Thursday, October 30, 2025

News from October 30, 2025

536 articles found

Ex-USDA official warns farmers the GOP 'will do nothing' about Trump's 'colossal blunder'
Technology

Ex-USDA official warns farmers the GOP 'will do nothing' about Trump's 'colossal blunder'

A Kansas farmer recently told reporters: "Nothing … is going to make money” this year in President Donald Trump’s economy. Former USDA official and ex-U.S Trade Representative Greg Frazier warned him to get used to that. “If he wants to come out ahead this year, this eastern Kansas farmer should bet Republicans in the congressional delegation won’t help,” Frazier told the Kansas City Star. “If past performance indicates future results, it’s a sure thing.” “As markets shriveled this year, Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) claimed Trump gave ‘Kansas farmers and ranchers access to critically important export markets,’” according to Frazier. This fits what Marshall said during Trump’s first trade war with China years ago when he tried to claim Trump’s “policies are working.” But they were a catastrophe, said Frazier. Kansas farmers lost $1 billion in exports. Farm bankruptcies doubled and they triggered bailouts that cost billions. “Today’s farm trade collapse results from one of the most predictable policy failures in recent memory, a step-by-step replay of arbitrary … tariffs suffocating farm exports,” said Frazier, adding that “it’s inexplicable that those lessons are not being heeded by the president and the U.S. trade representative and the U.S. Department of Agriculture secretary — both of whom personally witnessed the destruction in Trump’s first term. “The victims of this colossal blunder are relearning a painful lesson. Their lawmakers will do nothing,” Frazier said. “They support the tariffs. In March, Kansas Reps. Ron Estes, Tracey Mann and Derek Schmidt voted in favor of them, twice. It was a legislative sleight of hand, one sentence tucked into a procedural motion that stops the House from even considering legislation to repeal the tariffs. They did it again Sept. 16.” In April, and again this week, Frazier said Sens. Marshall and Jerry Moran “could have repealed the tariffs,” but, they voted to keep them. “Signals of an emerging crisis appeared almost immediately after the president’s April 2 tariff announcement. It was projected in the export outlook planned for release May 29. But USDA leaders spiked the report, then excised the expert-generated analysis,” said Frazier, who served as Chief of Staff for the USDA under Bill Clinton. Meanwhile, Sens. Marshall and Mann tout trade announcements like Trump’s so-called move into the Australian beef market — which was already open to the U.S., and with U.S. beef processors lucky to move “$1-2 million worth of beef annually into Australia, compared to the $4 billion worth of beef Australia sent to the U.S. last year.” And while Trump’s USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins “was boosting these phantom deals,” behind the scenes Frazier said Agriculture Department officials were “putting pencil to paper developing the completely predictable bailout from tariff carnage.” The USDA paid U.S. farmers $28 billion during Trump’s first term trade war with China. Congress appropriated $10 billion in December for more emergency payments and Trump’s budget bill included $60 billion in new farm subsidies. But the cost to repeal the tariffs: Zero dollars, said Frazier. Read Frazier's Kansas City Star column at this link.

Washington Aims to Fully Substitute Russian Oil and Gas for China
Technology

Washington Aims to Fully Substitute Russian Oil and Gas for China

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright told Bloomberg that the United States could completely replace Russia in China’s oil and gas market if Beijing decided to reduce imports from Moscow. "Absolutely. Today the US produces 50 percent more oil than Russia or Saudi Arabia. That puts not only the US, but the entire world, in a better position," Wright stated. He added that even if Russia’s supplies to the global market were cut in half, the balance could be maintained through American exports. According to him, China—being the world’s largest importer of oil and gas—could find a reliable supplier in the US, while Washington would gain both economic and geopolitical advantages. Differences in Export Structures Indeed, US oil production is at record levels of about 13.3 million barrels per day. But behind these bold statements lies a number of factors that cast doubt on the feasibility of such a scenario. First, the structure of American hydrocarbon exports is vastly different from Russia’s. The United States focuses primarily on liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, whereas China traditionally relies on pipeline gas and long-term contracts at stable prices. Transitioning from one type of supply to another would require large-scale infrastructure investments—from building LNG terminals to developing new transportation corridors and processing capacities. Economic Barriers and Pricing Challenges Secondly, American companies are not always willing to sell raw materials at prices favorable to Beijing. Most US energy exports go to Europe and Latin America, where logistics are simpler and prices are higher. Redirecting large volumes of oil and gas to Asia would inevitably increase transportation costs, making American crude less competitive compared to Russian or Middle Eastern supplies. Political Context and Strategic Motives Wright’s statements cannot be viewed outside of their political context. The US administration has long sought to weaken Russia’s position in global energy markets. Any opportunity to sideline Moscow is seen in Washington not only as an economic achievement but also as a tool of geopolitical leverage. However, the real question is whether China truly needs such a partner. Despite its rhetoric about “energy diversification,” Beijing prefers to work with suppliers who do not use energy as a political weapon. Russia, by contrast, offers long-term contracts with flexible pricing and predictable policy. Limits of American Stability The United States, even if willing, cannot provide such stability. Every change of administration in Washington—Republican or Democrat—can shift the country’s energy policy. Moreover, the US energy sector is heavily influenced by domestic politics: environmental restrictions, tax fluctuations, and pressure from the “green” lobby all directly affect production and export volumes. Focus on Alaska and Political Optics Wright paid special attention to Alaska, calling the region “a place of enormous potential” for increasing oil production. President Donald Trump agreed, saying that China was reportedly interested in purchasing raw materials from Alaska. In reality, however, oil production in Alaska has been declining for several years due to high extraction costs and logistical challenges. The region is one of the most expensive in the world to develop, and in a highly competitive market—where prices often hover near break-even levels—hopes for major Alaskan exports seem more symbolic than practical. China’s Pragmatic Strategy In recent years, China has pursued a pragmatic policy of diversifying energy supplies without relying on a single partner. Besides Russia, major suppliers include Saudi Arabia, Iran, and several African nations. Unlike their American counterparts, these countries are often willing to make price and contract concessions to secure access to the vast Chinese market. Furthermore, energy cooperation with Russia holds not only economic but also political significance for Beijing. Joint infrastructure projects—such as the Power of Siberia gas pipeline—strengthen long-term ties and reduce both countries’ dependence on Western markets. Replacing such cooperation with unstable US supplies appears highly improbable. Conclusion: More Rhetoric Than Reality Thus, Secretary Wright’s statement should be viewed more as rhetorical bravado—a demonstration of American energy might and Washington’s desire to dominate the global hydrocarbon market. In practice, however, the picture is far more complex. US production is constrained by domestic politics, Asian logistics are difficult, and geopolitical risks remain high. Washington can proclaim its readiness to replace Moscow as much as it likes—but in the world of energy, words alone are never enough.

Kim Kardashian drops wild take, says Moon landing was fake, cites TikTok evidence
Technology

Kim Kardashian drops wild take, says Moon landing was fake, cites TikTok evidence

Global Desk Kim Kardashian is once again capturing the online attention, but this time, it’s not because of a red carpet appearance or beauty launch. Instead, the 45-year-old reality star has gone viral for questioning one of the most celebrated moments in contemporary history, the 1969 lunar landing.Conversation That Started It AllIn the October 30 episode of The Kardashians, Kim astonished her co-star Sarah Paulson with her confession. The star stated that she doesn’t believe humans ever landed on the moon. “I’m sending you, so far, a million articles with both Buzz Aldrin and... the other one,” Kim cited to Paulson in a filming of their Hulu project All’s Fair, referencing to astronaut Neil Armstrong.Sarah Paulson’s Shocked ReactionPaulson, 50, encouraged her to continue, stating, “Yes, do it,” as Kim confidently claimed she had come across videos suggesting astronauts themselves have hinted the mission was staged. “This girl asks [Buzz Aldrin], ‘What was the scariest moment?’ And he goes, ‘There was no scary moment, cause it didn’t happen,’” Kim cited with conviction. “He’s older now, so he slips up. So I think it didn’t happen.”Later, in a confessional interview, Kim disclosed that she often sends Paulson conspiracy theories for discussion. When a producer asked if she truly believed the moon landing was faked, Kim stood by her views: “I don’t think we did. I think it was fake.”Kim went on to outline the causes behind her belief. As per her, “The flag is blowing, but there’s no gravity. The shoes in the museum don’t match the footprints in the photos. And why are there no stars?”Live EventsDismissing the BacklashWhen questioned what she’d say to people who might think she’s lost touch with reality, Kim appeared unbothered. “They’re gonna say I’m crazy no matter what. But like… go to TikTok. See for yourself.”Fans and Scientists RespondKim’s remarks rapidly exploded in social media, fueling a wave of memes,discussions , and disbelief. While some fans dismissed her comments as playful curiosity, others criticized her for promoting misinformation. Experts, meanwhile, remain to affirm that the 1969 Apollo 11 mission featuring Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins continues to be one of humanity’s most verified achievements.FAQs:Q1. Who is Kim Kardashian? Kim Kardashian is a reality TV personality, entrepreneur, and media person. She rose to fame through Keeping Up with the Kardashians and currently stars in The Kardashians on Hulu.Q2. What did Kim Kardashian say about the moon landing? Kim states she doesn’t believe the 1969 moon landing really happened. She discussed her theory with Sarah Paulson in an episode of The Kardashians.Add as a Reliable and Trusted News Source Add Now! (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel) Read More News onApollo 11 missionKim Kardashian moon landing claimmoon landing conspiracyThe Kardashians HuluNeil Armstrong moon landing debateBuzz Aldrin commentsKim Kardashian controversyTikTok conspiracy theoriesSarah Paulson reactioncelebrity conspiracy theories (Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates....moreless (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)Read More News onApollo 11 missionKim Kardashian moon landing claimmoon landing conspiracyThe Kardashians HuluNeil Armstrong moon landing debateBuzz Aldrin commentsKim Kardashian controversyTikTok conspiracy theoriesSarah Paulson reactioncelebrity conspiracy theories(Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates....moreless

Chainlink's LINK Drops 8% Below Support Despite Largest Token Buyback Since August
Technology

Chainlink's LINK Drops 8% Below Support Despite Largest Token Buyback Since August

Native token of oracle network Chainlink LINK$16.52 plunged through critical support levels on Thursday as institutional selling dominated the session. The token declined 8% from $18.39 to $16.92 over the past 24 hours, falling below a descending trendline that contained recent price action, CoinDesk research's market insight tool showed. Trading volume surged to 3.94 million units during the initial breakdown, nearly double the average. Recent hourly data shows LINK trapped below $17 in a narrow consolidation range. Multiple attempts to reclaim the $17 psychological level failed as trading activity dropped 58% below session peaks. The compression suggests institutional buyers remain absent despite oversold technical conditions developing. On the news front, real-world asset protocol Ondo Finance named Chainlink the provider of price feeds for over 100 tokenized stocks and ETFs. The service includes streaming data about corporate actions like dividend payments to ensure accurate valuations across multiple blockchains. The partnership also involves Chainlink's Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP) and collaborations through the Ondo Global Market Alliance. The Chainlink Reserve, which uses protocol revenue from partnerships and services to purchase tokens on the open market, added another 64,445 LINK to its stash on Thursday. That's the largest nominal acquisition since early August, when the reserve started. It now holds $11 million worth of LINK. What traders should watch: Support/Resistance: Immediate resistance at $17.00 psychological level, stronger resistance at $18.20 from failed recovery attempt.Volume Analysis: Exceptional 3.94 million unit volume during breakdown confirmed institutional selling.Chart Patterns: Descending trendline break triggered accelerated selling through multiple support zones.Targets & Risk: Next support target $16.50 zone, potential deeper correction toward $16.00 if consolidation fails. Disclaimer: Parts of this article were generated with the assistance from AI tools and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and adherence to our standards. For more information, see CoinDesk's full AI Policy.

Why eBay Stock Sank Today
Technology

Why eBay Stock Sank Today

Shares of eBay (EBAY 14.95%) declined on Thursday after the online marketplace operator's profit forecast fell short of investors' expectations. As of 1:55 p.m. ET, eBay's stock price was down more than 14%. Solid sales and cash flow growth eBay's third-quarter revenue rose by 9% year over year to $2.8 billion. The e-commerce company's gross merchandise volume (GMV) -- the total value of all merchandise sold on its marketplaces -- increased by 10% to $20.1 billion. eBay earns revenue from its GMV from the fees it charges sellers. eBay is integrating artificial intelligence (AI) features into its platform to facilitate transactions between buyers and sellers. The company recently unveiled a new AI-powered messaging tool and other tech upgrades to help sellers grow their sales and profits. "We're transforming the eBay experience through AI built on 30 years of unique insights, while enhancing trusted programs in shipping, live commerce, and circular fashion," CEO Jamie Iannone said in a press release. Moreover, eBay's asset-light business model remains highly profitable. The marketplace provider produced $803 million in free cash flow from continuing operations during the third quarter. That enabled eBay to return $757 million to shareholders via dividends and stock buybacks. Tariffs could slow eBay's growth Investors, however, appeared to focus more on eBay's business outlook. Management guided for adjusted earnings per share of $1.31 to $1.36 in the fourth quarter. That was below analysts' estimates of $1.39. During eBay's earnings call, CFO Peggy Alford said the suspension of the de minimis exemption for imports under $800 for tariffs in late August began to negatively impact transaction volumes in September.

ECB holds rates steady as economy shows resilience
Technology

ECB holds rates steady as economy shows resilience

BRUSSELS: The European Central Bank left interest rates unchanged for a third meeting, with inflation in check and the economy continuing to grow.The deposit rate was kept at 2% on Thursday - as predicted by all analysts in a Bloomberg survey. Policymakers continued to offer no guidance on future steps, stressing that they'll act one meeting at a time based on incoming data."The robust labour market, solid private sector balance sheets and the Governing Council's past interest-rate cuts remain important sources of resilience," the ECB said in a statement. "However, the outlook is still uncertain, owing particularly to ongoing global trade disputes and geopolitical tensions."The decision did little to move markets. The euro held onto earlier losses, trading down 0.4% at $1.1554, while two-year German yields remained three basis points higher at about 2%. Swap markets continue to suggest the ECB's campaign of cuts is likely over.Officials have been vocal of late in signalling that there's little reason to add to the eight reductions in borrowing costs they've made to date. Their confidence stems from inflation that's been hovering around the 2% goal for months and indications that the economic damage from Donald Trump's trade measures has been relatively contained.Live EventsThat stance contrasts with that of the Federal Reserve, which lowered US rates for a second meeting on Wednesday, citing slowing jobs gains.President Christine Lagarde will elaborate on the ECB's decision at a 2:45 p.m. press conference in Florence, Italy.The announcement comes on a busy day of economic news, with data earlier showing gross domestic product in the 20-nation euro zone rose more than expected in the third quarter. Add as a Reliable and Trusted News Source Add Now! (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel) Read More News onecbinterest ratesdonald trumpeurochristine lagarde (Catch all the Business News, Breaking News and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Subscribe to The Economic Times Prime and read the ET ePaper online....moreless (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)Read More News onecbinterest ratesdonald trumpeurochristine lagarde(Catch all the Business News, Breaking News and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Subscribe to The Economic Times Prime and read the ET ePaper online....moreless Explore More Stories123

Nobel economist lays out '3 types of lasting damage' from Trump's economic 'rampage'
Technology

Nobel economist lays out '3 types of lasting damage' from Trump's economic 'rampage'

When Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent are interviewed by friendly media outlets, they typically argue that President Donald Trump's steep new tariffs will create enormous prosperity in the United States. But liberal economist Paul Krugman has a very different view. In a Substack column posted on October 30, Krugman warns that even if Trump abandoned his protectionist trade policy, the U.S. economy would suffer long-lasting damage. "A little over six months ago," Krugman explains, "Donald Trump shocked the world by announcing a huge jump in tariffs to levels not seen since the 1930s. Most of these tariffs were clearly illegal and have been so ruled by lower courts — but it's anyone's guess how an extremely submissive Supreme Court will rule. Since then, he has backed off some tariffs but imposed others, some on bizarre grounds — a Canadian province ran an ad he didn't like! — creating constant uncertainty." Krugman goes on to identify "three types of economic damage" that "Trump's chaotic tariff policies" have inflicted: (1) "higher prices for American producers and consumers," (2) "economic uncertainty," and (3) "the global loss of American credibility." "Even if the worst in terms of prices and uncertainty is over," Krugman argues, "it's clear that Trump's tariffs have inflicted lasting damage on the U.S. economy as well as the global economic order." During the United States' 2024 presidential race, Trump attacked then-President Joe Biden and then-Vice President Kamala Harris relentlessly on inflation — which he promised to lower "on Day 1" if he returned to the White House. But Krugman laments that prices are going up, not down, during Trump's second presidency. "Inflation has accelerated since Donald Trump went on his tariff rampage," the liberal economist warns. "Late last year, before Liberation Day and all that, professional forecasters expected 'core' consumer prices — which exclude volatile food and energy prices — to rise 2.4 percent over the course of 2025. The latest official reading, and the last we may get for a while, put core inflation at 3 percent. More direct evidence comes from the Pricing Lab, which relies on retail prices posted online — something we need to do while the shutdown lasts, and maybe afterwards if Trump corrupts the official statistics." Krugman continues, "I've used their data before. They show a significant bump in the prices of imported goods, especially compared with their declining trend BT (before Trump). In a new paper, the Pricing Lab analyzes its data and estimates that the Trump tariffs have raised overall consumer prices by 0.7 percent." Paul Krugman's full Substack column is available at this link.

Is your carry-on putting flights at risk? United flight turns back mid-Atlantic after passenger’s lithium-ion laptop slips into inaccessible cargo area
Technology

Is your carry-on putting flights at risk? United flight turns back mid-Atlantic after passenger’s lithium-ion laptop slips into inaccessible cargo area

united airlines A United Airlines transatlantic flight bound for Rome made an unusual U-turn and returned to Washington Dulles Airport on Oct. 15 after a passenger’s laptop fell through a gap in the cabin wall and into a portion of the aircraft’s cargo area that the crew could not access, according to air-traffic recordings and airline tracking data. The lithium-ion laptop posed a safety risk to passengers after it fell near a sensitive section of the aircraft.“We have a minor situation here with a passenger who has somehow dropped a laptop that was on … down the sidewall into the cargo pit area of the airplane,” one of the pilots told Air Traffic Control (ATC) when they were notified.Flightradar data indicates that less than an hour into its eight-hour journey on October 15, a United Airlines Boeing 767-400ER executed an unexpected U-turn just off the coast of Boston.“Unfortunately, we’ll need clearance to return to Dulles,” one of the pilots informed Air Traffic Control just before the flight was set to cross the Atlantic Ocean.In the discussion with ATC, the pilots noted that the laptop had been powered on when it fell, and they were uncertain how long its battery would continue running.Live Events“We don’t know the status of it. We can’t access it. We can’t see it. So our decision is to return to Dulles and find this laptop before we can continue over the ocean,” the pilot added.Rather than declaring an emergency, the pilots informed ATC that the situation was purely a precautionary measure.“You know, due to the lithium battery in the cargo area, where it’s actually even … not even near the suppression system that we have for, you know, fires down there. So this is just a safety precaution.”After receiving clearance from ATC to reroute, the aircraft returned to Dulles Airport, landing at 12:35 am, more than two hours after departing for Rome.The laptop was eventually recovered, allowing the plane to refuel and depart again at 3:25 am. The pilots were commended for prioritizing passenger safety, though the flight arrived in Rome roughly five hours later than scheduled.Reflecting on the unusual incident, one ATC controller remarked to the crew, “I’ve never heard anything like that before. Good story to tell at the pilot lounge.” The pilot responded, noting, “That’s a first for me.”Lithium-ion batteries, which power devices such as laptops and smartphones, can pose risks to aircraft if damaged or overheated. As a result, airports and airlines have implemented stricter safety measures, including restrictions on placing such batteries in checked luggage.FAA data shows that lithium battery incidents have been steadily increasing, with the US reporting more than 50 cases just this year.Earlier this month, an Air China flight headed to Seoul had to make an emergency landing in Shanghai after a lithium battery in a passenger’s carry-on caught fire. Reports indicate that the flight crew successfully managed the situation, and no injuries were reported.Add as a Reliable and Trusted News Source Add Now! (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel) Read More News onUnited Airlinestransatlantic flight returnair traffic control incidentairline safety measuresatlantic oceanboeingpassenger safety precautions (Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates....moreless (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)Read More News onUnited Airlinestransatlantic flight returnair traffic control incidentairline safety measuresatlantic oceanboeingpassenger safety precautions(Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates....moreless Explore More Stories123

FIA investigates Ex-FBR Chief Shabbar Zaidi  Over Rs16 Billion Refund Controversy
India regulator bars Gretex from merchant banking for 21 days over IPO lapse
Here's Why Indivior Stock Soared 15% Today
Technology

Here's Why Indivior Stock Soared 15% Today

Shares in Indivior Plc (INDV +13.79%) were up by 15.5% at 1 p.m. ET today after management released an excellent set of third-quarter results, upgraded its full-year guidance, and served notice that its "Indivior Action Agenda" three-phase plan is generating momentum as the profitable and cash-generative company grows sales of its key prescription medication Sublocade. Indivior goes for growth According to Indivior, Sublocade is "indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe opioid use disorder in patients who have initiated treatment with a single dose of a transmucosal buprenorphine product or who are already being treated with buprenorphine." Sublocade contains buprenorphine, but its delivery system offers a monthly dosage compared to the daily dosage regimen of buprenorphine -- something that can be a significant benefit for opioid use disorder sufferers. It's Indivior's key medication, and a key part of the pharmaceutical company's three-phase plan is to grow sales in the U.S. This is being achieved by increasing U.S. Sublocade sales by 7% in the first nine months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Moreover, management updated its full-year guidance for total Sublocade sales to $825 million to $845 million, compared to previous guidance for $765 million to $785 million. Phase 2 and phase 3 Management is also aiming for $150 million in annual expense savings in 2026 through restructuring and consolidating its operating footprint, while engaging in the second phase (accelerating Sublocade revenue growth in the U.S. and converting it into earnings and cash flow generation) before moving on to the third phase (using the improved financial profile to generate growth through acquisitions). While the uniqueness of the "action agenda" is debatable, the progress made by the company is not, and if it can maintain the sales momentum established in 2025, the future looks bright.

A Further 20% Bitcoin Correction on the Table: Glassnode
Technology

A Further 20% Bitcoin Correction on the Table: Glassnode

It's no secret that the price action in bitcoin BTC$106,989.27 hasn't been great of late, but in truth, the world's largest crypto has mostly traded in a range between about $100,000 and $120,000 for nearly the whole of 2025. That may be about to change in an ugly way, according to Glassnode, whose latest weekly report highlighted growing concern for bitcoin BTC$106,989.27 as it struggles to reclaim the $113,000 short-term holder cost basis, which represents the average purchase price of investors who bought within the last 155 days. This level serves as a key threshold for sustaining a bull market. Despite multiple attempts to regain it, bitcoin’s repeated failures suggest weakening momentum. Glassnode warns that if the price continues to falter, a tumble all the way back to $88,000 — the next significant support level — could be in the cards. That $88,000 level is the current active investors’ realized price, a metric which reflects the cost basis of actively circulating supply that often marks deeper corrective phases. This same metric nearly came into play during the April 2025 “tariff tantrum” correction. The report suggests investor sentiment is showing signs of strain. Short-term holders are now selling at a loss. The Short-Term Holder Net Unrealized Profit/Loss (STH-NUPL) sits at –0.05 with bitcoin around $107,000, signaling mild losses. While not at full capitulation levels (around –0.2), it reflects deteriorating confidence. Long-term holders are also contributing to sell pressure. The Long-Term Holder Net Position Change has declined by 104,000 BTC this month, marking the largest wave of distribution since July. Glassnode notes that until long-term holders shift back from selling to accumulation, price recovery is likely to remain constrained. Meanwhile, the derivatives market appears calmer following the October liquidation crisis. Realized volatility has dropped to roughly 43%, and traders have scaled back downside hedges. The one-week options skew, which spiked above 20% during October’s turmoil, has now normalized near neutral, according to Glassnode. Overall, Glassnode sees the bitcoin market transitioning into a consolidation phase after October’s turmoil. However, sentiment and structural demand remain fragile, suggesting that while the worst of the panic may be over, recovery will depend on renewed investor conviction. Bitcoin is currently trading just under $107,000 lower by 4% over the past 24 hours.

Why FormFactor Stock Exploded Higher Today
Technology

Why FormFactor Stock Exploded Higher Today

Here in the middle of the artificial intelligence (AI) revolution, semiconductor stocks are red-hot -- and of the reddest, hottest semiconductor stocks on the market today is FormFactor (FORM +25.71%), a maker of probe cards and other equipment for testing the quality of manufactured chips. FormFactor stock is flying today -- up 23.6% through 1:15 p.m. ET -- after the company beat on earnings last night. Analysts forecast FormFactor to earn just $0.25 per share on $200 million in third-quarter revenue, but FormFactor actually earned $0.33 per share on sales of $202.7 million. FormFactor Q3 earnings That's still a pretty small revenue number for such a big earnings surprise -- and what's perhaps most surprising is that FormFactor's revenue actually declined 2.5% year over year (although it was up sequentially). Still, as CEO Mike Slessor pointed out, FormFactor is really "focused on, and committed to, improving our profitability." And FormFactor's making some progress there. True, the company's $0.33 profit was only a non-GAAP (adjusted) number. But actual earnings as calculated according to generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) also improved markedly, nearly doubling sequentially to $0.20 per share. Still, as with revenue, GAAP earnings were down year over year, falling about 17%. Is FormFactor stock a buy? Worst of all, FormFactor's forecast for Q4 is an anemic $0.19 per share in GAAP net income, despite sales growing to $210 million, plus or minus. These numbers appear to be better than what Wall Street is looking for. Still, with the stock valued at $4.5 billion, trailing net income less than $44 million, and a price-to-earnings ratio consequently hanging at a very high ratio of 102, I find it hard to get excited about the stock -- earnings beat notwithstanding. For me, I'm afraid FormFactor stock remains a sell.

China Agrees To Purchase 11 U.S. Soybeans 
Meet Rob Jetten, leader of the centrist D66 party in the Netherlands, who could become the country’s first gay PM
Technology

Meet Rob Jetten, leader of the centrist D66 party in the Netherlands, who could become the country’s first gay PM

Rob Jetten, the energetic leader of the Dutch centrist D66 party, is on the brink of making history. At just 38, he’s set to become the Netherlands’ youngest and first openly gay prime minister following his party’s strong showing in the October 29 election.ALSO READ: What does 67 mean, who made the 67 meme and why is it so popular?How did Rob Jetten rise to prominence? Rob Jetten transformed his public image from a “nagging climate minister” into an optimistic, forward-looking politician. His campaign struck a balance between positivity and practicality, winning over voters from both sides of the political spectrum. By broadening D66’s traditional focus on climate and education to address immigration and housing, Jetten managed to appeal to a more diverse base. With a polished message and increased advertising, his slogan-driven optimism — echoing “yes, we can” — resonated deeply. On election morning, he posted on Instagram, “Together we can beat Wilders, I am ready.” That confidence has now paid off, as exit polls show his party gaining significant ground, as per a report by CNBC TV.ALSO READ: 10 low-effort Halloween costumes that’ll save you time and still turn headsLive Events What sets Jetten’s campaign apart? Jetten’s campaign stood out for its focus on unity and positivity amid divisive politics. He repeatedly called out far-right leader Geert Wilders for “hijacking Dutch identity” and “only standing up for women’s and LGBTQ rights to cast Muslims in a poor light.” His colleague Kajsa Ollongren, a D66 party member and former defence minister, praised his leadership,"Rob is without a doubt one of the most talented politicians the Netherlands has ever had,” said Kajsa Ollongren, a D66 party member who served as defence minister in government with Jetten. "I’m sure that if we win as the exit polls say we do, he’ll want to unite the country and turn around the negative spiral that Wilders has pushed the country in."ALSO READ: What is the 6-7 Halloween costume and is it spooky enough? Can it be made at home? Jetten’s sexuality, while historic, was not central to his campaign. The Netherlands, long recognized for its LGBTQ rights, legalized same-sex marriage 25 years ago under a government led by his party, as per a report by CNBC TV. What are his policy goals? Jetten’s platform combines progressive ideals with practical governance. To manage immigration, he proposed that asylum applications be submitted from outside the EU, aiming to prevent dangerous journeys while strengthening integration programs. His policy emphasizes compassion and accountability, ensuring “people that really are fleeing from war and violence are received in a decent way, learn the language and can participate (in society) and that the rotten apples are pulled out of the system and are deported," as per a report by CNBC TV.ALSO READ: YouTube quietly launches exit program for US workers — is a mass layoff coming? On housing, one of the Netherlands’ most pressing concerns, Jetten promised to tackle the shortage by building ten new towns, allocating 2 billion euros annually to expand housing options. He also pushed for cutting bureaucratic hurdles to build 100,000 new homes every year, including repurposing large buildings and agricultural land, as per a report by CNBC TV. What makes Rob Jetten’s story unique? Beyond politics, Jetten’s personal life has drawn attention for its authenticity and relatability. His “bromance” with another politician went viral on TikTok in 2021 — a social media moment that led him to meet his now-fiancé, Argentinian hockey player Nicolas Keenan. The two plan to marry next August. Despite the challenges of campaigning amid political hostility, including attacks on his party’s headquarters, Jetten remained composed. When the D66 offices were vandalized during anti-migration protests, he was filmed addressing extremism while standing in the shattered glass, an image that became symbolic of resilience, as per a report by CNBC TV. Even appearances outside politics boosted his profile, including his stint on a trivia quiz show that aired during the campaign. That visibility helped cement his public image as both relatable and capable. What’s next for the Netherlands under Rob Jetten? If coalition talks succeed, Rob Jetten’s leadership will mark a generational shift, a young, openly gay leader steering one of Europe’s most liberal democracies. His message of optimism and cooperation stands in stark contrast to the country’s recent polarization. As he prepares for what could be a historic premiership, Jetten’s focus remains clear: unity, progress, and restoring faith in Dutch politics.FAQsWho is Rob Jetten?He’s the 38-year-old leader of the centrist D66 party and is set to become the Netherlands’ first openly gay prime minister.What are Rob Jetten’s main priorities?He’s focused on housing, climate policy, immigration reform, and political unity.Add as a Reliable and Trusted News Source Add Now! (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel) Read More News onRob Jetten first gay PMRob JettenNetherlands first openly gay prime ministerD66 partyLGBTQ rights in NetherlandsRob Jetten election campaignleader of the centrist d66 part (Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates....moreless (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)Read More News onRob Jetten first gay PMRob JettenNetherlands first openly gay prime ministerD66 partyLGBTQ rights in NetherlandsRob Jetten election campaignleader of the centrist d66 part(Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates....moreless Explore More Stories123

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