U.S. stocks were up slightly Thursday, reflecting some optimism about the economy. The University of Michigan’s consumer sentiment index is out tomorrow, and the prospect is positive. Economists are believe consumers are feeling “upbeat,” more secure in their jobs and ready to spend. Wall Street Journal
Twitter CEO ousted. Dick Costolo announced to staff today that he would be stepping down as CEO in the coming weeks. Co-founder Jack Dorsey will act as interim CEO beginning July 1. The news overshadowed a big change at the microblogging site: Direct messages will no longer be subject to the 140-character limit. The Verge
Rupert Murdoch to step down as Fox CEO. Sources close to the 84-year-old Murdoch have indicated that the media king will be handing the role of CEO of 21st Century Fox to his son James. Murdoch’s other son Lachlan will work closely with James and his father in a “partnership.” No official announcement or details have been made public. Forbes
Germanwings pilot should have been grounded. Doctors treating the co-pilot that crashed a Germanwings jet in March felt that the pilot was psychologically unstable and unfit to fly. Because of medical secrecy laws, the doctors did not report the pilot’s condition to his employers. NBC
Nobel laureate resigns post after sexist comments. Biochemist and Nobel laureate Tim Hunt, 72, has resigned his post as honorary professor at the University College London. On Monday, Hunt said the “trouble with girls” in labs with men is that “you fall in love with them, they fall in love with you, and when you criticize them they cry.” Hunt gave a shrug of an apology after social media responded in shock. New York Times (paywall)
Actor Sir Christopher Lee goes across the sea, to the west. The 93-year-old Lee, famous for roles in Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, James Bond, and Dracula, passed away Sunday in London. Lee was reportedly preparing to start filming a new movie with Uma Thurman. The Telegraph
Photo: Henry Burrows via Flickr.