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'This is just so heartbreaking': Danforth community mourns well-known homeless woman who died over frigid weekendPutin apologizes for 'tragic incident' but stops short of saying Azerbaijani plane was shot down MOSCOW (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin has apologized to his Azerbaijani counterpart for what he called a “tragic incident” following the crash of an Azerbaijani airliner in Kazakhstan that killed 38 people. He stopped short of acknowledging that Moscow was responsible. The Kremlin said that air defense systems were firing near Grozny, the regional capital of the Russian republic of Chechnya, to deflect a Ukrainian drone strike as the plane attempted to land on Wednesday. Putin apologized to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev “for the fact that the tragic incident occurred in Russian airspace.” The Kremlin also says Russia, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan are jointly investigating the crash site near the city of Aktau in Kazakhstan. Israel detains the director of one of northern Gaza's last functioning hospitals during a raid DEIR AL BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Gaza's Health Ministry says Israel’s army has detained the director of one of northern Gaza's last functioning hospitals. The announcement on Saturday came after health officials said Israeli troops stormed the hospital and forced many staff and patients outside and told them to strip in winter weather. Israel’s military alleges the hospital director is a suspected Hamas operative and says it detained over 240 others. It acknowledges it ordered people outside and that special forces entered the hospital. It says it “eliminated” militants who fired at its forces. Kamal Adwan officials have denied that Hamas operates in the hospital. Abortions are up in the US. It's a complicated picture as women turn to pills, travel Even with abortion bans in place in most Republican-controlled states, the number of people obtaining them has grown slightly. That's part of a complicated picture of the impacts of the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade two and a half years ago. Abortion pills are more common now. So is traveling to other states for care, often on journeys hundreds of miles long. Public support for the right to abortion has also increased since before the ruling. That's been reflected in most ballot measures to add the right to abortion to state constitutions being adopted. Drought, fires and deforestation battered Amazon rainforest in 2024 BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) — The Amazon rainforest staggered through another difficult year in 2024. A second year of record drought contributed to wildfires that worsened deforestation across the massive forest, which spans Brazil, Peru, Colombia and other Latin American nations and is a critical counterweight to climate change. There were some bright spots. Both Brazil and Colombia reported lower levels of deforestation compared to prior years. Experts say Amazon countries need to do more to strengthen cross-border collaboration and that the global community who reap the benefits of commodities from the rainforest also need to pitch in. Bloodied Ukrainian troops risk losing more hard-won land in Kursk to Russia KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Five months after their shock offensive into Russia, Ukrainian troops are bloodied by daily combat losses and demoralized by the rising risk of defeat in Kursk. Some want to stay in the region at all costs. Others question the value of having gone in at all. Battles are so intense that commanders are unable to evacuate their dead. Lags in communication and poorly timed operations have cost lives and commanders say they have little way to counterattack. The overstretched Ukrainians have lost more than 40% of the territory they won in the lightning incursion that seized much of Kursk in August. Afghan forces target Pakistan in retaliation for deadly airstrikes Afghanistan's Defense Ministry says its forces hit several points inside Pakistan in retaliation for deadly airstrikes. Pakistan last Tuesday launched an operation to destroy a training facility and kill insurgents in Afghanistan's eastern Paktika province. The strikes killed dozens of people. The ministry said Saturday that its forces hit points “serving as centers and hideouts for malicious elements and their supporters who organized and coordinated attacks in Afghanistan.” Pakistan accuses the Taliban of not doing enough to combat cross-border militant activity, a charge the Taliban government denies. Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who instituted economic reforms, cremated in New Delhi NEW DELHI (AP) — Manmohan Singh, the former Indian prime minister widely regarded as the architect of the country’s economic reform program, has been cremated after a state funeral. The veteran leader, who was also credited for a landmark nuclear deal with the United States, died late Thursday at age 92. Singh’s body was taken Saturday to the headquarters of his Congress party in New Delhi, where party leaders and activists paid tributes to him and chanted “Manmohan Singh lives forever.” Later, his body was transported to a crematorium ground for his last rites as soldiers beat drums. A mild-mannered technocrat, Singh was prime minister for 10 years until 2014. Sweden embarks on a sober search for more cemetery space in case of war GOTHENBURG, Sweden (AP) — Burial associations in Sweden are looking to acquire enough land for something they hope they’ll never have to do. And that's to bury thousands of people in the event of war. The search follows new crisis preparedness guidelines from the country's civil defense agency and the military. The issue is seen in a new light after Russia's invasion of Ukraine led formerly neutral Sweden to join NATO. Sweden and Finland sent out updated civil preparedness guides in November with instructions on how to survive in war. The guides are similar to those in Denmark and Norway, though they don't mention Russia by name. Olivia Hussey, star of the 1968 film 'Romeo and Juliet,' dies at 73 LONDON (AP) — Olivia Hussey, the actor who starred as a teenage Juliet in the 1968 film “Romeo and Juliet,” has died, her family said on social media. She was 73. Hussey died on Friday, “peacefully at home surrounded by her loved ones,” a statement posted to her Instagram account said. Hussey was 15 when director Franco Zeffirelli cast her in his adaptation of the William Shakespeare tragedy. “Romeo and Juliet” won two Oscars and Hussey won a Golden Globe for best new actress for her part as Juliet, opposite British actor Leonard Whiting. Decades later, the pair brought a lawsuit against Paramount Pictures over nude scenes in the film they said they were coerced to perform. The case was dismissed by a Los Angeles County judge in 2023. Winning ticket for $1.22 billion lottery jackpot sold in California, Mega Millions says At least one Mega Millions player has plenty of dough to ring in the New Year after drawing the winning number. After three months without anyone winning the top prize in the lottery, a ticket worth an estimated $1.22 billion was sold in California for the drawing Friday night. The California Lottery said the winning ticket was sold at Circle K (Sunshine Food and Gas) on Rhonda Rd. in Cottonwood. The winning ticket matched the white balls 3, 7, 37, 49, 55 and the gold Mega Ball 6. The identity of the winner or winners was not immediately known. The estimated jackpot was the fifth-highest ever for Mega Millions.

Specsavers Barry has teamed up with ETO, a shop run by social enterprise Awesome Wales, to provide more than 200 branded vests. They will be given to children in the area to help them be more visible to drivers on the road throughout the winter months. The initiative starts on December 1 and will run throughout the Christmas season, which is a time when darker mornings and evenings increase the risk of road-related accidents. Jamie Pullen, retail director at Specsavers Barry, said: "At Specsavers Barry, our commitment to the community goes beyond ensuring clear vision and hearing. "We are proud to work with ETO to improve road safety for children in Barry. "These high-visibility vests are a simple yet impactful way to help ensure their safety during the darker months." The initiative was announced in line with Road Safety Week, which takes place from November 17 to November 23. This is the UK’s biggest annual road safety campaign, which this year aims to raise awareness about safe and sustainable travel. Amy Greenfield, director at Awesome Wales, said: "We’re thrilled to partner with Specsavers Barry for this important initiative. "At Awesome Wales, we’re passionate about giving back to the community, and these high-visibility vests will make a real difference in keeping children safe as they navigate their daily journeys." The vests will be given out to parents for free at ETO, which is located on Holton Road. Parents are encouraged to visit the shop from December 1 to collect the vests for their children. For more information about the partnership and other community initiatives by Specsavers Barry, visit their website or Awesome Wales. Specsavers also provides home visits for customers unable to visit stores due to disability or illness.Some Alabama football fans are already looking toward next season, especially at quarterback. Jalen Milroe is expected by most NFL Draft pundits to enter the 2025 draft. He is viewed by most experts as the second or third best signal-caller in the class. Milroe has three more interceptions (9 to 6) this year than he had in 2023; however, some media personalities feel NFL teams will fall in love with him. If he pursues the draft or enters the NCAA transfer portal, a former five-star is very ‘hopeful’ that he commands the Crimson Tide’s offense as the starting quarterback next season. Ty Simpson , a redshirt sophomore from Martin, Tenn., is in his third year with Alabama. He came in the 2022 recruiting class after a successful high school career. The former Gatorade Player of the Year in the state of Tennessee is the son of a college coach. Simpson is a football junkie that wants a chance to lead the Tide’s program to a CFP national title. He was interviewed by Roger Hoover of Crimson Tide Sports Network on Monday. Simpson believes his calling in his coaching after his playing career, but he feels next spring begins his moment at Alabama. “Hopefully next year that will be my job to be the guy and know the next guy is ready [as the backup],” Simpson said. The 6-foot-2, 215-pounder is more of a pure passer than Milroe is. Simpson also has escapability and athleticism with his legs to create and extend plays. Alabama fans saw his abilities in the Mercer matchup when he avoided a sack, scrambled to his right, and delivered an 43-yard opportunity downfield to give tight end Josh Cuevas a chance. Simpson came into the South Florida game in 2023 and helped pull the Tide to a 17-3 victory on the road. He has completed 14 of 25 passes for 167 yards and totaled a rushing touchdown. Simpson is more than just a capable quarterback, but he sees himself as a marquee leader on the team. “Certainly, especially since coming back [for 2024],” Simpson said to Hoover about his leadership during Saban’s retirement announcement in January. “In this day and age, a lot of people would have probably left, especially with the circumstances that I had. But being here when Coach [Saban] left and being here for three years — in my class, you’ve got guys like Tyler Booker, Jihaad Campbell, Kendrick Law, Jamarion Miller — guys like that that are big time playmakers for us and vocal leaders in the locker room. And me being a quarterback and an older guy as well, my voice is just as much important as theirs, and just as heard as much as theirs. I think it’s a job of mine — even though I don’t play — that these guys know the standard and know how we do things around here.” Simpson has the same mental makeup as Mac Jones. Jones, a former Alabama standout, came as a three-star in the Crimson Tide’s highly regarded 2017 signing class from Jacksonville, Fla. He came in the same class as Tua Tagovailoa, a former five-star, and shared a quarterback room with Tagovailoa and Jalen Hurts. Jones did not back away from the competition, but he allowed it to grow him as a leader. He took his moment when Tagovailoa got hurt in 2019 and ran with it. Some thought Jones should not have been the starter in 2020; however, he was exactly what the Tide needed. Jones took Alabama in a Coronavirus shortened season and guided it to a CFP National Championship with a SEC-only schedule. Simpson has that competitive drive mixed with a talented passing ability. It will be interesting to see if he pulls out the starting job, beginning with next spring. This article first appeared on Touchdown Alabama Magazine and was syndicated with permission.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Genesis Bryant scored 27 points, Kendall Bostic secured her third double-double this season with 12 points and 11 rebounds and No. 19 Illinois beat Maryland Eastern Shore 75-55 on Tuesday in the Music City Classic. Illinois (6-0) moved to 6-0 for the second time under third-year coach Shauna Green. Illinois scored the opening nine points of the game and took a double-digit lead for good with 2:11 left in the first quarter when Makira Cook made a 3-pointer to begin 13-2 run. UMES scored 13 straight points midway through the second quarter to get as close as 32-22, but Cook answered with a basket to end Illinois' three-minute drought. Bryant finished the first half with 14 points and Cook added 13 to help Illinois build a 43-26 lead. The pair combined to make seven of Illinois’ 14 field goals. UMES was 9 of 36 (25%), including 0 of 7 from 3-point range at halftime. Illinois also got 15 points from Cook and a career-high 11 rebounds from Brynn Shoup-Hill. Bryant, who reached double figures in the first quarter, scored 20-plus for the first time this season. Zamara Haynes led UMES (4-3) with 20 points and Mahogany Lester added 14. Illinois stays in Nashville to play No. 14 Kentucky on Wednesday. UMES travels to Piscataway, New Jersey, to face Georgia Southern in the Battle on the Banks on Friday. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here. AP women’s college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-womens-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/womens-college-basketballUnfortunately, they’re still out there. While advances in technology bring us many benefits, they also provide new tools for scam artists, and the loss of personal and financial information continues to trend upward. BBB recommends adding the following “resolutions” to your goals for this year to help make your 2025 scam-free. “In this day and age, you can’t afford to make mistakes, “Mechele Agbayani Mills, President and CEO of BBB Serving Central East Texas said. “Taking preventive measures is well worth the time and effort to keep from becoming a victim.” BBB offers the following resolutions to help consumers prepare for a safe and scam-free 2025: Resolve to be cautious with email. Be wary of unsolicited emails from a person or a company. Remember, scammers can make emails look like they are from a legitimate business, government agency, or reputable organization (even BBB!). Never click on links or open attachments in unsolicited emails. – Resolve never to send money to strangers. If you haven't met a person face-to-face, don't send them money. This is especially true if the person asks you to transfer funds using a prepaid debit card or CashApp. Money sent to strangers in this way is untraceable, and once it is sent, there's no getting it back. Scammers will try to trick you into acting emotionally, so before making a move, think the situation through. – Resolve to research companies before making online payments, purchases and donations. Research the retailer before entering payment information. Confirm contact details, such as a valid address, web address, and phone number. Use extreme caution when considering businesses which operate solely through social media without credible credentials. – Resolve to use your best judgment when sharing personal information. Sharing sensitive personal information with scammers opens the door to identity theft. Never share financial information, birthdate, address, Social Security number, or Medicare number with an unsolicited caller. – Resolve to create strong, unique passwords for each account. Using strong, varied passwords across accounts makes it harder for fraudsters to access multiple accounts if one is compromised. – Resolve to enable multi-factor authentication. Adding this layer of security to accounts, especially those involving finances or personal data, greatly reduces the risk of unauthorized access. – Resolve to be social media smart. Use privacy settings on social media and only connect with people you know. Be careful about including personal information in your profile, and never reveal your address and other sensitive information. Scammers may use this information to make themselves pass as friends or relatives and earn your trust. Also, be careful when purchasing products you see on social media. BBB Scam Tracker has received thousands of complaints about misleading Facebook and Instagram ads. – Resolve to check your financial statements regularly. Committing to review bank and credit card statements can help catch unauthorized transactions early. – Resolve to educate yourself about the latest scams. Staying informed on emerging scams helps you recognize and avoid new fraud tactics. Stay up on the latest scams by subscribing to BBB Scam Alerts emails. For more information To learn more about scams, go to BBB.org/ScamTips . For more about avoiding scams, check out BBB.org/AvoidScams . If this scam has targeted you, help others avoid the same problem by reporting your experience at BBB.org/ScamTracker . Learn how to spot a scam. See BBB's New Year's guide.

Chris Cenac Jr., the top center in the Class of 2025 according to the ESPN100, has committed to play for the Houston Cougars. The five-star recruit announced his decision Tuesday via the Bleacher Report's B/R App. Cenac previously said he wouldn't make his decision until the spring, but his stock soared over the summer after his impressive play on the Puma Pro 16 circuit with Dallas-based YGC, vaulting him into the national top-10 rankings. The 6-foot-10 New Orleans native was reportedly choosing between LSU, Auburn, Arkansas, Baylor, Kentucky, Tennessee and others before making the decision to join Cougars coach Kelvin Sampson's team. "I just like the coaching staff a lot, I like their plan to develop me and I like coming into a winning program," Cenac told 247Sports. "I'm looking forward to producing and just helping them win more. But the main thing was development and them being able to get me better so I can be ready for that next level." Cenac's rating of .9978 by 247Sports Composite makes him the Cougars' highest-rated commit in the modern era, according to multiple outlets. "They see me as a four who can kind of play all over the court and do everything," Cenac told 247Sports. "I can get rebounds, push the ball, shoot and play all over the floor." With Cenac joining other Houston commits like five-star shooting guard Isaiah Harwell, four-star point guard Kingston Flemings and three-star wing Bryce Jackson, Houston's Class of 2025 is ranked No. 2 in the nation by 247Sports and ESPN. --Field Level MediaLebanon said Israeli strikes Thursday on the country's east and south killed 52 people, as raids also hit south Beirut and Hezbollah claimed its deepest attack on Israel in over a year. More than 11 months of cross-border fire between Israel and Hezbollah over the Gaza conflict escalated into all-out war in September, with Israel conducting an extensive bombing campaign, primarily targeting Hezbollah strongholds, and sending ground troops into southern Lebanon. "Israeli enemy strikes that targeted the Baalbek district" in east Lebanon's Bekaa Valley left "40 dead and 52 wounded", a health ministry statement said, listing tolls for 10 different locations. Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA) said a couple and their four children were killed in a strike on a house in the village of Maqneh, while another couple and their young daughter were among 11 people killed in a raid on nearby Nabha. The ministry also reported "seven dead and 24 wounded" in "Israeli enemy strikes" on south Lebanon's Nabatiyeh district, and "five dead and 26 wounded" in strikes elsewhere in south Lebanon. In Israel, first responders said a man was killed after rocket fire from Lebanon hit the Galilee region in the country's north. In Beirut's southern suburbs, the NNA reported at least 12 strikes throughout Thursday, after relative calm while US envoy Amos Hochstein visited earlier this week, seeking to broker an end to the Israel-Hezbollah war. Israeli army spokesman Avichay Adraee on social media platform X issued several rounds of evacuation warnings for Beirut's southern suburbs, as well as areas in and around the southern coastal city of Tyre, but none for east Lebanon. AFPTV footage showed columns of smoke rising from the southern suburbs, usually a densely populated residential district but now largely emptied. Adraee said on X that the Israeli military "targeted a weapons depot, a command headquarters and terrorist infrastructure" belonging to Hezbollah in south Beirut. Amid a series of attack claims, Hezbollah said its fighters targeted "the Hatzor air base" near Israel's southern city of Ashdod, around 150 kilometres (90 miles) from Lebanon's southern border, "with a missile salvo" -- its deepest target in more than a year of hostilities. In 10 separate statements, Iran-backed Hezbollah said its fighters also targeted Israeli troops in and near the south Lebanon town of Khiam, including with artillery, rockets and drones. The NNA said "the enemy army" was "blowing up homes and residential buildings during its incursion into the town". Lebanon's official news agency and Hezbollah have reported fighting and air strikes in the Khiam area ever since Israeli ground troops first entered Lebanon on September 30. Earlier Thursday, United Nations special coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert visited Baalbek's UNESCO-listed archaeological area, after the UN's cultural body this week granted more than 30 heritage sites in Lebanon "provisional enhanced protection" amid the war. Lebanon's health ministry said Thursday that at least 3,583 people had been killed in the violence since October 2023. Most of the deaths have been since September this year. The Israeli military said Wednesday that three soldiers were killed in south Lebanon, bringing to 52 the number killed in Lebanon since the start of ground operations. bur-lg/giv Get any of our free email newsletters — news headlines, sports, arts & entertainment, state legislature, CFD news, and more.

WealthPlan Investment Management LLC grew its stake in NVIDIA Co. ( NASDAQ:NVDA – Free Report ) by 97.6% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 91,563 shares of the computer hardware maker’s stock after purchasing an additional 45,231 shares during the period. NVIDIA makes up approximately 1.1% of WealthPlan Investment Management LLC’s portfolio, making the stock its 24th biggest holding. WealthPlan Investment Management LLC’s holdings in NVIDIA were worth $11,119,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of NVDA. Legal & General Group Plc lifted its stake in shares of NVIDIA by 884.0% in the 2nd quarter. Legal & General Group Plc now owns 213,127,959 shares of the computer hardware maker’s stock worth $26,329,751,000 after acquiring an additional 191,469,114 shares during the period. Bank of New York Mellon Corp lifted its holdings in shares of NVIDIA by 854.1% in the 2nd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 182,622,629 shares of the computer hardware maker’s stock valued at $22,561,200,000 after buying an additional 163,482,580 shares during the period. Ameriprise Financial Inc. boosted its stake in shares of NVIDIA by 870.3% in the second quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 102,422,225 shares of the computer hardware maker’s stock valued at $12,658,922,000 after buying an additional 91,867,031 shares in the last quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP grew its holdings in NVIDIA by 1,123.2% during the second quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 92,039,713 shares of the computer hardware maker’s stock worth $11,371,255,000 after acquiring an additional 84,515,429 shares during the period. Finally, Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA lifted its stake in shares of NVIDIA by 808.6% in the second quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 82,689,605 shares of the computer hardware maker’s stock valued at $10,215,474,000 after purchasing an additional 73,589,208 shares during the period. 65.27% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. NVIDIA Stock Down 2.1 % NASDAQ NVDA opened at $137.01 on Friday. The company has a market capitalization of $3.36 trillion, a P/E ratio of 53.92, a PEG ratio of 2.43 and a beta of 1.64. NVIDIA Co. has a 12 month low of $47.32 and a 12 month high of $152.89. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.13, a current ratio of 4.10 and a quick ratio of 3.64. The company’s 50 day simple moving average is $139.97 and its 200 day simple moving average is $127.90. NVIDIA Dividend Announcement The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, December 27th. Investors of record on Thursday, December 5th were given a $0.01 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, December 5th. This represents a $0.04 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.03%. NVIDIA’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 1.57%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth NVDA has been the topic of several research reports. Bank of America reissued a “buy” rating and issued a $190.00 target price on shares of NVIDIA in a report on Thursday, November 21st. William Blair initiated coverage on NVIDIA in a research report on Wednesday, September 18th. They set an “outperform” rating for the company. Citigroup upped their price objective on NVIDIA from $170.00 to $175.00 and gave the company a “buy” rating in a research report on Thursday, November 21st. Susquehanna lifted their price objective on NVIDIA from $160.00 to $180.00 and gave the stock a “positive” rating in a research report on Thursday, November 14th. Finally, Barclays upped their target price on shares of NVIDIA from $145.00 to $160.00 and gave the company an “overweight” rating in a report on Thursday, November 21st. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, thirty-nine have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, NVIDIA presently has an average rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus target price of $164.15. Read Our Latest Research Report on NVDA Insider Buying and Selling In related news, insider Donald F. Robertson, Jr. sold 4,500 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, December 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $135.28, for a total value of $608,760.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 480,899 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $65,056,016.72. This represents a 0.93 % decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink . Also, Director John Dabiri sold 716 shares of the company’s stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 25th. The shares were sold at an average price of $142.00, for a total value of $101,672.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 19,942 shares in the company, valued at $2,831,764. This represents a 3.47 % decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . In the last 90 days, insiders sold 1,351,886 shares of company stock valued at $176,825,650. Company insiders own 4.23% of the company’s stock. About NVIDIA ( Free Report ) NVIDIA Corporation provides graphics and compute and networking solutions in the United States, Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, and internationally. The Graphics segment offers GeForce GPUs for gaming and PCs, the GeForce NOW game streaming service and related infrastructure, and solutions for gaming platforms; Quadro/NVIDIA RTX GPUs for enterprise workstation graphics; virtual GPU or vGPU software for cloud-based visual and virtual computing; automotive platforms for infotainment systems; and Omniverse software for building and operating metaverse and 3D internet applications. Featured Articles Five stocks we like better than NVIDIA How to Most Effectively Use the MarketBeat Earnings Screener S&P 500 ETFs: Expense Ratios That Can Boost Your Long-Term Gains What is an Earnings Surprise? How AI Implementation Could Help MongoDB Roar Back in 2025 3 Ways To Invest In Coffee, Other Than Drinking It Hedge Funds Boost Oil Positions: Is a Major Rally on the Horizon? Want to see what other hedge funds are holding NVDA? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for NVIDIA Co. ( NASDAQ:NVDA – Free Report ). Receive News & Ratings for NVIDIA Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for NVIDIA and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

China is reshaping the global energy landscape, setting its sights on an ambitious transformation driven by renewable energy. In its latest move, on October 30, 2024, the Chinese government unveiled the (hereinafter the “new renewable energy plan”) to accelerate renewable energy consumption. The new renewable energy plan, issued by the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) and five other agencies, targets to increase annual renewable energy consumption to: 1 billion tons of standard coal equivalent (SCE) by 2025—a 30 percent jump from 2023 levels; and 5 billion tons of SCE by 2030 –another 36 percent jump from the 2025 levels. The new renewable energy plan marks a strategic shift from merely expanding renewable energy capacity to fostering systemic demand. By focusing on upgrading infrastructure, electrifying key industries, and promoting green technologies, China is laying the groundwork for its next phase of economic transformation. For businesses and investors, the implications are profound. Opportunities abound in grid modernization, industrial electrification, green hydrogen production, and the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) and sustainable aviation sectors. As China doubles down on its renewable energy ambitions, those ready to align with this vision stand to benefit significantly in a rapidly evolving market. This article explores the key policy changes, their economic significance, and the business opportunities they unlock for both domestic and international stakeholders. How China plan to make the renewable energy more consumtable? China is actively working to enhance the consumption of renewable energy through a multifaceted approach, combining supply enhancement, infrastructure development, demand management, and system regulation. This strategy not only aims to increase the share of renewables in the energy mix but also seeks to create a more integrated and efficient energy system overall. First of all, the country plans to significantly increase its renewable energy supply by developing large-scale wind and solar power bases, particularly in desert and arid regions, while also focusing on offshore wind farms and integrating hydropower with wind and solar energy. Additionally, China aims to promote distributed renewable energy development and scale up biomass and solar thermal power generation. To support these initiatives, advanced technologies for resource assessment, power forecasting, and smart control will be implemented. Infrastructure development is another key aspect of China’s strategy. The construction of advanced power infrastructure, including flexible DC transmission and smart grids, is prioritized to facilitate better integration of renewable energy sources. Upgrading the main power grid and enhancing cross-regional transmission channels will optimize energy distribution, while improvements to distribution networks will increase flexibility and capacity, supporting the rapid growth of distributed renewable energy. On the demand side, China plans to expand the range of participants in demand response programs, encouraging them to engage in the electricity market. Strategies such as peak pricing and market adjustments will guide consumer behavior towards more efficient energy use, particularly in key sectors like industry, buildings, and transportation. Finally, improving system regulation is crucial for enhancing overall energy stability. This includes upgrading coal power plants for flexibility, optimizing their scheduling, and investing in pumped storage hydropower and new energy storage technologies. Biomass projects will also be encouraged to provide ancillary services, contributing to a more resilient energy system. Through this comprehensive approach, China aims to create a more integrated and efficient renewable energy landscape. Key focus areas of the new renewable energy plan Sectoral integration of renewable energy is a core component of China’s new renewable energy plan, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach across multiple critical industries. In general, China plans to ccelerate the adoption of renewable energy in below aspects: : The new renewable energy plan emphasizes the transformation of industrial energy use by guiding industries such as steel, petrochemicals, and textiles to transition towards regions abundant in renewable resources. This includes promoting technologies like electric boilers and kilns, and developing integrated energy systems in industrial parks to facilitate the direct supply of green electricity. The initiative also encourages the use of low-carbon hydrogen in sectors like ammonia and methanol production, while phasing out coal-fired boilers in favor of cleaner alternatives. : The new renewable energy plan aims to create renewable energy corridors and establish multifunctional charging stations at key transport hubs. It promotes the electrification of public transport and the development of electric heavy-duty vehicles, alongside initiatives for sustainable aviation fuels and electric maritime vessels. : The new renewable energy plan integrates renewable energy into urban planning, mandating that new constructions meet green building standards. It encourages the installation of solar panels on rooftops and the electrification of public buildings, while promoting energy-efficient appliances and heating systems. : Renewable energy solutions like distributed wind and solar power will be deployed to modernize energy infrastructure in rural regions, decreasing dependence on coal and other non-renewable sources. : The new renewable energy plan emphasizes the integration of new infrastructure with renewable energy development. This includes enhancing charging and refueling stations, optimizing the layout of new infrastructure, and leveraging advanced technologies like AI and IoT to deepen the integration of renewable energy systems. In particular, the plan support the construction of data centers in national hub nodes with cold water resources, gradual green technology upgrades for old base stations and small, scattered data centers, and a steady annual increase in the proportion of renewable energy used in newly built data centers. What are the meausures to support the renewable energay consumption? The new renewable energy plan also details China’s strategy and measures to support renewable energy consumption through innovative pilots, enhanced legal and regulatory framwork, and interanational collaborations: : To test and scale renewable energy applications, pilot projects focusing on emerging technologies, such as floating offshore wind farms and green hydrogen production, are encouraged. These efforts will drive innovation and help refine scalable models for clean energy substitution. : The new renewable energy plan outlines the creation of legal frameworks and financial mechanisms to encourage investment in renewable energy. This includes developing green energy certificates and enhancing fiscal policies that support infrastructure upgrades and the adoption of clean energy technologies. : The new renewable energy plan stipulates that China plans to deepen market reforms for renewable energy pricing, establishing trading mechanisms that accommodate the unique characteristics of renewable energy. This includes facilitating direct transactions between renewable energy producers and consumers, as well as developing market mechanisms for renewable heating and biogas. : Expanding renewable energy cooperation with Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) countries is emphasized, aiming to promote the global spread of Chinese green technologies and strengthen international trade in renewable energy solutions. : Public participation is critical. The guidelines highlight the importance of educating and engaging citizens in adopting renewable energy practices, fostering a broader cultural shift toward sustainability. Economic outlook in China’s renewable energy sector The renewable energy sector emerged as a transformative force in China’s economy, significantly shaping its investment landscape and growth trajectory. In 2023, the clean energy contributed an estimated RMB 11.4 trillion (US$1.6 trillion) to the economy, accounting for approximately 40 percent of GDP expansion. This underscores the sector’s central role in driving China’s economic performance amid challenges in traditional industries like real estate. In 2023, there was a drastic surge in investment, with spending in clean energy rising by 40 percent year-on-year to reach RMB 6.3 trillion (US$890 billion), according to . This represented the entirety of China’s overall investment growth in 2023, compensating for declines in other areas. Clean energy also accounted for a growing share of China’s GDP, rising from 7.2 percent in 2022 to 9.0 percent in 2023. Without this contribution, China’s GDP growth would have fallen significantly below the government’s target. This resilience positions the renewable energy sector as not only a cornerstone of China’s energy transition but also a safeguard for its broader economic stability during periods of industrial adjustment. These industries were pivotal in driving clean-energy investments, reflecting China’s focus on decarbonizing its economy through innovative policies and substantial infrastructure upgrades. Solar energy stood out as the largest contributor to China’s clean-energy growth in 2023, with its total value increasing by 63 percent year-on-year, from RMB 1.5 trillion (US$207.01 billion) in 2022 to RMB 2.5 trillion (US$345.03) in 2023. This remarkable expansion was fueled by a combination of central government initiatives such as the program and the , which prioritized scaling up installations nationwide. In response to a slowdown in the real estate sector, new policies were introduced in early 2023 to promote solar industry development on unused and existing construction land. By the end of the year, China added an estimated 200 gigawatts (GW) of solar capacity, more than doubling its 2022 record of 87GW. Meanwhile, 15 provinces included solar expansion in their annual government agendas, further bolstering growth. China’s solar manufacturing sector also experienced robust growth, with 340GW of polysilicon production capacity and 300GW of wafer, cell, and module capacity added in 2023, . Solar exports were another key area of growth, particularly to regions like Southeast Asia, Africa, and countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative. While export volumes surged, falling production costs meant export values saw only modest increases. China is rapidly advancing its energy storage capabilities as part of its broader push to decarbonize its energy system and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The country is scaling up electricity storage capacity to enhance grid stability, especially as it integrates increasing amounts of renewable energy sources like wind and solar. Energy storage is seen as a crucial solution for managing fluctuations in electricity supply and demand, enabling a transition from coal and gas-fired power plants to cleaner, more sustainable energy sources. One of the most significant drivers of China’s energy storage expansion is pumped hydro storage, a technology that allows excess electricity to be stored and used later to meet peak demand. In 2023, pumped hydro storage capacity under construction grew substantially, rising to 167 GW, up from 120 GW in 2022. An additional 250 GW is in the pre-construction phase, indicating that this expansion is set to continue in the coming years. The rapid growth in this sector has been driven by the need to store the increasing amounts of intermittent renewable energy being generated, such as solar and wind. For 2023, it is estimated that investment in pumped hydro storage reached RMB 300 billion (US$41.40 billion), with spending assumed to be proportional to the construction of new capacity. This level of investment reflects the large-scale infrastructure required for such storage projects, which are integral to China’s strategy of transitioning to a cleaner and more resilient energy grid. Alongside pumped hydro storage, China is also making significant strides in battery storage technologies, which are increasingly being used to store electricity generated from renewable sources. Battery manufacturing investment reached 300 billion yuan in 2023, driven by the expansion of production capacity to meet the rising demand for energy storage solutions. that additional investments are necessary to build the infrastructure for manufacturing the batteries required for both EVs and grid storage applications. experienced remarkable expansion in 2023, with 9.6 million EVs produced, marking a 36 percent increase from the previous year. This surge reflects the growing share of new energy vehicles (NEVs)—which include battery-electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids—accounting for 32 percent of all vehicles produced in the country. The bulk of these vehicles were sold domestically, with 9.5 million EVs sold in China, representing a 38 percent year-on-year growth. Notably, 8.3 million units were purchased by Chinese consumers, making up one-third of total vehicle sales in the country. Meanwhile, 1.2 million EVs were exported, a substantial 78 percent increase from 2022, further highlighting China’s growing influence in the global EV market. Despite the end of government subsidies for EV purchases in 2022 ( )—after over a decade of support—the market has remained resilient, driven by increasing consumer demand and industry competition. The shift from policy-driven incentives to market-driven demand suggests that China’s EV growth is becoming more sustainable, with a stronger focus on long-term market dynamics. China’s EV market remains highly competitive, with at least 94 domestic brands offering over 300 different models. Local manufacturers dominate the market, with BYD, Wuling, Chery, Changan, and GAC leading the way. These companies collectively account for 81 percent of total EV sales in the country, reinforcing the strong domestic production base. To sustain this growth, China has significantly invested in EV manufacturing. In 2023, estimated investments in EV production capacity reached RMB 1.2 trillion (US$165.59 billion), a considerable increase from RMB 700 billion yuan (US$96.60 billion) in 2021. This surge in investment is reflective of the country’s strategic shift toward electrification and away from traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. The investment also extends to the expansion of battery manufacturing capacity, which supports the growing demand for EVs. These investments are crucial for meeting the needs of the burgeoning electric vehicle market and are reflected in the broader push toward infrastructure development. Meanwhile, the rapid expansion of EV infrastructure has been essential for maintaining growth in this sector. In 2023, were installed, contributing to a total of . This includes both public and private charging stations, with the largest concentration in China’s first-tier cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, where more than 80 percent of urban areas were equipped with charging stations. This infrastructure expansion has been critical in making EVs more accessible and practical for Chinese consumers. The continued development of charging networks is seen as vital to sustaining the sector’s growth and ensuring that EV adoption remains strong moving forward. Policy agendas shaping China’s energy transition China’s energy transition is deeply rooted in its policy framework, which balances economic growth, energy security, and environmental sustainability. Central to this transformation is the : peaking carbon emissions before 2030 and reaching carbon neutrality by 2060. The “1+N” policy system, a cornerstone of this effort, provides overarching guidance alongside sector-specific action plans to promote decarbonization across energy, industry, and infrastructure. The emphasis lies on reducing fossil fuel dependency, fostering green technology, and enhancing energy efficiency to build a clean, low-carbon, and sustainable energy system. Energy security remains a foundational priority, particularly in the face of rising electricity demand, climate-induced weather extremes, and geopolitical uncertainty. The 14th Five-Year Plan underscores coal as a “backstop of supply security,” reflecting a pragmatic approach to maintaining energy stability while transitioning to cleaner sources. Recent policies include capacity mechanisms for coal-fired power plants and financial incentives for renewable energy technologies like solar photovoltaics and wind. Nuclear energy is also gaining prominence as part of the diversified energy mix to ensure a steady transition without jeopardizing supply reliability. China’s push for self-reliance is another critical driver of its energy agenda. The country has made significant strides in building domestic capabilities in cleantech industries, supported by long-term investments in R&D through initiatives like the 863 and 973 programs. These efforts have propelled China to the forefront of renewable energy technology, particularly in solar, wind, and battery production. However, the government is also addressing vulnerabilities in its supply chains, such as heavy reliance on imported critical minerals like nickel, cobalt, and copper. Policies encouraging domestic exploration and overseas mining investments aim to secure these essential resources for the energy transition. Environmental protection and green development are embedded in China’s national strategy under the concept of “ecological civilization.” This philosophy integrates environmental goals with human and economic activities, emphasizing high-quality growth over sheer expansion. It has led to comprehensive measures, including pollution prevention plans and biodiversity conservation strategies. Recent initiatives, such as the and enhanced carbon market mechanisms, further demonstrate the government’s commitment to aligning economic modernization with sustainability and global climate goals. Together, these policies reflect a multifaceted approach that seeks to harmonize energy security, economic resilience, and environmental stewardship in China’s energy transition journey. Implications for investment The explosive growth of clean energy in China reflects its alignment with both domestic industrial policy and global energy trends. For international investors, this dynamic offers compelling opportunities in areas such as renewable energy infrastructure, EV supply chains, and green technologies. However, potential challenges, including overcapacity in certain industries and geopolitical tensions, necessitate strategic approaches to investment. China’s evolving role as a hub for clean energy production also holds implications for global markets. As Chinese companies continue to dominate supply chains in solar, EVs, and batteries, other economies may need to recalibrate their own industrial strategies to remain competitive in the accelerating global shift toward renewable energy. China Briefing is one of five regional publications, supported by . For a complimentary subscription to China Briefing’s content products, please click . Dezan Shira & Associates assists foreign investors into and has done so since 1992 through offices in , , , , , , , , , , , , , and . We also have offices in , , , , , , , and and partner firms assisting foreign investors in , , , , and . For assistance in China, please contact the firm at or visit our website at . Our free webinars are packed full of useful information for doing business in China. Meet the firm behind our content. Visit their website to see how their services can help your business succeed. Subscribing grants you this, plus free access to our articles and magazines.

Waverton Investment Management Ltd Sells 830 Shares of NVIDIA Co. (NASDAQ:NVDA)Share Tweet Share Share Email Predictive analytics, a subset of advanced analytics, uses statistical algorithms, machine learning techniques, and data mining to analyze historical data and make predictions about future outcomes. In finance, this approach has become a cornerstone for enhancing decision-making, reducing risks, and identifying opportunities. But how does predictive analytics contribute to financial health? And why is seeing the big picture crucial ? The Importance of Financial Health Financial health reflects the stability and sustainability of an individual, business, or economy. For individuals, it entails consistent income, manageable debt, and savings for future needs. For businesses, financial health involves maintaining profitability, ensuring liquidity, and managing risks effectively. Predictive analytics provides tools to assess, monitor, and improve these aspects by offering data-driven insights. Why Predictive Analytics Matters in Financial Management Proactive Decision-Making: Instead of reacting to financial issues, predictive analytics allows entities to anticipate and mitigate problems before they escalate. Risk Management: By analyzing historical patterns, businesses can identify potential risks and devise strategies to counteract them. Optimized Investments: Insights derived from predictive models can help optimize investment decisions, ensuring maximum returns. Key Applications of Predictive Analytics in Financial Health Credit Scoring and Risk Assessment Credit scoring is one of the most common applications of predictive analytics in finance. By evaluating historical borrowing and repayment data, predictive models can determine the likelihood of a borrower defaulting on a loan. Furthermore, This information helps lenders make informed decisions, minimizing potential losses. For example, financial institutions use machine learning models to evaluate creditworthiness by considering multiple factors, such as income, credit history, and spending habits. These models go beyond traditional credit scoring methods, providing a comprehensive risk profile for borrowers. Fraud Detection Financial fraud poses a significant threat to individuals and organizations alike. Predictive analytics plays a pivotal role in identifying unusual patterns that may indicate fraudulent activities. Machine learning algorithms analyze vast amounts of transactional data, flagging anomalies in real time. For instance, if a credit card is suddenly used in a different country or for unusually large purchases, predictive models can detect these anomalies and trigger alerts. This proactive approach enhances security and reduces financial losses. Portfolio Management Investors and portfolio managers rely on predictive analytics to make data-driven decisions. By analyzing market trends, economic indicators, and historical performance, predictive models provide insights into the future performance of assets. This enables better asset allocation, diversification, and risk management. For example, robo-advisors use predictive analytics to recommend personalized investment strategies based on an investor’s goals, risk tolerance, and financial situation. These automated tools make investing accessible and efficient. Cash Flow Forecasting Accurate cash flow management is vital for businesses to ensure liquidity and avoid financial crises. Predictive analytics helps companies forecast cash inflows and outflows by analyzing historical data, seasonal trends, and market conditions. This foresight allows businesses to plan expenditures, manage debts, and seize growth opportunities effectively. Personal Financial Planning Individuals can leverage predictive analytics for budgeting and long-term financial planning. In as much as, Tools like budgeting apps and financial planning software use predictive models to analyze spending habits and forecast future financial needs. These insights empower users to make informed decisions, save effectively, and achieve financial goals. The Role of Data in Predictive Analytics Data is the backbone of predictive analytics. Without accurate and comprehensive data, predictive models cannot deliver reliable insights. In financial health, data sources include: Historical Financial Data: Past transactions, income statements, and balance sheets provide the foundation for analysis. Market Trends: Economic indicators, stock market data, and industry trends help predict future scenarios. Behavioral Data: Insights into consumer behavior, such as spending habits and preferences , enrich predictive models. Challenges in Implementing Predictive Analytics Data Quality and Accessibility The accuracy of predictive models depends on the quality of data. Incomplete, outdated, or biased data can lead to flawed predictions. Additionally, accessing sensitive financial data often involves navigating complex privacy regulations and security concerns. Integration with Existing Systems Implementing predictive analytics requires integrating advanced tools with existing financial systems. This process can be challenging and time-consuming, especially for organizations with legacy systems. Expertise and Costs Building and maintaining predictive models demand skilled data scientists and significant investments in technology. Moreover, For smaller businesses or individuals, these costs can be prohibitive. Best Practices for Leveraging Predictive Analytics Define Clear Objectives Identify specific financial goals and align predictive analytics efforts with these objectives. Whether it’s reducing credit risks, improving savings, or optimizing investments, clarity in goals ensures effective implementation. Invest in Quality Data Ensure access to accurate, comprehensive, and up-to-date data. Implement robust data governance practices to maintain data integrity and compliance. Embrace Automation Automation simplifies predictive analytics processes, making them more accessible and efficient. Tools like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning can automate data analysis, model building, and insights generation. Monitor and Update Models Predictive models must evolve with changing market conditions and new data. Thus, Regular monitoring and updates ensure models remain relevant and reliable. Future Trends in Predictive Analytics for Financial Health The field of predictive analytics continues to evolve, driven by advancements in technology and increasing demand for data-driven insights. Key trends include: Integration with Artificial Intelligence AI-powered predictive analytics can process vast amounts of data at unprecedented speeds, uncovering deeper insights and enhancing accuracy. Additionally, AI-driven tools like natural language processing and deep learning are expected to revolutionize financial analytics. Real-Time Analytics Real-time predictive analytics enables faster decision-making by providing immediate insights. This capability is particularly valuable in volatile markets or fraud detection scenarios. Increased Accessibility As technology becomes more affordable, predictive analytics tools are becoming accessible to small businesses and individuals. Furthermore, This democratization of analytics empowers more users to benefit from data-driven insights. Conclusion Predictive analytics is transforming financial health by enabling proactive decision-making, enhancing risk management, and optimizing financial strategies. Additionally, By seeing the big picture, individuals and businesses can navigate uncertainties, seize opportunities, and achieve sustainable growth. While challenges exist, the future of predictive analytics in finance holds immense potential, promising greater accessibility, efficiency, and impact. Furthermore, Embracing this innovative approach is not just an option—it’s a necessity for thriving in an increasingly data-driven world. Related Items: Offload Real-Time Analytics , Predictive Analytics for Financial Health , Seeing the Big Picture Share Tweet Share Share Email Recommended for you Offload Real-Time Analytics from MongoDB Using Elasticsearch Comments

Solid Minerals Development Minister, Dele Alake, has called on investors worldwide to take advantage of Nigeria’s geo-data digital platforms to access information on the country’s rich mineral resources. Alake also announced plans to fund more geological research and leverage the findings from both private and public institutions to build additional data. A statement issued by the Special Adviser to the Minister, Kehinde Bamigbetan, on Wednesday noted that the minister highlighted the benefits while addressing Chief Executive Officers of global mining conglomerates at the ongoing annual Mines & Money Conference, held at the Business Design Centre in Islington, United Kingdom. The minister said Nigeria has adopted digital technology to market its minerals, making business enquiries easier and promoting transparent transactions. He listed three web platforms—Nigerian Mineral Decision Support System (NMRDSS), Electronic Mining Cadastral (EMC+), and National Geo-Data Centre—as key information resources for serious investors. Describing the NMRDSS as a web application that provides read-only access to geo-scientific and geo-economic data, Alake said it allows users to analyse mineral occurrence locations and make informed decisions regarding mining activities. He said, “By providing publicly available data about the geology and mineral wealth of Nigeria, this dynamic resource, updated regularly to keep the data as current as possible, enables investors to explore the environment of their chosen mineral occurrences. It answers queries on hydrology, demography, geography, urban planning, and transportation. Explaining EMC+, the minister said it is an online, real-time system for administering mineral titles throughout their lifecycle, offering efficiency and transparency. “This means investors can research and plan their application for titles remotely, as long as they have the necessary data for the application process,” he noted. Related News FG, France sign MoU to boost mining Benue govt set to enact electricity law Niger invites Russian firms to exploit uranium, other resources He also assured that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to acquiring more geological data to enhance the value of these platforms. On certifying the quality of the data, Alake, who also serves as Chairman of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group comprising African mining ministers, commended the efforts of African geoscientists in developing a new coding system to certify research reports. He stressed the need for value addition and beneficiation in the downstream segment of the mining value chain, stating that recent exploration has positioned Nigeria as a key player in supplying critical minerals to the world. “The deliberate investment in accurate geoscientific data, particularly for critical minerals such as lithium and rare earth minerals, has positioned Nigeria as a key player in the global transition to a green economy. This transition aligns with our commitment to sustainability and our role in the global fight against climate change,” he said. He urged major mining companies to partner with the Tinubu administration in its efforts to diversify the economy in favour of the solid minerals sector, adding that such collaboration would unlock the country’s vast mineral resources. He concluded his address with a strong pitch to top decision-makers in the global mining sector: “The future of Nigeria’s solid minerals is brimming with promise... Our doors are open to partnerships, and we invite you to join us on this transformative journey.” Chief executives at the event included Barrick’s President and Chief Executive, Mark Bristow, Traxys’ Chief Executive Officer, Mark Kristoff, and Anglo-American’s General Counsel, Kate Southwell. Earlier, the Minister engaged with investors at the Ministry’s exhibition booth, answering enquiries about mining opportunities.

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