Destination XL Stock Rises Before Q3 Earnings: Retail’s CautiousHouse Speaker Dade Phelan on Friday announced he is dropping his bid for another term leading the lower chamber, ending a bruising, monthslong intraparty push to remove him from power. Phelan, a Beaumont Republican, had previously insisted he had enough votes to thwart a challenge from the right led by state Rep. David Cook of Mansfield, a former ally. “Out of deep respect for this institution and its members, and after careful consideration and private consultation with colleagues, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the race for Speaker of the Texas House," he said in a statement. "By stepping aside, I believe we create the best opportunity for our members to rally around a new candidate who will uphold the principles that make our House one of the most exceptional, deliberative legislative bodies in the country — a place where honor, integrity, and the right of every member to vote their district takes utmost precedent." Phelan abandoned the race one day before a scheduled meeting where Republicans are set to pick their nominee for the gavel. Phelan’s withdrawal sets up a renewed scramble for control of the House. State Rep. Dustin Burrows, a Lubbock Republican and top ally of Phelan, has filed paperwork to run for speaker, according to two sources familiar with the matter. His path to the gavel rests on courting the chamber’s 62 Democrats and roughly 40 unpledged Republicans — and reports of his candidacy were already drawing swift pushback from Cook’s camp and grassroots GOP activists, who are set on selecting a speaker without relying on votes from Democrats. Phelan was looking to the bloc of Democrats and uncommitted Republicans to secure a third term as speaker. But he never produced a list of supporters, while Cook gained fresh momentum this week by picking up two new backers, bringing him within striking distance of the votes needed to lock up the GOP caucus’ endorsement this weekend. Under the caucus rules, whoever gets 60% or more of the votes at Saturday’s meeting will secure the group’s endorsement and receive support from all 88 Republican members when the vote goes to the full House in January — enough to win the gavel. Heading into this week, Cook had touted 47 supporters, including two unnamed backers. He picked up support from state Reps. David Spiller of Jacksboro and Trent Ashby of Lufkin this week, putting him four votes shy of the 60% threshold. The Texas House speaker is one of the most powerful legislative positions in the state, along with the Senate president, wielding tremendous power over which bills pass and fail. In a statement, Phelan said he was grateful to the “principled conservatives” who continued to support his speakership by showing “steadfast resolve and courage in the face of immense intimidation from outsiders wishing to influence our chamber and its processes.” “Though the battle for my speakership is over, the war for the integrity of this chamber wages on — and we will win,” Phelan said. Phelan’s fall Phelan’s withdrawal comes just two years after he was at the height of his power, easily winning reelection as House leader after overseeing one of the most conservative sessions in recent memory. In his two terms as speaker, he oversaw passage of a litany of conservative priorities, including allowing permitless carry of handguns, restricting rules on transgender issues, testing the boundaries of Texas’ role in immigration enforcement and banning nearly all abortions statewide. At the closed-door GOP caucus meeting before the 2023 session, Phelan’s critics mustered up just six votes for his conservative challenger. Phelan started to lose his grip on the House last year when Attorney General Ken Paxton — months after being impeached on corruption charges in the lower chamber — survived his trial in the Senate. The acquittal was a major rebuke of Phelan, who supported the impeachment effort. Paxton and his conservative allies vowed payback against the speaker and any Republican who voted for impeachment. Soon after, Phelan’s standing took a hit among supporters of Gov. Greg Abbott’s push to enact a school voucher program, some of whom accused the speaker of not doing enough to get the bill through the House. Phelan narrowly survived a brutal primary challenge in May, but 15 other House Republicans lost their seats, many of them Phelan supporters who were ousted by challengers running on explicit pledges to oppose the Beaumont Republican’s speakership. Some of these insurgent candidates also received financial support from Abbott, who remained publicly neutral in Phelan’s race while spending millions to unseat anti-voucher Republicans who sank his priority issue. Most incoming GOP freshmen are part of a coalition, led by the House’s rightmost faction, that wants to reshape the chamber by disempowering Democrats and weakening key levers of power used by the speaker to control the House. They have called for an end to the practice of appointing Democrats to chair any House committees — a longstanding tradition Phelan has continued by putting Democrats in charge of eight of the chamber’s 34 standing committees, while reserving most of the high-profile assignments for Republicans. They also want to ensure that GOP priority bills reach the floor before any Democratic measures and limit the speaker to two terms. With Phelan out of the picture, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and the rest of the GOP’s most conservative faction could have a willing ally in driving a conservative agenda through the Legislature. Patrick, the Senate leader, has sparred bitterly with Phelan over property tax relief and a host of other issues, frequently casting Phelan as a feckless capitulator to Democrats who slow-walked conservative priorities approved by the Senate. The feuding culminated in Patrick’s attempt to end Phelan’s political career by backing his top primary challenger earlier this year. After eking out a 366-vote win in the May runoff, Phelan insisted he would hold onto the gavel, telling supporters that “I will be your state rep. for HD 21 and I will be your speaker for the Texas House in 2025.” He had remained defiant in the months since, even as he faced a mounting lineup of speaker challengers that included some of his former allies. Though a majority of House Republicans eventually coalesced behind Cook, nearly half the caucus remained silent about their votes, with some publicly vouching for Phelan’s conservative bona fides. But while Phelan has shepherded the passage of key conservative priorities once seen as a bridge too far for some Republicans, his critics also have pointed to a number of priorities that died in the House. Those measures, which could face better odds of passage under a new speaker, include school vouchers; expanding state control of elections in Democrat-run counties; barring the sale of Texas farmland to citizens and entities associated with China and other countries; and various laws aimed at infusing more Christianity into public life. Resistance to Burrows After Phelan announced his withdrawal, the House Democratic Caucus issued a statement saying that “[f]or any Speaker candidate interested in serving the House, the Democratic Caucus is available to listen, and hear their plans to finally give Texans a legislative session that puts people over politics." It was unclear if House Democrats would unite behind Burrows. On Thursday evening as Burrows was courting Democratic support, state Rep. Ana-María Ramos — a Richardson Democrat who chairs the Texas Legislative Progressive Caucus and is running for speaker herself — made clear she opposed Burrows’ bid for the gavel. She cited his role as the lead author of a sweeping new law aimed at sapping the power of local governments, particularly in Texas’ bluer urban areas. “Working Texans deserve a leader in the House who will stand up for them, and not do the bidding of corporate donors,” Ramos posted on social media, along with a video of her sparring with Burrows on the House floor over his measure, dubbed by opponents as the “Death Star bill.” Abraham George, the chairman of the Texas GOP, who has amplified the voice of the party’s most conservative activists in calling for a ban on Democratic chairs, pushed Republican lawmakers to vote for a speaker candidate who would honor that commitment. “Now that Speaker [Phelan] is no longer in the race, it's time for every Republican representative who has yet to back a reformer to answer a straightforward question: Will you stand with your constituents and [the Texas GOP] or will you continue to enable Democrats to hold power?” George said on social media. He followed that question with a not-so-veiled threat: “Keep in mind, the primary is just 452 days away!” Lawmakers in Cook’s camp celebrated Phelan’s announcement and immediately tried to push back against the notion that a new candidate could win over their support. “Phase One accomplished,” Rep.-elect Shelley Luther wrote on social media. “Also, we will NOT vote in a Dade 2.0. Phelan, a 49-year-old real estate developer, first secured the votes to become speaker toward the end of his third term, in late 2020. He emerged from a GOP scrum to succeed then-Speaker Dennis Bonnen, who retired after losing support from House members after he was recorded encouraging the political targeting of fellow Republicans in the upcoming primaries. Phelan secured the gavel with the backing of a more conservative GOP faction led by Bonnen’s allies, a group pitted against more ideologically moderate members who had helped drive Bonnen into retirement amid his recording scandal. But what helped Phelan lock down the speaker’s race was his support from a coalition of Democrats, who backed him after he told them he “would do his best to make sure we are on track” when asked how he would handle contentious social issues. While far less controversial at the time, Phelan’s Democrat-aided ascent sparked backlash from some on the far-right — a sign of what was to come four years later. After Phelan announced he had the votes to become speaker, then-Texas GOP Chair Allen West wrote in an email to supporters that the party "will not support, nor accept" Phelan, calling him a “Republican political traitor” for relying on support from Democrats.Catholic linebacker Layton Welch (35) celebrates after making a play against Archbishop Rummel in the second quarter of the Division I select quarterfinal on Friday, November 29, 2024 at Memorial Stadium in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save The semifinals round of the LHSAA high school football playoffs is here, meaning just a handful of teams are left. There are some big games taking place in Baton Rouge and across south Louisiana. You can follow here for scores from the big prep contests taking place in the Baton Rouge area and around the region. You can help post live high school football scores to our website via the Scorestream app or the Scorestream website . CLICK HERE for instructions on how to do so.
New Novel “Logic’S Dictate” By Steve Gibson Is Released, A Dynamic Work Of Science Fiction That Combines Politics, Romance, And Adventure In A Dance That Will Determine The Fate Of The PlanetAs we enter the holiday season many young people are no doubt beginning to consider their future options. With a range of paths to pursue, a high rate of youth unemployment in Canada and a higher education sector facing unprecedented challenges it may seem logical to wonder if university is worth it. In my role as president of York University I see these issues play out every day in the lives of my students and faculty. However, I can say with certainty that, yes, university is worth it for both students and society. And while you might think that I might be biased, there is real data to back it up. Simply put, going to university enriches both students and society over the long term. We must ensure that students and universities are supported to help ensure as broad access as possible. Long-term benefits While many students entering the market fresh out of university will make entry-level wages, the reality is that over the longer term their earning potential has more room to expand . Those with a bachelor’s degree earn 24 per cent more than the national average. The more education, the higher the earning potential. Students with a university degree are more likely to have stable employment even amidst economic disruption, as the COVID-19 pandemic revealed . Graduates are also more likely to gain employment that offers a wider range of benefits. Simply put, an education increases one’s chances of finding fulfilling employment and living a longer and healthier life. Read more: Colleges' career success stats don't tell the whole story about how their graduates are doing after they get their degree Beyond individual benefits, there are also key benefits to society. Canada relies disproportionately on universities compared to other OECD countries to drive the research and innovation central to a productive and prosperous economy . Further research has shown that education is central to a healthy, democratic society To quote Nelson Mandela: “ education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world .” The world faces a host of wicked problems ranging from economic inequality to climate change, geopolitical conflict and ongoing wars. Universities and graduates play a key role in addressing these challenges. Training resilience Technology is not going away and it is not slowing down. A recent study revealed that the jobs of more than 60 per cent of Canadians may be at risk to AI . Moreover, an estimated one out of 10 employees in Canada could be at a high risk of automation-related job redundancy. Canada’s already volatile job market will continue to be impacted. Those with higher levels of education are the best equipped to benefit from technologies in ways that complement the work they do . Graduates are also more likely to have the transferable skills needed to withstand workforce disruption. According to the OECD , AI technologies pose less of a risk for highly-skilled workers. In fact, their jobs are less likely to be replaced by automation because they possess the critical thinking skills needed to provide oversight to tasks that use AI and automation. While these technologies are sophisticated and becoming even more so each day, they currently cannot replicate human cognitive, critical and decision-making skills. There is also compelling research that shows students with higher education are more likely to pursue continuing education to upgrade and reskill, a quality that makes students more agile in a shifting labour market. Universities have also been increasing micro-credentials , programs which help learners re-skill while they are holding employment and balancing familial obligations, to support lifelong learning and build a more resilient Canadian workforce. Read more: I got generative AI to attempt an undergraduate law exam. It struggled with complex questions Ensuring access If Canada is to meet the expanding needs of students and of the country then we must invest now in higher education. Access is something I worry deeply about to ensure that we are not leaving any talent behind. Data from the 2017 National Survey of Engagement indicates that 48 per cent of first- and fourth-year undergrad students at York came from households where neither parent held a bachelor’s degree. What’s more, York’s 2020 Economic and Social Impact Report revealed that 59 per cent of students could not have attended university without financial support. Creating accessible educational opportunities for diverse learners to develop responsive skills is critical for a vibrant future workforce and for resilient communities. York and other universities in Canada have a good track record for this. At the same time, social mobility and productivity have been declining in Canada in recent years . Continuing to ensure that eligible students have access to university education including at the graduate level is imperative to address these trends. The significant numbers of Canadian students leaving the country to study medicine overseas while Canada is facing a significant gap in primary care physicians is just one example . These are troubling trends which Canadian universities are committed to addressing. Read more: Waiting for exam results can be awful. Our research shows how best to manage the stress Investing in universities While the commitment and innovation of universities is evident, the unfortunate truth is that universities across much of Canada have seen a steady decline in real dollar funding for years. In Ontario, recommendations from the government’s blue-ribbon panel strongly advocated for the urgent increase in financial support for universities . To meet the changes in Canada’s labour market, universities have developed new programs to meet the talent needs in areas such as science, technology, engineering and health . We have also worked to enhance access through flexible teaching formats and strengthened international and cross-sector research collaborations to tackle complex societal problems . Universities have also increased supports for students including activities to help them connect with careers and become more entrepreneurial and efficient . In short, universities in Canada are one of the country’s most important assets. If we are to continue delivering the high-quality education for which we are known and serving the needs of the communities who rely on us, especially given fierce global competition for talent, it is essential that we secure a financially sustainable model for universities. Canada’s high youth unemployment has many people anxious about how they will fare in a job market that bears a striking resemblance to the Hunger Games. Expanding employment opportunities is necessary and will require collaboration across all sectors. But the data are clear. A university education will provide our youth with a running start and the ability to adapt as they go.
A number of Donald Trump’s cabinet picks have been targeted by bomb threats and swatting attacks, the president-elect’s transition team has said. Matt Gaetz, former nominee for attorney general, and Elise Stefanik, Trump’s choice to be his next U.N. ambassador, are among those said to have been subjected to threats that are now being investigated by the FBI. In a statement, the agency said it is “aware of numerous bomb threats and swatting incidents targeting incoming administration nominees and appointees, and we are working with our law enforcement partners. We take all potential threats seriously, and as always, encourage members of the public to immediately report anything they consider suspicious to law enforcement.” Swatting is when emergency responders are sent to someone’s home because of a fake call. “Last night and this morning, several of President Trump’s Cabinet nominees and Administration appointees were targeted in violent, unAmerican threats to their lives and those who live with them,” incoming White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement. “These attacks ranged from bomb threats to ‘swatting.’ In response, law enforcement and other authorities acted quickly to ensure the safety of those who were targeted. President Trump and the entire Transition team are grateful for their swift action.” Elise Stefanik , Trump’s choice to be his next U.N. ambassador, was one of those targeted. Her office said in a statement that on Wednesday morning, she was driving home to her Saratoga County residence from Washington along with her husband and their 3-year-old son to celebrate Thanksgiving when they were informed of a bomb threat at their home. “New York State, County law enforcement, and U.S. Capitol Police responded immediately with the highest levels of professionalism,” her office said. “We are incredibly appreciative of the extraordinary dedication of law enforcement officers who keep our communities safe 24/7.” The Okaloosa County sheriff’s office in Florida said on Facebook that it had “received notification of a bomb threat referencing former Congressman Matt Gaetz’s supposed mailbox at a home in the Niceville area around 9 a.m. this morning.” Gaetz was Trump’s nominee for attorney general for eight days before he stepped aside amid an investigation into allegations of sex trafficking and sex with a minor, claims Gaetz has repeatedly denied. The sheriff’s office said that a family member of Gaetz’s lives at the targeted home, but they added that “former Congressman Gaetz is NOT a resident. The mailbox however was cleared and no devices were located. The immediate area was also searched with negative results.” Trump’s nominee to lead the Environmental Protection Agency, former New York congressman Lee Zeldin , said in a statement that his home was targeted with the threat of a pipe bomb with a message described as “pro-Palestinian.” Zeldin, who is Jewish, added that he nor his family were home at the time. “A pipe bomb threat targeting me and my family at our home today was sent in with a pro-Palestinian themed message,” he said. “My family and I were not home at the time and are safe. We are working with law enforcement to learn more as the situation develops.” Brook Rollins, Trump’s choice to be secretary of Agriculture, revealed on social media that she had faced a threat against her family and Texas home. After the area was cleared by Fort Worth police, they could return to the residence, she said. “This morning, we learned that a threat was issued against our home and family,” she wrote on X. “Thanks to the swift efforts by the @fortworthpd we were unharmed and quickly returned home. I want to express my deep gratitude to the law-enforcement professionals who did their utmost, in both speed and expertise, to protect us — as they protect our community every single day.” The threats come after a presidential campaign that saw Trump was targeted in two assassination attempts. The former president was grazed in the ear during a shooting in Pennsylvania this summer and was subsequently the target in an attempt stopped by the Secret Service at his West Palm Beach Florida golf course. Speaker Mike Johnson has called on President Joe Biden and other Democrats to condemn the incidents. “This year, there was not just one but TWO assassination attempts on President Trump. Now some of his Cabinet nominees and their families are facing bomb threats,” he wrote on X . “This is dangerous and unhinged. It is not who we are in America. Joe Biden and all Democrat leaders have an obligation to speak up and condemn this now.” The White House soon issued a statement condemning the violent threats. “The White House is in touch with federal law enforcement and the President-elect’s team, and continues to monitor the situation closely,” a White House spokesperson said. “Federal law enforcement’s response, alongside state and local authorities, remains ongoing. The President and the Administration unequivocally condemn threats of political violence.” The Associated Press contributed to this reportGreen Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love played interception-free football for the first time this season during a home rout of the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday. The Packers' Thanksgiving night home clash with the Miami Dolphins offers a chance to be equally efficient. Just don't expect Love to scale back his approach in the meeting of playoff contenders. ADVERTISEMENT "I definitely am a guy who always wants those big plays, want to put that pressure on the defense and take some of those shots," Love said. Love threw for a season-low 163 yards on 13-of-23 passing to go with two touchdowns against the 49ers. Still, with Josh Jacobs (26 carries, 106 yards, three touchdowns) wreaking havoc in the running game, Love found opportunities to strike a balance. "Those are the lessons that I had to learn last year and I'll continue to learn: just when the right time (is) to take those shots," he said. "If guys get a step or we're in the right coverage versus just finding those completions. Because these check-downs and just finding those completions turn into big plays, as well, sometimes." Green Bay (8-3) is third in the rugged NFC North but holds a two-game lead in the loss column for the No. 6 seed in the conference playoff race. Winners of three straight, the Dolphins (5-6) are 1 1/2 games behind the Denver Broncos for the seventh seed in the AFC. "I think this is an awesome opportunity," Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa said. "Being able to play Thursday night football, prime time on Thanksgiving." Tagovailoa continues to surge since returning from injured reserve in Week 8. With four touchdown passes during a 34-15 home win against the New England Patriots on Sunday, he has 11 TDs through the air against just one interception in his five games back. ADVERTISEMENT Tagovailoa dismissed the notion that chilly temperatures in Green Bay on Thursday could be enough to cool him. The Hawaiian-born signal-caller is 0-7 when the temperature is 40 degrees or lower. "To me, it's just a mindset," he said. "That's really all there is." Added Miami defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver: "I've never lost a game and thought, 'Guys, it was too cold outside.'" Miami boasts a versatile set of playmakers for Green Bay to defend. Running back De'Von Achane also is active in the passing game, as he made two touchdown receptions against New England. Among the Dolphins' receivers, wideouts Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle and tight end Jonnu Smith each have at least 41 receptions and 535 yards. The three have combined for nine TDs. Green Bay is hoping for another jolt from second-year linebacker Lukas Van Ness, whose strip-sack against the 49ers was the big play he said he needed for his confidence. It led to Jacobs' third TD. "I told myself I'm going to get off the ball, use my God-given abilities and just get in the backfield and make a play," Van Ness said. "So I think that's what I've wanted to do all year. I just need to continue that." ADVERTISEMENT The Dolphins said Wednesday that Hill, who has dealt with wrist and personal issues this week, does not have an injury designation and will play against the Packers. Cornerback Kendall Fuller (concussion) and linebackers Tyus Bowser (knee/calf) and Anthony Walker Jr. (hamstring) have been ruled out, and offensive tackle Terron Armstead (knee) is questionable. The Packers ruled out wide receiver Romeo Doubs (concussion), cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee) and linebacker Edgerrin Cooper (hamstring) after they did not practice all week. Tight end John FitzPatrick (back), linebacker Isaiah McDuffie (ankle) and offensive lineman Josh Myers (pectoral) were listed as questionable. Miami leads the all-time series 10-6, but Green Bay has won five of the past six matchups. The teams' most recent meeting also came on a holiday, with the visiting Packers prevailing 26-20 on Christmas Day 2022. Green Bay won each of its previous November home games against Miami, in 2002 and 2018. ______________________________________________________ This story was written by one of our partner news agencies. Forum Communications Company uses content from agencies such as Reuters, Kaiser Health News, Tribune News Service and others to provide a wider range of news to our readers. Learn more about the news services FCC uses here .NEW YORK , Dec. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global noise detection and monitoring market size is estimated to grow by USD 7.19 billion from 2024 to 2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.85% during the forecast period. The report provides a comprehensive forecast of key segments below- Segmentation Overview 1.1 Industrial 1.2 Commercial 2.1 Hardware 2.2 Software 3.1 North America 3.2 APAC 3.3 Europe 3.4 South America 3.5 Middle East and Africa Get a glance at the market contribution of rest of the segments - Download a FREE Sample Report in minutes! 1.1 Fastest growing segment: The global noise detection and monitoring market caters to various industries, with significant demand coming from manufacturing, oil and gas, mining, construction, and aerospace sectors. These industries employ large workforces engaged in noisy tasks, such as grinding, blasting, drilling, hammering, drop forging, and crushing, which can lead to hearing loss from prolonged exposure. Tools like drills, chainsaws, detonators, and pneumatics generate loud noises, necessitating regular monitoring of noise levels and provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for workers. The manufacturing industry, in particular, is a major contributor to the market due to its high-decibel environments. Vendors offer innovative solutions, such as Honeywell's in-ear dosimetry system, which measures noise at the eardrum and tracks potential hearing loss in real-time, ensuring regulatory compliance and worker safety. The growing demand for noise monitoring devices in industrial applications is expected to fuel market growth during the forecast period. Analyst Review The Noise Detection and Monitoring Market encompasses technologies and solutions designed to identify and manage noise levels in various environments. This market is driven by growing concerns over Environmental Impact and Occupational Safety, as urbanization increases the prevalence of noise pollution from machines, speakers, music systems, horns, and other devices. Smart City projects are also significant contributors, integrating noise monitoring systems to enhance liveability and promote Corporate Responsibility. Applications in Healthcare are essential, as prolonged exposure to noise emissions can lead to health issues. However, the Cost of Implementation and Integration Difficulties pose challenges. Limited Standardisation and Sampling method variations, as well as Precision type and Connectivity requirements, add complexity. Core competencies of key players include advanced algorithms, real-time data analysis, and user-friendly interfaces. Alliances and partnerships are crucial for market expansion and technological advancements. The Noise Monitoring Industry continues to evolve, addressing the needs of human health and wildlife protection. Market Overview The Noise Detection and Monitoring market encompasses solutions and technologies designed to measure and manage noise emissions, with applications in Environmental Impact, Occupational Safety, and Urbanization. Noise sources include machines, speakers, music systems, horns, and various devices. The market caters to both human health and wildlife, with solutions ranging from portable noise monitoring to permanent installations. Key drivers include rising sound pollution levels, smart city investments, and corporate responsibility. Challenges include cost of implementation, integration difficulties, and limited standardization. Components include hardware (sound level meters, wind noise suppressors) and software (artificial neural networks, sound analysis algorithms). Subsegments include building acoustics, sampling methods, precision types, connectivity solutions, and sound pollution monitoring systems. Applications extend to healthcare, where noise monitoring tools help mitigate negative impacts on human health, including heart diseases, cardiovascular problems, cognitive impairment, stress, diabetes, anxiety, and depression. Regulatory acts play a crucial role in market growth. Solutions offer real-time data transmission via WIFI or Ethernet, catering to commercial and residential sectors. Portable and battery-based devices enable short-term, medium-term, and long-term monitoring. Core competencies include advanced technology, customization, and user-friendly interfaces. Alliances, directories, and databases expand market reach. To understand more about this market- Download a FREE Sample Report in minutes! 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Venodr Landscape 11 Vendor Analysis 11.1 Extech Instruments 11.2 Pulsar Instruments 11.3 3M Company 11.4 RION Co. Ltd 11.5 Bruel & Kjaer 11.6 Cirrus Research Plc 11.7Castle Group Ltd 11.8 Casella Inc. 11.9 SKF Group, Kimo Instrument 11.10 B &K Precision Corporation 11.11 ACOEM Group 11.12 Amphenol Corporation 11.13 Cesva Instruments S.L.U 11.14 Exair Corporation 11.15 Honeywell International Inc 11.16 Hottinger Bruel & Kjaer A/S 11.17 HT Italia S.r.l 11.18 MTS Systems Corporation 11.19 NTi Audio AG 11.20 PCE Deutschland GmbH. 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio
Jaland Lowe, Pitt charge past LSU in second half to move to 6-0LANSING, Mich. — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Michigan's top elected official, spent about one in every four days outside the state's borders over the first nine months of the year, according to data released by her office and an analysis by The Detroit News. Multiple former state leaders said the rate of trips totaling at least eight weeks appeared to exceed past governors' out-of-state travel. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings. Get the latest news, sports, weather and more delivered right to your inbox.
Another special edition of Record Roundup, just in time for the holidays. If you’re shopping for a record collector who already owns a turntable but lacks a decent stereo system to plug it into, I have some suggestions. The goal here is to provide an affordable and compact audio system that also sounds great. Ideally, that means true stereo sound, but I have included several single-speaker options for those who are truly space-constrained. Think portable speakers and powered bookshelf speakers, so no standalone amplifier is required. I’ve also included four options that are aimed specifically at the vinyl crowd, including built-in PHONO preamps so pretty much any turntable can be connected. These speakers are made by a range of top audio brands. They vary in price and style, and none is more than $600. What they share in common is that over the past several years, I have evaluated, reviewed and recommended each of them. Part One: No Pre-Amp Required You can directly connect virtually any turntable equipped with a MM cartridge (which is most consumer models). PSB Alpha AM5 Legendary Canadian speaker manufacturer PSB offers a great option in the Alpha AM5 powered bookshelf speakers. During testing ( review here ) I was impressed by the low end performance of their 5-1/4 inch cone woofers, the wide sound stage and overall warmth. Perfect for vinyl. Bluetooth streaming is supported and the Alpha AM5’s DSP offers digital magic like Widesound and Enhance Dialog Clarity to customize the sound. Priced at $599 a pair, they are available in matte finish black or white with metal magnetic grills. Andover Audio SpinBase MAX Andover Audio’s $499 SpinBase MAX is an ingenious solution to space issues. The company employed its proprietary IsoGroove technology to build a speaker cabinet that you use as a base for your turntable–no worries about vibration or distortion messing up record playback. The entire system has a footprint just slightly larger than the turntable on its own. Inside the minimalist slab with the big volume knob on front is a 270-degree speaker array for 60W of convincing, room filling sound. SpinBase MAX also supports Bluetooth streaming. Andover Audio SpeakEasy 4 For those who prefer true stereo sound, Andover Audio recently released its $399 SpeakEasy 4 powered bookshelf speakers. The SpeakEasy 4s offer a wide range of digital and analog inputs and outputs, including a switchable PHONO preamp. With 150W of bi-amplified power (50W + 25W per channel) driving their 4-inch long excursion woofers and 3/4-inch silk dome tweeters, these speakers deliver the stereo sound a record collection deserves. You can read my SpeakEasy 4 review here . Klipsch Three Plus I love the mid-century modern vibe the $399 Klipsch Three Plus premium Bluetooth speaker gives off, with its real walnut veneer finish, wraparound cloth grill cover and machined metal volume knob. While it offers Bluetooth streaming, this speaker doesn’t just deliver retro looks, it also includes retro connectivity with a switchable PHONO preamp built in. That gorgeous cabinet is concealing a 5.25-inch high excursion woofer and a pair of 2.25-inch full range drivers, with 120W of amplification. You don’t get true stereo, but it will be a definite audio upgrade over plugging a turntable into most portable speakers. Part Two: Requires a Turntable With a Built-in Preamp The speaker system has an AUX or Line-In input, so a turntable requires either its own built-in preamp (which many consumer models offer), or you’ll also need a standalone PHONO preamplifier between the speaker and the turntable. Also, if connecting a turntable to a speaker’s AUX input, you may need to pick up a 2 x male RCA to 3.5mm cable. Fluance Ai61 Canada’s Fluance doesn’t just make some of my favorite turntables, the company also offers some very compelling powered bookshelf speakers to plug them into. The Ai41s are good, but I’d pay the $50 extra to bump up to the Ai61s (especially in the Lucky Bamboo finish). With 6.5-inch woofers and 120W of power, they pack a punch. They also support a wide range of inputs including Bluetooth. The Fluance Ai61 powered bookshelf speakers ( reviewed here ) are affordably priced at $299.99, but you do need a turntable with its own preamp. U-Turn Audio Ethos U-Turn Audio is another company that makes great turntables–and also offers the option of adding a pair of powered bookshelf speakers to plug them into. The $449 U-Turn Audio Ethos speakers feature a fully analog signal path, a flat response (so records sound true to life) and RCA inputs–although you will need a turntable with a preamp. In a nod to our digital life, despite the emphasis on analog the Ethos speakers do also support Bluetooth connectivity. A handsome walnut veneer finish is available for an extra $100 and speaker grills will set you back $30. Marshall Stanmore III The $379.99 Marshall Stanmore III is the ideal Bluetooth speaker for the turntable owner who wants to look like they’ve plugged into a vintage guitar amp. The retro looks extend to a top mounted power toggle switch and rotary knobs for bass, treble and volume. You’ll need a turntable with a preamp, but there’s an RCA line input in back to plug in a turntable (it also supports Bluetooth). The Class D amplifier delivers 50W to the 5-inch woofer and 15W each to the pair of outward-angled tweeters. Ultimate Ears HYPERBOOM The final speaker on my list is not one that is often associated with turntables. However, the $399.99 Ultimate Ears HYPERBOOM is no ordinary portable Bluetooth speaker. This one is a monster (over 14-inches tall and 13 pounds) and it can output some pretty convincing, room-filling sound thanks to a speaker array that consists of two 4.5-inch woofers, two tweeters and a pair of big passive radiators. It also sports Adaptive EQ, so the sound output is optimized for whatever space it’s in. And the HYPERBOOM ( reviewed here ) also offers an array of inputs, including a 3.5MM AUX input that you can use to connect a turntable that has its own preamp. Looking for something to play that record collection on as well? Record Roundup 28 has a collection of my favorite turntables, from entry level to higher end models.
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Michigan Gov. Whitmer on pace to spend about 25% of this year outside the stateORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — In losing Sunday’s battle with the Buffalo Bills, perhaps the best team in football, Jerod Mayo won the war. Best I can tell, he’s staying put. For 2025, and maybe beyond. To his angry fan base and incredulous pockets of the New England Patriots’ media corps, remember Mayo’s future doesn’t hinge on winning this season. It’s not about what you want, or what I think. It’s about the Krafts, who hand-picked Mayo to succeed Bill Belichick four and a half years before he actually did, believing in him, and finding reasons to maintain that belief. In the eyes of someone who wants to believe, Sunday supplied enough reason. The Patriots led at halftime, then lost by three as 14-point underdogs. They became the first team since mid-October to hold the Bills under 30 points. Drake Maye outplayed the next MVP of the league for most of the game and took another step toward his destiny as a franchise quarterback, If that sounds like a low bar, that’s because it is. Such is life in Year 1 of a rebuild, a multi-year process ownership has committed to seeing through to the end with their organizational pillars now in place: Mayo, Maye and de facto GM Eliot Wolf. As frustrating as this 3-12 campaign has been, there are always nuggets of optimism amid the rubble of a losing season; particularly if you want to find them. The Krafts do, and so does Maye, who loves his head coach, by the way; calling questions about Mayo’s job security “BS.” “We’ve got his back,” Maye said post-game. Maye’s voice matters. Certainly more than any number of fans or media members. Ever since media-fueled speculation that Mayo could get canned at the end of his first season began rising, the caveat has always been the same: if, a Gillette Stadium-sized “if,” the Patriots bomb atomically down the stretch, ownership could pull the plug on Mayo. NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport became the latest to join that chorus Sunday with this pregame report: “The Krafts want to keep Jerod Mayo,” he said. “They believe he is the leader for the organization for the future, and they knew it would be a multi-year process to get this thing right. Now if things go off the rails, if they really start to struggle and he loses the locker room the last couple games of the season, we’ve seen this thing turn. “But as of now, the Patriots believe Jerod Mayo is their leader for the future.” Well, Mayo hasn’t lost the locker room. That’s a fact. To a man, both in public and from those I’ve spoken to in private, Patriots players believe in their head coach. Mayo might be a players’ coach, yes, in the best and worst senses. But the Patriots were a few plays away Sunday from pulling off their largest upset since Super Bowl XXXVI. “I think we’re building something good,” Maye said. The Patriots also played their best half of football this season against their toughest opponent yet. Another fact. Now, to the frustrated, I am with you. To the shocked, I understand. But to the trigger-happy, lay down your arms. Mayo, by all accounts, is returning in 2025. Alex Van Pelt, however, is another story. In the same vein that the Krafts could have viewed Sunday’s performance as a reason to save Mayo — despite his pathetic punt at midfield, down 10 with just eight and a half minutes left — they could have convinced themselves their offensive coordinator is the real problem. After all, team president Jonathan Kraft was visibly exasperated over Van Pelt’s play-calling during the Pats’ loss at Arizona a week earlier. Four days later, Van Pelt told reporters he had yet to hear from his boss. Well, that time may be coming. Trailing by three in the fourth quarter Sunday, Van Pelt called a pass that resulted in an unnecessary lateral and game-winning touchdown for Buffalo. His offense later operated like it was taking a Sunday drive with the game on the line, using up 3:16 of the final 4:19 en route to its final touchdown. Van Pelt, finally, weaponized Maye’s legs in critical situations, something that arguably should have been done weeks ago. Not to mention, Van Pelt’s top running back can’t stop fumbling, and the offensive line remains a hot mess. Call him Alex Van Fall Guy. Because Van Pelt’s offense, for the first time in a while, under-performed relative to Mayo’s defense. On merit, he deserves to stay; a case that’s harder to make for defensive coordinator DeMarcus Covington. But it’s not about merit this season. It’s not about what you want. It’s not about what I think. It’s about the Krafts; what they see, what they want, what they believe. Even in defeat. ____ Get in the game with our Prep Sports Newsletter Sent weekly directly to your inbox!
Angara inherits problem left by Sara at DepEdWASHINGTON — President-elect Donald Trump offered a public show of support Friday for Pete Hegseth, his choice to lead the Defense Department, whose confirmation by the Senate is in doubt as he faces questions over allegations of excessive drinking, sexual assault and his views on women in combat roles. Hegseth, a former Fox News host, Army National Guard major and combat veteran, spent much of the week on Capitol Hill trying to salvage his Cabinet nomination and privately reassure Republican senators that he is fit to lead Trump's Pentagon. "Pete Hegseth is doing very well," Trump posted on his social media site. "He will be a fantastic, high energy, Secretary of Defense." The president added that "Pete is a WINNER, and there is nothing that can be done to change that!!!" The nomination battle is emerging not only as a debate about the best person to lead the Pentagon, but an inflection point for a MAGA movement that appears to be relishing a public fight over its hard-line push for a more masculine military and an end to the "woke-ism" of diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's nominee to be defense secretary, responds to reporters during a meeting with Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) Military leaders are rattled by a list of “woke” senior officers that a conservative group urged Hegseth to dismiss for promoting diversity in the ranks if he is confirmed to lead the Pentagon. The list compiled by the American Accountability Foundation includes 20 general officers or senior admirals and a disproportionate number of female officers. It has had a chilling effect on the Pentagon’s often frank discussions as leaders try to figure out how to address the potential firings and diversity issues under Trump. Those on the list in many cases seem to be targeted for public comments they made either in interviews or at events on diversity, and in some cases for retweeting posts that promote diversity. Tom Jones, a former aide to Republican senators who leads the foundation, said Friday those on the list are “pretty egregious” advocates for diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, policies, which he called problematic. “The nominee has been pretty clear that that has no place in the military,” Jones said of Hegseth. Hegseth embraced Trump’s effort to end programs that promote diversity in the ranks and fire those who reflect those values. Other Trump picks, like Kash Patel for FBI director, have suggested targeting those in government who are not aligned with Trump. Trump's allies forcefully rallied around Hegseth — the Heritage Foundation's political arm promised to spend $1 million to shore up his nomination — as he vows to stay in the fight, as long as the president-elect wants him to. Vice President-elect JD Vance offers a public show of support for Pete Hegseth, the embattled choice to lead the Defense Department. "We're not abandoning this nomination," Vance told reporters during a tour of western North Carolina. "We're not abandoning this nomination," Vice-President-elect JD Vance said as he toured post-hurricane North Carolina. He said he spoke with GOP senators and believes Hegseth will be confirmed. The effort became a test of Trump's clout and of how far loyalty for the president-elect goes with Republican senators who have concerns about his nominees. Two of Trump's other choices stepped aside as they faced intense scrutiny: former Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., his first choice for attorney general, and Chad Chronister, a Florida sheriff who was Trump's first choice to lead the Drug Enforcement Administration. Thanking the president-elect for the support, Hegseth posted on social media, "Like you, we will never back down." Hegseth faces resistance from senators as reports emerged about his past, including the revelation that he made a settlement payment after being accused of a sexual assault that he denies. He promised not to drink on the job and told lawmakers he never engaged in sexual misconduct, even as his professional views on female troops came under intensifying scrutiny. He said as recently as last month that women "straight up" should not serve in combat. He picked up one important endorsement from Republican Sen. Katie Britt of Alabama, whose support was seen as a potentially powerful counterweight to the cooler reception Hegseth received from Sen. Joni Ernst, a former Army National Guard lieutenant colonel. Ernst, who is also a sexual assault survivor, stopped short of an endorsement after meeting with Hegseth this week. On Friday, Ernst posted on X that she would meet with him again next week. “At a minimum, we agree that he deserves the opportunity to lay out his vision for our warfighters at a fair hearing,” she wrote. On Friday, Trump put out the statement in response to coverage saying he lost faith in Hegseth, according to a person familiar with his thinking who was not authorized to discuss it publicly. The president-elect and his team were pleased to see Hegseth putting up a fight and his performance this week reiterates why he was chosen, the person said. They believe he can still be confirmed. Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's nominee to be defense secretary, left, joined by his wife Jennifer Rauchet, attends a meeting with Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) If Hegseth goes down, Trump's team believes the defeat would empower others to spread what they cast as "vicious lies" against every candidate Trump chooses. Still, Trump's transition team is looking at potential replacements, including former presidential rival Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. DeSantis plans to attend the Dec. 14 Army-Navy football game with Trump, according to a person familiar with the Florida governor's plans who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity. DeSantis and Trump spoke about the defense secretary post Tuesday at a memorial service for sheriff deputies in West Palm Beach, Fla., according to people familiar with the matter who said Trump was interested in DeSantis for the post, and the governor was receptive. DeSantis is poised to select a replacement for the expected Senate vacancy to be created by Marco Rubio becoming secretary of state, and Trump's daughter-in-law Lara Trump is seen as the preferred choice by those in Trump's orbit. Among President-elect Donald Trump's picks are Susie Wiles for chief of staff, Susie Wiles, 67, was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 presidential campaign and its de facto manager. Trump to be secretary of state, making a former sharp critic his choice to be the new administration's top diplomat. Rubio, 53, is a noted hawk on China, Cuba and Iran, and was a finalist to be Trump's running mate on the Republican ticket last summer. Rubio is the vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “He will be a strong Advocate for our Nation, a true friend to our Allies, and a fearless Warrior who will never back down to our adversaries,” Trump said of Rubio in a statement. The announcement punctuates the hard pivot Rubio has made with Trump, whom the senator called a “con man" during his unsuccessful campaign for the 2016 GOP presidential nomination. Their relationship improved dramatically while Trump was in the White House. And as Trump campaigned for the presidency a third time, Rubio cheered his proposals. For instance, Rubio, who more than a decade ago helped craft immigration legislation that included a path to citizenship for people in the U.S. illegally, now supports Trump's plan to use the U.S. military for mass deportations. Pete Hegseth, 44, is a co-host of Fox News Channel’s “Fox & Friends Weekend” and has been a contributor with the network since 2014, where he developed a friendship with Trump, who made regular appearances on the show. Hegseth lacks senior military or national security experience. If confirmed by the Senate, he would inherit the top job during a series of global crises — ranging from Russia’s war in Ukraine and the ongoing attacks in the Middle East by Iranian proxies to the push for a cease-fire between Israel, Hamas and Hezbollah and escalating worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea. Hegseth is also the author of “The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free,” published earlier this year. Trump tapped Pam Bondi, 59, to be attorney general after U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration. She was Florida's first female attorney general, serving between 2011 and 2019. She also was on Trump’s legal team during his first impeachment trial in 2020. Considered a loyalist, she served as part of a Trump-allied outside group that helped lay the groundwork for his future administration called the America First Policy Institute. Bondi was among a group of Republicans who showed up to support Trump at his hush money criminal trial in New York that ended in May with a conviction on 34 felony counts. A fierce defender of Trump, she also frequently appears on Fox News and has been a critic of the criminal cases against him. Trump picked South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, a well-known conservative who faced sharp criticism for telling a story in her memoir about shooting a rambunctious dog, to lead an agency crucial to the president-elect’s hardline immigration agenda. Noem used her two terms leading a tiny state to vault to a prominent position in Republican politics. South Dakota is usually a political afterthought. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, Noem did not order restrictions that other states had issued and instead declared her state “open for business.” Trump held a fireworks rally at Mount Rushmore in July 2020 in one of the first large gatherings of the pandemic. She takes over a department with a sprawling mission. In addition to key immigration agencies, the Department of Homeland Security oversees natural disaster response, the U.S. Secret Service, and Transportation Security Administration agents who work at airports. The governor of North Dakota, who was once little-known outside his state, Burgum is a former Republican presidential primary contender who endorsed Trump, and spent months traveling to drum up support for him, after dropping out of the race. Burgum was a serious contender to be Trump’s vice presidential choice this summer. The two-term governor was seen as a possible pick because of his executive experience and business savvy. Burgum also has close ties to deep-pocketed energy industry CEOs. Trump made the announcement about Burgum joining his incoming administration while addressing a gala at his Mar-a-Lago club, and said a formal statement would be coming the following day. In comments to reporters before Trump took the stage, Burgum said that, in recent years, the power grid is deteriorating in many parts of the country, which he said could raise national security concerns but also drive up prices enough to increase inflation. “There's just a sense of urgency, and a sense of understanding in the Trump administration,” Burgum said. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ran for president as a Democrat, than as an independent, and . He's the son of Democratic icon Robert Kennedy, who was assassinated during his own presidential campaign. The nomination of Kennedy to lead the Department of Health and Human Services alarmed people who are concerned about . For example, he has long advanced the debunked idea that vaccines cause autism. Scott Bessent, 62, is a former George Soros money manager and an advocate for deficit reduction. He's the founder of hedge fund Key Square Capital Management, after having worked on-and-off for Soros Fund Management since 1991. If confirmed by the Senate, he would be the nation’s first openly gay treasury secretary. He told Bloomberg in August that he decided to join Trump’s campaign in part to attack the mounting U.S. national debt. That would include slashing government programs and other spending. “This election cycle is the last chance for the U.S. to grow our way out of this mountain of debt without becoming a sort of European-style socialist democracy,” he said then. Oregon Republican U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer narrowly lost her reelection bid this month, but received strong backing from union members in her district. As a potential labor secretary, she would oversee the Labor Department’s workforce, its budget and put forth priorities that impact workers’ wages, health and safety, ability to unionize, and employer’s rights to fire employers, among other responsibilities. Chavez-DeRemer is one of few House Republicans to endorse the “Protecting the Right to Organize” or PRO Act would allow more workers to conduct organizing campaigns and would add penalties for companies that violate workers’ rights. The act would also weaken “right-to-work” laws that allow employees in more than half the states to avoid participating in or paying dues to unions that represent workers at their places of employment. Scott Turner is a former NFL player and White House aide. He ran the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council during Trump’s first term in office. Trump, in a statement, credited Turner, the highest-ranking Black person he’s yet selected for his administration, with “helping to lead an Unprecedented Effort that Transformed our Country’s most distressed communities.” Sean Duffy is a former House member from Wisconsin who was one of Trump's most visible defenders on cable news. Duffy served in the House for nearly nine years, sitting on the Financial Services Committee and chairing the subcommittee on insurance and housing. He left Congress in 2019 for a TV career and has been the host of “The Bottom Line” on Fox Business. Before entering politics, Duffy was a reality TV star on MTV, where he met his wife, “Fox and Friends Weekend” co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy. They have nine children. A campaign donor and CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy, Write is a vocal advocate of oil and gas development, including fracking — a key pillar of Trump’s quest to achieve U.S. “energy dominance” in the global market. Wright also has been one of the industry’s loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change. He said the climate movement around the world is “collapsing under its own weight.” The Energy Department is responsible for advancing energy, environmental and nuclear security of the United States. Wright also won support from influential conservatives, including oil and gas tycoon Harold Hamm. Hamm, executive chairman of Oklahoma-based Continental Resources, a major shale oil company, is a longtime Trump supporter and adviser who played a key role on energy issues in Trump’s first term. President-elect Donald Trump tapped billionaire professional wrestling mogul Linda McMahon to be secretary of the Education Department, tasked with overseeing an agency Trump promised to dismantle. McMahon led the Small Business Administration during Trump’s initial term from 2017 to 2019 and twice ran unsuccessfully as a Republican for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut. She’s seen as a relative unknown in education circles, though she expressed support for charter schools and school choice. She served on the Connecticut Board of Education for a year starting in 2009 and has spent years on the board of trustees for Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. Brooke Rollins, who graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in agricultural development, is a longtime Trump associate who served as White House domestic policy chief during his first presidency. The 52-year-old is president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a group helping to lay the groundwork for a second Trump administration. She previously served as an aide to former Texas Gov. Rick Perry and ran a think tank, the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Trump chose Howard Lutnick, head of brokerage and investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald and a cryptocurrency enthusiast, as his nominee for commerce secretary, a position in which he'd have a key role in carrying out Trump's plans to raise and enforce tariffs. Trump made the announcement Tuesday on his social media platform, Truth Social. Lutnick is a co-chair of Trump’s transition team, along with Linda McMahon, the former wrestling executive who previously led Trump’s Small Business Administration. Both are tasked with putting forward candidates for key roles in the next administration. The nomination would put Lutnick in charge of a sprawling Cabinet agency that is involved in funding new computer chip factories, imposing trade restrictions, releasing economic data and monitoring the weather. It is also a position in which connections to CEOs and the wider business community are crucial. Doug Collins is a former Republican congressman from Georgia who gained recognition for defending Trump during his first impeachment trial, which centered on U.S. assistance for Ukraine. Trump was impeached for urging Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden in 2019 during the Democratic presidential nomination, but he was acquitted by the Senate. Collins has also served in the armed forces himself and is currently a chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command. "We must take care of our brave men and women in uniform, and Doug will be a great advocate for our Active Duty Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Families to ensure they have the support they need," Trump said in a statement about nominating Collins to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs. Karoline Leavitt, 27, was Trump's campaign press secretary and currently a spokesperson for his transition. She would be the youngest White House press secretary in history. The White House press secretary typically serves as the public face of the administration and historically has held daily briefings for the press corps. Leavitt, a New Hampshire native, was a spokesperson for MAGA Inc., a super PAC supporting Trump, before joining his 2024 campaign. In 2022, winning a 10-way Republican primary before losing to Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas. Leavitt worked in the White House press office during Trump's first term before she became communications director for New York Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik, Trump's choice for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard to be director of national intelligence, keeping with the trend to stock his Cabinet with loyal personalities rather than veteran professionals in their requisite fields. Gabbard, 43, was a Democratic House member who unsuccessfully sought the party's 2020 presidential nomination before leaving the party in 2022. She endorsed Trump in August and campaigned often with him this fall. “I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community,” Trump said in a statement. Gabbard, who has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades, deploying to Iraq and Kuwait, would come to the role as somewhat of an outsider compared to her predecessor. The current director, Avril Haines, was confirmed by the Senate in 2021 following several years in a number of top national security and intelligence positions. Trump has picked John Ratcliffe, a former Texas congressman who served as director of national intelligence during his first administration, to be director of the Central Intelligence Agency in his next. Ratcliffe was director of national intelligence during the final year and a half of Trump's first term, leading the U.S. government's spy agencies during the coronavirus pandemic. “I look forward to John being the first person ever to serve in both of our Nation's highest Intelligence positions,” Trump said in a statement, calling him a “fearless fighter for the Constitutional Rights of all Americans” who would ensure “the Highest Levels of National Security, and PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH.” Kash Patel spent several years as a Justice Department prosecutor before catching the Trump administration’s attention as a staffer on Capitol Hill who helped investigate the Russia probe. Patel called for dramatically reducing the agency’s footprint, a perspective that sets him apart from earlier directors who sought additional resources for the bureau. Though the Justice Department in 2021 during leak investigations, Patel said he intends to aggressively hunt down government officials who leak information to reporters. Trump has chosen former New York Rep. to serve as his pick to lead the . Zeldin does not appear to have any experience in environmental issues, but is a longtime supporter of the former president. The 44-year-old former U.S. House member from New York wrote on , “We will restore US energy dominance, revitalize our auto industry to bring back American jobs, and make the US the global leader of AI.” “We will do so while protecting access to clean air and water,” he added. During his campaign, Trump often attacked the Biden administration's promotion of electric vehicles, and incorrectly referring to a tax credit for EV purchases as a government mandate. Trump also often told his audiences during the campaign his administration would “Drill, baby, drill,” referring to his support for expanded petroleum exploration. In a statement, Trump said Zeldin “will ensure fair and swift deregulatory decisions that will be enacted in a way to unleash the power of American businesses, while at the same time maintaining the highest environmental standards, including the cleanest air and water on the planet.” Trump has named Brendan Carr, the senior Republican on the Federal Communications Commission, as the new chairman of the agency tasked with regulating broadcasting, telecommunications and broadband. Carr is a longtime member of the commission and served previously as the FCC’s general counsel. He has been unanimously confirmed by the Senate three times and was nominated by both Trump and President Joe Biden to the commission. Carr made past appearances on “Fox News Channel," including when he decried Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris' pre-Election Day appearance on “Saturday Night Live.” He wrote an op-ed last month defending a satellite company owned by Trump supporter Elon Musk. Trump said Atkins, the CEO of Patomak Partners and a former SEC commissioner, was a “proven leader for common sense regulations.” In the years since leaving the SEC, Atkins has made the case against too much market regulation. “He believes in the promise of robust, innovative capital markets that are responsive to the needs of Investors, & that provide capital to make our Economy the best in the World. He also recognizes that digital assets & other innovations are crucial to Making America Greater than Ever Before,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. The commission oversees U.S. securities markets and investments and is currently led by Gary Gensler, who has been leading the U.S. government’s crackdown on the crypto industry. Gensler, who was nominated by President Joe Biden, announced last month that he would be stepping down from his post on the day that Trump is inaugurated — Jan. 20, 2025. Atkins began his career as a lawyer and has a long history working in the financial markets sector, both in government and private practice. In the 1990s, he worked on the staffs of two former SEC chairmen, Richard C. Breeden and Arthur Levitt. Rep. Elise Stefanik is a and one of Trump's staunchest defenders going back to his first impeachment. Elected to the House in 2014, Stefanik was selected by her GOP House colleagues as House Republican Conference chair in 2021, when former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney was removed from the post after publicly criticizing Trump for falsely claiming he won the 2020 election. Stefanik, 40, has served in that role ever since as the third-ranking member of House leadership. Stefanik’s questioning of university presidents over antisemitism on their campuses helped lead to two of those presidents resigning, further raising her national profile. If confirmed, she would represent American interests at the U.N. as Trump vows to end the war waged by Russia against Ukraine begun in 2022. He has also called for peace as Israel continues its offensive against Hamas in Gaza and its invasion of Lebanon to target Hezbollah. President-elect Donald Trump tapped former Sen. David Perdue of Georgia to be ambassador to China, saying in a social media post that the former CEO “brings valuable expertise to help build our relationship with China.” four years ago and ran unsuccessfully in a primary against Republican Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp. Perdue pushed Trump's debunked lies about electoral fraud during his failed bid for governor. A Republican congressman from Michigan who served from 1993 to 2011, Hoekstra was ambassador to the Netherlands during Trump's first term. “In my Second Term, Pete will help me once again put AMERICA FIRST,” Trump said in a statement announcing his choice. “He did an outstanding job as United States Ambassador to the Netherlands during our first four years, and I am confident that he will continue to represent our Country well in this new role.” Trump will nominate former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee to be ambassador to Israel. Huckabee is a staunch defender of Israel and his intended nomination comes as Trump has promised to align U.S. foreign policy more closely with Israel's interests as it wages wars against the Iran-backed Hamas and Hezbollah. “He loves Israel, and likewise the people of Israel love him,” Trump said in a statement. “Mike will work tirelessly to bring about peace in the Middle East.” Huckabee, who ran unsuccessfully for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 and 2016, has been a popular figure among evangelical Christian conservatives, many of whom support Israel due to Old Testament writings that Jews are God’s chosen people and that Israel is their rightful homeland. Trump has been praised by some in this important Republican voting bloc for moving the U.S. embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Trump on Tuesday named real estate investor Steven Witkoff to be special envoy to the Middle East. The 67-year-old Witkoff is the president-elect's golf partner and was golfing with him at Trump's club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sept. 15, when the former president was the target of a second attempted assassination. Witkoff “is a Highly Respected Leader in Business and Philanthropy,” Trump said of Witkoff in a statement. “Steve will be an unrelenting Voice for PEACE, and make us all proud." Trump also named Witkoff co-chair, with former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler, of his inaugural committee. Trump said Wednesday that he will nominate Gen. Keith Kellogg to serve as assistant to the president and special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. Kellogg, a retired Army lieutenant general who has long been Trump’s top adviser on defense issues, served as National Security Advisor to Trump's former Vice President Mike Pence. For the America First Policy Institute, one of several groups formed after Trump left office to help lay the groundwork for the next Republican administration, Kellogg in April wrote that “bringing the Russia-Ukraine war to a close will require strong, America First leadership to deliver a peace deal and immediately end the hostilities between the two warring parties.” (AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib) Trump asked Rep. Michael Waltz, R-Fla., a retired Army National Guard officer and war veteran, to be his national security adviser, Trump announced in a statement Tuesday. The move puts Waltz in the middle of national security crises, ranging from efforts to provide weapons to Ukraine and worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea to the persistent attacks in the Middle East by Iran proxies and the push for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas and Hezbollah. “Mike has been a strong champion of my America First Foreign Policy agenda,” Trump's statement said, "and will be a tremendous champion of our pursuit of Peace through Strength!” Waltz is a three-term GOP congressman from east-central Florida. He served multiple tours in Afghanistan and also worked in the Pentagon as a policy adviser when Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates were defense chiefs. He is considered hawkish on China, and called for a U.S. boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing due to its involvement in the origin of COVID-19 and its mistreatment of the minority Muslim Uighur population. Stephen Miller, an , was a vocal spokesperson during the presidential campaign for Trump's priority of mass deportations. The 39-year-old was a senior adviser during Trump's first administration. Miller has been a central figure in some of Trump's policy decisions, notably his move to separate thousands of immigrant families. Trump argued throughout the campaign that the nation's economic, national security and social priorities could be met by deporting people who are in the United States illegally. Since Trump left office in 2021, Miller has served as the president of America First Legal, an organization made up of former Trump advisers aimed at challenging the Biden administration, media companies, universities and others over issues such as free speech and national security. Thomas Homan, 62, with Trump’s top priority of carrying out the largest deportation operation in the nation’s history. Homan, who served under Trump in his first administration leading U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was widely expected to be offered a position related to the border, an issue Trump made central to his campaign. Though Homan has insisted such a massive undertaking would be humane, he has long been a loyal supporter of Trump's policy proposals, suggesting at a July conference in Washington that he would be willing to "run the biggest deportation operation this country’s ever seen.” Democrats have criticized Homan for his defending Trump's “zero tolerance” policy on border crossings during his first administration, which led to the separation of thousands of parents and children seeking asylum at the border. Former Rep. Billy Long represented Missouri in the U.S. House from 2011 to 2023. Since leaving Congress, Trump said, Long “has worked as a Business and Tax advisor, helping Small Businesses navigate the complexities of complying with the IRS Rules and Regulations.” Former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler was appointed in January 2020 by Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp and then lost a runoff election a year later. She started a conservative voter registration organization and dived into GOP fundraising, becoming one of the top individual donors and bundlers to Trump’s 2024 comeback campaign. Even before nominating her for agriculture secretary, the president-elect already had tapped Loeffler as co-chair of his inaugural committee. Dr. Mehmet Oz, 64, is a former heart surgeon who hosted “The Dr. Oz Show,” a long-running daytime television talk show. He ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate as the Republican nominee in 2022 and is an outspoken supporter of Trump, who endorsed Oz's bid for elected office. Elon Musk, left, and Vivek Ramaswamy speak before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at an Oct. 27 campaign rally at Madison Square Garden in New York. Trump on Tuesday said Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Ramaswamy will lead a new “Department of Government Efficiency" — which is not, despite the name, a government agency. The acronym “DOGE” is a nod to Musk's favorite cryptocurrency, dogecoin. Trump said Musk and Ramaswamy will work from outside the government to offer the White House “advice and guidance” and will partner with the Office of Management and Budget to “drive large scale structural reform, and create an entrepreneurial approach to Government never seen before.” He added the move would shock government systems. It's not clear how the organization will operate. Musk, owner of X and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has been a constant presence at Mar-a-Lago since Trump won the presidential election. Ramaswamy suspended his campaign in January and threw his support behind Trump. Trump said the two will “pave the way for my Administration to dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies.” Russell Vought held the position during Trump’s first presidency. After Trump’s initial term ended, Vought founded the Center for Renewing America, a think tank that describes its mission as “renew a consensus of America as a nation under God.” Vought was closely involved with Project 2025, a conservative blueprint for Trump’s second term that he tried to distance himself from during the campaign. Vought has also previously worked as the executive and budget director for the Republican Study Committee, a caucus for conservative House Republicans. He also worked at Heritage Action, the political group tied to The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank. Scavino, whom Trump's transition referred to in a statement as one of “Trump's longest serving and most trusted aides,” was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 campaign, as well as his 2016 and 2020 campaigns. He will be deputy chief of staff and assistant to the president. Scavino had run Trump's social media profile in the White House during his first administration. He was also held in contempt of Congress in 2022 after a month-long refusal to comply with a subpoena from the House committee’s investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Blair was political director for Trump's 2024 campaign and for the Republican National Committee. He will be deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs and assistant to the president. Blair was key to Trump's economic messaging during his winning White House comeback campaign this year, a driving force behind the candidate's “Trump can fix it” slogan and his query to audiences this fall if they were better off than four years ago. Budowich is a veteran Trump campaign aide who launched and directed Make America Great Again, Inc., a super PAC that supported Trump's 2024 campaign. He will be deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel and assistant to the president. Budowich also had served as a spokesman for Trump after his presidency. Trump has chosen Dr. Jay Bhattacharya to lead the National Institutes of Health. Bhattacharya is a physician and professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, and is a critic of pandemic lockdowns and vaccine mandates. He promoted the idea of herd immunity during the pandemic, arguing that people at low risk should live normally while building up immunity to COVID-19 through infection. The National Institutes of Health funds medical research through competitive grants to researchers at institutions throughout the nation. NIH also conducts its own research with thousands of scientists working at its labs in Bethesda, Maryland. Makary is a Johns Hopkins surgeon and author who argued against pandemic lockdowns. He routinely appeared on Fox News during the COVID-19 pandemic and wrote opinion articles questioning masks for children. He cast doubt on vaccine mandates but supported vaccines generally. Makary also cast doubt on whether booster shots worked, which was against federal recommendations on the vaccine. Nesheiwat is a general practitioner who serves as medical director for CityMD, a network of urgent care centers in New York and New Jersey. She has been a contributor to Fox News. Weldon is a former Florida congressman who recently ran for a Florida state legislative seat and lost; Trump backed Weldon’s opponent. In Congress, Weldon weighed in on one of the nation’s most heated debates of the 1990s over quality of life and a right-to-die and whether Terri Schiavo, who was in a persistent vegetative state after cardiac arrest, should have been allowed to have her feeding tube removed. He sided with the parents who did not want it removed. Trump is turning to two officials with experience navigating not only Washington but the key issues of income taxes and tariffs as he fills out his economic team. He announced he has chosen international trade attorney Jamieson Greer to be his U.S. trade representative and Kevin Hassett as director of the White House National Economic Council. While Trump has in several cases nominated outsiders to key posts, these picks reflect a recognition that his reputation will likely hinge on restoring the public’s confidence in the economy. Trump said in a statement that Greer was instrumental in his first term in imposing tariffs on China and others and replacing the trade agreement with Canada and Mexico, “therefore making it much better for American Workers.” Hassett, 62, served in the first Trump term as chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers. He has a doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania and worked at the right-leaning American Enterprise Institute before joining the Trump White House in 2017. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.Olivia Hussey, star of the 1968 film 'Romeo and Juliet,' dies at 73
Trump offers a public show of support for Pete Hegseth, his embattled nominee to lead the PentagonSince ChatGPT took the world by storm in the fall of 2022, artificial intelligence (AI) has increasingly crept into many aspects of society. For instance, U.S. regulations around AI rose 56% in 2023. Now, businesses are advancing computer science to facilitate the evolution of AI. Two prominent companies in this area are quantum computing company IonQ ( IONQ 12.80% ) and semiconductor-giant Nvidia ( NVDA -2.25% ) . Each company has developed groundbreaking technologies poised to revolutionize the computing industry, which has helped propel their stocks skyward. Through Dec. 11, IonQ's share price was up around 140%, and Nvidia's had risen about 180% in 2024. But which company provides a better long-term investment to capitalize on the secular trend of AI? I'll dig into both businesses to answer that question. A look at IonQ's quantum tech IonQ is an attractive investment because quantum computing can evolve AI beyond what's possible with the most powerful supercomputers on the planet. Quantum computers use subatomic particles to perform complex calculations in seconds that can take years for a traditional computer to complete. IonQ isn't the only company working on quantum computers, but its technology overcomes challenges faced by the industry. For example, many quantum systems require temperatures colder than outer space to keep the subatomic particles stable, but IonQ's platform can operate at room temperature. Its tech helped it capture customers such as Oak Ridge National Laboratory, which is using IonQ's quantum computers to modernize the U.S. power grid. Its growing customer base has led to rapid revenue growth for the company. In the third quarter, IonQ's sales rose 102% year over year to $12.4 million. The company also captured $63.5 million in new customer bookings in the quarter. However, IonQ isn't profitable. It exited Q3 with a net loss of $52.5 million, up from $44.8 million in the prior year, as it spent $33.2 million on research and development . It's not cheap building innovative technology. IonQ is continually strengthening its technological advantages. In November, it announced it was acquiring quantum networking company Qubitekk. Today's AI relies on the power of many computers networked together. With the Qubitekk acquisition, IonQ intends to emulate the network effect for its quantum machines. Nvidia's strengths in AI The rise of AI supercharged Nvidia's business as companies and governments showed an insatiable appetite for its semiconductor chips. For example, some estimates suggest ChatGPT was built using 10,000 Nvidia chips. The company's products are popular for AI because Nvidia developed specialized chips called graphics processing units (GPUs). These provide AI systems with the computer processing power to quickly and efficiently churn through mountains of data to execute tasks. Demand remains strong for Nvidia's products. The company reached record revenue of $35.1 billion in its fiscal Q3, ended October 27. This represents a 94% rise over the previous year. Q3 net income was also up, hitting $19.3 billion, a remarkable 109% year-over-year increase. But its latest technology could propel the company to greater heights. Its Blackwell platform was designed specifically for the advanced computing required by AI systems. Nvidia claims it pushes the boundaries of scientific computing since each of Blackwell's GPUs boasts over 200 billion transistors. Customers are so hungry for Blackwell, Nvidia management stated "demand greatly exceeds supply." The governments of Japan and Taiwan are among the organizations building AI supercomputers using Blackwell. With so much product demand, Nvidia expects Q4 revenue to come in around $37.5 billion. That's a double-digit increase over the previous year's $22.1 billion. Choosing between IonQ and Nvidia Both companies offer good reasons to invest in them, given their compelling technologies. To pick between the pair, here are other important factors to consider. Nvidia's Blackwell platform is so powerful, it's capable of simulating the abilities of quantum computers. Blackwell can do this because today's quantum machines are limited in how long they can perform calculations before the subatomic particles break down. As a result, quantum computers can't replace classical computers, such as Blackwell, in the near term. Over the long run, however, quantum computers are expected to achieve quantum advantage, a term meaning a time when a classical computer can no longer keep up with a quantum machine. Some estimates predict quantum advantage will arrive some time after 2030. Consequently, it could be years before IonQ's technology potentially overtakes Nvidia's, making IonQ a more speculative investment. In addition, with shares of each company up this year, another consideration is valuation. Here's a look at their price-to-sales ratios (P/S). The metric indicates the price investors are willing to pay for each dollar of a company's sales. Data by YCharts . As the chart shows, IonQ's P/S multiple has surged in recent weeks and is now incredibly high, compared to Nvidia's. This suggests Nvidia shares are a better value. The better investment choice becomes clear when you consider three things: IonQ's stock appears overvalued. Nvidia's profitability and demand for its Blackwell platform are soaring. IonQ's technology is still years away from widespread adoption. Between these two cutting-edge companies, Nvidia stands out as the winning investment in the exciting field of artificial intelligence.
In sports, hindsight is always 20/20, but for the Miami Dolphins, the “perfect vision” comes far too late. The team’s inability to make timely, strategic decisions has caught them in a cycle of missed opportunities, and Tua Tagovailoa ’s contract situation is yet another glaring example. When Tua entered the final stretch of his rookie contract, the Dolphins had to decide whether to pick up his fifth-year option or gamble on his future. While many may have praised the Dolphins for their faith in Tua’s potential, the reality is that choosing not to activate the option left them vulnerable in ways that could have been avoided. Looking back now, the Dolphins’ decision seems questionable at best. The Power of Availability One of the most crucial adages in sports is that “availability is the best ability.” Over the years, Tua has struggled with injuries—some serious, some less so—but the pattern has been undeniable. While he’s shown flashes of brilliance, the reality is that Tua’s availability has been inconsistent, and with injuries continually sidelining him, it’s no surprise that his long-term value has been up for debate. The Dolphins had a golden opportunity to secure Tua at a potentially much cheaper rate by exercising his fifth-year option. The league is riddled with examples of quarterbacks who command sky-high contracts after demonstrating enough promise early in their careers. Yet, by opting to delay a commitment and gamble on his health and performance, Miami lost out on an opportunity to keep their quarterback on a bargain contract for another year. Had the Dolphins locked in that fifth-year option, they could have secured Tua for one more season at a much lower price, mitigating the risk of future injuries or performance issues. Chris Grier’s Oversight Chris Grier, the Dolphins’ General Manager, is at the heart of this decision. It’s easy to criticize with the benefit of hindsight, but Grier’s track record regarding player evaluations and long-term planning speaks for itself. Year after year, the Dolphins have struggled to make the right calls, especially when it comes to securing cornerstone players at a reasonable price ( Andrew Van Ginkel , Deshon Elliot). Now, as Tua’s future is uncertain, it only adds more fuel to the fire of why Grier needs to be held accountable. Had the Dolphins exercised the option, they could have extended Tua following this season on a much cheaper deal due to availability concerns. The Contract Gamble and the Missing Backup In the offseason, Tua signed a multi-year extension that secured him as the team’s long-term quarterback. While the deal represents the Dolphins’ faith in his talent, it came with the risk of continued injuries. The concussion issues that sidelined him for multiple games earlier in the season and the recent hip injury raise serious concerns about his future availability. The Dolphins are now paying a premium for a player whose health is a major question mark, and to make matters worse, the team failed to bring in a competent backup quarterback behind him, the reason they will miss the playoffs this season. A competent backup could have alleviated some of the pressure on Tua, especially when his injuries inevitably caught up with him again. With the Dolphins opting not to shore up this critical position, they are now in the difficult position of depending on an injury-prone quarterback without a reliable safety net. If Tua’s health continues to be a concern, the lack of depth at quarterback could be why Miami misses the playoffs this season. The Dolphins’ inability to plan for injury by not securing a reliable backup is a glaring oversight that should have been considered when signing Tua to a top quarterback deal. The Concussion, the Hip, and Playoff Implications The Dolphins’ playoff hopes are now hanging in the balance, and Tua’s availability was the deciding factor. With his concussion earlier this season and the hip injury that has surfaced now, the Dolphins have every excuse to sit their quarterback down, especially if the team is eliminated from playoff contention. If Tua’s injuries continue to mount and his availability remains uncertain, the Dolphins could see themselves with many more years of mediocrity. Looking Ahead The Dolphins could face a tough decision down the line if Tua’s injuries persist. While the fifth-year option could have given the team more flexibility, Miami’s decision to forgo it has left them in a more precarious position. Suppose Tua’s injuries continue to mount, and his long-term viability is questioned. In that case, the Dolphins will likely find themselves in a dilemma, forced to commit to him long-term or risk starting over again. In the grand scheme of things, it’s easy to say the Dolphins should have exercised Tua’s fifth-year option. However, this is just another reason Chris Grier’s tenure is under scrutiny. In the fast-paced NFL, where timing and long-term vision are paramount, the Dolphins have often made costly errors. If they want to avoid continuing the cycle of mediocrity, changes need to be made—beginning with the man at the helm. Young Talent Rising to the Occasion for the Dolphins
Lawmakers team up for some footworkJune Chen China's savings are at a very high level in the world, and when a country's savings rate is relatively high, it is prone to overcapacity, China's former central bank governor Zhou Xiaochuan said yesterday. Speaking at the 2025 Caijing annual conference in Beijing, he explained if there is not enough supply to meet demand in a country with a low savings rate, it would normally take time to source fresh funds to build new capacity and fill the void. This slow process caused by limited savings will avoid too much investment being rushed in to bridge the shortfall, which in turn could lead to overcapacity. In China, the opposite holds true, he said. China generated 28 percent of total global savings in 2023, only a little less than the 33 percent share of the US and European Union combined, according to the International Monetary Fund. Zhou also pointed out that boosting domestic demand was not contradictory to overseas investment. Boosting domestic demand needs significant effort as well as a lot of research, Zhou said. But even if domestic demand grows, it would be still hard to tap into the huge amount of savings in the mainland. Therefore, it is likely that there would be a large amount of excess savings still remaining and that would be used for overseas investment. "Therefore, it is important for us to study two-way opening up," Zhou said. In Zhou's opinion, the main task about overseas investment at present is to improve investment quality and avoid blind asset allocation. These improvements could include choosing proper investment destinations from economies in Belt and Road Initiative to diversify geopolitical risks. And besides traditional high-technology industries, investors should also pay attention to emerging sectors with potential such as green energy and the energy transition, which will also benefit the utilization rate of equipment at home. Additionally, foreign exchange reserves and large state-based financial institutions accounted for a relatively large proportion of investors in the past, but the amount of foreign investment by the private economy has increased very fast in the past 20 years. Therefore, Beijing should also launch policies to help private investors to make better overseas investment decisions, he said.
Trump offers a public show of support for Pete Hegseth, his embattled nominee to lead the PentagonBillionaire Stanley Druckenmiller , a George Soros protégé , is known for his “top-down” investing style. Druckenmiller’s strategy focuses on making large bets on macroeconomic trends, prioritizing top-performing industries over individual companies. The Bowdoin College and University of Michigan alumnus recently upped his stake in Broadcom Inc AVGO , a $1 trillion semiconductor company based in San Jose, California. Druckenmiller closed his hedge fund, Duquesne Capital in 2010, but still maintains the Duquesne Family Office to manage his wealth. Druckenmiller first bought 51,956 shares in the company in mid-to-late 2023, selling all before the next quarter. The latest Duquesne 13F filing, revealing the firm’s holdings as of Sept. 30, showed Druckenmiller upping his wager on Broadcom to 239,980 shares. The investment — up over 35% since September — represents a market value of almost $56 million, one of his largest holdings. Shares of the company were already trading up over 100% between his first filing and the latest filing. Also Read: History Suggests S&P 500 Could Struggle In 2025, But There’s Reason For Optimism Druckenmiller previously called NVIDIA Corp ‘s NVDA ascension, buying shares in late 2022 and early 2023, but sold off most of his position before the company’s historic rally in 2024. The investor later called the sale a “big mistake.” Broadcom is a global technology company that designs, develops, and supplies semiconductor and infrastructure software solutions. Its products, which include chips for networking, broadband, wireless communications, and storage, as well as enterprise software for cybersecurity and data management, power a wide range of industries, from telecommunications and data centers to consumer electronics. The company’s shares were trading almost 5% higher at the time of publication Monday following news that the U.S. is opening an investigation into China’s semiconductor industry policies, according to Benzinga Pro . Also Read: Tech Stocks Eye Christmas Gains, Microstrategy Tumbles As Bitcoin Dips To $93,000: What’s Driving Markets Monday? Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.Winless in rivalry, Dan Lanning, No. 1 Oregon determined to tame Huskies
Brazil's top court takes on regulation of social media