Cryptocurrency Market Faces Sharp Decline Amid Uncertainty / AFP The leading cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, has dropped below the $80,000 mark, a level not seen since November 2024, signaling a significant shift in the digital asset market. According to data from the Coinbase cryptocurrency exchange, Bitcoin was trading at approximately $79,829 as of 2:00 PM Korean Standard Time, reflecting a 5.88% decline over the previous 24 hours. This plunge marks the first time Bitcoin has fallen below this critical threshold since last November 10, representing a steep 27% drop from its all-time high of $109,191, recorded just a day before Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration on January 20. The sharp decline has sent ripples across the crypto ecosystem, with other major digital currencies like Ethereum, Solana, and Dogecoin also experiencing significant losses. Ethereum, for instance, plummeted 11.23% to $2,092, while Solana and Dogecoin dropped 9.6% to $127.69 and 11.56% to $0.19, respectively, as...

A Major Cyber Attack Shakes the Cryptocurrency Industry In a staggering development that has sent shockwaves through the cryptocurrency industry, North Korean hackers have executed an audacious heist, stealing over $1.5 billion in digital assets from Bybit, the world's second-largest cryptocurrency exchange. This unprecedented theft marks the largest single-incident cryptocurrency hack ever recorded, raising alarms about the vulnerabilities in blockchain security and the escalating threat posed by state-sponsored cybercriminals. According to reports, the hacking operation, believed to be carried out by the notorious Lazarus Group linked to North Korea, was completed in mere minutes. The amount stolen, approximately 401,347 Ethereum (ETH), equates to a year’s worth of North Korea’s GDP, underscoring the gravity of the incident. Data from blockchain forensics firm TRM Labs reveals that this haul is double what North Korean operatives had previously stolen throughout the entire year,...

Leading the Charge in AI Innovation with Hybrid Reasoning and Coding Support Anthropic, a prominent American AI startup, is rapidly gaining attention as a formidable competitor to OpenAI. The company has recently introduced its hybrid AI reasoning model, Claude 3.7 Sonnet, positioning itself at the forefront of technological innovation. This new model combines various reasoning methodologies to effectively tackle complex problems, showcasing performance that distinguishes it from existing AI solutions. Anthropic has described this model as "the culmination of the most advanced technology," emphasizing its ability to deliver rapid response times and a step-by-step reasoning process for users. Notably, the newly added "Expanded Thinking Mode" mirrors human contemplation, allowing for deeper, more reflective answers. This feature is available exclusively to paid subscribers and promises high accuracy in specialized fields such as mathematics, physics, and coding. Clau...

Major Car Manufacturers Focus on Hybrid and ICE Vehicles Amid EV Market Challenges / AFP In a landscape increasingly dominated by electric vehicles (EVs), global automotive manufacturers are finding it challenging to phase out internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid vehicles. Instead, many are doubling down on their production, striving to capitalize on the profitability of these models while the transition to full electrification faces hurdles. Recent reports indicate that established car manufacturers are not only investing in the development of next-generation electric and hybrid vehicles but are also forced to extend the lifecycle of existing ICE technology longer than previously anticipated. Companies such as General Motors (GM), Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz are actively launching EVs while simultaneously increasing their investments in ICE and hybrid vehicle segments. According to S&P Global Mobility, the number of new ICE and hybrid models set to debut this year is ...

Core PCE Inflation Slows as Economic Conditions Remain Tenuous / Broomgerg The Federal Reserve's favored measure of inflation is anticipated to ease to its slowest rate since June. Despite this promising sign, the gradual progress in controlling inflation will likely prompt policymakers to remain cautious about further reductions in interest rates. The core personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price index, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, is projected to increase by 2.6% year-over-year through January, based on upcoming data from the Commerce Department. Additionally, overall PCE inflation is expected to show a similar downward trend, as indicated by the median forecast from economists surveyed by Bloomberg. This expected decline is likely driven by categories that have remained relatively stable, as per recent wholesale inflation data that influences PCE calculations. However, components that have experienced significant increases in the consumer price index are...

Exploring Innovations in Autonomous Transportation and Robotics in Japan / AP Toyota, the renowned Japanese automaker, is embarking on an ambitious project called Woven City, a futuristic $10 billion living laboratory situated near the iconic Mount Fuji. This innovative city aims to serve as a testing ground for advanced technologies, focusing on robotics, artificial intelligence, and autonomous zero-emission transportation solutions. Encompassing a total area of 294,000 square meters upon completion, Woven City represents a significant investment in the future of mobility and urban living. The initial phase of Woven City, covering 47,000 square meters, has recently reached completion. Toyota plans to welcome its first residents, primarily employees and their families, by fall 2025. The city is designed to eventually accommodate up to 2,000 inhabitants, including external inventors and their families, fostering a collaborative environment for innovation. Renowned architect Bjarke Inge...

Apple's Quiet Response to Trump's Remarks on New Manufacturing Plans / Reuters U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, committed to closing the company's manufacturing plants in Mexico and shifting production to the United States. This move is part of a broader strategy to expand domestic manufacturing in response to the Trump administration’s tariffs on Mexico. However, despite these assertions, Trump did not reveal specific details regarding the location or scale of Apple’s new U.S. facilities. Trump made this statement during a gathering of governors at the White House, sharing that Cook visited him in the Oval Office the previous day. According to Trump, Cook informed him that Apple would shut down two of its Mexican factories and would instead increase its manufacturing in the U.S., promising an investment worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Trump emphasized that Apple does not want to be involved in paying tariffs. The president further ...

Traffic Challenges and CEO Stock Sales Impact Share Prices / Photo by Jaque Silva/NurPhoto via Getty Images Reddit's stock (RDDT) has experienced a significant decline of approximately 19% following the release of its latest earnings report, marking a stark contrast to the six-month rally that had seen its share price quadruple. The social media platform, which debuted on the public market nearly a year ago, reported its fiscal fourth-quarter earnings last week. Despite exceeding earnings per share estimates, the number of daily active users on Reddit decreased from the previous quarter. This decline was primarily attributed to a change in Google's Search algorithm, which negatively impacted traffic to the platform. CEO Steve Huffman addressed analysts during a conference call last Wednesday, stating that traffic from Google Search had begun to recover in the first quarter and had "regained momentum." However, following the earnings announcement, Reddit's shares ...

EV Maker Projects Lower Losses in 2025 Amid Improved Variable Costs Rivian (RIVN) delivered a strong fourth-quarter performance, achieving a gross profit of $170 million, marking a significant milestone in its financial trajectory. This profitability was largely attributed to optimized variable costs, higher revenue per vehicle, and better management of fixed expenses. The electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer also reported a lower-than-expected adjusted EBITDA loss for the full year of 2024 and forecasted a smaller loss in 2025. CEO RJ Scaringe emphasized the company's success in reducing automotive costs, noting a $31,000 decrease in per-vehicle cost of goods sold in Q4 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. This cost reduction is pivotal for Rivian’s upcoming mass-market R2 SUV, scheduled for launch in the first half of 2026. The R2's bill of materials is approximately 95% finalized and expected to cost about half as much as the improved R1 model. For 2025, Rivian anticipa...

A Comprehensive Guide to Mortgage Liens and Their Implications / Nansan Houn via Getty Images A mortgage lien serves as a legal claim placed by a lender on a property, giving them the right to take possession of the property if the borrower defaults on their home loan. When you obtain a mortgage, you consent to this lien, which acts as security for the lender, ensuring that they can recoup their investment in case of non-payment. To simplify, a mortgage lien represents a lender’s financial interest in your property. If you have not fully repaid your mortgage, this lien remains on your home, treating the property as collateral to safeguard the lender's investment should you fail to meet your payment obligations. Types of Mortgage Liens: First-Lien vs. Second-Lien Mortgages Mortgage liens can be classified into two main categories: first-lien and second-lien mortgages. The critical distinction between these two is the priority of claims in the event of a default. A first-lien mort...

Billionaire investor Bill Ackman makes waves with a revised acquisition proposal for Howard Hughes Holdings / Reuters Howard Hughes Holdings experienced significant fluctuations in its stock price as billionaire investor Bill Ackman indicated plans for a major announcement, prompting a surge in shares on Tuesday. Ackman’s hedge fund, Pershing Square, has increased its takeover bid for Howard Hughes to $90 per share, up from the previous offer of $85 made in January. The excitement surrounding this announcement saw Howard Hughes shares close 6.8% higher at $80.60 before a subsequent decline of 4.6% in after-hours trading. Currently, Howard Hughes boasts a market capitalization of approximately $4 billion. For months, Ackman has pursued Howard Hughes with aspirations of establishing a new version of Berkshire Hathaway. The original Berkshire Hathaway was a struggling textile company when Warren Buffett acquired it in 1965. Ackman’s inspiration from Buffett is evident in his recent commu...

Beijing tightens grip on critical mineral supply chain, impacting EV battery industry China's decision to halt the export of lithium extraction adsorbents has raised serious concerns about the deepening U.S.-China trade conflict. According to a report by Reuters, Jiangsu Zhuhai Tech, a leading Chinese manufacturer, notified its clients that it had ceased exporting lithium extraction adsorbents as of February 1. Another major producer, Sunresin, is reportedly in negotiations with the Chinese government regarding lithium-related technology exports. Lithium extraction adsorbents are essential in separating lithium from brine and other sources, making them a crucial component in the global electric vehicle (EV) battery supply chain. With China being the world's largest producer of these materials, the suspension of exports is expected to disrupt global supply networks. However, exact figures on China’s production and market share remain unclear due to the government's reluctan...

Studies highlight growing concerns over energy supply instability due to wind speed reduction / AP Research indicates that climate change is causing a significant drop in summer wind speeds across Europe, particularly in the northern hemisphere’s mid-latitude regions, known as the "stilling" phenomenon. This change in wind patterns is expected to intensify challenges for wind energy production, which could disrupt the stability of energy supplies reliant on renewable sources. According to recent research by a team of climate scientists from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, the increase in surface and tropospheric warming is causing wind speeds to decrease in regions like Europe. The study forecasts that from 2021 to 2050, wind speeds will decline by less than 5%, but this relatively small decrease could have a significant impact on wind power generation. Professor Gan Zhang, the lead researcher, explained that energy markets are highly sensitive to marginal cost...

Gold Outshines Bitcoin and Other Assets Amid Trump's Economic Policies Since Donald Trump’s inauguration as President of the United States in January 2025, gold has emerged as the most profitable asset, surpassing even Bitcoin in value growth. On February 13, 2025, the price of gold reached an all-time high of $2,942.70 per troy ounce, a remarkable 7% increase from its value on January 20, 2025, when Trump took office. This surge in gold prices contrasts sharply with the relatively modest performance of other financial assets, such as the S&P 500 index, which has seen only a 2% increase in the same timeframe. Meanwhile, the U.S. dollar index has dropped from 109 to 106, reflecting a decline in the strength of the dollar against other currencies. Additionally, the yield on 10-year U.S. Treasury bonds has decreased from 4.62% to 4.48%, and Bitcoin has experienced a significant downturn, falling from over $100,000 per coin to around $96,907. These shifts in the market underscore...

Opposition leader Peter Dutton promises a crackdown on Australia's insurance sector over rising premiums and consumer concerns Australian insurance stocks took a significant hit after opposition leader Peter Dutton warned that his government would break up major players in the sector if elected. Dutton's comments come amid growing dissatisfaction with the insurance industry's practices, especially in the face of rising premiums and increased cost-of-living pressures. His remarks have stirred a debate on how the insurance market should operate, with a promise to introduce more scrutiny if his party comes into power in the upcoming federal election. In an interview with Sky News, Dutton criticized the Australian insurance market, arguing that it was exploiting consumers by charging excessive premiums. According to Dutton, the high cost of insurance was causing many people to forgo coverage, which could have serious implications for both consumers and the wider economy. He em...

Trump's decision to impose reciprocal tariffs could target Southeast Asian nations with significant U.S. trade surpluses / AFP President Donald Trump signed an executive order authorizing the imposition of reciprocal tariffs on countries that charge higher import duties on American goods. This move could have a major impact on countries like Vietnam and Thailand, which have seen substantial trade surpluses with the U.S. in recent years. Both nations benefitted from the trade diversion caused by the U.S.-China trade war, but now find themselves at risk of facing U.S. tariffs as the Trump administration turns its focus toward addressing trade imbalances. During Trump's first term, the trade war with China prompted many global companies to shift their manufacturing operations away from China, leading to an influx of foreign businesses into Southeast Asia. This so-called “China plus one” strategy greatly benefited countries like Vietnam and Thailand, where the trade surpluses wit...

Political Risks and Cost-Effectiveness Make South Korea an Attractive Alternative to China Amid growing tensions over territorial disputes in the South China Sea, Southeast Asian nations are turning to South Korean-made weapons as they increase military spending. According to Hong Kong’s South China Morning Post (SCMP), this shift is largely due to South Korea’s ability to offer highly competitive weapons with good performance at a reasonable cost, while avoiding the political risks associated with suppliers like China. Growing Military Spending in Southeast Asia and the Shift to South Korean Arms Southeast Asian nations, faced with escalating tensions in the South China Sea, are seeking new arms suppliers. China has historically been a key provider of weapons to this region, but as geopolitical friction grows, countries are increasingly looking to alternative suppliers. SCMP noted that the rapid expansion of South Korean weapons in Southeast Asia is largely due to their attractive ...

Apple CEO Tim Cook Announces New Product, Set to Launch in a Few Days Apple has confirmed that a new product will be launched on February 19, with widespread speculation pointing to the unveiling of the highly anticipated iPhone SE4, an AI-powered budget model. This marks the company's return to the mid-range iPhone segment after nearly three years, following the release of the iPhone SE3 in March 2022. Tim Cook, Apple's CEO, made the announcement on his X (formerly Twitter) account on February 13, sharing a cryptic post that reads, "Get ready to meet a new family member. Apple launch on February 19." The post also featured a brief video of the Apple logo shining but provided no additional details. Rumors have been circulating that the new iPhone SE4 will share similarities with the iPhone 14, with Face ID technology being included. This update would be a major shift for the iPhone SE lineup, as it suggests the possible removal of the physical home button, a key fea...

Exploring the Tensions Between Executive Power and Judicial Authority in the U.S. The Trump administration has faced a series of legal challenges since returning to office in January 2025. With over 50 executive actions already signed, these decisions have sparked numerous legal battles, with judges across the country finding that the White House may have acted unlawfully in many instances. The rising tide of legal confrontations underscores a potentially serious issue of constitutional balance between the executive and judicial branches of government. Escalating Legal Battles and Court Rulings Since President Donald Trump took office for his second term, his administration has taken bold steps that are now being contested in the courts. Some of the most significant legal challenges include: Immigration Policies : Judges have blocked Trump's attempts to end birthright citizenship, arguing that such a move violates the Constitution. Federal Workforce Issues : A judge intervened...