Explore finance insights, tips, and trends to make informed decisions.
Real Estate
In October 2024, U.S. existing home sales rose by 3.4% from September, reaching an annualized rate of 3.96 million units, marking the first year-over-year increase since July 2021. This uptick is attributed to a slight rise in housing inventory, which provided more options for buyers despite persistently
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Taiwan is set to invest $1 billion annually over the next three years to bolster its artificial intelligence (AI) sector, aiming to diversify its economy beyond its traditional semiconductor industry. This initiative, announced by Science and Technology Minister Wu Tsung-tsong, focuses on enhancing AI data centers and applications, with the
Real Estate
Before purchasing a home, it's essential to assess your financial readiness and how homeownership aligns with your long-term goals. Consider the following key questions: 1. Can I Afford the Total Cost of Homeownership? Beyond the mortgage payment, homeownership entails additional expenses such as property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Business spending on artificial intelligence (AI) has experienced a remarkable surge in 2024, with Menlo Ventures reporting a 500% increase, bringing total investments to $13.8 billion. This significant growth underscores the escalating importance of AI across various industries. Companies are channeling substantial resources into AI to enhance efficiency, improve
Business
Robinhood Markets has announced plans to acquire TradePMR, a custodial and portfolio management platform serving approximately 400 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms with over $40 billion in assets under administration. This strategic move marks Robinhood's entry into the wealth management sector, positioning it to compete with industry leaders
Military & Defense
In 2024, the defense technology sector has experienced unprecedented growth, with funding reaching new heights. Leading this surge is Anduril Industries, a defense tech startup co-founded by Palmer Luckey. In August, Anduril secured a $1.5 billion funding round, elevating its valuation to $14 billion. This significant investment underscores a
Funding
Venture capital firms in the Bay Area are facing significant financial challenges due to a slowdown in profitable exits, such as initial public offerings (IPOs) and acquisitions. In 2023, U.S. venture firms returned only $26 billion to investors, marking the lowest amount since 2011. This shortfall has led to
Food
Private equity firm Blackstone has acquired a controlling stake in Jersey Mike's Subs, valuing the sandwich chain at approximately $8 billion. Founder and CEO Peter Cancro will retain a significant equity stake and continue to lead the company. This partnership aims to accelerate Jersey Mike's expansion
Funding
Despite a surge in investments in artificial intelligence (AI) startups, venture capital firms are experiencing historically low profits. In 2023, U.S. venture capital firms returned only $26 billion to investors, marking the lowest figure since 2011. This trend has persisted into 2024, with significant investments but limited acquisition deals
Economy
President-elect Donald Trump has announced the creation of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), appointing Elon Musk and former GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy to lead the initiative. The department aims to reduce $2 trillion from the federal budget by targeting inefficiencies and enhancing government operations. Musk has proposed creating
Banking
The World Bank is currently facing significant scrutiny due to reports of unaccounted climate funds and the prospect of budget cuts from the incoming Trump administration. An Oxfam report published in October 2024 revealed that between $24 billion and $41 billion of the World Bank's climate finance over
Investing
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and renowned philanthropist, manages a substantial investment portfolio through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Trust. As of November 2024, the trust's portfolio is valued at approximately $45 billion, with a significant concentration in a few key holdings. Major Holdings 1. Microsoft (MSFT)