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Topic: Politics (3212)

Trump Pledges More Support for Crypto World After Authorizing a 'Digital Fort Knox' Δ1.66

President Donald Trump has reaffirmed his commitment to the cryptocurrency sector by hosting key industry figures and announcing the establishment of a strategic bitcoin reserve, a move aimed at positioning the U.S. as a global leader in digital currency. During a White House summit, Trump emphasized the importance of holding bitcoin as a valuable asset, while his administration claims this initiative will not burden taxpayers. The reserve, described as a 'digital Fort Knox,' is intended to signal confidence in bitcoin's future, despite some political opposition regarding potential conflicts of interest.

DJI Brings New Immersive Control Features to Popular FPV Drones via Latest Updates Δ1.54

DJI has started rolling out new updates to its various FPV headsets, bringing a more immersive flight experience with Navigation-enabled flight control software (INAV) support. The new firmware packages can only be installed if the DJI Fly app is v1.16.0 or higher, and users must restart their drone, goggles, and remote after the update process is completed. The updates also introduce real-time telemetry data and the option to create flight plans without taking off.

Elon Musk to Face Questioning in Suit Over Twitter Buyout Flip-Flop Δ1.54

Musk is set to be questioned under oath about his 2022 acquisition of Twitter Inc. in an investor lawsuit alleging that his on-again off-again move to purchase the social media platform was a ruse to lower its stock price. The case, Pampena v. Musk, involves claims by investors that Musk's statements gave an impression materially different from the state of affairs that existed, ultimately resulting in significant losses for Twitter shareholders. Musk completed the $44 billion buyout after facing multiple court challenges and rebranding the company as X Corp.

Longtime Financial Advisor Recommends Caterpillar (CAT), Altria (MO) Δ1.55

Aquiles Larrea, Founder and CEO of Larrea Wealth Management, has identified Caterpillar (CAT) and Altria (MO) as attractive blue-chip stocks for investors seeking stability in the current market environment. Larrea believes CAT presents a solid entry point for investment, predicting nearly 10% returns over the next 12 to 18 months, while highlighting MO's consistent profitability and 6% dividend yield as key factors in its appeal. Both stocks are positioned to weather market volatility better than many competitors, making them enticing options for cautious investors.

Canada Commits over C$6 Billion to Fight Impact of US Tariffs, Find New Markets Δ1.63

Canada has unveiled a significant aid package worth over C$6.5 billion to support businesses and individuals affected by U.S. tariffs, providing financial assistance, loan options, and modified employment insurance rules. The relief measures aim to help companies tap into new international markets, absorb losses, and prevent layoffs, addressing the potential economic impact of the trade dispute. These moves demonstrate Canada's efforts to mitigate the effects of the tariffs on its economy.

US President Donald Trump's Megaphone Diplomacy Row Ends with South Africa's Rejection Δ1.66

US President Donald Trump has halted all federal funding to South Africa, but the country has responded by refusing to engage in "megaphone diplomacy" and instead remains committed to building a mutually beneficial bilateral relationship. The move is seen as a significant escalation of tensions between the two nations, particularly over South Africa's land policy and genocide case at the International Court of Justice against Israel. Trump's executive order aims to pressure the South African government into revising its policies.

PGA Tour Looking to 'Reunify the Game' With $1.5 Billion LIV Golf Deal, Commissioner Says Δ1.54

The PGA Tour is making a significant investment in an effort to reunify the golfing world, as a deal with Saudi Arabia-backed LIV Golf could potentially bring back some of the top players who have defected to the rival league. The proposed $1.5 billion deal would not only address the talent drain but also help to revitalize the game by increasing purses and offering more competitive opportunities for golfers. This move is a response to the growing influence of LIV Golf, which has disrupted the traditional golf landscape with its lucrative offers and innovative approach.

Music Labels Will Regret Coming for the Internet Archive, Sound Historian Says Δ1.52

The Internet Archive's preservation of old 78s has sparked a heated debate between music labels and the platform. Music labels are seeking to limit the project's scope, citing the availability of similar recordings on streaming services. However, experts argue that these recordings face significant risks of being lost or forgotten due to their rarity and lack of commercial availability.

US Lawmakers Have Already Introduced Hundreds of AI Bills in 2025 Δ1.64

As of early 2025, the U.S. has seen a surge in AI-related legislation, with 781 pending bills, surpassing the total number proposed throughout all of 2024. This increase reflects growing concerns over the implications of AI technology, leading states like Maryland and Texas to propose regulations aimed at its responsible development and use. The lack of a comprehensive federal framework has left states to navigate the complexities of AI governance independently, highlighting a significant legislative gap.

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Shares Drop 15% on Weak Outlook, Juniper Deal Faces DOJ Challenge Δ1.54

Hewlett Packard shares fell sharply on Friday after the company issued lower-than-expected earnings guidance and revenue forecasts, citing challenges from tariffs, pricing pressure, and high AI inventory levels. The stock declined $2.77, or 15.4%, to $15.19 as of 1:32 p.m. GMT-5 on Friday. HPE's business expected adjusted earnings per share of $0.28 to $0.34, missing the $7.94 billion estimate.

Oklo Inc. (OKLO) Crashed on Thursday Δ1.56

Oklo Inc.'s share price plummeted by 14.26 percent on Thursday, leaving it 7th on our list of the day's biggest losers. The company's decline was largely attributed to concerns over uranium imports and tariffs imposed on Canadian suppliers. Despite analysts' bullish views on Oklo's prospects due to the growing Artificial Intelligence industry and government support for the energy sector.

Increased Power for Musk's Starlink Raises Concerns Δ1.57

The US Federal Communications Commission has approved higher power levels for Elon Musk's SpaceX Starlink service, despite objections from rival companies AT&T and Verizon. The decision allows Starlink to operate a direct-to-cell service with T-Mobile at higher power levels, which could result in harmful interference and impact their service in some areas. The FCC has set conditions to protect terrestrial wireless carrier operations.

‘Startup Nation’ Groups Say They’re Meeting Trump Officials to Push for Deregulated ‘Freedom Cities’ Δ1.64

Advocates of the 'Startup Nation' initiative are engaging with Trump administration officials to promote the establishment of 'Freedom Cities' in the U.S., which would operate free from federal regulations. This movement, led by proponents of innovative urban development like Próspera, aims to create environments that encourage entrepreneurial growth and deregulated living. The discussions highlight a clash between traditional governance and emerging visions of autonomous urban spaces as a means to stimulate economic activity.

Apple Delays AI-Infused Siri Upgrade to Improve Features Δ1.51

Apple has delayed the rollout of its more personalized Siri with access to apps due to complexities in delivering features that were initially promised for release alongside iOS 18.4. The delay allows Apple to refine its approach and deliver a better user experience. This move may also reflect a cautionary stance on AI development, emphasizing transparency and setting realistic expectations.

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Shares Tumble as US Tariffs Hurt Forecast Δ1.60

Shares of Hewlett Packard Enterprise fell 13% on Friday, after the AI-server maker said its annual profit forecast would be hit by U.S. tariffs in an intensely competitive market. HPE's comments show tariffs are already affecting U.S. companies, and analysts have said trade war uncertainties could cause prices to rise, including in technology and autos sectors. The company is planning to mitigate these impacts through supply-chain measures and pricing actions.

BRAZIL SUPREME COURT Upholds RUMBLE Suspension Δ1.55

The majority of a five-member panel of Brazil's Supreme Court has upheld a justice's previous ruling to suspend U.S. video-sharing platform Rumble in the country for not complying with court orders, citing the need for greater accountability and transparency from online platforms. The decision aims to protect Brazilian users from hate speech and false information on the platform. However, the move has raised concerns about censorship and freedom of expression.

ServiceNow to Grow in Florida, Will Keep HQ in California Δ1.50

ServiceNow Inc is planning a major expansion in West Palm Beach and has explored relocating its headquarters there from Silicon Valley, boosting the South Florida city's status as a nexus of money and power. The company plans to move hundreds of people at first, hiring thousands in the long term, and establish a significant presence in Palm Beach County. This move is expected to create thousands of jobs in the city and cement West Palm Beach's reputation as a hub for technology and innovation.

Canada Suspends Imports From Biggest US Pork Processing Plant Δ1.60

The suspension of Smithfield Foods' hog slaughterhouse by Canada marks the latest blow to America's farm sector, which is struggling due to concerns over U.S. tariffs sparking retaliation and reducing demand for American agricultural products. The decision follows a heated dispute between Washington and Ottawa over trade tariffs, highlighting the growing tensions in global agriculture. Canada's action will limit a market for U.S. pork products and create uncertainty for farmers and meatpackers.

Discord Discusses IPO Plans Amid Growing User Base Δ1.53

Discord is reportedly engaging in early-stage discussions with investment bankers regarding a potential initial public offering (IPO), reflecting its significant growth with over 200 million monthly users. Although the talks are still exploratory and subject to change, this marks a renewed interest in going public after previously rejecting a $10 billion acquisition offer from Microsoft in 2021. The company, valued at $14.7 billion during a 2021 funding round, has become a central hub for various communities, including gaming, crypto, and AI.

Threads Rival to Twitter: Meta's Text-Based Social Platform All Your Questions Answered Δ1.52

Threads is Meta's text-based Twitter rival connected to your Instagram account. The platform has gained significant traction, with over 275 million monthly active users, and offers a unique experience by leveraging your existing Instagram network. Threads has a more limited feature set compared to Twitter, but its focus on simplicity and ease of use may appeal to users looking for an alternative.

Gold Heads for Weekly Gain on Safe-Haven Demand, Slow US Job Growth Δ1.57

Gold prices are on track for a weekly gain driven by safe-haven demand amid a disappointing U.S. jobs report that indicates slower job growth than anticipated. The report revealed a rise of 151,000 jobs in February, falling short of the expected 160,000, which coupled with a weaker dollar, has bolstered gold's appeal as a safe investment. Despite a slight decline in prices on Friday, the overall market sentiment remains supportive of gold, with expectations of potential Federal Reserve interest rate cuts later this year.

Threads Tests Adding 'Interests' On Profiles to Connect Users with Topical Discussions Δ1.53

Meta's Threads has begun testing a new feature that would allow people to add their interests to their profile on the social network. Instead of only advertising to profile visitors, the new interests feature will also direct users to active conversations about the topic. The company thinks this will help users more easily find discussions to join across its platform, a rival to X, even if they don’t know which people to follow across a given topic.

Mortgage Rates Fall Again With Largest Weekly Decline Since Mid-September Δ1.56

Mortgage rates fell for a seventh consecutive week to the lowest level since December, according to mortgage buyer Freddie Mac, as the average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage decreased to 6.63% from last week's reading of 6.76%, increasing prospective homebuyers' purchasing power and providing existing homeowners with an opportunity to refinance. The decline in rates is also expected to boost the housing market, which has been facing challenges due to rising interest rates in recent months. The current rate decrease may lead to increased demand for homes, potentially offsetting some of the negative impacts of higher mortgage rates.

Farmers Face Soaring Fertilizer Prices Amid Trump Trade War Δ1.56

Canadian and US farmers are bracing for another economic blow: even bigger fertilizer bills amid a North American trade war, as tariffs on Canadian products have increased potash prices nearly 20% this year ahead of US duties. The price of potash has risen from $303 per short ton to $348 on February 28, with phosphate prices also surging since hurricanes hit the Florida mines and facilities that make the product. Fertilizer companies are rushing to meet demand, but analysts predict higher costs for farmers, who already face low grain prices.

Trump 'Strongly Considering' Large-Scale Sanctions and Tariffs on Russia Δ1.63

US President Donald Trump has indicated a significant shift in his stance towards Russia, expressing that he is "strongly considering large-scale sanctions" and tariffs until a ceasefire and peace agreement with Ukraine is achieved. This change comes amid ongoing Russian attacks on Ukraine and follows Trump's previous supportive rhetoric towards Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlighting the complexities of US foreign policy in the region. The potential sanctions and tariffs may be an attempt to balance pressure on both Russia and Ukraine, though the effectiveness of such measures remains uncertain given the existing sanctions already imposed on Moscow.

US Labor Market Runs Into Trump’s Reality Δ1.67

The US Federal Reserve may soon be forced to confront the consequences of its role in exacerbating economic uncertainty under the Trump administration. The latest jobs report, which showed a 50th consecutive month of net gains, could be the last of its kind for a while due to unwelcome unpredictability from the Trump administration. The future for the US economy doesn't look nearly as bright as the recent past.

Google Backs Away From Underrepresented Language in Grant Website Δ1.57

Just weeks after Google said it would review its diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, the company has made significant changes to its grant website, removing language that described specific support for underrepresented founders. The site now uses more general language to describe its funding initiatives, omitting phrases like "underrepresented" and "minority." This shift in language comes as the tech giant faces increased scrutiny and pressure from politicians and investors to reevaluate its diversity and inclusion efforts.

Choosing the Right TV Antenna for Your Needs Δ1.51

A great TV antenna lets you watch broadcast television for free and in better resolution than you'll get any other way, including streaming services. TV antennas aren’t just for cord-cutters looking to cut back on the cost of TV entertainment, but a good TV antenna will bring in anywhere from 20 to more than 100 channels, depending on where you live. The stations are free, don’t require a broadband connection (with the exception of some ATSC 3.0 channels using encryption), and boast higher resolution and picture quality than cable or streaming options.

Google Debuts Gemini-Based Text Embedding Model Δ1.51

Google has added a new, experimental 'embedding' model for text, Gemini Embedding, to its Gemini developer API. Embedding models translate text inputs like words and phrases into numerical representations, known as embeddings, that capture the semantic meaning of the text. This innovation could lead to improved performance across diverse domains, including finance, science, legal, search, and more.

Trump Says He Sent Letter to Iran Leader to Negotiate Nuclear Deal Δ1.59

Trump says nuclear talks would be 'a lot better for Iran'.Says situation can be addressed by a deal, or militarilyUS leader says he is not looking to hurt IranWestern officials fear a nuclear-armed Iran could threaten Israel, Gulf Arab oil producers, and spark a regional arms race.

Hedge Funds Give Up Half of 2025 Gains in 'Challenging' Markets, Says Goldman Sachs Δ1.53

Hedge fund stock pickers and multi-strategy funds experienced a significant setback, relinquishing approximately half of their average yearly gains amid a tech-driven equity selloff, as noted by Goldman Sachs. The downturn was particularly severe in sectors where hedge funds had concentrated long positions, such as technology and media, resulting in an average return of just 1% for stock pickers so far this year. This performance marks one of the most challenging periods for hedge funds, with many strategies failing to offset losses as anticipated.

Elon Musk's AI Company xAI Acquires 1 Million-Square-Foot Property in Memphis Δ1.51

xAI, Elon Musk’s AI company, has acquired a 1 million-square-foot property in Southwest Memphis to expand its AI data center footprint, according to a press release from the Memphis Chamber of Commerce. The new land will host infrastructure to complement xAI’s existing Memphis data center. "xAI’s acquisition of this property ensures we’ll remain at the forefront of AI innovation, right here in Memphis," xAI senior site manager Brent Mayo said in a statement.

Battlefield Playtest Footage Leaks Online, Revealing Major Changes Δ1.51

The leaked Battlefield Labs playtest footage has left fans excited about the potential return to classic gameplay mechanics. The new destruction system and map design have been praised for their improvement over previous titles. Electronic Arts (EA) is likely to crack down on the leaker, but the damage may already be done as the footage has spread widely online.

AI Bots Can Now Play Mafia with Each Other, and Almost All of Them Are Terrible at It Δ1.51

The AI Language Learning Models (LLMs) playing Mafia with each other have been entertaining, if not particularly skilled. Despite their limitations, the models' social interactions and mistakes offer a glimpse into their capabilities and shortcomings. The current LLMs struggle to understand roles, make alliances, and even deceive one another. However, some models, like Claude 3.7 Sonnet, stand out as exceptional performers in the game.

AI-Powered 'More Personalized Siri' Is Delayed Δ1.52

Apple has postponed the launch of its anticipated "more personalized Siri" features, originally announced at last year's Worldwide Developers Conference, acknowledging that development will take longer than expected. The update aims to enhance Siri's functionality by incorporating personal context, enabling it to understand user relationships and routines better, but critics argue that Apple is lagging in the AI race, making Siri seem less capable compared to competitors like ChatGPT. Users have expressed frustrations with Siri's inaccuracies, prompting discussions about potentially replacing the assistant with more advanced alternatives.

Startups Weekly: Startups Raised Funding to Help Others Navigate Challenges Δ1.52

This week in the startup world saw a mix of triumphs and trials, with some companies achieving significant revenue milestones while others faced legal challenges. Notable highlights include fintech startup Ramp doubling its annualized revenue to $700 million and Gong surpassing $300 million in annualized revenue, positioning itself for a potential IPO. Meanwhile, emerging companies like Ataraxis AI and Grain are addressing critical issues such as cancer treatment predictions and foreign exchange volatility with new funding rounds.

Trump’s ‘Strategic Bitcoin Reserve’ Plan Comes With a Twist Δ1.67

The US government is set to establish two national cryptocurrency reserves, one composed entirely of bitcoin and the other featuring various other crypto coins, in an effort to bolster its digital asset holdings. The strategic bitcoin reserve will be populated with coins seized by US government agencies during law enforcement operations, while the national digital asset stockpile will hold a broader range of cryptocurrencies. This move aims to provide the US with a secure and diversified digital asset portfolio, potentially enhancing its financial flexibility.

Physical Game Media Might Perish because of the 25% Tariffs on Imported Discs Δ1.54

The proposed 25% tariff on imported disc games could lead to a shift towards all-digital strategy in the gaming industry, with potential price increases for physical copies. Digital distribution is becoming increasingly popular, and recent changes have already led to more affordable pricing for AAA titles. The ongoing uncertainty surrounding the tariffs' fate means that the market's response will be closely watched.

S.Africa's Rand Firmer vs Dollar, Stock Futures Firm Δ1.57

The South African rand has strengthened against the US dollar on Monday, with dealers predicting further gains in holiday-thinned trade. The currency is benefiting from a weak US dollar, which is likely to continue trending downwards due to concerns over inflation and interest rates. Investors are becoming increasingly optimistic about the rand's prospects as the country prepares for elections later this year.

US Job Growth Stable as Government Cuts Start Δ1.65

The US economy added 151,000 jobs in February, but federal employment dropped by 10,000, showing that President Trump's policy changes are starting to impact hiring. The labor market remains strong, with the unemployment rate ticking up to 4.1%, but analysts warn that the growth may be cooling down due to economic uncertainty. The government's reduction of jobs and spending is being offset by gains in other sectors, such as healthcare and financial firms.

The UK Government Proposes Changes to Immigration System Δ1.56

The UK government has proposed significant changes to its immigration system, including the removal of a "skinny visa" that allowed individuals with a bachelor's degree from outside the EU to work in the UK on a short-term basis. The new proposals also aim to introduce a "points-based" system for skilled workers, which would require them to meet specific criteria such as language proficiency and relevant work experience. However, critics argue that these changes could exacerbate existing labour shortages and negatively impact British businesses.

Reforming Digital Age of Consent to Protect Children Online Δ1.58

The proposed bill has been watered down, with key provisions removed or altered to gain government support. The revised legislation now focuses on providing guidance for parents and the education secretary to research the impact of social media on children. The bill's lead author, Labour MP Josh MacAlister, says the changes are necessary to make progress on the issue at every possible opportunity.

Crypto Fans Underwhelmed by “Symbolic” Trump Order Creating US Bitcoin Reserve Δ1.65

The executive order establishing a strategic bitcoin reserve is largely symbolic, providing no timeline for the acquisition of additional bitcoins by the US government. Despite President Trump's promise to make America the "crypto capital of the world," the lack of an active buying plan has disappointed many cryptocurrency enthusiasts. The reserve, which currently holds seized bitcoins already in the Treasury Department's store, does not address the fundamental issue of a steady supply of digital assets.

Lenovo Joins Growing China Exodus as Manufacturers Flee US Tariffs Δ1.52

Lenovo is moving all PC manufacturing inside India over the next three years, with plans to increase production from 12 million units to nearly 17 million. The company's decision to leave China follows a similar trend among other major players in the industry, driven by US tariffs on Chinese goods and export controls on AI chips. Lenovo's move is aimed at reducing costs and mitigating the impact of trade tensions.

Elon Musk Ally Leading CHIPS Act Office Purge Δ1.61

The purge of the CHIPS Act office staff under Michael Grimes' leadership marks a significant shift in Washington's semiconductor strategy. With only 22 staffers remaining, the team's core function of incentivizing chip manufacturers to set up domestic production has been severely reduced. The reduction in staff and eventual dismantling of the office's programs reflect broader tensions between executive power and congressional oversight.

AI Thinks It Cracked Kryptos. The Artist Behind It Says No Chance Δ1.53

For 35 years, amateur and professional cryptographers have tried to crack the code on Kryptos, a majestic sculpture that sits behind CIA headquarters in Langley, Virginia. In the 1990s, the CIA, NSA, and a Rand Corporation computer scientist independently came up with translations for three of the sculpture’s four panels of scrambled letters. But the final segment, known as K4, was encoded with knottier techniques and remains unsolved, fueling the obsession of thousands of would-be cryptanalysts.

Chinese Lawmaker Proposes Law to Allow Chinese Companies to Hide Their Foreign Suppliers Δ1.56

Chinese lawmaker Guan Wenhui has introduced a proposal that would enable state-backed firms to conceal their foreign suppliers, potentially facilitating evasion of U.S. trade restrictions. This initiative aims to protect companies from public scrutiny that could lead to supplier withdrawals, thus ensuring continued access to essential technology despite sanctions. The proposal reflects a broader trend toward increased opacity in China's technology sector amid rising foreign scrutiny and emphasizes China's strategy to balance access to global tech while fostering domestic innovation.

We Need Your Help to Shape the Future of Tom’s Hardware Δ1.52

Tom’s Hardware is seeking input from its readers to enhance the quality of its technology coverage through a comprehensive reader survey, emphasizing its commitment to best-in-class content. With nearly 30 years of experience, the platform aims to understand its audience better while ensuring that the topics covered align with user preferences. Participants in the survey will have the opportunity to enter a sweepstakes for a $300 Amazon gift card as a token of appreciation for their feedback.

Cutting NASA’s Science Budget by 50 Percent Would Be Catastrophic Δ1.54

NASA's science directorate is the backbone of the space agency, responsible for delivering many of its most significant achievements over the last 25 years. The agency's roughly $25 billion budget allocates only about 30 percent to science, with the majority funding planetary and Earth sciences, astrophysics, and heliophysics research. If proposed cuts by Russell Vought become a reality, NASA would be forced to make difficult decisions, potentially including shutting off critical missions like Voyager and Curiosity probes.

Harris Set to Make Decision on California Governor Bid by Summer's End Δ1.57

Kamala Harris has given herself a deadline to decide whether to run for governor of California, with a clear indication that she plans to make a decision in the coming months. According to sources close to the former vice president, Harris is considering a bid to succeed Gavin Newsom and believes a win would likely take her out of the 2028 presidential race. As Harris prepares to make a final decision, allies are keeping their options open, with several top Democratic candidates already reassessing their own bids.