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Instead of riding a Santa rally, US stocks have been stuck in a slump. However, stock inflows in the last month and a half have been exceptionally strong. Here are the four sectors that investors are moving their money to now. Christmas has come and gone, but the so-called " Santa Claus rally " that US stocks enjoyed in past years is nowhere to be found . The S&P 500 is down in December and is over 2% away from its all-time high set earlier in the month — a modest, but meaningful, dip. Other major indexes are struggling even more, as the growth-oriented Nasdaq Composite is 2.5% from its peak and the Dow Jones Industrial Average and small-cap-focused Russell 2000 are 4.6% and 8% away from recent highs, respectively. Those pullbacks come after a furious postelection rally fueled by optimism about forthcoming policies under President-elect Donald Trump. Stocks caught fire in the wake of that news but have since stagnated and given back some of those gains, as is often the case after big moves. But investors don't seem to be discouraged by those declines. Instead, they've reflexively been buying stocks in droves during this slump, seemingly confident that they'll be rewarded soon. US stock inflows were positive for seven straight weeks through December 20, Bank of America strategists led by Jill Carey Hall wrote in a late December note. Net equity inflows in that span reached $10 billion, which is the second-biggest figure since 2008, according to BofA. The only other time since the financial crisis inflows were bigger was in January 2017, which also happens to be in the wake of the last time Trump won the election. Investors are buying the dip in 4 sectors Investors have prioritized single stocks over exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and large caps over smaller firms lately, BofA found. Money also flowed into six of the 11 market sectors, though four saw outsize attention: technology, communication services, industrials, and consumer staples. It's no shock that those first two growth-heavy groups are popular, as they've easily been the best-performing sectors in 2024. What's more surprising is that industrials and staples saw their biggest inflows last week since February 2022 and April 2024, respectively. Both sectors have had middle-of-the-pack showings this year, and industrials have had the largest average weekly outflows of any sector in the last 12 months. Staples has been slightly better in that span, but it also has negative weekly flows. Conversely, the healthcare and consumer discretionary sectors had the biggest outflows last week. Mixed signals abound within Bank of America's latest sector flow data. It's not as if investors are positioning for an economic boom or bust, since the industrials-staples and healthcare-discretionary pairings are both combinations of cyclical and defensive sectors, while tech and communication services tend to grow in any backdrop. Even still, it's worth tracking where investors are placing their bets — and it's also helpful to note which sectors are most recommended by leading investment firms heading into 2025.
Jets running back Breece Hall dealing with a knee issue, left tackle Tyron Smith could go on IRIreland’s three largest political parties remain in a tight grouping, according to the latest major opinion poll before Friday’s General election. It shows that support for the Fianna Fail party is at 21% ahead of polling day, only slightly ahead of their coalition partners Fine Gael and the largest opposition party Sinn Fein, who were neck-and-neck at 20%. The Red C-Business Post poll showed support for Fianna Fail unchanged, while Fine Gael had a slide of two percentage points and Sinn Fein gained two. The near dead-locked poll results came on Wednesday as fears over future economic threats took centre stage in the final stretch of the campaign. Taoiseach Simon Harris said he is taking a “project truth” approach to calling out Sinn Fein’s spending pledges as election results on the other side of the Atlantic put Ireland’s economic model into sharp relief. Donald Trump’s presidential election victory in the US has brought heightened concern around what his proposals for corporation tax and tariffs could mean for Ireland. Mr Harris, leader of Fine Gael, has argued Ireland and other EU countries need to prepare for the possibility of trade shocks as he criticised the scale of Sinn Fein’s spending pledges as well as their saving plans. He said: “I think that is irresponsible, I think it is dangerous and I think it is reckless.” He accused Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald of not being able to say what her party was prepared to do in the event of an economic crash, adding that Fine Gael would borrow and stop putting money towards a rainy-day fund. Asked if the party was engaging in “project fear” to dissuade voters against Sinn Fein, Mr Harris said: “I call it ‘project truth’. It’s telling people what’s being discussed right across European capitals.” Ms McDonald told an RTE interview on Wednesday morning that a Sinn Fein government would also be prepared to start borrowing in the event of an economic downturn. Both Mr Harris and Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin, who were partners in the last coalition government in Ireland, have made clear they will not countenance Sinn Fein as a potential partner in the next administration in Dublin. One day after the only three-way debate featuring the leaders of the main parties, Mr Martin accused Sinn Fein of being “dishonest” about how they will fund their manifesto plans. Speaking in Dublin on Wednesday, he said he is anxious to get clarity on the issue. “I think Sinn Fein have been very dishonest, frankly, in terms of the funds, because if you go through their figures, and this is a matter of fact, not opinion, they’re predicting a surplus of a billion in 2026, a billion in 2027. “Even in 2025, they’re talking about a mini budget, which would mean reducing the surplus that we’re anticipating in 2025. “There’s a legislative obligation now on any new government to put 0.8% of GDP to one side, and into the funds. There’s no way you can do that with a surplus of a billion in 2026 or 2027, and we would argue they would not have enough funds next year either to put into the funds.” He added: “It means they have no room to manoeuvre if things go wrong, if there’s headwinds come externally, or there are shocks internationally, Sinn Fein is not allowing any headroom at all in terms of room to respond or to move it.” Ms McDonald accused the other two parties of conspiring to keep Sinn Fein out of government and prevent change in Ireland. She said the two men were now “indistinguishable” from each other as she claimed they were suffering “acute amnesia” in regard to their records in government. On a visit to Naas fire station in Co Kildare, she said: “To listen to them, you’d imagine they had just arrived on the scene and that they were going to come up with all of these solutions. “They have had ample chances, ample opportunity, to make things better, and they have failed, and in between the two of them I make the case that now we ask for our chance, with our plans, with our team, to demonstrate how change can happen, how your community, your family, yourself, can be supported when the government is actually on your side.” Mr Martin’s and Mr Harris’ coalition partner Roderic O’Gorman, the leader of the Greens, issued a warning to the public over a future government without his party. On Wednesday, he said it is looking likely that Fianna Fail and Fine Gael will be returned to government – but cautioned they may not want the Greens to continue “fighting hard” on policies. He told reporters: “My sense is certainly the mood music from Fianna Fail and Fine Gael is that they’d like an easier life in the next government – and my concern is they use these small populist parties and right-wing independents.” Mr O’Gorman argued that the Greens could continue to provide stability to government at a time when economic shocks may be around the corner. As the Green leader suggested that relying on independents would be unstable, Mr Martin has also argued that “too much fragmentation would lead to incoherence in government”. Reflecting on Tuesday night’s debate, the Fianna Fail leader said the race remained “too close to call” while Mr Harris said it is “all to play for”. The leaders of Ireland’s three main political parties clashed on housing, healthcare and financial management in the last televised debate before Friday’s General Election. The tetchy debate, which was marked by several interruptions, saw the parties set out their stalls in a broadcast that commentators said did little to move the dial before polling day. After the 2020 general election delivered an inconclusive result, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail, two parties forged from opposing sides of Ireland’s Civil War of the 1920s, agreed to set aside almost a century of animosity and share power – with the Greens as a junior partner. From 2016 to 2020, Fianna Fail had supported Fine Gael in power through a confidence-and-supply arrangement from the Opposition benches in the Dail parliament. Sinn Fein won the popular vote in 2020 but a failure to run enough candidates meant it did not secure sufficient seats in the Dail to give it a realistic chance of forming a government.
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It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas. This holiday season, social media influencers are hopping aboard a vintage New York City subway train to travel back in time, taking to TikTok and Instagram to share their outfits and experiences. If you are looking for something unique to do in New York over the holidays, this may be it: You too can ride the New York Transit Museum’s Holiday Nostalgia Train, which operates annual holiday-themed train cars decorated for Christmas in the style of the 1930s. The trains, which depart from the 2 nd Avenue – Houston Street station on the uptown F line and the 96 th Street – 2 nd Avenue station on the Q line, run every Sunday in December. And the cost to ride is just a MetroCard swipe. One user on TikTok posted scenes of festive New Yorkers, some in old wartime vintage suits and women dressed up in circa 1930s outfits, walking through the train cars alongside people in regular clothes. Another TikToker walked her followers through a makeup and clothing tutorial on how to dress for the big event. A third posted a short video of people dancing, a band, people taking photos, and the train’s conductor. | If you’d like to take your own trip, here’s the schedule and the route for the holiday rides: New York holiday train schedule Catch the vintage train between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Sunday, December 15, 22, and 29. The Holiday Nostalgia Train departs from the 2 nd Avenue – Houston Street station on the uptown F line in lower Manhattan at: 10 a.m. 12 p.m. 2 p.m. 4 p.m. The Holiday Nostalgia Train departs from the 96 th Street – 2 nd Avenue station on the Q line at: 11 a.m. 1 p.m. 3 p.m. 5 p.m. New York holiday train route Passengers can board the Holiday Nostalgia Train along its route at any of the stations below: Uptown stops: 2 nd Avenue – Houston Street (F) Broadway – Lafayette Street (D/F, 6) West 4 th Street – Washington Square (A/C/E, D/F) 34 th Street – Herald Square (D/F, N/Q/R) 42 nd Street – Bryant Park (A/C/E, D/F, N/Q/R, S, 7) 47 th – 50 th Streets – Rockefeller Center (D/F) 57 th Street – 6 th Avenue (F) Lexington Avenue – 63 rd Street (F, Q) 72 nd Street – 2 nd Avenue (Q) 86 th Street – 2 nd Avenue (Q) 96 th Street – 2 nd Avenue (Q) Downtown stops: 96 th Street – 2 nd Avenue (Q) 86 th Street – 2 nd Avenue (Q) 72 nd Street – 2 nd Avenue (Q) Lexington Avenue – 63 rd Street (F, Q) 57 th Street – 6 th Avenue (F) 47 th – 50 th Streets – Rockefeller Center (D/F) 42 nd Street – Bryant Park (A/C/E, D/F, N/Q/R, S, 7) 34 th Street – Herald Square (D/F, N/Q/R) West 4 th Street – Washington Square (A/C/E, D/F) Broadway – Lafayette Street (D/F, 6) 2 nd Avenue – Houston Street (F) The New York subway is having a moment Not to be outdone, celebrities have been taking to social media to document their own outfits underground on the normal New York subway. Last week, pop singer Olivia Rodrigo took Instagram to post her own incredibly chic retro outfit while riding the subway to celebrate her collaboration with Sony Electronics (her outfit, a navy dress with white polka dots, a leopard-print purse, and black Mary Jane shoes, perfectly blended the current “mob-wife aesthetic” with retro schoolgirl trends, according to Cosmopolitan ). It soon went viral. And isn’t that what every social media influencer wants for Christmas? The extended deadline for Fast Company’s World Changing Ideas Awards is this Friday, December 13, at 11:59 p.m. PT. Apply today.
You are complex. You are playful, warm and friendly, but you are also intense and impulsive. You care. This is a slower paced year. Focus on your closest relationships and make sure you are with people who have your back. Take time to rejuvenate yourself. The stars show the kind of day you’ll have: 5-Dynamic; 4-Positive; 3-Average; 2-So-so; 1-Difficult ARIES (March 21-April 19)  Be patient with children and young people in the morning, because they might annoy you or test you in some way, especially by refusing to accept responsibility for something. Or perhaps their values differ from yours. Tonight: Welcome support. TAURUS (April 20-May 20)  Minor disputes or spats with partners, spouses and close friends might occur this morning. This is natural if there is tension in the air. Fortunately, these people will help and support you later in the day. Tonight: Agreement. GEMINI (May 21-June 20)  Squabbles about work, duties and possibly a pet might annoy you this morning. Nevertheless, after this happens, you will be productive in all your efforts because you’re willing to do whatever is necessary to make things work. In fact, it will all unfold with dignity and tradition. Tonight: You’re organized. CANCER (June 21-July 22)  Difficulties with your kids or younger people who are present might be a challenge this morning. For some of you, this difficulty will be with a romantic partner. Fortunately, this is temporary. The rest of the day will be a delight in pageantry and tradition that all will welcome. Tonight: Socialize! LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)  In your zeal to make this day unfold according to your hopes and plans, you might be at odds with a parent or a family member this morning. Let this go. Move on. In fact, everyone will respect traditional ways of doing things and be willing to put their wishes second to the needs of the group. Tonight: Relax. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)  You might feel irritated this morning because you have a lot on your plate. Unexpected guests or news from family members you haven’t seen for a while might catch you off guard. Fortunately, you will rise to the task and keep things orderly and practical. Planning always pays off. Tonight: Conversations! LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)  Morning squabbles with a friend or a group, perhaps about money or possessions, might irritate you. Fortunately, whatever the problem is it will be resolved. Later in the day, you feel calm, in control and capable of running everything smoothly. Tonight: Everything’s orderly. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)  Someone might challenge you this morning, especially an authority figure who tries to get in your way. (Bad move.) Later in the day, things will flow smoothly, and you will take on chores and duties with grace and a willing acceptance of duty. Tonight: You win! SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)  Ignore worries and challenges with travel or controversial politics this morning. Everything will come together in one way or another. By the end of the day, with the sun in your sign and your strong sense of duty, you will be pleased with how this day unfolds. Tonight: Quiet times. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)  Squabbles about shared values, shared costs and inheritances might be a challenge to your morning. However, there is no sign that reveres tradition more than you. Furthermore, you have unwavering family values. Tonight: Friendships. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)  Don’t let morning squabbles with partners, friends, parents or bosses ruin your day. It’s not going to happen. Au contraire! Today you will be respected because of the unflagging energy and support you are giving to everyone. You will spare no effort. Tonight: You’re noticed. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)  Steer clear of controversial subjects or travel problems this morning. You need to stay calm and clear today, which you will, because you’re willing to put your own comfort second so that everything comes off in a way that pleases everyone. Tonight: Explore! — King Features Syndicate
Zoe Ball has candidly opened up about her battle with a health issue that's been causing her 'awful' symptoms, just as she announces her departure from her early morning BBC breakfast show. The beloved presenter and mum-of-two, 54, took to Instagram , where she boasts 738k followers, to share her struggles with pain due to a condition known as TMJ. Zoe shared: "I have TMJ and wake most days with awful headaches from tension and jaw clenching. So grateful to Helen @sculptresslondon for her magic. This is my face after I've seen her, check out my face before - yikes - picture 2." She went on to say: "Can't recommend her enough. She also has the greatest playlists. Thank you H and to @just._.tiff for the intro." Zoe expressed her gratitude with praying hands and a red heart emoji. Her revelation struck a chord with many fans, with one commenting: "God, I need this." Another shared their own experience, noting additional symptoms: "Along with acid reflux and the headaches. Wondering if anyone else has TMJ and acid reflux, the two can be linked." Zoe also mentioned: "Also having microsuction on the old ears at the weekend (in the good old days ear syringing was free on the NHS , now they won't do - so £60 to have wax removed)This can also be common with those who have TMJ. Just interested to know if others have these conditions." Zoe was quick to respond to her thoughtful follower, expressing her intrigue and saying: "That's fascinating. I don't have reflux but do have earache. I'll check out the microsuction, thanks." Famous friends of hers also chimed in with their thoughts, with Julia Bradbury commenting: "So magical to find people like this in our lives" and Stacey Dooley adding a warm: "Stunz." While Zoe has disclosed her treatment, it is known that Botox can aid in easing tension around the face and jaw and can prevent natural clenching. According to the NHS, Temporomandibular disorder is a condition "affecting the movement of the jaw. It's not usually serious and generally gets better on its own." It can result in pain around your ear, jaw and temple, and eating softer foods is advised. Stress can also worsen the condition. Recently, Zoe announced her exit from her demanding role as host of the BBC Radio 2 breakfast show after six years, stating that it's time to bid farewell to early morning alarms and devote more time to her family. In an emotional moment during her Tuesday (19 November) morning show, Zoe shared: "Ok you lovely bunch, I have some news. After six years of fun times alongside you all on the Breakfast Show, I've decided it's time to step away from the early alarm call and focus on family." "You know I think the world of you all listeners, and it truly has been such a privilege to share the mornings with you, to go through life's little ups and downs, we got through the lockdown together, didn't we? We've shared a hell of a lot, the good times, the tough times, there's been a lot of laughter. And I am going to miss you cats. I'm going to miss my amazing Prod Squad who I adore. Already missing Mike, I'm going to miss Tina and Richie. They've all become like family to me, like you lot. But I won't miss the 4am alarm call, if I'm completely honest." The news arrives on the back of a challenging year for the broadcaster who took a break from her programme this summer following the death of her mother Julie Peckham, who was diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer at the start of the year. Follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads.Liverpool maintain unbeaten Champions League startPROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Aaron Cooley's 17 points helped Brown defeat Stony Brook 77-54 on Wednesday. Cooley also contributed five rebounds for the Bears (4-3). AJ Lesburt Jr. scored 16 points, going 6 of 10 (4 for 8 from 3-point range). Landon Lewis shot 5 of 8 from the field to finish with 12 points, while adding eight rebounds. Joseph Octave finished with 24 points, seven rebounds and two steals for the Seawolves (2-5). Stony Brook also got 17 points and three steals from Ben Wight. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .Google Pixel Phone Deals: Score Unbeatable Prices with Seasonal Discounts
Brown wins 77-54 against Stony BrookGov. Glenn Youngkin on Tuesday announced that he is asking the legislature for an additional $290 million to support school construction and modernization efforts across Virginia. This latest investment would bring the total funding for the current biennium to $700 million and raise the state’s overall contribution under Youngkin’s administration to nearly $2 billion. Youngkin’s funding request is included in his proposed budget amendments, which he plans to present next week at a joint meeting of the General Assembly’s money committees. According to the governor’s office, the state’s financial commitments have spurred an estimated $3.4 billion in total funding for school construction. The additional support would be made possible through a combination of local government contributions and federal matching funds. “Over the last three years, we have invested historic amounts in our education system, including our public school facilities,” Youngkin said in a statement. “Our record economic growth and the resulting surplus allows us to make this critical investment to ensure every Virginia student has access to high-quality school facilities that support academic success.” Youngkin plans to use the newly announced $290 million in non-general funds to expand competitive grant opportunities for school divisions, particularly in high-need areas. The money would also address critical infrastructure issues, supporting the construction and renovation of schools in urgent need of repair. State officials say the increased funding will provide K-12 students with safer, more conducive learning spaces, a move that has been welcomed by educators and community leaders alike. Local school divisions will be able to apply for grant support to fast-track modernization projects that may have been delayed due to funding shortfalls. The Youngkin administration has framed the initiative as part of a broader effort to support Virginia’s educational system and improve outcomes for students. As schools across the state face aging infrastructure and capacity challenges, this investment aims to reduce disparities in facility quality, especially in underserved areas. “One of our guiding principles since day one of the Youngkin Administration has been to provide safe, vibrant, and healthy learning environments for all of our students,” said Secretary of Education Aimee Guidera. “This investment in supporting new and refurbished school buildings makes it possible for every community in the commonwealth to have the means to provide a best-in-class education that prepares every student for success in our increasingly demanding knowledge- and skills-based economy.” In 2022, Youngkin’s first year in office, the General Assembly in a bipartisan effort approved a historic $1.2 billion investment in school construction, aiming to modernize aging facilities and reduce funding disparities among school divisions. The sweeping plan combined grants and loans to support renovations, new construction, and capacity expansion for K-12 schools across the commonwealth. Of the $1.2 billion, about $850 million was allocated for grants. This included $400 million in formula-based grants, which provided each of Virginia’s 134 school divisions with a $1 million base allocation. The remaining $266 million was distributed based on the Local Composite Index (LCI) — a state funding formula that considers factors like property values, taxable sales and population data to assess a locality’s financial ability to support its schools. Another $450 million was funneled into the newly created School Construction Fund and Program, a competitive grant program designed to assist divisions with the most critical infrastructure needs. School systems with poor building conditions and limited financial capacity could apply for these funds to support construction, renovation, or expansion projects. This program is primarily funded by 98% of gaming revenue from Virginia’s four new casinos in Bristol, Danville, Portsmouth, and Norfolk. The fund is administered by the Virginia Board of Education. Virginia faces a mounting crisis with school infrastructure. Data released by the Virginia Department of Education in 2022 revealed that nearly 1,000 school buildings across the state are at least 50 years old. Replacing these facilities would cost more than $25 billion — a figure far beyond the capacity of most localities. Traditionally, local governments have shouldered the financial burden of school construction, relying on local tax revenue. But for economically distressed areas, particularly in Southwest Virginia and Southside, this has become an increasingly difficult challenge due to population decline and economic hardship. But in April, Youngkin vetoed a bill lawmakers sent to his desk that would have allowed localities to implement a 1% sales tax to help cover the costs of school construction and modernization. The proposal required voter approval through a referendum before the tax could be enacted by local governments. Youngkin acknowledged that school construction is a “worthy cause” but argued that Virginia has already taken substantial steps to address those costs. He contended that citizens should not face additional taxes, particularly the $1.5 billion annually that would have been raised by the 1% sales tax. Prior to 2022, state assistance for school construction was limited, with much of it coming from the Literary Fund, a state-managed pool of money established in Virginia’s Constitution. Funded by sources such as unclaimed lottery winnings, criminal fines, and unclaimed property, the Literary Fund historically provided low-interest loans to support school construction and debt service for technology. However, in recent years, much of the fund’s revenue was redirected to cover teacher retirement costs, leaving fewer resources for school building projects. The 2022 legislative session retooled the Literary Fund’s loan program, significantly increasing its impact. Lawmakers raised the maximum loan amount from $7.5 million to $25 million and capped the interest rate at 2%. These changes made it more feasible for school divisions to finance major construction projects at a lower cost. With the state’s total contribution now approaching $2 billion, education advocates are hopeful the increased funding will lead to long-term improvements in school facilities and better learning conditions for students throughout the commonwealth. Virginia Board of Education President Grace Creasey said Tuesday that the panel will prioritize “those school divisions in greatest need that have missed out on prior grant opportunities,” especially rural divisions.
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Browns Set Wild NFL Record in Win vs. SteelersIt shows that support for the Fianna Fail party is at 21% ahead of polling day, only slightly ahead of their coalition partners Fine Gael and the largest opposition party Sinn Fein, who were neck-and-neck at 20%. The Red C-Business Post poll showed support for Fianna Fail unchanged, while Fine Gael had a slide of two percentage points and Sinn Fein gained two. The near dead-locked poll results came on Wednesday as fears over future economic threats took centre stage in the final stretch of the campaign. Taoiseach Simon Harris said he is taking a “project truth” approach to calling out Sinn Fein’s spending pledges as election results on the other side of the Atlantic put Ireland’s economic model into sharp relief. Donald Trump’s presidential election victory in the US has brought heightened concern around what his proposals for corporation tax and tariffs could mean for Ireland. Mr Harris, leader of Fine Gael, has argued Ireland and other EU countries need to prepare for the possibility of trade shocks as he criticised the scale of Sinn Fein’s spending pledges as well as their saving plans. He said: “I think that is irresponsible, I think it is dangerous and I think it is reckless.” He accused Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald of not being able to say what her party was prepared to do in the event of an economic crash, adding that Fine Gael would borrow and stop putting money towards a rainy-day fund. Asked if the party was engaging in “project fear” to dissuade voters against Sinn Fein, Mr Harris said: “I call it ‘project truth’. It’s telling people what’s being discussed right across European capitals.” Ms McDonald told an RTE interview on Wednesday morning that a Sinn Fein government would also be prepared to start borrowing in the event of an economic downturn. Both Mr Harris and Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin, who were partners in the last coalition government in Ireland, have made clear they will not countenance Sinn Fein as a potential partner in the next administration in Dublin. One day after the only three-way debate featuring the leaders of the main parties, Mr Martin accused Sinn Fein of being “dishonest” about how they will fund their manifesto plans. Speaking in Dublin on Wednesday, he said he is anxious to get clarity on the issue. “I think Sinn Fein have been very dishonest, frankly, in terms of the funds, because if you go through their figures, and this is a matter of fact, not opinion, they’re predicting a surplus of a billion in 2026, a billion in 2027. “Even in 2025, they’re talking about a mini budget, which would mean reducing the surplus that we’re anticipating in 2025. “There’s a legislative obligation now on any new government to put 0.8% of GDP to one side, and into the funds. There’s no way you can do that with a surplus of a billion in 2026 or 2027, and we would argue they would not have enough funds next year either to put into the funds.” He added: “It means they have no room to manoeuvre if things go wrong, if there’s headwinds come externally, or there are shocks internationally, Sinn Fein is not allowing any headroom at all in terms of room to respond or to move it.” Ms McDonald accused the other two parties of conspiring to keep Sinn Fein out of government and prevent change in Ireland. She said the two men were now “indistinguishable” from each other as she claimed they were suffering “acute amnesia” in regard to their records in government. On a visit to Naas fire station in Co Kildare, she said: “To listen to them, you’d imagine they had just arrived on the scene and that they were going to come up with all of these solutions. “They have had ample chances, ample opportunity, to make things better, and they have failed, and in between the two of them I make the case that now we ask for our chance, with our plans, with our team, to demonstrate how change can happen, how your community, your family, yourself, can be supported when the government is actually on your side.” Mr Martin’s and Mr Harris’ coalition partner Roderic O’Gorman, the leader of the Greens, issued a warning to the public over a future government without his party. On Wednesday, he said it is looking likely that Fianna Fail and Fine Gael will be returned to government – but cautioned they may not want the Greens to continue “fighting hard” on policies. He told reporters: “My sense is certainly the mood music from Fianna Fail and Fine Gael is that they’d like an easier life in the next government – and my concern is they use these small populist parties and right-wing independents.” Mr O’Gorman argued that the Greens could continue to provide stability to government at a time when economic shocks may be around the corner. As the Green leader suggested that relying on independents would be unstable, Mr Martin has also argued that “too much fragmentation would lead to incoherence in government”. Reflecting on Tuesday night’s debate, the Fianna Fail leader said the race remained “too close to call” while Mr Harris said it is “all to play for”. The leaders of Ireland’s three main political parties clashed on housing, healthcare and financial management in the last televised debate before Friday’s General Election. The tetchy debate, which was marked by several interruptions, saw the parties set out their stalls in a broadcast that commentators said did little to move the dial before polling day. After the 2020 general election delivered an inconclusive result, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail, two parties forged from opposing sides of Ireland’s Civil War of the 1920s, agreed to set aside almost a century of animosity and share power – with the Greens as a junior partner. From 2016 to 2020, Fianna Fail had supported Fine Gael in power through a confidence-and-supply arrangement from the Opposition benches in the Dail parliament. Sinn Fein won the popular vote in 2020 but a failure to run enough candidates meant it did not secure sufficient seats in the Dail to give it a realistic chance of forming a government.
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Moroccan fintech firm Talaty has garnered support from prominent investors such as Witamax and Renew Capital, along with angel investors. Although the total funding amount remains undisclosed, these investors are known champions of innovation and growth in Africa. AI-Powered Financial Solutions Talaty is breaking new ground in the world of finance for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) through its AI-driven platform. By merging cutting-edge technologies such as computer vision and text analysis with behavioral finance, Talaty is revolutionizing conventional financial processes. This transformative approach aims to enhance SMBs’ access to much-needed working capital. The platform not only streamlines lending processes for financial institutions but also cuts down on default rates while slashing operational costs by a remarkable 90%. Through its strategic use of AI, Talaty provides lenders with more efficient, reliable, and inclusive credit decision-making tools, catering primarily to the underserved SMB sector. Securing financing often poses a hefty challenge for SMBs, with a significant percentage of bankruptcies resulting from payment defaults. Talaty aims to simplify this process, ensuring that financial partners can deliver timely support. Witamax’s Strategic Investment Witamax, Morocco’s first privately-backed VC fund, through its Funds II and III, sees this investment as aligning with their mission to support startups addressing critical societal challenges across Africa. They recognize Talaty’s innovative approach as a crucial tool for empowering millions of SMEs across the continent. Future Ambitions Armed with fresh investment, Talaty is poised to expand its AI-powered credit solutions, with plans to enter Francophone Africa. This move promises to further their mission of enhancing financial inclusion for SMBs throughout the region. Revolutionizing Finance: How Talaty is Transforming SMB Lending with AI Innovations In the rapidly evolving fintech landscape, Moroccan firm Talaty is setting a new standard for financial solutions targeting small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). With impressive backing from renowned investors such as Witamax and Renew Capital, Talaty is focused on leveraging AI to tackle longstanding challenges in the SMB sector. The Power of AI in Financial Solutions Talaty’s innovative use of AI technologies, which integrates computer vision and text analysis with behavioral finance, is reshaping traditional banking processes. By doing so, the firm is making it easier for SMBs to secure the working capital necessary for sustained growth and stability. One of the most significant impacts of their platform is the dramatic reduction in operational costs for lenders, down by an impressive 90%. This efficiency comes with enhanced decision-making capabilities, allowing lenders to minimize default rates with more precise risk assessments. Addressing SMB Challenges For SMBs, access to financing remains a critical hurdle, often leading to business failures due to cash flow shortages. Talaty’s user-centric platform not only ensures smoother access to loans but also facilitates a quick and accurate credit decisioning process, thereby reducing the time spent by financial institutions on each application. Strategic Investments and Market Influence Witamax, Morocco’s pioneering privately-backed venture capital fund, views their investment in Talaty as a strategic move to support startups solving vital societal issues across Africa. Their endorsement underscores the potential of Talaty’s platform to empower millions of SMEs by addressing their financial inclusion needs effectively. Witamax sees Talaty as a catalyst for economic growth, particularly in underbanked regions. Expanding Horizons in Francophone Africa With the recent infusion of investments, Talaty is set to expand its groundbreaking financial solutions to Francophone Africa. This expansion is poised to reinforce their dedication to enhancing financial inclusivity across diverse markets. It is a significant step that will potentially open doors for SMBs in these regions to access more reliable and inclusive financial services. Predictions and the Future of Fintech Solutions As fintech continues to disrupt conventional banking, Talaty represents the innovative potential within the sector. Predictions for the future suggest an increasing reliance on AI-driven platforms to close the financial inclusion gap worldwide. Talaty’s approach is likely to inspire similar ventures, fostering a landscape where technology seamlessly integrates with financial needs, thus empowering smaller businesses to thrive in an increasingly digital economy.Another year, another set of exciting developments—2024 is shaping up to be a powerful year with Bitcoin hitting new highs and President-elect Donald Trump’s pro-crypto stance adding to the optimism. As Bitcoin stands at the forefront, the holiday season brings even more excitement to the crypto world. We’re witnessing a bullish rally, with standout tokens like Solana (SOL), Ripple (XRP), and Lightchain AI (LCAI) leading the charge and capturing the attention of investors. With its presale price at just $0.003, Lightchain AI is catching a lot of attention for its unique mix of blockchain and artificial intelligence, making it a project to watch! Unlike meme coins, LCAI is built on real-world utility and a promising roadmap, positioning it as one of the top tokens to watch this Christmas. To learn more, visit lightchain.ai . Christmas Bullish Rally in Crypto The break time of year often brings joy to the money world and crypto coins are not different. As we near Christmas, popular coins like SOL, XRP, and Lightchain AI (LCAI) are grabbing investor notice. These digital money have started talks among fans and investors too, with each giving something special to the market. While SOL and ͏XRP have their set name, it’s Lightchain AI that is coming up as a new pick for those wanting change and growth chance. In these, LCAI is special for its new use of blockchain tech and smart systems, making it one of the most talked-about plans this time. The token’s cool traits, mixed with its hopeful presale cost of $0.003, puts it as a strong player in the crypto world; especially with momentum growing as the year comes to a close. Top 3 Cryptos for Christmas Bullish As the holiday season approaches, the cryptocurrency market is experiencing a bullish rally, with Solana (SOL), Ripple (XRP), and Lightchain AI (LCAI) leading the charge. Solana (SOL) Solana has recently recorded an all-time high of $264.39 on November 22, 2024. Currently, SOL is trading at $192.24, showing a slight pullback from its peak. Despite this, the cryptocurrency maintains strong support levels and continues to show bullish momentum. Secondly, Ripple's XRP has made a strong mark in the cryptocurrency world, especially with its focus on transforming cross-border payments. Acting as a bridge currency, XRP helps make transactions between financial institutions fast and affordable. Ripple’s partnerships with big banks and payment providers have boosted its credibility, making it a top choice for international money transfers. Even with the challenges it’s faced, including the ongoing SEC battle, Ripple has come out stronger, and recent legal updates are giving investors fresh hope. Lightchain AI (LCAI) is making waves in the blockchain and AI space with its unique approach. By combining innovative technologies like Proof of Intelligence (PoI) and the Artificial Intelligence Virtual Machine (AIVM), LCAI is offering a smart, secure, and scalable solution for blockchain operations. It’s a project that’s definitely turning heads and showing real promise! Its PoI mechanism incentivizes computational contributions, while the AIVM enables seamless AI integration, driving innovation across industries like finance, healthcare, and logistics. Currently in its presale phase, LCAI is drawing significant attention from investors eager to capitalize on its early-stage potential. These cryptocurrencies are poised for significant growth during the Christmas bullish rally, offering investors promising opportunities in the evolving digital asset landscape. Comparisons Between SOL, XRP, and Lightchain AI While SOL and XRP have already made their mark in the market, Lightchain AI brings something exciting and new. Its blend of artificial intelligence with blockchain technology makes it stand out from these more traditional projects, offering a fresh perspective and exciting possibilities for the future! LCAI focuses on the growing intersection of AI and blockchain, opening up fresh opportunities that many tokens haven't explored yet—making it an exciting choice for investors seeking innovative solutions. Investors are beginning to see that LCAI’s unique approach could lead to massive adoption in industries beyond finance, positioning it as a token with immense potential for growth. The addition of artificial intelligence capabilities means that Lightchain AI isn’t just participating in the blockchain revolution but is also actively shaping the future of decentralized tech with powerful AI-driven solutions that could have broad applications across multiple sectors. Lightchain AI Top Choice for Bullish Growth Lightchain AI is making waves in the crypto world with its unique Proof of Intelligence (PoI) mechanism and Artificial Intelligence Virtual Machine (AIVM). These advanced technologies make sure LCAI isn't just another crypto token, but a project built for long-term success. It’s setting itself up to grow steadily and offer real value to investors, making it an exciting option for those looking for sustainable opportunities in the crypto market. Further, by merging blockchain with artificial intelligence, Lightchain AI opens up opportunities that go beyond what many current tokens are offering. Unlike many other tokens, Lightchain A I is all about real-world impact, which means its growth potential isn’t just about short-term gains. While other cryptocurrencies sometimes struggle to prove their usefulness, LCAI stands out by focusing on practical applications. Whether it’s AI-powered solutions or decentralized services, LCAI is built to make a real difference in the world, giving investors something to look forward to for the long run. Lightchain AI Presale Opportunity Lightchain AI (LCAI) is offering a great opportunity for early investors with its presale priced at just $0.003! This is a perfect chance to get in on the ground floor before the official launch. The project has a lot of exciting things planned, with strong technology and big growth potential. As more people discover LCAI, its value is expected to go up, so it’s a good time to invest and be part of something exciting! This presale phase has already attracted significant interest from both crypto enthusiasts and institutional investors, all of whom are hoping to capitalize on the token's future success. With its solid foundation in AI and blockchain technology, Lightchain AI is poised to become a leading token in the market. The early presale investors are betting that LCAI will quickly rise to the top, making it the top token to watch this Christmas season. https://lightchain.ai https://lightchain.ai/lightchain-whitepaper.pdf https://x.com/LightchainAI https://t.me/LightchainProtocol Join our WhatsApp Channel to get the latest news, exclusives and videos on WhatsApp _____________ Disclaimer: Analytics Insight does not provide financial advice or guidance. Also note that the cryptocurrencies mentioned/listed on the website could potentially be scams, i.e. designed to induce you to invest financial resources that may be lost forever and not be recoverable once investments are made. You are responsible for conducting your own research (DYOR) before making any investments. Read more here.
Siyaram Baba , a revered spiritual figure known for his devotion to Lord Hanuman and the Narmada River, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 95. His demise occurred on the auspicious day of Mokshada Ekadashi and Gita Jayanti , drawing an outpouring of grief from devotees nationwide. Siyaram Baba’s Final Moments and Funeral Arrangements Siyaram Baba took his last breath at 6:10 AM at his ashram in Bhattayan Buzurg, located by the Narmada River. He had been battling pneumonia for the past ten days and had initially sought treatment at a private hospital in Sanawad. However, the spiritual leader insisted on returning to his ashram, where he received care from district hospital doctors. His final rites are scheduled to take place at 4:00 PM near his ashram, with thousands of devotees expected to attend. Siyaram Baba Early Life and Spiritual Journey Born in 1933 in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, Siyaram Baba embarked on his spiritual path at the age of 17. After studying under his guru and traveling to various pilgrimage sites, he arrived in Bhattayan in 1962. There, he performed intense meditation under a tree and eventually broke his silence with the chant of "Siyaram," which became his spiritual identity. A Legacy of Simplicity and Service Baba's daily life was centered on worship and selfless service. He was known for his devotion to Lord Rama and the Narmada River, performing daily Ramayana recitations and offering tea as prasad to visitors. Despite his spiritual stature, he led a humble life, accepting food donations from villagers and distributing it among animals and birds after taking only a minimal share for himself. Devotees Pay Tribute The news of Baba's passing has drawn large crowds to his ashram, where devotees are gathering to pay their last respects. His life of devotion, simplicity, and service has left a lasting impact on countless followers. Office Productivity Mastering Google Sheets: Unleash the Power of Excel and Advance Analysis By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Entrepreneurship Building Your Winning Startup Team: Key Strategies for Success By - Dr. Anu Khanchandani, Startup Coach with more than 25 years of experience View Program Finance A2Z Of Finance: Finance Beginner Course By - elearnmarkets, Financial Education by StockEdge View Program Web Development JavaScript Essentials: Unlock AI-Driven Insights with ChatGPT By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Marketing Future of Marketing & Branding Masterclass By - Dr. David Aaker, Professor Emeritus at the Haas School of Business, UC Berkeley, Author | Speaker | Thought Leader | Branding Consultant View Program Web Development Intermediate Java Mastery: Method, Collections, and Beyond By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Marketing Digital Marketing Masterclass by Neil Patel By - Neil Patel, Co-Founder and Author at Neil Patel Digital Digital Marketing Guru View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) AI for Everyone: Understanding and Applying the Basics on Artificial Intelligence By - Ritesh Vajariya, Generative AI Expert View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) Generative AI for Dynamic Java Web Applications with ChatGPT By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) AI and Analytics based Business Strategy By - Tanusree De, Managing Director- Accenture Technology Lead, Trustworthy AI Center of Excellence: ATCI View Program Web Development 12-Factor App Methodology: Principles and Guidelines By - Prince Patni, Software Developer (BI, Data Science) View Program Leadership Business Storytelling Masterclass By - Ameen Haque, Founder of Storywallahs View Program Data Science MySQL for Beginners: Learn Data Science and Analytics Skills By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Web Development Intermediate C++ Skills: Master Pointers, Structures and File Stream By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) Java Programming with ChatGPT: Learn using Generative AI By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Legal Complete Guide to AI Governance and Compliance By - Prince Patni, Software Developer (BI, Data Science) View Program Finance Crypto & NFT Mastery: From Basics to Advanced By - CA Raj K Agrawal, Chartered Accountant View Program Design Microsoft Designer Guide: The Ultimate AI Design Tool By - Prince Patni, Software Developer (BI, Data Science) View Program Marketing Digital Marketing Masterclass by Pam Moore By - Pam Moore, Digital Transformation and Social Media Expert View Program Finance Tally Prime & GST Accounting: Complete Guide By - CA Raj K Agrawal, Chartered Accountant View Program Finance Value and Valuation Masterclass By - CA Himanshu Jain, Ex McKinsey, Moody's, and PwC, Co - founder, The WallStreet School View Program (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )The hardest movie ticket to get this weekend was for a film audiences have been able to watch at home for years: Christopher Nolan’s “Interstellar.” The science fiction epic starring Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway earned $4.5 million from only 166 screens in the U.S. and Canada. Its 70mm IMAX film presentations sold out in minutes, leaving theaters scrambling to add more and people paying up to $300 on the re-sale market. Those 10 film screens alone had a staggering $70,000 per theater average, one of the highest of the year and usually the bragging rights of acclaimed arthouse movies playing on only four screens. Ten years after “Interstellar” was given a film release as a special exception at time when its studio, Paramount, was committing to a digital future, film is not only back but driving audiences to theaters. “I was just so gratified by the response,” Nolan said in an exclusive interview with The Associated Press. “It’s really thrilling when people respond to your work at any point. But 10 years later, to have new audiences coming and experiencing it in the way that we’d originally intended it on the big IMAX screens and in particular on those IMAX film prints? It’s really rewarding to see that it continues to have a life.” “Interstellar” had been a labor of love, with Nolan fighting against the tides of a changing industry to use film, certain of its value. Like McConaughey’s Cooper, an astronaut clinging to skills that were all but obsolete in his dust bowl reality, “Interstellar” was made by a celluloid-loving filmmaker when the format was least valued. “Celluloid film was very threatened. Digital was taking over everything,” Nolan said. “We put an enormous amount of work and effort into the IMAX 70mm film format release at the time feeling like we didn’t know how much longer we’d be able to do that.” During its time, “Interstellar” was received warmly and an unambiguous success, but it also had its detractors. Its five Oscar nominations and win were all for crafts. And yet in the decade since, “Interstellar” has become beloved, a true classic. Nolan observed that it was the film that people kept wanting to talk about, telling him what it meant to them and asking if it was ever going to be re-released. Those grand emotions and sentimental themes of love, family and exploration that were a liability with some are now its most cherished qualities. “A lot of these people were younger people who, it was clear to me, had seen the film in the home and hadn’t had the chance to see it on the big screen,” Nolan said. While there have been “Interstellar” rereleases internationally, in China and at the Science Museum in London, Nolan saw an opportunity and spoke to IMAX and Paramount, now under a new regime, about a proper North American re-release for its 10th anniversary. The prints, Nolan said, hadn't aged a day. IMAX hardly needed convincing: They’ve had the anniversary date circled on the calendar. For years, “Interstellar” was by far the biggest request on their social channels. “We saw this coming from the beginning,” IMAX CEO Rich Gelfond said. “It reminded us in a small way of the frenzy around ‘Oppenheimer.’ But the result is far beyond our expectations." “Interstellar” is now the ninth highest-grossing IMAX release of all time and is closing in on eight (currently occupied by “The Last Jedi.”) The company is currently exploring options for re-releases in different territories. The “Oppenheimer" effect was real in redeeming film's value for the business. IMAX screens accounted for some 20% of the nearly $1 billion this year's Oscar best picture winner made globally (it ranks at No. 5 for IMAX). While filmmakers have long cherished film stock, “Oppenheimer” had studios, distributors and theaters taking note of the demand. Earlier this year the film showings of “Dune: Part Two” were sold out for four weeks. And there's more to come: Ryan Coogler's new film “Sinners," opening in March 2025, was shot with IMAX cameras. The “Interstellar” release was fairly “low key" when it came to promotion, but it also didn’t need much — fans made sure of that. Before IMAX had even announced that tickets were on sale, some noticed that AMC had made them available. News spread on socials and overnight every 70mm IMAX showing at the Lincoln Square location in New York had sold out. It wasn’t just the “primetime” slots either: The 1 AM showtimes were at capacity too. After the weekend's turnout surpassed expectations, they added more 70mm IMAX screenings through the week which also filled up quickly. While Nolan is in some ways an anomaly, as the rare filmmaker whose name alone can draw crowds for original fare, there are lessons to be learned from the weekend. “It just shows our industry once again that audiences truly understand the difference between a communal, big screen theatrical experience that they crave even on films that they’ve had the opportunities to see in the home,” Nolan said. “That theatrical experience that we all know and love is so powerful and so exciting. It’s a very clear demonstration of it, especially coming amidst all the great successes right now, “Wicked,” “Gladiator II,” “Moana 2.” "Audiences are coming out in droves for that experience that we all love so much.” Before the weekend, Nolan was able to see the film again on the big screen for the first time since the original release, accompanied by his Oscar-winning “Oppenheimer” cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema . “Interstellar” was their first collaboration and Hoytema’s introduction to IMAX cameras (where he proved that they could be handheld if you tried hard enough). “It was really, really fun," Nolan said. He also approved the new 4K UHD “Interstellar" set that's now available. Since “Oppenheimer's" big night at the Oscars and Nolan's best director win , there's been much speculation about his next film with near daily rumors circulating about casting and genre, none of which have been officially confirmed. It's not something he's speaking publicly about yet. One thing he will say, however, is that he’s in the throes of intensive testing for a new film technology with IMAX to use in the next production. “They have an incredible engineering staff, really brilliant minds doing extraordinary work,” he said. “It’s wonderful to see innovation in the celluloid film arena still happening and happening at the highest level possible.” And he’s still making time to go to the movies. Over the weekend, Nolan went to see “Wicked” at a theater in Burbank where he also peeked into one of the IMAX presentations of his film. “It was pretty magical to see a full house on that film,” he said. “It was a very special thing to see, 10 years later.”The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has criticized the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajuddeen Abbas, over plans to locate four new federal institutions of higher learning in Zaria, urging for equitable distribution of such schools across other parts of Kaduna State. According to the forum, Zaria, located in Zone 1 of the state, is already over-concentrated with federal institutions, leaving Zones 2 and 3, including Southern Kaduna, significantly underdeveloped in terms of federal educational facilities. In a statement on Sunday, Luka Binniyat, Chairman of the Kaduna chapter of MBF, acknowledged the facilitation of the four new institutions by Speaker Abbas but described the development as “insensitive and inconsiderate” to other zones, particularly Southern Kaduna. Binniyat revealed that the Speaker recently announced an allocation of ₦80 billion for the construction of the four schools, which are expected to be completed within 18 months. The proposed institutions include the Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery, the Federal College of Education, the Federal Open University, and the Federal College of Legal Studies. He highlighted that Zaria already hosts numerous federal institutions such as Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, and the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), among others, bringing the total to 15 federal institutions in the town. Binniyat lamented the stark disparity in educational development, noting that Southern Kaduna, which occupies 57% of Kaduna State’s landmass and accounts for 52.1% of its population, has only one federal institution, the Federal School of Statistics, Manchok. He called on Nigerians, the National Assembly, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address what he described as “prohibitive favoritism” toward one section of the state. Binniyat also questioned the process through which the Speaker secured approval for the four new institutions, noting a lack of transparency or public hearings on the matter. He urged the Speaker to recognize his expanded constituency as the leader of the House of Representatives and to ensure equitable development across Kaduna State. Binniyat concluded by calling on the people of Southern Kaduna to leverage their numerical strength and push for political power to address longstanding disparities in the state.
Ferry-Navy craft crash: Body of missing boy found off Mumbai coast; toll rises to 15It won’t be impossible to buy a house in 2025 — just be prepared to play on hard mode. According to a November 2024 report from ICE Mortgage Technology, the monthly principal and interest payment on an average-priced home is $2,385. While that’s not the highest it’s ever been, it’s still a sharp increase — nearly 80% — from just three years ago. In November 2021, when mortgage rates averaged 3%, the monthly principal and interest on an average-priced home was $1,327 per month. So here’s the key to buying in 2025: Look ahead, not back. Regret won’t help you budget for today’s new normal. And with this year’s election also in the rearview mirror, so is some uncertainty among buyers and sellers that historically slows the market during every presidential election cycle. “People have just been kind of sitting, waiting to see what’s going to happen,” says Courtney Johnson Rose, president of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers, an industry group for Black real estate agents. “I’m hopeful that the new year will bring more attention to real estate, more excitement to real estate, and more opportunities for first-time home owners to get in the game.” Check the forecast Preparing to buy a house is a lot like dressing for the weather. It’s easier when the outlook is sunny — but with some planning, you can gear up to face any condition. Here’s what housing market experts are forecasting for the upcoming year. First, home prices: We’ll likely see more modest growth in 2025, a change from skyrocketing prices in recent years. After 16 consecutive months of year-over-year price increases, the median existing-home sales price hit $407,200 in October, according to the National Association of Realtors. In 2025, with more supply trickling in to temper price increases, NAR chief economist Lawrence Yun forecasts a median existing-home sales price of $410,700, up just 2% over this year. Next, housing inventory: Demand still outpaces supply. While we don’t expect a return to a buyer’s market, competition should be less cutthroat. Realtor.com forecasts a balanced market in 2025 with an average 4.1-month supply of homes for sale, up from an average 3.7-month supply so far in 2024. That would make 2025 the friendliest market for buyers since 2016, which had an average 4.4-month supply. Finally, mortgage rates: After topping 8% in October 2023, the 30-year mortgage rate has slowly eased into the 6.5%-7% range this year. Rate cuts from the Federal Reserve have helped nudge that downward. Despite earlier optimism, forecasters’ latest consensus is for rates to effectively plateau above 6% throughout 2025. That said, every year has its wild cards. In 2025, it’s still uncertain how President-elect Donald Trump and a Republican-led Congress might shake up regulations and tax policies that affect the U.S. housing market. Set a budget National forecasts don’t analyze what matters most: Your personal cash flow. To get ready to buy, first meet with a financial advisor or use an online calculator to determine how much house you can afford . You can also get free or low-cost advice from a housing counselor sponsored by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Next, look into down payment and closing cost assistance from state housing finance agencies, local governments, nonprofits and mortgage lenders. Your employer or labor union might offer assistance, too. First-time buyers with income below their area median have the most options, but repeat or higher-income borrowers can qualify for some programs as well. “I think that there’s a lot of free money being left out there,” Rose says. Find a buyer’s agent Your not-so-secret weapon for buying in 2025 just might be an experienced buyer’s agent. “Anybody can write a contract,” says Sharon Parker, associate broker with Tate & Foss Sotheby’s International Realty in Rye, New Hampshire. “But you need somebody who’s seen the market, the ups and downs, who knows how to get creative because every transaction is different.” Following a settlement with the NAR , buyers can now negotiate their agent’s compensation up front. (Previously, home sellers took on that task.) While new norms are still shaking out, Rose says she hasn’t seen too much drama since the change took effect in August. “So as long as buyers remember that we have to talk about this in the beginning of our relationship, everything typically works out fine,” she says. Shop and negotiate Finally, it’s time to shop for a mortgage. To get the best interest rate, get a quote with at least three different lenders. You could also delegate the shopping to a mortgage broker, who can compare quotes and even negotiate a lower rate on your behalf. Though brokers charge a fee, their access to more mortgage options and lower rates can often mean net savings overall. With a mortgage preapproval in hand, it’s go time. And you don’t have to wait until spring: If you’re ready to buy now, buyers have less competition and more negotiating power from December through February, so you could snag a deal. “The people who are selling and the people who are buying in the off season are very serious,” Parker says. “They’re not just lookie-loos.” However, lower inventory means fewer choices for buyers. So start your search prepared to compromise — a “good enough” house will still help you build equity. Should you buy a house in 2025? If a down payment or monthly mortgage payment is financially out of reach, there’s no shame in postponing your search to pad your savings. And owning a home isn’t the right lifestyle choice for everyone, with the ongoing commitment of money and time. But once you’re ready to buy — whether for the first time, or to upgrade or downsize — avoid the trap of waiting for a dip in mortgage rates. “Nobody can predict what the market, or the world, is going to do,” Parker says. “There is no better time than right now.” Mortgage rates will always fluctuate, and if they drop significantly, you can refinance. For first-time buyers, homeownership is a major financial glow-up — and the sooner you jump in, the longer you’ll have to build home equity. “Time value of money is really, really critical when it comes to real estate,” Rose says. “So I would always encourage somebody to buy as soon as you can and get the clock ticking.”
Jimmy Carter, 39th US president, Nobel winner, dies at 100NEW YORK (AP) — Matt Zona's 15 points off the bench led Fordham to an 87-83 victory over Albany (NY) on Saturday. Zona shot 5 for 7, including 3 for 4 from beyond the arc for the Rams (8-5). Jahmere Tripp added 14 points while shooting 5 of 7 from the field and 3 for 3 from the line while they also had six rebounds and three steals. Jackie Johnson III shot 4 for 14 (1 for 5 from 3-point range) and 4 of 6 from the free-throw line to finish with 13 points. The Great Danes (7-7) were led by Amar'e Marshall, who recorded 24 points, six rebounds, four assists and two steals. Albany (NY) also got 19 points, eight rebounds and two steals from Justin Neely. Byron Joshua finished with 16 points and five assists. Josh Rivera scored 11 points in the first half for Fordham, who led 46-35 at halftime. Fordham took the lead for good with 12:53 left in the second half on a 3-pointer from Zona to make it a 57-54 game. Fordham's next game is Tuesday against Saint Louis at home. Albany (NY) hosts Stony Brook on Sunday. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .