“ROTH MKM Plays the SPAC Attack with Star Player Ottensoser”

SPAC’s Hot Summer Nights Finale: A Night of Killer Queen ‘Tribute Goodness’ to Send us Time-Travelling to the Golden Era of Rock

TLDR:
– Killer Queen will be performing a tribute to Queen’s discography at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) as part of the venue’s summer concert series.
– The concert will be a ‘pavilion-only’ event, with no lawn seats available, and SPAC is a cashless venue with cash-to-card kiosks for those who need them.

Get ready, folks. The Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), a place more magical than Hogwarts and a mecca for the musically inclined, is wrapping up its summer with a pretty little bow, and the gift inside it is none other than a sensational performance by Killer Queen. Now don’t be fooled by the name, folks. Despite their murderous moniker, the only thing Killer Queen slays is Queen’s discography, bringing you a phenomenal tribute to the legends of rock and roll.

Now, before you dust off your picnic blanket for those lovely lawn seats that SPAC usually offers, let me deliver a reality check. This isn’t your usual ‘spread-out-your-blanket’ kinda soiree. It’s a ‘pavilion-only’ event. Say what? Yep, you heard me right. No lawn seats, which means you and your blanket are going to have to sit this one out. But don’t worry, the official SPAC website or Live Nation has got your ticketing needs covered.

And if you thought that was the only curveball, brace yourselves. SPAC has declared itself a ‘cashless’ venue. I mean, who carries cash these days, right? Fortunately for those who still believe in the power of paper, there are cash-to-card kiosks generously sprinkled throughout the venue. So, if you’ve been hoarding those bills, now might be a good time to let go.

Now, you’d think getting there early might get you a good parking spot, right? Well, not exactly. Parking spaces open at 6pm for a nominal fee of $10 USD per vehicle. I’d suggest turning that clock-watching into an art form if you want to snag a spot. As for the gates, those open half an hour later. And at the stroke of 7:30pm, Killer Queen takes the stage.

Did I mention there’s a baggage policy too? Apparently, SPAC has a strict ‘no nonsense’ policy when it comes to bags. So, be sure to check up on that on the official SPAC website before you end up lugging around a suitcase only to get turned away at the door. And remember, kiddos aged two and over need a ticket. Seems a tad harsh, don’t you think?

Looking back at the 2023 Capital Region concerts, it’s quite the musical fiesta we’ve had. From intimate club performances to stadium spectacles, we’ve seen it all. And tonight, we get a taste of nostalgia with Killer Queen’s renditions of Queen’s epic hits. It’s like rummaging through your parents’ vinyl collection, only way cooler.

So, buckle up, concertgoers. Tonight, we bid adieu to SPAC’s summer concert series with this intimate ode to Queen. It’s nostalgia, it’s music, it’s an evening you won’t forget. Just be sure to stick to the rules and you’re in for a treat, my friends.

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Phish’s Charity Concerts “Hook, Line, and Sinker”: Raises $3.5 Million for Flood Recovery Efforts Through Music and Unfathomable Fan Up-pouring

TLDR:
– Phish held two benefit concerts, raising $3.5 million for flood recovery efforts in their home state and Upstate New York.
– Phish’s innovative approach to streaming concerts allowed fans worldwide to be part of a significant event that showcased the power of music and unity.

In the world of rock and roll, where egos often eclipse talent, Phish has turned the tables, making headlines not for their off-stage antics, but for their on-stage philanthropy. The American rock band, hailing from Vermont, recently held two benefit concerts at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) to aid flood recovery efforts in their home state and Upstate New York. The amount they raised? $3.5 million – showing that even in an industry fraught with excess, a little compassion and unity can create magic… and a whole lot of money.

The two-night event wasn’t just another concert. It was a musical spectacle, a rallying cry, and a beacon of hope for those affected by devastating floods. The evenings were marked by the incredible talent of Phish’s Page McConnell and Trey Anastasio, and featured a surprise appearance from legendary guitarist Derek Trucks. And if that wasn’t enough to make fans feel like they’d won the rock concert lottery, Phish decided to stream both concerts for free on their website and YouTube channel. It was a bold move – like a poker player going all-in with a pair of twos. But the gamble paid off.

Direct donations to The WaterWheel Foundation’s 2023 Flood Recovery Fund came pouring in. The total amount raised, a hefty $3.5 million, came from ticket sales, merchandise sales, and individual donations from fans new and old. It’s a testament to the power of music, unity and the altruistic spirit of Phish’s fanbase. It seems the band had a hook, line, and sinker approach to fund-raising: Hit ’em with the music, and then reel in the donations.

The WaterWheel Foundation, founded by Phish in 1997, is well versed in the art of philanthropy. Over the years, they’ve provided support to countless individuals and communities, proving that they are more than just a band of musicians. They’re agents of change, turning the tides of despair into waves of hope. Their benefit concert may have ended, but the donations continue to flow in, turning the music of Phish into a symphony of relief.

In a world where innovation is lauded, Phish has proven that they are not just leaders in music, but in charitable deeds too. They created an innovative approach to streaming concerts, allowing fans around the world to be part of an event that grew into something much bigger than just a performance. In the process, they’ve shown that rock and roll isn’t just about rebellion and raucous behavior. It’s about unity, resilience, and the ability to make a significant difference in the lives of others.

As the echo of Phish’s melodies fade away, the impact of their benevolent act remains. The $3.5 million raised is more than just a number; it’s a symbol of hope, a beacon in the darkness, a testament to the strength of a community united by the love of music. It’s a reminder that when we act together, we can rebuild what was lost and overcome any obstacle, one power chord at a time.

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Apple Cranks Up Its Genius: Get Ready to iQ Up with the iGenius!

TLDR:
– Apple has introduced the iGenius, a high-priced device that promises to improve human intelligence and revolutionize personal computing.
– Apple’s loyal followers are expected to eagerly pre-order the iGenius, demonstrating the company’s ability to consistently innovate and dominate the tech industry.

In an act that could only be described as a grand opera of opulence, Apple, the technological titan, has once again outdone itself with the introduction of its latest brainchild, the iGenius. Listen folks, this isn’t just a shiny new toy. This is a bona fide declaration that you’ve got more money than you know what to do with. Priced at a mere $1,999, the iGenius is a steal for anyone who’s somehow managed to save a small fortune by skipping that daily cup of overpriced coffee.

But oh, the things you get for that amount. It’s been touted as the ultimate device to ‘improve human intelligence’ – as though we’ve all been waiting for a gadget to help us find where we left our car keys. But it’s Apple, folks. They’ve got the Midas touch, turning everything they lay hands on into digital gold. And it seems they’re rather confident that their legion of loyal followers are not only blessed with brains but also overflowing wallets.

So, what’s the big deal about this iGenius, you might wonder? Well, it’s set to ‘revolutionize personal computing’. Now, if you’re like me and find the idea of revolutionizing something as personal as computing rather terrifying, you’re not alone. But rest assured, they’ve got it all figured out. And it’s marvelous, or so they say. It’s like they’re telling us, “Hey, remember when you could just turn your computer on and off to fix it? Those days are gone, buddy. Welcome to the future.”

So who’s ready to jump on this fast-moving bandwagon? With the promise of pre-order frenzy, it seems like Apple knows its customers well. They’ve got us all under their spell, leaving us in awe of their technological wizardry. This iGenius of theirs isn’t just a product, it’s a statement. A testament to their aptitude for consistent innovation and a symbol of their claim to the tech throne.

In other news, feel free to sign up for our free newsletter if you want to stay informed on the latest SPAC news. It’s like getting a daily dose of market excitement delivered right to your inbox. Because hey, who doesn’t love a little extra anxiety in their day? With daily updates and insights, you can stay ahead of the curve. Or at least think you are.

But remember, whether you’re an Apple aficionado, a SPAC enthusiast, or just a regular bystander in the ever-evolving world of business, always keep your sense of humor. Because, let’s face it, in a world where a personal computer is named iGenius, you really have to laugh, don’t you?

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Fast and Curious: VinFast’s EV Hype Train Leaves Station, Stock Soars Despite Tepid Car Reviews

TLDR:
– VinFast, a Vietnam-based electric vehicle company, saw its shares soar 830% after going public via a SPAC IPO, making it the third most valuable car company on paper.
– The surge in stock prices was due to a limited number of available shares causing an imbalance in supply and demand, rather than the company’s performance or sales figures.

Imagine this. You’re a new kid on the block, and on your first day, you topple the school’s big guns. That’s what VinFast, a Vietnam-based electric vehicle company, did when its shares soared a staggering 830% after going public via a SPAC IPO earlier this month. Despite modest sales figures and unfavorable reviews, VinFast was riding a financial high, making it the third most valuable car company on paper, only trailing Tesla and Toyota. Poor Ford and General Motors were left in the dust, wondering how the new kid got so popular so quickly.

But here’s the catch. The surge wasn’t because they had a shiny new line-up of vehicles or overwhelming sales. Oh no, they expect to sell a paltry 50,000 vehicles this year, and let’s just say the reviews of their cars wouldn’t be winning them any awards. MotorTrend kindly suggested they “return to sender.” VinFast’s success was not due to any spectacular performance but a limited number of available shares causing an imbalance in supply and demand. You see, the founder, Pham Nhat Vuong, holds 99% of VinFast, having issued a mere 1% of the shares to the public.

So, we have the float of just 7.2 million shares available for the public to trade, causing stock prices to skyrocket. It’s a bit like a rare coin gaining value because there aren’t enough of them to go around—a classic case of scarcity increasing value. But one mustn’t forget, the coin’s real value is only what someone is willing to pay for it.

Now, this is where it gets interesting. The stock, like any commodity with a low float, is prone to high volatility. And it’s also more susceptible to drastic price changes because it doesn’t take much buying or selling pressure to shift the scales. In fact, VinFast experienced a 26% fall Tuesday, and the stock could continue its downward spiral as more shares enter the market. This is especially likely with several lockup agreements with insiders and the SPAC sponsor set to expire, which would result in selling off millions of shares.

And let’s not forget VinFast’s expansion plans. They need fuel to power their journey into the US market, and by fuel, I mean cold hard cash. The company had reported having about $160 million at the end of March, so they might just be tempted to take advantage of the recent spike in their stock by selling shares at current prices.

Short-seller Jim Chanos, however, isn’t biting the VinFast bait. He labeled it a “$200 billion meme stock,” suggesting VinFast’s luck would run out before they hit 40K units. But given the low float and high volatility, it seems unlikely that short-sellers are queuing up to bet against the company just yet. So, for now, it seems VinFast is enjoying its time in the sun. But as we all know, the weather can change pretty quickly on Wall Street. Only time will tell if VinFast is a one-hit-wonder or if it has the stamina to run with the big dogs.

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“Phish Fans Hook Line and Sinker: Musical Wizardry, Jams, and Oz References Hit SPAC”

TLDR:
– Fish performed a special, not-for-profit concert to raise funds for flood cleanup efforts.
– The band showcased their musical prowess and ability to seamlessly transition between classic hits and new favorites, creating unforgettable moments for the audience.

What do you get when you blend the musical prowess of Fish, the band’s endless energy, and a heavy sprinkle of Wizard of Oz references? A very special, not-for-profit, jam-infused night at Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) in Saratoga Springs, New York. The band, fresh off a summer tour, took to the stage to raise funds for flood cleanup efforts in Vermont and upstate New York, proving that their hearts are as big as their talent.

The show kicked off in style with a high-octane performance of “Kill Devil Falls,” showcasing the band’s seamless ability to transition between classic hits and new favorites. The audience was treated to a virtuoso performance from guitarist Trey Anastasio, who fired off a series of riffs that were as bewildering as they were beautiful. It wasn’t all about Anastasio, though. The rest of the band laid a solid foundation for improvisation, with drummer John Fishman’s agile hi-hat playing being a particular highlight in the band’s superb rendition of “Mal.”

The crowd was given a blast from the past when the band broke into a rendition of “Punch You in the Eye,” a song which had been absent from the setlist for almost a year. This nostalgic nod was well-received by the audience, but it was the unexpected musical tribute to The Wizard of Oz that really whipped the crowd into a frenzy. Midway through a jam, Anastasio began playing the familiar riff of “Welcome to Munchkinland,” which initially seemed out of place but soon merged beautifully with the music, creating an unforgettable climax.

The second set was no less impressive, with the band delivering an extraordinary performance of “A Wave of Hope,” a song that has become synonymous with outstanding improvisation. However, the band didn’t rest on their laurels, instead following up with a spectacular rendition of “Simple.” Bassist Mike Gordon and Anastasio created a fantastical space, transitioning seamlessly between different musical themes, much to the delight of the audience.

The performance came to a close with a soulful rendition of “Wading in the Velvet Sea,” with keyboardist Paige McConnell taking the lead vocals. As the band left the stage, the original version of “We Welcome You to Munchkinland” echoed through the venue, marking the end of a truly magical evening. Fans, left in a state of euphoria, couldn’t help but wonder how they could return to the real world after such an exceptional show. But with the band set to return to the stage for another much-anticipated performance, one thing is clear: the magic of Fish concerts is here to stay.

In bringing references from the Wizard of Oz to their dizzying improvisations, Fish proved they are in a league of their own. The band continues to cement its position as one of the greatest live bands of all time, creating unforgettable musical moments, and reminding us all that in the world of music, anything is possible. So, get ready to enter a world where “Welcome to Munchkinland” might just become your new favorite song. Bravo Fish, you’ve done it again!

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“Silicon Meets Seraphic: Tech World Gets a Chip on its Shoulder as Geniuses Unite in Bold Power Play”

TLDR:
– The constant acquisitions in the technology industry indicate a rapidly changing corporate landscape.
– The unpredictability of the industry provides excitement and plot twists akin to a mystery novel.

Well folks, it’s another day in the land of business, and surprise surprise, we’ve got another acquisition to talk about. You’d think these companies were playing a game of monopoly, scooping up little firms like they’re Park Place and Boardwalk. But it’s not all fun and games. Oh no, this acquisition is seemingly another harbinger of the future, a signal flashing in neon lights, “Change is a-coming!” So, buckle up your seat belts, folks, we’re heading into uncharted territory.

This business hullabaloo is proof, if you needed any, that the corporate world is as fluid as a three-dollar margarita on a Tuesday night. You never quite know what’s going to happen next. And for those of us who enjoy a good mystery novel, this constant evolution in the technology industry provides all the unpredictable plot twists we could ever want.

Now, let’s talk about this technology industry for a second. Apparently, it’s about to take more twists and turns than a roller coaster at Six Flags. They’re telling us to get ready for an exciting new chapter. As if the previous chapters in the saga of tech weren’t enough to send us into cardiac arrest! But hey, who are we to complain? We’re just the humble spectators watching this high-stakes game unfold.

Now, you’d think with all this change, things might get a bit confusing. But don’t you worry, there’s a free newsletter to keep you informed. Because if there’s one thing we need in this world, it’s more newsletters clogging up our inboxes. I mean, who doesn’t love waking up to a flurry of corporate news alongside their morning coffee?

So, there you have it. Another day, another acquisition. Another twist in the never-ending saga of the technology industry. But don’t worry, the show’s not over yet. There’s plenty more to come. And isn’t that just the way of the world? Just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, they change the rules on you. So hold onto your hats, folks, because we’re in for a wild ride. And remember, in the world of business, the only constant is change. Let’s just hope the next change doesn’t involve us all becoming robots.

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When Baggage Screening Tech Gets Fresh ‘Nasdaq’ Vibes: ScanTech and Mars Acquisition’s Game Changing Collaboration!

TLDR:
– ScanTech Identification Beam Systems and Mars Acquisition are entering into a definitive business combination agreement with a post-transaction enterprise value of $149.5 million.
– ScanTech specializes in computed-tomography baggage and cargo logistics screening technology, ensuring the safe transportation of items through airports.

Well, it looks like ScanTech Identification Beam Systems is all set to make a grand entrance onto the global financial stage, doing the Wall Street shuffle with Mars Acquisition, a blank-check company. Now, I don’t know about you, but the term ‘blank-check company’ always makes me think of a kid in a candy store with an unlimited budget. But I digress; that’s the name of the game when it comes to special purpose acquisition companies, or SPACs if you enjoy acronyms as much as I do.

The business plan here? A definitive business combination agreement. That’s what Mars Acquisition and ScanTech are up to. It’s not just your run-of-the-mill merger or acquisition. Oh, no. This is a ‘definitive business combination agreement’, which makes it sound as if they’ve decided to get hitched after dating for a while. They’ve even decided on a cute couple name for their joint listing on the Nasdaq Market – STAI.

Now, you might be wondering, “What’s this going to cost us?” Well, the post-transaction enterprise value is a breezy $149.5 million, which includes an equity value of $197.5 million and $48 million in net cash. Seems like a lot, but hey, who am I to judge? I mean, the last time I checked my bank account, I had enough to buy a taco, maybe two if I stretched. So, what’s a couple hundred million between friends?

Now, this isn’t just any old investment deal. ScanTech is not your average, everyday tech company. Nope, they’re in the business of computed-tomography baggage and cargo logistics screening technology. Essentially, they’re the folks making sure your grandma’s ceramic cat collection makes it through the airport unscathed, or ensuring that import of rubber ducks doesn’t hide any nefarious additions.

And what’s the timeline for this exciting merger? Well, the deal is expected to close in the first quarter of 2024. I know, I know, it seems like a long time to wait. But remember, folks, good things come to those who wait. Or so they say. I’m still waiting for my lottery win, but I suppose ScanTech and Mars Acquisition have a better shot at their $149.5 million deal.

So, there you have it. The future of baggage and cargo inspection is looking bright, folks. Or at least, it’s looking like it has $149.5 million in it’s pocket. And who knows? Maybe it’s just the start for more tech companies to jump into the SPAC fray. Only time will tell. But for now, we wait, as the business world continues it’s never-ending game of monopoly. And let’s be honest, isn’t that half the fun?

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Not in This Lifetime: Guns N’ Roses Prove They’re More Classic than Antique in Saratoga Spectacle

TLDR:
– Guns N’ Roses put on a three-hour set full of bombastic riffs and attitude, showcasing their enduring legacy and proving they are still a significant force in rock and roll.
– Frontman Axl Rose’s voice was in good shape, and Slash’s guitar solos were a standout, leaving the crowd wild with excitement.

The Saratoga Performing Arts Center was recently a witness to a spectacle that could only be described as – “Guns N’ Roses showing the kids how it’s done.” Frontman Axl Rose, notorious for his sense of time that seems to operate in a parallel universe, took the stage at exactly 7:25 PM. Perhaps he’s finally downloaded a clock app.

The three-hour set, full of bombastic riffs and attitude, was a reminder that the band is not just a group of geriatric rockers trying to make a quick buck. They proved to be a vibrant force in rock ‘n’ roll, with all the booming riffs and badass attitude that made them one of the most important acts of the past 40 years. If you were looking for a perfunctory cash grab, you should’ve gone to the bingo night down at the local pub.

The evening kicked off with “It’s So Easy,” a cheery opener that set the mood for a night of surprising, yet seamless musical blend. The way Slash and Duff McKagan put their own stylistic imprint on the GN’R track “Chinese Democracy,” a song that emerged during their 21-year hiatus from the band, was even odder. Following it with a rendition of “Slither,” the hit 2004 single from Slash and McKagan’s mid-aughts band Velvet Revolver? It was like trying to find a coherent plot in a David Lynch movie.

Despite his dysphonia, Rose’s voice was in good shape, belting out songs with a force that could rival a freight train. The 61-year-old frontman continued to run, dance and move across the stage with the energy of a toddler on a sugar rush. It was clear that while Axl Rose may have made nice with his bandmates, elements of his volatile nature were still in play.

Slash’s guitar solos were the star of the show, with the crowd going wild for his performances on “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” “Civil War,” and “November Rain.” Imagine the frenzied response if he’d busted out “Free Bird.” The chemistry between Slash and second guitarist Richard Fortus was as palpable as the tension in a Tarantino flick as they traded lead turns on “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door.”

Before Guns N’ Roses took the stage, the audience was warmed up by rising hard-rock band Dirty Honey. Fronted by Niskayuna native Marc LaBelle, the band delivered a performance that felt like a lovingly crafted homage to an Aerosmith album that never was. Their set included a scorching take of “Won’t Take Me Alive,” a promising indicator of their forthcoming album. After all, who needs a heater when you’ve got those fiery riffs?

In conclusion, Guns N’ Roses’ performance at Saratoga Performing Arts Center was a testament to their enduring legacy. With a sold-out crowd roaring all night long, it’s clear that their music will continue to resonate with fans. And as for the band itself? They proved that they’re still a significant force in rock and roll, capable of delivering a performance that could blow your socks off, even if they are of the compression variety.

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“Phish Makes it Rain: Jam Band’s Flood Relief Concert a Whirlwind of Wizard of Oz Winks, Water Droplets and Classic Wails”

TLDR:
– Phish staged a benefit show in Saratoga Springs, New York, to support flood recovery efforts in Vermont and surrounding areas, incorporating a Wizard of Oz theme into their performance.
– The band delivered a mesmerizing performance, showcasing their musical prowess and on-the-spot creativity, leaving the audience inspired and hopeful.

On a night that coincided with the 84th anniversary of The Wizard of Oz’s premiere, Vermont jam band Phish channeled a tad of Oz magic to stage an unforgettable evening of hope and solidarity. The benefit show in Saratoga Springs, New York, was one of two organized in light of the devastating flash floods that swept Vermont and surrounding areas in July. Phish, known for their playful personalities, sprinkled their performance with iconic film themes and even dressed the part – drummer John Fishman made a splash in a Lisa Simpson-inspired dress, replete with blue droplets representing flood recovery.

Phish kicked off the evening with the vivacious “Kill Devil Falls” and “The Moma Dance,” setting the stage for a mix of classic and new tunes. The audience was treated to the second release of “Ocelot” this year, a spectacular high point that had fans buzzing. Bassist Mike Gordon’s song “Mull” and the Phish staple “Punch You In The Eye,” performed with the band’s signature intricate weaving, were other noteworthy additions to the setlist. Lighting designer Chris Cloda and visual artist Andrew Giffin conjured up stunning visuals that amplified the mesmerizing performance of “Sand,” and a cover of The Velvet Underground’s “Rock and Roll.”

Guitarist Trey Anastasio surprised everyone with his impromptu incorporation of the Wizard of Oz theme “Munchkinland” into “Sand.” This spontaneous decision sparked excitement and curiosity among the audience and online viewers, adding an unexpected twist to the performance. The second set saw Fishman sporting a Lisa Simpson dress and a munchkin ponytail, keeping with the Wizard of Oz theme. The song combination of “Evolve,” “A Wave of Hope,” and “Simple” resulted in 45 minutes of dark and exploratory improvisation, demonstrating the band’s adeptness at on-the-spot creativity.

The energy surged to a climax as Phish launched into “Fuego,” followed by an explosive performance of “Chalk Dust Torture,” featuring an outro that quotes “Munchkinland.” This brought the Wizard of Oz theme full circle, drawing cheers and applause from the audience. For the encore, Phish chose “Wading in the Velvet Sea,” a somewhat ironic choice for a flood relief fundraiser, but its poignant lyrics struck a chord with the audience. The band wrapped up the show with “Say It To Me S.A.N.T.O.S.,” leaving the crowd inspired and hopeful.

As the audience dispersed to the familiar strumming of “We’re Off to See the Wizard,” the spirit of the show remained palpable. Phish’s Flood Relief Benefit Show was not just a night of entertainment, but also a testament to music’s power to uplift spirits and rally support for a cause. For those who didn’t catch the performance live, free streaming is available, along with the chance to enjoy Phish’s unique blend of music and humor while supporting a noble cause. It was indeed a night where music, philanthropy, and a bit of Oz magic collided, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the devastation of the floods.

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Unions, Strikes, and ‘Scary Robots’: SPAC King Calls Last Orders for Detroit’s Big Three

TLDR:
– SPAC King Chamath Palihapitiya believes that if the labor deal goes through, it will lead to the long-term insolvency of legacy automakers and the rise of non-unionized competitors like Tesla.
– The union demands, including a 40% increase in hourly pay over four years, would significantly increase labor costs for automakers and put them at a disadvantage compared to Tesla.

In a recent turn of events, SPAC King Chamath Palihapitiya offered his two cents on the United Auto Workers’ union strike, which has become a thorn in the side of Detroit’s Big Three — Ford Motor Co., General Motors Corp., and Stellantis N.V. Palihapitiya, never the one to sugarcoat, suggested the unions were engaging in a metaphorical self-mutilation, deciding to “cut their nose off to spite their face.”

According to our resident Nostradamus, if the labor deal goes through, it will spell the apocalypse for legacy OEM automakers. The options they have, he says, are as cheerful as a heart attack – replace unionized humans with cold, unfeeling robots or bid adieu to unions. But then, he adds with a wry smile, neither of these options are remotely feasible.

Should this plan get the green light, Palihapitiya sees automakers hemorrhaging cash like a broken slot machine. This, he predicts, will be the dreaded “tipping point towards structural long-term insolvency.” He believes the capital markets will be more reluctant to let automakers raise long-term capital than a cat is to take a bath. Unless, of course, automakers are ready to cough up exorbitant rates.

But wait, there’s more! Palihapitiya seems to think that the fallout of this labor deal could supercharge the success of hyper-automated/non-unionized competitors like Tesla. As Ford, Stellantis, and others scramble to raise prices to cover the cost of the deal, Tesla would be free to aggressively lower prices and dominate the market.

So, what are these union demands that could instigate this automotive apocalypse? Well, for starters, a 40% increase in hourly pay over four years, a reduced 4-day, 32-hour workweek, faster path to top pay, return to the days of defined benefit pensions, cost-of-living adjustments, parental leave longer than a three-day weekend, and more paid holidays.

Just to put things into perspective, Ford mentioned that if these demands were in effect over the last four years, it would have lost a whopping $14.4 billion, instead of pocketing nearly $30 billion in profits. Gene Munster of Deepwater Asset Management noted that even if the automakers agree to a 25% pay hike, their manufacturing labor costs will be 40-45% higher than Tesla’s, leaving them at a distinct disadvantage. So, brace yourselves folks, it seems like the automotive industry might be in for a joyride.

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