US Launches Tariff Refund Website & Robots Outrun Humans in Half-Marathon

This episode of Morning Brew Daily covers a dynamic mix of global developments, from the U.S. launching a new tariff refund portal called CAPE, which allows businesses to claim back an estimated $166 billion in unconstitutional tariffs, though refunds are not automatic and unlikely to trickle down to consumers. The segment also dives into the volatile situation in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran’s abrupt closure of the waterway after a brief opening has sent oil prices soaring and raised fears of a global energy crisis, especially in Europe, where jet fuel reserves may last only six weeks. Meanwhile, in a surprising twist, a humanoid robot from China won a half-marathon in Beijing with a time of 50 minutes and 26 seconds—faster than any human—marking a major leap in AI and robotics development. The episode also highlights President Trump’s executive order to accelerate psychedelic research, particularly around Ibogaine and MDMA, amid both excitement and caution from public health experts. Other stories include the Boston Marathon’s controversy over Nike’s inclusive signage, the NFL draft in Pittsburgh, and the release of a new lacrosse video game. The week ahead is packed with major events, including the confirmation hearing for Trump’s Fed nominee Kevin Warsh and a wave of corporate earnings reports. Key takeaways include: 1) Businesses must proactively apply for tariff refunds through the CAPE portal—no automatic payouts; 2) The Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint, with geopolitical tensions and mine-sweeping operations shaping global energy flows; 3) China’s rapid progress in humanoid robotics signals a new frontier in AI and automation; 4) Psychedelic therapy research is gaining momentum, but clinical integrity remains a concern; 5) Consumer-facing companies are unlikely to pass tariff refunds to shoppers, despite public pressure; 6) The energy crisis in Europe is real and could disrupt air travel within weeks; 7) The NFL draft and upcoming sports playoffs are major cultural events, even in April; 8) The intersection of tech, policy, and entertainment continues to define the news cycle.