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Scholar Rock's chief medical officer sells $315,771 in stockFederal Reserve officials expressed confidence that inflation is easing and the labor market is strong, allowing for further interest rate cuts albeit at a gradual pace, according to minutes from the November meeting released Tuesday. The meeting summary contained multiple statements indicating that officials are comfortable with the pace of inflation, even though by most measures it remains above the Fed’s 2% goal. With that in mind, and with conviction that the jobs picture is still fairly solid, Federal Open Market Committee members indicated that further rate cuts likely will happen, though they did not specify when and to what degree. “In discussing the outlook for monetary policy, participants anticipated that if the data came in about as expected, with inflation continuing to move down sustainably to 2 percent and the economy remaining near maximum employment, it would likely be appropriate to move gradually toward a more neutral stance of policy over time,” the minutes said. The FOMC voted unanimously at the meeting to take down its benchmark borrowing rate by a quarter percentage point to a target range of 4.5%-4.75%. Markets expect the Fed could cut again in December, though conviction has waned among concerns that President-elect Donald Trump ’s plans for tariffs could stoke inflation higher. The meeting concluded two days after the contentious presidential election campaign resulted in the Republican emerging as the victor and set to begin serving his second term in January. There was no mention of the election in the minutes, save for a staff notation that stock market volatility rose before the Nov. 5 results and fell after. There also was no discussion of the implications of fiscal policy, despite anticipation that Trump’s plans, which also include lower taxes and aggressive deregulation, could have substantial economic impacts. However, members did note a general level of uncertainty about how conditions are evolving. In addition, they expressed uncertainty over where the rate cuts would need to stop before the Fed hit a “neutral” interest rate that neither boosts nor restrains growth. “Many participants observed that uncertainties concerning the level of the neutral rate of interest complicated the assessment of the degree of restrictiveness of monetary policy and, in their view, made it appropriate to reduce policy restraint gradually,” the minutes said. Conflicting signals on inflation and the uncertainty over Trump’s policies have caused traders to scale back their outlook for interest rate cuts ahead. The market-implied probability of a rate trim in December has drifted below 60%, with an expectation of just three-quarters of a percentage point in reductions through the end of the 2025. Committee members appeared to spend much of the meeting talking about progress on inflation and a generally stable economic outlook. Policymakers in recent days have expressed confidence that current inflation readings are being boosted by shelter cost increases that are expected to slow as the pace of rent rises eases and makes its way through the data. “Almost all participants judged that, though month-to-month movements would remain volatile, incoming data generally remained consistent with inflation returning sustainably to 2 percent,” the document said. “Participants cited various factors likely to put continuing downward pressure on inflation, including waning business pricing power, the Committee’s still-restrictive monetary policy stance, and well-anchored longer-term inflation expectations,” it added. Policymakers had been expressing concern about the labor market. Nonfarm payrolls rose only 12,000 in October, though the meager gain has been attributed primarily to storms in the Southeast and labor strikes. Officials indicated that the state of the labor market is generally solid. “Participants generally noted ... that there was no sign of rapid deterioration in labor market conditions, with layoffs remaining low,” the minutes said.Viral 'Hawk Tuah' girl accused of crypto scam

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 6, 2024-- Certain BlackRock closed-end funds (the “Funds”) announced distributions today as detailed below. Municipal Funds: Declaration- 12/6/2024 Ex-Date- 12/16/2024 Record- 12/16/2024 Payable- 12/31/2024 National Funds Ticker Distribution Change From Prior Distribution BlackRock Municipal Income Quality Trust * BYM $0.055500 - BlackRock Long-Term Municipal Advantage Trust * BTA $0.049500 - BlackRock MuniAssets Fund, Inc .* MUA $0.055500 - BlackRock Municipal Income Fund, Inc. * MUI $0.055000 - BlackRock Municipal Income Trust * BFK $0.050000 - BlackRock Investment Quality Municipal Trust, Inc. * BKN $0.057000 - BlackRock Municipal Income Trust II * BLE $0.054000 - BlackRock Municipal 2030 Target Term Trust BTT $0.046400 - BlackRock MuniHoldings Fund * MHD $0.059500 - BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund II, Inc. * MQT $0.051000 - BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund, Inc .* MQY $0.058000 - BlackRock MuniHoldings Quality Fund II, Inc. * MUE $0.051000 - BlackRock MuniVest Fund II, Inc. * MVT $0.054000 - BlackRock MuniYield Fund, Inc .* MYD $0.054500 - BlackRock MuniYield Quality Fund III, Inc. * MYI $0.055500 - BlackRock MuniVest Fund, Inc. * MVF $0.036000 - BlackRock 2037 Municipal Target Term Trust BMN $0.093750 - State-Specific Funds Ticker Distribution Change From Prior Distribution BlackRock MuniHoldings California Quality Fund, Inc. * MUC $0.053500 - BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust * BFZ $0.059000 - BlackRock MuniYield Michigan Quality Fund, Inc .* MIY $0.054500 - BlackRock MuniHoldings New Jersey Quality Fund, Inc. * MUJ $0.054000 - BlackRock MuniHoldings New York Quality Fund, Inc. * MHN $0.051500 - BlackRock MuniYield New York Quality Fund, Inc. * MYN $0.051200 - BlackRock New York Municipal Income Trust * BNY $0.051000 - BlackRock MuniYield Pennsylvania Quality Fund * MPA $0.066000 - BlackRock Virginia Municipal Bond Trust * BHV $0.051500 - Taxable Municipal Fund: Declaration- 12/6/2024 Ex-Date- 12/16/2024 Record- 12/16/2024 Payable- 12/23/2024 Fund Ticker Distribution Change From Prior Distribution BlackRock Taxable Municipal Bond Trust * BBN $0.092900 - Taxable Fixed Income Funds: Declaration- 12/6/2024 Ex-Date- 12/16/2024 Record- 12/16/2024 Payable- 12/23/2024 Fund Ticker Distribution Change From Prior Distribution BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust * BGT $0.120280 - BlackRock Core Bond Trust * BHK $0.074600 - BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust * BIT $0.123700 - BlackRock Income Trust, Inc. * BKT $0.088200 - BlackRock Limited Duration Income Trust * BLW $0.113200 - BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust * BTZ $0.083900 - BlackRock Debt Strategies Fund, Inc. * DSU $0.098730 - BlackRock Enhanced Government Fund, Inc .* EGF $0.041000 - BlackRock Floating Rate Income Strategies Fund, Inc. * FRA $0.123840 - BlackRock Corporate High Yield Fund, Inc. * HYT $0.077900 - Equity Funds: Declaration- 12/6/2024 Ex-Date- 12/16/2024 Record- 12/16/2024 Payable- 12/23/2024 Fund Ticker Distribution Change From Prior Distribution BlackRock Health Sciences Term Trust* BMEZ $0.178090 0.001190 BlackRock Science and Technology Term Trust* BSTZ $0.218000 0.002510 BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust * BIGZ $0.086760 0.000430 Multi-Asset Funds: Declaration- 12/6/2024 Ex-Date- 12/16/2024 Record- 12/16/2024 Payable- 12/23/2024 Fund Ticker Distribution Change From Prior Distribution BlackRock Capital Allocation Term Trust* BCAT $0.289190 0.000650 BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust * ECAT $0.306840 0.001810 * In order to comply with the requirements of Section 19 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), each of the Funds noted above posted to the DTC bulletin board and sent to its shareholders of record as of the applicable record date a Section 19 notice with the previous distribution payment. The Section 19 notice was provided for informational purposes only and not for tax reporting purposes. This information can be found in the “Closed-End Funds” section of www.blackrock.com . As applicable, the final determination of the source and tax characteristics of all distributions in 2024 will be made after the end of the year. BlackRock Capital Allocation Term Trust (NYSE: BCAT), BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust (NYSE: ECAT), BlackRock Science and Technology Term Trust (NYSE: BSTZ), BlackRock Health Sciences Term Trust (NYSE: BMEZ) and BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust (NYSE: BIGZ) have adopted a managed distribution plan (a “Plan”) to support a level monthly distribution of income, capital gains and/or return of capital, or in the case of BMEZ, BSTZ, BIGZ, ECAT and BCAT a monthly distribution based on an annual rate of 12% (for BMEZ, BSTZ and BIGZ) and 20% (for ECAT and BCAT) of the Fund’s 12-month rolling average daily net asset value calculated 5 business days prior to declaration date of each distribution. The December 2024 distribution for each of BMEZ, BSTZ, BIGZ, ECAT and BCAT was calculated based on the average net asset value from 11/28/2023 to 11/27/2024. Below are the 12-month rolling average daily net asset values used to calculate BMEZ, BSTZ, BIGZ, ECAT and BCAT’s December distributions: BMEZ: $17.808095 BSTZ: $21.799921 BIGZ: $8.675040 ECAT: $18.410000 BCAT: $17.351032 The fixed amounts distributed per share or distribution rate, as applicable, are subject to change at the discretion of each Fund’s Board of Directors/Trustees. Under its Plan, each Fund will distribute all available investment income to its shareholders, consistent with its investment objectives and as required by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). If sufficient income (inclusive of net investment income and short-term capital gains) is not available on a monthly basis, a Fund will distribute long-term capital gains and/or return capital to its shareholders in order to maintain a level distribution. Each Fund’s estimated sources of the distributions paid as of November 29, 2024 and for its current fiscal year are as follows: Estimated Allocations as of November 29, 2024 Fund Distribution Net Income Net Realized Short-Term Gains Net Realized Long-Term Gains Return of Capital BMEZ 1 $0.176900 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.176900 (100%) BSTZ 1 $0.215490 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.215490 (100%) BIGZ 1 $0.086330 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.086330 (100%) BCAT 1 $0.288540 $0.032627 (11%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.255913 (89%) ECAT 1 $0.305030 $0.015937 (5%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.289093 (95%) Estimated Allocations for the Fiscal Year through November 29, 2024 Fund Distribution Net Income Net Realized Short-Term Gains Net Realized Long-Term Gains Return of Capital BMEZ 1 $1.512960 $0.040694 (3%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $1.472266 (97%) BSTZ 1 $1.801010 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.619326 (34%) $1.181684 (66%) BIGZ 1 $0.747140 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.747140 (100%) BCAT 1 $2.359050 $0.244754 (10%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $2.114296 (90%) ECAT 1 $2.554050 $0.163438 (6%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $2.390612 (94%) 1 The Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its income and net-realized capital gains in the current fiscal year; therefore, a portion of your distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the shareholder’s investment is paid back to the shareholder. A return of capital distribution does not necessarily reflect the Fund's investment performance and should not be confused with ‘yield’ or ‘income’. When distributions exceed total return performance, the difference will reduce the Fund’s net asset value per share. The amounts and sources of distributions reported are only estimates and are being provided to you pursuant to regulatory requirements and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon each Fund’s investment experience during the remainder of its fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. The Fund will send you a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year that will tell you how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes. Fund Performance and Distribution Rate Information: Fund Average annual total return (in relation to NAV) for the 5-year period ending on 10/31/2024 Annualized current distribution rate expressed as a percentage of NAV as of 10/31/2024 Cumulative total return (in relation to NAV) for the fiscal year through 10/31/2024 Cumulative fiscal year distributions as a percentage of NAV as of 10/31/2024 BMEZ* 5.15% 12.30% 4.83% 7.74% BSTZ 11.57% 11.80% 11.18% 7.24% BIGZ* (14.24%) 12.60% (0.66%) 8.04% BCAT* 4.90% 20.66% 10.23% 12.35% ECAT* 6.70% 20.43% 12.89% 12.55% * Portfolio launched within the past 5 years; the performance and distribution rate information presented for this Fund reflects data from inception to 10/31/2024. Shareholders should not draw any conclusions about a Fund’s investment performance from the amount of the Fund’s current distributions or from the terms of the Fund’s Plan. BlackRock Enhanced Government Fund, Inc. (NYSE: EGF), BlackRock Debt Strategies Fund, Inc. (NYSE: DSU), BlackRock Floating Rate Income Strategies Fund, Inc. (NYSE: FRA), BlackRock Floating Rate Income Trust (NYSE: BGT), BlackRock Corporate High Yield Fund, Inc. (NYSE: HYT), BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust (NYSE: BTZ), BlackRock Limited Duration Income Trust (NYSE: BLW), BlackRock Core Bond Trust (NYSE: BHK), BlackRock Multi-Sector Income Trust (NYSE: BIT), BlackRock Income Trust, Inc. (NYSE: BKT) and BlackRock Taxable Municipal Bond Trust (NYSE: BBN) have adopted a Plan to support a level monthly distribution of income, capital gains and/or return of capital. The fixed amounts distributed per share are subject to change at the discretion of each Fund’s Board of Directors/Trustees. Under its Plan, each Fund will distribute all available net income to its shareholders, consistent with its investment objectives and as required by the Code. If sufficient income (inclusive of net investment income and short-term capital gains) is not available on a monthly basis, a Fund will distribute long-term capital gains and/or return capital to its stockholders in order to maintain a level distribution. Each of the above-listed Funds is currently not relying on any exemptive relief from Section 19(b) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). Each Fund expects that distributions under the Plan will exceed current income and capital gains and therefore will likely include a return of capital. Each Fund may make additional distributions from time to time, including additional capital gain distributions at the end of the taxable year, if required to meet requirements imposed by the Code and/or the 1940 Act. Each Fund’s estimated sources of the distributions paid as of November 29, 2024 and for its current fiscal year are as follows: Estimated Allocations as of November 29, 2024 Fund Distribution Net Income Net Realized Short-Term Gains Net Realized Long-Term Gains Return of Capital EGF 2 $0.041000 $0.030660 (75%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.010340 (25%) BKT 2 $0.088200 $0.040551 (46%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.047649 (54%) DSU 2 $0.098730 $0.077696 (79%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.021034 (21%) FRA 2 $0.123840 $0.096014 (78%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.027826 (22%) BBN 2 $0.092900 $0.084923 (91%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.007977 (9%) BGT 2 $0.120280 $0.091087 (76%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.029193 (24%) HYT 2 $0.077900 $0.065724 (84%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.012176 (16%) BTZ 2 $0.083900 $0.060993 (73%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.022907 (27%) BLW 2 $0.113200 $0.099226 (88%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.013974 (12%) BHK 2 $0.074600 $0.048859 (65%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.025741 (35%) BIT 2 $0.123700 $0.083688 (68%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.040012 (32%) Estimated Allocations for the Fiscal Year through November 29, 2024 Fund Distribution Net Income Net Realized Short-Term Gains Net Realized Long-Term Gains Return of Capital EGF 2 $0.451000 $0.331478 (73%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.119522 (27%) BKT 2 $0.970200 $0.375393 (39%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.594807 (61%) DSU 2 $1.086030 $0.814092 (75%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.271938 (25%) FRA 2 $1.362240 $1.085287 (80%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.276953 (20%) BBN 2 $1.021900 $0.834551 (82%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.187349 (18%) BGT 2 $1.323080 $0.982460 (74%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.340620 (26%) HYT 2 $0.856900 $0.660644 (77%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.196256 (23%) BTZ 2 $0.922900 $0.620538 (67%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.302362 (33%) BLW 2 $1.213400 $1.026867 (85%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.186533 (15%) BHK 2 $0.820600 $0.519873 (63%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.300727 (37%) BIT 2 $1.360700 $0.846067 (62%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.514633 (38%) 2 The Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its income and net-realized capital gains in the current fiscal year; therefore, a portion of your distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the shareholder’s investment is paid back to the shareholder. A return of capital distribution does not necessarily reflect the Fund's investment performance and should not be confused with ‘yield’ or ‘income’. When distributions exceed total return performance, the difference will reduce the Fund’s net asset value per share. The amounts and sources of distributions reported are only estimates and are being provided to you pursuant to regulatory requirements and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon each Fund’s investment experience during the remainder of its fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. Each Fund will send its stockholders a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year that will illustrate how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes. Fund Performance and Distribution Rate Information: Fund Average annual total return (in relation to NAV) for the 5-year period ending on 10/31/2024 Annualized current distribution rate expressed as a percentage of NAV as of 10/31/2024 Cumulative total return (in relation to NAV) for the fiscal year through 10/31/2024 Cumulative fiscal year distributions as a percentage of NAV as 10/31/2024 EGF (1.59%) 4.90% 1.39% 4.08% BKT (1.52%) 8.78% 1.76% 7.32% DSU 6.42% 11.08% 7.55% 9.24% FRA 6.63% 11.46% 7.56% 9.55% BBN (0.57%) 6.35% 2.66% 5.29% BGT 6.71% 11.42% 7.65% 9.52% HYT 5.53% 9.61% 8.34% 8.01% BTZ 2.98% 8.81% 6.47% 7.34% BLW 4.81% 9.62% 8.22% 7.79% BHK (0.49%) 8.45% 2.97% 7.04% BIT 5.58% 10.16% 7.65% 8.47% No conclusions should be drawn about a Fund’s investment performance from the amount of the Fund’s distributions or from the terms of the Fund’s Plan. The amount distributed per share under a Plan is subject to change at the discretion of the applicable Fund’s Board. Each Plan will be subject to ongoing review by the Board to determine whether the Plan should be continued, modified or terminated. The Board may amend the terms of a Plan or suspend or terminate a Plan at any time without prior notice to the Fund’s shareholders if it deems such actions to be in the best interest of the Fund or its shareholders. The amendment or termination of a Plan could have an adverse effect on the market price of the Fund's shares. About BlackRock BlackRock’s purpose is to help more and more people experience financial well-being. As a fiduciary to investors and a leading provider of financial technology, we help millions of people build savings that serve them throughout their lives by making investing easier and more affordable. For additional information on BlackRock, please visit www.blackrock.com/corporate Availability of Fund Updates BlackRock will update performance and certain other data for the Funds on a monthly basis on its website in the “Closed-end Funds” section of www.blackrock.com as well as certain other material information as necessary from time to time. Investors and others are advised to check the website for updated performance information and the release of other material information about the Funds. This reference to BlackRock’s website is intended to allow investors public access to information regarding the Funds and does not, and is not intended to, incorporate BlackRock’s website in this release. Forward-Looking Statements This press release, and other statements that BlackRock or a Fund may make, may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act, with respect to a Fund’s or BlackRock’s future financial or business performance, strategies or expectations. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words or phrases such as “trend,” “potential,” “opportunity,” “pipeline,” “believe,” “comfortable,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “current,” “intention,” “estimate,” “position,” “assume,” “outlook,” “continue,” “remain,” “maintain,” “sustain,” “seek,” “achieve,” and similar expressions, or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “may” or similar expressions. BlackRock cautions that forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties, which change over time. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and BlackRock assumes no duty to and does not undertake to update forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in forward-looking statements and future results could differ materially from historical performance. With respect to the Funds, the following factors, among others, could cause actual events to differ materially from forward-looking statements or historical performance: (1) changes and volatility in political, economic or industry conditions, the interest rate environment, foreign exchange rates or financial and capital markets, which could result in changes in demand for the Funds or in a Fund’s net asset value; (2) the relative and absolute investment performance of a Fund and its investments; (3) the impact of increased competition; (4) the unfavorable resolution of any legal proceedings; (5) the extent and timing of any distributions or share repurchases; (6) the impact, extent and timing of technological changes; (7) the impact of legislative and regulatory actions and reforms, and regulatory, supervisory or enforcement actions of government agencies relating to a Fund or BlackRock, as applicable; (8) terrorist activities, international hostilities, health epidemics and/or pandemics and natural disasters, which may adversely affect the general economy, domestic and local financial and capital markets, specific industries or BlackRock; (9) BlackRock’s ability to attract and retain highly talented professionals; (10) the impact of BlackRock electing to provide support to its products from time to time; and (11) the impact of problems at other financial institutions or the failure or negative performance of products at other financial institutions. Annual and Semi-Annual Reports and other regulatory filings of the Funds with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) are accessible on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov and on BlackRock’s website at www.blackrock.com , and may discuss these or other factors that affect the Funds. The information contained on BlackRock’s website is not a part of this press release. View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241206448100/en/ 1-800-882-0052 KEYWORD: NEW YORK UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: ASSET MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FINANCE SOURCE: BlackRock Closed-End Funds Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/06/2024 04:56 PM/DISC: 12/06/2024 04:56 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241206448100/enThe wave of enthusiasm surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) continues to elevate the “Magnificent Seven” tech stocks to remarkable highs. Companies like Tesla, Apple, and Nvidia have seen their shares skyrocket, with Nvidia alone experiencing a staggering 175% increase this year. Looking into 2025, anticipation grows that the AI fervor will seep into diverse sectors, from utilities to software, as these industries become beneficiaries of Big Tech’s AI focus. Projected Market Trends Analysts have shared optimistic forecasts for the S&P 500, with expectations of reaching new heights by 2025. Goldman Sachs’ chief U.S. equity strategist predicts a benchmark of 6,500, driven by emerging growth across the tech-centric market. Although growth in large-cap stocks might decelerate, other sectors within the S&P 500 are poised for significant earnings escalation due to AI-powered advancements. Power of AI Investments AI’s transformative influence is evident as tech giants, including Microsoft and Meta, boost their capital expenditures, channeling billions into technological infrastructure. The potential energy demands of AI technologies place utility companies in focus, driving their market value by over 20% in 2024. This includes firms involved in constructing the necessary backbone to support AI’s power-hungry demands. Navigating the AI Phases Investment in AI infrastructure is transitioning, with experts highlighting new arenas of opportunity. Stocks related to AI enabling technologies, such as Visa and Adobe, are beginning to experience investor interest. Rather than merely focusing on companies producing AI hardware, the spotlight is shifting to those that harness AI for increasing sales, preparing them to thrive in the burgeoning digital landscape. Investors are advised to monitor these trends, recognizing where AI adoption could drive significant revenue growth in the near future. AI-Driven Investment Trends: The New Gold Rush As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to redefine industries, its impact on technology stocks and the wider market is gaining attention. The massive surge in “Magnificent Seven” tech stocks is emblematic of the AI tide that’s lifting market values. With Nvidia shares soaring 175% this year, projections for 2025 suggest the AI revolution will span sectors from utilities to software. Here’s an analytical dive into the evolving landscape of AI investments and market trends, along with an exploration of new opportunities for investors. Emerging AI Market Trends The anticipation of AI’s market penetration is shaping forecasts within the S&P 500 index, with analysts predicting significant benchmarks by 2025. Goldman Sachs anticipates the S&P 500 hitting a 6,500 mark, fueled by technological growth spurred by AI integration. Though there might be a slowdown in large-cap stock growth, the sectors within the S&P 500 not traditionally associated with tech are expected to see substantial earnings enhancements due to AI. Investment Shifts in AI The significant investments by tech giants like Microsoft and Meta showcase AI’s transformative promise. Billions of dollars are being invested in enhancing technological infrastructure, which is placing a spotlight on utility companies. These entities are seeing a projected market value increase of over 20% by 2024, largely because of their critical role in building the infrastructure required for AI’s energy needs. Expanding AI Horizons The investment focus is evolving beyond traditional AI hardware producers. Companies such as Visa and Adobe are drawing investor interest by utilizing AI to boost their sales operations. With AI enabling technology becoming more prominent, companies that adapt AI strategically for commercial leverage are positioned to flourish in the digital realm. Strategic Considerations for Investors Investors are well-advised to track these ongoing trends closely, identifying where AI adoption can drive future revenue increases. The focus is shifting towards companies leveraging AI to enhance sales and operational efficiency rather than relying solely on hardware innovation. Future Predictions and Considerations Looking forward, it is crucial for investors and industry stakeholders to understand both the opportunities and limitations of adopting AI technologies. As sectors ranging from utilities to software integrate AI, the strategic allocation of resources towards infrastructure and capability development will be critical. Navigating these phases will determine which businesses capitalize on AI’s potential while avoiding pitfalls. As these transformative shifts occur, staying informed about AI-driven market dynamics and making calculated investment decisions can yield significant returns. For more insights into the broader industry trends and economic forecasts, you can explore perspectives from leading financial entities like Goldman Sachs and other financial authorities.

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Sunday’s games The Bills already clinched their fifth straight AFC East title, Josh Allen is the betting favorite for NFL MVP, and the No. 1 seed is in their sights. A cross-country trip to face the feisty Rams is a setup for a letdown, but this Buffalo team is on a mission. Los Angeles is still in the chase for the NFC West title, just one game back. Kirk Cousins returns to Minnesota with the Falcons trying to snap a three-game losing streak after tossing four interceptions last week. Atlanta still controls its NFC South title hopes but must turn things around. The Vikings keep winning behind Sam Darnold, Justin Jefferson and a defense that’s allowed the fifth-fewest points in the league, 18.3 per game. A miserable season for the Jaguars keeps getting worse. Trevor Lawrence returned from an injury only to suffer a concussion on a late hit. The team is heading toward another top draft pick. The Titans are only slightly better. QB Will Levis has shown improvement over the past four games after returning from a shoulder injury. The Panthers pushed the Chiefs to the final seconds before losing and were a fumble away from beating the Buccaneers in overtime last week. Bryce Young has improved since returning from his benching. The Eagles are a Super Bowl contender behind MVP candidate Saquon Barkley, a loaded offense and a stingy defense. They can’t afford a letdown with hopes of catching the Lions for the No. 1 seed in the NFC. The Steelers are 5-1 with Russell Wilson and have a two-game advantage in the loss column over the Ravens for the AFC North lead. They lost to Jameis Winston and the Browns in snow-filled Cleveland in Week 12. Winston was at his best and worst in a Monday night loss to Denver. T.J. Watt and Pittsburgh’s defense will be ready for him. The Browns are 4-10 ATS in their past 14 games and 1-19 straight up in their past 20 games in Pittsburgh. Another matchup featuring two losing teams — there are five such games this week — that will be difficult to watch except for fantasy and betting implications. The Saints peaked at 2-0. The Giants are better off extending that streak to try to land the No. 1 overall pick. Hard to fathom the Jets had a better record with Zach Wilson (4-7) and Trevor Siemian (2-1) last year than Aaron Rodgers this season. Tua Tagovailoa and the Dolphins are clinging to slim playoff hopes. Baker Mayfield has the Buccaneers in position for a fourth straight NFC South title. They can’t overlook inferior opponents, especially after a close call in Carolina. Aidan O’Connell set the Raiders up for an upset over Kansas City only to have coach Antonio Pierce mess up clock management. Maxx Crosby could make things difficult for Mayfield. The Seahawks and Cardinals are facing off for the second time in three weeks with the NFC West on the line. Seattle enters on a three-game winning streak, including a 16-6 victory over Arizona. The Cardinals have lost two in a row after a four-game winning streak. Kyler Murray has a 102.9 passer rating in his past four home starts vs. Seattle. But Arizona has lost six in a row in this series. The defending NFC champion 49ers are beat up and desperate for a victory after getting outscored 73-20 in their past two losses. They won’t have Christian McCaffrey the rest of their season. It’s now or never for San Francisco. Thomas Brown will make his debut as Bears interim coach. Caleb Williams is taking care of the ball, setting a rookie record with 232 straight passes and counting without an interception. The Chargers have lost six straight to the Chiefs, including a 17-10 loss at home on Sept. 29. Jim Harbaugh has built a tough, physical team that’s in position to make the playoffs. The two-time defending champion Chiefs are barely winning games, with five going down to the final play. They should’ve lost last week, but the Raiders fumbled the ball late on a bad snap while in field goal range. Monday’s game The Bengals are wasting an excellent season from Joe Burrow, who has 30 TD passes and only five interceptions. It’s rare to see a team with a .333 winning percentage favored on the road against an opponent with a better record. The Cowboys have won two straight, but can’t run the ball well enough to keep Burrow and Co. off the field. Get local news delivered to your inbox!

CARSON, Calif. — The LA Galaxy and the New York Red Bulls have been Major League Soccer mainstays since the league's inaugural season in 1996, signing glamorous players and regularly competing for championships through years of success and setbacks in a league that's perpetually improving and expanding. Yet just a year ago, both of these clubs appeared to be a very long way from the stage they'll share Saturday in the MLS Cup Final. The Galaxy were one of MLS' worst teams after a season of internal turmoil and public fan dissent, while the Red Bulls were merely a steady mediocrity seeking yet another coach to chart a new direction. A year later, these MLS founders are meeting in the league's first Cup final between teams from North America's two biggest markets. "Two original clubs being able to put themselves in this situation, I think it's great," Galaxy coach Greg Vanney said. "To see two clubs that have been at it as long as this league has been around be here, I think it's a special moment. Couldn't be two more different and contrasting styles as well, which could make for an interesting game, and I would imagine a high-intensity game." Everything changed in 2024 after a dismal decade for the Galaxy, who are favored to cap their transformation by winning their team's record sixth MLS championship with a roster that's dramatically different from its past few groups — albeit with one massive injury absence in the final. The transformation of the Red Bulls happened only in the postseason, when a team that hadn't won a playoff game since 2017 suddenly turned into world-beaters under rookie coach Sandro Schwarz. New York struggled through the final three months of league play with only two wins before posting road playoff victories over defending champ Columbus, archrival New York City FC and conference finalist Orlando to storm into the Cup final. "We know about the history (of our club), and we know tomorrow will define what that could mean," Schwarz said Friday. "To feel the pressure for tomorrow, it's necessary, because it's a final, and without pressure it's not possible to bring the best quality on the field." The Red Bulls have never won an MLS Cup, only reaching the championship match once before. What's more, they've somehow never won a Cup in any tournament, although they've collected three Supporters' Shields for MLS' best regular-season record. The Galaxy's trophy case is large and loaded, and those five MLS Cups are on the top shelf. But not much of that team success happened in the past decade for the club that famously brought David Beckham, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Robbie Keane, Steven Gerrard and many other international stars to Hollywood. In fact, this season has ended a grim era for the Galaxy, who haven't lost all year at their frequently renamed home stadium — which was the site of protests and boycotts just a year ago. The club's fans were tired of LA's steady underachievement and ineptitude in the front office run by team president Chris Klein, who was fired in May 2023. One year ago Thursday, the Galaxy hired Will Kuntz, a longtime Los Angeles FC executive who engineered his new club's roster transformation, most dramatically by landing new designated players Gabriel Pec and Joseph Paintsil — two international talents that LAFC also had in its sights. "I give Will and the group up there a ton of credit," Vanney said. "It's one thing to have players you like, and it's a whole other thing to get them here and get them to connect with your group." Pec and Paintsil combined for 32 goals and 27 assists while boosting the incumbent talents of striker Dejan Joveljic and Riqui Puig, the gifted Barcelona product who runs the offense from the midfield. The Galaxy clicked in the postseason, scoring a jaw-dropping 16 goals in four matches. Puig has been the Galaxy's most important player all season, but he won't be in the MLS Cup Final after tearing a knee ligament late in last week's conference final victory over Seattle. The loss of Puig — who somehow kept playing on his injured knee, and even delivered the game-winning pass to Joveljic — makes the Galaxy even more difficult to anticipate. "He played a lot in the regular season, so it was not so easy to analyze all these games now without him," Schwarz said. "But the main focus is to analyze what we need to do, because it's not clear now how they're playing without him." The Galaxy could give some of Puig's responsibilities to Marco Reus, the longtime Dortmund standout who joined LA in August. Reus is nursing a hamstring injury, but Vanney expects him to play. Get local news delivered to your inbox!

The AP Top 25 men’s college basketball poll is back every week throughout the season! Get the poll delivered straight to your inbox with AP Top 25 Poll Alerts. Sign up here . CHARLOTTE AMALIE, Virgin Islands (AP) — Trey Autry scored 16 points off of the bench to help lead George Washington over Illinois State 72-64 on Monday night to claim a fifth-place finish at the Paradise Jam tournament in the Virgin Islands. Autry had five rebounds for the Revolutionaries (6-1). Gerald Drumgoole Jr. scored 16 points while going 4 of 9 from the floor, including 2 for 5 from 3-point range, and 6 for 7 from the line. Darren Buchanan Jr. shot 3 of 11 from the field and 9 for 11 from the line to finish with 15 points, while adding 10 rebounds. The Redbirds (4-3) were led by Chase Walker, who posted 18 points and two steals. Johnny Kinziger added 16 points for Illinois State. Dalton Banks also had 13 points, six rebounds and two steals. Autry scored seven points in the first half and George Washington went into the break trailing 29-27. NEXT UP George Washington’s next game is Friday against VMI at home, and Illinois State visits Belmont on Wednesday. ___ The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .