Putin Warns of Global War

??22nd November 2024 | Holiday Spending Soars Despite Financial Worries, Netanyahu Faces War Crime Charges, OpenAI eyes its own browser launch, Bryce Underwood Flips Commitment to Michigan, 160,000+ Pounds of Beef Recalled for E. Coli Risk, Trump Selects Pam Bondi for Attorney General After Gaetz Drops Out, and more!

Business and Economy

? Jobless claims drop to 213K, near 7-month low

US jobless claims fell by 6,000 to 213,000 for the week ending Nov. 16, reaching a seven-month low as layoffs remained historically low amid strong economic conditions. Analysts had forecasted 220,000 claims, but steady labor demand drove the decline. However, continuing claims rose by 36,000 to 1.91 million. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell stated, "Inflation is largely under control."

?? Holiday Spending Soars Despite Financial Worries and Rising Costs

US holiday spending rose 3.1%, despite concerns over high prices and rising credit card delinquencies. Economic stability, driven by strong job growth and easing inflation, helped sustain consumer confidence. Retailers responded with early discounts and cautious inventory management. Michelle Meyer, Mastercard’s Chief Economist stated, “The economic backdrop remains favorable with healthy job creation and easing inflation pressures.”

World

?? Arrest warrants for Netanyahu , Gallant, and Hamas leader over war crimes allegations

Judges at the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, ex-Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas commander Mohammed Deif over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity during the Israel-Hamas war. The warrants cite murder, persecution, and attacks on civilians. ICC prosecutor Karim Khan stated, “Justice is the foundation of lasting peace.”?

?? Putin Warns Ukraine War Going Global

Russian President Vladimir Putin cautioned that the Ukraine war is moving toward a global conflict, citing U.S. ATACMS and U.K. Storm Shadow missile strikes on Russian targets. In response, Russia tested its hypersonic Oreshnik missile on a Ukrainian facility. Putin emphasized that further actions by the West would prompt decisive responses, stating, “There will always be a response.”

Science and Tech

?? US Leads AI Innovation , Tops China in Stanford Ranking

The U.S. ranks first in AI innovation, surpassing China in research, investment, and responsible development, according to Stanford’s AI Index. With $67.2 billion invested last year, compared to China’s $7.8 billion, the U.S. maintains its top position, followed by the UK, India, and UAE. Ray Perrault from Stanford stated, “The gap is actually widening.”?

?? OpenAI eyes its own browser launch

OpenAI is reportedly exploring the development of its own AI-driven web browser, aiming to compete with Google Chrome. The browser could integrate advanced AI features to enhance the browsing and search experience. While the project is in early stages, OpenAI has engaged with partners like Conde Nast and Apple. If successful, this move could challenge Google's dominance in the market.?

Sports and Entertainment

?? Browns QB Winston soars for 2-yard TD

Browns QB Jameis Winston soared for a 2-yard touchdown on fourth-and-goal, increasing Cleveland’s lead to 18-6 in snowy conditions at Huntington Bank Field.? He followed up with a two-point conversion to David Njoku. Earlier, Nick Chubb made his triumphant return from injury, scoring a 2-yard touchdown for his 50th career rushing TD. Chubb stated, "It feels great to be back."?

?? Bryce Underwood Flips Commitment to Michigan?

Bryce Underwood, the top recruit in the nation and Belleville quarterback has reversed his commitment from LSU to Michigan for the 2025 class. The Wolverines’ NIL offer, reportedly worth over $10 million, influenced his choice. Underwood, who holds state records in passing yards and TDs, will begin practice with Michigan on December 19. Belleville coach Calvin Norman stated, "It's great that he's staying home."?

Misc

?? Trump Selects Pam Bondi for Attorney General After Gaetz Drops Out

President-elect Donald Trump selected Pam Bondi as his new pick for Attorney General after Matt Gaetz withdrew due to growing Senate opposition. Trump praised Bondi as a "smart and tough" ally who will focus on refocusing the DOJ on crime. A former Florida AG, Bondi is expected to have an easier confirmation process than Gaetz. Trump stated, "Pam will refocus the DOJ.”

?? 160,000+ Pounds of Beef Recalled for E. Coli Risk

Over 167,000 pounds of ground beef from Wolverine Packing Co. were recalled due to E. coli O157:H7 contamination, linked to 15 illnesses reported between Nov. 2 and 10. The beef, marked with “EST. 2574B,” includes fresh products with a "use by" date of Nov. 14 and frozen products with an Oct. 22 date. The Food Safety and Inspection Service stated, "Consumers should cook beef to 160°F to ensure safety."?

?? Alabama Executes Man Using Nitrogen Gas for Hitchhiker’s Killing

Alabama carried out the execution of Carey Dale Grayson, 50, on Thursday for the 1994 murder of hitchhiker Vickie Deblieux, using nitrogen gas, the third such execution in the U.S. Grayson was pronounced dead at 6:33 p.m. after the U.S. Supreme Court denied his appeal. Abraham Bonowitz, Executive Director of Death Penalty Action stated, “This is deeply troubling.”

This Day That Year

On November 22nd, 1963, one of the most infamous political assassinations in American history unfolded when President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president of the United States (1961–63), was shot and killed in Dallas, Texas while traveling in an open car.

Have a great day and see you on Monday??