AFBytes Quarter Rundown — Thursday, June 25, 10:00 PM ET

Here are today's top stories from the last 24 hours. Apple is skipping high-end M6 processors for M7 chips with stronger AI capabilities. The change alters the Mac timeline. Faster AI chips can influence device performance and pricing. America-first: U.S. leadership in advanced chip design supports domestic technology strength. Household: New AI chips may improve device capabilities but could raise future Mac prices. Nat-sec: Secure semiconductor supply chains remain critical for technology resilience. Marco Rubio stated that Iranian fees in the Strait of Hormuz would lead to total chaos. He made the remarks in Bahrain during a regional tour. Disruption or tolls in the Strait of Hormuz directly raise global oil prices that increase fuel and transportation costs for American households and businesses. America-first: Unrestricted transit through the Strait supports U.S. energy independence goals and protects trade routes used by American exporters. Household: Higher oil prices from any Hormuz disruption would raise gasoline and heating costs for American families within weeks. Nat-sec: Control over Hormuz transit remains a core concern for protecting global energy supply lines and deterring U.S. applications for unemployment benefits fell to 215000 last week. Layoff activity remains subdued even as businesses face economic uncertainty. The data point to continued labor market resilience. America-first: A resilient domestic labor market supports U.S. economic self-reliance. Household: Fewer layoffs help American families maintain steady paychecks and avoid drawing down savings. Nat-sec: A stable workforce contributes to overall economic strength that underpins national resilience. That's the day from where we sit — thanks for spending part of it with us. Stay with us at AFBytes for what's next.