The Irish Times view on the International Criminal Court ruling: Netanyahu has a case to answer on war crimes
December 29, 2024 (PORT SUDAN) – Sudan accused the United Arab Emirates on Saturday of supporting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group, which it labelled “terrorists”, and welcomed Turkey’s offer to mediate in the conflict. The Sudanese Foreign Ministry statement came in response to a UAE Foreign Ministry announcement welcoming Turkey’s diplomatic efforts to find a solution to the ongoing crisis. The UAE said it was ready to cooperate with Turkey and all diplomatic efforts to end the conflict and find a comprehensive solution to the crisis. It stressed the importance of negotiation to end the conflict and ensure a political process and national consensus toward a civilian-led government. Sudan has filed a complaint with the UN Security Council against the UAE, alleging it provided weapons and military equipment to the RSF through Chad. A similar complaint was lodged with the African Union. The Sudanese Foreign Ministry said the UAE’s claims of working towards peace in Sudan were “hollow and false” and accused it of escalating the conflict by supplying the RSF with weapons and mercenaries. “What is required is for the UAE to stop supplying the militia with weapons and mercenaries and to direct it to lay down its arms, and then peace will be achieved,” the statement said. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan offered to mediate in the conflict during a Dec. 13 phone call with the head of Sudan’s ruling council, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. The Sudanese army has refused to engage in any new negotiations with the RSF until the terms of the Jeddah Declaration signed by the two sides on May 11, 2023, are implemented, particularly the withdrawal from civilian areas.Dunxin Financial Holdings Limited Announces Planned ADS Ratio Change
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Matt Gaetz says he won't return to Congress next year after withdrawing name for attorney general
TORONTO — Strength in base metal stocks helped lift Canada's main stock index Tuesday, while U.S. stock markets were mixed. Markets took on a cautious tone Tuesday, said Greg Taylor, chief investment officer at Purpose Investments. “We had a super strong month of November across the board, and then yesterday was kind of a bit of a give back,” he said, noting that weakness in commodities held the TSX back on Monday. The S&P/TSX composite index closed up 45.40 points on Tuesday at 25,635.73. In New York, the Dow Jones industrial average was down 76.47 points at 44,705.53. The S&P 500 index was up 2.73 points at 6,049.88, while the Nasdaq composite was up 76.96 points at 19,480.91. In Canada, Scotiabank was the first major bank to report earnings, with the rest to come in short order as the sector caps off earnings season. The bank saw its earnings rise year-over-year, and it set aside a smaller sum for loan losses than it did a year ago. However, its profit came in below analyst expectations, and Scotiabank said it expects continued pressure on loan growth in the coming months. Scotiabank’s share price fell more than three per cent, but Taylor said that was likely investors taking some profit after a strong several months for the stock. “There’s not a lot of expectations for any fireworks from the banks this week,” he said. In the U.S., a report showed U.S. employers advertised slightly more job openings at the end of October than they did the month before, ahead of the monthly jobs report at the end of the week. The U.S. Federal Reserve is set to make its last interest rate decision of the year later this month. “The payroll number Friday is going to be interesting to watch,” said Taylor. “It's certainly a case that if you did get a really strong number, you might get some people putting into question the need for another rate cut at this meeting.” But while economic strength and the promised policies of president-elect Donald Trump could mean fewer rate cuts than previously expected in 2025, Taylor said a cut from the Fed later this month is a “foregone conclusion.” In Canada, where the economy hasn’t weathered high rates as well, another cut is expected next week from the central bank, said Taylor. However, if the Fed does pull back on cuts in the coming year, Canada may have to move with more caution, he said, as the divergence could put further downward pressure on the loonie. The Canadian dollar traded for 71.14 cents US, compared with 71.14 cents US on Monday. The January crude oil contract was up US$1.84 at US$69.94 per barrel and the January natural gas contract was down 17 cents at US$3.04 per mmBTU. The February gold contract was up US$9.40 at US$2,667.90 an ounce and the March copper contract was up 13 cents at US$4.20 a pound. — With files from The Associated Press This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 3, 2024. Companies in this story: (TSX:GSPTSE, TSX:CADUSD) Rosa Saba, The Canadian Press
JPMorgan Chase & Co. grew its position in shares of Vanguard Growth ETF ( NYSEARCA:VUG – Free Report ) by 11.9% during the third quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 1,680,340 shares of the company’s stock after buying an additional 178,595 shares during the period. JPMorgan Chase & Co.’s holdings in Vanguard Growth ETF were worth $645,133,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Pekin Hardy Strauss Inc. boosted its position in Vanguard Growth ETF by 1.2% during the third quarter. Pekin Hardy Strauss Inc. now owns 2,078 shares of the company’s stock worth $798,000 after purchasing an additional 25 shares during the period. IFG Advisors LLC lifted its stake in shares of Vanguard Growth ETF by 1.3% during the 3rd quarter. IFG Advisors LLC now owns 2,070 shares of the company’s stock valued at $795,000 after buying an additional 27 shares in the last quarter. Stockman Wealth Management Inc. boosted its holdings in Vanguard Growth ETF by 2.3% in the 3rd quarter. Stockman Wealth Management Inc. now owns 1,185 shares of the company’s stock worth $455,000 after buying an additional 27 shares during the period. Rakuten Securities Inc. grew its stake in Vanguard Growth ETF by 8.5% in the 3rd quarter. Rakuten Securities Inc. now owns 346 shares of the company’s stock valued at $133,000 after buying an additional 27 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Eastover Investment Advisors LLC raised its holdings in Vanguard Growth ETF by 4.6% during the 3rd quarter. Eastover Investment Advisors LLC now owns 641 shares of the company’s stock valued at $246,000 after acquiring an additional 28 shares during the period. Vanguard Growth ETF Price Performance NYSEARCA:VUG opened at $419.46 on Friday. Vanguard Growth ETF has a 1 year low of $300.28 and a 1 year high of $428.69. The stock’s fifty day moving average price is $408.05 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $386.03. The company has a market cap of $144.50 billion, a P/E ratio of 39.58 and a beta of 1.26. Vanguard Growth ETF Profile Vanguard Growth Index Fund, formerly Vanguard Growth ETF, is an exchange-traded share class of Vanguard Growth Index Fund, which employs a passive management or indexing investment approach designed to track the performance of the MSCI US Prime Market Growth Index (the Index). The Index is a diversified index of growth stocks of large United States companies. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding VUG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Vanguard Growth ETF ( NYSEARCA:VUG – Free Report ). Receive News & Ratings for Vanguard Growth ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Vanguard Growth ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .Hawaii, Louisiana top list of 10 worst states to work in 2024
Musk writes opinion piece for German newspaper backing far right party, AdF. Editor resignsNone
Scientology Expands Its Impact in Santo André, the Industrial Heart of São PauloDillon Gabriel was faced with a quandary when he arrived at Oregon this year. Gabriel had worn No. 8 at Oklahoma before transferring for his sixth season of eligibility. But in Eugene, that number had special significance because it had been worn by Heisman Trophy winner Marcus Mariota. There were many similarities between the two: They were both dual-threat quarterbacks who had piled up accolades along with yards and touchdowns. Both hailed from Hawaii and were shaped by the island spirit. Mariota chose the No. 8 initially because of the number of Hawaiian islands. His helmet’s facemask was formed in an 808, Hawaii’s area code. So Gabriel took a leap of faith and texted Mariota to ask his permission. Mariota, now with the NFL’s Washington Commanders, said yes. “You know, when you’re growing up and you have that kind of direct example, a guy from Hawaii, playing at a high level, at the DI level, and then you see him go to the NFL, it’s like you can see it, you can believe it,” Gabriel said. Gabriel has led the top-ranked Ducks (12-0, 9-0 Big Ten) through an undefeated season and on to the Big Ten title game on Saturday against No. 4 Penn State (11-1, 8-1) in Indianapolis (5 p.m., CBS). Gabriel — who played his first three years at Central Florida before joining the Sooners — became the all-time NCAA leader for total career touchdowns along the way and now has 183, including 149 via pass, 33 via rush and one reception. He’s tied with former Oregon quarterback Bo Nix — now with the Denver Broncos — with an FBS-record 61 career starts. Ever humble, Gabriel is thoughtful about the arc of his career. “I think we’re in an interesting time that’s all about results. And so many people talk about the process but aren’t patient enough. I think if you look at my body of work, I’m a guy who’s eager and wants to get better but has had that time to develop and work in that way. I think you see it over time,” Gabriel said. As a Duck, Gabriel has thrown for 3,277 yards and 24 TDs in 12 games. He’s rushed for seven more scores. Mariota spent his three-year college career at Oregon, throwing for 104 touchdowns and running for 29 more. He was the Ducks’ quarterback in the 2014 season, the last time Oregon advanced to the national championship game. “I mean, everybody would love to run out there with the experience that we have at quarterback right now,” Oregon coach Dan Lanning said. “And I think that experience shows up consistently every Saturday for us. More than anything, just the ability for Dillon to be calm within the chaos that exists in a football game, and being a great decision-maker and understanding the scheme.” The only other time Oregon finished the regular season 12-0 was in 2010, when the Ducks played for the BCS national championship. Among the team’s victories this season was a 32-31 win at home over Ohio State and a 38-17 victory over Michigan at the Big House. The Ducks capped the season with a 49-21 victory over rival Washington , finishing 9-0 in their first Big Ten year. Gabriel threw for a pair of touchdowns and ran for another in that game. The Nittany Lions advanced to the conference title game with a 44-7 victory over Maryland on Saturday. They were helped by Ohio State’s 13-10 loss to Michigan in Columbus. Oregon has played the Nittany Lions just one other time, in the 1995 Rose Bowl. Penn State, led by Joe Paterno, won that one, 38-20. The winner in Indianapolis this weekend can secure a first-round bye in the expanded 12-team playoffs. Both teams are assured of a playoff berth even with a loss. On Tuesday, Gabriel added another honor when he was named Big Ten offensive player of the year. “He’s earned the trust and the admiration of all his teammates and the coaches around him,” Lanning said. “This guy prepares extremely hard. He is the calmest dude you’ve ever been around on the field, which is impressive, but I’m really proud of him and what he’s been able to do for this team.”NEW YORK — The last of the crystal triangles that make up this year's Times Square New Year's Eve ball were installed Friday morning. It's the first time in 10 years that all 2,688 were replaced at once. Singer Pitbull attends the Times Square New Year's Eve Ball Crystal Installation on Friday at One Times Square in New York. Rapper Pitbull and inventor Joy Mangano were among those on hand to help the organizers of the celebration put the final pieces in place atop One Times Square, the skyscraper from which the 11,875-pound geodesic sphere drops to mark the new year. Singer Pitbull, left, and Joy Mangano, right, founder of CleanBoss, install a crystal Friday during the Times Square New Year's Eve Ball Crystal Installation at One Times Square in New York. A New Year's Eve ball was first dropped in Times Square in 1907. Built by a young immigrant metalworker named Jacob Starr, the 700-pound, 5-foot diameter ball was made of iron and wood and featured 100 25-watt lightbulbs. Six newer versions of the ball were featured in the century-plus since that first celebration. Times Square New Year's Eve Ball is displayed Friday at One Times Square in New York. The only years no ball drop occurred were 1942 and 1943, when the city instituted a nightly "dimout" during World War II to protect itself from attacks. Crowds instead celebrated the new year with a moment of silence followed by chimes rung from the base of One Times Square. As the new year approaches, many people begin thinking about their resolutions—typically focusing on physical health, saving money, or spending more time with family. One area that often gets overlooked is mental health. The pressure to "get fit" or "eat better" is well-known, but taking care of mental well-being is just as important as improving physical health, especially since mental health impacts every aspect of life. At first glance, mental health goals can seem intangible and subjective, but there are scientifically-proven ways to set achievable, measurable, and personalized mental wellness goals that will help anyone thrive in 2025. Vivian Chung Easton, a mental health therapist at Blueprint , a company focused on building AI-powered tools to help therapists, shares recommendations for setting mental health resolutions. One of the most important mental wellness goals for 2025 is to prioritize self-compassion and resilience. In a culture that often celebrates hustle and perfection, it's easy to push yourself too hard, setting unrealistic expectations that only add to stress and anxiety. But research shows that self-compassion and resilience are critical factors in coping with stress and maintaining long-term mental well-being. A 2021 study by Kristin Neff and Christopher Germer highlights that self-compassion—treating yourself with kindness when things don't go as planned—can reduce emotional distress and improve resilience. Instead of criticism for not meeting a goal or making a mistake, practice affirmations or positive self-talk. A simple goal, like being kinder to yourself during setbacks, can help reduce stress and boost mental wellness. A goal can look something like this: Making room for self-compassion this year can be a transformative step toward building resilience and enhancing overall mental health. Social connection is one of the most important factors in mental wellness, yet it's often overlooked in favor of individual self-improvement goals. Physical isolation can lead to loneliness, but social isolation is also strongly linked to mental health challenges like depression and anxiety, according to a study by Juliannee Holt-Lundstad. Meaningful relationships and community support can improve how satisfied you feel in your life on a day-to-day basis. This year, make it a goal to strengthen and nurture social connections, whether that means reconnecting with old friends, regularly scheduling family time, or joining social groups and clubs—like a book club, gym, or church group. For example, a social wellness goal can look like: Building mental wellness isn't just about managing thoughts and feelings; it's also about fostering a strong support network. Social connections are integral to building emotional resilience. Just as physical fitness is associated with physical health, mindfulness is often associated with mental fitness. However, practicing mindfulness is just as important as going for a run or lifting weights when it comes to mental wellness. Mindfulness-based practices—such as meditation, yoga, or breathing exercises—have been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve focus, and boost emotional well-being according to research by Stefan Hofman in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology. Incorporating mindfulness into a routine doesn't have to be time-consuming or difficult. Start small by committing to 5–10 minutes of mindfulness practice a few times a week . Focus on breath, practice guided meditation, or even engage in mindful walking or eating. A simple goal might be: These exercises are called a practice for a reason: doing them consistently and often can strengthen your ability over time. These practices not only reduce stress in the moment but also help to build resilience over time, making it easier to handle future challenges. Whatever New Year's resolution you might have, a large obstacle is setting goals that are too ambitious or unrealistic. Whether it's aiming to exercise every day or cutting out all sugar, overambitious goals can lead to burnout and disappointment when progress isn't immediate. This is especially true for mental health goals, which often require patience and consistency. Using these suggestions for mental health goals, focus on how to personalize them to make them realistic and achievable for your life. Research from the American Psychological Association shows that people are more likely to succeed in their resolutions when they set realistic and incremental goals. Instead of vague, broad goals like "be happier" or "stress less," focus on small, concrete actions that can lead to big changes over time. One effective approach is to use SMART goals—goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example: These specific, measurable actions make it easier to track progress and feel a sense of accomplishment along the way. Plus, they're more realistic and achievable, which increases your chances of success. It happens every year—gyms always seem to empty out before spring starts. One of the challenges of New Year's resolutions is that many people abandon their goals as early as January. However, mental health goals require ongoing attention and flexibility. Unlike weight loss or fitness goals, mental wellness is a journey, not an endpoint. Regularly tracking progress is essential. By setting aside time to evaluate personal progress, it's easier to adjust your goals and make necessary changes to keep things on track. Research shows that regular goal check-ins increase the likelihood of long-term success. Consider setting quarterly check-ins with yourself to assess your mental health goals: If you're not meeting your targets, adjust them to make them more realistic. Mental health progress doesn't always follow a straight line, so it's important to be flexible and forgiving with yourself. The new year is inherently a time of change, and that can be a helpful mindset in seeing new potential for growth and taking action. As you set your resolutions for 2025, don't forget to prioritize mental wellness. By focusing on achievable, realistic goals—you're setting yourself up for a healthier, more fulfilling year. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and nurturing it can help to reach other goals more effectively. Even if, in a month or two, you feel like you're falling behind—mental health goals can and should be flexible and adaptable. You can always adjust your approach if things aren't serving you, and check in with yourself regularly to stay on track. Goals are personal, and you're always in control. Here's to a year of growth, balance, and emotional well-being in 2025. This stor y was produced by Blueprint and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. Photo Credit: Alberto Menendez Cervero / Shutterstock As anyone who’s ever started a business knows, getting one off the ground is not for the faint of heart. Entrepreneurs face numerous challenges in the early years, from solidifying business plans to navigating the complexities of hiring employees and acquiring licenses and insurance. These hurdles often determine the fate of a startup, making the journey from an idea to a successful enterprise both difficult and uncertain. Each year, millions of Americans file new business applications , but only a fraction of these ventures transition to hiring employees. Among those that do, surviving the critical first few years can still be an uphill battle. However, survival rates differ significantly by location, influenced by a variety of factors such as economic conditions, state policies, and industry-specific demand. The good news is that businesses that weather the initial hurdles see a much greater likelihood of long-term success. This analysis explores the states where new businesses are most likely to survive their earliest years based on the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The findings reveal important insights into how location and time impact the chances of business success. The chances of staying in business increase dramatically after the first few years Source: Simply Business analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data | Image Credit: Simply Business One of the most significant challenges for new business owners is simply staying in operation. The risk of failure is highest during the first year, but it diminishes considerably over time. For those businesses that survive the initial hurdles, the likelihood of long-term success grows each year. According to recent BLS data, only about 79% of businesses survive their first year, making it the most difficult period for startups. However, for businesses that survive their first year, roughly 85% make it to the next. By the fifth year, 91% of businesses manage to continue operations, and for those that reach the 10-year mark, an impressive 93% make it through to another year. These figures underscore the importance of persistence and adaptability, especially during the critical early years when the risk of failure is highest. They also highlight that while starting a business is undeniably challenging, those who endure the startup years enjoy far better odds moving forward. Washington & California lead the country in new business survival rates Source: Simply Business analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data | Image Credit: Simply Business New business success varies widely across the United States, with some states providing a more favorable environment for startups to thrive. Based on survival rates for the first three years of operation, Washington and California stand out as the nation’s leading states. Washington claims the top spot, with businesses in the state enjoying an 86.4% chance of surviving their first year, 89.3% in their second year, and an impressive 91.8% in their third year. These figures highlight Washington's robust support for young businesses, likely fueled by its thriving tech ecosystem and a generally favorable economic climate. California ranks second, with survival rates of 86.0% in the first year, 89.8% in the second, and 91.4% in the third. Despite challenges such as high costs of living and regulatory complexities, California’s strong economy, innovation hubs, and access to venture capital contribute to its high ranking. Outside of the West Coast, West Virginia —whose economy is deeply rooted in energy production, natural resources, and manufacturing—ranks third, boasting the highest third-year survival rates at 91.9%. North Carolina —a major banking center and home of the Research Triangle—follows closely with similar numbers. At the opposite end of the spectrum, Minnesota businesses face the toughest challenges in their early years, with only 72.3% surviving their first year and 80.2% their second. These regional differences highlight the importance of local economic conditions in shaping a startup's odds of success. For entrepreneurs planning their next move, this analysis offers insight into where businesses are thriving and where challenges are more pronounced. Factors like industry presence, regulatory environments, and access to resources can create opportunities—or hurdles—that significantly affect survival rates in the critical early years. Choosing the right location isn’t just about personal preference; it can mean the difference between failure and success. This analysis was conducted by Simply Business —an online insurance marketplace for small businesses—using 2024 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. For complete results, see the original post: States Where New Businesses Are Most Likely to Succeed . Photo Credit: Alberto Menendez Cervero / Shutterstock The data in this report comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Business Employment Dynamics . To determine the states where new businesses are most likely to succeed, researchers at Simply Business developed a business survival index. This index is based on a weighted average of the most recent survival rates for private-sector establishments during their first, second, and third years of operation, as of March 2024. The survival rates were calculated using sequential benchmarks. The first-year survival rate is the percentage of businesses still active one year after opening. The second-year rate is the percentage of those first-year survivors that remained operational for another year. Similarly, the third-year rate is the percentage of second-year survivors that continued into the following year. The data focuses exclusively on private-sector businesses with at least one employee. For complete results, see States Where New Businesses Are Most Likely to Succeed on Simply Business. Receive the latest in local entertainment news in your inbox weekly!
Nvidia’s Record-Breaking Year: Key Details Revealed Nvidia, the tech titan known for its powerful AI chips, has made headlines this year with a string of groundbreaking achievements. Renowned for its high-performance graphics processing units (GPUs), Nvidia has experienced an extraordinary surge in demand that has propelled the company to unprecedented heights. This momentum has not only driven record earnings but has also catapulted Nvidia to become, albeit briefly, the largest company by market value, even surpassing Apple. This year has been nothing short of revolutionary for Nvidia, as the company garnered an invitation to the prestigious Dow Jones Industrial Average. It also topped benchmarks as the best-performing stock. Now, Nvidia reaches yet another milestone, capturing nearly $30 billion in net inflows from retail investors — a massive leap from $11 billion last year, showcasing its rising popularity among everyday investors. The GPU Revolution and Continued Growth Initially driving video games, Nvidia’s GPUs have expanded into artificial intelligence due to their ability to handle many simultaneous tasks. This expansion has fueled explosive revenue growth, with Nvidia reporting a staggering $35 billion in revenue last quarter. With a strong profit margin exceeding 70%, the company confidently presses forward with its innovative Blackwell architecture launch, promising even greater advancements. Is Nvidia a Buy for 2025? Despite its soaring valuation, Nvidia’s growth trajectory, amplified by new launches, indicates substantial future potential. CEO Jensen Huang highlights a $1 trillion opportunity as outdated computers worldwide will require Nvidia’s accelerated computing power. This, combined with the strong demand for its Blackwell system, suggests that Nvidia remains well-poised to be a top choice for retail investors moving into 2025. Nvidia’s Meteoric Rise: What Lies Ahead? Unpacking The Trends and Innovations That Define Nvidia’s Future Nvidia has transformed the landscape of technology in recent years, particularly through its highly advanced AI chips and GPUs. Its dedication to innovation has not only sustained but enhanced its market position, enabling Nvidia to eclipse industry giants and capture the attention of investors worldwide. As of this year, the company has demonstrated unprecedented growth, which invites us to delve deeper into various key aspects that might shape its future trajectory. Pros and Cons of Investing in Nvidia Pros: 1. Superlative Market Performance: Nvidia has consistently outpaced its competitors and topped stock performance charts, indicating strong investor confidence. 2. Cutting-edge Innovations: The forthcoming Blackwell architecture exemplifies Nvidia’s commitment to leading AI and computing technologies, suggesting a promising pipeline. 3. Dimensional Market Presence: By expanding GPU applications beyond gaming into AI and other industries, Nvidia has diversified its revenue streams effectively. Cons: 1. High Valuation Concerns: The soaring valuation could make it riskier for new investors to enter the market at current price points. 2. Market Saturation and Competition: While Nvidia is a leader, increased competition and market saturation could present challenges ahead. Nvidia’s Growing Influence: Insightful Comparisons Compared to its peers, such as AMD and Intel, Nvidia has outperformed in capturing market share, particularly in AI. This surge can be partly attributed to its strategic focus on integrating advanced AI functionalities with robust GPU performance, setting Nvidia apart in terms of innovation and consumer appeal. Sustainability Initiatives: Paving the Way for a Greener Future Nvidia is not only leading in technological innovation but also in sustainability efforts. The company has been investing in energy-efficient technologies that aim to reduce environmental impact. Their new data centers and product designs reflect a commitment to a sustainable future, potentially appealing to environmentally conscious investors. Predictions for Nvidia in 2025 Many analysts predict that Nvidia will continue its upward trajectory, mainly due to its strategic positioning and ongoing R&D investments. The company plans to address a $1 trillion market opportunity related to the global demand for better computational power, especially as industries transition to more sophisticated AI systems. Security Aspects: A Robust Infrastructure Nvidia is advancing its security posture with infrastructure investments that protect data integrity and offer robust defense against potential threats. This focus on cybersecurity elevates Nvidia’s trustworthiness in deploying large-scale AI solutions. For more information and updates on Nvidia’s groundbreaking innovations, visit their official website .
WASHINGTON (AP) — A group of Republican senators is demanding that the Biden administration revoke a science and technology agreement with China, barely a week after the two countries for five more years to keep ties from deteriorating. In a letter Thursday to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the lawmakers, led by Sen. Jim Risch, the ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said the era in which such cooperation made sense “is long gone” and the extension only “opens the door for further cooptation of American research.” The renewal of the agreement just before President Joe Biden leaves office “denies the incoming administration a chance to weigh in on this highly controversial agreement,” they said, urging the administration to “reverse course.” In addition to Risch, the letter was signed by Sens. John Barrasso, Pete Ricketts, Todd Young and Bill Hagerty. The first such agreement was signed in January 1979 when the two countries established diplomatic ties to counter the influence of the Soviet Union and when China severely lagged behind the U.S. and other Western nations in science and technology. The agreement was extended in 2018, and it was given temporary extensions last year and this year to allow for negotiations as the tech war between the two countries has escalated. The State Department has said the new agreement has a narrower scope and more guardrails to protect U.S. interests, including covering only basic research and not facilitating the development of critical and emerging technologies. The Republican senators said they had “deep concerns” that those measures were not sufficient to protect intellectual property and prevent illicit transfer of knowledge. The State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the letter Thursday. Deborah Seligsohn, assistant professor of political science at Villanova University, said the U.S. stands to lose more if it cuts off science and technology cooperation with Beijing. “The irony is that as China has become our peer, we have so much more to gain from working with Chinese science than we did in earlier eras, and yet at this moment, when we have the most to gain, there is a demand that we shut the door,” she said. Didi Tang, The Associated PressJPMorgan Chase & Co. Has $613.24 Million Stock Position in JPMorgan BetaBuilders Emerging Markets Equity ETF (BATS:BBEM)
Gaetz withdraws as Trump's pick for attorney general, averting confirmation battle in the Senate WASHINGTON (AP) — Matt Gaetz has withdrawn as Donald Trump’s pick for attorney general following scrutiny over a federal sex trafficking investigation. The Florida Republican made the announcement Thursday. Gaetz’s withdrawal is a blow to Trump’s push to install steadfast loyalists in his incoming administration and the first sign that Trump could face resistance from members of his own party. Trump said in a social media post that Gaetz “did not want to be a distraction for the Administration.” Gaetz said “it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work" of the transition team. He added, “There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle.” Warrants put Israeli PM and others in a small group of leaders accused of crimes against humanity Arrest warrants issued for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former defense minister and a Hamas leader put them in a small group of leaders to be accused of crimes against humanity. The International Criminal Court in the Hague issued the warrants Thursday for Netanyahu, his former defense minister, Yoav Gallant, and Mohammed Deif, a Hamas leader Israel claims it killed. The court says Hamas committed murder, rape and torture in the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks that triggered the Israel-Hamas war. The court also says Israel used starvation as a method of warfare and committed murder, persecution and other inhumane acts. Several of Trump's Cabinet picks — and Trump himself — have been accused of sexual misconduct WASHINGTON (AP) — Former congressman Matt Gaetz has withdrawn his name as President-elect Donald Trump's choice for attorney general in the face of sexual misconduct allegations. He's not the only member of Trump’s chosen staff and Cabinet accused of some form of misconduct. Others include: Elon Musk, his choice to help lead a new outside panel seeking to boost government efficiency, Health and Human Services nominee Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Trump’s choice for defense secretary Pete Hegseth and Linda McMahon, his choice to lead the Department of Education. They all deny the claims. Elon Musk's budget crusade could cause a constitutional clash in Trump's second term WASHINGTON (AP) — Donald Trump has put Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy in charge of finding ways to cut government spending and regulations. It's possible that their efforts will lead to a constitutional clash. This week, Musk and Ramaswamy said they would encourage the Republican president-elect to refuse to spend money allocated by Congress, which would conflict with a 1974 law that's intended to prevent presidents from blocking funds. If Trump takes such a step, it would quickly become one of the most closely watched legal battles of his second administration. Musk and Ramaswamy also aim to dramatically reduce the size of the federal workforce. Death toll in Gaza from Israel-Hamas war passes 44,000, Palestinian officials say DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Palestinian health officials say the death toll in the Gaza Strip from the 13-month-old war between Israel and Hamas has surpassed 44,000. The Gaza Health Ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants in its count, but it has said that more than half of the fatalities are women and children. The Israeli military says it has killed over 17,000 militants, without providing evidence. The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting another 250. Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, at least a third of whom are believed to be dead. Most of the rest were released during a cease-fire last year. Putin touts Russia's new missile and delivers a menacing warning to NATO The new ballistic missile fired by Russia struck a military-industrial facility in the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro, but its real mission was delivering a deadly new message to NATO. Hours after Thursday’s strike touched off a debate over whether the Ukrainian plant was hit by an intercontinental ballistic missile, President Vladimir Putin cleared up the mystery in a rare and surprise appearance on Russian television. He described it as a new, intermediate-range ballistic missile that raced to its target at 10 times the speed of sound and couldn't be stopped by modern anti-missile systems. One Western expert said it was the first time that such a missile was used in the war — and perhaps in any conflict. Brazilian police indict former President Bolsonaro and aides over alleged 2022 coup attempt SAO PAULO (AP) — Brazil’s Federal Police have indicted former President Jair Bolsonaro and 36 other people on charges of attempting a coup to keep him in office after his electoral defeat in the 2022 elections. The findings are to be delivered Thursday to Brazil’s Supreme Court, which will refer them to Prosecutor-General Paulo Gonet, who will either formally charge Bolsonaro and put the former president on trial or toss the investigation. The former right-wing president has denied all claims he tried to stay in office after his narrow electoral defeat in 2022 to his rival, leftist President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Bolsonaro has faced a series of legal threats since then. Jussie Smollett’s conviction in 2019 attack on himself is overturned SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — The Illinois Supreme Court has overturned actor Jussie Smollett’s conviction on charges that he staged a racist and homophobic attack against himself in 2019 and lied to Chicago police. The state’s highest court ruled Thursday on Smollett’s argument that a special prosecutor should not have been allowed to intervene after the local state’s attorney initially dropped charges. The 5-0 decision did not address Smollett's claims of innocence. The Black, gay actor claimed two men assaulted him, spouted slurs and tossed a noose around his neck. Smollett was on the television drama “Empire,” which filmed in Chicago. Testimony at his trial indicated Smollett paid $3,500 to two men to carry out the attack. SEC Chair Gary Gensler, who led US crackdown on cryptocurrencies, to step down Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Gary Gensler will step down from his post on January 20. Since taking the lead at the SEC, the commission has been aggressive in its oversight of cryptocurrencies and other regulatory issues. President-elect Donald Trump had promised during his campaign that he would remove Gensler, who has led the U.S. government’s crackdown on the crypto industry and repeatedly called for more oversight. But Gensler on Thursday announced that he would be stepping down from his post on the day that Trump is inaugurated. Bitcoin has jumped 40% since Trump’s victory. US towns plunge into debates about fluoride in water NEW YORK (AP) — Fights are cropping up nationwide over fluoride in drinking water. Communities in Florida, Texas, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming and elsewhere have debated the idea in recent months. And several have decided to stop adding it to drinking water. In August, a federal agency for the first time reported that there is a link between high levels of fluoride exposure and lower IQ in kids. And in September, a federal judge ordered the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to further regulate it in drinking water. The decision to add fluoride to drinking water rests with state and local officials, but advisers to Donald Trump have suggested he would push to remove it.
The convener of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political), Jagjeet Singh Dallewal is set to begin his fast unto death from tomorrow at the Khanauri border in Sangrur district in support of various demands, including a legal guarantee for MSP. Farmers have already started thronging the Khanauri border ahead of fast unto death, with numbers swelling significantly. Hundreds of farmers have been protesting at Shambhu in Patiala district and Khanauri in Sangrur on the Punjab-Haryana border since February 13. Dallewal on Monday said that he will begin his fast unto death to make the Union government fulfil the legal guarantee for MSP demand. “We waited for nine months for the Union government to initiate dialogue with us to fulfil our demand of legal guarantee for MSP, but no avail. Now, there is no option left but to take this step. It is do-or-die situation for us,” said 67-year-old Dallewal. In a dramatic development, Dallewal on Monday reached Faridkot, his home district, and transferred his property to his son, daughter-in-law and grandson, a day before sitting on fast unto death. He said, “I will come to Faridkot only after getting the demands of farmers met or I wouldn’t show up. Farmers are dying by suicide every day, and it is the legal guarantee for MSP which can save them.” In 2022, Dallewal sat on fast unto death at Tehna village in Faridkot district against punitive action for stubble burning, no compensation for crop damage due to inclement weather, and pest attack and land acquisition for national highway projects. Dallewal then had ended his hunger strike on the sixth day after assurance from the Punjab government that their demands would be met. Sukhjeet Singh, member of SKM (non-political), said, “If Dallewal dies during the fast unto death, then his mortal remains won’t be taken to his village. Instead, it would be kept at the protest site till their demands are met.” “If he dies during the protest, I will be the next to sit on fast unto death. It will continue until our demands are met.”An associate of Simon and Paula Herbert’s Auckland marina and dredging business Empire Capital is suing NZX-listed fibre business Vital after a ditched partial takeover in August but Vital says it’s done nothing wrong and wants $214,000 back. Simon Herbert, an Empire director, said Empire Technology is claiming misleading and deceptive conduct and failures to make proper disclosure in breach of the Financial Markets Conduct Act, the Fair Trading Act, the Takeovers Code and the NZX Listing Rules. “This action arises from Vital’s failure to inform the market about material information that would have critically influenced Empire Capital’s decision to pursue a partial takeover offer,” he said. Vital’s NZX statement yesterday said it was “very confident that it has complied with its relevant obligations, strongly rejects Empire’s claims and will strenuously defend the High Court proceedings”. “Vital is also committed to progressing the reimbursement of its takeover expenses, in the interests of all shareholders. Vital believes that issue should be determined by the Takeovers Panel, as the Takeovers Act provides, and will request the panel to make its determination as soon as possible rather than delay for the outcome of the High Court proceedings.”
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