On Polymarket, ‘privileged’ users made millions betting on war strikes and diplomatic strategy. What did they know beforehand?

The prediction market’s disciples and CEO believe its an unbiased way of knowing the future. But experts warn users could reshape the world to win big

Venezuela approves bill to open oil sector to foreign investment after US pressure

Law will give private companies more control but experts unsure whether changes go far enough for US

British American Tobacco accused of helping North Korea fund terrorism in lawsuit

Victims of terrorist attacks say BAT’s operations in North Korea helped fund weapons used in the Middle East

Donald Trump expected to nominate Kevin Warsh as US Federal Reserve chair

Choice of former Fed governor to succeed Jerome Powell comes amid attack on central bank’s independence

SpaceX reportedly mulling Tesla merger or tie-up with Elon Musk’s xAI firm

Rocket company examining feasibility of both options before potential $1.5tn stock market flotation, report says

Friday briefing: How Britain’s high streets became a barometer of national decline

In today’s newsletter: As boarded‑up units spread from coastal towns to former industrial centres, a new ​Guardian investigation reveals how ​o​ur high streets have become a litmus test for public frustration and ​p​olitical choices

UK’s first rapid-charging battery train ready for boarding this weekend

Great Western Railway service recharges in three and a half minutes between trips on west London line

Trump threatens tariffs on goods from countries that sell oil to Cuba

White House cites Cuba’s ties to hostile powers as order ratchets up Trump’s pressure to topple its government

Apple reports massive spike in iPhone revenue, particularly in China

The iPhone maker reported first-quarter earnings after market close

AstraZeneca to invest £11bn in China after rowing back on UK expansion

Keir Starmer says the move, announced during his trip to Beijing, will help support thousands of British jobs

What agreements have been made during Starmer’s trip to China?

Several deals have been struck so far but there does not appear to be a big bundle of investments worth billions

Organic salmon certifier forced to share findings amid claims consumers misled

Information tribunal rules Soil Association must disclose salmon farm inspection reports to WildFish campaigners

What is behind the extraordinary rise in investment into silver and gold?

Experts say factors including Trump’s aggressive policies and pressure on the dollar are pushing investors toward ‘safe haven’ of precious metals

Chinese state media views Starmer’s visit as act of economic pragmatism

PM praised for not pressuring Xi over his ties with Putin on a trip seen as business ‘taking precedence over politics’

‘Generational shift’ towards sparkling wine behind strong sales, says UK’s Chapel Down

Kent-based producer sees better-than-expected 19% sales rise on back of millennials’ preference for ‘lighter, crisper style of wine’