Peter Thiel, co-founder of Palantir Technologies, has sold nearly $600 million worth of the company’s stock this week, bringing his total stock sales for the year to over $1 billion. The sales come amid Thiel’s outspoken views on various topics, including artificial intelligence, Bitcoin, and California’s progressive culture.
Voting technology company Smartmatic and conservative cable network Newsmax have settled a defamation lawsuit, averting a trial that was scheduled to begin next week. The specifics of the confidential settlement remain undisclosed, but the agreement was reached during jury selection. This case would have been significant, as it would have been the first to determine whether a cable news network made defamatory claims about a voting technology company in relation to the 2020 election.
Coldplay’s highly anticipated Mumbai concert sold out in minutes, leading fans to explore gig-tripping opportunities to Abu Dhabi. This travel trend, where fans attend concerts in other countries, is booming, with Skyscanner predicting it will be a major travel priority in 2024. The report suggests that Indian fans are willing to fly short or long-haul to see their favorite performers, with a significant number choosing Abu Dhabi for the Coldplay concert due to its potentially cheaper cost compared to Mumbai’s exorbitant resale ticket prices.
Toyota reported a 3.1% decline in global vehicle sales for August, primarily driven by weak sales in Japan and China. However, the company saw an increase in the US market, thanks to the popularity of the new Camry. Toyota’s EV sales continued to grow, with a 23% increase compared to August 2023.
A teenage driver involved in a fatal Porsche crash in Pune is now facing serious charges, including culpable homicide, evidence tampering, and corruption. Police allege the driver and his family were drunk at the time of the accident and bribed doctors to falsify blood alcohol test results.
Alibaba and JD.com saw significant gains after China’s central bank announced new economic stimulus measures, including a reduction in bank reserve requirements and support for the struggling property market. This move reflects China’s efforts to boost its economy amid ongoing challenges.
China’s major cities, Shanghai and Shenzhen, are poised to loosen restrictions on home purchases in an effort to revive their struggling real estate markets. The move, which includes eliminating eligibility checks and allowing out-of-town buyers, aims to attract investors and boost demand in the sector. This decision aligns with broader economic stimulus measures implemented by the Chinese government, including monetary easing and property support, to achieve the 2024 economic growth target of approximately 5%.
A horrific incident in Uttar Pradesh has sent shockwaves through the country, as a class 2 student was murdered in a ‘black magic’ ritual orchestrated by the school owner to bring prosperity. The five accused, including the school owner, his son, the principal, and two teachers, have been arrested and are facing serious charges.
Amidst controversy over alleged animal fat adulteration in Tirupati temple’s laddu, Andhra Pradesh police have imposed restrictions on gatherings, and the government has formed a special investigation team to probe the matter. Former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy is scheduled to visit the temple, leading to heightened security measures.
The internet’s newest darling, a baby hippopotamus named ‘Moo Deng,’ has not only melted hearts with her adorable antics but has also spurred a significant surge in a memecoin inspired by her. Moo Deng’s popularity has translated into a 700% increase in the MOODENG token on Solana, demonstrating the power of viral trends in the cryptocurrency market.
