The Daily Factum
Deprogramming the News
Breaking News
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GettyImages-1239946791-7c881740696e490a8e40cf9df286e659.jpg)
Robinhood Acquires Bitstamp for $200 Million: Expanding Crypto Business and Welcoming Institutional Customers
Broke On: Thursday, 06 June 2024Robinhood, a leading online trading platform, announced the acquisition of European cryptocurrency exchange Bitstamp for approximately $200 million in June 2024. The deal, subject to regulatory approval and expected to close in the first half of next year, brings over 50 licenses and registrations worldwide and expands Robinhood's crypto business, which has seen significant growth. With this acquisition, Robinhood aims to compete with larger crypto trading firms like Binance and Coinbase by welcoming institutional customers to its platform. 
Several Countries Join South Africa in ICJ Case Against Israel: A Developing Situation
Broke On: Tuesday, 06 June 2023Several countries, including Spain, Nicaragua, Belgium, Colombia, Turkey, Libya, Egypt, Maldives, Mexico and Ireland have announced their intention to join South Africa's case against Israel at the ICJ over allegations of genocide in Gaza. Their reasons range from commitment to international law and human rights protection. This decision adds weight to South Africa's allegations and highlights growing international concern. 
New York's Congestion Pricing Pause: Impact on Transit Funding and Emissions Reduction
Broke On: Thursday, 06 June 2024New York Governor Kathy Hochul paused the implementation of Manhattan's congestion pricing plan due to opposition from state senators and concerns about its impact on working- and middle-class families. The MTA projected $1 billion annual revenue from the tolls, intended for transportation repairs, upgrades, and emissions reduction. However, vocal critics argue that it would disproportionately affect residents in Long Island and Southern Brooklyn. The pause leaves the future of this first-in-the-nation plan uncertain. 
New York Architect Rex Heuermann Charged with Murders of Jessica Taylor and Sandra Costilla, Expanding Gilgo Beach Serial Killer Timeline
Broke On: Friday, 01 January 1993New York architect Rex Heuermann charged with murders of Jessica Taylor in 2011 and Sandra Costilla in 1993, expanding Gilgo Beach serial killings timeline by nearly two decades. DNA and phone records link Heuermann to victims; he pleaded not guilty and remains jailed. 
Walmart Boosts Employees with Bonuses and New Career Paths in Expanding Bentonville Headquarters
Broke On: Monday, 03 June 2024Walmart, the world's largest retailer based in Bentonville, Arkansas, is expanding its presence in the city through new employee initiatives and partnerships. Hundreds of thousands of hourly workers are now eligible for bonuses based on store performance and tenure, while a new training program offers opportunities for higher earning potential. The company's hometown has seen significant changes with new construction and an influx of trendy businesses, attracting talent and competition from Amazon. Walmart is also expanding its offerings to compete, including groceries, household staples, ads sales, and a larger third-party marketplace. 
ECB Cuts Interest Rates for First Time in 5 Years as Inflation Cooling Signals End to Aggressive Monetary Policy
Broke On: Thursday, 06 June 2024The European Central Bank (ECB) lowered interest rates for the first time in nearly five years, reducing the benchmark deposit rate to 3.75% from 4%. This marks the highest rate in the bank's history and a response to improved inflation outlook. The move comes as inflation cools in the eurozone, with central banks in Switzerland and Sweden also cutting rates recently. Despite this, investors remain cautious about further rate cuts by the Federal Reserve due to persistently high inflation. 
Indian PM Modi's Post-Election Message to Taiwan: A Step Towards Strengthening India-Taiwan Ties Amidst China's Objections
Broke On: Wednesday, 05 June 2024Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's social media post expressed his desire for closer ties with Taiwan following his reelection, highlighting the fast-growing India-Taiwan partnership despite China's objections. Modi seeks to strengthen economic ties through an employment pact and increased investment from Taiwan. 
Biden's Peace Plan for Gaza: Reconstruction, Ceasefire, and Controversial Hostages Swap
Broke On: Wednesday, 05 June 2024President Biden's peace plan for Gaza includes immediate relief efforts, such as housing and infrastructure reconstruction, with endorsements from Israel, Egypt, Qatar, and the G-7. However, Hamas' history of rejecting peace raises doubts about acceptance. The US and 16 countries urge both sides to agree on a ceasefire and hostage release. Israeli military operations will continue until resolution is reached. 
Geert Wilders and the Far-Right Surge in European Parliament Elections: A Potential Game Changer
Broke On: Thursday, 06 June 2024In the 2024 European Parliament elections, far-right parties are predicted to win the majority of seats, indicating a shift towards the political right in Europe. This includes Dutch nationalist Geert Wilders' Freedom Party (PVV) potentially gaining 8 seats. The rise of far-right parties could lead to significant changes in European policymaking and serve as a measure of Europe's political temperature. 
Georgia Court Puts Election Interference Case Against Trump on Hold Amid Disqualification Challenge by DA Willis
Broke On: Wednesday, 05 June 2024The Georgia Court of Appeals has paused the election interference case against former President Trump and co-defendants due to potential conflict of interest involving Fulton County DA Fani Willis and special prosecutor Nathan Wade's relationship. Proceedings in superior court have been halted, with a ruling expected by March 2025.