Newsletter Dec 18, 2024
Welcome to your December 18 newsletter...

A Tesla Cybertruck was spotted at a BYD facility in China, sparking speculation about a potential China launch. The sighting has fueled curiosity about Tesla's plans for entering the competitive Chinese market. Also, are you planning to move? Check out which US State is the least expensive for maximum savings in today's Money Making Moves:  

In the Fast Lane of Business...

> Palantir Technologies (NASDAQ: PLTR) was added to the Nasdaq 100 index after transitioning from the NYSE, with its stock price surging over 340% following major developments. The company, known for its AI platforms like Palantir Foundry and AIP, expanded its government contracts, including a $36.8 million deal with USSOCOM and launched its Warp Speed manufacturing system. In Q3, Palantir reported nearly $500 million in revenue, a record $144 million in net profit, and raised its full-year revenue guidance to $2.809 billion. Analysts are divided, with some highlighting its high valuation while others see significant growth potential by 2025.

> Tesla is reigniting speculation about a potential Cybertruck debut in China after the vehicle was spotted at a BYD facility and filed for energy consumption evaluation with China's MIIT, receiving an Automobile Energy Consumption Label. The Cybertruck is classified as an M1 passenger vehicle with a range of 618 kilometers and features a tri-motor configuration, highlighting Tesla's ambitions to redefine the electric pickup segment. Despite previous denials of plans to sell the Cybertruck in China, the vehicle's growing regulatory engagement and public interest during its China tour suggest a deeper focus on the market. BYD's analysis of the Cybertruck at its facility adds intrigue, possibly reflecting competitive benchmarking in the evolving EV space.

> Walmart is testing body cameras for employees in the Dallas, Texas area to enhance worker safety and evaluate their effectiveness before deciding on a wider rollout. The cameras, provided by Axon, are similar to models used by law enforcement and have been designed for retail and healthcare workers. Early trials of body cameras in retail settings, including Walmart and TJ Maxx, have shown success in reducing incidents of workplace violence and de-escalating confrontations. A Walmart-branded guide instructs employees on using the cameras, which have garnered mixed reactions from shoppers and sparked discussions online.

Unique Business Idea For You

Starting a travel planning business is a creative and rewarding venture, offering perks like discounted hotel rates and insider access to airlines and tour guides. Specializing in a niche, such as South America adventures or Iceland trips tailored for college students or seniors, can set your services apart. This flexible business can be operated from home or anywhere globally, making it perfect for travel enthusiasts. With earning potential between $35,000-$67,000 annually, it combines passion with profitability.

Side Hustle You’d Be Crazy Not to Try

Transforming your basement into an exercise studio is a cost-effective way to start a yoga, meditation, or pilates business without the expense of renting a separate space. By utilizing your home, you can create a welcoming environment for clients while keeping overhead costs low. This side hustle has the potential to generate significant income, with some earning up to $3,000 a month. It’s an ideal opportunity for fitness enthusiasts looking to turn their passion into profit.

Personal Finance News

> Small business and farm loans declined in 2023 due to rising interest rates and stricter lending standards, according to federal banking agencies overseeing the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). Loan originations dropped by 5.1% for small businesses and 5.6% for small farms, with the total loan dollar amounts decreasing by 8.9% and 5.2%, respectively. Most small business loans (94.9%) and small farm loans (80.2%) were for amounts under $100,000, with over half going to firms earning $1 million or less annually. The economic climate has made it challenging for businesses to secure financing, with only 8.5% of SMBs finding working capital loans easily accessible. For quality financial knowledge on loans and credit scores, click here

> California continues to dominate as home to the most expensive metro areas in the U.S., while the least expensive metros are predominantly in the South. In 2023, California's regional price parity was 12.6% above the national average, with San Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley 18% higher and San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles 11% higher. Non-Californian pricey metros included Seattle, New York, Miami, Boston, and Honolulu. On the other end, Pine Bluff, Arkansas, was 20% less expensive than the national average, reflecting the trend of lower costs in Southern states.

> Haliey Welch, a viral TikTok star known for her "hawk tuah" advice, faces backlash after her cryptocurrency, HAWK, collapsed, leaving investors with significant financial losses. Initially valued at $500 million, the coin lost 95% of its value minutes after launch, sparking accusations of a "pump and dump" scheme. Many fans lost life savings, with some alleging the HAWK team hoarded 97% of the token supply for profit, reportedly pocketing over $5 million. Investors are now pursuing legal action and filing complaints with agencies like the SEC and FTC to recover their losses.

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