Fox & T-Mobile BFFs: Media Giant Partners with Telecom for Jolly Good Content Bonanza

Shush Street: Investors Hush Up & Brace for Inflation Reports, While Airbnb Gets a Sour Staycation

TLDR:
Wall Street trading volumes drop as investors prepare for inflation reports. Airbnb reports a net profit of $117 million but warns of a rough second quarter, while Twilio falls 14.7% after issuing weak guidance.

Well, well, well, it seems like Wall Street decided to take a little snooze yesterday. Investors were tucking themselves in, preparing for the big inflation reports due later this week. This cozy little naptime noticeably reduced trading volumes. The SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust traded at a meager 44 million shares, with its 30-day moving average dropping from 76.1 million shares. Renowned stock indices also experienced some minor losses: the S&P 500 was down 0.46%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was flatter than a pancake, and the Nasdaq Composite was down 0.6%. But hey, at least the regional banks got a breather after their rollercoaster week, with the SPDR S&P Regional Banking ETF falling a mere 0.4%.

In the land of struggling financial institutions, Los Angeles-based PacWest managed to crawl its way back up, posting a 2.35% gain. Most of the head-spinning stock market action occurred in long-term trading, as many companies reported profits after the bell. Airbnb’s shares fell 11.2% after warning that the company anticipates a rough second quarter, as it seems consumers are retiring from travel. Nevertheless, Airbnb reported a net profit of $117 million in the first quarter, compared to the poor, unfortunate loss of $19 million in the same period last year.

Another company experiencing a stock price plummet was Twilio, which fell 14.7% after issuing weaker-than-expected second-quarter guidance. On the flip side, electric car maker Rivian’s stock price zapped to life, surging 6.4% after the company’s net loss narrowed more than analysts expected. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden met with top lawmakers yesterday to discuss the country’s debt ceiling – which, if you ask me, sounds like a party I’d rather skip. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said he saw no new moves towards a deal and plans to meet again with Biden and other party leaders on Friday.

Crossing the pond, we find some optimism in the UK’s housing market. For the first time since 2008, Skipton Building Society is offering a 100% mortgage scheme, allowing first-time homebuyers to rent up to 100% of a property’s value without a down payment. That’s right, folks – the ghost of the housing bubble past has come back to haunt us.

Economists expect the US CPI to continue pointing towards rising prices, mainly due to the anticipated recovery in used car prices. If inflation remains high, the Federal Reserve will come under pressure to keep interest rates on hold. New York Fed President John Williams, in a somewhat pessimistic twist, said he does not expect inflation to fall to 2% within the next two years. Looks like we should buckle up for a bumpy ride in both the economy and the market.

So, to sum it all up: while Wall Street was catching some Zs, companies like Airbnb and Twilio struggled with expanding transactions, and Rivian’s stock price found itself energized. On the other hand, the UK seems to be feeling a bit of a housing market déjà vu with Skipton’s new mortgage scheme. As for the rest of us, we must grit our teeth, hold on tight and prepare for whatever the future may bring.

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Lottery.com Suit-uation: Jackpot for Lawyers Instead of Shareholders

TLDR:
Lottery.com faces $300M lawsuit from shareholders regarding lost IPO funds. Company views lawsuit as opportunity to showcase transparency and accountability and is working to protect interests.

Well, folks, it looks like Lottery.com might need a little luck of their own. Recently, two of the company’s shareholders filed a class action lawsuit in Delaware Chancery Court seeking damages for over $300 million lost from the 2021 IPO. But hey, who doesn’t love a good courtroom drama? Especially when it involves a company that deals with luck and chance.

Now, you might be thinking that this spells doom and gloom for Lottery.com, but the company seems to have a different perspective. They view this lawsuit as an opportunity to showcase their commitment to transparency and accountability. After all, they say that adversity builds character. So, grab your favorite beverage and let’s watch the company put their money where their mouth is.

Of course, lawsuits involving millions of dollars can make shareholders and stakeholders a bit jittery, but Lottery.com wants to reassure everyone that they’re taking this matter seriously. They’ve got their legal team working diligently to resolve the claims and protect the interests of the company. You know, just your typical David and Goliath story – except in this case, it’s more like “Shareholders vs. Eleven Individuals and Three Companies.”

Now, you might be curious about the allegations in this lawsuit. The plaintiffs claim that the defendants made false and misleading disclosures during the IPO, even engaging in some insider trading. Shocking stuff, really. But let’s not forget that these are just allegations, and we all know the saying: innocent until proven guilty. So, maybe it’s best to hold off on the pitchforks and torches for now.

Even with this lawsuit hanging over their heads, Lottery.com remains optimistic about their business. They believe in the strength of their business model and their ability to continue growing for years to come. They’ve been investing in people, technology, and other resources to drive growth and profitability. And if there’s one thing that we can all agree on, it’s that a little optimism can go a long way.

Despite the challenges this lawsuit poses, Lottery.com is confident that they’ll come out of this situation stronger than ever. They’re striving for transparency and accountability, and this lawsuit is a prime opportunity for them to show just how dedicated they are to these values. So, if you’re a shareholder or stakeholder, don’t lose hope just yet. This might just be the plot twist that keeps things interesting and ultimately leads to a triumphant resolution.

In conclusion, it’s safe to say that Lottery.com has found itself in quite a predicament. They’re facing a class action lawsuit that could potentially cost them hundreds of millions of dollars. But, as we’ve seen time and time again, it’s not about how many times you get knocked down; it’s about how many times you get back up. And with their commitment to transparency, accountability, and growth, it seems Lottery.com is ready to rise to the challenge and prove that they can overcome this obstacle.

So, grab your popcorn and settle in, because this legal battle is bound to be an entertaining one. And remember, folks, no matter how this all plays out, we’ll always have the lottery to keep us dreaming of better days. Good luck out there!

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SatixFy Says Gur-bye to Former CEO, Welcomes Barkan to the Satellite-Chip Dance Floor

TLDR:
Satellite chip startup SatixFy has named Nir Barkan as their new Acting CEO, making him the fifth CEO in just one year. Barkan has over 20 years of experience in the semiconductor industry and has been with the company since its inception.

Well, folks, it seems that the revolving door of CEOs at SatixFy, the satellite chip startup, is spinning faster than a roulette wheel. With Ido Gur stepping down, the company has announced Nir Barkan, their Chief Commercial Officer, as the new Acting CEO effective June 1st. If you’re keeping score at home, that makes Barkan the fifth CEO in just one year. It’s a wonder they’re not dizzy from all the changes.

SatixFy, the ambitious company aiming to revolutionize the world of communications, has seen quite the parade of executives traipsing through its hallowed halls. But fear not, dear readers, for the company remains confident that Mr. Vulcan – I mean, Barkan – will lead them to a brighter future. After all, with over 20 years of experience in the semiconductor industry, including leadership positions at Marvell Semiconductor and LSI Logic Corporation, he’s got the chops to take SatixFy to new heights.

For those of you who might have missed the memo, here’s a quick refresher on SatixFy’s mission. This plucky startup is setting out to bring high-speed broadband to everyone, anywhere, anytime – a tall order, indeed. But with their innovative technology, they believe they can change the game and improve the lives of millions of people around the world. It’s like…oh wait, I can’t say that. Nevermind. Let’s move on.

Now, back to Mr. Barkan. Having been with SatixFy since its inception, he’s played a key role in the company’s success to date. His dedication to the mission and unwavering commitment to excellence have earned him the respect and admiration of the entire team. It’s no wonder they’ve chosen him to guide their journey into uncharted territory. Who knows? Maybe they’ve finally found their golden goose.

As SatixFy moves forward under the steady hand of Barkan, they remain true to their commitment to providing cutting-edge technology that will change the world for the better. With Mr. Vulcan – sorry, Barkan – at the helm, the company is more confident than ever that they will succeed. So, buckle up, folks, because it looks like we’re in for quite a ride.

In conclusion, let’s all take a moment to thank Ido Gur for his leadership and dedication to SatixFy’s cause. Here’s to hoping he finds success in his future ventures. And to the loyal followers of SatixFy, keep your eyes peeled for more exciting developments from this audacious startup. They may be just getting started, but the future is looking brighter than ever – and we can’t wait to see what they have in store for us next.

So there you have it, the latest chapter in the ever-evolving saga of SatixFy’s leadership. As Barkan steps up to take the reins, we can only hope he’s got the stamina to weather the storm and lead this game-changing startup to glory. If not, well, there’s always the possibility of CEO number six. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. For now, we’ll just sit back, relax, and enjoy the show.

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Battery Business Buddies: American Battery Materials and Seaport Global Acquisition II Join Forces for Sustainable Mining Future

TLDR:
American Battery Materials is a mining company that focuses on eco-friendly direct lithium extraction and plans to invest in U.S.-based mining assets and diversify its land asset portfolio. The merger with Seaport Global Acquisition II will help achieve their goal of creating a sustainable future through ethical business practices.

In a world where the mining industry is as welcome as a mosquito at a nudist colony, American Battery Materials has stepped up as the self-proclaimed environmental savior. The formerly Pink Sheet-listed company is merging with special purpose acquisition company Seaport Global Acquisition II and is taking its green lithium extraction techniques to the big leagues of the Nasdaq Global Market. One can only wonder what newfound fame awaits them.

Being an eco-friendly version of its otherwise earth-gouging brethren, American Battery Materials focuses on environmentally friendly direct lithium extraction – a feat that seemed about as likely as finding a needle in a haystack. But lo and behold, they’ve managed it. The company has already staked claims on 102 federal mining interests covering a whopping 2,040 acres of federal land in Eastern Utah, including seven existing wells.

With the capital raised from this merger, American Battery Materials plans to further invest in its U.S.-based mining assets and explore opportunities to diversify its land asset portfolio. Demand for lithium is skyrocketing faster than a space tourism flight, and with U.S. lithium production making up less than 5% of the world’s supply, Co-CEO Sebastian Lux has astutely observed that “This is a huge opportunity for American Battery Materials.”

In a world being choked by its own waste, American Battery Materials’ commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices is a breath of fresh air. The company envisions a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous world, which is about as likely as the chances of reinventing the wheel. They’re so confident that sustainability and business success are two peas in a pod, they’ve chosen to merge with another company to prove it.

As they embark on this new journey with Seaport Global Acquisition II, their eyes are set on creating a sustainable future together. If only we could all share this level of optimism. In the meantime, we’re left with the hope that more companies will follow their example and invest in a sustainable future, rather than merely paying lip service to the idea.

So, as American Battery Materials takes its eco-friendly mining show on the road, it’s certainly worth watching to see whether they’ll live up to their lofty ideals. One can only hope that the newfound visibility of their Nasdaq listing will encourage more companies to consider their environmental impact, rather than simply digging in their heels and continuing to exploit the earth’s resources with reckless abandon.

In conclusion, the merger between American Battery Materials and Seaport Global Acquisition II is not just a victory for shareholders, but also for the environment. As they work together to create a greener world through sustainable mining practices, one can’t help but feel a tiny glimmer of hope for the future of the planet. Who knows, maybe we’ll see more companies put sustainability at the forefront of their priorities, and make mining a little less dirty after all. And as always, stay hungry, stay stupid, and never forget that even the most unimaginable things can become reality if you’re willing to take risks and embrace innovation.

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View Inc. Dodges Investor Class Action, But Are They Truly in the Clear? The Saga Continues…

TLDR:
View Inc. is a company that went public in March 2021 and faced a planned class action lawsuit from investors, but has since been granted a stay of the proposed lawsuit. They are committed to research and development to conquer new markets and industries and aim to maintain customers’ trust through their actions. View is a leader in the smart glasses industry with patented technology and innovative products, poised for long-term growth and innovation.

Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce you to the thrilling world of smart glasses and View Inc., a company that has experienced more ups and downs than a roller coaster at an amusement park. View Inc. went public in March 2021 by merging with a special purpose company, acquiring the oh-so-precious capital required to develop new products and continue poking at the boundaries of innovation. Yes, innovation, that magical word that can turn even the most mundane objects into objects of desire.

Of course, as with any company that ventures into the public domain, there’s bound to be some turbulence. And turbulence there was, as View faced a planned class action lawsuit from investors who were presumably not thrilled about an internal investigation that the company announced shortly after the merger. But fear not, for View takes these allegations as seriously as a cat takes its daily nap.

The company has maintained the highest standards of accountability and transparency, which is always reassuring when you’re dealing with things like financial reporting and internal controls. So, they’ve been vigorously defending these allegations with the help of their trusty legal team. And it seems that Lady Justice has taken a liking to View, as a California federal judge recently granted a stay of the proposed investor class action lawsuit. The lead plaintiffs, however, have been given the opportunity to rescind their claims, like a game show contestant who’s been given a second chance to answer that million-dollar question.

But let’s not dwell on the setbacks. Instead, let’s focus on the bright future of View and the still-developing field of smart glasses. View possesses patented technology and innovative products which, they believe, will give them a significant advantage in this burgeoning industry. With a commitment to research and development, View is also eyeing new markets and industries to conquer. After all, what’s the point of having world-changing technology if you can’t share it with everyone?

But, as with any ambitious endeavor, View cannot achieve all this on its own. It requires the support of its investors, customers, and partners. The company values the trust that its customers place in them, much like a toddler values the comfort of their favorite stuffed animal. And just like that toddler, View aims to earn and maintain that trust through its actions, one smart glass at a time.

In conclusion, View Inc. stands tall as a leader in the smart glasses industry, despite the legal hurdles it has had to jump over. With a focus on long-term growth and innovation, the potential for the smart glasses industry is as vast as the universe itself (or at least, as vast as our current understanding of it). So, investors, customers, and partners: grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the ride. The future is bright, and it’s looking even brighter through the lens of View’s smart glasses.

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SPAC the Magic: Arts Center Expands to Serve Year-Round Entertainment Buffet

TLDR:
– SPAC is expanding its 2023 season to include live theater, jazz, folk, world, and classical music, with 28 performances, 24 debuts, and 11 premieres.
– Educational programming at SPAC has increased from 400 to over 1,500 classes annually, and the institution serves an estimated 50,000 students throughout the region.

In a world where change is the only constant, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) has decided to embrace this mantra and switch things up a bit. Like a chameleon, SPAC is adapting to its surroundings by expanding its 2023 season to include an annual program of live theater, jazz, folk, world, and classical music.

Elizabeth Sobol, president and CEO of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, waxed poetic at the annual conference, describing SPAC as a “confluence of human-made and natural beauty” and as a “refuge for all people and cultures.” She also highlighted SPAC’s mission to connect people to people and to the planet. With such profound sentiments, one wouldn’t be blamed for mistaking Sobol for a modern-day philosopher, rather than the leader of an arts institution.

As for the programming, Chris Shiley, Vice President of Artistic Planning, announced that the depth and scope of SPAC’s offerings have “exploded.” The summer season will span three months and will include 28 performances, 24 debuts, and 11 premieres, anchored by the theme ‘EARTH.’ It seems SPAC has really dug its roots deep into the ground with this one.

The season will also include LiteraryArts@SPAC, featuring insightful conversations with famous authors, thinkers, and poets; CulinaryArts@SPAC, offering culinary experiences focused on sustainability, community, and socially responsible growing and consumption; and VisualArts@SPAC, bringing works of art to life at various locations within the SPAC campus and through collaboration with community and cultural partners in the Capital Region.

SPAC’s educational programming, led by Dennis Moench, Vice President of Education, is also transforming. The number of classes offered annually by SPAC has increased from 400 to over 1,500, and the institution now serves an estimated 50,000 students throughout the region. Additionally, SPAC will expand and enhance its accessibility and inclusion programs in 2023 through partnerships with local service providers AIM Services and Saratoga Bridges.

In facility news, last year SPAC began the renovation of its amphitheater backstage, which had remained unchanged since 1966. The makeover, thanks to partners at Live Nation, has modernized the backstage area, making it a more comfortable and inviting place for artists. The Performer’s Road, also from 1966, has been widened, regraded, and repaved. Finally, the Spa Little Theater has undergone extensive renovations and now hosts a year-round concert program, welcoming over 8,000 guests.

SPAC ended the year with $470,000 in operating reserves, thanks to fundraising efforts, board support, and the utilization of $1.5 million in critical federal grants for budget relief from COVID. This reserve will help navigate the challenging 2023 season.

In conclusion, it appears that SPAC has decided to leap headfirst into a brave new world of expanded programming, educational outreach, and facility improvements. So, if you’re looking for musical magic, literary enlightenment, or gourmet delights, it seems that SPAC will be the place to be in 2023. Mark your calendars, folks, because the Saratoga Performing Arts Center is stepping up its game and inviting us all along for the ride.

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VinFast & Furious: Vietnam’s EV Star Merges with Black Spade in Record-Breaking SPAC Vroomance

TLDR:
VinFast is merging with Black Spade Acquisition Co., resulting in the largest-ever US listing for a Southeast Asian company. VinFast shareholders will own approximately 99% of the combined entity, and the company aims to break the trend of struggling EV manufacturers post-SPAC mergers and expand its global presence.

Well, folks, it appears that Vietnam’s leading electric vehicle manufacturer, VinFast, is getting ready to rev its engines and embark on a thrilling ride. The company recently announced that it’s merging with Black Spade Acquisition Co., making it the largest-ever US listing for a Southeast Asian company. Once the deal is done, VinFast’s equity value will stand at a whopping $23 billion, with its total valuation, including debt, reaching around $27 billion. The merger should come to a close in the second half of 2022, provided that pesky regulatory and shareholder approvals go through.

But wait, there’s more! VinFast shareholders will emerge as the winners, owning approximately 99% of the combined entity. Pretty sweet deal, huh? Black Spade Acquisition Co., a blank-check company, saw its shares rise by up to 12% in pre-market trading following the merger announcement. VinFast is joining a select club of Asian companies seeking to list in the US through mergers with special purpose acquisition companies (SPACs). However, it’s worth noting that similar deals have slowed down recently, thanks to tighter regulatory oversight and unenthusiastic market sentiment.

As VinFast saddles up for this exhilarating journey, it has a clear ambition: to break the trend of electric vehicle manufacturers facing difficulties after SPAC mergers. Previous examples include Nikola Corp., Lordstown Motors Corp., and Canoo Inc., all of whom wiped out shareholders post-merger. Let’s not forget Electric Last Mile Solutions Inc., an EV hopeful that filed for bankruptcy just about a year ago. Should VinFast’s SPAC merger prove to be successful, it would be a sweet victory lap for the company’s years-long efforts to go public.

VinFast isn’t just content with making headlines; it’s also vrooming to expand beyond Vietnam. The company has plans to build a factory in North Carolina and ship its first vehicles to Europe in July. It has already sent a second batch of electric cars to North America in April, with US customer deliveries starting this month. VinFast’s CEO, Le Thi Thu Thuy, believes that partnering with Black Spade and listing in the US is the perfect way to raise capital for the company’s global ambitions.

Now, let’s talk about VinFast’s founder, Pham Nhat Vuong, Vietnam’s richest person with a net worth of $3.9 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Vuong, who started his own business while studying in Moscow, has invested as much as $2 billion in VinFast since its inception in 2017. But wait, there’s even more generosity! Vuong announced last month that he would donate an additional $1 billion to the EV maker within the next year. Vingroup, Vuong’s company, is also committing to provide a loan of $1 billion for up to five years and chip in another $500 million.

Finally, let’s not forget about Black Spade Acquisition Co., which raised $169 million in a US IPO in 2021. The Hong Kong-based blank-check firm is on the lookout for targets related to or in the entertainment industry, focusing on enabling technology, lifestyle brands, products or services, and entertainment media. Black Spade Capital Ltd., its sponsor, is the private investment arm of Lawrence Ho, the chairman and CEO of casino operator Melco International Development Ltd.

In a nutshell, VinFast’s merger with Black Spade Acquisition Co. is revving up excitement in the electric vehicle market. As the company aims to break the trend of struggling EV manufacturers post-SPAC mergers and expand its global presence, the future for VinFast, its shareholders, and the EV industry as a whole looks electric.

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SPAC-pocalypse: From Talk of the Town to Toast of Liquidation Town, Refunds Galore!

TLDR:
SPAC era ends as investors celebrate liquidations; high-profile investors like Chamath Palihapitiya and Alec Gores liquidate their SPACs, returning funds to investors. Exciting developments in technology, automotive, and healthcare industries offer new opportunities for investment in 2024.

Ladies and gentlemen, gather ’round as we bid adieu to the SPAC era, which has finally come to a screeching halt. This year, nearly $30 billion of these “blank check” companies’ funds have already been returned to investors, outpacing the $45 billion liquidated in 2022. But fear not, for every cloud has a silver lining, and in this case, it’s the fact that not everyone is in mourning. Some are actually celebrating the end of the SPAC era as if they’d just found a golden ticket.

The dwindling number of acquisition-worthy companies has left high-profile investors like Chamath Palihapitiya, Alec Gores, Gary Cohn, and big shots such as KKR & Co. and TPG Inc. no choice but to liquidate their SPACs and return money to investors. But, as a wise person once said, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” The end of the SPAC era may be music to some people’s ears, especially those who view liquidations as a good thing.

According to Kristi Marvin, founder & CEO of SPACInsider, “You don’t want a sponsor team to drag a deal across the finish line just to get it done.” With a responsible attitude, SPAC sponsors are giving investors what they truly want – liquidation rather than a forced deal. That’s right, folks, break out the party hats and confetti, because investors are breathing a sigh of relief, getting their money back plus interest, and thanking their lucky stars they didn’t spend it on NFTs.

Now, don’t let the end of the SPAC era dampen your spirits, because 2023 has been a rollercoaster of a year for the business world. It’s been a rough start, with debt ceiling issues and bank failures causing chaos. However, it would be a disservice to focus only on the doom and gloom when there have been some truly exciting developments this year.

In the realm of technology, Apple Inc. is leading the charge with innovative products and services that have people lining up around the block. The latest iPhone release had consumers flocking to stores, while the new iPad and MacBook only solidified Apple’s position as the one-stop-shop for all things tech.

Meanwhile, the automotive industry has been electrifying, with electric vehicles making waves and companies like Tesla at the forefront. Their Model Y was a hit, and Tesla’s expansion into new factories in Texas and Germany only served to further cement their status in the industry.

Last but not least, let’s not forget the healthcare industry, which has been a beacon of hope in the ongoing fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Pfizer BioNTech’s vaccine has been a game-changer, and numerous companies are hard at work developing new treatments and vaccines to ensure a brighter, healthier future for all.

So, as we bid farewell to 2023 and welcome 2024 with open arms, let’s raise a glass to the end of the SPAC era and the new opportunities that lie ahead. The technology, automotive, and healthcare industries are thriving, and the future is ripe with potential. And remember, always be cautious with where you invest your hard-earned money – especially when it comes to NFTs.

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Dow’s Dipsy-Doodle Day, Disney’s Drooping Digits, and Debt Ceiling Debacles: Just Another Manic Monday in the Market!

TLDR:
Disney’s stock drops due to underwhelming earnings report from its streaming division, which lost subscribers in the most recent quarter but increased revenue per user through price hikes.

Microsoft pauses pay raises for salaried employees and reduces performance bonuses for executives as part of its cost-cutting strategy.

Disney, the titan of entertainment, managed to disappoint investors with its unimpressive earnings report, causing its stock to plummet more than 5% in after-hours trading. The culprit? Disney’s streaming division, which, although posting a smaller-than-expected loss, has lost subscribers in the most recent quarter. But, on the bright side, revenue per user did increase, thanks to the magical power of price hikes. It appears that the streaming wars have reached their final act, and now the industry must search for the next growth frontier. Perhaps they’ll find it in the world of gaming, where digital dragons and virtual quests await.

While Disney’s financial drama unfolds, tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate. The pro-Russian Wagner Group and Russia’s defense ministry have hit a rough patch in their “partnership,” with Wagner’s leaders threatening to take their toys and go home due to a lack of supplies. Ukrainian fighters, on the other hand, have been reclaiming ground, coinciding with expectations of a new counteroffensive bankrolled by Western money and weaponry. Russia, never one to be outdone, has resorted to recruiting prisoners to join the fight. Talk about a captive audience.

In a parallel universe where the United States’ debt ceiling is still a hot topic, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has once again warned of economic doom if Congress fails to address the issue. Yellen, who is currently attending G7 meetings in Japan, described the notion of defaulting on the nation’s debt as “unthinkable,” as it would severely undermine the U.S. and global economy. In response, GOP presidential hopeful Donald Trump suggested that Republicans should let the U.S default if Democrats refuse to agree to significant spending cuts. Apparently, some people are more comfortable with “unthinkable” than others.

In the land of tech giants, Microsoft has opted to pause pay raises for salaried employees as part of its ongoing cost-cutting strategy. This comes after the company announced plans to cut nearly 5% of its workforce earlier this year. Last year, Microsoft increased its budget for merit pay raises and stock awards due to inflation, but CEO Satya Nadella now claims the budget is closer to its historical average. Performance bonuses for executives will also be significantly reduced. It seems that even in the world of big tech, there’s no escaping the wrath of fiscal prudence.

As investors navigate the tumultuous waters of the stock market, it’s important to remember that success lies not only in following the predictable patterns but also in seeking out the novel and uncommon. With the streaming wars drawing to a close, industries will need to shift their focus to other avenues for growth, such as gaming. Meanwhile, as tensions mount between Russia and Ukraine, global market players must remain vigilant and adaptive. Amidst the chaos, the debt ceiling debate serves as a stark reminder that sometimes, the unthinkable must be considered – even if it’s not particularly amusing.

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Buffet’s Banking Bummer: “So Messed Up” Incentives Make Berkshire Cautious, Local Banks Still A-OK

TLDR:
Berkshire Hathaway is cautious about the banking sector and has sold bank shares in the past six months. They still own Bank of America but are wary of the system and banking regulations. First Republic’s heavy losses in government-guaranteed debt have highlighted the risks of unguaranteed home loans in the banking industry.

Ladies and gentlemen, today we bring you some banking news that really tickles my funny bone. As you may know, Warren Buffett, the Oracle of Omaha, mentioned that Berkshire Hathaway is cautious about its banking sector. But why, you might ask? Well, let me explain. Buffett said the news flow surrounding federally insured deposits is scant. The public remained confused about what would happen if a bank failed, and the media, bless their hearts, was of little help. I’ve even seen bank failures. Some may think that the bank is in trouble, that the system is not working. But we are confident in our banking sector. The US government and US people don’t care that banks fail, and people actually lose their deposits. There was a demonstration project at Silicon Valley Bank over the weekend, but the public is still confused.

As of the end of 2022, 89% of SVB’s $175 billion deposits were uninsured, while the US banking system, in its infinite wisdom, protected depositors with a “systemic risk exemption.” This exemption applied even to depositors with accounts greater than $250,000. As you know, Berkshire has about $128 billion in cash and Treasury bills. If the banking system somehow temporarily malfunctions, we want to be there. Buffett said one reason we’re cautious is that the bank regulatory stimulus is “messed up.” First Republic Bank, the last US community bank to fail, announced in its annual report that it is offering jumbo-sized unguaranteed home loans at fixed interest rates. Referring to his father’s loss of his job in a bank run in 1931, Buffett said, “That’s what the First Republic did, it’s blatant, and the world ignored it until it exploded. “Bank regulation incentives are so messed up, and so many people are interested in screwing them up.” That’s why we’re very cautious about ownership in situations like this.”

Don’t get me wrong, we’re not completely out of the banking sector yet. We still own Bank of America, and Buffett is happy with that, he said. However, it has sold bank shares in the last six months after selling some when the pandemic hit. Buffett sits behind a sign that says “Available for Sale” to comment, while his longtime business partner Charlie Munger sits behind a “Hold to maturity” sign to warn the bank that the regional banking crisis is on its way. Seized by regulators and sold to JP Morgan, First Republic suffered heavy losses in its held-to-maturity investment portfolio, primarily government-guaranteed debt.

I know some people are worried about their money at their local bank. But Buffett isn’t personally concerned about local banks. “I have my own money. It’s probably over the FDIC limit. I keep it in my local bank, but I’m not at all concerned.” Berkshire Hathaway is cautious in its banking sector, but we are still there, and I’m sure the system will work for many years. Thank you for your attention. We look forward to bringing you more news in the future.

It was quite an emotional roller coaster. First, we hear that Warren Buffett and Berkshire Hathaway are wary of the banking sector. Then I heard they were still stuck with Bank of America and didn’t personally care about their money at their local bank. The fact is that the message around deposits has been bad and has caused panic among depositors and three mid-sized banks since March. I don’t know about you, but I suddenly had the urge to hide all my money under my mattress. Just kidding, I stick to trusted banks. Or do I? More and more banks seem to be taking risks with unguaranteed home loans and fixed interest rates. Is this a ticking time bomb waiting to explode in the face of the banking industry? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure, Warren Buffett’s dry wit and blunt honesty will keep us entertained and informed.

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