1. Madoff Fund Making Final Payments to Fraud Victims (Business, Economy) - Bernard Madoff's Ponzi scheme has been one of the largest financial frauds in history. The article mentions that the Madoff fund is making final payments to victims who lost their money in the scam. [Link](https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/stock-market-today-dow-sp500-nasdaq-live-12-30-2024/card/madoff-fund-making-final-payments-to-fraud-victims-sDemNZs3jt924FjQCjkS?siteid=yhoof2&yptr=yahoo) 2. Americans expect stock boost in 2025, along with global, political conflict (Business, Economy, Politics) - The article discusses a survey conducted by Cointelegraph that reveals that Americans expect a stock boost in 2025, but also anticipate political and global conflicts. [Link](
Cointelegraph
Americans expect stock boost in 2025, along with global, political conflict
Americans expect stocks to go up in 2025 but global conflict may intensify, a survey from Gallup shows.
) 3. South Korea’s Yoon will be arrested within deadline, anti-graft chief says (Politics) - The article discusses the arrest warrant issued for South Korea's President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol, who is accused of corruption. [Link](
Al Jazeera
South Korea’s Yoon will be arrested within deadline, anti-graft chief says
Chief of Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials warns that anyone blocking arrest can be prosecuted.
) 4. NATO chief warns of new threats in 2025 (Politics, Security) - The article discusses NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg's warning about potential new threats in 2025, including cyber attacks, terrorism, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. [Link](https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-61024405) 5. Elon Musk changes his name to Kekius Maximus on Twitter (Technology, Entertainment) - The article discusses Elon Musk's decision to change his name on Twitter to "Kekius Maximus," which is a reference to an internet meme. [Link](
Elon Musk changes his name to Kekius Maximus on X
The world's richest man sparks speculation after changing his name and using a picture of Pepe the Frog.
)
1. Power Outage in Puerto Rico: Puerto Rico entered the new year in darkness after a sudden blackout, affecting most of the island (
Puerto Rico left in dark by New Year's Eve blackout
About 90% of the island's customers lost power - the latest in a series of blackouts since Hurricane Maria in 2017.
) 2. Tesla and Elon Musk: Elon Musk's mysterious 'Kekius Maximus' username change on Twitter caused a cryptocurrency to surge over 1600% (
Fortune
Elon Musk's mysterious 'Kekius Maximus' username change on X sends obscure crypto soaring over 1600% | Fortune
No one understands why Musk did it. Was it a joke? Or a hidden message?
) 3. Stock Market and Economy: The U.S. stock market closed the year with a quiet slide, ending a 20% gain stretch, while bond vigilantes sent a "loud warning message" as Treasuries climbed to May highs (https://finance.yahoo.com/news/stocks-diving-year-end-slump-143039589.html,
Yahoo Finance
Bond Vigilantes Send
The yield on the 10-year Treasury bonds hit a seven-month high in Friday
) 4. Bitcoin and Cryptocurrencies: MicroStrategy purchased $209 million of bitcoin as purchases slowed down, while Tornado Cash developers' legal fund received a donation from Vitalik Buterin (https://finance.yahoo.com/news/microstrategy-buys-209-million-bitcoin-132437113.html,
Cointelegraph
Vitalik Buterin donates $170K to Tornado Cash developers’ legal fund
Vitalik Buterin donated 50 Ether toward a project to support the legal defense of two Tornado Cash developers: one convicted in the Netherlands, th...
) 5. Netflix Price Increase: An analyst suggested that it's time for Netflix to boost prices, especially in the sports category (https://www.barrons.com/articles/netflix-stock-sports-price-increase-138894da?siteid=yhoof2&yptr=yahoo)
1. European Gas Prices Rise Ahead of Cold Snap, End of Russian Transit Deal (World Events/Economy): European gas prices have been rising ahead of a cold snap and the end of a transit deal with Russia. This could lead to potential supply disruptions, as Russia is a major gas supplier to Europe. (Source: https://www.wsj.com/finance/commodities-futures/european-gas-prices-gain-on-final-day-of-russian-transit-deal-19342eed?siteid=yhoof2&yptr=yahoo) 2. Home Prices Keep Rising. Housing Stocks Have Had a Terrible Year. (Business/Economy): Home prices in the U.S. continue to rise, despite a rough year for housing stocks. This trend is likely driven by low interest rates and high demand for homes. (Source: https://www.barrons.com/articles/case-shiller-home-price-index-october-850abaaa?siteid=yhoof2&yptr=yahoo) 3. Ukraine receives US natural gas shipment for the 1st time amid fresh supply fears (World Events/Economy): Ukraine has received its first shipment of natural gas from the U.S. amid ongoing supply concerns due to tensions with Russia. This marks a shift in energy sources for Ukraine. (Source:
Fox News
Ukraine receives US natural gas shipment for the 1st time amid fresh supply fears
The expiration of Russian piped gas through Ukraine has put EU leaders on edge, sparking fresh supply concerns ahead of a cold winter season.
) 4. Bernie Sanders plans to spearhead legislation on key Trump proposal (Politics): Senator Bernie Sanders has announced plans to introduce legislation on a key proposal from former President Trump. The proposal, known as the "Emergency Management Assistance Compact," would provide federal resources to states in times of crisis. (Source:
Fox News
Bernie Sanders plans to spearhead legislation on key Trump proposal
Sen. Bernie Sanders is daring President-elect Donald Trump to back his upcoming legislation to cap credit card interest rates after the president-e...
) 5. Warner Bros Discovery Stock Could Outperform Next Month (Business/Economy): Analysts have predicted that Warner Bros Discovery stock could outperform in the coming months. This is partly due to the company's strong content library and potential for growth in streaming services. (Source:
Yahoo Finance
Warner Bros Discovery Stock Could Outperform Next Month
Warner Bros Discovery stock boasts the best average return of any SPX stock in January
)
1. Wall Street Expectations for 2025: According to a Zero Hedge article, "No One on Wall Street Expects a Bad 2025," there is a general consensus among financial analysts that the year 2025 will be a positive one for the stock market. The article cites various reports and predictions from Wall Street firms. [Link](
No One On Wall Street Expects A Bad 2025 | ZeroHedge
ZeroHedge - On a long enough timeline, the survival rate for everyone drops to zero
) 2. New Year's Eve Security Warnings in New York City: Authorities issued safety warnings for New Year's Eve celebrations in Times Square, citing that the city has become a high-threat zone. Fox News reported on the increased security measures and potential threats. [Link](
Fox News
Authorities issue NYE warning as nation’s top tourist spot becomes a high-threat zone and more top headlines
Authorities issue NYE warning as nation’s top tourist spot becomes a high-threat zone and more top headlines
) 3. Election Predictions by Elon Musk: Tesla CEO Elon Musk predicted a loss for German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in the 2025 elections, referring to him as "Chancellor Oaf Schitz." The prediction was made in a tweet and was covered by RT News. [Link](
RT International
Musk labels German chancellor ‘Oaf Schitz’
Elon Musk has predicted Olaf Scholz will lose snap elections in February
) 4. Ryanair Share Buy-Back Plan: Ryanair announced an advancement in its share buy-back plan by purchasing additional shares. The news was reported by Yahoo Finance. [Link](
Yahoo Finance
Ryanair Advances Share Buy-Back Plan with New Purchases
Ryanair Holdings ( (RYAAY) ) just unveiled an announcement. Ryanair Holdings plc announced the purchase and cancellation of 20,000 ordinary shares ...
) 5. AI and Fed Rate Cuts Boost U.S. Stocks: In 2024, artificial intelligence (AI) and Federal Reserve rate cuts contributed to the rise of U.S. stocks, pushing them to new highs, according to Yahoo Finance. [Link](
Yahoo Finance
Wall Street ends lower, capping a banner year
NEW YORK (Reuters) -Wall Street lost ground on Tuesday as investors closed the book on a remarkable year for equities, during which the U.S. stock ...
)
1. US H-1B Visa Controversy: Donald Trump reposted Elon Musk's call for respecting immigrants amid the H-1B visa row, sparking a debate among his supporters. This event highlights the ongoing tension over immigration policies in the United States. - Link:
The Times of India
H-1B visa row: Trump rubs more salt into MAGA wounds, reposts Elon Musk's call to 'respect immigrants' | World News - Times of India
US News: Former President Donald Trump has amplified a message from Elon Musk that champions hardworking legal immigrants and calls for defending A...
 2. South Korea's Political Turmoil: The impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol faces an arrest warrant, deepening South Korea's political crisis. This event showcases the ongoing political instability in South Korea. - Link:
CNBC
South Korea's impeached President Yoon faces arrest as court issues warrant, deepening political turmoil
A warrant for South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was approved by a Seoul court on Tuesday. Yoon is the first sitting South Korean president to fa...
 3. China's Involvement in US Treasury Hack: Reports suggest that China was involved in a major breach of US Treasury workstations. This event raises concerns about cybersecurity and potential economic espionage. - Link:
Cointelegraph
China denies involvement after ‘major’ breach of US Treasury workstations
China refuted claims that Chinese state-backed hackers compromised the US Treasury’s systems to access documents.
 4. Bitcoin Price Predictions and Market Trends: Leading crypto firms predict that Bitcoin will hit $185,000 in 2025, while MicroStrategy's shares plunge after its Bitcoin buy. This event reflects the volatility and interest in the cryptocurrency market. - Link: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/bitcoin-hit-185-000-2025-193000876.html - Link:
Cointelegraph
MicroStrategy shares slip 8% after its end-of-year Bitcoin buy
MicroStrategy shares fell on Dec. 30 after announcing it had purchased a large amount of Bitcoin for the eighth consecutive week.
 5. US-China Trade Relations: The US and China continue to be at odds, with reports of China ordering its largest military build-up since the 1930s Germany. This event highlights the ongoing tension between the two economic superpowers. - Link:
China Orders Largest Military Build-Up Since 1930s Germany; Report | ZeroHedge
ZeroHedge - On a long enough timeline, the survival rate for everyone drops to zero
1. China Hacked Treasury Department: The United States accused China of hacking the Treasury Department in a "major incident," according to a U.S. official. The cyberattack reportedly gained access to workstations and documents within the agency. (New York Times) Link:
China Hacked Treasury Dept. in ‘Major’ Breach, U.S. Says
The episode comes at a particularly sensitive moment, just as the Biden White House is dealing with one of the most far-reaching, and damaging, hac...
 2. Jimmy Carter's Death and Legacy: Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter passed away at the age of 98. He was a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and a prominent advocate for human rights throughout his life. (BBC) Link:
Jimmy Carter: US to hold national day of mourning on 9 January
The 39th president of the United States will be remembered in a state funeral in Washington and ceremonies in Atlanta.
 3. Bird Flu Outbreak in Michigan: The bird flu outbreak in Michigan expanded, with more poultry facilities being exposed to the virus. This has raised concerns about the potential for human transmission of the virus. (Fox News) Link:
Fox News
Bird flu outbreak expands, more Michigan poultry facilities exposed to virus
Bird flu outbreaks have been confirmed this month in multiple Michigan flocks.
 4. Ukraine Aid Package: U.S. President Joe Biden announced a $2.5 billion military aid package for Ukraine to help the country defend itself against Russian aggression. This marks a continued surge in U.S. support for Ukraine ahead of former President Donald Trump's expected return to office. (Al Jazeera) Link:
Al Jazeera
US President Biden announces $2.5bn military aid package for Ukraine
Administration of US President Joe Biden has committed more than $65bn in support since Russia's full-scale invasion.
 5. Biden's Tax Plan and Inflation Concerns: The Biden administration is facing criticism for its proposed tax plan and its handling of inflation, which is impacting American households and businesses. The concerns are particularly pressing as the end of the year approaches and the holiday shopping season is in full swing. (Fox News) Link: https://www.foxnews.com/politics/biden-tax-plan-inflation-concerns
1. Value-Seeking Shoppers and Retail Trends: This event revolves around consumers prioritizing value in their shopping habits, driving retail trends for 2024 while also leading to some dead ends. The article can be found at https://www.inc.com/associated-press/value-seeking-shoppers-drove-2024-retail-trends-and-dead-ends/91101272 2. Elon Musk and South Africa Deal: SpaceX founder Elon Musk is reportedly considering a deal to offer Starlink service in South Africa in exchange for a Tesla battery plant. The source is
Fortune
Elon Musk eyes a deal with his native South Africa to let SpaceX offer Starlink service in exchange for a Tesla battery plant, report | Fortune
Musk’s political influence continues to grow.
 3. Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway Investment: Billionaire investor Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway is buying shares of Verisign, a lagging 1990s dot-com darling. The article can be found at
Fortune
Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway is buying up shares of a lagging 1990s dotcom darling | Fortune
Berkshire invested $74 million in domain name and internet infrastructure company VeriSign this month.
 4. Appeals Court Upholds Trump Verdict: A U.S. appeals court has upheld a $5 million verdict against former President Donald Trump in a sexual abuse case. The link is
The Times of India
US appeals court upholds $5 million verdict against Donald Trump in sexual abuse case - Times of India
US News: A US appeals court upheld the jury's verdict that Donald Trump sexually abused columnist E. Jean Carroll in the 1990s and confirmed a $5 m...
 5. Kenya Protests Against Government Abductions: Kenyan police fired tear gas at a protest against alleged government abductions. The event can be read about at
Al Jazeera
Kenya police fire tear gas at protest against alleged government abductions
Several, including politician, reportedly among those detained by police in Nairobi at site of antigov't protests.
1. South Korea Plane Crash: A Boeing 737-800 operated by Jeju Air crashed into the sea off the southern coast of South Korea, killing 165 people. South Korean authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, with some aviation experts casting doubt on the bird strike theory. (
The Times of India
Day after fatal South Korea plane crash, another Jeju Air flight faces landing gear issues - The Times of India
Rest of World News: A Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 returned to Seoul's Gimpo International Airport due to landing gear issues, following a similar model...
) 2. H-1B Visa Debate: There has been a controversy surrounding a debate between Laura Loomer and Sriram Krishnan about the H-1B visa program. Loomer has apologized for her comments, stating it was an "honest mistake." (
The Times of India
H-1B row: Did Laura Loomer apologize to Sriram Krishnan in immigration debate? | World News - Times of India
US News: Far-right activist Laura Loomer issued an apology on Sunday for sharing personal information about Indian-American businessman Sriram Kris...
) 3. Wall Street Futures Slip: Wall Street futures have slipped on elevated Treasury yields, with investors remaining cautious as the end of 2024 approaches. (
Yahoo Finance
Wall Street ends lower on penultimate trading day of a strong 2024
Wall Street closed in negative territory on Monday in light volume at the top of a holiday-shortened week in the second-to-last trading session of ...
) 4. Trump's Inauguration on MLK Day: There is a debate about whether Donald Trump should be inaugurated on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, with some arguing that it is appropriate. (
Trump's Inauguration On MLK Day Is Appropriate | ZeroHedge
ZeroHedge - On a long enough timeline, the survival rate for everyone drops to zero
) 5. Oil Prices: There has been a slight increase in oil prices, with supply and demand factors playing a role. (
Barrons
Oil Prices Slip After U.S. Inventories Report
Oil prices were falling, with both Brent crude and WTI down 0.4% at $73.48 and $70.29 a barrel, respectively. Brent and WTI prices have slipped in ...
)
1. Death of Former President Jimmy Carter: Formally known as "Former President and Peanut Farmer Jimmy Carter Dies at 100" (https://www.inc.com/melissa-angell/former-president-and-peanut-farmer-jimmy-carter-dies-at-100/91101229), this event is about the passing of the 39th U.S. president, Jimmy Carter, at the age of 100. Many world leaders, including Joe Biden and Donald Trump, have paid tribute to his life and legacy. 2. Plane Crash in South Korea: The headline "Jet crash disaster in South Korea marks another setback for Boeing" (
The Times of India
Jet crash disaster in South Korea marks another setback for Boeing | World News - Times of India
US News: WASHINGTON: A machinists strike.
) indicates that an airplane crashed in South Korea, resulting in casualties and causing damage to Boeing, the aircraft manufacturer. 3. Australian Passport Fees Increase: The article "Australian passport fees jump again: Major change from January 1, 2025" (
The Times of India
Australian passport fees jump again: Major change from January 1, 2025 | World News - Times of India
Rest of World News: From January 1, Australians will face a 3.5% increase in passport application fees, making a new 10-year adult passport cost $4...
) discusses the increase in Australian passport fees, which will take effect on January 1, 2025. 4. Hotel Fire in Bangkok: The headline "Hotel fire in popular Bangkok tourist area kills 3 foreigners" (https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/hotel-fire-popular-bangkok-tourist-area-kills-3-117191753) highlights a fire that occurred in a popular Bangkok tourist area, resulting in the death of three foreigners. 5. Bitcoin Price Fluctuations: The article "Bitcoin greed falls to October levels as BTC fizzles toward year end" (
Cointelegraph
Bitcoin greed falls to October levels as BTC fizzles toward year end
The Crypto Fear & Greed Index has dropped to levels last seen in October as the price of Bitcoin has slumped in the final days of 2024.
) discusses the current state of Bitcoin's price, which has fallen to levels not seen since October, as the cryptocurrency approaches the end of the year.
1. Death of Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter: Jimmy Carter, the 39th U.S. president, passed away at the age of 100 on December 29, 2024. He was known for his humanitarian efforts and diplomatic work, particularly during the Camp David Accords. (
Jimmy Carter, Peacemaking President Amid Crises, Is Dead at 100
Rising from Georgia farmland to the White House, he oversaw the historic Camp David peace accords, but his one-term presidency was waylaid by troub...
) 2. South Korea Plane Crash: A passenger plane carrying 179 people crashed near the southern city of Gimhae, resulting in a large number of casualties. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation. (
Video: South Korea Plane Crash Kills 179 People
Only two people survived when a Jeju Air plane crashed at Muan Airport in South Korea on Sunday, the country’s worst aviation disaster in decades...
) 3. Market Movements: On December 29, 2024, various news outlets reported on market movements, including the potential for a recession, interest rate changes, and investment advice. (
CNBC
'Noctourism' is expected to be a big travel trend in 2025
"Noctourism" focuses on nighttime travel experiences. Proponents say it's a way to avoid heat and crowds, while seeing a destination in a different...
, https://www.wsj.com/business/autos/auto-industry-sales-tariff-outlook-25bfc816?siteid=yhoof2&yptr=yahoo) 4. Geopolitical Tensions: There were several reports of geopolitical tensions, including U.S.-North Korea relations, the situation in Syria, and relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan. (
Global News
North Korea’s leader vows to implement tough anti-U.S. policy before Trump takes office - National | Globalnews.ca
North Korea has sharply increased the pace of its weapons testing activities to build more reliable nuclear missiles targeting the U.S. and its all...
,
Al Jazeera
Why are relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan so tense?
Afghanistan hits several targets in Pakistan in retaliation for air strikes last week.
) 5. Sports Events: There were several notable sports events, including football games, basketball games, and a boxing match. (
Fox News
Patriots fans chant 'Fire Mayo' as team suffers blowout loss to Chargers
New England Patriots fans yelled for the team to fire Jerod Mayo on Saturday as they watched them get blown out at home by the Los Angeles Chargers.
,
NFL News, Scores, Standings & Stats | FOX Sports
Get NFL news, scores, stats, standings & more for your favorite teams and players -- plus watch highlights and live games! All on FoxSports.com.
)