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Quanta Services Inc. stock underperforms Friday when compared to competitorsSupreme Court takes up constitutionality of federal telecom subsidy programThe U.S. leads the world in developing artificial intelligence technology, surpassing China in research and other important measures of AI innovation, according to a newly released Stanford University index. There's no surefire way to rank global AI leadership but Stanford researchers have made an attempt by measuring the “vibrancy” of the AI industry across various dimensions, from how much research and investment is happening to how responsibly the technology is being pursued to prevent harm. “The gap is actually widening” between the U.S. and China, said computer scientist Ray Perrault, director of the steering committee that runs Stanford's AI Index. “The U.S. is investing a lot more, at least at the level of firm creation and firm funding.” The California-based university's Institute for Human-Centered AI — which has ties to Silicon Valley's tech industry — released the report Thursday as government AI officials from the U.S. and several allies met in San Francisco this week to compare notes on AI safety measures. Here's which countries made the top 10: The U.S. ranks No. 1 on Stanford's list and has consistently held that position since 2018 when it overtook China. It has far outpaced China in private AI investment, which hit $67.2 billion in the U.S. last year compared to $7.8 billion in China, according to the report. It also leads in publishing responsible AI research. It's no surprise that the home of commercial AI powerhouses such as Google and Meta, along with relative newcomers like OpenAI and Anthropic, has produced many notable AI models that have influenced how the technology is being developed and applied. The U.S. also gets some points for having a number of AI-related laws on the books, though Congress has yet to pass any broad AI regulations. China has requested far more patents than any other country regarding generative AI, the U.N. intellectual property agency said earlier this year. Stanford researchers counted that as one measure of China's strong growth in AI innovation but not enough to lead the pack. Still, the report says that "China’s focus on developing cutting-edge AI technologies and increasing its R&D investments has positioned it as a major AI powerhouse.” China's universities have produced a large number of AI-related research publications and it has commercial leaders developing notable AI models, such as Baidu and its chatbot Ernie. Coming in at No. 3 is the UK, which also ranked high in research and development, and educational infrastructure due to top computer science universities churning out a skilled AI workforce. It's also home to Google's AI subsidiary DeepMind, whose co-founder recently won a Nobel Prize; and “had more mentions of AI in parliamentary proceedings” than any other country. Last year, the UK hosted the world’s first international AI safety summit. Close behind the UK was India, thanks to a “strong AI research community,” improvements in economic investments tied to AI and a robust public discourse about AI on social media, according to the report. The UAE's deliberate focus on AI appears to have paid off in the Middle Eastern nation's fifth-place score. It was one of the top locations for AI investments. Microsoft earlier this year said it was investing $1.5 billion in UAE-based tech firm G42, which is overseen by the country’s powerful national security adviser. Based in Abu Dhabi, G42 runs data centers and has built what’s considered the world’s leading Arabic-language AI model, known as Jais. Rounding out the top 10 are France at No. 6, followed by South Korea, Germany, Japan and Singapore. France, home to the buzzy AI startup Mistral, ranked high in AI policy and governance. Both it and Germany are part of the European Union's sweeping new AI Act that places safeguards on a range of AI applications based on how risky they are. The EU also follows the U.S. in developing a plan to expand semiconductor production within the bloc.
MADRID (AP) — Spanish King Felipe VI used his traditional Christmas Eve speech to remember the victims of the catastrophic Valencia flash floods , and urged the country to remain calm despite public debates around hot-button issues such as immigration and housing affordability. In a pre-recorded speech that usually reviews the year's most relevant issues, Felipe said Spain “must never forget the pain and sadness" the flood have caused. The Oct. 29 floods killed more than 225 people in eastern Spain, damaging countless homes and leaving graveyards of cars piled on top of each other. In some towns, the heavy downpours that caused the floods dropped as much as a year's worth of rain in just eight hours. In early November, as Spaniards' shock at the wreckage turned into frustration, a political blame game began, directed especially at regional authorities who failed to send timely emergency alerts to cell phones on the day of the floods. The frustration of residents in hard-hit Paiporta near Valencia was on display when people tossed mud and shouted insults at the king and government officials in early November when they made their first visit to the town. “We have seen — and understood — the frustration, the pain, the impatience, the demands for greater and more effective coordination," Felipe said about how the disaster was managed, adding that he had asked that aid be sent to everyone who needed it. He also addressed the country's housing crunch and high rents, which have become a leading concern in this European Union country that is the eurozone's fourth-largest economy. Fast-rising rents are especially acute in cities like Barcelona and Madrid, where incomes have failed to keep up, especially for younger people in a country with chronically high unemployment. Felipe urged that “all the actors involved reflect” and "listen to each other” so that they facilitate bringing access to housing under “affordable conditions.” Spain's immigration debate should keep in mind the country's European partners and immigrants' countries of origin, Felipe said, warning that “the way in which we are able to address immigration ... will say a lot in the future about our principles and the quality of our democracy.” Felipe said Spain need to remain calm in the public sphere, even in the face of a “sometimes thunderous” contest in its politics.Former President Barack Obama is being slammed online for his “hypocrisy” and being “up on his high horse” in response to his first speech following the November election. During his Thursday pluralism-themed address at the Obama Foundation’s Democracy Forum in Chicago, the former president argued that Democrats need to reject “holding hands and singing ‘Kumbaya'” when “one side tries to stack the deck and lock in a permanent grip on power.” “... Let me make this key point: Pluralism is not about holding hands and singing ‘Kumbaya.’ It is not about abandoning your convictions and folding when things get tough,” Obama told the crowd. He then asked, “What happens when the other side has repeatedly and abundantly made clear they’re not interested in playing by the rules?” “There are going to be times, potentially, when one side tries to stack the deck and lock in a permanent grip on power, either by actively suppressing votes, or politicizing the armed forces, or using the judiciary or criminal justice system to go after their opponents,” Obama said: “And in those circumstances, pluralism does not call for us to just stand back and say, ‘Well, I’m not sure that’s OK.’ In those circumstances, a line has been crossed, and we have to stand firm and speak out and organize and mobilize as forcefully as we can,” he added. Obama went on to lament the “gridlock,” “public cynicism,” and an increasing willingness among “politicians and their followers to violate democratic norms... To do anything they can to get their way. To use the power of the state to target critics and journalists and political rivals and to even resort to violence.” The Democrat’s words garnered fiery criticism from conservatives, with Fox News contributor Guy Benson saying that Obama is his own “problem” that he referred to in his speech: “Setting aside the unbelievable hypocrisy here, this is also the guy who’s launching a project to lessen our political divisions,” Benson wrote on X. “Being the problem — way up on his high horse, looking down disappointedly at the unwashed masses — while publicly lamenting the problem is peak Obama.” “It’s over for Obama,” journalist Miranda Devine wrote: “The spell is broken. Donald Trump vanquished him, Biden, Harris, the Bushes, the Cheneys. All of them, with a spring in his step,” Devine posted on X. “Ever since his last minute desperate smear of Trump with the ‘very fine people on both sides’ lie, Barack Obama has been slowing [ sic ] realizing his status as false prophet of the Democrat party is no more,” added radio personality Buck Sexton: “Obama turned our politics into ‘if you disagree with me, you are a bad person,’” said Republican communicator Matt Whitlock: “Few people did more to pave the way for Trump. So he can take a seat,” Whitlock added. Author Jon Gabriel said that “By voting in a democratic election, millions of people proved they hate democracy,” he posted, quipping, “Yes, this Obama fellow is quite the intellect.”
Spain's monarch pays tribute to the victims of Valencia floods in his Christmas Eve speechBUCHAREST, Romania -- A top Romanian court on Friday annulled the first round of the country's presidential election, days after allegations emerged that Russia ran a coordinated online campaign to promote the far-right outsider who won the first round. The Constitutional Court’s unprecedented decision — which is final — came after President Klaus Iohannis declassified intelligence on Wednesday that alleged Russia organized thousands of social media accounts to promote Calin Georgescu across platforms such as TikTok and Telegram. The court, without naming Georgescu, said that one of the 13 candidates in the Nov. 24 first round had improperly received “preferential treatment” on social media, distorting the outcome of the vote. Georgescu denounced the verdict as an “officialized coup” and an attack on democracy, as did the second-place finisher, reformist Elena Lasconi of the center-right Save Romania Union party. Despite being an outsider who declared zero campaign spending, Georgescu emerged as the frontrunner who was to face Lasconi in a runoff on Sunday. Some 951 voting stations had already opened abroad on Friday for the runoff for Romania’s large diaspora, but had to be halted. Iohannis said he would remain in office until a new presidential election could be rerun from scratch. On Dec. 1, one week after the first round of the presidential race, Romania also held a parliamentary election , which saw pro-Western parties win the most votes but also gains for far-right nationalists. Iohannis said that once the new government is formed, the date of the new presidential vote would be set. On Wednesday the president had released intelligence files from the Romanian Intelligence Service, the Foreign Intelligence Service, the Special Telecommunication Service and the Ministry of Internal Affairs. In a televised statement Friday, Iohannis said he was “deeply concerned” by the contents of the intelligence reports. “Intelligence reports revealed that this candidate’s campaign was supported by a foreign state with interests contrary to Romania’s. These are serious issues," he said. The Constitutional Court in its published decision cited the illegal use of digital technologies including artificial intelligence, as well as the use of “undeclared sources of funding.” It said one candidate received “preferential treatment on social media platforms, which resulted in the distortion of voters’ expressed will." Georgescu slammed the verdict as putting “democracy is under attack.” “I have only one pact ... with the Romanian people and God,” he said in a video statement. “We are no longer talking about fairness but rather about a mockery that betrays the principles of democracy ... It is time to show that we are a courageous people who know that the destiny and rights of the Romanian nation are in our hands.” Lasconi also strongly condemned the court's decision, saying it was “illegal, immoral, and crushes the very essence of democracy" and that the second round should have gone forward. “Whether we like it or not, from a legal and legitimate standpoint, 9 million Romanian citizens, both in the country and the diaspora, expressed their preference for a particular candidate through their votes," she said. “I know I would have won. And I will win because the Romanian people know I will fight for them, that I will unite them for a better Romania,” she added. Some 9.4 million people — about 52.5% of eligible voters — had cast ballots in the first round in this European Union and NATO member country. The president serves a five-year term and has significant decision-making powers in national security, foreign policy and judicial appointments. Most surveys had predicted the top candidate would be Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu of the ruling center-left Social Democrats. They indicated that second place would be claimed by either Lasconi or the leader of the far-right Alliance for the Unity of Romanians, George Simion. As the surprising results came in with Georgescu on top, and Lasconi narrowly beating Ciolacu, it plunged the political establishment into turmoil. The same court last week ordered a recount of the first-round votes, which added to the myriad controversies that have engulfed a chaotic election cycle. Following a recount, the court then validated the first-round results on Monday. Many observers have expressed concerns that annulling the vote could trigger civil unrest. The court said Friday that its decision was meant “to restore citizens’ trust in the democratic legitimacy of public authorities, in the legality and fairness of elections.” Simion, of the far-right party, said the development was a “coup d’état in full swing” but urged people not to take to the streets. “We don’t let ourselves be provoked, this system has to fall democratically,” he said. Cristian Andrei, a political consultant based in Bucharest, said the court's decision amounts to a “crisis mode situation for Romanian democracy.” “In light of the information about the external interference, the massive interference in elections, I think this was not normal but predictable, because it’s not normal times at all, Romania is an uncharted territory,” he told The Associated Press. “The problem is here, do we have the institutions to manage such an interference in the future?” Georgescu’s surprising success left many political observers wondering how most local surveys were so far off, putting him behind at least five other candidates before the vote. Many observers attributed his success to his TikTok account, which now has 6 million likes and 541,000 followers. But some experts suspected Georgescu’s online following was artificially inflated while Romania’s top security body alleged he was given preferential treatment by TikTok over other candidates. In the intelligence release, the secret services alleged that one TikTok user paid more $381,000 (361,000 euros) to other users to promote Georgescu content. Intelligence authorities said information they obtained “revealed an aggressive promotion campaign” to increase and accelerate his popularity. Georgescu, when asked by the AP in an interview Wednesday whether he believes the Chinese-owned TikTok poses a threat to democracy, defended social media platforms. “The most important existing function for promoting free speech and freedom of expression is social media,” he said.Aidan Bouman, Quaron Adams rally South Dakota past Tarleton State 42-31 in FCS second-round duel
AP News Summary at 5:04 p.m. ESTSlot’s impact has been equally evident in Europe, where the Merseyside club has dominated the Champions League, securing victory in all five of their league phase matches. With the January transfer window approaching, Liverpool are reportedly targeting Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong to strengthen their squad and sustain their dominance across all competitions. Liverpool make offer for Frenkie de Jong According to a report by , the Dutch international is seen as an ideal successor to Ryan Gravenberch, who is drawing strong interest from Real Madrid. It was that the Reds could make an offer for de Jong and as per this report, the Reds want to sign the midfielder and have made an offer worth €40m as they look to take advantage of the player’s current situation with the Spanish side. The report adds that Arne Slot has personally advised the club to sign him. De Jong has struggled with injuries at Barcelona The 27-year-old endured a difficult previous season, with an ankle injury sidelining him for the majority of the campaign, resulting in 47 missed games for both club and country. Under Barcelona’s new coach Hansi Flick, De Jong has made 11 appearances this season but only two starts, highlighting his diminished role within a crowded midfield. Since joining Barcelona, he has made 224 appearances for them, scoring 18 and assisting 22. His overall tally across all competitions and levels is 35 goals and 48 assists in 385 games. ( ) He has been a long-term Manchester United target as well under former manager Erik ten Hag and as per a recent report, it is suggested that . Slot’s vision of a possession-focused, dynamic midfield makes De Jong an ideal fit. Known for his ability to control the tempo, break defensive lines, and maintain composure under pressure, he would complement Liverpool’s attacking philosophy perfectly. Should the move materialise, De Jong’s arrival could mark a pivotal step in Liverpool’s quest for domestic and European success while providing him a platform to re-establish himself as one of the world’s best midfielders.
Unlike most true crime documentaries, Chiefsaholic: A Wolf in Chiefs Clothing (now streaming on Amazon Prime Video) was lucky enough to have first-person access to the perpetrator in-between his malfeasances. Director Dylan Sires hung out with Xaviar Babudar while he was on bail following his arrest for a string of high-profile bank robberies, and before he jumped bail, prompting a multi-state manhunt. Why would Babudar agree to be in the film in the first place? Well, he’s a bit of an attention hog: He’s a Kansas City Chiefs superfan, famous among the team’s diehard followers for his head-to-toe wolf costume and viral social media presence, where he was known as “Chiefsaholic.” His fellow Chiefs nuts always wondered how Babudar could afford to travel across the country and buy premium seats to all the away games and, well, here’s your answer, fishbulb: The hundreds of thousands of dollars he stole funded his excursions. And the story only gets wilder and more complex from there. CHIEFSAHOLIC: A WOLF IN CHIEFS CLOTHING : STREAM IT OR SKIP IT? The Gist: Feb. 12, 2023: Super Bowl Sunday. The Chiefs are playing the Philadelphia Eagles for all the marbles. We hang out with Babudar in a hotel room as he watches the game on TV, wearing a shirt bearing the likeness of Chiefs superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes and an ankle monitor. He seems more worked up about the game than the fact that he’s facing a cumulative 350 years in prison for 19 counts of armed robbery for snatching $846,000 from banks and allegedly laundering $1 million – so there’s no questioning his true fandom, and anyone who invests a bit too much of themselves in the success of a sports team (guilty!) can relate, because when YOUR TEAM is playing, the rest of the world just drops away for a couple of hours. Anyway. Now we jump back to Dec., 2022. We hear 911 audio from a bank employee in Bixby, Oklahoma and watch police bodycam footage outlining a chase. Babudar held up a credit union and took off on a bicycle, and eventually was apprehended on a suburban street with a backpack full of cash and a bb gun. Who is this guy? Just ask a bunch of lovable weirdos who paint themselves red every Sunday during football season, or host obsessive Chiefs podcasts, or hop in their Chiefs-themed party buses and tailgate their asses off. They know him as Chiefsaholic, the guy in the wolf costume who turns up at every game and posts crazy memes and fan videos on twitter to tens of thousands of followers. We meet one fan who says she couldn’t wait to see his pregame video post every gameday. Everybody knew Chiefsaholic, that he was a gregarious personality who hated hated hated the Las Vegas Raiders, but nobody really knew who he was. When his Twitter account went silent in Dec. of 2022, and he didn’t show up at games, people got worried. Was he sick? Was he dead? Was he (cough) in jail? At this point, the doc starts filling in some of Babudar’s biography. He’s homeless, living out of his car. His father abandoned his family, and he and his brother ended up being taken away from his mother, who committed many petty crimes. His criminal record included a handful of misdemeanors for theft. And he was a serial gambler. One Chiefs fan tells a story of how Babudar bet $80,000 on a game, lost, and didn’t seem to be bothered by it. Now we meet Michael Lloyd, the bail bondsman who read Babudar’s story of childhood hardship and posts his $80,000 bail – the family stole to feed themselves, Lloyd says, justifying his decision, although it’s worth noting something not mentioned in the film, namely, that a bail bondsman makes a percentage of the bail amount, so he stood to score a solid payday for springing Babudar. This catches us up to Babudar in the hotel room watching the Super Bowl with more than just his happiness at stake – we learn he stands to score $155,000 because, prior to the season and his arrest, he bet on the Chiefs winning the Super Bowl and Mahomes being named MVP. It’s no secret that both of those things happened. And this is when Lloyd starts to sweat heavily beneath his pasted-on toupee. A guy facing a zillion criminal charges with a pocketful of cash is what you call a flight risk. And if a client bolts, the bail bondsman becomes a bounty hunter, and is on the hook for the $80k and at threat of losing his license if he doesn’t haul in the fugitive. And bolt is exactly what Babudar does. What Movies Will It Remind You Of?: Chiefsaholic is like the documentary How to Rob a Bank crossed with Patton Oswalt-plays-a-toxic-New-York-Giants-fan fiction film Big Fan . Performance Worth Watching: Instead of highlighting what a slippery weirdo Babudar’s lawyer is, let’s acknowledge Payton Garcia, the Iowa credit union teller who gamely and confidently represents all the people the robber traumatized by pointing a gun at them. Memorable Dialogue: The cop who nabbed Babudar, L. Sanchez, rubbed it in: “I’m a Raiders fan,” Sanchez said. “A Raiders fan just arrested you.” Sex and Skin: None. Our Take: Many true crime docs tend to sensationalize their stories, but this one doesn’t need to. It’s pretty sensational on its own, and Sires capitalizes on its twists and turns, shifting from following Babudar to being embedded with Lloyd as the bail bondsman, with a good chunk of change on the line, hunts his bounty. Lloyd tails Babudar’s mother and brother, who are also homeless and living out of a car, waiting for them to leave the vehicle so he can tag it with a tracking device or search through their trash for clues. (A weird sideplot almost emerges here, as Lloyd and Sires fail to suss out why Babudar’s family members visit various Targets and WalMarts so frequently; Lloyd finds return receipts in their garbage, leading one to assume that they’re perpetrating some petty fraud.) So Chiefsaholic isn’t just a retrospective documentary full of talking heads and archival footage – Sires renders it visually and dramatically dynamic, mixing in Lloyd’s on-location stakeouts (Dylan is present when Lloyd finds Babudar’s abandoned ankle monitor in the hotel room), reenactments and police footage. It’s tense and fascinating, and worries that the film wouldn’t justify its two-hour runtime were unfounded. Thematically, the story is quite the rich milieu: The portrait of extreme fandom doesn’t tell the whole story, but part of Babudar’s motive to rob banks surely had something to do with it; his gambling (which Babudar calls “an addiction” at one point) and family history play significant parts too. Social media toxicity is part of the film’s narrative, as Babudar’s online admirers leapt to defend him despite his fairly cut-and-dried guilt. Dylan also lucks into a subplot about the questionable ethics of bail bondsmen who stand to capitalize on springing volatile criminals from jail, although they do assume significant risk. And just when the doc risks becoming a sympathetic platform for Babudar, the other shoe drops and we’re subject to Garcia’s story of the emotional trauma she suffered; the mother of two feared for her life during the robbery, and couldn’t return to work afterward, a firsthand account that immediately punctures the flimsy and desperate defense put forth by Babudar’s lawyer, who insists that “nobody was hurt” during the robberies. This is a fascinating, well-constructed documentary. Our Call: Chiefsaholic is such an excellent film, it doesn’t deserve to be lumped in with the rest of the true crime dreck out there. STREAM IT. John Serba is a freelance writer and film critic based in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
ArtMarie/E+ via Getty Images The remittance market accounts for more than 0.8% of the global GDP. In the United States alone, more than $79.15 billion were transferred in remittances in 2022 , and for countries such as Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article. Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
Tech billionaire Elon Musk 's vow to "go to war" to defend H-1B visas has raised eyebrows from some on social media. Newsweek reached out to Musk's social media platform X, formerly Twitter , via email for comment from the tech mogul on Saturday morning. Why It Matters Musk's comments posted on X on Friday night come amid an intense dispute within Trump's Make America Great Again (MAGA) coalition over H-1B visas, a highly competitive visa program that allows American companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations, and legal immigration more generally. Musk, a South African naturalized U.S. citizen who at one point in time held an H1-B visa, and his future co-leader of Trump's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy , have voiced support for bringing skilled foreign workers into the U.S. Once in office, Trump could struggle to placate both those in business who believe skilled legal migration boosts the U.S. economy and those of his supporters who think it takes place at the expense of American workers. What To Know On Friday night, Steven Mackey, an X user interested in politics with less than 12,000 followers, went viral for a post responding to a video of Musk talking about the operations of his company SpaceX , in which Musk said: "Possibly the most common error of a smart engineer is to optimize a thing that shouldn't exist." "Stop trying to optimize something that shouldn't exist," Mackey wrote in response to the video pretending to be the voice of Musk, "Let's optimize H-1B." The post has received 1.5 million views as of Saturday morning. Musk replied to Mackey's post on Friday: "The reason I'm in America along with so many critical people who built SpaceX, Tesla and hundreds of other companies that made America strong is because of H1B. Take a big step back and F*** YOURSELF in the face. I will go to war on this issue the likes of which you cannot possibly comprehend." The tech tycoon's post, meanwhile, has received 5.8 million views as of Saturday morning. Mackey quickly replied to Musk, writing, in part, "I personally am fine with reforming H1B, and as I've stated multiple times today, I am incredibly grateful you and many others are in the country because of H1B." This row over the H-1B visa program erupted after conservative activist Laura Loomer criticized Trump's appointment of Indian-born entrepreneur Sriram Krishnan as his senior policy adviser on artificial intelligence (AI). Loomer noted Krishnan's previous support for making it easier for skilled foreigners to work in the U.S., which Loomer claimed on X was "in direct opposition" to the Trump agenda. What People Are Saying Loomer wrote on X Friday night, "It's now escalated to threats of 'war'. Wow. Shocking." Ron Filipkowski, editor-in-chief of MeidasTouch and a frequent Trump critic , wrote on X Friday night, "Holy s***" and shared a screenshot of Musk's post. In a follow-up post, he wrote: "Musk is telling Trump supporters to go f*** themselves while Trump just wrapped up another set of Studio 54 hits in the ballroom at MAL after a tough day of golf." Jon Cooper, a former Long Island, New York, campaign chair for former President Barack Obama , wrote on X Saturday morning, "Hey MAGA, this one's for you. To quote Elon, if you don't agree with him, you can 'take a big step back and F*** YOURSELF in the face.'" Political analyst Aleksandar Djokic wrote on X Saturday morning of Musk, "That's one ungrateful immigrant right there." Karen Piper, an academic who focuses on globalization , wrote on X early Saturday morning, "I wish the MSM [mainstream media] would report what Elon is actually saying to Trump supporters, which is, 'F*** YOURSELF in the face.' I wonder how we can get this message out to a larger audience." What Happens Next While Trump's plans to crack down on illegal immigration have broad support across his base, the president-elect will have to walk a tightrope on legal immigration following his inauguration on January 20 if he is to avoid alienating a powerful section of his supporters. Trump suggested international students graduating from American universities should be given green cards during an interview on the All-In podcast in June. "If you graduate or you get a doctorate degree from a college, you should be able to stay in this country," he said.
Stock market today: Wall Street gains ground as it notches a winning week and another Dow recordNvidia CEO says global cooperation in tech will continue under Trump administrationGhana Election 2024: Civil Society Demands Political Support for Fisheries Transparency
James Harden and Norman Powell Deserve All-Star Appearance More Than Stephen Curry: Chandler ParsonsShare Tweet Share Share Email As you must already know, Calgary’s real estate market is a dynamic and exciting space, especially when it comes to condos. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, selecting the right neighbourhood and realtor can dramatically impact your experience. From downtown vibrancy to serene suburban settings, Calgary offers diverse condo living options to suit every lifestyle. This guide explores Calgary’s top neighbourhoods for condos, provides market insights, and highlights why partnering with experienced realtors like Rivers Real Estate can help you find your dream home while maximizing your investment. Why Calgary Is a Hotspot for Condo Buyers Calgary’s condo market continues to thrive, driven by demand from young professionals, downsizers, and investors. One major factor fueling this growth is the city’s strong economy, bolstered by industries like energy, technology, and healthcare. In addition, Calgary’s urban development initiatives have enhanced the appeal of its downtown core, creating vibrant neighbourhoods like Beltline and East Village. Condos in these areas offer modern amenities, proximity to entertainment hubs, and easy access to transit. For buyers, the condo lifestyle provides affordability compared to single-family homes, without sacrificing comfort or convenience. These trends make Calgary an ideal place for condo seekers. Top Calgary Neighborhoods for Condo Living 1. Beltline Beltline is one of Calgary’s most sought-after neighbourhoods for condo buyers. Known for its walkability and proximity to downtown, this area boasts a mix of modern high-rises and stylish low-rise buildings. Residents enjoy access to trendy cafes, boutique shops, and vibrant nightlife along 17th Avenue. The median price for condos in Beltline remains competitive, making it attractive to first-time buyers and young professionals. Market reports show a steady appreciation in property values, signalling long-term investment potential. With its blend of urban living and cultural vibrancy, Beltline is a prime choice for those seeking a dynamic lifestyle in Calgary. 2. East Village East Village is a hub of modern development and a favourite for luxury condo buyers. Located near the Bow River, this revitalized neighbourhood features cutting-edge architecture and high-end amenities. Condos here often come with rooftop terraces, fitness centers, and concierge services. East Village is also home to cultural landmarks like the National Music Centre and Calgary Public Library. According to recent market insights, condos in East Village are seeing increased demand, especially from international buyers looking for upscale properties. Its combination of scenic river views and proximity to downtown makes East Village a standout neighbourhood for discerning buyers. 3. Mission Mission offers a unique mix of historic charm and urban sophistication, making it a favourite for condo living. Nestled along the Elbow River, this neighbourhood is known for its tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and top-rated restaurants. Many condos in Mission offer riverfront views and easy access to walking trails. The real estate market here is competitive, with condos selling quickly due to high demand. Data from recent reports indicate that Mission remains a stable investment area, with property values holding steady. For buyers seeking a blend of tranquillity and city life, Mission delivers on all fronts. 4. Kensington Kensington is a trendy neighbourhood renowned for its artsy vibe and community feel. Located just northwest of downtown, this area is perfect for condo buyers looking for a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Kensington features a mix of contemporary condos and historic buildings, catering to a variety of preferences. Market trends reveal steady growth in condo sales, driven by the neighbourhood’s popularity among young families and creatives. Its proximity to Bow River pathways and downtown Calgary further enhances its appeal. Kensington offers a balanced lifestyle, combining urban convenience with a strong sense of community. Choosing the Right Realtor: Best Realtors in Calgary The process of finding the perfect condo goes beyond selecting a neighbourhood—it requires the expertise of a skilled realtor. Realtors bring valuable market knowledge, negotiation skills, and access to exclusive listings that buyers often can’t find on their own. For instance, a top-tier realtor like Rivers Real Estate specializes in connecting clients with condos that align with their needs and budget. Their deep understanding of Calgary’s market trends ensures you make an informed decision. Whether it’s evaluating price points or identifying emerging investment opportunities, working with the right professional can significantly enhance your condo-buying experience. How Rivers Real Estate Stands Out Rivers Real Estate is a leader in Calgary’s real estate industry, particularly when it comes to condos. Their team provides personalized service, guiding buyers through every step of the process. Rivers Real Estate is known for its robust market analysis, which helps clients identify the best deals and future appreciation potential. Additionally, they have a strong network within Calgary’s real estate community, giving clients access to exclusive off-market properties. With a reputation for excellence and a proven track record, Rivers Real Estate is an invaluable partner for anyone looking to navigate Calgary’s condo market with confidence. Market Insights: Condo Trends in Calgary Recent market data reveals that Calgary’s condo market is experiencing consistent growth, with demand driven by affordability and lifestyle preferences. According to the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB), condo sales have risen by 12% year-over-year, reflecting increased interest from both local and international buyers. The average price for condos in the city remains stable, with certain neighbourhoods like Beltline and East Village seeing higher-than-average appreciation rates. Additionally, developments in Calgary’s downtown core are attracting buyers seeking modern, eco-friendly living spaces. These trends indicate that now is an opportune time to invest in Calgary condos. Tips for Condo Buyers in Calgary Understand Your Budget : Determine your financial limits and consider additional costs like condo fees and property taxes. Research the Neighborhood : Each area in Calgary offers unique benefits; choose one that aligns with your lifestyle. Inspect the Condo : Ensure the unit is in good condition and verify the quality of building management. Work with a Realtor : Realtors like Rivers Real Estate can provide market insights and help you negotiate the best deal. Plan for the Future : Consider long-term factors such as resale value and potential neighbourhood growth. Condos For Sale Calgary: Finding Your Dream Condo in Calgary Calgary’s condo market offers endless possibilities, from luxurious high-rises in East Village to charming riverfront units in Mission. By choosing the right neighbourhood and partnering with an experienced realtor like Rivers Real Estate, you can navigate the market with ease and confidence. With market trends pointing to steady growth and increasing demand, investing in a Calgary condo is both a smart financial decision and a lifestyle upgrade. Start your journey today by visiting Luxury Homes Calgary to explore listings and connect with top real estate professionals who can make your dream home a reality. Related Items: Business , neighborhoods Share Tweet Share Share Email Recommended for you Critical Role of Productivity Tools in the Startup Success Professional Gas Fitting Services in Sydney Navigating Plumbing Emergencies: Your Sydney Solution Comments
By Conor Ryan Tom Brady appeared in 285 career games with the Patriots, winning six Super Bowls and throwing for 614 total touchdowns (postseason included) over those 20 seasons in Foxborough. Bill Belichick had a front-row seat to every single one of those plays as Brady’s lone head coach in New England. But for the ex-Patriots head coach (and now current UNC football coach), one play stands above the rest as Brady’s finest play in his legendary career. Speaking on SiriusXM’s “Let’s Go!” Podcast with Jim Gray and Brady, Belichick tabbed Brady’s first touchdown of Super Bowl XXXIX to David Givens as his most impressive feat. The four-yard pass tied up New England’s matchup against the Eagles at 7-7 with 1:13 left in the first half. “Tom, one of your greatest plays ever was in the Super Bowl against the Eagles,” Belichick said. “This comes down to fundamental execution that’s just so critical. ... We gotta go to the third guy and make it a back-shoulder throw. That’s what great execution is under pressure in the most critical moments of the game. That’s how you win.” Coach Belichick breaks down his favorite @TomBrady play (from 19 years ago) like it was yesterday 🤯🤯 With @JimGrayOfficial on this week's Let's Go! DOWNLOAD 🔗 https://t.co/tyHs0oQxCc pic.twitter.com/OqAIUDWAOZ Some might point to one of Brady’s clutch throws during New England’s Super Bowl triumphs over Seattle’s “Legion of Boom” in Super Bowl XLIX, his final drive against the Rams in Super Bowl XXXVI, or the 28-3 comeback over the Falcons in Super Bowl LI as some of his top plays. But for Belichick, Brady’s throw to Givens was his best because of his ability to improvise after the initial play broke down. Belichick said that tight end Christian Fauria fell on his route while Deion Branch was well covered, prompting Brady to hit Givens off a fade route. “Tom, you had a lot of great plays, but I’ll put that one up there, maybe after your scramble against (Brian) Urlacher, ” Belichick said. Conor Ryan Conor Ryan is a staff writer covering the Bruins, Celtics, Patriots, and Red Sox for Boston.com, a role he has held since 2023. Sign up for Patriots updates🏈 Get breaking news and analysis delivered to your inbox during football season. Be civil. Be kind.Speculation vs. Investing – How Hype Can Cause Memecoin Traders to Confuse the Two