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Top News

Bitcoin falls after Fed chief Powell says, 'We're not allowed to own Bitcoin'

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell ruled out the possibility of adding Bitcoin to the Fed’s balance sheet, citing legal restrictions and emphasizing no plans to seek legislative changes. Following Powell’s comments, Bitcoin fell 5.9% to $100,605, with the global cryptocurrency market and major cryptocurrencies like Ethereum and Solana also experiencing sharp declines. Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump reiterated his vision for a U.S. Bitcoin reserve, sparking speculation about potential executive actions to position the U.S. as a leader in the cryptocurrency space.

Fed rate cut: How it affects your bank accounts, loans, credit cards, and investments

The Federal Reserve’s recent rate cuts, including a full percentage point reduction, have incremental effects on financial products like savings accounts, CDs, mortgages, and personal loans. While high-yield savings and money market accounts remain attractive options, rates are beginning to decline, and mortgage and personal loan rates are expected to stay elevated due to broader economic factors. For investments, lower interest rates could boost long-term stock market performance, but retirement accounts should remain aligned with long-term strategies rather than short-term fluctuations.

Google’s Gemini is forcing contractors to rate AI responses outside their expertise

Google’s new guidelines for contractors working on its Gemini AI model prohibit skipping prompts that require specialized knowledge, even if the contractor lacks expertise in that domain. Previously, contractors could opt out of evaluating responses on topics outside their expertise, but now they are instructed to rate the parts they understand and note their lack of domain knowledge. This change has raised concerns about Gemini’s accuracy on sensitive topics like healthcare, as less-qualified evaluations may lead to unreliable AI-generated responses.

Passengers Panic, Scream For Help As Ferry Sinks Off Mumbai Coast

A ferry traveling from Mumbai’s Gateway of India to Elephanta Island collided with a naval speedboat during a trial run, resulting in 13 fatalities and 99 rescues. The Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine Police launched a large-scale search and rescue operation involving helicopters and boats, transferring survivors to nearby hospitals. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed grief over the tragedy and announced ₹5 lakh financial aid for the families of the deceased.

Naga Babu's Cabinet Entry Postponed: Why?

Naga Babu’s anticipated appointment as a Cabinet Minister in Andhra Pradesh has been unexpectedly postponed. The official reason cited is the absence of a vacant Member of Legislative Council (MLC) seat. However, it’s common practice to appoint ministers who can secure an MLC seat within six months, raising questions about the delay. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu’s strategic decision-making is well-known, and the actual reason behind this postponement remains unclear.

Changes In Visa Appointment Rescheduling: Fairer, Faster and Pricier?

The US Embassy in India has introduced changes to the visa appointment rescheduling process to make it more efficient and equitable. Applicants can book their initial nonimmigrant visa appointment at any location and reschedule once for free, but rescheduling a second time or missing the appointment will require a new application fee. With long wait times and only one free reschedule allowed, applicants are advised to book appointments only when they are certain they can attend.

Movie News

Pushpa 2: National Whistles- Regional Struggles

“Pushpa 2: The Rule” has achieved massive success in the Hindi-speaking regions, breaking box office records for a Hindi-dubbed film, while facing slower performance in its Telugu heartlands, such as Nizam and Andhra. Distributors in these regions are extending its theatrical run, hoping reduced ticket prices during Sankranti will attract more viewers. Despite regional struggles, the film’s nationwide and international acclaim highlights its ability to transcend language barriers, with its Hindi reception playing a crucial role in its overall success.

Keerthy Suresh’s post-wedding red-hot look breaks the internet

Keerthy Suresh recently married her long-time boyfriend, Anthony, in a private ceremony in Goa. Just days after the wedding, she resumed work and started promoting her Hindi debut film, Baby John, starring Varun Dhawan and directed by Kalees. Keerthy’s glamorous look during promotions, complete with her mangalsutra, has been making waves online.

Theatre Releases

Source: Filmibeat