aces wild horse Abortion has become slightly more common despite bans or deep restrictions in most Republican-controlled states, and the legal and political fights over its future are not over yet. It’s now been two and a half years since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and opened the door for states to implement bans. The policies and their impact have been in flux ever since the ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. Here’s a look at data on where things stand: Abortions are slightly more common now than before Dobbs Overturning Roe and enforcing abortion bans has changed how woman obtain abortions in the U.S. But one thing it hasn’t done is put a dent in the number of abortions being obtained. There have been slightly more monthly abortions across the country recently than there were in the months leading up to the June 2022 ruling, even as the number in states with bans dropped to near zero. “Abortion bans don’t actually prevent abortions from happening,” said Ushma Upadhyay, a public health social scientist at the University of California San Francisco. But, she said, they do change care. For women in some states, there are major obstacles to getting abortions — and advocates say that low-income, minority and immigrant women are least likely to be able to get them when they want. For those living in states with bans, the ways to access abortion are through travel or abortion pills. Pills become a bigger part of equation — and the legal questions As the bans swept in, abortion pills became a bigger part of the equation. They were involved in about half the abortions before Dobbs. More recently, it’s been closer to two-thirds of them, according to research by the Guttmacher Institute. The uptick of that kind of abortion, usually involving a combination of two drugs, was underway before the ruling. But now, it’s become more common for pill prescriptions to be made by telehealth. By the summer of 2024, about 1 in 10 abortions was via pills prescribed via telehealth to patients in states where abortion is banned. As a result, the pills are now at the center of battles over abortion access. This month, Texas sued a New York doctor for prescribing pills to a Texas woman via telemedicine. There’s also an effort by Idaho, Kansas and Missouri to roll back their federal approvals and treat them as “controlled dangerous substances,” and a push for the federal government to start enforcing a 19th-century federal law to ban mailing them. Travel for abortion has increased Clinics have closed or halted abortions in states with bans. But a network of efforts to get women seeking abortions to places where they’re legal has strengthened and travel for abortion is now common. The Guttmacher Institute found that more than twice as many Texas residents obtained abortion in 2023 in New Mexico as New Mexico residents did. And as many Texans received them in Kansas as Kansans. Abortion funds, which benefitted from “rage giving” in 2022, have helped pay the costs for many abortion-seekers. But some funds have had to cap how much they can give. The abortion map has been in flux Since the downfall of Roe, the actions of lawmakers and courts have kept shifting where abortion is legal and under what conditions. Here’s where it stands now: The ban that took eff ect in Florida this year has been a game-changer Florida, the nation’s third most-populous state, began enforcing a ban on abortions after the first six weeks of pregnancy on May 1. That immediately changed the state from one that was a refuge for other Southerners seeking abortion to an exporter of people looking for them. There were about 30% fewer abortions there in May compared with the average for the first three months of the year. And in June, there were 35% fewer. While the ban is not unique, the impact is especially large. The average driving time from Florida to a facility in North Carolina where abortion is available for the first 12 weeks of pregnancy is more than nine hours, according to data maintained by Caitlin Myers, a Middlebury College economics professor. Clinics have opened or expanded in some places The bans have meant clinics closed or stopped offering abortions in some states. But some states where abortion remains legal until viability — generally considered to be sometime past 21 weeks of pregnancy, though there’s no fixed time for it — have seen clinics open and expand. Illinois, Kansas and New Mexico are among the states with new clinics. There were 799 publicly identifiable abortion providers in the U.S. in May 2022, the month before the Supreme Court reversed Roe v. Wade. And by this November, it was 792, according to a tally by Myers, who is collecting data on abortion providers. But Myers says some hospitals that always provided some abortions have begun advertising it. So they’re now in the count of clinics — even though they might provide few of them. Lack of access to abortions during emergencies is threatening some patients’ lives How hospitals handle pregnancy complications, especially those that threaten the lives of the women, has emerged as a major issue since Roe was overturned. President Joe Biden’s administration says hospitals must offer abortions when they’re needed to prevent organ loss, hemorrhage or deadly infections, even in states with bans. Texas is challenging the administration’s policy and the U.S. Supreme Court this year declined to take it up after the Biden administration sued Idaho. More than 100 pregnant women seeking help in emergency rooms and were turned away or left unstable since 2022, The Associated Press found in an analysis of federal hospital investigative records. Among the complaints were a woman who miscarried in the lobby restroom of Texas emergency room after staff refused to see her and a woman who gave birth in a car after a North Carolina hospital couldn’t offer an ultrasound. The baby later died. “It is increasingly less safe to be pregnant and seeking emergency care in an emergency department,” Dara Kass, an emergency medicine doctor and former U.S. Health and Human Services official told the AP earlier this year. Abortion rights are popular with voters Since Roe was overturned, there have been 18 reproductive rights-related statewide ballot questions. Abortion rights advocates have prevailed on 14 of them and lost on four. In the 2024 election, they amended the constitutions in five states to add the right to abortion. Such measures failed in three states: In Florida, where it required 60% support; in Nebraska, which had competing abortion ballot measures; and in South Dakota, where most national abortion rights groups did support the measure. AP VoteCast data found that more than three-fifths of voters in 2024 supported abortion being legal in all or most cases — a slight uptick from 2020. The support came even as voters supported Republicans to control the White House and both houses of Congress.Robinson scores 25 in Mercer's 90-89 OT win against Jacksonville

South Africa reiterates call for global action to secure Palestine's freedom

KNOXVILLE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov 21, 2024-- Pilot is making every mile merrier with an array of offerings to fuel holiday journeys. In celebration of the season, Pilot’s holiday campaign features a week-long “Hauliday Giveaway,” a curated gift guide for on-the-go shoppers and savings on seasonal coffee. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241121848770/en/ Pilot is making every mile merrier with an array of offerings to fuel holiday journeys. (Photo: Business Wire) "Holiday travel is about more than just reaching the destination; it's about creating cheerful moments along the way. Whether it's singing holiday classics, savoring the warmth of a perfect cup of coffee on a frosty morning drive, or sharing stories with a car full of loved ones, these moments are what define the journey," shared Adrienne Ingoldt, Pilot’s chief marketing officer. “Wherever your holiday travels take you, Pilot is out here with road trip essentials and last-minute gifts to bring joy to every mile." Win Big with Pilot’s “Hauliday Giveaway” From December 2 – 8, 2024, holiday travelers can enter Pilot’s "Hauliday Giveaway," for a chance to win premium travel gear, gift cards and exclusive items*. To enter, visit the Pilot Flying J Facebook page and comment on each day’s post for a chance to win. Winners will be notified daily. Explore Pilot’s Holiday Gift Guide For those in need of stocking stuffers or last-minute gifts, Pilot’s Holiday Gift Guide offers convenient on-the-go gifting options. Featuring travel center staples and unexpected roadside treasures, holiday travelers can find something for everyone on their list. Items range from tech gadgets to foodie favorites and more. The gift guide also features new exclusive items such as Pilot’s holiday elf plush and take-home bags of its limited-time Bourbon Pecan Coffee. Save $1 on a Cup of Cheer To keep drivers’ cups full and holiday spirits high, Pilot is offering $1 off any size hot or iced coffee, including its specialty seasonal blends. To redeem, save the offer in the myRewards Plus app and present it at the time of purchase at participating locations** Guests can warm up with returning favorites like Cinnamon Roll cold brew, Bourbon Pecan hot coffee or White Chocolate Candy Cane hot chocolate. For more information about Pilot’s holiday offerings, visit pilotflyingj.com/holiday . Find nearby Pilot, Flying J and One9 travel centers and discover exclusive money saving offers on the myRewards Plus app .** *Terms and Conditions apply. Review the complete list of giveaway rules. **Must use myRewards Plus app to redeem. Data rates may apply. Certain food and beverage exclusions apply. Good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Other terms and conditions apply. Visit pilotflyingj.com/rewards for more details. Offer Period is 10/28/24 12:00 AM EST to 1/5/25 11:59 PM EST. About Pilot Pilot Travel Centers LLC ("Pilot") is committed to showing people they matter at every turn as the leading energy and experience provider people rely on to fuel their journeys. Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, Pilot is a wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway and employs approximately 30,000 team members. As the largest network of travel centers, Pilot has nearly 900 locations in 44 states and six Canadian provinces, serving an average of 1.2 million guests per day. In addition to travel center services, Pilot and its partners offer trucking fleets a variety of solutions for fuel, credit, factoring, maintenance and rewards. The company operates the third largest fuel tanker fleet in North America and supplies approximately 12 billion gallons of fuel per year. Pilot is shaping the future of energy as one of the largest providers of biodiesel and renewable fuels and through the development of its EV charging network and low carbon fueling alternatives. For additional information about Pilot, visit pilotflyingj.com . View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241121848770/en/ CONTACT: Krissy Patterson External Marketing Communications Manager 865-617-3454 Krissy.Patterson@pilottravelcenters.com KEYWORD: UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA TENNESSEE INDUSTRY KEYWORD: TRAVEL DISCOUNT/VARIETY TRUCKING MARKETING ADVERTISING FOOD/BEVERAGE COMMUNICATIONS TRANSPORT CONVENIENCE STORE RETAIL OTHER TRAVEL SOURCE: Pilot Travel Centers LLC Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 11/21/2024 03:37 PM/DISC: 11/21/2024 03:36 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241121848770/enPro-democracy Group Lauds Tinubu’s Efforts On Economy, SecurityIn a strategic effort to enhance monetization opportunities within the Telegram ecosystem, TON has been working with Adsgram , a dedicated advertising platform tailored for Telegram. Adsgram emerged from its founder Vadim Sterlin ‘s firsthand challenges in monetizing his Fanton game, highlighting a broader issue faced by the GameFi community on Telegram and the TON network. As a seasoned Adtech product manager, Sterlin highlighted earlier this year in the Adsgram community the scarcity of effective tools for publishers to generate revenue through advertising, underscoring the urgent need for innovative solutions in this space. Benzinga recently caught up with Sterlin, the CEO and founder of Adsgram. Here's an excerpt from the interaction. What factors contributed to Adsgram attracting over 550 mini apps in just six months? The market required a simple, clear, and scalable solution for monetizing mini-apps, and we were the first to deliver something to meet this growing demand. Our team has a wealth of experience in developing mini-apps, having built one of TON ecosystem's most popular mini-apps in the form of Fanton fantasy football. This gave us unique insights into what developers actually need, and enabled us to refine and optimize the platform for an experience that is as user-friendly as possible. This set us apart from our competitors and helped us to attract many mini-apps to Adsgram during the early stages of our project. Monetizing Telegram mini-apps has historically been challenging. Individual applications often struggle to connect with advertisers, especially when they're looking to engage larger players in the advertising market. Adsgram filled this gap in the market by offering a unified and seamless solution to help mini apps find new audiences and grow their products. How does Adsgram tailor advertising specifically for Telegram mini apps compared to traditional ad platforms? The way that mini-apps bridge Web2 and Web3 is a fascinating aspect of the platform. This position at the intersection of these two worlds opens up exciting opportunities to implement strategies that bridge these two ecosystems. Initially, users were primarily drawn to ads for the rewards they offered in terms of user acquisition. Traffic characteristics and working funnels had to be adjusted, and users had to be educated on how to interact with the new model that we are looking to popularise. Over time, advertisers and users have adapted, creating a mutually beneficial system. The hallmark of advertising in mini-apps is its simplicity. We intentionally set strict limits on the size of banners and video clips to ensure that any user, on any device, can easily view and engage with the advertising content. A recent innovation we've introduced is the ability for developers to target users by wallet. In addition to traditional targeting options, such as location, language, platform, and premium accounts, focusing on wallet activity grants a deeper understanding of user behaviour in the Web3 space – this allows advertisers to identify the most financially active and crypto-savvy users within the Telegram ecosystem. What makes Adsgram attractive to large mobile applications and service providers as advertising partners? The traffic generated through Telegram Mini Apps (TMA) is not only highly cost-effective but also exceptionally transaction oriented. This is particularly evident when looking at cryptocurrency, where many of the most successful recent projects have leveraged blockchain and airdrop technologies to drive engagement. What sets Adsgram apart is its ability to tap into Telegram's vast audience, which is now close to exceeding one billion users. How did you identify the need for a dedicated advertising platform within the Telegram mini apps ecosystem? In 2024, several applications experienced rapid growth, including Notcoin, Hamster Kombat, and Blum. However, all of them relied on inefficient, manual ad sales. This sparked our interest in automating ad sales and building an open, transparent advertising marketplace for Telegram mini-apps. To bring this vision to life, we collaborated with TON Foundation, who believed in our idea and supported the development of Adsgram. What new features or enhancements can we expect from Adsgram as the mini app space continues to grow? We recently introduced additional targeting options for VPN and wallet users. Further enhancing targeting accuracy and precision will remain a key focus as Adsgram evolves. The market is evolving rapidly, bringing with it new demands for advertising. In response, we've already expanded our platform with several new advertising formats. In the future, we plan to introduce task functionality for our partners. This functionality will help to engage users with our advertising even further, with both the application hosting ads and the user earning crypto rewards for engaging with our product. These tasks will undergo manual moderation, ensuring quality and providing our partners with even more opportunities to earn. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

Retail Opportunity Investments Corp. (NASDAQ: ROIC) recently disclosed in an 8-K SEC filing that on November 6, 2024, the company, along with other entities, entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger. The agreement involved Retail Opportunity Investments Corp., Retail Opportunity Investments Partnership, LP, and various other entities. The board of directors of the company also approved changes to certain awards, specifically accelerating the vesting of restricted stock awards. As per the 8-K filing, the performance-based restricted stock awards and time-based restricted stock awards, originally granted on February 15, 2022, for Messrs. Stuart A. Tanz, Michael B. Haines, and Richard K. Schoebel, were accelerated from January 2025 to December 26, 2024. Furthermore, the performance-based restricted stock awards were modified to be deemed achieved at maximum-level performance regardless of the terms of the award agreements. Additionally, time-based restricted stock awards issued on December 13, 2024, for the mentioned individuals were accelerated and became fully vested and taxable on December 26, 2024. The company emphasized that the completion of the mergers is not guaranteed, and actual results may vary from the forward-looking statements. Retail Opportunity Investments Corp. has committed to providing updates on any material changes. Investors are urged to carefully review all the relevant information before making any voting or investment decisions regarding the mergers. The detailed information about the mergers will be included in a proxy statement to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Retail Opportunity Investments Corp. will provide copies of these documents free of charge upon request. Furthermore, the company’s directors, executive officers, and employees may be involved in the solicitation of proxies and will disclose their interests in the mergers through SEC filings. The filing was signed on behalf of Retail Opportunity Investments Corp. by Michael B. Haines, Chief Financial Officer, on December 27, 2024. Participants in the Solicitation: Retail Opportunity Investments Corp. may make solicitations to its stockholders regarding the mergers. More information about the participants and their interests will be included in SEC filings. Source: SEC Filing on Retail Opportunity Investments Corp., December 27, 2024 This article was generated by an automated content engine and was reviewed by a human editor prior to publication. For additional information, read Retail Opportunity Investments’s 8K filing here . Retail Opportunity Investments Company Profile ( Get Free Report ) Retail Opportunity Investments Corp. (Nasdaq: ROIC), is a fully integrated, self-managed real estate investment trust (REIT) that specializes in the acquisition, ownership and management of grocery-anchored shopping centers located in densely populated, metropolitan markets across the West Coast. As of December 31, 2023, ROIC owned 94 shopping centers encompassing approximately 10.6 million square feet. Read More

Olivia Hussey, star of the 1968 film 'Romeo and Juliet,' dies at 73(BPT) - Tech gifts are consistently some of the most popular presents to give and receive during the holidays. In fact, according to the annual Consumer Technology Holiday Purchase Patterns report , a record 233 million U.S. adults (89%) will buy tech products during the 2024 holiday season. But with so many devices out there, it can be hard to decide on the perfect option for the loved one on your list. A tablet like the new Fire HD 8 from Amazon offers the versatility of an all-in-one device, with access to streaming, gaming, video chatting, reading or writing all at your fingertips. Fire HD 8 also features a vibrant 8-inch HD display and lightweight, portable design, for high-quality entertainment on the go. Plus, Fire HD 8 comes with three new AI features that can help you get the most out of your tablet experience. Check them out below and learn how they can help you with daily tasks this holiday season and beyond. 1. Meet your personal writing assistant Do you struggle with writing a heartfelt message or finessing a tricky email? Fear not! Writing Assist is here to help. Writing Assist works as part of your Fire tablet's device keyboard and compatible apps, including email, Word documents and social media. In just a few taps, you can transform your writing from good to great. Try Writing Assist's pre-set styles to turn a simple email into a professionally written note. Or, you can ask Writing Assist for grammar suggestions to make your writing more concise, or elaborate on your ideas. You can even "emojify" your writing to add more fun and personality. 2. Learn more in less time Say goodbye to scrolling through pages of information. The new Webpage Summaries feature allows you to learn pertinent information as quickly as possible. Available on the Silk browser on Fire tablets, Webpage Summaries provides quick insights on web articles. In a matter of seconds, this feature will distill the key points in an article or on a webpage into a clear, concise summary of what you need to know. 3. Get creative with your device wallpaper With Wallpaper Creator, you can easily add a touch of creative flair and customization to your tablet's home screen. You can choose from one of the curated prompts to get started on creating a unique background. Or, if you're ready to let your imagination run wild, type a description of what you'd like to see. For example, you can ask for an image of a tiger swimming underwater or a watercolor-style image of a desert landscape in space. Wallpaper Creator will then turn your vision into a reality, delivering a high-resolution image that you can use as your tablet's wallpaper. Celebrate an AI-powered holiday season Writing Assist, Webpage Summaries, and Wallpaper Creator are now available on Amazon's new Fire HD 8 and other compatible Fire tablet devices, including the latest Fire HD 10 and Fire Max 11 tablets. To learn more, or to order a new Fire tablet this gift-giving season, visit Amazon.com .Olivia Hussey, star of the 1968 film 'Romeo and Juliet,' dies at 73

From Lateef Dada, Osogbo The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) has challenged Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke to immediately explain the utilisation of the excess revenue amounting to N135 billion, generated in 2024. In a statement by its state chairman, Adewale Adebayo, at the weekend, the party stressed that the demand for transparency and accountability had become necessary to let the people of the state know how their funds were spent. According to the party, the 2024 budget approved by the State House of Assembly was pegged at N273 billion, providing a clear framework for revenue generation and expenditure. “However, reports indicate that the state has realised a staggering N408 billion in revenue, leaving a surplus of N135 billion. This significant deviation from the budget raises critical questions about how these funds have been expended or are being allocated. “We believe that governance is a social contract that must be founded on trust, transparency, and accountability. “Governor Adeleke and his administration must provide a detailed breakdown of how the N135 billion excess revenue was utilised. The people of Osun deserve to know the specific projects or programmes funded with this surplus. “Governor Ademola Adeleke promised to be open to the general public while contesting, but we have observed that his government is shrouded in secrecy. This should stop forthwith to enhance public trust and foster an inclusive governance process. “We heard from reliable sources that the Osun State Government is mopping up money through a surplus budget, among other means, against the 2026 election. “The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) is committed to advocating for good governance and the prudent use of public resources. Osun State citizens deserve to see tangible developmental strides from the resources available to the government,” Adebayo said. When contacted, the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, said the claim by the former chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) was a fabricated lie, stating that there was no money spent that was not budgeted for. He said, “On the issue of mopping up money for the election, it is also another lie; that is his imagination. The election is coming up in 2026. Where did Adeleke mop up the one he used when he was not in government? “There is no APM in Osun State, even the IPAC thing is used as a political merchant platform by some politicians without credibility,” Alimi said.Kane hat trick against Augsburg hides Bayern's concerning lack of goals

ATLANTA (AP) — Jalen Johnson scored 28 points and the Atlanta Hawks closed out a four-game homestand, winning a third straight contest, 120-110 over the Miami Heat on Saturday. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * ATLANTA (AP) — Jalen Johnson scored 28 points and the Atlanta Hawks closed out a four-game homestand, winning a third straight contest, 120-110 over the Miami Heat on Saturday. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? ATLANTA (AP) — Jalen Johnson scored 28 points and the Atlanta Hawks closed out a four-game homestand, winning a third straight contest, 120-110 over the Miami Heat on Saturday. Trae Young added his 22nd double-double of the season, with 11 point and 15 assist, and De’Andre Hunter scored 26 points in his 14th consecutive game with at least 15 points coming off the bench. Tyler Herro scored 28 points and dished out 10 assists and Bam Adebayo added 17 points and 10 rebounds. It was the Heat’s fourth game in a row without star Jimmy Butler, who sat out for what the team called “return to competition reconditioning.” Takeaways Heat: Miami lost despite five players finishing with double-digit point totals. The Heat shot 44.4% from the field, but it wasn’t enough to overcome a Hawks team that hit over half of its shots, 51.2% from the field. Hawks: Johnson has been on an offensive tear in his last two games. He finished two points shy of his single-game career high of 30 points, set in his last game, on Thursday against the Chicago Bulls. Hunter also finished just one point shy of his single-game career high of 27 points. Key moment After a close first half that featured nine lead changes, Atlanta seized control early in the second half. With five minutes to go in the third quarter, Atlanta’s Garrison Mathews and Hunter hit back-to-back 3s to give Atlanta an 81-72 lead, their biggest of the night, and forcing a Miami timeout. Key stat Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. Young finished one assist shy of a franchise single-game record for assists against the Miami Heat, set by Mookie Blaylock in 1993. Up next The Hawks begin a six-game road trip in Toronto on Sunday, while the Heat visits the Rockets on Sunday. ___ AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA Advertisement AdvertisementBy Anna Helhoski, NerdWallet The battle to get here was certainly an uphill one, but people are generally feeling better about the economy and their finances than they once did. On top of that, the economy has been easing into an ideal, Goldilocks-like position — not running too hot or cooling too quickly. Throughout 2024, consumer sentiment data showed people were fairly positive about the economy and their own finances, even if there’s remaining frustration over elevated prices compared to four years ago. Looking ahead, households are feeling more optimistic about their personal finances in the next year, as the share of those expecting to be in a better financial situation a year from now hit its highest level since February 2020. Combine positive personal vibes with a strong economic picture and it looks like 2024 wasn’t so bad for consumers, after all. But that doesn’t mean there weren’t bumps in the road or potential roadblocks ahead. To cap off the year, NerdWallet writers reflect on the top trends in personal finance and the economy this year — and what they think might be ahead in 2025. Elizabeth Renter, NerdWallet’s economist What happened: In 2024, U.S. consumers have proven resilient following a period of high inflation and ongoing high interest rates. Wage growth has been strong, owing in part to rising productivity. This has driven robust spending throughout the year, which has kept the economy growing at a healthy pace. The labor market has remained steady, though cooler than 2023, and price growth continues to moderate towards the Federal Reserve’s 2% inflation goal. What’s ahead: Barring significant changes to economic policy and significant shocks, the U.S. economy is expected to grow at a moderate rate in the coming year. Inflation will continue to moderate and the labor market will remain relatively healthy, all due in part to continued slow and deliberate rate cuts from the Fed. However, there are risks to this path. Higher tariffs and tighter immigration policies are likely, but the extent of these changes are yet unclear. The potential policy scenarios are many, and the economic outcomes complex. Increased tariffs are generally inflationary, and stricter immigration policies could impact the labor supply and economic growth. Consumers and small business owners with their eyes to the new year should focus on the things within their control. Margarette Burnette, consumer banking and savings writer What happened: High-yield savings accounts and certificates of deposit offered elevated rates in 2024, rewarding savers with strong returns. Following the Federal Reserve rate cuts in the second half of the year, high-yield accounts had modest rate decreases, but they continued to outperform traditional savings accounts and CDs. What’s ahead: We’re watching for further Federal Reserve rate cuts, which could lead to more decreases in savings rates. Sara Rathner, credit cards writer What happened: Credit card debt levels hit record highs, with consumers turning to credit cards to pay for necessities. While the economy is doing well, many individuals have struggled to make ends meet, as incomes haven’t kept up with certain costs. What’s ahead: We may see some policy and regulation changes with the incoming administration that could affect folks when it comes to credit cards, debt and consumer protections. Ryan Brady, small business writer What happened : New businesses continued to blossom in 2024 as business applications remained well above pre-pandemic levels. Confidence in the future state of the U.S. economy also spiked after the presidential election, but that optimism was tempered by concerns over rising costs and labor quality. What’s ahead: All eyes are on the incoming administration as small-business owners brace for turbulence resulting from potential tariffs, tax policy changes and dismantled government regulations. We’re also watching the possibility of interest rate cuts in 2025 and small-business owners’ growing reliance on new technologies, such as AI. Holden Lewis, mortgages writer What happened: Home buyers struggled with elevated mortgage rates, rising house prices and a shortage of homes for sale. On top of that, a new rule required buyers to negotiate their agents’ commissions. What’s ahead: The Federal Reserve is expected to cut short-term interest rates, but mortgage rates might not necessarily fall by a similar amount. Buyers will probably have more properties to choose from, and the greater supply should keep prices from rising a lot. Interest rates on home equity loans and lines of credit should fall, making it less expensive to borrow to fix up homes — either to sell, or to make the home more comfortable and efficient. Sam Taube, investing writer What happened: The stock market had a great year. The S&P 500 is up more than 25% due to falling interest rates, fading recession fears, AI hype, and the possibility of lighter taxes and regulations under the new administration. Cryptocurrency also saw big gains in 2024; the price of Bitcoin crossed the $100,000 mark for the first time in December. What’s ahead: A lot depends on how fast the Fed reduces rates in 2025. Another key unknown is Trump’s second term. Regulatory rollbacks, such as those he has proposed for the banking industry, could juice stock prices — but they also could create systemic risks in the economy. His proposed tariffs could also hurt economic growth (and therefore stock prices). Finally, it remains to be seen whether trendy AI stocks, such as NVIDIA, can continue their momentum into next year. It’s the same story with crypto: How long will this bull market last? Caitlin Constantine, assistant assigning editor, insurance What happened: Many people saw their home and auto insurance premiums skyrocket in 2024. In some states, homeowners are finding it harder to even find policies in the first place. Meanwhile, life insurance rates have started to decrease post-pandemic. We also saw more insurers offering online-only policies that don’t require a medical exam. What’s ahead: Auto and home insurance costs will likely continue to rise, although auto premiums may not rise as dramatically as they have over the past few years. And if you’re in the market for life insurance, expect to see competitive life insurance quotes and more customizable policies. Eliza Haverstock, student loans writer What happened: Borrowers received historic student loan relief, but lawsuits derailed an income-driven repayment plan used by 8 million whose payments are indefinitely paused. Uncertainty will carry into 2025 as a result of the presidential administration change. What’s ahead: Trump has pledged to overhaul higher education and rein in student loan relief. The fate of the SAVE repayment plan, student loan forgiveness options, FAFSA processing and more remain in the balance. Meghan Coyle, assistant assigning editor, travel What happened: People are willing to pay more for big and small luxuries while traveling, and airlines and hotels are taking note. Many airlines raised checked bag fees early in 2024, credit card issuers and airlines invested in renovated airport lounges, and major hotel companies continued to add luxury properties and brands to their loyalty programs. What’s ahead: Southwest will say goodbye to its open seating policy and introduce new extra-legroom seats, a major departure for the airline. Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines will unveil a unified loyalty program in 2025. Spirit Airlines may attempt to merge with another airline again after its 2024 bankruptcy filing and two failed mergers under President Biden’s administration. Travelers will find that they’ll have to pay a premium to enjoy most of the upgrades airlines and hotels are making. Laura McMullen, assistant assigning editor, personal finance What happened: This year, dynamic pricing expanded beyond concerts and travel to online retailers and even fast-food restaurants. This practice of prices changing based on real-time supply and demand received plenty of backlash from consumers and prompted the Federal Trade Commission to investigate how companies use consumers’ data to set prices. What’s ahead: Beyond an expansion of dynamic pricing — perhaps with added oversight — expect subscription models to become more prevalent and demand for sustainable products to grow. Shannon Bradley, autos writer What happened: New-car prices held steady in 2024 but remained high after a few years of sharp increases — the average new car now sells for about $48,000, and for the first time ever the price gap between new and used cars surpassed $20,000 (average used-car prices are now slightly more than $25,000). Overall, the car market returned to being in the buyer’s favor, as new-car inventories reached pre-pandemic levels, manufacturer incentives began making a comeback and auto loan interest rates started to decline. What’s ahead: The future of the car market is uncertain and depends on policies implemented by the incoming administration. Questions surround the impact of possible tariffs on car prices, whether auto loan rates will continue to drop, and if federal tax credits will still be available for electric vehicle buyers. Jackie Veling, personal loans writer What happened: Buy now, pay later continued to be a popular payment choice for U.S. shoppers, even while facing headwinds, like an interpretive ruling from the CFPB (which determined BNPL should be regulated the same as credit cards) and Apple’s discontinuation of its popular Apple Pay Later product. Large players like Affirm, Klarna and Afterpay continued to offer interest-free, pay-in-four plans at most major retailers, along with long-term plans for larger purchases. What’s ahead: Though more regulation had been widely anticipated in 2025, the change in administration suggests the CFPB will play a less active role in regulating BNPL products. For this reason, and its continued strength in the market, BNPL will likely keep growing. Taryn Phaneuf, news writer What happened: Easing inflation was a bright spot in 2024. In June, the consumer price index fell below 3% for the first time in three years. Consumers saw prices level off or decline for many goods, including for groceries, gas and new and used vehicles. But prices haven’t fallen far enough or broadly enough to relieve the pinch many households feel. What’s ahead: The new and higher tariffs proposed by the Trump administration could reignite inflation on a wide range of goods. Taryn Phaneuf, news writer What happened: Rent prices remain high, but annual rent inflation slowed significantly compared to recent years, staying around 3.5% for much of 2024, according to Zillow, a real estate website that tracks rents. A wave of newly constructed rental units on the market seems to be helping ease competition among renters and forcing landlords to offer better incentives for signing a lease. What’s ahead: If it continues, a softening rental market could work in renters’ favor. But construction is one of several industries that could see a shortage of workers if the Trump administration follows through on its promise to deport undocumented immigrants. A shortage of workers would mean fewer houses and apartments could be built. Anna Helhoski, news writer What happened: After a contentious presidential campaign, former President Donald Trump declared victory over Vice President Kamala Harris. While on the campaign trail, Trump promised to lower inflation, cut taxes, enact tariffs, weaken the power of the Federal Reserve, deport undocumented immigrants and more. Many economists have said Trump’s proposals, if enacted, would likely be inflationary. In Congress, Republicans earned enough seats to control both houses. What’s ahead: It’s unclear which campaign promises Trump will fulfill on his own and with the support of the new Congress. He has promised a slew of “day one” actions that could lead to higher prices, including across-the-board tariffs and mass deportations. Most recently, Trump pledged to enact 20% tariffs on Canada and Mexico, as well as an additional 10% tariff on China. He has also promised to extend or make permanent the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act; many of its provisions expire by the end of 2025. Anna Helhoski, news writer What happened: Fiscal year 2023-2024’s funding saga finally came to an end in March, then six months later, the battle to fund the fiscal year 2024-2025 began. The Biden Administration waged its own war against junk fees . Antitrust enforcers pushed back against tech giants like Amazon, Apple, Google, and Meta; prevented the Kroger-Albertsons merger; nixed the Jet Blue-Spirit Airlines merger; and moved to ban noncompete agreements. The Supreme Court rejected a challenge to the constitutionality of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, as well as a challenge to abortion pill access. SCOTUS also overruled its landmark Chevron case, which means every federal regulatory agency’s power to set and enforce its own rules are now weaker. What’s ahead: The election’s red sweep means the GOP will control the executive and legislative branches of government. They’ll face the threat of at least one more potential government shutdown; a debt ceiling drama comeback; and the beginning of the debate over extending or making permanent provisions of the expiring 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Anna Helhoski writes for NerdWallet. Email: anna@nerdwallet.com. Twitter: @AnnaHelhoski. The article What Trended in Personal Finance in 2024? originally appeared on NerdWallet .

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The Gophers have been working on a couple trick plays during closed practices in recent weeks. Unveiled Saturday, one worked to huge success and one didn’t pan out in a 26-25 loss to No. 4 Penn State. ADVERTISEMENT They busted out a double-reverse pass that resulted in a 21-yard touchdown from Max Brosmer to a wide open Jameson Geers in the first half to take a 17-10 lead at Huntington Bank Stadium. Then in the fourth quarter, the U called a throwback pass from Brosmer to left tackle Aireontae Ersery on second and goal from the 8-yard line. Brosmer intentionally threw it incomplete because Penn State’s All-America candidate, defensive end Abdul Carter, was waiting to make a tackle on the U’s athletic-but-massive lineman. “The reverse pass worked, so it’s a good call,” coach P.J. Fleck said postgame. “We were in the perfect defense for (the throwback pass). We practiced it all week. The only thing that they showed ... was pop (Carter) out. If he doesn’t pop out, there is nobody there. “It just didn’t come together,” Fleck continued. “It came together in practice. I love the call. I loved the look that we put it into. I would call it all over again based on the look that we had.” ADVERTISEMENT Brosmer shared that players were comfortable with the throwback call until Carter spoiled it. “Rather than taking a negative spot (by trying to complete it), we just went onto the next play,” Brosmer said. After the second trick play didn’t work, Brosmer’s third-down pass to Elijah Spencer fell incomplete and the U opted to kick a 26-yard field goal to make it 26-25 with five minutes left. “Kicking the field goal is the smart decision,” Fleck said. ADVERTISEMENT ______________________________________________________ This story was written by one of our partner news agencies. Forum Communications Company uses content from agencies such as Reuters, Kaiser Health News, Tribune News Service and others to provide a wider range of news to our readers. Learn more about the news services FCC uses here .Sam Reinhart and Sam Bennett were named to Team Canada for the upcoming NHL 4 Nations Face-Off tournament which will take place in February. It is the first time the two Florida Panthers have been teammates together for Team Canada since before they were drafted. Both were part of the 2013 World Junior team. Although Reinhart being named to Team Canada was a mere formality, Bennett was considered to be on the bubble. Winning the Stanley Cup with the Panthers in June — and starting his season with 13 goals in his first 25 games — certainly helped his cause. “He is pretty unique in his game,’’ Florida coach Paul Maurice said about Bennett making Team Canada. “There are not a lot of people who play at a very high level who are as physical and intense in their play. He is a big part of what we do here. “There are not a lot of Sam Bennetts out there. He does not hit the ice looking to score goals. He just plays as hard as he can. And, he happens to have the ability to make plays and score goals.’’ No Code Necessary The Panthers will have eight players representing the four countries taking part on the 4 Nations tournament. Matthew Tkachuk was previously named to Team USA; Sasha Barkov, Anton Lundell, Eetu Luostarinen, and Niko Mikkola will represent Finland; Gus Forsling will play for Sweden. Bennett and Reinhart, obviously, will be on Team Canada. “It is a big deal for all of us,” Maurice said. “The number of people we have going to the tournament is pretty exciting. There is a sense of organizational pride here. “Having Sam Bennett go shows that people appreciate what we’re doing here and there is more than just points, goals, assists.’’ The 4 Nations Face-Off will have the United States, Canada, Finland, and Sweden participating in a round-robin format which will replace All-Star Week this year. Seven games will be played from Feb. 12-20. The tournament will start in Montreal — each country will get three games — with the semifinals and championship held in Boston. All games will be played with NHL rules. This article first appeared on Florida Hockey Now and was syndicated with permission.

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As the AI market prepares for a surge in 2025, IBM is emerging as an unexpected standout. Despite a recent stock price increase of 37% this year, or 44% when dividends are factored in, IBM remains an undervalued gem in the tech space. At first glance, IBM’s recent performance may seem underwhelming. Their sales grew by a modest 2% year-over-year in the third quarter, with earnings per share getting a slight uplift due to a lower tax burden. But a deeper look reveals a compelling narrative masked by cyclical market factors and strategic long-term planning. The infrastructure segment showed a 7% decline, primarily driven by a lull in IBM Z mainframe sales. This cycle, however, is expected to turn with the 2025 launch of AI-augmented System Z mainframes, which will feature IBM-developed AI chips. IBM’s strength lies in its strategic focus on long-term AI contracts rather than immediate sales spikes. Launched in 2023, IBM’s generative AI platform, watsonx, has already secured over $3 billion in multi-year contracts. This steady accumulation indicates a tipping point, as IBM is set to transform these agreements into significant revenue streams. Looking forward to 2025, CEO Arvind Krishna anticipates a notable growth in IBM’s portfolio, hinting subtly at a record-breaking performance. With IBM’s stock priced relatively low compared to other AI giants, the company offers a lucrative investment opportunity. As IBM continues to secure long-term contracts and gears up for a new mainframe cycle, savvy investors might find a golden opportunity in Big Blue. Why IBM Could Be the Next Big Player in AI by 2025 In the burgeoning landscape of artificial intelligence (AI), IBM is positioned as a frontrunner to watch closely, especially as the market is poised for a substantial boom in 2025. Amidst its evolving strategies, IBM presents intriguing developments that may place it ahead of its competitors in the AI domain. Capitalizing on Long-Term AI Contracts One of IBM’s most promising strategies is its focus on securing long-term AI contracts rather than prioritizing short-term gains. The introduction of the generative AI platform, watsonx, in 2023 is a cornerstone of this approach. This platform has already garnered over $3 billion in multi-year agreements, reflecting trust and anticipation from clients in IBM’s capabilities. These contracts are not merely symbolic but are poised to mature into robust revenue streams as they are fulfilled over time. Innovative AI Augmentation in Infrastructure The anticipated launch of AI-augmented System Z mainframes in 2025 is another strategic move by IBM that merits attention. These new mainframes will incorporate IBM-developed AI chips, promising enhancements in performance and capabilities that are aligned with cutting-edge AI technologies. This innovation is expected to invigorate IBM’s infrastructure sales, which saw a dip partly due to the existing mainframe sales cycle slowdown. Strategic Market Positioning and Future Insights While IBM’s current market performance shows modest sales growth, its underlying strategic positioning reveals a future of potential. CEO Arvind Krishna’s vision for 2025 suggests the possibility of record-breaking achievements for IBM’s portfolio. With the company’s shares currently undervalued in comparison to other AI titans, IBM presents a unique investment opportunity that could yield high returns as its strategic plans come to fruition. Market Analysis and Predictions Industry analysts predict that IBM’s foresight and calculated initiatives in AI might serve as key differentiators in the tech market. As the AI landscape continues to evolve, IBM’s integration of AI within its products and services is predicted to drive substantial growth, making it a firm to watch closely in the coming years. Conclusion In conclusion, amid the accelerating AI market, IBM’s strategic initiatives, including its focus on long-term contracts and innovation in AI-augmented infrastructure, solidify its potential as a leading force. Investors seeking a promising opportunity in the tech sector should closely monitor IBM as it strides towards what could be a breakthrough period in 2025. As the AI wave progresses, IBM stands out as a company combining visionary leadership with actionable strategies.NEW YORK (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump wants to turn the lights out on daylight saving time. In a post on his social media site Friday, Trump said his party would try to end the practice when he returns to office. “The Republican Party will use its best efforts to eliminate Daylight Saving Time, which has a small but strong constituency, but shouldn’t! Daylight Saving Time is inconvenient, and very costly to our Nation,” he wrote. Setting clocks forward one hour in the spring and back an hour in the fall is intended to maximize daylight during summer months, but has long been subject to scrutiny. Daylight saving time was first adopted as a wartime measure in 1942. Lawmakers have occasionally proposed getting rid of the time change altogether. The most prominent recent attempt, a now-stalled bipartisan bill named the Sunshine Protection Act , had proposed making daylight saving time permanent. The measure was sponsored by Florida Sen. Marco Rubio , whom Trump has tapped to helm the State Department. “Changing the clock twice a year is outdated and unnecessary,” Republican Sen. Rick Scott of Florida said as the Senate voted in favor of the measure. Health experts have said that lawmakers have it backward and that standard time should be made permanent. Some health groups , including the American Medical Association and American Academy of Sleep Medicine, have said that it’s time to do away with time switches and that sticking with standard time aligns better with the sun — and human biology. Most countries do not observe daylight saving time. For those that do, the date that clocks are changed varies, creating a complicated tapestry of changing time differences. Arizona and Hawaii don't change their clocks at all. Jill Colvin, The Associated Press

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