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Today’s topics

• JPMorgan Literally Makes Bank

• ChatGPT Introduces Reminders

• SpaceX's Starship Test Flight Ends in Explosion

• Spider Venom-Inspired Drug Could Reverse Heart Attack Damage

  and more…

JPMorgan Literally Makes Bank

JPMorg an reported a record-breaking $54 billion in profit for 2024, with fourth-quarter earnings surging 50% to $14 billion, far surpassing Wall Street's modest projections for both profit and revenue. Despite high interest rates, consumer and business spending remains strong. Other banks, including Citigroup and Goldman Sachs, also saw significant gains.. Read more

TikTok’s U.S. Exit Looms

TikTok has announced plans to exit the U.S. market on Sunday after ByteDance failed to finalize a sale in time. While President-elect Trump might attempt a last-minute intervention to delay the ban, the legality of such a move remains uncertain. For now, users can still enjoy viral dance trends and popular pasta recipes, but updates and new downloads will soon be off the table.

Spain Cracks Down on Foreign Property Buyers with 100% Tax

Spain is set to impose a 100% tax on properties purchased by non-EU residents, including British buyers, as part of a bold plan to address its housing crisis. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez highlighted the need to curb wealthy investors from hoarding homes for profit, pointing out that non-EU buyers acquired 27,000 Spanish properties in 2023 alone, primarily as investments rather than residences. The message from Spain is clear: its real estate market is no longer open for non-EU investors to exploit.Read more

ChatGPT Introduces Reminders

In a pioneering collaboration, Toyota and Hyundai have partnered with Boston Dynamics to develop cutting-edge AI-driven robots. This alliance aims to redefine robotics by creating smarter, more autonomous machines capable of transforming multiple industries. By placing AI at the heart of their innovations, the companies are shaping the future of robotics to revolutionize manufacturing and everyday life.Read more

Bezos Scores a Space Victory

Jeff Bezos finally notched a win in space exploration. After years of effort and significant Amazon funding, his New Glenn rocket successfully reached orbit on its maiden test flight. The 320-foot giant launched from Florida, carrying a prototype satellite, as beachgoers cheered with Fourth-of-July-level enthusiasm. Read more

Farewell Gaia: The Galaxy-Mapping Telescope Runs Out of Fuel

Gaia, the space telescope that charted over a billion stars, is concluding its mission on January 15 after 10.5 transformative years. Though it’s running out of fuel, its legacy reshaped our understanding of the galaxy. Gaia revealed star movements, ancient cosmic collisions, hidden black holes, and even suggested a nearby galaxy might actually be two. Originally planned as a five-year mission, Gaia exceeded expectations. While its lens may close, the groundbreaking data it provided will continue to revolutionize astronomy for years to come.Read more

SpaceX's Starship Test Flight Ends in Explosion

On January 16, 2025, SpaceX's Starship spacecraft was destroyed during a test flight from Texas. Telemetry data froze just over eight minutes after launch, coinciding with engine shutdowns. The FAA is investigating the incidentRead more.

Public Trust in Science

Recent studies have highlighted a growing divide in public trust in science along political lines in the U.S. While Democrats continue to express strong confidence in scientists, Republicans' trust has declined, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Efforts are underway to rebuild trust through improved communication and transparency. Read more

Biden Administration's Environmental Enforcement

In December 2024, the Biden administration prosecuted Michael Hart, a California resident, for smuggling hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HFCs) from Mexico and selling them online without EPA approval. This marks the first-ever case of its kind, highlighting the administration's commitment to environmental enforcement. Read more

Lead Pipe Removal Initiative

In October 2024, the EPA mandated the removal of all lead drinking water pipes, estimated at 9.2 million lines, within the next decade. This initiative addresses the severe health risks posed by lead exposure, particularly affecting children and marginalized communities. The plan includes increased drinking water testing and improved communication about lead exposure in communities. Read more

Lachlan Morton's Record-Breaking Cycling Adventure Across Australia

Pro cyclist Lachlan Morton has completed an epic journey across Australia, riding over 3,500 miles in just 12 days. His record-breaking solo ride was not only a physical feat but also a charitable mission, raising funds to support Indigenous communities. Morton’s adventure highlights the intersection of extreme endurance, philanthropy, and the spirit of exploration. Read more

"Sex and the City" Stoop at 66 Perry Street Gated Off to End Fan Gatherings

The iconic "Sex and the City" stoop at 66 Perry Street is now gated off. The homeowner, Barbara Lorber, received approval to install a gate, ending the fan photo opportunities and impromptu stoop gatherings. After years of dealing with fans treating her property as a free filming set, Lorber took her complaints to the Landmarks Commission, which ruled in her favor.

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