5 Things To Know: August 11, 2025

Key Concepts:

• Potential deployment of National Guard troops in Washington, D.C.
• President Trump's call for China to increase soybean purchases.
• Lithium miner stock surge due to CATL mine halt.
• Warner Brothers' "Weapons" box office success.
• Disney's "Freaky Friday" strong opening.
• AOL discontinuing dial-up service.

1. National Guard Deployment in Washington, D.C.

• Officials informed NBC News that President Trump is considering deploying up to 1,000 National Guard troops in Washington, D.C.
• The purpose is to enhance security in the nation's capital.
• President Trump is scheduled to hold a news conference at 10 a.m. Eastern time to address D.C. crime.

2. President Trump's Call for Increased Soybean Purchases by China

• President Trump urged China to significantly increase its purchases of American soybeans via a post on Truth Social.
• He specifically suggested that China should "quickly quadruple its soybean orders."
• Trump believes this would address a shortage in China and reduce the trade deficit between the two countries.

3. Lithium Miner Stock Surge

• Shares of lithium miners experienced a spike in Asia.
• This surge is attributed to CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited), a major battery manufacturer, halting operations at a significant mine in China.

4. Warner Brothers' Box Office Success with "Weapons"

• Warner Brothers' horror movie "Weapons" secured the top spot at the weekend box office.
• The film grossed $42.5 million in the U.S. and Canada.
• This marks the sixth consecutive hit for Warner Brothers, following a period of box office underperformance.

5. Disney's "Freaky Friday" Strong Opening

• Disney's "Freaky Friday" had a successful opening weekend, bringing in $29 million.
• It is considered one of the best opening weekends for a mid-budget comedy in recent years.

6. AOL Discontinuing Dial-Up Service

• AOL is discontinuing its dial-up internet service.
• The service was widely popular in the 1990s and early 2000s.
• AOL is now moving away from this legacy service.

Conclusion:

The news briefing covered a range of topics, from potential security measures in Washington, D.C., to economic matters like trade relations with China and the performance of lithium mining stocks. It also highlighted the entertainment industry, noting the success of recent film releases and the end of an era for AOL's dial-up service. The key takeaway is a snapshot of diverse events impacting various sectors, from politics and economics to technology and entertainment.