Energy
In clean energy innovation, Miami-based startup Exowatt, supported by OpenAI’s Sam Altman, has introduced a modular system aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of AI data centers. This system integrates a solar energy collector with a thermal battery that can provide heat or electricity, addressing the demand for sustainable energy solutions. Exowatt reportedly has a backlog of 1.2 gigawatts from major data center operators and renewable energy developers, reflecting the tech industry’s focus on reducing emissions amid the AI boom.
Geopolitics
Reports suggest NATO is strategizing to secure a $100 billion fund to support Ukraine, potentially circumventing any future U.S. administration’s attempts to cut off aid. This highlights the ongoing complexities of international alliances and the continued focus on the conflict in Ukraine. The U.S. has already contributed $24.4 billion to Ukraine, and the proposed fund would further involve NATO, illustrating the intricate web of global military and political strategies.
Economy
Mortgage rates have increased alongside a rise in Treasury yields, affecting expectations of rate cuts and raising inflation concerns. The yield curve, which had been inverted, is moving towards normalcy, but not as anticipated. Longer-term yields have risen due to renewed inflation fears, causing mortgage rates to increase. The Federal Reserve’s monetary policy actions, including a 50-basis-point rate cut, have influenced these dynamics, with the 10-year yield rising to 3.98%. This has contributed to a rise in the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate, now at 6.53%. Financial markets are adjusting to a complex mix of factors, including inflation fears and changing rate-cut expectations, with significant implications for the broader economy.
Internationally, Russia plans to increase its reserves of precious metals, including silver, as part of a strategy to diversify its holdings amid global economic uncertainties. This move distinguishes Russia from other central banks that have primarily focused on gold. The State Fund intends to allocate 51.5 billion rubles annually from 2025 to 2027 for acquiring precious metals and gemstones. This decision could influence other nations to follow suit, potentially affecting silver prices. The gold-to-silver ratio suggests that silver is currently undervalued compared to gold, indicating potential for price increases.
Health
Residents of Red Hill, North Carolina, including Christy Thrift, have been relying on each other for support during the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, with the National Guard and local volunteers involved in recovery efforts. Communication issues and a lack of emergency alerts exacerbated the situation, highlighting the challenges faced by the community. As recovery efforts continue, there is an urgent need for supplies, particularly with cold weather approaching. Christy has set up a GoFundMe to aid in recovery, emphasizing the importance of ongoing support for the community’s resilience and recovery.
Sources
Sam Altman-Backed Exowatt Tackles AI’s Carbon Footprint with Innovative Clean Energy Solution
A startup backed by OpenAI Inc.’s Sam Altman has a plan to provide cheap, clean energy to data centers increasingly in search of ways to cut their emissions.
Source | Submitted by Barbara
NATO’s Alleged $100 Billion Plot: A Neocon Strategy to Undermine Trump and Fuel Ukraine Conflict
NATO is scheming to secure $100 billion to destroy Russia, ensuring that if Trump is elected, he cannot cut off the funding for the Ukraine War.
Source | Submitted by rhollenb
Mortgage Rates Surge as Treasury Yields Spike: Inflation Fears and Rate-Cut Hopes Collide
Mortgage rates roughly parallel the 10-year yield but at a higher level.
Source | Submitted by rhollenb
Russia’s Silver Surge: Could $50 Be Just the Beginning?
Russia’s recent move to add silver to its state reserves signals a potential turning point for the white metal, setting it apart from other central banks that have primarily focused on gold.
Source | Submitted by AaronMcKeon
Hurricane Helen’s Aftermath: Community Resilience Amidst Devastation in Western North Carolina
Source | Submitted by Patriot83
