↑ news European stocks head for mixed open ahead of earnings from Shell, Maersk and more - European stocks are expected to open flat to lower as traders gear up for more regional earnings reports Thursday.Maduro ally Alex Saab arrested in joint US-Venezuelan operation, official says - Venezuelan official Alex Saab was reportedly arrested in a joint U.S.-Venezuela operation, although his lawyer denies the report as "fake news."U.S. proposes critical minerals trade bloc aimed at countering China’s grip - The U.S. is mobilizing allies into a preferential trade bloc for critical minerals as part of efforts to counter China's dominance in the market. ‘My Crazy Friend’: The Royals Who Stayed Close to Epstein - Emails, texts, photos and videos show how Jeffrey Epstein, even after becoming a convicted sex offender, burnished his ties to royal family members from several countries and their advisers.Silver resumes its slide, plunging 13%, after short-lived rebound - Silver prices slid as much as 16% on Thursday, snapping a two-day rebound as investors continued to unwind positions.Brad Karp Resigns as Paul Weiss Chairman Amid Epstein Fallout - The decision followed the release of a series of embarrassing emails between Mr. Karp and Jeffrey Epstein.Savannah Guthrie Addresses Mother’s Abductor: ‘We Are Ready to Talk’ - Ms. Guthrie, the television anchor, and her siblings released a video on Wednesday night asking for proof that their mother, Nancy, is alive.Sony profit jumps 22% in December quarter, beating expectations and lifting full-year outlook - TechSony profit jumps 22% in December quarter, beating expectations and lifting full-year outlookPublished Wed, Feb 4 202610:31 PM ESTDylan Butts@in/dylan-b-7a4China's Xi reasserts Taiwan stance in call with Trump, while U.S. president pushes trade - Beijing stressed Taiwan is the most important issue while Trump highlights the trade aspects of the bilateral relations. Georgia GOP Rep Barry Loudermilk to retire, adding to wave of House exits - Rep. Barry Loudermilk announced he won't seek re-election, joining growing wave of Republican retirements from Congress ahead of next election cycle.