 — A shocking prison break in New Orleans has left nine inmates on the loose after an inside job helped ten escape. Police are working around the clock to track them down. The city is tense as families worry about safety and demand answers about how this could happen.

The Bryan Kohberger murder trial in Idaho is also making headlines. A judge warned lawyers about breaking gag orders, and new evidence has people questioning if justice will be served. Many are upset over strict media rules, saying it keeps the public in the dark.

Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs faces explosive sex trafficking charges. Cassie Ventura’s testimony describes abuse and shocking behavior that has captured national attention as more details come out.

In Los Angeles, a judge changed parole rules for the Menendez brothers to 50 years to life, sparking anger over soft sentencing for violent offenders. Meanwhile, a Texas mom faces terrorism charges for allegedly helping her son plan a mass shooting — raising fresh fears about threats at home. Other cases include a solved cold case murder, tough punishment for a deadly crash, FDA warnings on dangerous drugs aimed at kids, and rising criticism of social media giants over user safety.

RUSSIA-UKRAINE Peace Talks Shattered: Putin’s Cold Rejection Sparks Global Outrage

17 May 2025 — Russia and Ukraine met in Turkey to talk peace, but the meeting lasted less than two hours. The only thing both sides agreed on was a prisoner swap. Hopes for a 30-day ceasefire went nowhere, even after Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy spoke with former President Trump and other allies.

The Kremlin quickly shot down Trump’s plan for a ceasefire. This led many to say Putin has no real interest in ending the war. UK Labour leader Keir Starmer called out Putin for playing “pointless games” instead of working toward peace.

In other news, the International Criminal Court prosecutor who targeted Israel’s prime minister stepped aside after sexual misconduct claims. This move shook up global legal efforts and left many questions unanswered. Israeli leaders also pushed back hard against UN accusations of “genocide” in Gaza as tensions grew.

Trump finished his Middle East trip by making economic deals and warning Iran about its actions. Survivors held by Hamas pleaded with both Netanyahu and Trump after an American hostage was freed. Other headlines included Uruguay’s former president Mujica passing away at 89, Australia seizing $400 million in cocaine, and Poland closing Russia’s Krakow consulate over suspected Kremlin-linked arson.

UN BLAMES AMERICA: Gloomy Global Growth Forecast Sparks Outrage

16 May 2025 — The United Nations is blaming the U.S. for a slowdown in global growth, pointing to higher American tariffs and trade fights. The U.N. now expects worldwide growth to hit just 2.4% this year and 2.5% in 2025 — both lower than what they predicted before.

Shantanu Mukherjee from the U.N.’s Economic Analysis team says “uncertainty” is everywhere right now. He also blames shaky politics, rising costs, supply chain messes, and financial worries for making things worse.

The slowdown is especially tough on developing countries. Their expected growth rate dropped from 4.6% to 4.1% since January — a huge loss for places already battling poverty.

U.N. experts warn that if these trends continue, more than half of the world’s poorest people could face even harder times ahead.