It is a different kind of bowl season in 2024-25. There are still 35 bowl games outside the 12-team College Football Playoff . These games are predictably unpredictable because of coaching changes , the transfer portal and opt-outs , which can alter the outlook for a game in a hurry. Will Coach Prime change that? After all, Deion Sanders claims Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter will play for No. 23 Colorado against No. 17 BYU in the Valero Alamo Bowl. Will that lead to a trend where players opt-in to bowl games more often? Like we always say, bowl games mean something different to everybody — but they are never meaningless. We picked all the regular-season matchups involving teams in the AP Top 25 during the regular season. We were better this season with a S/U record of 195-59 and an ATS mark of 127-127. We would like to do better than 50% in bowl season. We will update our picks to reflect all those changes with the portal and opt outs, but here are our postseason picks for now, including every 2024-25 bowl game and the College Football Playoff's first round: MORE COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAYOFF NEWS: SN's Expert College Football Playoff bracket predictions Alabama, Miami among biggest snubs from College Football Playoff When do the College Football Playoff games start? Full list of locations for 2024 College Football Playoff games College football bowl picks, predictions 2024-25 Salute to Veterans Bowl: South Alabama (-9.5) vs. Western Michigan Saturday, Dec. 14, 11 a.m., ESPN South Alabama coach Major Applewhite led the Jaguars to a bowl game after a 6-6 season ,and they should have success against a Western Michigan defense that ranked 109th in the FBS in scoring defense. Freshman running back Fluff Bothwell (832 yards, 13 TDs) will make an impact. Pick: South Alabama wins 38-21 and COVERS the spread. Scooter's Coffee Frisco Bowl: No. 25 Memphis (-3) vs. West Virginia Tuesday, Dec. 17, 9 p.m., ESPN West Virginia fired Neal Brown, and interim coach will lead the Mountaineers into the Frisco Bowl. Garrett Greene struggled with interceptions this season, and if he plays in this bowl game it could turn into a high-scoring affair. Seth Henigan (3,208 yards, 23 TDs) and Mario Anderson (1,292 yards, 17 TDs) are a dynamic tandem for the Tigers. Pick: Memphis wins 29-27 but FAILS TO COVER the spread. Boca Raton Bowl: James Madison (-7) at Western Kentucky (5:30 p.m, ESPN) Wednesday, Dec. 18, 5:30 p.m., ESPN James Madison is looking for its first bowl win in school history. The Dukes lost their last two games. Western Kentucky lost to Jacksonville State 52-12 in the Conference-USA championship game. James Madison quarterback Alonza Barnett had a five-TD game against North Carolina on Sept. 21. Western Kentucky is 4-1 S/U in bowl games under Tyson Helton, so we expect a close game. Pick: James Madison wins 34-31 but FAILS TO COVER the spread. LA Bowl presented by Gronk : Cal (-2.5) vs. No. 24 UNLV Wednesday, Dec. 18, 9 p.m., ESPN Barry Odom left UNLV to take the Purdue job, and that leaves interim coach Del Alexander in charge after the loss in the Mountain West Conference championship game. Will UNLV star receiver Ricky White opt out? Cal allowed 32 points per game in its last four games – where it split a 2-2 record. Hajj-Malik Williams could lead an upset here. Pick: UNLV wins 28-23 in an UPSET. R&L Carriers New Orleans Bowl: Georgia Southern (-5.5) vs. Sam Houston Thursday, Dec. 19, 7 p.m., ESPN Sam Houston is in its first bowl game in school history under second-year coach K.C. Keller. Georgia Southern is looking for its first bowl victory in three ties with Clay Helton. The Bearkats were 3-1 ATS as an underdog this season with three outright victories. Look for the defense to make the difference for Sam Houston. Pick: Sam Houston wins 27-26 in an UPSET. Staffdna Cure Bowl: Ohio (-2.5) vs. Jacksonville State Friday, Dec. 20, 12 p.m., ESPN Ohio won its first MAC championship since 1968, only to watch Tim Albin take the job with Charlotte after the victory. Jacksonville State won the Conference-USA championship with Rich Rodriguez, who is reportedly in the mix for the West Virginia job. Jacksonville State running back Tre Stewart (1,604 yards, 23 TDs) and Ohio running back Anthony Tyus II (1,111 yards, 13 TDs) should both have success in this game. The Bobcats covered in each of their last six games. Pick: Ohio wins 31-24 and COVERS the spread. Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl : Florida (-12) vs. Tulane Friday, Dec. 20, 3:30 p.m., ESPN Tulane coach Jon Sumrall announced he would return, but quarterback Darian Mensah entered the transfer portal. That is not a good sign against Florida, which is looking to put the finishing touches on an eight-win season with coach Billy Napier and quarterback DJ Lagway. If Mensah is out, then Florida should cruise here. Pick: Florida wins 31-17 and COVERS the spread. Myrtle Beach Bowl: UTSA (-5.5) vs. Coastal Carolina (11 a.m., ESPN) Monday, Dec. 23, 11 a.m., ESPN UTSA won four of its last six games just to get bowl eligible — and Owen McCown (3,170 yards, 24 TDs, 9 INTs) had a strong season at quarterback. The Chanticleers lost four of their last six games. Those trends don't always matter in bowl games, and the Chanticleers are at home here. Pick: UTSA wins 31-27 but FAILS TO COVER the spread. Famous Idaho Potato Bowl : Northern Illinois (-1.5) vs. Fresno State Monday, Dec. 23, 11 a.m., ESPN Fresno State finished 6-6 under interim coach Tim Skipper, and Mikey Keene led the Mountain West Conference with 2,892 passing yards. Northern Illinois was inconsistent after the Week 2 victory at Notre Dame. The Bulldogs were 0-4 S/U as an underdog this year, and the Huskers were 1-2 ATS in games with a spread of three points or less. Pick: Fresno State wins 21-20 in an UPSET. Hawaii Bowl: San Jose State (-2.5) vs. South Florida Tuesday, Dec. 24, 8 p.m., ESPN San Jose State can get to eight wins under first-year coach Ken Niumatalolo, but keep an eye on whether Biletnikoff finalist Nick Nash – who had 104 catches for 1,382 yards and 16 TDs – plays in the game. South Florida won four of its last six games, and running back Kelley Joiner Jr. (766 yards, 11 TDs) averaged 7.0 yards per carry. Pick: San Jose State wins 30-27 and COVERS the spread. Game Above Sports Bowl: Pitt (-9.5) vs. Toledo Thursday, Dec. 26, 2 p.m., ESPN The Panthers struggled on offense in the second half of the season, but the defense – led by Kyle Louis and Rasheem Biles – should be able to generate turnovers against the Rockets here. Toledo did cover as a double-digit underdog against Mississippi State in a 41-17 on Sept. 14. The Rockets also averaged 10.5 points in their last two games. Pitt is 5-1 S/U against MAC schools under Pat Narduzzi. Pick: Pitt wins 28-17 and COVERS the spread. Guaranteed Rate Bowl: Kansas State (-7) vs. Rutgers Thursday, Dec. 26, 5:30 p.m., ESPN This will be a classic line-of-scrimmage game. Kansas State averaged 204.5 rushing yards per game, and quarterback Avery Johnson (2,517 yards, 22 TDs, 9 INTs) had an up-and-down season in his first year as a starter. Rutgers averaged 176.3 rushing yards per game, and Kyle Monangai (1,279 yards, 13 TDs) led the Big Ten with 256 rushing attempts. Rutgers is 6-2 in bowl games under Greg Schiano. Pick: Kansas State wins 24-21 but FAILS TO COVER the spread. 68 Ventures Bowl: Bowling Green (-6.5) vs. Arkansas State Thursday, Dec. 26, 9 p.m., ESPN Need a reason to watch this game? Bowling Green tight end Harold Fannin Jr. had 100 catches for 1,342 yards and nine TDs this season. The Falcons won five of their last six games. Arkansas State quarterback Jaylon Raynor led the Sun Belt with 390 passing attempts. Bowling Green is 1-7 in its last eight bowl games, and a MAC team has not won this bowl game since 2014. The Falcons break the streak. Pick: Bowling Green wins 34-30 and COVERS the spread. Lockheed Armed Forces Bowl: Oklahoma (-8.5) vs. Navy Friday, Dec. 27, 12 p.m., ESPN The Sooners' defense – led by Danny Stutsman (109 tackles) – allowed 2.9 yards per rushing attempt this season. Navy quarterback Braxton Woodson – who replaced Blake Horvath – rushed for 125 yards and three TDs in the season finale. Navy is 1-2 ATS as an underdog of seven points or more. Pick: Oklahoma wins 27-14 and COVERS the spread. Birmingham Bowl: Georgia Tech (-2.5) vs. Vanderbilt Friday, Dec. 27, 3:30 p.m., ESPN Georgia Tech's Haynes King and Vanderbilt's Diego Pavia emerged as fan favorites during the season. Will the Commodores be able to slow down that Georgia Tech rushing attack – which averaged 186.8 yards on 4.9 yards per carry this season. Both teams protected the football well during the season. Vanderbilt had seven turnovers. Georgia Tech had eight. The Commodores were 1-3 S/U as an underdog of 10 points or less. Pick: Georgia Tech wins 30-23 and COVERS the spread. Autozone Liberty Bowl: Arkansas (-2.5) vs. Texas Tech Friday, Dec. 27, 7 p.m., ESPN Will Tahj Brooks (1,505 yards, 17 TDs) play for Texas Tech? He led the Big 12 with 286 rushing attempts. The Red Raiders were 3-1 ATS as an underdog this season, and Arkansas lost three of its last four games. The familiarity factor is there, but we expect Texas Tech to play well with Behren Morton (3,335 yards, 27 TDs, 8 INTs). Take the over. Pick: Texas Tech wins 38-31 in an UPSET. DirecTV Holiday Bowl: No. 21 Syracuse (-5.5) at Washington State Friday, Dec. 27, 8 p.m., Fox Will Kyle McCord play? He led the FBS with 4,326 passing yards, and that would be a fun quarterback matchup with Washington State's John Mateer, who ranked fifth in the FBS with 330.4 total yards per game. Look for the Orange to continue to build momentum around coach Fran Brown with a 10-win season. Pick: Syracuse wins 37-30 and COVERS the spread. SDS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl: Texas A&M (-2.5) vs. USC Friday, Dec. 27, 10:30 p.m., ESPN How much – if any – heat is on Lincoln Riley here? The Trojans are 14-11 the last two seasons, and Texas A&M poses a challenge with a physical rushing attack led by Marcel Reed and Amari Daniels. Jayden Maiava has a 60.8% completion percentage for the Trojans in three starts. This should be an entertaining game, but if the Trojans' run defense holds up an upset is possible. Pick: Texas A&M wins 26-20 and COVERS the spread. Wasabi Fenway Bowl: North Carolina (-4.5) at UConn Saturday, Dec. 28, 11 a.m.., ESPN Mack Brown will not coach the Tar Heels in the bowl game, which is a bit of a stunner. Omarion Hampton – who led the ACC with 1,660 rushing yards and 15 TDs – has not announced his intentions yet. Those are factors to consider against the Huskies, who had one-score losses to Duke and Syracuse this season. This could be a tight game for the Tar Heels at Fenway Park. Pick: North Carolina wins 25-22 but FAILS TO COVER the spread. Bad Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl: Nebraska (-3.5) vs. Boston College Saturday, Dec. 28, 12 p.m., ABC Nebraska lost five of its last six games but still is back in a bowl game for the first time since the 2016 Music City Bowl. Boston College closed its season with a pair of victories behind quarterback Grayson James. He had a 69.1% completion percentage in victories against Pitt and North Carolina. Both teams will be motivated here under coaches Matt Rhule and Bill O'Brien. The Eagles were 1-3 S/U and 2-2 ATS as an underdog of 10 points or less. Pick: Nebraska wins 27-20 and COVERS the spread. Isleta New Mexico Bowl: TCU (-9.5) vs. Louisiana Saturday, Dec. 28, 2:15 p.m., ESPN The Horned Frogs won three of their last four games with improved play from quarterback Josh Hoover, who averaged 270.8 passing yards per game during that stretch. Louisiana enjoyed a 10-win season under coach Michael Desormeaux before losing in the Sun Belt championship game. The Ragin' Cajuns were 2-1 S/U as an underdog this season, but Sonny Dykes will have the Horned Frogs ready here. Pick: TCU wins 33-16 and COVERS the spread. Pop-Tarts Bowl : No. 13 Miami, Fla. (-1) vs. No. 18 Iowa State Saturday, Dec. 28, 3:30 p.m., ABC Will Miami quarterback Cam Ward play? That would be a huge difference maker for the Hurricanes, who led the FBS with 44.2 points per game. Iowa State allowed 40-plus points in losses to Kansas and Arizona State. The Hurricanes were 2-0 ATS when favored by four points or less, and we look forward to the sequel with the Pop-Tarts mascot. Pick: Miami wins 29-26 and COVERS the spread. Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl: Miami, Ohio (-1.5) vs. Colorado State Saturday, Dec. 28, 3:30 p.m., ABC The RedHawks are coming off a blowout loss in the MAC championship game. The Rams won six of their last seven games – and they committed just seven turnovers in that streak. Colorado State coach Jay Norvell – who is 2-1 in bowl games – leads the Rams to their bowl victory since 2013. Pick: Colorado State wins 23-16 in an UPSET. Go Bowling Military Bowl : NC State (-5) vs. East Carolina Saturday, Dec. 28, 5:45 p.m., ESPN An in-state game with a little history. These schools have split the last six meetings since 2010. NC State allowed 30.5 points per game – which ranked 104th in the FBS. The Pirates were 4-1 under interim coach Blake Harrell after firing Mike Houston. Michigan State transfer Katin Houser (1,859 yards, 18 TDs, 9 INTs) had 15 TDs in East Carolina's last five games. Pick: NC State wins 34-28 and COVERS the spread. Valero Alamo Bowl: No. 23 Colorado (-2.5) vs. No. 17 BYU Saturday, Dec. 28, 7:30 p.m., ABC Deion Sanders reiterated that Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter are going to play in the Valero Alamo Bowl, and we're hoping that starts a trend. These games are better when the star players are on the field. BYU had a plus-nine turnover ratio this season, but Sanders does not turn the ball over. Colorado, meanwhile, had a plus-11 turnover ratio. Sanders and Hunter will showcase their value as top-five picks. Pick: Colorado wins 34-24 and COVERS the spread. Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl: No. 22 Army (-9.5) vs. Marshall Saturday, Dec. 28, 9:15 p.m., ESPN Marshall coach Charles Huff left for the Southern Miss job after leading the Thundering Herd to a Sun Belt championship. Army won the American Athletic Conference, and quarterback Bryson Daily leads the FBS with 29 rushing TDs. Army coach Jeff Monken is 4-1 S/U in bowl games. Marshall was 5-0 ATS as an underdog this season, but the Thundering Herd have lost three of their last four bowl games. Pick: Army wins 28-20 but FAILS TO COVER the spread. Transperfect Music City Bowl: No. 19 Missouri (-2.5) vs. Iowa Monday, Dec. 30, 2:30 p.m. Missouri can get to 10 wins, but they'll have to get through Iowa to do it. Who will opt out for the Tigers? Iowa allowed more than 21 points in only two games this season, and Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz has won four of his last six bowl games. Missouri struggled against the run late in the season. Will Kaleb Johnson play for the Hawkeyes? Pick: Iowa wins 24-21 in an UPSET. Reliaquest Bowl : No. 11 Alabama (-11.5) vs. Michigan Tuesday, Dec. 31, 12 p.m., ESPN This is a rematch of last year's Rose Bowl Classic, and potential opt-outs on both sides will be a major factor, including Jalen Milroe for Alabama and the Michigan interior defense that includes Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant. Alabama was snubbed from the playoff, and Michigan was starved for offense all season around quarterback Davis Warren. This game will not resemble last year's thriller. Pick: Alabama wins 28-19 but FAILS TO COVER the spread. Tony The Tiger Sun Bowl: Louisville (-5) vs. Washington Tuesday, Dec. 31, 12 p.m., ESPN Louisville closed the season with blowout victories against Pitt and Kentucky, and Jeff Brohm can earn his first bowl victory as a coach at his alma mater. Washington ranked 110th in the FBS with 22.5 points per game. They might have trouble keeping up with the Cardinals if this turns into a shootout. Freshman running back Isaac Brown (1,074 yards, 11 TDs) averages 7.3 yards per carry for the Cardinals. Pick: Louisville wins 34-23 and COVERS the spread. Cheez-It Citrus Bowl: No. 15 South Carolina (-11.5) vs. No. 20 Illinois Tuesday, Dec. 31, 3 p.m., ABC South Carolina was arguably the hottest team at the end of the season – and LaNorris Sellers could garner some early Heisman Trophy hype with an impressive performance here. Illinois' three-loss resume isn't bad either, however, and Illinois had just 12 turnovers all season. Bret Bielema can get to a 10th victory, too. This will be a close game. Pick: South Carolina wins 24-20 but FAILS TO COVER the spread. Texas Bowl : LSU (-3) vs. Baylor Tuesday, Dec. 31, 3:30 p.m., ESPN Baylor won its last six games under coach Dave Aranda, a former LSU defensive coordinator. That is an added wrinkle to a matchup against the Tigers, who also won eight games in Brian Kelly's third season. It's a close-to-home game for the Bears. LSU was 1-3 S/U in games where the spread was three points or less on either side. Will they show up motivated here? Pick: LSU wins 31-26 and COVERS the spread. Taxslayer Gator Bowl : No. 14 Ole Miss (-12) vs. Duke Thursday, Jan. 2, 7:30 p.m. ESPN Opt outs will be a factor here if Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart does not play. Duke was 5-2 ATS as an underdog and 1-2 ATS as a double-digit underdog this season. Maalik Murphy led the ACC with 12 interceptions. He will have to avoid turnovers against the Rebels. Duke will be motivated, but the Rebels will pull through for Lane Kiffin's third bowl victory after a perceived playoff snub. Pick: Ole Miss wins 34-19 and COVERS the spread. ServPro First Responder Bowl: Texas State (-7.5) vs. North Texas Friday, Jan. 3, 4 p.m., ESPN North Texas quarterback Chandler Morris ranked second in the FBS with 509 passing attempts. Texas State quarterback Jordan McCloud led the Sun Belt with 29 TD passes. This might be the highest-scoring game of bowl season. The Mean Green lost one-score shootouts with Memphis and Tulane this season. Pick: Texas State wins 41-34 but FAILS TO COVER the spread. Duke's Mayo Bowl: Minnesota (-4.5) vs. Virginia Tech Friday, Jan. 3, 7:30 p.m., ESPN Minnesota lost four of its five games by a touchdown or less. Virginia Tech had five one-score losses. Which team can make the plays in a close game? Bhayshul Tuten (1,159 yards, 15 TDs) led the ACC in rushing TDs. How much success does he have against the Gophers – who allowed just 112.6 rushing yards per game. Minnesota is 5-0 S/U in bowl games under P.J. Fleck. He gets the mayo bath. Pick: Minnesota wins 30-21 and COVERS the spread. MORE: Explaining the Duke's Mayo Bowl dump tradition Bahamas Bowl: Liberty (-2.5) vs. Buffalo Saturday, Jan. 4, 11 a.m., ESPN2 Liberty quarterback Kaidon Salter – who had 47 TD passes and 12 interceptions – is in the transfer portal. The Flames would be heavier favorites against Buffalo if he were still with the program. Ryan Burger – an Appalachian State transfer – would get the start in his place against the Bulls, who closed the season on a four-game win streak under first-year coach Pete Lembo. Pick: Buffalo wins 24-19 in an UPSET. College Football Playoff predictions (first round) First-round game: No. 10 Indiana at No. 7 Notre Dame (-7.5) Friday, Dec. 20, 8 p.m., ABC An in-state battle kicks off the College Football Playoff. Indiana allowed 2.5 yards per carry this season, and that run defense will be tested by the Irish trio of Riley Leonard (721 yards, 5.8 ypc.), Jeremiyah Love (949 yards, 7.1 ypc.) and Jadarian Price (651, 7.3 ypc.). Kurtis Rourke will test an opportunistic Notre Dame secondary, and the Hoosiers will need the running game to be in order, too. It's been a dream season for Indiana coach Curt Cignetti. Will it continue against the Irish? Notre Dame covered in each of its last seven games, but this one stays tighter. Pick: Notre Dame wins 28-24 but FAILS TO COVER the spread. First-round game: No. 11 SMU at No. 6 Penn State (-8.5) Saturday, Dec. 21, 12 p.m., TNT SMU is in the playoff, and the chance to prove that worth against Penn State is there. The Mustangs will look to pick up the tempo against a Nittany Lions' defense led by Abdul Carter, who had 10 sacks and 20 tackles for loss this season. The Mustangs allowed 74.7 rushing yards per game in their last three games. Will that run defense hold up against the tag-team of Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton? That will decide whether SMU can pull the upset at Beaver Stadium. Penn State is 2-1 ATS when favored by 10 points or less this season. Pick: Penn State wins 31-20 and COVERS the spread. First-round game: No. 12 Clemson at No. 5 Texas (-11) Saturday, Dec. 21, 4 p.m., TNT Could Cade Klubnik – an Austin, Texas native – lead the Tigers to a first-round upset in Austin? He will need the support of a running game against a Texas defense that allows just 3.1 yards per carry. Quinn Ewers had 14 TDs and three interceptions at home this season. The Longhorns are 0-2 when he has a completion percentage of less than 60%, and he will have to be careful against a Clemson defense that created 12 turnovers in its last five games. Pick: Texas wins 30-17 and COVERS the spread. First-round game: No. 9 Tennessee at No. 8 Ohio State (-7.5) Saturday, Dec. 21, 8 p.m., ABC The Buckeyes are heavy favorites at home despite the 13-10 loss to Michigan in the regular-season finale. It's a curious line knowing Tennessee has a top-10 scoring offense and a top-10 scoring defense. Running back Dylan Sampson led the SEC with 1,485 rushing yards and 22 TDs. How will Nico Iamaleava handle the hostile environment at Ohio Stadium? He had a 135.5 passer rating on the road this season. On the other side, Will Howard needs to bounce back after a rough game against the Wolverines. How does a SEC team respond to the cold in December? We cannot wait to find out. Pick: Ohio State wins 23-17 but FAILS TO COVER the spread. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. Learn more >As Christmas approaches, it’s time to think of what gifts you’d like to buy for your loved ones. For investors, there is no greater gift than being able to pass your stocks down to your children or next-of-kin. These shares will form part of the legacy you leave behind to help the next generation to continue to build and grow their wealth. However, you need to carefully curate the stocks that you plan to bequeath to your loved ones as only strong and reliable businesses should qualify. Blue-chip stocks are the best candidates as they exhibit robust business models and have been through good times and bad. Here are four blue-chip stocks that you should feel at ease passing down to your children. DBS Group is Singapore’s largest bank by market capitalisation and forms one of the pillars of Singapore’s economy. The lender is an important cog that helps to grease the wheels of commerce as it extends loans, provides insurance, and assists with investments. Investors should also feel assured by DBS’s strength as Temasek Holdings owns 29% of the bank (as of 7 February 2024). DBS released an impressive set of earnings for the first nine months of 2024 (9M 2024). Total income increased by 11% year on year to S$16.8 billion on the back of a 5% year-on-year increase in net interest income to S$11.2 billion. Fee and commission income also jumped 27% year on year to S$3.2 billion on increased credit card spending and higher wealth management fees. Net profit for the lender stood at S$8.8 billion for 9M 2024, up 12% year on year. DBS also paid out a total dividend of S$1.62 for 9M 2024, 28.6% higher than the S$1.26 per share that was paid in the prior year. Looking ahead, DBS’s annualised dividend stands at S$2.16 (i.e. S$0.54 quarterly dividend). CEO Piyush Gupta remained sanguine on 2025 and expects DBS to report a pre-tax profit at around 2024 levels. With interest rates poised to remain higher for longer, the bank should benefit from this prolonged elevated interest rate environment. Singapore Exchange Limited, or SGX, is Singapore’s sole stock exchange operator. The group enjoys a natural monopoly by being the only bourse operator here. SGX reported a resilient set of earnings for its fiscal 2024 (FY2024) ending 30 June 2024. Revenue increased by 3.1% year on year to S$1.2 billion while net profit (excluding exceptional items) improved by 4.5% year on year to S$525.9 million. The bourse operator also upped its quarterly dividend from S$0.085 to S$0.09, taking its annualised dividend to S$0.36. Over the years, SGX’s multi-asset strategy has helped to grow and diversify its revenue stream. Management sees good prospects in growing its foreign exchange franchise along with its commodity slate of products. SGX’s aim is to grow its revenue by between 6% to 8% per annum in the medium term. Singtel is Singapore’s largest telecommunication company and offers a broad range of services such as mobile and broadband for individuals and cybersecurity and ICT services for corporations. The telco has demonstrated better overall numbers since it initiated its strategic reset back in 2021. Its core dividend (comprising an interim and final dividend) has been increasing since fiscal 2021 (FY2021) ending 31 March. It went from S$0.075 in FY2021 to S$0.15 in FY2024 but FY2024’s total dividend included a value realisation dividend (VRD) of S$0.038. The VRD is an additional component of Singtel’s core dividend policy derived from the proceeds of capital recycling and will be between S$0.03 to S$0.06 annually. For the first half of fiscal 2025 (1H FY2025), Singtel reported a strong set of earnings with operating profit climbing 27% year on year to S$738 million, led by both Optus and NCS. The telco’s underlying net profit was up 6% year on year to S$1.2 billion. Singtel declared a total interim dividend of S$0.07 comprising a core dividend of S$0.056 and a VRD of S$0.014. This dividend was 35% higher than the S$0.052 paid out a year ago. As part of the group’s ST28 long-term strategy, it will simplify product offerings and innovate with new technologies such as network slicing. It will also develop new revenue streams in the areas of artificial intelligence and data centres. Singapore Airlines Limited, or SIA, is Singapore’s flagship airline. The carrier is 53.6% owned by Temasek Holdings which should give investors peace of mind. The airline is well-positioned for the future with good partnerships and code-sharing with other airlines. The group is also building a multi-hub model and embracing digital capabilities. SIA reported a downbeat set of earnings for 1H FY2025 due to intensifying competition and higher fuel prices. Although revenue inched up 3.7% year on year to S$9.5 billion, net profit plunged 48.5% year on year to S$742 million. Despite this, the airline maintained its interim dividend of S$0.10 per share. SIA continues to invest for the future with its recent S$1.1 billion commitment to install new long-haul cabin products in 41 of its Airbus A350-900 aircraft. This program should be completed by the end of 2030 and allow greater personalisation and a wider range of entertainment options for the upgraded KrisWorld in-flight entertainment system. The airline’s KrisFlyer membership also grew to 9.44 million as of 30 September 2024, up 21.5% year on year and is now more than double the pre-pandemic number (4.4 million). Looking to create a lifelong income stream? Check out our report, ‘7 Singapore Blue-Chip Stocks That Can Pay You for Life.’ We uncover a powerful lineup of dividend-paying stocks with the reliability and growth potential you need in today’s market. Don’t miss out on these dependable picks. Download your copy now and start building a secure financial future! Follow us on Facebook and Telegram for the latest investing news and analyses! Disclosure: Royston Yang owns shares of DBS Group and Singapore Exchange Limited. The post 4 Dependable Singapore Blue-Chip Stocks That You Can Pass Down to Your Children appeared first on The Smart Investor .
Jetliner skids off runway and bursts into flames while landing in South Korea, killing 179 SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — A jetliner skidded off a runway, slammed into a concrete fence and burst into flames in South Korea after its landing gear apparently failed to deploy. Officials said all but two of the 181 people on board were killed Sunday in one of the country’s worst aviation disasters. The 737-800 operated by Jeju Air plane arrived from Bangkok and crashed while attempting to land in the town of Muan, about 290 kilometers (180 miles) south of Seoul. Footage of the crash aired by South Korean television channels showed the plane skidding across the airstrip at high speed, evidently with its landing gear still closed. Tornadoes in Texas and Mississippi kill 2 and injure 6 as severe weather system moves east HOUSTON (AP) — A strong storm system is threatening to whip up tornadoes in parts of the U.S. Southeast, a day after severe weather claimed at least two lives as twisters touched down in Texas and Mississippi. Strong storms moving eastward Sunday are expected to continue producing gusty, damaging winds, hail and tornadoes through Sunday. That is according to National Weather Service meteorologist Frank Pereira. So far, the line of severe weather has led to about 40 tornado reports from southeastern Texas to Alabama, Pereira said, but those reports remain unconfirmed until surveys of damage are completed. Israeli hospital says Netanyahu has undergone successful prostate surgery TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — An Israeli hospital says Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has undergone successful prostate surgery. Jerusalem’s Hadassah Medical Center said his prostate was removed late Sunday and that he was recovering. Netanyahu’s office had said Justice Minister Yariv Levin, a close ally, would serve as acting prime minister during the procedure. Doctors ordered the operation after detecting an infection last week. Netanyahu is expected to remain hospitalized for several days. Syria's de facto leader says it could take up to 4 years to hold elections BEIRUT (AP) — Syria’s de facto leader has said it could take up to four years to hold elections in Syria, and that he plans on dissolving his Islamist group that led the country’s insurgency at an anticipated national dialogue summit for the country. Ahmad al-Sharaa, who leads Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the group leading the new authority in Syria, made the remarks in an interview Sunday. That's according to the Saudi television network Al-Arabiyya. It comes almost a month after a lightning insurgency led by HTS overthrew President Bashar Assad’s decades-long rule, ending the country’s uprising-turned civil war that started back in 2011. A fourth infant dies of the winter cold in Gaza as families share blankets in seaside tents DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — A fourth infant has died of hypothermia in Gaza, where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians displaced by nearly 15 months of war are huddled in tents along the rainy, windswept coast as winter arrives. The baby's father says the 20-day-old child was found with his head as “cold as ice” Sunday morning in their tent. The baby’s twin brother was moved to the intensive care unit of Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital. Their father says the twins were born one month premature and spent just a day in hospital, which like other Gaza health centers has been overwhelmed and only partially functions. Musk causes uproar for backing Germany's far-right party ahead of key elections BERLIN (AP) — Tech entrepreneur Elon Musk has caused uproar after backing Germany’s far-right party in a major newspaper ahead of key parliamentary elections in the Western European country, leading to the resignation of the paper’s opinion editor in protest. Germany is to vote in an early election on Feb. 23 after Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s three-party governing coalition collapsed last month in a dispute over how to revitalize the country’s stagnant economy. Musk’s guest opinion piece for Welt am Sonntag, published in German over the weekend, was the second time this month he supported the Alternative for Germany, or AfD. 2024 was a year of triumphs and setbacks for Russian leader Vladimir Putin. Here's how it unfolded The year 2024 saw President Vladimir Putin further cement his power as he sought to counter Russia's isolation over the war in Ukraine. He won a fifth term that will keep him in office until 2030 following an election with only token opposition. He tightened a political crackdown on Russian society, and his top opponent, Alexei Navalny, died in prison under still unknown circumstances. But gunmen massacred scores of people in a Moscow concert hall, and a bomb killed a top general in attacks that underscored security flaws. Ukrainian forces swept into the Russian region of Kursk, Putin boasted about a lethal new hypersonic missile, and a new Trump administration raised concerns about continued U.S. support for Ukraine. Azerbaijan's president says crashed jetliner was shot down by Russia unintentionally Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev says the Azerbaijani airliner that crashed last week was shot down by Russia, albeit unintentionally. Aliyev told Azerbaijani state television on Sunday that the aircraft was hit by fire from the ground over Russia and rendered uncontrollable by electronic warfare. He accused Russia of trying to “hush up” the issue for several days. The crash on Wednesday killed 38 of 67 people on board. Russian President Vladimir Putin apologized to Aliyev on Saturday for what he called a “tragic incident” but stopped short of acknowledging Moscow’s responsibility. Russian man arrested for allegedly running LGBTQ+ travel agency found dead in custody A Russian man arrested for allegedly running a travel agency for gay customers has been found dead in custody in Moscow. That's according to independent news outlet Mediazona on Sunday. According to OVD-Info, Andrei Kotov of the Men Travel agency was in pretrial detention facing extremism charges. An investigator told Kotov’s lawyer that her client had died by suicide and was found dead in his cell. Just over a year ago, Russia’s Supreme Court effectively outlawed any LGBTQ+ activism in a ruling that designated “the international LGBT movement” as extremist. The move exposed anyone in the community or connected to it to criminal prosecution and prison. LeBron James at 40: A milestone birthday arrives Monday for the NBA's all-time scoring leader When LeBron James broke another NBA record earlier this month, the one for most regular-season minutes played in a career, his Los Angeles Lakers teammates handled the moment in typical locker room fashion. They made fun of him. Dubbed The Kid from Akron, with a limitless future, James is now the 40-year-old from Los Angeles with wisps of gray in his beard, his milestone birthday coming Monday, one that will make him the first player in NBA history to play in his teens, 20s, 30s and 40s. He has stood and excelled in the spotlight his entire career.
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SA News Don't miss out on the headlines from SA News. Followed categories will be added to My News. Hayden Patterson is upbeat, his dogs are relaxed and playful, and all six of them are about to be on the move. After seven years, Mr Patterson, 49, and his five dogs are finally getting their own place. “I can’t really believe it,” he said. Mr Patterson has taken up an offer from the SA Housing Trust to move into a three-bedroom house with a back yard near the river at Murray Bridge. “It hasn’t sunk in yet. I don’t believe it yet. I won’t have to be constantly worried about every situation and about how my dogs will react to where I take them.” When the Advertiser first met a then tired and teary Mr Patterson in late October as he was moving out a share house that was getting demolished, he said he feared his homelessness would cut his life short. Hayden Patterson is nervous but mostly excited about his move to his own place in Murray Bridge. Pic: Brenton Edwards Along with bipolar 1, he also has epilepsy and is HIV positive. He was unable to find a rental or a share-house. He had a car to live in, but then he crashed it. After crashing his car, Mr Patterson said he spent his daylight hours in a dark storage room at Kennards Self Storage in Thebarton with no electricity . The facility closed at 6pm with Mr Patterson and his dogs forced to roam the streets until it reopened at 7am. He said that Kennards evetually told him that he could not stay for “extended hours” on the property, especially not with what were then eight dogs (one dog had three puppies which have since been sold). “Since then I’ve been staying in parks (in a tent). I stay awake all night and sleep during the day when its safer,” he said. This has led to Mr Patterson being sleep-deprived since he moved out of Kennards earlier this month. A happy man makes for happy dogs 30.Picture: Brenton Edwards “The main thing about sleeping in a tent is that it’s very hot. I wake up sweating, the shade moves around and you feel these hot breezes come right through your bed,” he said. Now he will have a three- bedroom house, a yard and the Murray River nearby. He said he was looking forward to some rest and getting long-awaited dental work. “I mean look at me, I look like a homeless person,” Mr Patterson joked. “I am a bit worried about taking on the responsibility for this house – I guess I’m mostly excited though. I have been walking around with a smile on my face.” A long-time volunteer with the South Australian Council of Social Services, he said there might be a bit of a vacuum in his life after spending so long “running on adrenaline finding somewhere to live.” He said he hoped to find some social welfare agencies in Murray Bridge where he could use his knowledge and experience to help others. More Coverage Why this Lifeline counsellor gives ‘new hope’ to the Xmas’ lonely Luke Williams Twins sleeping rough score home run, but trouble still not over Luke Williams Originally published as Hayden Patterson and his five dogs finally find a home in Murray Bridge Join the conversation Add your comment to this story To join the conversation, please log in. Don't have an account? Register Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout More related stories SA News Sunny or raining? Your New Year weather forecast It’s just days away, so what will the New Year weather look like across South Australia? Read more SA News Road train wreaks havoc after colliding into cars A road train driver has been arrested after he hit two cars and several posts in Adelaide’s north overnight. Read more
NEW YORK , Dec. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- S&P Dow Jones Indices ("S&P DJI") is clarifying the float-adjusted liquidity ratio (FALR) eligibility criteria used in the S&P U.S. Indices and Dow Jones U.S. Total Stock Market Indices Methodologies. No constituent changes for any U.S. companies currently in the S&P Composite 1500 indices or Dow Jones U.S. Total Stock Market indices will occur, as this simply clarifies and provides more transparency to the existing FALR rule. Current Updated A float-adjusted liquidity ratio (FALR), defined as the annual dollar value traded divided by the float-adjusted market capitalization (FMC), is used to measure liquidity. Using composite pricing and U.S. consolidated volume (excluding dark pools), annual dollar value traded is defined as the average closing price multiplied by the historical volume over the 365 calendar days prior to the evaluation date. A float-adjusted liquidity ratio (FALR), defined as the annual dollar value traded divided by the float-adjusted market capitalization (FMC), is used to measure liquidity. Using composite pricing and all publicly reported U.S. consolidated volume (excluding dark pools) , annual dollar value traded is defined as the average closing price multiplied by the historical volume over the 365 calendar days prior to the evaluation date. The below excerpt is the full U.S. Liquidity criteria language, including the clarification: Liquidity. A float-adjusted liquidity ratio (FALR), defined as the annual dollar value traded divided by the float-adjusted market capitalization (FMC), is used to measure liquidity. Using composite pricing and all publicly reported U.S. consolidated volume, annual dollar value traded is defined as the average closing price multiplied by the historical volume over the 365 calendar days prior to the evaluation date. This is reduced to the available trading period for IPOs, spin-offs or public companies considered to be U.S. domiciled for index purposes that do not have 365 calendar days of trading history on a U.S. exchange. In these cases, the dollar value traded available as of the evaluation date is annualized. Eligibility differs depending on the index: IMPACTED INDICES Index Name Index Codes S&P Composite 1500 Index 1500 S&P 500 500 S&P 400 400 S&P 600 600 Dow Jones U.S. Total Stock Market Index DWCF IMPLEMENTATION TIMING The clarification is effective today, Monday, December 9, 2024 . Please note that the S&P U.S. Indices Methodology and Dow Jones U.S. Total Stock Market Indices Methodology on S&P DJI's website are updated with the clarified language. For more information about S&P Dow Jones Indices, please visit www.spglobal.com/spdji . ABOUT S&P DOW JONES INDICES S&P Dow Jones Indices is the largest global resource for essential index-based concepts, data and research, and home to iconic financial market indicators, such as the S&P 500® and the Dow Jones Industrial Average®. More assets are invested in products based on our indices than products based on indices from any other provider in the world. Since Charles Dow invented the first index in 1884, S&P DJI has been innovating and developing indices across the spectrum of asset classes helping to define the way investors measure and trade the markets. S&P Dow Jones Indices is a division of S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI), which provides essential intelligence for individuals, companies, and governments to make decisions with confidence. For more information, visit www.spglobal.com/spdji . FOR MORE INFORMATION: S&P Dow Jones Indices index_services@spglobal.com Media Inquiries spdji.comms@spglobal.com View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sp-dow-jones-indices-float-adjusted-liquidity-ratio-clarification-for-certain-us-indices-302326759.html SOURCE S&P Dow Jones Indices
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SINGAPORE: A man shared on social media that his girlfriend got mad at him after he refused to lend money to her sister. Posting anonymously on the NUSWhispers Facebook page, he explained that his girlfriend’s sister had been repeatedly borrowing money from him because he was “doing better financially.” While the sister always managed to pay him back, he started feeling uncomfortable with the constant requests and believed there should be limits. “I am under no obligation to lend,” he said. The situation became even more complicated when, after experiencing a disruption in his income stream, the sister approached him again for another loan. The sister promised to pay him back in six months in installments and even offered him $100 as a token of appreciation for his help. However, the man decided to put his foot down and politely declined her request. “Not long after, my girlfriend told me that her sister was very unhappy that I rejected her request and cursed me for that,” he said. “My girlfriend seemed to laugh about it. Her sister cursed me to be unlucky etc like genuinely hoping for my misfortune. I am quite surprised considering I have helped them several times in the past.” The incident ultimately made him realize that he needed to re-evaluate the relationship. The lack of support from his girlfriend, combined with the disrespectful behavior of her sister, left him feeling frustrated and uncertain about the future of their relationship. “I’m now just thinking of a suitable time to break it to them,” he wrote. “It’s best to break up, or you won’t have a peaceful life.” In the comments section, many netizens agreed with the man’s decision, saying he was right to put his foot down since his girlfriend’s sister had been taking advantage of his generosity. They also pointed out that the girlfriend laughing about the whole situation made it seem like she wasn’t taking his feelings seriously or respecting his boundaries. One netizen said, “They already treated you this way when you’re not married. They have taken you for granted. It’s best to break up, or you won’t have a peaceful life if you choose to be with her. She should be on your side.” Another commented, “So true. If your gf has siblings/parents that you can’t get along with, it’s best to reconsider your relationship with her. Saves you a lot of future problems. Good luck.” A few others felt he shouldn’t have lent the sister money at all, as it might have given her the impression it was okay to keep asking for more. One netizen suggested, “If someone close really needs help, just give them a small sum and don’t expect to get it back.” In other news, a man took to social media earlier this year to share that he’s been having the same dilemma with his best friend. In his post, he explained that his bestfriend has been treating him like an ‘ATM machine,’ as he’s been constantly borrowing money from him without fully returning it. Tired of this set-up, the man sought advice from Singaporeans online, asking, “How do I force my friend to return my money?” Read more: My friend treats me like I’m his ATM machine: ‘How do I force him to return my money?’ Featured image by Depositphotos (for illustration purposes only)The recent appointment of David Sacks as the “White House A.I. and Crypto Czar” by President-elect Donald Trump has sparked a new chapter in the ongoing rivalry between billionaire Elon Musk and Sam Altman , head of OpenAI. What Happened : On Friday, Musk took a swipe at Altman after the OpenAI chief congratulated Sacks on his new role. Sacks, a venture capitalist and podcaster, has a history of collaboration with Musk, having worked with him at PayPal and invested in several of Musk’s ventures, including SpaceX , X (formerly known as Twitter), and xAI . His appointment is seen as a testament to Musk’s influence in the incoming administration. Altman has previously accused Musk of using his political influence to disadvantage competitors and promote his own businesses. Musk’s response to Altman’s congratulatory message to Sacks was a simple laughing emoji on X, further stoking their rivalry. 😂 Despite launching his own AI chat platform, Glue, Sacks asserts that his new role does not present a conflict of interest. His venture capital firm, Craft Ventures , has stated that his advisory role does not necessitate his departure from Craft. Also Read: Musk Goes To Court To Block OpenAI’s For-Profit Transition Trump announced Sacks’ appointment on his Truth Social account, lauding his knowledge, business acumen, intelligence, and pragmatism in the realms of AI and cryptocurrency. Why It Matters : The appointment of Sacks, a long-time ally of Musk, to a key role in the Trump administration could potentially tilt the balance of power in the AI and crypto sectors. This development is likely to intensify the rivalry between Musk and Altman, as both continue to vie for influence in these rapidly evolving fields. Read Next Elon Musk Is Feuding With Sam Altman In A Major Lawsuit Over OpenAI — And One Appears To Already Have The Upper Hand This content was partially produced with the help of Benzinga Neuro and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.Bathinda: On the seventh day of his religious punishment , Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Singh Badal performed “sewa” (service) at Takht Damdama Sahib at Talwandi Sabo town of Bathinda district on Monday. Sukhbir sat outside as a security guard while wearing a blue robe and holding a spear in his hands. He later washed utensils. Five high priests led by Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh had read out punishment to Sukhbir and others on Dec 2. Sukhbir performed “sewa” at Darbar Sahib, Amritsar, on Dec 3-4, at Takht Keshgarh Sahib Anandpur Sahib, on Dec 5-6, at Fatehgarh Sahib on Dec 7-8. He would perform “sewa” at Takht Damdama Sahib on Tuesday as well. tnn We also published the following articles recently Sukhbir Singh Badal performs religious sewa at Takhat Damdama Sahib in Bathinda Sukhbir Singh Badal, president of Shiromani Akali Dal, is currently serving a religious punishment. On Monday, the seventh day, he performed 'sewa' at Takhat Damdama Sahib. This follows similar service at other Sikh shrines. Badal was declared 'Tankhaiya' by Akal Takhat for acts committed during his party's rule. On sixth day of penance, Sukhbir Badal performs 'sewa' in Fatehgarh Sahib Sukhbir Singh Badal, a prominent Akali leader, continued his religious penance at Fatehgarh Sahib gurdwara, performing 'sewadar' duties like serving the community and washing dishes. This follows a religious punishment for alleged misconduct during his time as deputy chief minister. Despite Z+ security, including after a recent assassination attempt, Badal fulfilled his duties. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa performs sewa at Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib; says well accept Sukhbir if elected again Former MP Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa carried out religious services at Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib following a directive from Sri Akal Takht Sahib. He condemned the recent gunfire incident at Darbar Sahib, Amritsar, citing concerns about Punjab's law and order. Dhindsa affirmed acceptance of the party's elected president, including Sukhbir Badal, emphasizing the need for Akali Dal unity and generational transition. Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India . Don't miss daily games like Crossword , Sudoku , and Mini Crossword .ITV I'm a Celebrity's Coleen Rooney 'done Scousers so proud' as celebrities share message ahead of final