Alcoa stock soars to 52-week high, hits $46.57 amid market rallyEvery crypto bull cycle has always been discussed, with the question of which of the chief memecoins, Shiba Inu (SHIB) and Dogecoin (DOGE), will have the highest gain by the time it ends. And SHIB has always had the best results. In the ongoing bull run, DOGE has deservedly led for the most part, surging more than threefold from its November low of $0.19 to peak at $0.46. SHIB, on the other hand, has seen slow progress, recording only 75% within the same period. Analysts are exploring the possibility of Shiba Inu finishing the cycle strongly and surpassing DOGE despite the significant gap. To provide an unbiased report, we engaged ChatGPT in an important conversation about the question: Can Shiba Inu overtake Dogecoin this cycle? ChatGPT Predicts SHIB’s Ascent Over DOGE According to ChatGPT’s analysis of pricing patterns, prevailing market trends, intuitive technical analysis, and community data, Shiba Inu appears set to surpass Dogecoin in this cycle. Over the last 30 days, SHIB increased by 69.1%, trading at $0.00003233 as of this writing. Dogecoin, however, managed to win in this aspect since it increased 135% during the same time span, bringing the rate to $0.4634. Yes, DOGE has a clearer lead on the raw percentages growth end, but the picture starts to change a bit from here, especially when it starts looking at the technical indicators and anticipated momentum. The AI noted that Shiba Inu managed to snap the critical 20.75% Fibonacci retracement line, which means there is potential to grow further due to a positive trend. On the other hand, Dogecoin has hit an important resistance level at $0.46. This slant in chart dynamics spotlights the greater volatility expected of SHIB shortly, which might result in greater price gain. As per ChatGPT’s prediction, Shiba Inu's price will rise to $0.0001649 by Q1 2025 due to significant jumps in the ecosystem and high developer activity. On the other hand, it anticipates Dogecoin to reach $0.8773, just a step above its current all-time high of $0.7376, signifying a consistent yet less explosive growth. The estimate is based on SHIB's ability to leverage market sentiment while also attracting new investors with unique ecosystem developments such as Shibarium Shiba Eternity and expanding utility for SHIB, BONE, LEASH, and the upcoming TREAT. Meanwhile, the AI didn’t consider the upcoming political changes and their potential impact on DOGE, especially Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (D.O.G.E.). Overall, projections indicate that the current bull cycle may continue into Q2 2025, providing ample time for a turbulent journey between the two opposing forces. For traders, meme coins’ heightened volatility has a double edge: although it can lead to greater gains, it also creates greater hazards. ChatGPT recommends prudence, encouraging investors to mix enthusiasm with due diligence, particularly in the volatile meme coin market. It further advises portfolio diversification into cryptos with practical use cases and more stability, like Rexas Finance, a revolutionary real-world asset (RWA) tokenization project. Rexas Finance (RXS): A Real Opportunity Amid Meme Coin Hype While SHIB and DOGE dominate the meme coin discourse, smart investors are turning their attention to Rexas Finance (RXS), a ground-breaking project based on real-world asset (RWA) tokenization. Unlike meme coins, which rely on hype, Rexas Finance is transforming asset ownership and investment accessibility by using blockchain technology to tokenize tangible and intangible assets, including real estate, commodities, and art. With the completion of eight presale stages and the 97% completion of the ninth, Rexas Finance has already created significant waves, raising $25.3 million through the sale of 327 million RXS tokens. Starting at $0.03, the token price has risen over 300% to $0.125 in Stage 9, with a planned increase to $0.150 in the following stage. This rapid rise results from high market confidence and deliberate moves, such as foregoing venture capital funding in favor of a public presale. This method decentralizes ownership, builds trust, and creates a community-driven foundation for long-term success. The platform's ecosystem, which includes tools like the Rexas Token Builder and QuickMint Bot, is designed to be simple and accessible. These features enable users, including those without technical knowledge, to seamlessly create and manage tokens. The recent completion of a Certik audit emphasized the platform's security efforts. This builds investor trust by proving that the platform is safe from possible attacks. The project also offers several DeFi services, including staking, yield farming, and decentralized fundraising for startups. Furthermore, RXS's inclusion on CoinMarketCap and CoinGecko boosts visibility and reputation, strengthening Rexas Finance's standing in the crypto market. Investors are especially attracted to the ongoing $1 million prize, which not only provides participants with big token allocations but also boosts community participation and project exposure. As meme coins like Shiba Inu and Dogecoin make the most of the current market momentum, Rexas Finance provides a balanced investment opportunity that combines the possibility of exponential growth with practical utility and security. With its presale nearing the final stages, RXS will debut on at least three of the top 10 exchanges globally, further boosting its ROI and making it one to have in the ongoing bull cycle. Conclusion Shiba Inu and Dogecoin dominate meme coin news because of strong communities and market speculation. ChatGPT sees Shiba Inu outperforming Dogecoin due to its volatility and technological advances. However, both tokens have unique hazards, necessitating thorough analysis. Meanwhile, Rexas Finance provides a novel alternative for investors looking for innovation with real-world utility. With its transformational ecosystem and strong presale momentum, now is the best opportunity to get RXS tokens at $0.125 before the next stage. Visit Rexas Finance today to join the future of decentralized asset ownership. Website: https://rexas.com Win $1 Million Giveaway: https://bit.ly/Rexas1M Whitepaper: https://rexas.com/rexas-whitepaper.pdf Twitter/X: https://x.com/rexasfinance Telegram: https://t.me/rexasfinance Join our WhatsApp Channel to get the latest news, exclusives and videos on WhatsApp _____________ Disclaimer: Analytics Insight does not provide financial advice or guidance. Also note that the cryptocurrencies mentioned/listed on the website could potentially be scams, i.e. designed to induce you to invest financial resources that may be lost forever and not be recoverable once investments are made. You are responsible for conducting your own research (DYOR) before making any investments. Read more here.

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -A senior White House official on Thursday said nuclear-armed Pakistan is developing long-range ballistic missile capabilities that eventually could allow it to strike targets outside of South Asia, including in the United States. In his stunning revelation about the onetime close U.S. partner, Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer said Islamabad's conduct raised "real questions" about the aims of its ballistic missile program. "Candidly, it's hard for us to see Pakistan's actions as anything other than an emerging threat to the United States," Finer told the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace audience. "Pakistan has developed increasingly sophisticated missile technology, from long-range ballistic missile systems to equipment that would enable the testing of significantly larger rocket motors," he said. If those trends continue, Finer said, "Pakistan will have the capability to strike targets well beyond South Asia, including in the United States." His speech came a day after Washington announced a new round of sanctions related to Pakistan's ballistic missile development program, including on the state-run defense agency that oversees the program. (Reporting by Jonathan Landay; Editing by Leslie Adler and Jonathan Oatis)

A history of the Panama Canal — and why Trump can’t take it back on his ownEdmonton police Chief Dale McFee hired as Alberta premier’s top bureaucratHighlights from Trump's interview with Time magazine

President-elect Donald Trump praised Pete Hegseth, his embattled nominee for Defense secretary, in a social media post Friday, but some of the president-elect's allies are doubtful Hegseth can make it through the confirmation process. Hegseth doesn't appear to have the votes in the Senate to get confirmed and his nomination is in trouble, according to two sources close to Trump. "I believe the votes are not there for Pete," said a Trump adviser who asked not to be identified. "They're not going to be there. I think Trump will let Pete fight and come to that conclusion on his own." The second source said Hegseth's nomination appears to be doomed unless Trump "goes into full push." More: Pete Hegseth controversy explained: What to know amid backlash to Trump's Defense pick Trump lauded Hegseth, a combat veteran and former Fox News host, on social media Friday, writing that he "is doing very well." "His support is strong and deep, much more so than the Fake News would have you believe," Trump added. Trump seems committed to Hegseth for now, said a third source close to the president-elect. "That is my current sense," said the source. Hegseth's nomination has been teetering, though, amid a series of revelations about his personal life. He was accused of sexual assault, which he denies and for which he has never faced charges. And a whistleblower report first detailed by The New Yorker alleged he was forced out of leadership roles with two nonprofit veterans groups - Concerned Vets for America and Vets for Freedom - for personal misconduct, mismanagement of funds and intoxication on the job. More: Pete Hegseth vows he won't drink 'a drop of alcohol' if confirmed as defense secretary There also have been reports about excessive drinking by Hegseth during his stint at Fox News. The New York Times published an email sent to Hegseth by his mother in which she wrote “I have no respect for any man that belittles, lies, cheats, sleeps around and uses women for his own power and ego. You are that man (and have been for years)." Penelope Hegseth went on television this week to defend him and said she regrets the email. "Pete Hegseth is going to get his hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee, not a sham hearing before the American media. We believe that Pete Hegseth is the right guy to lead the Department of Defense," Vice President-elect JD Vance told reporters Friday in North Carolina. "That’s why President Trump nominated him. We’re not abandoning this nomination.” Mark Lucas, who succeeded Pete Hegseth as executive director of Concerned Vets for America, dismissed the concerns about him as political. He said he didn't have any issues with Hegseth and is volunteering to testify before a Senate panel to support his confirmation Lucas also criticized people attacking Hegseth for doing so behind the cloak of anonymity. More: Alcohol, antipathy cloud Pete Hegseth sex assault allegations with conflicting accounts "They're going to run the same playbook against Pete Hegseth that they did with Brett Kavanaugh ," he told USA TODAY, referring to the Supreme Court justice who was accused sexual assault as a teenager during his 2018 confirmation. "If people want to come forward, they can. They can say whatever they want under oath. But it's going to be investigated." Hegseth may not benefit from the same "choir boy" treatment as Kavanaugh, said Mike Davis, who piloted Kavanaugh's contentious hearings as a Senate Judiciary Committee chief counsel. "Hegseth admits he was certainly not a choir boy. The Kavanaugh claims were ridiculous. Everyone who knew him knew he was a virgin into his 20s − then suddenly he's a serial rapist in high school?" Davis told USA TODAY. "Everyone knows Hegseth was a playboy. That doesn't mean he was a rapist. And the accusations, while serious, may not withstand public scrutiny after her public testimony." Davis said his group, the Article III Project, is mobilizing a phone, email and social media blitz to support Kash Patel and Hegseth. Hegseth's struggles have Trump considering a backup. He has been weighing replacing Hegseth with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis , who ran against him in the GOP presidential primary. DeSantis, a Navy veteran, will join Trump at the Army-Navy football game on Dec. 14, according to Fox News . Hegseth said during his visit to the Capitol this week to meet with senators that he spoke with Trump and the president-elect is standing behind him. "He said: 'Keep going, keep fighting. I’m behind you all the way,'" Hegseth said of his conversation with Trump. "Why would I back down? I’ve always been a fighter. I'm here for the war fighters."

(The Center Square) – Homeowners in the market for washers and dryers may have better-performing options to choose from in the near future due to a bill limiting the extent of energy efficiency mandates on laundry appliances passing the U.S. House. The Republican-led House Resolution 1612 , or Liberty in Laundry Act, would prohibit the Secretary of Energy from enforcing energy conservation standards for clothes washers or dryers that “are not cost-effective or technologically feasible.” Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tenn., who introduced the legislation, said the move is a response to the “slew of woke, ‘environmental’ nonsense rulemaking attempts” by the Biden administration and U.S. Department of Energy. “I have spent much of my time in Congress fighting back the federal government’s vast overreach into the lives of hardworking Americans,” Ogles announced after the bill’s passage Tuesday. “Americans should be able to do their laundry in peace without the input of Big Brother.” Earlier this year, the DOE finalized new updated standards for residential clothes washers and dryers which aim to cut costs and pollution. It estimates the regulations will reduce nearly 71 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions–equivalent to the combined annual emissions of nearly 9 million homes–and up to $39 billion on Americans’ energy and water bills over the next 30 years. House Democrats opposed the legislation's passage, saying "absolutely no one" stands to benefit from the law and accused Republicans of trying to curry favor with special interest groups. "H.R. 7673 guts popular energy efficiency standards for laundry machines – standards that save Americans money on their utility bills and reduce dangerous greenhouse gas pollution at the same time," said Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr., D-N.J. "These efficiency standards create certainty for manufacturers and they protect consumers from rising costs. And, in the case of these laundry machine standards, they also reduce water use – a benefit that could greatly aid drought-prone regions around the nation." But the less electricity and water laundry appliances use, the less effectively they tend to perform, according to an Oct. 2024 report by the Institute for Energy Research. “Historically, appliances meeting Energy Department standards have often underperformed and have higher costs,” the report stated. “The Biden-Harris administration is imposing a series of regulations that are raising appliance prices and compromising quality for homeowners.” Unless the bill is signed into law, laundry appliance makers have until March 2028 to comply with the new rules.

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Celebrating EVDANCE's 5th Anniversary & Christmas Specials!Nolte: Lesley Stahl, Van Jones ‘Extremely Worried’ About Death of Corporate Media InfluenceAdvances in AI, Lab-on-a-Chip, and Emerging Technologies Drive the Transformation of Point-of-Care Diagnostics, Enhancing Speed, Accuracy, and Clinical Efficiency BOSTON , Dec. 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the latest BCC Research study on " Point-of-Care Diagnostics: Technologies and Global Markets, " the POC market is expected to grow from $40.6 billion in 2024 to $65.9 billion by the end of 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.2% from 2024 through 2029. The point-of-care diagnostics market is rapidly evolving with the integration of new technologies and methodologies, offering significant potential for growth through 2029. This report explores the market landscape, examining components such as hardware (devices, equipment, consumables), software, and analytics. It also segments the market by test types, including alcohol and drug abuse, blood gas electrolyte and metabolite (BGEM), cardiac markers, cholesterol, glucose monitoring, hemoglobin/hemostasis, infectious diseases, pregnancy and fertility, tumor marker, and urine chemistry. The report includes an analysis of the global market by region, and covers the market drivers, challenges, opportunities, and industry strategies, such mergers, acquisitions, and collaborations. the report serves as a vital resource for companies targeting geographic expansion. The transformative impact of AI in POC diagnostics is due to its ability to deliver accurate, reliable test results without requiring skilled personnel. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize healthcare access, particularly in remote or underserved regions by improving healthcare quality in these resource-limited areas. For instance, AI-powered platforms such as Sight OLO utilize convolutional neural network (CNN) algorithms to accurately identify and count blood cells, making it a valuable tool for early disease detection. Such advances in AI-driven diagnostics not only improve healthcare accessibility but also enhance testing efficiency, broadening the reach of medical services worldwide. Please click here for more details on "The global market for point-of-care diagnostics report." The factors driving the global market for POC diagnostics include: Incidence of Infectious Diseases : Infectious diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria remain widespread globally. POC diagnostics enable rapid testing and immediate results, essential for timely treatment and disease control. Growing Prevalence of Chronic Diseases: The prevalence of chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer is rising. POC diagnostics facilitate regular monitoring outside traditional settings, increasing demand due to their convenience and need for continuous care. Demand for Self-Testing: The trend toward self-testing for privacy and convenience is growing. Products such as home pregnancy tests, glucose monitors, and COVID-19 kits enable individuals to manage their health from home. Global Aging Population : As the aging population grows, so does the need for frequent medical monitoring. POC diagnostics offer a convenient solution for elderly patients. Request a sample copy of the global market for point-of-care diagnostics report . Report Synopsis Report Metric Details Base year considered 2023 Forecast period considered 2024-2029 Base year market size $36.9 billion Market size forecast $65.9 billion Growth rate CAGR of 10.2% from 2024 to 2029 Segments covered Test type, product type, end user, region Regions covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World (RoW) Countries covered U.S., Canada, Mexico, Germany, France, the U.K., Italy, Spain, China, India, Japan, Australia, and South Korea Market drivers • Incidences of infectious diseases • Growing prevalence of chronic diseases • Increasing demand for self-testing • Global aging population Recently announced POC diagnostics diagnostics products: 1. CytoTracker Leukometer ( January 2024 ): Developed at Rutgers University . Rapidly counts white blood cells (WBCs) using a single drop of blood. Achieved 97%+ clinical accuracy. Could speed up sepsis detection in ERs. Helps cancer doctors decide on white blood count ( WBC) stimulants for chemotherapy patients. Published in PLOS One journal. 2. D3 Array–UTI ( February 2024 ): POC diagnostic technology launched by PathogenDx. Detects 26 pathogens and 12 antibiotic-resistance genes in urine samples. Provides results in 30 minutes to a few hours. Uses a microarray-based approach with triplicate testing. Offers qualitative and quantitative results with automated cloud data analysis. Aims to revolutionize UTI diagnostics. The report addresses the following questions: 1. What is the projected size and growth rate of the market? The global market for POC diagnostics was valued at $36.9 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.2% to reach $65.9 billion by the end of 2029. 2. What segments are covered in the report? The market is segmented by test type, product type, end-user, and geographic region. Test types, include alcohol and drug screening, BGEM, cardiac markers, cholesterol, glucose monitoring, hemoglobin/hemostasis, infectious disease, pregnancy and fertility, tumor markers and urine chemistry. Product types include POC diagnostics technologies, and hardware and software. End-users include hospitals critical care centers, and home care settings Regions, include North America , Europe , Asia-Pacific , and the Rest of the World. 3. Which test t ype will dominate the market in 2029? Glucose monitoring POC devices will dominate the market at that time. 4. Which region has the largest market share? North America holds the largest share of the market. Innovative Startups Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co. Ltd: Mindray introduced the TEX20 Series Point of Care ultrasound system at Euroanaesthesia 2022. This system integrates imaging and physiological data through its X-Link solution, improving patient assessment, diagnosis, and treatment in critical care and emergency medicine. GE Healthcare : In January 2023 , GE HealthCare became an independent company after being spun off from GE. In February 2024 , GE HealthCare launched the LOGIQ ultrasound portfolio, including the new LOGIQ Totus, an ultrasound solution that delivers high-quality imaging and AI-powered diagnostic support. This portfolio enhances precision care with AI tools, offering better imaging, efficient workflow, and Verisound digital solutions. Market leaders include: Abbott Becton Dickinson Danaher Corp. Ge Healthcare F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd. Medtronic Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. Siemens Healthineers Ag Quest Diagnostics Inc. Quidelortho Corp. Related reports include: Chronic Disease Management: Therapeutics, Device Technologies, and Global Markets : This report covers the market drivers, restraints, opportunities, and the competitive landscape, including market shares of leading companies. The market is segmented by product type (pharmaceuticals and biologics, medical devices, digital therapeutics), application (various disease categories), end user (hospitals, home care), and geographic region ( North America , Europe , Asia-Pacific , Rest of the World). Medical Devices: Technologies and Global Markets : This report covers major players, competitive intelligence, innovative technologies, and regional opportunities. It includes assessments of recent developments, product portfolios, market drivers, restraints, opportunities, and regulatory scenarios. The market is segmented by device type (e.g., drug delivery devices, IVD, cardiovascular devices), end user (hospitals, home healthcare, etc.), and geographic region ( North America , Europe , Asia-Pacific , RoW), with specific country analyses. Market estimates are based on 2023 data, with projections for 2024 and forecasts for 2029. Directly purchase a copy of the report from BCC Research. For further information or to purchase a report, please contact info@bccresearch.com About BCC Research BCC Research reports provide objective, unbiased measurement, and assessment of market opportunities. Our industry analysts' goal is to help readers make informed business decisions, free of noise and hype. Contact Us Corporate HQ: 50 Milk St. Ste 16, Boston, MA 02109, USA Email: info@bccresearch.com , Phone: +1 781-489-7301 For media inquiries, email press@bccresearch.com or visit our media page for access to our market research library. Data and analysis extracted from this press release must be accompanied by a statement identifying BCC Research LLC as the source and publisher. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2183242/BCC_Research_Logo.jpg

TORONTO — Ontario municipal councillors could be removed from office and disqualified from running again under new provincial legislation introduced Thursday that would increase penalties for violating a municipal code of conduct. Municipalities have for years been calling for updated codes of conduct to address workplace harassment, as well as stricter penalties for those who violate the rules — including removal from office — but the main advocacy group pushing for changes says the new bill makes it too difficult to get rid of those councillors. Municipal Affairs Minister Paul Calandra's bill would allow for the creation of a standard code of conduct for all municipalities, with penalties of removing and disqualifying a member from office if they are in serious violation of the code. But removal and disqualification could only happen if the municipal integrity commissioner recommends it, if Ontario's integrity commissioner agrees and if councillors except for the member in question unanimously agree to it in a vote. Emily McIntosh, with Women of Ontario Say No, which has been pushing for more tools to hold politicians accountable for workplace harassment, said the requirement of a unanimous vote should not be in the legislation. "If you require unanimous support at the council level, it means that one person who has a personal relationship with another person can undermine the recommendation of the provincial integrity commissioner for removal," she said in a video statement. "It also is extremely inefficient from a taxpayer perspective, which means we're investing as taxpayers into this great process to make things consistent, only to see it potentially risk being non-actionable because one person doesn't like the outcome." Calandra said all of the steps in the process are deliberately difficult to overcome. "It is meant to be a very high bar," he said at a press conference. "Ultimately, the people will decide in an election. I wanted to have a mechanism (for removal), though. I thought it was very important. "I think we've hit a good balance that will allow councils to address the most egregious of challenges in their community, while respecting the voters of each community." Municipal integrity commissioners and the provincial integrity commissioner would only be able to recommend removal from office if the councillor has contravened the code of conduct, the conduct is serious and has resulted in harm to a person's health, safety or well-being, and existing penalties aren't sufficient. The integrity commissioner could also consider whether the conduct "negatively impacts public confidence in the ability of the member to discharge their duties," the government said. The Ontario's Big City Mayors group said it is pleased with the legislation. "Municipalities and municipal integrity commissioners currently lack the tools to enforce codes of conduct and there have unfortunately been numerous examples of repeated contraventions of codes of conduct, bullying and harassment across the municipal sector," the group wrote in a statement. "Municipal staff and elected members of council deserve a safe and respectful workplace free from harassment and bullying." Stephen Blais, who represents the riding of Orleans for the Liberals, had introduced a private member's bill on the topic, prompted by complaints of harassment related to an Ottawa councillor. He said the unanimous vote is too high of a bar, and the government's legislation is "too little, too late." He added he is not convinced it will ever pass, with the possibility Premier Doug Ford could call an early election this spring. "I don't think it will be debated and certainly I don't think passed into law, given the timing of the election," Blais said. "Moreover, the process that they’ve established is very cumbersome and my efforts and the efforts from stakeholders have been to try to take politics out of this process and it seems to me the government is injecting politics straight into it." Ontario's legislature rose Thursday for its winter break, which the government has extended. The legislature had been set to return Feb. 18 but it will now not be back until March 3. The bill is skipping second reading and going straight to the committee stage, so it is possible for committee hearings to take place on the bill while the legislature is not sitting. Calandra also introduced a Peel Transition Implementation Act, to transfer some services currently handled by Peel Region to its three municipalities of Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon. That comes after Ontario reversed course on a plan to dissolve the regional government, instead promising to find efficiencies in its management. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 12, 2024. Allison Jones, The Canadian Press

Fluence Energy, Inc. Reports Record Performance in 2024 and Initiates 2025 GuidanceCardinals' feel-good month comes to a screeching halt after a head-scratching loss to SeahawksThe Japanese car giants Nissan and Honda have signed a document to begin discussions that could potentially see the two companies merge. The heads of both brands signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), a non-binding agreement that could lead to the two companies partnering in order to exchange financial and technical support . Makoto Uchida, President of Nissan , noted that Mitsubishi Motors , who have been in a previous partnership with the company since 1999, will also be involved in talks. He explained: " Honda and Nissan have begun considering a business integration, and will study the creation of significant synergies between the two companies in a wide range of fields. "It is significant that Nissan's partner, Mitsubishi Motors, is also involved in these discussions. We anticipate that if this integration comes to fruition, we will be able to deliver even greater value to a wider customer base." Nissan and Mitsubishi have both been in an alliance with Renault Group for the past 25 years, with all three companies supporting one another to share a range of vehicle platforms, mechanicals, and technology. However, with Renault Group rumoured to have plans that can see their stake in Nissan reduced, the Japanese car companies have been actively seeking new partners in the next 12 months. Renault Group aknowledged the news, with a spokesperson stating that the French company will "consider all options based on the best interest of the Group and its stakeholders". Toshihiro Mibe, Director of Honda, stated that the new partnership could mark a huge change for the automotive industry and will therefore be discussed seriously. He added: "At this time of change in the automobile industry, which is said to occur once every 100 years, we hope that Mitsubishi Motors' participation in the business integration discussions of Nissan and Honda will lead to further social change, and that we will be able to become a leading company in creating new value in mobility through business integration. "Nissan and Honda will start the discussion from today onwards, with an aim to clarify the possibility of business integration by around the end of January in line with the consideration of Mitsubishi Motors." Whilst there is no guarantee that Honda and Nissan will merge under the new agreement, a number of motoring experts have stated that the partnership could create fierce competition from the rising Chinese car industry. In spite of both companies producing some models in the country, many brands unique to China are beginning to be exported to European nations, often at substantially lower prices than Western rivals. By sharing their technology, some have argued that the partnership could help to cut the cost of developing new vehicles, helping to reduce the overall price consumers will need to pay.

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Formula 1 on Monday at last said it will expand its grid in 2026 to make room for an American team that is partnered with General Motors. “As the pinnacle of motorsports, F1 demands boundary-pushing innovation and excellence. It’s an honor for General Motors and Cadillac to join the world’s premier racing series, and we’re committed to competing with passion and integrity to elevate the sport for race fans around the world," GM President Mark Reuss said. "This is a global stage for us to demonstrate GM’s engineering expertise and technology leadership at an entirely new level.” The approval ends years of wrangling that launched a U.S. Justice Department investigation into why Colorado-based Liberty Media, the commercial rights holder of F1, would not approve the team initially started by Michael Andretti. Andretti in September stepped aside from leading his namesake organization, so the 11th team will be called Cadillac F1 and be run by new Andretti Global majority owners Dan Towriss and Mark Walter. The team will use Ferrari engines its first two years until GM has a Cadillac engine built for competition in time for the 2028 season. Towriss is the the CEO and president of Group 1001 and entered motorsports via Andretti's IndyCar team when he signed on financial savings platform Gainbridge as a sponsor. Towriss is now a major part of the motorsports scene with ownership stakes in both Spire Motorsports' NASCAR team and Wayne Taylor Racing's sports car team. Walter is the chief executive of financial services firm Guggenheim Partners and the controlling owner of both the World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers and Premier League club Chelsea. “We’re excited to partner with General Motors in bringing a dynamic presence to Formula 1," Towriss said. “Together, we’re assembling a world-class team that will embody American innovation and deliver unforgettable moments to race fans around the world.” Mario Andretti, the 1978 F1 world champion, will have an ambassador role with Cadillac F1. But his son, Michael, will have no official position with the organization now that he has scaled back his involvement with Andretti Global. “The Cadillac F1 Team is made up of a strong group of people that have worked tirelessly to build an American works team,” Michael Andretti posted on social media. “I’m very proud of the hard work they have put in and congratulate all involved on this momentous next step. I will be cheering for you!” The approval has been in works for weeks but was held until after last weekend's Las Vegas Grand Prix to not overshadow the showcase event of the Liberty Media portfolio. Max Verstappen won his fourth consecutive championship in Saturday night's race, the third and final stop in the United States for the top motorsports series in the world. Grid expansion in F1 is both infrequent and often unsuccessful. Four teams were granted entries in 2010 that should have pushed the grid to 13 teams and 26 cars for the first time since 1995. One team never made it to the grid and the other three had vanished by 2017. There is only one American team on the current F1 grid — owned by California businessman Gene Haas — but it is not particularly competitive and does not field American drivers. Andretti’s dream was to field a truly American team with American drivers. The fight to add this team has been going on for three-plus years and F1 initially denied the application despite approval from F1 sanctioning body FIA . The existing 10 teams, who have no voice in the matter, also largely opposed expansion because of the dilution in prize money and the billions of dollars they’ve already invested in the series. Andretti in 2020 tried and failed to buy the existing Sauber team. From there, he applied for grid expansion and partnered with GM, the top-selling manufacturer in the United States. The inclusion of GM was championed by the FIA and president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who said Michael Andretti’s application was the only one of seven applicants to meet all required criteria to expand F1’s current grid. “General Motors is a huge global brand and powerhouse in the OEM world and is working with impressive partners," Ben Sulayem said Monday. "I am fully supportive of the efforts made by the FIA, Formula 1, GM and the team to maintain dialogue and work towards this outcome of an agreement in principle to progress this application." Despite the FIA's acceptance of Andretti and General Motors from the start, F1 wasn't interested in Andretti — but did want GM. At one point, F1 asked GM to find another team to partner with besides Andretti. GM refused and F1 said it would revisit the Andretti application if and when Cadillac had an engine ready to compete. “Formula 1 has maintained a dialogue with General Motors, and its partners at TWG Global, regarding the viability of an entry following the commercial assessment and decision made by Formula 1 in January 2024,” F1 said in a statement. “Over the course of this year, they have achieved operational milestones and made clear their commitment to brand the 11th team GM/Cadillac, and that GM will enter as an engine supplier at a later time. Formula 1 is therefore pleased to move forward with this application process." Yet another major shift in the debate over grid expansion occurred earlier this month with the announced resignation of Liberty Media CEO Greg Maffei, who was largely believed to be one of the biggest opponents of the Andretti entry. “With Formula 1’s continued growth plans in the US, we have always believed that welcoming an impressive US brand like GM/Cadillac to the grid and GM as a future power unit supplier could bring additional value and interest to the sport," Maffei said. "We credit the leadership of General Motors and their partners with significant progress in their readiness to enter Formula 1." AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing

Welcome back! Thanksgiving is over, and the NBA Cup Tournament is here. It's led to some fun basketball on some silly (complimentary) courts, and I'm excited for the playoffs. More relevantly, for our purposes, it has a lot of impact on the Fantasy schedule, so be sure to check out the Schedule Notes section at the bottom of this week's article. It looks long, but I broke it down by league type, so read that section's intro and then only focus on the section that applies to your league. As always, the players in this article must be rostered in less than two-thirds of CBS leagues. Players are listed in the order that I recommend adding them, assuming they are equally good fits for your team. Adds for all leagues De'Andre Hunter , Hawks (64% rostered) Hunter started the season with two great games before getting sidelined by an injury. When he finally returned, it took a few games for the Hawks to let him return to a full workload. Over the last seven, however, he's back up to 28.6 minutes per game, averaging 19-4-1 with 2.6 3s. The 3-and-D wing out of Virginia has completely forgotten about the "D," recording neither a block nor a steal in five of those games. That said, the efficient scoring – he's shooting 51-43-93 in this stretch – plus the points, 3s, and rebounds is more than enough to make him an attractive waiver pickup. Vasilije Micic , Hornets (23% rostered) It looks like the mid-game benching in favor of rookie two-way player KJ Simpson (1% rostered) Tuesday was a one-time thing. On Thursday, Micic put up 14-1-12 in 35 minutes as a starter, while Simpson went back to 17 minutes off the bench. With LaMelo Ball (calf) and Tre Mann (back) both out at least another week, and likely more, Micic should have a few more games as the only healthy full-time point guard. Yves Missi , Pelicans (58% rostered) The return of CJ McCollum and Dejounte Murray has unlocked Missi's offense. Over the first 16 games, Missi was averaging seven points in 23.3 minutes while shooting 53% from the field. Over the last six games, that has improved to 14.3 points and 59% shooting, albeit with a few more minutes of court time (28.3). He's also averaging 10.7 rebounds and 1.5 blocks during this stretch, continuing to contribute in the categories that first attracted our attention in October. Barring a trade that brings in a more established big man, I expect Missi to stick on rosters for the rest of the season – and hopefully keep improving, too. Cody Martin , Hornets (23% rostered) He headlined last week's column , and nothing has changed. He's not super exciting, and the low scoring is a legitimate problem that some managers won't be able to overlook. But he's contributing everywhere else. At least one team in every league should be rostering Martin. Ayo Dosunmu , Bulls (44% rostered) I'm typically a Dosunmu skeptic, but he's performing well as a starter these past seven games. Most importantly, Dosunmu combines two strengths that are often separated: assists and FG%. Since entering the starting lineup, he's averaging 5.7 assists and 60% from the field. On the season, the only players beating him in both categories are Giannis Antetokounmpo , Domantas Sabonis , and Ben Simmons . He's even adding some uncharacteristic scoring punch lately, up to 16.7 during this stretch. The Bulls have dealt with a lot of scattered absences during this run, especially to their backcourt, and a fully healthy stretch could hurt Dosunmu. But he's consistently playing great right now, despite the inconsistencies in the nightly surrounding cast, so he's worth adding as long as that lasts. Guerschon Yabusele , 76ers (21% rostered) Yabusele entered the starting lineup after Joel Embiid 's (knee) most recent injury, and he's been playing a lot. He's seen 32.7 minutes per game across those six starts. His production is all over the place, but it's averaging out to a solid 11-9-2 with 1.4 stocks and 1.7 3s. On a night-to-night basis, he's only reliable for rebounds. But the large workload is letting him accumulate enough stats to pay off over time for managers who are able to start him every night. The flip side, however, is that means his value will almost certainly evaporate as soon as the minutes decrease. We really have no idea how much longer Embiid will be out – days? Decades? – but Yabusele will make an easy drop whenever Embiid returns. Other recommendations: Brandin Podziemski , Warriors (44% rostered); Julian Champagnie , Spurs (48% rostered); Marcus Smart , Grizzlies (55% rostered); Daniel Gafford , Mavericks (59% rostered); Spencer Dinwiddie , Mavericks (21% rostered); Goga Bitadze , Magic (46% rostered); Onyeka Okongwu , Hawks (54% rostered); Moe Wagner , Magic (33% rostered) Deep league special Cason Wallace , Thunder (12% rostered) When scouring the deep league waiver wire, some of the most important qualities to look for are role, specialty, skill, and upside. We're looking for players who have a clearly defined role on their team, which helps to establish a floor they are unlikely to fall below. We prefer players with a statistical specialty so that we know what stats we're hoping they'll help with, and this makes it easier to evaluate whether they are suited to our team build. We definitely want players whose skill level we believe in – good players are more likely to earn more minutes. And, where possible, we want players who also possess some untapped upside that could emerge later in the season. Wallace easily checks off all four. The Thunder started with Wallace in a sixth-man role, but he's started as many games as he's come off the bench due to his positional versatility and the Thunder's rash of injuries. Wallace is a defensive menace, averaging 2.4 stocks while playing just 26.1 minutes per game. The 2023 lottery pick aces the eye test, and, I mean, he'd have to be good to be playing this much on the best team in the Western Conference. Wallace turned 21 exactly one month ago. There is still plenty of room for him to improve and/or for his minutes to increase. He, therefore, has multiple possible avenues to possibly increased Fantasy value later in the season. Schedule notes Week 8 (12/9-15) has the fewest games of any week all season. Most weeks feature between 47 and 58 NBA games. The only exceptions are the abridged opening week, Weeks 8 & 9 (due to the NBA Cup), and the two weeks around the All-Star Break. Even among those light weeks, however, Week 8 is the most extreme. With just 25 games, Week 8 has less than half of an average week and at least 24% fewer games than those other light weeks. That's a lot of words and numbers to emphasize a simple point: very few games next week. As always, the first piece of advice is to check your league's settings. Most Fantasy host platforms (including CBS) handled the NBA Cup tournament's schedule by not handling it – they left the Fantasy schedule alone, keeping to normal seven-day matchups. Some host sites and/or league managers, however, were able to combine Weeks 8 & 9 into a double-long matchup (14 days, from 12/9-22) that features the same number of games (58) as a normal one-week matchup. One prominent host site made the bizarre choice (mistake?) of combining weeks 7 & 8 into a double-long matchup (from 12/2-15). The first step to approaching Week 8 is understanding how long your "Week 8" matchup is. Here's how the games break down: During Week 8 (12/9-15): the Knicks play three times, 11 teams play once, and everyone else plays twice. During Week 9 (12/16-22): the Kings play four times, 12 teams play three times, and everyone else plays twice. During the two weeks combined: the Kings, Knicks, Raptors , and Pelicans play five times, everyone else plays four times. Almost all managers should be prioritizing Knicks right now. After that, it gets a little more complicated. For Weekly Managers w/7-day Week 8: Prioritize the Knicks and avoid teams with just one game as much as possible. No one has any back-to-backs, so there isn't even much nitpicking you can do to differentiate between the teams with two-game weeks. As a result, after the Knicks, you should prioritize waiver prospects from the Raptors and Pelicans, as they are the only teams with two games in Week 8 and then three in Week 9. For Weekly Managers w/14-day "Week 8": Prioritize players from any of the four teams with an extra game, the Knicks, Kings, Raptors, and Pelicans. Everyone else has the same amount of games. However, the 76ers, Thunder, Bucks , Heat , Cavaliers , and Hornets all have a back-to-back as part of their four games. If you're looking for a schedule-based reason to start or sit someone, that back-to-back can be a tiebreaker against a player. The Kings and Pelicans also have a back-to-back (as part of a 3-in-4), but their extra game is more important. For Daily Managers w/7-day Week 8: Because there are so few games, any weekly games max your league might have is irrelevant – you cannot hit it. All that matters is the weekly acquisitions limit. And, with so few games getting played, every extra start in your lineup has a bigger impact than it usually would. Figure out who your worst player is, drop them, and stream as much as your league rules allow. The extra win is worth more than the low probability upside that your 13th-best player might hit. The first priority is to add Knicks, who are the only team with three games, including games on Monday and Wednesday. After that, the next best early-week target is the Raptors, as they play their games on Monday and Thursday, so you can get two games out of that roster spot and then drop the player to get more games in later in the week. After those two, you will want to add anyone you can who is playing Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday (if your league allows daily streaming, go for all three!). Those are tiny two- or three-game slates, so added starts can be extra valuable. Then, on Friday, try to set yourself up for a strong close to the week by adding players from one of the teams that play on both Friday and Sunday – the Pacers , Lakers , Grizzlies, Timberwolves , Suns , Blazers, Spurs, or Wizards . For Daily Managers w/14-day "Week 8": This double-week ends up tied for the most games of any Fantasy matchup this season, with 58 games (the same as Week 3). If you have a "weekly" games max, you will easily hit it. If you have "weekly" acquisition limits, you'll want to be careful with those – make sure to save at least one in case a high-impact waiver target emerges. The efficacy of streaming will vary a lot from league to league. True streaming – adding at least one player every day to start that day, then dropping them the next – could be highly impactful, adding at least 10 extra starts to your matchup. On the other hand, adapted partial-streaming techniques might be unusually ineffective. Each additional start means less on a busy week, and this double-week will feature a ton of games. Since two days with no games and two days have overloaded 12- and 13-game slates, there are really 10 days (not 14) to stream or pseudo-stream. If, for example, you are limited to three or four acquisitions per week, you're pseudo-streaming will barely impact the stretched out 58-game double-matchup. All that said, some schedule points to take note of and potentially take advantage of: Games are really separated during the first eight days of the contest, the closest sets of games are two games in three days, first by the Knicks (Monday-Wednesday), then by the following teams that play on both Friday and Sunday – the Pacers, Lakers, Grizzlies, Timberwolves, Suns, Blazers, Spurs, or Wizards The Knicks are the only team with three games over the first six days The Kings are the only team with four games over the last seven days The Hornets and Thunder are the only teams with a Thursday-Friday back-to-back in Week 9 (12/19-20); start adding them Monday or Tuesday (12/16 or 17) The Kings and Pelicans end the matchup with a 3-in-4Tejon Ranch director Geoffrey Stack sells $94,590 in stock

BOULDER, Colo. — Travis Hunter is a throwback-type player — an elite receiver one moment, a lockdown cornerback the next — who rarely leaves the field and has a knack for making big plays all over it. The Colorado Buffaloes' two-way standout ( see: unicorn ) even celebrates at an elite level, unveiling imaginative dance moves following touchdowns and interceptions, some of which include the Heisman Trophy pose. It's one of the many awards he's in line to win. Hunter is the The Associated Press college football player of the year, receiving 26 of 43 votes Thursday from a panel of AP Top 25 voters. Boise State tailback Ashton Jeanty finished second with 16 votes and Arizona State running back Cameron Skattebo received one vote. Hunter kept piling up the hardware later Thursday night. He won the Maxwell Award given to the nation's outstanding player, the Chuck Bednarik Award as the top defensive player and the Biletnikoff Award for the best wide receiver. "Couldn't do what I do without my team," Hunter said in an email on a trip to Las Vegas for an awards ceremony. "So I view being up for these awards as team awards." Jeanty won the Doak Walker Award as the nation's top running back after leading the nation with 2,497 yards and 29 touchdowns. The coach of the year was Indiana's Curt Cignetti, who led his team to the playoffs after being picked to finish 17th of 18 Big Ten teams. South Carolina defensive end Kyle Kennard captured the Bronco Nagurski Trophy as the top defensive player, racking up 11 1/2 sacks and 18 1/2 tackles for loss. Ohio State center Seth McLaughlin, an Alabama transfer, won the Rimington Trophy. The Jim Thorpe Award as the best defensive back went to Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron, who led the Southeastern Conference with five interceptions. The top punter was USC's Eddie Czaplicki, who captured the Ray Guy Award. Georgia's Jalon Walker won the Butkus Award as the nation's best linebacker, heading into the playoffs with 57 tackles, including 6 1/2 sacks and 10 1/2 tackles for loss. Texas left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. was the Outland Trophy winner as the top interior lineman. Penn State's Tyler Warren won the John Mackey Award given to the most outstanding tight end after setting school single-season records with 67 catches for 808 yards. Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe won the William V. Campbell Award as the top scholar-athlete. Oregon leading tackler Bryce Boettcher captured the Burlsworth Trophy as the best player who started his career as a walk-on. But the biggest winner was Hunter. A player with his particular set of skills doesn't come around that often. He's a flashback to the days of Charles Woodson at Michigan or Champ Bailey at Georgia. Or even his coach, Deion Sanders, a two-way star in the NFL. The prospect of significant playing time on both sides of the ball is what led Hunter to join Sanders at Jackson State and why he followed Sanders to Boulder. "Coach Prime was the only coach who would consider allowing me to do what I'm doing," said Hunter, who's expected to be a top-five pick next spring in the NFL draft, possibly even the No. 1 overall selection. "He did it and knows what it takes — how much you have to be ready on both sides of the ball." Want to fuel Hunter? Simply tell him he can't. "I'm motivated when people tell me I can't do something," Hunter said. "That I can't dominate on both sides of the ball. I want to be an example for others that anything is possible. Keep pursuing your dreams." Hunter helped the 20th-ranked Buffaloes to a 9-3 record and a berth in the Alamo Bowl against No. 17 BYU (10-2) on Dec. 28. He played 688 defensive snaps and 672 more on offense — the lone Power Four conference player with 30-plus snaps on both sides of the ball, according to Colorado research. Hunter has already won a second straight Paul Hornung award as the game's most versatile player. He's up for the Walter Camp (player of the year), Maxwell (most outstanding player), the Biletnikoff (best receiver) and Bednarik (top defensive player) awards. And, of course, the Heisman, where he's the odds-on favorite to win over Jeanty this weekend. Hunter can join the late Rashaan Salaam as the only Colorado players to capture the Heisman. Salaam won it in 1994 after rushing for 2,055 yards. Hunter wasn't a finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award, which goes to the nation's top defensive back. That drew the wrath of Sanders, who earned the award with Florida State in 1988 and vowed to give his trophy to Hunter. Hunter's high school coach, Lenny Gregory, knew he had a special player the summer of Hunter's freshman year. Gregory, then the coach at Collins Hill in Georgia, had a conditioning test for his players — run six 200-yard dashes with a minute of rest in between. Defensive backs had to complete each in under 32 seconds. Hunter never even got winded. He played safety, cornerback and receiver as a freshman and helped Collins Hill to a state title his senior season. "I remember just talking to colleges the spring of his ninth-grade year and telling coaches that this kid's going to be the No. 1 player in the country," recounted Gregory, who's now the coach at Gordon Central High in Calhoun, Georgia. "They'd look at him and laugh at me, 'What are you talking about? This scrawny kid? He's not big enough.' I was like, 'Just watch. Just watch.'" Hunter finished the regular season with 92 catches for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns as a receiver. On defense, he had four interceptions, broke up 11 passes and forced one crucial fumble, which secured an OT win over Baylor. Overall, Hunter had 92 receptions and allowed 22. He hauled in 14 receiving TDs and allowed just one. He was responsible for 53 first downs and gave up just six. He was targeted 119 times by quarterback Shedeur Sanders & Co. but only 39 times by opposing QBs. Hunter's likely final game in Boulder, a rout of Oklahoma State, was a three-touchdown, one-interception performance. "I'm used to seeing him do all this spectacular stuff," Shedeur Sanders said. "I'm used to all this stuff — you all are just now seeing it on national stage."Chimerix Reports Inducement Grants Under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(c)(4)

PSX faces decline amid profit-takingLAS VEGAS — Formula 1 on Monday at last said it will expand its grid in 2026 to make room for an American team that is partnered with General Motors. “As the pinnacle of motorsports, F1 demands boundary-pushing innovation and excellence. It’s an honor for General Motors and Cadillac to join the world’s premier racing series, and we’re committed to competing with passion and integrity to elevate the sport for race fans around the world," GM President Mark Reuss said. "This is a global stage for us to demonstrate GM’s engineering expertise and technology leadership at an entirely new level.” Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.