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Meta donates $1 million to Trump's inauguration fundIf there was one phrase that captured the vibe and theme of 2024 — at least in the transportation sector — it was “business whiplash.” Legacy automakers changed direction on their all-EVs-or-bust strategy, startups pivoted, and some Silicon Valley VCs and executives adjusted their views on a changing political landscape in which they now are playing starring roles. Jaguar went in an entirely new polarizing direction with a rebranding that got a lot of attention — and lit social media on fire, at least for a few days. GM slowed its EV plans and was forced to change lanes on software — an internal restructure accelerated by problems with the Chevy Blazer EV that has had positive developments. But the automaker’s most striking shift was its decision to no longer fund development of the Cruise robotaxi. Everywhere we looked, founders, VCs, and automotive execs were changing course to take advantage of shifting consumer demand and, in many cases, to simply survive. Here are the biggest topics and stories in transportation in 2024. Autonomous vehicle s: Pivots, survivors, and scale The buzzy years of autonomous vehicle tech — from 2016 to 2020 — are long gone, and the hype cycle has brought us through the trough of disillusionment. A handful of remaining AV startups, including Ghost Autonomy and Phantom Auto , which had already pivoted, took their final breaths in 2024. Other AV startups took a cue from their brethren in other sectors and turned to defense , officially becoming dual-use companies. And others, like TuSimple, have pivoted almost entirely away from developing autonomous technology and instead have moved to embrace *checks notes* AI animation and gaming . The path to a commercial robotaxi business is still fraught. GM decided to no longer fund the Cruise robotaxi development program ; the automaker will now use that tech and talent to incrementally improve its hands-off advanced driver-assistance system and eventually introduce personal autonomous vehicles. AVs did, however, get a boost thanks to a booming and hypey AI industry and newfound interest in the end-to-end approach to autonomy (just ask Wayve ). Waymo and Zoox , two well-funded AV companies, are still on the commercial robotaxi path. And of course there’s Tesla, which this year revealed its Cybercab prototype with plans to start production in 2025 or 2026. CEO Elon Musk also promised to unleash “unsupervised FSD” and launch a robotaxi service in California and Texas next year, but we’re taking those promises with a heavy dose of skepticism given Musk’s penchant for missing deadlines. Other AV must-reads of 2024: Apple cancels its autonomous electric car project and is laying off some workers Cruise employees ‘blindsided’ by GM’s plan to end robotaxi program Investors rebel as TuSimple pivots from self-driving trucks to AI gaming Motional cut about 550 employees, around 40%, in recent restructuring, sources say Tesla reveals 20 Cybercabs at We, Robot event, says you’ll be able to buy one for less than $30,000 EVs are put to the test Legacy automakers like Ford and GM spent billions of dollars beefing up their electric vehicle lineups and investing in U.S. battery manufacturing facilities to keep on top of supply chains. EV sales — bolstered by the Biden administration’s EV tax credit — continued to reach record highs this year. But automakers and investors have feared that sales for electric cars, which accounted for 8.9% of total auto sales in the third quarter, haven’t risen at the pace they’d hoped for. Tesla even saw its own profits drop at the start of the year, with Musk noting that automakers were pulling back from EVs due to pressure from hybrids . That pullback might just continue into 2025 with the incoming administration’s plans to cut the EV tax credit. Meanwhile in EV startup land, the SPAC model has continued to prove unsuccessful for driving long-term business growth. We chronicled the messy downfall of Fisker — which crumbled under its founders’ whims — including how the startup left its HQ in complete disarray and had to sign a deal with American Lease, the company that bought Fisker’s fleet, to help owners get help with recall repairs . Canoo has also struggled to maintain enough cash to operate, and in December it began to furlough workers . Perhaps the startup’s money troubles came from unsustainable spending habits, like spending double Canoo’s annual revenue on CEO Tony Aquila’s private jet or acquiring the assets of its bankrupt peer Arrival . Faraday Future, despite raising over $1 billion when it merged with a SPAC in 2021, is also sinking fast — to the point where data mining company Palantir now owns an 8.7% stake in the company after Faraday was unable to pay for services rendered. One of the only new EV players that didn’t go public through a special purpose acquisition merger was Rivian. While Rivian hasn’t had the smoothest run since its record-breaking IPO, the EV maker hit some major milestones in 2024, albeit with some speed bumps along the way, including a series of lawsuits alleging top executives of harassment . Rivian unveiled in March its next-generation R2 SUV and a surprised R3 hatchback. In the summer, Rivian’s path to survival became linked to being able to sell its revamped R1T pickup and the R1S SUV at a profit to sustain itself long enough to get its cheaper R2 SUV on the road. Rivian even snagged a $6.6 billion loan to restart production on its Georgia plant, although it appears that deal was helped along thanks to a secret agreement with the United Auto Workers union. Tesla was in a state of flux as Musk fought to hold onto his $56 billion pay package through sheer determination and investor loyalty. The automaker issued mass layoffs this year , axed its entire Supercharger team , abandoned plans to build a $25,000 EV, oversaw seven Cybertruck recalls , and unveiled its robotaxi prototype . Other EV must-reads of 2024: I just spent my first week ever with an EV, the Chevy Equinox — here’s what it was like Hertz is selling 20,000 EVs and replacing them with gas cars The 2025 Lucid Air Pure is a luxe ride at $69,900 with room for tech tuneups EVTOLs are still attracting investors 2024 was a year of big intentions for the electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles industry. It felt like every other week there was an announcement as two of the biggest players — Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation — shared plans for future commercial electric air taxi launches starting in 2025. It’s also been a year of big fundraises as both companies tried to secure more cash to achieve Federal Aviation Administration certification and launch commercial air taxi services in 2025. Joby, for example, first secured a $500 million bag from Toyota, then raised $222 million before launching a $300 million public offering . Archer recently raised $430 million and teamed up with Anduril to dive into defense — a theme we’re expecting to continue into 2025 as defense tech heats up . And Beta Technologies raised a $318 million Series C . There were also plenty of partnerships between eVTOL startups and more-traditional air carriers — like Beta’s recent win with Air New Zealand — and the development of vertiports in key urban areas across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Not every startup has been so lucky, though, as companies burned through capital and failed to find more funding. German eVTOL startup Lilium filed for bankruptcy after failing to raise enough capital to continue. In December, the company shut down and laid off 1,000 workers , but appears to have gotten a last minute lifeline from an investor. Stay tuned. 2025 will be the year where we’ll see if the companies that remain can secure proper FAA approval and begin to make a business out of eVTOLs. Here are some other eVTOL must-reads of 2024: Feds clear way for eVTOL startups to bring flying vehicles to US airspace Beta Technologies unveils first passenger carrying electric aircraft Micromobility wobbles forward The hype over shared micromobility has long since died. This year saw the last gasps of consolidation, pivots, and a few survivors. Tier and Dott finally merged , and Lime continued on its steady path to, if not consistent profitability, at least sustainability and market dominance. VanMoof’s bankruptcy in 2023 revealed how difficult it is to scale a new e-bike business, despite a consumer appetite for sexy, sleek e-bikes. Cake filed for bankruptcy at the start of the year, and Onyx Motorbikes was on the verge of bankruptcy itself when its 37-year-old owner died suddenly, leaving an absolute mess in his wake. Cake and Onyx have been given fresh chances of survival in 2025. Some startups have managed to find a way to keep an e-bike business afloat. Just look at Joco. The startup has fought the odds and managed to turn its docked e-bike rental service for delivery workers into a profitable business , and has even branched out into building battery charging cabinets. Here are some other micromobility must-reads of 2024: Bloom is reinventing how e-bikes are made in the USThousands attend funeral of Afghan minister
Imperial Security is Setting the Bar of Services Very High 12-23-2024 08:16 PM CET | Business, Economy, Finances, Banking & Insurance Press release from: Getnews / PR Agency: Content Hum Image: https://www.globalnewslines.com/uploads/2024/12/1734700738.jpg Get Expert Security Services which is Available in Edmonton Imperial Security is the best security agency in Canada, which offers high-quality services within the country. By having the best-trained personnel and advanced technology, the company is changing how security is handled in industries, apartments, and events. If someone is looking for experts in the security system, Imperial Security has risen to become the most sought-after security firm in Canada. The firm goes further by offering mobile patrols, security for events, central station monitoring, and on-site security guards in Edmonton to meet the specific demands of the clients. Imperial Security remains the best in Canadian security for its unceasing focus on meeting client expectations. They successfully achieve this feat by providing every customer with a customised solution that fulfils individual requirements. With over three decades in the field, Imperial Security has established a reputation based upon reliability, professionalism, and innovation. No matter what the problem is, Imperial Security will be able to figure out a solution and safeguard the clients. Imperial Security encourages whole businesses and people residing in Edmonton and in other parts of Canada to feel the difference of working with a trustworthy security company. For more information about their services or to schedule a consultation, please visit their official website. They have listed all the services that they offer to their clients. As the top provider of security guards in Edmonton [ https://imperialsecurity.ca/edmonton/security-guard-service/ ], Imperial Security does not take any chances when it comes to client safety and security. A spokesperson for Imperial Security stated, "Security is not about waiting for a threat to happen and then acting. Security is more about keeping these threats at bay. We always make sure to offer experiences so that they can trust us enough to keep hiring us, knowing that their security is guaranteed. We promise you that employers can be assured of an effective 24-hour security service for offices and stores for warehouses. Imperial Security earns the honour of being the best by standing to the values, not just with talk but with action plans. In Edmonton, we are proud to enhance local security and public safety." Imperial Security, a leading security guard company in Edmonton [ https://imperialsecurity.ca/edmonton/security-guard-service/ ], is dedicated to safeguarding businesses, residential properties, and events. With a team of highly trained guards, they deliver tailored security solutions that meet the unique needs of their clients. At Imperial Security, they prioritise safety and customer satisfaction, using advanced technology and proven strategies to deter threats and protect client assets. Trust them to provide reliable, cost-effective security that one can count on, day or night. Imperial Security is among those companies that are the most sought-after Canadian security service providers, with an exceptional spread across Edmonton, Vancouver, and Calgary. The company prides itself on its mobile patrols, on-site guards, and surveillance systems to offer robust protection to businesses, communities, and events. As thebest security company in Canada [ https://imperialsecurity.ca/ ], they go to great lengths to ensure the safety and security of their clients. Location: https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d2111.636730338029!2d-113.5066182!3d53.5406188!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x840f3bb8c7ff2b87%3A0x2899da7b80f3a7d0!2sImperial%20Security%20-%20Edmonton!5e1!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1734700796966!5m2!1sen!2suk Media Contact Company Name: Imperial Security Email: Send Email [ http://www.universalpressrelease.com/?pr=imperial-security-is-setting-the-bar-of-services-very-high ] Phone: +17804379974 Address:10665 Jasper Ave 14th Floor Alderbridge Business Centre City: Edmonton State: Alberta T5J 3S9 Country: Canada Website: https://imperialsecurity.ca/ This release was published on openPR.
Bitcoin neared $100,000 for the first time on Thursday as the election of Republican Donald Trump as president fuelled expectations that his administration will create a friendly regulatory environment for cryptocurrencies. The world's biggest and best-known cryptocurrency has more than doubled from this year's low of $38,505 and is up about 45 per cent in the two weeks since Trump's sweeping election win. Here are key events in bitcoin's journey towards $100,000: 2008: Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonym used by the cryptocurrency's presumed developer, introduces the concept of bitcoin 2010: The first retail transaction takes place when a user pays 10,000 bitcoin for two Papa John's pizzas 2013: As bitcoin's popularity grows, Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, co-founders of crypto exchange Gemini, file their first application with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to create a spot bitcoin ETF. Grayscale Investments launches the Bitcoin Investment Trust, an open-ended private bitcoin trust. 2016: The Winklevoss brothers adjust their application numerous times, such as the exchange on which the product would be traded. They also file amendments naming State Street as administrator. Grayscale files with the SEC to convert its bitcoin trust into a spot bitcoin ETF. 2017: The SEC rejects the Winklevoss application on the grounds bitcoin markets were not mature enough. Grayscale withdraws its first attempt to convert its trust into an ETF, saying the regulatory environment was not developed enough. 2018: The SEC rejects the Winklevoss twins' second application to launch a spot bitcoin ETF, saying cryptocurrency exchanges do not have the necessary controls to prevent manipulation. 2020: Grayscale transforms its trust into an SEC-reporting entity, and its shares begin trading on the pink sheets, for stocks that trade over the counter. Although not an ETF, it is the first publicly traded bitcoin fund in the U.S. 2021: The first spot bitcoin ETF launches in Canada. Gary Gensler replaces Jay Clayton as SEC chair in April. In October, the SEC approves the ProShares Bitcoin Trust listed on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, noting the CME has a satisfactory mechanism for surveilling abuse in the futures market. It is the first U.S.-listed futures-based bitcoin ETF, accumulating $1 billion in assets within its first days of trading - faster than any other ETF. Also in October, Grayscale again submits an application to the SEC to convert its trust into a spot bitcoin ETF. 2022: The SEC rejects several applications from would-be spot bitcoin ETF issuers, including SkyBridge, Fidelity and Bitwise. The SEC also rejects Grayscale's application, prompting the company to sue the agency. Amid crashing crypto prices, multiple crypto companies file for bankruptcy, including Three Arrows Capital, Celsius Network and FTX, whose founder Sam Bankman-Fried is also charged with fraud. 2023: May: Cathie Woods' ARK Investments and CBOE Global Markets file for a spot bitcoin ETF, giving the SEC a maximum of 240 days to approve or reject the application. June: BlackRock files a spot bitcoin ETF application with the SEC, raising industry hopes the agency may approve the product and sending the price of bitcoin to a one-year high. A flurry of other issuers and exchanges, including Fidelity and Invesco, file bitcoin ETF applications in the subsequent weeks and months. August: A federal appeals court in Washington D.C. rules in favor of Grayscale, saying the SEC did not justify why it had rejected its proposal. Europe's first spot bitcoin ETF begins trading on the Euronext Amsterdam stock exchange. October: The SEC opts not to appeal the court's ruling in the Grayscale case and is required to reexamine the application. 2024: Jan. 10: The SEC approves 11 proposals from issuers including BlackRock, Fidelity and VanEck, among others, to launch spot bitcoin ETFs. February: Net inflows into the 10 largest ETFs hit $4 billion in the first month, according to LSEG data. March: Bitcoin tops $70,000 for the first time to hit a record high, having doubled in value in the five months. June: Trump pitches himself as a champion for cryptocurrency and slammed Democrats' attempts to regulate the sector during a San Francisco fundraiser. July: Trump tells a bitcoin conference that, if elected, he will create a strategic national bitcoin stockpile and will ensure the United States is the "crypto capital of the planet." October: The SEC grants "accelerated approval" to U.S. exchanges to list and trade options tied to 11 spot bitcoin ETFs. Nov 6: Trump is declared winner of the presidential election, sparking a huge rally in a range of assets, with bitcoin being the standout gainer. Nov 12: Total crypto market cap reaches $3 trillion for the first time. Year-to-date ETF net inflows hit $25.8 billion, according to LSEG data. Nov 21: Bitcoin nears $100,000 for the first time in history, driven by a swell of buying from investors in anticipation of Trump dismantling a lot of the regulation around crypto investment. The price has risen by around 40 per cent since the election.ExxonMobil Corp. XOM may be pumping out oil, but its stock chart has hit a dry spell . What Happened : ExxonMobil stock is about to form a death cross — a bearish technical indicator where the 50-day moving average falls below the 200-day moving average. Chart created using Benzinga Pro A Slippery Slope For XOM Stock The numbers don't lie: Exxon's stock price of $106.49 is firmly below its 20-day ($111.37), 50-day ($116.32), and 200-day ($116.24) simple moving averages. The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) indicator at a negative 2.89 screams bearish, while a Relative Strength Index (RSI) of 23.54 suggests the stock is oversold. For optimists, the oversold RSI could hint at a potential rebound. But with the broader trend signaling bearish momentum, a quick turnaround might require more than geopolitical jitters or OPEC decisions. Europe: No Love Lost For Exxon Exxon's President for Europe, Philippe Ducom , didn't mince words when he labeled Europe's competitiveness as being "in a crisis." With decarbonization investments largely bypassing Europe in favor of U.S. projects, the company is focusing on regions with fewer regulatory hurdles. Despite investing $20 billion globally in clean energy initiatives by 2027, Exxon isn't planning a major European pivot. Instead, its future bets are in places like Texas, where clean hydrogen and lithium projects are underway. Exploring New Frontiers Exxon's exploration efforts continue in Guyana's Stabroek Block, with the Haimara-3 well appraising its 2019 gas discovery. While oil remains a priority, the company is increasingly evaluating the potential for standalone gas development in Guyana, potentially setting the stage for new revenue streams in 2025. Outlook: Drilling For Optimism? ExxonMobil's death cross doesn't mean it's game over, but the bearish signals are piling up. With regulatory challenges in Europe and volatile oil prices, XOM stock faces strong headwinds. Investors hoping for a bounce might want to watch geopolitical developments and the company's U.S. clean energy plays closely. Now Read: Warren Buffett Invested $4 Million In Disney Back In 1966, Says Exit ‘Was A Huge Mistake Image: Shutterstock © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
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NEW YORK , Dec. 17, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Paramount Global (the "Company") (NASDAQ: PARA, PARAA) today announced that it would redeem all of its remaining outstanding 4.750% senior notes due May 15, 2025 (the "4.750% senior notes") on December 27, 2024 . The redemption price for the 4.750% senior notes is equal to the sum of 100% of the principal amount of the 4.750% senior notes that remain outstanding, the make-whole amount calculated in accordance with the terms of the 4.750% senior notes and the related indenture under which the 4.750% senior notes were issued, and the accrued and unpaid interest on the remaining 4.750% senior notes up to, but excluding, the redemption date of December 27, 2024 . The aggregate principal amount of the 4.750% senior notes outstanding and the aggregate principal amount of the 4.750% senior notes to be redeemed is as set forth below: Title of Security Aggregate Principal Amount Outstanding Aggregate Principal Amount to be Redeemed 4.750% senior notes $125,561,000 $125,561,000 Holders owning 4.750% senior notes through a broker, bank, or other nominee should contact that party for information. For more information, holders of the 4.750% senior notes may call the paying agent for the redemption of the 4.750% senior notes, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas at (800) 735-7777. About Paramount Paramount Global (NASDAQ: PARA, PARAA) is a leading global media, streaming and entertainment company that creates premium content and experiences for audiences worldwide. Driven by iconic consumer brands, its portfolio includes CBS, Paramount Pictures, Nickelodeon, MTV, Comedy Central, BET, Paramount+ and Pluto TV. The Company holds one of the industry's most extensive libraries of TV and film titles. In addition to offering innovative streaming services and digital video products, the Company provides powerful capabilities in production, distribution, and advertising solutions. Cautionary Note Concerning Forward-Looking Statements This communication contains both historical and forward-looking statements, including statements related to our future results, performance and achievements. All statements that are not statements of historical fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Similarly, statements that describe our objectives, plans or goals are or may be forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect our current expectations concerning future results and events; generally can be identified by the use of statements that include phrases such as "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "foresee," "likely," "will," "may," "could," "estimate" or other similar words or phrases; and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that are difficult to predict and which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these statements. These risks, uncertainties and other factors include, among others: risks related to our streaming business; the adverse impact on our advertising revenues as a result of advertising market conditions, changes in consumer viewership and deficiencies in audience measurement; risks related to operating in highly competitive and dynamic industries, including cost increases; the unpredictable nature of consumer behavior, as well as evolving technologies and distribution models; risks related to our ongoing changes in business strategy, including investments in new businesses, products, services, technologies and other strategic activities; the potential for loss of carriage or other reduction in or the impact of negotiations for the distribution of our content; damage to our reputation or brands; losses due to asset impairment charges for goodwill, intangible assets, FCC licenses and content; liabilities related to discontinued operations and former businesses; risks related to environmental, social and governance (ESG) matters; evolving business continuity, cybersecurity, privacy and data protection and similar risks; content infringement; domestic and global political, economic and regulatory factors affecting our businesses generally; disruptions to our operations as a result of labor disputes; the inability to hire or retain key employees or secure creative talent; volatility in the prices of the Companyʼs common stock; potential conflicts of interest arising from our ownership structure with a controlling stockholder; business uncertainties, including the effect of the Skydance transactions on the Companyʼs employees, commercial partners, clients and customers, and contractual restrictions while the Skydance transactions are pending; prevention, delay or reduction of the anticipated benefits of the Skydance transactions as a result of the conditions to closing the Skydance transactions; the Transaction Agreementʼs limitation on our ability to pursue alternatives to the Skydance transactions; risks related to a failure to complete the Skydance transactions, including payment of a termination fee and negative reactions from the financial markets and from our employees, commercial partners, clients and customers; risks related to change in control or other provisions in certain agreements that may be triggered by the Skydance transactions; litigation relating to the Skydance transactions potentially preventing or delaying the closing of the Skydance transactions and/or resulting in payment of damages; challenges realizing synergies and other anticipated benefits expected from the Skydance transactions, including integrating the Companyʼs and Skydanceʼs businesses successfully; potential unforeseen direct and indirect costs as a result of the Skydance transactions; any negative effects of the announcement, pendency or consummation of the Skydance transactions on the market price of the Companyʼs common stock and New Paramount Class B Common Stock; and other factors described in our news releases and filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including but not limited to our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and reports on Form 10-Q and Form 8-K. There may be additional risks, uncertainties and factors that we do not currently view as material or that are not necessarily known. The forward-looking statements included in this communication are made only as of the date of this communication, and we do not undertake any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances. PARA-IR View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/paramount-global-announces-redemption-of-its-4-750-senior-notes-due-may-2025--302334251.html SOURCE Paramount GlobalTrump-Musk bromance ‘attractive to young Aussie males’ lacking political role models
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BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) — Romanian lawmakers on Monday voted narrowly in favor of a new pro-European coalition government led by incumbent Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu. The move could usher in an end to a protracted political crisis in the European Union country following the annulment of a presidential election by a top court. Parliament approved the new administration in a 240-143 vote in Romania's 466-seat legislature. The new coalition is made up of the leftist Social Democratic Party, or PSD, the center-right National Liberal Party, PNL, the small ethnic Hungarian UDMR party and national minorities. It caps a month-long period of turmoil in which far-right nationalists made significant gains in a Dec. 1 parliamentary election , a week after a first-round presidential race saw the far-right outsider Calin Georgescu emerge as the front-runner. “It will not be an easy mandate for the future government,” Ciolacu, whose PSD party topped the polls in the parliamentary election, said in a statement Monday. “We are aware that we are in the midst of a deep political crisis," he said. "It is also a crisis of trust, and this coalition aims to regain the trust of citizens, the trust of the people.” Romani's 16 ministerial positions will be shared among the parties, which will hold a slim majority in the legislature. It's widely seen as a tactical partnership to shut out far-right nationalists whose voices found fertile ground amid high living costs and a sluggish economy. Ciolacu, who came third in the first-round presidential ballot despite polls indicating he would win the most votes, has served as prime minister since June 2023. After parliament’s approval, President Klaus Iohannis swore in the new government and warned the new Cabinet that it's entering a “difficult new period” in which “for many Romanians, there are major concerns.” Romania was plunged into turmoil after Georgescu’s surprise success in the presidential race, after allegations of electoral violations and Russian interference emerged. Days before the Dec. 8 runoff, the Constitutional Court made the unprecedented move to annul the presidential race . “We go through complicated times, but I think we all learned from mistakes of the past,” Ciolacu said. “I hope that together with my colleagues in the coalition, we’ll find the best solutions to get past the challenges we have in front of us.” Ciolacu said that the new government would aim to quickly organize the rerun of the presidential election in which the new coalition has agreed to put forward an agreed common pro-European candidate. Cristian Andrei, a political consultant based in Bucharest, said that the new government made up of the same political parties will likely embrace “soft populist” rhetoric such as economic patriotism, anti-austerity, and a peace solution in neighboring Ukraine to counter the rise of far-right populism. “This will be a way to answer the concerns of many Romanians who voted for populists ... but will not solve the fundamental problem of trust,” he said. “The only decisive factor now will be who and how convincing the pro-European candidates will be against this popular revolt.” George Simion, the leader of the far-right Alliance for the Unity of Romanians, which came second in the parliamentary election, said that all lawmakers from his party on Monday would vote against the Ciolacu government. In 2021, the PSD and the PNL also formed an unlikely but increasingly strained coalition together with UDMR, which exited the Cabinet last year after a power-sharing dispute. Stephen McGrath reported from Warwick, England.Off the couch and into the fireSchmicko Melbourne Expands Premium Mobile Car Care Services Across Greater MelbourneCoeptis Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. COEP shares are trading lower on Friday. The firm announced plans to implement a 1-for-20 reverse stock split, which will take effect on December 31 . The decision follows authorization from the company's board of directors and majority stockholders. The reverse stock split aims to help the company meet the Nasdaq Capital Market's minimum bid price requirement of $1.00 per share, which is necessary to maintain its listing on the exchange. Also Read: 3 Russell 2000 Tech Stocks That Skyrocketed 1,000% Or More In 2024: Analysts Say They're Just Getting Started Under the terms of the reverse stock split, every 20 shares of the company's outstanding common stock will be converted into one share. The split will not result in fractional shares, as any fractional shares will be rounded up to the next whole number. According to Benzinga Pro , COEP stock has lost over 20% in the past month. Yesterday, the company announced the completion of its acquisition of the NexGenAI Affiliates Network platform and the launch of Coeptis Technologies. This new division is designed to diversify the company's growth potential, specifically in highly regulated industries like biotech, pharmaceuticals, and multi-level marketing. The NexGenAI Affiliates Network platform, developed by NexGenAI Solutions Group, is an AI-powered marketing software and robotic process automation (RPA) solution. This tool helps marketers process large volumes of data, optimize campaigns, improve customer engagement, and streamline operations—key factors for success in the competitive and regulated sectors Coeptis serves. Price Action: COEP shares are trading lower by 22.5% to $0.1636 at last check Friday. Read Next: Quantum Computing: The New AI? A Look at the Rapidly Expanding Market and Top Stocks For 2025 Photo by solarseven via Shutterstock © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Arm, Qualcomm lawyers grill ex-Apple exec in chip design battleA Walk Through The Orchard: Reflections On Faith And Life As I returned to reality, I felt an unexpected sense of tranquillity. All my worries and uneasiness had vanished, replaced by a deep sense of peace. A few weeks ago, I strolled through my in-laws’ dense apple orchard, located just a few kilometres from my residence, my mind burdened with negative thoughts. The apple harvest had already concluded, and the trees were bare of any fruit. My father-in-law had hired a well-known local pruner who was preparing to prune the trees. With a faint glimmer of hope of finding any unharvested red delicacies, I ventured deep into the orchard. As my eyes scanned the branches, I chanced upon a spider meticulously spinning a web from the proteinaceous silk extruding from its spinnerets. The spider was indeed a clever architect, suspending its thin and intricately woven masterpiece between the neighbouring branches of two nearby trees. While the spider may have woven its creation to snare its prey, create a resting place for its young, or shelter itself from predators, for me, the web served a different purpose. As I watched the eight-limbed arthropod weaving its intricate trap, transfixed and mesmerized by its artistry, I felt as though I was transported across centuries to a different era. I found myself standing a few kilometres from the holy city of Makkah, in front of a cave named after the mountain—Ghaar-e-Soor. The cave resonated with amazingly beautiful voices that moved my inner soul and captivated my heart. I drew closer to the cave and strained my ears to listen. Who possessed such unparalleled beauty in their voice? What message did they convey? These questions intrigued me. As I listened intently, the words became clearer: “Oh Prophet of Allah! If some of them lower their sight, they will see us.” “Silence, Abu Bakr! What do you think of those with whom the third is Allah?” Ah, it was our Beloved Prophet, the Mohsin-e-Insaniyat, the Seal of the Prophets, Muhammad Rasoolullah (SAW), and his close companion, the leader of the truthful, Sideeq-e-Akbar, Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA). I had found the answer to my first question, but new questions arose. What were they doing in the cave? Who were they hiding from? I was eager to knock on the mouth of the cave, enter, kiss their feet and ask my questions. But my inner self stopped me. It resonated with several thoughts: Was I worthy of standing in front of the most noble fugitives? Did I qualify, even in the slightest, to call myself a true Ummati of the Beloved Prophet? What if he (SAW) pointed out my wrongdoings? As I reflected on my deeds, I found them riddled with dark spots. The feeling of shame reduced me to a deeply humble and contrite state. Overwhelmed with reverence, I lacked the courage to face my Beloved Prophet (SAW). Silently, I retreated, but not before casting one last look at the abode of the most loved and noble fugitives in history. I beheld the mouth of the cave, covered by a spider web, with the proud spider lying beside it like a triumphant soldier after a hard-fought battle. Perplexed and moved by the experience, I wandered from place to place, city to city, and land to land, seeking answers. Luckily, my journey brought me to Baghdad, the city of Iraq, where I met one of the most venerated intellectual figures in Islamic history, Imam Ahmad (May Allah be pleased with him). After exchanging greetings, I shared my experience and pleaded for answers. Imam Ahmad listened to me patiently, offered me a glass of water, and then handed me a book, politely asking me to read the hadith pertaining to the Prophet’s (SAW) overnight stay at Ghaar-e-Soor. In that particular hadith, Imam Ahmad narrated from Ibn Abbas (RA): One night in Makkah, the Quraysh gathered to plot against Prophet Muhammad (SAW) due to his rising popularity and the daily influx of new followers into Islam. Some suggested imprisoning him, others advocated for his execution or exile. However, Allah informed the Prophet (SAW) of their devilish plans. That night, on the Prophet’s (SAW) instructions, Hazrat Ali (RA) slept in his bed while the Prophet (SAW), accompanied by his sincerest companion, Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA), set out southwards. They climbed the lofty peak of Jabl-e-Soor and took refuge in a cave. The next morning, the disbelievers attacked Hazrat Ali (RA), mistaking him for the Prophet (SAW). Upon realising their error, they launched an intense search for the Prophet, scouring the mountain and passing by the cave. But seeing a spider’s web covering the cave’s entrance, they assumed no one had entered and abandoned their search. The Prophet (SAW) and his companion remained safe in the cave for three nights—a divine miracle indeed. I closed the book, satisfied with the answers I had sought. Now it was time to reflect on the episode of Ghaar-e-Soor. It taught me valuable lessons, such as having unwavering faith in Allah, no matter the circumstances. Allah says in the Quran, “Indeed, with hardship comes ease.” It also reminded me of the virtue of patience, as Allah promises, “Innallaha ma’as sabireen”—”Surely, Allah is with those who are patient.” Furthermore, it reinforced the importance of seeking guidance, help, and protection from Allah alone. Regarding the Prophet’s (SAW) safe escape, Allah says in the Quran (36:9): “And We have put a barrier before them and a barrier behind them, and We have covered them up so that they cannot see.” Just as Allah protected His Prophet (SAW) and his companion from the Quraysh by ordering a spider to weave a web, He is there for all of us. With firm belief in Him, we can overcome the most challenging situations in life. He will guide us and provide solutions. Suddenly, a chilly breeze swept through the orchard, rustling the leaves and shaking the branches. A nearby branch brushed against my shoulder, pulling me back to the present. As I returned to reality, I felt an unexpected sense of tranquillity. All my worries and uneasiness had vanished, replaced by a deep sense of peace. I took a moment to express my gratitude to Allah for the countless blessings He had bestowed upon me. With a heart full of joy and appreciation, I made my way back home. The writer is a teacher Bashir Ahmad Dar [email protected]Target Co. ( NYSE:TGT – Free Report ) – Roth Capital lowered their Q1 2026 earnings per share (EPS) estimates for Target in a research report issued on Thursday, November 21st. Roth Capital analyst W. Kirk now expects that the retailer will post earnings per share of $2.16 for the quarter, down from their prior forecast of $2.45. The consensus estimate for Target’s current full-year earnings is $9.55 per share. Roth Capital also issued estimates for Target’s Q2 2026 earnings at $2.76 EPS. Target ( NYSE:TGT – Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 20th. The retailer reported $1.85 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.30 by ($0.45). Target had a net margin of 4.18% and a return on equity of 33.10%. The business had revenue of $25.23 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $25.87 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $2.10 EPS. The company’s revenue for the quarter was up .9% compared to the same quarter last year. Read Our Latest Report on Target Target Stock Performance NYSE TGT opened at $125.01 on Friday. Target has a 52-week low of $120.21 and a 52-week high of $181.86. The stock has a market cap of $57.59 billion, a PE ratio of 12.91, a P/E/G ratio of 2.03 and a beta of 1.24. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $151.27 and a 200-day moving average of $149.69. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.95, a quick ratio of 0.27 and a current ratio of 0.90. Target Announces Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 10th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, November 20th will be issued a dividend of $1.12 per share. This represents a $4.48 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.58%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, November 20th. Target’s payout ratio is presently 46.28%. Insider Buying and Selling at Target In related news, insider Richard H. Gomez sold 6,348 shares of Target stock in a transaction on Friday, September 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $157.17, for a total transaction of $997,715.16. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 123,551 shares of the company’s stock, valued at $19,418,510.67. This trade represents a 4.89 % decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website . Also, CAO Matthew A. Liegel sold 1,000 shares of the business’s stock in a transaction on Friday, August 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $153.13, for a total transaction of $153,130.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief accounting officer now owns 7,276 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,114,173.88. The trade was a 12.08 % decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . In the last quarter, insiders have sold 52,348 shares of company stock worth $8,290,995. Insiders own 0.15% of the company’s stock. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Target A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Westside Investment Management Inc. increased its stake in shares of Target by 5.6% in the 3rd quarter. Westside Investment Management Inc. now owns 1,684 shares of the retailer’s stock valued at $257,000 after acquiring an additional 90 shares in the last quarter. Invst LLC boosted its stake in Target by 2.4% during the third quarter. Invst LLC now owns 11,760 shares of the retailer’s stock worth $1,833,000 after acquiring an additional 276 shares in the last quarter. Soltis Investment Advisors LLC bought a new stake in Target in the third quarter valued at $326,000. Rehmann Capital Advisory Group raised its holdings in shares of Target by 234.3% during the third quarter. Rehmann Capital Advisory Group now owns 7,237 shares of the retailer’s stock valued at $1,159,000 after purchasing an additional 5,072 shares during the period. Finally, TD Private Client Wealth LLC boosted its position in shares of Target by 4.8% during the 3rd quarter. TD Private Client Wealth LLC now owns 8,140 shares of the retailer’s stock worth $1,269,000 after purchasing an additional 375 shares in the last quarter. 79.73% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Target Company Profile ( Get Free Report ) Target Corporation operates as a general merchandise retailer in the United States. The company offers apparel for women, men, boys, girls, toddlers, and infants and newborns, as well as jewelry, accessories, and shoes; and beauty and personal care, baby gear, cleaning, paper products, and pet supplies. 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