OpSec Skips the IPO Snooze Button, SPAC Attacks and Grabs Zacco for All Your Brand Protection Shenanigans

Zapp Attack! E-Scooter Biz Shares Skyrocket Amidst VinFast’s SPAC-tacular Entrance & Tesla’s Tweet-Free Gains

TLDR:
Zapp went public through a SPAC merger and shares soared as high as 75%. VinFast announced plans to go public through a $23 billion SPAC deal with Black Spade.

It’s been said that electric vehicles are the future, but let’s face it, folks, nobody expected the industry to become a raging party of SPAC mergers and skyrocketing share prices. Nevertheless, that’s precisely what’s happening, and we’re all invited to observe the festivities. Take UK-based Zapp (NASDAQ:ZAPP), for example. This high-performance e-scooter and e-bike developer recently went public through a SPAC merger, and its shares soared as high as 75% on Friday. Now, that’s what we call an electrifying entrance.

VinFast, a Vietnamese EV maker, also decided to join the shindig by announcing plans to go public through a $23 billion SPAC deal with Black Spade. You might say they’re about to put the “fast” in VinFast, as the merger pegs the equity value of the company at a whopping $23 billion. And you thought your local car dealership was overpriced.

Of course, no party is complete without a few extra guests. Zapp and VinFast’s celebration has also attracted other EV-related SPAC mergers, such as EV tech developer Zero Nox and EV battery developer Honeycomb. They’ll be merging with Good for Growth and Nubia International, respectively, proving that the electric vehicle industry is a magnet for big-money deals and innovative companies.

As usual, Tesla finds itself in the spotlight. They’ve managed to pull off some high-wire tricks, like hiking up their prices recently while still managing to gain market shares. It appears that Tesla’s social media antics have come to an end (for now), and the company is focusing on the real game: dominating the EV market. But hey, when you’re the market leader, you can afford to tweet now and then.

Some analysts warn of weakening demand in Tesla’s future, which could drive the company’s shares down. However, it seems Tesla has a secret weapon up its sleeve: the Inflation Reduction Act. This legislation could give Tesla a significant advantage over its EV peers, helping secure the US EV market’s growth. If that doesn’t scream “bright future ahead,” I don’t know what does.

The transportation industry’s next challenge is the electric vehicle market, and companies like Zapp, VinFast, and Tesla are leading the charge (pun intended). Their innovative e-scooters, e-bikes, and electric cars are high-performance, sustainable, and downright trendy. It’s clear that the electric vehicle market is here to stay, and who knows, maybe one day we’ll all be whizzing around on e-scooters while our electric cars drive themselves.

As the industry continues to grow, investors are eager to hop on the bandwagon, and these recent SPAC mergers and share price increases are a testament to that. With companies like Zapp, VinFast, and Tesla steering the ship, the electric vehicle market is poised for an exciting future. So, buckle up, folks. It’s going to be one heck of a ride.

In conclusion, the electric vehicle market is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling growth areas in the transportation industry. With the likes of Zapp, VinFast, and Tesla at the helm, the industry is guaranteed to flourish for years to come. As we witness this electrifying revolution unfold, remember to embrace the future and invest in a helmet – because while we may be on the cutting edge of technology, safety never goes out of style.

Disclaimer

From Net Loss to Net Boss: A SPAC II Turns the Financial Tide to Rake in $2 Million Q1 Profit

TLDR:
SPAC II transformed from a net loss of $0.00002 million to a net income of $2 million, but must remain innovative to ensure ongoing prosperity. The company is committed to providing the best possible experience to customers and values transparency and accountability.

Ladies and gentlemen, gather round for a tale of triumph and tenacity. Behold the miraculous transformation of SPAC II Acquisition Corporation, which went from a paltry net loss of a whole $0.00002 million – that’s right, not even enough to buy a pack of gum – to a jaw-dropping, awe-inspiring net income of $2 million. Break out the champagne and caviar, folks, because this is truly a feat worth celebrating.

But let’s not get too carried away with excitement. After all, a single good quarter does not a masterpiece make. Prancing about in the glow of recent success is all well and good, but the real test will be ensuring this newfound prosperity doesn’t prove as fleeting as a sandcastle in the surf. The folks at SPAC II must remain vigilant and continue to innovate their products and services, lest they find themselves back in the financial doldrums.

And speaking of innovation, let’s take a moment to appreciate the company’s unwavering commitment to providing their customers with the best possible experience. While we may not know exactly what SPAC II is whipping up in the lab, one thing’s for sure – they’re determined to make sure it’s top-notch. After all, when you’ve clawed your way out of the net loss abyss, there’s no time to rest on your laurels.

But don’t you worry, dear reader, because transparency and accountability are high on the company’s list of priorities. You can rest assured that the information you need to make informed decisions will be readily available, like a trusty sidekick ready to help you conquer the wild world of business.

Now, it wouldn’t be fair to wrap up this little tale of triumph without acknowledging the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. So, let’s take a moment to applaud the employees, customers, and shareholders of SPAC II Acquisition Corporation for their unwavering support. After all, success is a team sport, and it’s clear that SPAC II’s team is playing to win.

So, as we watch SPAC II bask in the glow of its $0.09 earnings per share from continuing operations – both basic and diluted, mind you – let’s hope they continue to ride this wave of success. Because in the unpredictable world of business, it’s anyone’s guess what the next quarter will bring. But for now, dear friends, let’s raise a glass to the good folks at SPAC II Acquisition Corporation and toast to their hard-earned success. Cheers!

Disclaimer

SPACs: The Sequel – This Time, Less Blank and More Check, Please!

TLDR:
SPACs are attempting a comeback, with industry leaders learning from past mistakes and making adjustments to their business plans. The current market, characterized by expensive debt, few IPOs, and a lack of buyers, presents the perfect environment for these reformed SPACs to thrive.

Well, folks, it’s 2023 and guess who’s making a comeback? That’s right, your favorite financial disaster, the SPAC. But don’t be too quick to judge, because this time, they’re doing things a bit differently. You see, Martin Franklin, a prolific SPAC dealmaker with a solid track record, has decided to give the SPAC model another whirl. His new creation, Admiral Acquisitions Limited, has learned a lesson or two from the failures of its predecessors, with no free shares for promoters and no right for investors to redeem their shares in exchange for support.

Now, you might wonder why anyone would want to revive the SPAC model after its spectacular implosion. The answer lies in the current state of the market: expensive debt, a lack of IPOs, and few buyers. It’s the perfect environment for the SPAC phoenix to rise from the ashes, albeit with a few adjustments to its business plan.

But Martin Franklin isn’t alone in his quest to breathe new life into SPACs. Stephen Gersky, a former General Motors executive, has managed to raise a cool $235 million for a SPAC-like company focused on electric vehicles. Even billionaire hedge fund guru Bill Ackman, who raised $4 billion through his blank check venture, is considering dipping his toes back into these murky waters.

These brave souls are trying to address the structural flaws of the original SPAC model, hoping to hit the sweet spot between innovation and responsibility. For instance, Billy Beane, ex-CEO of Redbird Capital Partners LLC and former Oakland Athletics bigwig, has come up with a new SPAC-esque approach that allows investors to buy stakes in pools of athletic facilities, while keeping the compensation of blank check company sponsors in check.

So, will these new and improved SPACs regain their former glory, or are we simply witnessing a desperate attempt to resuscitate a dying model? It’s too early to tell, but one thing’s for sure: the SPAC isn’t dead yet. They may have taken a beating, but they’re still kicking, and if the current market dynamics continue, they might just stage a comeback. However, this time around, the people behind SPACs need to tread cautiously and make sure they’ve learned from their past mistakes.

And that, dear friends, is good news for investors. If done right, these reformed SPACs could open up opportunities to get in on the ground floor of some exciting new ventures. So keep your eyes peeled and your investment strategies flexible, because the SPAC may rise again. Or, you know, it could just turn out to be another colossal mess – only time will tell.

Remember the good old days of 2020 when SPACs seemed like the perfect solution for companies wanting to go public without the hassle of an IPO? Turns out, they were just a bit too good to be true. But despite their tumultuous past, SPACs are trying to clean up their act and make a comeback in a market that’s ripe for their particular brand of financial wizardry.

So, will this new generation of SPACs succeed where their predecessors failed, or are they simply a lipstick-on-a-pig situation? As with most things in life, the outcome lies somewhere in between. The key to their potential success lies in learning from past mistakes, adapting to the current market, and finding that delicate balance between innovation and responsibility. So, investors, keep your wits about you and your pockets at the ready. The SPAC story isn’t over yet, and it’s bound to be a rollercoaster of a ride.

Disclaimer

Applied Intuition Embarks on $71M Truckin’ Adventure: Layoffs & Cash Deals, Oh My!

TLDR:
Applied Intuition acquires Embark Trucks in an all-cash transaction of around $71 million, integrating Embark’s internal tools, data, and software resources to better serve customers in the trucking and automotive industries, while key surviving employees join Applied to ensure a smooth transition and support growth. Embark shareholders will receive $2.88 per share in cash, and after the transaction closes in Q3, Embark shares will cease trading on the Nasdaq.

Ah, the world of autonomous vehicle development – where cars drive themselves, and companies acquire those who can’t quite figure it out. In a recent display of technological Darwinism, Applied Intuition, the provider of simulation and software for autonomous vehicle development, has scooped up Embark Trucks in an all-cash transaction of around $71 million.

Now, Embark Trucks, a company dedicated to self-driving transportation, found itself in a bit of a pickle recently. They had to let go of a whopping 70% of their workforce and close two offices. But, in a stroke of genius, they left the remaining 30% of the staff with the Herculean task of keeping the company afloat. Applied Intuition, seeing an opportunity as clear as a freshly Windexed windshield, swooped in for the acquisition.

In an act of corporate symbiosis, Applied Intuition plans to integrate Embark’s internal tools, data, and software resources to better serve customers in the trucking and automotive industries. Key Embark employees – the ones who survived the workforce purge – will join Applied to ensure a smooth transition and support the growth of the product line. I guess the old saying is true: what doesn’t lay you off only makes you stronger.

As for Embark shareholders, they’ll receive a princely sum of $2.88 per share in cash. After the transaction closes in the third quarter, Embark shares will cease trading on the Nasdaq. A moment of silence for a once-promising autonomous trucking company that hit a few too many speed bumps along the way.

But let’s focus on the silver lining here, shall we? With the acquisition of Embark Trucks, Applied Intuition is ready to push the boundaries of autonomous vehicle development even further. The road ahead looks brighter and more autonomous than ever, as self-driving cars have the potential to revolutionize the way people and goods are transported around the world. A future where you can nap, read, or even write witty articles while commuting? Sign me up.

In all seriousness, Applied Intuition’s commitment to making the future of transportation autonomous is commendable. They’re not just in it for the thrill of the chase (or the acquisition); they’re genuinely dedicated to making self-driving cars a reality. And with Embark Trucks now under their wing, they’re one step closer to that goal.

So here’s to Applied Intuition and their exciting new chapter in the realm of self-driving car technology. May their journey be filled with innovation, progress, and hopefully fewer layoffs. After all, the future of transportation is at stake – and it’s a future that looks more like a well-oiled machine than a highway full of autonomous wrecks.

To sum it up, Applied Intuition’s acquisition of Embark Trucks is a tale of triumph and tragedy, a testament to the cutthroat world of autonomous vehicle development. But with Applied Intuition at the helm, steering the ship (or car, in this case) towards a future of self-driving technology, there’s hope that this investment will pay off in spades. So buckle up, folks – the ride is just getting started.

Disclaimer

Post Holdings’ SPAC Adventure: A $300 Million Game of Hide-and-Seek with No Winner

TLDR:
– Post Holdings’ SPAC, PHPC, failed to raise $300 million and missed the May 28 deadline for finding an investment opportunity, but the company remains optimistic about future mergers and acquisitions and plans to continue searching for innovative ways to drive growth and success.
– Despite obstacles such as higher borrowing costs and reduced available credit, Post Holdings is confident in their financing flexibility and closing certainty, and their pipeline of opportunity is overflowing with potential, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to their mission of providing high-quality consumer products.

Well, gather around folks, as we bid adieu to Post Holdings Partnering Corp. (PHPC), the once-promising Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) that set its sights on raising a cool $300 million in 2021. Turns out, taking companies public without going through the traditional initial public offering process isn’t as easy as it seems. But don’t worry, PHPC isn’t too heartbroken. They still believe in the power of SPACs – it just wasn’t their time to shine.

Post Holdings’ President and CEO, Robert V. Vitale, reflected on this unfortunate turn of events during the company’s recent earnings call. He noted that although the timing was terrible, there’s no use crying over spilled SPACs. Yes, investors will get their initial investment back and a little something extra, but that’s just the way the cookie crumbles. Post Holdings isn’t throwing in the towel just yet; they’ll keep searching for creative ways to extend their capital deployment capabilities.

Now, let’s take a trip down memory lane to the good ol’ days of 2020 when SPACs were all the rage. Remember Utz Brands, Inc., the love child of Collier Creek Holdings and Utz Quality Foods, LLC? How about Stryve Foods, Inc., the result of a beautiful union between Stryve Foods LLC and the SPAC Andina Acquisition Corp. III? Such successful SPAC marriages give hope to those still searching for their perfect consumer products partner.

Back in the present, Post Holdings may have missed the May 28 deadline to find an investment opportunity for PHPC, but Mr. Vitale assures us they’re still on the prowl for mergers and acquisitions. After all, the capital markets are full of interesting times, and who doesn’t love a good challenge?

However, this quest for growth comes with its fair share of obstacles. Higher borrowing costs and a reduction in available credit might make mergers and acquisitions as rare as a hen’s teeth. But fear not, dear reader, for Post Holdings is nothing if not resourceful. They’re confident that their financing flexibility and closing certainty will give them the upper hand in the M&A game. Their pipeline of opportunity, overflowing with potential, is a testament to their unwavering optimism.

So, as we mourn the dissolution of PHPC and the dreams that could have been, let us take solace in the fact that Post Holdings remains undeterred. They’re committed to their mission of providing high-quality consumer products and will continue to find innovative ways to drive business growth and success. If at first you don’t succeed with a SPAC, well, you know the rest.

As we raise a glass to the memory of PHPC, let’s toast to the future of Post Holdings and their relentless pursuit of innovation. And who knows, maybe one day we’ll all look back on this whole SPAC debacle and chuckle…or at the very least, we’ll raise an eyebrow and whisper, “Remember that time Post tried to pull off a SPAC? Good times.” Regardless, it’s clear that the show must go on, and Post Holdings is ready to take center stage once more. Cheers to the future!

Disclaimer

Electrolympics: Schmid Group & Pegasus Digital Mobility Tag-team to Shake Up Electronics Arena, Hold Onto Your Gadgets!

TLDR:
Schmid Group and Pegasus Digital Mobility Acquisition Corp. merge with a combined value of $640 million and the backing of four prestigious law firms, promising a buffet of cutting-edge products and services, from virtual reality to robotics. They are committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s technologically possible, fueled by their insatiable appetite for innovation.
The merger heralds a thrilling new chapter for both companies, with unbridled potential and groundbreaking discoveries on the horizon, promising a treasure trove of innovative products and services that will reshape the way we live, work, and play.

Ladies and gentlemen, gather ’round, for the electronics industry is about to get a whole lot more intriguing. German electronics giant Schmid Group and acquisition aficionado Pegasus Digital Mobility Acquisition Corp. have joined forces in a merger that promises to be quite the showstopper. In this union of innovation and ingenuity, we can expect nothing short of a technological renaissance. So, grab your popcorn and 3D glasses, because things are about to get interesting.

With a combined value of $640 million and the backing of four of the world’s most prestigious law firms, Schmid Group and Pegasus Digital Mobility Acquisition Corp. are poised to make a splash in the global electronics market. Together, they’ll be crafting a buffet of cutting-edge products and services, guaranteed to satiate even the most ravenous techno-cravings. From virtual reality to robotics, the possibilities are seemingly endless. One thing’s for sure: when it comes to the latest and greatest electronic gizmos, these folks mean business.

Now, you might be asking yourself, “What can I, a mere mortal consumer, expect from this titanic merger?” Well, friends, you’re in for a real treat. Schmid Group and Pegasus Digital Mobility Acquisition Corp. are determined to push the boundaries of what’s technologically possible, fueled by their insatiable appetite for innovation and a steadfast commitment to excellence. So, whether you’re in the market for the newest virtual reality gadget, a cutting-edge robot, or a disruptive digital platform, look no further than this dynamic duo.

This merger marks the beginning of a thrilling new chapter for both companies, one filled with unbridled potential and groundbreaking discoveries. Schmid Group and Pegasus Digital Mobility Acquisition Corp.’s shared vision of a technologically-advanced utopia is seemingly within reach, driven by their combined strengths and expertise. So, buckle up, folks: the future of electronics has arrived, and it’s about to take us on one wild ride.

In the coming weeks and months, we can expect a flurry of exciting news and updates from the Schmid Group and Pegasus Digital Mobility Acquisition Corp. partnership. Will they unveil a virtual reality device that transports us to new dimensions? Perhaps they’ll reveal a robot capable of cooking up a gourmet meal or tending to our every whim. Whatever it is, we can rest assured that the resulting innovations will be nothing short of revolutionary.

In conclusion, the thrilling partnership between Schmid Group and Pegasus Digital Mobility Acquisition Corp. is a game-changer for the electronics industry. As they embark on this electrifying journey together, we can expect a treasure trove of innovative products and services that will reshape the way we live, work, and play. So, to all the tech enthusiasts out there, it’s time to fasten your seatbelts and hold on tight because the future of electronics is here, and it’s nothing short of extraordinary.

Disclaimer

SPAC-tacular Fail: Shareholder Sues Over $4.75 Billion Merger Mishap

TLDR:
A $4.75 billion merger between an online sports betting and gaming operator and a special purpose acquisition company has resulted in a shareholder lawsuit in Delaware Chancery Court, alleging lack of disclosure leading to a decline in share price post-merger. The companies involved claim transparency and accountability, a thorough due diligence process, and commitment to restoring shareholder trust.

In the world of high-stakes mergers and business deals, sometimes things can go awry – and boy, do we have a story for you. In a recent turn of events, an online sports betting and gaming operator finds itself in a bit of a pickle after merging with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC). The whopping $4.75 billion merger has raised some eyebrows, and not just because of its size. A shareholder has filed a lawsuit in Delaware Chancery Court against the SPAC’s top brass, alleging that they pushed through the merger without making certain disclosures, ultimately leading to a decline in share price post-merger.

Now, we all know that in the world of business, sometimes you have to break a few eggs to make an omelette. But in this case, it appears that the egg breakers may have been a bit too enthusiastic in their pursuit of a delicious, profitable omelette. The shareholder claims that the lack of disclosure caused the company’s stock to take a tumble, and they’re demanding some answers.

But fear not, worried investors. The companies involved in this merger assure us all that they have the situation well in hand. “We strive for transparency and accountability in all aspects of our business operations and fully cooperate with investigations,” they said in a statement, probably while polishing their halos. They also claim that the merger went through a thorough due diligence process and that they continue to believe it was conducted in good faith. Well, that’s a relief.

The parties involved in this high-stakes game of business poker have been working closely together to ensure that the transaction complies with all applicable laws and regulations. And really, who wouldn’t want to play by the rules when there’s a cool $4.75 billion on the line? As the companies work to address the situation and provide shareholders with the information they need, it’s clear they’re taking this very seriously. After all, the trust of their shareholders is of the utmost importance, and they will do everything in their power to ensure that trust is regained.

As we all sit back and watch this legal drama unfold, it’s worth noting that the companies’ commitment to transparency, accountability, and integrity in all aspects of their business operations has not wavered. They value the trust of their shareholders so much that they’re willing to go to great lengths to restore it. So while the legal team works tirelessly to prove their case in court, we can only hope that this situation will serve as a cautionary tale for other companies considering similar mergers.

In conclusion, this tale of mergers and lawsuits serves as a reminder that even the best-laid plans can go awry. It also highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in business dealings – something we can all take to heart, whether we’re merging multi-billion dollar companies or just trying to convince our coworker to trade their bag of chips for our apple at lunch. So let’s all raise a glass to the legal teams involved, as they navigate this tricky situation and remind us of the importance of playing by the rules in the high-stakes world of business. Cheers!

Disclaimer

SPACs Play Whac-A-Mole: Some Sink, Others Soar – Spotlight on Fisker, SoFi, and Lucid

TLDR:
Fisker outsourced production of its Ocean SUV, partnering with Magna International, to focus on marketing, resulting in successful deliveries. SoFi Technologies increased its revenue by 43% in Q1, while Lucid increased its revenue by 159% but posted a net loss of $772m, requiring a delicate balancing act to finance future growth.

Ladies and gentlemen, let’s talk about Fisker, SoFi Technologies, and Lucid. These three SPAC darlings have found a way to make lemonade out of the lemon-filled market conditions. Fisker, an electric vehicle manufacturer, has outsourced production of its Ocean SUV to focus on marketing and other strategic activities. Partnering with Magna International, a well-established automotive firm, Fisker has managed to begin deliveries on time and garner around 63,000 reservations. They even sold out two trim levels in the U.S., making them the poster child for perseverance in the face of adversity.

Now, let’s turn our attention to SoFi Technologies, the online banking prodigy that’s giving traditional banks a run for their money. SoFi has managed to increase its revenue by 43% in the first quarter, bringing it to a whopping $472.2 million. Though the company reported losses of $34.4 million, it’s a significant improvement from the previous year’s $110 million loss. For SoFi to truly shine in 2023, it needs to win over the trust of its potential depositors while highlighting its appealing low-cost position. If it can do so, the stock might just see a boost this year.

Lucid, another luxury electric car manufacturer, is an interesting case. It’s like watching a tightrope artist perform – one misstep and their act could come crashing down. The company managed to increase its revenue by 159% to $149.4 million in the first quarter of 2023 but posted a net loss of $772 million. With current cash reserves expected to last only until Q2 2024, Lucid must maintain a delicate balancing act between producing and delivering vehicles while also financing future growth, such as its planned SUV launch in 2024. If Lucid can stay on course, investors may see a path to profitability earlier than they anticipate.

Despite their challenges, Fisker, SoFi Technologies, and Lucid are among the few SPAC stocks that have managed to defy the odds and continue to show potential for long-term growth. So, for those of you with a flair for taking calculated risks and an appetite for the unconventional, these three companies might just pique your interest.

And so, as we glance back at the rough and tumble landscape that has been the SPAC market in recent years, we can’t help but tip our hats to these three companies, who have managed to stay afloat amidst the carnage. Fisker, with its well-executed strategy and timely deliveries; SoFi Technologies, the online bank that’s growing rapidly and nearing breakeven; and Lucid, the luxury car manufacturer that’s building sleek electric vehicles while teetering on the edge of profitability.

As you ponder your investment options, keep these three companies in mind. After all, they may provide the perfect opportunity to add a little excitement – and potential growth – to your portfolio. Just remember, in the unpredictable world of SPAC investing, it’s essential to pick your bets wisely and always keep an eye on the horizon for the next success story.

Disclaimer

Biden’s Trade Talks: Out With Tariffs, In With TikTok Rights and Cleaner Skies

TLDR:
1. Banks could potentially tip the economy into a recession as they pull back on credit.
2. Chinese tech companies are developing cutting-edge AI without using the latest American chips due to US sanctions.

Ladies and gentlemen, in the ever-changing landscape of trade diplomacy, we have reached a new dawn where “free trade” and “tariffs” have been shoved to the backseat. Instead, we’re focusing on real page-turners, such as digital rights, air quality, technology, and product standards. Now, these exciting issues are tackled through government-level agreements rather than your run-of-the-mill contracts. It’s a sign of the times, and the Biden administration is leading the charge, showing that we can build a sustainable and fair trading system without losing our values. So, let’s raise our glasses to this brave new world of trade diplomacy!

In the thrilling world of finance, money managers are playing it safe by turning to defensive stocks and Treasurys, proving that they’re just as afraid of missing out on a potential stock-market rally as the rest of us. Institutional investors’ allocations to equities remain well above the long-term trend, while their cash holdings are in line with historical averages, according to State Street data.

In a gripping turn of events, banks are pulling back on credit, likely due to regional bank failures and commercial real estate stresses. How much, you ask? Well, we’ll soon find out as the Federal Reserve releases data that may reveal the start of a credit crunch. Fed Chair Jerome Powell hinted that the survey will show a slower pace of lending and tightening standards. This lending slowdown could help the Fed tame inflation, but if banks pull back too much, it could tip the economy into a recession. So, will banks demand more collateral and pinch loan sizes, leading to a credit crunch and slower economic growth? We’re on the edge of our seats!

In the thrilling world of technology, U.S. sanctions on China are pushing Chinese tech companies to speed up research and develop cutting-edge artificial intelligence without using the latest American chips. These companies are now studying techniques to achieve state-of-the-art AI performance with fewer or less powerful semiconductors and researching ways to combine different types of chips to avoid relying on any one type of hardware.

Meanwhile, in the political arena, top Democrats and Republicans are scrambling to find a politically acceptable solution to raise the nation’s borrowing limit before the first-ever U.S. default as soon as June 1. President Biden is hosting talks with congressional leaders at the White House, diving headfirst into negotiations that he’s avoided for months.

And finally, in a shocking display of financial crisis, First Republic Bank’s seizure and sale to JPMorgan Chase was supposed to be a cathartic moment for American banks. Yet, the relief was short-lived, as shares of regional banks plunged with some dropping by double-digit percentages. The KBW Nasdaq Regional Banking Index finished the week down 8%. It’s the roller coaster ride no one asked for but can’t help watching.

In summary, we’re witnessing a fascinating evolution in trade diplomacy, banks potentially tipping the economy into a recession, Chinese tech companies leaping ahead in AI research, and the ongoing struggle to raise the nation’s borrowing limit. So, buckle up, folks, because it’s a wild ride in this ever-changing world of business!

Disclaimer

Tassel Trouble: Skidmore’s Class of 2023 Battles World Pandemic and Still Grabs Degrees

TLDR:
Skidmore College’s Class of 2023 graduates with 634 diverse and resilient students who excelled academically, athletically, and socially, pursuing internships, conducting research, and volunteering for social activism and community engagement.

In a world where people are constantly bombarded with bad news, it’s refreshing to see a group of individuals who’ve managed to not only survive, but thrive under pressure. Enter Skidmore College’s Class of 2023, who recently celebrated their graduation with the 112th commencement ceremony. These 634 graduates, representing a human potpourri of 50 nationalities and hailing from 35 states, have shown that they are not only diverse but also resilient in the face of a global pandemic that turned their academic journey into a real-life version of Survivor.

During their time at Skidmore, these students studied a wide variety of subjects ranging from psychology and business to art and environmental sciences. This eclectic mix of interests translated into 746 majors and 346 minors, proving that it’s possible to be both well-rounded and slightly indecisive at the same time. But let’s not forget the impressive achievements that adorned their academic careers like shiny badges of honor, such as published research, national honor societies, and a plethora of awards.

As if that wasn’t enough, these overachievers didn’t just limit their prowess to the classroom. They participated in nearly 50 faculty-student summer collaborative research projects and more than 100 students benefited from the Summer Experience Fund. This allowed them to pursue internships that would broaden their horizons and support their dreams, presumably without the need for a fairy godmother. In true testament to their creativity and academic dedication, over 180 seniors shared their theses and research projects at the 24th Academic Festival, the grand finale of their collegiate academic careers.

Speaking of dedication, the Class of 2023’s student-athletes demonstrated a level of persistence that would make Sisyphus proud. Despite the pandemic-induced hiatus from games and seasons, they returned with a vengeance and achieved impressive accomplishments on the field. Moreover, 53 senior student-athletes earned a GPA of 3.67 or higher, and 11 managed to secure the elusive perfect 4.0 GPA. It seems the phrase “work hard, play hard” was taken quite literally by these scholars.

One might think that with all their academic and athletic achievements, the Class of 2023 would have little time for social activism and community engagement. However, these graduates proved that they can not only multitask but also be agents of change. They volunteered thousands of hours to causes close to their hearts, such as disabilities and autism, food insecurity, public health policy, environmental justice, and climate action. They rallied for justice, educated one another on LGBTQ+ allyship, and pushed Skidmore toward becoming a single-use, plastic-free campus.

In the midst of it all, they also found time to be entrepreneurs, launching businesses and new clubs to give voice to the voiceless. They created plays, composed music, produced documentaries, and challenged perceptions through art. They even took it upon themselves to protect and preserve the natural beauty of their campus and the ecosystems that depend on it.

So, as we raise a toast to the Skidmore College Class of 2023, let’s acknowledge not just their academic achievements, but also their unwavering spirit of resilience, creativity, and dedication. They have shown us that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to make a real impact on the world. Now, it’s up to the rest of us to try and catch up with these impressive trailblazers.

Disclaimer