📰 ICIJ · 11
United StatesLowering doses of cancer drugs could slash global health spending by $30B, new research shows
New research suggests that reducing the dosage of certain cancer drugs, such as Keytruda, could save up to $30 billion globally each year while improving patient access. Studies presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology’s annual conference indicated that lower doses may be equally effective. Merck & Co., the manufacturer of Keytruda, maintains that the FDA-approved dosages are supported by extensive clinical evidence.
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Trump intelligence adviser previously helped father pursue millions from Kremlin-linked bank, leaked documents show
Amaryllis Fox Kennedy, a former Trump administration intelligence adviser, previously assisted her father in securing at least $12 million from a Russian investment bank linked to the Kremlin through her role as president of an offshore company. Leaked documents reveal her involvement in efforts to pressure the bank to honor a financial agreement related to shares in a Ukrainian agricultural firm. Kennedy claims her involvement was minimal and described it as 'pro forma.'
Chinese spies are posing as recruiters to target officials and journalists
The U.S. and its Five Eyes intelligence allies have issued a warning that China's military intelligence services are using online job platforms and networking sites like LinkedIn to recruit individuals with access to sensitive information. These operatives pose as recruiters and may offer financial incentives in exchange for intelligence on defense, trade, and other matters of interest to China. This follows recent experiences reported by investigative journalists, including those at the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), who received suspicious outreach after the IЦ
Mexico seizes suspicious Keytruda in raid to dismantle counterfeit medication ring
Mexican federal authorities conducted raids targeting a counterfeit medication ring, seizing vials labeled as Keytruda, a high-cost cancer drug manufactured by Merck. The operation was part of a broader effort involving multiple agencies, including the Secretariat of the Navy and the Attorney General’s office. Previous raids have uncovered similar counterfeit drugs, along with other illicit items such as weapons and cocaine. Merck has not confirmed if the seized vials were genuine or fake.
Fidelity opened account for Epstein, even as outrage grew
According to documents reviewed by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), Fidelity Investments opened a brokerage account for Jeffrey Epstein in mid-April 2019, shortly before his 2019 arrest on sex trafficking charges. The account reportedly received over $5 million before being closed in late May 2019. This information comes from data previously published by the U.S. Justice Department and later removed. A former FBI agent noted that the public developments surrounding Epstein's case should have prompted Fidelity to avoid doing business with him.
Patents, prices and court files: How ICIJ used data to investigate an industry that thrives on secrecy
The article discusses how pharmaceutical companies like Merck & Co. have manipulated the global patent system to extend market exclusivity for drugs such as Keytruda, a cancer treatment. This practice delays the entry of more affordable biosimilar alternatives into the market, potentially increasing healthcare costs and limiting patient access. The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) investigated these issues through tracking related patents and analyzing legal strategies employed by the industry.
Amid a scam crackdown, crypto giants keep fueling bitcoin ATMs
Bitcoin ATMs, which allow users to exchange physical cash for cryptocurrency, are facing increasing regulatory scrutiny and legal challenges. Several U.S. states and Canada have introduced measures to restrict or ban these machines due to their association with scams and criminal activities. The largest operator of these ATMs, Bitcoin Depot, recently filed for bankruptcy. Despite this crackdown, investigations reveal that major cryptocurrency firms have been transferring significant amounts of bitcoin to ATM operators, facilitating their operations. This transfer of funds has occurred despite,
WATCH: Inside the Cancer Calculus investigation — a live Q&A
The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) held a live virtual discussion to explore findings from its 'Cancer Calculus' investigation. The event featured ICIJ chief reporter Sydney P. Freedberg, health economist Bill Pajerowski from Serif Health, and ICIJ digital producer Carmen Molina Acosta. The investigation, supported by 47 global media partners, looks at how pharmaceutical industry practices related to patents, pricing, and billing contribute to rising costs and limited access to cancer treatments. The discussion covered key findings, insights into the reporting, an
Intelligence official Amaryllis Fox Kennedy, a Gabbard ally, leaves two jobs
Amaryllis Fox Kennedy, a high-ranking Trump administration intelligence official and ally of Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, is resigning from two key positions. Her departure comes amid other resignations within the national security apparatus, including that of Joe Kent, who left the National Counterterrorism Center in March due to disagreements over U.S. involvement in Iran. Kennedy cited personal reasons, including her role as a mother, for leaving the administration. She had previously worked as a CIA undercover officer and held multiple intelligence roles.
Crypto ATM operator Bitcoin Depot files for bankruptcy
Bitcoin Depot, once the world's largest operator of cryptocurrency ATMs, has filed for bankruptcy due to increasing regulatory pressures and compliance challenges. The company operates approximately 9,700 kiosks and has shut down its network, citing new transaction limits and restrictions in various jurisdictions as reasons for its inability to continue operations. Regulators and local governments have scrutinized the company for failing to prevent fraudulent transactions through its ATMs, with consumers reporting over $389 million in losses to related scams in 2025.