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Elon Musk, Tesla, And The End Of The Electric Vehicle Hype!

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and owner of the digital platform X, recently experienced a significant dip in his net worth by $30 billion. Tesla, the leading electric vehicle (EV) company, reported its most disappointing quarterly earnings per share in the last two years, which was 10% below the predicted negative forecasts by analysts. Consequently, Tesla‘s stock plummeted by over 17%, leading to a massive $138 billion loss in market capitalization within a span of two trading sessions.

Akio Toyoda, Toyota‘s chairman and its previous CEO, has often expressed doubts about the overenthusiasm surrounding EVs. His skepticism was among the reasons he relinquished his position as CEO of the renowned Japanese automotive company. With Tesla’s less-than-stellar earnings report for the third quarter, it appears Toyoda’s reservations were not unfounded. He commented on the situation, stating, “People are now witnessing the reality.”

Toyoda has consistently argued that EVs aren’t the sole solution for the automotive sector to achieve carbon neutrality. He often uses the analogy, “There are various routes up the mountain.” Other significant car manufacturers are also reevaluating their aggressive EV strategies. For instance, Lucid has decreased its production rate by 30%, and GM has postponed the debut of its Chevy Silverado EV by an entire year.

The EV market is currently facing challenges as increased interest rates are impacting customer demand for electric vehicles. Jessica Caldwell from Edmunds commented on this, noting that many potential buyers are deterred from entering the market.

While the EV market continues to grow, the momentum has decelerated. Data from the Wall Street Journal say that while EV sales continue to grow – rising 51% this year through September – the rate has slowed from a year earlier and unsold inventory is starting to pile up for some brands.

Caldwell remarked, “Transitioning to a novel technology is a complex endeavor. It demands individuals to reconsider their longstanding relationship with their cars. Expecting a seamless transition was perhaps too optimistic.”

Toyota‘s chairman believes he anticipated this situation. Toyoda has consistently recommended a diversified approach, emphasizing the importance of hybrids, hydrogen-fueled vehicles, and other sustainable alternatives.

Ford has also been cautious about fully committing to EVs, recently announcing a slowdown in the production of its F-150 Lightning pickup. Bill Ford, a direct descendant of the company’s founder, Henry Ford, has mentioned that the discourse around EVs has become highly politicized.

General Motors too has taken a step back after initially pledging to eliminate gasoline and diesel vehicles by 2035, citing reduced EV demand and strike-related pressures.

However, Caldwell believes this is just a temporary setback in the eventual rise of EVs. She states, “The trajectory is clear towards EVs. Denying that would be misguided. The path, however, remains uncertain and is the source of the current ambiguity.”

SEC Records Unprecedented Whistleblower Numbers Highlighting Their Crucial Role in Cybersociety

In a recent revelation, Gary Gensler, the Chair of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), announced that the regulator reached an all-time high in the 2023 Fiscal Year with 18,000 whistleblower tips. This figure not only surpasses the previous fiscal year’s record by a significant margin but also emphasizes the invaluable contribution of whistleblowers in ensuring transparency and accountability.

While addressing the 2023 Securities Enforcement Forum, Gensler remarked, “The surge in public tips, complaints, and referrals (TCRs) is foundational to our role as the market’s watchdog. The staggering 40,000 TCRs received last year, including over 18,000 from pivotal whistleblowers, speaks volumes about their significance.

It’s worth noting that the SEC has consistently witnessed a rise in whistleblower tips in nine out of the past ten fiscal years. The leap from 12,300 tips in the Fiscal Year 2022 to the current 18,000 marks the most significant year-on-year increase since the inception of the SEC Whistleblower Program.

Whistleblowers are the bedrock of accountibility

For the program to achieve its intended purpose, it’s not only essential for the SEC to efficiently review the multitude of tips but also to persistently award and safeguard the whistleblowers who shed light on securities fraud. As Stephen M. Kohn, a founding partner at KKC, puts it, “Whistleblowers are the bedrock of accountability.

The proposed SEC Whistleblower Reform Act of 2023 seeks to bolster protections for whistleblowers, especially those who report securities violations internally. The bill also aims to expedite whistleblower awards and restricts non-disclosure agreements that could hinder reporting.

Introduced in 2010 through the Dodd-Frank Act, the SEC Whistleblower Program has evolved into a critical component of the SEC’s enforcement strategy, recuperating over $6.3 billion from fraudsters and rewarding whistleblowers with over $1.5 billion.

As the program witnesses an ever-increasing number of whistleblowers, it’s imperative for both the Congress and the SEC to ensure that it operates at its optimum, reflecting the essence of a robust cybersociety.

Taylor Swift Is The New Singer Billionaire!

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The recent Eras tour has propelled Taylor Swift into the billionaire club, as highlighted in a Bloomberg report. This significant milestone places Swift among the elite group of artists who have amassed such wealth predominantly from their musical endeavors.

A comprehensive assessment of the 33-year-old superstar’s assets reveals that Swift’s groundbreaking Eras tour concert film shattered box office records, raking in $92.8 million during its debut weekend. Additionally, the re-release of her 2014 hit album “1989” is anticipated to dominate the charts once again. Her current estimated net worth stands at an impressive $1.1 billion.

This financial leap was primarily driven by the monumental success of her tour, which wrapped up its U.S. leg in August and is gearing up for an extensive international tour in the coming month. Based on Bloomberg’s data, the 53 U.S. concerts contributed a whopping $4.3 billion to the nation’s GDP.

Bloomberg’s conservative analysis is rooted in verifiable figures and assets. The evaluation considered the estimated value of Swift’s real estate holdings (around $110 million), her music catalog (valued at $400 million for tracks released post-2019), and her earnings from multiple streams, including streaming deals, music sales, concert tickets, and merchandise.

It’s estimated that the Eras tour, a marathon concert spanning over three hours with 44 songs, has generated ticket sales exceeding $700 million thus far. This is even before considering the revenue from its international leg. With an average ticket pricing at $254, the pre-tax profit from the Eras tour alone is estimated at about $225 million. This is nearly double the profit from her 2018 Reputation tour.

Bloomberg’s report describes Swift’s transformation from a young country-pop sensation to a global icon. Despite her colossal success, she has preserved her genuine, down-to-earth image. Her close-knit team includes her father, Scott Swift, associated with Merrill.

Scott Swift‘s investment firm, the Swift Group, operates from Taylor’s hometown, Wyomissing, Pennsylvania. Official disclosures link him to multiple companies affiliated with Taylor, encompassing merchandising businesses, rights-management firms, and companies owning assets like her tour bus and private jets.

Bloomberg foresees significant earning potential for Swift, particularly given the value of her extensive songwriting catalog. While a conservative valuation of her music catalog stands at about $400 million, a more optimistic projection based on potential royalties could be close to $1 billion. This valuation towers above many in the music industry, with Bruce Springsteen’s catalog, sold in 2021, valued at around $550 million.

The Future of Finance: Gen Z and Millennials Lead the Charge

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Coinbase‘s recent Q3 “The State of Crypto. Age, Access, and Agency” report, conducted in collaboration with Bovitz and Morning Consult, presents a grim picture of the American financial system. A mere 7% of those surveyed believe the system works in their favor. This number is even more startling when considering that less than 10% of the general populace expressed approval for the current financial framework.

Gen Z and the confusing and inadequate financial system

A clear generational divide emerges from the data. Millennials label the system as “outdated,” echoing their frustrations, while Gen Z finds it “confusing” and “inadequate.” These feelings reflect the unique financial challenges these younger generations face. Amid this dissatisfaction, a silver lining emerges: approximately 40% see promise in crypto and blockchain technologies as avenues for future prospects and employment.

Coinbase‘s report predicts a potential political shift as younger generations gain influence. By 2028, Millennials and Gen Z are expected to constitute a majority of the electorate, with over half likely to support crypto-friendly candidates in the 2024 elections. This prediction aligns with their technological inclinations and aspirations for a more inclusive financial future.

The end of the American dream

Traditional markers of success, such as securing a steady job or homeownership, which once epitomized the American Dream for older generations, now appear elusive to the younger populace. Only 9% of Gen Z and 19% of Millennials believe that the American Dream is universally attainable. They are disillusioned by a system riddled with debts, high housing costs, and inflation, combined with legacy institutions that no longer cater to their needs.

However, this disenchantment isn’t synonymous with inactivity. The younger generation is proactively forging a new path, embracing novel models of work, ownership, and finance that bypass traditional intermediaries. They’re not just passively waiting for change; they’re the catalysts.

Coinbase‘s research delves deeper into the younger generation’s experiences, revealing their drive for autonomy and innovation. Over 100 million Millennials and Gen Z adults, having grown up in the digital age, expect the financial system to be as agile and innovative as the technology they use daily. Their demands are straightforward: a financial system that is fast, innovative, and inclusive.

Gen Z shapes its financial future differently

Young individuals are not merely passive observers. They are actively shaping their financial futures:

  • 45% desire multiple income sources, with 32% already engaged in side hustles.
  • 77% of Gen Z wish to carve their unique paths, diverging from traditional norms.
  • 38% believe that crypto and blockchain can offer them financial opportunities beyond what the current system provides.

As these generations inch closer to dominating the electorate, their preferences will undeniably influence political and economic landscapes. The report indicates that 51% are inclined to support crypto-friendly political candidates come 2024.

FTX Founder Sam Bankman-Fried Testifies in High-Profile Crypto Fraud Trial!

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In a pivotal turn of events, Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF), the founder of FTX, took the stand in his ongoing fraud trial, vehemently denying allegations that he defrauded customers of billions. The trial, which has captured significant media attention, centers around accusations that SBF funneled billions from FTX to cover a deficit at Alameda Research, a hedge fund co-founded by SBF and closely linked to FTX.

Key revelations from the trial include:

  • Denial of Fraud: SBF asserted his innocence, stating that while he acknowledged “significant oversights,” he never defrauded anyone or misappropriated customer funds. He painted a picture of starting FTX with the vision of building the best exchange, only for it to fall short of that goal.
  • Communication Policies Under Scrutiny: A significant portion of the trial focused on FTX’s practices of deleting and encrypting communications. The defense contended these actions were in line with data retention policies and were measures against potential hacks and interference from former employees.
  • Unconventional Beginnings: Contrary to the perception of him as a crypto expert, Bankman-Fried admitted to having little knowledge about cryptocurrencies when he founded FTX. He was driven more by the trading potential they presented rather than their underlying mechanisms.
  • Blame on Alameda Research: A recurring theme was Bankman-Fried’s attempts to attribute many of FTX’s issues to Alameda Research, headed by his ex-partner Caroline Ellison. He accused Ellison of mismanagement, particularly her refusal to hedge assets against potential market downturns.
  • Efforts to Humanize the Defendant: Bankman-Fried’s defense team made notable efforts to humanize him, addressing both his unconventional corporate practices, like the co-habitation of FTX employees, and his personal relationship with Ellison. He emphasized that he unintentionally became the face of FTX and was overwhelmed by its rapid growth and media attention.
  • Prosecution’s Strong Stance: The prosecution built its case using testimonies from Bankman-Fried’s inner circle, including Ellison and Gary Wang, both of whom have pleaded guilty to fraud charges. They painted a picture of a CEO who was aware of the financial abyss FTX was heading into and made deliberate decisions that led to its collapse.
  • Serious Allegations: SBF faces several charges, including wire fraud and conspiracy to launder money. If convicted, he could face decades in prison. Prosecutors allege that he used FTX funds for personal luxuries, including a $40 million penthouse and significant political contributions.

As the trial progresses into its final stages, all eyes are on the federal court, where closing arguments are expected soon. Bankman-Fried is set to continue his testimony next week, with the jury likely to begin deliberations shortly after.

Crypto Turbulence: Binance’s CZ Sees Billions Erode Amidst Industry-Wide Scrutiny

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Changpeng Zhao, commonly referred to as CZ, is the brains behind Binance, the world’s premier cryptocurrency exchange. As of October 23, 2023, Forbes estimated his wealth at $10.2 billion. However, recent financial shifts, as reported by Bloomberg Billionaires Index, have seen his fortune decrease by $11.9 billion due to decreased trading volumes on Binance.

Disgraded crypto magnate Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF) is currently battling fraud allegations, shedding light on the broader scrutiny faced by crypto entrepreneurs. This intensified scrutiny led the Bloomberg Billionaires Index to adjust Binance‘s revenue downwards by 38%, consequently reducing CZ’s net worth to $17.2 billion.

A series of events linked CZ to the legal troubles of SBF. Notably, CZ opted to liquidate a token associated with FTX after discovering that SBF‘s Alameda Research had a substantial interest in it. This decision triggered a massive withdrawal of funds from FTX, pushing the platform into bankruptcy and decimating Bankman-Fried’s net worth from a zenith of $26 billion to virtually zero.

Binance‘s dwindling market share, based on Coingecko and Coinpaprika insights, is partly due to the cessation of a zero-fee promotional campaign. Lately, Binance seems to be on a divergent path from mainstream finance. Legal challenges from institutions like the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, concerning alleged regulatory breaches including insufficient anti-money laundering measures, have further distanced Binance from traditional financial systems.

While Binance refutes these accusations, its valuation took another hit when it decided to discontinue dollar-based transactions. This decision led Bloomberg to downgrade the value of Binance‘s US operations from $4.7 billion in March 2022 to zero. It’s worth noting that at the outset of 2022, CZ’s assets totaled an impressive $96 billion.

Binance isn’t alone in this downturn; factors like regulatory uncertainties and rising interest rates are reshaping the crypto industry, as highlighted by Coinbase‘s 52% drop in trading volume in the third quarter, year-on-year. These tumultuous times signal a significant shift in the crypto domain, with its key players bearing the brunt.

US Strikes Syria Sites Used By Iran Following Series Of Attacks On US Forces In Middle East

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According to a recent article on CNN, the US carried out airstrikes targeting two facilities linked to Iranian-backed militias in eastern Syria on Thursday, October 26, 2023. The strikes were ordered by President Joe Biden and were described as “narrowly tailored in self-defense” by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. The facilities have been used by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and affiliated groups. The US accused Iran of having a role in the attacks on US forces and emphasized that it will not let them hide their hand and deny their role in these attacks against US forces.

These strikes followed continuous drone and missile attacks on U.S. bases and personnel since October 17, which resulted in the death of an American contractor and injuries to 21 soldiers.

Despite these measures, the U.S. clarified it doesn’t seek further hostilities but expects Iran-backed attacks to cease. Defense Secretary Austin further emphasized that these strikes were not related to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and were primarily focused on protecting U.S. interests in Iraq and Syria.

U.S. officials believe these strikes will significantly curtail the capabilities of Iranian proxy groups targeting U.S. forces. The U.S. holds Tehran accountable for funding and directing these proxies.

The operations in Syria came after U.S. President Joe Biden conveyed a direct message to Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, cautioning against assaults on U.S. troops. Despite the ongoing conflict, the Biden administration has not directly implicated Iran in the recent attacks in Syria and Iraq.

U.S. officials continue to assert that their actions are calculated, aiming to deter strikes against U.S. personnel involved in combating the Islamic State group. Concurrently, to fortify its defense, the U.S. is enhancing air defenses in the region, deploying missile systems, and increasing fighter jet presence. This move intends to show unwavering support for Israel amidst its ongoing conflict with Hamas.

U.S. Authorities Go After $300M Superyacht Associated With ‘Russian Gatsby’ Suleiman Kerimov!

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On 23 Oct 2023, the U.S. Justice Department initiated the process to forfeit a 348-foot superyacht, the Amadea, claiming it belongs to a sanctioned billionaire oligarch, Suleiman Kerimov, dubbed the “Russian Gatsby.” The $300 million luxury vessel is said to be “beneficially owned” by Kerimov and was allegedly maintained in breach of sanctions imposed on him.

Who is Suleiman Kerimov?

Suleiman Kerimov is a Russian billionaire with close ties to Vladimir Putin’s government in Russia, as well as Ramzan Kadyrov, the Chechen leader.

Kerimov has a diverse portfolio of international holdings and investments that brought him immense success as a businessman, investor, and philanthropist. His net worth was estimated by Forbes Magazine at approximately $20.7 billion as of December 2020.

However, Kerimov has also been involved in several controversies. He was placed under sanctions by the U.S. Department of Treasury in April 2018. In the wake of the 2022 Russian Invasion of Ukraine, Kerimov was sanctioned as a Russian oligarch close to President Putin by the US, UK and EU on March 15, 2022.

Seizing the Superyacht

In May 2022, Fijian law enforcement executed a seizure warrant freezing the Amadea, a 348-foot luxury vessel owned by sanctioned Russian oligarch Suleiman Kerimov. Fijian law enforcement, with the support and assistance of the FBI, acted pursuant to a mutual legal assistance request from the U.S. Department of Justice.

The yacht was previously confiscated in Fiji in connection with the Justice Department’s Task Force KleptoCapture‘s efforts targeting assets of sanctioned oligarchs following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The U.S. Attorney’s office, under Damian Williams, has filed a civil forfeiture claim in New York, arguing for the yacht’s forfeiture to the U.S. government. The Amadea boasts an array of luxurious amenities, including a helipad, infinity pool, Jacuzzi, and multiple bars.

Kerimov, with an estimated net worth of $14 billion and links to the Russian government, faced U.S. Treasury Department sanctions in 2018 over money laundering accusations. Known for his elusive nature and extravagant lifestyle, Kerimov has thrown lavish parties and owns a collection of luxury cars.

Other Superyacht Owners

However, another oligarch, Eduard Khudainatov, the former CEO of Russia’s state-controlled gas company Rosneft, claims he owns the Amadea and is contesting its seizure. The U.S. Justice Department argues that Khudainatov acts as a “front” owner, alleging he cannot afford the yacht’s maintenance.

Adam Ford, Khudainatov’s attorney, has filed a lawsuit in California, arguing against the government’s valuation of his client’s wealth. Ford expressed confidence in a favorable verdict for his client.

The U.S. has collaborated with multiple countries to confiscate several superyachts linked to oligarchs, often with concealed ownership.

Michael Khoo, co-director of Task Force KleptoCapture, emphasized their determination in conducting intricate, international investigations. He asserted that the move against the Amadea underscores the commitment to hold those disregarding the law accountable.

Google Is Paying Apple Up To $20B A Year To Be The Default Search On iPhones!

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Google reportedly shells out a staggering $18 billion to $20 billion annually to ensure its search engine remains the primary choice on Apple‘s iPhones. The payments under the deal between Google and Apple constitute 14-16% of Apple’s yearly operating profits, which a financial analyst believes could be in jeopardy.

The U.S. Antitrust Lawsuit

Online magazine The Register reports that Bernstein, a firm that guides institutional investors on investment decisions, recently released a report delving into the potential repercussions for Apple stemming from the ongoing antitrust lawsuit the U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) has initiated against Google. The lawsuit accuses Google of monopolizing search and search advertising.

A focal point of the case, which commenced last month, is the Information Services Agreement (ISA) between Apple and Google. This agreement is being spotlighted in the trial as a prime instance of anticompetitive conduct.

Doing The Calculation

Bernstein’s report stated, “There’s a potential that the courts could rule against Google, compelling it to end its search agreement with Apple.” The firm estimates that the ISA translates to annual payments ranging from $18B to $20B from Google to Apple, which constitutes 14-16% of Apple’s yearly operating profits.

While Apple remains tight-lipped about the specifics within its Services division, Google discloses the funds it transfers to Apple as part of its traffic acquisition costs (TAC) to distribution partners. Bernstein‘s analysis suggests that Google spends 22% of its total ad revenue on TAC, with Apple likely pocketing around 40% of that amount.

The DoJ, during the trial, estimated that Apple garners approximately $10 billion from its ISA with Google.

Alternative Scenarios

The verdict in the Google antitrust case isn’t expected anytime soon, with predictions pointing towards 2024. This will likely be followed by an extended appeals process. However, the financial implications for Apple are not anticipated to be severe.

The report emphasizes that while Google is the one on trial, Apple could potentially collaborate with another search engine or maintain its agreement with Google outside the US. A probable outcome could see Apple presenting users with a choice screen. Given that Apple controls access to its user base, which generates an estimated $60B+ in ad revenues, it’s believed that Apple would continue to demand a commission (around 25-30%) for granting access to those search ad revenues.

Furthermore, the introduction of a choice screen might pave the way for Apple to introduce its own search engine. This action, however, might currently attract regulatory scrutiny, as suggested by the Bernstein report.

Former Formula 1 Boss Bernie Ecclestone Pays £653M To UK Tax Authority To Avoid Prison!

Bernie Ecclestone, the ex-head of Formula 1, has been handed a suspended prison sentence after admitting to fraud charges. The 92-year-old failed to disclose over £400 million in a Singapore trust to UK tax officials in 2015. Ecclestone consented to a civil agreement to pay nearly £653 million to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). As a result, he received a 17-month prison sentence, which has been suspended for two years.

For many years, Bernie Ecclestone was the driving force behind Formula One, operating it with a minimal team from its Kensington, London base. The sport’s business thrived on personal negotiations and handshake agreements. However, this very approach seems to have led to Ecclestone’s recent legal troubles.

Ecclestone faced the consequences of his actions in Southwark crown court, London, where he admitted to tax fraud. His attempt to conclude an HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) investigation into his financial affairs in a 2015 meeting backfired when he provided misleading information. This resulted in a 17-month suspended prison sentence.

In addition to the sentence, Ecclestone is mandated to pay £652.6 million to HMRC and cover prosecution expenses amounting to £74,000. This comes after his confession of not disclosing £400m in assets to the UK’s tax body. Appearing in court in a grey suit, the soon-to-be 93-year-old Ecclestone stated his guilty plea.

This marks a significant decline for Ecclestone, who, from the late 1970s to January 2017, held sway in race paddocks and secured preferential deals with global leaders, including Tony Blair and Vladimir Putin. His influence played a pivotal role in elevating Formula One to a globally recognized media entity, while he retained control over its commercial and sporting aspects.

By 2005, Ecclestone began relinquishing financial control, selling a portion of the business to US private equity firm CVC. While CVC allowed Ecclestone to continue his operations, the dynamics shifted in 2017 when Liberty Media acquired Formula One. Ecclestone’s traditional business approach clashed with contemporary corporate governance standards, leading to his removal post-acquisition.

Ecclestone’s legal challenges aren’t new. In 2014, he paid £60m (without admitting guilt) to conclude a bribery case in Germany. In 2022, he faced arrest in Brazil for possessing a firearm on a private plane but was released on bail. HMRC initiated its investigation into Ecclestone’s finances in 2012.

Ecclestone’s defense highlighted his advancing age and potential health risks associated with imprisonment. While acknowledging the severity of Ecclestone’s actions, the judge considered factors like his age, health, and the potential impact on his young child before delivering the sentence.