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Chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen returns to a tournament after a dispute over jeans is resolvedESCONDIDO, CA -- The stars of "Mufasa: The Lion King": Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr. and Tiffany Boone opened up to On The Red Carpet about playing the three lead lions in the upcoming Disney adventure. Pierre voices the title character, Mufasa, the father of Simba who was first introduced in the original 'Lion King' movie in 1994. Harrison Jr. plays his adoptive brother Taka who fans know better as the villain, Scar. And Boone plays Sarabi, a female lion who attracts the attention of the two males, putting their brotherly bond to the test. The new film opening in theaters December 20, isn't the first time Pierre and Harrison Jr. have worked together. The pair also portrayed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X in Nat Geo's "Genius: MLK/X." Harrison Jr. jokingly calls Pierre his "big brother" because they're "months apart." But! Pierre quickly clarified their birthdays are only a month apart. Boone revealed to On The Red Carpet what if feels like to see her character on screen as an animal singing, "Strange. Yes, when I finally saw it or even when we would see some of the sketches come to life it was like 'this is really, really strange' especially how intense the technology is. It's so life-like." Speaking of "intense," Pierre opened up about starring in a highly anticipated film hitting theaters before the holidays, "I'm very nervous but you know I'm really hopeful that people will connect with this and it resonates with people whether they choose to see it on their own or with their loved ones, I just hope people leave feeling inspired and feeling joyous!" Boone shared similar sentiments about voicing Sarabi. "It's an amazing opportunity to be in this cast of actors, to be working with (Lin-Manuel Miranda), to be working with (director) Barry (Jenkins). It's one of those moments where you have to pinch yourself and be like, 'oh, ok you are in this amazing opportunity, what are you gonna do with it and hopefully be present in it." Pierre says he's pinching himself too. "I still can't quite believe that this is a reality," He said. "So, I'm still pinching myself and I'm happy to be pinching myself with other people who are pinching themselves about this movie." "Mufasa: The Lion King" will be in theaters on December 20. The Walt Disney Company is the parent company of this ABC station.
A 7-year-old rivalry between tech leaders Elon Musk and Sam Altman over who should run OpenAI and prevent an artificial intelligence "dictatorship" is now heading to a federal judge as Musk seeks to halt the ChatGPT maker's ongoing shift into a for-profit company. Musk, an early OpenAI investor and board member, sued the artificial intelligence company earlier this year alleging it had betrayed its founding aims as a nonprofit research lab benefiting the public good rather than pursuing profits. Musk has since escalated the dispute, adding new claims and asking for a court order that would stop OpenAI’s plans to convert itself into a for-profit business more fully. The world's richest man, whose companies include Tesla, SpaceX and social media platform X, last year started his own rival AI company, xAI. Musk says it faces unfair competition from OpenAI and its close business partner Microsoft, which has supplied the huge computing resources needed to build AI systems such as ChatGPT. “OpenAI and Microsoft together exploiting Musk’s donations so they can build a for-profit monopoly, one now specifically targeting xAI, is just too much,” says Musk's filing that alleges the companies are violating the terms of Musk’s foundational contributions to the charity. OpenAI filed a response Friday opposing Musk’s requested order, saying it would “debilitate OpenAI’s business” and mission to the advantage of Musk and his own AI company and is based on “far-fetched” legal claims. A hearing is set for January before U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers in Oakland, California. At the heart of the dispute is a 2017 internal power struggle at the fledgling startup that led to Altman becoming OpenAI's CEO. Musk also sought to be CEO and in an email outlined a plan where he would “unequivocally have initial control of the company” but said that would be temporary. He grew frustrated after two other OpenAI co-founders said he would hold too much power as a major shareholder and chief executive if the startup succeeded in its goal to achieve better-than-human AI known as artificial general intelligence , or AGI. Musk has long voiced concerns about how advanced forms of AI could threaten humanity. “The current structure provides you with a path where you end up with unilateral absolute control over the AGI," said a 2017 email to Musk from co-founders Ilya Sutskever and Greg Brockman. “You stated that you don't want to control the final AGI, but during this negotiation, you've shown to us that absolute control is extremely important to you.” In the same email, titled “Honest Thoughts,” Sutskever and Brockman also voiced concerns about Altman's desire to be CEO and whether he was motivated by “political goals.” Altman eventually succeeded in becoming CEO, and has remained so except for a period last year when he was fired and then reinstated days later after the board that ousted him was replaced. OpenAI published the messages Friday in a blog post meant to show its side of the story, particularly Musk's early support for the idea of making OpenAI a for-profit business so it could raise money for the hardware and computer power that AI needs. It was Musk, through his wealth manager Jared Birchall, who first registered “Open Artificial Intelligence Technologies, Inc.,” a public benefit corporation, in September 2017. Then came the “Honest Thoughts” email that Musk described as the “final straw.” “Either go do something on your own or continue with OpenAI as a nonprofit,” Musk wrote back. OpenAI said Musk later proposed merging the startup into Tesla before resigning as the co-chair of OpenAI's board in early 2018. Musk didn't respond to emailed requests for comment sent to his companies Friday. Asked about his frayed relationship with Musk at a New York Times conference last week, Altman said he felt “tremendously sad” but also characterized Musk’s legal fight as one about business competition. “He’s a competitor and we’re doing well,” Altman said. He also said at the conference that he is “not that worried” about the Tesla CEO’s influence with President-elect Donald Trump. OpenAI said Friday that Altman plans to make a $1 million personal donation to Trump’s inauguration fund, joining a number of tech companies and executives who are working to improve their relationships with the incoming administration. —————————— The Associated Press and OpenAI have a licensing and technology agreement allowing OpenAI access to part of the AP’s text archives. This story has been updated to correct the name of the company registered in 2017. It was Open Artificial Intelligence Technologies, Inc., not Open Artificial Technologies Technologies, Inc.Jimmy Carter, the 39th US president, has died at 100
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Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan is entering the 2025 NFL Draft , he announced via social media. McMillan, who is forgoing his final year of collegiate eligibility, is widely regarded as the top true wide receiver prospect in the draft process. "The University of Arizona has provided me with the platform to grow and chase my dreams," McMillan wrote in his announcement . "It has shaped me not just as a player, but as a person. I'll be forever grateful for the loyalty, the opportunities, and everything this University has given me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart." McMillan made a splash in 2022 when he committed Arizona as the No. 4 wide receiver and No. 37 prospect nationally in his class. He is still the highest-ranked high school player to ever sign with the Wildcats in the 247Sports era. It didn't take him long to live up to his lofty recruiting pedigree. He put up a team-leading 702 yards and eight touchdowns receiving as a freshman. A year later, he became the focal point of Arizona's offense with a career-high 90 catches for 1,402 yards and 10 touchdowns. McMillan earned first-team CBS Sports All-American honors in 2024 after hauling in 84 passes for 1,319 yards -- third in the FBS -- and eight touchdowns. McMillan's draft stock The 6-foot-5 McMillan projects as an outside receiver at the next level. He's a strong route runner that can use his sizable frame to win more often than not on jump balls. He also has great hands and after-the-catch ability. McMillan is projected to be a top-10 pick in the NFL Draft. There have only been four wide receivers that are 6-5 or taller selected in the top 10 in the past 60 years. In his most recent mock draft, CBS Sports' Chris Trapasso projected McMillan to the Carolina Panthers with the No. 4 overall pick. "McMillan would be the ideal boundary, back-shoulder, rebounder type with plus YAC skills to provide to Bryce Young at the start of his third professional season." Trapasso wrote . What it means for Arizona McMillan has been a mainstay in Arizona's offense since he stepped foot on campus, so it's going to be difficult for the Wildcats to replace him. He was also the only player on Arizona's roster with at least 500 yards receiving in 2024. Redshirt sophomore Chris Hunter , who emerged as a strong No. 2 option and flashed his versatility down the stretch, can come back if he wants to. He finished the 2024 season with 323 yards and three touchdowns. The Wildcats also have former junior college prospect Jeremiah Patterson to lean on moving forward. Incoming freshman Isaiah Mizell, a three-star prospect and the highest-ranked recruit to sign with Arizona during the 2025 early signing period, will have every opportunity to earn early playing time. The Wildcats will almost certainly turn to the transfer portal for help, as well.The Japanese car giants Nissan and Honda have signed a document to begin discussions that could potentially see the two companies merge. The heads of both brands signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), a non-binding agreement that could lead to the two companies partnering in order to exchange financial and technical support . Makoto Uchida, President of Nissan , noted that Mitsubishi Motors , who have been in a previous partnership with the company since 1999, will also be involved in talks. He explained: " Honda and Nissan have begun considering a business integration, and will study the creation of significant synergies between the two companies in a wide range of fields. "It is significant that Nissan's partner, Mitsubishi Motors, is also involved in these discussions. We anticipate that if this integration comes to fruition, we will be able to deliver even greater value to a wider customer base." Nissan and Mitsubishi have both been in an alliance with Renault Group for the past 25 years, with all three companies supporting one another to share a range of vehicle platforms, mechanicals, and technology. However, with Renault Group rumoured to have plans that can see their stake in Nissan reduced, the Japanese car companies have been actively seeking new partners in the next 12 months. Renault Group aknowledged the news, with a spokesperson stating that the French company will "consider all options based on the best interest of the Group and its stakeholders". Toshihiro Mibe, Director of Honda, stated that the new partnership could mark a huge change for the automotive industry and will therefore be discussed seriously. He added: "At this time of change in the automobile industry, which is said to occur once every 100 years, we hope that Mitsubishi Motors' participation in the business integration discussions of Nissan and Honda will lead to further social change, and that we will be able to become a leading company in creating new value in mobility through business integration. "Nissan and Honda will start the discussion from today onwards, with an aim to clarify the possibility of business integration by around the end of January in line with the consideration of Mitsubishi Motors." Whilst there is no guarantee that Honda and Nissan will merge under the new agreement, a number of motoring experts have stated that the partnership could create fierce competition from the rising Chinese car industry. In spite of both companies producing some models in the country, many brands unique to China are beginning to be exported to European nations, often at substantially lower prices than Western rivals. By sharing their technology, some have argued that the partnership could help to cut the cost of developing new vehicles, helping to reduce the overall price consumers will need to pay.
In early October this year, Jitendra Pratap Singh, district magistrate at Uttar Pradesh’s Baghpat district saw a counterfeit water bottle labelled “Billseri” on his table during an official meeting. He immediately ordered a thorough probe and directed the food safety department in Baghpat to verify the authenticity of the mineral water bottles and take action. Upon investigation, the bottles lacked the mandatory FSSAI seal and were traced to a shop in Gauripur Nivada village in Baghpat district. Over 2,600 fake bottles were seized and destroyed, and the warehouse was sealed. The district administration emphasised the responsibility of private firms to prevent brand misuse and warned the public about health risks posed by counterfeit products. This incident sheds light on a growing issue beyond just counterfeit products: the quality and safety of the water we consume. While authorities focus on cracking down on fake brands, there is a broader conversation emerging about the water purification process itself and what we may be losing in the quest for “clean” drinking water. Beyond contamination, even legitimate bottled water may fail to provide the essential nutrients our bodies need. This brings us to a deeper concern about the hidden impact of modern water purification. Omkar Gaonkar, who works on soil and water pollution monitoring, emphasises the critical oversight in the purification process that results in the removal of natural minerals. “When water is bottled and subjected to industrial purification processes, we strip it of essential minerals that our bodies need to function optimally,” he explains. Natural water is rich in minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium, which play crucial roles in bodily functions. He elaborates on the specific minerals that are often lost in the purification process. “For instance, magnesium is vital for energy production and muscle function, while calcium is essential for bone health. When these minerals are removed, the water becomes less beneficial,” he warns. This points to a significant dilemma: are we consuming water that merely quenches our thirst but fails to nourish our bodies? As water sommeliers suggest, the perception of ‘pure’ water has led many to overlook the fundamental nature of water’s mineral content. Fatimah Zohra, a nutritionist based in Delhi, echoes this sentiment, stating, “Purified water may quench your thirst, but it does little else for your health. The demineralisation process can lead to deficiencies that manifest in various health issues, from muscle cramps to bone health problems.” Many bottled water companies claim to add minerals back into the water after purification to restore its nutritional value. However, this process isn't perfect. Experts suggest that original water cannot be restored because every water source has a unique composition of minerals. For example, water sourced from Delhi will have a different mineral profile compared to water from another location. This means that even though companies may add minerals back into purified water, the result is not the same as the natural mineral composition. While it is possible to meet standard mineral composition guidelines required for drinking water, this doesn’t necessarily mean the water will provide the same health benefits as its natural form. According to Swapnil Shrivastav, founder of Uravu Labs, while the process of re-mineralising purified water is effective, it’s difficult to achieve a perfect restoration of the water’s original mineral balance. “I don't think a hundred percent restoration of the natural balance is possible,” he explains. Shrivastav emphasises the need to understand the composition of the water before it was purified, stating that, “It's very important to first understand what was there in the natural water to begin with, and then what you are removing and what you're adding back.” The effectiveness of the process can vary, as different natural water sources, such as spring waters, may contain varying levels of minerals like bicarbonates or magnesium. He also points out that the water testing process itself can sometimes be limited, with regular tests only accounting for 28 to 30 parameters, while more detailed tests can identify up to 60 to 100 trace minerals. “There are a lot of these trace minerals that are hard to quantify in regular testing,” Shrivastav adds. However, he asserts that it is possible to closely replicate natural mineral compositions in purified water. Shrivastav highlights that individual preferences and regional practices can also influence perceptions of water quality and mineral content. “In Europe, people drink sparkling water, while in India, most people don’t like it,” illustrating how cultural differences play a role in water consumption habits. Despite these challenges, his startup has managed to achieve significant success in re-mineralising purified water, demonstrating that while the process may not be perfect, it is highly effective in recreating near-natural water quality. The implications of consuming demineralised water extend beyond mere hydration. A recent Israeli study conducted by the Taub Center has raised concerns about the health risks associated with consuming desalinated water, which lacks essential minerals. The study found a correlation between magnesium deficiency and an increase in conditions such as type 2 diabetes and ischemic stroke and even cardiac problems.” “People often overlook the cumulative effect of mineral loss in their diet. Symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, and even digestive issues may stem from insufficient mineral intake, particularly magnesium,” Zohra says. Increasing health concerns and unavailability of clean drinking water have led to the growth of the bottled water market in India. The major bottled water brands operating in India are Bisleri, Kinley, and Aquafina. According to the Trade Promotion Council of India, the packaged drinking water bottle market in India was valued at $24 billion in 2019. The market value of bottled water is estimated to reach over 826 billion rupees in 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 14.03 per cent between 2022 and 2030. The drinking water industry in India is regulated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under the IS 14543 standard for packaged mineral water. As Shrivastav points out, “Companies must comply with these standards when selling bottled water; however, there are issues with duplicate and spurious water bottling companies that may not adhere to regulations.” Many manufacturers bypass mandatory BIS certification, leading to the sale of substandard water that lacks essential safety checks. Additionally, there are concerns over the depletion of natural water sources and the environmental impact of plastic waste generated by bottled water. The industry is also facing scrutiny for its over-reliance on purification processes that strip water of essential minerals, raising questions about the health benefits of commercially available water. The urban demand and tourism fuel growth, regulatory enforcement and sustainable practices remain critical to the long-term health of this sector. BIS plays a crucial role in ensuring that licensed manufacturers comply with the established standards for both packaged drinking and mineral water. Microplastics have become a growing concern in bottled water, with several studies revealing their presence in a significant portion of the products. A 2018 study by Orb Media, for instance, found that 93 per cent of bottled water samples from major brands contained microplastics, with an average of 325 plastic particles per litre. These tiny plastic fragments, less than 5 millimetres in size, can enter the water during the bottling process or from the plastic packaging itself. While the long-term health effects of ingesting microplastics are still under research, experts believe they can cause harm by carrying toxic chemicals or by accumulating in the body over time, potentially leading to inflammation or other health issues. The dangers of microplastics extend beyond their immediate health risks. Studies suggest that microplastics can act as carriers for harmful pollutants, such as heavy metals or organic contaminants, which can further exacerbate their toxicity when ingested. Moreover, the plastic pollution created by bottled water production and disposal only adds to the environmental crisis, as millions of tons of plastic waste end up in landfills and oceans each year. With the global consumption of bottled water on the rise, addressing the presence of microplastics in this industry is becoming increasingly urgent for both public health and environmental sustainability. Amidst the growing awareness of these issues, innovative solutions are emerging, Shrivastav and his team at Uravu Labs aim to provide a sustainable source of water that retains its mineral content. “We believe that harnessing moisture from the air can create a sustainable source of water that preserves its natural minerals,” he explains. “Our goal is to create a product that not only quenches thirst but also nourishes the body.” “The idea of extracting water from the air moisture is promising. It addresses both the scarcity of drinking water and the need to retain essential minerals. This could be a game-changer for public health,” says Gaonkar. This shift toward sustainable practices signifies a change in how society views water consumption. “If we can shift the focus to sustainable water sources that maintain their mineral integrity, we can significantly improve public health outcomes,” Shrivastav adds. In a market flooded with bottled water options, transparency is essential. Companies should be held accountable for their claims about mineral content and the health benefits of their products. If companies are adding minerals, they need to be transparent about the types and quantities of minerals they are adding. The Ministry of Consumer Affairs mandates that packaged drinking water labels must clearly display the name of the product, processor's name and address, brand name, batch or code number, date of processing/ packaging, details of any disinfection treatment, expiry date, mandatory ISI mark, MRP, net volume, FSSAI license number, and customer care information. All information on bottled water labels, as with all other food product, should be truthful and substantiated with facts, the International Bottled Water Association states. The journey toward improving our understanding of water consumption has only just begun. As consumers demand better quality water, industries must respond by prioritising both hydration and nutrition. By addressing the critical issue of mineral loss in drinking water, we can pave the way for healthier communities. “Pure water should not just quench our thirst; it should nourish our bodies,” Zohra concludes. The realisation that water is not merely H2O but a vital source of essential minerals reshapes our perspective on hydration. In this age of information, the onus is on consumers to become informed advocates for their health. “We have the power to drive change,”Shrivastav asserts. “If we demand transparency and quality, companies will have no choice but to adapt,” he adds. Natural mineral water is the highest grade of water, it means that the water is microbiologically pure and pristine without the presence of bacteria and other contaminants. It only requires simple filtration to remove sand or any turbidity, but the natural mineral composition is kept intact. Here are the four important minerals our water must contain: ● Calcium: It is important at all ages for healthy growth and bone development ● Magnesium: It is an important element in water as it’s been shown to prevent heart disease ● Sodium: It is more of a double-edged sword; we need a small amount to maintain a balance of water and minerals ● Fluoride: Fluoride is naturally found in water in some areas of the world and intentionally added in others to reduce levels of tooth decay Researchers have discovered bottled water sold in stores can contain 10 to 100 times more bits of plastic than previously estimated. A 2018 research on Synthetic Polymer Contamination in Bottled Water had first detected the existence of micro- and nanoplastics in 93 per cent of samples of bottled water sold by eleven different brands in nine countries. India has an expanding Bottled Water Market valued at USD 3,792.39 million in 2023, and it is expected to reach USD 8,922 million by 2030. Here are a few reasons on why bottled water may not be as healthy as you think it is: ● The water could be sourced from anywhere, it could even be tap water or from a municipal supply ● The common denominator for most is that water is purified through RO(reverse osmosis) along with other processes to increase shelf life ● All bacteria and contaminants are removed from the water to make it safe for consumption. However, the process also removes all the minerals in water ● For every litre of water purified using RO, at least three or more litres is rejected The result is bacteria-free water but it is also completely demineralised
What is it? Translating all of that into a modern-day vehicle is tricky. Not everyone is on a cross-continent adventure, after all, so this new Land Cruiser has a job to deliver a rounded driving experience and one that can match with the likes of the Land Rover Defender and Ineos Grenadier. We’ve been seeing what it’s like. What’s new? But underneath, we’ve still got a traditional body-on-frame setup which is often seen as the go-to for rugged off-roaders, but which is a design that often doesn’t offer the more car-like refinement that modern SUV buyers often require. But you can tell that Toyota hasn’t pulled any punches when it comes to the Land Cruiser’s off-road tech; numerous driving modes, permanent four-wheel-drive, a low-range gearbox and a handy disconnect setting for the anti-roll bar to help boost wheel travel are all included to ensure that this car gets you where you need to be – no matter the conditions. What’s under the bonnet? It’s linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission, too. Toyota claims a 0-60mph time of 10.7 seconds and a top speed of 105mph alongside fuel efficiency of 26.4mpg. Toyota has already confirmed that a mild-hybrid engine option will join the range soon too and bring ‘smoother, quieter, yet more responsive performance’, according to the brand. What’s it like to drive? With just 201bhp the diesel engine sure isn’t the most powerful – and isn’t as pleasant as the straight-six options you’ll find in both the Grenadier and Defender – but it does actually get the Toyota up to speed in good enough time, albeit in quite a noisy fashion. The gearbox is slushy and a little dim-witted, however. More irritating though is the Land Cruiser’s near-endless number of assistance systems. Fortunately, you can switch the traffic sign recognition off with the steering wheel controls, but other ones – such as the feature which alerts you when a car is behind – are simply too distracting to be useful. How does it look? It’s available in a selection of cool-looking colours, too, with the blue shade of our test car giving this Toyota an even bolder look out and about. What’s it like inside? The Land Cruiser is now a seven-seater as standard, too, adding an extra layer of practicality to this car. The rearmost seats are relatively squashed in terms of headroom, but legroom is surprisingly decent. Boot space is good enough, too, and while there’s not a lot of it with those rearmost seats in place, a handy 566 litres is there when they are. The handy glass pop-out section on the tailgate is a really useful feature, too. What’s the spec like? At around £74,995, the Land Cruiser will still be an expensive proposition – even in Invincible specification. That said, you do get boatloads of equipment including dual-zone climate control, a full infotainment system and reversing camera alongside all of that off-road-focused technology. That price does still put it in the same league as its Ineos and Land Rover-made rivals, however. Verdict Toyota’s Land Cruiser has a heritage that many other cars would love to have. This latest model helps to continue that and still feels as true to its off-roading roots as ever. It’s certainly not as comfortable or refined as its contemporaries, but it’s got more than enough on its side to help contrast this shortcoming. It is expensive – but then so are the cars it is going up against. If you want a rough-and-tough off-roader with some added luxuries then the new Land Cruiser will fit the bill – providing you can get hold of one.
United, Apple rolling out new way to track lost luggage with AirTagsPresident-elect Donald Trump ran on a platform of isolating the US from foreign conflicts like the Ukraine war, increasing tariffs on foreign trade partners, and rebuilding domestic manufacturing. But in recent days he has suggested a more outwardly aggressive approach for his foreign policy. At first, he joked about Canada being an additional US state. Since, he has threatened to take back control of the Panama Canal. He also reiterated a desire from his first term to own the autonomous Danish territory of Greenland, which is not for sale. The US is unlikely to take control of any of these regions. But these statements could indicate that Trump’s “America First” vision includes flexing the superpower’s muscle beyond its borders for US trade and national security interests. On Sunday, Trump told a conservative conference in Arizona that Panama was charging US ships “ridiculous, highly unfair” fees to use its namesake canal. After taking charge of building the canal in the early 20th century, the US turned full control over to Panama in the 1970s via a treaty. But this week, Trump said that if the “rip off” did not stop, he would demand the canal be returned to the US – though he did not specify how. Trump added he did not want the Panama Canal “falling into the wrong hands” and specifically cited China, which has significant interests in the waterway. “There’s a real US national security interest... in controlling its neutrality,” Will Freeman, a fellow on Latin American studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, said of Trump’s remarks. “Trump’s statement is mostly about that.” China is the second-largest user of the Panama Canal after the US, according to data. It has major economic investments in the country as well. In 2017, Panama cut diplomatic ties with Taiwan and recognised it as part of China, a major win for Beijing. The Panama Canal is not only essential for US trade in the Pacific, Mr Freeman said – in the event of any military conflict with China, it would be needed to move US ships and other assets. He also noted Trump’s frequent comments about trade partners’ unfair treatment of the US, as well as the president-elect’s pledge to sharply increase tariffs on foreign goods, particularly those from China. Trump’s complaints about shipping fees seemed to reflect his views on trade, Mr Freeman said. While the statements might be “coercive”, said Mr Freeman, it remained to be seen “whether canal authorities lower fees on US cargo in response to the threat”. Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino has released a statement saying that the canal and the surrounding area belonged to his country – and would remain so. Over the weekend, Trump said in a social media post that the US “feels that the ownership and control of Greenland is an absolute necessity” for reasons of national security and global freedom. The US maintains Pituffik Space Base in Greenland. The territory is rich with natural resources, including rare earth minerals, and occupies a strategic location for trade as global powers seek to expand their reach in the Arctic Circle. Russia, in particular, sees the region as a strategic opportunity. Trump floated the idea of purchasing Greenland in 2019, during his first term as president, and it never came to fruition. Greenland’s prime minister, Múte B Egede, responded to Trump’s latest comments this week: “We are not for sale and we will not be for sale.” Still, Trump continued emphasising his public statements online. On Truth Social, Trump’s account showed an image of an American flag being planted in the middle of the Panama Canal. His second-eldest son, Eric Trump, posted an image on X that showed the US adding Greenland, the Panama Canal and Canada to an Amazon online shopping cart. For Trump, promises to use America’s might to its advantage helped propel his two successful presidential campaigns. It was a tactic he used during his first presidency, threatening tariffs and the deployment of “armed soldiers” to steer Mexico into beefing up enforcement along its US border. Heading into his second term, Trump could plan to use a similar playbook once he takes office on 20 January. While it remains to be seen what will happen, Denmark has expressed a willingness to work with his administration. It also announced a huge boost in defence spending for Greenland, hours after Trump repeated his desire to purchase the Arctic territory. Source: BBC
Unique among ‘Person of the Year’ designees, Donald Trump gets a fact-check from Time magazinePM forms panel to resolve issues with PPP Committee will chalk out future action plan after holding talks PPP representatives ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has constituted a committee to resolve political issues and cooperation on different matters between the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). The committee comprises Deputy Prime Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Minister for Law and Justice Senator Azam Nazir Tarar, Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, Minister for State Frontier Regions Engineer Amir Muqam, Advisor to Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah Khan, Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Ahmad Khan, Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, Khawaja Saad Rafique, Jaffar Khan Mandokhel and Bashir Ahmad Khan. The prime minister has assigned the task of political cooperation and resolution of different issues after consultation with the PPP leaders, the media wing of PM Office in a statement said. The committee will chalk out future action plan after holding talks the PPP representatives. It may be pointed out here that PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari had accused the PMLN of sidelining the PPP on key decisions, including the controversial approval of a new canal project from the Indus River, an issue the PPP claims was decided without consultation or achieving a consensus. The PPP also demanded that the prime minister take all stakeholders into confidence on key issues and immediately call a meeting of the Council of Common Interests (CCI).Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Ahmad Khan, Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, Khawaja Saad Rafique, Jaffar Khan Mandokhel and Bashir Ahmad Khan. The prime minister has assigned the task of political cooperation and resolution of different issues after consultation with the PPP leaders, the media wing of PM Office in a statement said. The committee will chalk out future action plan after holding talks the PPP representatives. It may be pointed out here that PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari had accused the PMLN of sidelining the PPP on key decisions, including the controversial approval of a new canal project from the Indus River, an issue the PPP claims was decided without consultation or achieving a consensus. The PPP also demanded that the prime minister take all stakeholders into confidence on key issues and immediately call a meeting of the Council of Common Interests (CCI).
The pope is kicking off a yearlong Jubilee that will test his stamina and Rome's patience VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis on Tuesday opens the 2025 Holy Year. It kicks off a celebration of the Catholic Church that is expected to draw some 32 million pilgrims to Rome. That will test the pope’s stamina and the ability of the Eternal City to welcome them. At the start of Christmas Eve Mass, Francis pushes open the great Holy Door at the entrance of St. Peter’s Basilica. The ceremony inaugurates the once-every-25-year tradition of a Jubilee, in which the Catholic faithful make pilgrimages to Rome. Francis has dedicated the 2025 Jubilee to the theme of hope. Bethlehem marks a second subdued Christmas during the war in Gaza BETHLEHEM, West Bank (AP) — Bethlehem is marking another somber Christmas Eve under the shadow of war in Gaza. Manger Square lacked its usual festive lights and crowds of tourists on Tuesday. Instead, the area outside the Nativity Church was quiet. The church was built atop the spot where Jesus is believed to have been born. The war, the violence in the occupied West Bank it has spurred and the lack of festivities has deeply hurt Bethlehem's economy. The town relies heavily on Christmas tourism. The economy in the West Bank was already reeling because of restrictions placed on laborers preventing them from entering Israel during the war. Middle East latest: Bethlehem marks a somber Christmas Eve amid war in Gaza TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — The Palestinian city of Bethlehem is preparing for another somber Christmas under the shadow of war in Gaza. Most festivities cancelled and crowds of tourists absent in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Winter is hitting the Gaza Strip and many of the nearly 2 million Palestinians displaced by the devastating 15-month war with Israel are struggling to protect themselves from the wind, cold and rain. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, Israel’s bombardment and ground invasion has killed over 45,000 Palestinians, more than half of them women and children. The Health Ministry does not distinguish between fighters and civilians in its count. Heavy travel day off to a rough start after American Airlines briefly grounds all flights WASHINGTON (AP) — American Airlines briefly grounded flights nationwide due to a technical problem just as the Christmas travel season kicked into overdrive and winter weather threatened more potential problems for those planning to fly or drive. Government regulators cleared American flights to get airborne Tuesday about one hour after the Federal Aviation Administration ordered a national ground stop, which prevented planes from taking off. Meanwhile, the flight-tracking site FlightAware reported that 1,447 flights entering or leaving the U.S., or serving domestic destinations, were delayed. Twenty-eight flights were canceled. Millions of travelers are expected to fly over the next 10 days. The Transportation Security Administration expects to screen 40 million passengers through Jan. 2. Major storm pounds California's central coast, blamed for man's death and partially collapsing pier SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (AP) — A major storm has pounded California’s central coast bringing flooding and high surf that was blamed for fatally trapping a man beneath debris on a beach and later partially collapsing a pier, tossing three people into the Pacific Ocean. The storm was expected to bring hurricane-force winds and waves up to 60 feet Monday as it gained strength from California to the Pacific Northwest. Some California cities have ordered beachfront homes and hotels to evacuate early Monday afternoon. Forecasters have warned that storm swells would continue to increase throughout the day. Medellin Cartel victims demand truth and justice as cartel boss Fabio Ochoa walks free in Colombia BOGOTÁ, Colombia (AP) — The return of the notorious drug trafficker Fabio Ochoa to Colombia, following his deportation from the United States, has reopened old wounds among the victims of the Medellin cartel, with some expressing their dismay at the decision of Colombian authorities to let the former mafia boss walk free.Some of the cartel victims said on Tuesday that they are hoping the former drug lord will at least cooperate with ongoing efforts by human rights groups to investigate one of the most violent periods of Colombia’s history, and demanded that Colombian prosecutors also take Ochoa in for questioning. Caitlin Clark honored as AP Female Athlete of the Year following her impact on women's sports Caitlin Clark has been named the AP Female Athlete of the Year after raising the profile of women’s basketball to unprecedented levels in both college and the WNBA. She led Iowa to the national championship game, was the top pick in the WNBA draft and captured rookie of the year honors in the league. Fans packed sold-out arenas and millions of television viewers followed her journey on and off the court. Clark's exploits also put other women's sports leagues in the spotlight. A group of 74 sports journalists from AP and its members voted on the award. Other athletes who received votes included Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles and boxer Imane Khelif. Clark’s only the fourth women’s basketball player to win the award since it was first given in 1931. Amsterdam court sentences 5 men over violence linked to Ajax-Maccabi soccer game THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) — An Amsterdam District Court has issued sentences of up to six months in jail against 5 men who were involved in violent disorder after a soccer match between the Dutch club Ajax and Israel’s Maccabi Tel Aviv in November. The riots caused an international outcry and accusations of deliberate anti-Semitic attacks. The violence following a UEFA Europa League match left 5 people in hospital. More than 60 suspects were detained. The court on Tuesday sentenced one man to 6 months in prison, another to 2 1/2 months, two to 1 month and one to 100 hours of community service. France has a new government, again. Politics and crushing debt complicate next steps PARIS (AP) — France’s president and prime minister have managed to form a new government just in time for the holidays. Now comes the hard part. Crushing debt, pressure from the nationalist far right, wars in Europe and the Mideast. The hallenges abound for President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Francois Bayrou. They already had a tumultuous 2024. The most urgent order of business is passing a 2025 budget. Financial markets, ratings agencies and the European Commission are pushing France to bring down its deficit. It is threatening the stability and prosperity of all countries that share the euro currency. Legendary Indian filmmaker Shyam Benegal dies at age 90 NEW DELHI (AP) — Shyam Benegal, a renowned Indian filmmaker known for pioneering a cinema movement that tackled social issues in the 1970s, has died after chronic kidney disease. He was 90. His contribution to cinema was recognized as a director, editor and screenwriter. He came into the limelight with films that challenged mainstream Bollywood by dealing with the social realities of a poor nation. He also was a mentor to top Indian actors. India's prime minister says he is “deeply saddened” by Benegal's death.The cover of "Jang: The Soul of Korean Cooking" by Kang Mingoo While everyone was fawning over Han Kang's books, during last month's I picked up a thick hardbound book titled "Jang: The Soul of Korean Cooking." Han, the author of "The Vegetarian," had recently won the Nobel Prize in literature, however, another noteworthy development was that UNESCO was considering Korea's jang-making tradition as a new entry for its Intangible Cultural Heritage List. "Jang," primarily written by chef-restaurateur Kang Mingoo, reads more like a textbook than a traditional cookbook. And that's intentional: the 216-page book offers a deep dive into Korea, exploring everything from its mountains and forests to its pantries and dining tables. Jang, which the book claims rhymes with "song," refers to a variety of fermented soybean pastes. The book lays out the three main jangs — "ganjang" (basically soy sauce), "doenjang" (thick soybean paste) and "gochujang" (red-hot pepper paste) — which Kang says are "are like siblings, and like siblings, they often play together." One important fact I gleaned from this book is that the production method for both ganjang and doenjang is mostly the same, and they are essentially byproducts of each other. About six to nine months into the process, a separation occurs, moving the still-solid bits from the liquid, and the separated bits continue to ferment for several more months or years. It reminds me of the parallel brewing process of traditional Korean alcohols "takju" (a cloudy beverage with white sediment) and "cheongju" (a clear alcohol), which are likewise separated from each other. And there's also the bright-red gochujang, which has a somewhat different recipe due to the inclusion of red pepper powder and takes much less time to complete fermentation. Kang shares a somewhat offbeat theory that the red pepper, or "gochu" in Korean, "was actually introduced by birds millions of years ago," rather than in the 16th century by Portuguese traders through Japan. Going back to the concept of jangs as siblings that sometimes play together, "ssamjang," which I think might be the most popular and widespread of the Korean sauces, at least from what I've witnessed, is a mixture of gochujang and doenjang, along with a little sugar. Chef Kang Mingoo speaks during an interview at Mingles, his restaurant in southern Seoul, June 13. Korea Times file Kang, the owner of Mingles, a popular Seoul restaurant that helped redefine Korean fine dining, presents a vivid narrative of his culinary journey. It's a beautifully produced book, filled with impressive photos — although the photos lacked captions explaining the context and were not clearly illustrative of what was being discussed. "Imagine trying to understand Italian cooking without olive oil or to unlock French cuisine without butter and cream," he says in the book's introduction. "It would be impossible." He details his travels across the country to meet jang artisans, emphasizing that most of them are women. He is perhaps most fascinated by Jeong Kwan, a master of temple cuisine at Baekyang Temple in South Jeolla Province, describing the epiphany he experienced watching her work. "I marveled that Jeong Kwan didn't cook so much as simply let the earth move through her," as he puts it. On returning to Mingles with his "hair on fire," he describes the effect his dive into the world of jang had on him: "I felt like I had been playing the piano by hitting only the middle C, and now the entire keyboard had been opened to me." He sets out his almost-scientific approach to jang-making, which includes "vertical tastings" of the same jang at different years of fermentation. "Jangs aren't rigid; they reward experimentation," he writes. "They are able to assimilate and adapt to foreign concepts." This foreshadows some of his over 60 recipes later in the book, which range from more-or-less traditional "namul" offerings to some wild-sounding fusion recipes, including tagliatelle with ganjang ragu, doenjang hummus and gochujang chocolate mousse. Also described in extensive detail is the onggi earthenware pottery for storing jang during fermentation, which is specifically called "jangdok." There's so much detail, that it leaves a reader feeling like they could make their own jangdok — though this is probably as unlikely as making decent gochujang on one's own after reading the book. "Jang is more like sourdough than it is like wine: Anyone can nourish a starter, but few can sustain a vineyard," Kang writes. Chef Kang Mingoo introduces his English-language book, "Jang: The Soul of Korean Cooking." Korea Times file That said, the book is not too interested in walking you all the way through the process of making your own jang, but does helpfully offer guidance on how to stock your pantry with the jangs you can readily purchase. It also emphasizes that not all jang needs to be artisanal: "Not everything can be artisanal, nor is it always worth using (or even a good idea to use) artisanal jang in every dish you make." The book also outlines some important beats in Korean history related to the development, fall and renaissance of jang. This starts over 4,000 years ago with the introduction of soybeans — rich in protein and able to thrive in poor soil — to the peninsula from Manchuria. It also details how the 1910-45 Japanese occupation of Korea threatened to bring to an end the centuries of jang-making traditions, as the imperialists siphoned off most of Korea's soybean production for Japanese use and encouraged the establishment of jang factories, something Kang clearly abhors. Things didn't improve after liberation, which saw periods of famine and the 1950-53 Korean War, a time Kang describes as when "Korea began its superfueled expansion into the modern capitalist world, a movement that almost, but not quite, signaled the end of jang culture." He then goes on to detail how jang-making bounced back beginning in the 2000s, and connects its growth with the global spread of Korean popular culture. He details how the Korean food ministry spent $90 million promoting gochujang to chefs in New York and Los Angeles in the early 2010s. He also talks about how jang-making is being taught in elementary schools. "Today, I'm happy to say we're riding a wave of artisanal jang appreciation," he concludes. The book, published earlier in 2024, laments how jang has not earned the UNESCO recognition that the kimchi-making practice of gimjang itself earned in December 2013. But here we are 11 years later, and we have the perfect book to explain this age-old cultural practice and even help us use various kinds of jang in the kitchen. "Jang: The Soul of Korean Cooking" is available through . To remove this article -
2025 NFL Draft: Arizona WR Tetairoa McMillan declares, 6-foot-5 Wildcats star a likely top-10 pick
BOSTON — Forty years ago, Heisman Trophy winner Doug Flutie rolled to his right and threw a pass that has become one of college football’s most iconic moments. With Boston College trailing defending champion Miami, Flutie threw the Hail Mary and found receiver Gerard Phalen, who made the grab while falling into the end zone behind a pair of defenders for a game-winning 48-yard TD. Flutie and many of his 1984 teammates were honored on the field during BC’s 41-21 victory over North Carolina before the second quarter on Saturday afternoon, the anniversary of the Eagles’ Miracle in Miami. “There’s no way its been 40 years,” Flutie told The Associated Press on the sideline a few minutes before he walked out with some of his former teammates to be recognized after a video of The Play was shown on the scoreboards. A statue commemorating Doug Flutie's famed "Hail Mary" pass during a game against Miami on Nov. 23, 1994, sits outside Alumni Stadium at Boston College. Famous football plays often attain a legendary status with religious names like the "Immaculate Reception," the "Hail Mary" pass and the Holy Roller fumble. Michael Dwyer, AP File It’s a moment and highlight that’s not only played throughout decades of BC students and fans, but around the college football world. “What is really so humbling is that the kids 40 years later are wearing 22 jerseys, still,” Flutie said of his old number. “That amazes me.” That game was played on national TV the Friday after Thanksgiving. The ironic thing is it was originally scheduled for earlier in the season before CBS paid Rutgers to move its game against Miami, thus setting up the BC-Miami post-holiday matchup. Boston College quarterback Doug Flutie rejoices in his brother Darren's arms after B.C. defeats Miami with a last second touchdown pass on Nov. 23, 1984, in Miami. File Photo “It shows you how random some things are, that the game was moved,” Flutie said. “The game got moved to the Friday after Thanksgiving, which was the most watched game of the year. We both end up being nationally ranked and up there. All those things lent to how big the game itself was, and made the pass and the catch that much more relevant and remembered because so many people were watching.” There’s a statue of Flutie winding up to make The Pass outside the north gates at Alumni Stadium. Fans and visitors can often be seen taking photos there. “In casual conversation, it comes up every day,” Flutie said, when asked how many times people bring it up. “It brings a smile to my face every time we talk about it.” A week after the game-ending Flutie pass, the Eagles beat Holy Cross and before he flew off to New York to accept the Heisman. They went on to win the 49th Cotton Bowl on New Year’s Day. Boston College quarterback Doug Flutie evades Miami defensive tackle Kevin Fagan during the first quarter of a game on Nov. 23, 1984, in Miami, Fla. JOE SKIPPER, AP File “Forty years seem almost like incomprehensible,” said Phalen, also standing on the sideline a few minutes after the game started. “I always say to Doug: ‘Thank God for social media. It’s kept it alive for us.”’ Earlier this week, current BC coach Bill O’Brien, 55, was asked if he remembered where he was 40 years ago. “We were eating Thanksgiving leftovers in my family room,” he said. “My mom was saying a Rosary in the kitchen because she didn’t like Miami and wanted BC to win. My dad, my brother and I were watching the game. “It was unbelievable,” he said. “Everybody remembers where they were for the Hail Mary, Flutie pass.” Mike Tyson, left, slaps Jake Paul during a weigh-in ahead of their heavyweight bout, Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024, in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez) Julio Cortez In this image taken with a slow shutter speed, Spain's tennis player Rafael Nadal serves during a training session at the Martin Carpena Sports Hall, in Malaga, southern Spain, on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez) Manu Fernandez A fan takes a picture of the moon prior to a qualifying soccer match for the FIFA World Cup 2026 between Uruguay and Colombia in Montevideo, Uruguay, Friday, Nov. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Santiago Mazzarovich) Santiago Mazzarovich Rasmus Højgaard of Denmark reacts after missing a shot on the 18th hole in the final round of World Tour Golf Championship in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri) Altaf Qadri Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Jalen Tolbert (1) fails to pull in a pass against Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dee Alford (20) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/ Brynn Anderson) Brynn Anderson Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love, top right, scores a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh) Nam Y. Huh India's Tilak Varma jumps in the air as he celebrates after scoring a century during the third T20 International cricket match between South Africa and India, at Centurion Park in Centurion, South Africa, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Themba Hadebe) Themba Hadebe Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski warms up before facing the Seattle Kraken in an NHL hockey game Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson) Lindsey Wasson Kansas State players run onto the field before an NCAA college football game against Arizona State Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Manhattan, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) Charlie Riedel A fan rapped in an Uruguay flag arrives to the stands for a qualifying soccer match against Colombia for the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Montevideo, Uruguay, Friday, Nov. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Matilde Campodonico) Matilde Campodonico People practice folding a giant United States flag before an NFL football game between the Buffalo Bills and the Kansas City Chiefs, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson) Julia Demaree Nikhinson Brazil's Marquinhos attempts to stop the sprinklers that were turned on during a FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying soccer match against Venezuela at Monumental stadium in Maturin, Venezuela, Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Ariana Cubillos) Ariana Cubillos Georgia's Georges Mikautadze celebrates after scoring his side's first goal during the UEFA Nations League, group B1 soccer match between Georgia and Ukraine at the AdjaraBet Arena in Batumi, Georgia, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Tamuna Kulumbegashvili) Tamuna Kulumbegashvili Dallas Stars center Mavrik Bourque, right, attempts to score while Minnesota Wild right wing Ryan Hartman (38) and Wild goaltender Filip Gustavsson (32) keep the puck out of the net during the second period of an NHL hockey game, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in St. Paul, Minn. (AP Photo/Ellen Schmidt) Ellen Schmidt Mike Tyson, left, fights Jake Paul during their heavyweight boxing match, Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez) Julio Cortez Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Las Vegas Raiders during the second half of an NFL football game in Cincinnati, Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster) Carolyn Kaster President-elect Donald Trump attends UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) Evan Vucci Fans argue in stands during the UEFA Nations League soccer match between France and Israel at the Stade de France stadium in Saint-Denis, outside Paris, Thursday Nov. 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus) Thibault Camus Slovakia's Rebecca Sramkova hits a return against Danielle Collins, of the United States, during a tennis match at the Billie Jean King Cup Finals at the Martin Carpena Sports Hall, Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024, in Malaga, southern Spain. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez) Manu Fernandez St. John's guard RJ Luis Jr. (12) falls after driving to the basket during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against New Mexico, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Pamela Smith) Pamela Smith England's Anthony Gordon celebrates after scoring his side's second goal during the UEFA Nations League soccer match between England and the Republic of Ireland at Wembley stadium in London, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung) Kin Cheung Katie Taylor, left, lands a right to Amanda Serrano during their undisputed super lightweight title bout, Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez) Julio Cortez Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver DJ Turner, right, tackles Miami Dolphins wide receiver Malik Washington, left, on a punt return during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky) Lynne Sladky UConn's Paige Bueckers (5) battles North Carolina's Laila Hull, right, for a loose ball during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in Greensboro, N.C., Friday, Nov. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Ben McKeown) Ben McKeown Taylor Fritz of the United States reacts during the final match of the ATP World Tour Finals against Italy's Jannik Sinner at the Inalpi Arena, in Turin, Italy, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Antonio Calanni) Antonio Calanni Italy goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario misses the third goal during the Nations League soccer match between Italy and France, at the San Siro stadium in Milan, Italy, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno) Luca BrunoInvestors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on Uber Technologies UBER . And retail traders should know. We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga. Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with UBER, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen. So how do we know what these investors just did? Today, Benzinga 's options scanner spotted 68 uncommon options trades for Uber Technologies. This isn't normal. The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 50% bullish and 36%, bearish. Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 19 are puts, for a total amount of $1,127,922, and 49 are calls, for a total amount of $4,538,049. Predicted Price Range After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $37.5 and $100.0 for Uber Technologies, spanning the last three months. Analyzing Volume & Open Interest Examining the volume and open interest provides crucial insights into stock research. This information is key in gauging liquidity and interest levels for Uber Technologies's options at certain strike prices. Below, we present a snapshot of the trends in volume and open interest for calls and puts across Uber Technologies's significant trades, within a strike price range of $37.5 to $100.0, over the past month. Uber Technologies 30-Day Option Volume & Interest Snapshot Largest Options Trades Observed: Symbol PUT/CALL Trade Type Sentiment Exp. Date Ask Bid Price Strike Price Total Trade Price Open Interest Volume UBER CALL SWEEP BULLISH 06/20/25 $5.2 $5.05 $5.19 $70.00 $518.1K 9.6K 4.5K UBER CALL SWEEP BULLISH 06/20/25 $5.2 $5.1 $5.19 $70.00 $515.8K 9.6K 2.4K UBER CALL TRADE BULLISH 06/20/25 $5.15 $5.1 $5.15 $70.00 $515.0K 9.6K 1.4K UBER CALL SWEEP BEARISH 06/20/25 $5.25 $5.15 $5.2 $70.00 $416.6K 9.6K 2.6K UBER CALL TRADE BULLISH 03/21/25 $1.1 $1.09 $1.1 $80.00 $168.0K 40.5K 3.0K About Uber Technologies Uber Technologies is a technology provider that matches riders with drivers, hungry people with restaurants and food delivery service providers, and shippers with carriers. The firm's on-demand technology platform could eventually be used for additional products and services, such as autonomous vehicles, delivery via drones, and Uber Elevate, which, as the firm refers to it, provides "aerial ride-sharing." Uber Technologies is headquartered in San Francisco and operates in over 63 countries with over 150 million users who order rides or food at least once a month. Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Uber Technologies, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance. Present Market Standing of Uber Technologies Trading volume stands at 31,989,861, with UBER's price up by 1.36%, positioned at $62.01. RSI indicators show the stock to be may be approaching oversold. Earnings announcement expected in 55 days. Professional Analyst Ratings for Uber Technologies In the last month, 2 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $99.0. Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days? 20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. Click here for access .* Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Tigress Financial keeps a Buy rating on Uber Technologies with a target price of $103. * An analyst from JMP Securities downgraded its action to Market Outperform with a price target of $95. Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Uber Technologies options trades with real-time alerts from Benzinga Pro . © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.