25.06.12 WSJ

1. Macroeconomics

Title: World Bank Sees U.S. Growth Rate Halving as Tariffs Slow Global Economy
Source: The Wall Street Journal
Date: June 10, 2025
Key Takeaways:

• The World Bank expects U.S. GDP growth to slow to ~1.4 percent in 2025—roughly half of its prior forecast—citing drag from President Trump’s escalating tariffs
• Global growth is forecasted to fall below 2.5 percent, reflecting weakening demand and trade disruptions .
• The report warns that continued protectionism could lead to “a prolonged global slowdown” unless tariff tensions ease 
• It calls for multilateral trade cooperation to restore stability and prevent further economic contraction .
  Link: https://www.wsj.com/economy/global/world-bank-sees-u-s-growth-rate-halving-as-tariffs-slow-global-economy-b5ea7b51

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2. M&A Transactions or Private Equity

Title: Bojangles Is Exploring a Sale While the Fried‑Chicken Market Is Hot
Source: The Wall Street Journal
Date: June 11, 2025
Key Takeaways:

• Bojangles, owned by PE firms Durational Capital and TJC since a 2019 buyout, is working with bankers to explore a possible sale for over $1.5 billion, nearly triple its 2019 valuation
• The fast-casual chicken segment remains hot—U.S. chicken-focused restaurant sales rose 9 percent in 2024; chains like Raising Cane’s and Wingstop grew 24 percent
• Both strategic acquirers and other PE firms are expected to show interest amid strong sector momentum
• Bojangles is expanding beyond the Southeast into the Northeast, targeting New Jersey and New York markets
  Link: https://www.wsj.com/business/deals/bojangles-is-exploring-a-sale-while-the-fried-chicken-market-is-hot-5cc6fb9e

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3. Opinion

Title: Which Is Worse, Trump or Harvard? I’ll Go With Harvard
Author: Gerard Baker
Source: The Wall Street Journal – Opinion
Date: June 9, 2025
Key Takeaways:

• Baker contrasts the reputational impact of President Trump with that of Harvard, arguing institutional failures at Harvard may be more detrimental to public trust
• He critiques Harvard’s handling of controversies, suggesting they reflect deeper issues in elite institutions
• The column asserts that leadership accountability matters more than political affiliation in shaping societal norms
• Baker warns that failing to confront institutional malaise can do lasting damage to public confidence
  Link: https://www.wsj.com/opinion/which-is-worse-trump-or-harvard-higher-education-university-46bd4db3