Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. grew its holdings in Piper Sandler Companies ( NYSE:PIPR – Free Report ) by 1.3% in the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 205,226 shares of the financial services provider’s stock after buying an additional 2,689 shares during the quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc.’s holdings in Piper Sandler Companies were worth $58,245,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in PIPR. Bank of New York Mellon Corp increased its position in shares of Piper Sandler Companies by 5.8% during the second quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 170,145 shares of the financial services provider’s stock valued at $39,162,000 after buying an additional 9,380 shares during the period. Millennium Management LLC increased its position in Piper Sandler Companies by 66.0% during the 2nd quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 77,804 shares of the financial services provider’s stock valued at $17,908,000 after buying an additional 30,942 shares in the last quarter. BNP PARIBAS ASSET MANAGEMENT Holding S.A. increased its holdings in shares of Piper Sandler Companies by 6.5% during the third quarter. BNP PARIBAS ASSET MANAGEMENT Holding S.A. now owns 60,514 shares of the financial services provider’s stock valued at $17,175,000 after acquiring an additional 3,677 shares in the last quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. increased its stake in Piper Sandler Companies by 4.6% during the 2nd quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 57,090 shares of the financial services provider’s stock valued at $13,141,000 after purchasing an additional 2,510 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Renaissance Technologies LLC increased its position in shares of Piper Sandler Companies by 21.6% during the second quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 46,695 shares of the financial services provider’s stock valued at $10,748,000 after acquiring an additional 8,300 shares in the last quarter. 72.79% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Analysts Set New Price Targets PIPR has been the subject of a number of recent analyst reports. StockNews.com lowered Piper Sandler Companies from a “buy” rating to a “hold” rating in a research report on Monday, October 28th. JMP Securities reiterated a “market perform” rating on shares of Piper Sandler Companies in a research note on Tuesday, September 17th. Piper Sandler Companies Stock Up 0.4 % Piper Sandler Companies stock opened at $342.99 on Friday. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $324.46 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $295.22. Piper Sandler Companies has a 52-week low of $152.59 and a 52-week high of $351.80. The company has a market cap of $6.10 billion, a P/E ratio of 36.64 and a beta of 1.39. Piper Sandler Companies ( NYSE:PIPR – Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Friday, October 25th. The financial services provider reported $2.57 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.53 by $0.04. Piper Sandler Companies had a net margin of 10.84% and a return on equity of 16.06%. The company had revenue of $359.57 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $365.07 million. Research analysts anticipate that Piper Sandler Companies will post 11.49 EPS for the current fiscal year. Piper Sandler Companies Dividend Announcement The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 13th. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 22nd will be paid a $0.65 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 22nd. This represents a $2.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.76%. Piper Sandler Companies’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 27.78%. Piper Sandler Companies Company Profile ( Free Report ) Piper Sandler Companies operates as an investment bank and institutional securities firm that serves corporations, private equity groups, public entities, non-profit entities, and institutional investors in the United States and internationally. It offers investment banking services and institutional sales, trading, and research services for various equity and fixed income products; advisory services, such as mergers and acquisitions, equity and debt private placements, and debt and restructuring advisory; raises capital through equity and debt financings; underwrites municipal issuances; and municipal financial advisory and loan placement services, as well as various over-the-counter derivative products. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PIPR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Piper Sandler Companies ( NYSE:PIPR – Free Report ). Receive News & Ratings for Piper Sandler Companies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Piper Sandler Companies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .Following Elon Musk 's criticism of Dana Carvey's portrayal of him on Saturday Night Live ( SNL ), the comedian said on Friday that the billionaire's "incredible accent" is tough to mimic. SNL 's November 9 episode saw the aftermath of the 2024 election in which President-elect Donald Trump won a decisive victory over Vice President Kamala Harris . Playing the vice president for SNL 's 50th season is Maya Rudolph while Trump is played by James Austin Johnson. The episode's cold open began soberly as SNL cast members discussed Trump's victory and joked they had all been in his corner from the very beginning. Carvey had then debuted an impression of Musk who was one of Trump's biggest donors during the election and has since been appointed to have a formal role in the incoming administration. Mimicking Musk's antics on the campaign trail, Carvey's Musk jumped up and down and performed some dance moves as the show's cast members looked on with straight faces. However, the skit has since caught the attention of Musk on his social media platform X, formerly Twitter , in which he criticized NBC 's long running comedy sketch show and wrote, "SNL has been dying slowly for years, as they become increasingly out of touch with reality." Musk, who also hosted an episode of SNL in May 2021, also replied to an X post with screenshots of Carvey wearing a "gothic" black Make America Great Again (MAGA) hat in the skit, writing, "They are so mad that @realDonaldTrump won." In a Friday episode of his Superfly podcast with comedian David Spade, Carvey spoke about his impression of Musk and said he struggled to come up with an accent for Musk, noting his "incredible accent" stems from several regions. "I can't do Elon Musk very well but I can do something that sounds not like anything. He has an incredible accent...South Africa via Canada, via Pennsylvania. It's almost like, it's a little bit of Australian in there, a little bit of British, but he's not totally that," Carvey said. Musk was born and raised in South Africa before moving to Canada and then the United States. Newsweek has reached out to Musk via Tesla's email for comment. While Carvey did not address Musk's criticism of SNL directly, he revealed that he would return to the show in December. "So now, if you ever see me on SNL—I'm going back in December—you see me come off the stage, just remember, within seconds, I will be skipping for quite a while," Carvey said. Carvey, who was a regular cast member on SNL from 1986 to 1993, returned this season to play President Joe Biden leading up to Election Day. Carvey's remarks come as Musk has continued to be at the forefront of the upcoming Trump administration as the president-elect announced earlier this month that the founder of Tesla and SpaceX would lead what he called the "Department of Government Efficiency" or (DOGE), along with entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy , to "dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies." No such department exists and the president-elect didn't offer many details about how it would operate or how it would be staffed, if at all. Trump's statement said DOGE "will provide advice and guidance from outside of Government, and will partner with the White House and Office of Management & Budget." The appointment of Musk has raised concerns since he frequently posts his political opinions on X, which he bought in October 2022, and has continued to speak on what he aims to do given his recent appointment. University of Michigan public policy professor Donald Moynihan previously told Newsweek that while "[DOGE] will be a Federal Advisory Committee" instead of an actual department, Trump's statement does not address that Musk's companies are the recipients of government contracts and subsidies. "Both of those things are fine until Musk is given charge of government, and gets to make recommendations about which agencies should have reduced budgets, or which officials should be fired," Moynihan said. "Musk has enormous and multiple conflicts of interest that should prohibit him from working in the Trump administration. It becomes impossible to maintain the claim that the government will not now favor Musk when he has power over their agencies." Moynihan added that Musk's involvement in the federal government "creates the appearance of corruption and increases the chances that such corruption will take place. It increases the risk that policy will be made and implemented to satisfy the desires of the richest man in the world rather than the American public." Following Trump's announcement, Musk said that "[a]ll actions of the Department of Government Efficiency will be posted online for maximum transparency." Responding to the professor's comments, Trump-Vance spokesperson Brian Hughes previously told Newsweek that "the transition team will ensure the Department of Government Efficiency and those involved with it are compliant with all legal guidelines related to conflicts of interest."

Stock market today: Wall Street holds near breakeven ahead of ChristmasMan accused in burning death of a woman on New York subway appears in courtU.S. stock indexes drifted lower Tuesday in the runup to the highlight of the week for the market, the latest update on inflation that’s coming on Wednesday. The S&P 500 dipped 0.3%, a day after pulling back from its latest all-time high. They’re the first back-to-back losses for the index in nearly a month, as momentum slows following a big rally that has it on track for one of its best years of the millennium. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 154 points, or 0.3%, and the Nasdaq composite slipped 0.3%. Tech titan Oracle dragged on the market and sank 6.7% after reporting growth for the latest quarter that fell just short of analysts’ expectations. It was one of the heaviest weights on the S&P 500, even though CEO Safra Catz said the company saw record demand related to artificial-intelligence technology for its cloud infrastructure business, which trains generative AI models. AI has been a big source of growth that’s helped many companies’ stock prices skyrocket. Oracle’s stock had already leaped more than 80% for the year coming into Tuesday, which raised the bar of expectations for its profit report. In the bond market, Treasury yields ticked higher ahead of Wednesday’s report on the inflation that U.S. consumers are feeling. Economists expect it to show similar increases as the month before. Wednesday’s update and a report on Thursday about inflation at the wholesale level will be the final big pieces of data the Federal Reserve will get before its meeting next week, where many investors expect the year’s third cut to interest rates. The Fed has been easing its main interest rate from a two-decade high since September to take pressure off the slowing jobs market, after bringing inflation nearly down to its 2% target. Lower rates would help give support to the economy, but they could also provide more fuel for inflation. Expectations for a series of cuts through next year have been a big reason the S&P 500 has set so many records this year. Trading in the options market suggests traders aren’t expecting a very big move for U.S. stocks following Wednesday’s report, according to strategists at Barclays. But a reading far off expectations in either direction could quickly change that. The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.22% from 4.20% late Monday. Even though the Fed has been cutting its main interest rate, mortgage rates have been more stubborn to stay high and have been volatile since the autumn. That has hampered the housing industry, and homebuilder Toll Brothers’ stock fell 6.9% even though it delivered profit and revenue for the latest quarter that topped analysts’ expectations. CEO Douglas Yearley Jr. said the luxury builder has been seeing strong demand since the start of its fiscal year six weeks ago, an encouraging signal as it approaches the beginning of the spring selling season in mid-January. Elsewhere on Wall Street, Alaska Air Group soared 13.2% after raising its forecast for profit in the current quarter. The airline said demand for flying around the holidays has been stronger than expected. It also approved a plan to buy back up to $1 billion of its stock, along with new service from Seattle to Tokyo and Seoul. Boeing climbed 4.5% after saying it’s resuming production of its bestselling plane, the 737 Max, for the first time since 33,000 workers began a seven-week strike that ended in early November. Vail Resorts rose 2.5% after the ski resort operator reported a smaller first-quarter loss than analysts expected in what is traditionally its worst quarter. All told, the S&P 500 fell 17.94 points to 6,034.91. The Dow dipped 154.10 to 44,247.83, and the Nasdaq composite slipped 49.45 to 19,687.24. In stock markets abroad, indexes were mixed in China after the world’s second-largest economy said its exports rose by less than expected in November. Stocks rose 0.6% in Shanghai but fell 0.5% in Hong Kong. Indexes fell across much of Europe ahead of a meeting this week by the European Central Bank, where the widespread expectation is for another cut in interest rates. ___ AP Business Writers Matt Ott and Elaine Kurtenbach contributed. U.S. stock indexes drifted lower Tuesday in the runup to Remember what you searched for in 2024? Google does. Google The proposed merger between supermarket giants Kroger and Albertsons floundered When President Joe Biden visited Angola last week, one of, a global e-commerce powerhouse, has established itself as a leader in the online retail revolution. The company stands out as a prime investment opportunity, as the bull market continues to reward growth stocks. With its innovative platform, expanding global footprint, and strong financial growth, Shopify offers immense potential for long-term investors. Here are three compelling reasons to consider adding Shopify to your portfolio today. Shopify is synonymous with e-commerce innovation, providing entrepreneurs and businesses with a comprehensive platform to set up, manage, and grow their online stores. It has helped Shopify to become the digital backbone for more than 2.1 million businesses around the world. In addition, the strength of the company is its ability to change with the changing dynamics of the market and requirements of customers. Shopify is constantly evolving its platform, introducing new features like Shopify Markets, which makes cross-border selling much easier, and Shopify Plus for enterprise clients. This innovation helps Shopify maintain its position in an industry that will hit $7 trillion in global sales by 2025. The financial performance of Shopify underscores its resilience and growth potential. Despite macroeconomic challenges, the company has demonstrated consistent revenue growth, driven by higher merchant adoption and increased gross merchandise volume (GMV). Shopify’s Q3 2024 earnings showcased a robust 25% year-over-year increase in revenue, reflecting its expanding market share and merchant base. Furthermore, subscription-based revenue ensures a stable income flow, while its merchant solutions, including payment processing and logistics, add scalability. Shopify’s cost-efficiency measures have improved margins, making the company increasingly profitable, a key milestone for tech growth stocks. Moreover, Shopify’s ability to scale its operations is unmatched. Whether it is small businesses launching their first online stores or large enterprises like Heinz and Allbirds managing global operations, Shopify caters to a diverse audience. Shopify is not just dominating the North American market; it is strategically expanding into emerging markets with immense growth potential. Through initiatives like localized payment systems, regional language support, and international partnerships, Shopify is positioning itself as the go-to platform for global e-commerce. Key regions like Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa are witnessing exponential growth in online retail, fueled by increasing internet penetration and smartphone adoption. Shopify’s ability to cater to these markets through innovative solutions like mobile-first stores and integrated social commerce tools makes it a frontrunner in capturing this untapped potential. In addition, Shopify’s partnerships with major players like Google, Facebook, and TikTok amplify its reach, enabling merchants to connect with millions of potential customers globally. As these partnerships deepen and new ones emerge, Shopify’s ecosystem becomes even more indispensable for businesses looking to thrive in a connected world. Overall, Shopify is more than just a stock; it is a stake in the future of global commerce. With its leadership in the e-commerce space, strong financial growth, and strategic international expansion, Shopify is well-positioned to deliver significant returns in the coming years. Shopify represents a rare blend of innovation, scalability, and resilience for investors looking to ride the bull market wave. Its robust business model and unwavering focus on empowering merchants worldwide make it a must-buy stock on the TSX.

Putin 'Fires' Top Russian Commander Amid WW3 Preps | 'Make Mistakes But Don't Lie'

The week starts on a low note for Taurus individuals as energy levels and confidence might dip. The challenges at hand may feel slightly overwhelming, and there could be minor frustrations arising from delays in work or personal projects. However, this is not a time to lose hope. The strong support of loved ones, particularly your spouse or in-laws, will play a crucial role in keeping you grounded. By midweek, you’ll notice a shift as sudden opportunities for financial gain, whether through inheritance, lottery, or unexpected sources, brighten your outlook. This is also a favorable time for planning short trips or engaging in social activities that refresh your perspective. The weekend allows you to reflect on your achievements and set meaningful goals. While minor health concerns may persist, a generally positive tone emerges as you progress through the week. Love and Relationships This week is significant for relationships, with opportunities for strengthening bonds and resolving past conflicts. Unmarried Taurus natives might find themselves at the center of romantic developments, such as receiving a marriage proposal or reconnecting with someone from their past. For married individuals, the beginning of the week could bring minor misunderstandings or emotional distance, but patience and open communication will restore harmony. Midweek brings a surge in emotional intimacy, making it a perfect time to plan a romantic gesture or outing with your partner. Singles may encounter someone intriguing during a social event or through mutual connections. By the weekend, love flows smoothly, and relationships feel more secure and fulfilling. This is also an excellent time to express gratitude and nurture the emotional aspects of your relationships. Education and Career On the education front, the week may start with hurdles for students, particularly in maintaining focus and managing time effectively. It’s crucial to adopt disciplined study habits and avoid procrastination during this period. However, as the week progresses, clarity improves, and efforts yield positive results, particularly for those preparing for competitive exams or important assignments. In terms of career, early challenges might make progress feel slow, but persistence will pay off. Business professionals and entrepreneurs can expect breakthroughs in partnerships or collaborations by midweek. This is a favorable time for networking and building alliances that support your long-term goals. For employed Taurus natives, recognition and support from superiors are likely, especially if you’ve been diligent in your work. The weekend provides a window to strategize, refine your goals, and explore new professional avenues. Money and Finance Financial matters take center stage this week, with both challenges and opportunities unfolding. The start of the week may feel financially restrictive, as unforeseen expenses or investments demand careful budgeting. However, midweek brings promising opportunities for unexpected financial gains, possibly through speculative ventures, bonuses, or family support. This is a favorable time to reassess your financial strategy and set aside funds for future stability. By the weekend, financial stability improves, and you might consider exploring long-term investments or savings plans. Be mindful of impulsive spending and ensure that any financial decisions align with your broader goals. With proper planning, this week could set the foundation for greater financial security. Health and Well-being Health will require some care and attention throughout the week. Early on, you may experience fatigue, minor aches, or issues related to digestion, which could be exacerbated by stress. Adopting a balanced lifestyle, including regular physical activity, healthy eating, and sufficient rest, will be essential. By midweek, energy levels improve, and any lingering discomfort will start to ease. This is an excellent time to incorporate relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation, into your routine to maintain both physical and mental well-being. The weekend provides an opportunity for rejuvenation—spend time outdoors or engage in activities that bring you joy and help recharge your spirit. Staying hydrated and avoiding overindulgence in unhealthy habits will also contribute to a smoother week.Sebastian Zapeta, 33, who federal immigration officials said is a Guatemalan citizen who entered the US illegally, was arraigned in Brooklyn criminal court. He appeared briefly before a judge and wore a white jumpsuit over a weathered black hooded sweatshirt. He did not speak. He will remain jailed ahead of his next court date on Friday. The apparently random attack occurred on Sunday morning on a stationary F train at the Coney Island station in Brooklyn. Police said on Tuesday that identification of the victim was still “pending at this time”. Authorities say Zapeta approached the woman, who was sitting motionless in the train car and may have been sleeping, and used a lighter to set her clothing on fire. The woman quickly became engulfed in flames, while the suspect then sat at a bench on the subway platform and watched, according to police. Video posted to social media appeared to show the woman standing inside the train ablaze as some people look on from the platform, and at least one officer walks by. NYPD chief of transit Joseph Gulotta said that several officers had responded to the fire and one stayed to keep the crime scene “the way it’s supposed to be” while the others went to get fire extinguishers and transit workers. They were eventually able to douse the fire, but “unfortunately, it was too late”, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said — the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. During Zapeta’s court hearing on Tuesday, Assistant District Attorney Ari Rottenberg said Zapeta at one point fanned the flames on the woman using his shirt. He said a 911 call from a subway rider helped identify Zapeta. Mr Rottenberg added that under interrogation Zapeta claimed he did not know what happened, noting that he consumes alcohol. But he alleged that Zapeta identified himself to interrogators in images related to the attack. Zapeta was taken into custody on Sunday afternoon while riding a train on the same subway line after police got a tip from some teenagers who recognised him from images circulated by the police. A Brooklyn address for Zapeta released by police matches a shelter that provides housing and substance abuse support. The shelter did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Federal immigration officials said Zapeta had been previously deported in 2018 but at some point reentered the US illegally. The crime — and the graphic video of it that ricocheted across social media — deepened a growing sense of unease among some New Yorkers about the safety of the subway system in a city where many residents take the subway multiple times each day.Constant rowing with my teenage son is really getting me down

Emmanuel Acho believes he has pinpointed the cause of the San Francisco 49ers' downfall this season—ego. During a segment on FS1's The Facility , the former player-turned-sports analyst shared the reasoning behind his assessment. Acho highlights several instances where unchecked ego contributed to the 49ers' unraveling of what once appeared to be a promising season. He points to Kyle Shanahan's ego, suggesting that the head coach believed he knew more about defense than his former defensive coordinator, Steve Wilks, ultimately leading to Nick Sorensen replacing Wilks. Acho also criticizes wide receiver Deebo Samuel for letting his ego lead him into a sideline altercation with long snapper Taybor Pepper. He argues that ego is also behind Samuel's claim that he isn't struggling this season, instead blaming his lackluster performance on a shortage of opportunities. Furthermore, Acho believes ego played a role in the offseason contract standoffs that hurt team chemistry. "Ego is what has led to the demise of the Niners," Acho continued. "Ego is what led the Niners to believing they could get right back to the Super Bowl because they were there the year before. "Ego is what led to [suspended LB] De'Vondre Campbell feeling as though he deserved to be in the game when Dre Greenlaw came back, when, truth be told, you deserve nothing. You earn everything in the National Football League." Acho concludes, "Ego exists within every individual on the Niners. It exists within all of us. The problem is, ego unchecked, it leads to the demise of every individual. It led to the demise of the Niners. I'm blaming ego for the Niners' downfall." "An ego unchecked leads to the demise of every individual and it lead to the demise of the Niners." pic.twitter.com/Pe79Ahjm15 This article first appeared on 49ers Webzone and was syndicated with permission.International Criminal Court issues arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Hamas officials

Revived talk of tensions between Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland prompted new questions Tuesday, about how big the federal deficit will be in next week's economic update. "She wants a large deficit of $40 billion. He on the other hand, wants an even larger deficit on steroids, bigger than $40 billion. We know that Canadians are going to lose from all this inflation, but which one of those two is going to win?" asked Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre during question period. Poilievre's prodding came amid a new report from The Globe and Mail, citing unnamed sources that suggested the two are at odds over the economics of measures such as the two-month GST/HST pause and the in-limbo $250 workers' benefit cheques. The holiday affordability package, if fully enacted, is slated to cost an estimated $6.3 billion. One senior government source CTV News spoke to Tuesday said that there is tension and some frustration, but not to a degree that makes the working relationship untenable. Another senior Liberal disagreed with the characterization of the two being "at odds" and said that in their view, Trudeau and Freeland's offices have a healthy working relationship and that tough conversations are a natural part of building a policy document such as a fall economic statement. After being accused in question period by Poilievre of losing control of his cabinet, Trudeau responded by saying that Canadians lose when Poilievre's party votes against support measures such as dental care and the school food program. "Every single time the Leader of the Opposition gets up in this House, he stands against supports for Canadians, against growing the economy, against supporting a better future for all Canadians, because he's only in it for himself," Trudeau said. "It's not clear that the finance minister is actually in it with him," Poilievre shot back. Leader of the Conservative Party Pierre Poilievre rises during Question Period, Tuesday, Dec 10, 2024 in Ottawa. (Adrian Wyld / The Canadian Press) This is not the first time there's been rumblings about friction between the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) and Freeland's Office. This summer, senior officials in the PMO were reportedly concerned about Freeland's economic communications chops. At the time, Trudeau asserted he still had "full confidence" in Freeland, but noted he'd been in talks with Mark Carney about entering federal politics. A few months later, the Liberal Party announced that the former Bank of Canada governor was joining as a special adviser to serve the chair of a leader’s task force on economic growth. On Tuesday, Freeland sought to downplay the suggestions that her and Trudeau are butting heads over spending. She said, in French, that her job is a "great privilege” and she was not focused on "political chicanery," when asked about the reporting, and whether it affected the content or timing of the fall economic update. The renewed look at the federal books is slated to be tabled Monday , just a day before MPs are scheduled to break for the year. Asked about the tension and whether Canadians should be concerned, Government House Leader Karina Gould said her focus was on passing the supplementary estimates and ensuring the Liberals "deliver effectively for Canadians over the holidays and into the new year." Freeland won't commit to meeting deficit target Earlier in the day, Freeland faced questions from reporters about whether she would meet one of her key fiscal guardrails as set out in the spring budget – maintaining the 2023-24 deficit at or below $40.1 billion – in next week's economic update. "I am not going to comment on anonymous rumours out in the town right now," Freeland said. "The debt to GDP ratio is our fiscal anchor." In repeated follow-ups, Freeland said the fiscal anchor that will be maintained in the fall economic statement will be reducing the federal debt as the share of the economy. "I chose my words with care, because it is important to be clear with Canadians. It is important to be clear with capital markets," Freeland said. "If your debt is declining as a share of the economy, by definition your fiscal position is sustainable and that is really important." Signalling the Liberals may be blowing through her deficit target in exchange for offering up additional affordability measures, and potentially putting up big spending for new border measures, has sparked some concern among economic observers. Robert Asselin, a senior vice-president at the Business Council of Canada and a former budget director to former finance minister Bill Morneau, called it a sign the current government is "making it up as they go." "This is the third time in four years that the finance minister will miss her own fiscal target," Asselin said. "They keep changing their own fiscal target. It sends a terrible message to Canadians, to investors, and to debt markets who are looking for stability in a time of instability, frankly." He said that not keeping within targets at a time where the economy could be weakening, and U.S. president-elect Donald Trump is threatening major tariffs suggests "the rainy days are here, and we're not prepared for it." As for whether Trudeau's latest affordability package could be seen as the kind of spending that could justify a bigger deficit, Asselin said the measures aren't the kind to have "structural effects on the economy." "It's like sugar pops. You know it's good when you have it. It feels good, but then an hour after, you're still hungry. It's the same with our economy. We need more productivity, more innovation, and this spending will do nothing to achieve that." With files from CTV News' Vassy Kapelos and Spencer Van Dyk

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https://arab.news/29wj5 Mohamed Salah has raised doubts about his Liverpool future, saying he is yet to be offered an extension to his contract, which expires at the end of the season. Salah spoke out after scoring two goals in Liverpool’s 3-2 win over Southampton on Sunday and suggested he is more likely to leave than stay with the Premier League leader. “Well, we are almost in December and I haven’t received any offers yet to stay in the club,” he told reporters. “I’m probably more out than in. You know I have been in the club for many years. There is no club like this. But in the end, it is not in my hands.” Salah’s goals saw Liverpool extend its lead at the top of the standings to eight points. The Egypt international is 32 and has been at the club since 2017. He has scored 12 goals in 18 appearances this season. Salah gave a rare interview to English print media before boarding the team bus after the Southampton game and expressed his frustration about the lack of progress with his contract. “I’m not going to retire soon so I’m just playing, focusing on the season and I’m trying to win the Premier League and hopefully the Champions League as well. I’m disappointed but we will see,” he said. “I’m very professional. Everybody can see my work ethic. I’m just trying to enjoy my football and I will play at the top level as long as possible. I’m just doing my best because this is who I am and I try to give it all for myself and for the club. We will see what happens next.” Salah has been heavily linked with a move to Saudi Arabia since the oil-rich nation launched a drive to lure some of the biggest players in the world to its top league. Salah is Liverpool’s all-time leading scorer in the Premier League with 167 goals. In all competitions he has scored 223 goals in 367 appearances. He has won a full set of trophies with the Merseyside club including the league title and the Champions League.After Juan Soto's megadeal, could MLB see a $1 billion contract? Probably not soon

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JEDDAH, Saudia Arabia, Dec. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- “Saudia,” the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, is proud to announce another year of significant fleet expansion and modernization. Over the past two years, the airline introduced several strategic partnerships to further Saudia Group’s objective of connecting the world with the Kingdom and supporting key pillars of Saudi Vision 2030 , while simultaneously enhancing comfort and efficiency for Saudia guests. Notable expansion and modernization initiatives include: Airbus Agreement: Saudia has signed a historic deal for 105 aircraft , the largest in Saudi aviation history. These aircraft will be distributed between Saudia and flyadeal, the group's low-cost carrier. Saudia will acquire 54 A321neo aircraft, while flyadeal will receive 12 A320neo and 39 A321neo aircraft. These aircraft feature spacious cabins and interior designs and equipped with the latest amenities and technology, while emitting 20 percent less fuel burn and carbon emissions than previous generations. Largest Investment in Guest Experience : Saudia has announced its largest investment to date in enhancing guest experience, highlighted by the introduction of a groundbreaking AI-powered "Travel Companion." This innovative technology leverages Saudi Arabia's rich cultural heritage and reliable data to provide an immersive, personalized travel experience. By utilizing data-driven personalization and universal integration, the virtual travel companion simplifies travel planning for visitors. The investment also includes the transformation of business class cabins, the introduction of high-speed in-flight internet, and unparalleled onboard entertainment options. This landmark investment underscores Saudia’s commitment to delivering a seamless and exceptional travel experience for its guests. Seat Retrofit Program: Saudia joined forces with Collins Aerospace to introduce state-of-the-art Business and Economy Class seats and retrofit seat enhancements. This program aims to improve functionality and aesthetics for Saudia’s current Airbus A330 and Boeing 777 fleet. Additionally, Saudia Technic will establish localized repair capabilities and select spare manufacturing capabilities, optimizing in-house repair capabilities and streamlining product support. B oeing Dreamliner Agreement: Saudia and Boeing announced the order of 49 fuel-efficient 787 Dreamliner aircraft by 2026, helping Saudia grow its long-haul fleet, improving efficiency, range, and flexibility. In-Flight Entertainment: Saudia announced a partnership with Astrova, Panasonic Avionics’ next-generation IFE seat-end solution. This collaboration will bring industry-leading 4K OLED screens, Panasonic Avionics’ latest Bluetooth technology, programmable LED lighting, and 100W direct current USB-C power to Saudia’s fleet, creating a fully immersive onboard entertainment experience. These strategic partnerships and investments underscore Saudia’s commitment to providing an exceptional travel experience for guests while optimizing operational efficiency and modernization across its growing fleet. For more details on Saudia’s aircraft and available experiences, or to book travel, visit https://www.saudia.com/pages/experience . About Saudia Saudia (Saudia Airlines) is the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Established in 1945, the company has grown to become one of the Middle East’s largest airlines. Saudia has invested significantly in upgrading its aircraft and currently operates one of the youngest fleets. The airline serves an extensive global route network covering around 100 destinations across four continents, including all 28 domestic airports in Saudi Arabia. A member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO), Saudia has also been a member airline in SkyTeam, the second largest alliance, since 2012. Saudia was recently recognized as the World’s Most Improved Airline 2024 by Skytrax, marking the third time it has received this accolade, alongside 14 other distinguished awards. Saudia has been honored as the World Class Airline for 2024 at The APEX Official Airline RatingsTM awards, marking the third consecutive year the airline has received this prestigious recognition. Additionally, ranked top among global airlines for best on-time performance (OTP) according to a report by Cirium. For more information on Saudia, please visit www.saudia.com . Media Center Saudi Arabian Airlines Headquarters Jeddah 21231, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Email: mediacenter@saudia.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9d017fc0-4a0b-4372-8843-fbbc7a8089ff

Shoppers and people heading for a night out in Manchester city centre did a double-take. Two of the world's most famous rock stars wandering around the Northern Quarter . Scores of people took to social media on Friday to report that incredibly, they'd bumped into Bono and The Edge from U2 on and around Oldham Street. Iconic music shop Piccadilly Records posted on Instagram, (we now know tongue-in-cheek) saying: "Great to have Bono and The Edge in the shop earlier." Bono was even filmed singing in a bar, mobbed by revellers. READ MORE: The town where people can't agree if they live in Manchester or not But all was not as it seemed. Sadly the Irish heroes were not in town. But two people who for many were, even better than the real thing, were. The Manchester Evening News understands it was in fact Bonodouble, the world's leading U2 tribute act. Pavel Sfera has been impersonating Bono for over 20 years, making solo appearances and playing shows with his band. Legend has it, that on several occasions, he has been asked to double for Bono...by Bono himself. You can even buy personalised video messages from him. The pair turned heads as they mooched around Oldham Street (Image: Piccadilly Records (Instagram)) He often steps out with his English pal Steve Richards, who takes on the role of The Edge. Its understood they were playing a gig for a Christmas party in the city. One clip posted on Facebook showed the pair performing the U2 track Sunday Bloody Sunday at a party that was in full swing. But they certainly made an impression as they mooched around town beforehand. They were stopped in the street by people asking for pictures. One user on X, formerly Twiiter, said: "Might have just met Bono or The Edge. I didn't believe it, I still don't to be honest. It looked a lot like them.. asked about U2 in the shop, took photos with people." Another said: "Bumped in to Bono and the edge from U2 today in Manchester. Bono was super, even did a video thank you it made my day."A man accused of setting a woman on fire inside a New York City subway train and then watching her die after she was engulfed in flames has made an initial court appearance and will remain in custody. Sebastian Zapeta, 33, who federal immigration officials said is a Guatemalan citizen who entered the US illegally, was arraigned in Brooklyn criminal court. He appeared briefly before a judge and wore a white jumpsuit over a weathered black hooded sweatshirt. He did not speak. He will remain jailed ahead of his next court date on Friday. The apparently random attack occurred on Sunday morning on a stationary F train at the Coney Island station in Brooklyn. Police said on Tuesday that identification of the victim was still “pending at this time”. Authorities say Zapeta approached the woman, who was sitting motionless in the train car and may have been sleeping, and used a lighter to set her clothing on fire. The woman quickly became engulfed in flames, while the suspect then sat at a bench on the subway platform and watched, according to police. Video posted to social media appeared to show the woman standing inside the train ablaze as some people look on from the platform, and at least one officer walks by. NYPD chief of transit Joseph Gulotta said that several officers had responded to the fire and one stayed to keep the crime scene “the way it’s supposed to be” while the others went to get fire extinguishers and transit workers. They were eventually able to douse the fire, but “unfortunately, it was too late”, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said — the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. During Zapeta’s court hearing on Tuesday, Assistant District Attorney Ari Rottenberg said Zapeta at one point fanned the flames on the woman using his shirt. He said a 911 call from a subway rider helped identify Zapeta. Mr Rottenberg added that under interrogation Zapeta claimed he did not know what happened, noting that he consumes alcohol. But he alleged that Zapeta identified himself to interrogators in images related to the attack. Zapeta was taken into custody on Sunday afternoon while riding a train on the same subway line after police got a tip from some teenagers who recognised him from images circulated by the police. A Brooklyn address for Zapeta released by police matches a shelter that provides housing and substance abuse support. The shelter did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Federal immigration officials said Zapeta had been previously deported in 2018 but at some point reentered the US illegally. The crime — and the graphic video of it that ricocheted across social media — deepened a growing sense of unease among some New Yorkers about the safety of the subway system in a city where many residents take the subway multiple times each day.Man accused in burning death of a woman on New York subway appears in court

ROME — Roman drivers finally got some relief Monday when, after 450 days of traffic chaos and unprintable curses, a ribbon-cutting ceremony heralded the opening of an underpass along the Tiber River near the Vatican that immediately cleared traffic from what is now Rome’s largest pedestrian area. The new underpass is part of the makeover Rome is undergoing as it readies for the 32 million visitors the Vatican expects in 2025 for the Roman Catholic Church Jubilee — a year of faith, penance and forgiveness of sins that takes place every quarter-century. Romans have conflicting feelings about the jubilee, which began Tuesday evening when Pope Francis solemnly opened the Holy Door in the atrium of St. Peter’s Basilica and passed through, followed by the first of the pilgrims. “It’s a miracle” that so many public works have been completed, said Rome’s mayor, Roberto Gualtieri. “It’s been an ordeal,” said Martina Battista, 23, a medical student in Rome who was evicted from her apartment because her landlord wanted to turn it into a bed-and-breakfast for the jubilee. Gualtieri said that the jubilee was a great opportunity to refurbish Rome and turn it into a greener, more inclusive city, with hundreds of projects planned. But if Gualtieri and Vatican officials have spent the better part of December at a flurry of inaugurations of spruced-up monuments, repaved streets and new pedestrian piazzas — the upside of the holy year — the surge in pilgrims is expected to take a toll. Construction sites for jubilee works have left key parts of Rome bruised by detours, leading to interminable traffic jams and very grumpy citizens. Rome has already been struggling to balance the needs of its 2.75 million residents with serving the more than 21 million tourists who passed through this year. The impact has been highest on the housing market, especially in the historic center, where many landlords have switched from multiyear leases to more profitable short rentals via platforms like Airbnb. Transportation, prices for basic goods and even garbage collection have also been affected, critics say. Battista said her frantic search for another place not far from the city center took five months. She now pays double what she did before. Not so long ago, Rome stood out among Western Europe’s capitals as relatively affordable. But with the jubilee looming, rental prices increased up to 20% in a year in some areas, and the stock of available rentals dropped by up to 35%, according to Idealista, an online real estate platform. “It’s been really difficult,” Battista said. On Rome’s upscale Via del Corso, as tourists shopped amid the marble and Christmas lights, Anwar Hossain, 33, was selling miniature Colosseums and plastic Roman soldiers at a kiosk. Originally from Bangladesh, he has been living in Rome for about 14 years, but now, for the first time, he is afraid he will end up on the street. His landlord has refused to renew his lease for his home in the Prati neighborhood, close to the Vatican, and he has been unable to find a new one. “The jubilee ruined many families like mine,” he said. For many Romans, already priced out of the center and exasperated with the hordes of tourists stalking flashy new limoncello and tiramisu stores, the imminent jubilee seems a last blow to a city many struggle to recognize. In the Piazza Navona neighborhood, many streets are named for the professions that once concentrated there: Baullari for suitcase makers; Cappellari for hats; Sediari for chairs. Now the area is a hub of souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants thronged by tourists who form long lines as they wait to photograph themselves eating pasta al cacio e pepe, a popular Roman dish. Rome has been beloved by visitors for centuries for its art and monuments and also its promise of a la dolce vita lifestyle. But the recent surge in visitors, and preparations for still more, is altering the city’s feel. “It’s not the city that changes the tourist, it is the tourist who changes the city, that is the paradox,” said Michele Campisi, the national president of the heritage group Italia Nostra. The city government is aware of the challenges the jubilee poses, but the mayor said it was not their choice to have millions more people come to the city. “The jubilee is not a policy choice, it’s been around since 1300,” Gualtieri said in an interview. “It exists, so the question becomes how do you handle it.” In the months leading up to the jubilee, Monica Lucarelli, the city official responsible for commerce, set up a board with representatives of the hotel, restaurant and retail trade associations, tasked with monitoring any “excessive” increase in prices linked to the celebration. “We want them to raise awareness among their members not to exploit” the influx of tourists “in an incorrect way,” Lucarelli said. Still, she added, Italy is “a free-market economy” and little can be done against transgressors unless laws are broken. Besides, Rome remains “one of Europe’s least expensive capitals,” she said. Earlier this year, Archbishop Rino Fisichella, the Vatican official in charge of the jubilee, admitted that Romans might be “suffering a little,” but he said the result would be a more livable city. And a more ecologically sound one too. Walking down the avenue leading to the Vatican on Monday, Fisichella said that after two years of preparations, “the moment” had come. “Rome is ready to welcome the pilgrims,” he said.