Roundup: Caddo hits pause / Inflation eases / AI at work

    Power, water, questions: Caddo Parish official John-Paul Young plans to propose a two-year moratorium on new data-center tax incentives while the parish studies their long-term effects and risks. The measure would not stop data centers from being built or affect the Amazon Web Services campus already under construction. Young cited concerns about environmental impacts, water use, increased heat and utility costs, with a committee expected to study the issues and report back before the commission votes on future policy. The Center Square has the full story.

    Fed gets breathing room: U.S. inflation eased slightly in July, with consumer prices up 3.4% annually and core inflation falling to 2.5%, suggesting higher oil prices from the Iran war have had limited broader effects so far. Still, inflation remains above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target, with rising costs for services, computers and air travel keeping pressure on consumers. The data may support holding interest rates steady, but elevated gas prices and a weakening job market leave the Fed divided over its next move. The Associated Press has the full story.

    Silicon sidekick: AI adoption among CEOs has surged, with planned or active use rising from 84% in 2023 to 97% in 2026, largely to automate workflows and improve productivity. Executives are increasingly using AI for areas such as legal services and engineering, where automation can reduce costs and boost speed and capacity. AI is also evolving into a strategic adviser for CEOs, helping with contracts, content creation, marketing and faster decision-making under uncertainty. Inc. has the full story. A subscription may be required.