The Daily Factum
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Samsung Drops Samsung Messages as Default App on New Galaxy Phones in USA, Google Messages Takes Over
Broke On: Sunday, 21 July 2024Samsung has made Google Messages the default messaging app on new Galaxy phones in the USA, replacing Samsung Messages. This shift may be due to Google's push for RCS support and aims to provide a consistent messaging experience across devices. 
Global IT Outage on July 19, 2024: Over 5,000 Flights Canceled and Thousands Delayed Worldwide Due to CrowdStrike Software Update
Broke On: Friday, 19 July 2024A global IT outage on July 19, 2024 caused by a faulty CrowdStrike software update led to over 5,000 flight cancellations and nearly 13,000 delays on Friday alone. Major industries including airlines, hospitals, banks and television networks were affected worldwide. Delta Air Lines canceled about 36% of its Saturday flights while American Airlines and United also experienced significant disruptions. The ripple effects extended to utilities, healthcare services and other sectors. 
Hedge Fund Industry Experiences Volatility: Long/Short Funds, Multi-Strategy Funds Affected
Broke On: Thursday, 18 July 2024Hedge funds, particularly long/short and multi-strategy ones, suffered significant losses in recent days due to market volatility caused by factors like momentum, high volatility, concentrated stocks, and crowded trades. The Nasdaq 100 index experienced a decline of 2.9%, while gold hit an all-time high amid economic uncertainty and geopolitical risks. Despite challenges, some hedge funds remain bullish on certain sectors. China and Philippines Reach Agreement to Ease Tensions at Disputed South China Sea Shoal
Broke On: Sunday, 21 July 2024China and the Philippines reach agreement to prevent clashes at Second Thomas Shoal in South China Sea, following naval confrontations and supply seizures. Tensions eased but territorial claims remain unresolved. 
Former President Trump Survives Assassination Attempt at Pennsylvania Rally: Secret Service under Scrutiny for Security Lapses and Embracing Woke Initiatives
Broke On: Thursday, 18 July 2024Former President Trump survived an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally, but criticism ensued over the Secret Service's security lapses, including allowing a building within rifle range to be excluded from the secure perimeter. Amidst this controversy, Director Kimberly Cheatle faced calls for resignation due to her focus on diversity initiatives and recruitment targets within the agency. Tragically, volunteer firefighter Corey Comperatore was killed by the bullet intended for Trump, and two other spectators were gravely injured. 
Utah Wildfire Grows to 400 Acres, Mandatory Evacuations Ordered for Homes Near Ensign Peak
Broke On: Saturday, 20 July 2024A wildfire named Sandhurst Fire, human-caused and spanning 400 acres with no containment near Ensign Peak since July 20, forced mandatory and voluntary evacuations for approximately 40 homes. Structures including radio towers were threatened, while the Utah State Capitol served as a shelter. Over 585 fires burned in Utah during wildfire season, with over 421 being human-caused and exacerbated by hot, dry conditions and high winds. 
Three Lives Cut Short: Mass Shooting in West Philadelphia Leaves Three Dead and Six Injured
Broke On: Sunday, 21 July 2024A mass shooting in West Philadelphia on July 21, 2024, left three people dead and six others injured. The incident stemmed from a fight between multiple parties and involved multiple shooters. Victims ranged in age from their mid-20s to their 30s, with identities of the deceased not released. Several shell casings of different calibers were found, indicating multiple weapons used. Police are investigating and asking for tips at 215-686-TIPS (8477). This tragic event underscores ongoing violence in some areas of Philadelphia and the importance of community safety. 
Six Human Cases of Bird Flu Reported in US: Michigan and Colorado Poultry Workers Infected as Avian Flu Spreads to Mammals
Broke On: Friday, 19 July 2024Six human cases of bird flu have been reported in the US, with five in poultry workers from Michigan and Colorado. The latest case was identified in a worker at a Colorado poultry farm. Over 18.32 million birds have been affected by the H5 highly pathogenic avian flu virus since April, with infected workers experiencing mild symptoms and offered antiviral medication. Bird flu has also spread to mammals, including dairy cows and poultry, and is contributing to the dangerous combination of diseases due to climate change. 
Arike Ogunbowale Sets All-Star Record with Explosive Second Half Performance in Team WNBA's Victory over Team USA
Broke On: Saturday, 20 July 2024In the WNBA All-Star Game on July 20, 2024, Arike Ogunbowale of Team WNBA scored a record-breaking 34 points in the second half to lead her team to a victory over Team USA. Ogunbowale's impressive performance earned her the MVP award for the second time in her career. The game was held at Footprint Center in Phoenix and featured notable players like Breanna Stewart, A'ja Wilson, Jewell Loyd, Nneka Ogwumike, Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner. 
Israel and Houthis Engage in Escalating Attacks: Power Station Bombed in Yemen, Houthi Rebels Target Israeli Ships
Broke On: Saturday, 20 July 2024Israeli fighter jets retaliated against Houthi-controlled sites in Yemen, targeting a power station and oil depots following a deadly drone attack on Tel Aviv. The Israeli air force claimed the port was used for Iranian weapons supply to Houthis, but the attack disrupted crucial humanitarian aid. Houthi rebels responded by attacking two ships in the Red Sea and vowed further retaliation against Israel, while Israel intercepted a missile towards Eilat. The escalating conflict comes amid ongoing violence between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.