GM Commits Billions to Shareholder Returns as EV Push Stalls
Nov 29, 2023
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GM responds to EV criticism with shareholder rewards. Private aviation industry performance during pandemic. Tax breaks for private jets and global water shortage. Surge in demand for Santa Claus entertainers. Deepfake pornography challenges and the need for stricter regulations. Discussion on the challenges and ethics surrounding emerging technology. Performance of S&P 500 and impact of treasury trade. Rebound of Nikkei index and allocation strategy for Japanese equities.
The demand for Santa Clauses is exceeding supply this year, with an increase of over 36% compared to last year.
Deepfake pornography poses a significant threat to victims, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive legislation and increased awareness.
Deep dives
Increased demand for Santa Clauses highlights holiday season optimism
The demand for Santa Clauses is exceeding supply as the holiday season approaches. The need for Santa entertainers at events, parties, and malls has seen a significant increase, with the demand up by over 36% compared to last year. Despite challenges posed by deepfake technology, which manipulates photos and videos, the market for Santa Clauses remains strong. Companies are seeking diverse Santas to meet the preferences of their diverse customer base, while also offering more interactive experiences for families. Overall, the outlook for the holiday season is positive, with strong seasonal trends and positive momentum in the equity markets.
The risks and challenges of deepfake pornography
A disturbing rise in deepfake pornography, which uses artificial intelligence to manipulate images, is causing significant harm to victims. The article explores a case in Levittown, Long Island, where a group of teenage girls discovered their photographs had been altered to create explicit content. Existing laws have struggled to keep up with the rapidly advancing technology, leaving victims with limited legal recourse. The platforms and companies responsible for the development and distribution of the technology face challenges in regulating and preventing misuse. The story highlights the urgent need for comprehensive legislation and increased awareness to tackle the dangers posed by deepfake pornography.
The impact of rising yields on the investment landscape
The recent increase in US Treasury yields is impacting the investment landscape, raising concerns about its potential effects on the economy. While there is no consensus on whether we have reached peak yields, some experts anticipate a potential softening in the economy in mid-2024 as a result. However, the current outlook for equity markets remains positive, with expectations of continued rally into the new year. Opportunities beyond mega-cap growth stocks include US infrastructure investments, Japanese equities, and natural resources. These sectors have attractive valuations and favorable fundamentals, making them potential areas for investment allocation.
Bloomberg News Auto Reporter Keith Naughton discusses General Motors responding to critics of its unsteady push into electric vehicles and self-driving by showering shareholders with cash. Janine Iannarelli, Founder and President of Par Avion, shares her thoughts on the business of private aviation. Mitch Allen, Founder (and Head Elf) at Hire Santa, explains the high demand and low inventory for Santa “entertainers” this year. Bloomberg Businessweek Editor Joel Weber, Bloomberg Businessweek Investigative Reporter Olivia Carville and Bloomberg News Cybersecurity Reporter Margi Murphy provide the details of the Businessweek Magazine cover story Deepfake Pornography Victims Learn There Are No Laws to Fight It. And we Drive to the Close with Amy Magnotta, Co-CIO at Ategenos Capital. Hosts: Carol Massar and Tim Stenovec. Producer: Paul Brennan.