AP News Summary at 1:45 p.m. EST
The price of bitcoin surpassed $100,000 for the first time on Wednesday, soaring to a fresh high as the world's largest cryptocurrency extended a rally set off by the election of former President Donald Trump. Bitcoin has climbed more than 40% since Election Day, when voters opted for a candidate viewed as friendly toward digital currency. Those gains have far outpaced the stock market. The S &P 500 has increased about 2.4% over that period, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq has jumped 2.6%. On the campaign trail, Trump vowed to bolster the cryptocurrency sector and ease regulations enforced by the Biden administration. Trump also promised to establish the federal government's first National Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. Trump said he would replace Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Gary Gensler, whom many crypto proponents dislike for what they perceive as a robust approach to crypto regulation. Gensler announced that he plans to resign on Jan. 20, 2025, the date of Trump's inauguration. The post-election euphoria has lifted other parts of the crypto sector. Ethereum, the second-largest cryptocurrency, has climbed 27%. Lesser-known dogecoin has skyrocketed about 140%, while litecoin has surged 35%. Shares of Coinbase, a top crypto trading platform, have increased more than 70% since Trump's reelection. The growth in recent weeks extends a remarkable turnabout for the once-beleaguered crypto industry. The sector entered this year bruised after a series of high-profile collapses and company scandals. FTX, a multibillion-dollar cryptocurrency exchange co-founded by Sam Bankman-Fried, collapsed in November 2022. The implosion set off a 17-month legal saga that resulted in the conviction of Bankman-Fried for fraud. In April, Bankman-Fried was sentenced to 25 years in prison. Changpeng Zhao, the founder and former CEO of major cryptocurrency exchange Binance, was sentenced to four months in prison in April after pleading guilty to charges that his platform had enabled illicit financial activity. The reelection of Trump marks the latest in a series of positive developments that have buoyed cryptocurrency this year. Those gains have been propelled, in part, by U.S. approval in January of bitcoin ETFs, or exchange-traded funds. Bitcoin ETFs allow investors to buy into an asset that tracks the price movement of bitcoin, while avoiding the inconvenience and risk of purchasing the crypto coin itself. Last month, options on BlackRock's popular iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (IBIT) were made available for trading on the Nasdaq. The options, which provide a new avenue for bitcoin investors, allow individuals to commit to buy or sell the ETF at a given price by a specific date. While such investments typically come with additional risk, they can also make large payouts. IBIT inched upward 1% on Friday, reaching a record high of about $56. Bryan Armour, the director of passive strategies research at financial firm Morningstar, attributed the recent crypto surge to investors' anticipation of friendly policy under Trump, as well as the newly available options trading for bitcoin ETFs. Still, the performance of cryptocurrencies, including bitcoin, has proven volatile, Armour added. The price of bitcoin could fall, especially if Trump encounters difficulty following through on his campaign commitments, he said. "As long as the narrative stays positive, there's always room to grow," Armour told ABC News before bitcoin reached $100,000. "I also think campaign promises don't always come to fruition." "It's still a highly volatile asset," Armour added.
Get ready to singalong from your sofa: Wicked is set to be released on streaming services next week, signficantly earlier than had been expected. The hit musical starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande will be available to buy in the US on Amazon Prime, Apple TV+ and other digital platforms from next Tuesday, December 31. It will become available in the UK a few days later on Friday, January 3. The film will be a premium digital release, set to cost $29.99 in the US and £19.99 in the UK. A physical release on 4K UHD, Blu-ray and DVD is expected to follow on February 4, 2025. Directed by Jon M. Chu , Wicked tells the heartwarming story of two young witches as they navigate their way through university and learn about true friendship. Later known as the Wicked Witch of The West, Elphaba ( Cynthia Erivo ), is a green-hued extraordinary witch who faces many obstacles because of her differentness, and forms an bond with Glinda ( Ariana Grande ), who is the opposite of Elphaba in most ways – popular, loved and blonde. The film features songs from the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical, and stars Ethan Slater, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, Peter Dinklage, Bowen Yang, and Marissa Bode alongside Erivo, Grande and Bailey. With a run time of just under three hours, the 2024 film is just the first part of the whole story, with the second and final instalment, Wicked: For Good , set to hit cinemas on November 21, 2025. Earlier this week, Oscar-nominated Don’t Look Up director Adam McKay said he wouldn’t be surprised to see Wicked banned in America given the country’s current political trajectory. McKay made the bold claim on X/Twitter on Monday (December 23), calling the film “one of the most radical big studio Hollywood movies ever made.” “I know Part 2 swings back to the center a bit,” he said, “but Part 1 is nakedly about radicalization in the face of careerism, fascism, propaganda.” Responding to a surprised commenter who said they hadn’t seen Wicked yet because they thought it looked more like “American fantasy, franchise-wringing and CGI fare,” McKay said: “I think you’ll be shocked. If America keeps going on the track it is I wouldn’t be surprised to see the movie banned in 3-5 years.” He went on to compare Wicked to a handful of 20th-century classics, including The Sound of Music , Citizen Kane , Bridge on the River Kwai and The Searchers , as well as newer fare such as The Hunger Games , which he labeled “incredibly left wing.”Ksenia Prints The holidays are often about indulgence – relaxed time with loved ones, good food and delicious beverages. If you are looking for indulgence without alcohol this year, mocktails are a tasty and festive way to drink soberly. Here’s how to plan and prepare festive non-alcoholic or NA drinks for the holidays. Sipping a creative mocktail is a great way to enjoy some festive cheer, whether for a Christmas party or a quiet night during a busy holiday season. Mocktails will be the drink of choice this year at many holiday gatherings. With drinks that taste great, look festive and let you have a chug without the challenges of alcohol, mocktails are the perfect way to liven up the season. Why mocktails will be on trend this winter Alcohol has traditionally been a part of the holiday season. Drinking at parties, enjoying a glass of wine at a dinner, giving gifts of wine or spirits and seasonal drinks have made alcohol a quintessential part of the holidays for some. But it isn’t for everyone. More and more people are avoiding alcohol entirely or cutting back. Lifestyle changes or health concerns inspire some to go sober. Others are simply curious or looking to support sober family and friends. Particularly during the holidays, limiting alcohol can prevent overindulgence and help you stay fully present for holiday memories. Mocktails – mixed drinks made without alcohol – are the perfect answer for those embracing sobriety at this time of year. Non-alcoholic alternatives have been growing in popularity in recent years. The market for non-alcoholic beverages increased by 33% last year, topping out at over $300 million, according to Greenbook . As people embrace NA beers, wine and spirits, mocktails have become more creative and the options more varied. Mocktails have fun and festive ingredients without using any liquor, making them a delicious addition to any holiday drink menu. They are also a great way to experiment with seasonal flavors and mixology in a way everyone can partake of. Essential ingredients and tools for holiday mocktails Stock your bar with the essentials as you plan a holiday mocktail menu. Your favorite ingredients and flavors are a great place to start. From there, you can add traditional winter flavors and garnishes or use the holidays to experiment with new flavors. Zero-proof spirits and non-alcoholic basics The base of your mocktails will likely be a non-alcoholic spirit or other cocktail basics. The number of NA spirits has exploded in recent years and you will find non-alcoholic gin, whiskey, vodka, tequila and more. Botanical spirits also bring unique flavors that can mix well with winter ingredients. You may also want to stock up on sparkling water, ginger beer, simple syrup, kombucha and other mixers. You can purchase them or make your own. Infused simple syrup is easy to make and adds seasonal flavors to mocktails. Seasonal flavors For winter flavors, you can’t go wrong with seasonal fruits or warm spices. Apple, citrus, pumpkin, cranberry and pomegranate are bright and sweet for holiday mocktails. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and clove are more savory and comforting. Having a variety on hand will let you make different kinds of mocktails. Garnishes for a festive presentation For restaurant-quality mocktails, finish your drinks off with a beautiful garnish. Cinnamon sugar rims, rosemary sprigs, citrus peels and candy canes are cute and festive. Shaped ice cubes or adding garnishes like cranberries before freezing are a nice touch. Tools for exceptional mocktails With any mixology, having the right tools will improve the experience of preparing and serving drinks. A cocktail shaker is a must, while a long-handled bar spoon, jigger, strainer, juicer and muddler will be helpful depending on the types of drinks you’ll be making. The right glassware will also elevate your mocktails. Fancy glassware makes mocktails more fun. If you will be drinking hot drinks, festive mugs are a great way to serve them. Winter-inspired mocktail recipes for your holiday season This year, explore non-alcoholic versions of classic drinks and try inventive new mocktails highlighting seasonal flavor. All of your favorite drinks can be made with NA spirits. Hot drinks like mulled wine or a hot toddy are warming on cold nights. For a party, try an orange cranberry sangria mocktail . For new mocktails, lean on seasonal flavors like cranberry or blood orange. A Christmas gin mocktail brings both together with NA gin for a beautiful ruby drink that will put you instantly in the Christmas spirit. Hosting a festive gathering with sober options If you are hosting any holiday parties this year, adding some non-alcoholic options to your cooler or bar cart will help make all of your guests feel included. Start by stocking up on NA spirits, wine and beers. Also get the ingredients for your favorite mocktails, such as sparkling water, simple syrup and festive flavors and garnishes. You can also prepare a menu of themed mocktails. This is an exciting way for guests to choose their drinks and can help sober-curious guests explore NA options. Pick flavors that will complement any food you serve to create the perfect menu. A mix of sweet, savory and refreshing drinks ensures you have something for every taste. For a more interactive experience, set up a mocktail bar and let guests mix their own drinks. Include essential ingredients and tools on your mocktail bar, as well as recipe cards. Exploring DIY mixology will likely be a highlight of your party. Pulling the focus of a party away from drinking will also create a more inclusive gathering. Plenty of appetizers let people keep their hands busy during cocktail hour. Try festive snacks like spiced nuts or Christmas bruschetta . Games or other activities provide laughter and entertainment without drinking. Drink and be merry this holiday season with mocktails Delectable mocktails with seasonal flavors and festive garnishes are the best way to welcome the holidays. Whether you are staying sober this year or just want a tasty drink without imbibing, stock up your mocktail bar cart with your favorite ingredients and enjoy the holiday cheer with every sip. Ksenia Prints is a food writer, blogger, photographer and recipe developer from Montreal, Canada. She blogs at My Mocktail Forest , a blog focused on fun, flirty non-alcoholic drinks and recipes for entertaining.
CIT Wins CES 2025 Innovation Award for Transparent AntennaWith 36 bills to pass, one less senator and only one day left in parliament – Australia’s decision makers are in for a wild ride. The federal government has been chipping away at its agenda since Monday, but with only a few more hours to go in the last sitting week of the year, Labor will have to go warp speed to tick off its remaining items. Centrepiece proposals like the social media ban for children younger than 16, clean energy incentives known as Future Made in Australia, and migration laws that would give the government powers to deport non-citizens are among the 36 bills that will be brought before the Senate on Thursday. Asked if politicians would have to endure a marathon 24-hour sitting, manager of government business in the senate Katy Gallagher did not rule it out. “If that is how we get these important bills through, then we are prepared to sit and wait,” she told ABC radio. It is not uncommon for senators to vote through the night, though it remains unclear whether every piece of legislation has the support needed to pass. Discussions have continued giving rise to last-minute amendments and other negotiations have reached an impasse. “Peter Dutton’s opposition ... want to block, they’ll engage and they’ll keep you hanging, and then they block,” Senator Gallagher said. “They’re not interested in implementing reform.” Senator Gallagher has said the government will go to other members of the Senate to get its legislation across the line. However, that has become more difficult as the Senate suspended independent senator Lidia Thorpe on Wednesday night after she threw pieces of paper at Pauline Hanson over a racism row. This means Senator Thorpe has been barred from the chamber and will be unable to vote on any legislation. Members of the Senate have also raised concerns that the compressed timeline will not allow bills to be properly considered, with Nationals senator Matt Canavan arguing that each piece of legislation would only receive 15 minutes of debate assuming the chamber sat for its usual nine-hour day. “What other workplace gets to knock off in November and not back until February?” he wrote on X, formerly Twitter. “Let’s come back next week, keep working and properly scrutinise...” But Senator Gallagher has insisted on pushing ahead. “These are important bills, we’re being upfront, we’re allowing time,” she said. A federal election must be held by May 17, but if the government opts for an earlier contest, politicians may not return to Parliament House before Australians go to the polls.First look: Inside tower with units the size of an entire house
A new wind that will strengthen collaboration between the federal government and the organised private sector that will enable the government to respond with appropriate policies to the challenges of manufacturers has started blowing, writes Dike Onwuamaeze The large turnout was an indication of the importance stakeholders in the Nigerian industrial sector to the opportunity to engage with the federal government. The meeting was the, “Town Hall Meeting with the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh,” which was organised in Lagos by the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and members of the Organised Private Sector of Nigeria (OPSN), on Wednesday, December 5, 2024. It was their first opportunity to interact exclusively with a cabinet minister entrusted with overseeing the country’s industrial sector since the inception of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. Presenting an “Overview of the State of the Industrial Sector,” which was focused on discussing the manufacturing sector’s critical roles, pressing challenges and solutions, the Director General of MAN, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, emphasised that manufacturing is the backbone of the Nigerian industrial sector that included construction, utilities, mining and quarrying. Ajayi-Kadir stated that manufacturing contributed 46.5 per cent of Nigeria’s industrial output in the first nine months of 2024. He added that manufacturing sector also contributed $55,74 billion out of the $118.22 billion value addition that was recorded by the Nigerian industrial sector in 2023. He said: “Clearly, manufacturing is the most vibrant sector of any industrialised economy, considering its cross-cutting linkages with all other sectors and if prioritised, Nigerian manufacturing can generate a minimum of $6.72 billion of foreign exchange and contribute over 80 percent of non-oil export. “Therefore, the structural change engendered by higher value-added manufacturing operations is the essential route for our economy to achieve higher income level and better quality of life for Nigerians.” He added that manufacturing is a major contributor to the GDP, export earnings, foreign direct investments, technological advancement, innovations and diversification of the economy. “Manufacturing industries are labour-intensive and create numerous jobs, both directly and indirectly. Manufacturing requires a skilled workforce, which encourages education and training, leading to a more skilled labor force. “Manufacturing industries support the development of local supply chains, which lead to the growth of other sectors such as services and agriculture. “Research and development (R&D) in manufacturing have spillover effects on other sectors, driving overall technological progress within an economy,” Ajayi-Kadir said. Yet, he told the minister of state that in spite of these critical roles, Nigeria’s manufacturing sector has declined over the past few decades due to difficulties that have hindered investments from local and foreign investors. “These difficulties include insufficient funding, infrastructure deficit, skills’ shortage, poor access to foreign exchange, inefficient supply chain, heavy dependence on imported raw material and insecurity. “Others are unstable economic indicators, high inflation rate, electricity challenges, Naira devaluation and multiple taxations. These have led to closure of companies. For instance, in 2023 alone, 767 manufacturing firms had to shut down their operations nationwide. “Therefore, revitalising the industrial sector would require focused interventions across several critical verticals that would include the creation of financial instruments and mechanisms that provide affordable credit to manufacturers; offering incentives for banks and financial institutions to lend to the manufacturing sector, especially Small and Medium Industries (SMIs). It would also includeensuring market access and trade facilitation by assisting manufacturers in obtaining international quality certifications that would enhance their competitiveness,” he added. Ajayi-Kadir noted that Nigerian textile manufacturers have been driven out of the local market by unwholesome business practices like product counterfeiting, excessive importation and smuggling of textile products He also made key actions recommendations to the Federal Government of Nigeria to revitalise the country’s industrial sector. They are effective budgetary allocation, promotion of patronage for Made in Nigeria products, initiating measures that would promote foreign exchange liquidity, energy and tax reforms, attracting foreign investments and reduced interest rates. “Federal Government of Nigeria should facilitate investment in the modernisation and reinforcement of the power infrastructure, including feeders, transformers, and distribution networks, to reduce technical losses and improve the reliability of power supply,” he said. Speaking during the town hall meeting, the Director General of Nigerian Association of Small Scale Industrialists (NASSI), Mr. Chris Oputa, said that access to finance is one of their biggest challenges. Oputa, therefore, called for a five year real industrial development plan for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). “In that five year plan, all banks in Nigeria must be compelled by law to dedicate 50 per cent of their credits wholly to the MSMEs,” he said. He argued that 90 per cent of the jobs in the Nigerian economy are being created by the MSMEs, which are the engine room of the country’s economy. He also observed that it is only people that are engaged in criminal activities that hide what they are doing and regretted that in Nigeria, the MSMEs are constrained to hide what they are doing even though they are not criminal activities. He, therefore, tasked the government to initiate measures that would bring the activities of the MSMEs into the open so that their businesses, especially their export activities, would be regularised. Otherwise few people would be overburdened with taxations as the government would have no chance to see what the real operators of the economy are doing. Similarly, the Director General of Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, told the minister of state that he was interacting with the real bodies that made up the Nigeria organised private sector. He frowned at occasions the government would parley with few billionaire businessmen and claimed that it has consulted the OPSN. In his contribution, the Executive Secretary of Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), Mr. Eke Ubiji, asked the minister to revive the forum the OPSN used to have dialogue with the government, adding that the SMEs and other operators in the economy are really suffering. The Director General of the Raw Material Research and Development Council, Professor Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, emphasized the need to save the Nigerian economy from being trapped in colonial structure. He said that legislation is ongoing on a law that would ban the exportation of raw materials that have not attained a minimum of 30 per cent value addition. After listening to various presentations that were made by the industrialists and members of the OPSN, the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh, assured that he would be their ambassador and champion. Enoh said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was intentional in designating him as the minister in charge of the industrial sector after the recent cabinet reshuffle. Tinubu’s intention is to have someone that will be dedicated to industry. He remarked that the challenges of the industrial sector have always been the same perennial problems and promised that his tenure would bring a way forward out of these recurring challenges. “For me this session can only make sense if we can make a movement. I see myself as having an opportunity to make a positive change because I am the Minister of State for Industry to provide leadership for the sector. The minister will not be absent anymore when conversation that has to do with the sector is being made,” he said. According to him, no country has been able to transit from developing to developed economy without strong industrial sector. Enoh said: “Therefore, Nigeria is going to be more intentional in developing its industrial base like India and China that attained their present status as one of the world’s industrial giants through conscious and deliberate implementation of policies. “I say this as a statement of intent that we have an opportunity for a new beginning together. To take one step together; to take second step together in building a sustainable partnership. That is what that will make sense. “We are not just coming to talk and make recommendations. We have to come and review key progress that has been made from these recommendations. “We are trying to do industrial push at a season of constraints but challenging moment like this gives us the opportunity to even do much better and make tremendous progress. We have to be strategic in what we offer. We will not make it business as usual.” The minister of state said that there would be a multi-stakeholders’ forum to be co-chaired by himself and the President of MAN, Mr. Francis Meshioye. The forum would foster a deliberate inter-ministerial collaboration because, “We cannot make progress alone. He also assured that the stakeholders’ engagement would henceforth be held quarterly. “I am greatly concerned with what is practical. I am very concerned with what is real. I am very concerned with actions that can give us results. “That is what this country is in dire need of. Nigerian people cannot wait to see results. I believe that by working together we will be able to achieve these results. “The key thing to me is that there is a new regime that understands and appreciates the value of proper engagement. There must be clarity, actions and results. “This is a time for realism. It is not for much talk. Like I have said the challenges are so significant. I am not going to promise of instant solutions. I would not do so. “But I can bet is that I am going to commit to visible actions that are going to be supported by timelines and measurable results. We need to make sure that every commitment is achievable and impactful. Not promising too much but promise those things that are achievable.”Tarot Card Reading For All Zodiac Signs: 10th December, 2024
Detroit Mercy defeats Purdue Fort Wayne 79-78A street lamp is seen on Broadway Street with a snowflake decoration and a “shop local” banner on Dec. 1 in Farmington. Leo Goddard/Franklin Journal FARMINGTON — The holidays are coming up, are you prepared? Whether you’re already done checking off items on your gift list, or trying not to think about it, here’s the scoop on shopping locally; why should you? Sensory experience Many local shops are decked with festive lights and decor. Sure, it may be a bit busier downtown during the holiday season, but these shoppers are your neighbors, community members. You’re sure to receive a smile or a polite “oops, excuse me,” as you gently squeeze by other shoppers, and the cashier might even ask how the kids are doing. Christmas shopping is a classic holiday activity. What is better than shopping around small town businesses with a nice hot chocolate or coffee from the local cafe in hand? Make a day of it. Grab lunch, maybe see a movie. Walk the sidewalks all bundled up and marvel at the lights and snowy scenery. Where do you think Hallmark gets their ideas? This is what it’s all about. It’s not the same sitting behind a screen. A winter display is seen on Dec. 1 at Farmington Farmhouse Gifts & Decor in Farmington. Leo Goddard/Franklin Journal Support community Your community is there for you, so why not give back to them? These days it’s easy to place an order with the touch of a button, but are you sure you know where your money is going? When you shop locally at employee-owned and small businesses you can be sure that your money is appreciated and in good hands. Shopping locally not only keeps the stores in business, it keeps the downtown life and community alive. Many small-businesses donate funds that go right back into the community for events and mutual aid. Shopping local keeps the community alive and thriving. Find what you want Rather than going to the corporate department store, find a curated selection of items downtown. Narrow down your search by genre and find a bigger selection. Visit the local jeweler, yarn shop, or book store. Sure, large department stores are a one-stop shop, but their inventory is often limited. Why look for shoes at a store that also sells produce when you can go to your local footwear store? Plus, small-business employees might just be able to point you in the direction of the perfect gift for grandma. A winter display is lit up at Divine Footwear on Dec. 1 on Main Street in Farmington. Leo Goddard/Franklin Journal Quality, unique, affordable It is true that large department stores often have great deals and low prices, but it is a well-known fact that this is due to mass production and lower quality products. When you shop at your local markets, owners and employees have curated displays of high quality products. Small business owners purposefully pick what they stock in their stores because they know that a satisfied customer is sure to come back. There are many original, handmade products to be found that can make great unique, one-of-a-kind gifts. You may pay a little extra for a higher quality product, but that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. Many stores offer deals and discounts just like any large corporation. If the businesses near you are still outside of your budget, try a local thrift store or used book store. Downtown Farmington recently celebrated Small Business Saturday on Nov. 30, with many local businesses offering discounts in their stores. And Friday, the 13th of December, many businesses downtown will be extending their hours to 8 p.m. for the Night Owl event. There will also be various activities taking place in different stores for that event. During a meeting with local business representatives, Patty Haggan, client account supervisor at American Forest Management, Inc. , said: “I’ve been getting feedback from people that usually drive through from Turner to go somewhere and when they stop they were like, ‘oh my goodness, I need to make a plan to come here just to shop.'” She shared that there were dozens of fall foliage tours that stop in Farmington. “This little old man said that he looked around and said ‘it’s just like a postcard,'” said Christine Geisser, co-owner of The Mercantile . Haggan said that the town is very walkable with good public parking and nice dining options. She said that the businesses are all intertwined, helping each other out. “We help with suggestions,” said Dean Olmsted, manager at Reny’s . “If we don’t have it in our store, if it’s something kitchen, we tell them to go to Mixed Up [Kitchen] , go get some lunch at the Orange Cat [Cafe] , or [Farmington] House of Pizza .” “We want people to get what they’re looking for if they’re making the drive from Carrabassett [Valley] or from Turner or from Jay, or wherever, they’re finding what they need,” said Haggan. “We’re all about customer service,” Olmsted said. We invite you to add your comments. We encourage a thoughtful exchange of ideas and information on this website. By joining the conversation, you are agreeing to our commenting policy and terms of use . More information is found on our FAQs . You can modify your screen name here . Comments are managed by our staff during regular business hours Monday through Friday as well as limited hours on Saturday and Sunday. Comments held for moderation outside of those hours may take longer to approve. Please sign into your Sun Journal account to participate in conversations below. If you do not have an account, you can register or subscribe . Questions? Please see our FAQs . Your commenting screen name has been updated. Send questions/comments to the editors. « Previous Next »Cash position at over $125 Million in just under 7 months as a public company Financing provides cash runway to expedite cutting-edge portable nuclear microreactor technologies, auxiliary businesses, seek complimentary acquisitions and drive growth towards initial revenue generation New York, N.Y., Nov. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”) , a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company focused on developing portable, clean energy solutions, today announced the closing of a private placement with three accredited institutional investors for gross proceeds of approximately $60 million to NANO Nuclear, before deducting offering expenses. In the private placement, NANO Nuclear sold 2,500,002 shares of common stock and five-year warrants to purchase an aggregate of up to an additional 2,500,002 shares of common stock, or 100% warrant coverage, at a combined purchase price of $24.00 for each share and associated warrant. The warrants are exercisable for $26.00 per share. The proceeds from this financing significantly augments NANO Nuclear’s cash on hand to over $125 million. With this cash on hand, NANO Nuclear will be able to more readily advance and expedite its cutting-edge microreactors, auxiliary businesses, seek complimentary acquisitions and drive growth towards initial revenue generation. “We are humbled to be supported by a growing number of institutional investors,” said Jay Yu, Founder and Chairman of NANO Nuclear Energy. “We will continue to work extremely hard to establish NANO Nuclear as one of the leaders in the U.S. advanced nuclear energy market. With over $125 Million now in our treasury, we are positioned for rapid growth, to drive stockholder value and to realize our vision of becoming a leading, diversified, and vertically integrated advanced nuclear energy company.” The Benchmark Company, LLC acted as sole placement agent for the transaction. The securities sold in the private placement have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration with the SEC or an applicable exemption from such registration requirements. The Company has agreed to file, by January 15, 2025, a registration statement with the SEC covering the resale of the shares of common stock and shares of common stock underlying the warrants issued in the private placement. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc. NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable microreactor technology, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S. Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s products in technical development are “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor , each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors. Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT) , a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America. HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF) , a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry. NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS) , a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon's surface. For more corporate information please visit: https://NanoNuclearEnergy.com/ For further information, please contact: Email: IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com Business Tel: (212) 634-9206 PLEASE FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES HERE: NANO Nuclear Energy LINKEDIN NANO Nuclear Energy YOUTUBE NANO Nuclear Energy TWITTER Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release or related events contain or may contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements (including statements related to the closing, and the anticipated benefits to the Company, of the private placement described herein) related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "plans", "believes", “potential”, "will", "should", "could", "would" or "may" and other words of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management's current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state nuclear fuel licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of government regulation and policies including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating an early stage business a highly regulated and rapidly evolving industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings . Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.
Global Healthy Aging Supplement Market Set For 7.6% Growth, Reaching $2.05 Billion By 2028
The suspect in the high-profile killing of a health insurance CEO that has gripped the United States graduated from an Ivy League university, reportedly hails from a wealthy family, and wrote social media posts brimming with cerebral musings. Luigi Mangione, 26, was thrust into the spotlight Monday after police revealed he is their person of interest in the brutal murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, a father of two, last week in broad daylight in Manhattan in a case that laid bare deep frustration and anger with America's privatized medical system. News of his capture in Pennsylvania -- following a tip from a McDonald's worker --triggered an explosion of online activity, with Mangione quickly amassing new followers on social media as citizen sleuths and US media tried to understand who he is. While some lauded him as a hero and lamented his arrest, others analyzed his intellectual takes in search of ideological clues. A photo on one of his social media accounts includes an X-ray of an apparently injured spine. No explicit political affiliation has emerged. Meanwhile, memes and jokes proliferated, many riffing on his first name and comparing him to the "Mario Bros." character Luigi, sometimes depicted in AI-altered images wielding a gun or holding a Big Mac. "Godspeed. Please know that we all hear you," wrote one user on Facebook. "I want to donate to your defense fund," added another. According to Mangione's LinkedIn profile, he is employed as a data engineer at TrueCar, a California-based online auto marketplace. A company spokesperson told AFP Mangione "has not been an employee of our company since 2023." Although he had been living in Hawaii ahead of the killing, he originally hails from Towson, Maryland, near Baltimore. He comes from a prominent and wealthy Italian-American family, according to the Baltimore Banner. The family owns local businesses, including the Hayfields Country Club, its website says. A standout student, Mangione graduated at the top of his high school class in 2016. In an interview with his local paper at the time, he praised his teachers for fostering a passion for learning beyond grades and encouraging intellectual curiosity. A former student who knew Mangione at the Gilman School told AFP the suspect struck him as "a normal guy, nice kid." "There was nothing about him that was off, at least from my perception," this person said, asking that their name not be used. "Seemed to just be smiling, and kind of seemed like he was a smart kid. Ended up being valedictorian, which confirmed that," the former student said. Mangione went on to attend the prestigious University of Pennsylvania, where he completed both a bachelor's and master's degree in computer science by 2020, according to a university spokesperson. While at Penn, Mangione co-led a group of 60 undergraduates who collaborated on video game projects, as noted in a now-deleted university webpage, archived on the Wayback Machine. On Instagram, where his following has skyrocketed from hundreds to tens of thousands, Mangione shared snapshots of his travels in Mexico, Puerto Rico and Hawaii. He also posted shirtless photos flaunting a six-pack and appeared in celebratory posts with fellow members of the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity. However, it is on X (formerly Twitter) that users have scoured Mangione's posts for potential motives. His header photo -- an X-ray of a spine with bolts -- remains cryptic, with no public explanation. Finding a coherent political ideology has also proved elusive, though he had written a review of Ted Kaczynski's manifesto on the online site goodreads, calling it "prescient." Kaczynski, known as the Unabomber, carried out a string of bombings in the United States from 1978 to 1995, a campaign he said was aimed at halting the advance of modern society and technology. Mangione called Kaczynski "rightfully imprisoned," while also saying "'violence never solved anything' is a statement uttered by cowards and predators." According to CNN, handwritten documents recovered when Mangione was arrested included the phrase "these parasites had it coming." Mangione has also linked approvingly to posts criticizing secularism as a harmful consequence of Christianity's decline. In April, he wrote, "Horror vacui (nature abhors a vacuum)." The following month, he posted an essay he wrote in high school titled "How Christianity Prospered by Appealing to the Lower Classes of Ancient Rome." In another post from April, he speculated that Japan's low birthrate stems from societal disconnection, adding that "fleshlights" and other vaginal-replica sex toys should be banned. ia/nro/dwA divisive election. At least two major wars raging in Europe and the Middle East. And the ever-present pitfalls of internal family politics. Together, they might make for one of the nation’s tensest Thanksgivings yet — or you could consider eating some psychedelic mushrooms to up your overall sense of love and sail right through it, two experts told The Baltimore Sun. The legality of doing that in Maryland saw a major boost forward this year, when Gov. Wes Moore signed Maryland Senate Bill 1009 into law, enacting the Task Force on Responsible Use of Natural Psychedelic Substances, which will look at how to enact a legal framework for introducing sales of psychedelics into the state. “The Task Force will study naturally derived substances such as psilocybin, psilocin, dimethyltryptamine, and mescaline and is tasked with making recommendations on use, permitting, education and safety, access to treatment, and regulated support to enable equitable and affordable access to psychedelic substances,” health care provider Healthesystems said. How Marylanders respond to legalized psychedelics is yet to be determined. But two industry experts told The Sun that in places where mushrooms are legal, they‘re an excellent fit for creating less stressful holidays. Gary Logan, ATCD, and Robert Grover, MSc., are founders of The Journeymen Collective, an alternative wellness collective that conducts guided retreats for clients during psilocybin trips. Conducted in the mountains outside of Vancouver, Canada, Logan and Grover say that taking “magic” mushrooms is a logical choice for stressed-out Americans looking for ways to make an already tense Thanksgiving a much calmer, thankful affair. “It can open up a greater perspective to more easily recognize the blessings we’ve been given,” Logan said. “There is often a new appreciation for personal and professional relationships.” That America has recently been through what one political analyst told The Sun was a “painful slog of an election season” is in no doubt. With voters almost as closely divided as they were in 2016, and a Democratic administration flipping back to another Trump administration, political scientists said they are concerned about how civil this year’s national gathering may be. Flavio Hickel Jr, assistant professor of American Politics at Washington College, told The Sun that while it depends on the individual group’s personal and political dynamics, the stress and worry that permeated much of the election could now condense into one super feud in families that had members who voted each way. In fact, Hickel said even single-party voting families may find it hard to stay civil on Thanksgiving. “In general, yes, I expect Thanksgivings to be more tense this year. It was a very contested election,” Hickel said. “Even in a group where everyone is a Democrat, discussions of why Democrats lost can invoke strong feelings and breed tension, let alone the strong feelings and tensions that could emerge if Democrats and Republicans discuss the election results and future around the dinner table,” he said. Logan, the psychedelic guide and founder, said that while he wouldn’t advise actually eating mushrooms at the meal, the properties that come along with this type of plant-based substance are ideal for defusing events that might go into confrontational areas. “While it certainly would be interesting to mix in the mashed potatoes at the Thanksgiving table, we wouldn’t advise that,” Logan said. Nor should Baltimoreans or Marylanders look to swap the traditional American Thanksgiving drinks table for psilocybin, although it might change their attitude toward drinking later. “We definitely wouldn’t suggest replacing your alcohol use with psilocybin. We have had people come in and have a guided journey then go home and say they didn’t feel the need to drink anymore,” he said. “I’d also say that the mushroom is a fungi that grows in the forest and we see it as a medicine from nature. We certainly believe it is better for your mind, body and spirit than alcohol.” He said that for Marylanders, looking into guided experiences might be the first step toward having an even better holiday season in 2025. “So, if this year you started looking into a guided retreat now, by next time you sat down at the Thanksgiving table you may have an entirely different outlook on the people around it, yourself, and the holiday,” he said. Matt McDermott, president of Humble & Wallop, a strategy and creative firm in Hampden, told The Sun that in Baltimore, as in anywhere else in the U.S., this is a particularly delicate year for avoiding or confronting politics at gatherings like Thanksgiving. As these issues have become more personal to people, they are more likely to see a debate centered around them. “The fear that this administration has a mandate that could lead to the greatest assault on human rights since Jim Crow. Women’s rights,” McDermott said. “Trans rights. Immigrant rights. We’re not talking about economic policy or defense budgets,” he said. “We’re talking about a right to exist, [like] life, liberty, happiness. As a husband of a strong, successful woman and a father of a trans teen, I couldn’t shrug off a dinner-table hot take that argues against their rights.” Hickel gave the following tips for Baltimoreans across all political backgrounds for Thanksgiving, regardless of whether legal alcohol or substances are being used. “If political conversations are unavoidable, try to remember that it is unlikely you will be able to convince a partisan opponent through one conversation/argument,” Hickel said “If you aren’t trying to win the argument, then you are less likely to get irritated when you can’t.” If using all those tips and avoiding a conversation isn’t possible, then perhaps consider just bringing up taking or buying legalized mushrooms as a topic for the whole gathering to consider, Grover suggested. “Again, I wouldn’t suggest just trying it at your Thanksgiving table but it might make for an interesting conversation to tell your family you were thinking of trying a guided magic mushroom journey,” he said. “They might not understand it but in reality many of them could probably benefit from it,” Grover said. “And if you put the work into one you could definitely have an entirely different perspective on life and the family in it by the next Thanksgiving dinner.” And if that still doesn’t work? Well, there’s always a foolproof way to make yourself thankful and welcome at holidays this year. “Bring pie, but leave the politics at home,” McDermott advises. Have a news tip? Contact Riley Gutiérrez McDermid at rmcdermid@baltsun.com .
AI Technology to Overcome Initial Accessibility Challenges in 3D Cadastral Mapping Using Only Aerial Imagery The award-winning "AI2RE" leverages a proprietary AI engine to extract 2D (vector) lines exclusively from aerial imagery, including satellite and drone capture. Based on these extracted vectors, this technology supports 3D models such as terrains, buildings, and roads. This technology addresses initial accessibility challenges in 3D cadastral mapping—such as data loss and compatibility issues—using only aerial imagery. Doing so contributes to providing reliable and stable 3D geospatial information to government agencies and enterprises. The technology is currently being utilized in projects related to the European Union (EU)'s Data Governance and Utilization Strategy, showcasing a remarkable improvement in cadastral mapping efficiency—from 6 months per person to just 5 days per person. Furthermore, business discussions are ongoing with South American and African countries, expanding its global reach. OpenAI-Integrated Geospatial Data Platform At CES, Spaid will unveil its first-ever OpenAI-Integrated Geospatial Data Platform. This innovative platform allows users to receive personalized geospatial data card recommendations through the OpenAI agent. By simply dragging and dropping these cards, users can intuitively visualize and analyze data in a 3D map viewer without the need for additional tools or software. Spaid is progressively advancing the digital twin transformation of the world within its geospatial data platform using a data-driven approach. This roadmap aims to create a metaverse that can be effectively utilized in real-world industries. Spaid at CES 2025 Spaid's booth will be located at LVCC South Hall 2 (35726), where visitors can experience the cutting-edge "AI2RE: Image to 3D Geospatial AI Metaverse" solutions and the innovative "OpenAI-Integrated Geospatial Data Platform (Geo Data Platform)." For the award-winning AI2RE, attendees can dive into ongoing projects that demonstrate the full workflow—object detection, 2D line extraction, and 3D model generation—with a single click. In addition, the "OpenAI-Integrated Geospatial Data Platform" will feature an interactive demo designed specifically for CES. Visitors can engage with geospatial data cards for San Francisco by simply dragging and dropping them to visualize the data in 3D, showcasing the platform's intuitive and user-friendly capabilities. Chongkul Yi, CEO of Spaid, said, "We are incredibly proud to have our 'One of a Kind' innovative AI Engine recognized by the CES Innovation Award." He added, "At CES 2025, we aim to showcase the excellence of our cutting-edge Geospatial AI solutions and the data-driven metaverse platform, accelerating our efforts to expand into the global market." About Spaid SPAID pursues being "one of a Kind." It aims to bridge the gap between the physical and digital environments by leveraging all live streaming information and data to maximize usability. We specialize in providing geospatial AI-based solutions that enable synergetic decision-making by deriving new insights through a fusion network of diverse data sources provided by public agencies and enterprises. Our solutions empower clients across industries by facilitating smart decision-making in smart city and smart factory digital twin operations, defense simulations, real estate location value analysis, building energy management, financial investment and risk management, and telecom network resource management. SPAID aims to drive transformative progress across various industries through these innovative solutions, contributing to sustainable development and fostering long-term growth. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/spaid-winner-of-ces-innovation-awards-for-redefining-the-future-of-geospatial-with-ai-to-unveil-ai-solution-and-openai-platform-at-ces-2025-302339321.html SOURCE Spaid