Reported 4 months ago
Banks and insurers have been seeking credit ratings from U.S. agencies for risky loans to private equity funds, secured against their portfolios and cash flows, as they face challenges exiting investments profitably in a high interest rate environment. Agencies like S&P, Moody's, and Fitch are cautious as valuing these loans is difficult due to opaque investor bases. Lenders are approaching agencies to rate loans to reduce capital requirements and assess risks. Only S&P and KBRA rate Net Asset Value (NAV) loans, with S&P expecting NAV facilities to double to $150 billion in the next two years. Moody’s lacks a methodology for NAV loans due to lack of standardization in the market. KBRA evaluates fund managers' history and NAV loan security provisions, while S&P assesses funds' performance under stress scenarios.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is 6.94% this week, and the 15-year fixed rate is 6.24%, both down from last week, marking three weeks of decreases. With more homes for sale and rates on the decline, it could be an opportune moment for potential buyers to start house hunting before the spring home-buying season ends. 30-year rates are now at 6.94% while 15-year rates are at 6.24%, offering insights into fixed-rate vs. adjustable-rate mortgages and future rate predictions based on the Federal Reserve's decisions.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
Source: WSJ
Reported 4 months ago
Bill Walton, the decorated college basketball and NBA player who passed away at age 71, had a unique perspective on personal success influenced by his coach, John Wooden. Walton believed success was the peace of mind that comes from knowing you've done your best. He had a deep love for San Diego and Los Angeles, praising San Diego's attractions while also appreciating Los Angeles. Walton cherished his childhood memories of watching sports teams and emphasized the importance of meeting and befriending sports heroes, a principle he lived by in his own life.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
Reports show an increase in COVID cases in California due to the FLiRT subvariants, with health officials urging preparedness. The three subvariants, KP.2, KP.3, and KP.1.1, now account for 50.4% of infections in the US but are not resulting in more severe illness. Recommendations include staying updated on vaccines, testing if sick, and having a plan for treatment. Precautions like wearing masks, avoiding sick individuals, and following CDC guidelines for isolation and recovery are emphasized to prevent infection and transmission of the virus.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
Columnist LZ Granderson reflects on LeBron James' remarkable career and longevity as he is named to his 20th All-NBA team and becomes the first player to be an All-Star starter 20 times. Beyond the 'Jordan versus LeBron' debate, Granderson emphasizes James' battle against time and his endurance in the league over two decades. Highlighting the unique aspect of James' career compared to his predecessors, Granderson acknowledges that despite Father Time being undefeated, he roots for James, the aging icon, to continue defying expectations.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
Source: INVESTORS
Reported 4 months ago
Motley Fool's article discusses the potential of quantum computing in industries and highlights three promising quantum computing stocks: Nvidia, IonQ, and D-Wave Quantum. It mentions Nvidia's accelerated compute platform, IonQ's practical progress, and D-Wave's speculative nature in the quantum computing sector. The article emphasizes the potential long-term benefits of investing in these companies for those interested in the evolving computing sector.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
A financial advisor challenged the idea of investing in certificates of deposit (CDs) over working with a financial advisor. While CDs offer a seemingly low-risk, guaranteed return, relying solely on them may not meet one's needs. Advisors can provide a comprehensive plan that includes asset allocation, risk management, and holistic financial planning. Additionally, CDs carry risks like reinvestment risk and inflation impact, which advisors can help navigate. Ultimately, a strategy solely focused on CDs may not replace the value and personalized approach a financial advisor can offer in achieving financial goals.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
NASCAR.com发布了J&R Precast 150在Seekonk Speedway的参赛名单，包括各车手、车队、首席技师、赞助商和赛车信息。
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
The CDC has reported a Salmonella outbreak connected to backyard poultry, including chickens and ducks, in 29 states, resulting in 109 illnesses and 33 hospitalizations, mostly affecting children under five. The bacteria can be spread through contact with infected poultry, surfaces, or contaminated food, causing symptoms like diarrhea and fever. Tips to prevent illness include washing hands after handling poultry, avoiding kissing or snuggling them, collecting eggs regularly, and cooking eggs thoroughly.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
A U.S. lobby group representing tech giants Google, Amazon, and Apple has urged India to reconsider its proposed EU-like competition law, stating that regulations against data use and preferential treatment of partners could increase user costs. India's "Digital Competition Bill" aims to regulate big digital companies with global turnovers over $30 billion and at least 10 million local users, prohibiting exploitation of non-public user data and promoting their own services over rivals. The U.S.-India Business Council expressed concerns about the potential impact on investment, prices, and services in India if the law is implemented. On the other hand, a group of 40 Indian startups supports the law as a means to address monopolistic practices and create a fair playing field.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
Apple's iPhone sales in China surged by 52% in April compared to the previous year, according to data from the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT). The increase in shipments of foreign-branded phones is attributed to Apple's dominant presence in the Chinese smartphone market, following a rebound in sales after a weak start to the year. Apple's sales saw a 12% increase in March and are expected to receive a further boost in May due to aggressive discount offers on select iPhone models.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
Costco's new CEO, Ron Vachris, who started as a forklift driver for the company 41 years ago, has taken the reins of the retail giant. Vachris, only the third CEO in Costco's history, has played a pivotal role in the company's success, with net sales doubling to $238 billion between 2016 and 2023. He emphasizes a leadership style based on listening to employees and trusting their expertise, aiming to drive international expansion and improve e-commerce. Vachris prioritizes maintaining Costco's strong culture and employee loyalty, recognizing the value of institutional knowledge and loyalty in achieving continued success.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
Dolly Parton's coleslaw recipe includes a secret ingredient - sweet pickle juice and chopped dill pickles - to enhance the tartness and sweetness of the dish. This simple recipe involves shredding cabbage, onion, carrot, and red bell pepper, then combining them with pickle juice, vinegar, mayonnaise, sugar, and seasonings. Adjustments can be made to suit preferences, like reducing sugar or swapping it for honey, salting the cabbage for better texture, and experimenting with different vegetable combinations.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
Warren Buffett, known for his successful investments, recommends investing in an S&P 500 index fund like the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF as a way to build wealth steadily over time. By investing $350 monthly, history suggests one could amass a portfolio worth $903,800 in three decades. The fund provides exposure to a diversified range of U.S. companies, including those well-positioned to benefit from artificial intelligence, such as Microsoft, Apple, Nvidia, Alphabet, and Amazon. With an expense ratio of just 0.03%, the index fund offers a cost-effective and straightforward method to grow wealth.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
The Motley Fool article by Parkev Tatevosian, CFA, discusses key factors influencing Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) stock and mentions it wasn't among the 10 best stocks identified by The Motley Fool Stock Advisor team. The article highlights the potential returns of other recommended stocks and the success of the Stock Advisor service compared to the S&P 500. Tatevosian, who has no position in the mentioned stocks, discloses his affiliation with The Motley Fool.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
The article discusses the advantages of investing in high-quality dividend stocks, emphasizing their historical outperformance compared to non-dividend-paying companies. It highlights two specific ultra-high-yield dividend stocks with streaks of increasing payouts for over 25 years that are currently attractive for investors: Realty Income, a retail REIT with a 6.04% yield, and Enterprise Products Partners, an energy middleman with a 7.3% yield. The article details the reasons behind the attractiveness of these stocks, including their resilient business models, consistent cash flows, and growth prospects, making them compelling investment opportunities.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
The Motley Fool article discusses two growth stocks, Starbucks and Lululemon Athletica, both down over 35% from their peak, making them attractive buys. Despite recent setbacks due to weak sales guidance, the article highlights the long-term growth potential of both companies. Starbucks plans to expand its store count to 55,000 by 2030 and remains resilient despite temporary challenges, with its stock trading at an attractive valuation. Similarly, Lululemon continues to grow revenue at double-digit rates, with opportunities for global expansion in the athletic wear industry. The stocks are considered worth purchasing at their current discounted prices.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
Russian commodities firms are turning to stablecoins and other cryptocurrencies to settle cross-border transactions with Chinese clients and suppliers, as traditional financial methods have become more challenging due to international restrictions following the conflict in Ukraine. This shift highlights the impact of sanctions on the Russian economy and the increasing use of blockchain technology in international trade. The use of stablecoins like Tether's USDT is seen as a more efficient and secure way to conduct transactions, especially in countries facing dollar liquidity issues and capital controls. Additionally, the Russian central bank is considering legislation to create a legal framework for stablecoin use in international transactions, signaling a changing attitude towards cryptocurrencies in the country.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
The article from BuzzFeed covers various firsthand accounts of individuals who were in comas and their experiences shared on Reddit threads. Stories include waking up to not remembering being pregnant, having lucid dreams mixed with reality, feeling like floating, experiencing vivid dreams, facing memory loss, and being in a coma for several days to weeks. One person even thought they were a bird slowly freezing to the ground, while another believed they were in Taos. These diverse and intriguing narratives shed light on the complexity and uniqueness of coma experiences beyond what is commonly depicted in media.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
The article discusses the potential for the Nasdaq Composite to continue its upward trend based on historical data, with average gains of 215% during bull markets since 1990. It suggests that the index could still see a significant increase, and recommends investing in growth stocks like Alphabet and CrowdStrike to capitalize on this potential growth. Alphabet is highlighted for its strong performance in digital advertising and cloud computing, while CrowdStrike is noted for its leadership in cybersecurity. Both companies have shown strong financial results and are expected to continue growing, making them attractive investment options for the future.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
South African Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana expressed his readiness to continue in his role after the upcoming election, urging voters to prioritize stability over chaos by supporting the African National Congress (ANC). As South Africans prepare to vote, the ANC faces a challenging election, with polls indicating potential support below 50% and the possibility of forming a coalition government. Godongwana remains confident in the ANC's ability to secure a majority, emphasizing the importance of stability in the country's future amidst economic challenges and political uncertainties.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
Ross County fans celebrated as their team secured their top-flight status with a 6-1 aggregate victory over Raith Rovers, with standout performances from players like Simon Murray and Jordan White. The 3-0 victory in the return leg was highlighted by Murray's impressive goal, and the celebrations at full-time were described as amazing after a long season, with manager Don Cowie set to be awarded the job permanently.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 4 months ago
The article discusses the trend of stock-split stocks on Wall Street, focusing on companies that have recently announced or completed forward stock splits. It highlights the latest addition to this trend, Nvidia, an artificial intelligence leader that announced a 10-for-1 forward split following impressive operating results. While Nvidia has been performing exceptionally well, concerns about maintaining its growth trajectory, increasing competition, and potential challenges with AI adoption suggest that the stock may face obstacles in the future.
Source: YAHOO