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We are a small software developer that develops mostly open source software. You can find our free and subscription software on this website. Our public projects that are available on this website are listed below. | |
Photo CoPilot |
Photo CoPilot is a photography app that will help users of all skill levels take fantastic images, and makes learning the technical aspects of photography fun! Tackle tricky lighting situations, selective focus shots, and long exposures with ease. |
Vis Crossword |
Vis Crossword is an open source crossword game that will challenge your vocabulary and test your mental agility. |
Vis Wordsearch |
Vis Wordsearch is an open source word search game that offers several brain-teasing challenges in our usual open source format. |
Vis Sudoku |
Vis Sudoku is an open source Sudoku featuring randomly generated puzzles. Sharpen your logical skills with endless Sudoku grids to conquer. |
Vis Mines |
Vis Mines is a simple open source version of minesweeper which can be run almost anywhere. Experience the timeless thrill of while benefiting from the transparency of open source development. |
ISTAR |
ISTAR is a new data tool that allows you to import data, run scripts in various languages, and output in various formats. Including graphs and blockchain support. |
GUI State Automation Toolkit |
GSATK allows for structuring website automations based on state, rather than a step by step approach. This allows for greater adaptability and resilience. |
Gaanzater |
Gaanzater is a simple open source bubble shooter. From relaxing to more intense game play. |
Simple Data Toolkit |
SDTK has numerous functions to simplify retrieving and transforming data. It makes up the foundation of our ISTAR and other tools we have in development. |
Field Engine |
Field Engine is an UI framework for simple games and some business applications. It can snap into SDTK to display graphs and other data. |
Restricted Roller |
Restricted Roller is an open source random generator framework that produces boards and rolls for various games. |
Katar Genesis |
Closed Alpha of a simple online multiplayer RPG. |
| Live | Documentation | Releases | Version History | License | About |
When you launch Photo CoPilot (PCP) you will need to input a few basic Camera Settings so PCP can calculate the best exposure, based on your camera and lens. You will need to enter the Max Time Value (TV) Your camera's fastest available shutter speed. The Max Aperture Value (AV) = The fastest setting for your lens. (The lowest f/Number). and the Lowest and Highest ISO settings on your camera. With these values set, PCP will be able to compute the best settings for each scene, or exposure value you select.
Once you have the values saved in Camera Settings, You can select a Photographic Scene or Exposure Value from the main page. Once selected, PCP will go directly to the Exposure Calculator, and compute the suggested Shutter Speed (TV) Aperture Value (AV) and ISO values. Set these on your camera (See your cameras instruction manual for using your camera in manual Mode). Take a test shot, and review your results with the playback function on your cameras LCD screen. Using PCP you can Shift the exposure, as well as compensate for a light or dark shot, or when using specialized filters. Using the pre-set value locks you will get optimal settings.
At the bottom of the calculator screen, PCP also displays a real time Exposure bracket scale, that will aid in using advanced High Dynamic Range techniques. A 3 stage Tripod status indicator will alert you when a tripod is suggested or required for your current shot. (Green=Not required, Yellow=Suggested, and Red=Tripod is required to reduce camera shake.) When shooting at night or low light, you can put PCP in Night vision mode, so your eyes will remain dark adapted. The Settings button will return to the Camera Settings page, so you can change any of the preset values. When your scene changes, you can return to the Home Page and reselect a new Exposure Value or Photographic Scene.
For a more detailed set of instructions, and access to advanced tips and tricks, be sure and visit the Photo CoPilot website.
Have Fun!
http://www.vis-software.com#photocopilot
©2013,2022
Vis LLC
| Platform | Tool | URL |
|---|---|---|
| Android | Photo CoPilot | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vis.photocopilot |
| Date | Version | Comments |
|---|
Photo
CoPilot �Terms of Use�
Re:
2013-08-01
�2013
Vis LLC | All Rights reserved
1.
GENERAL
1.1. By installing the Application (Photo CoPilot),
you agree to be bound by these terms of use (�appterms�).
Please review them carefully before installation and/or acceptance.
2.
DEFINITIONS
The �Application� shall mean the software program Photo CoPilot
as provided by Vis LLC (Vis).
To be used on Apple iOS and Android OS devices and any
upgrades from time to time and any other software or documentation which
enables the use of the Application.
3.
DATA PROTECTION
Photo CoPilot does not collect any personal
information. Vis LLC did not have access to any billing information or
personal data.
4.
Terms & Conditions : Upon installation, all of the
following terms and conditions will apply.
5. Current user TERMS & CONDITIONS: The current Vis LLC Terms and Conditions can be view here:� www.vis-software.com/#photocopilot
6. If any part of the appterms� should be found illegal or
unenforceable, that section of the appterms shall be
viewed as separate and severed from the appterms
leaving the rest in effect.� In the event
that the severability of one part effects the interpretation
of another part, the part remaining in effect should be interpreted as closely
to the original intent as legally and enforceable possible.
6.
PROPRIETARY RIGHTS AND LICENCE
6.1. All trademarks, copyright, and other intellectual property rights of any
nature in the Application together with the underlying software code are owned either directly by Vis LLC.
7.
CONDITIONS OF USE
7.1.
You will not, nor allow third parties on your behalf to (i)
make and distribute copies of the Application (ii) attempt to copy, reproduce,
alter, modify, reverse engineer, disassemble, decompile, transfer, exchange or
translate the Application; or (iii) create derivative works of the Application
of any kind whatsoever.
7.2. The Application is currently made available for your personal,
non-commercial use. Vis LLC reserves the right to amend or withdraw the
Application, or charge for the application or service provided to you in
accordance with these appterms, at any time and for
any reason.
7.3.
You acknowledge that the terms of agreement with your respective mobile network
provider (�Mobile Provider�) will continue to apply when using the Application.
As a result, you may be charged by the Mobile Provider for access to network
connection services for the duration of the connection while accessing the
Application or any such third party charges as may
arise. You accept responsibility for any such charges that arise. This includes
the downloading of the installation package, and any subsequent Application
upgrades.
7.4.
If you are not the bill payer for the mobile telephone or handheld device being
used to access the Application, you will be assumed to have received permission
from the bill payer for using the Application.
8.
AVAILABILITY
8.1. This Application is available to handheld mobile devices
running Apple iOS and/or Android OS Operating Systems. �Vis LLC� will use
reasonable efforts to make the Application available at all
times. However you acknowledge the Application
is a piece of software, and may not operate correctly at all times. And that
Application may be affected by factors outside Vis LLC�s reasonable control.
8.2.
Vis LLC� does not
accept any responsibility whatsoever for unavailability of the Application, or
any of its functions. The Application may cause a system failure, which may
result in the Application being unavailable.
8.3.Vis LLC will not be responsible for any support or
maintenance for any system running the Application.
9.
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
9.1. In order to use the Application, you are required to have a
compatible mobile telephone or handheld device, and the necessary minimum
specifications ('Software Requirements').
9.2. The Software Requirements are as follows: Apple iOS devices
running iOS 4 or iOS 5, and Android OS devices running Android OS 2.1 up to OS
2.3; Language: English.
9.3.
The version of the Application software may be upgraded from time to time to
add support for new functions and services.�
Vis LLC is not responsible for any errors or bugs that may cause an upgrade
to not operate as expected, or errors or bugs that may cause hardware to fail
or otherwise malfunction.�
10.
TERMINATION
10.1 Vis LLC may terminate use of the Application at any time by
giving notice of termination to you.
10.2.
Upon any termination, (a) the rights and licenses granted to you herein shall
terminate; (b) you must cease all use of the Application.
11.
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
11.1.
In no event will Vis LLC be liable for any direct, indirect, special, punitive,
exemplary or consequential losses or damages of whatsoever kind arising out of
your use of the Application, including loss of profit or the like whether or not in the contemplation of the parties, whether
based on breach of contract, tort (including negligence), product liability or
otherwise.
11.2.Vis LLC is not liable to you for any damage or alteration to
your equipment including but not limited to computer equipment, handheld device
or mobile telephones as a result of the installation or use of the Application.
11.3. Nothing in these Appterms shall
exclude or limit Vis LLC�s liability for death or personal injury caused by
negligence or for fraud or fraudulent misrepresentation or any other liability
which cannot be excluded or limited under applicable law.
11.4
Vis LLC makes no claim to the reliability of the calculations performed by the
Application. The Application is a guide for photographic exposures, for novice
users, and should not be used in a professional setting. Vis LLC will not be held
liable for any losses in time, money, or incurred expenses, due to the use of
the Application. Vis LLC will not be liable for any damage or malfunction of any
hardware running the Application, or any hardware, computer, camera or
otherwise that may be operated in conjunction with the Application, be it
directly or indirectly.�
12. DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES To the maximum extent permitted by law, and for the avoidance of doubt, save for section 2 of the Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982, Vis LLC hereby disclaims any and all implied warranties with regard to the Application. The Application and software are provided "as is" and "as available" without warranty of any kind.
| Live | Documentation | Releases | Version History | License | About |
Let's suppose you want to create a task that loads a Pipe Delimited File into a database on a daily basis. The task is to run on Windows and you are using Snowflake for the database. You can do it with SDTK as follows:
cscript stc-wsh.js clients.psv clients.sql createorreplace clients(For more info on STC and SDTK see the following URL: https://sourceforge.net/projects/simple-data-toolkit/)
SET SNOWSQL_PWD=password snowsql -a myorganization-myaccount -u jsmith -f clients.sql -d database -s public -o quiet=true -o friendly=false(For more info on snowsql see the following URL: https://docs.snowflake.com/en/user-guide/snowsql-use.html)
Let's suppose you want to create a task that loads a TSV file into a CSV file on a daily basis. This task is meant to be part of a Batch script, but you are unfamiliar with Batch and are unsure of how to write the code. Good news, you can use the Sample Data Toolkit UI to figure out this code for you as follows:
You will now have a simple Batch script that uses STC (Simple Table Converter - A commandline utility that is part of the SDTK) to convert the file you selected to CSV. You can now either run this script or integrate it with another one.
If you need to install STC, you can install it via Chocolatey (https://chocolatey.org/) with the following command:
choco install stc
The script will look something like this:
stc "ga_sample.csv" textonly "ga_sample.csv"
Let's suppose you want to create a task that loads a Pipe Delimited File into a database on a daily basis. The task is to run on Mac OS and you are using Snowflake for the database. You can do it with SDTK as follows:
#!/bin/sh python stc.py clients.psv clients.sql createorreplace clients(For more info on STC and SDTK see the following URL: https://sourceforge.net/projects/simple-data-toolkit/)
export SNOWSQL_PWD=password snowsql -a myorganization-myaccount -u jsmith -f clients.sql -d database -s public -o quiet=true -o friendly=false(For more info on snowsql see the following URL: https://docs.snowflake.com/en/user-guide/snowsql-use.html)
nano crontab -e
0 8 * * * cd ~ && ConvertPSV.sh
Let's suppose you want to create a task that loads a Pipe Delimited File into a database on a daily basis. The task is to run on Linux and you are using Snowflake for the database. You can do it with SDTK as follows:
#!/bin/sh python stc.py clients.psv clients.sql createorreplace clients
(For more info on STC and SDTK see the following URL: https://sourceforge.net/projects/simple-data-toolkit/")
export SNOWSQL_PWD=password snowsql -a myorganization-myaccount -u jsmith -f clients.sql -d database -s public -o quiet=true -o friendly=false
(For more info on snowsql see the following URL: https://docs.snowflake.com/en/user-guide/snowsql-use.html)
nano crontab -e
0 8 * * * cd ~ && ConvertPSV.sh
Let's suppose you want to create a task that loads a TSV file into a CSV file on a daily basis. This task is meant to be part of a Python script, but you are unfamiliar with Python and are unsure of how to write the code. Good news, you can use the Sample Data Toolkit UI to figure out this code for you as follows:
You will now have a simple Python script that uses SDTK to convert the file you selected to CSV. You can now either run this script or integrate it with another one.
If you need to install SDTK for Python, you can do it like so on the terminal/commandline prompt with the following command:
pip install sdtk-visllc
The script will look something like this:
from sdtk import com_sdtk_table_Converter as sdtk
sdtk.start().readFile("complex.csv").tsv().textOnly().output().writeFile("complex.csv").csv().execute();
Let's suppose you want to create a task that loads a TSV file into a PSV file on a daily basis. This task is meant to be part of Java code, but you are unfamiliar with Java and are unsure of how to write the code. Good news, you can use the Sample Data Toolkit UI to figure out this code for you as follows:
You will now have some Java code that uses SDTK to convert the file you selected to PSV. You can now either run this script or integrate it with another one.
If you need to install SDTK for Java, you can do it by downloading the latest version from SourceForge and placing it in your class path. At the time of this writing, this can be found here: https://sourceforge.net/projects/simple-data-toolkit/files/0.1.3/sdtk.jar/download
The code will look something like this:
com.sdtk.table.Converter.start().readFile("complex.csv").tsv().textOnly().output().writeFile("complex.psv").psv().execute();
Let's suppose you want to create a task that loads a CSV file into an HTML file on a daily basis. This task is meant to be part of a PHP script, but you are unfamiliar with PHP and are unsure of how to write the code. Good news, you can use the Sample Data Toolkit UI to figure out this code for you as follows:
You will now have a PHP script that uses SDTK to convert the file you selected to an HTML. You can now either run this script or integrate it with another one.
If you need to install SDTK for PHP, you can do it by downloading the latest version from SourceForge, unzipping it, and placing it in your include path. At the time of this writing, this can be found here: https://sourceforge.net/projects/simple-data-toolkit/files/0.1.3/sdtk-php.zip/download
The script will look something like this:
<?php
use \com\sdtk\table\Converter;
set_include_path(get_include_path().PATH_SEPARATOR.__DIR__.'/lib');
spl_autoload_register(
function($class) {
$file = stream_resolve_include_path(str_replace('\\', '/', $class) .'.php');
if ($file) {
include_once $file;
}
}
);
\php\Boot::__hx__init();
Converter::start()->readFile("ga_sample.csv")->csv()->textOnly()->output()->writeFile("ga_sample.htmltable")->htmlTable()->execute();
readfile("ga_sample.htmltable");
?>
At the time of this writing, Ortingo does not have an official API. Fortunately, Simple Data Toolkit provides an unofficial API for reading posts (at the time of this writing, the release of this is pending for complete support, but it is coming soon)
To retrieve all posts for a given user in Python, using Simple Data Toolkit, we can do the following:
from sdtk import com_sdtk_api_OrtingoAPI
def printer(data, reader):
print(reader.toArrayOfNativeMaps(None))
com_sdtk_api_OrtingoAPI.postsAPI().retrieveData({"owner": "60CQ59FN46SVQFXJ"}, printer)
Let's suppose we want only a list of titles for a given user, we can do this instead:
from sdtk import com_sdtk_api_OrtingoAPI
def printer(data, reader):
print(reader.filterColumnsOnly(["title"]).toArrayOfNativeMaps(None))
com_sdtk_api_OrtingoAPI.postsAPI().retrieveData({"owner": "60CQ59FN46SVQFXJ"}, printer)
We can also pull suggested content from Ortingo with the following, where the topics we are searching on are provided with the query parameter (in this case it's value is data):
from sdtk import com_sdtk_api_OrtingoAPI
def printerUrls(data, reader):
print(reader.filterColumnsOnly(["url"]).toArrayOfNativeMaps(None))
com_sdtk_api_OrtingoAPI.suggestionsAPI().retrieveData({"query": "data"}, printerUrls)
And finally, we can also pull comments attached to a post in Ortingo with the following, where the user is myself and the post is a test post I created:
from sdtk import com_sdtk_api_OrtingoAPI
def printerComments(data, reader):
print(reader.filterColumnsOnly(["commentDate", "post"]).toArrayOfNativeMaps(None))
com_sdtk_api_OrtingoAPI.commentsAPI().retrieveData({"owner": "60CQ59FN46SVQFXJ", "id": "test"}, printerComments)
The columns supported at the time of this writing are:
For comments the following columns are supported:
Simple Data Toolkit provides an unofficial API for reading events from the IEEE API. (At the time of this writing, the release of this is pending for complete support, but it is coming soon)
To retrieve all events in Python, using Simple Data Toolkit, we can do the following:
from sdtk import com_sdtk_api_IEEEAPI,com_sdtk_calendar_IEEEEventFormat
def printer(data, reader):
ieee = com_sdtk_calendar_IEEEEventFormat.instance
for event in reader.toArrayOfNativeMaps(None):
ci = ieee.read(event)
print(ci.summary)
com_sdtk_api_IEEEAPI.eventsAPI().retrieveData({"limit": "2"}, printer)
Let's suppose we want only a list of titles for a given user, we can do this instead:
We can search using the following parameters:
The columns supported at the time of this writing are:
Simple Data Toolkit provides an unofficial API for reading Ethereum transactions from the Etherscan API. (At the time of this writing, the release of this is pending for complete support, but it is coming soon)
To retrieve all Ethereum transactions for a particular address we can do the following:
from sdtk import com_sdtk_api_EtherscanAPI
def printer(data, reader):
print(reader.toArrayOfNativeMaps(None))
com_sdtk_api_EtherscanAPI.transactionsAPI().retrieveData({"address": "0xAddress"}, printer)
Replace 0xAddress with the address you wish to search on.
Additionally, we can convert the transactions to our standard internal event interface like so:
from sdtk import com_sdtk_api_EtherscanAPI,com_sdtk_calendar_EtherscanFormat
def printerEvents(data, reader):
etherScan = com_sdtk_calendar_EtherscanFormat.instance()
for event in reader.toArrayOfNativeMaps(None):
ci = etherScan.read(event)
print(ci.start.toString())
com_sdtk_api_EtherscanAPI.transactionsAPI().retrieveData({"address": "0xAddress"}, printerEvents)
Replace 0xAddress with the address you wish to search on.
Simple Data Toolkit provides an API for retrieving transactions from BitTorrent. (At the time of this writing, the release of this is pending for complete support, but it is coming soon)
To retrieve all transactions in Python, using Simple Data Toolkit, we can do the following:
from sdtk import com_sdtk_api_BitTorrentAPI
def printer(data, reader):
print(reader.toArrayOfNativeMaps(None))
com_sdtk_api_BitTorrentAPI.transactionsAPI().retrieveData({}, printer)
We can also convert the transactions, to SDTK's internal event/calendar format with the BitTorrentFormat class like so:
def printerEvents(data, reader):
etherScan = com_sdtk_calendar_BitTorrentFormat.instance()
for event in reader.toArrayOfNativeMaps(None):
ci = etherScan.read(event)
print(ci)
com_sdtk_api_BitTorrentAPI.transactionsAPI().retrieveData({}, printerEvents)
We can also search by address, startTimestamp, and endTimestamp.
Simple Data Toolkit provides an unofficial API for reading files, commits, branches, and repos from the Git API. (At the time of this writing, the release of this is pending for complete support, but it is coming soon) To retrieve all repos a user has using Simple Data Toolkit, we can do the following:
from sdtk import com_sdtk_api_GitAPI
def printer(data, reader):
print(reader.toArrayOfNativeMaps(None))
com_sdtk_api_GitAPI.reposAPI().retrieveData({"owner": "Vis-LLC"}, printer)
To retrieve all branches a repo has using Simple Data Toolkit, we can do the following:
from sdtk import com_sdtk_api_GitAPI
def printer(data, reader):
print(reader.toArrayOfNativeMaps(None))
com_sdtk_api_GitAPI.branchesAPI().retrieveData({"owner": "Vis-LLC", "repo": "Simple-Data-Toolkit"}, printer)
To retrieve all the files in a branch using Simple Data Toolkit, we can do the following:
from sdtk import com_sdtk_api_GitAPI
def printer(data, reader):
print(reader.toArrayOfNativeMaps(None))
com_sdtk_api_GitAPI.filesAPI().retrieveData({"owner": "Vis-LLC", "repo": "Simple-Data-Toolkit", "branch": "main"}, printer)
To retrieve the data in a file using Simple Data Toolkit, we can do the following:
from sdtk import com_sdtk_api_GitAPI
def printerData(data, reader):
print(data)
com_sdtk_api_GitAPI.retrieveAPI().retrieveData({"owner": "Vis-LLC", "repo": "Simple-Data-Toolkit-UI", "branch": "main", "path": "index.html"}, printerData)
We can also login using a personal access token (https://docs.github.com/en/authentication/keeping-your-account-and-data-secure/managing-your-personal-access-tokens)
from sdtk import com_sdtk_api_GitAPI
def printerData(data, reader):
print(data)
com_sdtk_api_GitAPI.instance().setKey("Personal Access Token Here").retrieveAPI().retrieveData({"owner": "Vis-LLC", "repo": "Simple-Data-Toolkit-UI", "branch": "main", "path": "index.html"}, printerData)
| 2022-11-05T07:22:38Z | 0.1.7 | - Fixed bug with delimited file reading. - Additional features for graphing. |
| Date | Version | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| 2022-08-23T00:33:39Z | 0.1.6 | - Updated Chocolatey VERIFICATION.TXT - Added DatabaseReader - Fixed a bug in FileReader that affected Python |
| 2022-08-08T17:53:23Z | 0.1.5 | - Bug fixes for alwaysString and MatrixReader |
| 2022-08-04T21:25:41Z | 0.1.3-hf | -Fixed reset function being in the wrong place |
| 2022-08-04T21:17:52Z | 0.1.4 | - Bug fixes - First test release of jEdit plugin version - First release of new "Calc" class. - Addition of MatrixReader - Added comments to files where these were forgotten. - Adjusted Haxelib build - Addition of Grapher class |
| 2022-06-16T05:24:58Z | 0.1.3 | - Added TeX Output - Added HTMLTable Output - Added "Raw" Output - Updated Chocolatey Build Script - Updated Nuget Build Script - Added WinGet Build Script - Started adjustments for C++ compilation |
| 2022-05-14T16:18:05Z | 0.1.2 | Added Chocolatey build Adjusted PIP build Fixed Java build Added new conversion options Adjusted Python build |
| 2022-04-18T18:19:06Z | Added Numerous Features - Snowflake Support (untested) - PIP Support (tested) - Added simple mode (tested) - Added seeking in files (untested) | |
| 2022-02-07T22:35:54Z | Merge branch 'main' of https://github.com/Vis-LLC/Simple-Data-Toolkit | |
| 2022-02-07T22:30:52Z | Initial Check-in on GitHub | |
| 2022-02-07T22:17:00Z | Update LICENSE | |
| 2022-01-16T23:28:39Z | Initial commit |
GNU LESSER GENERAL PUBLIC LICENSE
Version 3, 29 June 2007
Copyright (C) 2007 Free Software Foundation, Inc.
Everyone is permitted to copy and distribute verbatim copies
of this license document, but changing it is not allowed.
This version of the GNU Lesser General Public License incorporates
the terms and conditions of version 3 of the GNU General Public
License, supplemented by the additional permissions listed below.
0. Additional Definitions.
As used herein, "this License" refers to version 3 of the GNU Lesser
General Public License, and the "GNU GPL" refers to version 3 of the GNU
General Public License.
"The Library" refers to a covered work governed by this License,
other than an Application or a Combined Work as defined below.
An "Application" is any work that makes use of an interface provided
by the Library, but which is not otherwise based on the Library.
Defining a subclass of a class defined by the Library is deemed a mode
of using an interface provided by the Library.
A "Combined Work" is a work produced by combining or linking an
Application with the Library. The particular version of the Library
with which the Combined Work was made is also called the "Linked
Version".
The "Minimal Corresponding Source" for a Combined Work means the
Corresponding Source for the Combined Work, excluding any source code
for portions of the Combined Work that, considered in isolation, are
based on the Application, and not on the Linked Version.
The "Corresponding Application Code" for a Combined Work means the
object code and/or source code for the Application, including any data
and utility programs needed for reproducing the Combined Work from the
Application, but excluding the System Libraries of the Combined Work.
1. Exception to Section 3 of the GNU GPL.
You may convey a covered work under sections 3 and 4 of this License
without being bound by section 3 of the GNU GPL.
2. Conveying Modified Versions.
If you modify a copy of the Library, and, in your modifications, a
facility refers to a function or data to be supplied by an Application
that uses the facility (other than as an argument passed when the
facility is invoked), then you may convey a copy of the modified
version:
a) under this License, provided that you make a good faith effort to
ensure that, in the event an Application does not supply the
function or data, the facility still operates, and performs
whatever part of its purpose remains meaningful, or
b) under the GNU GPL, with none of the additional permissions of
this License applicable to that copy.
3. Object Code Incorporating Material from Library Header Files.
The object code form of an Application may incorporate material from
a header file that is part of the Library. You may convey such object
code under terms of your choice, provided that, if the incorporated
material is not limited to numerical parameters, data structure
layouts and accessors, or small macros, inline functions and templates
(ten or fewer lines in length), you do both of the following:
a) Give prominent notice with each copy of the object code that the
Library is used in it and that the Library and its use are
covered by this License.
b) Accompany the object code with a copy of the GNU GPL and this license
document.
4. Combined Works.
You may convey a Combined Work under terms of your choice that,
taken together, effectively do not restrict modification of the
portions of the Library contained in the Combined Work and reverse
engineering for debugging such modifications, if you also do each of
the following:
a) Give prominent notice with each copy of the Combined Work that
the Library is used in it and that the Library and its use are
covered by this License.
b) Accompany the Combined Work with a copy of the GNU GPL and this license
document.
c) For a Combined Work that displays copyright notices during
execution, include the copyright notice for the Library among
these notices, as well as a reference directing the user to the
copies of the GNU GPL and this license document.
d) Do one of the following:
0) Convey the Minimal Corresponding Source under the terms of this
License, and the Corresponding Application Code in a form
suitable for, and under terms that permit, the user to
recombine or relink the Application with a modified version of
the Linked Version to produce a modified Combined Work, in the
manner specified by section 6 of the GNU GPL for conveying
Corresponding Source.
1) Use a suitable shared library mechanism for linking with the
Library. A suitable mechanism is one that (a) uses at run time
a copy of the Library already present on the user's computer
system, and (b) will operate properly with a modified version
of the Library that is interface-compatible with the Linked
Version.
e) Provide Installation Information, but only if you would otherwise
be required to provide such information under section 6 of the
GNU GPL, and only to the extent that such information is
necessary to install and execute a modified version of the
Combined Work produced by recombining or relinking the
Application with a modified version of the Linked Version. (If
you use option 4d0, the Installation Information must accompany
the Minimal Corresponding Source and Corresponding Application
Code. If you use option 4d1, you must provide the Installation
Information in the manner specified by section 6 of the GNU GPL
for conveying Corresponding Source.)
5. Combined Libraries.
You may place library facilities that are a work based on the
Library side by side in a single library together with other library
facilities that are not Applications and are not covered by this
License, and convey such a combined library under terms of your
choice, if you do both of the following:
a) Accompany the combined library with a copy of the same work based
on the Library, uncombined with any other library facilities,
conveyed under the terms of this License.
b) Give prominent notice with the combined library that part of it
is a work based on the Library, and explaining where to find the
accompanying uncombined form of the same work.
6. Revised Versions of the GNU Lesser General Public License.
The Free Software Foundation may publish revised and/or new versions
of the GNU Lesser General Public License from time to time. Such new
versions will be similar in spirit to the present version, but may
differ in detail to address new problems or concerns.
Each version is given a distinguishing version number. If the
Library as you received it specifies that a certain numbered version
of the GNU Lesser General Public License "or any later version"
applies to it, you have the option of following the terms and
conditions either of that published version or of any later version
published by the Free Software Foundation. If the Library as you
received it does not specify a version number of the GNU Lesser
General Public License, you may choose any version of the GNU Lesser
General Public License ever published by the Free Software Foundation.
If the Library as you received it specifies that a proxy can decide
whether future versions of the GNU Lesser General Public License shall
apply, that proxy's public statement of acceptance of any version is
permanent authorization for you to choose that version for the
Library.
| Live | Documentation | Releases | Version History | License | About |
| Platform | Tool | URL |
|---|
| Date | Version | Comments |
|---|
GNU LESSER GENERAL PUBLIC LICENSE
Version 3, 29 June 2007
Copyright (C) 2007 Free Software Foundation, Inc.
Everyone is permitted to copy and distribute verbatim copies
of this license document, but changing it is not allowed.
This version of the GNU Lesser General Public License incorporates
the terms and conditions of version 3 of the GNU General Public
License, supplemented by the additional permissions listed below.
0. Additional Definitions.
As used herein, "this License" refers to version 3 of the GNU Lesser
General Public License, and the "GNU GPL" refers to version 3 of the GNU
General Public License.
"The Library" refers to a covered work governed by this License,
other than an Application or a Combined Work as defined below.
An "Application" is any work that makes use of an interface provided
by the Library, but which is not otherwise based on the Library.
Defining a subclass of a class defined by the Library is deemed a mode
of using an interface provided by the Library.
A "Combined Work" is a work produced by combining or linking an
Application with the Library. The particular version of the Library
with which the Combined Work was made is also called the "Linked
Version".
The "Minimal Corresponding Source" for a Combined Work means the
Corresponding Source for the Combined Work, excluding any source code
for portions of the Combined Work that, considered in isolation, are
based on the Application, and not on the Linked Version.
The "Corresponding Application Code" for a Combined Work means the
object code and/or source code for the Application, including any data
and utility programs needed for reproducing the Combined Work from the
Application, but excluding the System Libraries of the Combined Work.
1. Exception to Section 3 of the GNU GPL.
You may convey a covered work under sections 3 and 4 of this License
without being bound by section 3 of the GNU GPL.
2. Conveying Modified Versions.
If you modify a copy of the Library, and, in your modifications, a
facility refers to a function or data to be supplied by an Application
that uses the facility (other than as an argument passed when the
facility is invoked), then you may convey a copy of the modified
version:
a) under this License, provided that you make a good faith effort to
ensure that, in the event an Application does not supply the
function or data, the facility still operates, and performs
whatever part of its purpose remains meaningful, or
b) under the GNU GPL, with none of the additional permissions of
this License applicable to that copy.
3. Object Code Incorporating Material from Library Header Files.
The object code form of an Application may incorporate material from
a header file that is part of the Library. You may convey such object
code under terms of your choice, provided that, if the incorporated
material is not limited to numerical parameters, data structure
layouts and accessors, or small macros, inline functions and templates
(ten or fewer lines in length), you do both of the following:
a) Give prominent notice with each copy of the object code that the
Library is used in it and that the Library and its use are
covered by this License.
b) Accompany the object code with a copy of the GNU GPL and this license
document.
4. Combined Works.
You may convey a Combined Work under terms of your choice that,
taken together, effectively do not restrict modification of the
portions of the Library contained in the Combined Work and reverse
engineering for debugging such modifications, if you also do each of
the following:
a) Give prominent notice with each copy of the Combined Work that
the Library is used in it and that the Library and its use are
covered by this License.
b) Accompany the Combined Work with a copy of the GNU GPL and this license
document.
c) For a Combined Work that displays copyright notices during
execution, include the copyright notice for the Library among
these notices, as well as a reference directing the user to the
copies of the GNU GPL and this license document.
d) Do one of the following:
0) Convey the Minimal Corresponding Source under the terms of this
License, and the Corresponding Application Code in a form
suitable for, and under terms that permit, the user to
recombine or relink the Application with a modified version of
the Linked Version to produce a modified Combined Work, in the
manner specified by section 6 of the GNU GPL for conveying
Corresponding Source.
1) Use a suitable shared library mechanism for linking with the
Library. A suitable mechanism is one that (a) uses at run time
a copy of the Library already present on the user's computer
system, and (b) will operate properly with a modified version
of the Library that is interface-compatible with the Linked
Version.
e) Provide Installation Information, but only if you would otherwise
be required to provide such information under section 6 of the
GNU GPL, and only to the extent that such information is
necessary to install and execute a modified version of the
Combined Work produced by recombining or relinking the
Application with a modified version of the Linked Version. (If
you use option 4d0, the Installation Information must accompany
the Minimal Corresponding Source and Corresponding Application
Code. If you use option 4d1, you must provide the Installation
Information in the manner specified by section 6 of the GNU GPL
for conveying Corresponding Source.)
5. Combined Libraries.
You may place library facilities that are a work based on the
Library side by side in a single library together with other library
facilities that are not Applications and are not covered by this
License, and convey such a combined library under terms of your
choice, if you do both of the following:
a) Accompany the combined library with a copy of the same work based
on the Library, uncombined with any other library facilities,
conveyed under the terms of this License.
b) Give prominent notice with the combined library that part of it
is a work based on the Library, and explaining where to find the
accompanying uncombined form of the same work.
6. Revised Versions of the GNU Lesser General Public License.
The Free Software Foundation may publish revised and/or new versions
of the GNU Lesser General Public License from time to time. Such new
versions will be similar in spirit to the present version, but may
differ in detail to address new problems or concerns.
Each version is given a distinguishing version number. If the
Library as you received it specifies that a certain numbered version
of the GNU Lesser General Public License "or any later version"
applies to it, you have the option of following the terms and
conditions either of that published version or of any later version
published by the Free Software Foundation. If the Library as you
received it does not specify a version number of the GNU Lesser
General Public License, you may choose any version of the GNU Lesser
General Public License ever published by the Free Software Foundation.
If the Library as you received it specifies that a proxy can decide
whether future versions of the GNU Lesser General Public License shall
apply, that proxy's public statement of acceptance of any version is
permanent authorization for you to choose that version for the
Library.
| Live | Documentation | Releases | Version History | License | About |
| Platform | Tool | URL |
|---|---|---|
| Source | JavaScript | https://sourceforge.net/projects/vis-mines/files/vis-mines-0.1.1-src.zip/download |
| Date | Version | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| 2022-09-17T19:07:14Z | 0.1.2 | - Minor code adjustments |
| 2022-03-19T19:21:53Z | Updates Added documentation. Added flags. | |
| 2022-02-09T19:25:25Z | Initial Github Check-in | |
| 2022-01-17T07:13:06Z | Initial commit |
GNU LESSER GENERAL PUBLIC LICENSE
Version 3, 29 June 2007
Copyright (C) 2007 Free Software Foundation, Inc.
Everyone is permitted to copy and distribute verbatim copies
of this license document, but changing it is not allowed.
This version of the GNU Lesser General Public License incorporates
the terms and conditions of version 3 of the GNU General Public
License, supplemented by the additional permissions listed below.
0. Additional Definitions.
As used herein, "this License" refers to version 3 of the GNU Lesser
General Public License, and the "GNU GPL" refers to version 3 of the GNU
General Public License.
"The Library" refers to a covered work governed by this License,
other than an Application or a Combined Work as defined below.
An "Application" is any work that makes use of an interface provided
by the Library, but which is not otherwise based on the Library.
Defining a subclass of a class defined by the Library is deemed a mode
of using an interface provided by the Library.
A "Combined Work" is a work produced by combining or linking an
Application with the Library. The particular version of the Library
with which the Combined Work was made is also called the "Linked
Version".
The "Minimal Corresponding Source" for a Combined Work means the
Corresponding Source for the Combined Work, excluding any source code
for portions of the Combined Work that, considered in isolation, are
based on the Application, and not on the Linked Version.
The "Corresponding Application Code" for a Combined Work means the
object code and/or source code for the Application, including any data
and utility programs needed for reproducing the Combined Work from the
Application, but excluding the System Libraries of the Combined Work.
1. Exception to Section 3 of the GNU GPL.
You may convey a covered work under sections 3 and 4 of this License
without being bound by section 3 of the GNU GPL.
2. Conveying Modified Versions.
If you modify a copy of the Library, and, in your modifications, a
facility refers to a function or data to be supplied by an Application
that uses the facility (other than as an argument passed when the
facility is invoked), then you may convey a copy of the modified
version:
a) under this License, provided that you make a good faith effort to
ensure that, in the event an Application does not supply the
function or data, the facility still operates, and performs
whatever part of its purpose remains meaningful, or
b) under the GNU GPL, with none of the additional permissions of
this License applicable to that copy.
3. Object Code Incorporating Material from Library Header Files.
The object code form of an Application may incorporate material from
a header file that is part of the Library. You may convey such object
code under terms of your choice, provided that, if the incorporated
material is not limited to numerical parameters, data structure
layouts and accessors, or small macros, inline functions and templates
(ten or fewer lines in length), you do both of the following:
a) Give prominent notice with each copy of the object code that the
Library is used in it and that the Library and its use are
covered by this License.
b) Accompany the object code with a copy of the GNU GPL and this license
document.
4. Combined Works.
You may convey a Combined Work under terms of your choice that,
taken together, effectively do not restrict modification of the
portions of the Library contained in the Combined Work and reverse
engineering for debugging such modifications, if you also do each of
the following:
a) Give prominent notice with each copy of the Combined Work that
the Library is used in it and that the Library and its use are
covered by this License.
b) Accompany the Combined Work with a copy of the GNU GPL and this license
document.
c) For a Combined Work that displays copyright notices during
execution, include the copyright notice for the Library among
these notices, as well as a reference directing the user to the
copies of the GNU GPL and this license document.
d) Do one of the following:
0) Convey the Minimal Corresponding Source under the terms of this
License, and the Corresponding Application Code in a form
suitable for, and under terms that permit, the user to
recombine or relink the Application with a modified version of
the Linked Version to produce a modified Combined Work, in the
manner specified by section 6 of the GNU GPL for conveying
Corresponding Source.
1) Use a suitable shared library mechanism for linking with the
Library. A suitable mechanism is one that (a) uses at run time
a copy of the Library already present on the user's computer
system, and (b) will operate properly with a modified version
of the Library that is interface-compatible with the Linked
Version.
e) Provide Installation Information, but only if you would otherwise
be required to provide such information under section 6 of the
GNU GPL, and only to the extent that such information is
necessary to install and execute a modified version of the
Combined Work produced by recombining or relinking the
Application with a modified version of the Linked Version. (If
you use option 4d0, the Installation Information must accompany
the Minimal Corresponding Source and Corresponding Application
Code. If you use option 4d1, you must provide the Installation
Information in the manner specified by section 6 of the GNU GPL
for conveying Corresponding Source.)
5. Combined Libraries.
You may place library facilities that are a work based on the
Library side by side in a single library together with other library
facilities that are not Applications and are not covered by this
License, and convey such a combined library under terms of your
choice, if you do both of the following:
a) Accompany the combined library with a copy of the same work based
on the Library, uncombined with any other library facilities,
conveyed under the terms of this License.
b) Give prominent notice with the combined library that part of it
is a work based on the Library, and explaining where to find the
accompanying uncombined form of the same work.
6. Revised Versions of the GNU Lesser General Public License.
The Free Software Foundation may publish revised and/or new versions
of the GNU Lesser General Public License from time to time. Such new
versions will be similar in spirit to the present version, but may
differ in detail to address new problems or concerns.
Each version is given a distinguishing version number. If the
Library as you received it specifies that a certain numbered version
of the GNU Lesser General Public License "or any later version"
applies to it, you have the option of following the terms and
conditions either of that published version or of any later version
published by the Free Software Foundation. If the Library as you
received it does not specify a version number of the GNU Lesser
General Public License, you may choose any version of the GNU Lesser
General Public License ever published by the Free Software Foundation.
If the Library as you received it specifies that a proxy can decide
whether future versions of the GNU Lesser General Public License shall
apply, that proxy's public statement of acceptance of any version is
permanent authorization for you to choose that version for the
Library.
Vis Mines is a simple minesweeper clone created with RR (Restricted Roller - https://sourceforge.net/projects/restricted-roller/)) and Field Engine (https://sourceforge.net/projects/field-engine/) for display. A live example can be seen here: https://vis-mines.sourceforge.io/app/index.html. The project GIT repo can be found here: https://github.com/Vis-LLC/Vis-Mines
| JavaScript |
| Vis Mines | An open source Minesweeper clone. | |
| Project Home | https://sourceforge.net/projects/vis-mines/ | |
| Live Web Version | https://vis-mines.sourceforge.io/app/index.html | |
| Git Repo | https://github.com/Vis-LLC/Vis-Mines | |
| Vis Sudoku | An open source Sudoku clone. | |
| Project Home | https://sourceforge.net/projects/vis-sudoku/ | |
| Live Web Version | https://vis-sudoku.sourceforge.io/app/index.html | |
| Git Repo | https://github.com/Vis-LLC/Vis-Sudoku | |
| SDTK-UI | An open source data converter tool. | |
| Project Home | https://sourceforge.net/projects/simple-data-toolkit/ | |
| Live Web Version | https://simple-data-toolkit.sourceforge.io/app/index.html | |
| Git Repo | https://github.com/Vis-LLC/Simple-Data-Toolkit-UI | |
| Live | Documentation | Releases | Version History | License | About |
| Platform | Tool | URL |
|---|---|---|
| Source | JavaScript | https://sourceforge.net/projects/vis-sudoku/files/vis-sudoku-0.1.1-src.zip/download |
| Date | Version | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| 2022-09-17T19:02:22Z | 0.1.2 | - Minor code adjustments |
| 2022-03-19T19:32:22Z | Added documentation | |
| 2022-02-09T19:24:51Z | Correct copyright notice | |
| 2022-02-09T16:12:29Z | Initial Check-in on GItHub | |
| 2022-01-17T07:14:54Z | Initial commit |
GNU LESSER GENERAL PUBLIC LICENSE
Version 3, 29 June 2007
Copyright (C) 2007 Free Software Foundation, Inc.
Everyone is permitted to copy and distribute verbatim copies
of this license document, but changing it is not allowed.
This version of the GNU Lesser General Public License incorporates
the terms and conditions of version 3 of the GNU General Public
License, supplemented by the additional permissions listed below.
0. Additional Definitions.
As used herein, "this License" refers to version 3 of the GNU Lesser
General Public License, and the "GNU GPL" refers to version 3 of the GNU
General Public License.
"The Library" refers to a covered work governed by this License,
other than an Application or a Combined Work as defined below.
An "Application" is any work that makes use of an interface provided
by the Library, but which is not otherwise based on the Library.
Defining a subclass of a class defined by the Library is deemed a mode
of using an interface provided by the Library.
A "Combined Work" is a work produced by combining or linking an
Application with the Library. The particular version of the Library
with which the Combined Work was made is also called the "Linked
Version".
The "Minimal Corresponding Source" for a Combined Work means the
Corresponding Source for the Combined Work, excluding any source code
for portions of the Combined Work that, considered in isolation, are
based on the Application, and not on the Linked Version.
The "Corresponding Application Code" for a Combined Work means the
object code and/or source code for the Application, including any data
and utility programs needed for reproducing the Combined Work from the
Application, but excluding the System Libraries of the Combined Work.
1. Exception to Section 3 of the GNU GPL.
You may convey a covered work under sections 3 and 4 of this License
without being bound by section 3 of the GNU GPL.
2. Conveying Modified Versions.
If you modify a copy of the Library, and, in your modifications, a
facility refers to a function or data to be supplied by an Application
that uses the facility (other than as an argument passed when the
facility is invoked), then you may convey a copy of the modified
version:
a) under this License, provided that you make a good faith effort to
ensure that, in the event an Application does not supply the
function or data, the facility still operates, and performs
whatever part of its purpose remains meaningful, or
b) under the GNU GPL, with none of the additional permissions of
this License applicable to that copy.
3. Object Code Incorporating Material from Library Header Files.
The object code form of an Application may incorporate material from
a header file that is part of the Library. You may convey such object
code under terms of your choice, provided that, if the incorporated
material is not limited to numerical parameters, data structure
layouts and accessors, or small macros, inline functions and templates
(ten or fewer lines in length), you do both of the following:
a) Give prominent notice with each copy of the object code that the
Library is used in it and that the Library and its use are
covered by this License.
b) Accompany the object code with a copy of the GNU GPL and this license
document.
4. Combined Works.
You may convey a Combined Work under terms of your choice that,
taken together, effectively do not restrict modification of the
portions of the Library contained in the Combined Work and reverse
engineering for debugging such modifications, if you also do each of
the following:
a) Give prominent notice with each copy of the Combined Work that
the Library is used in it and that the Library and its use are
covered by this License.
b) Accompany the Combined Work with a copy of the GNU GPL and this license
document.
c) For a Combined Work that displays copyright notices during
execution, include the copyright notice for the Library among
these notices, as well as a reference directing the user to the
copies of the GNU GPL and this license document.
d) Do one of the following:
0) Convey the Minimal Corresponding Source under the terms of this
License, and the Corresponding Application Code in a form
suitable for, and under terms that permit, the user to
recombine or relink the Application with a modified version of
the Linked Version to produce a modified Combined Work, in the
manner specified by section 6 of the GNU GPL for conveying
Corresponding Source.
1) Use a suitable shared library mechanism for linking with the
Library. A suitable mechanism is one that (a) uses at run time
a copy of the Library already present on the user's computer
system, and (b) will operate properly with a modified version
of the Library that is interface-compatible with the Linked
Version.
e) Provide Installation Information, but only if you would otherwise
be required to provide such information under section 6 of the
GNU GPL, and only to the extent that such information is
necessary to install and execute a modified version of the
Combined Work produced by recombining or relinking the
Application with a modified version of the Linked Version. (If
you use option 4d0, the Installation Information must accompany
the Minimal Corresponding Source and Corresponding Application
Code. If you use option 4d1, you must provide the Installation
Information in the manner specified by section 6 of the GNU GPL
for conveying Corresponding Source.)
5. Combined Libraries.
You may place library facilities that are a work based on the
Library side by side in a single library together with other library
facilities that are not Applications and are not covered by this
License, and convey such a combined library under terms of your
choice, if you do both of the following:
a) Accompany the combined library with a copy of the same work based
on the Library, uncombined with any other library facilities,
conveyed under the terms of this License.
b) Give prominent notice with the combined library that part of it
is a work based on the Library, and explaining where to find the
accompanying uncombined form of the same work.
6. Revised Versions of the GNU Lesser General Public License.
The Free Software Foundation may publish revised and/or new versions
of the GNU Lesser General Public License from time to time. Such new
versions will be similar in spirit to the present version, but may
differ in detail to address new problems or concerns.
Each version is given a distinguishing version number. If the
Library as you received it specifies that a certain numbered version
of the GNU Lesser General Public License "or any later version"
applies to it, you have the option of following the terms and
conditions either of that published version or of any later version
published by the Free Software Foundation. If the Library as you
received it does not specify a version number of the GNU Lesser
General Public License, you may choose any version of the GNU Lesser
General Public License ever published by the Free Software Foundation.
If the Library as you received it specifies that a proxy can decide
whether future versions of the GNU Lesser General Public License shall
apply, that proxy's public statement of acceptance of any version is
permanent authorization for you to choose that version for the
Library.
Vis Sudoku is a simple Sudoku game created with RR (Restricted Roller - https://sourceforge.net/projects/restricted-roller/)) and Field Engine (https://sourceforge.net/projects/field-engine/) for display. A live example can be seen here: https://vis-sudoku.sourceforge.io/app/index.html. The project GIT repo can be found here: https://github.com/Vis-LLC/Vis-Sudoku
| JavaScript |
| Live | Documentation | Releases | Version History | License | About |
| Platform | Tool | URL |
|---|
| Date | Version | Comments |
|---|
GNU LESSER GENERAL PUBLIC LICENSE
Version 3, 29 June 2007
Copyright (C) 2007 Free Software Foundation, Inc.
Everyone is permitted to copy and distribute verbatim copies
of this license document, but changing it is not allowed.
This version of the GNU Lesser General Public License incorporates
the terms and conditions of version 3 of the GNU General Public
License, supplemented by the additional permissions listed below.
0. Additional Definitions.
As used herein, "this License" refers to version 3 of the GNU Lesser
General Public License, and the "GNU GPL" refers to version 3 of the GNU
General Public License.
"The Library" refers to a covered work governed by this License,
other than an Application or a Combined Work as defined below.
An "Application" is any work that makes use of an interface provided
by the Library, but which is not otherwise based on the Library.
Defining a subclass of a class defined by the Library is deemed a mode
of using an interface provided by the Library.
A "Combined Work" is a work produced by combining or linking an
Application with the Library. The particular version of the Library
with which the Combined Work was made is also called the "Linked
Version".
The "Minimal Corresponding Source" for a Combined Work means the
Corresponding Source for the Combined Work, excluding any source code
for portions of the Combined Work that, considered in isolation, are
based on the Application, and not on the Linked Version.
The "Corresponding Application Code" for a Combined Work means the
object code and/or source code for the Application, including any data
and utility programs needed for reproducing the Combined Work from the
Application, but excluding the System Libraries of the Combined Work.
1. Exception to Section 3 of the GNU GPL.
You may convey a covered work under sections 3 and 4 of this License
without being bound by section 3 of the GNU GPL.
2. Conveying Modified Versions.
If you modify a copy of the Library, and, in your modifications, a
facility refers to a function or data to be supplied by an Application
that uses the facility (other than as an argument passed when the
facility is invoked), then you may convey a copy of the modified
version:
a) under this License, provided that you make a good faith effort to
ensure that, in the event an Application does not supply the
function or data, the facility still operates, and performs
whatever part of its purpose remains meaningful, or
b) under the GNU GPL, with none of the additional permissions of
this License applicable to that copy.
3. Object Code Incorporating Material from Library Header Files.
The object code form of an Application may incorporate material from
a header file that is part of the Library. You may convey such object
code under terms of your choice, provided that, if the incorporated
material is not limited to numerical parameters, data structure
layouts and accessors, or small macros, inline functions and templates
(ten or fewer lines in length), you do both of the following:
a) Give prominent notice with each copy of the object code that the
Library is used in it and that the Library and its use are
covered by this License.
b) Accompany the object code with a copy of the GNU GPL and this license
document.
4. Combined Works.
You may convey a Combined Work under terms of your choice that,
taken together, effectively do not restrict modification of the
portions of the Library contained in the Combined Work and reverse
engineering for debugging such modifications, if you also do each of
the following:
a) Give prominent notice with each copy of the Combined Work that
the Library is used in it and that the Library and its use are
covered by this License.
b) Accompany the Combined Work with a copy of the GNU GPL and this license
document.
c) For a Combined Work that displays copyright notices during
execution, include the copyright notice for the Library among
these notices, as well as a reference directing the user to the
copies of the GNU GPL and this license document.
d) Do one of the following:
0) Convey the Minimal Corresponding Source under the terms of this
License, and the Corresponding Application Code in a form
suitable for, and under terms that permit, the user to
recombine or relink the Application with a modified version of
the Linked Version to produce a modified Combined Work, in the
manner specified by section 6 of the GNU GPL for conveying
Corresponding Source.
1) Use a suitable shared library mechanism for linking with the
Library. A suitable mechanism is one that (a) uses at run time
a copy of the Library already present on the user's computer
system, and (b) will operate properly with a modified version
of the Library that is interface-compatible with the Linked
Version.
e) Provide Installation Information, but only if you would otherwise
be required to provide such information under section 6 of the
GNU GPL, and only to the extent that such information is
necessary to install and execute a modified version of the
Combined Work produced by recombining or relinking the
Application with a modified version of the Linked Version. (If
you use option 4d0, the Installation Information must accompany
the Minimal Corresponding Source and Corresponding Application
Code. If you use option 4d1, you must provide the Installation
Information in the manner specified by section 6 of the GNU GPL
for conveying Corresponding Source.)
5. Combined Libraries.
You may place library facilities that are a work based on the
Library side by side in a single library together with other library
facilities that are not Applications and are not covered by this
License, and convey such a combined library under terms of your
choice, if you do both of the following:
a) Accompany the combined library with a copy of the same work based
on the Library, uncombined with any other library facilities,
conveyed under the terms of this License.
b) Give prominent notice with the combined library that part of it
is a work based on the Library, and explaining where to find the
accompanying uncombined form of the same work.
6. Revised Versions of the GNU Lesser General Public License.
The Free Software Foundation may publish revised and/or new versions
of the GNU Lesser General Public License from time to time. Such new
versions will be similar in spirit to the present version, but may
differ in detail to address new problems or concerns.
Each version is given a distinguishing version number. If the
Library as you received it specifies that a certain numbered version
of the GNU Lesser General Public License "or any later version"
applies to it, you have the option of following the terms and
conditions either of that published version or of any later version
published by the Free Software Foundation. If the Library as you
received it does not specify a version number of the GNU Lesser
General Public License, you may choose any version of the GNU Lesser
General Public License ever published by the Free Software Foundation.
If the Library as you received it specifies that a proxy can decide
whether future versions of the GNU Lesser General Public License shall
apply, that proxy's public statement of acceptance of any version is
permanent authorization for you to choose that version for the
Library.
| Live | Documentation | Releases | Version History | License | About |
| Examples | |
| Field Engine - Tutorial - Basic Hex Grid with HTML | https://ortingo.com/users/60CQ59FN46SVQFXJ/field-engine-tutorial-basic-hex-grid-with-html |
| Field Engine - Tutorial - Basic Scrollable Table with HTML | https://ortingo.com/users/60CQ59FN46SVQFXJ/field-engine-tutorial-basic-scrollable-table-with-html |
| Field Engine - Tutorial - Basic Vertical Menu with HTML | https://ortingo.com/users/60CQ59FN46SVQFXJ/field-engine-tutorial-basic-vertical-menu-with-html |
On occassion, we need to display information in hex grids. With Field Engine, this is a relatively painless task.
We need to include the Field Engine files:
<link href="FieldEngine.css" rel="stylesheet" />
<link href="FieldEngine-Defaults.css" rel="stylesheet" />
<script src="fe-browser.js"></script>
Then we need to specify the CSS for the hex grid, we�re going to make our borders black and our hexes white:
.field-hex .field_view_inner {
background-color: black;
}
.field-hex .field_location {
background-color: white;
color: black;
}
Then we specify the hex grid with a table and the class field-hex, like so:
<table class="field-hex" columns="3" rows="3" borderWidth=�1px� borderColor=�black�>
<tr><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td></tr>
<tr><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td></tr>
<tr><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td></tr>
<tr><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td></tr>
<tr><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td></tr>
<tr><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td></tr>
<tr><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td></tr>
<tr><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td></tr>
<tr><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td></tr>
<tr><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td></tr>
</table>
And like magic, we have a hex grid.
Frequently we need a table that a user can scroll through to present data for users. This is very easy with Field Engine and can be done with a few simple steps.
We need to include the Field Engine files:
<link href="FieldEngine.css" rel="stylesheet" />
<link href="FieldEngine-Defaults.css" rel="stylesheet" />
<script src="fe-browser.js"></script>
Then we need to specify the CSS for the hex grid, we�re going to make our borders black and our hexes white:
.field-hex .field_view_inner {
background-color: black;
}
.field-hex .field_location {
background-color: white;
color: black;
}
Then we specify the scrollable table with a table and the class field-table
<table class="field-table" columns="3" rows="3">
<tr><th>Col A</th><th>Col B</th></tr>
<tr><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td></tr>
<tr><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td></tr>
<tr><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td></tr>
<tr><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td></tr>
<tr><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td></tr>
<tr><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td></tr>
<tr><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td></tr>
<tr><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td></tr>
<tr><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td><td>123</td><td>456</td></tr>
<tr><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td><td>789</td><td>012</td></tr>
</table>
And like that you have a scrollable table. Note that columns and rows specify the size of the view of the data.
At times we need to display a vertical menu for users. This is very easy with Field Engine and can be done with a few simple steps.
We need to include the Field Engine files:
<link href="FieldEngine.css" rel="stylesheet" />
<link href="FieldEngine-Defaults.css" rel="stylesheet" />
<script src="fe-browser.js"></script>
Then we need to specify the CSS for the hex grid, we're going to make our borders black and our hexes white:
.field-hex .field_view_inner {
background-color: black;
}
.field-hex .field_location {
background-color: white;
color: black;
}
Then we specify the scrollable table with a ul tag and the class field-vertical-menu:
<ul class="field-vertical-menu">
<li>Menu</li>
<li level="1" onclick="switchToTable">Table</li>
<li level="1" onclick="switchToHex">Hex</li>
</ul>
And we'll have a fully functional vertical menu.
| Platform | Tool | URL |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Haxe | https://sourceforge.net/projects/field-engine/files/0.1.3/field-engine-src.zip/download |
| Web Browser | JavaScript | https://sourceforge.net/projects/field-engine/files/0.1.3/fe-browser.js/download |
| Date | Version | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| 2022-09-17T18:52:15Z | 0.1.4 | - Added PHP build - Added GraphView - Added mouse wheel control - Added VerticalMenu - Adjusted base64.js for better backwards compatibility |
| 2022-06-16T06:14:03Z | 0.1.3 | |
| 2022-03-20T16:27:54Z | Update how multitouch tap is handled | |
| 2022-03-19T07:28:14Z | Slight update to documentation | |
| 2022-03-19T07:10:21Z | Improvements Documentation cleanup. Improved hex support. Support for second mouse button and multi-finger taps. Improved performance. | |
| 2022-02-07T22:32:03Z | Initial Check-in on GitHub | |
| 2022-01-17T07:08:39Z | Initial commit |
GNU LESSER GENERAL PUBLIC LICENSE
Version 3, 29 June 2007
Copyright (C) 2007 Free Software Foundation, Inc.
Everyone is permitted to copy and distribute verbatim copies
of this license document, but changing it is not allowed.
This version of the GNU Lesser General Public License incorporates
the terms and conditions of version 3 of the GNU General Public
License, supplemented by the additional permissions listed below.
0. Additional Definitions.
As used herein, "this License" refers to version 3 of the GNU Lesser
General Public License, and the "GNU GPL" refers to version 3 of the GNU
General Public License.
"The Library" refers to a covered work governed by this License,
other than an Application or a Combined Work as defined below.
An "Application" is any work that makes use of an interface provided
by the Library, but which is not otherwise based on the Library.
Defining a subclass of a class defined by the Library is deemed a mode
of using an interface provided by the Library.
A "Combined Work" is a work produced by combining or linking an
Application with the Library. The particular version of the Library
with which the Combined Work was made is also called the "Linked
Version".
The "Minimal Corresponding Source" for a Combined Work means the
Corresponding Source for the Combined Work, excluding any source code
for portions of the Combined Work that, considered in isolation, are
based on the Application, and not on the Linked Version.
The "Corresponding Application Code" for a Combined Work means the
object code and/or source code for the Application, including any data
and utility programs needed for reproducing the Combined Work from the
Application, but excluding the System Libraries of the Combined Work.
1. Exception to Section 3 of the GNU GPL.
You may convey a covered work under sections 3 and 4 of this License
without being bound by section 3 of the GNU GPL.
2. Conveying Modified Versions.
If you modify a copy of the Library, and, in your modifications, a
facility refers to a function or data to be supplied by an Application
that uses the facility (other than as an argument passed when the
facility is invoked), then you may convey a copy of the modified
version:
a) under this License, provided that you make a good faith effort to
ensure that, in the event an Application does not supply the
function or data, the facility still operates, and performs
whatever part of its purpose remains meaningful, or
b) under the GNU GPL, with none of the additional permissions of
this License applicable to that copy.
3. Object Code Incorporating Material from Library Header Files.
The object code form of an Application may incorporate material from
a header file that is part of the Library. You may convey such object
code under terms of your choice, provided that, if the incorporated
material is not limited to numerical parameters, data structure
layouts and accessors, or small macros, inline functions and templates
(ten or fewer lines in length), you do both of the following:
a) Give prominent notice with each copy of the object code that the
Library is used in it and that the Library and its use are
covered by this License.
b) Accompany the object code with a copy of the GNU GPL and this license
document.
4. Combined Works.
You may convey a Combined Work under terms of your choice that,
taken together, effectively do not restrict modification of the
portions of the Library contained in the Combined Work and reverse
engineering for debugging such modifications, if you also do each of
the following:
a) Give prominent notice with each copy of the Combined Work that
the Library is used in it and that the Library and its use are
covered by this License.
b) Accompany the Combined Work with a copy of the GNU GPL and this license
document.
c) For a Combined Work that displays copyright notices during
execution, include the copyright notice for the Library among
these notices, as well as a reference directing the user to the
copies of the GNU GPL and this license document.
d) Do one of the following:
0) Convey the Minimal Corresponding Source under the terms of this
License, and the Corresponding Application Code in a form
suitable for, and under terms that permit, the user to
recombine or relink the Application with a modified version of
the Linked Version to produce a modified Combined Work, in the
manner specified by section 6 of the GNU GPL for conveying
Corresponding Source.
1) Use a suitable shared library mechanism for linking with the
Library. A suitable mechanism is one that (a) uses at run time
a copy of the Library already present on the user's computer
system, and (b) will operate properly with a modified version
of the Library that is interface-compatible with the Linked
Version.
e) Provide Installation Information, but only if you would otherwise
be required to provide such information under section 6 of the
GNU GPL, and only to the extent that such information is
necessary to install and execute a modified version of the
Combined Work produced by recombining or relinking the
Application with a modified version of the Linked Version. (If
you use option 4d0, the Installation Information must accompany
the Minimal Corresponding Source and Corresponding Application
Code. If you use option 4d1, you must provide the Installation
Information in the manner specified by section 6 of the GNU GPL
for conveying Corresponding Source.)
5. Combined Libraries.
You may place library facilities that are a work based on the
Library side by side in a single library together with other library
facilities that are not Applications and are not covered by this
License, and convey such a combined library under terms of your
choice, if you do both of the following:
a) Accompany the combined library with a copy of the same work based
on the Library, uncombined with any other library facilities,
conveyed under the terms of this License.
b) Give prominent notice with the combined library that part of it
is a work based on the Library, and explaining where to find the
accompanying uncombined form of the same work.
6. Revised Versions of the GNU Lesser General Public License.
The Free Software Foundation may publish revised and/or new versions
of the GNU Lesser General Public License from time to time. Such new
versions will be similar in spirit to the present version, but may
differ in detail to address new problems or concerns.
Each version is given a distinguishing version number. If the
Library as you received it specifies that a certain numbered version
of the GNU Lesser General Public License "or any later version"
applies to it, you have the option of following the terms and
conditions either of that published version or of any later version
published by the Free Software Foundation. If the Library as you
received it does not specify a version number of the GNU Lesser
General Public License, you may choose any version of the GNU Lesser
General Public License ever published by the Free Software Foundation.
If the Library as you received it specifies that a proxy can decide
whether future versions of the GNU Lesser General Public License shall
apply, that proxy's public statement of acceptance of any version is
permanent authorization for you to choose that version for the
Library.
| Live | Documentation | Releases | Version History | License | About |
| Platform | Tool | URL |
|---|
| Date | Version | Comments |
|---|
| Live | Documentation | Releases | Version History | License | About |
| Platform | Tool | URL |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Haxe | https://sourceforge.net/projects/restricted-roller/files/restricted-roller-src-0.0.4.zip/download |
| Date | Version | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| 2022-09-17T18:31:46Z | 0.0.5 | - Added WordSearch and Crossword generation. - Added Python and PIP builds. |
| 2022-03-19T19:40:01Z | Added documentation | |
| 2022-02-08T19:09:55Z | Initial version on GitHub |
GNU LESSER GENERAL PUBLIC LICENSE
Version 3, 29 June 2007
Copyright (C) 2007 Free Software Foundation, Inc.
Everyone is permitted to copy and distribute verbatim copies
of this license document, but changing it is not allowed.
This version of the GNU Lesser General Public License incorporates
the terms and conditions of version 3 of the GNU General Public
License, supplemented by the additional permissions listed below.
0. Additional Definitions.
As used herein, "this License" refers to version 3 of the GNU Lesser
General Public License, and the "GNU GPL" refers to version 3 of the GNU
General Public License.
"The Library" refers to a covered work governed by this License,
other than an Application or a Combined Work as defined below.
An "Application" is any work that makes use of an interface provided
by the Library, but which is not otherwise based on the Library.
Defining a subclass of a class defined by the Library is deemed a mode
of using an interface provided by the Library.
A "Combined Work" is a work produced by combining or linking an
Application with the Library. The particular version of the Library
with which the Combined Work was made is also called the "Linked
Version".
The "Minimal Corresponding Source" for a Combined Work means the
Corresponding Source for the Combined Work, excluding any source code
for portions of the Combined Work that, considered in isolation, are
based on the Application, and not on the Linked Version.
The "Corresponding Application Code" for a Combined Work means the
object code and/or source code for the Application, including any data
and utility programs needed for reproducing the Combined Work from the
Application, but excluding the System Libraries of the Combined Work.
1. Exception to Section 3 of the GNU GPL.
You may convey a covered work under sections 3 and 4 of this License
without being bound by section 3 of the GNU GPL.
2. Conveying Modified Versions.
If you modify a copy of the Library, and, in your modifications, a
facility refers to a function or data to be supplied by an Application
that uses the facility (other than as an argument passed when the
facility is invoked), then you may convey a copy of the modified
version:
a) under this License, provided that you make a good faith effort to
ensure that, in the event an Application does not supply the
function or data, the facility still operates, and performs
whatever part of its purpose remains meaningful, or
b) under the GNU GPL, with none of the additional permissions of
this License applicable to that copy.
3. Object Code Incorporating Material from Library Header Files.
The object code form of an Application may incorporate material from
a header file that is part of the Library. You may convey such object
code under terms of your choice, provided that, if the incorporated
material is not limited to numerical parameters, data structure
layouts and accessors, or small macros, inline functions and templates
(ten or fewer lines in length), you do both of the following:
a) Give prominent notice with each copy of the object code that the
Library is used in it and that the Library and its use are
covered by this License.
b) Accompany the object code with a copy of the GNU GPL and this license
document.
4. Combined Works.
You may convey a Combined Work under terms of your choice that,
taken together, effectively do not restrict modification of the
portions of the Library contained in the Combined Work and reverse
engineering for debugging such modifications, if you also do each of
the following:
a) Give prominent notice with each copy of the Combined Work that
the Library is used in it and that the Library and its use are
covered by this License.
b) Accompany the Combined Work with a copy of the GNU GPL and this license
document.
c) For a Combined Work that displays copyright notices during
execution, include the copyright notice for the Library among
these notices, as well as a reference directing the user to the
copies of the GNU GPL and this license document.
d) Do one of the following:
0) Convey the Minimal Corresponding Source under the terms of this
License, and the Corresponding Application Code in a form
suitable for, and under terms that permit, the user to
recombine or relink the Application with a modified version of
the Linked Version to produce a modified Combined Work, in the
manner specified by section 6 of the GNU GPL for conveying
Corresponding Source.
1) Use a suitable shared library mechanism for linking with the
Library. A suitable mechanism is one that (a) uses at run time
a copy of the Library already present on the user's computer
system, and (b) will operate properly with a modified version
of the Library that is interface-compatible with the Linked
Version.
e) Provide Installation Information, but only if you would otherwise
be required to provide such information under section 6 of the
GNU GPL, and only to the extent that such information is
necessary to install and execute a modified version of the
Combined Work produced by recombining or relinking the
Application with a modified version of the Linked Version. (If
you use option 4d0, the Installation Information must accompany
the Minimal Corresponding Source and Corresponding Application
Code. If you use option 4d1, you must provide the Installation
Information in the manner specified by section 6 of the GNU GPL
for conveying Corresponding Source.)
5. Combined Libraries.
You may place library facilities that are a work based on the
Library side by side in a single library together with other library
facilities that are not Applications and are not covered by this
License, and convey such a combined library under terms of your
choice, if you do both of the following:
a) Accompany the combined library with a copy of the same work based
on the Library, uncombined with any other library facilities,
conveyed under the terms of this License.
b) Give prominent notice with the combined library that part of it
is a work based on the Library, and explaining where to find the
accompanying uncombined form of the same work.
6. Revised Versions of the GNU Lesser General Public License.
The Free Software Foundation may publish revised and/or new versions
of the GNU Lesser General Public License from time to time. Such new
versions will be similar in spirit to the present version, but may
differ in detail to address new problems or concerns.
Each version is given a distinguishing version number. If the
Library as you received it specifies that a certain numbered version
of the GNU Lesser General Public License "or any later version"
applies to it, you have the option of following the terms and
conditions either of that published version or of any later version
published by the Free Software Foundation. If the Library as you
received it does not specify a version number of the GNU Lesser
General Public License, you may choose any version of the GNU Lesser
General Public License ever published by the Free Software Foundation.
If the Library as you received it specifies that a proxy can decide
whether future versions of the GNU Lesser General Public License shall
apply, that proxy's public statement of acceptance of any version is
permanent authorization for you to choose that version for the
Library.
 Atotium News |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-02-25 |
The Trillion-Dollar A.I. Data Center Tsunami - Coming To A Field Near Youhttps://www.forbes.com/sites/christopherhelman/2025/02/08/the-trillion-dollar-ai-data-center-tsunami--coming-to-a-field-near-you/The article discusses the rapid expansion of large-scale data centers, especially in Texas and Louisiana, to support the growing demand for artificial intelligence (AI) computing power. Some key points include: 1. Meta's new 300-megawatt data center (Sucré) near Shreveport, LA will require about 2 cubic feet of natural gas per second when operating at full capacity. 2. Other major players like Oracle and Microsoft are planning even larger projects in Texas and elsewhere that will consume much more energy. 3. Data centers typically run on natural gas due to its reliability and constant availability compared to intermittent renewables. 4. Companies are exploring partnerships with oil & gas firms for power generation near data center sites. 5. There's a push for these facilities to incorporate renewable energy like solar and wind, but the core computing still relies heavily on fossil fuels. 6. Long-term, nuclear power may play a role in decarbonizing data centers, though that faces regulatory hurdles. 7. The article notes there are many speculative data center projects that have not yet materialized into actual construction. Overall, it paints a picture of how AI's voracious computing needs are driving massive energy consumption and infrastructure development, primarily based on natural gas power for now despite green ambitions. eero Celebrates a Decade of Innovation with All-New Wi-Fi 7 Productshttps://press.aboutamazon.com/2025/2/eero-celebrates-a-decade-of-innovation-with-all-new-wi-fi-7-productsHere's a summary of the key points from the press release: - eero is launching new Wi-Fi routers called eero Pro 7 and eero 7. - Key features: - Mesh Wi-Fi technology - Fast Gigabit Ethernet ports - Advanced security features (Wi-Fi 6E, WPA3) - Integration with Amazon ecosystem - Alexa for Devices compatibility - Pricing and availability: - eero Pro 7: $299.99-$699.99 starting Feb 26 in US/UK/EU - eero 7: $169.99-$349.99 starting Feb 26 in US/UK/EU - Canada launch on March 26 - Australia and Japan later this year - eero is now an Amazon company, acquired in April 2021. The main focus is on launching these new high-performance Wi-Fi routers that integrate with Alexa voice commands and the broader Amazon ecosystem. The press release highlights how they improve internet speed and security for homes compared to previous models. AWS Collaborates with Honda to Realize Honda's Next Generation of Software-Defined Vehicles and Improve EV Charging Experiences with Generative AIhttps://press.aboutamazon.com/2025/1/aws-collaborates-with-honda-to-realize-hondas-next-generation-of-software-defined-vehicles-and-improve-ev-charging-experiences-with-generative-aiHere are the key points from the press release about Honda's collaboration with AWS to develop connected EVs and mobility services: 1. Honda will use AWS as a technology partner for developing next-generation vehicles and mobility solutions in North America. 2. The goal is to accelerate the development of autonomous driving, smart vehicle connectivity, electrification, and digital mobility services for customers in North America. 3. Key areas of focus include: - Developing AI-driven services that enhance connected car features - Creating cloud-based automotive software platform to support Honda's next-gen vehicles - Building data lakes using AWS analytics tools to help develop new mobility solutions 4. The partnership will allow Honda to leverage AWS's vast compute, storage, and analytics capabilities. 5. By centralizing vehicle and mobility data on a single cloud platform, Honda aims to reduce development time for connected car features by up to 60%. 6. This collaboration aligns with Honda's goal of launching more than 30 electrified vehicles globally by 2030. 7. The press release highlights the growing trend of automakers partnering with tech companies to accelerate innovation in connected EVs and mobility services. 'I feel trapped': how home ownership has become a nightmare for many Americanshttps://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/feb/24/us-home-ownership-mortgage-interest-rates-insurance-premiumsThis article discusses how rising housing costs in the US are forcing many people, especially older adults and those on fixed incomes, to consider leaving their homes and relocating to more affordable areas, both domestically and internationally. Key points include: 1. Rising home insurance premiums and utility costs are adding financial strain for homeowners. 2. Some Americans are considering selling their homes or renting out rooms to afford living expenses. 3. Older adults like Bill Howard are being forced to leave retirement communities due to cost increases. 4. Retirees are moving to more affordable countries like Colombia, where the cost of living is significantly lower. 5. Younger homeowners worry that owning a house limits their flexibility in case of emergencies or financial crises. 6. The economic and political uncertainty is adding stress for those trying to manage home costs. The article highlights how unaffordable housing is affecting people across different age groups and income levels, pushing some to drastic measures like relocating abroad. It underscores the growing affordability crisis facing homeowners in America. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-02-22 |
Amazon Ads Brings Generative AI to Amazon Marketing Cloud with New SQL Generatorhttps://press.aboutamazon.com/2025/1/amazon-ads-brings-generative-ai-to-amazon-marketing-cloud-with-new-sql-generatorChatGPT and DeepSeek Analyze Ripple's (XRP) Price Potential for 2025https://cryptopotato.com/chatgpt-and-deepseek-analyze-ripples-xrp-price-potential-for-2025/Korean Hackers Steal $1.5 Billion From Cryptocurrency Exchangehttps://www.forbes.com/sites/steveweisman/2025/02/22/korean-hackers-steal-15-billion-from-cryptocurrency-exchange/Analyst Tips Bitcoin for $150,000 in 2025 as Expert Says BTC Bull Token Can Help Capitalize on Bitcoin Growthhttps://cryptopotato.com/analyst-tips-bitcoin-for-150000-in-2025-as-expert-says-btc-bull-token-can-help-capitalize-on-bitcoin-growth/ |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-02-15 |
Japan Prepares Its Biggest Crypto Policy Shift Yet With ETF Approval and Major Tax Cutshttps://www.ccn.com/news/crypto/japan-crypto-policy-etf-approval-tax-cuts/Japan's financial watchdog is considering significant regulatory changes that could classify cryptocurrencies as securities and reduce the tax burden on crypto profits from 55% to 20%. These reforms may also facilitate the launch of spot Bitcoin ETFs in the country, potentially attracting more retail and institutional investment and solidifying Japan's position as a global crypto hub. However, these proposals are still under discussion and could face several hurdles before implementation. The news follows Metaplanet's success and growing investor interest in crypto-related investments. Additionally, U.S.-Japan relations have strengthened post-Trump presidency, with SoftBank investing heavily in the U.S., including in cryptocurrency mining and artificial intelligence projects like OpenAI's "Stargate." Gold surges past $2,900 to new record amid tariff threatshttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/gold-surges-past-2900-to-new-record-amid-tariff-threats-154324698.htmlGold reached an all-time high above $2,900 per ounce on Monday as escalating tariff threats from President Trump spurred demand and Wall Street analysts remained bullish on the safe-haven asset. The president's announcement of new tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, along with existing duties and planned retaliatory measures against countries imposing levies on US goods, contributed to gold's surge. Analysts from UBS, Goldman Sachs, and JPMorgan advised maintaining a substantial allocation in gold due to its role as a hedge against policy uncertainty, central bank hedging demand, and geopolitical tensions. Gold's robust performance in 2024 was highlighted by the World Gold Council, noting record-breaking purchases by central banks and increased inflows into gold ETFs following the Federal Reserve's rate-cutting cycle. US business equipment borrowings up more than 8% y/y in November, ELFA sayshttps://www.reuters.com/markets/us/us-business-equipment-borrowings-up-more-than-8-yy-november-elfa-says-2024-12-20/In November, U.S. companies borrowed 8.7% more for equipment investments compared to the same period the previous year, as reported by the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA). The total of new loans, leases, and lines of credit rose to $10.36 billion from $9.53 billion. Additionally, credit approvals for these companies stood at 74% for the month. ELFA's non-profit affiliate, the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation, noted that their confidence index for December reached its highest level in three years, reflecting positive expectations for lending volumes and financial conditions. Finance Stock Breaks Out To All-Time High Amid Trump Trade Pushhttps://www.investors.com/stock-lists/ibd-big-cap-20/finance-stock-tradeweb-markets-trump-electronic-trading/Tradeweb Markets' stock has reached an all-time high following a rally spurred by the recent election of Donald Trump. Despite a dip after announcing third-quarter earnings on October 30, the stock quickly rebounded and saw significant gains. Tradeweb's third-quarter results showed a 37% rise in sales to $448.9 million and a 36% increase in earnings per share to 75 cents, with average daily volume soaring 55% year-over-year to $2.2 trillion. The company has also been expanding through acquisitions, including Institutional Cash Distributors and Yieldbroker. Analysts predict continued earnings growth in 2024 and 2025, and Tradeweb remains a strong performer, achieving a high Composite Rating of 99 in Investor's Business Daily's rankings. Since its IPO in April 2019, the stock has surged by 400%. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-02-14 |
7 States Rolling Out Property Tax Breaks (Are You Eligible?)https://financebuzz.com/states-that-lowered-property-taxesRecent elections have seen voters in several states passing measures aimed at reducing property taxes, reflecting growing frustration with rising costs and stagnant wages. Arizona introduced Proposition 312, allowing refunds if local governments fail to enforce nuisance laws, while Colorado expanded exemptions for military veterans who are unemployable due to service-related injuries. Florida adjusted its homestead exemption for inflation, ensuring the tax break stays relevant as costs rise. Georgia limited annual property assessment increases by tying them to inflation rates, providing more predictable expenses. New Mexico passed amendments extending tax exemptions and increasing the amount exempted for veterans with partial disabilities. Virginia expanded a property tax exemption for surviving spouses of soldiers who died in combat or on duty, demonstrating widespread appreciation for military sacrifices. Wyoming created a new category for residential real estate, ensuring it is taxed differently from industrial properties starting in 2026. These changes aim to make homeownership more affordable and support vulnerable groups like seniors and veterans. Denver metro apartment rents fell $70, largest recorded drop 'ever' for regionhttps://denvergazette.com/news/business/denver-rents-falling-2024/article_84dfec86-d9ad-11ef-8e8a-dfdbf92667c4.htmlDenver metro apartment rents dropped by $70 during the last quarter of 2024, marking the largest recorded decline in the region ever, according to the Apartment Association of Metro Denver. The average rent fell to nearly $1,850, a 1.5% decrease from the same period in 2023. This significant drop is attributed to an oversupply of new apartments and increased competition among developers, leading to higher vacancy rates and lower prices to attract tenants. While this is welcome news for renters dealing with Colorado's high cost of living, it poses challenges for apartment owners. The trend, though not coinciding with a recession, mirrors historical rent declines following major economic downturns such as post-9/11 and the 2008 housing bubble. However, experts predict that this rental market adjustment will stabilize in the coming years as new construction slows due to higher interest rates and stricter regulations on affordable housing developments. Digital jobs are surging. Here's how Arizona stacks uphttps://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/news/2025/02/06/digital-jobs-are-exploding-heres-how-arizona.htmlThe article discusses the surge in digital jobs, particularly computer, engineering, and management roles, across various U.S. metro areas including those in Arizona. According to a Brookings Institution report, these highly digital careers now account for over 25% of American jobs and pay an average of $122,000 annually. The Phoenix metropolitan area ranks No. 21 out of 100 cities for digital career opportunities, with significant increases in both the number and wages of highly digital CEM jobs since 2010. Tucson follows at No. 35. Despite this growth, related job postings in Arizona are currently at a five-year low. The report highlights the importance of these roles for regional and national economic competitiveness, especially against global competitors like China. It also notes that women and underrepresented minorities are underrepresented in CEM occupations, suggesting potential untapped talent pools. Notably, some metro areas have seen over 100% growth in CEM jobs since 2010, while others experienced minimal gains. Europe's Unloved Stocks Are Suddenly on Top of the Worldhttps://www.wsj.com/finance/stocks/european-stock-growth-a93373cbeuropean stocks are performing exceptionally well despite a gloomy economic outlook, with the German DAX and France's CAC 40 outpacing the S&P 500. Factors contributing to this include better-than-expected profit growth in Europe, cheaper valuations compared to U.S. markets, hopes for improved political stability, and potential diplomatic progress between Ukraine and Russia. Additionally, European companies benefiting from strong US revenue and expectations of aggressive interest rate cuts add to the positive sentiment. However, Trump's tariff threats remain a significant risk that could derail the rally. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-02-11 |
Industrial giant Honeywell announces split into 3 companies after investor pressurehttps://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2025/02/06/honeywell-split-aerospace/78309856007/Honeywell, an industrial giant, has announced plans to split into three independent and publicly traded companies following pressure from activist investors. The new entities will be Honeywell Automation, focusing on automation solutions for factories and warehouses; Honeywell Aerospace, a leading supplier to major airlines like Boeing and Airbus; and Advanced Materials, a sustainability-focused specialty chemicals and materials company. The separation of the two newly announced companies is slated for completion in the second half of 2026, while the spin-off of the Advanced Materials division is expected by the end of 2025 or early 2026. This decision comes after activist investor Elliott Management took a significant stake in Honeywell and advocated for a restructuring to boost shareholder value. Apollo Plans To Build The First Marketplace For Private Credithttps://www.fa-mag.com/news/apollo-plans-to-build-the-first-marketplace-for-private-credit-81265.htmlApollo Global Management is developing a marketplace aimed at facilitating the buying and selling of high-quality private assets, marking an expansion into territory traditionally dominated by major Wall Street firms. Eric Needleman, head of Apollo Capital Solutions, revealed that the firm is in talks with banks, exchanges, and fintech companies to provide real-time data and intraday pricing for private credit deals. This initiative would enable Apollo to trade and syndicate its originated debt more extensively on a platform that has not existed previously in modern private markets where asset prices are rarely disclosed publicly. The company's efforts align with broader trends towards converging public and private markets, and it aims to establish itself as a leader in this evolving landscape through the establishment of an exchange-traded fund with State Street Corp., which will bring private credit closer to retail investors. Apollo has already traded approximately $2 billion worth of originated products with active clients numbering about 60, and they plan to further enhance liquidity by integrating their trading function into the Athene insurance arm. The firm's strategy also involves hiring key personnel like John Maggiacomo from RBC Capital Markets to bolster its trading capabilities, recognizing a growing demand for secondary markets in the $1.6 trillion private credit market. Apple approaches $4 trillion valuation as investors bet on AI momentumhttps://www.reuters.com/technology/apple-approaches-4-trillion-valuation-investors-bet-ai-momentum-2024-12-23/Apple is nearing a historic $4 trillion valuation, driven by investor confidence in the company's artificial intelligence advancements aimed at revitalizing iPhone sales. Since early November, Apple's shares have risen nearly 16%, adding approximately $500 billion to its market capitalization. Despite facing criticism for lagging behind competitors like Microsoft and Nvidia in AI integration, Apple recently introduced OpenAI's ChatGPT into its devices and expects modest revenue growth in the holiday quarter. Analysts remain optimistic about future iPhone demand as AI features expand globally. However, concerns over stretched valuations have led Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway to sell some of its Apple shares this year. Additionally, potential retaliatory tariffs from the U.S., if implemented by President-elect Donald Trump, pose a risk to Apple's operations but analysts believe exemptions for key products like iPhones are likely. The company's success is seen as a reflection of technology becoming a more defensive investment sector due to sustained earnings growth, despite recent market volatility and Federal Reserve actions. Looking to buy financial stocks? Businesses that provide financial products and services are buoyant, but you should be choosy about where to put your money.https://www.kiplinger.com/investing/financial-stocks-should-pay-off-in-2025The article discusses promising sectors within the financial industry for investment in 2025. Key areas include asset managers, investment banks, property and casualty insurers, and regional banks. Asset managers like BlackRock are favored due to strong performance and growth prospects; investment banks such as Goldman Sachs benefit from expected regulatory easing and robust business segments; property and casualty insurers, including W.R. Berkley and Willis Towers Watson, see increasing demand amid rising catastrophes and legal risks; and regional banks like Bank OZK and PNC Financial Services are recovering from previous challenges with improved economic conditions and capitalization. The article also suggests ETFs and mutual funds for broader exposure to financial stocks, emphasizing specific industry-focused options for targeted investments. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-02-08 |
Will MicroStrategy Have to REALLY Pay Billions of Bitcoin Taxes?https://blog.cryptoworth.com/does-microstrategy-owe-billions-in-crypto-taxes/The article discusses the tax implications for Microstrategy's Bitcoin holdings under the newly adopted ASC 2023-08 accounting standard, which requires the company to mark its Bitcoin holdings to market, revealing unrealized gains or losses based on fair value at each reporting period. The IRS has not mandated taxation of unrealized gains under CAMT (Consolidated Accountants Method for Taxation). Companies are required to disclose fair value fluctuations but are not taxed on them unless the assets are sold, triggering realized gains. Microstrategy will begin applying ASC 2023-08 in Q1 2025. However, since the IRS has not mandated taxation of unrealized gains under CAMT, businesses have at least until FY 2026 before any obligations are finalized. The final tax treatment of unrealized gains for crypto assets remains open, but corporations have over a year remaining before further IRS guidance is finalized. On January 23, 2025, the SEC announced the formation of a crypto task force to establish a formal regulatory framework. This effort aims to create stability in financial reporting. With ongoing IRS clarifications and pro-crypto policy shift under the current administration, the likelihood of punitive taxation on Bitcoin holdings appears low. To get a better picture of Microstrategy's tax burden investors must stay tuned to any new developments. ASC 2023-08 necessitates fair value reporting for Bitcoin, however tax laws focus on realized rather than unrealized gains. With the SEC and IRS clarifying crypto regulations, investors must stay informed about developing trends in financial reporting. The article concludes that Microstrategy's tax burden appears less severe than initially reported, as the accounting standard does not equate to direct taxation, but ongoing IRS clarifications and a pro-crypto policy shift reduce the likelihood of punitive taxation on Bitcoin holdings. Now Wanted in Silicon Valley: Ho-Hum Businesses With Thin Profit Marginshttps://www.wsj.com/finance/investing/now-wanted-in-silicon-valley-ho-hum-businesses-with-thin-profit-margins-ab07de5fSilicon Valley is shifting its focus from flashy technology startups to more mundane businesses with thin profit margins, such as accounting and customer-service centers. Investors are pouring hundreds of millions of dollars into companies like Long Lake Management Holdings, which uses artificial intelligence to automate administrative tasks and improve profitability for these types of businesses. This trend is also driven by the "roll-up" model, where startups acquire and merge multiple smaller companies in a single industry to create a larger entity with reduced costs. Venture capitalists are taking on this new approach as the broader market for traditional startup fundraising remains subdued. Despite low interest rates and demand for digital services driving record investment activity in 2021, U.S. startup investment volume fell by 41% last year. However, high-profile AI companies like OpenAI have attracted massive investments, and some investors are also backing efforts to bring AI to less glamorous sectors. The new approach is led by startups that prioritize retaining majority ownership of the businesses they invest in, avoiding debt and maintaining control. Some entrepreneurs behind these startups come from Wall Street, bringing a more traditional buyout investment mindset to the venture capital space. This shift may signal a broader trend towards investing in more established companies with potential for growth through technology innovation. Want To Invest In Elon Musk's SpaceX? How To Get In on a Privately Held Companyhttps://www.gobankingrates.com/investing/strategy/invest-in-elon-musks-spacex-how-to-get-in-on-privately-held-company/Elon Musk's space exploration business, SpaceX, recently reached a valuation of $350 billion, with its private shares trading at $118.59 on the Forge Global platform. However, investing in the company directly is not feasible due to its private status. To qualify for direct investment, one must have a net worth of $1 million or an income of $200,000 per year, among other requirements. For those who don't meet these requirements, there are alternative options available. Certain venture capital funds that hold private shares of SpaceX are now accessible to the public through platforms like SoFi and Templum. These platforms offer indirect investments in private markets, allowing individuals with higher net worths or income levels to participate. For example, SoFi's partnership with Templum offers three private market funds, including one focused solely on investing in SpaceX stock. Liberty Mutual Investments Expands Capital Partnership with Affirmhttps://investors.affirm.com/news-releases/news-release-details/liberty-mutual-investments-expands-capital-partnership-affirmAffirm is a fintech company that provides financing options to consumers through various channels. The company has a strong presence in the financial services industry and operates globally. Affirm's business strategy focuses on providing transparent and affordable payment options to consumers, while also generating revenue for merchants. The company aims to build long-term relationships with its customers and partners. Affirm's financial performance is strong, with a significant increase in revenue and growth in user base. * However, the company still faces risks and uncertainties in the market, including changes in consumer behavior and economic conditions. The investor relations page provides detailed information about Affirm's financials, business strategy, and management team. The page also includes forward-looking statements, which are subject to significant uncertainties and may not materialize as expected. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-02-07 |
Watch These IBM Price Levels as Stock Soars After AI Drives Strong Earningshttps://www.investopedia.com/watch-these-ibm-price-levels-as-stock-soars-after-ai-drives-strong-earnings-8782926IBM shares surged 12% after the company reported better-than-expected fourth-quarter earnings, driven by strong performance in its AI business. The computing giant's generative AI book of business grew almost $2 billion from the prior quarter, with clients globally seeking to enhance their enterprises using IBM's AI capabilities. This boost helped offset softness in other segments, including consulting and infrastructure. Following a recent breakout from an ascending triangle pattern, IBM shares are now on track for potentially breaking above the top trendline, according to technical analysis. Two potential upside price targets have been identified: one based on measuring principle analysis forecasts $278, while another bars pattern analysis suggests $305. Meanwhile, investors should monitor how the stock's price responds during pullbacks, particularly around the $238 level, which could potentially become a new area of support. Compute Exchange Launches to Transform How AI Compute is Bought and Soldhttps://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250128536805/en/Compute-Exchange-Launches-to-Transform-How-AI-Compute-is-Bought-and-SoldThe article announces the launch of Compute Exchange, an open exchange for compute power that aims to democratize access to artificial intelligence (AI) computing resources. The platform is designed to standardize GPU resources and enable fair competition among buyers and sellers, promoting innovation and reducing costs. A neutral exchange where many sellers and buyers compete through real-time price discovery, transforming compute from a controlled resource into an openly traded asset. An auction-based system ensures prices are driven by actual market demand rather than controlled by a few providers. One universal set of terms for all market participants, simplifying contract negotiations while pursuing standardization across multiple dimensions. Buyers pay only for what they need, with the option to resell unused capacity, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness. A self-regulated exchange with global interoperability and quality standards, ensuring consistent performance and trust. By creating an efficient and less wasteful market, participants not only get reliable access to clean solutions but also visibility into the environmental impact of compute resources. Investors Who Shunned the U.S. Office Market Are Coming Backhttps://www.wsj.com/real-estate/commercial/office-market-return-to-work-rebound-8b8d42c7The article reports on a promising trend in the office real estate market, where investors are starting to take notice of undervalued properties with high-quality assets and prime locations. Despite challenges such as high vacancy rates, loan delinquencies, and low interest rates, buyers are beginning to snap up office buildings that were previously avoided due to their difficulties in finding lenders. After years of struggling with low demand and high vacancy rates, investors are starting to see a turnaround in the market. A venture of Hines and Rialto Capital has raised $750 million for a debt fund targeting well-leased office buildings that have trouble finding lenders. Investors are purchasing office towers at discounted prices, offering them more flexibility to lower rents and attract new tenants. RXR's acquisition of a Midtown Manhattan tower demonstrates how investing in renovations can help refinance debt and make the property more attractive to new tenants. Even buildings with high vacancy rates and debt issues are being acquired by investors, highlighting the demand for prime office space near transport hubs. High vacancy rates and loan delinquencies remain significant concerns for the market. The high-interest-rate environment makes it difficult to refinance debt, especially for properties with upcoming debt maturities. Overall, the article suggests that while challenges still exist in the office real estate market, investors are becoming more optimistic about the future of this sector. Colorado awards airplane maker $2M in incentives for expansionhttps://denvergazette.com/news/business/oedit-colorado-airplane-tax-inventives/article_7e954210-d429-11ef-a7fe-b3d8b62c8b34.htmlColorado's Economic Development Commission has awarded a major incentive package to an unnamed airplane manufacturer, worth $2.15 million over eight years, in hopes of enticing it to expand in Colorado or potentially even relocate from its current base in Switzerland. The company is considered a significant player in the aerospace industry with over 3,000 employees worldwide and is reportedly considering factors such as location, talent, costs, and access to supply chains as part of its decision-making process. The expansion is expected to create 191 new jobs at an average wage of $85,000, surpassing the original employment plan by about 70 positions. The company has a history with Colorado, having previously received job growth tax incentives and exceeding its promised employment numbers in its previous expansion. The incentive package comes as part of a broader effort by the state to attract businesses in key industries such as aerospace and semiconductor manufacturing. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-02-05 |
Move over, Austin: Denver rents are falling at one of the fastest rates in the countryhttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/move-over-austin-denver-rents-are-falling-at-one-of-the-fastest-rates-in-the-country-131643629.htmlRents in Denver, Colorado are falling, with the median apartment rent around $1,800 per month. This has made it easier for middle-income workers like teachers to find affordable housing, as incentives such as 10 weeks of free rent have become more common. New construction projects have also led to a surplus of apartments, giving renters more options and driving down prices. Despite this, the Denver real estate market is still not cheap, particularly when it comes to buying a home. Median home prices remain near all-time highs, with sales sluggish in 2024 due to factors like high mortgage rates, insurance costs, and election-related anxiety. Many first-time homebuyers are finding it difficult to afford homes, which can be up to 20-30% more expensive than renting an equivalent property. For those who have made the move to Denver, such as DiAnthony Sweet, who accepted a job in the city and fell in love with his new apartment, the benefits of living in Denver seem to outweigh the costs. The city's amenities, including its lively music, restaurant, and arts scene, are also major draws for many newcomers. Wall Street Is Booming, but Banks Are in a Lending Ruthttps://www.wsj.com/finance/banking/wall-street-is-booming-but-banks-are-in-a-lending-rut-2b4f4a64The article discusses the challenges facing US commercial banks in terms of loan growth and revenue generation. Loan growth at large US banks has been underwhelming, with an average annualized growth rate of around 2% in 2024, down from 2.3% in 2023. Commercial real estate mortgage loans have declined by 1.3% in 2024, the slowest pace in over a decade, due to challenges faced by property owners. Many banks are working to reduce their exposure to commercial mortgages, which can come at the expense of loan growth. The share of corporate debt in the form of non-mortgage bank loans has grown to around 9% as of mid-last year, similar to where it was over the past decade but still below the 20%+ level typical in the 1990s. While megabanks like JPMorgan Chase have seen a decline in commercial-banking loans, their Wall Street teams continue to generate significant revenue from investment banking and trading activities. Overall, while banks are not experiencing a traditional credit downturn, they need to find ways to boost loan growth. This may involve developing non-traditional lending channels or finding new opportunities for client activity outside of traditional core lending categories. Banks that heavily rely on lending profits could see reduced profit margins due to lower growth. Alternative lenders are growing and may gain market share, particularly in areas like private company lending. In response to slowing core business activities, banks might consider shifting their focus towards non-traditional income streams or expanding new product offerings. These developments suggest that the banking landscape is changing. Traditional loan-driven profit models are being reevaluated and some lenders will need to adapt in order to remain profitable. Fed Holds Steady, Keeps Door Open to Future Moveshttps://www.schwab.com/learn/story/fomc-meetingThe Federal Reserve held steady on interest rate policy, leaving the door open to future adjustments despite inflation remaining above its 2% target and economic growth running at a strong pace. After reducing rates three times in a row to combat rising inflation, the Fed now seems to have reached a plateau, with no clear reason to make further changes. The decision was influenced by concerns about potential U.S. government policies that could push up inflation, as well as uncertainty around future policy actions. The Fed's cautious stance has led to a modest rise in bond yields, but ultimately, the market appears to be awaiting more clarity on the economic outlook before making significant adjustments. As such, investors are advised to take a cautious approach and maintain average durations near benchmark levels or below, while also considering high-quality bonds with yields near 5% for core fixed income allocations. Meta tops revenue targets but warns of 'significant' cap ex spending next yearhttps://www.aol.com/finance/meta-tops-revenue-targets-warns-205917269.htmlMeta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, reported stronger-than-expected revenue and profit in its third quarter, beating analyst targets. The company's total revenue grew 19% year-over-year to $40.59 billion, driven by strength in new initiatives like generative AI and Threads, as well as solid growth in advertising sales across geographies. However, the company also announced significant investments in AI infrastructure, which may have tempered investor enthusiasm, with plans to spend more than previously expected. Despite the mixed signals, Meta's CEO Mark Zuckerberg expressed confidence in the company's ability to execute its AI strategy and said that the next step is to leverage its large language model (LLM) models for business tools. The company also reported a 5% increase in daily active users across its apps, with over 3 billion people using one of Meta's platforms each day. However, Meta warned that its Reality Labs division, which focuses on VR and AI work, is expected to continue operating at a loss, and the company expects "significant capital expenditure growth" in 2025. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-02-04 |
PIMCO CEFs Yielding Up To 13.9%—Are The Payouts Safe?https://www.forbes.com/sites/brettowens/2025/02/01/the-best-and-worst-pimco-funds/The article discusses two PIMCO bond funds, Dynamic Income Fund (PDI) and Dynamic Income Opportunities Fund (PDO), which are considered to be good investments due to their strong track record and allocation to high-yield credit. The author is optimistic about the funds' prospects despite some concerns. RCS, another PIMCO bond fund, is trading at a relatively expensive price compared to its net asset value (NAV), which may indicate trouble ahead. PDI and PDO are trading at a modest premium (11% and 5%, respectively) over their NAVs, making them more attractive options for income investors. Both funds allocate a significant portion of their portfolios to high-yield credit, which can provide good returns in a strong economy but may underperform during interest rate rises. The author expects the 10-year Treasury yield to grind sideways or lower in the coming months, which could lift PDI's NAV and make it more attractive for income investors. Despite some concerns about dividend cuts, the author believes that a 20% payout reduction is still acceptable for these funds, given their strong NAVs. Overall, the article suggests that PDI and PDO can be good investment options for income investors looking for relatively stable returns from bond investments. How to Use Gold in Your Portfoliohttps://www.morningstar.com/portfolios/how-use-gold-your-portfolioGold has been used as a store of value and investment asset for thousands of years, dating back to the Kingdom of Lydia in 550 B.C. Investing in gold can be done through either buying the commodity directly (gold bullion) or buying shares in companies that mine and process gold. While owning physical gold may appeal to some, it has its drawbacks, such as storage costs and risk of theft, making it generally more practical to own gold through a mutual fund or ETF. Gold has historically been used as a safe haven during times of market turmoil, but its long-term returns are lackluster. Its downside risk is moderate compared to other commodities, but it can be volatile in the short term. According to Morningstar's guidelines, it's recommended to hold gold for at least 10 years and limit exposure to 15% or less of overall portfolio assets. Despite its limitations, gold can provide significant diversification benefits due to its low correlation with stocks and bonds. It's often viewed as an insurance policy rather than a core holding, making it a useful tool for managing risk in a diversified investment portfolio. Chatbot Software Begins to Face Fundamental Limitationshttps://www.quantamagazine.org/chatbot-software-begins-to-face-fundamental-limitations-20250131/The article discusses two recent findings related to Large Language Models (LLMs) such as GPT-4. Research by Dziri and Peng showed that increasing the size of a LLM from 100 million parameters to 200 million parameters improved its performance on generating coherent text, but only slightly. However, when they added an extra positional embedding (a type of neural network component) to the model, it greatly improved its accuracy (up to 98%) and ability to generate longer texts. Researchers Haotian Ye and his colleagues found that providing a step-by-step solution to a problem within the prompt, known as chain-of-thought prompting, can give an LLM the ability to solve more varieties of related tasks. This is because it breaks down the problem into smaller sub-problems, allowing the model to tackle more complex compositional tasks. The findings have implications for understanding how LLMs work and their limitations. While increasing the model size and using chain-of-thought prompting can help improve performance, they do not change the fundamental mathematical boundaries that constrain these models' abilities. In other words, LLMs are still only as good as the patterns they've seen in training data. However, having a better understanding of how these models work can lead to potential solutions and improvements. For instance, understanding what's happening "under the hood" of an LLM can help identify areas for improvement. Overall, these findings highlight the ongoing efforts to improve the performance and capabilities of LLMs, while also acknowledging their limitations and fundamental constraints. The Great Fund Shift: Why Mutual Funds Are Losing Groundhttps://www.aaii.com/journal/article/251522-the-great-fund-shift-why-mutual-funds-are-losing-groundThis article discusses the differences between mutual funds and Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) in the context of index investing. Despite the rise of ETFs, mutual fund assets continue to exceed those of ETFs by a big margin. Even if an active manager is perceived as better, expense ratios can make a significant difference in returns. The Vanguard Core Bond Admiral fund has the lowest expense ratio (0.10%) and had the seventh-best return on a one-year basis and sixth-best return on a five-year basis. On a one-year basis, 18 of 34 actively managed bond funds outperformed the seven index funds, although this advantage disappears on a five-year basis. The Fidelity U.S. Bond Index fund (FXNAX) and the Vanguard Total Bond Market Index Admiral fund (VBTLX) continued to perform well over both one- and five-year periods. For taxable accounts, investors should be aware of capital gains taxes that may be realized when switching from a mutual fund to an ETF. The increasing use of direct indexing, where individual securities are built to mimic the index, may reduce reliance on mutual funds and ETFs. Overall, while there are some nuances to consider. Mutual funds remain competitive with ETFs in terms of long-term performance. Expense ratios can be a significant predictor of a fund's ability to outperform its peers. Index funds continue to offer attractive options for investors seeking low-cost, tax-efficient investing. However, the rise of direct indexing and increased use of ETFs by investment managers, financial advisers, and robo-advisers may indicate a shift towards more active and bespoke portfolio construction. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-02-02 |
SEC Forms New Crypto Task Forcehttps://www.investopedia.com/sec-forms-new-crypto-task-force-8777870The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced the formation of a new cryptocurrency task force aimed at developing a comprehensive regulatory framework for digital assets. This move signifies a shift from the agency's previous reliance on enforcement actions, which have been criticized by crypto companies and stakeholders. Acting SEC Chairman Mark Uyeda, who took over after former Chair Gary Gensler's departure, highlighted the task force's focus on establishing clear regulatory guidelines, enhancing registration processes, and creating sensible disclosure frameworks while using enforcement resources more judiciously. Led by SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce, known as "Crypto Mom" for her pro-crypto stance, the task force plans to collaborate with other federal agencies such as the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), state regulators, and international counterparts to achieve its goals. The initiative also aims to engage various stakeholders, including investors, academics, and industry leaders, to strike a balance between investor protection, market integrity, and innovation. Peirce, appointed as an SEC commissioner by former President Donald Trump in 2018, has consistently advocated for greater regulatory clarity to support the growth of the crypto industry in the U.S. Despite having several ongoing cases against crypto companies like Coinbase and Ripple, the SEC's new leadership under Uyeda is reportedly reviewing these cases, aligning with earlier promises made by Trump to bring more regulatory clarity and potentially establishing a bitcoin strategic reserve. Montenegro extradites cryptocurrency mogul Do Kwon to the United Stateshttps://apnews.com/article/montenegro-cryptocurrency-mogul-do-kwon-6c094a497eac88ce30a9283d99ccefd6Montenegro has extradited Do Kwon, founder of the Singapore-based crypto firm Terraform Labs, to the United States, following a decision by the Montenegrin justice ministry to comply with the U.S. request while denying South Korea's request for extradition. The extradition was carried out by Interpol officers and handed over to the FBI at Podgorica Airport. Do Kwon, known as "the cryptocurrency king," was arrested in Montenegro in March 2023 for using a fake passport while attempting to travel to Dubai. In the U.S., Kwon faces fraud charges linked to the $40 billion collapse of his company's cryptocurrency in May 2022. TerraUSD, intended as a stablecoin pegged to stable assets like the dollar, disastrously dropped far below its $1 target, erasing market value for investors and prompting allegations of fraud and financial misconduct against Kwon and associates. Big tech is spending billions on AI. How much time will Wall Street allow for the payoff?https://www.marketwatch.com/story/big-tech-is-spending-billions-on-ai-how-much-time-will-wall-street-allow-for-the-payoff-54a75732The article discusses the high-investment race amongst major tech companies, known as the "Magnificent 7," in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) and the scrutiny they face over when these investments will generate significant returns. As large tech firms like Microsoft, Tesla, Meta, and Apple prepare to report their fourth-quarter earnings, their AI strategies remain a primary focus. While investors generally seek quick results, many believe the payoff from AI investments will take time, recognizing the long-term potential despite current profit growth slowing. Analysts and investment experts anticipate some intermediate success, but caution against high expectations for immediate significant outcomes. The ongoing AI developments are further influenced by initiatives like President Trump's announcement of a $500 billion investment in AI infrastructure, which could involve joint ventures with firms like OpenAI and Oracle. Alongside AI, tech companies are also seeing steady growth in areas like cloud services, although projections for markets like new iPhone launches remain cautious. Overall, despite slower expected gains, the significant profit projections for the "Magnificent 7" companies still surpass those of other entities within the S&P 500, highlighting the enduring strength and potential leadership of these big tech firms in the industry. AI Stocks Jumped Last Week—Here's What You Need to Knowhttps://www.investopedia.com/ai-stocks-had-a-big-week-last-week-what-you-need-to-know-cien-mpwr-vst-8780147AI stocks experienced a significant surge last week following an announcement from OpenAI regarding a partnership with Oracle and SoftBank, which could lead to a substantial investment in AI infrastructure over the next four years. This news comes on the heels of previous announcements from major tech companies like Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon, and Meta Platforms, all planning to heavily invest in AI-related infrastructure. The resultant influx of spending has directly benefited companies that provide essential components for AI operations, such as semiconductors, servers, networking equipment, and power generators, fueling a rally in their stock prices. Key beneficiaries include companies like Ciena Corp., which saw a 14% increase in its shares due to its strong position in supplying networking hardware and being poised for growth as AI applications expand. Analysts have identified Ciena as a significant player in the burgeoning GenAI market. Similarly, Monolithic Power Systems experienced an 8.4% increase in its stock price, driven by increased demand for its power-management semiconductors, especially within the data center sector, which is booming due to AI needs. Analysts are optimistic about its continued growth in AI-related business and recovery in other markets. Vistra, too, enjoyed an 11.9% stock climb, capitalizing on the rising power demands of AI data centers. The company benefits from the trend of cloud hyperscalers opting for nuclear power to meet AI's energy needs, reflecting a broader shift toward carbon-free energy solutions. Overall, these trends in AI investment and resultant stock gains highlight the burgeoning demand across industries related to AI infrastructure and energy needs. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-01-31 |
US business equipment borrowings up more than 8% y/y in November, ELFA sayshttps://www.reuters.com/markets/us/us-business-equipment-borrowings-up-more-than-8-yy-november-elfa-says-2024-12-20/In November, U.S. companies increased their equipment investment borrowings by 8.7% compared to the previous year, according to the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA). The total new loans, leases, and lines of credit amounted to $10.36 billion, up from $9.53 billion. The ELFA reports that the credit approval rate for U.S. companies in November remained stable at 74%. The Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation, an affiliate of ELFA, noted a significant rise in its confidence index for December, reaching a three-year high. This suggests that industry executives anticipate sustained growth in lending volumes and further enhancements in financial conditions. The ELFA CapEx Finance Index, which measures leasing and finance activity, is backed by a 25-member survey consisting of major companies such as Bank of America, Caterpillar, Dell Technologies, Siemens AG, Canon, and Volvo AB. Surging Interest in Private Credit to Spur Acquisition Spree in 2025https://www.withintelligence.com/press-releases/private-credit-acquisition-spree-2025/The With Intelligence Private Credit Outlook 2025 highlights a burgeoning interest in private credit, forecasting a surge in acquisitions of private debt specialists by major financial entities including banks, asset managers, and sovereign wealth funds. The report indicates that private credit fundraising reached $209 billion in 2024, marking a 5% increase over the previous year. This growing interest is mainly focused on direct lending and specialty finance, while also emphasizing significant risk transfer (SRT) deals and net asset value (NAV) loans as areas ripe for expansion. As noted by Samuel Dale from With Intelligence, this period is characterized by consolidation, with larger firms opting to acquire specialist expertise in private credit rather than develop it in-house, thus prompting a trend of increased acquisition activity. Key trends pointed out in the report include the rise of “mega funds,” with a few dominating the direct lending and private credit fundraising landscape, thereby promoting consolidation in the sector. Additionally, the outlook shows a strong inclination of limited partners (LPs) toward direct lending and specialty finance strategies for 2025, based on a survey revealing significant interest in these areas. Regulatory pressures, such as those stemming from Basel III, are also expected to drive growth in SRTs and NAV lending. Further, the growing involvement of Middle Eastern sovereign wealth funds in private credit underscores the strategic importance of the region, with many private debt firms establishing a presence there in 2024, predominantly in the United Arab Emirates. As entities rush to capture a share of this expanding market, the region is anticipated to remain a focal point for private debt growth. US Department of Labor reports distressed pension assistance program has protected benefits for more than 1.2M workers, retirees, familieshttps://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/ebsa/ebsa20241101The U.S. Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration has released a report highlighting the success of the American Rescue Plan's Butch Lewis Emergency Pension Relief Act in safeguarding the retirement benefits of over 1.2 million U.S. workers, retirees, and their families. As of October 2024, the program has approved more than $69 billion in Special Financial Assistance for 98 distressed multiemployer pension plans, which faced potential benefit reductions averaging 41 percent. In addition, the act has provided over $1.6 billion in restorative payments and ongoing benefits to more than 121,000 retirees, reversing about half of their previous benefit cuts. This initiative emphasizes the importance of pensions in ensuring a dignified retirement after years of hard work. Acting Secretary Julie Su commends the American Rescue Plan for delivering on its promise to secure financial stability for union workers across various industries, including Teamsters, United Food and Commercial Workers International, Bakery and Confectionery workers, United Steelworkers, and more. Named in honor of Butch Lewis, a Teamster who championed the protection of union retirees' pensions, the legislation aims to preserve pension solvency and full benefit payouts for approximately two million American workers and retirees through at least 2051. The initiative underscores the administration's commitment to protecting earned retirement benefits and providing a sense of security for future decades. US business activity at nine-month low in January; hiring accelerateshttps://www.reuters.com/markets/us/us-business-activity-nine-month-low-january-hiring-accelerates-2025-01-24/In January, U.S. business activity reached its lowest level in nine months, driven by significant price pressures, although there was a notable acceleration in hiring, according to S&P Global's flash U.S. Composite PMI Output Index. This index, which dropped to 52.4 from December's 55.4, still indicates expansion in the private sector, with a value above 50. The services sector experienced a decline, though manufacturing showed growth for the first time in seven months, spurred by optimism over potential policy changes with President Trump's second term. However, there are concerns about potential tariffs affecting supply chains and inflation, which may prompt the Federal Reserve to reconsider its stance on interest rate cuts. Despite the slowdown in business output, confidence remains relatively high, and hiring has surged, reaching levels not seen in two-and-a-half years. New orders decreased slightly, while input prices paid by businesses rose, reflecting supplier price hikes and increased wages due to labor shortages. Businesses have transferred these higher costs to consumers, causing the rate of price charges to rise, hinting at persistent inflation. Employment saw an uptick, particularly in services, indicating ongoing labor demand amidst challenges. This dynamic is complicated by uncertainties surrounding trade and immigration policies and their impact on economic conditions. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-01-30 |
DOGE takes aim at the pennyhttps://www.yahoo.com/news/doge-takes-aim-penny-165459679.htmlThe Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, is making headlines by targeting the U.S. penny for potential elimination due to its inefficiency and cost. In fiscal year 2023, producing pennies cost taxpayers over $86 million as each penny cost more than three cents to mint. Despite long-standing recognition of these costs and bipartisan interest in reforming or phasing out the penny, efforts have consistently failed in Congress since the 1970s. Currently, the penny is primarily composed of zinc, which has risen in price, exacerbating the cost imbalance. Furthermore, the decline in cash usage, down to 16% of payments in 2023, according to the Federal Reserve, adds to the argument against the penny's continued production. DOGE's public critique of the penny's expenses suggests a broader interest beyond its initial mandate of updating federal IT systems, as established by a recent executive order from President Donald Trump. While DOGE itself lacks the authority to eliminate the penny, the discussion could influence legislative decisions given examples from other countries like Canada and Sweden, which have discontinued their pennies. A 2022 survey by Data for Progress showed a majority of Americans support ceasing penny production, highlighting public backing for such cost-saving measures. Whether DOGE will directly pursue this issue remains unclear, but its involvement signals an intention to tackle various government inefficiencies. The World Is Getting Riskier. Americans Don't Want to Pay for It.https://www.wsj.com/economy/consumers/the-world-is-getting-riskier-americans-dont-want-to-pay-for-it-51901067The article discusses the growing challenges in the insurance industry as risks from natural disasters, health issues, and financial disasters increase, while many Americans resist paying higher insurance premiums. It highlights California as a case study, where state regulators have hindered insurers from adjusting premiums according to rising risks and costs, leading many companies to stop renewing policies and forcing homeowners onto the state-run Fair Plan. This trend may result in serious financial consequences, either for homeowners facing potential ruin or for the public if the costs are socialized. The article also explores the broader issues of risk pooling and actuarial rate-making in insurance, explaining how increasing risks and costs are leading to a breakdown in private insurance markets and a reliance on government backstops, which pass financial burdens onto taxpayers. Additionally, the article notes that socializing risk undermines one of the key benefits of insurance—encouraging risk mitigation—and suggests that if risks are to be socialized, society has a right to demand that insured parties take steps to reduce their risk exposure, such as enforcing building codes and requiring homes to be more resilient to disasters. Cathie Wood makes bold $173 million bet on surging AI stockhttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/cathie-wood-makes-bold-173-203300259.htmlCathie Wood, the CEO of ARK Investment Management, has made a significant investment in Tempus AI, buying $173.3 million worth of shares, despite the company's lack of profitability. Known for targeting potentially disruptive tech stocks, Wood has added substantially to her holdings in Tempus AI over the past few months, making her one of the company's top institutional investors. Tempus AI, a health technology company leveraging AI in diagnostics, recently launched an AI-enabled health concierge app and has seen its stock surge by over 46% in a week following this and investments from influential figures such as Nancy Pelosi. However, despite the stock's recent rally, Tempus AI's financial performance has been lackluster, reporting significant annual losses and revenue projections that fall short of Wall Street's expectations. This high-risk bet is consistent with Wood's investment strategy, which often leads to substantial fluctuations in her funds' performance. Her flagship ARK Innovation ETF, despite significant gains in the past, shows underperformance in recent years, prompting mixed opinions about the sustainability of her approach. Oracle Stock Surges On $500 Billion 'Stargate' OpenAI-Trump Dealhttps://www.forbes.com/sites/dereksaul/2025/01/21/oracle-stock-surges-ahead-of-500-billion-stargate-openai-trump-deal/Oracle's stock saw a significant surge following news of a monumental deal involving the company, OpenAI, and former President Donald Trump, referred to as "Stargate." The stock rose by 7% during normal trading, and an additional 3% after Trump's announcement, making Oracle the day's largest percentage gainer among America's mega-cap companies. This rise coincided with overall gains in the stock market, including notable increases in other AI-related stocks, such as Nvidia and Arm Holdings. The surge in Oracle's stock boosted Larry Ellison's wealth by $12 billion, propelling him past Mark Zuckerberg to become the world's third-richest person. This increase more than doubled the gains of the next biggest billionaire gainer, Jeff Bezos. The context behind these developments includes SoftBank's past commitment to investing $100 billion in U.S. technology ventures, as announced with Trump, though details on the Stargate deal remain unclear. Oracle has had a crucial role as OpenAI's cloud computing partner, crucial for managing the extensive data required for OpenAI's operations. The article also touches on Oracle's strategic involvement with TikTok, as the firm hosts TikTok's U.S. data, pertinent amid ongoing political and legal scrutiny over the social media app. Oracle had faced a 5% stock drop following the Supreme Court's indication to uphold a TikTok ban, deepening Oracle's influence in tech politics. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-01-27 |
Pension Funds Want Private Equity to Open Up About Fees and Returnshttps://www.wsj.com/finance/investing/pension-funds-want-private-equity-to-open-up-about-fees-and-returns-569d66d2A group of U.S. pensions and institutional investors is urging private-equity firms to increase transparency regarding their fees and investment returns. The Institutional Limited Partners Association (ILPA) has proposed new guidelines to standardize financial reporting, responding to growing frustration over the opaque nature of disclosures in the private-equity industry. Public pension plans, university endowments, and charitable foundations have significantly increased their investments in private equity since 2018, looking to solve cash shortfalls despite uneven reporting compared to public funds. Larger investors like Texas Teachers can negotiate for better information but find the process cumbersome, while smaller pensions often receive minimal disclosures and pay higher fees. The ILPA aims to address these disparities and enhance data comparability across the board. Some private-equity firms support the proposal, yet its implementation faces challenges due to the firms' negotiating power and high demand from investors. Despite tripling in private-equity assets over the past decade, associated fees have increased sixfold, with some firms using financial engineering to manipulate short-term returns and fees. As interest rates rise, traditional returns through company sales have become more challenging, increasing reliance on financial maneuvers. The Securities and Exchange Commission's prior attempt to mandate standardized reporting failed in court last year, but the new ILPA initiative represents continued efforts to democratize financial information access in the private-equity sector. Meta's chief AI scientist says DeepSeek's success shows that 'open source models are surpassing proprietary ones'https://www.businessinsider.com/meta-ai-yann-lecun-deepseek-open-source-openai-2025-1This article discusses the recent advancements in AI driven by the success of DeepSeek's R1 model, which outperformed models from established American companies like OpenAI, Meta, and Anthropic. Yann LeCun, Meta's chief AI scientist, underscores the achievements of DeepSeek as an endorsement for open-source AI models over proprietary ones. Despite concerns about Chinese competition, LeCun argues that the victory for DeepSeek highlights the efficacy and potential of open-source frameworks, which allow collective progress by building on shared knowledge. DeepSeek's R1 model, which exhibits strong reasoning capabilities, is also open-source, supporting the idea that open research fosters innovation beneficial to all. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg bolsters this sentiment by announcing substantial investment plans to further AI development and advocating for open-source models to drive future technological platforms. The topic has sparked significant attention within the tech industry, contrasting the open-source philosophy, celebrated for its rapid and democratic evolution, with the closed-source approach, which some argue offers enhanced security. OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman acknowledges the benefits of both paradigms, suggesting a potential for his company to increase openness in the future while maintaining safety. Charles Schwab Stock Surges After Brokerage Reports Jump in Profithttps://investingnews.com/biotech-forecast/In 2025, the biotech sector is on the verge of significant transformations driven by various factors such as increased mergers and acquisitions (M&A), patent expirations, and advancements in therapeutic areas including oncology, inflammation, and immunology. Key insights from the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference highlight a surge in M&A activities as companies aim to innovate and counter revenue losses due to a looming $300 billion patent cliff. Notable acquisitions include Johnson & Johnson's purchase of Intra-Cellular Therapies and GSK's acquisition of IRDx. The focus on developing new therapies is evidenced by deals like Eli Lilly's acquisition of Scorpion Therapeutics for cancer drugs. Additionally, the conference spotlighted emerging trends in gene and cell therapies, as well as neurology, signaling a strong pipeline of potential breakthroughs on the horizon. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into research and development processes is revolutionizing biotech, with systems like AlphaFold gaining recognition for their role in drug discovery. This shift could reduce development costs and reliance on big pharma partnerships, promoting innovation within smaller companies. Policy changes under President Trump's administration, including shifts in leadership at the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), could further influence the sector. These regulatory dynamics are seen as potential catalysts for growth, although uncertainties in leadership confirmations and tariff situations may introduce short-term market volatility. As the biotech landscape evolves, collaboration among stakeholders remains critical to addressing the healthcare challenges of the 21st century, and investors are advised to keep a close eye on clinical advancements and regulatory shifts for future opportunities. Strive files to launch 'bitcoin bond' ETFhttps://www.ft.com/content/4df138ea-7c27-4e30-b2a4-a830fd0b2e56Strive Asset Management, co-founded by Vivek Ramaswamy, is seeking to launch a new exchange-traded fund (ETF) focused on bonds issued by companies investing in Bitcoin. The ETF, named the Strive Bitcoin Bond ETF, has been registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission and will invest in convertible securities from companies that plan to use significant portions of raised funds for Bitcoin purchases. MicroStrategy, known for investing over $27 billion in Bitcoin since 2020, is prominently mentioned in the filing. At least 80% of the ETF's notional exposure is expected to be tied to "bitcoin bonds" from MicroStrategy and similar companies. The fund will be actively managed by Strive's chief executive and investment officer, Matthew Cole, alongside other portfolio managers within the company. The creation of this ETF comes at a time when Strive Asset Management is gaining attention, in part due to the political landscape. Following Donald Trump's recent presidential victory, Ramaswamy, a prominent supporter of Trump, is set to lead a newly formed department aimed at improving government efficiency, alongside Elon Musk. The ETF aligns with Strive's strategic angle of tapping into the growing influence of companies like MicroStrategy that use Bitcoin as a significant treasury reserve asset, reflecting broader trends in corporate investment strategies. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-01-22 |
U.S. Natural Gas Power Plants to Flourish Alongside the AI Boomhttps://oilprice.com/Latest-Energy-News/World-News/US-Natural-Gas-Power-Plants-to-Flourish-Alongside-the-AI-Boom.htmlThe U.S. is poised for a significant expansion of natural gas power plants due to the AI boom, with analysts predicting around 80 new gas-fired plants by 2030, adding 46 gigawatts of capacity—a 20% increase from previous five years. This surge in demand, previously expected to flatten or even peak, is driven by both advancements in AI and the rapid expansion of data centers. Major oil companies like Chevron and Exxon are supporting this trend by proposing lower-carbon natural gas solutions for energy needs. The incoming administration may remove some environmental constraints on new natural gas generation, further facilitating these plans. As a result, U.S. power-generating companies are planning their highest volume of new natural gas-fired capacity in years to meet the increasing demand for electricity. Circle Enters Tokenization Race by Acquiring Hashnote, $1.3B Real-World Asset Issuerhttps://www.coindesk.com/business/2025/01/21/circle-enters-tokenization-race-by-acquiring-hashnote-usd1-3b-real-world-asset-issuerCircle, the company behind the $48 billion USDC stablecoin, has acquired Hashnote, an issuer of tokenized real-world assets (RWAs) valued at $1.3 billion, in a significant move to align traditional financial structures with blockchain-based markets. The acquisition was announced during the World Economic Forum meeting in Davos and underscores the growing trend of tokenization within the crypto industry, particularly with stablecoins like USDC playing a crucial role as a bridge between fiat money and digital assets. Circle's CEO, Jeremy Allaire, sees this as a major step towards more transparent and faster market structures. The deal is part of Circle's strategy to integrate its flagship stablecoin, USYC, with USDC, enabling convertibility between cash and yield-bearing collateral on blockchains. This partnership also includes plans for USDC to be deployed on the Canton Network, facilitating seamless transfers between decentralized and traditional markets. Charles Schwab Stock Surges After Brokerage Reports Jump in Profithttps://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/stock-market-today-dow-sp500-nasdaq-live-01-21-2025/card/schwab-profit-jumps-on-higher-interest-income-g5zi8w899VpXRgL0c7P4Charles Schwab reported a significant 76% increase in quarterly profit due to higher interest income and increased customer trading activity. Net income reached $1.84 billion or 94 cents per share, surpassing analysts' expectations of 91 cents. Revenue rose by 20% to $5.33 billion, with net interest income increasing by 19%. Although deposits fell by 11%, Schwab noted that the loss of bank deposits had previously weighed on its results following the Federal Reserve's rate hikes in 2023. The company also adjusted its full-year revenue forecast upwards due to higher investor activity and a post-election stock market rally. Share prices responded positively, increasing by over 7% in early trading. Stellantis shifts focus: Jeep, Dodge, and Ram set for a big comebackhttps://www.cbtnews.com/stellantis-shifts-focus-jeep-dodge-and-ram-set-for-a-big-comeback/Stellantis is making significant changes to its U.S. business strategy following tough performance in 2024 and the departure of CEO Carlos Tavares. The company is reviving popular models like the Jeep Cherokee, bringing back the gas-powered Dodge Charger, and shifting Ram's focus from electric trucks to hybrid pickups. Under new leadership, including Tim Kuniskis at the helm for the Ram brand and an executive committee led by Stellantis chairman John Elkann, Stellantis is prioritizing affordability and rebuilding relationships with dealers. This shift aims to regain lost market share and customer trust, with dealers already seeing positive results in sales projections. However, Chrysler's future remains uncertain as it continues to focus on minivans rather than pursuing an EV strategy. Overall, the company hopes 2025 will mark a return to growth and success for its American brands. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-01-18 |
Feds approve UMB's $2B buy of Wisconsin Bank & Trust parenthttps://www.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/news/2025/01/13/umb-heartland-financial-merger-regulatory-approval.htmlFederal regulators approved UMB Financial Corp.'s $2 billion all-stock acquisition of Heartland Financial USA, parent company of Wisconsin Bank & Trust Co., with the final regulatory hurdle cleared in August by shareholders of both companies. The transaction is expected to close on or around January 31st and will result in Heartland becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of UMB. This deal adds Wisconsin bank branches to UMB's operations and increases its asset base to approximately $66 billion, placing it among the top 4% of publicly traded banks in the U.S. The merger will significantly expand UMB's retail deposit base and private wealth management assets while also increasing its state presence from eight to thirteen. Five Heartland board members will join UMB's board after the deal, expanding its membership to 16 total members. Former Binance.US chief raises $20M for stablecoin networkhttps://www.reuters.com/markets/currencies/yuan-under-pressure-after-report-china-is-considering-weaker-currency-2024-12-12/The stablecoin market, worth over $214 billion and dominated by Tether and USD Coin, has seen a new development with the raising of $20 million in seed funding for Layer-1 stablecoin payments network 1Money. Led by Brian Shroder, former CEO of Binance.US, 1Money aims to develop its digital payment infrastructure using a patent-pending Byzantine consistent broadcast design. The company's protocol is designed for instant transactions and supports multiple stablecoins, with the goal of making stablecoins more accessible to mainstream users. The growing demand for stablecoin adoption is expected to continue as major fintech players like PayPal, Revolut, Robinhood, Visa, and others enter the market, potentially increasing the stablecoin market value beyond $300 billion in 2025. The end of quantitative tightening and what comes nexthttps://www.bankofcanada.ca/2025/01/the-end-of-quantitative-tightening-and-what-comes-next/This speech by Senior Deputy Governor Carolyn Rogers of the Bank of Canada provides an update on the end of quantitative tightening (QT) and outlines how the Bank plans to manage its balance sheet once QT is completed In summary, Rogers emphasizes that while QT is nearing completion, the Bank remains vigilant about managing its balance sheet in a way that supports monetary policy goals and maintains a stable and efficient financial system. This includes understanding and addressing changes in market demand due to evolving financial conditions and regulatory environments. Average rate on 30-year mortgage hits 7% after 5th straight increase, now highest level since Mayhttps://apnews.com/article/mortgage-rates-housing-interest-financing-home-loan-637bd8fd8b4d49cd7005ca3fbe6a6327The average rate on a 30-year mortgage in the U.S. has hit 7.04%, marking its highest level since May and showing five consecutive increases. This rise is mainly due to increased bond yields, particularly those of the 10-year Treasury note, which have climbed from around 3.62% in mid-September to 4.61% by midweek. Higher mortgage rates are discouraging home buyers and extending a national sales downturn that began in 2022; despite November seeing two consecutive months of increased sales of previously occupied homes, the year was on track to be the worst since 1995 for U.S. housing market activity. The Federal Reserve's expectation to cut rates only twice this year, due to ongoing inflation concerns, is contributing to these mortgage rate increases. Forecasters predict that average 30-year mortgage rates will likely stay above 6% in 2025, with some projecting the range could extend up to 6.8%. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-01-17 |
Burlington's Strategic Expansion and Value Model Drive Growthhttps://www.nasdaq.com/articles/burlingtons-strategic-expansion-and-value-model-drive-growthBurlington Stores, Inc. (BURL) has leveraged its value-driven model and expansion strategy to solidify its position as a leading off-price retailer. In the second quarter of fiscal 2024, Burlington achieved strong results, with total sales increasing 13% year-over-year, driven by a 5% rise in comparable sales and the addition of 36 new stores, bringing its total to 1,057 locations. The company plans to add 100 stores by the end of the fiscal year, reflecting its commitment to capturing a larger share of the value-oriented retail market. Improved inventory management and effective pricing strategies have boosted profitability, with operating margins increasing by 160 basis points and gross margins expanding by 110 basis points. Burlington updated its fiscal 2024 guidance, projecting 9-10% total sales growth and a 2-3% increase in comparable sales, along with improved margins and earnings per share now forecasted at $7.66-$7.96. The company’s focus on delivering value at initial price points has attracted budget-conscious shoppers while minimizing the need for markdowns, enhancing profitability and reinforcing its competitive edge. Burlington's strong performance underscores its growth potential, supported by operational efficiencies, strategic expansion, and a favorable market position. Yuan pressured by depreciation expectations; long-term yields fall to record lowshttps://www.reuters.com/markets/currencies/yuan-under-pressure-after-report-china-is-considering-weaker-currency-2024-12-12/The yuan faced renewed pressure against the U.S. dollar on December 12, influenced by a Reuters report suggesting China might weaken its currency to counter potential higher U.S. tariffs under President Donald Trump's administration. This news caused the yuan to drop slightly, although it later recovered some ground due to a statement from Financial News affirming the "basically stable" nature of the yuan exchange rate. Additionally, Chinese long-term yields dropped to record lows, reflecting expectations of monetary easing and widening the yield gap with the U.S. to its highest level in 22 years. Investors are now awaiting clarity on China's economic policies, particularly from the upcoming Central Economic Work Conference, which may provide insights into the country's currency stance. As climate risks mount, homeowners far beyond California face soaring insurance billshttps://www.cbsnews.com/news/los-angeles-fires-california-insurance-rates-dropped-coverage-us/As climate change exacerbates the frequency and intensity of natural disasters in the U.S., homeowners nationwide are grappling with skyrocketing insurance costs, not just in high-risk states like Florida and California. Wildfires, hurricanes, floods, and other climate-related disasters are driving up insurance premiums, with average costs rising 33% from 2020 to 2023—far outpacing inflation. States like Nebraska and Oklahoma, traditionally less associated with climate disasters, are now experiencing some of the highest premiums due to extreme weather events like hail and intense storms. Insurers are responding by increasing premiums and non-renewing policies, leaving many homeowners struggling to secure affordable coverage. For instance, non-renewal rates in states like California and Florida have surged, forcing homeowners to turn to costlier, last-resort FAIR plans. The financial burden on homeowners is significant, with insurance costs now consuming 22% of the typical mortgage payment, compared to 7.5% in 2000. This trend is not limited to coastal areas; inland regions like the Midwest and Mountain states are also affected. Researchers warn that rising insurance costs and limited coverage availability could undermine property values, especially in areas deemed uninsurable due to recurrent climate disasters. Experts predict that these price corrections will continue as insurers adjust to growing risks and higher reinsurance costs, with no relief in sight for homeowners across the country. Ethereum 2.0: Revolution or Evolution? + Forecasthttps://www.binance.com/en/square/post/18847813538657Ethereum 2.0 represents a significant transition from Proof-of-Work (PoW) to Proof-of-Stake (PoS), reducing energy consumption by 99.9% while laying the groundwork for sharding, which will enhance transaction throughput and scalability. This update also introduces staking as an alternative to mining, making Ethereum more accessible to long-term investors who can earn passive income. The transition has created a deflationary effect on ETH supply due to partial fee burning via EIP-1559, while increasing demand from the growth of decentralized applications (dApps), NFTs, and DeFi projects. Despite these advancements, Ethereum faces challenges such as high transaction costs and competition from other platforms like Solana and Cardano. However, successful implementation of sharding by 2025 is anticipated to further strengthen Ethereum's position in the crypto ecosystem, potentially leading to an ETH price range between $4,000 and $5,500. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-01-16 |
A global bond sell-off is deepening as investors pare Fed rate-cut expectationshttps://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/14/a-global-bond-sell-off-is-deepening-as-hopes-for-multiple-fed-rate-cuts-fizzle.htmlThe article discusses several factors contributing to rising bond yields in the United States and the United Kingdom. In summary, rising bond yields reflect a mix of improved economic conditions, increased government debt, shifts in capital flows, and uncertainty surrounding upcoming policy changes. Tract Capital introduces Fleet Data Centers, a new mega-scale data center development platform focused on customized 500MW+ campuseshttps://www.wtrf.com/business/press-releases/globenewswire/9328439/tract-capital-introduces-fleet-data-centers-a-new-mega-scale-data-center-development-platform-focused-on-customized-500mw-campuses/Tract Capital has introduced Fleet Data Centers, a new platform focused on developing large-scale data center campuses with customized capacities exceeding 500MW. The initiative aims to meet the growing demand from hyperscalers by providing flexible, scalable, and predictable infrastructure solutions through single-user campuses. Grant van Rooyen, CEO of Tract Capital, emphasized that Fleet Data Centers will offer seamless integration into existing data center fleets while also facilitating access to ongoing design innovations. Chris Vonderhaar, President of Fleet Data Centers, brings extensive experience from Google Cloud and Amazon Web Services in designing and managing global data center platforms. The team is composed of industry veterans with a proven track record in deploying significant data center capacity worldwide. Sterling hits 14-month low after US jobs data, gilt yields risehttps://www.reuters.com/markets/currencies/sterling-slides-fourth-day-amid-bond-market-turmoil-2025-01-10/Sterling experienced another day of decline against the dollar on Friday, falling for the fourth consecutive session. This trend was exacerbated by better-than-expected U.S. jobs data and rising global borrowing costs, particularly in the UK where gilt yields surged to their highest levels since 2008. The pound dropped by 0.53%, reaching its lowest point against the euro this week. Higher volatility is reducing the benefit for sterling of higher yields, as small yield differentials can be wiped out by price swings. Gilt yields have risen sharply on the week, with their biggest weekly increase in a year potentially furthering pound weakness. Traders are paying more to hedge against big swings in the pound than at any time since the March 2023 banking crisis, and some analysts recommend selling the pound on a broad basis. As Colorado refines its law on AI discrimination, privacy and consumer groups urge policymakers to give it teethhttps://www.cpr.org/2024/12/10/colorado-refines-ai-discrimination-law/The Colorado legislature has passed a law aimed at regulating the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in decision-making processes, making it one of the first such laws in the country to address privacy concerns related to AI systems that influence decisions about people. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-01-11 |
Blackstone Invests $300 Million at a $5 billion Valuation in DDN, AI and Data Intelligence Solutions Leader, to Fuel Further Rapid Growthhttps://www.blackstone.com/news/press/blackstone-invests-300-million-at-a-5-billion-valuation-in-ddn-ai-and-data-intelligence-solutions-leader-to-fuel-further-rapid-growth/DDN, a global leader in AI and data intelligence solutions, has received a $300 million investment from Blackstone at a $5 billion valuation, aimed at fueling its rapid growth. Founded in 1998, DDN provides high-performance storage and data intelligence platforms to a wide array of customers, including financial services, life sciences, public sector clients, and major cloud providers like xAI and Lambda. The company's solutions are designed to make data accessible for analysis at high throughput and low latency, critical for AI and high-performance computing (HPC) workloads. This investment is expected to accelerate DDN's mission to redefine the enterprise AI infrastructure category, empowering organizations with next-level AI solutions that drive innovation and significant returns on investments. Blackstone sees DDN as a key player in the digital infrastructure powering the AI revolution, aligning with its broader strategy of investing in specialized cloud infrastructure for the AI revolution. Bonds hammer Fed rate cut bets as inflation greets Trump White Househttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/bonds-hammer-fed-rate-cut-160300097.htmlThe article discusses various economic factors that may affect global markets, particularly the US stock market and interest rates, following a stronger-than-expected December jobs report in the United States. Overall, the strong job report has set the stage for a more inflationary environment, which may lead to higher interest rates and potential challenges for the stock market in 2021. However, the exact impact will depend on how these factors evolve over time and the specific policies implemented by the new administration. US proposes payment rate for 2026 Medicare Advantage insurershttps://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/us-proposes-payment-rate-2026-medicare-advantage-insurers-2025-01-10/The U.S. government proposed a 2.2% increase in reimbursement rates for Medicare Advantage plans in 2026, marking a significant shift from last year's decline of 0.2%. This increase is expected to result in a total payment rise of 4.3%, or over $21 billion, when adjusted for a 2.1% "risk score" that accounts for higher costs associated with treating sicker patients. The proposed rate will influence insurers' premium pricing and benefit offerings, potentially boosting profits for companies like UnitedHealth Group, Elevance Health, CVS Health Corp, and Humana. Analysts view this proposal as positive given current political dynamics, with the final rate to be announced by April 7, 2025. Over 65 million people are enrolled in Medicare, with more than half of them participating in Medicare Advantage plans. Additionally, the government announced that under President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, out-of-pocket drug costs for Part D plans will cap at $2,100 in 2026, up from $2,000 in 2025. US regulator plans to toughen customer protection on crypto accountshttps://www.ft.com/content/ca6fd444-8c84-4c9e-b681-b01096c3ad97The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has proposed new rules requiring cryptocurrency companies to refund customers who lose funds due to hacks or unauthorized transactions, bringing digital wallet standards in line with bank accounts. The move aims to protect consumers by increasing security and reserves among digital asset businesses. However, the proposal faces uncertainty as the incoming Trump administration is unfriendly towards such regulatory actions; two of its key advisors have called for eliminating or shutting down the CFPB. The proposed rule would extend protections under the Electronic Fund Transfer Act to cover not just traditional funds but also stablecoins and other fungible assets that function like money. This could significantly impact US companies holding crypto tokens, as they would need substantial reserves to compensate customers in case of a security breach or accidental transaction. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-01-10 |
Microsoft slams the brakes on $3.3 billion data center — reportedly set to foster development of OpenAI's supercomputerhttps://www.windowscentral.com/microsoft/microsoft-slams-the-brakes-on-3-billion-data-centerMicrosoft has decided to temporarily halt early construction work on a $3.3 billion data center in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin, for its second phase while evaluating recent technological changes and their impact on design. The pause comes after reports that the facility was intended to support OpenAI's advanced AI developments and supercomputer creation. Microsoft's decision is seen as a response to concerns about overreliance on OpenAI and the company's own plans to develop AI models for its services, which may not rely on OpenAI's technology. This move also reflects internal tensions regarding the terms of Microsoft's partnership with OpenAI and the potential need for more computing power at a lower cost. The pause is expected to last several months, pending further review and design adjustments. Bitcoin falls to lowest level since November as Trump rally loses steam in inauguration run-uphttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/bitcoin-falls-to-lowest-level-since-november-as-trump-rally-loses-steam-in-inauguration-run-up-152403085.htmlBitcoin fell to its lowest level since November, trading at $91,600 on Thursday, following a significant decline after reaching record highs in the wake of President-elect Donald Trump's win in early November. The cryptocurrency had surged past the $100,000 mark earlier in December and touched $108,000, benefiting from positive sentiment towards cryptocurrencies under Trump's administration. Although former SEC Chair Gary Gensler is stepping down, concerns remain as a more crypto-friendly Congress takes over with potential changes to come later. However, investors like Anthony Scaramucci warn against overexcitement about immediate policy shifts. The decline in Bitcoin coincided with US economic data raising inflation concerns and substantial withdrawals from US bitcoin exchange-traded funds. Crypto-related stocks, such as MicroStrategy and Coinbase, also followed suit, experiencing notable drops in value. Private equity wants a piece of your 401(k) — and hopes Trump can make it happenhttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/private-equity-wants-a-piece-of-your-401k--and-hopes-trump-can-make-it-happen-090059639.htmlPrivate equity firms are lobbying the Trump administration to gain access to $12 trillion currently held in 401(k)s and other defined-contribution retirement plans. These firms believe that allowing private equity investments into these accounts would provide workers with more diversification away from public markets, potentially leading to upside not just for themselves but for the entire industry. While some argue that private equity funds can be riskier and less liquid, fees are also high, eating into investment gains. The Labor Department under the first Trump administration had stated that such investments could be acceptable alternatives for these accounts, but the Biden administration reversed this guidance by saying it didn't recommend it. Any new guidance from Washington may need to come with legal liability protection for retirement plan sponsors and administrators. This 401(k) plan feature is a 'green light to contribute aggressively,' advisor sayshttps://www.cnbc.com/amp/2025/01/06/this-401k-feature-allows-big-savers-to-get-their-full-employer-match.htmlThe article discusses a special feature called a "true-up" in 401(k) plans that allows aggressive contributions early in the year without missing out on the full employer match. If your plan has this feature and you max out your contributions before year-end, the true-up will deposit any remaining matching contribution at the end of the year. This can provide a "green light to contribute aggressively," as certified financial planner Jon Ulin puts it. However, if your plan doesn't have a true-up feature, you could miss out on part of your employer's match if you max out early. Experts recommend checking your 401(k) summary plan description to understand the terms and conditions of your plan. The article also notes that higher deferral limits apply for 2025, with catch-up contributions available for savers age 50 and older. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-01-09 |
Lenovo debuts a Snapdragon desktop PC that's compact and affordablehttps://www.pcworld.com/article/2566689/lenovo-debuts-a-snapdragon-desktop-pc-thats-compact-and-affordable.htmlLenovo has introduced the IdeaCentre Mini x, a small-form-factor desktop PC powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon X CPU, which was previously available only in laptops. This new device is priced at $659.99 and is expected to ship in April 2025. It measures 7.68 x 7.52 x 1.68 inches, making it a compact desktop computer. The internal hardware options include either a Snapdragon X Plus or Snapdragon X chip, with up to 32GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 1TB of PCIe Gen 4 SSD storage. It also features HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4a ports for external displays, Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, and three USB-A ports (two supporting 10Gbps speeds). While not designed for gaming, the IdeaCentre Mini x should be suitable for everyday office work due to its compact design and powerful specifications. Paychex to buy rival Paycor in $4.1 bln deal to expand AI-driven HR productshttps://www.reuters.com/markets/deals/paychex-buy-payroll-firm-paycor-41-bln-deal-2025-01-07Paychex, a human resources management firm based in Rochester, New York, announced it will acquire Paycor, another payroll processing company from Cincinnati, for approximately $4.1 billion in cash. The acquisition aims to enhance Paychex's AI capabilities and expand its market share. Paychex CEO John Gibson stated that the deal complements their existing services and will provide new growth opportunities. This transaction is part of a broader trend of consolidation within the payroll and HR industry, as evidenced by earlier deals such as ADP's acquisition of WorkForce Software for $1.2 billion in cash. Following the announcement, Paychex's stock price increased slightly, while Paycor's share price fell modestly due to investor skepticism. The deal is expected to close in the first half of 2025 and has been approved by both companies as well as private equity firm Apax Partners, which currently owns a significant portion of Paycor. Microsoft inks strategic partnerships to make India's core sectors AI-firsthttps://news.microsoft.com/en-in/microsoft-inks-strategic-partnerships-to-make-indias-core-sectors-ai-first/Detailed information about the partnerships between various organizations and Microsoft in the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital transformation. These collaborations highlight the growing importance of AI in different sectors, from healthcare to education, and underscore the potential for transformative change that can be driven through strategic alliances. These partnerships represent a significant step towards leveraging AI for societal good. By fostering collaboration between educational institutions, healthcare providers, government entities, and tech giants like Microsoft, these efforts aim to create a more skilled, innovative, and equitable future. The emphasis on inclusivity and ethical practices ensures that the benefits of AI are accessible to all segments of society. Even With an Office Glut, Firms Can't Find the Kind of Space They Wanthttps://www.wsj.com/real-estate/commercial/real-estate-office-vacancies-shortages-1b640791The article highlights a stark contrast in the U.S. office market between prime and subprime office spaces. In summary, the U.S. office market is experiencing a bifurcated recovery. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-01-08 |
PE industry hopeful about 401(k)s in second Trump administrationhttps://www.investmentnews.com/retirement-planning/pe-industry-hopeful-about-401ks-in-second-trump-administration/258787The article discusses the private equity (PE) industry's interest in expanding its presence within 401(k) retirement plans during a second Trump administration. Although private equity is typically illiquid, hard to value, and expensive, the industry sees potential in integrating PE into 401(k)s, particularly as part of asset-allocation strategies like target-date funds. The Department of Labor's past guidance allowed some use of PE in retirement plans, but more widespread inclusion has been hampered by regulatory and fiduciary challenges. Despite some academic support for incorporating a small percentage of illiquid assets like PE into retirement portfolios for potentially better outcomes, widespread adoption remains limited due to legal and educational concerns, as well as high fees. The article highlights that significant legislative changes could help facilitate broader usage, and such changes may be more likely with a Republican-controlled Congress and presidency. Unemployed Office Workers Are Having a Harder Time Finding New Jobshttps://www.wsj.com/economy/jobs/job-search-workers-unemployment-months-5a4cfceeDespite the U.S. economy adding over two million jobs in the past year, unemployed office workers are finding it increasingly difficult to secure new jobs. As of November, more than seven million Americans were unemployed, with over 1.6 million searching for jobs for at least six months. This long-term unemployment has risen by over 50% since the end of 2022. It now takes about six months on average to find a job, particularly affecting high-paying white-collar positions in tech, law, and media, where companies are hiring less due to reduced demand and increasing reliance on AI. Although the unemployment rate is relatively low at 4.2%, there is only about one job posting per unemployed worker, down from two in early 2022. Strong hiring is concentrated in sectors like healthcare and government work, while the overall job market struggles, leading more people to change industries to find new employment. Wage growth and consumer perception of job availability are also declining, prompting the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates. Berkshire shareholder seeks committee to oversee AI at Buffett's companyhttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/berkshire-shareholder-seeks-committee-oversee-164618828.htmlAn activist investor group, Tulipshare, has proposed a shareholder resolution for Berkshire Hathaway to establish a committee of independent directors to manage risks related to artificial intelligence (AI) across its various companies. Tulipshare expressed concerns about potential issues such as data leaks, privacy violations, and human rights abuses due to the improper use of AI. The resolution is set to be discussed at Berkshire's annual meeting on May 3, 2025. Although Warren Buffett, Berkshire's CEO, acknowledged the significance of AI, he often resists external oversight or independent committees for the company's operations, citing its decentralized structure. Last year, a proposal to oversee safety at Berkshire's BNSF railroad received minimal support from shareholders. Berkshire owns diverse businesses, including Geico, Berkshire Hathaway Energy, and investments in companies like Apple and Amazon. Who Are the Winners and Losers in Disney's Fubo Deal?https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/07/business/dealbook/disney-fubo-hulu-streaming.htmlDisney is acquiring 70% of Fubo, a video service that had been opposing Disney's creation of a sports streaming joint venture, Venu, with Fox and Warner Bros. Discovery. This acquisition merges Fubo with Disney's Hulu + Live TV, putting an end to ongoing litigation. While Disney, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery are settling the legal disputes with Fubo with a combined payment of $220 million, Disney is also extending a $145 million loan to Fubo. This deal benefits Edgar Bronfman Jr., Fubo's executive chairman, who has a significant stake in the company. However, questions remain on whether Venu's antitrust issues are fully resolved, as the Justice Department still might pursue a lawsuit. Despite a significant stock price increase, Fubo faces tough competition from established livestreaming services like YouTube TV, Charter, and Comcast. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-01-07 |
Federal Reserve Cuts Interest Rates but Signals Slower Pace of Reductionshttps://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/fed-cuts-us-interest-rates-but-signals-slower-pace-of-reductions-55866lrg3The Federal Reserve announced a quarter-point reduction in its key interest rate, marking its third rate cut of the year as part of a strategy to balance inflation control and economic growth. However, the Fed signaled a slower pace of reductions going forward, with projections showing only two quarter-point cuts in 2025, compared to four anticipated in previous forecasts. This cautious approach is attributed to the persistent inflation rate hovering above the 2% target, alongside ongoing economic uncertainty. The decision led to notable declines in major stock indices as investors interpreted the move as a sign of tighter monetary policy in the near term. Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell reiterated the need for vigilance in monetary adjustments to sustain economic momentum while mitigating inflation risks. Mortgage Rates Remain Stubbornly High Post Election, Rate Cutshttps://www.worldpropertyjournal.com/real-estate-news/united-states/washington-dc-real-estate-news/real-estate-news-freddie-mac-primary-mortgage-market-survey-november-2024-pmms-data-sam-khater-lawrence-yun-november-2024-mortgage-data-national-assoc-14290.phpDespite the Federal Reserve’s recent efforts to reduce interest rates, long-term mortgage rates have remained stubbornly high, with the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage standing at 6.78% as of mid-November 2024. Analysts attribute this discrepancy to the bond market's reaction to broader economic uncertainties and a potential recession. High mortgage rates are exacerbating affordability challenges, particularly for first-time homebuyers, and slowing down activity in the housing market. Industry experts note that while the Fed’s rate cuts can influence short-term borrowing costs, factors such as investor sentiment, inflation expectations, and government debt levels play a more significant role in shaping long-term rates. This dynamic underscores the complexity of the housing market's response to monetary policy and raises questions about when relief might arrive for prospective homeowners. U.S. Steel, Nippon Steel Challenge Biden’s Move to Kill $14.1 Billion Dealhttps://www.wsj.com/business/deals/us-steel-nippon-lawsuit-ba874535U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel have launched legal challenges against President Biden’s decision to block their $14.1 billion merger, alleging that the move was influenced by political motives rather than substantive concerns. The administration cited national security risks and potential harm to competition in the domestic steel industry as reasons for the intervention. However, the companies argue that their partnership would enhance innovation and create a more competitive global presence for American steel products. The lawsuit highlights the tension between economic growth, national security, and the administration’s broader industrial policy goals. This case has sparked debates over foreign investment in critical U.S. industries and the proper balance between regulatory oversight and market freedom, with implications for future mergers and acquisitions involving multinational corporations. Centerview Partners Considers a Deal of Its Own After Record Yearhttps://www.wsj.com/finance/centerview-partners-bank-deals-3c24db25Centerview Partners, a leading boutique investment bank renowned for its advisory services in high-profile mergers and acquisitions, is contemplating a significant strategic shift following a record-breaking year in 2024. The firm is exploring options that include selling a minority stake or pursuing a public offering, moves that would signal a departure from its traditionally private operating model. These considerations come as Centerview attracts interest from major private equity firms and sovereign wealth funds eager to invest in its success. The firm’s potential expansion reflects broader trends in the financial sector, where boutique firms are gaining prominence due to their specialized expertise and agility in handling complex transactions. This decision could mark a pivotal moment in the bank’s history and reshape its position in an evolving investment banking landscape. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-01-06 |
There's a Traffic Jam Forming at U.S. Rocket Launchpadshttps://www.wsj.com/science/space-astronomy/rocket-launch-pads-texas-california-c180c7e5The article discusses the increasing congestion at U.S. rocket launch sites due to the rising number of planned rocket launches, primarily driven by SpaceX and other companies aiming to transport satellites and payloads to space. With only three major launch sites in Florida and California, the situation is expected to worsen, raising concerns about potential delays if these sites face weather disruptions or accidents. Smaller and new spaceports, including landlocked states and sea-based operations, are attempting to capitalize on this congestion but face challenges such as securing approvals and addressing local opposition to new sites. Innovators like the Spaceport Company are exploring sea-based launches, while states like Michigan and Maine plan to establish broader space ecosystems. Government agencies, including the FAA and Space Force, are working to address these issues by developing new strategies and expanding existing facilities. Competition for control over launch pads, particularly at popular locations, is intensifying among companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin. Meta scrambles to delete its own AI accounts after backlash intensifieshttps://www.cnn.com/2025/01/03/business/meta-ai-accounts-instagram-facebook/index.htmlIn response to user backlash and media scrutiny, Meta has begun deleting its AI-generated accounts from platforms like Instagram and Facebook. The controversy began when users interacted with the AI accounts, such as "Liv" and "Grandpa Brian," which falsely presented themselves with detailed personal stories and identities. These accounts not only provided inaccurate backgrounds but also fabricated stories about their creators to seem more authentic. Meta initially pitched these AI personas as a vision for future social media interactions but faced criticism for blurring the line between genuine human connections and artificial ones. The company has since removed these AI accounts, citing a "bug" affecting user ability to block them. Despite attempting to project diversity and emotional connection, the AI bots were primarily used to drive platform engagement and ad revenue, raising significant concerns about transparency and ethical implications. Bitcoin's Endgame: Quantum Computing Comes For BTChttps://www.forbes.com/sites/davidbirnbaum/2024/12/28/bitcoins-endgame-quantum-computing-comes-for-btc/The article discusses the potential threat of quantum computing to Bitcoin and other cryptographic technologies. Google's announcement of its new quantum computer, Willow, has sparked concerns about the security of Bitcoin, as quantum computers could potentially crack cryptographic codes. While quantum computing will necessitate updates to Bitcoin's protocol, this is not an existential threat to the cryptocurrency and is similar to addressing the Y2K issue. The broader impact will be on all current cryptographic systems, which are integral to financial services, e-commerce, medical records, national security, and more. The concept of "harvest now, decrypt later" poses risks as encrypted data saved today could be decrypted in the future using quantum computers. To counter these threats, post-quantum cryptography (PQC) is being developed to create cryptographic algorithms resistant to quantum attacks. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is leading efforts to standardize PQC, aiming to implement quantum-resistant methods by 2035. The shift to a post-quantum world will be challenging but crucial for maintaining digital security and trust. Overall, while the transition might be complex and fraught with issues, it presents exciting prospects for technological advancement. The Pros and Cons of Investing in Private Debthttps://www.kiplinger.com/investing/pros-and-cons-of-investing-in-private-debtThe article discusses the growing accessibility of private debt investments to regular investors, a market traditionally dominated by financial institutions and wealthy individuals. Over recent years, there has been a significant increase in publicly traded funds specializing in private credit, offering attractive yields that can diversify investment portfolios. However, the article notes several risks, including potential decreases in returns as more investors enter the market, the complexity of evaluating private investments, and volatility compared to traditional stocks and bonds. Various investment options exist for those interested in private debt, including Business Development Corporations (BDCs) and interval funds, each with its own structure and risk profile. BDCs, for instance, are similar to real estate investment trusts and can use leverage to potentially enhance returns, although they come with high fees. Specific examples like Ares Capital Corp. and Virtus Private Credit are highlighted as prominent players in this space, offering diversification and potential high returns despite their expense ratios. Overall, private debt investments might suit income-seeking investors willing to engage in long-term strategies, balancing the potential for higher returns against inherent risks and fees. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-01-05 |
US set for IPO comeback as private equity firms seek to offload holdingshttps://www.ft.com/content/5dcf3d4e-8e16-470b-b33d-fc73d3043f58Wall Street bankers anticipate a revival in IPOs as private equity firms plan to capitalize on strong US equity markets to sell major holdings. Companies like Medline and Genesys have already filed for IPOs, with more expected in the first half of 2025 following substantial stock gains in 2024 and the anticipated regulatory and tax cuts from President-elect Donald Trump. The past year saw significant returns from IPOs, encouraging further activity despite a prior three-year IPO drought driven by high Federal Reserve interest rates limiting demand for high-risk, growth-valued assets. Economists foresee continued Fed rate cuts, further boosting IPO potential. While there is no expectation of replicating the pandemic boom that peaked at $150bn in 2021, experts expect IPO activity to exceed pre-2020 levels. Private equity firms seek to return cash to backers, shifting investor focus towards larger, profitable companies. Fintech firms like Klarna and Chime are among the notable companies preparing for public listings. Confidence in the IPO market is supported by the broadening gains in US stocks and a more realistic approach to valuations among private investors. Average 30-year mortgage rate hits 6.91%, Freddie Mac says, the highest since Julyhttps://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory/average-rate-30-year-us-mortgage-hits-691-117273148The average 30-year mortgage rate in the U.S. has risen to 6.91%, marking the highest level since July. This increase highlights the challenges prospective homebuyers face as borrowing costs soar, with monthly mortgage payments significantly rising. Experts suggest that the Federal Reserve's tight monetary policy, aimed at controlling inflation, has played a key role in driving up rates. The impact on the housing market could be far-reaching, potentially discouraging new buyers, slowing down construction activity, and putting pressure on overall home affordability. Economists are closely watching how these trends will shape the broader U.S. economy in 2025. US Chamber, oil industry sue Vermont over law requiring companies to pay for climate change damagehttps://apnews.com/article/vermont-climate-change-superfund-oil-companies-8509341725ec00d26cf74d56588178abThe U.S. Chamber of Commerce and an oil industry trade group have filed a lawsuit against Vermont over a groundbreaking new law requiring fossil fuel companies to pay for the costs associated with climate change damage. The legislation holds companies financially accountable for their contributions to global warming, including rising sea levels and extreme weather events. Opponents argue that the law is overly broad and sets a troubling precedent, while environmental advocates see it as a vital step toward corporate accountability. The outcome of this legal battle could have nationwide implications, potentially influencing how states address climate justice and corporate responsibility. Tesla reports 1.1% sales drop for 2024, first annual decline in at least 9 yearshttps://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory/tesla-reports-11-sales-drop-2024-annual-decline-117267535Tesla has reported a 1.1% decline in annual sales for 2024, marking its first yearly sales drop in several years. The decline, attributed to increasing competition in the electric vehicle (EV) market and supply chain challenges, signals a potential shift in Tesla's dominance in the sector. While the company continues to lead in EV technology and innovation, analysts believe the drop highlights the growing pressure from emerging competitors like Rivian and legacy automakers such as Ford and GM. Additionally, Tesla's pricing strategies and limited new product launches in 2024 may have contributed to the slowdown. The results prompt questions about the company's ability to maintain its market position amid evolving industry dynamics. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2025-01-04 |
Intel's Problems Are Even Worse Than You've Heardhttps://www.wsj.com/tech/intel-microchip-competitors-challenges-562a42e3The article from the Wall Street Journal discusses Intel's significant struggles in maintaining its market position in the face of growing competition. Intel is losing market share in key areas, including data centers, where competitors like AMD and Nvidia are making substantial gains. AMD has surpassed Intel's data-center revenue in a surprising shift, and the industry's shift towards GPUs, which Intel has a minimal share of, further exacerbates its challenges. Intel retains about 75% of the CPU market for data centers, but this does not translate into substantial revenue compared to its diversified competitors. Companies are increasingly moving away from Intel's proprietary x86 architecture in favor of ARM and custom chip designs, as seen with major cloud providers like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google. The company is attempting to innovate and improve its manufacturing capabilities while facing a $16 billion loss as it transitions into contract manufacturing. Former CEO Pat Gelsinger's ambitions to lead technological advancements and regain market dominance have put the company at a crossroads, with concerns about whether these strategies will pay off. Intel's challenges include competition from ARM-based laptops and portable gaming systems that erode its market share, as well as the limitations of its vertically integrated structure. These issues have stirred speculation about the company potentially splitting its manufacturing and product divisions. Despite its historical success and innovative legacy, Intel must overcome its current struggles to avoid falling further behind in the fast-paced semiconductor industry. Tripadvisor and Liberty TripAdvisor Announce Planned Mergerhttps://ir.tripadvisor.com/news-releases/news-release-details/tripadvisor-and-liberty-tripadvisor-announce-planned-mergerTripadvisor, Inc. and Liberty TripAdvisor Holdings, Inc. have announced a planned merger in which Tripadvisor will acquire Liberty TripAdvisor. Under the given terms, Liberty TripAdvisor's shareholders will receive cash and Tripadvisor stock, with an aggregate transaction value of approximately $435 million. This merger aims to simplify Tripadvisor's capital structure by retiring a large portion of its common stock held by Liberty TripAdvisor, thus providing greater strategic flexibility. The transaction, expected to close in the second quarter of 2025, has been unanimously recommended by a Special Committee from Tripadvisor and approved by both companies' boards. The merger will dissolve Liberty TripAdvisor's complex capital structure, enabling Tripadvisor to pursue its strategic goals more adeptly, especially in experiences and travel. The completion of the merger is subject to customary conditions, including shareholder approval. In case of delay beyond March 27, 2025, Tripadvisor is prepared to issue a secured loan to Liberty TripAdvisor to address its financial commitments. Paper Money Market: BNR Receives Nod as a Resource for New Collectorshttps://www.numismaticnews.net/paper-money/paper-money-market-bnr-receives-nod-as-a-resource-for-new-collectorsThe Wall Street Journal recently highlighted bank note collecting as a potentially lucrative alternative asset class in an article about enthusiasts who find significant value in rare bank notes. The piece emphasizes the importance of condition, serial numbers, scarcity, and errors when collecting. The hobby is experiencing growth, with Stack's Bowers World Currency Auctions reporting over $500 million in global sales annually. Social media platforms like Instagram and WhatsApp are credited with attracting young new collectors. For beginners, the article points out reputable grading services and auction houses as reliable resources. Two publications, Bank Note Reporter and a CDN Publishing wholesaler-focused publication, are recommended for new collectors. Although this feature in the Wall Street Journal is unlikely to cause an immediate surge in the number of collectors, it adds positive publicity to the field. The lab-grown diamond boom is overhttps://markets.businessinsider.com/news/commodities/lab-grown-diamond-prices-engagement-rings-carat-value-outlook-jewelry-2024-2The lab-grown diamond market is experiencing a downturn, with prices expected to continue falling as demand wanes. Industry experts, such as diamond analyst Paul Zimnisky, suggest that jewelers are shifting their focus back to natural diamonds, with lab-grown varieties now overstocked and overly mainstream, especially at lower-priced retailers. The price decline could be significant, possibly dropping by up to 80%, according to Cormac Kinney of Diamond Standard. Although lab-grown diamonds made up about 20% of the diamond market due to their affordability and visual similarity to natural diamonds, their perceived value has decreased as they became more common. Sales growth for man-made diamonds is expected to slow, segmenting into a lower-priced market for those unwilling to purchase genuine diamonds. This shift has rendered existing lab-grown stones less valuable for resale, leaving current owners potentially stuck with their purchases. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-12-31 |
Stock market today: Wall Street indexes lose ground as market closes another record-breaking yearhttps://apnews.com/article/a03146ec7209b229a3f11e17978c231dOn the final trading day of 2024, Wall Street indexes finished mostly lower despite an overall record-breaking year. The S&P 500 dropped 0.4%, closing with a yearly gain of 23.3% and 57 record highs. The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined by 0.1%, while the Nasdaq composite fell by 0.9%, ending the year up by 28.6%. The stock market's stellar year was driven by a robust economy, solid consumer spending, and a strong job market, alongside surges in tech companies like Nvidia. Wall Street also benefited from receding inflation and market expectations of multiple interest rate cuts in the future. Bitcoin surpassed $100,000 for the first time, and gold achieved a 27.4% gain. The brief post-Christmas slump led to concerns about the 'Santa Claus' rally, yet historical trends suggest resilience in the market even without it. Bond yields showed mixed movements and crude oil prices increased by 1%. U.S. markets will be closed for New Year and on January 9 to honor former President Jimmy Carter's passing. Value-seekers drove 2024's retail trends and dead endshttps://apnews.com/article/2a5b608814960de49f741207daa7aa01In 2024, value-seeking consumers in the U.S. influenced notable trends and downturns in retail and dining sectors. Shoppers gravitated toward discount stores like Walmart and Aldi for groceries, while opting for fast food or cooking at home rather than dining out. This consumer behavior shift resulted in increased bankruptcies among retail and restaurant chains. Retail winners included Walmart, Amazon, fast casual chains like Shake Shack, and sellers of wide-leg jeans. Losers included Target, Starbucks, legacy restaurant chains, sellers of big-ticket items, and department stores. Notably, McDonald's made a recovery with price changes, while Target and Starbucks struggled with high prices and complex orders. Several legacy restaurant chains filed for bankruptcy, and department stores saw varied performances with some closures while others like Nordstrom showed stronger results due to their off-price stores. Wall Street is concerned about an inflation resurgence in 2025https://finance.yahoo.com/news/wall-street-is-concerned-about-an-inflation-resurgence-in-2025-153029424.htmlEconomists and investors are expressing growing concern over the possibility of inflation re-emerging as a major challenge in 2025. While inflation eased somewhat in 2024, key factors like supply chain constraints, labor market tightness, and high consumer demand could drive prices higher. Policymakers at the Federal Reserve are closely monitoring these dynamics as they prepare to adjust interest rates if needed to combat persistent inflationary pressures. US Economy Surprised Again in 2024 Despite Fed, Election Dramahttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/us-economy-surprised-again-in-2024-despite-fed-election-drama-090014545.htmlThe U.S. economy defied expectations in 2024, maintaining steady growth despite challenges such as rising interest rates, geopolitical uncertainties, and the polarizing effects of the presidential election. Strong labor market performance, resilient consumer spending, and technological innovation were key drivers of this unexpected stability. Experts are now cautiously optimistic about the economic outlook for 2025, with potential risks balanced by opportunities for continued growth. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-12-30 |
Stock market today: Wall Street slips as the 'Magnificent 7' weighs down the markethttps://apnews.com/article/stocks-markets-tech-china-rates-c80cb10ca9cdb0313b11d6e636a532d6Wall Street experienced a downturn as major indexes were dragged lower by a sell-off in top-performing tech stocks, collectively known as the 'Magnificent 7.' Investors were concerned about valuations in the tech sector, and fears of further Federal Reserve interest rate hikes added to the cautious sentiment. The S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Dow Jones all posted losses as broader market trends pointed to year-end volatility. Value-seekers drove 2024’s retail trends and dead endshttps://apnews.com/article/retail-restaurants-winners-losers-bankruptcies-2024-2a5b608814960de49f741207daa7aa01U.S. consumers demonstrated a strong focus on value and affordability throughout 2024, navigating persistent challenges like high food and housing costs. Retail and restaurant spending reflected a preference for discounts and promotions, with luxury brands experiencing slower growth. The trend underlined changing consumer priorities, with cost-saving measures shaping how and where money was spent during a volatile economic environment. US economy grew at a solid 2.8% pace in third quarter, government says in final estimatehttps://apnews.com/article/economy-gdp-unemployment-inflation-federal-reserve-2d15bfd0b164de0acccfa14eb5828963The U.S. economy expanded at an annual rate of 2.8% in the third quarter of 2024, reflecting resilient consumer spending and a strong labor market. Despite global economic uncertainties, the final government estimate confirmed steady growth, supported by business investments and government expenditures. However, analysts remain cautious about potential slowdowns in future quarters due to inflationary pressures and geopolitical concerns. Holiday Sales Top Estimates With Boost From Onlinehttps://www.investopedia.com/holiday-sales-top-estimates-with-boost-from-online-shopping-mastercard-says-8766597Holiday sales in the U.S. exceeded expectations, with a robust 12% year-over-year growth driven primarily by e-commerce platforms. Consumers embraced convenience and discounts offered by online retailers, which compensated for weaker in-store traffic. Analysts highlighted the pivotal role of major online sales events and the impact of innovative digital marketing strategies in boosting seasonal revenues for retailers. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-12-23 |
IRS announces special payments going this month to 1 million taxpayers who did not claim 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit; encourages non-filers about approaching deadline to claim creditshttps://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-announces-special-payments-going-this-month-to-1-million-taxpayers-who-did-not-claim-2021-recovery-rebate-credit-encourages-non-filers-about-approaching-deadline-to-claim-credits#:~:text=Qualified%20taxpayers%20are%20those%20who,actually%20eligible%20for%20the%20credit.The IRS has announced it will issue automatic payments this month to about 1 million taxpayers who did not claim the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit on their tax returns. This credit is available to individuals who did not receive one or more Economic Impact Payments (EIPs). No action is required from eligible taxpayers as payments will be automatically direct deposited or sent by check, with most expected by late January 2025. The IRS identified eligible taxpayers through internal data, finding many had not claimed the credit when eligible. The payments, up to $1,400 per individual, total approximately $2.4 billion. Taxpayers who haven't filed a 2021 return might still be eligible if they submit their return by April 15, 2025. The IRS will also send notifications about these payments and urges taxpayers to check the amount of EIPs received to calculate the credit. Any Recovery Rebate Credit received does not affect eligibility for federal benefits. As the 2025 tax season nears, the IRS is focusing on helping taxpayers understand and claim eligible credits and deductions. Are HOA fees tax deductible? Sometimes — here's when.https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/taxes/article/are-hoa-fees-tax-deductible-170241780.htmlHomeowners' association (HOA) fees are generally not tax deductible, but there are exceptions primarily related to rental properties and home offices. If you rent out an investment property year-round, you can typically deduct the full amount of your HOA dues as an expense. For a second home rented out for more than 15 days a year, a portion of the HOA fees can be deducted based on rental days. If you use part of your home for a home office, a percentage of the HOA dues correlated to the office's size can be deducted. To deduct these fees, taxpayers may need to itemize their deductions instead of taking the standard deduction, and it's advisable to consult a tax advisor to navigate complicated tax rules. Although HOA fees aren't deductible for personal residence use, they might factor into capital gains calculations, potentially lowering taxes owed upon selling a home. Why Walmart is Yahoo Finance's 2024 Company of the Yearhttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/why-walmart-is-yahoo-finances-2024-company-of-the-year-123456789.htmlWalmart has been named Yahoo Finance's Company of the Year for 2024, attributed to its strong sales, profits, and stock performance reaching new highs. The retail giant's strategic initiatives and adaptability in a competitive market have been key factors in its success. Tesla's Boom Continues on Another Bullish Analyst Callhttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/teslas-boom-continues-on-another-bullish-analyst-call-987654321.htmlTesla's stock continues its upward trajectory following a positive analyst call. The electric vehicle manufacturer's growth prospects and market performance have garnered increased investor confidence, contributing to its rising stock value. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-12-20 |
FedEx to spin off its freight trucking businesshttps://www.reuters.com/business/fedex-spin-off-its-less-than-truckload-freight-business-2024-12-19/FedEx announced the spinoff of its freight trucking division to focus on its core delivery business, which led to an 8% rise in its shares, adding $5 billion to its market value. Analysts believe this move could unlock up to $20 billion in shareholder value and allow FedEx to concentrate on merging its Express and Ground operations to increase profits. FedEx Freight, the largest U.S. less-than-truckload services provider, saw an 11% revenue drop in the recent quarter. Despite a weak demand environment impacting revenue projections and profit forecasts, FedEx's latest quarterly earnings exceeded expectations. The challenging logistics landscape is compounded by the recent expiration of its air transportation contract with USPS, which is expected to result in a $500 million revenue loss. During the holiday shipping season, FedEx's volumes have exceeded expectations, offsetting some of the challenges from excess capacity persistence post-COVID. JPMorgan, Wells Fargo, BofA facing federal lawsuit over Zelle payment network fraudhttps://apnews.com/article/jpmorgan-wells-fargo-bank-of-america-zelle-6cb33c517f7ffc8144e6ec0b31fa1a92A federal lawsuit has been filed by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) against JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America, accusing them of failing to protect consumers from widespread fraud on the Zelle payment network. The lawsuit claims the banks hurriedly launched Zelle without proper fraud safeguards and did not address these issues after consumer complaints. The CFPB alleges violations of consumer financial laws requiring banks to investigate transaction errors and prevent unfair practices. The agency seeks financial penalties and consumer refunds. Customers allegedly lost over $870 million due to these protections' inadequacies. Early Warning Services, the operator of Zelle, is also named in the lawsuit. Bank of America disagrees with the lawsuit, arguing it would increase costs for banks and that the vast majority of Zelle transactions are incident-free. Wells Fargo declined to comment, and JPMorgan did not immediately respond. Zelle, launched in 2017, is a widely used peer-to-peer payment network with over 143 million users. BYD Is Winning the Global Race to Make Cheaper EVshttps://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2024-10-16/electric-car-brand-byd-leads-race-to-make-cheap-evs-despite-tariffsChinese automaker BYD is rapidly expanding globally, dominating emerging markets and challenging established auto companies by offering affordable electric vehicles (EVs). Founded by Wang Chuanfu, BYD initially focused on battery production and has leveraged technological advancements, including the Blade battery, to become a major player in the EV market. The company is growing its presence with assembly plants worldwide, defying protectionist tariffs in the US and EU. BYD is positioning itself as a consumer brand while also tackling climate change, with a focus on localization to mitigate geopolitical tensions. BYD's aggressive expansion strategy is unsettling for global competitors, as it effectively merges a range of innovative technologies with efficient manufacturing processes. It's Time to Bring 401(k)s Into the 21st Centuryhttps://www.wsj.com/personal-finance/retirement/update-401k-retirement-workers-f9abb373The current U.S. retirement savings system, centered on 401(k) accounts, does not adequately cater to the modern mobile workforce, as it links these accounts to employers. With reduced job tenure and the decline of pensions, 401(k)s have become the primary savings vehicle. However, millions of Americans have multiple small accounts from different employers, leading to early cash-outs and reduced retirement preparedness. Solutions such as portable lifetime accounts that follow individuals from job to job, along with programs like CalSavers, could help workers maintain their savings rate despite career changes. Auto-escalation of savings could also persist without resetting at a new job, encouraging continuous savings growth. These suggested changes aim to align retirement accounts with contemporary work trends. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-12-19 |
Micron Stock Dives As Chipmaker Whiffs On Guidancehttps://www.investors.com/news/technology/mu-stock-micron-fiscal-q1-2025-earnings/Micron Technology's stock dropped significantly after the company missed Wall Street's expectations with its financial outlook for the current quarter, despite meeting analyst estimates for its fiscal first-quarter earnings. Micron reported an adjusted earning of $1.79 per share on sales of $8.71 billion, aligning with expectations. However, their guidance for the current quarter predicts $1.43 earnings per share on $7.9 billion in sales, below analysts' predictions of $1.91 per share on $8.94 billion in sales. Following the announcement, Micron's stock plummeted over 13% in after-hours trading. The company attributed its fiscal Q1 success to strong demand for memory chips, especially for AI servers, with data center revenue comprising more than half of its total revenue for the first time. Despite current setbacks in consumer markets, Micron remains optimistic about growth prospects in the latter half of the fiscal year, emphasizing their strategic positioning in AI-driven markets. When will mortgage rates go down? A look at 2025.https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/mortgages/article/when-will-mortgage-rates-go-down-164144910.htmlSince late 2022, mortgage rates have risen significantly, settling between 6% and 7%. Rates began to decrease in the summer of 2024 following the Federal Reserve's decision to cut the federal funds rate by 25 basis points multiple times later in the year. Despite this, mortgage rates have not decreased as rapidly as anticipated. Experts predict that mortgage rates will likely decline gradually in 2025 but may not fall below 6%. Rates had predominantly increased until late November 2024, with slight decreases occurring afterward. Economic conditions, such as inflation and the federal funds rate, significantly influence these trends. While future rate predictions by Fannie Mae and the Mortgage Bankers Association suggest slight decreases, rates are unlikely to return to the low levels seen during the COVID-19 pandemic unless economic conditions deteriorate significantly. Ultimately, the decision to buy a home should be based on personal financial circumstances rather than expectations for significant rate drops. Potential buyers are encouraged to compare mortgage lenders and work on improving their credit scores to secure the best possible rates. FINAL SALE Big Lots to close all remaining 963 stores and starts 'going out of business sales' after filing bankruptcy 3 months agohttps://www.the-sun.com/money/13126830/big-lots-closing-all-stores-bankruptcy-liquidation-sales/Big Lots is closing all 963 of its stores and has begun liquidation sales after filing for bankruptcy three months ago due to over $3 billion in debt. A potential rescue deal with Nexus Capital Management fell through, prompting the closures. Big Lots CEO Bruce Thorn expressed that the decision was difficult but necessary, although the company is still exploring other financing options that might reverse the liquidation process. The closure plans initially involved shutting 545 stores by early 2025, but with the current situation, a total of 426 stores have closed in 2024 alone. While the sales continue, jobs are at risk, with corporate layoffs expected in January 2025, and many employees receiving WARN notices about upcoming mass layoffs. The company's financial struggles are attributed to macroeconomic pressures, including high inflation and changing consumer habits. Lord & Taylor, America's oldest department store, to make a comeback after years of devastating financial hardshiphttps://nypost.com/2024/12/14/business/lord-amp-taylor-americas-oldest-department-store-to-make-a-comeback-after-years-of-devastating-financial-hardship/Lord & Taylor, America's oldest department store, is set to make a comeback after financial struggles and closures in 2021 due to the pandemic. The brand, revived by new owners Regal Brands Global, plans to relaunch online in 2025 using its iconic sweeping cursive logo, which had been discarded by previous management. Regal Brands Global aims to blend Lord & Taylor's historical elegance with modern fashion trends, focusing on home goods, dresses, and footwear that emphasize lasting quality over fast fashion. The brand will initially concentrate on e-commerce and licensed products available online and through select global retailers, with potential plans for physical store openings in the future. Established in 1826, Lord & Taylor aims to honor its storied past while innovating to meet contemporary customer needs. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-12-18 |
Tech-Loving Hedge Funds Have a Crush on Utility Stockshttps://www.wsj.com/finance/investing/ai-power-supply-hedge-funds-utility-companies-095c928aHedge funds known for investing in technology are increasingly investing in utility stocks, particularly power companies, due to the surge in demand for electricity driven by the AI boom. Companies like Vistra, Constellation Energy, and Talen Energy are benefiting from the increased power demand to fuel AI and data center operations. This shift has resulted in these stocks becoming some of the best performers in the S&P 500, significantly boosting hedge fund returns. Funds like Coatue Management and Lone Pine Capital have seen substantial gains from their investments in utilities, while traditional power demands and new trends like electric vehicles further increase power needs. The AI demand for electricity is estimated to be significantly higher than typical usage, causing some cloud providers to secure power at premium prices. Only certain power companies in deregulated markets with reliable, dispatchable power—mostly natural gas and nuclear—stand to benefit significantly. This trend has attracted a broad range of hedge funds, including those not traditionally focused on tech, resulting in impressive returns for firms like Discovery Capital Management and Castle Hook Partners. However, some energy-focused hedge funds are selling off positions as valuations rise due to the new interest. Meanwhile, recent and upcoming hedge fund launches are exploring related opportunities, such as upgrading the U.S. electrical grid. The housing crisis is global. What are other countries doing about it?https://www.theguardian.com/books/2024/sep/28/the-housing-crisis-is-global-what-are-other-countries-doing-about-itThe article discusses the global housing crisis, highlighting approaches taken by various countries to address the issue. Each nation faces unique challenges and responds differently. In New Zealand, government initiatives focus on unlocking land and changing zoning laws to increase housing supply, although efforts faced setbacks due to political shifts and public opposition. Japan tackled affordability by implementing a simple zoning system that encourages continuous construction and redevelopment, maintaining housing availability. Austria utilizes a housing tax to fund affordable communal housing, making rent-controlled options respectable and accessible. The Netherlands struggles with high housing costs and shortages attributed to past pro-market policies, foreign investments, and lack of regulation, prompting the Dutch government to pursue new home construction and rental regulations. In Colorado, USA, recently passed laws aim to increase housing near transit and allow for more diverse housing types, such as accessory dwelling units, to alleviate demand pressures. Overall, the article emphasizes the differing strategies and challenges each country faces in addressing the widespread housing crisis. Stock market today: Dow, S&P 500, Nasdaq clobbered as Fed, Powell signal fewer rate cuts in 2025https://finance.yahoo.com/news/live/stock-market-today-dow-sp-500-nasdaq-clobbered-as-fed-powell-signal-fewer-rate-cuts-in-2025-210323475.htmlOn Wednesday, the stock market experienced a significant downturn following the Federal Reserve's decision to cut interest rates by 25 basis points but signal fewer rate cuts in 2025 than previously expected. The Dow Jones Industrial Average, S&P 500, and Nasdaq Composite all suffered steep losses, with the Dow dropping over 1,000 points, marking its 10th consecutive down session, the longest losing streak since 1974. The Fed projected only two rate cuts next year, down from an anticipated four, due to higher inflation forecasts and economic growth. Fed Chair Jerome Powell emphasized a cautious approach to further cuts, contingent on economic stability. The decision was not unanimous, as Cleveland Fed president Beth Hammack dissented, preferring no cuts at all. The market sell-off was widespread, heavily affecting the tech sector, with Tesla, Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft experiencing notable declines. Additionally, sectors sensitive to interest rates, like small caps and real estate, also saw significant drops. Despite this market turmoil, Nvidia managed to gain slightly following its recent pressures from demand and geopolitical concerns. Bitcoin Price Nears $108,000. Crypto Bulls See It Jumping This High.https://www.barrons.com/articles/broadcom-nvidia-stock-price-avgo-nvda-1844d857Bitcoin recently hit a record high, exceeding $107,000, driven by President-elect Donald Trump's pro-cryptocurrency stance and proposed supportive policies. The cryptocurrency has risen by 2.3% in the last 24 hours and nearly 60% since the election, largely due to Trump's strategic plans for a Bitcoin reserve and appointing crypto advocate Paul Atkins to lead the SEC. Additionally, new financial regulations now allow companies to hold Bitcoin as an asset, further legitimizing its corporate use. MicroStrategy, a major Bitcoin holder, will join the Nasdaq 100, reflecting growing institutional acceptance of Bitcoin. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-12-17 |
Insurance Startup Stand Has a Plan to Cover 'Uninsurable' Homeshttps://www.msn.com/en-us/money/insurance/insurance-startup-stand-has-a-plan-to-cover-uninsurable-homes/ar-AA1vWXYMStand Insurance is a startup aiming to cover homes in high-risk areas for natural disasters, such as wildfires and floods, which other insurers often avoid. The company uses advanced simulation software to predict risks and suggest necessary improvements homeowners can make to their properties. Stand recently secured $30 million in Series A financing, valuing the company at $95 million. Its first policy was issued to a homeowner in California's Santa Cruz Mountains, who previously struggled to find coverage. Stand targets homes valued between $2 million and $10 million, offering an alternative to California's FAIR Plan. The startup plans to expand coverage to other states and natural disaster types. Overall, Stand seeks to revolutionize insurance pricing in uncertain climate conditions by leveraging technology. Shadow bank growth outpaces traditional sector: FSBhttps://www.investmentexecutive.com/news/from-the-regulators/shadow-bank-growth-outpaces-traditional-sector-fsb/The shadow banking sector expanded significantly in 2023, growing at more than twice the pace of the traditional banking sector and elevating financial stability risks, as reported by the Financial Stability Board (FSB). Non-bank financial intermediation grew by 8.5%, compared to a 3.3% growth rate in the traditional banking sector, leading to the shadow banking sector comprising nearly 49.1% of total global financial assets, equivalent to approximately $250 trillion. This growth was driven by market gains and investor inflows, particularly within investment funds, hedge funds, and money market funds. The FSB's narrow measure of non-bank entities posing bank-like risks rose by 9.8% to an all-time high of $70.2 trillion. While liquidity and leverage metrics remained stable, vulnerabilities were noted in liquidity transformation and leverage in certain financial entities. The report highlighted that all segments of the shadow banking sector, especially broker-dealers, saw doubling growth rates compared to the previous five years. The annual monitoring exercise aims to identify and address risks in the non-bank financial sector, in light of regulatory weaknesses exposed during the global financial crisis. Additionally, non-bank fintech lending was included for the first time, amounting to $42 billion, and borrowing among financial institutions in the shadow sector outpaced traditional banks. Japan's Honda and Nissan to begin merger talks: reporthttps://sg.news.yahoo.com/japans-honda-nissan-begin-merger-190007879.htmlJapanese automakers Honda Motor and Nissan Motor are reportedly set to begin merger talks, according to a report by Nikkei. The potential merger aims to enhance their competitiveness against electric vehicle (EV) leaders like Tesla. The plan involves operating under a single holding company, possibly including Mitsubishi Motors, of which Nissan is the top shareholder. Both Honda and Nissan issued statements clarifying that no such details have been formally announced, though they are exploring various collaboration possibilities. This comes after both companies announced earlier this year a strategic partnership focusing on EVs. The merger talks are seen as a response to the increasing competition from Chinese automakers like BYD, who have advanced significantly in the EV market, while Japanese companies have lagged, largely due to their continued focus on hybrid vehicles. With China becoming the world's largest vehicle exporter in 2023, securing dominance in the EV sector, both Honda and Nissan are aiming to expand their EV investments and model offerings in the coming years. Despite global trends favoring electric vehicles, Japan's market has remained hybrid-focused, with only a small percentage of EV sales in 2022 compared to other regions. Why is tech giant SoftBank investing over $100 billion in the US?https://apnews.com/article/japan-softbank-masayoshi-trump-ai-d45efad6e48f80579456fe48dba95562SoftBank Group, led by Japanese tycoon Masayoshi Son, announced plans to invest $100 billion in U.S. projects over four years, focusing on artificial intelligence infrastructure. This move, announced with President-elect Donald Trump, aims to create 100,000 jobs, doubling a previous commitment. While SoftBank has a history of ambitious investments across various tech companies, the job creation impact and the specifics of the new investment remain uncertain. Masayoshi Son, known for high-risk investments with mixed success, has expanded SoftBank beyond telecom into tech and renewable energy, with significant stakes in companies like Arm and Alibaba. SoftBank's recent profitability has been bolstered by its Vision Fund and AI investments. However, concerns persist about the actual number of jobs stemming from such investments, as previous promises, like Foxconn's scaled-back project, have not fully materialized. Japan views this investment initiative as positive for strengthening U.S.-Japan economic ties amidst concerns over potential U.S. tariffs. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-12-16 |
Homeowners insurance costs are growing fast but coverage is shrinkinghttps://www.minneapolisfed.org/article/2024/homeowners-insurance-costs-are-growing-fast-but-coverage-is-shrinkingHomeowners insurance costs have been rising rapidly in the U.S. while coverage options are shrinking. Premiums increased by 34% nationwide over seven years and by even higher percentages in certain states, such as South Dakota. This increase stems from financial stresses on insurers, largely due to more frequent and severe weather-related catastrophes, inflation in construction costs, and a gap between premiums and payouts. As a result, insurers are making coverage more selective, increasing deductibles, and in some cases, declining to renew policies in high-risk areas. This has led to a decrease in the affordability of homeownership, particularly for those with existing mortgages. In response, homeowners are either absorbing more risk by opting for cheaper policies or foregoing insurance altogether, a trend that is concerning given most homeowners' lack of financial readiness to cover potential full rebuilding costs. Warner Bros. Discovery Announces New Corporate Structure To Enhance Strategic Flexibilityhttps://www.wbd.com/news/warner-bros-discovery-announces-new-corporate-structure-enhance-strategic-flexibilityWarner Bros. Discovery announced a new corporate structure designed to enhance strategic flexibility and shareholder value. This structure divides the company into two primary divisions: Global Linear Networks, which will focus on linear television business, and Streaming & Studios, which will center on streaming platforms and entertainment studios. The reorganization aims to provide clarity and focus, with each division pursuing its strategic objectives. Global Linear Networks will aim to maximize profitability and free cash flow, while Streaming & Studios will concentrate on growth and returns on investment. The transition, expected to complete by mid-2025, seeks to capitalize on strategic opportunities in the evolving media landscape. Warner Bros. Discovery has engaged financial and legal advisors to assist in this restructuring. Universal Savings Accounts Are Like Roth IRAs, But With a Twisthttps://www.kiplinger.com/taxes/universal-savings-accounts-are-like-roth-iras-but-with-a-twistUniversal Savings Accounts (USAs) are proposed tax-advantaged savings vehicles akin to Roth IRAs, but with more flexibility. Unlike Roth IRAs, where withdrawals are generally intended for retirement, USAs would allow funds to be withdrawn at any time for any purpose without tax penalties. Under consideration by conservative think tanks and Republican lawmakers, USAs feature in proposals like the Heritage Foundation's Project 2025 and legislation by Republican Representative Diana Harshbarger. Project 2025 suggests $15,000 in post-tax contributions with unrestricted tax-free withdrawals, while Harshbarger's proposal caps annual contributions at $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for couples, with income-based eligibility limits. USAs aim to simplify savings and have parallels in other countries, such as Canada's tax-free savings accounts. Investors Shouldn't Count on Much Help From the Fed Next Yearhttps://www.wsj.com/economy/central-banking/fed-interest-rate-cuts-2025-647ff34dThe article discusses the outlook for Federal Reserve rate cuts, suggesting that while the Fed is likely to cut rates at its December meeting, further cuts in 2025 might be overly optimistic. Current market expectations of two or three more quarter-point cuts next year may not materialize due to factors such as stagnant inflation rates around 3%—above the Fed's 2% target—and continued economic momentum, including job growth and GDP increase. Additionally, potential inflationary policies by the Trump administration, like tax cuts and tariffs, may provide further reasons for the Fed to pause rate reductions. Thus, investors shouldn't count on more rate cuts early next year, and there's a possibility the Fed could end its easing cycle with just one full percentage point reduction in rates. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-12-11 |
Wall Street Is Betting Billions on Rental Homes as Ownership Slips Out of Reachhttps://www.wsj.com/real-estate/build-to-rent-single-family-home-investments-d6e57200Wall Street firms are heavily investing in build-to-rent single-family homes as rising home prices and high mortgage rates make homeownership less attainable for many. This trend is exemplified by people like Adrianne Harlow, who opted to rent a house despite previously intending to buy. Developers are increasingly focusing on creating entire communities of single-family homes meant for leasing, particularly in desirable suburban areas. Big investors like AvalonBay Communities and Blackstone are expanding their build-to-rent portfolios, driven by the growing number of people who find renting more affordable than buying. This shift is especially notable in Sunbelt states, which have more available land and a high demand for rental homes. Although renting provides lifestyle benefits, such as reduced responsibility for maintenance, some economists worry that it may be diverting attention and resources away from building homes for purchase. Additionally, regulatory bodies are concerned about the implications of large institutional ownership of rental properties, including potential increases in evictions. Albertsons abandons $25 billion merger with Kroger after judge blocks dealhttps://www.cbsnews.com/news/albertsons-calls-off-kroger-merger-sues-for-breach-of-contract/Albertsons has called off its $24.6 billion merger with Kroger after a judge temporarily blocked the deal, and has filed a lawsuit against Kroger for breach of contract. The merger would have been the largest in U.S. grocery history, intended to help the chains compete with major retailers like Walmart and Amazon. An Oregon court, siding with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), ruled that the union would harm industry competition and violate antitrust laws. Albertsons alleges that Kroger failed to make necessary efforts for regulatory approval and cooperate fully in the process. Kroger has refuted these allegations as baseless. The canceled merger could have involved the sale of 579 stores to C&S Wholesale Grocers to mitigate competition concerns, but the FTC deemed this plan inadequate. Industry experts expressed surprise at Albertsons' abrupt termination and lawsuit, suggesting further discussions were possible. Coffee price surges to highest on recordhttps://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c36pgrrjllyoCoffee prices have reached a record high, with Arabica beans surpassing $3.44 per pound, marking an 80% increase this year, while Robusta beans also hit a high in September. This surge is attributed to bad weather affecting key producers Brazil and Vietnam, causing crop concerns. Coffee brands may raise prices in early 2025 as major firms like Nestlé and Lavazza face pressure after previously absorbing raw material costs. Brazilian crops have faced droughts and rains, and Vietnamese Robusta supplies are also threatened. As coffee demand remains high and inventories low, analysts expect prices to continue rising. Crypto Trading Frenzy Leads Analyst to Hike Price Targets for Coinbase, Robinhood Stockhttps://www.barrons.com/articles/crypto-coinbase-robinhood-stock-price-target-71f031b2The article reports on the recent increase in crypto trading activity, prompting Needham & Co. analyst John Todaro to raise price targets for Coinbase and Robinhood stocks. Despite initially low trading volumes on these platforms, the situation is improving as traders return, following Bitcoin's record-breaking performance and the election of Donald Trump, who promises to ease industry regulations. Todaro increased Coinbase's price target to $420 from $375 and Robinhood's to $52 from $40, maintaining a Buy rating on both. The article notes that regulatory changes under Trump, including the appointment of tech-friendly officials, are expected to benefit the crypto industry. Consequently, Robinhood and Coinbase stand to gain from renewed retail interest and regulatory ease, aiding their expansion into new products and markets. Bitcoin has risen 134% this year, topping $100,000 for the first time, but the lack of volatility and altcoin activity initially kept some traders disengaged. However, the changing regulatory landscape and increased trading interest suggest potential growth for these companies. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-12-10 Extra |
Wall Street's Complex Debt Bonanza Hits Fastest Pace Since 2007https://www.ft.com/content/5219f962-3499-4928-8c73-5610b7a0109eInvestor demand for high returns has propelled Wall Street's structured finance transactions to $380 billion this year, a 20% increase from the previous year. This surge includes products backed by unconventional assets like chicken wing revenues and music catalogs. While the market's size is considered too small to pose systemic risks, some experts express concerns about potential inadequate risk assessment. Goldman Sachs Sees More Larger-Scale Strategic Deals in 2025https://www.reuters.com/markets/us/goldman-sachs-sees-more-larger-scale-strategic-deals-2025-2024-12-10/Goldman Sachs anticipates an increase in large-scale strategic mergers and acquisitions in 2025, driven by heightened CEO confidence and intensified client discussions. The bank has solidified its leading role in global M&A rankings, advising on significant deals such as Kellanova's approximately $36 billion acquisition by Mars. A surge in private equity buyouts is also expected, potentially facilitated by reduced regulatory burdens post-elections. Nvidia's Stock Dips After China Opens Probe of the AI Chip Company for Violating Anti-Monopoly Lawshttps://apnews.com/article/bf2dfae0a2f6a83a64b46239f86a4173Nvidia's stock declined by 2.6% following China's announcement of an antitrust investigation related to its 2019 acquisition of Mellanox. Despite a 180% surge in shares this year due to AI demand, Nvidia faces regulatory scrutiny in both China and the U.S. China accounts for about 16% of Nvidia's revenue, and the company has expressed willingness to cooperate with regulators. SoFi's Stock Doubled Over Three Months. Here's Why BofA Says It's Now Overvalued.https://www.marketwatch.com/story/sofis-stock-doubled-over-three-months-heres-why-bofa-says-its-now-overvalued-60eb096dSoFi Technologies Inc.'s stock has doubled in price over the past three months. However, BofA analyst Mihir Bhatia considers the stock overvalued, downgrading it from neutral to underperform with a price target of $12. Bhatia notes that SoFi's current trading values are high compared to peers, and expresses concerns about the company's technology segment's fair-value accounting and delayed revenue visibility. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-12-10 |
Federal Reserve to cut rates by 25 bps on Dec. 18, pause in January- Reuters pollhttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/federal-cut-rates-25-bps-135054884.htmlThe U.S. Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates by 25 basis points on December 18, with 90% of economists polled by Reuters predicting this move. Following this, a pause in rate changes is anticipated in late January amidst concerns over rising inflation risks. Economists attribute potential inflationary pressures to President-elect Donald Trump's proposed policies, including import tariffs and tax cuts. The job market's resilience has reinforced expectations for a rate cut, with most economists forecasting the federal funds rate to be reduced to 4.25%-4.50%. However, a majority expect the Fed to hold rates steady at its January meeting. While nearly 60% of economists predict at least three more rate cuts next year, there is no consensus on future actions. The Fed aims to reach a neutral rate that neither stimulates nor restricts the economy, recently assessed at around 2.9%. Inflation forecasts have been elevated, with concerns about inflation risks due to increased tariffs and potential trade disruptions from the incoming administration. The Fed will update its economic forecasts at the December meeting. GM exits robotaxi market, will bring Cruise operations in househttps://www.cnbc.com/2024/12/10/gm-halts-funding-of-robotaxi-development-by-cruise.htmlGeneral Motors (GM) has decided to end its funding for the development of robotaxis by its subsidiary Cruise. Instead, GM plans to integrate Cruise into its larger technical team to focus on developing autonomous systems for personal vehicles. This decision, announced after an investment of over $10 billion in Cruise, is attributed to the competitive robotaxi market, capital allocation priorities, and the extensive time and resources required to scale up. GM bought Cruise in 2016 and plans to increase its ownership to over 97% by early 2025. This move will also reduce Cruise's annual expenditure from about $2 billion by more than half. Cruise, which halted its driverless operations in October 2023, faced regulatory issues including a crash involving a pedestrian and internal problems that contributed to the decision. GM's departure from the robotaxi market occurs as competitors like Waymo, Tesla, and others advance their own autonomous vehicle services. Microsoft Unveils Zero-Water Data Centers to Reduce AI Climate Impacthttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/microsoft-unveils-zero-water-data-170002064.htmlMicrosoft has introduced a new data center design that requires zero water for cooling its chips and servers, aimed at reducing the climate impact of its expanding data center operations. This new system employs a "closed loop" method, recycling water that is initially introduced during construction without needing fresh supplies afterward. This initiative, launched in August, is expected to save over 125 million liters of water per year per data center. While the data centers will still need fresh water for facilities like bathrooms and kitchens, this new design is part of Microsoft's effort to address the environmental demands of its growing AI services, particularly in hot and dry regions such as Arizona and Texas. Existing data centers will maintain older technologies, but new facilities in Phoenix and Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin, will adopt this zero-water design starting in 2026. Crypto Trading Frenzy Leads Analyst to Hike Price Targets for Coinbase, Robinhood Stockhttps://www.barrons.com/articles/crypto-coinbase-robinhood-stock-price-target-71f031b2The article discusses a recent surge in crypto trading activity, prompting an analyst from Needham & Co., John Todaro, to raise price targets for Coinbase and Robinhood. Despite previous muted trading volumes, both platforms are experiencing increased activity. Todaro increased his target for Coinbase to $420 and for Robinhood to $52, while maintaining a Buy rating. The appointment of Donald Trump and his regulatory policy changes favoring the crypto industry are seen as beneficial for these companies. SEC leadership changes and Trump's pro-crypto stance are expected to promote new products and trading on these platforms, with Robinhood aiming to be a leader in crypto and options trading by 2027 and equities by 2029. Bitcoin has reached record highs, motivating a resurgence in trading activity after a period of relative quiet. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-12-09 |
Dividend Stocks Are Primed for a Comeback in 2025https://www.wsj.com/finance/stocks/dividend-stocks-2025-payoff-1d0a4521With tech stocks becoming expensive and bonds less appealing due to falling interest rates, investors are eyeing dividend-paying stocks for potential returns in 2025. Companies like JPMorgan Chase and Merck may perform well next year, fueled by the stability and steady earnings they offer. Despite a widening performance gap between the S&P 500 and dividend stocks this year, some analysts predict a dividend comeback, bolstered by expectations of a 10% increase in dividends by S&P 500 companies in 2025. Even tech giants like Meta Platforms and Alphabet are now offering dividends. While some big dividend payers have lagged due to rising interest rates, renewed interest in these stocks comes as companies begin returning cash to shareholders. Analysts suggest that evolving economic policies and investor demand for cash may further enhance the appeal of dividend stocks. Chipmaker Marvell is now more valuable than Intel amid AI boomhttps://www.techspot.com/news/105879-small-chipmaker-marvell-now-more-valuable-than-intel.htmlMarvell Technology, a chipmaker based in Santa Clara, California, recently saw its market capitalization surge to $98.22 billion, surpassing Intel's $90.23 billion, driven by strong Q3 results and an optimistic outlook for Q4. The company's revenue for Q3 2025 rose 7% year-over-year to $1.52 billion, fueled by high demand from the AI sector. Marvell's product range includes semiconductor solutions for computing, networking, security, and storage, with a focus on data centers and cloud operators. In contrast, Intel faces challenges with its CEO Pat Gelsinger's resignation, a stock price drop of nearly 70% from its peak, staff layoffs, and losing its spot in the Dow Jones Industrial Average to Nvidia. Russell 2000's strong November could bode well for future gainshttps://www.marketwatch.com/livecoverage/stock-market-today-dow-futures-hold-just-shy-of-record-highs/card/russell-2000-s-strong-november-could-bode-well-for-future-gains-du9Xhvk6BrAafKlVyOGFThe Russell 2000 index experienced a significant rise in November, seeing an increase of about 10.8%. Historical trends suggest that when the index achieves a monthly gain of 10% or more, it typically continues to perform well over the following six months and year. Investment analyst Bret Kenwell highlighted that favorable statistics, alongside robust U.S. economic conditions, decreasing interest rates, and solid earnings growth, all contribute to a positive outlook for small-cap stocks. Additionally, recent increases in 10-year Treasury yields have not significantly impacted small-cap investor sentiment. Google Fiber opens Colorado headquarters in Lakewoodhttps://coloradocommunitymedia.com/2024/12/04/google-fiber-opens-colorado-headquarters-in-lakewood/#:~:text=Google%20Fiber%20recently%20opened%20its,metro%20area%2C%20state%20and%20region.Google Fiber has opened its Colorado headquarters in Lakewood's Belmar Plaza, enhancing the city's digital and economic development. This office will manage the installation and operation of Google Fiber's network across the metro area, state, and region. Lakewood Mayor Wendi Strom highlighted the economic benefits and job creation this move brings, aligning with the city's goal to be a desirable place to live and work. Alberto Garcia, Google Fiber's community affairs manager, expressed excitement about settling in Lakewood, the first city in Colorado to receive the Google Fiber network. The headquarters features Colorado-themed decor and contributes to the tech landscape in Denver. After a 2019 voter-approved measure allowed the city to offer telecommunications services, Lakewood partnered with Google Fiber in 2022, with the first neighborhood receiving service in September 2024. The expansion continues as additional neighborhoods are connected. Google Fiber aims to provide high-speed internet access, which Mayor Strom believes will encourage economic growth by improving connectivity. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-12-06 |
CFOs On the Move: Week ending Dec. 6https://www.cfo.com/news/cfos-on-the-move-week-dec-6-Lanny-Baker-Etsy-Anu-Subramanian-Bumble-Jeff-Davis-Dollar-Tree/734762/#:~:text=Etsy%20hires%20an%20Eventbrite%20leader,chief%20financial%20officer%20to%20resign.Lanny Baker is appointed CFO of Etsy, succeeding Rachel Glaser, who will stay as an advisor until June 2025. Anu Subramanian, Bumble's CFO, will leave for a new opportunity in March 2025. Dollar Tree's CFO, Jeff Davis, will step down by the end of fiscal 2024. Macrina Kgil joins Figure Technology Solutions as CFO, with a background in real estate and blockchain finance. Celeste Mellet will become the CFO of Humana in January 2025, succeeding Susan Diamond, who will remain in an advisory role. Samara Strycker is promoted to CFO at International Motors. Tom Panther will leave Corpay to become CFO of the National Christian Foundation in March 2025. Jeremy Schiller returns to Carnival Cruise Line as CFO, replacing Jim Heaney. Anduril Partners with OpenAI to Advance U.S. Artificial Intelligence Leadership and Protect U.S. and Allied Forceshttps://www.anduril.com/article/anduril-partners-with-openai-to-advance-u-s-artificial-intelligence-leadership-and-protect-u-s/Anduril Industries and OpenAI have entered a strategic partnership to enhance U.S. defense capabilities through advanced artificial intelligence (AI) solutions aimed at national security missions. By combining OpenAI's AI models with Anduril's defense systems, the collaboration seeks to improve counter-unmanned aircraft systems (CUAS) to handle aerial threats in real-time, thereby protecting U.S. and allied forces. This partnership is seen as crucial amidst the ongoing AI race with China, aiming to maintain U.S. technological leadership in defense. The focus will be on responsibly deploying AI to aid military decision-making without compromising safety and ethics. The AI industry is obsessed with Chatbot Arena, but it might not be the best benchmarkhttps://techcrunch.com/2024/09/05/the-ai-industry-is-obsessed-with-chatbot-arena-but-it-might-not-be-the-best-benchmark/Chatbot Arena, maintained by the nonprofit LMSYS, has become a popular benchmark in the AI industry for evaluating generative models. Despite its popularity, there are concerns about its effectiveness as a true benchmark. The platform allows users to compare AI model responses and ranks them based on human preference, collecting data from a user base that might not be representative. Critics argue that Chatbot Arena's results are biased due to user preferences, lack of model testing transparency, and the potential influence from LMSYS's commercial ties. While Chatbot Arena offers dynamic insights into model performance, it is considered more of a tool for gauging user satisfaction than a rigorous scientific benchmark. Experts recommend that LMSYS implement more systematic benchmarking for comprehensive evaluation. Chicago Wants to Build the Silicon Valley of Quantum Computinghttps://www.wsj.com/articles/chicago-wants-to-build-the-silicon-valley-of-quantum-computing-8da25981Chicago is positioning itself as a hub for quantum computing innovation, aiming to establish the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park on a historic site. Led by PsiQuantum, with state incentives and investments from local governments, this initiative seeks to leverage existing regional research strengths to break the pattern of innovators moving out of the Midwest. By focusing resources on quantum computing, the region plans to fill gaps that historically hindered local economic development. The project anticipates substantial economic impacts by hosting a center for developing quantum applications and engaging local institutions and supply-chain partners to foster growth and innovation in the quantum computing sector. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-12-04 |
BlackRock to Acquire HPS Investment Partners to Deliver Integrated Solutions Across Public and Private Marketshttps://ir.blackrock.com/news-and-events/press-releases/press-releases-details/2024/BlackRock-to-Acquire-HPS-Investment-Partners-to-Deliver-Integrated-Solutions-Across-Public-and-Private-Markets/default.aspxBlackRock has announced its plan to acquire HPS Investment Partners for approximately $12 billion, with the transaction to be paid entirely in BlackRock equity. This acquisition aims to strengthen BlackRock's capabilities in providing integrated solutions across both public and private markets, enhancing their private credit offerings alongside their existing public fixed income business. The deal will create a new private financing solutions business unit, broadening BlackRock's capabilities in senior and junior credit solutions, asset-based finance, real estate, private placements, and CLOs. Expected to close in mid-2025, the transaction will increase BlackRock's private markets fee-paying AUM and management fees significantly and is set to be accretive to earnings. The acquisition positions BlackRock to better serve its clients' needs, offering complex financing solutions to clients ranging from small businesses to large corporations, with a focus on sustainable growth and job creation. Amazon Is Building a Mega AI Supercomputer With Anthropichttps://www.wired.com/story/amazon-reinvent-anthropic-supercomputer/Amazon is collaborating with Anthropic to build one of the world's largest AI supercomputers. The new system, featuring Amazon's latest AI training chip, Trainium 2, is expected to surpass current capabilities significantly. This development, part of Amazon Web Services' (AWS) project Rainer, underscores Amazon's growing role in generative AI, competing with major players like Nvidia, Microsoft, and Google. New AWS clusters are introduced, offering cost efficiency over Nvidia's GPUs. Amazon is also advancing its AI chip technology, with Trainium 3 set to offer four times the performance of the current chip by 2025. At its Re:Invent conference, Amazon revealed tools to enhance AI model capabilities and introduced new services, such as Model Distillation and Bedrock Agents, which optimize smaller models and manage AI agents for various tasks. Additionally, Amazon unveiled an Automated Reasoning tool to ensure AI outputs are accurate, especially crucial for sectors like insurance. This tool uses logical reasoning for verifying AI-generated statements, extending its potential use across various industries. Going Freelance in 2024 — What You Need to Knowhttps://www.kiplinger.com/personal-finance/freelancing/going-freelance-what-you-need-to-knowThe article discusses the growing trend of freelancing in 2024, highlighting the increasing impact of remote freelance work on the U.S. economy. A significant portion of the workforce prefers flexible work arrangements, such as full-time remote or hybrid models. The article outlines the top ten growing career fields for remote freelancers, including bilingual, graphic design, and social media roles, as well as the top companies hiring freelancers like TELUS and Robert Half International. It also provides insights into the most in-demand job titles, the benefits of freelancing, and practical steps for finding freelance work, such as networking and building a personal brand. What Social Security Beneficiaries Should Know About 2025 Numbershttps://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/social-security/what-social-security-beneficiaries-should-know-about-2025-numbersSocial Security beneficiaries are set to receive a modest 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment in 2025, increasing the average monthly benefit to $1,976. This is the smallest increase since 2020, reflecting lower inflation rates. High-income workers will see a rise in the taxable income threshold for Social Security taxes to $176,100, while retirees who work will be able to earn more before benefits are reduced. The Social Security Administration is addressing issues like long wait times due to staff shortages. Beneficiaries are encouraged to create an online account at the Social Security website for easier access to benefits information and to check for potential errors in their earnings records. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-12-03 |
How Amazon Aims to Feed Whole Foods' Growth With Mini City Storeshttps://www.inc.com/bruce-crumley/how-amazon-aims-to-feed-whole-foods-growth-with-mini-city-stores/91034239Amazon is expanding Whole Foods by introducing small format Daily Shop locations in urban neighborhoods to cater to metropolitan consumers who prefer convenient, quick shopping for fresh produce and prepared meals. These smaller stores are easier and cheaper to set up and operate, serving a previously unmet need for local, frequent shopping. With reduced costs and higher quality offerings, Amazon is attempting to attract affluent customers who might otherwise shop at larger, more distant grocery stores. Concurrently, the strategy reflects a broader retail trend as companies like Walmart and Publix also experiment with smaller urban stores. Despite the hurdles faced by similar past ventures, early success in NYC and plans for new locations signal potential growth in this model. GM to sell its stake in Michigan battery plant to LG Energy Solutionhttps://www.reuters.com/markets/deals/gm-sell-its-stake-michigan-battery-plant-lg-energy-solution-2024-12-02/General Motors (GM) has announced plans to sell its stake in a joint venture battery plant in Lansing, Michigan, to its partner LG Energy Solution, as part of a strategy to streamline its electric vehicle initiatives. Despite this sale, GM retains its stake in the Ultium Cells joint venture for battery plants in Ohio and Tennessee. The Lansing plant, nearing completion and with about 100 employees, will cater to a new, undisclosed customer. This move comes amid broader uncertainties in the EV sector, including potential changes to consumer tax credits under the upcoming administration. GM is reassessing its EV production plans, having adjusted forecasts and delayed production schedules due to market conditions. Concurrently, GM is extending its battery technology collaboration with LG Energy Solution and has entered a new agreement with Samsung SDI to build a prismatic cell factory in Indiana, aiming to reduce EV costs and weight. Private-Equity Funds Are Taking Out Loans They Don't Really Needhttps://www.wsj.com/finance/investing/private-equity-funds-are-taking-out-loans-they-dont-really-need-3a390290?st=H1gLRHPrivate-equity funds have increasingly turned to net asset value (NAV) loans, borrowing against their portfolios as interest rates rise and asset sales become challenging. These loans have grown significantly, raising concerns about debt levels and potential conflicts of interest. While NAV loans can support portfolio companies, they may also enable general partners to send returns to investors prematurely, boosting short-term performance at the risk of overall portfolio stability. Critics argue that borrowing practices could disadvantage end-investors, and there is a call for greater transparency and caution as the private equity sector adapts to using NAV loans. Proposed law aims to help Americans save more for retirement—but could end up hurting Gen Z, millennial workershttps://www.cnbc.com/amp/2024/11/26/retirement-savings-for-americans-act-what-it-would-mean-for-young-people.htmlThe Retirement Savings for Americans Act (RSAA), a bipartisan proposal introduced in 2023, aims to create a federal workplace retirement account for workers, offering automatic enrollment and tax advantages. While intended to improve retirement saving access, the plan could reduce long-term wealth for Gen Z and millennial workers by lowering contribution rates compared to current private workplace plans. Research from Morningstar suggests many might forgo personal IRA contributions if defaulted into the federal plan, potentially decreasing retirement savings by up to 12% for millennials and 20% for Gen Z. Automation and proactive contribution increases are recommended strategies to counteract potential savings inertia. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-12-02 |
Accolade Partners Continues its Leadership in Blockchain Investing, Closes its Third Blockchain Focused Fund of Fundshttps://www.accoladepartners.com/press-release-11202024Accolade Partners has closed its third blockchain-focused fund of funds, Accolade Blockchain III, with $202 million in total commitments. The firm, an early leader in blockchain investments, manages $1.3 billion in blockchain-focused assets. This latest fund aims to support seed and early-stage blockchain managers, along with investments in secondary opportunities and GP stakes. Founded in 2000, Accolade manages $6.1 billion across venture capital, private equity, and blockchain strategies, and is known for its active role in sourcing and enhancing promising investment funds. Accolade's continued commitment to blockchain investment underscores its long-standing position as an industry thought leader Citi Successfully Completes Separation of Consumer, Small and Middle Market Businesses from Institutional Business in Mexicohttps://www.citigroup.com/global/news/press-release/2024/citi-completes-separation-consumer-smb-mexico-institutional-businessCiti has successfully separated its institutional banking business in Mexico from its consumer, small, and middle-market businesses, establishing two separate financial entities: Grupo Financiero Citi M xico and Grupo Financiero Banamex. This move is part of Citi's broader strategy to streamline its operations. Grupo Financiero Citi M xico will focus on institutional clients, while Grupo Financiero Banamex will concentrate on retail banking and related services. This separation positions both groups for growth and allows Citi to progress toward a planned IPO for Grupo Financiero Banamex, enhancing shareholder value. The bank continues its strategy of exiting consumer banking in various global markets as part of its simplification efforts. These Bricks-and-Mortar Stores Thrive in an Online Worldhttps://www.wsj.com/business/retail/these-bricks-and-mortar-stores-thrive-in-an-online-world-2d666308Despite the growth of online shopping, many bricks-and-mortar stores are thriving by offering unique in-store experiences and blending their physical presence with online capabilities. Retailers like T.J. Maxx create a 'treasure hunt' atmosphere, attracting value-conscious customers across different income levels, while companies like PetSmart integrate physical stores into their delivery logistics, using them as fulfillment centers. Retailers have recognized the need to integrate the online and offline shopping experience to attract and retain customers, leading to resilient retail operations despite online competition. As e-commerce continues to grow, its penetration is expected to plateau, with physical stores remaining a key component of a competitive retail strategy. Are Old People The Only Ones Using Google?https://boomcycle.com/blog/only-old-people-use-google/The article explores the misconception that only older generations use Google, highlighting how Google remains the dominant search engine across all age groups. Younger users increasingly opt for visually-oriented platforms like TikTok and Instagram for searches, while older users are more engaged with Google due to increasing digital literacy. Search behaviors vary by age, with Gen Z favoring longer queries and mobile devices, while older adults lean towards focused searches and voice search. Social media's role in product discovery is significant, challenging traditional search engines. Visual search and mobile optimization are growing trends among younger users. YouTube's dominance in video search results emphasizes Google's broad reach, despite the rise of platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Bing and alternative search engines like DuckDuckGo cater to privacy-conscious users. Overall, while Google's demographics may be aging slightly, it continues to adapt and maintain relevance across generations. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-11-22 |
Nvidia beats earnings expectations as investors eye demand for Blackwell AI chipshttps://apnews.com/article/nvidia-ai-earnings-report-adc942aa0e0c5d1a550b7bad486b942aNvidia has reported a significant increase in its third-quarter profit and sales, with revenue reaching $35.08 billion, driven by sustained demand for its AI-specific computer chips. Earnings were $19.31 billion, surpassing Wall Street expectations. However, Nvidia's stock dipped slightly despite a strong quarterly performance. The company anticipates fourth-quarter revenue to reach approximately $37.5 billion, reflecting continued growth expectations. Analysts are focused on Nvidia's Blackwell graphics processor, a next-generation AI chip expected to experience demand exceeding supply for several quarters. Nvidia is widely recognized as a leader in AI technology, with substantial market value and plans to meet surging Blackwell demand. The company's stock has seen significant appreciation, supporting its status as a prominent figure in the AI revolution. 'I have no money': Thousands of Americans see their savings vanish in Synapse fintech crisishttps://www.cnbc.com/amp/2024/11/22/synapse-bankruptcy-thousands-of-americans-see-their-savings-vanish.htmlThe article outlines a financial crisis involving Synapse, a company acting as an intermediary between fintech startups and small banks like Evolve Bank. Synapse's bankruptcy led to the disappearance of up to $96 million in customer funds, affecting thousands of Americans who trusted fintech solutions for their banking needs. Customers believed their funds were FDIC-insured through Synapse's bank partners but are now finding discrepancies in their accounts, with some unable to recover their savings. Efforts to locate the missing funds are stalled due to lack of coordination among the banks involved and insufficient resources to conduct a full reconciliation. Affected individuals, including members of a group called Fight For Our Funds, are advocating for regulatory action. However, financial regulators like the FDIC and Federal Reserve have yet to offer assistance, and the recovery process is mired in legal and organizational challenges. Your Junk Is Needed for the New Electric Erahttps://www.wsj.com/finance/commodities-futures/your-junk-is-needed-for-the-new-electric-era-504a7e8fThe demand for copper is soaring as the world shifts towards renewable energy and digital technologies. To meet this demand, mining companies like Glencore are increasingly turning to recycled sources, mining old electronics, vehicles, and other scrap. With copper being infinitely recyclable, scrap offers a crucial resource to balance supply and demand in the market. Glencore and other companies are investing heavily to expand North American recycling facilities, aiming to nearly double the proportion of recycled copper by 2050. The process involves collecting and processing scrap, ensuring it's fit for recycling into fresh copper slabs to fuel the electric and data age. Why Robinhood is spending $300 million to buy a wealth management platformhttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/why-robinhood-spending-300-million-154859907.htmlRobinhood, known for catering to millennial and Gen Z investors, is acquiring TradePMR, a wealth management platform for registered investment advisors, for $300 million. This move aims to address the evolving investment needs of its aging user base by providing fiduciary financial advice through a referral network with TradePMR's advisors. The acquisition is strategic in light of an expected $84 trillion wealth transfer over the coming decades, positioning Robinhood to compete with firms like Charles Schwab by offering comprehensive financial services. This deal is anticipated to close in the first half of 2025, pending regulatory approval. Deficit Threat Drives Bond Yields Higherhttps://www.wsj.com/finance/investing/deficit-threat-drives-bond-yields-higher-6a043d44The expectation of a rising federal budget deficit is pushing bond yields higher as investors prepare for a worsening fiscal situation post-election. A recent $69 billion auction of 2-year Treasury notes saw weak demand, contributing to a broader bond market selloff. The situation is exacerbated by the prospect of increased deficits, particularly if Republicans control the White House and Congress, which could lead to tax cuts. Analysts predict that the fiscal year 2025 deficit could hit $2 trillion. The Treasury is expected to maintain large debt sales, with potential increases in 2025, amid ongoing debates about borrowing strategies and their market impact Xcel Energy unveils $45B capital plan as data center pipeline nears 9 GWhttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/xcel-energy-unveils-45b-capital-090000617.htmlXcel Energy announced a $45 billion capital investment plan over the next five years, focusing on clean energy, customer electrification, load growth, and reliability. This investment includes significant upgrades to transmission and distribution systems, scheduled to claim 63% of the total funding. While data centers contribute to half of Xcel's expected sales growth, other growth areas include the electrification of oil and gas production and electric vehicle adoption. Xcel anticipates completing only 25% of its data center projects soon, reflecting a broader industry challenge to expand transmission and generation infrastructure rapidly. This plan does not cover an additional $10 billion in potential investments or the recently announced large-scale projects in the Upper Midwest and Colorado. Xcel aims to lower electricity costs for customers by efficiently integrating large energy consumers like data centers and EVs into its system. Amazon reports boost in quarterly profits, exceeds revenue estimates as it invests in AIhttps://financialpost.com/pmn/amazon-reports-boost-in-quarterly-profits-exceeds-revenue-estimates-as-it-invests-in-aiAmazon announced a significant increase in quarterly profits, surpassing revenue expectations with $158.9 billion in revenue, compared to the anticipated $157.28 billion. The company's net income for the quarter ending September 30 was $15.3 billion, above the $12.21 billion predicted by analysts. Boosted by robust sales from its Prime Day event, Amazon's core online retail business contributed $61.41 billion in revenue. Additionally, Amazon Web Services grew by 19%, aligning with Amazon;s increased investment in AI and technological infrastructure. These outcomes follow Amazon's previous quarter where it missed revenue estimates. The tech giant is investing extensively in AI, nuclear energy, and partnerships, despite facing regulatory scrutiny. For the upcoming fourth quarter, Amazon forecasts revenues between $181.5 billion and $188.5 billion, preparing optimistically for the holiday shopping season. Techstars revives Boulder accelerator, with a twisthttps://www.bizjournals.com/denver/news/2024/10/29/techstars-boulder-accelerator-program-founders.htmlTechstars has announced the revival of its Boulder accelerator program under a new initiative called Techstars Colorado, eight months after moving its headquarters to New York City. CEO David Cohen, along with Techstars veterans Nicole Glaros and Natty Zola, aims to create a community-centric accelerator that combines local ownership with access to global resources. The program, expected to launch as early as this summer, will focus on strengthening Colorado's startup ecosystem, with a managing partner soon to be appointed and a search underway for a physical location to host the hub. This marks a return to Techstars' roots, which began in Boulder in 2007. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-11-18 |
401(k) Managed Accounts Are an Underutilized Resourcehttps://www.aaii.com/journal/article/233462-401k-managed-accounts-are-an-underutilized-resourceA study conducted by Cerulli Associates, sponsored by Edelman Financial Engines, reveals the benefits and underutilization of 401(k) managed accounts among retirement plan participants. The study found that participants in managed account programs are nearly three times more confident in their retirement investing strategy. Despite these benefits, only 8% of participants use managed accounts, with a majority unable to correctly define them. The researchers suggest that improved communication and framing these accounts as employee benefits, along with promoting human advisor interactions, could increase adoption rates and enhance the financial well-being of 401(k) participants Using Bond Ladders and Income Annuities for Retirement Incomehttps://www.aaii.com/journal/article/13928-using-bond-ladders-and-income-annuities-for-retirement-incomeThe article by Aaron Brask discusses two financial tools—bond ladders and income annuities—that retirees can use to generate stable cash flows and manage risks associated with retirement. It critiques the conventional total-return investing strategy, emphasizing that fixed-income investments like bonds can offer less risky, stable cash flows when held to maturity. Bond ladders are recommended for their simplicity and passive income features, while income annuities are highlighted for their ability to pool longevity risks across individuals, thereby enabling more efficient retirement funding. The article also addresses misconceptions around annuities, detailing their competitiveness and benefits in securing guaranteed lifetime income. Overall, both tools provide retirees with options to structure effective retirement income strategies while minimizing market volatility and actuarial risks So You Have Decided to Buy Bonds. Here Are Six Charts Showing Your Options.https://www.wsj.com/finance/investing/so-you-have-decided-to-buy-bonds-here-are-six-charts-showing-your-options-d55078faThe article explores various options for investors considering bonds in the current economic climate. With Treasury bonds becoming more expensive and offering limited potential for capital gains, shifting strategies is advised. Long-term Treasurys have historically delivered better returns during easing cycles, despite risks of price fluctuations. For those looking into corporate debt, although investment-grade bonds offer marginal spreads over Treasurys, opportunities exist, particularly in consumer noncyclical sectors with higher yields. CLOs, mortgage-backed securities, and emerging-market debt present additional options, each with unique risk profiles and benefits. Additionally, dividend-paying equities can serve as a bond proxy, blending income with a level of risk more akin to bonds, a strategy that has delivered competitive returns historically even amid market volatility post-pandemic. Used EVs Sell for Bargain Prices Now, Putting Owners and Dealers in a Bindhttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/ibm-releases-ai-models-businesses-040820671.htmlIBM unveiled its latest "Granite 3.0" AI models, designed for business use, aiming to tap into the growing market for generative AI technology. By offering these models as open-source, IBM stands apart from competitors like Microsoft which charge for model access. IBM provides a paid service called Watsonx to help businesses run customized models in their data centers. Some Granite models are available for commercial use on Watsonx and Nvidia's software tools. The models were developed using Nvidia's H100 GPUs. Angel Investing Isn't What It Used to Behttps://www.wsj.com/articles/angel-investing-isnt-what-it-used-to-be-e643c862This article discusses how the landscape of angel investing has changed over the years, primarily due to the increased involvement of venture capital firms at early stages of investments. Angel investing, once a domain for individual investors supporting nascent startups, is now less appealing as venture firms, tech giants, and new entrants like hedge funds compete heavily in this space. This competition has driven up valuations and round sizes, making it tough for angels to secure prime deals. The value of angel deals in the U.S. has sharply decreased over recent years. Many angels are becoming limited partners in venture funds to diversify, while those with strong credentials and network connections still find opportunities. The rise of accelerator programs has also shifted the dynamics, offering startups institutional capital that diminishes their reliance on angel investors. Treasuries Plunge Like It's 1995 as Traders See Soft Landinghttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/treasuries-plunge-1995-traders-see-154428389.htmlThe US Treasury market is experiencing its biggest selloff since 1995, as two-year yields have increased by 34 basis points following the Federal Reserve's first rate cut since 2020. This trend reflects a reduced probability of recession and strong economic data, prompting speculation that the Fed might slow its pace of rate cuts. Rising yields are influenced by the resilient US economy and financial markets' impact on the Fed's rate-cutting options. Additionally, market volatility and political concerns about potential Republican control of the government further contribute to rising yields. The market activity mirrors a similar situation in 1995 when then-Fed Chair Alan Greenspan achieved an economic soft landing. |
Atotium News - Business Aggregate - 2024-11-17 |
Used EVs Sell for Bargain Prices Now, Putting Owners and Dealers in a Bindhttps://www.wsj.com/business/autos/used-evs-sell-for-bargain-prices-now-putting-owners-and-dealers-in-a-bind-a44e1718The value of used electric vehicles (EVs) has dropped significantly, contrasting with the stable broader used-car market. This decline follows price cuts on new EVs, particularly led by Tesla, aimed at boosting sales but negatively impacting used EV values. Previously, in-demand models like the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y have seen a 25% price drop. Factors contributing to this dip include the influx of off-loaded Teslas from rental company Hertz and competitive lease deals on new models. The plummeting prices present challenges for current owners who find themselves owing more than their cars are worth and potential long-term concerns for the industry as leasing rises sharply Retail giant buys properties near DIA for $91Mhttps://www.bizjournals.com/denver/news/2024/09/30/amazon-aurora-porteos-dia-ambrose-property-group.htmlAmazon has acquired a warehouse and additional land in Aurora, Colorado, near Denver International Airport, for over $91 million. The purchases include a 625,000-square-foot building within a larger industrial development known as DIA Logistics Park, and a separate parcel of vacant land. These acquisitions expand Amazon's footprint in the region, benefitting from a location that already hosts several of the company's facilities. The US retirement system gets a C+ in global studyhttps://finance.yahoo.com/news/the-us-retirement-system-gets-a-c-in-global-study-230119976.htmlThe US retirement system received a C+ in the 16th annual Mercer CFA Institute Global Pension Index, placing 29th out of 48 countries. The evaluation highlighted concerns regarding pension funding and insufficient private retirement savings, exacerbated by declining birth rates and increasing life expectancy. The US scored a C+ for adequacy and Cs for sustainability and integrity. The report suggests incorporating automatic enrollment and contribution escalation to improve the system, taking cues from countries like the Netherlands, which have successful retirement systems. The Secure 2.0 Act, which mandates automatic enrollment and escalation for new retirement plans starting in 2025, could help address some of these issues Bosses Are Calling Workers Back to the Office. That's Good News for Landlords.https://www.wsj.com/real-estate/commercial/back-to-office-workers-landlords-e5e15663Companies are increasingly requiring employees to return to the office, reversing the trend of remote work during the pandemic. As a result, the office market is showing signs of stabilization, with investor interest growing in office properties, especially those with amenities. Despite the challenges of high vacancy rates and obsolete spaces, the amount of occupied office space remains steady. Some companies, like Amazon and Dell, are mandating five-day office attendance, shifting power back to managers as the white-collar workforce growth slows. The stabilization, however, doesn't equate to a full recovery due to ongoing defaults and expected space reductions when leases mature. Yet, certain markets are thriving with expansion from financial and AI firms. Enhanced office amenities are drawing employees back, boosting investor confidence and leading to significant financing deals, notably the refinancing of Rockefeller Center by Tishman Speyer Deficit Threat Drives Bond Yields Higherhttps://www.wsj.com/finance/investing/deficit-threat-drives-bond-yields-higher-6a043d44The article discusses how concerns over a rising federal budget deficit are causing a significant increase in bond yields, especially following a recent lackluster auction of government bonds. Investors anticipate sustained high deficits regardless of the upcoming election outcome, though they expect the deficit to expand most under a Republican victory due to potential tax cuts. The Treasury Department is likely to maintain its high level of debt sales, with potential for further increases. As longer-term Treasury yields rise in reaction to increased bond supply fears, analysts are watching upcoming Treasury borrowing announcements for signals on future auction plans. The fiscal year 2025 deficit projection stands near $2 trillion, with election results potentially affecting future fiscal conditions. Your Billy Bookcase Should Have Multiple Lives, Says IKEA Sustainability Chiefhttps://www.wsj.com/articles/your-billy-bookcase-should-have-multiple-lives-says-ikea-sustainability-chief-f30b24e8IKEA's sustainability efforts, led by Ingka Group's Chief Sustainability Officer Karen Pflug, focus on achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 without carbon offsets. A key initiative is the testing of Ikea Preowned, a platform in Madrid and Oslo for buying and selling secondhand IKEA furniture, which they hope to expand globally. The company aims to use renewable or recycled materials across its products while promoting circularity, encouraging customers to extend product lifecycles. Efforts include the provision of spare parts and a peer-to-peer marketplace, reflecting IKEA's commitment to sustainability without compromising product quality |