*** Ross Rant ***
The origin story
In 2013, I put 8 entrepreneurs in one house at Sundance Mountain Resort.
No agenda. No PowerPoint. Just conversation.
Thirteen years later, Brigadoon has become something I never imagined: a gathering to which people return year after year—not for what they learn, but for who they meet and how those relationships reshape their thinking.
February 22-24, 2026, marks our eighth Sundance gathering. We've grown to 100 participants, but the principle remains: quality over scale, connection over content.
If you're building something that matters, this might be your year.
More @ brigadoon.live/utah.
-Marc
*** Caracal Daily ***
The West’s last chance: How to build a new global order before it’s too late. Alexander Stubb
AP: Talks between Russia and US end after almost five hours
AP: US-Russia talks on Ukraine were productive but work remains, Russian adviser says
US delegation meets with Putin in latest bid to end Ukraine war: WP reports ahead of the key meeting, Russia professed fresh military victories, hammering home its claim that it can succeed in the war without negotiations if it wants.
Marathon Russia-US meeting yields no Ukraine peace deal: A senior Kremlin official called the talks useful and constructive, but Ukrainian territory that Moscow covets remains a sticking point. WSJ
Russia says talks with US on Ukraine ‘useful’ but no deal reached: FT reports Vladimir Putin holds meeting with Donald Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff in Moscow.
Putin underscores Russia’s upper hand in Ukraine ahead of Witkoff meeting: NYT reports in Moscow, Steve Witkoff, President Trump’s special envoy, and Jared Kushner, Mr. Trump’s son-in-law, were expected to discuss a revised peace proposal.
Zelenskiy says he is ‘ready for a meeting with president Trump’ after Moscow talks: Irish Times reports Zelenskiy tells Oireachtas of ‘great honour to stand in a country that understands the price of freedom’ during first official visit.
Zelensky urged to reform his leadership amid ongoing peace talks: The resignation of his trusted aide and two of his ministers over corruption allegations has ignited debate over the Ukrainian president's leadership style, as calls grow for greater openness and transparency. Le Monde
Macron: No ‘finalized’ peace plan on Ukraine: Politico reports the Europeans are worried that Kyiv will be forced into accepting a bad deal.
Ukraine targets Russia’s shadow fleet: FT reports Kyiv admits striking ships to squeeze Moscow’s war revenues as peace talks enter new phase.
Ukrainian authorities arrested a British man on suspicion of spying for Russia: Economist reports Ross David Cutmore, a former British army soldier, had been volunteering as a military instructor in Ukraine. The state security service accused him of offering to carry out assassinations for money, and revealing Ukrainian troop positions.
Vladimir Putin accuses Europeans of sabotaging Ukraine peace push: FT reports Russian president hosts Witkoff and Kushner for negotiations as military claims battlefield advances in Donetsk.
+ @AFP: #BREAKING If Europe wants war with Russia, 'we are ready': Putin
Clearly the Ukraine 'peace plan' was drafted at the Kremlin: Even if not implemented as is, Trump's proposal sends another signal: by echoing war aims expressed by Putin, it reveals Russia's ambitions, argues the specialist of Russia. Françoise Thom
Bloomberg: US peace talks with Russia will not exclude NATO, Rutte says
+ US negotiations with Russia over a plan to end its war in Ukraine will not make unilateral decisions about NATO’s future, Secretary General Mark Rutte said.
+ Rutte told reporters that NATO elements of a deal to end the war against Ukraine will be dealt with separately and will include NATO.
+ NATO leaders are wary that Washington will ignore the military alliance and pressure Ukraine to accept Russia-friendly concessions, and Rutte has been in frequent contact with the US to represent Europe’s views.
NATO allies ‘punching below their weight’ face pressure to buy arms for Ukraine: Politico reports some non-NATO countries like Australia and New Zealand plan to chip in to the PURL scheme, while other allies are doing much less.
Steve Witkoff, neophyte diplomat turned Trump's global fixe: AFP reports the American at the forefront of negotiating an end to the Ukraine war is not a veteran diplomat or the US secretary of state but a billionaire real estate developer, Steve Witkoff.
A newly confident China is jockeying for more global clout as Trump pulls back: Feeling empowered after a clash over trade, Beijing looks to exploit America’s inward turn. WSJ
Macron travels to China with slim hopes of swaying Beijing on Ukraine and trade: The French president is set to make a state visit to China from Wednesday to Friday, as disputes between Beijing and Paris continue to mount. China, which maintains its support for Moscow in the war in Ukraine, now accounts for nearly half of France's trade deficit. Le Monde
QOTD: “The Chinese will not pause. They will take over.” -- Michael Lohscheller, chief executive of Swedish electric car maker Polestar, tells the Guardian why Europe should stick to its plan to ban the production of new petrol and diesel cars by 2035.
Moreno says United States, allies 'dumb' to compete with China on EVs: Detroit News reports the United States should quit trying to compete with China on electric vehicles, US Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-OH) said Tuesday, sparking renewed debate over what direction the nation's auto industry should take amid shifting federal policies on trade, tailpipe emissions and fuel efficiency standards.
How foreign carmakers can stay the course in China Juliana Liu
Chinese embassy decision delayed until Starmer visits Beijing next year: The Times reports the super-embassy in London has been given the green light by MI5 and MI6, but the final decision will not be taken until January 20.
China's quantum leap will eclipse US aircraft carriers, analysts say: Next-generation computers could render traditional weapons obsolete. Nikkei
America is foolishly waving goodbye to thousands of Chinese boffins: Hostile policies and attacks on science are driving them back into China’s arms. Economist
Will the next blockbuster drug come from China? The biopharma industry is booming following record investment and improved supply chains. FT
Japan hotel bookings by Chinese tourists plunge by half: Nikkei reports fallout from Taiwan dispute spills over into tourism industry.
Bottlenecks in data center construction threaten Japan's AI ambitions: Labor shortages, rising costs, and outdated building processes delay construction. Nikkei
India demands installation of government app on all smartphones: FT reports privacy advocates raise concerns about potential snooping. India’s telecoms ministry has said Apple and other smartphone makers must ensure that new handsets come installed with a government cybersecurity app, raising concerns about privacy. The ministry-developed app, called Sanchar Saathi, will have access to the phone’s call log, memory, and camera, according to the app’s privacy statement.
H-1B to plan B: India’s top tech talent looks beyond the US: ROW reports India’s tech talent is increasingly opting for opportunities at home and in other countries, as the lure of the US fades.
Giorgia Meloni’s party pushes to declare Italy’s gold ‘property of the people’: FT reports country’s central bank says it owns the reserves to ‘boost confidence’ in its financial system and in the euro.
Marseille grapples with drug trafficking: 'They are so many and they have so much money': After the murder of Mehdi Kessaci, the brother of an activist against drug trafficking, Le Monde spoke with residents of housing projects, social workers, judges, and police officers. They described a growing sense of powerlessness and danger. Le Monde
Police detain Federica Mogherini in EU fraud probe: EU’s former diplomatic chief and top Brussels official in custody over suspicions of wrongdoing in contract award. FT
Reproached by Trump, Netanyahu is open to a Syria-Israel deal—with caveats: WSJ reports Israeli leader demands large buffer zone after Trump warned against actions that could destabilize the new government in Damascus.
Former president of Honduras is freed from prison after Trump pardon: NYT reports Juan Orlando Hernández was convicted of flooding the United States with cocaine and had been sentenced to 45 years in prison.
Latin America accelerates minerals shift as Trump pushes for regional sourcing: Leaders agree on need to mine and process key metals in the Americas, says IDB president Ilan Goldfajn. FT
The hardliner who wants to make Chile great again: José Antonio Kast would be the most rightwing president in 35 years of democracy. FT
Chinese investment in Argentina tops US$23 billion, defying Milei’s alignment with Trump: BAT reports an X-ray of the Asian country’s investments in Argentina. Beijing not only financed but also constructed and purchased assets in the sectors which today are the motor of Argentina’s recovery, from Vaca Muerta shale to lithium in the north.
The tectonic fracture of Argentina’s economy: This is a game-changer for Argentina’s economy, anticipated for years and slowly happening. Milei has contributed to this outcome, but it is not solely the result of his actions. He is, however, the President that – if he does things right – will benefit from it. Marcelo J. García
Rotating beds and cellphones, Maduro plans to outlast Trump: President Trump’s threat of military action has confronted President Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela with the gravest challenge of his crisis-ridden reign. NYT
The Times: Trump says US will begin land strikes on Venezuela ‘very soon’
Reuters: Pope Leo urges US not to attempt military ouster of Venezuela's Maduro
Trump-style regime change in Venezuela: Conducting foreign policy, let alone war, by meme is dangerous and foolish. Edward Luce
AP: Hegseth cites ‘fog of war’ in defending follow-on strike on alleged drug boat
Hegseth says he didn’t see strike on alleged drug boat that killed survivors: Defense Secretary backed decision to hit the vessel for a second time during September attack, but says he left the room when the order was given. WSJ
Hegseth says he did not see survivors of boat attack clinging to wreckage: NYT reports he defense secretary supported the admiral he said called for the second strike on Sept. 2 against a boat the administration says was smuggling drugs.
Top Republicans turn against Hegseth, semand video of boat strike: Trump’s defense secretary is slowly losing the support of leading Republicans in Congress. TNR
Concerns grow that Hegseth, White House aim to scapegoat admiral in deadly boat strike: WSJ reports as Congress vows accountability, the Trump administration emphasized it was a top military commander — not Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth — who directed the engagement.
The Hill: Adm. Frank Bradley to brief lawmakers Thursday on Venezuelan boat strikes
After decades in combat, a SEAL suddenly comes under scrutiny: Adm. Frank M. Bradley will soon face questions from lawmakers, as Republicans and Democrats express concerns about a Sept. 2 attack on a boat in the Caribbean. NYT
A sickening moral slum of an administration: Regarding Venezuela, Ukraine, and much more, Trump and his acolytes are worse than simply incompetent. George F. Will
Trump calls Somalis ‘garbage’ he doesn’t want in the country: NYT reports the president delivered xenophobic comments during a publicly broadcast cabinet meeting.
WP: Trump rails against Somali migrants: ‘I don’t want them in our country’
Trump says he doesn’t want Somali immigrants in US as ICE plans operation: WSJ reports enforcement effort would focus on Minneapolis; president has been feuding with Minnesota’s Democratic governor over immigration.
PBS: Trump says the word ‘affordability’ is a ‘con job’ by the Democrats
Donald Trump says he will nominate Federal Reserve chair in ‘early’ 2026: FT reports president touts frontrunner Kevin Hassett as ‘potential’ new head of the US central bank.
Trump hints economic adviser Hassett may be Fed chair pick: AFP reports Trump on Tuesday hinted that he wants to nominate his chief economic adviser Kevin Hassett to replace outgoing Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell next year.
Trump vows to overhaul Dulles. An early target: its ‘people movers.’ WP reports the announcement comes after two crashes involving mobile lounges used to transport passengers. The airport is already undergoing a massive renovation.
USA Today: 'Sorry, darling.' Melania Trump not a fan of ballroom construction noise
TN-07: Republican Matt Van Epps wins special election to US House in Tennessee's 7th Congressional District.
San Francisco sues ultraprocessed food companies: NYT reports the city attorney accuses large manufacturers of causing diseases that have burdened governments with public health costs.
Bloomberg: Michael Dell gives $6.25 billion to launch ‘Trump Accounts’ for 25 million kids
+ Michael and Susan Dell will give 25 million American children $250 each to jumpstart an investment account for their futures.
+ The $6.25 billion gift builds on the Invest America initiative and will fund accounts for children 10 and under who aren’t already eligible for the government money.
+ The money will be invested in diversified, low-cost index funds and won’t be accessible until the child turns 18, at which point it can be withdrawn for expenses such as a college education, home deposit or startup costs.
CNN has stuck a partnership with Kalshi, the world's largest global prediction market company, bringing Kalshi's data to its journalism across its television, digital, and social channels, executives tell Axios.
Bloomberg: Comcast’s bid seeks to merge NBCUniversal with Warner Bros.
+ Comcast Corp. is looking to merge its NBCUniversal division with Warner Bros. Discovery Inc., and has made a renewed offer for part of Warner Bros.
+ The proposed merger would create a larger entertainment entity, combining NBC TV network, film and TV studios, and theme parks with Warner Bros., and boost NBC's Peacock streaming service with Warner Bros.' HBO Max.
+ Warner Bros. shareholders would receive a combination of cash and stock in the new entity, and Warner Bros. Chief Executive Officer David Zaslav has been offered a management role with the new entity.
Americans’ social media use 2025: Growing shares of US adults say they are using Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp, and Reddit, but YouTube still rises to the top. Pew
The new, in-demand job skill: Being a TikTok influencer for your company: Employers used to hate it. Now, Starbucks, Delta, and others are recruiting staffers to create social-media content about life at work. WSJ
OFSTED chief backs Australia-style social media ban for under-16s: The Times reports Sir Martyn Oliver says the platforms are driving a surge in disruptive behaviour and school exclusions, and severe absence is also on the rise.
Bloomberg: Tech industry drive to block state AI laws hits wall in Congress
+ A coalition of tech companies backed by the White House's artificial intelligence chief appears to have failed to persuade lawmakers to use a defense bill to block state governments from regulating artificial intelligence.
+ House Majority Leader Steve Scalise said the defense bill "wasn't the best place" for a provision preempting state AI laws, but added that there is still interest in finding another place for it.
+ The defeat is a letdown for large AI companies including Meta Platforms Inc., OpenAI, Alphabet Inc.'s Google and venture capital giant Andreessen Horowitz, which had argued in favor of a federal standard that would preempt state AI regulations.
AI may discriminate against you at work. Some states are making it illegal. WP reports workers in California have more power to fight against the use of artificial intelligence in the workplace.
Welcome to fandom’s AI clout economy: AI gives fans a sense of control over their favorite celebrity’s likenesses, whether the stars like it or not. The Verge
Variety: Guillermo del Toro says ‘F— AI’ while accepting ‘Frankenstein’ Gotham
Anthropic taps IPO lawyers as it races OpenAI to go public: AI start-up picks law firm Wilson Sonsini for what could be one of the largest public offerings ever. FT
The next frontier in AI isn’t just more data: Reinforcement learning environments prepare AI for messy reality. IEEE
China’s DeepSeek challenges Google DeepMind and OpenAI with new AI model: SCMP reports DeepSeek’s V3.2-Speciale equals Google’s Gemini 3 Pro in reasoning capabilities, the Chinese start-up says.
Bloomberg: DeepSeek debuts new AI models to rival Google and OpenAI
+ China's DeepSeek unveiled two new versions of an experimental artificial-intelligence model, adding fresh capabilities to help with combining reasoning and executing certain actions autonomously.
+ The new version, DeepSeek-V3.2, matches the performance of OpenAI Inc.'s flagship GPT-5 across multiple reasoning benchmarks and combines human-like reasoning with the capability to use tools like search engines and calculators.
+ DeepSeek also released DeepSeek-V3.2-Speciale, which focuses on mathematical computations and matches the performance of Google's latest Gemini-3 Pro, and performed at gold medal levels on standardized tests like the International Math Olympiad.
An AI startup looks toward the post-transformer era: The architecture underlying large language models revolutionized AI. Pathway’s Dragon Hatchling is designed to do more. WSJ
The Information: OpenAI CEO declares ‘code red’ to combat threats to ChatGPT, delays ads effort
OpenAI’s Sam Altman declares ‘code red’ after rivals make advances: FT reports $500bn start-up to refocus efforts to improve ChatGPT as Google and Anthropic narrow its early lead.
OpenAI declares ‘code red’ as Google threatens AI lead: WSJ reports a companywide memo is most decisive indication yet of pressure OpenAI faces from competitors.
OpenAI ready to roll out ads in ChatGPT responses.
OpenAI confronts signs of delusions among ChatGPT users Bloomberg
Mistral unveils new models in race to gain edge in ‘open’ AI: Release of French start-up’s latest system comes amid growing concern that Europe is falling behind US and China. FT
AIs could turn opinion polls into gibberish: Large language models can answer surveys and pass the tests to check that a respondent is human. Economist
How to spot a bubble bursting: Forget valuations. Look out for search-engine hits and fund managers getting fired. Economist
The question isn’t whether the AI bubble will burst – but what the fallout will be: Will the bubble ravage the economy when it bursts? What will it leave of value once it pops? Eduardo Porter
AI bubble is fuelled by debt, Bank of England warns: The Times reports Andrew Bailey, the central bank governor, says an asset price correction for tech firms investing $5trn in artificial intelligence could upend the credit markets.
Amazon unveils new AI chip in battle against Nvidia: AFP reports Amazon Web Services launched its in-house-built Trainium3 AI chip on Tuesday, marking a significant push to compete with Nvidia in the lucrative market for artificial intelligence computing power.
Kalshi co-founder Luana Lopes Lara passes Taylor Swift to become youngest self-made female billionaire at age of 29.
Bloomberg: Samsung debuts first trifold phone ahead of folding iPhone
Reuters: Samsung unveils first multi-folding phone as competition set to heat up
+ The model, priced at about 3.59 million won ($2,440.17), unfolds into a 253.1 millimetre (10-inch) display, using three panels, and it is nearly 25% larger than Samsung's latest foldable Galaxy Z Fold 7 model.
Can Arizona miners unleash an American copper boom? Rio Tinto’s Nuton venture is using microbes to remove copper from ores that are otherwise uneconomical to mine. WSJ
How Blue Origin plans to beat SpaceX to the Moon: Successful launches are helping Jeff Bezos’ company set up missions to ferry cargo and, eventually, astronauts to the lunar surface. WSJ
Jaguar ‘ditches designer’ behind its pink brand relaunch: The Times reports Gerry McGovern, the chief creative officer involved in a widely mocked advert that featured no cars, was asked to leave JLR on Monday, Autocar reported.
Mitsubishi Motors explores joint US production with Nissan and Honda: CEO: Nikkei reports the Outlander maker imports all cars it sells in market, leaving it exposed to tariffs.
How an $11 billion beauty company built a suburban empire: Ulta found success by acting more like Home Depot than like Sephora. Bloomberg
Prada completed its €1.25bn ($1.4bn) purchase of Versace. The price was reportedly snipped by $200 million after Versace faced a big hit from Donald Trump’s tariffs.
The end of the lunch bowl era: Diners have bowl fatigue, with some deriding them as ‘slop.’ Even Chipotle’s founder has moved on by starting a sandwich chain. Bloomberg
The single trait that successful entrepreneurs share David C. Baker
The John le Carré series “Legacy of Spies” has been picked up at the BBC in the UK and MGM+ in the US, Variety has learned exclusively.
The dark secrets of the writer behind ‘Train Dreams’: An adaptation of Denis Johnson’s novella arrives at the same time as a new biography, unlocking one of his best-loved and least-understood books. NYT Mag
Bonnaroo 2026: Skrillex, the Strokes, and Noah Kahan are slated to headline the music festival, taking place from June 11-14 in Manchester, TN.
The Cleveland Browns are officially moving to Brook Park: Cleveland's city council has approved a settlement that clears the way for the Browns to leave downtown for a $2.4B stadium in suburban Brook Park. The Browns will pay up to $103M to the city over the next 15 years. The city of Cleveland will drop all lawsuits challenging the move.
Serena Williams comeback? Tennis great denies she’s planning to return. WP reports the greatest women’s tennis player of all-time has reentered the sport’s drug testing pool, a mandatory step in a potential return to competition.
Red Bull promote rookie Hadjar to partner Verstappen: AFP reports French rookie Isack Hadjar will step up to the main Red Bull car next season to partner four-time world champion Max Verstappen, the Austrian Formula One team announced on Tuesday.
Detroit News: Michigan State sets $1 billion fundraising goal to upgrade athletic facilities
JMU makes the cut and ACC’s disaster scenario surfaces in CFP rankings: Even without Lane Kiffin, Mississippi is No. 6 after Texas A&M’s loss to Texas. Alabama inched ahead of Notre Dame. North Texas and James Madison debuted. WP
Enjoy the ride + plan accordingly.
-Marc
Marc A. Ross | Chief Communications Strategist @ Caracal
Caracal Daily | December 2
Europe is going on a huge military spending spree: But with America now an unreliable ally, will it be enough to counter Russia? Economist
DW: Poland, Germany prepare to sign defense collaboration agreement in 2026
Bloomberg: Ukraine ramps up strikes on Russian oil and targets tankers
NYT: Zelensky stresses sovereignty as US pursues peace talks with Russia
Ukraine fears being ignored in US plan to end Russia’s war: Politico reports the US was keen to finalize Ukraine’s position on territorial issues and security guarantees in ongoing talks in Florida.
Zelensky seeks support in Paris as Trump pushes plan: Le Monde reports the Ukrainian president traveled to Paris on Monday to shore up European support in a meeting with Emmanuel Macron. Zelensky said he was also expecting a call with the US president without giving a timeline.
Kremlin says Putin to meet US envoy Witkoff Tuesday afternoon: Kyiv Post reports the pair will meet after American and Ukrainian officials held negotiations on a US plan that Washington wants to be a basis to end fighting between Moscow and Kyiv.
‘Very optimistic’ Trump sends son-in-law to negotiate with Putin: Jared Kushner will join Steve Witkoff to relay Ukraine’s counteroffer to the Russian leader in Moscow, effectively sidelining the secretary of state Marco Rubio. The Times
EU tells Trump: You can’t pardon Putin for war crimes in Ukraine: Any move to “wipe the slate clean” for Russia in a peace deal would be “a historic mistake of huge proportions,” the EU justice commissioner tells Politico.
Russia claims to have captured Pokrovsk: DW reports Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov says Russian forces captured the key city in eastern Donetsk. Meanwhile, President Zelenskyy and France's Macron spoke with US envoy Steve Witkoff ahead of talks with Putin.
Sudan offers Russia its first naval base in Africa: WSJ reports a Red Sea port would give Moscow a vital edge in the strategic waters.
South African radio host accused of recruiting for Russia: DW reports that a radio presenter appeared in court, accused of recruiting men to fight for Russia in Ukraine. Former President Jacob Zuma's daughter is facing similar allegations in a separate matter.
Bloomberg: Putin allows visa-free entry for Chinese citizens into Russia
How China is using AI to extend censorship and surveillance: China is expanding the use of AI throughout its criminal justice system and developing tools to deepen its monitoring of ethnic minorities, a new report finds. WP
The future of China’s “electro-state”: China has built the machinery of an innovative, low-carbon industrial economy capable of leading the global net-zero transition and the unfolding AI revolution. But whether this model will be sustainable depends on China's ability to overcome several major challenges. Ludovic Subran
China poses 'real national security threats' to UK, Starmer warns: Sky News reports the prime minister also describes China as a "nation of immense scale, ambition and ingenuity" and a "defining force in technology, trade and global governance."
Starmer: ‘Dereliction of duty’ not to engage with China: Politico reports in a speech on Monday night, Starmer condemned the previous Conservative governments’ colder approach to Beijing.
Starmer urges UK business to boost trade with China despite security threats: FT reports PM aims to give companies ‘the confidence, clarity and support’ to make deals with Beijing.
Who could shield Taiwan from China? A new answer is emerging. The island is making leaps in military spending and acting with greater focus than ever before. Ely Ratner
Bloomberg: US moves to deepen minerals supply chain in AI race with China
+ The US will seek agreements with eight allied nations to strengthen supply chains for computer chips and critical minerals needed for AI technology.
+ The initiative will begin with a meeting at the White House on Dec. 12 between the US and counterparts from Japan, South Korea, Singapore, the Netherlands, the UK, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Australia.
+ The US wants to cut dependence on China and have a stable relationship with China, but also be ready to compete and ensure US companies can build transformative technologies without coercive dependencies.
Flood death toll rises rapidly across south-east Asia to more than 1000: FT reports large parts of Indonesia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka reeling after being hit by rare cluster of storms.
To avoid tariffs, UK agrees to Trump’s demand to pay more for drugs: NYT reports President Trump has complained that wealthy countries like Britain pay too little for drugs, leading America to bear much of the burden of the costs of medicines.
UK and US reveal zero-tariff deal on pharmaceuticals: Le Monde reports the accord, announced on Monday by officials from the Trump and Starmer administrations, aims to 'address long-standing imbalances in US-UK pharmaceutical trade.'
Trump’s tariffs are hitting India hard: Donald Trump’s punishing tariffs have laid bare the fragility of India’s export model, which depends on a handful of markets and a narrow band of relatively low-value-added products. Only by embracing a new model – which emphasizes diversification, regional cooperation, and value addition – can India build long-term resilience. Shashi Tharoor
Why the Gulf monarchs shower Trump with gifts: Until now, no president had yielded to royal temptations from abroad. Franklin Foer
Trump, Xi, Putin, and the strongman race: The Chinese leader is ending the year in a better position than his American and Russian counterparts. Gideon Rachman
Trump's interference and contradictions across Latin America: The US president has brought to Latin America the same virulence and threats he routinely directs at his political opponents at home. There, too, he has multiplied contradictions that make his policy direction increasingly difficult to decipher. Le Monde-Editorial
Trump becomes the wild card in razor-thin Honduras election: NYT reports President Trump warned that if his favored candidate didn’t win, the United States would “not be throwing good money after bad” at the country.
Honduras election heads for photo finish with top two rivals tied: FT reports Nasralla whittles down Trump-backed Asfura’s lead to just 515 votes as both claim they will win.
Honduras election: 'Technical tie' between two candidates: DW reports US President Donald Trump has threatened to cut aid to Honduras if Nasry Asfura, of the right-wing National Party, is unsuccessful in the presidential election.
Trafficking humans is the drug-gangs’ grimmest business: Mass migration and sex tourism are causing a new wave of exploitation across Latin America. Economist
White House denies ‘war crime’ after giving Maduro ultimatum to resign: The Times reports the presidents spoke on the phone last week as the US continued to put pressure on Venezuela and execute lethal strikes on ‘drug boats.’
White House says second strike on alleged drug boat was legal: WSJ reports it said the admiral who ordered the strike, which is reported to have killed survivors of the initial attack, was acting under the defense secretary’s authority.
The Hill: White House confirms Hegseth authorized second strike on drug boat
WP: Trump says Hegseth denied issuing order to kill boat crew
Was Pete Hegseth’s boat strike order a war crime? Nia Prater
Lawmakers spoke privately to Trump’s top general after boat strike revelations: WP reports the call between Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine and leaders of the House and Senate Armed Services committees occurred as both panels opened inquiries into the Sept. 2 attack.
Lawmakers suggest follow-up boat strike could be a war crime: NYT reports top Republicans have joined Democrats in demanding answers about the escalating military campaign the Trump administration says is aimed at targeting drug traffickers.
‘At what point does this cross a line into international criminality?’ Politico reports an expert on international law weighs in on the legality and global implications of the Trump administration’s drug boat killings.
+ Rep. Mike Turner (R-OH) said on CBS' "Face the Nation" on Sunday that if a second strike on shipwrecked survivors happened, “that would be an illegal act.”
Reuters: Trump’s campaign of retribution: At least 470 targets and counting
How a deep red Tennessee House district turned into a political battleground: Tuesday marks the special election for Tennessee's 7th Congressional District. ABC News
Slumping Trump says ‘whole world is watching’ Tennessee special election: WSJ reports polls show Democrat Aftyn Behn close behind Republican Matt Van Epps in race for House seat in solid-red district.
Johnson and Trump try to avoid an upset House loss in Tennessee: NYT reports Speaker Mike Johnson put the president on speakerphone during a Monday stop in the state, underscoring the unusual amount of national attention on a House special election.
GOP faces a familiar dilemma: What to do about Obamacare? WP reports subsidies are set to expire at the end of the year. Senate Republicans have promised a vote on extending them before then.
Top Mace adviser leaves her campaign, citing loyalty to Trump: Politico reports Austin McCubbin, a longtime GOP operative, announced his resignation in a pointed post on X on Monday.
Steve Cohen wins approval for casino near Mets stadium: NYT reports the baseball-team owner and billionaire investor gains one of three licenses granted to operate casinos in New York City.
A surprise when your package arrives: You have to pay the tariff: NYT reports the end of a tariff exemption on goods worth $800 or less has left some US shoppers with an extra shipping bill that must be paid before delivery.
Bloomberg: Costco joins companies suing for refunds if Trump’s tariffs fall
America’s tariffs jolted the global economy. Its AI spending is helping save it. Global trade and growth forecasts go up for now, but tariffs will bite soon. WSJ
New York won’t reign forever. Bring on Y’all Street. As Dallas gets a Nasdaq exchange, Texas looks more like America’s financial center. Matthew Lynn
WSJ: Bitcoin prices decline in sharpest slide since March
Bloomberg: Crypto downturn wipes out almost $1 billion in levered bets
Top gun traders: Stock bets and crypto culture take over the military: Camaraderie, competition, and a strong bull market help troops accrue new wealth; ‘I was trying to punch my ticket.’ WSJ
Drone boot camp: Army exercises test soldiers, tech, and plans for future: The training showed integrating new systems such as drones is not easy. Commanders are betting the often-frustrating lessons will pay off on the battlefield. Bloomberg
Can the US trust AI with national security? Nowhere are the stakes higher for making sure the systems stay aligned with their creators’ purposes. Judd Rosenblatt + Cameron Berg
The state of AI: When will we reach economic singularity? Perhaps AI’s lack of impact on productivity is the normal lag of any new technology. Richard Waters + David Rotman
Lessons from the frontiers of AI adoption: Why coders and call-centre agents are especially vulnerable to the technology. Economist
Top consultancies freeze starting salaries as AI threatens ‘pyramid’ model: Productivity gains from technology are spurring debate about reliance on large numbers of junior advisers. FT
Accenture dubs its 800,000 staff ‘reinventors’ as it adapts to AI: FT reports the move follows in footsteps of Disney’s ‘imagineers’ and Amazon’s ‘ninja coders.’
1 in 6 German workers worried about job losses due to AI: DW reports 16% share of German employees are worried that their jobs may be at risk because of artificial intelligence (AI), according to a labor market survey carried out by career platform Xing.
Investors expect AI use to soar. That’s not happening: Recent surveys point to flatlining business adoption. Economist
College students flock to a new major: AI: At MIT, a new program called “artificial intelligence and decision-making” is now the second-most-popular undergraduate major. NYT
OpenAI takes stake in Thrive Holdings in latest circular deal: FT reports deal means start-up will take share in group set up by Josh Kushner’s Thrive Capital.
Apple artificial intelligence head John Giannandrea is stepping down from the role, capping a tumultuous tenure that included a fumbled entry into generative AI.
Nvidia and Fanuc team on 'physical AI' push for industrial robots: Partners aim for factory robots that can perform tasks from human voice commands. Nikkei
Three Mile Island’s nuclear revival pits those who fled against job seekers: A generational rift hangs over the reboot of the plant to power Microsoft data centers. For some, it is a step backward; for others, it is the key to economic revival. WP
Disney seeks energy trader as big firms try to curb power costs Bloomberg
Travis Kavulla explains why electric bills shot up: It's not just datacenters. Bloomberg
Will Volkswagen’s radical revamp be enough? A year after revealing plans for capacity cuts and job losses in Germany, some think more retrenchment is needed. FT
Shopify breaks down on busy Cyber Monday: WSJ reports the outage at the e-commerce host interrupted transactions for merchants who use Shopify’s technology to sell products online.
Office-to-residential conversions are booming and New York is the epicenter: A tour of Manhattan buildings you can now call home, and a peek inside the architectural hacks that make transformations possible. WSJ
Ozempic is changing how we spend money and time, plus what we eat: As people’s bodies change because of GLP-1s, so does their spending across industries including fashion, restaurants, gyms and travel. WP
Michelin honored the cheesesteak. Not all Philadelphians cheered. The gastronomic guide has singled out three restaurants that serve the sandwich, setting off a loud local debate about tradition and innovation. NYT
How Pepsi trounced Coca-Cola in the Middle East: Its dominance is entwined with the region’s turbulent politics. Economist
A weird way to watch TV is bringing people a surprising amount of joy: Clips of classic shows and popular movies are filling algorithmic feeds, giving viewers a way to relive the joy without the time commitment. WP
What the Ralph Lauren Christmas trend reveals about our cultural moment: Plaid! Velvet! Bows! Dickens! A rejection of minimalism! This holiday microtrend has it all. WP
Oxford names 'rage bait' as Word of the Year 2025: DW reports the term "rage bait" has been chosen as Oxford's Word of the Year for 2025, reflecting the rise of outrage-driven online content. It beat contenders "aura farming" and "biohack" in a public vote.
Three drivers, 58 laps, one champion: F1 is headed to a final-race showdown: Formula One’s world championship is going down to the wire, with McLaren duo Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen set to square off in a three-way title fight. WSJ
McLaren have passed line of stupidity — it’s time to prioritise Norris: Commitment to ‘papaya rules’ is admirable, but in sport where marginal gains are everything, for team to allow Max Verstappen a sniff at title is ridiculous. Owen Slot
How Nick Saban and ESPN tried to help Lane Kiffin coach two teams at once: Kiffin wanted to stay at Mississippi through the College Football Playoff even after taking the job at LSU. That only made sense on television. Steven Godfrey
Lane Kiffin to LSU sets maddening precedent amid all-time hypocrisy in college football Stewart Mandel
Detroit News: Pat Fitzgerald signs contract to be next Michigan State football coach
+ @ScottHughesCBB: SOURCE: Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo plans to retire at the conclusion of the 2025-26 college basketball season.
2026 FIFA World Cup draw: Everything you need to know about Friday’s soccer extravaganza: Co-hosts Canada, the US, and Mexico anxiously await the selection of 12 groups of four and where they’ll play starting in June. Toronto Star
Wrexham lands £18m in taxpayer funding despite Ryan Reynolds’ income: The Times reports the Championship team, part-owned by the Hollywood star, was awarded the non-repayable grants to refurbish its stadium and the surrounding area.
Turkey’s refs are caught up in a huge sports gambling scandal: The country’s football may be as corrupt as its politics. Economist
Jamaican bobsleigh team captures historic gold medal at Whistler competition: CBC reports nearly 40 years after the Jamaica bobsleigh team's first Winter Olympics inspired the film Cool Runnings, it made history again last weekend by capturing its first ever gold medal at an international bobsleigh competition. The team, composed of Shane Pitter, Andrae Dacres, Junior Harris and Tyquendo Tracey, beat out Canada to win gold at the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation’s North American Cup in Whistler, BC, on Sunday.
Enjoy the ride + plan accordingly.
-Marc
Marc A. Ross | Chief Communications Strategist @ Caracal
Caracal Daily | December 1
Make money not war: Trump’s real plan for peace in Ukraine: The Kremlin pitched the White House on peace through business. To Europe’s dismay, the president and his envoy are on board. WSJ
In war and peace, US must stand with Ukraine Michael R. Bloomberg
Bloomberg: Rubio, Witkoff meet Ukrainian team in pursuit of peace deal
Rubio says ‘much work’ to be done after talks with Ukrainian officials: NYT reports Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other US officials met with a Ukrainian delegation led that was without Andriy Yermak, who resigned as chief of staff to Ukraine’s president on Friday.
Ukraine says it held ‘difficult but productive’ talks with US on peace plan: FT reports Donald Trump’s special envoy due to travel to Moscow this week as Washington tries to clinch a deal.
Zelensky’s fight for survival is more personal than ever: After losing his most trusted aide to a corruption scandal and growing questions about Ukraine’s war strategy, the president faces the prospect of defections. The Times
Russia’s next move: Which Putin will turn up to the peace talks? The Russian leader could play diplomat, accountant or mischief-maker when Steve Witkoff’s US delegation arrives in Moscow. The Times
Russia gains the upper hand in the drone battle, once Ukraine’s forte: WSJ reports Moscow’s military has gotten better at using the war’s deadliest weapons: small, cheap drones.
Chinese parts supplier takes stake in leading Russian drone maker: FT reports tie-up marks new level of co-operation between Moscow and Beijing’s military industrial complexes.
Mystery blasts rock Russia-linked oil tankers off Turkey’s coast: WSJ reports the two vessels belong to the so-called shadow fleet that Moscow has tapped to sidestep Western sanctions on the movement of its oil.
Our military must mobilise like France or we’ll meet our Waterloo: The threat to our country has been building for at least 20 years and no government has acted. Rod Liddle
NATO is preparing to confront Russia with limited US support: The worst-case scenario is now a possible one: European troops fighting off an invasion largely alone. Bloomberg
NATO considers being ‘more aggressive’ against Russia’s hybrid warfare: Alliance’s top military officer says it could become proactive in dealing with threat from Moscow. FT
Europe thinks the unthinkable: Retaliating against Russia: Countries are looking at joint offensive cyber operations and surprise military drills as Moscow steps up its campaign to destabilize NATO allies. Politico
Flood death toll rises rapidly across south-east Asia to more than 900: FT reports large parts of Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia and Sri Lanka reeling after rare cluster of storms.
For Taiwan, sushi diplomacy is about far more than food: On an island where every utterance can enrage China, it’s become a symbol of solidarity with Japan. The Times
China is making trade impossible: Europe has nothing to offer, and difficult decisions to make. Robin Harding
Is China winning the innovation race? Once the world’s factory, Beijing’s relentless focus on R&D means the country has become the world’s laboratory. FT
China used to be a cash cow for Western companies. Now it’s a test lab. Intense competition pushes some brands to adapt to Chinese tastes and introduce lower prices—and use the country as an innovation hub to learn from. WSJ
Bloomberg: China factory activity slumps for longest stretch on record
+ China’s factory activity improved but remained in contraction in November, extending its streak of declines to a record as the country’s economic slowdown deepens.
+ The non-manufacturing measure of activity in construction and services reached 49.5, after inching up to 50.1 in October, driven by weakness in the real estate and residential services sectors.
+ Chinese policymakers are in no rush to act now that their annual growth target of around 5% for this year looks to be within reach, despite the recent downswing in the economy.
China services activity hits 3-year low while factory slump persists: FT reports data from national statistics agency indicates continuing weak demand in economy.
Bloomberg: India plans to pitch arms deal with Russia during Putin visit
Indian outreach to Taliban is ratcheting up Afghan-Pakistani tensions: WP reports Afghanistan and Pakistan appear headed toward a new military escalation.
India is a rising power, but breathing in its capital is hazardous: NYT reports with little being done to clean the skies over New Delhi, the huge city struggles with toxic air.
Australia is about to ban teens from social media — or so it thinks: Under-16s will lose access to apps like TikTok on December 10, but they’re already finding ways around it, and some are even going to court. The Times
Bloomberg: Iran says it held talks with Turkey on nuclear issue and Israel
Netanyahu asks Israel’s president to pardon him in corruption cases: NYT reports Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made the contentious appeal weeks after President Trump had made the same request to the Israeli president.
Pope Leo calls for a two-state solution in Mideast conflict: The pope, arriving in Lebanon, also encouraged that country’s Christians to stay where they are, despite economic, political, and security concerns. NYT
As Pope Leo visits Lebanon, Christians are fleeing the Middle East: WP reports Christians are still the largest religious minority in the Middle East, the region where Jesus was born, lived, and died, but the community is shrinking.
Europe’s largest capital without a subway is finally getting one Bloomberg
Poland: An economic miracle at the heart of Europe: Hollowed out by 50 years of communist rule, Poland has transformed itself into a powerhouse. But can it avoid the mistakes of other Western nations? The Times
Italy’s Borromeo family lists islands to rival Lake Como: Bloomberg reports they plan to use proceeds from the listing of Kaleon SpA — originally founded in 1983 to manage the family estates at the lake in northern Italy — to develop the area and transform their business into a platform to oversee other historic and artistic sites in Italy and elsewhere.
Swiss voters reject 50% inheritance tax for the super-rich: FT reports overwhelming majority opposed wealth tax in contentious referendum.
Why France’s politics are broken — and what that means for its economy Bloomberg
Bloomberg: Starmer girds for six-month fight to save his premiership
+ Keir Starmer has six months to prove his mettle to his party amid doubts that he can reverse plunging public confidence in his UK administration.
+ Ministers and aides say Starmer needs to convince his lawmakers and the public before local elections in May that “Starmerism” can be a vote winner.
+ Pollsters are doubtful that Starmer, Reeves and the government can turn things around, with one saying it's "very unlikely" they will be able to do so, given historical trends.
Bloomberg: AI may help Britain’s economy, but not soon enough for Labour
+ The Office for Budget Responsibility said artificial intelligence could provide as much as a 0.8 percentage-point lift to productivity growth within 10 years, but most of the effects are likely to arrive in the second half of that decade.
+ The technology only provides a modest boost of around 0.2 percentage points to productivity growth in the OBR's current five-year forecast, which would be too late to significantly alter the precarious fiscal situation facing Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves.
+ The OBR estimates that around 40% of jobs could be materially impacted by AI in the next decade, though most of these roles are complemented rather than replaced, with finance and professional services among the most exposed sectors.
Scotland wants to issue its own bonds. Last time it paid with its independence. The first Scottish bonds in over 300 years, already known as ‘kilts,’ could help exorcise the ghosts of the past. WSJ
Scotland the home of the super-rich? If only SNP was brave enough: The party likes to differentiate itself from all things English — so instead of squeezing the wealthy like Rachel Reeves it should offer tax breaks to millionaires. Alex Massie
Fed-up UK Millennials are mobilizing to push for economic growth: An emerging political movement aims to make infrastructure, housing, and growth cool for a generation of frustrated Britons. Bloomberg
The battle over Africa’s great untapped resource: IP addresses: Chinese entrepreneur stirs controversy by amassing millions of IP addresses and leasing them to companies outside Africa; internet-service providers cry foul. WSJ
Mark Carney agrees to new pipeline project to bolster oil exports to Asia: FT reports Canadian PM’s deal with premier of Alberta is condemned by environmentalists and indigenous groups.
Mexico’s attorney-general quits in fuel-smuggling scandal: FT reports veteran lawyer Alejandro Gertz Manero came under pressure following case against co-owner of Miss Universe pageant.
Big baychecks can’t woo enough sailors for America’s commercial fleet: WSJ reports the US faces a growing sailor shortage despite maritime jobs offering big pay and significant perks.
My three weeks navigating ice in the Arctic Ocean: Melting ice is making the far north even more dangerous. WSJ
Hondurans vote in tense election as Trump says ‘democracy is on trial’: FT reports presidential candidates accuse each other of fraud amid fears that the result will not be accepted.
In announcing pardon of drug trafficker while threatening Venezuela, Trump displays contradictions: President Trump’s statements on social media less than 24 hours apart showed the dissonance in his campaign against drug trafficking. NYT
Trump’s focus on drug war means big business for defense startups: Drones, sensors, and AI platforms developed for other theaters are being rebranded as tools for the fight against ‘narco-terror.’ WSJ
Will Trump invade Venezuela — and what comes next? Pressure is rising on Maduro’s regime amid reports he and Trump have spoken by phone. The Times
Trump says airlines should consider Venezuelan airspace closed: WP reports the president’s announcement follows growing US threats to attack the South American nation.
The US needs a strategy in Venezuela, not airstrikes Bloomberg-Editorial
Venezuela’s wily ruler digs in to defy Donald Trump: Nicolás Maduro has overcome numerous attempts to oust him. FT
WP: Hurry up and wait: Ordinary Venezuelans try to prepare for US attack
Why Russia and China are sitting out Venezuela’s clash with Trump: The ‘Axis of Authoritarianism’ is depleted by the war in Ukraine and preoccupied with trade negotiations. WSJ
Here are the Caribbean allies helping the US against Venezuela: The Dominican Republic and Trinidad and Tobago are hosting US forces and facilities. Grenada is considering it. WP
A lost generation of news consumers? Survey shows how teenagers dislike the news media AP
Since Trump’s return, bets on his brand have soured: Stocks and cryptocurrencies tied to the president and his family have tumbled amid a broader rout of riskier assets. WSJ
Trump’s $21 trillion investment boom is actually short trillions: Bloomberg Economics analysis shows real investment commitments closer to $7 trillion, and many of those are in question. Bloomberg
Inside Trump’s push to make the White House ballroom as big as possible: President Trump’s ever-growing vision has caused tension with contractors. His architect has taken a step back as the president personally manages the project. NYT
In a time of crisis, Trump falls back on rants rather than unity: The president has used the language of divisiveness at a time when tragedy demands leadership. WP
Congressional committees to scrutinize US killing of boat strike survivors: In a rare split with the Trump administration, GOP-led panels in the House and Senate say they want a full accounting in the September military attack. WP
Lawmakers suggest follow-up boat strike could be a war crime: NYT reports top Republicans have joined Democrats in demanding answers about the escalating military campaign the Trump administration says is aimed at targeting drug traffickers.
Hegseth conscripts the Pentagon for Trump’s ‘retribution campaign’: In threatening to deploy the military justice system against Democrats, Hegseth has joined Trump’s norm-shattering bid to punish political foes. WP
Will MAGA’s chaos lead to a lame duck? The GOP lost key elections, Trump lost Marjorie Taylor Greene … omens of a meltdown are multiplying. Tobin Harshaw
MAGA has taken DC power dining to a whole new level: In Trump’s Washington, espresso Martinis, beef tallow, and members’ clubs have replaced puritanical dinners and warm white reception wine. FT
How Democrats lost white, rural America Nia-Malika Henderson
The next big battleground test: A Wisconsin race that has tortured Republicans: Republicans and Democrats have each poured tens of millions into the state's recent Supreme Court races — and the GOP has gotten crushed. Politico
‘The new price of eggs.’ The political shocks of data centers and electric bills: Democrats zeroed in on utilities and affordability to win Republican support in upset elections in Georgia and Virginia. Can the same playbook work in 2026? NYT
‘A full-blown crisis’: Americans brace for a surge in healthcare costs: West Virginia is at the epicentre of a looming disaster over rising insurance premiums as affordability concerns soar. FT
Silicon Valley’s man in the White House is benefiting himself and his friends: David Sacks, the Trump administration’s AI and crypto czar, has helped formulate policies that aid his Silicon Valley friends and many of his own tech investments. NYT
Fears about AI prompt talks of Super PACs to rein in the industry: As artificial intelligence companies prepare to pour money into the midterm elections, some in the AI world are hatching plans of their own to curb the industry’s influence. NYT
How Big Tech is creating its own friendly media bubble to ‘win the narrative battle online’: At a time when distrust of big tech is high, Silicon Valley is embracing an alternative ecosystem where every CEO is a star. Guardian
The new billionaires behind the AI data center boom: From software to buildings, the race into artificial intelligence has vaulted 16 executives into new stratospheres of wealth. Bloomberg
Data centers are a ‘gold rush’ for construction workers: Surging demand means six-figure pay and more perks. WSJ
Inside the power-hungry data centres taking over Britain: Our thirst for AI is fuelling a new construction wave of giant data centres. But can our electricity and water systems cope — and what will the neighbours say? The Times
The AI industry is built on a big unproven assumption: In addition to the projections about reaching artificial general intelligence and replacing millions of human workers, there’s the mundane matter of how long AI chips will last. Bloomberg
AI doesn’t add up if you neglect the mathematicians: We are failing to invest in the mathematical community at a time when we need it more than ever. Ewan Kirk
AI can cook the entire market now Bloomberg
AI bubble poses £26 billion problem for UK: The spending watchdog warns of huge potential drop in tax revenues if share prices plummet. The Times
Why ChatGPT still has a winning edge over Google's AI Parmy Olson
OpenAI’s lead under pressure as rivals start to close the gap: Three years since the debut of ChatGPT, the $500bn start-up is facing significant challenges to its dominance in AI. FT
Leave me alone, AI: If I wanted your tedious advice on how to do the simplest thing online, I would have asked for it. Pilita Clark
AI could replace 40% of American jobs, says report: McKinsey report finds that with today’s technology, AI agents and robots are ready to automate about 57 percent of work hours in the United States. The Times
Google delays opening of ‘landscraper’ London HQ until 2026: The Times reports foxes have moved in before the employees at the King’s Cross project, which has been beset by issues including the sale or collapse of contractors.
Luca Ferrari: Europe needs to smash the language barrier: The Italian entrepreneur runs Bending Spoons — a $12 billion company you’ve probably never heard of, buying the businesses you do know, such as AOL. The Times
Target needs more than a vibe shift to turn its business around: The ailing retailer has lost its cheap-chic appeal. Can a new CEO get it back on its feet with his old boss next door? Bloomberg
Lululemon is having an identity crisis. Its founder blames the CEO. The athleisure brand’s estranged founder, Chip Wilson, is telling anyone who will listen how the current leadership is messing up. WSJ
America loves a $13 lunch bowl. Don’t bet against it. Consumers may be struggling, but they still want fresh and fast offerings from restaurants like Cava and Chipotle. WSJ
What I learned about five-star service at the Harvard of hospitality: Today’s hospitality is all about experience and empathy, and the secret to stellar service might just be brewing at your local Starbucks. Bloomberg
Inside the ‘unicorn uni’ where start-ups can take off in two months: In the London office of venture capitalist Antler, tech entrepreneurs gather for eight weeks in pursuit of expert coaching, an investor network … and £500,000. The Times
Would you track your stools like you track your steps? Equipped with sensors and AI, smart toilets promise to monitor hydration, gut health, and even cancer risk — if users can get past the ick factor. Bloomberg
These very hungry microbes devour a powerful pollutant WP
How the arrival of one Arctic tern halted work on entire nuclear plant: Protecting fish at Hinkley Point C isn’t the half of it, according to John Fingleton, who highlighted the costs and delays of big projects in Britain. The Times
Your ETF is ruining capitalism John Authers
How capitalism took over the world: In a bold new history, Sven Beckert traces the origins of our modern economy, from global port cities to the halls of power. NYT
Capitalism’s latest critic ignores its secret sauce Adrian Wooldridge
Ken Burns still thinks America is perfectible: The American Revolution filmmaker talks about the hypocrisies of US history and what’s missing from our political lives today. Bloomberg
Is AI killing the art connoisseur? Such specialists are an endangered species, but computer attribution is often wrong — and can be out by as much as a century. FT
Bloomberg: JPMorgan’s billionaire clients want sports teams more than fine art
+ Some 20% of 111 billionaire families served by JPMorgan Chase & Co. now own controlling stakes in sports teams, up from 6% three years ago.
+ About a third of the families surveyed invested more broadly in sports teams or stadiums, making it their top specialty asset class ahead of art and cars.
+ The heads of billionaire families are also boosting their private markets activity, with nearly 70% preferring active roles in private investments, such as taking board seats.
The SEC lost its last unbeaten team—and won college football’s rivalry weekend: The Big Ten has the top two teams in the country, but after a wild week and one major upset, the Southeastern Conference has as many as seven teams in playoff contention. WSJ
College football’s worst-kept secret confirmed: Lane Kiffin will coach LSU: WSJ reports the most-coveted name in this year’s coaching cycle ended weeks of speculation by announcing he will leave Ole Miss ahead of the 12-team playoff for Baton Rouge.
Christian Horner’s move to Aston Martin collapses: The Times reports owner Lawrence Stroll understood to have told team members that former Red Bull boss will not be joining, despite speculation linking him with role amid restructure.
Why can’t I just watch sports on television? It shouldn’t be this hard to be a fan. Stephanie Hayes
Enjoy the ride + plan accordingly.
-Marc
Marc A. Ross | Chief Communications Strategist @ Caracal