Former President Donald Trump has announced plans to create a "crypto strategic reserve," aligning it with existing U.S. reserves of gold and oil, and is supported by a new digital assets working group. Critics have expressed concerns over the inclusion of high-risk crypto tokens in the reserve, which could lead to conflicts of interest and highlight challenges in integrating cryptocurrencies into national economic strategies. The initiative raises broader issues of governance and regulatory oversight, with past actions by administration officials potentially blurring ethical lines and influencing decision-making processes related to digital assets.
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This report reveals that former President Donald Trump received at least $7.8 million in payments from foreign governments during two of his four years in office, with China being the leading spender. The payments came from entities linked to the governments of Kuwait, Qatar, Turkey, Malaysia, and the United Arab Emirates, and the report does not provide any evidence that Trump was aware of the payments or that they were made in exchange for any favors. The report is likely to fuel further scrutiny of Trump's financial dealings with foreign governments.
Starbucks has announced that customers can now bring their own personal cups to all visits, including drive-through and mobile orders. This move is part of the company's commitment to reduce waste by 50 percent by 2030, and customers will receive a 10 cent discount and 25 bonus stars for U.S. Starbucks rewards when they bring their own cup. Starbucks is also implementing other sustainability efforts, such as a 5p charge for disposable cups in the UK and Ireland, and a cup-sharing program in Seattle.
Apple Inc. has won a temporary reprieve in its legal battle over the Apple Watch product, with an appeals court ordering a pause on a ban of the product that went into effect on Tuesday. The ban was enacted after the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled that some Apple Watch models infringed on pulse-reader patents owned by Masimo, a medical tech company. Apple is appealing the ITC's ruling, and the appeals court has given the ITC until January 10 to respond to Apple's request for a longer stay while the issue moves through the courts.
Americans are expected to spend nearly $30 billion on gift cards this holiday season, with restaurant gift cards making up one-third of sales. It is important to consider expiration dates and inactivity fees when giving or receiving gift cards, and to remind the recipient to use the card before it expires. Following these tips can ensure that your gift card is used and enjoyed.
British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe has agreed to buy a minority stake in Manchester United, one of the world's most successful football clubs, for around $1.6 billion. The deal will see Ratcliffe provide $200 million upon completion of the deal and a further $100 million by the end of 2024, as well as taking responsibility for the club's soccer operations. Ratcliffe's investment is a major boost for Manchester United and will help to ensure that the club can remain competitive in the future.
The Republican National Committee (RNC) is facing a significant financial deficit heading into the 2024 presidential election year, with only $7.6 million available, barely a tenth of the $21.3 million it had four years ago. This has caused anxiety among party leaders, and is compounded by former President Donald Trump's refusal to take part in any GOP debates so far. Trump has implied he may not debate any Republican challengers, but has said he looks forward to debating President Biden if both men are their party's nominees.
Ikea has warned of possible product shortages due to the mass diversion of shipping containers from the Red Sea over safety concerns caused by Houthi militants from Yemen. At least $80 billion worth of cargo has been diverted from the waterway which provides access to the Suez Canal, and Ikea is evaluating other options to secure the availability of products. The full impact of the Houthi threat remains to be seen.