Ripple spent $150 million battling the government in a bruising legal standoff with former SEC Chair Gary Gensler, whose approach to crypto was widely viewed as hostile. In July 2023, a federal judge ruled that XRP is "not necessarily a security on its face," undercutting the foundation of the SEC's case.

On Friday, the SEC hosted its first major crypto roundtable, signaling a new approach of regulation through engagement, rather than enforcement. Leading the effort is Hester Peirce, who is helming the regulator's newly established Crypto Task Force.

Peirce's message to the industry is that the SEC is no longer an adversary, but is instead trying to give crypto a clear, lawful framework.

After a college football career and 2 failed House races, Bo Hines is helping steer U.S. crypto policy
With David Sacks as his boss and Trump’s full backing, Bo Hines has a central role in U.S. crypto policy.

Bo Hines has no professional background in crypto. He earned his law degree three years ago from Wake Forest. He's twice unsuccessfully run for Congress in North Carolina.

Hines floated one idea from the Bitcoin Act introduced by Sen. Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., which involves using the unrealized value of U.S. gold reserves to acquire crypto.

"There's a bunch of creative ways we could get into," he said.

Hines added that, like Sacks, he's fully divested from crypto, though he declined to say whether others in the working group would follow suit.

"I can only speak for our office," he said.

However, Hines said he's not concerned about Trump's own crypto-related financial entanglements, which could pose very obvious conflicts of interest. Trump and his family have launched several memecoins, digital collectibles, and a yet-to-be-launched crypto bank.

"Stablecoins could usher in U.S. dollar dominance for decades to come," he said. "It could alter the course of the way our financial markets work."

StubHub files for IPO as companies start lining up to go public
StubHub has become the latest tech-related company to file its IPO prospectus with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

StubHub, an online marketplace for reselling tickets, on Friday filed to go public on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "STUB."

In its prospectus for an initial public offering, the company said it had a net loss of $2.8 million on revenue of $1.77 billion for 2024, compared with a $405 million profit on $1.37 billion in revenue for 2023.

Online ticketing rival SeatGeek was evaluating a potential IPO last year, according to media reports. Bloomberg reported in June that Citigroup and Wells Fargo joined the company's planned listing. Other StubHub competitors include Vivid Seats, which was taken public via a special purpose acquisition company in 2021, and Live Nation.

After an extended IPO lull dating back to early 2022, the market is showing clear signs of thawing. Artificial intelligence infrastructure provider CoreWeave is expected to debut next week. Klarna, a provider of buy now, pay later loans, filed its IPO prospectus last Friday. Earlier in March, Hinge Health, a provider of digital physical therapy services, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Crypto super PACs pump cash into Florida as GOP faces risk of thinning House majority
The crypto industry is pouring money into two Florida House races that could have a big impact on the Republican Party's ability to hold its slim majority.

Fresh off its victories in the 2024 election cycle, the crypto industry is going big in Florida.

Affiliates of the Fairshake super PAC, a fundraising group that helped elect pro-crypto candidates up and down the ticket, is trying to boost Republican candidates in two Florida races, which could determine whether Republicans hold their thin House of Representatives majority.

The vacancies emerged after sitting Republican members left to join President Donald Trump's second administration. One of them, former Congressman Matt Gaetz, withdrew his nomination for attorney general as he faced a number of legal controversies. The other, Michael Waltz, stepped down to become Trump's national security adviser.

The House is currently operating four members short due to recent Democratic vacancies in Texas and Arizona. A sweep by Democrats in those races and the Florida contests could leave Republicans with just a one-seat majority.

Trump Pulls Security Clearances for Biden, Kamala Harris
President Donald Trump on Friday rescinded the security clearances for former President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and others.

The Republican president faced Clinton in the 2016 presidential election and Harris in last year's election.

“I have determined that it is no longer in the national interest for the following individuals to access classified information,” Trump wrote in the memorandum sent to all executive departments and agency heads before naming all of the individuals affected.

The list includes former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco and "any other member of Joe R. Biden's family," he wrote.

Hopkins, in Maryland's largest city an hour's drive north of the U.S. capital, is eliminating more than 2,000 positions -- 1,975 in projects across 44 countries and 247 jobs in the United States.

The cuts impact several key programs, including the university's medical school and school of public health, and Jhpiego, a global health non-profit organization founded at the university more than 50 years ago and which works to improve health in countries worldwide.

"Johns Hopkins is immensely proud of the work done by our colleagues in Jhpiego, the Bloomberg School of Public Health, and the School of Medicine to care for mothers and infants, fight disease, provide clean drinking water, and advance countless other critical, life-saving efforts around the world," the university said.

President Donald Trump, who is dismantling the humanitarian agency, signed an executive order in January demanding a freeze on all U.S. foreign aid to allow time to assess overseas expenses. Critics warn that slashing USAID work will affect millions of people.

UAE Commits to $1.4T Investment in US Over 10 Years
The White House has announced the commitment of $1.4 trillion in investment in the U.S. by the United Arab Emirates over the next 10 years.

President Donald Trump met on Tuesday with Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed al Nahyan, the UAE's national security adviser, after which the two nations agreed to substantially increase the UAE’s investment in artificial intelligence infrastructure, semiconductors, energy and American manufacturing.

“The evening demonstrated the long-standing ties and bonds of friendship between our countries. UAE and the U.S. have long been partners in the work to bring peace and security to the Middle East and the World. Discussions also included ways for our countries to increase our partnership for the advancing of our economic and technological futures,” Trump posted on his Truth Social platform after the meeting.

Detentions of Tourists Spark Fears of Traveling to US
Lennon Tyler and her German fiancé often took road trips to Mexico when he vacationed in the United States since it was only a day's drive from her home in Las Vegas, one of the perks of their long-distance relationship.

But things went terribly wrong when they drove back from Tijuana last month.

U.S. border agents handcuffed Tyler, a U.S. citizen, and chained her to a bench, while her fiancé, Lucas Sielaff, was accused of violating the rules of his 90-day U.S. tourist permit, the couple said. Authorities later handcuffed and shackled Sielaff and sent him to a crowded U.S. immigration detention center. He spent 16 days locked up before being allowed to return home to Germany.

"The only reason I see is there is a much more fervent anti-immigrant atmosphere," Rios said.

Tourists from countries where the U.S. requires visas — many of them non-Western nations — have long encountered difficulties entering the U.S.

U.S. authorities did not respond to a request from The Associated Press for figures on how many tourists have recently been held at detention facilities or explain why they weren't simply denied entry.

Both German tourists were allowed into the United States under a program offered to a select group of countries, mostly in Europe and Asia, whose citizens are allowed to travel to the U.S. for business or leisure for up to 90 days without getting a visa in advance. Applicants register online with the Electronic System for Travel Authorization.

But even if they are authorized to travel under that system, U.S. authorities have wide discretion to still deny entry. Following the detentions, Britain and Germany updated their travel advisories to alert people about the strict U.S. border enforcement. The United Kingdom warned "you may be liable to arrest or detention if you break the rules."

You are angry, you are sad, you don't know when you can get out," Sielaff said. "You just don't get any answers from anybody."

He was finally told to get a direct flight to Germany and submit a confirmation number. In a call from Sielaff, Tyler bought it for $2,744. He returned March 5.

"What happened at the border was just blatant abuse of the Border Patrol's power," Tyler said.

Ashley Paschen agreed. She said she learned about Brösche from a TikTok video asking anyone in the San Diego area for help after her family learned she was being held at the Otay Mesa Detention Center. Paschen visited her several times and told her people were working to get her out. Brosche returned home March 11.

"She's happy to be home," Paschen said. "She seems very relieved if anything but she's not coming back here anytime soon."

Pope Francis to Make First Public Appearance in Five Weeks
Pope Francis plans to make his first appearance in five weeks on Sunday, offering a blessing from the window of his room at Rome's Gemelli Hospital as he battles double pneumonia, the Vatican said.

Francis, 88, was admitted to the hospital on February 14 with a severe respiratory infection that has required evolving treatment.

The pope has only been seen once during his hospital stay, in a photo the Vatican released last week, showing the pontiff at prayer in a hospital chapel.

Francis wants to come to the hospital window around noon-time on Sunday to give a greeting and blessing, the Vatican said in a brief statement on Saturday.

The pope usually offers a weekly noon-time prayer in St. Peter's Square on Sundays. Francis has not been able to do since February 9, before going to hospital.

The Vatican said Francis was not expected to deliver the prayer this Sunday, in a sign that the pope is still recovering from pneumonia, but would come to the window for a greeting.

Trump Demands 'Full-Throated Apology' From Maine Governor
President Donald Trump Saturday demanded a "full-throated apology" from Maine Gov. Janet Mills over her stance on transgender athletes and insisted that she must promise not to make another "unlawful challenge" to the government.

"While the State of Maine has apologized for their Governor’s strong, but totally incorrect, statement about men playing in women’s sports while at the White House House Governor’s Conference, we have not heard from the Governor herself, and she is the one that matters in such cases," Trump said on Truth Social.

"Therefore, we need a full throated apology from the Governor herself, and a statement that she will never make such an unlawful challenge to the Federal Government again, before this case can be settled. I’m sure she will be able to do that quite easily," he added.

Social Security Requirements Pose Barriers to Rural Communities
Veronica Taylor doesn't know how to turn on a computer, let alone use the internet.

The 73-year-old can't drive and is mostly housebound in her mountainous and remote West Virginia community, where a simple trip to the grocery store can take an hour by car.

New requirements that Social Security recipients access key benefits online or in person at a field office, rather than on the phone, would be nearly impossible to meet without help.

“If that’s the only way I had to do it, how would I do it?” Taylor said, talking about the changes while eating a plate of green beans, mac and cheese and fried fish with a group of retirees at the McDowell County Senior Center. “I would never get nothing done.”

Donald Reed, who runs a local nonprofit that operates two senior centers, said he has serious concerns about the policy change, and how it’ll affect the people his group serves.

“I’m not anti-Trump — let me say that,” he said. “I think the general public greatly supports looking for waste in government. I do not think the general public understands the consequences of the current actions of the government.”

One in three people live in poverty in McDowell County, once one of the nation’s largest coal producers. Around 30% of the population receives Social Security benefits and 20% lack broadband access. People already face huge challenges in accessing basic needs like food and clothing.

“Once the money’s gone, you know, the money’s gone,” he said.

Seniors at the center gather each weekday for lunch. Usually, they might play bingo or cards. On this day, because of the presence of a reporter from The Associated Press, the conversation turned to politics.

Many are Trump supporters. Every county in West Virginia supported Trump in three presidential elections.

Yet all agreed that the recent flurry of executive orders had been difficult to follow, especially since the county’s last local newspaper shuttered, and they weren’t sure what effect they’d have on their lives.

Is Dem Defector Lindy Li A Deep State Double Agent?
I really want to trust Lindy Li, the high profile 34-tear-old Democratic influencer and fundraiser who switched to Team Trump while votes were still being counted in California. But I have reservations.

In the last two months, Li has been all over the internet. Her breakout interview on the Shawn Ryan show a month ago has garnered more than 3.5 million views and over 30,000 comments. A subsequent interview with Patrick Bet-David netted 2.5 million. As Bet-David noted, “A lot of people want to know, is she straight up, is she real?”

Maybe, maybe not. Li is smart, sweet, charming, and so seemingly vulnerable I feel the urge to adopt her. In the month or so since she has gone rogue, she has revealed more inside dope on the Biden presidency and the Harris campaign than the major media did in the past four years.

AOC Positions Herself as Party Leader
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., spoke at a rally in Denver on Friday alongside Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., as part of their "Fight Oligarchy" tour.

The rally comes following a The New York Times report from last week that the House progressive was rumored to be eyeing Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., 's seat after he supported the continuing resolution. Now, she's doing rallies across the country. But it's not clear the play is for the Senate ranking member's chair, which won't be in question for another four years.

Still, according to Abbas Alawieh, a senior progressive strategist, Ocasio-Cortez's high profile, coupled with her criticism of fellow Democrats, could position her to fill the leadership vacuum plaguing the Democrat party.

In late September 2006, former president Clinton mentioned only one Republican other than George Bush by name in a FOX News rant. “A three-star admiral,” Clinton said unprompted, “who was on my National Security Council staff, who also fought terror, by the way, is running for the seat of Curt Weldon in Pennsylvania.”

In early October 2006 former president Clinton spoke at a rally for Sestak in his suburban Philadelphia district. "I will not make a single stop in this campaign season that means more to me than this one -- not one," former President Bill Clinton told the crowd.

Clinton meant it. “A Sestak victory,” accurately observed the local Delco Times, “would muzzle a Republican congressman who blames Clinton for doing irreparable harm to America’s national security during the 1990s.”

"Some of the most effective, strategic and responsive leadership happening in this moment is coming from Rep. Ocasio-Cortez and she's doing it better than many Democrats that we see nationally," Alawieh said, according to The Hill. "She is reminding the party what real leadership that is responsive to the energy of movements actually looks like."

Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez held their first rally on Thursday, joining the bandwagon of condemnation focused on the defacto head of the Department of Government Efficiency, Elon Musk, while also taking shots at Republican members of Congress.

As it stands, Republicans control the House, Senate, and the White House. And a recent Quinnipiac poll has shown that Democrats, for the first time, have disdain among their own supporters.

Greenpeace Loses in North Dakota

A jury in North Dakota ordered the environmental group Greenpeace to pay more than $660 million to Energy Transfer and Dakota Access LLC for its role in defaming the company and inciting illegal behavior during protests against the Dakota Access Pipeline in 2016 and 2017. Energy Transfer filed the lawsuit in 2019, suing Greenpeace USA, Greenpeace International, and Greenpeace Fund.

The jury found Greenpeace USA liable for nearly $404 million, while Greenpeace Fund Inc. and Greenpeace International were each held responsible for approximately $131 million. It was the second-largest win in the history of Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher, the law firm representing the pipeline developer. In addition, it was “one of the largest and most complex civil suits” in North Dakota’s history, as reported by the North Dakota Monitor.

Local versus state zoning for transmission lines debated at North Dakota Legislature • North Dakota Monitor
North Dakota landowners complained about eroding property rights and advocated for local government control Friday as they testified against a bill to take zoning decisions for electrical transmission lines away from local governments.

An Otter Tail Power Co. representative contended that two townships in Stutsman County passed highly restrictive zoning rules to stop a massive powerline project.

Darron Orr, who lives in one of the townships, disputed that. “It’s not about protesting a project, it’s protecting a home,” he said.

House Bill 1258 would take away zoning authority from townships and counties for transmission lines. Instead, the state would have that authority, similar to how rules are made for pipelines.

If passed, the short-term effect of the bill would be paving the way for a large transmission line from Jamestown to Ellendale, known as the JETx line.

The state’s 500-foot setback from residences would be enforced statewide, through the Public Service Commission. The half-mile setbacks passed by the Stutsman County townships would be overruled.

He said the ordinance allows the homeowner to grant a variance and perhaps be compensated, which he said is only fair.

With the larger setback, the homeowner “gets to be at the table,” he said.

The committee did not act on the bill. The bill passed the House on an 86-7 vote.

Gov. Armstrong issues first veto of North Dakota legislative session

Gov. Kelly Armstrong rejected a proposed tax credit for prison industries in his first veto of the 2025 legislative session.

Senate Bill 2261 would provide businesses with tax credits when they buy goods or services from prison industry programs. The tax credit would be equal to up to 10% of the cost of the purchase. The bill cleared the Senate with nearly unanimous support, and passed the House with about 63% support.

Armstrong noted in his Friday veto letter that goods purchased from Rough Rider Industries — a state agency that sells various products made by prison inmates — would qualify for this credit. He called the tax incentive anti-competitive.

Consumers Abroad Boycott US Goods Over Trump Tariffs
As Trump normalizes relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and continues to levy tariffs on European imports, online groups across Sweden, France, and other countries have emerged to coordinate consumer action and exchange tips on non-American alternatives.

In growing numbers, consumers across Europe and beyond are boycotting American-made products in protest of President Donald Trump's trade policies, voicing frustration with what they see as a betrayal of longstanding international alliances, The New York Times reported.

Bo Albertus, a school principal in Denmark, no longer snacks on his favorite California Sun-Maid raisins or sips Pepsi Max, even though he finds European alternatives less satisfying. He's also given up Heinz tomato soup, a staple in his pantry for years.

Trump to rehouse student loans, other programs amid push to close Education Department • North Dakota Monitor
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump said Friday that the U.S. Small Business Administration would handle the student loan portfolio for the slated-for-elimination Education Department, and that the Department of Health and Human Services would handle special education services and nutrition programs.

The announcement — which raises myriad questions over the logistics to carry out these transfers of authority — came a day after Trump signed a sweeping executive order that directs Education Secretary Linda McMahon to “take all necessary steps to facilitate the closure” of the department to the extent she is permitted to by law.

“I do want to say that I’ve decided that the SBA, the Small Business Administration, headed by Kelly Loeffler — terrific person — will handle all of the student loan portfolio,” Trump said Friday morning.

Debra Winger, Joe Rogan: It’s hard out there for a Jew
Currently, we are experiencing the worst overt, monolithic Jew-hatred in American history. One would think Jews would band together in battle against this threat. But no — useful idiots and just plain ignoramuses have jump...

Currently, we are experiencing the worst overt, monolithic Jew-hatred in American history. One would think Jews would band together in battle against this threat. But no — useful idiots and just plain ignoramuses have jumped to the head of the line to enhance the madness.

"The trade-off of short-term pain for long-term gain can be very real and an important thing to pursue," said Oren Cass, founder of American Compass, a conservative research organization that has backed many of Trump's economic policies. "It's actually incredibly heartening to see that we might have some political leaders who are willing to speak honestly about that."

Retailers are taking notice.

Canada's largest grocery chain, Loblaw, now uses a "T" symbol to label U.S. products made more expensive by retaliatory tariffs. In Denmark, supermarket chains Netto, Bilka, and Fotex have begun marking European goods with stars to help shoppers identify local options.

Rep. Fedorchak announces tele-town hall March 25

Republican U.S. Rep. Julie Fedorchak announced she will hold a telephone town hall on Tuesday evening.

The tele-town hall will begin at 6:30 p.m. Central Tuesday. Participants must register for the event in advance through Fedorchak’s website by 5 p.m. Monday.

“I look forward to hearing directly from North Dakotans about the issues that matter most to them,” Fedorchak said in a statement.

The tele-town hall will also be livestreamed on Fedorchak’s website and Facebook page, according to the statement.

Bismarck-area residents rallied outside of the federal courthouse on Tuesday calling on Fedorchak and Sens. Kevin Cramer and John Hoeven to hold in-person town hall meetings.

Lawmakers approve ballot measure putting single subject rule to statewide vote

The House of Representatives on Tuesday approved a proposed constitutional amendment that, if approved by voters, would require all future amendments to the state constitution to only have one subject.

The North Dakota Constitution holds that “no bill may embrace more than one subject, which must be expressed in its title,” but proponents of Senate Resolution 4007 say this should be amended to include changes to the constitution.

This includes those proposed by the Legislature and through voter-initiated petitions.

Police Halt Dem Lawmaker's Town Hall After Confrontations
A town hall held by Rep. Sean Casten, D-Ill., was cut short by police Wednesday after disruptions from pro-Palestinian protesters, reports CNN.

A town hall held by Rep. Sean Casten, D-Ill., was cut short by police Wednesday after disruptions from pro-Palestinian protesters, reports CNN.

Officers had to escort constituents out of the building in Downers Grove, Illinois, after they refused to sit down while Casten was talking.

In one exchange, Casten told a protester, "If you have an issue, if you have a question, we can address that in the question period."

"You are bought and paid for by Israel!" the man yelled back. "You are bought and paid for by AIPAC!"

N.C. Justices: Family Can Sue Over Unwanted COVID-19 Shot
In a 5–2 decision split along party lines, the state Supreme Court ruled that the PREP Act does not bar claims brought under the North Carolina Constitution.

The North Carolina Supreme Court ruled on Friday in favor of letting a mother and son proceed with their lawsuit against a school board after the boy was given a COVID-19 shot without parental consent, The Washington Post reported.

Bill to mandate state investment in gold, silver fails in North Dakota Senate

The Senate voted down a bill that would have required the state treasurer to invest 1% of the state treasury in gold and silver bullion.

House Bill 1183, sponsored by Rep. Daniel Johnston, R-Kathryn, failed on a 34-13 vote Monday.

Sen. Jerry Klein, R-Fessenden, said while the bill had good intentions, the state treasurer is “just handling the checkbook.”

He said the state’s general fund, and other funds controlled by the state treasurer, are the wrong funds to be used for investing.

“If you buy gold and silver, you buy it as an investment that you will hold in hopes of increasing in value,” Klein said. “You don’t convert that monthly so you can make your house payment, or your car payment, or everyday expenses. You need some liquidity.”

During the public hearing for the bill, Johnston told lawmakers that other nations are moving away from the U.S. dollar as a foundational currency and wanted the state to control something that would be independent of inflationary pressures.

Johnston also pointed out that the U.S. dollar loses 2% to 3% of its value every year while gold has appreciated greatly in recent decades.

Trump administration reported to consider expanding military role along southern border • North Dakota Monitor
WASHINGTON — The Trump administration is gearing up to militarize a stretch of the southern border, according to a Washington Post report Thursday, raising concerns from experts that the move would put U.S. military members in direct contact with migrants, a possible violation of federal law.

The White House is mulling the creation of a military satellite installation across the 60-foot-deep strip of federal land known as the Roosevelt Reservation, according to the report.

JFK Files - Revealing the Shadowy Past of Americans' Relatives
The national mystery that surrounds the assassination of former President John F. Kennedy is far from over, especially with the release of thousands of files by the National Archives as ordered by President Donald Trump.

The national mystery that surrounds the assassination of former President John F. Kennedy is far from over, especially with the release of thousands of files by the National Archives as ordered by President Donald Trump.

Americans are discovering things about their relatives they never knew from the newly released files. The Washington Post reported that for some people, an entirely new window to their ancestry has opened up, including a part of their family history that until now was very well hidden.

Three Killed, 14 Injured in a Shooting at a NM Park
Three people died and 14 others were injured after an altercation broke out Friday at a park in the desert city of Las Cruces, New Mexico, police said Saturday.

Three people died and 14 others were injured after an altercation broke out Friday at a park in the desert city of Las Cruces, New Mexico, police said Saturday.

Police and fire crews arrived at just after 10 p.m. Friday onto a chaotic scene at the city's Young Park, where an unauthorized car show had drawn about 200 people, police said during a news conference. Gunshot victims ranging in age from 16 to 36 were treated on the scene or sent to area hospitals.

WashPost-Ipsos Poll: Federal Staff Split on Returning to Office
Federal workers are split on the Trump administration's return-to-office mandate, with 25% saying they are actively looking for another job, according to a new poll released Saturday by The Washington Post.

Federal workers are split on the Trump administration's return-to-office mandate, with 25% saying they are actively looking for another job, according to a new poll released Saturday by The Washington Post.

Hundreds of thousands of U.S. federal government employees, many of whom have been working from home since the COVID-19 pandemic, were ordered back to their offices full time by President Donald Trump on January 20.

Fifty percent oppose the return-to-office mandate while 49% support it.

Disney's Woke 'Snow White' Aims for Weak $45 Million Opening
The much-maligned remake of "Snow White" is on track to give Disney one of the weakest opening weekends in recent memory, amid the controversy surrounding the "woke" retelling of the classic German fairytale.

The much-maligned remake of “Snow White” is on track to give Disney one of the weakest opening weekends in recent memory, amid the controversy surrounding the "woke" retelling of the classic German fairytale.

With an opening night a mere $16 million and an anticipated $45 million weekend haul across 4,200 screens, “Snow White” could end up costing the Mouse House studio hundreds of millions after it dropped nearly $250 million on production costs alone. When marketing and other expenses are factored in, the Rachel Zegler, Gal Gadot-starrer will need to earn at least $500 million to merely break even.

While sending activity duty to the southern border has occurred for more than 20 years in intelligence and logistics roles, military members do not engage in immigration enforcement.

During a visit to the border Feb. 3, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told reporters “guys and gals of my generation have spent decades in foreign countries guarding other people’s borders. It’s about time we secure our own border.”

“All options are on the table,” Hegseth said.

Joseph Nunn, liberty and national security counsel for the Brennan Center for Justice, said during a Thursday interview he would expect the Trump administration to face lawsuits for essentially using the military for civilian law enforcement.

The negative press extended far beyond Zegler’s constant commentary and an updated storyline. The debate on how to delicately handle a cast of dwarves by hyper-sensitive studio executives was openly mocked on social media. Actor Peter Dinklage took issue with Disney not doing a full progressive remake of “Snow White” and gave a profanity laced rant about how Disney wasn’t woke enough. The studio did their best to capitulate and cast a random set of racially diverse actors only to ultimately be forced to replace them with questionable looking dwarves done with video-game quality CGI.

Time will tell if “Snow White” can recover from a soft opening weekend to ultimately find success like Disney’s “Mustafa: The Lion King” did earlier in the year, or become another woke casualty for the studio.

Consumers Abroad Boycott US Goods Over Trump Tariffs
As Trump normalizes relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and continues to levy tariffs on European imports, online groups across Sweden, France, and other countries have emerged to coordinate consumer action and exchange tips on non-American alternatives.

In growing numbers, consumers across Europe and beyond are boycotting American-made products in protest of President Donald Trump's trade policies, voicing frustration with what they see as a betrayal of longstanding international alliances, The New York Times reported.

Bo Albertus, a school principal in Denmark, no longer snacks on his favorite California Sun-Maid raisins or sips Pepsi Max, even though he finds European alternatives less satisfying. He's also given up Heinz tomato soup, a staple in his pantry for years.

SSA Acting Commissioner: No Social Security Shutdown

The U.S. Social Security Administration will not shut down, despite previous comments from Acting Commissioner Leland Dudek that the agency may have to shutter temporarily in response to a judge's ruling limiting the Department of Government Efficiency's access to agency data, according to Bloomberg.

Dudek, on Friday, reversed that position. The SSA posted a statement from Dudek which indicated the federal judge in the case clarified some items to eliminate the initial confusion.

Italy's Deal With Starlink Has Stalled, Defense Minister Says
Negotiations on a potential contract between Elon Musk's satellite internet operator Starlink and the Italian government have stalled, reflecting broader geopolitical tensions, Italy's defense minister said on Saturday.

Negotiations on a potential contract between Elon Musk's satellite internet operator Starlink and the Italian government have stalled, reflecting broader geopolitical tensions, Italy's defense minister said on Saturday.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government is aiming to guarantee encrypted communications between the government, diplomats and defense officials operating in risky areas and Starlink is among the contenders to provide the system.

Bill seeks to strengthen North Dakota law against false political ads

A bill that expands North Dakota law against false political advertisements via social media, text messages or phone calls passed the Senate on Wednesday.

House Bill 1204, sponsored by Rep. Mike Schatz, R-New England, passed on a 45-1 vote and will be sent back to the House for approval of an amendment introduced by Sen. Sean Cleary, R-Bismarck. The amendment added text messages and phone calls to the original bill that included social and commercial media posts.

“As election communications evolve, I think our laws need to change with it,” Cleary said.

Israel Strikes Lebanon in Response to Cross-Border Rocket Fire
Israeli artillery and airstrikes hit south Lebanon on Saturday after Israel said it had intercepted rockets fired from across the border, a clash endangering a shaky truce that ended a year-long war between Israel and Lebanese armed group Hezbollah.

Israeli artillery and airstrikes hit south Lebanon on Saturday after Israel said it had intercepted rockets fired from across the border, a clash endangering a shaky truce that ended a year-long war between Israel and Lebanese armed group Hezbollah.

That conflict marked the deadliest spillover of the Gaza war, rumbling across the border for months before escalating into a blistering Israeli offensive that wiped out Hezbollah's top commanders, many of its fighters and much of its arsenal.

Senator Daines Meets China's Vice Premier in Beijing

U.S. Senator Steve Daines, a strong supporter of President Donald Trump, met Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng with warm exchanges in front of journalists on Saturday even as tensions between their countries spiked over trade tariffs and the handling of the illegal trade in fentanyl.

Daines, the first member of Congress to visit Beijing since Trump took office in January, will meet with Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Sunday and the nation's No. 2 official will give him an introduction to China's policies, according to He.

Liberals Shocked at Gen Z Polling More Conservative
Prominent Democrat pollster David Shor expressed shock Tuesday during a podcast with New York Times columnist Ezra Klein at the growing trend of Gen Z voters becoming conservative.

"This is the thing I am the most shocked by in the last four years—that young people have gone from being the most progressive generation since the Baby Boomers ... to becoming potentially the most conservative generation that we've experienced maybe in 50 to 60 years," Shor said, according to Newsweek.

The poll, taken from AtlasIntel, showed that among voters 18-29, support for President Donald Trump climbed 52.7%. The poll also highlighted a gender gap in the age group, with young men 23% more likely to support Trump than young women.

EPA Scales Back Pollution Enforcement Under Trump
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under President Donald Trump is scaling back pollution enforcement, raising concerns about the fate of ongoing investigations into hazardous waste, air quality, and water safety across the United States.

According to a recent agency memo, the EPA is pulling back from environmental enforcement efforts, potentially risking long-standing investigations and pollution control efforts.

The memo, issued March 12, states that enforcement actions will no longer “shut down any stage of energy production” unless there is an imminent threat to health. It also marks a sharp shift from the Biden administration’s efforts to address environmental hazards in low-income and minority communities, stating that “no consideration may be given to whether those affected by potential violations constitute minority or low-income populations.”

David Uhlmann, who led EPA enforcement under Biden, warned that the new memo essentially signals that “if companies, especially in the oil and gas sector, break the law, this E.P.A. does not intend to hold them accountable.”

“That would put communities across the United States in harm’s way,” he added.

One early casualty of the new direction was the Trump administration’s decision to drop a federal lawsuit against Denka Performance Elastomer, which had been accused of releasing a likely carcinogen from its Louisiana plant.

Other investigations are also in limbo. A proposed $35 million settlement with HF Sinclair refinery in Artesia, New Mexico, was developed during the final days of the Biden administration. It aimed to address emissions of hazardous pollutants in a community long plagued by industrial contamination.

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The Growing Importance of Distribution Over AI

In the evolving landscape of technology and software, discussions often center around the advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). However, an important revelation posited by industry leaders highlights that distribution might carry even greater weight than AI in establishing business success. This article delves into why distribution is becoming the key differentiator for startups and established enterprises alike.

The Current State of Software Production and Distribution

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As AI technology advances, the production of software has never been easier. Tools powered by AI enable developers to create applications rapidly and cost-effectively, effectively lowering barriers to entry in the tech space. However, despite these advancements, the distribution of software has not followed suit. On the contrary, distribution is becoming increasingly complex and competitive, with an overwhelm of software options in the market.

Insights from Industry Leaders

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Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, emphasized in a recent interview the economic advantage of owning a platform with a billion users over possessing the most advanced AI model. This stance underscores the significance of distribution; having an established portal for user engagement can yield more substantial returns than merely having superior technology. This idea reinforces the notion that distribution is not solely crucial for consumer-facing applications; it’s equally relevant in enterprise settings.

A Case Study in Distribution: Salesforce

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Salesforce serves as a prime example of the power of distribution. Despite seeing competitors like Clara making headlines with ambitious moves to abandon established platforms, Salesforce's deep-rooted distribution advantage has so far shielded it from serious threats. With a vast network of users, persistent engagement, and a renowned brand presence, Salesforce has proven that emotional attachment and network effects are central to customer retention—factors that are often mistakenly underestimated in the context of product superiority.

The Challenge for New Founders

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While the creation of software is on the rise—with countless indie and Y Combinator founders building various AI tools—the struggle for customer acquisition represents a crucial hurdle. With the competition intensifying, the landscape is beginning to resemble a "Cretaceous-level" crisis for AI-driven startups. Reports indicate a staggering increase in the number of AI marketing tools, making it clear that merely having a product is no longer sufficient. Founders must also focus on acquiring a distribution advantage to thrive.

The Need for a New Approach to Distribution

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Founders that emerge victorious in this new climate are likely to prioritize sales over technical expertise. The need for innovative sales strategies, particularly in navigating the complexities inherent in B2B environments, is paramount. Traditionally, tech-savvy founders may have relied on their products' merits; however, the market’s evolution has shifted towards identifying channels and strategies that cultivate lasting customer relationships.

Distribution Channels: A Rapidly Shifting Terrain

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The dynamics of distribution channels are evolving, complicated by the impact of AI on consumer behavior and B2B sales. For instance, the process of customer acquisition is being disrupted, as buyers increasingly conduct research through AI-powered tools rather than traditional platforms. This paradigm shift creates uncertainty; founders must rethink strategies for visibility and engagement, especially within the chaotic realm of social media platforms.

Exploring New Frontiers in Distribution

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With traditional methods becoming obsolete, the path forward mandates a keen understanding of micro-segmentation, identifying specific customer bases, and tapping into their preferred platforms. Whether engaging B2B customers through targeted outreach or finding creative funnels for consumer apps, adapting to the varied consumer behavior trends—to include leveraging sites like TikTok for exposure—becomes paramount.

Conclusion: The Path Ahead

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As we traverse this new landscape characterized by a deluge of AI products, the ability to master distribution can significantly influence a startup’s success. Successfully navigating this terrain, where understanding customer needs and implementing effective distribution strategies reign supreme, could pave the way for the next wave of technology-driven businesses. In this realm, getting the product may no longer be enough; finding and owning distribution channels must take center stage.

As we consider the future of technology and business, the emphasis returns to the fundamental question: how will founders approach the challenge of distribution alongside their astounding innovations?

Crypto companies and exchanges Coinbase, Kraken, Robinhood, Binance, and OpenSea all previously saw lawsuits or investigations dropped, resolved or put on hold. Ripple is now taking a victory lap.

"Ripple stands alone as the company that fought back — and won on essential legal questions — throwing a major wrench into the SEC's plans to destroy crypto in the U.S. through enforcement," Ripple Chief Legal Officer Stuart Alderoty told CNBC in an emailed statement. "The SEC has now abandoned its appeal in our case. In a fitting irony, Ripple was the first major case they brought and will now be the last one they walk away from."

XRP was created in 2012 as one of the first non-bitcoin cryptocurrencies. It was started by the founders of the company Ripple, and became the platform's native currency. Like bitcoin, XRP can be bought and sold by retail investors. XRP jumped about 11% after Wednesday's announcement.

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Tesla's Recent Rise and Future Prospects

The financial world has been buzzing with Tesla's recent performance, marking a notable uptick over the last two days where the stock price surged by approximately 24 points. Speculation is rife about whether Tesla's stock will continue this trajectory and what future developments could sustain or enhance its growth.

Analyzing the Stock Movement

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Many contributors take a closer look at Tesla’s stock, observing that crossing significant benchmarks like $250 could potentially lead to a climb towards $300. Analysts recognize a pattern resembling a "double bottom," occurring at $222. The establishment of this structure could indicate a stable foundation, where investors keenly await quarterly earnings figures in early April that are expected to show predictable production volumes, especially with the anticipated transition in their Model Y sales.

Positive Prospects Amidst Negative Sentiments

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Despite external negative sentiments, including protests affecting the Tesla brand, analysts suggest that this backlash might inadvertently foster greater loyalty among supporters. There’s a narrative that even conservative voters have started to rally around Tesla, indicating a possible shift in public perception that favors the brand amidst chaos.

Retail investment in Tesla has surged, with reports indicating that approximately 40% of retail cash entering the market has been allocated to Tesla stocks. This rising interest alongside strong online search trends could point to a reinvigorated consumer base ready to rally around the company.

Earnings and Transition Factors

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As Tesla prepares to disclose its quarterly earnings on April 2, much of the potential negativity surrounding the brand could dissipate, paving the way for growth through strategic investments and production enhancements. Analysts are particularly optimistic that any tariff-related bad news will also be resolved by this date, reducing uncertainty around Tesla’s operational costs and international sales.

Discussions have highlighted international relations concerning tariffs, hinting at negotiations to achieve reciprocal tariff rates across different markets, which could further facilitate Tesla's plans for global expansion.

AI and Tesla's Technological Advancements

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The all-hands meeting with Elon Musk has unveiled several exciting developments, particularly concerning Tesla’s AI capabilities and advancements in its Dojo chip technology. Musk indicates that while Tesla's current chips may lag behind competitors in raw processing power, the efficiencies they have built into their operations can make them competitive by focusing on integrating software and hardware more tightly.

The race for advancing AI capabilities appears aggressive, with ambitions to roll out Dojo 2, which promises to be significantly more powerful, further solidifying Tesla's tech leadership in self-driving and robotics.

Driverless Future: The Case for Robo-taxis

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One of the most intriguing aspects discussed was the potential impact of Tesla's robo-taxi initiative. Analysts estimate that the revenue potential per vehicle in this model could exceed traditional taxi businesses significantly. This radical transformation could redefine personal vehicle ownership dynamics, with consumers reconsidering personal vehicle purchases as the utility of shared robo-taxis becomes financially beneficial.

This speculation raises the question of how these developments could alter existing consumer behavior. The prospect of significant financial incentives from using robo-taxis could turn the traditional car ownership model on its head, prompting Tesla to focus more on fleet operations rather than individual sales.

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Investment Opportunities and Economic Implications

In contemplating the broader economic implications of these forecasted changes, it becomes clear that the transition towards Tesla's technology — particularly in semi-trucks and robotic vehicles — could deliver significant economic advantages, including reduced transportation costs and boosted production capabilities due to enhanced efficiency.

Investments in energy infrastructure, alongside advances in electric vehicle technology, have the potential to revamp supply chain dynamics, rendering transportation costs competitive against other global markets.

Conclusion: Vision for the Future

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As Tesla approaches pivotal earnings reports and the rollout of vital new technologies, the company's trajectory looks promising. The discussions surrounding production, market positioning, technology advancements, and capital investments suggest that while challenges remain, the groundwork for sustained growth is being meticulously laid.

With the prospect of a robust AI-nurtured transport network reinforced by market resilience, Tesla stands at the forefront of an impending transportation revolution. As analysts and investors remain keenly observant, it is evident that the coming months could shape not only Tesla’s future but the broader automotive and technology industries as a whole.

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Disruption Risks for Adobe in the Age of AI

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) raises significant questions about the future of established software companies, particularly Adobe. Once synonymous with creativity and design, Adobe now faces a potential crisis as generative AI technologies advance, threatening to render its products obsolete. This article explores the current landscape for Adobe, the risks it faces from evolving AI capabilities, and the market perceptions driving its valuation.

Understanding Adobe's Current Situation

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Adobe has long been a staple in the creative software industry, known for its suite of products that empower designers, marketers, and creators. The company's financial health showcases strong growth metrics, with trailing free cash flow at 17 times, a 90% retention rate, and substantial operating margins of 37%. However, recent commentary suggests that Adobe might not be immune to disruptions caused by new AI tools that rival its offerings.

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It is essential to recognize that competition from companies like Canva and Figma is part of the broader challenge Adobe faces. These companies are capturing lower-end customers who once might have relied on Adobe's products. For example, while Canva currently holds only a 6% market share compared to Adobe's 50%, it has introduced a free tier that allows users to access fundamental design features without cost, effectively siphoning off potential customers from Adobe's subscription-based model.

The Evolving Role of AI in Creative Work

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As generative AI continues to improve, the implications for Adobe could be profound. One particularly notable example discussed is an AI tool known as Sora, which is capable of generating compelling video content in response to user prompts. Although still imperfect, this technology is improving rapidly, raising questions about the necessary scale and sophistication of tools that professionals might require in just a few years.

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Marquez Brownlee’s analysis of Sora points out its potential uses, from abstract animations to animated title slides. While the technology is still refining its capabilities, it shows promise for producing video content in ways that could rival conventional video editing software. This trajectory of advancements suggests that as AI becomes increasingly sophisticated, it may supplant traditional software tools, which puts Adobe's long-standing business model at risk.

Financial Resilience and Valuation Concerns

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Despite these ominous trends, the fundamental financial health of Adobe over the past few years has remained relatively solid, with revenue growth stably over 10%. In discussions about valuation, this translates into a price-to-free cash flow metric that, while at a low historic multiple, factors in expected growth rates that some analysts consider overly pessimistic.

Though Adobe's revenue growth has slowed from its prior heights, some argue that concerns around AI disruption may outstrip the company's actual performance metrics. The argument follows that while the competition is indeed fierce, much of Adobe’s existing client base—comprising power users and professionals—will continue to depend on its software, as it is integral to their business operations.

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Strategic Implications for Investors

Investors must contemplate not only the immediate financial prospects of Adobe but also the long-term stability and growth of the company in a less predictable environment shaped by AI. The current concerns around the company are compounded by the recent trend of investors seeking to sell out of Adobe amidst fears of stagnating growth.

For those weighing an investment in Adobe, the present stock price presents a valuation that might seem appealing but holds significant exposure to competitive realities and technology disruption. The pursuit of a cheaper entry point, perhaps around $340 to $350 per share—where free cash flow yield might reach more attractive levels—might be warranted as AI and competitive pressures inevitably evolve.

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Conclusion: A Wait-and-See Approach

In conclusion, while Adobe is currently experiencing some headwinds, the eventual impact of AI on its business remains to be fully realized. For the moment, many investors may prefer a cautious approach, waiting for signs of resilience or shifts in market sentiment before committing to investing in Adobe. Nevertheless, the firm's existing subscriber base and high switching costs may ultimately afford some protection against threats posed by generative AI tools.

By maintaining vigilance in monitoring both technological advancements and Adobe's strategic responses to competition, investors will be better equipped to navigate the evolving landscape of creative software.

It is only the beginning.

It is easy to do. I try to add a lot of technology stuff. A few more people do also.