NFC's No. 1 seed comes down to Vikings-Lions showdown at Detroit in Week 18
If finding the right present and making sure the recipient gets it on time leaves you feeling anxious, you’re not alone. More than half of Americans say that gift-giving stresses them out . Concerns about on-time delivery are so common that people share holiday deadlines for each shipping service . And in the event that you can’t meet these deadlines, there are now handy etiquette guides offering advice for how to inform the recipient. If you’ve sent late gifts thanks to shipping delays , depleted stocks or even good old-fashioned procrastination , our new research may offer some welcome news. In a series of studies that will soon be published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology , we found that people overestimate the negative consequences of sending a late gift. Why do people tend to overestimate these consequences? Our findings indicate that when people give presents, they pay more attention to norms about gifting than the recipients do. For example, other researchers have found that people tend to be reluctant to give used products as presents because there’s a norm that gifts should be new. In reality, though, many people are often open to receiving used stuff. We found that this mismatch also applies to beliefs about the importance of timing. Many people worry that a late gift will signal that they don’t care about the recipient. They then fear their relationship will suffer. In reality, though, these fears are largely unfounded. Gift recipients are much less worried about when the gift arrives. Unfortunately, aside from causing unnecessary worry, being overly sensitive about giving a late present can also influence the gift you choose to buy. A U.S. Postal Service worker places packages on a parcel sorting machine on Dec. 12, 2022. Alejandra Villa Loarca/Newsday RM via Getty Images To test how lateness concerns affect gift choice, we conducted an online study before Mother’s Day in 2021. We had 201 adults participate in a raffle. They could choose to send their mother either a cheaper gift basket that would arrive in time for the occasion or a more expensive one that would arrive late. Concerns about lateness led nearly 70 per cent of the participants to choose the less expensive and more prompt option. In another study, we conducted the same kind of raffle for Father’s Day and got similar results. Aside from finding that people will choose inferior items to ensure speedier delivery, we also found that givers may feel that they can compensate for lateness with effort. In another online study of 805 adults, we discovered that participants were less likely to expect a late delivery to damage a relationship if they signaled their care for the recipient in a different way. For example, they believed that putting an item together by hand, versus purchasing it preassembled, could compensate for a present being belated. If sending something late isn’t as bad as expected, you may wonder whether it’s OK to simply not send anything at all. We’d caution against going that route. In another online study of 903 participants, we found that recipients believed that not receiving anything at all was more likely to harm a relationship than receiving something as much as two months late. That is, late is better than never as far as those receiving gifts are concerned. You may want to keep that in mind, even if that new gaming console , action figure or virtual reality headset is sold out this holiday season. It could still be a welcome surprise if it arrives in January or February. Rebecca Walker Reczek _, Professor of Marketing, The Ohio State University_ Cory Haltman , Ph.D. Candidate in Marketing, The Ohio State University Grant Donnelly, Assistant Professor of Marketing, The Ohio State University This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article .Party City to close its stores as company files for bankruptcy LOS ANGELES (AP) — Party City announced that it's going to “wind down” its retail and wholesale operations as it prepares to shutter nearly 700 stores nationwide. The company said Saturday it has also filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection "to maximize value for the benefit of the company’s stakeholders.” The New Jersey-based retailer said it will keep more than 95% of its 12,000 employees to help with the process of closing down. Customers have flocked to Party City for Halloween costumes, favors for children’s birthday parties and decorations for New Year’s Eve celebrations for nearly 40 years. It has faced growing competition from Walmart and Target and from occasion-based pop-up stores such as Spirit Halloween. A million taxpayers will soon receive up to $1,400 from the IRS. Who are they and why now? Approximately 1 million taxpayers will automatically receive special payments of up to $1,400 from the IRS in the coming weeks. The money will be directly deposited into eligible people’s bank accounts or sent in the mail by a paper check. Most people shouldn't get their hopes up about receiving the cash. The IRS says it’s distributing about $2.4 billion to taxpayers who failed to claim a Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns after missing one of the COVID stimulus payments or receiving less than the full amount. The IRS says most taxpayers eligible for the federal stimulus payments received them. Bluesky finds with growth comes growing pains — and bots Bluesky has seen its user base soar since the U.S. presidential election, boosted by people seeking refuge from Elon Musk’s X, or wanting an alternative to Meta’s Threads and its algorithms. The platform grew out of the company then known as Twitter and was eventually intended to replace it. While this is still very much a pie in the sky, Bluesky’s growth trajectory could make it a serious competitor to other social platforms. With growth, though, comes growing pains. It’s not just human users who’ve been flocking to Bluesky but also bots, including those designed to create partisan division or direct users to junk websites. 'Sonic 3' bests 'Mufasa: The Lion King' at the box office NEW YORK (AP) — In the holiday season battle of big-budget family movies, Paramount Pictures’ “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” sped past the Walt Disney Co.’s “Mufasa: The Lion King” to take the top spot at the box office. The results came just ahead of the lucrative Christmas corridor in theaters. According to studio estimates, “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” debuted with $62 million in ticket sales over the weekend. “Mufasa,” however, was humbled in its opening weekend, coming in notably shy of expectations. It returned just $35 million in domestic ticket sales. Amazon and Starbucks workers are on strike. Trump might have something to do with it Amazon delivery drivers and Starbucks baristas are on strike in a handful of U.S. cities as they seek to exert pressure on the two major companies to recognize them as unionized employees or to meet demands for an inaugural labor contract. Strikes during busy periods like the holidays can help unions exercise leverage during negotiations or garner support from sympathetic consumers. One expert says he thinks workers at both companies are “desperate” to make progress before President-elect Donald Trump can appoint a Republican majority to the National Labor Relations Board. Workers at Starbucks, Amazon and some other prominent consumer brands are fighting for their first contracts after several locations voted to unionize. Farmers are still reeling months after Hurricane Helene ravaged crops across the South LYONS, Ga. (AP) — Farmers in Georgia are still reeling more than two months after Hurricane Helene blew away cotton, destroyed ripened squash and cucumbers and uprooted pecan trees and timber. Agribusinesses in other Southern states saw costly damage as well. The University of Georgia estimates the September storm inflicted $5.5 billion in direct losses and indirect costs in Georgia alone. In rural Toombs County, Chris Hopkins just finished harvesting his ravaged cotton crop and figures he lost half of it, costing him about $430,000. Poultry grower Jeffrey Pridgen in Georgia's Coffee County had four of his 12 chicken houses destroyed and others badly damaged. Farmers say more government disaster assistance is needed. Ex-OpenAI engineer who raised legal concerns about the technology he helped build has died Suchir Balaji, a former OpenAI engineer and whistleblower who helped train the artificial intelligence systems behind ChatGPT and later said he believed those practices violated copyright law, has died, according to his parents and San Francisco officials. He was 26. He was well-regarded by colleagues at the San Francisco company, where a co-founder this week called him one of OpenAI’s strongest contributors who was essential to developing some of its products. But he grew disillusioned with the company and told The Associated Press this fall he would “try to testify” in copyright infringement cases against it. Federal Reserve's preferred inflation gauge shows price pressures eased last month WASHINGTON (AP) — An inflation gauge that is closely watched by the Federal Reserve barely rose last month in a sign that price pressures cooled after two months of sharp gains. Prices rose just 0.1% from October to November. Excluding the volatile food and energy categories, prices also ticked up just 0.1%, after two months of outsize 0.3% gains. The milder inflation figures arrived two days after Federal Reserve officials, led by Chair Jerome Powell, rocked financial markets by revealing that they now expect to cut their key interest rate just two times in 2025, down from four in their previous estimate. Albania to close TikTok for a year blaming it for promoting violence among children TIRANA, Albania (AP) — Albania’s prime minister says the government will shut down video service TikTok for one year, blaming it for inciting violence and bullying, especially among children. Albanian authorities held 1,300 meetings with teachers and parents following the stabbing death of a teenager in mid-November by another teenager following a quarrel that started on TikTok. Prime Minister Edi Rama, speaking at a meeting with teachers and parents, said TikTok “would be fully closed for all. ... There will be no TikTok in the Republic of Albania.” Rama says the ban will begin sometime next year. Albanian children comprise the largest group of TikTok users in the country, according to domestic researchers. Stock market today: Wall Street rises to turn a dismal week into just a bad one NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks rose to turn what would have been one of the market’s worst weeks of the year into just a pretty bad one. The S&P 500 rallied 1.1% Friday to shave its loss for the week down to 2%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped nearly 500 points, and the Nasdaq composite gained 1%. A report said a measure of inflation the Federal Reserve likes to use was slightly lower last month than expected. It’s an encouraging signal after the Fed shocked markets Wednesday by saying worries about inflation could keep it from cutting interest rates in 2025 as much as earlier thought.
BlockDAG’s recent Ask Me Anything (AMA) session offered an in-depth look at the project’s progress, vision, and future plans, leaving the crypto community with plenty to discuss. The team covered several crucial topics, including strategies for exchange listings, the launch of a $10 million developer grant program, and the project's strong dedication to decentralization. By addressing these areas, BlockDAG (BDAG) showcased its commitment to building a robust blockchain ecosystem. Here's a closer look at the key takeaways from this insightful AMA session. Building Accessibility Through Exchange Listings The AMA revealed BlockDAG’s plans to introduce BDAG coins on ten tier-two and tier-three exchanges before its mainnet launch in 2025. This phased approach aims to make the coins more accessible while enhancing liquidity. “Accessibility for users is our priority over rushing into top-tier exchanges,” a spokesperson stated. This balanced strategy shows a focus on sustainable growth. The results are already evident, with tier-two exchanges showing interest and discussions underway with tier-one platforms. Though details remain confidential, the emphasis remains on regulatory alignment and market readiness. This steady approach ensures BlockDAG builds a robust trading ecosystem while expanding its reach. $10M Developer Support for Innovation A major highlight of the AMA was BlockDAG’s announcement of its $10 million developer grant. This initiative encourages developers to create decentralized apps (dApps) and enhance infrastructure within the ecosystem. BlockDAG has partnered with platforms like Hacker Earth to host hackathons and offer resources for emerging projects. These collaborations aim to create an inclusive and dynamic space for developers to explore new ideas. “Developers play a crucial role in blockchain innovation, and this grant is our way of supporting their efforts,” the team shared. The initiative also aligns with BlockDAG’s goal of fostering diverse applications across industries like gaming, finance, and supply chain. This grant program strengthens BlockDAG’s ecosystem while advancing its mission to decentralize innovation. Decentralization at the Heart of BlockDAG BlockDAG highlighted its commitment to decentralization during the AMA, with its adoption of a Proof-of-Work (PoW) consensus mechanism standing as a key example. While Proof-of-Stake (PoS) gains attention for energy efficiency, PoW was chosen for its security and trust. “PoW provides the trust and security needed for a truly decentralized system,” a representative explained. This decision underscores BlockDAG’s focus on creating a secure network free from centralized control. The team also pointed out the potential risks of centralized validators in blockchain projects. By combining PoW with advanced SHA-3 (KK-256) algorithms, BlockDAG offers a scalable and secure network for its users. Presale Milestones and Growing Community Trust BlockDAG’s presale has already raised $170.4 million, selling over 17.4 billion BDAG coins at a price of $0.0234. With a 2,240% surge, the presale reflects strong momentum. Additionally, miner sales have hit $6 million, with nearly 15,000 miners sold. Transparency and community engagement have driven this success. The team’s dedication to regular updates and events like the AMA fosters trust and strengthens connections. By prioritizing accessibility and community needs, BlockDAG has built a reputation for reliability. This transparent approach has not only boosted presale numbers but also positioned BlockDAG as a trusted project. What’s Next for BlockDAG? As the 2025 approaches, BlockDAG is focused on ensuring readiness across all fronts. The testnet, launched earlier this year, continues to receive praise for its scalability and features like EVM compatibility, smart contracts, and NFT minting. Moving forward, the project plans to expand developer engagement, refine mining processes, and introduce more initiatives for its community. These efforts aim to ensure BlockDAG meets real-world needs while staying technologically advanced. Conclusion: A Promising Path Ahead BlockDAG’s AMA highlighted its priorities and progress, from exchange plans to decentralization efforts. These updates show a clear commitment to sustainable growth and community engagement. By maintaining transparency and trust, BlockDAG is building a blockchain ecosystem designed for long-term success. With the mainnet launch on the horizon, the project’s strategic planning and active community involvement signal a bright future in the blockchain space. Presale: https://purchase.blockdag.network Website: https://blockdag.network Telegram: https://t.me/blockDAGnetworkOfficial Discord: https://discord.gg/Q7BxghMVyu Join our WhatsApp Channel to get the latest news, exclusives and videos on WhatsApp _____________ Disclaimer: Analytics Insight does not provide financial advice or guidance. Also note that the cryptocurrencies mentioned/listed on the website could potentially be scams, i.e. designed to induce you to invest financial resources that may be lost forever and not be recoverable once investments are made. You are responsible for conducting your own research (DYOR) before making any investments. Read more here.US confirms billions in chips funds to Samsung, Texas Instruments
Ask Lisi: Wild, distasteful stories on social media a reason to log off Sometimes it’s hard to figure out what’s true online, which is a good reason to take a break and/or restrict what you might come across Lisi Tesher Dec 28, 2024 7:00 AM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Advice columnist Lisi Tesher Listen to this article 00:03:41 Dear Lisi: I know social media is garbage, often misleading, false news, made up stories, but some of it is so mind-boggling, I can’t stop thinking about it. Recently there was a “journalistic” piece, a snippet from a talk show, where a woman was bragging that for her birthday, she gave herself the present of having sex with 40 men – in one day! And that afterwards, she and her husband went out for a celebratory birthday dinner. What?!? How can that be true? And whether it is or isn’t, why is it being shown across social media sites? Why is this woman bragging about this behaviour? And what sort of husband would think this was a good gift? I’m sickened thinking about it, but it’s like a traffic accident I can’t stop ogling. What has technology done to our sense of decency? Beyond If you’re talking about the episode of ITV’s This Morning with Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield that aired two years ago, I saw that and also found it shocking, disturbing and repulsive. Is it true? Who knows? And how will we ever know unless it was filmed, and I’d rather not know the answer to that. Why this woman thought that sleeping with 40 men in one day was a good idea, I could not begin to unpack. But it’s her life. I suggest taking a break from social media. When you return, do so thoughtfully. Perhaps even put restrictions on your phone like you would for your children. Dear Lisi: My girlfriend and I are both restless sleepers and are both going through a phase in our lives where we wake up hot. Her answer to this is to reach over and get intimate. At first, I thought it was hot and responded in kind. But now I find I’m just too hot and the sweatiness isn’t all that sexy. How do I tell her that middle-of-the-night sweaty sex isn’t worth waking up for? Too hot to be hot Your description of waking up hot sounds as though you two are in a perimenopausal stage, which is the transition period leading up to menopause. It can last a year, or even a decade, and it can start as early as your 30s, but for most women, it’s in the mid to late 40s. Some symptoms of perimenopause are trouble with sleep (check), night sweats (check) and changes in sexual desire (check). But knowing the reasons for these changes doesn’t change how you feel in the middle of the night. Talk to your girlfriend about that. It’s not about how much you love her or want to be intimate. It’s the combination of timing, hormonal changes and desire. Work through this phase TOGETHER. There will be more changes coming and dealing with them as a team will do wonders for your relationship. FEEDBACK Regarding the 35-year-old who lives at home (Nov. 4): Reader – “I don’t know all the circumstances of why you’re living with them at 35 — and there could well be good reasons, such as caring for them, or the economy or cultural considerations. But I’ll put this out there: A dear friend of mine lived with his mother through to the end of her life, and over time, the dynamic shifted to him taking care of her. Throughout that entire time, he still had a fully active social and personal life, including plenty of opportunities to host gatherings and partners at his home. “The big secret? He would treat his mom to a night out with a friend. Gift certificates for dinner and a movie or a show. If you want some alone time at the house, you can buy it!” Lisi Tesher is an advice columnist based in Toronto. Email questions to [email protected] . See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message More Life Your Good Health: The use of DMSO isn’t recommended based on potential harm Dec 28, 2024 6:30 AM December 28: Your Daily Horoscope Dec 28, 2024 12:00 AM John Ducker: Drivers should adjust to everyday challenges Dec 27, 2024 7:30 AM Featured Flyer
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Benzinga examined the prospects for many investors’ favorite stocks over the last week — here’s a look at some of our top stories. Major U.S. indexes ended the week higher, with the Dow up 0.4%, S&P 500 gaining 0.7%, and Nasdaq rising 0.8%, breaking a three-week decline streak. The S&P 500’s strong Christmas Eve performance fueled hopes for a “Santa Rally,” a historical trend showing gains 64 out of 96 years during December’s final week. Markets started recovering from the Fed’s hawkish rate cut signals but faced renewed volatility Friday, tempering Santa Rally expectations. Despite near-term uncertainty, 2024 remains exceptional, with the S&P 500 matching last year’s 24% gain and U.S. stocks outperforming global markets by the widest margin since 1997. Benzinga provides daily reports on the stocks most popular with investors. Here are a few of this past week’s most bullish and bearish posts that are worth another look. The Bulls “ AMD And Micron Are Top Analyst Picks For AI And Next-Gen Tech Growth ,” by Anusuya Lahiri , highlights Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. AMD being a top 2025 analyst’s pick for CPU/GPU momentum and AI edge opportunities, and Micron Technology, Inc. MU for its dominance in high-bandwidth memory. “ Dogecoin Whales Load Up Coins Worth $92 Million Over 4 Days As Meme King Outperforms Bitcoin, Ethereum In 2024 ,” by Shivdeep Dhaliwal , reports that whale investors acquired 270 million Dogecoin DOGE/USD , worth $92 million, over four days, boosting DOGE's 274% YTD rally, far outpacing Bitcoin BTC/USD and Ethereum ETH/USD gains of 132% and 53%, respectively. “ Quantum Computing Stock QUBT Soars 157% While Bitcoin Drops Post Google's ‘Willow’ Reveal ,” by Aniket Verma , highlights Quantum Computing Inc. QUBT surging after Google's “Willow” chip breakthrough, outperforming key indices, while Bitcoin faced a downturn amid concerns Willow’s quantum power could undermine cryptographic security. For additional bullish calls of the past week, check out the following: Top 7 Blue-Chip Stocks With The Best Return Potential Going Into 2025 GM’s $60,000 Cadillac Lyriq Was Its Best Selling EV In 2024 As Of Q3: Is Premium The Way To Go For EV Makers? Why Trump’s Return To Office Could Drive Gold Demand In 2025 The Bears “ MicroStrategy Sinks After Nasdaq 100 Inclusion: Bitcoin Bet Under Fire ,” by Piero Cingari , reports MicroStrategy Inc. MSTR shares dropping 8.5% after its Nasdaq 100 debut, as analysts question its $561 million Bitcoin purchase at a 12% premium to current levels, marking its smallest acquisition amid declining stock performance. “ Are Sub-$30,000 Cars Disappearing? Trump’s Tariff Plans Could Reshape US Auto Market ,” by Chris Katje , explores Donald Trump 's proposed 25% tariffs on Mexican and Canadian imports, potentially pushing the price of vehicles like Ford Motor Co. ‘s F Maverick and Honda Motor Co. ‘s HMC Civic above $30,000, with one-third of sub-$30,000 cars currently made in Mexico. “ Tesla Shorts Gordon Johnson And James Chanos Skeptical Of Robotaxi Potential Amid Usage Data Debate ,” by Kaustubh Bagalkote , details criticism from Gordon Johnson of GLJ Research and short-seller James Chanos , who argue Tesla Inc. ‘s TSLA robotaxi ambitions overpromise revenue potential, citing New York City ride-share data. For more bearish takes, be sure to see these posts: Lyft Sues San Francisco Over $100 Million Tax Bill, Says Payments To Drivers By Passengers Misclassified US Markets Likely Headed For 10% Correction, Says Jay Woods: Trump’s Tariff Plans, Musk’s DOGE Advocacy Among Contributing Factors ‘Zelle Became A Gold Mine For Fraudsters’: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Lawsuit Keep up with all the latest breaking news and trading ideas by following Benzinga on Twitter . Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney. This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Behind a record surge in cocoa prices this year, a corner of financial markets that drives the cost of chocolate underwent a seismic shift: the hedge funds that oiled its workings headed for the exit. Confectionery prices, from candy bars to hot chocolate, are heavily influenced by futures contracts for cocoa beans. These financial instruments, traded in London and New York, allow cocoa buyers and sellers to determine a price for the commodity, forming a benchmark for sales across the world. In the middle of last year, hedge funds – a class of investors that use privately pooled money to make speculative bets – started pulling back from trading cocoa futures because price swings in the market were raising their cost of trading and making it harder to make profits. They accelerated their retreat in the first half of this year as cocoa prices hit a record in April, driven by supply issues in West Africa, according to Reuters calculations based on data from the U.S. Commodity Trading Futures Commission (CFTC), which oversees the New York market, and ICE Futures Europe, an exchange that compiles figures for trading in London. “This market became increasingly volatile,” said Razvan Remsing, director of investment solutions at Aspect Capital, a $9.3 billion London-based fund that uses coding and algorithms to find trades. “Our system’s response was to trim our positions.” Aspect slashed the exposure to cocoa in its Diversified Fund from nearly 5% of its net asset value in January to less than one percent after April, according to a presentation reviewed by Reuters. The departure of hedge funds and other speculators caused liquidity in the market to slump, making it harder to buy and sell, stoking volatility to record highs and fueling the price spike still further. Reuters spoke to a dozen fund executives, cocoa market brokers and traders who said the retreat – described here in detail for the first time — has left lasting strains on the market. That has resulted in greater gaps between the price at which cocoa can be bought and sold, and has prompted some industry players to seek alternative instruments, leaving a lasting impact on the sector. This month, the number of futures contracts held globally at the end of a given trading day – a key indicator of market health known as “open interest” – hit its lowest since at least 2014, the global figures show, a sign the futures market overall has shrunk significantly. Data prior to 2014 was not available. On Wednesday, New York cocoa futures prices topped their April peak. The futures market is a crucial cog in the cocoa industry, allowing producers and chocolate companies to hedge their exposure to swings in the price of beans. Futures dictate income for the farmers and low-income nations that produce the world’s cocoa – the majority of which comes from Ghana and Ivory Coast in West Africa. Hedge funds and speculators have become bigger players in commodity markets over the past two decades as the value of their overall assets has grown. But, as purely financial investors, they have no need to remain in the market at times of stress. The impact of hedge funds’ exit illustrates how reliant trading has become on these lightly regulated funds that increasingly shape financial markets. Reuters has reported this year on how hedge funds are piling into the euro zone’s $10 trillion government bond market, drawing regulatory scrutiny, and on their growing sway in European stock trading. Contacted by Reuters, the CFTC declined to comment. A representative for Britain’s regulator, the Financial Conduct Authority, said that, in line with its market supervision practice, “we have been working with trading venues and participants to monitor the orderliness of the market.” Bernhard Tröster, an economist at the Austrian Foundation for Development Research (ÖFSE) in Vienna, who last year co-authored a paper on the growing role of financial actors in commodities derivatives markets, said the withdrawal of hedge funds had helped fuel the crisis in cocoa markets. “When markets became so volatile this year, it was clear how hedge funds and other financial actors have become so important,” he said. SUPPLY ISSUES HIT PRICES Hedge funds and other speculators’ share of the market peaked at 36% in May 2023, the highest in at least a decade, after which their retreat began, the global data calculated by Reuters show. Then, at the start of this year, global cocoa prices soared after top producer Ivory Coast was hit by adverse weather and disease. Number two producer Ghana fared even worse, with smuggling, illegal gold mining on cocoa farms and sector mismanagement added to the mix. In early February, cocoa prices surpassed a previous record high set in 1977. Executives at five hedge funds told Reuters they began to withdraw as volatility grew and the cost of trading increased. When markets become too hot, exchanges require speculators to increase the amount of collateral they put down per futures contract, raising their costs. Lawrence Abrams, president of Absolute Return Capital Management in Chicago, said the cost of trading a single cocoa futures contract soared from $1,980 in January to $25,971 by June. High prices and volatility, combined with falling liquidity, began to affect “our system’s trading and risk management decisions,” Abrams said, whose fund sold out before prices peaked in April. He declined to detail how much his fund managed, citing regulatory reasons. Many hedge funds promise investors they will not exceed a certain amount of risk, meaning that if a certain market becomes too volatile they have to reduce their exposure. The difference between prices offered and sought for futures, the so-called “bid-ask spread”, soared following the hedge funds’ withdrawal. That has made trading harder: lower liquidity and wider spreads mean traders struggle to execute large trades without moving overall prices. “You need speculators,” said Vladimir Zientek, a trading associate at brokerage firm StoneX, referring to hedge funds, which are not among his clients. “Without speculators in the market, you lose a lot of liquidity, which allows for these very wide and erratic market swings.” By mid-April, New York contracts hit a then-record above $12,000, up three-fold from January, prompting hedge funds to sell down their positions. “Trends don’t last forever,” said Remsing at Aspect Capital. “Stay too long in size and you stand to give back all your gains.” Hedge funds’ share of the cocoa futures market dropped to 7% in late May, its lowest in at least a decade, the global data show. One European broker, who requested anonymity to discuss clients’ trades, said that panic in the market increased in March and April as liquidity drained away. Volatility in cocoa futures hit an all-time high in May, up five-fold from a year earlier, according to data from the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG). Daily average price swings that month neared $800, some 15 times the levels of a year earlier, according to a Reuters analysis of figures from market data provider PortaraCQG. RISKIER MARKETS For major trading houses that buy and sell cocoa beans – a group that includes Singapore’s Olam (OLAG.SI), Switzerland’s Barry Callebaut (BARN.S), and U.S.-based Cargill – the liquidity drain and associated price surge exacerbated the more than-$1 billion dollar hit they took on their futures positions. The losses came earlier this year after Ghana, following a disastrous harvest in the October 2023 to September 2024 season, delayed delivery on nearly half the beans the nation had pledged to sell, upsetting cocoa traders’ futures market strategies. These traders typically use futures to lock in prices achieved for cocoa beans, or to hedge against the risk of falling prices. But that strategy unraveled as Ghana delayed its deliveries. Traders were forced to liquidate, at steep losses, short positions for the month of expected delivery, and take new short positions. The market turmoil has prompted some trading houses and producers to seek alternatives to futures. Australian investment bank Macquarie, a big player in commodity markets, told Reuters it sold over-the-counter products to trading houses, processors and chocolate makers when cocoa volatility hit record levels this year, and demand remains high. One major agri-commodities trader is now using such bespoke contracts, according to a source who requested anonymity citing sensitive commercial relationships. They declined to comment on the magnitude of the business. Such products typically protect buyers against narrower price swings than is possible with futures, limiting their use, a European broker said, declining to be identified to freely discuss clients’ activity. ‘COCOA TOURISTS’ Some hedge funds have returned to the market. Along with other speculators that trade using investors’ cash, they accounted for 22% of futures trading this month, according to the global data. But buying and selling in the cocoa market’s altered landscape has become harder. Zientek, the trading associate at StoneX, said bid-ask spreads can now top 20 “ticks” – $200 per contract – compared to about 2-4 ticks before cocoa’s rally to record highs. “This makes larger orders tougher to execute without seeing an immediate distortion in the market,” he said. Daniel Mackenzie, managing director of Cocoa Hub, a UK-based company that sources and sells cocoa beans to artisan chocolate makers, said higher and more volatile prices were forcing small and medium-sized makers to decide between passing costs to clients or reducing product sizes. One chocolate maker he worked with has been shuttered and another sold, he said, without providing further details. As hedge funds exited, short-term investors such as day-traders – which buy and sell assets within a single trading day – have stayed in the market, the European broker and the broker at the agri-commodities bank said. The cohort that includes day-traders this month accounted for 5% of the market, about the same as the start of the year, the global data show. Day-traders cannot fulfill the liquidity-provision role traditionally played by hedge funds, the two brokers said. “I like to call them ‘cocoa tourists’ – they move in, hold a position for a day or two, then move out,” the European broker said. Watch the latest edition of BizTech below: Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel20 Autocorrect Jokes That’ll Hope You Leaving in Snitches!TFI International Inc. (TFII) to Issue Quarterly Dividend of $0.45 on January 15th
UK watchdog flags concerns in $35 billion Synopsys-Ansys dealBoston Beer (NYSE:SAM) Updates FY24 Earnings GuidancePresident Joe Biden's administration said Friday that it has cemented deals for billions in funding to South Korean semiconductor giant Samsung Electronics and Texas Instruments to boost their chipmaking facilities in the United States. US officials have been working to solidify Biden's legacy to bolster domestic semiconductor manufacturing ahead of President-elect Donald Trump's White House return -- and these agreements are among the latest efforts to do so. The United States has been trying to reduce its dependence on other countries for semiconductors, while also seeking to maintain its scientific and technological edge as competition with China intensifies. Samsung's award of up to $4.7 billion in direct funding goes towards its effort to grow its Texas presence into a full-fledged operation for developing and producing leading-edge chips, said the US Commerce Department. The funding will supplement the company's investment of more than $37 billion in the coming years, the department added. Samsung's expansion will help "ensure we have a steady, domestic supply of the most advanced semiconductors that are essential to AI and national security, while also creating tens of thousands of good-paying jobs," Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said in a statement. National Economic Advisor Lael Brainard added that Samsung is "the only semiconductor company that is a leader in both advanced memory and advanced logic chips." In a separate notice, the Commerce Department said it also had finalized an award of up to $1.6 billion for Texas Instruments, supporting its efforts to build new facilities. Raimondo noted that shortages of current-generation semiconductors were a problem during the supply chain disruptions sparked by the Covid-19 pandemic, adding that TI now plans to grow its US capacity in making these devices. The Biden administration has unveiled billions in grants through the CHIPS and Science Act, a major law passed during the veteran Democrat's term aimed at strengthening the US semiconductor industry. Officials have managed to get many deals across the finish line before Trump returns to the Oval Office, awarding the vast majority of more than $36 billion in proposed incentives that have been allocated. The finalized deals mean funds can be disbursed as companies hit project milestones. bys/sst
Campaigners called for more investment in Scotland’s rail services after figures appeared to show the performance of the state train operator is declining amid cancellations caused by industrial action, driver shortages and ageing stock. The official rail-performance indicator — known as PPM (public performance measure) — shows a deterioration in ScotRail services to lower levels than under the previous private-sector ownership. The network experienced 19 cancellations on Sunday due to a lack of drivers willing to work overtime on Sunday rest days and high winds, although disruption was less than the same day on the previous weekend. But the PPM figures show a decline over a longer period, with delivery stalling across key performance areas, resulting in a service now even worse in terms of reliability than it was under Dutch-owned Abellio. ScotRail was taken into public ownership by the SNP government in 2022 partly because of performance concerns.
Among e-readers, there's a reason why the Kindle is leading the pack. While it wasn't the first out of the gate, Amazon quickly established its Kindle line as a gadget that many people are willing to pay for. From going weeks on a single charge, not scandalizing old ladies in transit with your book covers, and having access to endless content from the Kindle Unlimited library, there's a lot to love about having it within reach. These days, there are several models available in the market that fit various budgets with different sizes and features. Just this year, Amazon launched four new models , including the first one that can let you read comics in color. Once you find the right Kindle for you, the next question is how do you make it fit seamlessly into the rest of your life. Apart from learning some of our easy Kindle tricks , like bookmarking pages and using the dictionary, you can also invest in accessories that help elevate the e-reading experience. If you're not sure where to start, we've rounded up some pretty interesting options that fit different kinds of readers, such as those who are always in flying planes, prefer to be lying down, or even like to read during their morning commute. To learn more about our process, you can skip to the end of the article, but if you're keen to know all the unique accessories you can get for yourself (or someone you love), keep on reading. Sometimes, we come across a book series that consumes our lives in an unprecedented way. When I downloaded my first booktok-recommended romantasy series, my Kindle almost didn't leave my mind (and my hand) until I finished all eight books. Admittedly, there were moments when I almost dropped my Kindle in between train tracks or when I bumped into strangers while walking. To keep my Kindle from hitting the pavement (and risking losing my reading progress forever), one of the best investments I've made is a Kindle hand-strap. On Amazon, one option is the MoKo hand-strap , which sells for only $9.99. Designed for 6"-8" e-readers, it also works with other similarly-sized e-readers and tablets, such as the Kobo Nia/Clara HD, Lenovo Tab M7, and Fire Tablet. Weighing a little more than a quarter at 0.28 oz, it's light enough that it won't be hard to use for long periods. Using a plastic bracket that is lined with anti-slip silicone, all you have to do is stretch it in place on both ends of the Kindle, either straight vertically or diagonally. Depending on if you're left or right-handed, you can choose which side is more convenient for you. When it comes to aesthetics, you can get a simple strap or one of its more than two dozen patterned strap options. On Amazon, the MoKo hand-strap has an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 2,000 satisfied readers. In the past, we've mentioned that a common mistake people make with their Kindle is not protecting it enough and exposing it to extreme conditions. If the reason you invested in an e-reader is to read on the go, another Kindle accessory that might low-key save your life is a screen protector. In general, there are plenty of reasons why people get screen protectors for gadgets, such as protecting their devices from drops, scratches, or smudges. But for people who can't put their ebooks down, even at a sunny beach, it can also be a good way to reduce glare. If you own a Kindle Paperwhite Signature, the NuPro screen protector is one of the top Kindle screen protectors on the market. With a reasonably high 4.7 star rating from more than a thousand Paperwhite owners, it retails for $12.99 on Amazon. Apart from its standard protection features, it also has antimicrobial technology, which is perfect for people who like to eat snacks and get their fingers dirty while reading. Out of the box, the NuPro screen protector comes in a set of two, plus tools for installation like the cleaning cloth and applicator. On the other hand, if you're using other Kindle models, NuPro also offers screen protectors for the 9th generation Kindle Oasis (2017) and 10th generation Kindle (2019). Apart from costing about the same price at $12.99, over 2,000 people have rated them similarly at 4.7 stars on average. In the future, there's a chance that technology will progress to the point that we can turn "pages" on our Kindle with just hand gestures (or even just our eyes). For now, we'll have to settle for accessories like the Sycelu remote page-turner . Priced at $19.99, over 2,000 customers have been satisfied with Sycelu's remote control and have given it an average of 4.4 stars. Available in four colors (glossy black, matte black, pink, and white), Sycelu says that it can last months on a single charge. Plus, it has a mute function that you can use to flip pages without alerting the person next to you. If you own an older 7th and 8th generation Kindle model, Sycelu regretfully shares that it won't work. But if you have the Kindle Paperwhite, Kindle Oasis, Kindle Kids, and Kindle Voyage, you're in the clear. Not to mention, it also works with Kobo, another e-reading device that consistently tops many of our Kindle alternative lists. Apart from the e-reader brands, the Sycelu remote control is also designed to be compatible with a host of other devices, like iPads, iPhones, and Android tablets. Personally, I've enjoyed remote control page-turners for two key moments: reading while flying on an airplane or when lying down. There's just something so oddly satisfying when you can be wrapped around a heavy blanket and not have to worry about constantly pulling your hand out of the warmth to flip a page. Speaking of not having to move while reading, the MAGIPEA long arm gooseneck will go perfectly with your remote for an optimal bed rot reading experience. For lazy Kindle readers, you can also attach it to your bed's headboard, which you can use to angle it while lying down. Sold in either black or white, the clamp mount can fit devices from 4.7" to 14", so it can pretty much hold any Kindle model in the market. For smaller models, you'll just have to be mindful about mounting it vertically to avoid falling. In addition, MAGIPEA specifically asks users not to touch the device frequently, but you won't have a problem with this if you plan to use it in tandem with a remote control. Made of a reasonably durable aluminum-magnesium material, it can extend up to 30", but you'll likely need two hands to adjust it. Apart from your bed, other users have reported using it anywhere from coffee tables to outdoor grilling tables. Although it's not exactly super portable in terms of dimensions, it only weighs around 12.3 oz. As of writing, 15,000 people have given the MAGIPEA flexible mount around 4.2 stars. Alternatively, if you don't have anything to clip on, you can still benefit from a gooseneck tablet holder with a built-in stand, like the Lamicall Gooseneck Tablet Holder . While it can only hold up to 10.5" devices, it's more than enough even for Kindle Scribe users and their 10.2" screen. Personally, one of the key reasons I decided to get a Kindle was to be able to read during long flights. In the past, I would bring different books that would take up valuable carry-on space and weight allowance. But when it comes to long-haul flights, it's not always comfortable for your neck to look down at your Kindle. To avoid this, I've learned the magic of a portable tablet holder, like the WixGear airplane tablet holder . Different from the gooseneck table mount, airplane-specific tablet holders are meant to be more portable and foldable. With the WixGear airplane tablet holder, you can attach your Kindle in different ways to match your seat configurations, such as on the tray table, headrest, or chair armrest. Even before the flight, it can be attached to your luggage handle or tables in the airport, as long as there's a 1.5" area to clamp. Meant to fit gadgets 3.5" to 7.67", it won't be able to hold the Kindle Scribe. But it's perfect for people with the 6" Kindle, 6.8" Kindle Paperwhite, and 7" Kindle Oasis. Despite weighing only 6.7 oz, the WixGear tablet holder can also comfortably rotate for multiple viewing angles. So far, more than 350 buyers felt it was worth it for their airplane rides and rated it 4.1 stars. While there are other options on this list that can help hold the Kindle in place on your vanity table, most of them aren't cute (and are likely going to impact your home's visual aesthetic). If you're like me, who is particular with your nightly winding down routine, you'll want a cute way to read on your Kindle while doing your elaborate multi-step skin care. With the SupeDesk tablet pillow stand , you can easily keep reading on your Kindle while layering products and waiting for them to properly absorb. Besides your Kindle, it can fit devices from 4.7" to 13" on its lockable arm, so you can use it for other gadgets like your mobile phone, tablet, or even Nintendo Switch. Apart from being quite functional, the 13" detachable pillow can add a decorative flair to your home. Weighing only 1.5 lbs, the plush surface is also machine washable, so you don't have to worry about doing anything special to clean it. While it also comes with a 5.7" snack bowl, you can definitely use this space to give other things on this list a home, like your Kindle hand strap or remote control. Depending on if you're more of a Glinda or Elphaba, it's available in two colors: pink and green. Selling for $45.99, more than 200 people have rated it a good 4.7 stars, and Amazon shares that most customers are pretty satisfied with it and tend not to return it after purchase. As a hardcore Kindle user, I've experimented with a lot of accessories in the past. When it comes to buying accessories, most people already know that they should get a case to make sure their Kindle is protected. However, I've found that by investing in unique accessories that are more lifestyle-oriented, you're more likely to use your Kindle because it's convenient to access, erasing some of the pain points associated with it. To choose the items on this, we took into consideration the different situations wherein people tend to read with their Kindle e-readers, whether it is in their homes, in transport, or everything in between. In addition, we chose items that have generally positive reviews (or at least four stars on average) from a good sample size of users. It's important to note that knowing what you're like as a reader can help you identify which ones can really move the needle for you and your e-reading experience. That said, making your Kindle feel right for you isn't just a matter of buying more things. For example, we've mentioned other tips to get more out of your Kindle, such as learning to use the dictionary or taking screenshots . In addition, specific models like the Kindle Scribe, also have a ton of hidden features that you can explore, like writing on interactive games and using different handwriting features.South Dakota State QB Mark Gronowski to enter portal, keep eye on draft
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“Compassion.” “Moral leadership. “Devoted.” Southern California’s lawmakers on both sides of the aisle r emembered former President Jimmy Carter’s public service — and his humanity — as news of his death reverberated throughout the political world Sunday afternoon, Dec. 29. Carter, the 39th president, was 100 years old. Rep. Lou Correa, D-Santa Ana, cast his first presidential ballot for Carter after he had turned 18, the congressman said on social media. “President Jimmy Carter was a veteran, a military academy graduate and a humble George peanut farmer,” said Correa. “He led this nation through difficult times. Thank you, President Carter.” “President Carter was a man of rare character — whose beliefs ran true and ran deep, whose moral compass never wavered,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a statement. “He saw the common humanity in all of us, building bridges between people of different faiths and factions abroad while working to meet the needs of those at home. Despite daunting challenges and trying times, his bright energy and spirit never faltered.” “President Carter’s candor and compassion, moral leadership and sense of duty set a standard we all should aspire to,” the Democratic governor added. “His enduring example reminds us that we can still find common ground despite our differences.” Rep. Young Kim, a Republican whose district spans Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties, said in a social media post that her “heart is with (Carter’s) loved ones.” “President Carter devoted his life to serving the American people, whether in public service or through his charity and humanitarian work,” Kim said. Carter was the longest-living American president. Rep. Mike Garcia, R- Santa Clarita : “President Jimmy Carter’s passing is a loss for our nation. From his days as a midshipman at the Naval Academy to his service as our 39th president, he embodied leadership, honor, and compassion. Keeping the Carter family in my prayers tonight.” Sen. Adam Schiff : President Jimmy Carter leaves a legacy unlike any other. Ceaseless in his service, unbending in his dignity and revered for his commitment to our common humanity. He fought the good fight and kept the faith — and now he has finished his race. May his memory be an inspiration.” Rep. Norma Torres, D-Ontario : “Today, we mourn President Jimmy Carter, a leader of faith, compassion and service. His legacy of humanity and hope will endure. My thoughts are with the Carter family.” Former L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa : “Jimmy Carter was a man of character and integrity whose lifelong service to the greater good was most evident when he left office. His tireless advocacy on behalf of the unhoused was something I was fortunate enough to witness firsthand and a remarkable feature of a humanitarian who never stopped believing in the dignity of our neighbors. May we continue the legacy of President Carter through acts of selfless service to others to never stop uplifting our community.” This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates. Related ArticlesDriver charged following collision with hydro box that plunged Listowel into darkness Saturday
Gina Idan Gospel musician, Gina Idan has refuted claims by many men especially from Africa that female spouses who join their husbands abroad will become economically independent and wield their power over them. In recent times, conversation about bringing one’s spouse abroad seems to have gained attention on social media, with some men expressing fear and concern about losing control over their wives once they join them abroad. But according to Gina Idan, who shed light on the issue in an interview with the DAILY GUIDE, husbands should not be scared of their wives joining them abroad as the benefits exceed the challenges. She said couples staying together tend to enjoy economic benefits by way of sharing responsibilities. The gospel musician mentioned that some men living abroad alone who sometimes overburden themselves with several jobs for longer hours to enable them to meet their financial obligations have sometimes ended up with other health conditions. That she stated could have been prevented if the men had their wives with them to lend a helping hand one way or the other as well as offer each other emotional support which would also go a long way to reduce infidelity. Backing her claims with scriptures, the gospel singer who recently released her latest single, ‘Wo Kron’ You’re Sovereign said, “two are better than one because they have a good return for their labour, if they fall, one will lift up the other, if two lie together, they have heat, but how can one be warm alone”. The Gospel singer indicated that some husbands sometimes become apprehensive about the attitude of their wives when they become more economically independent in the western society which has the potential to impact their status within marriages. She however appealed to husbands to consider that living abroad as couples require some cultural adjustments. “I do not endorse the situation where some women take advantage of the law to get their husbands thrown out of their matrimonial homes for the least provocation just because they live in Europe or America. A true and a godly African woman should not do that” “But very often, in such situations, we hear just the side of the men, without the other side of the issue from the women. It is hard to make a good judgement when you do not know the other side of the story”, She added. She also appealed to husbands living abroad not to prioritize sending their children abroad over their wives just for the fear that laws about marriages and family in developed countries favour women. Gina Idan is the host of Thanksgiving Worship, an annual gospel music event to celebrate the Thanksgiving Season in the US state of Georgia. She is also the co-author of ‘I am Married But I am Single-The Other Side of Spousal Migration’, a book, highlighting the negative social impacts of distant marriages on spouses and children.Report: Kentucky QB Brock Vandagriff retires from footballEven though Waymo's robotaxis have surpassed the 25-million-mile mark on public roadways, AI trainers have yet to prepare these vehicles for every possible scenario. The latest incident highlights how humans—in certain situations—remain superior . X user Liam McCormick snapped a photo of a Waymo Jaguar I-PACE SUV that ignored traffic cones and work area signs and ended up stuck knee-deep in wet cement . Oops! @Waymo pic.twitter.com/DM2XaCCQ8C " There were ones, but spaced far enough apart that the Waymo was able to drive between them. New concrete poured in sections, the final section was fresh ," McCormick "aid. There were cones, but spaced far enough apart that the Waymo was able to drive between them. New concrete poured in sections, the final section was fresh. pic.twitter.com/zxhUgeOyBM Smart AI robotaxi can't outsmart wet cement. Is LiDAR to blame ?