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Advisors Asset Management Inc. trimmed its holdings in shares of iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF ( BATS:FLOT – Free Report ) by 47.7% during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 2,132 shares of the company’s stock after selling 1,945 shares during the period. Advisors Asset Management Inc.’s holdings in iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF were worth $109,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Several other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the business. LPL Financial LLC increased its holdings in shares of iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF by 9.3% in the 2nd quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 3,496,186 shares of the company’s stock valued at $178,620,000 after purchasing an additional 298,003 shares during the period. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. increased its stake in iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF by 12.3% in the 2nd quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 1,968,004 shares of the company’s stock valued at $100,545,000 after buying an additional 215,886 shares during the period. Hsbc Holdings PLC lifted its position in iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF by 18.3% in the 2nd quarter. Hsbc Holdings PLC now owns 1,259,703 shares of the company’s stock worth $64,358,000 after buying an additional 194,624 shares in the last quarter. Haverford Trust Co lifted its position in iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF by 1.4% in the 3rd quarter. Haverford Trust Co now owns 1,167,867 shares of the company’s stock worth $59,608,000 after buying an additional 16,112 shares in the last quarter. Finally, TRUE Private Wealth Advisors boosted its stake in shares of iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF by 39.6% during the 2nd quarter. TRUE Private Wealth Advisors now owns 1,140,216 shares of the company’s stock valued at $58,254,000 after buying an additional 323,386 shares during the period. iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF Stock Performance iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF stock opened at $51.08 on Friday. iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF has a 12 month low of $50.76 and a 12 month high of $51.10. The company’s fifty day simple moving average is $50.97 and its 200-day simple moving average is $50.97. About iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF The iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF (FLOT) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in investment grade fixed income. The fund tracks a market value-weighted index of USD-denominated, investment-grade floating rate notes with maturities of 0-5 years. FLOT was launched on Jun 14, 2011 and is managed by BlackRock. Featured Articles Five stocks we like better than iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF 3 Home Improvement Stocks that Can Upgrade Your Portfolio The Latest 13F Filings Are In: See Where Big Money Is Flowing How to Read Stock Charts for Beginners 3 Penny Stocks Ready to Break Out in 2025 Investing In Automotive Stocks FMC, Mosaic, Nutrien: Top Agricultural Stocks With Big Potential Want to see what other hedge funds are holding FLOT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF ( BATS:FLOT – Free Report ). Receive News & Ratings for iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .Ireland weather: Timeline for major 'snow storm' and -9C Arctic blast
2025’s hottest resources stocks: Pt 2
Raiders coach Antonio Pierce recently was asked what he noticed about the three teams ahead of his in the AFC West. Pierce, as blunt as they come, wasted no time answering. “Quarterback play,” he said. “Bottom line, quarterback play.” Pierce might as well have been speaking for every losing team across what has increasingly become a league of haves and have-nots. Eight NFL teams have won three or fewer games this season, including the 2-10 Raiders. The overwhelming common denominator among those teams is poor quarterback play. Six of those clubs have quarterbacks who rank in the bottom 10 in overall QB rating (QBR). Other than the Carolina Panthers and New England Patriots, who are starting young quarterbacks taken in the first three picks of the past two drafts, and the Jacksonville Jaguars, who are contractually locked into Trevor Lawrence on a five-year, $275 million contract, each of them will look to upgrade through the draft, free agency or the trade market in the offseason. Meanwhile, if the season ended today, six of the 14 teams that would make the playoffs boast quarterbacks with top-10 ratings. Seven others have quarterbacks within the top 20 in QBR. Only C.J. Stroud, whose Houston Texans sit atop the AFC South, is out of the top 20. And his 53.2 rating is 21st. Clearly, there is a correlation between winning and good quarterback play. Yes, football is the ultimate team sport, and as the 4-8 Cincinnati Bengals have shown, having a quarterback such as Joe Burrow, who ranks third in QBR, guarantees nothing with a defense ranked 31st. But there is no doubt that winning is difficult without good quarterback play and borderline impossible in terms of competing for the Super Bowl without great quarterback play. Acknowledging that reality is the easy part. The far more elusive aspect is actually reaching into the college ranks and securing and developing a quarterback capable of ensuring even moderate success, let alone the kind necessary to hoist a Lombardi Trophy. Between the bad luck of never being able to select a high-end quarterback and a volatile return rate that produces more busts and below-average quarterbacks than successful ones, filling the most important position on a football field can be an arduous ordeal. Just ask the Raiders, who have been on a 22-year odyssey trying to find a Super Bowl-caliber quarterback. Or the New York Jets, who have nothing to show for the two quarterbacks they invested top-3 picks in the past seven drafts? “Identifying, projecting, acquiring and developing college quarterbacks into thriving NFL quarterbacks has and will more than likely always be as difficult a task as there is in the NFL,” Los Angeles Rams general manager Les Snead said. Why is it so hard? So many factors contribute to the difficulties of evaluating NFL-worthy college quarterbacks and developing them into viable NFL players. There are the physical traits: arm strength, accuracy, timing and mobility. But then there are the more subtle traits unavailable to the naked eye. “So much of what you have to evaluate is stuff you don’t see on tape,” an NFL personnel executive said. “Their drive, their ability to problem solve, mental toughness to overcome and deal with the criticism and the pressure of the position. The obsession with knowing the offense inside and out.” None of this is new, of course. “It’s always been hard,” Raiders offensive coordinator Scott Turner said. “There are certain things that you look for, but there’s so many factors involved. Obviously the physical traits, but there’s so much, I don’t want to say pressure, but there’s so much that goes into playing quarterback and being under a microscope, and it’s not just what you do on the football field, and that’s a lot.” What makes it even more perplexing is that contemporary players’ knowledge and ability levels are far more advanced now than they were 20 years ago. High school quarterbacks are throwing the ball more than ever and benefit from the proliferation of spring and summer seven-on-seven games that provide them with competitive live reps on a year-round basis. At the college level, quarterbacks are throwing the ball at record rates. That’s far different from two decades ago when most college quarterbacks operated out of two-back sets and handed the ball off more than they threw it. NFL evaluators had to evaluate in a vacuum then. Information and teaching points have never been more accessible, thanks to the internet, multiple quarterback coaches and experts offering online film sessions. Peyton Manning’s film breakdowns of NFL quarterbacks on ESPN’s “Detail” have become appointment viewing for young quarterbacks. Former NFL quarterback J.T. O’Sullivan hosts the hugely popular “The QB School” on YouTube. Contemporary quarterbacks have also credited the Madden video football game with teaching them about coverage schemes and how to attack them. Technology has advanced over the years, providing young quarterbacks with tools such as virtual reality headsets and software to simulate defenses, timing and speed. It’s no surprise, then, that young quarterbacks such as Burrow, Stroud, Los Angeles Chargers star Justin Herbert, Washington Commanders rookie Jayden Daniels and Denver Broncos rookie Bo Nix were immediate contributors. “There are plenty of examples of highly successful young quarterbacks,” one NFL personnel executive said. “You can’t overlook the wins.” Nevertheless, the hit rate for high-end quarterbacks has not improved over the years. “It’s always been difficult to evaluate this position,” an NFL front office executive said. “And those unseen traits separate the ones who can and the ones who can’t.” Flawed process, in some cases Much of what goes right or wrong for a young quarterback comes down to the same age-old principles. “It still depends on the person and the situation,” Snead said. “The situation they are leaving and coming into.” Along with new collective bargaining rules that have reduced the time players can practice and be present in their team facilities, young quarterbacks are beholden to the infrastructure of the teams that draft them. Depending on the coaching, personnel and stability of the franchise, it can set them up for success or failure. Some young quarterbacks are forced to play before they are ready out of necessity. If they don’t have adequate help around them, that often leads to struggles, impatience and stunted growth. “Quarterbacks don’t get enough time to develop,” an NFL personnel executive said. “There is pressure to play right away. College quarterbacks are taking Football 101, and everyone wants to rush them to Football 500.” The Jets moved on from Sam Darnold, whom they drafted third overall in 2017, after just three seasons. The Cleveland Browns drafted Baker Mayfield first overall in that same draft. They got rid of him within four years. Now in Minnesota, Darnold has the 10-2 Vikings in the thick of the NFC playoff race. Mayfield’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers are tied for first place in the NFC South after winning the division and a playoff game last season. Amazingly, both players were on the same Panthers roster in 2022. “A case of giving up on guys too early,” an NFL personnel executive said. At their previous stops, their teams didn’t have the patience or wherewithal to commit and execute a development plan. Darnold had two head coaches and two offensive coordinators in his three seasons with the Jets. His replacement, Zach Wilson, drafted No. 2 overall in 2021, played under two offensive coordinators during his three seasons in New York. It’s hard enough to master one NFL offensive scheme. But to abruptly switch to another makes the process even more difficult. And if success isn’t happening overnight for high draft picks such as Wilson and Darnold, it’s not long before they are shown the door. It’s completely counter intuitive but happens all the time. As opposed to Kansas City Chiefs star Patrick Mahomes, who developed behind Alex Smith during his rookie season of 2017. Or Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love, who learned behind Aaron Rodgers for two seasons before taking over in 2023. Baltimore Ravens star Lamar Jackson waited nine games behind Joe Flacco before getting his first start as a rookie in 2018. Mahomes is a three-time Super Bowl champion. Jackson is a two-time MVP and three-time Pro Bowler. Love has the Packers on the cusp of the playoffs for the second straight season. “I think just understanding that every case is different,” Turner said. “Some guys are going to come in, and because of maybe the team around them or just how they’re wired, they’re going to catch fire. And then there are some other guys that may not be, and it takes them a little longer.”The Prairie Holiday Loppet made its long-awaited return to Winnipeg’s Windsor Park Saturday, with dozens of racers hitting the trails. A loppet is a Scandinavian cross-country skiing event that sees a large group of people ski together on groomed trails. After a soggy winter season last year, organizer Murray Carter was happy the event could make a comeback. “Because we had a little bit of a melt yesterday, we ended up shoveling for nine hours,” Carter said. “Four of us shoveled for nine hours to make this trail a great success, and it turned out perfect.” Carter said the event sees people come from across the country, most of which are visiting loved ones for the holidays. “It’s about a festive experience,” he said. Participants ranged from beginners to veteran athletes. Olympic cyclist Leah Kirchmann put her bike away and broke out her cross-country skis for Saturday’s event. Kirchmann said she grew up taking part in cross-country skiing races and decided to get back into the sport. “This is really where I got my start in sport,” she said. While Kirchmann said she doesn’t plan on competing in the Winter Olympic Games anytime soon, she is coaching cycling for the next generation of athletes. She also emphasized the community aspect of the event, allowing her and others to see new faces and connect with old ones. Meantime, Carter encouraged more people to get involved. “Get out. Get some skis. Rent some skis at Windsor Park, try out,” he said. “There's nothing like the winter and getting outside in the winter and enjoying the sunshine, enjoying the snow “That in itself is a reward."
The allure of a digital world is undeniable. We can order groceries, manage our finances, and even unlock our cars with a few taps on our smartphones. So, it’s only natural that we’d expect the same convenience when traveling internationally, right? Google Wallet’s recent foray into digital IDs, including the ability to store passport information, certainly hints at this futuristic vision. But hold your horses! Before you ditch your physical passport, there’s a crucial reality check: this feature won’t actually get you through customs... at least not yet. In May 2023, Google announced that U.S. citizens could upload their passport information to Google Wallet, creating a digital version readily available on their smartphones. This move, following Apple’s similar initiative with Apple Wallet, aimed to streamline domestic travel, particularly at TSA PreCheck checkpoints in participating airports. While the convenience factor for domestic travel is undeniable, many have interpreted this as a step towards replacing physical passports altogether. This, however, is where the misconception lies. While Google Wallet can store your passport information, it doesn’t hold the same authority as your physical passport when it comes to international travel. Border control agencies worldwide still require physical presentation of your passport booklet, with its official stamps and visas. Think of it this way: your digital passport in Google Wallet is like a photocopy of your driver’s license – useful in some situations, but not a substitute for the real deal. Why the Hype? The Promise of Digital IDs The excitement surrounding digital IDs is understandable. Imagine a world where you can breeze through airports, seamlessly verify your identity, and access services without the fear of losing or damaging crucial documents. This is the promise that digital IDs hold, and Google Wallet’s passport feature is a step in that direction. The potential benefits are numerous: However, the reality is that the infrastructure for widespread adoption of digital IDs is still in its infancy. International agreements, standardized technology, and robust security protocols need to be established before we can truly embrace a world of digital passports. The Current Limitations of Google Wallet’s Passport Feature While Google’s initiative is a significant step towards digital identification, it’s crucial to understand its current limitations: My Personal Experience I recently traveled internationally and was curious to test the waters with Google Wallet’s passport feature. While I could conveniently access my passport information on my phone, it was clearly stated at the check-in counter and immigration that a physical passport was required. I even encountered a fellow traveler who mistakenly thought they could travel with just their digital ID and faced significant delays and frustration. This experience highlighted the importance of understanding the limitations of this technology and managing expectations. The Future of Digital Passports Despite the current limitations, the future of digital passports looks promising. Several countries and organizations are actively exploring and developing digital identity solutions. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is working on standards for digital travel credentials, aiming to create a globally interoperable system. The transition, however, will likely be gradual. We can expect to see increasing adoption of digital IDs for domestic travel and specific use cases, with international acceptance gradually following suit as standards and infrastructure evolve. Key Takeaways So, while the dream of traveling the world with just your smartphone is still on the horizon, don’t ditch your physical passport just yet. Keep it safe, keep it updated, and be prepared to present it when crossing borders.
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Texas won the Big 12 title in 2023 on its way out the door to the Southeastern Conference. It was still swinging open when Arizona State waltzed in and won the league title in its debut season. And now the old Big 12 champs meet the new Big 12 champs on the path toward a potential national title. The fifth-seeded Longhorns and fourth-seeded Sun Devils play News Years Day in the Peach Bowl in the quarterfinals of the College Football Playoff . Both had their doubters they could get here. Texas (12-2) still had to prove is was “ready” for the SEC. Arizona State (11-2) was picked to finish last in the Big 12. But the Sun Devils quickly started winning and having fun in some new road environments in college towns smaller than some of their stops in the more cosmopolitan old Pac-12. All-American running back Cam Skattebo led the barnstorming tour. “We were not used to getting tortillas thrown at us at Texas Tech. You're not used to some of these environments," Sun Devils coach Kenny Dillingham said Monday. “When you're in the Pac-12, you're playing in Seattle, you're playing in L.A., you're playing in Salt Lake City. We got to face a lot more small college town football with really, really great environments. ... It was definitely fun to join a new league," Dillingham said. And Dillingham laid down some Texas roots. The Sun Devils are recruiting Texas players out of high school, and the current roster has six transfers who started their college careers in burnt orange in Austin. “The guys we’ve gotten from Texas and coach (Steve Sarkisian's) program have been unbelievable,” Dillingham said. “We know what we’re getting when we’re getting a guy from that program, and that’s a guy who has worked really hard, competed and been pushed. Those are the things that we like to bring in.” Safety Xavion Alford was named All-Big 12 . Defensive end Prince Dorbah is another Sun Devils starter. Defensive lineman Zac Swanson, who has two sacks this season, is another former Longhorn who said he relished a chance to beat his former team. Recruited by Texas out of Phoenix, Swanson was a reserve in 2022 and 2023 behind future NFL draft picks T'Vondre Sweat and Byron Murphy. “That's a team who kicked me out and said I'd never I was never going to be good enough to play there,” Swanson said last week. “That's something that has been on my agenda for a while.” Dillingham joked he'd like to get more Texas transfers this week. Sarkisian simply noted that he wished he'd signed Skattebo, a Californian who transferred from Sacramento State after the 2022 season. “I was unaware, so kudos to them. They found him, he's a heckuva player,” said Sarkisian, who also is a California native. Sarkisian said he was impressed by the Sun Devil's first-year success in the Big 12. “We were in that Big 12, what, for 27 years? We won four. This is their first year in and they won a Big 12 Championship. It’s a really hard thing to do,” Sarkisian said. “They’re playing with a ton of confidence right now. The last two months, I think they’re playing as good a football as anybody in the country.” Despite wining that last Big 12 title and a playoff appearance in 2023, Texas still faced skeptics that the Longhorns would take their lumps in the SEC this year. Texas was more than ready for the league and the Longhorns made it to the SEC championship game. Their only two losses have been to Georgia, the No. 2 seed in the playoff. Sarkisian still remembers his 5-7 Texas debut in 2021. The program wasn't ready for the SEC and the playoff back then, but it certainly is now. Texas is the only one of last year's four playoff teams to make the expanded 12-team field this year. “There’s a lot to be proud of, but mostly I’m proud of our veterans, our leaders, our seniors, because those guys went from 5-7 in year one, they went through 8-5 in year two, and they didn’t jump ship. They hung in there with us. They believed in what they were doing,” Sarkisian said. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football