Ted Turner: News

Ted Turner R.I.P

Trbutes Roll In Across Globe For American Media Legend

Aussie Former Cable TV Guy Gives A Down Under Account Of How Turner Boosted Career; Expanded Knowledge Of Combat Sports And Pop Culture Scene

May 6, 2026

(First Draft)

By Greg Tingle

Ted Turner is one of the most impactful figures in the history of the media and broadcasting industry.

He channelled much of his wealth into both building the business, and also into numerous worthy causes including nature reserves and other philanthropic ventures.

I first became fully aware of Ted Turner not long before I started working for Australia's Optus Vision/Optus Communications in 1996 and a Neigbourhood Sales Representative. How's that for a job title for a cable guy/door knocker. I got promoted not too long after that, but that's another story for another time. Ok, a touch more info. It's going to be hard for me to tell his story for an Aussie's account, without getting a little into my own story, and what Mr Turner meant to me and my career and family. Turner (working for his Australian affiliate broadcasting partner, Optus TV) helped in a big way towards me buying my first home in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs ...

Ted's world class programming such as the (then version) of CNN, Cartoon Network and TCM (Turner Classic Movies), helped me progress through the ranks. Turner's TNT started running World Championship Wrestling in 1988, which went head to head most of the time with WWE's (then WWF's Monday Night RAW). WCW Nitro was very well received by Australian subscriber TV sales and marketing reps as well as the paying customers.

Circa 1998 I was working at the Zenith Centre, Tower B at the Chatwoods base and management notifed the staff that we would be having a competition near the staff room about Optus Television programming. It was a Q&A with hands up responses. Quite a few questions where asked about Turner's programming, and I got a number of questions correct. At the end of the comp my bosses, Scott and Brad, gave me a Cartoon Network themed backpack with some other Turner goodies inside. I was wrapt. I took it home and my daughter absolutely loved it. My wife at the time, Susie, was also very proud of me and she knew how much I loved my dream job.

It was Susie who was part of the inspiration that got me motivated to look into working for the likes of Optus in 1995 while I was working for the Sydney Water Board. She smartly and boldly said something to the effect of, "Greg darling, you should look into using your mind more for work and business, just as you work so hard with your muscles for the Water Board". It was something very close to that. Susie was well aware that I had a videotape trading enterprise/business (of sorts), with the vast majority comprissing of hundreds of pro wrestling matches, as well as some other combat sports from the U.S, Canada, Europe, Thailand, and of course, Australia. Following wrestling and other combat sports and the American pop culture scene helped me greatly in the job interview for Optus at North Sydney, and I explained to the recruiter some of the reasons I already had so much product knowledge of the Optus programming. I still had to "sell" the recruiter the pen and explain the features and benefits of it, just to play by the rules for all! I later went on to become Pay-Per-View Liasion and Ethnic Channel Specalist, after my proposal to management was accepted.

Sorry in advance to readers for so much of my tribute having so much of myself in the tribute to Ted Turner, but after all, it is my personal account of the great man, and I never got to meet him, but his enterprise put a lot of money into my pocket and for many years I worked my dream job, much of which having a lot to do with combat sports, movies, docos, music and much more.

Oh, Turner also ruffled a few feathers of the then WWF (now WWE) boss, Vince McMahon. There's many stories of Turner telephoning McMahon one time and said something to the effect of, "I'm now in the 'wrassling business". The likes of Bruce Pritchard (Something To Wrestle With) and Eric Bishoff (83 Weeks and Real American Freestyle) can tell that story much better than I. It's going to be covered more on their respective podcasts, almost for certain, and some of the tales of the "War" between Turner and McMahon are already well documented.

I'm going to keep reading tributes by others.

Ted, you changed the media world, mainly for the better. I hope that your CNN will continue to make more positive progress in obtaining its former glory. We're not going to get another WCW anytime soon, but we could get a much improved CNN if the powers that be decide to let it happen. TT, you reading this from above might just help .. you never know. Dream big. Thank you legend.

Greg Tingle, Founder, Media Man Group

Best Quote Of The Day

"Sports is like a war without the killing" Ted Turner

Tributes

HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF TED TURNER

Dear Friends of Ted Turner Reserves,

It is with sadness—and deep gratitude for a life extraordinarily well lived—that I share the news that our founder, mentor, and friend, Ted Turner, has passed away peacefully at the age of 87.

Many of you know Ted as a visionary who changed the way the world experiences news. We knew him as something more personal—the man behind the wild, soul-stirring landscapes you’ve explored with us at Vermejo, Armendaris, Ladder, and Sierra Grande.

To us, he was not just a name above the door. He was the reason the door exists.

I had the privilege of working alongside Ted for many years, and even more meaningfully, of calling him a friend. His energy was boundless, his convictions unshakable, and his love for nature—genuine, reverent, and contagious.

But more than anything, Ted believed in something simple and profound:

That the land has the power to make us better.

When he acquired these properties, he did not see land as something to own. He saw it as something to restore. A promise—to the bison, the Rio Grande cutthroat trout, the wolves, the willows, and to future generations—to leave the world better than he found it.

And he delivered on that promise.

Over time, he protected and restored more than two million acres of wild and working landscapes across the United States—not as a collection of assets, but as living, breathing places where wildlife could return, ecosystems could heal, and people could reconnect with something deeper.

Every experience at Ted Turner Reserves is a reflection of that belief. The quiet moments. The wide-open views. The feeling that something inside you has shifted, even if you can’t quite explain why.

That was Ted’s vision.

He believed that conservation and commerce could coexist, not as a compromise, but as a commitment—to doing things the right way, for the long term.

To those of you who have walked our trails, cast a line in our waters, or simply found stillness beneath our skies—you’ve been part of that vision. Whether you knew him personally or not, you’ve experienced his legacy.

And now, we carry it forward.

Ted, I will miss you pal, but your spirit will forever inspire us to reach for the stars, to embrace the challenges that lie ahead, and to never stop believing in the power of humanity.

On behalf of our entire team—many of whom knew and loved Ted like family—thank you for being part of this journey. Your presence, your curiosity, your reverence for wild places… they mattered to Ted. And they matter to all of us.

As Ted once said, “I see joy in the wilderness, and I hope to keep it that way for as long as I can.”

Now, it is our responsibility to carry that promise forward—and to prove, through our actions, that his belief in the power of land to change people was right.

With gratitude and resolve,

Jade McBride
President, Ted Turner Reserves

Tributes

“RIP Ted. And thank you for everything.” Eric Bischoff

Eric Bischoff via The Ariel Helwani Show

“He changed my life, he changed the lives of my children. None of us would be where we are today. And I’m just one guy. Think about all of the people who worked at Turner Broadcasting — the thousands of people who, just like me, got opportunities, got to grow, and got to pursue their careers because of the entrepreneurial, groundbreaking vision that Ted Turner had when it came to the media landscape.” Eric Bischoff

“I’m sad to hear of the passing of Ted Turner. Ted bought me to the US and paid me and allowed me to feed my family for 6 years. Ted also took care of mine and my families green cards. Rest well.” William Regal

“So sorry to hear about the passing of the great ted turner! The man that created cable before cable was cool! He created CNN and look at it now! He rolled the dice and wasn’t afraid of taking risks. he won the America’s cup for sailing! His office looked like the hall of fame which included a picture of him and (Krusher) Khrushchev. On top of all of that, he created so many opportunities for so many wrestlers because of his love for wrestling. Rest in peace my friend! Thank you for the memorable personal times that we spent together.” Ric Flair

Media Man: Thank you again Ted Turner, you legend. White light and thoughs to his many family and friends. Ted's legend will live on forever.

Media Man Int

Websites

Ted Turner Official Website

Ted Turner (Wikipedia)

CNN

Cartoon Network (Wikipedia)

Turner Classic Movies YouTube Channel

WCW YouTube Channel

Media Man Group

United States

Sports Entertainment aka Professional Wrestling

Wrestling News via Media Man

FinTech, Big Tech, Big Biz

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Media Man LinkedIn and X Up; TKO News Flashbacks

Google/Alphabet Earnings

May 1, 2026

(Sydney, Australia To Wall Street, New York)

ASX 200 futures are pointing up 127 points/1.5% to 8795.

AUD +1.2% to US72.00¢

Bitcoin $77,105.63 +2.16%

Wall St:
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Nasdaq +0.9%

VIX -1.92 to 16.89
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Numbers Double Check

May 1

Australian Dollar: $0.7195 USD (up $0.0085 USD)
Iron Ore: $107.80 USD (up $0.75 USD)
Iron Ore: $105.53 USD (up 0.74 USD)
Oil Price (West Texas): $105.63 USD (down $2.86 USD)
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Shares

TKO Group Holdings Inc
$186.09
+2.38 +1.30%
Lead Up
$183.71
-0.87 -0.47%

Alphabet Inc Class A
$384.80
+34.86 +9.96%
Lead Up
$349.94
+0.13 +0.037%

NVIDIA Corp
$199.57
-9.68 -4.63%
Lead Up
$209.25
-3.82 -1.79%

Meta Platforms Inc
$611.91
-57.21 -8.55%

News

Alphabet, Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta Platforms Report Q1 2026 Earnings Beating Expectations

Alphabet reported Q1 2026 revenue of $109.9 billion and EPS of $5.11, surpassing estimates, with Google Cloud revenue up 63% to $20 billion.

Microsoft reported fiscal Q3 2026 revenue of $82.89 billion and EPS of $4.27, beating expectations, driven by 39-40% Azure growth.

Amazon reported Q1 2026 revenue of $181.5 billion and EPS of $2.78 exceeding forecasts, with AWS up 28%, while Meta reported Q1 2026 revenue of $56.3 billion and EPS of $10.44 above estimates.

News

Biz (Aust)

May 1

ASX extends fall as oil tops $US126 a barrel

The Australian sharemarket lost ground on Thursday, after a spike in the crude oil price in response to growing fears that the Iran war will escalate; the S&P/ASX 200 shed 0.2 per cent to close at 8,665.8 points. South32 fell 5.4 per cent to $4.03, Evolution Mining was down 5.3 per cent at 11.90 and Woolworths finished 7.8 per cent lower at $34.39. However, WiseTech Global was up 3.4 per cent at $42.72 and ASX Limited added 5.1 per cent. (RMS)

News

Golf/Heath/Politics/Property

Mental health 'at risk' if Defence golf courses sold

The federal government announced in February that it would sell 67 military sites in the wake of an independent audit that found they had little strategic value, with five defence-owned golf courses among the sites under scrutiny. They include the Fairbairn Golf Club in Canberra, with club president Brian Depree urging the government not to sell it to property developers. He says it helps to provide mental support for current Defence members and veterans, and selling it and other defence courses would be at odds with the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide's finding of systemic failures in support services for defence members and veterans, with the commission emphasising the need to help military personnel transition to civilian life. (RMS)

News

The crypto takes a breather after growth

Market Overview

The crypto market capitalisation has changed little over the past 24 hours, hovering around $2.57 trillion, with assets moving in different directions. Markets are likely to prefer a wait-and-see approach ahead of decisions by the Bank of Canada, the Fed, the ECB and the Bank of England over the next couple of days. Officially, markets are expecting a hawkish tone, so a focus on the economy could spur active buying.

The sentiment index plummeted to 26, falling below last week’s lows, reflecting a return of fear to the markets. The inability to hold above 50 since September remains a key sign of bearish sentiment.

Over the past two days, Bitcoin has lost approximately $4K from peak to trough at $75.6K, but on Wednesday, it turned higher, attempting to consolidate above $77K. Thus, Bitcoin has broken out of its upward trend but has not yet confirmed a reversal; therefore, we can only note a slowdown in growth at the 50% mark of the January-February decline.

News Background

The $80K level remains an important psychological barrier, around which a large volume of options is concentrated, GSR notes. QCP Capital considers $82K to be a key resistance level.

Bernstein regards Bitcoin’s February low of $60K as a “clear bottom” and expects a “higher and structurally longer bull cycle” going forward. The main driver of optimism remains a steady inflow of capital from institutional investors.

Bitcoin is no longer merely an “interesting asset” for companies seeking to remain competitive, Tim Draper, founder of venture capital firm Draper Associates, stated. According to him, firms must hold a portion of their reserves (5–15%) in BTC to avoid being financially irresponsible towards their shareholders.

Patrick Witt, Executive Director of the US Presidential Council on Digital Assets, announced an “important statement” regarding the US strategic Bitcoin reserve, which will be made in the coming weeks.

Bitmine, the largest publicly traded corporate holder of Ethereum, announced the acquisition of over 5 million ETH over 10 months, at an average cost of $2,369 per ETH. The company’s reserves have reached nearly 5.08 million ETH, representing 4.21% of the Ethereum supply.

News

Pop Culture/WWE

Roman Reigns Sweats Through Epic Promo Amid Arena Heat in Laredo

A power outage killed air conditioning at Sames Auto Arena, turning Monday Night Raw into a sauna with fans drenched and wrestlers glistening under pyro-lit lights. Reigns cut a fiery main event promo on Fatu's World Heavyweight Title shot at Backlash on May 9 in Tampa, listening to The Usos' warnings before greenlighting the match—only for Fatu to ambush him with a brutal Tongan Death Grip post-promo. Fans flooded social media with memes of Reigns' sweat-drenched look, declarations of stanning the champ, and hype for the Bloodline clash, proving his unbreakable draw even as some Cody Rhodes fans pushed back. (Media Man Peg-On): So pumped for the main event of WWE Backlash. We smell a Bloodline screw-job finish, but we shall see.

News

WWE NXT/Wrestling

NXT Debuts EVIL, Lizzy Rain, and Will Kroos in Roster Shake-Up

WWE NXT's April 28 episode on The CW featured six debuts, including former NJPW star EVIL's chilling arrival targeting NXT Champion Tony D'Angelo, rocker Lizzy Rain's dominant win over Nikkita Lyons with her Thunderstruck finisher, and indie powerhouse Will Kroos joining a beatdown on D'Angelo. John Cena hyped EVIL with his classic promo quote, while fans praised the secrecy around Kroos and Rain's heavy-metal entrance. Other newcomers like Tristan Angels, Kam Hendrix, and Tate Wilder added to the stacked night, setting up fresh storylines for titles and rivalries. (Media Man Peg-On): NXT needed some fresh faces and new blood to replace some of the WWE main roster call-ups; Shawn Michaels and Robert Stone one again deliver. It's almost a new era kinda feeling and vibe with the shake-ups. Fans pumped for the upcoming main roster debuts of Blake Monroe and Ricky Saints.

News

April 30

AI

Elon Musk Testifies Against OpenAI in Breach of Mission Trial

Musk, who co-founded OpenAI in 2015 and invested $38 million, accused Sam Altman and the company of abandoning its open-source, safety-focused mission after partnering with Microsoft for billions. He warned that advanced AI could arrive next year, either boosting prosperity or posing existential dangers, and urged instilling human values early. OpenAI's lawyers countered that Musk supported the for-profit move and sought control himself, while the trial could force a nonprofit return or massive damages. (Media Man Peg-On: Musk vs The Rest)!

News

The crypto market is falling, but Doge is on the rise

Market Overview

The crypto market cap has fallen by 1.09% over the past 24 hours to $2.53 trillion. This marks the third consecutive day of a gradual market decline, which appears to be a technical shake-out rather than a trend reversal. Dogecoin (+3.3%) is once again leading the gains, along with Tron (+0.6%) and Aptos (+0.1%).

Among the underperformers are Aave (-5.7%), Trumpcoin (-5.3%) and The Graph (-5.3%).

Bitcoin is leading the decline in cryptocurrencies, having switched to a sell-on-rally mode over the last three days. This is clearly visible in the intraday pattern of recent days, where a gradual rise has given way to a decline at roughly the same pace. If we view the latest move as a technical correction, its potential target appears to be the area around $74K, where the 61.8% Fibonacci retracement line lies. The March peak levels also lie here, reinforcing the significance of this level.

Dogecoin stands out modestly from the crowd of altcoins, leading the growth of top coins for the third day in a row and marking the fifth week of an uptrend. The $0.087 area has become a pivot point, where the coin also saw steady demand in 2024 and where there were strong buy orders on the slippage in October 2025. At the same time, current prices near $0.105 are more than 20% above that level, indicating the start of a bull market, according to traditional financial metrics. It is still too early to speculate on expectations of multiple-fold growth, as was the case two years ago, since this would require a radical shift of all cryptocurrencies into a bull market. But who knows, perhaps we are seeing the first signs of recovery after the crypto winter?

News Background

The crypto market entered a neutral phase in the second quarter: there is no clear trend, and economic and political factors are having a key influence on market dynamics, according to Coinbase. Events in the Middle East and fluctuations in oil prices remain among the main drivers.

Net inflows of Bitcoin to trading platforms have risen to 30-day highs, notes analyst Woominkyu. In his view, whales are transferring assets to exchanges for subsequent sale.

Spot trading volumes for Bitcoin on leading exchanges have fallen to their lowest levels since September–October 2023, notes analyst Darkfost. Alphractal also highlights the cooling of investor interest. The number of Google searches for cryptocurrencies has reached a three-year low.

73% of respondents believe Bitcoin's current price is undervalued, according to a survey of 100 institutional and private investors conducted by Coinbase and Glassnode. They remain cautiously optimistic and expect most digital assets to recover within the quarter.

The Governor of the Czech National Bank has proposed adding Bitcoin to the central bank’s reserves to help control inflation. Despite its volatility, BTC could generate long-term returns, so it makes sense to allocate 1% of the state reserves to it. (FxPro)

News

April 28

Pop Culture/Pro Wrestling/WWE/NXT

EVIL From Japan Makes NXT Debut; Faced Off With Tony D!

Blake Monroe Buried in Dramatic NXT Graveyard Farewell; The Glamour Heading To Main Roster

NXT's Ricky Saints Heading To WWE SmackDown

News

Google, Meta shift $11b offshore, pay just $140m in tax

Technology firms Meta and Google have come under ongoing criticism over the fact that they seem to pay very little tax on the huge amount of revenue they generate in Australia. The criticism comes in particular from companies that must compete with them, including banks and media companies, while the federal government is set to force them to enter into commercial agreements with Australian news publishers. The criticism regarding the low amount of tax that Google and Meta is not likely to go away, given the revelation that they transferred almost $11 billion to offshore entities in service fees and reseller payments over the past year, but only paid just over $140 million in tax. (RMS)

News

Elon Musk's OpenAI Trial Jury Selected in Oakland

Jury selection finished Monday in federal court in Oakland, California, for Musk's civil suit against OpenAI, Sam Altman, and Greg Brockman. Musk, who helped launch the nonprofit in 2015 with $45 million and no equity, claims its for-profit pivot—now valued at $852 billion—betrays the original mission of open AGI for humanity's benefit. He's seeking to unwind the structure and potential $134 billion in damages, while OpenAI calls the case baseless jealousy; opening statements start Tuesday with testimony from Altman and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella expected. The jury's findings will guide Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers in a trial set to last two to four weeks. (Media Man Peg-On): Musk vs Altman. Pick'em Title, Who you got?!

News

News Lead Up

WWE/Pop Culture

Paul Heyman Praises Lil Yachty Amid WWE Celebrity Backlash

On SmackDown, Yachty celebrated new U.S. Champion Trick Williams' WrestleMania 42 victory over Sami Zayn, but Zayn ambushed them unmasked as a Gingerbread Man with a Helluva Kick. Paul Heyman endorsed Yachty as a respectful crossover star who honors WWE's history and fans, countering backlash from viewers upset over recent talent cuts like Aleister Black and Karrion Kross. While some fans call it unwanted filler, others praise the fun energy as WWE balances celebrities with homegrown stories ahead of Backlash. (Media Man Peg-On): We're going with Heyman on this. Yachty is great and over with the audience for the most part.

News

UFC/MMA

(Australia)

UFC Fight Night in Perth Features Main Event Between Jack Della Maddalena and Carlos Prates

UFC Fight Night is set for Perth, Western Australia, headlined by a welterweight bout between top-ranked fighters Jack Della Maddalena and Carlos Prates. The event, promoted as UFC Perth, airs live on Paramount Plus. (Media Man Peg-On): On paper this Fight Night down under should be stronger/better than some of their previous fight nights are far as match quality.

News

Pop Culture/Lucha Libre

AAA Announces New General Manager Reveal on May 23

On the April 25 episode of AAA on Fox, President Marisela Peña announced that Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide will get a new General Manager, with the live reveal set for May 23 in Mexico City. This follows her son Dorian Roldán's recent plea for the role, which she decided to open to other candidates after careful thought. Fans are speculating on names like Zelina Vega, Rey Mysterio, or even The Undertaker, amid AAA's growth since WWE's majority stake acquisition last April and its new Fox broadcasts blending lucha action with WWE polish. (Media Man Peg-On): Ariba. Triple A has massive influence from The Undertaker, and it's paying off as far as entertainment value for fans and in other creative and business ways from what we see and hear. Can see see Danhausen in Triple H also? Lucha Hausen!

News Lead Up

April 23

(Wall St, New York) : April 24 (Sydney, Australia)

UFC - MMA Building Stars Again

New York Kind Of Feeling

US Stocks - Black Friday - Black-ish Thursday into Friday

Post WrestleMania; Road To WWE Backlash 2026

WWE Management And Wrestlers Bullish; Wrestling and Boxing

Sports Biz Event Tickets And Merch Drive

Danhausen Lifts WWE Merch Hausen

Traditional Big Tech Sector Takes Big Hit April 23

Media Man Group Weekly Series

News Lead Up

ASX 200 futures down 4 points: 0.1% to 8828

AUD -0.4% to US71.30¢

Bitcoin $78,168.22 +0.52%

Dogecoin $0.09776 +2.24%

Ripple aka XRP $1.4374 +1.48%

News

News Flashback

November 2025

Polymarket Partnership Could Be a Game Changer for TKO Group Holdings (TKO)

Nov 17

(In Case You Missed It)

Polymarket/UFC/TKO

Polymarket recently announced a multi-year partnership making it the Official and Exclusive Prediction Market Partner for UFC and Zuffa Boxing, introducing real-time fan prediction metrics directly into UFC broadcasts and social media experiences.

This collaboration marks the first time major sports organizations have integrated prediction market technology into the live fan experience, creating new ways for audiences to interact and for TKO's sports brands to differentiate themselves.

We'll explore how this innovative fan engagement initiative could strengthen TKO Group Holdings' investment narrative by deepening audience connection and content value.

What Is TKO Group Holdings' Investment Narrative?

To see the value in TKO Group Holdings as a shareholder, you really have to believe in its ability to keep building out top sports entertainment brands like UFC and WWE into global, multi-platform franchises. A lot of the story is about continuing to grow earnings and revenue faster than the overall market, attract loyal audiences, and evolve with changes in media rights, streaming, and digital fan engagement. Recent announcements, such as the multi-year partnership with Polymarket, reflect TKO’s push to unlock new monetization avenues and deepen fan involvement.

However, it’s unlikely this news will materially change the core short-term catalysts, which are still dominated by performance in key international deals, broadcast partnerships, and the rollout of new events. The biggest risks remain legal challenges, compression of media rights value, and questions about board experience. The new fan engagement efforts add differentiation, but don’t directly reduce these core risks for now. On the flip side, investors should pay close attention to ongoing legal proceedings against TKO and UFC.

TKO Group Holdings' shares have been on the rise but are still potentially undervalued by 15%.

Ten retail investors in the Simply Wall St Community produced fair value estimates for TKO ranging from US$63.92 to a very large US$37,618.47. While community views can be widely split, ongoing legal challenges remain a topic several market participants keep circling back to as a concern for TKO’s future performance. Explore these diverse perspectives and see how the risks and opportunities stack up.

Historical Data and Intel

TKO Group: News

News Flashback

Insider Buying and Selling at TKO Group

In related news, Director Nick Khan sold 45,168 shares of the company's stock in a transaction on Monday, July 21st. The shares were sold at an average price of $170.82, for a total value of $7,715,597.76. Following the completion of the sale, the director owned 156,494 shares in the company, valued at $26,732,305.08. This represents a 22.40% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. Over the last 90 days, insiders sold 73,725 shares of company stock valued at $12,767,807. Corporate insiders own 61.30% of the company's stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

TKO has been the subject of a number of recent analyst reports. Baird R W raised TKO Group to a "strong-buy" rating in a research report on Friday, September 5th. Zacks Research upgraded TKO Group from a "strong sell" rating to a "hold" rating in a research note on Tuesday, September 2nd. Bank of America upped their target price on TKO Group from $200.00 to $210.00 and gave the company a "buy" rating in a report on Tuesday, August 12th. Robert W. Baird began coverage on TKO Group in a report on Friday, September 5th. They set an "outperform" rating and a $225.00 target price for the company. Finally, Roth Capital raised their target price on TKO Group from $208.00 to $210.00 and gave the company a "buy" rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 12th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fourteen have issued a Buy rating and four have given a Hold rating to the company's stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of "Moderate Buy" and a consensus price target of $192.21.

TKO Group Stock Up 0.0%

Shares of NYSE:TKO traded up $0.09 during midday trading on Friday, hitting $202.33. 897,072 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 683,611. TKO Group Holdings, Inc. has a 52-week low of $114.01 and a 52-week high of $204.10. The business's fifty day simple moving average is $178.94 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $165.22. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.28, a quick ratio of 1.30 and a current ratio of 1.30. The company has a market capitalization of $40.12 billion, a PE ratio of 83.61 and a beta of 0.79.

TKO Group (NYSE:TKO) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, August 6th. The company reported $1.17 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.23 by ($0.06). TKO Group had a net margin of 5.40% and a return on equity of 2.82%. The business had revenue of $1.31 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.23 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $0.72 earnings per share. The company's revenue for the quarter was up 53.7% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, research analysts predict that TKO Group Holdings, Inc. will post 3.88 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

TKO Group Increases Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 30th. Stockholders of record on Monday, September 15th will be paid a $0.76 dividend. This is an increase from TKO Group's previous quarterly dividend of $0.38. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, September 15th. This represents a $3.04 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.5%. TKO Group's dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 62.81%.

TKO Group Profile

TKO Group Holdings, Inc operates as a sports and entertainment company. The company produces and licenses live events, television programs, and long-form and short-form content, reality series, and other filmed entertainment on digital and linear channels and via pay-per-view. It is involved in the merchandising of video games, apparel, equipment, trading cards, memorabilia, digital goods, and toys, as well as sale of travel packages and tickets.

News Flashback

TKO Group Holdings, Inc. is an American sports and sports entertainment company. Established on September 12, 2023, the public company was formed by a merger between Endeavor subsidiary Zuffa—the parent company of mixed martial arts promotion Ultimate Fighting Championship —and the professional wrestling promotion World Wrestling Entertainment. TKO is led by CEO Ari Emanuel and president Mark Shapiro, both of Endeavor; Dana White and Nick Khan retained their roles as CEOs of UFC and WWE respectively upon the merger, while WWE co-founder Vince McMahon served as executive chairman until resigning from the company in January 2024 amid a sex trafficking scandal. The merger marked the first time that WWE has not been solely and primarily majority-controlled by the McMahon family, which founded the company and owned it for over 70 years. As of 2024, the UFC and WWE were the two most valuable combat sports organizations in the world according to Forbes. UFC was listed as the most valued mixed martial arts company with a revenue of $1.406 billion and WWE being the most valued professional wrestling promotion with a revenue of $1.398 billion in 2023. (Wikipedia)

TKO owns iconic properties including UFC, the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization; WWE, the global leader in sports entertainment; and PBR, the world’s premier bull riding organization. Together, these properties reach 210 countries and territories and organize more than 500 live events year-round, attracting more than three million fans.

TKO also services and partners with major sports rights holders through IMG, an industry-leading global sports marketing agency; and On Location, a global leader in premium experiential hospitality. (Credit: TKO Group)

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Best Quotes Of The Day

"An investment in ones self is always the best bet" Greg Tingle, Media Man Group

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All The News That's Fit To Publish/Print Edition

Past, Present And Future

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How to make AFR your preferred news source on Google

Google has launched a preferred news source feature, allowing you to view articles from The Australian Financial Review more prominently in your search results.

By selecting the Financial Review, you send Google a clear signal that this is a publisher you trust and want at the top of your results for major topics and breaking news.

Make the AFR a preferred source by clicking this link.

https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=afr.com

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March 14, 2026

The Australian Newspaper: Michael Miller Writes ...

For the first time in 14 years, we are removing the paywall at The Australian.
This is an invitation to experience the professional craft, rigorous reporting and incisive analysis that defines our national masthead. Our teams are currently delivering some of the most vital reporting in the country: from Liam Mendes' reporting on ISIS brides and Penny Timms' ‘Cosmetic Cowboys’ investigation, to Yoni Bashan's essential coverage of antisemitism. You will also find Louise Bryant's moving work on the dementia crisis and John Stensholt's exclusive previews of the Richest 250. You also get added depth from our partners at The Wall Street Journal and The Times. Whether your interest lies in social issues, global news, or business leadership, I invite you to explore it all for free this weekend. www.theaustralian.com.au

(Credit: Michael Miller, The Australian)

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Media/Advertising (Australia)

Advertising expectations and experience: Australians have their say

New national research conducted by Roy Morgan for Australia's advertising regulator Ad Standards reveals a gap between what Australians expect from advertising and what they currently experience - particularly online. The community sentiment tracking study found that 88% of Australians believe that advertising should reflect community standards and values, yet only 37% say the advertising they encounter meets those expectations. The research highlights the high expectations Australians have of advertising and the importance of aligning with community standards to maintain trust. When it comes to platforms, social media attracts the highest levels of concern (62%). The expectations gap presents a clear commercial risk for brands, with 67% of Australians saying they avoid brands that use inappropriate or offensive advertising; this increases to 83% among Australians aged 65+. (RMS)

News Feature

Pop Culture/Netflix

Dynasty: The Murdochs (2026)

Follows the Murdoch family's behind-the-scenes succession battle as Rupert's adult children compete for control of his media empire, based on thousands of documents, emails and text messages.

A high-profile Netflix docuseries scheduled to premiere on 13 March 2026. Directed by Liz Garbus, the four-part series explores the real-life "Succession" drama within the Murdoch family as Rupert Murdoch’s children battle for control of his global media empire.

Key Real-World Developments (as of March 2026)

The documentary arrives following a definitive shift in the Murdoch family power structure:

Lachlan Murdoch's Succession: In September 2025, a long-running legal battle over the Murdoch Family Trust concluded with Lachlan Murdoch cementing total control.

The Settlement: His siblings—Prudence, Elisabeth, and James—agreed to a $3.3 billion settlement (approx. $1.1 billion each) to cash out of the trust. Under a long-term "standstill agreement," they now have no further share or involvement in the family's core companies, Fox Corporation and News Corp.

Rupert Murdoch's Status: Now 94, Rupert remains Chairman Emeritus of both News Corp and Fox Corp, while Lachlan serves as the sole Chair of News Corp and Executive Chair/CEO of Fox Corp.

Netflix Docuseries Overview

The series is a deep dive into how the empire was built and the subsequent internal fracturing:

Focus: It uses thousands of pages of leaked documents, emails, and text messages to expose the private machinations between the siblings.

Themes: It explores the intersection of family and business, questioning whether a dynasty can remain a family when power and politics are involved.

Featured Experts: Includes interviews with prominent media figures like David Folkenflik, Kara Swisher, and Paddy Manning (Lachlan Murdoch's biographer).

Media

Oher documentaries or series about the family, the following are available:

The Rise of the Murdoch Dynasty (2020): A three-part BBC/72 Films documentary charting Rupert's influence on British society and the closure of News of the World.

Succession (HBO): While fictional, this acclaimed drama series was widely inspired by the Murdoch family's real-world dynamics.

News

Biz/Brands (Australia)

Bunnings is Australia's most trusted brand; Telecommunications, led by Optus, is the most distrusted industry

Bunnings is the most trusted brand in the 12 months to December 2025, a ninth consecutive quarterly victory for the leading hardware retailer. Discount supermarket Aldi is in second place, and discount department store Kmart is third; the top three places have remained unchanged for an eighth straight quarter. Meanwhile, Woolworths remains Australia's most distrusted brand, while Optus deteriorated two places to be the second most distrusted brand in the 12 months to December; in fact, Optus was the single most distrusted brand in Australia during the month of December, following its fatal triple-zero outage in September. Roy Morgan's latest data on trust and distrust reveals a remarkable relationship between highly regulated industries and trust. The financial services sector provides clear evidence that greater regulation and stricter rules have helped shape public perception for the better. On the flipside, sectors like Telecommunications and Supermarkets have relatively low regulation and suffer deep distrust; they currently face severe regulatory headwinds as the public demands better accountability and a fair go. (Roy Morgan)

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News and Pop Culture Flashback

World

News

Headlines on X (11 February 2026)

Super Bowl Analysis: X's Brand Ranx system reported 8 million posts and 3 billion impressions for Super Bowl LX, highlighting top-performing ads.

Media Presence: The platform's official News account recently announced that its Head of News has taken a seat in the White House Brady Briefing Room to represent independent and citizen journalists.

Breaking News: Major outlets continue to use X for instant updates, such as Sky News reporting on UK criminal convictions and Reuters covering Prince William's visit to Saudi Arabia.

To see live breaking news right now, you can visit the X Explore page.

News Flashback

Brand Bowl

"Brand Bowl" typically refers to the various informal competitions and analyses that evaluate the effectiveness, creativity, and public reception of the high-profile commercials aired during the Super Bowl.

The event itself is the Super Bowl, and the "Brand Bowl" is the subsequent media and public discourse surrounding the success of its advertisers.

Super Bowl Advertising Analysis

Every year, numerous organisations, from media outlets to research firms, conduct their own "Brand Bowl" analyses to determine which advertisers "won" the event. These evaluations use different metrics, including:

Consumer Sentiment: Measuring public opinion and emotional response through live focus groups and social media listening.

Brand Recall & Lift: Quantifying how well audiences remember the ad and if it positively impacts brand perception.

Social Media Engagement: Tracking mentions, shares, and overall online conversation volume during and after the game.

Expert Jurors: Panels of advertising and marketing professionals judge the ads based on strategic effectiveness, creativity, and execution.

Brands invest heavily in these commercials, often spending millions for a 30-second slot plus production costs, making the "Brand Bowl" a significant post-event discussion in the marketing world.

Recent "Brand Bowl" Highlights

The conversation around recent Super Bowl ads often highlights key themes and successful campaigns:

Nostalgia & Celebrity: Many brands use celebrities and throwbacks to the 1990s and 2000s to quickly grab attention and connect with millennial and Gen X audiences. Examples include Dunkin' with Ben Affleck and Jennifer Aniston, and spots from T-Mobile and Xfinity.

Emotional Storytelling: Ads that create a genuine emotional connection often perform well. For instance, Budweiser's 2026 ad, featuring a heartwarming friendship between a Clydesdale and a bald eagle, was a crowd favorite.

Humor: Outright funny ads remain a staple. The 2026 Uber Eats 'Foodspiracy' ad and the 2024 State Farm ad with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny DeVito were noted for their humor.

Innovation: Brands like Anthropic's AI, Claude, and tech companies like Verizon and Peacock, leveraged their ad time to demonstrate their products or align with the main event in unique ways, often generating significant online chatter.

News

Pop Culture Flashback

Musk vs Zuck

Feb 1, 2024

Social Media Wars Heat Up

Meta Gets Grilled By U.S Congress

Meta and Facebook can't stay out of the news We didn't get Zuck vs Musk in an UFC Octagon, or even via backyard broadcast via X, but we do get Zuck vs Congress and indi news media across the world is pleased to share it... Mark Zuckerberg’s apology doesn't impress New Mexico AG! Mr Zuckerberg has apologised to the parents of online child sexual abuse victims during a senate probe, but the apology was flatly dismissed by one of the state attorney generals suing the big tech bully boy who made his name for rating dorm girls on the web. Ah, the foundation of some of these big tech firms, and you wondered why some of the tech biz firms are so screwed up. Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg’s stunning apology to the parents of online child sex abuse victims during a Senate hearing was “too little, too late,” according to one of the state attorney generals currently suing the embattled social media giant. New Mexico attorney general Raúl "The Terminator" (our term, not hers) Torrez, whose office has sued Meta for exposing kids to adult sex content and alleged child predators, was on Capitol Hill on this past Wednesday as a "Zoo" (meme from the www) Zuckerberg told parents he was “sorry for everything you have all been through.” “Mr. Zuckerberg has appeared before Congress numerous in the past, and its not because he's going a good or great job. He has given assurances on the safety of his platforms many times before,” Torrez told The Post. “It seems that once the spotlight fades, they go right back to doing business as usual.” Senate Republicans, including Josh Hawley, Ted Cruz and Lindsey Graham, each dismissed Meta’s pitched safety measures as ineffective during harsh exchanges and barbs with Zuckerberg. Zuckerberg, who surprised the hearing’s attendees by standing up from his podium and speaking directly to the audience, told parents that “no one should go through the things that your families have suffered.” Earlier, Zuckerberg testified that his company had spent $5 billion on safety last year. ZB shows that throwing money at some problems doesn't always work.

News Flashback

Musk vs Zuck

The long-simmering rivalry between tech titans Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg has evolved from corporate competition into a public feud that famously peaked with talks of a literal cage match.

The Potential "Cage Match"

While the hype reached a fever pitch in 2023, the physical fight remains unconfirmed and is widely considered unlikely to happen.

Status: Zuckerberg essentially "called off" the bout in August 2023, stating Musk "wasn't serious" after Musk suggested a practice round in Zuckerberg's backyard and claimed he needed surgery first.

The Matchup: Mark Zuckerberg: Trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), he has medaled in amateur tournaments and is significantly younger (39) and more active.

Elon Musk: Relies on his significant size and weight advantage (6'1" vs. Zuck's 5'7") and has joked about his "Walrus" move (lying on top of the opponent).

Corporate & Personal Rivalry

The "Musk vs. Zuck" conflict spans nearly a decade, rooted in business failures and clashing ideologies.

Origins (2016): The feud ignited when a SpaceX rocket explosion destroyed a $200 million Facebook satellite. Zuckerberg publicly stated he was "deeply disappointed" by the failure.

AI Debate: The two have clashed over the future of artificial intelligence. Musk views AI as an existential threat to humanity, while Zuckerberg has dismissed Musk’s "doomsday scenarios" as "irresponsible."

Platform Wars: After Musk acquired Twitter (now X), Meta launched Threads in July 2023 as a direct competitor. Musk responded by calling Zuckerberg a "copycat" and threatening a lawsuit over trade secrets. (A.I News)

News Flashback

WWE Super Bowl Ad/WWE Super Bowl

During Super Bowl LX, which took place on 8 February 2026, WWE maintained a high-profile presence through athlete appearances and broadcast partnerships, though it did not run a standalone corporate brand commercial like its "infamous" 1999 ad.

2026 Super Bowl Commercials & Broadcasts

' to promote the weekly show. Netflix x WWE Raw: Following their transition to the streaming platform, Netflix aired a 20-second commercial during the Super Bowl broadcast titled 'WWE Monday Night RAW

SummerSlam 2026: A dedicated 60-second spot aired during the weekend festivities to promote the upcoming SummerSlam 2026 event.

WWE Stars in Other Ads: Retired pro wrestler Danielle Moinet (Summer Rae) was featured in promotional content for the Madden Bowl leading up to the game.

WWE Presence at Super Bowl LX

The most significant WWE connection to the 2026 Super Bowl was the Halftime Show, headlined by music superstar and part-time WWE wrestler Bad Bunny.

Bad Bunny Halftime Show: His performance included 11 songs and was praised by fellow WWE stars like Seth Rollins, who referred to him as his "colleague" and "fellow WWE superstar" during post-game media appearances.

Attending Superstars: Several WWE athletes were spotted in attendance at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, including Becky Lynch, Seth Rollins, Kofi Kingston, Damian Priest, and Lola Vice.

Crossover Moments: A viral moment occurred on "Radio Row" before the game when WWE’s Seth Rollins and AEW World Champion MJF had a public interaction, shaking hands and hugging for the cameras.

Historical Context: The "Infamous" WWE Super Bowl Ad

For those searching for the classic WWE (then WWF) Super Bowl ad, it refers to the 1999 "WWF Attitude" commercial for Super Bowl XXXIII. That commercial featured stars like The Rock, Mankind, and Stone Cold Steve Austin in a corporate setting, ironically claiming the company was a "non-violent form of entertainment".

While fans often call for a return to this style of advertising, WWE has primarily focused on promoting specific events or platform partnerships (like Netflix) in recent years. (A.I News)

News

Pro Wrestling/WWE/Pop Culture

Wrestling With News And Sports Entertainment

WrestleMania Season Hits Australia And World

March 13, 2026

Drew McIntyre Quits WWE SmackDown Then Returns with Vengeance

On the March 13 SmackDown at Footprint Center, McIntyre opened with a fiery promo venting frustration over losing the Undisputed WWE Championship to Cody Rhodes the week before. After a confrontation with GM Nick Aldis and Bloodline enforcer Jacob Fatu, he tossed the mic and walked out, echoing a similar 2024 stunt. He resurfaced during Fatu's match against Trick Williams, blindsiding Fatu to hand Williams the upset win and stay in the WrestleMania 42 spotlight.

News

Randy Orton Brutally Turns on Cody Rhodes at SmackDown Contract Signing

During the WrestleMania 42 contract signing on SmackDown in Phoenix, Randy Orton shockingly attacked Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes, busting him open after years of brotherhood from their Legacy days. Orton delivered a low blow, hurled Rhodes over the announce desk, and posed with the title belt amid the chaos at the sold-out arena. The betrayal ignited their hottest feud heading into WrestleMania 42, with other highlights including Jelly Roll's wild Miz TV appearance, the Bella Twins' return to challenge for titles, and Jade Cargill eyeing Rhea Ripley.

News

Danhausen Curses Miz Before Jelly Roll's Wild Haymaker on SmackDown

Danhausen stole the show on Friday Night SmackDown in Phoenix, handing out merch to ecstatic fans he called his 'stanhausens' and delivering his signature curse on The Miz during a tense Miz TV segment with Jelly Roll. Tensions escalated when Kit Wilson interrupted, prompting Jelly Roll to swing wildly—missing Wilson and knocking out Miz instead. Backstage sources noted Danhausen's strong recovery from a shaky WWE debut, with fans raving about his chaotic energy and speculating on WrestleMania matchups like Danhausen teaming with Jelly Roll.

News

Danhausen Cracks Up Bella Twins with Clone Joke on SmackDown

On March 13 SmackDown in Philadelphia, WWE's new signing Danhausen met Nikki and Brie Garcia for the first time backstage, delivering his signature comedy that had everyone in stitches. The 32-second clip, captioned 'TWINHAUSEN' by WWE, drew thousands of likes as Danhausen himself tweeted about the 'multiplicity.' Fresh off earning his multi-year contract by beating Brian Johnson at Elimination Chamber, Danhausen also handed out T-shirts, cursed The Miz, and amped up the show's chaos ahead of WrestleMania 42.

News

WWE 2K26 Launches with CM Punk on Cover Amid Monetization Debate

WWE 2K26 released March 13 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC, with premium editions available early from March 6. CM Punk headlines the standard edition and a 2K Showcase mode mixing his career highlights with fantasy matches, joined by a roster of over 400 superstars, refined gameplay, and new types like I Quit. Early reviews score around 80 on Metacritic for its polish, but the Ringside Pass battle pass system—for Season 1 DLC like lucha libre stars—sparks backlash over grinding or paying extra, contrasting simpler unlocks in older games like 2011's SmackDown vs. Raw.

News

Pop Culture/Streaming

Marvel Teases Daredevil: Born Again Season 2 with Gritty Trailers and Posters

The eight-episode season streams on Disney+ starting March 24, showcasing Matt Murdock in his red suit facing armored foes marked 'AVTF' and tense street confrontations. Kingpin, played by Vincent D'Onofrio, commands the city skyline in a new poster hinting at his mayor-like influence, while teases include a shirtless, ripped Charlie Cox and returning faces like James Wesley in a likely flashback and Detective Brett Mahoney on rainy streets. Fans lit up over the intense action and comic nods, with Cox set to discuss favorite Daredevil runs in a mini-series dropping March 17.

News

Motorsport

Russell Wins Shanghai Sprint, Extends F1 Lead Over Ferrari Charge

Starting from pole, Mercedes' Russell dominated the Shanghai Sprint, finishing 1.2 seconds ahead of Ferrari's Leclerc with teammate Lewis Hamilton third after a razor-close fight for second. The victory gives Russell 25 Drivers' Championship points, ahead of Kimi Antonelli on 18 and Leclerc on 15, while Max Verstappen slumped to 19th after a poor launch in his Red Bull. Ferrari's double podium keeps them competitive in Constructors', though drivers gripe about the wide, battery-focused 2026 cars limiting action.

News

YouTube News

Feature

YouTube is a global online video-sharing platform owned by Google. It is currently the second-most-visited website in the world.

Key Features and Services

Core Platform: Users can watch, upload, and share a vast array of content, including music videos, educational tutorials, and live streams.

YouTube Premium: A paid subscription that removes advertisements and enables background play and offline downloads.

YouTube Music: A dedicated service for streaming millions of songs and music videos.

YouTube TV: A streaming television service that provides live TV from major broadcast and cable networks.

YouTube Shorts: A feature for creating and viewing short-form vertical videos.

Recent Developments (2026)

Premium Lite Update: In early 2026, YouTube announced that Background Play and Downloads are being added to the Premium Lite subscription tier.

AI Integration: The YouTube Labs program is testing new AI features, such as Beyond the Beat (AI hosts for music) and VibeCheck (AI coaching for Shorts).

Economic Impact: By late 2025, YouTube's annual revenue exceeded US$60 billion, driven by both advertising and its growing subscription services.

News

Awards

X wins Media Man 'Platform Of The Month; Runner-ups: YouTube and LinkedIn

Netflix wins Media Man 'Streaming Service Of The Month' award

WWE wins Media Man 'Wrestling Promotion Of The Month' award

UFC wins Media Man 'Combat Sports Promotion Of The Month' award; Runner-up: MVP aka Most Valuable Promotions

Running Of The Bulls To Normal; Cryptos Hurting; All That Glitters ...

October 15/16, 2025

Sin City Sydney, Australia

ASX futures up 5 points/0.1%, at 9024

Wall Street:
S&P 500 +0.4%
Dow Jones: flat
Nasdaq +0.7%

Europe: Stoxx 50 +1%
FTSE -0.3%
DAX -0.2%
CAC +2%

Australian dollar: US65.06 cents

Bitcoin -1.6% to $US111,106

Gold +1.5% to $US4227.10 per ounce

Oil +0.1% to $US58.78 a barrel

Brent crude oil +0.1% to $US62.45 a barrel

Iron ore -0.3% to $US104.90 per ton

10-year yield:
US 4.03%
Australia 4.21%
Germany 2.57%

News Update: (Near Live)

Bitcoin:

New York/Wall St

Cryptos Today: (Near Live) Mood: Corrective! Salt Into The Wound In Checkers?! Or Salt Of The Earth In Metals Right Chess Move?! All That Glitters Not Digital Gold?!

Bitcoin $111,291.65 -1.77%
Ethereum $3,980.33 -3.44%
Tether $1.0005 -0.03%
Binance Coin $1,161.17 -3.98%
XRP $2.4129 -3.48%
Solana $194.13 -3.71%
TRON $0.3194 +0.85%
Dogecoin -$0.1961 -4.15%
Cardano $0.6677 -4.14%

Market corrective. Mood: Somber-like for many! Suspicious! Regaining smiles! Hardcores keep the dream!

Media Man Favs:

October 15, 2025 (Near Live)
Wall St, New York

TKO Group Holdings Inc $191.21 +1.18 +0.62%
NVIDIA Corp $179.83 -0.18 -0.099%
Formula One Group Series C $103.57 -0.15 -0.14%
Alphabet Inc Class A $251.03 +5.58 +2.27%
News Corp Class A $26.57 -0.070 -0.26%
Netflix Inc $1,203.29 -12.06 -0.99%
Caterpillar Inc $534.05 +6.58 +1.25%
Trump Media & Technology Group Corp $16.27
-0.010 -0.061%
Tesla Inc $435.15 +5.91 +1.38%
Walt Disney Co $111.71 +0.54 +0.49%
Wynn Resorts Ltd $118.07 +1.96 +1.69%
Meta Platforms Inc $717.55 +8.90 +1.26%
BHP Group Ltd $43.54
Mercedes Benz Group ADR $15.15 +0.040 +0.26%
Elders Ltd $7.50
Rio Tinto Ltd $129.69

News

The dollar prefers to stay within the range for now

The US dollar turned downward at the end of the day on Tuesday and continues to move downward in the first half of Wednesday. The dollar is being weighed down by the recovery of positive momentum in the stock markets. Pressure on the dollar can also be linked to Powell's latest comments yesterday evening. The Fed chairman confirmed the path to further rate cuts and said asset sales from the balance sheet could be halted soon, ending the quantitative tightening phase. To be cont ..

(FxPro)

News

The US stock market rebound may falter

US stock index futures are rising after a disastrous Friday, when Trump's aggressive response to China's tariffs shook the markets. The US president's announcements were carefully timed, with the most aggressive measures (additional 100% tariffs on Chinese goods) announced after the market closed.

Over the weekend, US and Chinese leaders appeared to reach out to each other, offering opportunities for further discussion and a deal. Market sentiment was close to extreme fear, with the Fear and Greed Index falling to 29 on Friday and recovering to 30 on Monday. These are the lowest values since the end of April, when the market was recovering from the “liberation day” effect on Trump's tariffs. In the last couple of years, this index has entered the extreme fear zone before we saw a reversal in the indices. This means that bears may exert another round of pressure on the markets. It is easy to link this to further toughening of mutual rhetoric between China and the US, albeit with the possibility of dialogue remaining open. In other words, in this case, it is worth talking about a decrease in the intensity of mutual recriminations, but not about a reversal in relations. From this, we can conclude that the risks that caused the markets to collapse on Friday remain. We also note that the S&P 500 is trading at a significant distance from its 200-week moving average, near which the market has ended its declines over the past 14 years since 2011, touching it or turning around within 2-5% of it. This contrasts sharply with the current situation, where the S&P 500 is almost 25% above this line. If we talk about a correction within a bull market, then the target for bears seems to be the 6100–6150 range, where the 50-week moving average and last winter's highs are concentrated. Movement in this direction looks like a viable strategy for the final quarter of the year, unless there is a real reversal in the rapprochement between China and the US, which we highly doubt. In addition, seasonal factors are also temporarily on the side of the bears, given the more than 40% growth from the lows of the year in early April, the suppressed volatility of the last month and a half, and the tendency to look for new patterns in the markets in the final months of the year. If that's not enough, add to this the fact that the economy is beginning to feel the effects of tariff wars and a deteriorating labour market, and AI is no longer a novelty. In these conditions, it will be increasingly difficult for traders to find reasons for local purchases. (FxPro)

News

Crypto market recovers from tariff shock

Market Overview

The crypto market capitalisation stood at $3.9 trillion on Monday, up 4.4% from the previous day but down 6% from pre-Friday crash levels. On Friday, the US stock market saw its biggest drop since April but recovered some of its losses on Monday. Since Sunday, the crypto market has been attempting to rebound after a sell-off that began as an emotional reaction to tariff initiatives by China and the US but escalated into massive margin calls and stop orders being triggered.

The sentiment index stood at 38 (fear) on Monday morning, down from 24 (extreme fear) the day before. The level of sentiment we saw over the weekend was last seen in April under similar circumstances — when tough trade tariffs were announced.

Bitcoin approached $115K on Monday, while Ethereum exceeded $4,200. Cryptocurrencies are recovering after Friday's sharp decline. The movement on Friday and in the early hours of Saturday swept the ‘weak hands’ out of the market, taking the price of BTC below the 50—and 200-day moving averages and below the August and September lows.

Such sweeping liquidations often set the bottom of the market, but it may take time for the wounds to heal. In 2020, 2021 and 2024, it took a couple of weeks for the rally to start, although the market did not rewrite the lows. But in 2022, the turnaround to growth after the crash began after about six months. Relying on these statistics is encouraging for bargain hunters in crypto. Still, it would be too hasty to say that the recovery will be just as quick and will begin immediately.

News Background

Wall Street crashed on Friday after US President Donald Trump escalated the trade conflict with China following Beijing's tightening of restrictions on trade in rare earth metals, Reuters reports. Cryptocurrencies and stock indices fell sharply on Friday. Some softening of tone from Trump and Xi has led to the probability of 100% tariffs against China by 1 November being estimated at 8% on Polymarket, down from 26% at the end of Friday. Santiment notes that bitcoin remains extremely sensitive to risk appetite and behaves more like a risky asset than a safe haven.

The Kobeissi Letter notes that the collapse of cryptocurrencies on 11 October will not have long-term fundamental consequences and was caused by a combination of technical factors. The market crash triggered a record cascade of liquidations worth $19.3 billion. Analyst Frank Fetter, citing technical indicators, said the cryptocurrency market is still far from overbought, which means there is still potential for the rally to continue.

News Flashback

Oil Holds Strong Despite Bearish Fundamentals

Weekly data from the EIA noted that the US returned to record oil production rates last week, supplying an average of 13.6 million barrels per day to the market, according to the latest EIA data. The trend towards increased supply began in August, but producers have only now returned to the peak levels recorded at the end of last year. Despite a 5.5-million-barrel increase in US commercial inventories over the past two weeks, inventories stay at the lower end of the range seen over the past decade, leaving considerable room for growth. The same can be said for the strategic reserve, which holds nearly 40% less oil than it did five years ago, before the start of the active sell-off. It is an interesting game in which, on the one hand, the US (the largest oil producer) is increasing supplies, while OPEC+ is increasing quotas on a monthly basis. This extremely bearish combination of factors did not cause oil prices to collapse; it was only because of global trade in currency depreciation that caused precious metals, stock indices, and cryptocurrencies to rise. Oil prices have not peaked in recent weeks .. To be cont .. (FxPro)

News

Gold hits new highs due to political turmoil

Gold is outside the realm of politics.

While currencies and securities depend on the actions of presidents and governments, precious metals do not. Therefore, political turmoil forces investors to use them as safe-haven assets.

The impressive 52% rally in gold started in April with the introduction of tariffs on America's Liberation Day. It continued due to the US government shutdown, the political crisis in France, and the change of leadership in Japan. he rise of gold above 4,000 dollars per ounce is not only the result of the weakness of fiat currencies. There are tectonic shifts in the structure of investment portfolios and fears of financial crises due to government recklessness.

The share of precious metals is growing both in speculators' assets and in the gold and foreign exchange reserves of central banks. The indicator has already exceeded the share of the euro. According to Eurizon Capital, if it equals the share of the US dollar, the price per ounce will soar to 8,500 dollars. The Supreme Court's abolition of tariffs will inflate the US budget deficit. France does not intend to reduce it, and Japan plans to increase bond issuance. All this creates a tailwind for commodity assets. (FxPro)

News

Politics remains the main driver of FX

The US government shutdown did not have a noticeable impact on the dollar's performance last week. However, it did help the stock market to grow slightly by strengthening expectations of monetary policy easing. However, these events pale in comparison to the change in Japan's ruling elite and the resignation of the French prime minister less than a day after the formation of the government in terms of their impact on the currency market. In Japan, Sanae Takaichi was chosen head of the Liberal Democratic Party over the weekend and is on track to become the country's first female prime minister. This event caused the yen to fall 2% to 150.49 from Friday's level before correcting to 149.80 at the time of writing. Takaichi is considered a supporter of aggressive government spending, structural reforms, and soft monetary policy, echoing the basic principles of Shinzo Abe. Overall, she has a more right-wing approach to national policy and is also a supporter of revising Japan's pacifist constitution. The market reaction clearly shows that they are considering Takaichi to be the new prime minister. If she does not change her political views (and she has softened them recently to win the party elections), we should be prepared for a further weakening of the yen, which reached its highest level since 1991 in the EURJPY pair, exceeding 176. However, the single currency is also facing uncertainty today due to a new political crisis in France. Prime Minister Lecornu, who had been trying to form a government for a month, resigned the day after he finally presented his new cabinet. His appointments drew criticism from both left-wing and right-wing allies. The EURUSD fell to 1.1650 at its lowest point on Monday, losing a full cent against Friday's levels. Unlike Japan, where a 2% drop in the JPY was accompanied by a 5% jump in the Nikkei225 index, France's CAC40 lost more than 2% intraday, paring its losses to 1.2% towards the end of the trading day in Europe. The EURUSD stopped its climb in July and has been hovering around 1.1700 all this time, not least because of the political crisis in France. Without it, the single currency would have had a much better chance of exploiting political divisions in the US to its advantage. It would be an exaggeration to call the situation in Japan and France a drama. Still, these events once again emphasise that as soon as the dollar's throne begin.

News

Pop Culture News

Dream Matches: Fantasy Booking/Sports; Media Man Group Dream Match Series; Crack The Code!

Million Dollar Man vs IRS
Michael Wall Street vs Billionaire Ted
Mr X vs Mr BTC
Mr Green vs Mr Cash
VKM vs Easy E
Vinnie Vegas vs Mr Corbin
Mr Corp Merch vs Mr Freelance
Masked Superstar vs John McAfee
Sid Justice vs Mr Blood Diamond
Mr Bluey Chipper vs Street Fighter - King Of The Streets Mr Dotcom vs Mr Wiki
Mr Gold vs Mr Green - Money In The Bank Ladder Match Khan vs Khan - Winner Take All Match
Mr Wolff vs The Cleaner
Mr News vs Mr Vice - U.S Market Footprint Stipulation Mr Paramount vs Mr Netflix
Mr ESPN vs Mr Fox
Mr Kross vs Mr H
Cesaro vs Rollins
Dirty Dom vs Mr AAA
Punks vs Egos
Kross vs H
Murdoch Title vs Title
Mr Black Coffee vs Mr Claudio's Cafe Blend
Mr Warner vs Mr Netflix: Broadway draw thus far! Re-match! Winner take all?!
TMZ vs Riddle UFC vs PFL
The Oracle vs Cincinnati, Ohio
Mr X vs Hollyweird
Succession vs Billions
Mouse House vs Art House
NFL vs UFL
ABC vs Mainstream Aussies
Reigns vs Blanka
Cody Rhodes vs Joe
E. Honda vs NJPW
Capcom vs Warner
Cena vs ACME
Combat Sports Players vs Father Time
NXT vs TNA Wrestling (Showdown, not Invasion)!
Alpha vs Meta
TED X vs The Others
WWE's Solo vs Western Australia
UFC Predator vs MMA Predator
Bulls vs Bears

News

Cryptocurrency Movies
Documentaries

The Rise and Rise of Bitcoin (2014)
Follows early Bitcoin adopter Daniel Mross, exploring Bitcoin’s origins, its volatile rise, and the community behind it. Great for understanding Bitcoin’s early days and its potential to disrupt finance.

Banking on Bitcoin (2016)
Examines Bitcoin’s history, ideological roots, and impact on global financial systems through interviews with pioneers and experts. A solid primer for newcomers.

Cryptopia: Bitcoin, Blockchains, and the Future of the Internet (2020)
Directed by Torsten Hoffmann, this documentary dives into blockchain’s broader applications beyond cryptocurrency, addressing scalability and regulatory challenges. Ideal for those interested in blockchain’s transformative potential.

Trust Machine: The Story of Blockchain (2018) Narrated by Rosario Dawson, it explores blockchain’s societal impact, from financial inclusion to voting systems. A comprehensive look at real-world applications.

Bitcoin: The End of Money as We Know It (2015)
Traces the history of money and introduces Bitcoin as a decentralized alternative, critiquing centralized financial systems. Features interviews with crypto experts.

Deep Web (2015) Narrated by Keanu Reeves, this documentary focuses on the Silk Road marketplace and its creator, Ross Ulbricht, highlighting Bitcoin’s role in dark web transactions.

Bitconned (2024) Explores the Centra Tech crypto scam, detailing how three individuals defrauded investors during the 2010s crypto boom. A cautionary tale about unregulated markets.

Feature Films

Crypto (2019)
A crime thriller starring Beau Knapp, Luke Hemsworth, and Kurt Russell. It follows a young anti-money laundering agent investigating corruption and cryptocurrency in his hometown. Critics note its exaggerated portrayal but praise its entertainment value.

Silk Road (2021)
A dramatization of Ross Ulbricht’s creation of the Silk Road, a dark web marketplace using Bitcoin. It explores his rise and fall, blending crime and drama.

Dope (2015) A coming-of-age comedy-drama featuring Bitcoin as a plot device. High schooler Malcolm uses Bitcoin for a dark web transaction, reflecting its early association with illicit activities.

Bonus Mentions

Life on Bitcoin (2014): Follows a couple attempting to live solely on Bitcoin for 100 days, showcasing early adoption challenges.

Bitcoin Heist (2016): A Vietnamese action-comedy about hackers chasing a crypto criminal, blending humor and thrills.

Notes Documentaries are generally more educational, focusing on Bitcoin’s history, blockchain technology, and real-world implications. They’re great for beginners and enthusiasts alike.

Feature films often dramatize crypto’s association with crime or scams, sometimes oversimplifying or exaggerating for effect. They prioritize entertainment over accuracy. For a deeper dive, check streaming platforms like Prime Video, Fandango at Home, or YouTube, where many of these are available.

News

Wall Street (Movie)
Wall Street (1987), directed by Oliver Stone, is a drama about ambition and greed in the 1980s financial world. It follows Bud Fox (Charlie Sheen), a young stockbroker desperate to succeed, who gets entangled with Gordon Gekko (Michael Douglas), a ruthless corporate raider. Gekko’s mantra, “Greed is good,” drives the story as Bud is lured into insider trading and unethical deals, compromising his morals for wealth and power.

The film explores themes of capitalism, loyalty, and betrayal, with Bud navigating pressures from Gekko, his father (Martin Sheen), and his own conscience.

Key Details: Cast: Michael Douglas (Gordon Gekko), Charlie Sheen (Bud Fox), Daryl Hannah (Darien Taylor), Martin Sheen (Carl Fox).
Runtime: 2h 6m.
Genre: Drama/Crime.
Rating: R. Box Office: ~$44 million (US).

Awards: Michael Douglas won the Academy Award for Best Actor.

Notable Aspects:

Gekko’s “Greed is good” speech is iconic, reflecting 1980s excess. Inspired by real-life figures like Ivan Boesky and Michael Milken.

A sequel, Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps (2010), continued the story.

Where to Watch (as of 2025):
Streaming: Available on platforms like Peacock or rentable on Amazon, YouTube, or Apple TV (check current availability).
Physical: DVD/Blu-ray via retailers like Amazon.

News Flashback

Gold, copper, & silver:

How metals are moving this year

Metal futures have made some pretty dramatic moves lately from safe haven gold to tariff sensitive copper. So let's take a look at the longer term trends. I'm Jared Blikre, host of Stocks in Translation. And I'm going to start by charting some of the moves in Dr. Copper because this is where we have the most zig and zags over the last 25 years. So this goes back to the beginning of the century and we can see right now, we're at $5.51 per pound. That is a record high. But if we go back to the beginning of the century, guess what? Uh we had a little bit of a slump in the wake of the dot com boom and then bust, but starting in 2003, we saw a big rise there. And that was as China actually joined the World Trade Organization or the WTO. That lasted into the global financial crisis. Then we had a pretty big bust in in Dr. Copper, and then we had another rise. And that rise was due to unprecedented stimulus, not only from the Chinese government, but also from the United States government, QE was in force, and then we saw kind of a strong dollar play. That weighed on this metal all the way into the beginning of 2016. The entire world, most of the world indices went through a bear market in 2015, and then 2016, we found the footing. And that was actually the year that Trump won, began his first presidency. And from there, we saw some zig and zags, and then we saw a shock into the pandemic. A couple of, a couple of years of deflation or a semi-deflation, disinflation, that caught up with it in 2022, but then it was off to the races again. And especially with the Trump tariffs now on copper, threatening to be threatening to be 50% on August 1st, we're seeing a lot of front running in this trade. Now, I also want to show you gold futures and I'm going to show you silver as well. And they follow a very similar pattern. We're not seeing the dramatic zig and zags that we did in copper, but we did see the same pattern of China joining the WTO, contributing to that huge rise in price to 1800, almost $2,000 an ounce by the beginning of the global financial crisis. So a little bit of a meltdown there. But in 2016 into 2018, we saw a bit of a rise into the pandemic, a little bit of a whipsaw there, and consolidation over a few years. Again, that 2022 bare market in US stocks that contributed to some deflation and disinflation globally, supply chain chain shocks came into force again, and then we saw this huge rise beginning in late 2023, and we are now at 3353. We've seen a high of as much as $3,500 per ounce. And gold is kind of unique among the precious metals and also the industrial metals, and this is because central banks have been a huge determining force in their buying of it. This is a bar chart that shows central bank buying in tons going back all the way to 2010. And what you notice here is the last three years, 2022, 2023, 2024, all of those had gold being bought by central banks of in the amount of over 1,000 tons. And so that's a pretty big dramatic increase from the prior years. And this has to do with the ongoing dedollarization in China, as well as Russia, but also a host of other countries, even some in western and eastern Europe. So this is a trend that we want to follow. Uh, I want to close out here with silver, and I'm going to just chart the price action. Again, very similar chart to gold and copper in terms of the big movements here. We saw a big price spike into almost $50 per ounce, and that was just as the global financial crisis was getting underway. And then the QE area in 2011, that's when we saw that high. Then we saw a dramatic, dramatic crash into 2016, kind of found its footing, saw a big squeeze in the early pandemic, 2020 was a great year for silver, but then we saw a little bit of a fallout. And again, silver is on the rise here at $38. It's still off of that $50 record high, but it is increasing very quickly. To round out the conversation, I want to just put on a table here. I have all three medals and just kind of grouping them together. I want to display how they are moving with their specific patterns with a trigger, and then to tell you which one of these is featured in these specific criteria. So here, under the pattern, we have acceleration. So that would be an economic acceleration. The trigger would be liquidity. And when that happens, we see all metals benefiting from that. And then when there's a safe haven scare, and that trigger would be a crisis of some sorts, you're going to see gold and silver outperforming the most, kind of leaving Dr. Copper behind. And then here's a bearish one, industrial drags, that affects copper disproportionately here, and the trigger there is typically a stronger US dollar because the US dollar surges when global global industrials tend to drag, and that's because the US is the least dirty shirt in the laundry basket of the world. And then finally here, we have a policy shock. This will affect all three medals, but especially copper and gold here. Um, arguably, the biggest reason is tariffs and debt, and we've seen both of those contribute to silver rising. So we could put all three in that basket as well. But when you put it all together, we have the perfect explosive mix for all three of these metals, including palladium and also platinum, which we didn't get to have time for, but all of these are experiencing huge thrust in 2025. And we'll have to see how these tariffs play out, especially on Dr. Copper with respect to that August 1st deadline. Remember, 50% there. So tune into Stocks in Translation for more jargon busting deep dives, new episodes on Tuesdays and Thursdays on Yahoo Finances website, or wherever you find your podcast. (Transcript from Yahoo! Finance podcast)

News

Best Quotes

An investment in knowledge pays the best interest." — Benjamin Franklin

"Bottoms in the investment world don't end with four-year lows; they end with 10- or 15-year lows." — Jim Rogers

Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy only when others are fearful." — Warren Buffett

Media Man "Bullish is a mindset"

Markets/Trades

September 22, 2025

New York, USA

MGM Resorts International $35.80 -0.14 -0.39%

Wynn Resorts Ltd $129.52 +0.84 +0.65%

Las Vegas Sands $53.87 +0.66 +1.24%

Boyd Gaming Corporation $83.30 Flat

Caesars Entertainment, Inc. $25.56 -0.84 -3.18%

Red Rock Resorts, Inc. $60.76 -0.23 -0.38%

Hilton Grand Vacations Inc. $44.53 -0.35 -0.78%

PENN Entertainment, Inc. $19.09 -0.12 -0.62%

Light & Wonder, Inc. $87.28 -0.94 -1.07%

News Bonus

NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) $176.60 +0.20% +0.36

News

MGM CEO says Dubai casino approval still pending as 2028 resort construction advances

MGM Resorts International has yet to receive approval to operate a casino at its upcoming $2.5 billion integrated resort in Dubai, CEO Bill Hornbuckle said, despite earlier expectations that a decision would have been made by now.

“I thought by now, Abu Dhabi would have ruled on what they were doing,” Hornbuckle said during a recent industry conference, referring to the anticipated regulatory green light. “There’s a lot of dialogue around that.”

The resort, currently under construction on a 25-acre artificial island near Jumeirah Beach and the Burj Al Arab, is being developed in partnership with the government-owned Wasl group. It will feature MGM Grand, Bellagio, and Aria-branded hotels, along with a 250,000-square-foot podium that has been purpose-built to accommodate a casino should regulatory conditions allow.

While a federal gaming regulator, the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), was established in recent years to oversee commercial gambling activities across the UAE, the final decision to authorize casino operations remains with the rulers of individual emirates.

Hornbuckle noted that the company is still waiting on an official directive from Dubai’s leadership. “We don’t have permission yet from the ruler of Dubai to go forward,” he said. “I don’t know when we’ll hear, but I do believe this ... If this gets a casino, and I believe it will over time, we think it’s a massive opportunity.”

MGM submitted its license application to the GCGRA in September 2024. Any future approval would likely involve both federal coordination and local consent. The GCGRA is currently chaired by Jim Murren, MGM’s former CEO.

Meanwhile, competition in the UAE's nascent casino sector is heating up. Wynn Resorts is preparing to open the country’s first casino at its upcoming property in Ras Al Khaimah.

Scheduled for a 2027 launch, the resort on Al Marjan Island will likely be the UAE’s only licensed casino at the time of opening, according to Wynn CEO Craig Billings. He said last month that he anticipates it will be “the first and only casino in the country.”

Wynn has also expanded its footprint in Ras Al Khaimah by acquiring an additional 70 acres of land, raising speculation of a potential second property in the emirate. Analysts estimate that the UAE gaming market could generate annual revenues of up to $8 billion, while Wynn has projected figures closer to $5 billion.

Despite Wynn’s confidence in securing a dominant position, sources cited by Arabian Gulf Business Insight suggest that other operators may eventually receive licenses, casting doubt on the prospect of a long-term monopoly.

News

Lead Up ...

Casino, Gaming and Hotel Stocks

Markets/Trades

September 16, 2025

New York, USA

MGM Resorts International $35.36 -0.28 -0.79%

Wynn Resorts Ltd $120.68 -2.17 -1.77%

Las Vegas Sands $51.86 -1.23 -2.32%

Boyd Gaming Corporation $82.15 -1.32 -1.58%

Caesars Entertainment, Inc. $25.58 -0.32 -1.24%

Red Rock Resorts, Inc. $59.71 -1.37 - 2.24%

Hilton Grand Vacations Inc. $45.45 -0.100 -0.22%

PENN Entertainment, Inc. $18.92 +0.090 +0.48%

Light & Wonder, Inc. $88.69 -1.74 -1.92%

News Bonus

NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) $174.84 -2.91 -1.64%

Lead Up

24 hours ago approx

Markets/Trades

September 15, 2025

New York, USA

MGM Resorts International $35.64 +1.09 Today +3.15%

Wynn Resorts Ltd $122.85 +1.40 Today +1.15%

Las Vegas Sands $53.09 -0.41 -0.77%

Boyd Gaming Corporation 83.47-1.03 -1.22%

Caesars Entertainment, Inc. 25.90 +0.81 +3.23%

Red Rock Resorts, Inc. 61.08 -0.01 -0.02%

Hilton Grand Vacations Inc. 45.55 +0.34+ 0.75%

PENN Entertainment, Inc. 18.83 -0.78 -3.98%

Light & Wonder, Inc. 90.43 +1.36 + 1.53%

News Bonus

NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) 177.75 -0.07 -0.04%

Entertainment, Pop Culture And Streaming News

September 2025

September 17

1. Hollywood Legend Robert Redford Passes Away at 89.
Academy Award-winning actor, director, and activist Robert Redford died on September 16, 2025, at the age of 89. Known for iconic roles in films like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting, and All the President's Men, as well as founding the Sundance Film Festival, Redford was celebrated for his deep commitment to environmental causes and Native American rights. Tributes are pouring in from across the industry, highlighting his enduring legacy in cinema and activism.

2. Sean Astin Elected President of SAG-AFTRA Actor Sean Astin, best known for The Lord of the Rings trilogy and Stranger Things, has been elected as the new president of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA).
The union, representing tens of thousands of performers and media professionals, announced the leadership change amid ongoing discussions about AI's impact on the industry. Astin's win signals a focus on protecting artists' rights in an evolving entertainment landscape.

3. Broadway Revival: Starry Cast for 'Art' The Tony Award-winning play Art is returning to Broadway in a fresh revival featuring a high-profile cast.
Directed by Scott Ellis, the production explores themes of friendship and aesthetics through abstract art, promising to draw crowds with its witty dialogue and ensemble performances. Previews begin soon, marking a highlight in the fall theater season.

4. 'Demon Slayer' Breaks Box Office Records
The latest installment in the Demon Slayer anime franchise has shattered global box office records, becoming one of the highest-grossing animated films of all time. Fans are celebrating the milestone, with the film's stunning animation and emotional storytelling credited for its success. This comes amid growing international acclaim for Japanese anime in mainstream entertainment.

5. AI Copyright Lawsuit Rocks Entertainment Industry
An AI company faces a major lawsuit for alleged copyright infringement in generating content, spotlighting the escalating tensions between technology and creative industries. Entertainment giants are increasingly vocal about protecting intellectual property as AI tools become more integrated into film, music, and TV production. This case could set precedents for future regulations.

Streaming Spotlight: Netflix's September 2025 Lineup

Netflix is dropping a slew of must-watch titles this month, blending reboots, originals, and classics.

Highlights include:Wednesday Season 2 (Part 2): The Addams Family spin-off continues with more gothic mystery and Jenna Ortega's sharp wit.

Charlie Sheen Docuseries: A two-part deep dive into the actor's career highs, lows, and redemption arc.

Black Rabbit: A star-studded crime drama featuring Jude Law and Jason Bateman.

House of Guinness: A lavish period drama from the Peaky Blinders creator.

New Movies: Additions like 10 Things I Hate About You, The Amazing Spider-Man duology, Bridesmaids, and the zombie thriller 28 Years Later (streaming September 20 in the US).

Other OTT platforms are also heating up:

ETV Win: Telugu short drama Forever premieres on September 21.

Disney+: Live-action remakes and sequels, including a billion-dollar grosser from earlier this year.

HBO Max: Indie films Friendship and Warfare for prestige viewing.

Other Buzzworthy Updates

Music Milestone: Andrea Bocelli directed and performed at a historic concert in the Vatican, blending opera with sacred spaces.

Gaming & Anime Events: The Origin Summit features entertainment titans like BLACKPINK's label CEO and BTS/HYBE execs discussing AI, blockchain, and the $80T IP market.

TV Premieres: Fall lineup includes The Morning Show Season 4, Stranger Things updates, and new series like Chad Powers and Boston Blue.

Theater & Events: FirstBank sponsors the Calabar Entertainment Conference in Nigeria, focusing on African media growth.

In Japan, the live-action 5 Centimeters per Second film held its completion screening with stars like Hokuto Matsumura and Mitsuki Takahata. (Grok)

News

Movie Box Office (North America)

September 14, 2025

1. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Movie: Infinity Castle - $70m
2. The Conjuring: Last Rites - $26.1m
3. Downtown Abbey: The Grand Finale - $18.1m
4. The Long Walk - $11.4m
5. Toy Story - $3.5m
6. Weapons - $2.7m
7. Hamilton - $2.2m
8. Freakier Friday - $2.1m
9. Spinal Tap II - $1.7m
10. The Sound of Music - $1.6m

News

September 2025

September 15

Netflix News

Media Man: The List!

Movies: Top 10 (Australia)

1. The Wrong Paris
2. No Hard Feelings
3. aka Charlie Sheen
4. K-POP Demon Hunters
5. Unknown Number: The High School Catfish
6. The Little Things
7. Love Hurts
8. Force Of Nature: The Dry 2
9. Saiyaara
10. K-POP Demon Hunters Sing-Along

Highly Recommended:

The Beekeeper
The Running Man
Ali
Dune: Part Two
The Expendables
War
The Legend Of Baron To'a
Here Comes The Boom
Total Recall
The Mask Of Zorro
Edge Of Tomorrow
Moneyball
Happy Gilmore 2
Knives Out
Good Will Hunting
The Old Guard 2
American Made
The Dry
Gladiator
Dennis The Menace
The Fate Of The Furious
Battleship
K.O
The Legend Of Tarzan

Most Anticipated:

WWE Wrestlepalooza
WWE SmackDown
NXT Homecoming
WWE RAW
Matchroom: The Greatest Showmen

Media Man: What a month on Netflix!

September 15, 2025

Sydney, Australia

Markets

ASX futures down 59 points/0.7% to 8804
Wall Street:
S&P 500 -0.1%
Dow Jones -0.6%
Nasdaq +0.4%
Europe:
Stoxx 50 +0.1%
FTSE -0.2%
DAX flat
CAC flat

Bitcoin -0.1% to $US115,849

Gold +0.3% to $US3643.14 per ounce
Oil +0.5% to $US62.69 a barrel
Brent crude oil +0.9% to $US66.99 a barrel
Iron ore +0.4% to $US105.90 per ton
10-year yield:
US 4.06%
Australia 4.21%
Germany 2.71%

News

Cryptos Today: (Near Live)

Bitcoin $116,036.73 USD +0.28%
Ethereum $4,624.75 USD -0.60%
Tether $0.9998 USD +0.14%
XRP $3.04 USD -2.20%
BNB $933.05 USD +0.18%
Solana $243.15 USD +1.40%
TRON $0.3491 USD +0.06%
Dogecoin $0.2799 USD -3.15%

Market Cautious, Mood/vibe rising!

August 2025

AC casinos turn a profit in 2nd quarter

New Jersey

Atlantic City casinos were more profitable in the second quarter of this year, with gross operating profits of $179.8 million, up 5.9%. Six of the nine casinos saw their profits decline from what they were in the second quarter last year … Borgata had an operating profit of $63.0 million, up 16%. Hard Rock had a $33.3 million profit, down 6.1%. Ocean Casino had $26.8 million, up nearly 67.9%; Tropicana $14.8 million, down 35.4%, and Caesars had a $12.6 million, down 13.9%. Harrah’s had $11.8 million profit, down 24.5%; Resorts $9.8 million…The Golden Nugget $5.1 million profit, down 20.1%; and Bally’s $2.3 million, down 14.7%.

News

Labor Day weekend to bring traffic congestion

Nevada (Las Vegas)

Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end of summer and with it droves of visitors will jam Interstate 15 between Las Vegas and Southern California for one last hurrah of the season. Higher than normal traffic volume on I-15 northbound from Southern California into Southern Nevada should be expected Friday as Californians make their way into the area for the long weekend. Las Vegas is among the top Labor Day destinations, according to AAA…Gas prices remain cheaper than last year.

News

Powerball jackpot climbs to estimated $750 million

Lottery

The Powerball jackpot is expected to climb to $750 million for Monday's drawing, a prize that ranks as the 10th largest in the lottery's history. Monday's drawing has an estimated cash value of $338.6 million.

News

Government collects US$1 billion in gaming tax revenue in July

Asia (Macau)

The Macau government’s revenue from gaming taxes in July was approximately $1.01 billion…For the first seven months of the year combined, the government’s revenue from gaming taxes reached $6.64 billion, up 3.4%. Total government revenue for the period was $7.87 billion, with gaming tax accounting for 86.3% of the total.

News

Grand Prix-related construction to start Sept. 8

Nevada (Las Vegas)

Road work for the Las Vegas Grand Prix circuit will begin the week of Sept. 8, organizers said. The 11-week project aims to minimize disruption to the Las Vegas Strip…The 3.8-mile circuit winds through the heart of Las Vegas, incorporating major thoroughfares including Las Vegas Boulevard, Koval Lane, and Harmon and Sands avenues. Crews will also work on Flamingo Road, Audrie Street, Winnick Avenue and Rochelle Avenue.

News

Casino News/Pop Culture/Culture/Entertainment

Casino: def

1. a building or room used for social amusements; specifically : one used for gambling.

2. or less commonly casino : a card game in which cards are won.

News

Gambling Den: def

Definitions of gambling den. noun. a public building in which a variety of games of chance can be played (operated as a business) synonyms: gambling hell, gambling house, gaming house.

News

Gaming Flashback

Brand Spotlight

UFC Slot Game

The UFC Slot Game has garnered attention for blending the excitement of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) with the thrill of casino gaming. Here's an overview based on recent developments and reviews:

Development and Release: Games Global, in partnership with UFC, has announced plans to produce UFC-themed slot titles. The first game in this series, "UFC Gold Blitz Extreme," was developed by Fortune Factory Studios and launched globally on July 25, 2024, following an exclusive soft launch in May. This signifies a three-year exclusive partnership aimed at creating unique, UFC-branded digital slots for fans worldwide.

Game Features: "UFC Gold Blitz Extreme" includes several engaging features such as:

Cash Collect and Gold Blitz features which can award one of four jackpots.

Wild symbols for increased winning chances, and a free spins round with a progressive multiplier.

The game's RTP is approximately 96.25%, offering high volatility for those seeking significant wins.

Thematic Elements: The slots feature UFC fighters like Conor McGregor, Jon Jones, Zhang Weili, and Amanda Nunes, bringing the intensity of the Octagon into the gaming experience. The incorporation of fighter likenesses and MMA symbols ensures an immersive experience for fans.

Availability: These games are intended to be accessible through local betting platforms in regions where iGaming is regulated. In the U.S., these include states like Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania.

Fan Engagement: The partnership between Games Global and UFC is seen as a strategic move to engage UFC's extensive fanbase, which numbers over 700 million globally, through innovative gaming experiences.

Previous UFC Slot Games: Before this latest collaboration, Endemol Games had also created an official UFC slot game, featuring real-life images of UFC fighters and exclusive UFC fight footage, emphasizing the popularity of such themed slots among fans.

These developments highlight a growing trend of integrating popular sports themes into casino games, offering fans new ways to interact with their favorite sports outside of live events. (Grok)

News

WWE Slot Game

Several WWE-themed slot games are available online, offering wrestling fans an exciting gaming experience with familiar characters and themes. Here are some notable options based on current information:

WWE Legends: Link & Win

Developer: All41 Studios and Microgaming Features: A 5-reel, 25-payline slot with high volatility and a 96.4% RTP. It includes iconic WWE stars like Stone Cold Steve Austin, Eddie Guerrero, Macho Man Randy Savage, and Booker T. Key features include the Link & Win respin round triggered by 6+ coin symbols, offering multipliers, jackpots (Mini: 50x, Minor: 100x, Major: 1,000x), and special features. Free spins with giant 3x3 symbols on the middle reels and an optional HyperSpins feature for respinning individual reels enhance gameplay.

Videos of wrestlers’ signature moves accompany wins, adding nostalgia.

Betting Range: $0.10 to $20 per spin, suitable for casual players but potentially limiting for high rollers.

Maximum win is 20,000x your wager.

Availability: Playable on desktop and mobile at casinos like PartyCasino and Genting Casino. A demo version is available at Casino Guru for free play.

WWE Clash of the Wilds

Developer: All41 Studios

Features: A 5-reel, 3-row slot with 40 paylines, medium to high volatility, and a 96% RTP.

It features current WWE stars like John Cena, Charlotte Flair, Roman Reigns, and Bianca Belair. The wild symbol (a championship belt) substitutes for other symbols and can trigger free spins with features like wild blocks, multipliers, nudging wilds, sticky wilds, or a ladder match, depending on the reel.

Potential wins reach up to 10,000x your bet. Betting Range: Minimum bet of $0.20, maximum of $25.

Payment options include debit/credit cards, e-wallets like PayPal, and Bitcoin.

Availability: Available at VegasSlotsOnline and Prime Slots, with over 16,000 free games offered on the former.

Other Wrestling-Themed Slots

Lucha Legends: A Microgaming slot with a lucha libre theme, featuring 5 reels, 25 paylines, and Super Wilds with 2x or 3x multipliers.

It includes luchadors like Burro and Martio, with a Power Up Mode for enhanced wins.

Hulkamania: Based on Hulk Hogan, this slot offers bonus games like Big Fight and Arm Wrestling, triggered by championship belts or arm-wrestling symbols.

Andre the Giant: A 5-reel, 25-payline slot celebrating the wrestling legend, also by Microgaming.

Where to Play:

Free Play: Sites like VegasSlotsOnline and Casino Guru offer demo modes for WWE Clash of the Wilds and WWE Legends, respectively, requiring no download.

Real Money: Trusted casinos like Genting Casino, PartyCasino and Prime Slots provide these games with bonuses (e.g., deposit matches up to $50-$100).

Always check for free credit offers or no-deposit bonuses to try games risk-free.

E-Wallets: Many platforms support secure payments via e-wallets (e.g., PayPal, Skrill) for fast, encrypted transactions.

Tips:

Check the RTP and volatility to match your risk preference (e.g., high volatility for bigger but less frequent wins).

Explore free demos to understand gameplay before betting real money.

Look for casino promotions, but review wagering requirements (e.g., 30x-60x bonus amount).

For the best experience, visit reputable sites like those mentioned or check Microgaming’s recommended casinos for secure gameplay.

News

Best Quotes (Media Man Group)

"Everything is a gamble"

"Spin to win"

"Bet with your head, not over it"

News

Casino News Flashback: Las Vegas

Economic Challenges: Las Vegas is facing a tourism slump, with hotel occupancy dropping nearly 15% in June and 17% in early July 2025 compared to last year, the steepest decline among major U.S. tourism markets. Hotel revenue per room (RevPAR) fell 29% to $102.75, and 13.2% fewer international travelers visited in June. This has led to layoffs, particularly among casino dealers, with resorts like Fontainebleau and Resorts World cutting staff due to reduced foot traffic. Automation, such as electronic table games, is also reducing the need for dealers, impacting job stability in the industry.

Hard Rock Las Vegas Progress: The transformation of The Mirage into Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas and Guitar Hotel Las Vegas is on track for a late 2027 opening. Construction began after The Mirage closed on July 17, 2024, with the project staying on budget despite economic uncertainties. The development has expanded, adding more rooms (675 total), a 50% larger pool complex, and two spas.

Tropicana Demolition: The Tropicana’s hotel towers are set to be imploded in early October 2025 to make way for a planned Oakland Athletics ballpark, driving up room rates at nearby properties.

Treasure Island Partnership: Treasure Island has partnered with Accor, a major hospitality company, to join its Handwritten Collection later in 2025. This makes TI the largest Accor-affiliate hotel globally and its first in Las Vegas, leveraging Accor’s marketing and loyalty programs.

UNO Social Club: Palms Casino Resort opened the first-ever UNO Social Club in July 2025, a promotional event featuring themed rooms and exclusive game variants. While not a gambling venue, it’s a unique attraction, with more clubs planned nationwide.

Crime and Fraud Incidents: A former NBA player, Marcus Morris Sr., was arrested for allegedly defrauding Strip casinos of over $250K, facing charges of writing bad checks. Separately, Gilbert Arenas and five others were charged with running illegal high-stakes poker games in Las Vegas.

Jackpot Wins: A woman hit a nearly $600K jackpot on a $5 bet at a Las Vegas slot machine, and a couple won $1.1M at Palms Casino during a food truck convention.

New Developments and Renovations: The Rio is undergoing a major renovation to become “an icon reborn,” led by executive Patrick Miller. The Suncoast is adding a state-of-the-art bingo room, part of a broader renovation set to finish in Q1 2026. M Resort in Henderson unveiled the first phase of a $206M expansion.

Tax Concerns: Casino owner Derek Stevens criticized the new “Big Beautiful Bill,” arguing it will hurt Las Vegas resorts, reduce tourism, and cost local jobs. (Grok)

Best Quotes Of The Day

"The house always wins"

August 11, 2025

Sydney, Australia

Markets

ASX futures up 5 points or 0.1% to 8768

Australian dollar at 65.24 US cents

Wall Street:
S&P 500 +0.8%
Dow Jones +0.5%
Nasdaq +1%

Europe:
Stoxx 50 +0.3%
FTSE -0.1%
DAX -0.1%
CAC +0.4%

Bitcoin +1.2% to $US118,168

Gold flat at $US3397.75 per ounce
Oil flat at $US63.88 a barrel
Brent crude oil +0.2% to $US66.59 a barrel
Iron ore -0.2% to $US102.05 per ton

10-year yield:
US 4.28%
Australia 4.24%
Germany 2.69%

News

Cryptos Today: (Near Live)

Bitcoin $118,766.62 USD +2.25%
Ethereum $4,233.35 USD -0.37%
Tether $0.999 USD -0.01%
XRP $3.17 USD -1.31%
BNB $802.27 USD +0.79%

News

Summer Break for the Crypto Market

Market Overview

The cryptocurrency market began August with a relatively narrow range of $3.6-3.8 trillion, ending Wednesday at $3.72 trillion. The support received in the area of previous peaks set in December and January suggests that this is a temporary pause to lock in profits and gain liquidity before a new surge. At the same time, however, such sluggishness is turning away the most active traders, who are used to seeing multiple rallies. Now they have moved on to very small projects.

On Tuesday, Bitcoin was again approaching its 50-day moving average. Such frequent testing of the medium-term trend signal line indicates accumulated fatigue in the first cryptocurrency. For comparison, the crypto market's total capitalisation is still moving significantly above its 50-day average, which is currently around $3.57 trillion.

News Background

Institutional investors are actively buying up Ethereum, while retail traders remain on the sidelines. SharpLink bought 83,561 ETH ($264.5 million) last week at an average price of $3,634. The company's reserves amount to almost 522,000 ETH (~$1.9 billion). However, Bitmine Immersion Tech remains the leader, with 833 coins worth over $3 billion. A total of 64 corporations now own 2.96 million ETH ($10.81 billion) or 2.45% of the total Ethereum supply.

Large companies continue to buy Bitcoin, adding 26,700 BTC to their reserves in July. Strategy bought 21,021 BTC for $2.46 billion last week. According to BitcoinTreasuries, public and private companies now hold 1.35 million BTC ($155 billion) on their balance sheets — more than 6% of the total digital gold supply.

US regulators have proposed new rules for the crypto industry. The CFTC has launched an initiative to legalise spot trading of cryptocurrencies on registered exchanges, and the SEC has updated its guidance on stablecoin accounting rules.

USDe from Ethena Labs has become the third-largest stablecoin. Since mid-July, its capitalisation has grown by 75% to $9.5 billion. Demand for the asset may have been spurred by high yields ranging from 10% to 19% per annum. The total capitalisation of all stablecoins has been growing for the seventh month in a row and is approaching $275 billion. (FxPro)

News

S&P500’s buy-the-dip sentiment helped Bitcoin

The sell-off of Bitcoin following Congress's passage of a law regulating the circulation of stablecoins and the retreat of US stock indices from record highs allowed Bitcoin bears to push prices below the lower boundary of the $116k—$120k consolidation range. When it looked like a severe correction was coming, US stocks stepped in again. Investors bought up the S&P 500 dip, and Bitcoin immediately bounced back.

Changes in global risk appetite continue to be the main driver of cryptocurrency prices. July saw a series of record highs for the S&P 500, making it a successful month for Bitcoin. Meanwhile, Bitcoin-focused ETFs attracted $6 billion, the third-best result in the history of specialised exchange-traded funds. Ether ETFs were not far behind, with a record inflow of $5.4 billion.

The situation changed dramatically at the turn of July and August. Interest in digital assets began to cool. Coinbase's Bitcoin premium fell into the red for the first time since May, indicating a decline in demand from US investors. Open interest in Bitcoin and Ether futures contracts fell by 13% and 21%, respectively, compared to Bitcoin's record high. According to Coinglass, on the last day of July, $800 million in long positions across all cryptocurrencies were liquidated.

Speculators doubt the rally's continuation, while crypto treasuries are buying Bitcoin under any conditions. On pullbacks or at market prices, ‘Strategy’ acquired more than 21,000 coins worth $2.46 billion during the week of July 28th to August 3rd. This is the third-largest cryptocurrency purchase by Michael Saylor's company since records began. The average price is the second highest in history. As a result, Strategy's reserves have grown to more than $71 billion.

The future dynamics of Bitcoin will depend on the fate of US stock indices and capital flows into ETFs. If the S&P 500's successes are temporary, Bitcoin will be forced to undergo a deep correction. If its quotes remain below the middle of the previous consolidation range of $116k—$120k, the bears are in control.

News

Bitcoin tests support at 50-day MA

Market Picture

The crypto market rolled back at the end of last week following a reduction in risk appetite in the financial markets. However, on Sunday, sentiment changed with the return of active buyers near the total capitalisation of $3.60 trillion. At the time of writing, the market is at $3.73 trillion (+3.6%). Less than 10% of the top 100 coins show gains over 7 days, among which the largest are TRON (+2.2%) and TON (+4.5%).

The crypto market sentiment index fell to 53 by Sunday morning, a six-week low, but recovered to 64 on Monday, reflecting a resurgence of bullish sentiment. However, another impressive upward move will be needed to confirm a local victory for the bulls.

On Saturday and Sunday, Bitcoin received support from buyers on declines below $112K near the 50-day moving average - the fourth touch of this curve since April. On the “buy the dip” sentiment, the first cryptocurrency recovered to $115K on Monday morning. The rebound from support is a bullish signal for the next couple of days, but the fact that it has been tested frequently raises concerns for the medium term. News Background

According to SoSoValue, net outflows from spot Bitcoin ETFs in the US amounted to $812.3 million on August 1, the highest since February 25. As a result, the weekly outflow from BTC ETFs amounted to $643 million, a record high for the past 16 weeks.

The net outflow from spot Ethereum ETFs in the US on Friday amounted to $152.3 million. However, inflows in the previous days of the week managed to keep the indicator in positive territory (+$154.3 million). The positive trend has continued for 12 consecutive weeks.

Analyst Ali Martinez says that over the past two days, Bitcoin whales have bought 30,000 BTC. According to Santiment, over the past four months, whales with balances ranging from 10 to 10,000 BTC have accumulated 0.9% of the total coin supply.

According to The Block, trading volume on centralised crypto exchanges exceeded $1.7 trillion in July (the highest since February 2025), and trading volume on decentralised exchanges (DEX) also reached its highest level since January.

Galaxy Digital warned of risks in the public company sector, which accumulates cryptocurrencies by issuing shares. The model creates systemic vulnerability and could lead to a cascade collapse.

US SEC Chairman Paul Atkins announced Project Crypto. The project’s key objective is to establish clear rules for cryptocurrencies and turn the US into the “world’s crypto capital.” (FxPro)

News Flashback

Three blows to oil in three days

Oil has been under triple pressure since the end of last week, losing more than 7% per barrel of WTI since 31 July, reaching the important psychological level of $65.

The latest wave of oil sell-offs began with the realisation that US trade tariffs from August will be higher than initially expected, as higher tariffs are associated with an economic slowdown and weaker demand for energy. Fears of an economic slowdown intensified after the release of unexpectedly weak US employment data on Friday. Over the weekend, concerns were heightened by OPEC+'s increase in production quotas, which was reflected in the markets on Monday.

After its latest meeting, OPEC+ announced that it would increase production quotas for eight countries by 547,000 barrels per day starting in September.

Considering the quota increases since April, the entire voluntarily reduced volume of 2.2 million barrels per day will return to the market. This is a rather bold decision, given the growing fear that the global economy is slowing down.

Some link such steps by the cartel to the risks of supply disruptions due to potential sanctions from the US and the EU. In our opinion, it is also worth considering the cartel's intention to regain its market share from the US in this way.

Oil producers in the US are very sensitive to price, sharply cutting investment when prices fall. At the beginning of April, there were 489 oil rigs in operation, but according to data published on Friday, this number has fallen to 410. In the long term, a gradual increase in production efficiency should be considered, but at intervals of six months, it is unlikely that there will be any sharp progress. Therefore, we can expect some US production reduction and a gradual recovery in the share of traditional oil producers such as Saudi Arabia, Russia and the UAE.

The price of WTI crude oil, which rose to close to $70 at its peak last week, has returned to the lower end of the range since early June at $65. Closing the day below 66 will mark a failure below the 200- and 50-day moving averages, increasing the potential for further declines.

If OPEC+ really plans to increase its share of the oil market, it may not oppose further price declines. The intensification of negative trends in the global and US economies could bring the price back to this year's lows of $55 by the end of September and to the lower end of the downward corridor of $50 by the end of the year. However, further trends will depend heavily on the reaction of monetary authorities and oil producers. (FxPro)

News Flashback

July 29, 2025

Ethereum continues attempt to climb above $4,000

Market Picture

The crypto market lost 1%, falling back to a capitalisation of $3.9 trillion. This was a natural pullback against the backdrop of the dollar's impressive strengthening the day before. However, on Tuesday, the bulls were back in charge, bringing the market back to a level above Monday's opening but not yet reaching its peak.

Bitcoin is trading near $118.7K, unable to break through the resistance at $120K. This indecision to break out of the range is likely to continue until the market sees the Fed's key rate decision on Wednesday evening.

Ethereum rose to $3,930 at the end of the day, fell back to $3,700 on Monday, where it found interest from new buyers and rose to $3,830 at the time of writing. The last seven days have seen a fairly sharp upward trend, and if this trend continues, the price will rise above 4,000 by the end of this week.

News Background

According to CoinShares, global investment inflows into crypto funds last week amounted to $1.908 billion. Investments in Ethereum increased by $1.595 billion, Solana by a significant $312 million, XRP by $190 million, and Sui by $8 million. Investments in Bitcoin decreased by $175 million.

Japan's Metaplanet announced the acquisition of 780 BTC ($92.5 million) at an average price of $118,600. The company's total reserves now amount to 17,132 BTC, worth over $2 billion.

According to Blockware, Bitcoin will no longer show ‘parabolic’ rallies or ‘devastating’ bear cycles, as institutional investors have changed the market dynamics and reduced volatility.

According to Strategic ETH Reserve, the volume of the second cryptocurrency on the balance sheets of public companies has reached 2.32 million ETH (~$9.11 billion) — 1.92% of the total Ethereum supply. Bitmine Immersion Tech, associated with Fundstrat founder Tom Lee, pursues the most aggressive strategy. The company has ~566,800 ETH ($2.23 billion) on its balance sheet.

BNB, the fifth-largest cryptocurrency by capitalisation, updated its historical high above $860 on Monday. Against this background, Binance founder Changpeng Zhao's estimated fortune exceeded $76 billion. According to Forbes, Zhao owns 64% of the BNB supply — about 89.1 million tokens. (FxPro)

News

Pop Culture News

Dream Matches: Fantasy Booking/Sports; Media Man Group Dream Match Series

Million Dollar Man vs IRS
Michael Wall Street vs Billionaire Ted
Mr X vs Mr BTC
Mr Green vs Mr Cash
VKM vs Easy E
Vinnie Vegas vs Mr Corbin
Mr Corp Merch vs Mr Freelance
Masked Superstar vs John McAfee
Sid Justice vs Mr Blood Diamond
Mr Bluey Chipper vs Street Fighter - King Of The Street Stipulation
Mr Dotcom vs Mr Wiki
Mr Gold vs Mr Green - Money In The Bank Ladder Match
Khan vs Khan - Winner Take All Match
Mr Wolff vs The Cleaner
Mr News vs Mr Vice - U.S Market Footprint Stipulation

News

Cryptocurrency Movies
Documentaries

The Rise and Rise of Bitcoin (2014) Follows early Bitcoin adopter Daniel Mross, exploring Bitcoin’s origins, its volatile rise, and the community behind it. Great for understanding Bitcoin’s early days and its potential to disrupt finance.

Banking on Bitcoin (2016) Examines Bitcoin’s history, ideological roots, and impact on global financial systems through interviews with pioneers and experts. A solid primer for newcomers.

Cryptopia: Bitcoin, Blockchains, and the Future of the Internet (2020)

Directed by Torsten Hoffmann, this documentary dives into blockchain’s broader applications beyond cryptocurrency, addressing scalability and regulatory challenges. Ideal for those interested in blockchain’s transformative potential.

Trust Machine: The Story of Blockchain (2018) Narrated by Rosario Dawson, it explores blockchain’s societal impact, from financial inclusion to voting systems. A comprehensive look at real-world applications.

Bitcoin: The End of Money as We Know It (2015) Traces the history of money and introduces Bitcoin as a decentralized alternative, critiquing centralized financial systems. Features interviews with crypto experts.

Deep Web (2015) Narrated by Keanu Reeves, this documentary focuses on the Silk Road marketplace and its creator, Ross Ulbricht, highlighting Bitcoin’s role in dark web transactions.

Bitconned (2024) Explores the Centra Tech crypto scam, detailing how three individuals defrauded investors during the 2010s crypto boom. A cautionary tale about unregulated markets.

Feature Films

Crypto (2019) A crime thriller starring Beau Knapp, Luke Hemsworth, and Kurt Russell. It follows a young anti-money laundering agent investigating corruption and cryptocurrency in his hometown. Critics note its exaggerated portrayal but praise its entertainment value.

Silk Road (2021) A dramatization of Ross Ulbricht’s creation of the Silk Road, a dark web marketplace using Bitcoin. It explores his rise and fall, blending crime and drama.

Dope (2015) A coming-of-age comedy-drama featuring Bitcoin as a plot device. High schooler Malcolm uses Bitcoin for a dark web transaction, reflecting its early association with illicit activities.

Bonus Mentions

Life on Bitcoin (2014): Follows a couple attempting to live solely on Bitcoin for 100 days, showcasing early adoption challenges.

Bitcoin Heist (2016): A Vietnamese action-comedy about hackers chasing a crypto criminal, blending humor and thrills.

Notes

Documentaries are generally more educational, focusing on Bitcoin’s history, blockchain technology, and real-world implications. They’re great for beginners and enthusiasts alike.

Feature films often dramatize crypto’s association with crime or scams, sometimes oversimplifying or exaggerating for effect. They prioritize entertainment over accuracy.

For a deeper dive, check streaming platforms like Prime Video, Fandango at Home, or YouTube, where many of these are available.

News

Wall Street (Movie)

Wall Street (1987), directed by Oliver Stone, is a drama about ambition and greed in the 1980s financial world. It follows Bud Fox (Charlie Sheen), a young stockbroker desperate to succeed, who gets entangled with Gordon Gekko (Michael Douglas), a ruthless corporate raider. Gekko’s mantra, “Greed is good,” drives the story as Bud is lured into insider trading and unethical deals, compromising his morals for wealth and power. The film explores themes of capitalism, loyalty, and betrayal, with Bud navigating pressures from Gekko, his father (Martin Sheen), and his own conscience.

Key Details:

Cast: Michael Douglas (Gordon Gekko), Charlie Sheen (Bud Fox), Daryl Hannah (Darien Taylor), Martin Sheen (Carl Fox). Runtime: 2h 6m. Genre: Drama/Crime. Rating: R. Box Office: ~$44 million (US).

Awards: Michael Douglas won the Academy Award for Best Actor.

Notable Aspects:

Gekko’s “Greed is good” speech is iconic, reflecting 1980s excess.

Inspired by real-life figures like Ivan Boesky and Michael Milken.

A sequel, Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps (2010), continued the story.

Where to Watch (as of 2025):

Streaming: Available on platforms like Peacock or rentable on Amazon, YouTube, or Apple TV (check current availability). Physical: DVD/Blu-ray via retailers like Amazon.

News

Gold, copper, & silver: How metals are moving this year

Metal futures have made some pretty dramatic moves lately from safe haven gold to tariff sensitive copper. So let's take a look at the longer term trends. I'm Jared Blikre, host of Stocks in Translation. And I'm going to start by charting some of the moves in Dr. Copper because this is where we have the most zig and zags over the last 25 years. So this goes back to the beginning of the century and we can see right now, we're at $5.51 per pound. That is a record high. But if we go back to the beginning of the century, guess what? Uh we had a little bit of a slump in the wake of the dot com boom and then bust, but starting in 2003, we saw a big rise there. And that was as China actually joined the World Trade Organization or the WTO. That lasted into the global financial crisis. Then we had a pretty big bust in in Dr. Copper, and then we had another rise. And that rise was due to unprecedented stimulus, not only from the Chinese government, but also from the United States government, QE was in force, and then we saw kind of a strong dollar play. That weighed on this metal all the way into the beginning of 2016. The entire world, most of the world indices went through a bear market in 2015, and then 2016, we found the footing. And that was actually the year that Trump won, began his first presidency. And from there, we saw some zig and zags, and then we saw a shock into the pandemic. A couple of, a couple of years of deflation or a semi-deflation, disinflation, that caught up with it in 2022, but then it was off to the races again. And especially with the Trump tariffs now on copper, threatening to be threatening to be 50% on August 1st, we're seeing a lot of front running in this trade. Now, I also want to show you gold futures and I'm going to show you silver as well. And they follow a very similar pattern. We're not seeing the dramatic zig and zags that we did in copper, but we did see the same pattern of China joining the WTO, contributing to that huge rise in price to 1800, almost $2,000 an ounce by the beginning of the global financial crisis. So a little bit of a meltdown there. But in 2016 into 2018, we saw a bit of a rise into the pandemic, a little bit of a whipsaw there, and consolidation over a few years. Again, that 2022 bare market in US stocks that contributed to some deflation and disinflation globally, supply chain chain shocks came into force again, and then we saw this huge rise beginning in late 2023, and we are now at 3353. We've seen a high of as much as $3,500 per ounce. And gold is kind of unique among the precious metals and also the industrial metals, and this is because central banks have been a huge determining force in their buying of it. This is a bar chart that shows central bank buying in tons going back all the way to 2010. And what you notice here is the last three years, 2022, 2023, 2024, all of those had gold being bought by central banks of in the amount of over 1,000 tons. And so that's a pretty big dramatic increase from the prior years. And this has to do with the ongoing dedollarization in China, as well as Russia, but also a host of other countries, even some in western and eastern Europe. So this is a trend that we want to follow. Uh, I want to close out here with silver, and I'm going to just chart the price action. Again, very similar chart to gold and copper in terms of the big movements here. We saw a big price spike into almost $50 per ounce, and that was just as the global financial crisis was getting underway. And then the QE area in 2011, that's when we saw that high. Then we saw a dramatic, dramatic crash into 2016, kind of found its footing, saw a big squeeze in the early pandemic, 2020 was a great year for silver, but then we saw a little bit of a fallout. And again, silver is on the rise here at $38. It's still off of that $50 record high, but it is increasing very quickly. To round out the conversation, I want to just put on a table here. I have all three medals and just kind of grouping them together. I want to display how they are moving with their specific patterns with a trigger, and then to tell you which one of these is featured in these specific criteria. So here, under the pattern, we have acceleration. So that would be an economic acceleration. The trigger would be liquidity. And when that happens, we see all metals benefiting from that. And then when there's a safe haven scare, and that trigger would be a crisis of some sorts, you're going to see gold and silver outperforming the most, kind of leaving Dr. Copper behind. And then here's a bearish one, industrial drags, that affects copper disproportionately here, and the trigger there is typically a stronger US dollar because the US dollar surges when global global industrials tend to drag, and that's because the US is the least dirty shirt in the laundry basket of the world. And then finally here, we have a policy shock. This will affect all three medals, but especially copper and gold here. Um, arguably, the biggest reason is tariffs and debt, and we've seen both of those contribute to silver rising. So we could put all three in that basket as well. But when you put it all together, we have the perfect explosive mix for all three of these metals, including palladium and also platinum, which we didn't get to have time for, but all of these are experiencing huge thrust in 2025. And we'll have to see how these tariffs play out, especially on Dr. Copper with respect to that August 1st deadline. Remember, 50% there. So tune into Stocks in Translation for more jargon busting deep dives, new episodes on Tuesdays and Thursdays on Yahoo Finances website, or wherever you find your podcast. (Transcript from Yahoo! Finance podcast)

News

Best Quotes

An investment in knowledge pays the best interest." — Benjamin Franklin

"Bottoms in the investment world don't end with four-year lows; they end with 10- or 15-year lows." — Jim Rogers

Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy only when others are fearful." — Warren Buffett

Media Man

"Everything is a gamble" Greg Tingle, Media Man Group

June 15, 2025

1. How to Train Your Dragon - $83.7m
2. Lilo & Stitch - $15.5m
3. The Materialists - $12m
4. Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning - $10.3m
5. From the World of John Wick: Ballerina - $9.4m
6. Karate Kid: Legends - $5m
7. Final Destination: Bloodlines - $3.9m
8. The Phoenician Scheme - $3m
9. The Life of Chuck - $2.1m
10. Sinners - $1.5m

others ...

Bring Her Back
Dan Da Dan: Evil Eye
Thunderbolts*
Friendship
The Last Rodeo
j-hope Tour Hope on the Stage in Japan
A Minecraft Movie
The Accountant 2
Hurry Up Tomorrow
Clown in a Cornfield
Shadow Force
Flight or Fight
Until Dawn
The Amateur
The King of Kings
HIT: The 3rd Case
Guru Nanak Jahaz

*correct at time of publication to best of knowledge

May 2, 2025

Sydney, Australia

Markets:

ASX futures down 9 points/0.1% to 8153
AUD -0.3% at US63.86¢
Bitcoin +2.6% to $US96,560
Dow +0.7% S&P +1.2% Nasdaq +2.1%
Gold -1.9% to $US3227.23 an ounce
Oil +1.5% at $US61.95 a barrel
Iron ore -1.2% at $US95.20 a ton

Crypto Today:

Bitcoin. $96,857.23. 2.30%
Ethereum. $1,848.94. 2.43%
XRP. $2.2249. 0.71%
BNB. $599.84 USD +0.01%
Solana. $150.61 USD +2.64%
USD Coin. $1.00 USD -0.01%
Dogecoin. $0.1816 USD +4.87%

Crypto News

Ripple’s Regulatory Milestone: Ripple became the first blockchain-powered payments provider licensed by Dubai’s DFSA, enabling regulated cross-border crypto payments in the UAE, a key global trade hub.

XRP Market Dynamics: Despite a 30% price drop, XRP analysts highlight strong fundamentals and institutional integration, suggesting the dip may be a strategic shakeout before a potential rally to $3.

SoFi’s Crypto Push: Fintech SoFi plans to reintroduce crypto investing by year-end, leveraging new U.S. regulatory guidance. They aim to integrate blockchain across lending, savings, and payments within 24 months.

UK and US Regulatory Alignment: The UK announced draft rules to regulate crypto exchanges and dealers, aiming to align with the U.S. under Trump’s pro-crypto policies, despite EU concerns.

Stablecoin Developments: Visa and Bridge partnered to launch stablecoin-linked cards in Latin America, while Abu Dhabi’s ADQ, IHC, and First Abu Dhabi Bank plan a dirham-backed stablecoin.

Worldcoin’s U.S. Entry: Sam Altman’s Worldcoin (now World) will debut in U.S. cities like Atlanta and San Francisco, offering its WLD token for identity verification via Orb scans.

Security Concerns: North Korea’s Lazarus Group is targeting crypto developers with malware through fake U.S. companies, escalating cyber threats.

Crypto, Fintech, Markets, News and Politics via Media Man

March 12/13, 2025

The crypto bounces back from extreme fear

Market picture

The cryptocurrency market bounced 2% in the last 24 hours to $2.67 trillion. So far, the situation looks like a small rebound after the collapse. We should not talk about the beginning of recovery as long as the market is below its 200-day moving average of $2.83 trillion.

Sentiment in the crypto market has shifted from dread to fear at 34. The indicator was last higher more than three weeks ago, indicating that now is a good time to buy. However, it's worth paying attention to the nervous stock market before considering investments in more volatile cryptocurrencies.

Bitcoin was climbing above $83,000 on Tuesday, hitting resistance in the form of the 200-day moving average. If a long-term trend line is repurposed as resistance, that's a worrisome bearish fact.

Ethereum ended Tuesday with growth and was trading near $1900 at the start of Wednesday, but this is a timid rebound within the steep peak the coin has been in since February 24th and the broader downtrend of the past three months.

News Background

CryptoQuant states a sharp drop in open interest in Bitcoin and Ethereum futures, suggesting a ‘leverage washout’ and a chance of market stabilisation. The Kobeissi Letter admits a wave of short position unwinding in risk assets after extreme fear levels are reached.

Clearstream, the post-trading arm of Deutsche Börse, will offer cryptocurrency settlement and custody services to institutional clients as early as next month, starting with Bitcoin and Ethereum. It then plans to add support for other cryptocurrencies and services for staking, lending and brokerage.

Glassnode notes that Solana fell below its realised price of $134 for the first time in three years. The metrics show the average cost for investors to purchase the coin.

According to Arkham Intelligence, on 11 March, bankrupt exchange Mt. Gox transferred 11,501 BTC (~$905 million) to an unknown address. Mt. Gox-related addresses hold a total of 35,915 BTC worth $2.89bn. (FxPro)

News

SEC vs Ripple Case: Negotiations Underway for Settlement

Recent developments indicate that the legal dispute between Ripple Labs and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) could be nearing a conclusion. Reports suggest that Ripple's legal team is currently negotiating more favorable terms related to a $125 million fine and an injunction on XRP sales to institutional investors. The anticipation of a settlement has led to increased interest and speculation within the cryptocurrency community regarding the outcome and its potential impact on XRP. (Grok)

News

U.S. Plans Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Acquisition

Senator Cynthia Lummis has reintroduced the BITCOIN Act, which proposes that the United States government purchase one million Bitcoins over five years to create a strategic reserve. This legislative move reflects a growing acknowledgment of Bitcoin as a digital asset for national economic strategy, garnering support from both traditional financial sectors and cryptocurrency advocates. Alongside this, there is an ongoing debate about the implications, risks, and potential benefits of such a reserve. (Grok)

News

Trump's Crypto Banking Deregulation

President Donald Trump is reportedly planning to sign an executive order that would reverse regulations set by the Biden administration aimed at restricting banking activities for cryptocurrency firms. This move could impact how crypto companies interact with the Federal Reserve, potentially leading to greater integration of cryptocurrencies within the traditional financial system. (Grok)

News

Rumble's Strategic Bitcoin Acquisition

Rumble, a video platform and competitor to YouTube, has announced the purchase of 188 Bitcoins for approximately $17.1 million. This acquisition is part of Rumble's strategy to integrate Bitcoin into its treasury management, aiming to hedge against inflation and participate in the growing trend of corporate cryptocurrency adoption. The move reflects a broader acceptance of Bitcoin as a legitimate financial asset among companies. (Grok)

News

Trump Predicts Market Surge Amid Economic Indicators

President Trump has publicly stated his belief that the U.S. financial markets are poised for significant growth, making his comments at an event with business leaders. This optimistic forecast follows recent economic indicators showing inflation cooling to levels not seen in years, despite mixed responses from markets regarding Trump's economic policies including tariffs. (Grok)

News

Ethereum's Lowest BTC Ratio Since 2020 Triggers Liquidation Risk

The Ethereum Foundation faces potential liquidation of over $100 million in assets if Ethereum's price drops to $1,100, amidst a historic low in the ETH/BTC trading ratio not seen since May 2020. This financial maneuver is part of Ethereum's strategy to manage its treasury through decentralized finance (DeFi), highlighting both the risks and innovative approaches to crypto-asset management in a volatile market. (Grok)

News

Gold funds burst out of the blocks in 2025 as returns rocket

Australian gold funds are shaping up for a bumper year as mining companies start to capitalise on record prices, helping the stocks to finally catch up to the performance of the precious metal.

Portfolio managers were left frustrated last year after a jump in production costs held back ASX-listed gold producers from riding the rally in the spot prices to record levels. The VanEck Gold Miners exchange-traded fund climbed nearly 20 per cent in 2024 versus a 38 per cent rally for the gold price in Australian dollars.

But easing cost inflation that has plagued the mining sector for the last three years and an ongoing surge in prices has seen the trend reverse course. VanEck’s Gold Miners ETF is up 17 per cent already this year while the Aussie dollar spot price has climbed 6.3 per cent.

Local fund managers are bullish that gold has much further to run after the US dollar price climbed above $US2942 an ounce for the first time and the Australian dollar gold price breached $4500 an ounce.

Victor Smorgon Partners’ Resource Gold Fund returned a chunky 13.3 per cent in January and portfolio manager Cameron Judd believes the valuations of ASX gold stocks still don’t reflect the outlook for the yellow metal.

“Gold’s performance in times of uncertainty or crisis could see it push towards $US3600,” Mr Judd said. “Despite the strong gold price performance and fundamentals supporting further appreciation, gold miners are trading at discounted valuations on the ASX.”

Wall Street’s biggest banks believe a $US3000 price tag is imminent. Citi said it was possible within the next three months, while JPMorgan has a year-end target of $US3150. Bank of America said on Thursday that gold could reach $US3500 an ounce if investment demand rises 10 per cent this year.

The unprecedented surge in the gold price has been fuelled by investors seeking safe haven assets as US President Donald Trump unleashes aggressive trade and geopolitical policies. There are fears the president will accelerate inflation, forcing central banks to raise rates in a way that damages global growth.

Victor Smorgon’s top holdings include ASX-listed Vault Minerals and the world’s largest gold miner, US-based Newmont, which recently acquired Newcrest. The fund also owns Australia’s biggest gold miner Northern Star, which agreed to buy rival De Grey in a $5 billion deal. (AFR) *Full article and coverag via subscription to The Australian Financial Review.

News

Australia

Northern Star paying top dollar for gold rival

Northern Star has offered $5 billion to buy De Grey Mining, with De Grey shareholders to vote on the offer on 16 April. De Grey is the company behind the Hemi gold prospect in Western Australia, which is thought to hold at least 11 million ounces of gold and which is slated to produce 530,000 ounces annually in its first decade of operation. KPMG, which was engaged to provide an independent assessment of Northern Star's offer, has valued DeGrey at between $4 billion and $4.79 billion, inclusive of a premium for control. It concludes that the offer is "fair and reasonable and therefore is in the best interests of De Grey shareholders, in the absence of a superior proposal". (Roy Morgan Summary)

News

March 12, 2025

Crypto market tumbles after stocks

Market picture

Crypto market capitalisation has been falling to $2.5 trillion following the rumbling fall of the US stock market. It is dipping below the peaks of early 2024 and late 2021. Previously, a similar decline would complete a corrective pullback, attracting buyers. However, the chances of such an outcome are now lower than in previous years due to the powerful influence of traditional financial companies, which has strengthened the link between the crypto market and stock dynamics.

For now, though, we can argue that there is less terror in crypto. The Fear and Greed Index is at 24 (+4 points for the day), while the low point was a week earlier at 10.

Bitcoin slipped towards $76.5K in the early hours of Tuesday but has popped above $80K at the time of writing, approaching Monday’s consolidation levels. A bearish pattern persists on the daily timeframes, which suggests a strengthening sell-off after a failure under the 200-day moving average. The scenario of a pullback to the $70-74K area still looks the most probable for us. This is all the truer as the consolidation and rebound in early March has taken the short-term oversold stance out of the market.

Ethereum is trying to find a pivot point after falling towards $1750 at the start of Tuesday. These were the lowest values in the last 17 months. On weekly timeframes, the RSI oscillator hit its lowest point since mid-2022 - near the bottom of the bear market. Does this signify an opportunity for the recklessly bold or a breakdown in the leading altcoin? We will find out in the coming days.

News Background

According to CoinShares, global crypto fund investments fell by $876 million last week after record outflows of $2.911 billion a week earlier. Investments in Bitcoin fell by $756 million; in Ethereum, by $89 million. Investments in Solana rose by $16 million, in XRP by $6 million, and in Sui by $3 million.

As a result of another recalculation, Bitcoin mining difficulty increased by 1.43% to 112.15T. The growth did not compensate for a 3.15% drop two weeks ago. However, the figure came close to the all-time high of 114.17T reached in January.

Strategy (former MicroStrategy) intends to raise $21bn through the sale of preferred shares as part of its At-The-Market program. The proceeds will be used to buy Bitcoin and other corporate purposes. (FxPro)

News

March 11, 2025

US Senator And Congressman Introduce Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Bills To Buy One Million BTC

Speaking at the “Bitcoin for America” summit, lawmakers announced their plans to create a federal bitcoin reserve that would see the U.S. buy one million BTC.

Today at the Bitcoin Policy Institute’s “Bitcoin for America” summit in Washington DC, U.S. Senator from Wyoming Cynthia Lummis announced that she is going to reintroduce her strategic Bitcoin reserve legislation in the Senate today.

“I am so pleased to announce that today I will be reintroducing The Bitcoin Act,” Senator Lummis stated. “And I’ll be joined here shortly by Senator Justice of West Virginia, who is one of the cosponsors. And we have several other additional cosponsors. And a lot of it is a result of the excitement that’s been building.” (Bitcoin Magazine). *Full article via Bitcoin Magazine

News

XRP wins Media Man 'Crypto Of The Month' award

News

Markets

Australian Dollar: $0.6317 USD (up $0.0020 USD)
Iron Ore Apr Spot Price (SGX): $100.60 USD (up $0.15 USD)
Oil (WTI): $67.70 USD (up $1.14 USD)
Gold: $2,931.74 USD (up $13.03 USD)
Copper (CME): $4.8425 USD (up $0.0500 USD)
Bitcoin: $82,880.91USD (up 0.32% in last 24 hours)
Dow Jones: 41,350.93 (down 82.55 points)

News

Roy Morgan wins Media Man 'News Services Company Of The Month' award

News Media

Australia

Peter Dutton More Crypto Friendly And Switched On Than Albanese (Media Man Group)

News

"Dutton A Genuine Contender" (Sky News Australia)

March 10, 2025

ASX futures are pointing up 69 points, or by 0.9 per cent, to 8011.

All US prices are as of 4.15pm Sunday in New York:

Bitcoin -3.7% to $US83,138
On Wall St: Dow +0.5% S&P +0.6% Nasdaq +0.7%
VIX -1.5 to 23.37
Gold -0.1% to $US2909.10 an ounce
Brent oil +1.3% to $US70.36 a barrel
Iron ore +0.3% to $US100.70 a tonne
10-year yield: US 4.3% Australia 4.4%

January 10, 2025

ASX futures up 33 points or 0.4%

AUD -0.3% to 61.98 US cents
UK pound -0.4% to $US1.2309
Bitcoin -2.9% to $US91,275 at 7.23am AEDT
US markets closed for Jimmy Carter’s funeral
Stoxx 50 +0.4% FTSE +0.8% DAX -0.1% CAC +0.5%
Spot gold +0.3% to $US2671.00/oz at 1.55pm in New York
Brent crude +1.2% to $US77.08 a barrel
Iron ore +1% to $US97.40 a tonne
10-year yield: US 4.69% Australia 4.48% Germany 2.56%
US prices as of 1.59pm in New York

December 27, 2024

LeBron James and the NBA are going to have make room for the NFL on Christmas.

That shouldn't be a problem. Both leagues were winners on Wednesday.

Netflix set records as the most-streamed NFL games in U.S. history while the NBA had its best holiday numbers in five years according to Nielsen.

The NFL and Nielsen said 65 million U.S. viewers tuned in for at least one minute of one of the two NFL games.

The Baltimore Ravens' 31-2 victory over the Houston Texans averaged 24.3 million, and the Kansas City Chiefs' 29-10 win at the Pittsburgh Steelers averaged 24.1 million, according to early viewer figures released by Nielsen on Thursday.

The NBA's five-game slate averaged about 5.25 million viewers per game across ABC, ESPN and its platforms, according to the league and Nielsen.

"I love the NFL," James jokingly said in his televised postgame interview Wednesday night. "But Christmas is our day."

However, Wednesday's ratings showed that there is room for both.

Even though the NBA had the sports calendar to itself on Dec. 25 for many years, the NFL has made Christmas one of its tentpole events during the regular season, joining Kickoff Weekend and Thanksgiving.

Hans Schroeder, the executive vice president of NFL Media, took James' comments in jest while also being joyful about the first season of the league's three-year partnership with Netflix.

"The numbers speak for themselves and LeBron can have his own view, and I'm sure more people will look at that because of this," he said. "But, you know, we're focused on the NFL and we're thrilled with the results this year with the Christmas on Netflix and we're excited to continue to build that over the next couple of years."

Both NFL games surpassed the previous mark of 23 million for last season's AFC wild-card game between the Miami Dolphins and Chiefs on Peacock.

Viewership for Ravens-Texans peaked with the Beyoncé Bowl. The nearly 13-minute halftime performance averaged over 27 million viewers.

The viewer figures include the audience on Netflix, mobile viewership on NFL+ and those who tuned in on CBS stations in Pittsburgh, Kansas City, Baltimore and Houston.

Global ratings and final U.S. numbers are expected to be available on Tuesday.

The NFL's Christmas numbers decreased from last season, but not at the rate that usually happens when programming goes from broadcast to streaming.

Last year's three games averaged 28.68 million viewers. The early afternoon contest between the Las Vegas Raiders and Chiefs led the way, averaging 29.48 million on CBS.

Once global and Netflix's first-party data is released, both Christmas games are expected to surpass 30 million.

The games were the second- and third-most popular live titles in Netflix history, surpassed only by the Nov. 14 fight between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson. That bout averaged a worldwide audience of 60 million and peaked at 65 million concurrent streams, including 38 million concurrent streams in the United States.

There will be at least two NFL games on Christmas next year, but with the holiday falling on a Thursday it is more likely to be three, with two afternoon and one prime time. The NFL has had three Thanksgiving Day games since 2006.

One of the biggest wins for Netflix on Wednesday: fewer streaming complaints it received. It seems the only gripe from most was that the stream did not immediately go to live action if someone tuned in after the game started.

Bela Bajaria, Netflix's chief content officer, said in statement about the Chistmas broadcasts that the streaming service is thankful for the partnership with the NFL, the on-air talent, and "let's please not forget the electrifying Beyoncé and the brilliant Mariah Carey."

Beyoncé's performance was trending number one worldwide socially on X, formerly known as Twitter. The hashtag #NFLonNetflix also trended around the world, reaching a peak of second in Australia, third in the United Kingdom and Germany, fifth in Brazil and France, and sixth in the U.S.

The NBA felt it had a banner day, announcing Thursday that all five Christmas games on its schedule -- San Antonio at New York in Victor Wembanyama's holiday debut, Minnesota at Dallas, Philadelphia at Boston, Denver at Phoenix and Lakers-Warriors -- saw year-over-year viewership increases.

The NBA's lineup saw an 84% rise over 2023. One reason for the increase is that all five games were on ABC, compared to two last year.

The Lakers' 115-113 victory over the Warriors -- a game pitting Olympic teammates James and Stephen Curry -- averaged 7.76 million viewers and peaked with about 8.32 million viewers toward the end of the contest, the league said.

Those numbers represent he most-watched NBA regular season game in five years.

Wednesday's numbers pushed NBA viewership for the season across ESPN platforms to up 4% over last season. The league also saw more than 500 million video views on its social media platforms Wednesday, a new record.

For the NBA, those are all good signs amid cries that NBA viewership is hurting.

"Ratings are down a bit at beginning of the season. But cable television viewership is down double digits so far this year versus last year," NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said earlier this month. "You know, we're almost at the inflection point where people are watching more programing on streaming than they are on traditional television. And it's a reason why for our new television deals, which we enter into next year, every game is going to be available on a streaming service."

Part of that new package of television deals that the NBA is entering into next season also increases the number of regular season games broadcast on television from 15 to 75.

Under the 11-year agreement, ESPN and ABC will continue air the Christmas Day games. (AI News, ESPN and Grok)

News via Grok

NFL On Netflix

The NFL has partnered with Netflix to bring exclusive live games on Christmas Day. In 2024, Netflix streamed two high-profile NFL games: the Kansas City Chiefs vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers, followed by the Baltimore Ravens vs. the Houston Texans. These games were part of a three-year deal announced earlier in the year, ensuring at least one holiday game on Netflix for 2025 and 2026 as well.

The Christmas Day games set record ratings, becoming the most-streamed NFL games in US history, with an unduplicated audience of nearly 65 million viewers. Beyoncé performed at halftime during the Ravens vs. Texans game, which was a significant draw for the event. The streaming of these games was mostly successful, although there were some initial technical issues.

This partnership marks Netflix's venture into live sports broadcasting, following their success with sports documentaries like "Quarterback" and "Receiver". The games are available worldwide on Netflix, with local broadcasts in the teams' home markets. The addition of NFL games to Netflix's content library is seen as a strategic move to engage with a broader audience and capitalize on the massive viewership that NFL games attract. (Grok)

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November 13, 2024

Films of Sphere concerts part of company’s future revenue strategy

Nevada (Las Vegas)

After just over a year of operations, Sphere Entertainment Inc. is starting to figure out how to program the massive Las Vegas entertainment venue to stem slumping earnings. What that means for the Sphere’s future is more performances each day to maximize the building’s use, Executive Chairman and CEO James Dolan told investors. The company reported an operating loss of $125.1 million on revenue of $127.1 million for the quarter that ended Sept. 30.

News

Las Vegas Strip hotel-casino lays off top-level employees

A luxury Strip resort has parted ways with several long-time and high-level employees, according to multiple sources. The Venetian and Palazzo casinos laid off an unknown number of employees this month, some of whom had worked at the Strip resort for over a decade. Among those known to be affected by the layoffs are executives and senior-level employees in multiple departments, including hotel operations, marketing, celebrations/banquets, group meetings and casino hosts. An internal memo obtained by the Review-Journal confirms the staff reductions.

News

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas responds to Culinary Union’s threat to strike before F1 race

An off-Strip hotel-casino is preparing for a strike deadline that could threaten its staffing before the Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix next week. In a Tuesday statement, Virgin Hotels management said they were aware of the strike deadline and were “fully committed to finding a fair resolution” during negotiations that are expected to take place on Thursday. But the management alleged union negotiators have not put the property’s proposals to a vote or responded to other proposals.

News

Bahamas: Vici Properties in negotiations to buy Atlantis Paradise Island resort

The multi-billion dollar owner of iconic Las Vegas mega resorts such as Caesars Palace, MGM Grand and the Venetian is exploring a deal for Paradise Island’s Atlantis resort. Tribune Business can reveal that VICI Properties, a New York headquartered real estate investment trust (REIT) that owns 93 resort, gaming and hospitality assets spread across the US and Canada, is in talks with Atlantis’ current owner, Brookfield Asset Management, although the two parties have yet to reach agreement on a sale or how the potential deal may look.

News

Texas Lottery’s move could ignite tribal gambling expansion

The Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas informed the Texas Senate that if it didn’t rein in the online sales of Texas Lottery tickets, the tribe would pursue full-blown casino gambling in the state. Though the tribe omitted it from their correspondence, recent legal developments might mean these casinos won’t be housed on reservations; they might pockmark the entire state.

News

Federal hearing held over Arkansas amendment that revoked casino license

A federal judge heard arguments Tuesday about whether Arkansas’ Issue 2 should be put on hold. Cherokee Nation Entertainment filed a lawsuit against the State of Arkansas after voters approved a ballot measure that stopped the group’s planned casino. Cherokee Nation had planned to build a casino near Russellville in Pope County and had been granted a license.

News

New York: Turning Stone casino starts new phase of $370 million expansion

The latest phase of a $370 million expansion at the Turning Stone Resort Casino — the largest since it opened in 1993 — is now underway. Some 73 tons of steel arrived at the Oneida Indian Nation-owned casino in recent days. The nation and its business arm, Turning Stone Enterprises, also announced this week they have signed contracts with 26 different contractors, all based in Upstate New York, to handle mechanical, electrical, plumbing and other work on the project. The plan is to make Turning Stone the largest resort convention destination in the state.

News via Grok

Casino News

Here are some recent highlights from the world of casino and gambling news:

Las Vegas Layoffs: A major resort on the Las Vegas Strip has reportedly laid off several high-level employees, indicating potential shifts or financial recalibrations within the company.

Encore Las Vegas: The construction of the new 48-story Encore Las Vegas tower is progressing, with an expected opening late next year. It will feature over 2,000 rooms and a significant casino space, alongside a Frank Sinatra-themed restaurant.

Sweepstakes Casinos: There's growing discussion around sweepstakes casinos, their regulatory blind spots, and how they might be affecting the traditional gambling industry. This topic was highlighted in a discussion by Howard Glaser from Light & Wonder.

Bally's Chicago: Bally's casino in Chicago is experiencing some challenges, with admissions dropping by 13% from the previous month, suggesting that the operation might not be meeting expectations or that there could be strategic missteps.

Casino's Rescue Plan: In France, Casino, a major retailer, has reached an agreement with its employees and new management on a rescue plan that includes a social component, which had been lacking in previous proposals.

Casino Jackpot: A fortunate gambler on the Las Vegas Strip turned a modest $50 bet into over $1,000,000, showcasing the allure and potential of casino gaming.

These snippets provide a glimpse into the current dynamics of the casino industry, reflecting both the excitement of big wins and the strategic maneuvers of major players in the sector. (Grok)

News

Casinos via Grok

Casinos are establishments primarily designed for gambling, offering various games of chance for patrons to wager money. Here's an overview based on the latest information:

Overview of Casinos:

Origin and Etymology: The term "casino" comes from Italian, originally meaning a small country villa or summerhouse. Over time, it evolved to refer to places where gambling activities were the main attraction.

Location and Integration: Casinos are often integrated with hotels, resorts, restaurants, and other entertainment venues to provide a comprehensive experience. They can be found worldwide but are particularly famous in places like Las Vegas, Atlantic City, and Macau.

Types of Games: Common casino games include: Table Games: Blackjack, roulette, baccarat, craps, and various forms of poker.
Slot Machines: These range from traditional mechanical reels to modern video slots with sophisticated themes and bonus features.
Electronic Games: Video poker, keno, and electronic table games.
Specialty Games: Like bingo, which might be offered in certain jurisdictions.

Online Casinos: With the advent of the internet, online casinos have become increasingly popular, providing a digital platform for many of the same games found in physical casinos.

Recent Updates on Casinos:

Regulatory Changes: There have been updates in casino regulations, especially concerning online gambling. For instance, some states in the U.S. have recently moved towards legalization or expansion of online casino gaming.

Technological Advancements:
Blockchain and Cryptocurrency: Some casinos now accept cryptocurrencies, and there are decentralized casino platforms emerging, like those mentioned on platforms like X, where users can stake tokens to "become the house."
Live Dealer Games: Online platforms have introduced live dealer games, providing a more authentic casino experience through live video feeds.

Economic Impact: Casinos continue to be significant contributors to local economies, with Nevada reporting a notable increase in gambling revenue for September 2024 compared to the previous year.

Entertainment and Non-Gambling Activities: Casinos are increasingly focusing on becoming entertainment hubs, offering concerts, comedy shows, sports betting, and other attractions to diversify their appeal.

Fees and Costs: There have been mentions of increases in resort fees and parking fees at some casino resorts, which might affect visitor experience and costs.

Cultural and Social Aspects:

Gambling Addiction: Casinos and gambling activities come with the risk of addiction. Many establishments promote responsible gambling but also receive criticism for potentially encouraging addictive behaviors.

Entertainment Value: Beyond gambling, casinos offer a unique blend of luxury, excitement, and entertainment, making them popular tourist destinations.

When considering visiting or engaging with casinos, whether in-person or online, it's important for individuals to understand the rules, the odds of games, and to gamble responsibly. The information available on platforms like X or websites like Casinos.com can provide insights into the latest trends, games, and regulatory changes in the casino industry. (Grok)

News via Grok

Las Vegas Strip

The Las Vegas Strip, often simply referred to as "The Strip," is a 4.2-mile stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard South in Clark County, Nevada, just outside the city limits of Las Vegas. Here's an overview:

Attractions: It's famous for its concentration of resort hotels, high-end casinos, and entertainment venues. The architecture along the Strip is eclectic, with themes ranging from ancient Egypt (Luxor), medieval times (Excalibur), to replicas of famous cities like New York (New York-New York) or Paris (Paris Las Vegas).
Notable shows include Cirque du Soleil productions, magic shows by famous magicians like David Copperfield, and residencies by top musicians. Free attractions include the Bellagio Fountains, the Mirage Volcano, and the iconic "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign.

Accommodations and Casinos: The Strip hosts some of the world's largest hotels by room count, like the MGM Grand, The Venetian, and Caesars Palace. These mega-resorts offer not only gambling but also luxury shopping, fine dining, and entertainment facilities.
Recent developments include new resorts like the LVXP project, which proposes to add an NBA-ready arena, and there's been talk about expanding with unique attractions like an adults-only mini golf course at Mandalay Bay.

Transportation: The Deuce, a double-decker bus, and the Las Vegas Monorail are popular ways for tourists to travel along the Strip. However, walking is a common way to experience the sights and lights, especially at night when the area truly comes alive.

Events and Conventions: The area is known for hosting major events like the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), SEMA Show, and various sporting events, including the recent addition of Formula 1 races which have construction impacts on the Strip's landscape.

Shopping and Dining: Shopping ranges from high-end malls like The Shops at Crystals to themed shopping experiences within resorts. Dining options are vast, from celebrity chef restaurants to 24/7 buffets.

Nightlife: The nightlife is legendary, with clubs like XS and Omnia, which are among the most renowned in the world, offering top-tier DJ performances.

Current Developments: There are continuous updates and construction projects, like the planned LVXP resort, which could significantly change the skyline and entertainment options on the North Strip.
The Sphere at The Venetian has become a new landmark, known for its massive LED screen exterior and immersive entertainment experiences inside.

If you're planning a visit or just interested in what's happening, the Las Vegas Strip remains an ever-evolving spectacle of entertainment, where the latest in hospitality, gaming, and show business is always on display. Remember, with ongoing construction and new projects, the Strip's landscape might look different with each visit. (Grok)

News

Las Vegas Grand Prix via Grok

The Las Vegas Grand Prix is a significant event in the Formula One racing calendar, taking place on the iconic Las Vegas Strip. Here are some key points about the event:

Background: After a long hiatus since the early 1980s, Formula One returned to Las Vegas with a new street circuit in 2023. The event marked the first Formula One race in Las Vegas since the 1982 Caesars Palace Grand Prix.

Circuit: The Las Vegas Strip Circuit is 6.2 kilometers long with 17 corners. It features a mix of straights, including a 1.9 km straight down the Strip, and tight sections around notable Las Vegas landmarks like the Bellagio, the Venetian, and Caesars Palace.

Race Dates: For 2024, the Las Vegas Grand Prix is scheduled from November 21st to 23rd.

Format: Unlike some other races in the U.S. calendar (like Austin and Miami), the Las Vegas Grand Prix does not feature a sprint race. Organizers have expressed contentment with this format, citing the event's unique entertainment offerings.

Ticketing and Experience: The event offers various ticket types ranging from general admission to exclusive hospitality packages. These include access to entertainment zones, fan activations, and luxury viewing options like Skyboxes or the Paddock Club.

Economic and Cultural Impact: This race not only promises high-speed action but also integrates the entertainment capital's allure with dining, nightlife, and celebrity events. It's expected to bring significant economic activity to the area, with various hospitality and entertainment venues involved.

Safety and Traffic: Local authorities, like LVMPD and Clark County, have been involved in discussions regarding safety and traffic management due to expected large crowds and road closures.

Public Sentiment: On platforms like X, there's a mix of excitement for the event's spectacle and logistical concerns about traffic and road closures.

The Las Vegas Grand Prix aims to blend the thrill of Formula One with the non-stop entertainment of Vegas, making it a unique entry in the F1 calendar. (Grok)

News

WrestleMania 41 Las Vegas

WrestleMania 41 is scheduled to take place in Las Vegas at Allegiant Stadium on April 19th and 20th, 2025. This event marks the return of WrestleMania to Las Vegas for the first time since WrestleMania IX in 1993, which was held at Caesars Palace.

Venue: Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, Nevada.

Dates: Saturday, April 19, and Sunday, April 20, 2025.
Significance: This WrestleMania will be historic as it will be the first to be livestreamed on Netflix internationally, following the merger of WWE Network with Netflix. It's also notable for being held during Easter weekend, which is a typically slower period for Las Vegas, potentially attracting a massive influx of visitors.

The event promises to be an economic boon for Las Vegas, with expectations of over 180,000 fans contributing significantly to the local economy through tourism. Apart from the main event, WWE will also bring other shows like Raw, SmackDown, NXT Stand & Deliver, and the WWE Hall of Fame ceremony to the city, enhancing its wrestling festivities.

Tickets for WrestleMania 41 went on sale on October 25, 2024, and there are also various travel packages available, including VIP options for fans wanting an exclusive experience.

The anticipation for this event is high, as reflected in posts on X, where fans and travel companies are promoting special packages for the occasion. (Grok)

News

AEW Double Or Nothing

AEW Double or Nothing is an annual professional wrestling pay-per-view (PPV) event produced by All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Here are some key points about the event:

Inaugural Event: The first Double or Nothing took place in 2019 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, marking AEW's first-ever event and PPV.

Theme: The name "Double or Nothing" references a gambling theme, fitting with the event's traditional Las Vegas setting.

Significance: It's considered one of AEW's "Big Four" PPVs, alongside All Out, Full Gear, and Revolution, highlighting its importance within the company's annual calendar.

Recent Developments: 2024 Event: Held on May 26, 2024, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, celebrating AEW's five-year anniversary. Key matches included:
Swerve Strickland vs. Christian Cage for the AEW World Championship.
An Anarchy in the Arena match where The Elite defeated Team AEW.
Mercedes Moné won the AEW TBS Championship from Willow Nightingale.
Match Styles: Over the years, Double or Nothing has featured unique matches like the Stadium Stampede and Anarchy in the Arena.

Location: While traditionally held in Las Vegas, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 and 2021 events were held at Daily's Place in Jacksonville, Florida.

Cultural Impact: The event has helped establish AEW as a legitimate competitor in the wrestling industry, showcasing high-stakes matches and attracting both wrestling fans and those interested in the event's broader entertainment value.

For fans or anyone interested in the latest in AEW, keeping up with AEW's official channels or wrestling news outlets would provide the most current information on upcoming matches, results, and any changes to the event format or location. (Grok)

News

US Betting via Grok

The landscape of US betting has evolved significantly in recent years, particularly following the Supreme Court's decision in Murphy v. NCAA in 2018, which struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA). Here are some key points about the current state of betting in the United States:

Legal Status: Sports betting is now legal in many states across the US, with each state regulating it differently. This legalization has led to a boom in both physical and online sportsbooks.

Online Sportsbooks: BetMGM, FanDuel, DraftKings, and Caesars Sportsbook are among the most prominent names in the online betting market. They offer betting on a wide range of sports, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and more. These platforms provide various promotions, live betting options, and sometimes even live streaming of events.

Mobile Betting: Most states with legal sports betting have embraced mobile betting apps, which allow users to place bets from anywhere within state lines where betting is legal.

Election Betting: There's been a notable trend in betting on political outcomes, like the U.S. presidential election. Platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket have gained attention for allowing bets on these events, though the legality and ethics of such markets are frequently debated.

Regulation: Each state has its own regulatory body overseeing sports betting, ensuring compliance with laws, managing licensing, and protecting consumers. For instance, in Nevada, the Nevada Gaming Control Board is responsible, while other states have different commissions or boards.

Public Interest and Participation: The legalization has led to increased public interest, with betting becoming more mainstream. States like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York have seen substantial betting volumes.

Economic Impact: Betting has contributed significantly to state revenues through taxes. For example, a post from X indicated that Colorado passed a proposition to direct sports betting tax revenue towards water projects.

Innovation in Betting: There's a trend towards more interactive and engaging betting experiences, like live betting where odds change in real-time as the event progresses, and prop bets on individual player performances or specific game events.

Ethical Considerations and Challenges: Despite the growth, issues like gambling addiction, market manipulation, and the need for responsible gambling practices remain significant concerns. States have implemented measures like self-exclusion programs, betting limits, and educational campaigns to address these.

Future Trends: The industry is expected to continue growing with potential expansion into more states. There's also interest in expanding into less traditional betting like esports, and there might be further integration of technology for personalized betting experiences.

Remember, while betting can be fun, it's important to engage in it responsibly. Always set limits, and consider the legal age and location requirements for betting in the US. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, resources like the National Council on Problem Gambling or state-specific help lines can provide assistance. (Grok)

Movie Box Office (North America)

October 13, 2024

1. Terrifier 3 - $18.3m

2. The Wild Robot - $13.5m

3. Joker: Folie à Deux - $7.1m

4. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice - $7.1m

5. Piece By Piece - $3.8m

6. Transformers One - $3.7m

7. Saturday Night - $3.4m

8. My Hero Academia - $3m

9. The Nightmare Before Christmas - $2.3m

10. The Apprentice - $1.6m

Combat Sports Week At Media Man; Elon Musk's X And Grok Take Publishers, Reporters, Fans Et Al Around The World Of Sports In A TKO Second!: Media Man

October 1, 2024

News

Alex Pereira's Arrival for UFC 307

Alex Pereira, known as 'Poatan', is gearing up for a highly anticipated UFC fight at UFC 307 against Khalil Rountree Jr., scheduled for October 2024. The fight week has begun with both fighters, including notable figures like Jose Aldo, checking in for the event. There's considerable excitement around this match, primarily due to the knockout capabilities of both fighters. Pereira has publicly stated his intention to 'break' Rountree, intensifying the event's buildup. Discussions and analyses have focused on Pereira's recent UFC activities, potential retirement, and the high stakes of the main event, suggesting it could be one of the most thrilling UFC main events recently. Additionally, Khalil Rountree hinted at employing a never-before-seen move during the fight, adding an element of mystery and anticipation. (Grok)

News

UFC 307 and DWCS Week 8

UFC 307 is generating significant buzz, particularly for the main event where Alex Pereira has promised an intense confrontation against Khalil Rountree, vowing to 'break' him. This fight is not only a highlight of the event but also showcases both fighters' formidable striking power, with predictions leaning towards a knockout rather than a decision. Alongside this main event, the UFC community is abuzz with excitement for other matchups, discussing fighters' skills and predicting outcomes. Concurrently, the Dana White's Contender Series (DWCS) Week 8 is taking place, spotlighting emerging talents like Christien Savoie, who are competing for the chance to earn UFC contracts. The DWCS not only serves as a platform for new fighters but also engages fans with live events and betting odds, adding another layer of anticipation and discussion around the UFC's upcoming events. (Grok)

News

UFC 307 Fight Week

UFC 307, scheduled for Saturday, features a highly anticipated main event between Alex Pereira, known for his striking prowess, and Khalil Rountree Jr., who has hinted at a unique move he might employ during the fight. The event has sparked considerable interest among fans and analysts, with discussions focusing on the fighters' capabilities and potential outcomes. Alongside the main event, the Dana White Contender Series (DWCS) Week 8 is also taking place, offering emerging fighters a chance to secure UFC contracts. Notable fighters like Jose Aldo, Kevin Holland, and Stephen Thompson are also highlighted, adding to the excitement with their upcoming matches. The event is set to be broadcast live, with various analyses and predictions circulating among enthusiasts. (Grok)

News

Torrez Finney's Third DWCS Victory

Torrez Finney achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first fighter to win three times on Dana White's Contender Series (DWCS). In his third appearance on DWCS, which took place on October 1, 2024, Finney secured a first-round TKO victory over Abdellah Er-Ramy. This performance not only marked his third win on the series but also showcased his dominant skills, leading to widespread acclaim across social media platforms, particularly X (formerly known as Twitter). Following this victory, there was a consensus among observers and fans that not offering Finney a UFC contract would be an oversight, given his undefeated record and his consistent performance under the DWCS spotlight. This achievement cements his status as a top prospect in the middleweight division, with many expecting him to finally receive a UFC contract. (Grok)

News

Khalil Rountree's Mystery Move at UFC 307

Ahead of UFC 307, Khalil Rountree Jr. has hinted at employing a unique, never-before-seen technique in his upcoming fight against Alex Pereira, the current light heavyweight champion. Rountree, known for his striking prowess, aims to dethrone Pereira with a knockout, seeking to establish himself as a formidable force in the UFC. The event has drawn significant attention, with fans and analysts speculating on Rountree's strategy and the potential outcome of this high-stakes match. Meanwhile, new sparring footage of Pereira with Sean Strickland has been released, showcasing Pereira's skills and improvement in English. Other notable fighters like Kevin Holland and Jose Aldo are also featured in the event, but the main event between Pereira and Rountree remains the focal point, with expectations set high for an explosive encounter. (Grok)

News

Diyar Nurgozhay's Head Kick KO

Diyar Nurgozhay recently showcased his striking prowess at Dana White's Contender Series, where he secured a notable victory via a head kick knockout against Bartosz Szewczyk during the light heavyweight bout at DWCS 74. This event took place on October 1, 2024, at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. Nurgozhay, maintaining his undefeated record, delivered the knockout in the second round, further solidifying his reputation in the MMA community. This performance not only electrified the audience but also significantly boosted his potential for earning a UFC contract, given the platform's purpose of scouting new talent for the UFC roster. This victory adds to Nurgozhay's highlight reel, known for his finishing capabilities, as he continues his journey with an eye on the UFC. (Grok)

News

New WWENXT Logo Debuts on The CW

WWE NXT has introduced a new logo as part of its transition to The CW network, marking the beginning of a new era for the wrestling brand. The rebranding, effective from October 1, 2024, aims to evoke a more classic aesthetic. The debut on The CW was highlighted by various wrestling personalities and news outlets, with many expressing enthusiasm for the new look and the show's premiere. The debut episode featured significant matches, including a championship bout and a street fight, indicating a strong start to NXT's new chapter on The CW. (Grok)

News

Roxanne Perez Retains NXT Title with Cora Jade's Return

Roxanne Perez successfully defended her NXT Women's Championship against Giulia in a recent WWE NXT event, marked by an unexpected twist when Cora Jade returned to assist Perez in retaining her title. This intervention was pivotal in Perez's victory, sparking varied reactions among fans. While some expressed disappointment with the match's conclusion and the manner of Giulia's defeat, others were thrilled by Cora Jade's comeback, anticipating new storylines. Despite the controversial finish, the match received praise for its quality. (Grok)

News

Mixed Reactions to New NXT Titles

Based on the information gathered from posts on X and general web sentiment, the introduction of new NXT titles has generated a mix of reactions among fans and observers:

Design Critique: There's a noticeable divide over the aesthetic of the new NXT titles. Some fans have expressed a preference for the previous designs, particularly the "rainbow titles" which were admired for their vibrant yet balanced color scheme. The new designs have been described by some as less appealing initially, but there's an acknowledgment that acceptance might grow over time. For instance, one user likened the transition in perception from the old to the new titles humorously, suggesting that while the initial reaction might be negative, eventual adaptation is expected.

Nostalgia and Change: The change in title designs seems to reflect broader changes within NXT, including its move to The CW network. This shift has stirred mixed feelings, with some fans feeling nostalgic about the "black and gold" era of NXT, which these new titles symbolically depart from. However, there's also excitement about what this change could mean for NXT's future, especially with the involvement of figures like Shawn Michaels in crafting the new era.

Performance and Presentation: Despite mixed feelings about the titles' design, there's a consensus on the quality of the matches and the presentation of NXT on The CW. The debut of NXT on this new platform, highlighted by significant matches like Ethan Page vs. Trick Williams for the NXT Title, and the involvement of high-profile figures or matchups, indicates that while the titles themselves might be divisive, the content and direction of NXT are still highly anticipated and discussed.

Fan Engagement: The new titles have certainly engaged the fanbase, sparking conversations not just about design but about what these changes signify for NXT's identity and its place within WWE's broader ecosystem. This engagement ranges from criticism to cautious optimism, with some fans seeing it as a necessary evolution for NXT to stand out in the crowded landscape of wrestling entertainment.

Cultural and Identity Shifts: There's an underlying discussion about what these titles represent for NXT's brand identity. Some fans have humorously or critically remarked on the choice of design, questioning if it aligns with NXT's desire to carve out a unique identity or if it's merely a shift for the sake of change. This touches on broader themes of brand evolution and fan acceptance of change in professional wrestling.

In summary, while the new NXT titles have sparked a variety of reactions from critique over their design to nostalgia for previous eras, there's an underlying excitement about the narrative and performance aspects of NXT's new chapter. The conversation around these titles encapsulates fans' emotional connection to NXT's history and their hopes or concerns for its future under its new presentation. (Grok)

News

Wes Lee Wins Street Fight at WWENXT

During a recent WWE NXT event, Wes Lee defeated Zachary Wentz in a highly praised street fight. The match, described as both brutal and entertaining, featured intense action characteristic of street fights. Both wrestlers received acclaim for their performance, with fans and commentators noting the match as a highlight of the evening's programming. The fight included dramatic moments, such as Wentz missing a table dive, adding to the spectacle. This victory for Wes Lee was celebrated, with many expressing enthusiasm for the match's quality and hoping for future encounters between the two. (Grok)

News

WWE Bad Blood

WWE Bad Blood is making a comeback in 2024, marking the fourth event under this name and the first since 2004. Here's what you need to know:

Event Date and Location: The event is scheduled for Saturday, October 5, 2024, at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. This date coincides with the 27th anniversary of the first Bad Blood event.

Broadcast Details: Bad Blood 2024 will be available via traditional pay-per-view (PPV) worldwide and will also air on WWE's streaming platforms, specifically Peacock in the United States and WWE Network internationally.

Historical Significance: The original Bad Blood in 1997 introduced the Hell in a Cell match, which has been a staple of the event, including in its previous iterations in 2003 and 2004.

Matches and Card: One of the main matches includes Liv Morgan vs. Rhea Ripley for the Women’s World Championship, with a unique twist where Dominik Mysterio will be suspended above the ring in a shark cage to prevent interference.

There's also speculation and reports about a Hell in a Cell match between CM Punk and Drew McIntyre, though there was some uncertainty about whether this would be the main event or if a tag team match involving Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, Solo Sikoa, and possibly Jacob Fatu would close the show. However, recent discussions and fan reactions suggest a strong possibility of Punk vs. McIntyre main eventing due to the historical significance of Hell in a Cell at Bad Blood.

Themes and Anniversaries: The event is not only a nod to its own history but also leverages the anniversary of the first Hell in a Cell match. The involvement of high-profile figures like CM Punk, Drew McIntyre, and the intertwining storylines with Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes adds layers to the event's narrative.

Fan and Industry Buzz: There's considerable excitement around the return of Bad Blood, especially concerning how WWE will utilize the Hell in a Cell structure this time, given its history with the event. Fan posts on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) show anticipation for the matches, particularly the potential main events, and how WWE might script the outcomes to impact ongoing WWE storylines.

This event represents not just a wrestling spectacle but a significant moment in WWE's calendar, blending nostalgia with current rivalries, making Bad Blood 2024 a must-watch for WWE fans. (Grok)

News

Beterbiev vs Bivol: Clash of the Undefeated

The latest on Beterbiev vs. Bivol, titled "Clash of the Undefeated," centers around their upcoming fight scheduled for October 12, 2024, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Here's what's been circulating and reported:

Fight Details: Artur Beterbiev (20-0, 20 KOs) will face Dmitry Bivol (23-0, 12 KOs) in a unification bout for the IBF, WBC, WBO, and WBA light heavyweight titles, marking a significant event in boxing as both fighters are undefeated.

Beterbiev's Condition: After a knee injury forced a postponement from an initially planned June fight, Beterbiev has confirmed his 100% recovery and readiness for this bout. His approach to training and recovery underscores his intent to maintain his 100% knockout record.

Bivol's Perspective: Dmitry Bivol has expressed that this fight is not personal but a professional challenge to become the undisputed champion. His strategy likely involves his well-known boxing skills, with an emphasis on counterpunching and movement, aiming to possibly outbox or even, as speculated by some like Chris Algieri, potentially knock down Beterbiev.

Public and Expert Opinions: There's a mix of predictions and excitement around this match. Some fans and analysts believe Bivol's boxing IQ and defensive skills might give him an edge, while others favor Beterbiev's relentless pressure and knockout power. The discussion often revolves around whether Bivol's style can withstand or adapt to Beterbiev's aggressive tactics.

Undercard and Event: The undercard features notable fights, enhancing the event's appeal. Names like Chris Eubank Jr., Fabio Wardley, and Jai Opetaia add to the night's boxing spectacle.

General Sentiment: The fight is widely anticipated as one of the biggest in 2024, not just for the titles at stake but for the clash of styles and the potential for defining moments in both fighters' careers. The narrative around this fight often highlights the rarity of seeing two such high-caliber, undefeated champions facing off, especially at light heavyweight.

This event is not just a fight for belts but is seen as a significant moment in boxing, where the outcome could solidify one fighter's legacy or dramatically alter perceptions of both in the sport. (Grok)

News

AEW Dynamite 5-Year Anniversary Show

The AEW Dynamite 5-Year Anniversary Show, set for October 2, 2024, at the Petersen Events Center in Pittsburgh, PA, is gearing up to be a landmark event for All Elite Wrestling. Here's what's on the slate based on the latest information:

Main Event: A high-stakes, title-for-title match is scheduled where Bryan Danielson will defend his AEW World Championship against Kazuchika Okada, who is bringing his AEW Continental Championship into the match. However, there's a twist: Okada's championship will only be on the line for the first 20 minutes of the match. If the match goes beyond that, only Danielson's AEW World Championship remains in contention.

Another Title Defense: Will Ospreay will defend his AEW International Championship against Ricochet. This match has been highlighted as part of the anniversary celebration.

Other Matches:
Hangman Adam Page is set to face Juice Robinson. Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D. will return for a match, although the opponent hasn't been specified in the latest updates provided, there was mention of her facing Serena Deeb in some fan discussions or reports.

Special Features: The episode is not just about the matches but also about celebrating five years of AEW Dynamite. Tony Khan, AEW's President, has teased a significant announcement which could potentially set the tone for the future of AEW. This adds an element of anticipation beyond the in-ring action.

Broadcast Details: The show will have a significant overrun, courtesy of TBS Network, indicating more content than the usual runtime, possibly to accommodate the extra matches or the celebration elements.

This anniversary episode is not just a showcase of wrestling talent but also a milestone for AEW, marking its growth and the journey it has had over the past five years. The inclusion of champion vs. champion matches underscores AEW's commitment to big matches on big nights, promising fans a memorable event to commemorate this occasion. (Grok)

News

Danielson vs. Okada: Title-for-Title Match

On the 5-year anniversary of AEW Dynamite, a significant wrestling event is scheduled for October 2, 2024, in Pittsburgh, PA, where Bryan Danielson, the AEW World Champion, will face Kazuchika Okada, holder of the AEW Continental Title. This match is unique as it features a title-for-title stipulation with a twist: the Continental Championship, which usually has a 20-minute time limit, will only be at stake for the first 20 minutes of the match. However, the World Championship, with its 60-minute time limit, will remain in contention for the entire duration. This setup has sparked varied reactions among wrestling fans, with some questioning the effectiveness of the stipulation, while others are excited about the potential of the match. The event is set to be a highlight of AEW Dynamite's milestone celebration, pitting two of wrestling's top talents against each other in what promises to be a memorable clash. (Grok)

News

Conor McGregor's Stroll on Emirates Pitch

Conor McGregor was spotted walking around the Emirates Stadium pitch following Arsenal's victory over PSG in the Champions League. Videos and photos showed McGregor enjoying himself, including interactions with Arsenal player Declan Rice. This appearance led to various reactions and discussions online, with many finding amusement in McGregor's post-match activities. Meanwhile, Arsenal secured a 2-0 win against PSG, with goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka. The match also marked the debut of Mikel Merino for Arsenal, who joined from Real Sociedad. Additionally, Thomas Partey was highlighted for his exceptional performance during the game. However, there were concerns about Jurrien Timber, who felt a muscular issue during the match, prompting Arsenal to manage his playing time carefully. (Grok)

Combat Sports News/Profile via Grok

Combat sports encompass a wide range of athletic competitions where the primary objective is to physically subdue an opponent. Here's a brief overview of some popular forms:

1. Boxing

Origin: Ancient Greece, but modern boxing is often associated with 18th-19th century England.

Rules: Competitors use only their fists, wearing gloves, and aim to score points by landing punches on the opponent's upper body or head. A fight can end by knockout (KO), technical knockout (TKO), or points decision.

2. Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)

Origin: While various forms of mixed combat have existed historically, modern MMA was popularized through events like the UFC starting in the 1990s.

Rules: Allows a mix of striking and grappling techniques from various martial arts. Fighters can win by knockout, submission (tap out), judges' decision, or disqualification.

3. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)

Origin: Derived from judo in Brazil in the early 20th century, made famous by the Gracie family.

Rules: Emphasizes ground fighting and submission holds. Competitors aim to force a submission through joint locks or chokeholds. Points can also be scored for position control and takedowns.

4. Wrestling

Freestyle and Greco-Roman: Common in the Olympics, Greco-Roman restricts holds below the waist.

Professional Wrestling (Pro Wrestling): More entertainment-focused, with choreographed matches, high flying moves, and storylines.

5. Kickboxing

Origin: A group of stand-up combat sports based on kicking and punching. It evolved from Karate, Muay Thai, and Western boxing.

Rules: Similar to boxing but includes kicks. Variants include allowing knee strikes and elbows (influenced by Muay Thai).

6. Muay Thai

Origin: Thailand, known as the "Art of Eight Limbs" because it uses punches, kicks, elbows, and knees.

Rules: Similar to kickboxing but with a heavier emphasis on clinching (a kind of standing grapple) and use of all eight points of contact.

7. Judo

Origin: Japan, developed by Jigoro Kano in the late 19th century as a physical, mental, and moral pedagogy.

Rules: Based on throws (Nage-waza) and ground techniques (Katame-waza). The objective is to either throw or takedown an opponent to the ground, immobilize them, or force a submission through joint locks or strangles.

8. Karate

Origin: Okinawa, Japan, with influences from Chinese martial arts.

Styles: Many styles with different focuses, but generally emphasizes striking with punches, kicks, knee strikes, and open-hand techniques like knife-hands.

9. Taekwondo

Origin: Korea, developed in the 1940s and 1950s.
Rules: Known for its high, fast, and spinning kicks.

Competitors score points in Olympic Taekwondo for strikes to the torso or head.

10. Krav Maga

Origin: Israel, designed as a self-defense system for the Israel Defense Forces.

Rules: Not typically a sport, but some organizations hold competitions. Focuses on real-world scenarios, aiming to neutralize threats quickly and efficiently.

Each combat sport has its unique culture, training methods, and competitive environments, reflecting diverse historical, cultural, and practical contexts. If you're interested in any particular sport, each has its own set of governing bodies, leagues, and famous athletes or events that could be explored further! (Grok)

Crypto And Politics

Gonzo Bitcoin Scribes With Gonzo, A.I And Grok

Wrestling With Crypto, BTC News And Power To The People; President Trump Looking For A Win-Win-Win situation

And The Crowd Roars Wild For Crypto Friendly Polies

In Case You Missed It

By A. Media Scriber. With assistance from A. Bot (Grok Chapter)

July 28, 2024

Trump vs Harris on cryptocurrency

For The U.S And World Wrestling Crypto Heavyweight Title

The Trumper Will continue to promote and lift bitcoin

Trump planning to establish a U.S. bitcoin stockpile, set up a crypto advisory council akin to Wrestlers Court

Former (to some) President Donald Trump on Saturday body slammed Vice President Kamala Harris over the Biden administration’s approach to cryptocurrency regulation and announced a sweeping set of industry-friendly policies, as he sought to win over the bitcoin mob.

Speaking at a major crypto conference in Nashville, Tennessee, Bitcoin 2024 (WrestleMania for Cryptos) Trump sought to hog tie Harris to the Biden administration’s rugged regulatory approach to the digital asset industry. Though Harris hasn’t taken a public position and her team is ramping up outreach to the crypto world, Trump said she is “against crypto.”

Every Babyface Needs A Villain/Heel

Trump endorsed an array of policies to boost crypto firms.

Bullet Points

Have the U.S government hold a stockpile of bitcoin, creating a crypto advisory council, installing a crypto-friendly Securities and Exchange Commission chair and ock blocking the Fed Reserve from creating its own digital currency.

“I pledge to the bitcoin community that the day I take the oath of office, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris’ anti-crypto crusade will be over,” he said.

“The moment I’m sworn in, the persecution stops and the weaponization ends against your industry.”

Trump’s grand and most welcome appearance at the Bitcoin 2024 conference cemented his embrace of the crypto industry, which is lobbying hard in downtown Washington and planning to spend more than a whopping $160 million to sway this year’s elections. And you thought that stakes were high in WWE's 'Money In The Bank'. How about a crypto title Triple H? Matt Cardona had the Internet Title - we know.

The emergence of Harris after Joe may have been caught in a sleeper hold is likely to complicate his pitch and may throw a ring spanner in the world. Her campaign is showing signs of opening up to the industry, and some Democrats are pushing her to break from the Biden administration’s more skeptical approach.

Trump vowed to terminate SEC Chair Gary Gensler, who has pursued a series of high-profile crypto enforcement actions and has sternly warned that digital asset trading poses big investor risks. Trump also pledged to enact policies to support stablecoins, a type of cryptocurrency pegged to other assets like the dollar.

“We will have regulations, but from now on the rules will be written by people who love your industry, not hate your industry,” he said.

Trump was offered raucous applause and crowd pop, including when he vowed to sack Gensler.

“I didn’t know he was that unpopular,” Trump said.

Trump heaped praise on the crowd, calling them “highly intelligent,” and criticized crypto skeptics like Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), whom he singled out by name.

“The Biden-Harris administration’s repression of crypto and bitcoin is wrong, and it’s very bad for our country,” he said.

Trump himself is a former crypto critic, but he did not acknowledge his past comments in his particular speech. He penned in 2019 that he was “not a fan of bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, which are not money, and whose value is highly volatile and based on thin air.”

Trump started embracing the crypto industry in May. He has since cashed in on his crypto stance, hosting crypto executives at fundraisers and his Mar-a-Lago resort.

Ahead of his speech on Saturday, Trump participated in a fundraiser at the bitcoin conference with an $844,600 asking price to attend a VIP reception, roundtable and to snap a mug shot er photo with the former president, according to an online invitation. A lower-tier ticket that went for $60,000 per person or $100,000 per couple allowed attendees to just attend the reception and get a snap a pic with The Trumpster.

Trump, who appeared on stage Saturday afternoon after an extensive delay, singled out several figures in the crypto world at the start of his speech. They included the Winklevoss twins, whom he dubbed “male models with a big beautiful brain,” Rep. French Hill of Arkansas, who is vying to lead the House Financial Services Committee next year, and David Bailey, who organized the conference.

So fans, you got the winning ticket, your Trump collectables, now you've heard The Hulkster's promo at the RNC. Now we just need the traditional title of President Of The United States, and Commander In Chief sounds good as crypto gold too.

A bullet proof boss, crypto friendly, freedom of speech, and pro actively draining the swamp while giving back power to the people. This trend may just catch on globally. We might need an NWA (National Wrestling Alliance) type group, and they can lock horns with the NWO, much like the famed World Championship Wrestling vs New World Order tussles of the past. DT For The Win! Some of the names change, but the ultimate goal largely remains the same - Freedom!

Special thanks: Bitcoin Magazine/Bitcoin 2024/Bitcoin 2024

Team Donald Trump

WWE, TKO Group, NWA

Hunter S. Thompson (the late)

Grok, X Corp

Trump Trading Cards

The Readers - that means you sport!

News

Bitcoin 2024 (via Grok)

The anticipation around Bitcoin in 2024 is palpable, driven by several key events and trends:

Bitcoin Halving: Scheduled for April 2024, this event reduces the reward for mining new blocks by half, from 6.25 BTC to 3.125 BTC. Historically, halving events have led to significant price increases due to the reduced supply of new bitcoins entering the market. Analysts and enthusiasts expect this trend to continue, potentially pushing Bitcoin's price to new heights.

Spot Bitcoin ETFs: The potential approval of spot Bitcoin Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) in the U.S. is seen as a major catalyst. Such financial products could bring a flood of institutional money into Bitcoin, enhancing its liquidity and acceptance as an investment vehicle. This move could significantly impact Bitcoin's price by making it more accessible to retail and institutional investors who prefer regulated investment products.

Macroeconomic Factors: With concerns over inflation, economic stability, and monetary policies, Bitcoin is increasingly viewed as a hedge against inflation or currency devaluation. Predictions of interest rate cuts and increased money printing by major economies like the U.S. and China could further bolster Bitcoin's appeal as a "digital gold."

Price Predictions: Various analysts and platforms have made bold predictions for Bitcoin's price in 2024.

Predictions range from $60,000 to as high as $524,000, with many expecting a significant bull run post-halving. These forecasts are based on historical patterns post-halving, increased adoption, and the potential for Bitcoin to be seen as a safe-haven asset.

Community Sentiment: On platforms like X, there's a mix of cautious optimism and outright bullishness.

Discussions highlight the potential for Bitcoin to reach six figures or even higher, driven by the halving, ETFs, and macroeconomic conditions. However, there's also acknowledgment of potential corrections or sideways movements post-halving, as seen in past cycles.

Technological and Network Developments: Beyond price, Bitcoin's underlying technology continues to evolve. The introduction of Ordinals and BRC-20 tokens on Bitcoin's network represents innovation in NFTs and DeFi directly on Bitcoin, potentially increasing its utility and thus, value.

Market Sentiment and Events: The Bitcoin 2024 conference in Nashville, featuring high-profile speakers, underscores Bitcoin's growing mainstream acceptance and its role in global financial discussions. Such events not only boost visibility but also might influence market sentiment positively.

Given these points, Bitcoin in 2024 is expected to be at the center of financial innovation, regulatory discussions, and investment strategies. While the exact price trajectory remains speculative, the combination of halving, potential ETF approvals, and global economic conditions sets the stage for what many in the community anticipate could be one of Bitcoin's most significant years yet. However, as with any investment, especially in cryptocurrencies, there's inherent volatility and risk involved, which should be considered alongside the optimism. (Grok)

News via Grok

Zurich Cantonal Bank Launches Crypto Trading

September 9, 2024

Zurich Cantonal Bank (ZKB), Switzerland's fourth-largest bank, has introduced trading services for Bitcoin and Ethereum, marking a significant step in integrating cryptocurrencies into traditional banking. This service allows clients to trade these cryptocurrencies through ZKB's existing eBanking and Mobile Banking platforms, offering 24/7 trading capabilities. Additionally, ZKB provides custody services for these digital assets, enhancing security. This move represents a notable advancement in the adoption of cryptocurrencies by mainstream financial institutions, potentially influencing broader acceptance and use of digital currencies in financial markets.

News

BTC via Grok

Here's a summary based on the latest information available up to September 7, 2024:

Price Movement: Bitcoin experienced a notable drop following the release of U.S. jobs data, with prices dipping by as much as 6.5% to around $52,600. However, there's been a slight recovery, indicating some volatility but also resilience around certain support levels.

Market Sentiment: There's a mix of caution and optimism. The market saw increased volatility with significant price drops across major cryptocurrencies, but there's also mention of a potential for recovery or stabilization, with some traders pointing out that the market might be setting up for further movements based on current support and resistance levels.

Technical Analysis: Various posts discuss Bitcoin's price action within a channel, with more tests at the lower end suggesting a potential for either a breakout or a strong bounce back. Negative funding rates and a lack of significant liquidations on the downside indicate a cautious market where shorts are confident at high-time-frame support levels.

Market Structure: There's an observation of thin order books between the current price and higher levels like $57,000, suggesting potential for rapid movements if buying pressure increases significantly.

Institutional Interest: The mention of Barclays targeting MicroStrategy stock for Bitcoin exposure highlights ongoing institutional interest in Bitcoin, albeit indirectly through stocks of companies with significant Bitcoin holdings.

ETF Impact: There have been outflows from Bitcoin ETFs, which might reflect profit-taking or a shift in investor sentiment, possibly influenced by macroeconomic data or regulatory news.

Future Outlook: While there's immediate concern over the recent dip, the broader sentiment includes watching for how Bitcoin reacts at current support levels, with some anticipation for potential upward movements if certain psychological or technical levels are breached.

This summary reflects a snapshot of Bitcoin's market dynamics as of early September 2024, characterized by typical crypto market volatility, technical analysis speculation, and ongoing interest from both retail and institutional investors. Always remember, the crypto market can be highly speculative, and sentiments can shift rapidly based on new information or broader market trends. (Grok)

News

Trump 2024 (via Grok)

Donald Trump's 2024 presidential campaign has been marked by several notable events and strategic shifts:

Campaign Events and Focus: Trump has been actively campaigning across key battleground states, with recent activities including a rally in Mosinee, Wisconsin, where he spoke on various issues like the economy, education policy, and international relations. His campaign schedule has included themed events focusing on economic policy, crime, national security, and immigration, indicating a broad-based approach to appeal to different voter concerns.

Strategic Adjustments: There's been a noticeable shift in campaign strategy, particularly in response to Kamala Harris's rise in the Democratic ticket. Trump has scaled back campaigning in states like New Hampshire, Minnesota, and Virginia, focusing instead on states with higher electoral impact like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Arizona. This suggests a strategic pivot to consolidate support in crucial swing states.

Policy Promises: Trump has made significant promises, including ending the Russia-Ukraine war before his potential inauguration, abolishing the U.S. Department of Education, and preventing World War III. These pledges aim to appeal to voters looking for strong, decisive action on both domestic and foreign policy fronts.

Public Sentiment and Campaign Style: Trump's rallies continue to draw crowds, although there have been observations of smaller turnouts in some instances compared to previous campaigns. His style remains confrontational, with direct attacks on his opponents and frequent use of social media to engage with supporters directly.

Legal and Political Challenges: The campaign has not been without controversy, including legal challenges and criticisms over his handling of previous events like the Afghanistan withdrawal. Trump's campaign has responded to these by focusing on his past achievements and painting his opponents as less competent or patriotic.

Fundraising and Support: Despite legal battles, Trump's campaign has managed to maintain significant financial support, though there have been fluctuations in fundraising success. His campaign has also been described as ramping up its ground game, suggesting an intensified effort to mobilize voters at the grassroots level.

Media and Public Perception: Social media posts reflect a mix of staunch support and criticism, with some users highlighting perceived weaknesses in Trump's campaign strategy or health, while others rally behind his policies and persona. The campaign's use of media, including Trump's own social media presence, plays a crucial role in shaping his narrative.

Engagement with Key Demographics: Efforts like announcing a "Black Americans for Trump" coalition indicate a strategy to broaden his voter base, addressing criticisms of past campaigns where he struggled with certain demographics.

Trump's 2024 campaign, therefore, is characterized by a blend of continuity in his aggressive campaign style, adaptation to new political realities with Harris as his opponent, and a focus on policy promises that aim to resonate with a wide swath of American voters, particularly in swing states crucial for electoral victory.

Media Man Int

Some official Bitcoin 2024 Media Blurb, In Case You Missed It!

Magazine (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/magazine.html

Politics (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/politics.html

Business News (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/business_news.html

Cryptocurrency News (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/cryptocurrency_news.html

Streaming Industry News

Olympics fuels US TV viewership in August

September 2024

US Television viewing in August was boosted by the 2024 Paris Olympics, according to The Gauge report from Nielsen. The Summer Games had the most notable impact on broadcast viewership, notching growth levels more typical for September with increases of 8 per cent versus July and 11.7 per cent year over year. The broadcast category ultimately accounted for 22 per cent of TV in August, and when looking week-by-week, its share peaked during the first week of the interval with 24.3 per cent of TV.

On the streaming side, Peacock offered broad Olympics coverage to complement linear offerings, the success of which was demonstrated by a monthly viewership increase of 39 per cent for the streaming service overall, and nearly double the amount of viewers aged 35-49. These factors helped lift Peacock from a 1.5 per cent share of TV in July to a new platform-best 2.1 per cent share in August (+0.6 pts.). It also makes Peacock only the third streaming platform this year to record a 0.5 point share increase or more on a monthly basis, in addition to YouTube (February and July) and Netflix (June).

Olympics programming on NBC drew millions of viewers in both primetime and daytime windows. Across all of NBC’s Olympics telecasts that aired during the August interval, 32 of them totaled more than 5 million viewers, and 17 garnered more than 10 million viewers. Moreover, Olympics telecasts on NBC notched the top 19 broadcast telecasts of the month. Leading the charge with 17.9 million viewers was NBC’s July 30th primetime programme that highlighted Simone Biles and the US women’s gymnastics team winning gold in the team competition, as well as four American medals in swimming and the dramatic bronze-medal victory by the US women’s rugby team.
From a total television usage perspective, August levels were even with July. However, a year-over-year comparison revealed a larger imbalance, as usage this month was up 3.5 per cent versus August 2023. A notable year-over-year difference was also evident among broadcast program genres, with broadcast sports programme viewership up 239 per cent over August 2023, further illustrating the impact of the Games on the overall TV landscape.

Like the broadcast category, cable also exhibited a peak viewing week that coincided with a major TV event. The Democratic National Convention aired for four nights across multiple networks during the final week of the August interval, and during that week, cable’s share of television climbed to 27.9 per cent. The DNC also contributed to the top cable programmes in August, with MSNBC receiving most of the benefits. MSNBC owned the top 11 cable telecasts of the month, and 14 of the top 15. ESPN’s coverage of the Florida State vs Georgia Tech football matchup snagged the 12th spot. In the end, cable viewing was down 2 per cent from July and finished the month with 26.3 per cent of TV.

After several consecutive remarkable months, the streaming category had a softer month in August from a content perspective, but remained the clear winner overall with 41 per cent of TV (down 1 per cent, -0.4 pts.). Only one original programme broke into the month’s top 10 – The Umbrella Academy on Netflix totaled 3.9 billion viewing minutes – while the rest went to acquired titles including Prison Break, which led the way with 5.4 billion minutes across Netflix and Paramount+. Bluey on Disney+ generated over 4 billion viewing minutes to secure the second most watched streaming title this month. The animated Australian import helped drive an 8 per cent increase for the streamer, as Disney+ reached a platform high of 2.3 per cent of TV in August. Some of the 8 per cent boost can also be attributed to Hulu content available within the Disney+ platform to certain package subscribers.

YouTube won the month among streaming services for the 19th consecutive interval, posting another category and platform best in August with 10.6 per cent of TV. Compared with August 2023, YouTube has the largest year-over-year difference in share for any streaming platform and has added 1.5 points to its share of TV (9.1 per cent to 10.6 per cent). Meanwhile, the overall streaming category has gained 2.7 points YoY and is up 11 per cent versus August 2023. (Wires)

Gaming, Hotel And Casino News: U.S

September 2024

New Jersey Internet gambling sets new record at $198M in revenue, but land casinos lag

Internet gambling in New Jersey had its best month ever in August, bringing in over $198 million in revenue even as most of Atlantic City’s land-based casinos continued to win less than they did before the COVID-19 pandemic. Figures released Monday by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement show that internet gambling brought in $198.4 million, the highest monthly total ever recorded in the state and an increase of nearly 28% from a year earlier. That was the good news for Atlantic City’s gambling industry.

News

BetMGM impresses in NFL Week One, Jefferies analyst says

BetMGM handily outperformed the field in New York state in the first week of NFL wagering, according to data published September 15 in a Jefferies Equity Research investor note penned by analyst James Wheatcroft. According to Wheatcroft’s analysis, BetMGM grew its handle 54 percent from last year, revenue 24 percent, and winning margins 8.2 percent. For the market overall, the handle grew by 14 percent, but revenue dropped 43 percent and margin was down 6.8 percent. FanDuel recorded a seven percent decrease in handle and 54 percent lower revenue.

News

llinois: Casino revenue shoots up 3.1% in August after a slow summer

Illinois casinos posted positive monthly revenue for the first time since the spring. The state’s 15 casinos combined for a win of $140 million in August, up 3.1% from July’s total of $135.8 million. Revenue totals do not include online casinos because iGaming is illegal in the Prairie State. Illinois is a leading earner for land-based revenue and sports betting handle (total amount bet). But, is nowhere to be found in the world of online casinos. The state’s legislators made two attempts to legalize IL online gaming this year, but both fell short.

News

F1 not moving the Vegas needle, Truist analyst says

“F1 stuck in neutral for now,” wrote Truist Securities analyst Barry Jonas, leading off a September 16 investor note on the subject of Las Vegas room rates. He deemed them “fairly stable but soft” into the fourth quarter. A Truist survey of Las Vegas hotel-room prices had shown growth in August followed by slowness throughout the fall. Jonas said these findings were congruent with MGM Resorts International’s forward-looking commentary during its second-quarter earnings call. Wrote Jonas, “While our survey is just one facet of the market and can change, we note continuing investor concerns around slowing growth amidst tough comparisons.”

News

August casino revenue $63 million

Virginia (results) - Lottery Commission - The Virginia Lottery released its report on casino gaming activity for the month of August 2024. There are three operating casinos in Virginia: HR Bristol, Rivers Casino Portsmouth, and Caesars Virginia. During August, gaming revenues from Virginia casinos totaled $63.1 million. Hard Rock Bristol $15.9 million, Rivers Casino Portsmouth $26.6 million, and Caesars Virginia $20.4 million. Virginia law assesses a graduated tax on a casino’s AGR, or wagers minus winnings, and $11.8 million in taxes were paid to the Gaming Proceeds Fund.

News

MGM getting more solar energy with rural Nevada solar farm

Nevada (Las Vegas) - A solar farm in the remote Nevada desert will double MGM International’s capacity to use solar energy. It entered a power purchase agreement with a utility-scale solar company to use its forthcoming facility in Lincoln County. The company is expected to begin using that boost in green energy in 2026. MGM uses 90 percent renewable energy for 11 of its Las Vegas resorts’ daytime needs, the company said, but the new solar farm and battery storage facility will power 100 percent of daytime needs and some of what’s needed for nighttime.

News

Three Strip casinos get new top exec

Nevada (Las Vegas) - Three casino properties on the Las Vegas Strip will soon have a new boss following the company departure of the trio’s former top executive. Ken Ostempowski will be assuming the role of senior vice president and general manager of Paris Las Vegas, Planet Hollywood and Horseshoe. Ostempowski currently holds similar roles overseeing The ROW Reno, a three-casino resort destination in Northern Nevada operated by Caesars. According to Ostempowski’s LinkedIn profile, he has held executive-level positions in multiple gaming markets, including Las Vegas, the Gulf Coast, the Midwest and Colorado.

News

Strip resort reveals rare tier-match offer

Nevada (Las Vegas) - For the first time since introducing a new player rewards program, a Las Vegas Strip casino is offering to upgrade gamblers’ loyalty cards to a comparable level from other casinos. The Venetian casino-hotel is launching a tier-match promotion that will allow customers to receive a Venetian Rewards card status that is on par with or better than what they currently have with another casino operator. The Venetian Resort Las Vegas’ tier-match event begins Oct. 1, according to a recent email, and will run through Jan. 1.

News

Boyd bets big on large sportsbooks even as mobile betting flourishes

Nevada (Las Vegas) - The largest sportsbook operated by Boyd Gaming Corp. may not be the place “where everybody knows your name.” But that sentiment is the reason the company (with its nine Las Vegas casinos) and other gaming operators continue to invest millions of dollars into expanding or modernizing large sportsbooks with massive viewing screens, comfortable seating areas and food and beverage options. Those expenditures happen even as more than 65 percent of Nevada’s $8 billion sports gaming industry come through mobile wagering accounts — bets made anywhere outside the casino. “A sportsbook is more than just a place to make wagers,” said Boyd Gaming Vice President of Race & Sports Bob Scucci. “At our properties, the sportsbook is the place where people come four or five times a week. It’s where they go to meet their friends and congregate.”

News

Opening sportsbook with Jay-Z at Ocean Casino, Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin explains Atlantic City’s appeal

Michael Rubin’s love for Atlantic City goes back to when he was about 12 years old. “The gambling age was 18 when I was a kid,” the once-small kid from Philadelphia recalled. “I remember when I was 12 years old, I went to an Atlantic City casino, to Caesars. It was 40 years ago. I won $2,500. I called my mom from a pay phone and said, ‘Mom, I got great news! I just won $2,500!’ She asked how, and I said, ‘I’m in a casino in Atlantic City,’ and she goes, ‘You’re grounded, get home.’ That’s my favorite story.”

News

A jobs boon from a casino at Manhattan’s Hudson Yards? Experts aren’t betting on it.

When casino giant Wynn showed off plans for its Hudson Yards West casino proposal last month, it enlisted progressive heavyweights to make the case that the venture would be a jobs bonanza for poor and working-class New Yorkers. The endorsements were full-throated and infused with hope and promise. Leaders from the NAACP, National Urban League and Win, New York City’s largest provider of family shelter and permanent supportive housing, were among the groups that said the proposal would bring significant career opportunities.

News

Maine’s first in-person sports betting bar opens in Portland

Maine’s first, in-person sports-betting bar is officially open. “Oddfellahs” opened on Market Street on Friday… The bar has partnered with Caesars Sportsbook, one of two sportsbooks authorized under Maine’s new law to run sports betting, the other being DraftKings. The founder of “Oddfellahs” says there’s more to the bar than just sports betting.

News

IIlinois Gaming Board renews Rivers Casino’s license

The Illinois Gaming Board on Thursday renewed Rivers Casino’s gaming license as well as Hawthorne Race Course’s master sports wagering license. Both renewals by the state agency came via unanimous 4-0 votes and are good for four years, with Rivers now licensed through August 2028 and Hawthorne through September of that year.

News

Bellagio removing trees as F1 prep begins on the Las Vegas Strip

The Las Vegas Grand Prix is around the corner and the Bellagio casino-hotel is days away from starting race preparations. On Monday, work crews will begin removing the trees in front of the Fountains of Bellagio along Las Vegas Boulevard to make room for the construction of the Bellagio Fountain Club (an F1 spectator area for VIPs). (Wires, A.I News)

News

Streaming TV

Streaming Entertainment

Streaming News

James Bond: News

The Matrix

Movie Box Office (North America)

September 8, 2024

1. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice - $110m

2. Deadpool and Wolverine - $7.2m

3. Reagan - $5.2m

4. Alien: Romulus - $3.9m

5. It Ends with Us - $3.8m

6. The Forge - $2.9m

7. Twisters - $2.3m

8. Blink Twice - $2.2m

9. Despicable Me 4 - $1.8m

10. The Front Room - $1.7

others ...

Afraid

Inside Out 2

Coraline

The Crow

Trap

Stree 2

Borderlands

Harold and the Purple Crayon

Cuckoo

Longlegs

The Firing Squad

A Quiet Place: Day One

Bad Boys: Ride or Die

The Fabulous Four

Fly Me to the Moon

Raayan

Bad Newz

MaXXXine

The Bikeriders

Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot

Horizon: An American Saga

The Lion King

Kalki 2898 AD

Kinds of Kindness

The Garfield Movie

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

Jatt & Juliet 3

Blue Lock Thee Movie - Episode Nagi

Daddio

Janet Planet

The Watchers

IF

The Exorcism

Thelma

GHOST Rite Here Rite Now

Furiosa: A Mad Max Story

The Fall Guy

The Strangers: Chapter 1

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings

Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle

In a Violent Nature

Ezra

Sight

* Correct at time of publication

Movie Box Office (North America)

1. Deadpool & Wolverine - $19.5 million

2. Alien: Romulus - $11.5 million

3. It Ends with Us - $9.5 million

4. Reagan - $9.2 million

5. Twisters $8.8 million

6. The Forge - $6.3 million

7. Blink Twice - $5.9 million

8. Despicable Me 4 - $5.6 million

9. Afraid - $4.5 million

10. Inside Out $4 million

Streaming TV

Streaming Entertainment

IMDb: Top Box Office (US)

News

Streaming Entertainment via Grok; X TV Tipped To Eventually Go Head To Head With YouTube, Netflix, But Will Take Many Years To Get To That Point; Customers Waiting To Churn/Switch. Changes Ahead For WBD, HBO, Binge, Paramount And Many Others - Too Many To List! Media Man Founder and Subscriber TV Veteran

Streaming entertainment has transformed how we consume media, offering a vast array of movies, TV shows, music, and more directly to our devices. Here's a breakdown of what's happening in this space as of my last update:

Major Players:

Netflix: Known for its original content like "Stranger Things," "The Crown," and "Squid Game." They've been pushing into gaming and have been experimenting with ad-supported models.

Amazon Prime Video: Comes with Amazon Prime membership. Notable for "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel," "The Boys," and its integration with shopping and other Amazon services.

Disney+: A powerhouse for family entertainment, featuring Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and classic Disney content. It's also expanding its library with more adult-oriented content under the Star banner in some regions.

HBO Max: Offers premium content like "Game of Thrones," "Chernobyl," and a vast library of movies. It's also known for its DC Universe shows.

Apple TV+: While newer, it's making waves with high-quality originals like "Ted Lasso," "The Morning Show," and "See."

Peacock (NBCUniversal): Provides a mix of free and premium content, including "The Office," WWE, and original series like "Punky Brewster."

Paramount+: Combines CBS All Access with content from Paramount, Nickelodeon, MTV, and more, featuring shows like "Star Trek: Discovery" and "The Stand."

Trends and Developments:

Original Content: There's a massive push towards creating exclusive content to attract subscribers. This includes movies, series, documentaries, and even live sports.

Global Expansion: Services are increasingly focusing on international markets, either by offering local content or by making their service available in more countries.

Bundling: Companies are bundling their streaming services with other products. For example, Disney has bundles with Hulu and ESPN+.

Ad-Supported Models: To combat rising costs, some platforms like Netflix have introduced or are considering ad-supported tiers.

Direct-to-Streaming Releases: Movies are increasingly bypassing traditional theatrical releases, going straight to streaming platforms, especially noted during global health crises.

Quality Over Quantity: While there's a lot of content, platforms are also focusing on high-quality, award-winning productions to stand out.

Interactive Content: Some platforms are experimenting with interactive movies or shows where viewers can choose the plot direction.

Technological Integration: Enhanced with technologies like 4K, HDR, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos for audio, providing a cinematic experience at home.

Challenges:

Content Saturation: With so many platforms, there's a risk of content fatigue among viewers.

Churn: Subscribers frequently switch between services based on what's currently available, leading to high turnover.

Regulatory Scrutiny: Issues like market dominance, content licensing, and privacy are increasingly under regulatory lenses.

Piracy: Despite advanced measures, piracy remains a challenge, especially for content not easily accessible in certain regions.

If you're interested in a specific aspect of streaming entertainment or want to know about recent developments since my last update, feel free to ask! If there's a particular service or type of content you're curious about, I can dive deeper into those areas. (Grok)

News

Streaming TV

Streaming TV has revolutionized how we consume television content, offering a vast array of shows, movies, and original programming through internet-based platforms rather than traditional cable or satellite TV. Here's a breakdown of what you might be interested in regarding streaming TV as of my last update:

Key Players:

Netflix: Known for its extensive library, original content like "Stranger Things," "The Crown," and "Squid Game," and a global reach.

Amazon Prime Video: Comes with an Amazon Prime subscription, offering shows like "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel," "The Boys," and movies, plus the integration with shopping services.

Hulu: Offers a mix of current TV episodes, a robust library of older content, and originals like "The Handmaid's Tale." It's also notable for its live TV option.

Disney+: Focuses on family-friendly content, including Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and National Geographic. Hits include "The Mandalorian" and "WandaVision."

HBO Max: Home to HBO's acclaimed series like "Game of Thrones," "Chernobyl," plus a wide range of Warner Bros. movies and new originals.

Apple TV+: While newer, it's gaining traction with high-quality originals like "Ted Lasso," "The Morning Show," and "Foundation."

Peacock: NBCUniversal's service, offering a mix of free and premium content, including "The Office," "Parks and Recreation," and new originals.

Trends and Features:

Ad-Supported vs. Ad-Free: Many services now offer tiers where you can choose between watching with ads for a lower price or paying more for an ad-free experience.

Live TV Streaming: Services like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV allow streaming of live broadcast channels, appealing to sports fans and those who still want traditional TV experiences.

Bundling: Some platforms offer bundles with internet service providers or other streaming services to reduce costs.

Original Content: There's a significant push towards exclusive, original content to differentiate services, leading to a golden age of TV with high-quality, diverse programming.

Global Expansion: Services are increasingly focusing on global markets, offering localized content or subtitles/dubbing in multiple languages.

Technological Considerations:

4K and HDR: Many services now offer content in 4K resolution and HDR, enhancing viewing quality.

Offline Viewing: Most services allow downloading content for offline viewing, which is great for travel or areas with poor internet.

Smart TVs and Devices: Streaming is not just for computers or smartphones anymore; smart TVs, streaming sticks (like Roku, Amazon Fire Stick), and gaming consoles have made streaming accessible on almost any screen.

Challenges:

Content Fragmentation: With content spread across multiple services, there's a growing issue of "streaming fatigue" where consumers feel overwhelmed by the number of subscriptions needed.

Price Increases: As content quality and exclusivity rise, so do subscription costs, leading to discussions about the cost-effectiveness of streaming vs. traditional cable.

Piracy: The fragmentation and cost have somewhat revived piracy concerns as viewers look for ways to access content without multiple subscriptions.

If you're looking for recommendations or have specific questions about streaming services or shows, feel free to ask! If there's been a significant update or new service since my last update, you might want to check the latest reviews or news for the most current information. (Grok)

Media Man

News

Streaming Movies Top 10 (North America)

August 27, 2024

1. Furiosa (Max)

2. The Union (Netflix)

3. Jackpot (Prime Video)

4. The Instigators (Apple TV+)

5. Alien (Hulu)

6. The Bikeriders (Peacock)

7. Immaculate (Hulu)

8. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (Hulu)

9. Alien: Covenant (Hulu)

10. Twister (Max)

News

Top 10 Streaming TV (North America)

August 27, 2024

1. Bad Monkey (Apple TV+)

2. The Umbrella Academy (Netflix)

3. Industry (Max)

4. The Bear (Hulu)

5. From (Prime Video)

6. Presumed Innocent (Apple TV+)

7. Emily in Paris (Netflix)

8. Time Bandits (Apple TV+)

9. A Good Girl's Guide to Murder (Netflix)

10. Evil (Paramount+)

Media Man

Pop Culture/Streaming Entertainment

Top 10 Movies Streaming (United States)

August 20, 2024

Top 10 movies

1. The Instigators (Apple TV+)

2. The Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (Hulu)

3. The Bikeriders (Peacock)

4. Deadpool 2 (Disney+)

5. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (Netflix)

6. Twister (Max)

7. Challengers (MGM+)

8. If (Paramount+)

9. Deadpool (Disney+)

10. Wicked Little Letters (Netflix)

Pop Culture/Streaming Entertainment

Top 10 Streaming TV (United States)

1. The Umbrella Academy (Netflix)

2. A Good Girl's Guide to Murder (Netflix)

3. Presumed Innocent (Apple TV+)

4. House of the Dragon (Max)

5. Industry (Max)

6. Bad Monkey (Apple TV+)

7. Time Bandits (Apple TV+)

8. The Bear (Hulu)

9. Evil (Paramount+)

10. Batman: Caped Crusader (Prime Video)

Movie Box Office (North America)

August 18, 2024

1. Alien: Romulus - $41.5m

2. Deadpool & Wolverine - $29m

3. It Ends with Us - $24m

4. Twisters - $9.8m

5. Coraline - $8.4m

6. Despicable Me 4 - $6m

7. Trap - $3.4m

8. Inside Out 2 - $3.2m

9. Stree 2 - $2.6m

10. Borderlands - $2.4m

others...

Harold and the Purple Crayon

Cuckoo

Longlegs

The Firing Squad

A Quiet Place: Day One

Bad Boys: Ride or Die

The Fabulous Four

Fly Me to the Moon

Raayan

Bad Newz

MaXXXine

The Bikeriders

Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot

Horizon: An American Saga

The Lion King

Kalki 2898 AD

Kinds of Kindness

The Garfield Movie

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

Jatt & Juliet 3

Blue Lock Thee Movie - Episode Nagi

Daddio

Janet Planet

The Watchers

IF

The Exorcism

Thelma

GHOST Rite Here Rite Now

Furiosa: A Mad Max Story

The Fall Guy

The Strangers: Chapter 1

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings

Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle

In a Violent Nature

Ezra

Sight

* Correct at time of publication

Movie Box Office (North America)

August 4, 2024

1. Deadpool & Wolverine - $97m

2. Twisters - $22.7m

3. Trap - $15.6m

4. Despicable Me 4 - $11.3

5. Inside Out 2 - $6.7m

6. Harold and the Purple Crayon - $6m

7. Longlegs - $4.1m

8. The Firing Squad - $1.6m

9. A Quiet Place: Day One - $1.4m

10. Bad Boys: Ride or Die - $601,000

others...

The Fabulous Four

Fly Me to the Moon

Raayan

Bad Newz

MaXXXine

The Bikeriders

Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot

Horizon: An American Saga

The Lion King

Kalki 2898 AD

Kinds of Kindness

The Garfield Movie

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

Jatt & Juliet 3

Blue Lock Thee Movie - Episode Nagi

Daddio

Janet Planet

The Watchers

IF

The Exorcism

Thelma

GHOST Rite Here Rite Now

Furiosa: A Mad Max Story

The Fall Guy

The Strangers: Chapter 1

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings

Haikyuu!! The Dumpster Battle

In a Violent Nature

Ezra

Sight

* Correct at time of publication

News

Box office numbers down approx 70 percent from last year

(References: Wikipedia, Box Office Mojo, IMDb, Deadline and The Hollywood Reporter)

Donald Trump Bitcoin Conference Keynote
https://youtube.com/watch?v=9UxAUryUKXM&ab_channel=BitcoinMagazine

Donald Trump delivers his keynote address at the Bitcoin Conference 2024. In a groundbreaking speech at the Bitcoin 2024 conference in Nashville, former President Donald Trump outlines his vision for a crypto-friendly America. Trump promises to end the current administration's "anti-crypto crusade" and positions himself as the first major party nominee to accept Bitcoin donations. He pledges to fire SEC Chairman Gary Gensler, create a Presidential Crypto Advisory Council, and keep all government-held Bitcoin. Trump's address covers a wide range of topics, from energy policy to inflation, connecting them all to the future of Bitcoin and cryptocurrency in America. He vows to make the U.S. the "crypto capital of the planet" and a "Bitcoin superpower," promising regulatory clarity and economic prosperity for the industry.

This video is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of politics and cryptocurrency. Lower your time preference and lock-in your Bitcoin 2025 conference tickets today!!! (Credit: Bitcoin Magazine
@BitcoinMagazine
/Bitcoin 2024)

Click Here: http://b.tc/conference/2025 #djt

Websites

Bitcoin Magazine
https://bitcoinmagazine.com

Bitcoin Magazine:

NEWS: DONALD TRUMP TO SPEAK AT BITCOIN 2024 CONFERENCE IN NASHVILLE
https://bitcoinmagazine.com/business/donald-trump-to-speak-at-bitcoin-2024-conference-in-nashville

Bitcoin Magazine YouTube
https://youtube.com/@BitcoinMagazine

Donald Trump to Headline Bitcoin 2024 Conference in Nashville

July 11, 2024

Former President Donald Trump has been confirmed as a keynote speaker at the upcoming Bitcoin 2024 conference set to take place in Nashville, Tennessee.

This news comes as a significant development for the event, known for its major industry announcements and influential speakers. The conference, which has previously been hosted in Miami, has established itself as a platform for groundbreaking news within the cryptocurrency space.

Bitcoin 2021, the inaugural conference, made headlines when El Salvador officially declared Bitcoin as legal tender. The subsequent Bitcoin 2022 and Bitcoin 2023 conferences continued the trend of notable moments, including a powerful speech by U.S. Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in support of the Bitcoin industry.

This year, the shift of the conference location from Miami to Nashville signifies its increasing prominence on the global stage. With two former U.S. Presidential candidates, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Donald Trump, slated to speak, Bitcoin 2024 is anticipated to be a pivotal event that could potentially impact the future trajectory of Bitcoin and cryptocurrency policies in the United States.

Donald Trump’s participation in the conference is especially noteworthy considering his recent engagements with the Bitcoin community. Earlier this year, Trump met with prominent U.S. Bitcoin miners, including representatives from CleanSpark, where he reiterated his support for Bitcoin mining both domestically and internationally. In a statement, Trump pledged to prioritize the development of Bitcoin and crypto initiatives in the United States and safeguard the rights of the nation’s 50 million crypto holders if re-elected as president.

As Trump embarks on his presidential campaign, his alignment with the Bitcoin industry stands in contrast to the position of his potential rival, President Joe Biden, who has shown less enthusiasm towards the cryptocurrency sector. While Biden’s participation in Bitcoin 2024 remains unconfirmed, the event could underscore the divergent approaches of the two candidates towards Bitcoin and its implications for U.S. policies.

For additional details on the Bitcoin 2024 conference and to secure a discounted ticket using a promotional code, interested individuals can visit the official event website. Bitcoin Magazine, a subsidiary of BTC Inc, the organizer of the largest Bitcoin conference, The Bitcoin Conference, will be overseeing the event.

Websites

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August 2, 2024

News

U.F.C. Abu Dhabi Fight Card

The UFC event in Abu Dhabi on August 3rd, 2024, is generating significant discussion among fans and analysts. The main event features Umar Nurmagomedov against Cory Sandhagen, with Nurmagomedov being favored by many. The card includes other notable fighters like Deiveson Figueiredo, Marlon Vera, and Shara. Predictions and betting odds are being shared across social media, and Khabib Nurmagomedov is expected to be in Umar's corner. The event is free to watch on ABC Network, further enhancing its accessibility and viewership. Tony Ferguson has expressed his desire to continue fighting in the UFC, while other fighters like Figueiredo and Vera are also generating interest among fans. The event promises to be an exciting showcase of talent and competition in the world of mixed martial arts. (Grok)

News

UFC Abu Dhabi Event

The upcoming UFC event in Abu Dhabi on August 2, 2024, is generating significant buzz, featuring a main event between undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov and Cory Sandhagen. The event is free to watch on ABC Network and includes notable fighters such as Deiveson Figueiredo and Marlon Vera. The card also features Tony Ferguson, who has expressed his desire to continue fighting in the UFC. The event is anticipated to be a major one, with Khabib Nurmagomedov expected to be in Umar's corner. Betting predictions and discussions are prevalent across social media platforms, with various analysts and fans sharing their insights and picks for the fights.

News

Survivor Series: WarGames in Vancouver

WWE has announced that Survivor Series 2024 will be held in Vancouver, Canada, marking the first WWE pay-per-view event in the city since 1998. The event, featuring the WarGames match format, is scheduled for November 30 at Rogers Arena. This decision has sparked excitement among wrestling fans and local residents, with many expressing enthusiasm about attending the event in Vancouver. (Grok)

News

SummerSlam Predictions and Anticipation

WWE SummerSlam 2024 is generating significant anticipation among fans, with many expressing excitement and making predictions about the outcomes of various matches. Key discussions revolve around potential returns of prominent wrestlers such as Roman Reigns and The Rock, as well as the outcomes of matches like Cody Rhodes vs. Solo Sikoa and Liv Morgan vs. Rhea Ripley. The event is set to feature a variety of matches that fans are eagerly awaiting, including those involving LA Knight, Logan Paul, and Gunther. The overall sentiment is one of excitement and speculation, with fans looking forward to a thrilling event. (Grok)

News

Rampage Debuts for MxM & Private Party on AEW

All Elite Wrestling (AEW) is gearing up for an exciting lineup of events, including the highly anticipated All In event scheduled for August 25, 2024. The event is generating significant buzz among fans and is anticipated to surpass the success of the previous year's event. The card for All In features high-stakes matches such as Bryan Danielson putting his career on the line against Swerve, MJF facing Will Ospreay, and a tag team grudge match involving Darby Allin, FTR, and ROH Champion Sussex Co. Chicken against formidable opponents. AEW is also promoting other shows like AEW Dynamite and AEW Rampage, which feature matches like Hangman Page vs. Darby Allin and MxM Collection's debut against Private Party, respectively. The promotion is leveraging various platforms and media to engage with fans and build anticipation for these events. (Grok)

News

Crawford vs Madrimov: Pre-Fight Press Conference

Terence Crawford and Israil Madrimov are set to face off in a highly anticipated boxing match on August 3rd, as part of the Riyadh Season Card. The event, which will be available on PPV, has generated significant buzz among boxing fans and media. The undercard for the event is also noted for its quality, featuring a heavyweight bout between Andy Ruiz Jr. and Jarrell Miller, as well as other notable fights. The event is expected to be a major draw, with fans eagerly anticipating the outcome of the main event between Crawford and Madrimov. (Grok)

News

TNA Wrestling: Rascalz vs. Bailey, Seven & KUSHIDA

TNA Wrestling's iMPACT episode on August 1, 2024, featured a lineup of exciting matches and events. The show included a TNA World Title match between Nic Nemeth and Mustafa Ali, as well as the wedding of PCO and Steph De Lander. Other matches included The Rascalz in action against Mike Bailey, Trent Seven, and KUSHIDA in a six-man tag team match, Frankie Kazarian vs. Ryan Nemeth, and Jody Threat vs. Masha Slamovich. The event was broadcasted on various platforms including TNA+, AXS TV, DAZN, and YouTube, catering to a wide audience. Fans and wrestling enthusiasts expressed their anticipation and excitement for the event across social media platforms. (Grok)

ROH

Ring of Honor (ROH) is a professional wrestling promotion recently acquired by Tony Khan, CEO of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), Chief Football Strategy Officer of the Jacksonville Jaguars, and GM/Sporting Director of Fulham F.C. ROH has been holding events and television tapings, with notable developments including Sammy Guevara's return to help Dustin Rhodes against the Dark Order at the July 28th tapings. The promotion has been building new stars and continues to feature high-profile matches and events. (Grok)

News

WWE 2K24 Online Stability Hotfix

WWE 2K24 released Patch 1.14 to address online stability issues, which was automatically applied upon game loading. The update aimed to fix problems with the Pat McAfee Show Pack DLC for PS5 users, which was resolved, allowing the pack to be downloaded. However, the patch also caused issues with mods on PC, and some users reported problems with Titantrons in create an entrance and the unavailability of DLC for PlayStation 5 users. Despite these issues, WWE 2K24 encouraged players to participate in a giveaway for SummerSlam and provided a locker code for 7500 VC. (Grok)

Max Verstappen's Potential Mercedes Move

Speculation is rife about Max Verstappen potentially joining Mercedes, fueled by recent high-profile departures from Red Bull Racing. Despite the rumors, some fans express skepticism about the likelihood of such a move. The discussion also touches on the stability of other drivers' positions within their teams, with some questioning the rationale behind certain team decisions. Additionally, there is discussion about the performance comparison between Verstappen and his teammate, Perez, at Red Bull Racing. (Grok)

News

Wheatley's Move from Red Bull to Audi F1

Jonathan Wheatley, the long-serving sporting director at Red Bull Racing, is set to leave the team at the end of the 2024 season to become the new team principal of the Audi Formula 1 project. This move has been confirmed by Red Bull and widely reported across various Formula 1 news outlets. Audi has not officially commented on Wheatley's appointment, and there are indications that they were not expecting the announcement. Wheatley's departure marks a significant change in leadership for Red Bull and a notable acquisition for Audi as it prepares to enter Formula 1. The transition is expected to take place after the 2024 season, with Wheatley remaining in his current role until then. (Grok)

News

WWE NXT Great American Bash Week One

The WWE NXT Great American Bash kicked off with a series of exciting matches and events, including a WWE Women's Tag Team Championship match where Alba Fyre & Isla Dawn defended their titles against Jakara Jackson & Lash Legend. Other highlights included a NXT Women’s Championship match between Roxanne Perez and Thea Hail, a live concert by Joe Hendry, and a NXT Heritage Cup match between Tony D'Angelo and Tavion Heights. Fans and commentators expressed excitement and anticipation for the event, with many rooting for their favorite wrestlers and speculating on potential outcomes. (Grok)

News

NXT Women's Championship: Roxanne Perez Retains

Roxanne Perez successfully defended her NXT Women's Championship against Thea Hail in a highly acclaimed match at NXT GAB. The match was praised for its intensity and the young ages of the competitors, with both being under 23 years old. The event also featured other notable matches, including Joe Hendry expressing frustration with Gallus and a confirmed match between Joe Hendry and Joe Coffey for the following week. The overall event was well-received, highlighting the talent and potential of the NXT roster. (Grok)

News

Bowlin Graham's Pocono Win Secures Playoff Spot

Graham Bowlin secured a spot in the 2024 eNASCAR Coca-Cola iRacing Series playoffs with a win at Pocono Raceway. Despite missing out on the playoffs, drivers from Spire Motorsports expressed pride in their team's efforts. Nick Ottinger also secured a playoff spot, marking the seventh consecutive season Team Conti has fielded at least one car in the post-season. The playoff lineup includes Steven Wilson, Parker White, Nick Ottinger, Graham Bowlin, Vicente Salas, Bobby Zalenski, Tucker Minter, Garrett Lowe, Dylan Duval, and Daniel Faulkingham. (Grok)

News

CM Punk's Top 5 Wrestlers of All Time

During an interview on ESPN's First Take, CM Punk named his top-5 wrestlers of all time, which included Harley Race, Terry Funk, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Eddie Guerrero, and initially Ricky Steamboat, but he later switched to Roddy Piper. This selection sparked discussions among fans and commentators, with some expressing surprise at the absence of Bret Hart from the list. Punk also highlighted Stone Cold Steve Austin as the biggest superstar in the industry. The interview took place ahead of SummerSlam 2024, which is set to occur in a few days, generating anticipation among wrestling fans. (Grok)

News

Cedric Alexander's NXT Victory

Cedric Alexander emerged victorious in a match against Brooks Jensen on the WWE NXT show. The win was unexpected by some fans and commentators, and it was celebrated by many on social media. The event also featured other matches and announcements, including a promo by Pete Dunne about his upcoming match with Trick Williams. (Grok)

News

UFC Abu Dhabi Event

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to host a highly anticipated event in Abu Dhabi this Saturday, featuring a stacked card of fights. Notable fighters on the card include Tony Ferguson, Cory Sandhagen, and Mackenzie Dern. The event is free and open to the public, with a live broadcast on various platforms. Fans and analysts are discussing the matchups and sharing their predictions and betting tips for the fights. Cory Sandhagen is a key focus of the event, with many fans and analysts predicting a strong performance from him in his fight against Umar Nurmagomedov. (Grok)

News

AEW Returns and Criticisms

The recent episode of AEW's Dynamite received mixed reactions from fans and critics, sparking discussions on various aspects of the show. Topics included the return of a star after a five-month absence, the company's approach to pushing certain talents, and comparisons between AEW and WWE. Some fans expressed disappointment in the show's content and booking decisions, while others praised specific moments and storylines. The discourse highlighted a range of opinions and critiques regarding AEW's current direction and its relationship with its audience and competitors. (Grok)

News

AEW Collision Viewership Drop Amid Summer Events

AEW Collision viewership experienced a significant drop, averaging 383,000 viewers with a 0.12 P18-49 rating, marking a 19% decrease from the previous week. This decline was attributed to tough competition from the Olympics. Meanwhile, WWE's SummerSlam is generating anticipation, with fans expressing mixed feelings about the event and the potential outcomes for their favorite wrestlers. (Grok)

News

Grok Search: TNA Wrestling

Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) is an American professional wrestling promotion founded in 2002 by Jeff Jarrett and Jerry Jarrett. It is currently owned by Anthem Sports & Entertainment and is based in Nashville, Tennessee. TNA was initially known as NWA: Total Nonstop Action until 2004 when it rebranded to its current name.

TNA has been known for its innovative matches and storylines, and it has featured many notable wrestlers such as Kurt Angle, Sting, AJ Styles, Samoa Joe, and Jeff Hardy. The promotion has also been praised for its women's division, known as the Knockouts Division, which features some of the top female wrestlers in the world.

TNA has faced a number of challenges over the years, including changes in ownership and a decline in viewership. However, the promotion has continued to produce entertaining and innovative content, and it remains a significant player in the world of professional wrestling. (Grok)

News

Umar vs Sandhagen for Title Shot

Umar Nurmagomedov is set to face Cory Sandhagen at UFC Abu Dhabi, with the winner potentially earning a title shot against the victor of the Sean O'Malley vs Merab Dvalishvili bout. The event also features Tony Ferguson, who is looking to make a comeback. The fight card is generating significant interest and betting activity among fans and analysts. Additionally, there are discussions about potential matchups for Shakur Stevenson, including a verbal agreement for a fight with William Zepeda, although no official agreement has been reached yet. The event is also notable for Khabib Nurmagomedov's involvement in Umar's corner. (Grok)

News

Ruiz vs Miller: Boxing Showdown in Riyadh

On August 3, 2024, a significant boxing event is set to take place featuring several high-profile matches. The main event includes a face-off between Andy Ruiz and Jarrell Miller, which has garnered significant attention and anticipation. Other notable fights on the card include a matchup between Isaac Pitbull and Jose Valenzuela, which is expected to be a highlight of the evening. Additionally, the event features the return of Andy Cruz against Antonio Moran, adding to the excitement. The event is part of the Riyadh Season and will be broadcasted on ESPN Plus PPV. (Grok)

News

Russell Disqualified, Hamilton Wins Belgian GP

Lewis Hamilton was declared the winner of the Belgian Grand Prix after his teammate George Russell was disqualified for having an underweight car. Russell initially crossed the line first but was stripped of his win due to the technical violation. Hamilton's victory marked his second win in three races, sparking discussions among fans and commentators about the nature of his win and Russell's performance. The disqualification also led to Oscar Piastri being promoted to second place, and Charles Leclerc finishing third for Ferrari. (Grok)

News

F1 Drivers Pole Positions and Race Outcomes Debate

In recent Formula 1 races, Charles Leclerc has been praised for his ability to secure pole positions and maintain leads in a slower car, contrasting with Lando Norris's performance in a faster car. Max Verstappen has consistently performed well, often starting from lower positions and finishing higher, despite debates about the relative performance of his car. The current season is highly competitive, with several drivers from different teams closely competing in points, highlighting the tight competition in Formula 1. (Grok)

News

US Women's Rugby Wins First Olympic Medal

The United States women's rugby sevens team won their first Olympic medal, a bronze, in a dramatic match against Australia at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The victory was sealed by a last-minute try and conversion by Alex Sedrick. Meanwhile, Simone Biles led the United States to a dominant victory in the women's gymnastics team final, securing her fifth career Olympic gold medal and becoming the most decorated U.S. Olympic gymnast in history with a total of 8 medals. (Grok)

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Battle for the sports entertainment dollar; Australian and international opportunities, threats and unknowns, by Greg Tingle

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Wrestling News Flashback

MyCareer to make its debut in WWE 2K15

WWE 2K15 First Official Gameplay Trailer

WWE management understood to be keen on Batista return for WrestleMania season
- September 2014

Kurt Angle Talks About Recent Talk With Vince McMahon, TNA's TV Situation, WWE HOF, more - 28th September 2014

WrestleMania 31 promotion on WWE production truck - 28th September 2014

Daniel Bryan tops 24th annual "PWI 500"

Steve Austin merch getting big push; Speculation returns about potential WrestleMania match - September 2014

The Rock confirmed for The Janson Directive - 26th September 2014

Ken Shamrock talks the possibility of him winning the WWE title during his run, UFC and more - 1st September 2014

Dean Ambrose to star in WWE Studios' and Lionsgate's 'Lockdown' - 15th August 2014

Brie Bella and Daniel Bryan discuss potential career paths: Total Divas Bonus Clip,
Sept. 21, 2014

Superstars down under

Brodus Clay, other WWE talent released - June 2014

Hulk Hogan and Sting rumoured to be heading to the WWE - September 2013

Hulk Hogan will forever be the face of a generation of WWE superstars: Triple H - August 2013

Fightin' Fanboys: TNA Wrestling - 19th September 2013

Fightin' Fanboys: Rob Van Dam - 16th August 2013

Kurt Angle talks about wrestling Brock Lesnar behind the scenes in WWE

WWE's rich history in New York City

WWE 2K14 Presents The SummerSlam Week Edition of THE HEYMAN HUSTLE

WWE Trims Full-Year Outlook on Higher Spending, Top-Line Weakness - 13th September 2013

Paul Heyman on Shane Douglas and the birth of Extreme - 27th August 2013

WWE Studios and ABC Family Begin Production on 'Christmas Bounty"

CM Punk appearing at Comic Con - 25th June 2013

RVD talks WWE return - whose schedule is his similar to?, changes to his own attitude, more (w/Video)

WWE 2K14 debut trailer -- "Become Immortal" (Official) and 2K Unveils WWE® 2K14 Cover Art Featuring The Rock®

Tiger Mask Movie Trailer (Video)

Pro Wrestlers vs. Zombies' Featuring Kurt Angle, Matt Hardy & More

Celebrity Wife Swap: Ric Flair and Roddy Piper wives to appear

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What the media has said about wrestling over the years, by Greg Tingle

Human Statue Bodyart does bodypainting, bodyart and costume designs for fanboys at Supanova pop culture expo, Sydney 2013 - 22nd June 2013

Supanova 2013: The Punisher (Marvel Comics icon), pop culture, AWF pro wrestling, Human Statue Bodyart and more

Fightin Fanboys: WWE

Fightin' Fanboys: WrestleMania 29 - 4th April 2013

RAMPAGE JACKSON: Rival MMA Deal After UFC - It's a dream come true

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John Cena injured on WWE European Tour according to WWE website - 28th April 2013

Kurt Angle talks about wrestling Brock Lesnar behind the scenes in WWE

Pro Wrestlers vs. Zombies' Featuring Kurt Angle, Matt Hardy & More

Huge Payday For WrestleMania Workers - 21st April 2013

WWE Names Michael Pine Head of Global Sales & Partnership Marketing

Bruno Sammartino WWE 2013 Hall of Fame: Wrestling Observer Newsletter report

Bruno Sammartino and Triple H comment on WWE 2013 Hall of Fame induction - Feb 2013

Dwayne Johnson's cinematic new trailer for TNT's 'The Hero'

Dwayne Johnson Talks G.I. Joe, Teases Hercules and Fast 6 - March 2013

Andre The Giant legend lives on via WWE Specials

Donald Trump announced for WWE Hall of Fame 2013: Celebrity wing

Wrestling News Media: WWE, Hall of Fame 2013: Bruno Sammartino, Donald Trump for celebrity wing...Feb 2013

UFC returns to Australia this December

Ric Flair wrestling again: Breaks retirement for AJPW in Japan

The Rock to return to next WWE RAW; Building towards Royal Rumble and WrestleMania 29 in New York

UFC 155: Pro wrestlers react to main event result

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Lucha VaVOOM to headline the ‘El Jimador Mexican Wrestling Bar' At Big Day Out 2013

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SURVIVOR SERIES NEWS: NXT stars debut in PPV main event angle, plus other news from annual PPV - 18th November 2012

-- NXT champion Seth Rollins (formerly Tyler Black), Dean Ambrose, and Roman Reigns debuted on WWE TV by attacking Ryback and preventing him from capturing the WWE Title in the Survivor Series PPV main event.

Rollins, Ambrose, and Reigns were identified by announcer Michael Cole as being from the NXT Developmental system. After they took out Ryback via powerbomb through the Spanish announce table, Punk pinned John Cena, who had received Shell Shock from Ryback before Ryback was taken out by the NXT trio.

-- No titles changed hands during the PPV. In the other top title match, Sheamus beat Big Show via DQ after Show pulled referee Scott Armstrong in the way of a Brogue Kick. Sheamus then delivered a massive beat down to Show using a chair, which likely sets up a World Title re-match at the TLC PPV next month.

-- In the other title matches, Antonio Cesaro retained the U.S. Title over Kofi Kingston and Eve retained the Divas Title over Kaitlyn.

-- In the top Survivor Series elimination match, Dolph Ziggler pinned Randy Orton to be the sole survivor for Team Ziggler over Team Foley. Earlier in the show, WWE teased tension between Orton and Mick Foley, playing up their historical feud from Orton's early days. Also earlier in the show, David Otunga was named as Cody Rhodes's replacement on Team Ziggler following Rhodes's injury at last week's Smackdown TV taping.

-- Tamina, who recently trained with The Rock, returned to WWE TV as Vickie Guerrero's hired bodyguard. The set-up was that A.J. Lee noted that if Vickie places her hands on her, then Vickie will be removed as interim Raw authority figure. Tamina then blindsided A.J. and Superfly Splashed her to establish her new role as Vickie's enforcer (Pro Wrestling Torch)

News

Three-time WWE heavyweight champion Mick Foley together with award-winning Australian comedian Brendon Burns, will visit Australia soil in February 2013 for a first ever Australian tour with their brand new double-handed stand-up comedy show ‘Good God Almighty!’.

Good God Almighty! Australian Tour Dates 2013

February 04 Adelaide, SA
Dunstan Playhouse
February 06 Brisbane, QLD
The Tivoii
February 09 Sydney, NSW
Enmore Theatre Sydney
February 11 Melbourne, Victoria
Athenaeum Theatre Melbourne

Get Tickets here
Visit www.facebook.com/LiveNationOzNz

Wrestling News Flashback

Brock Lesnar vs Jon 'Bones' Jones being speculated by sports media commentators; Will WWE top brass make it happen for WrestleMania

For months there's been speculation running rampant about the potential match up of Brock Lesnar aka 'The Beast' vs Jon 'Bones' Jones.

Due to Jones recent drug testing fail it would appear that the obvious place for the match up to happen would be under the WWE umbrella, and what better event to have it take place than WrestleMania.

WWE is always looking for unique, high interest (and grossing) main event matches, and there's little doubt that this dream match would draw massive publicity, and would certainly help sell out an arena (and boost WWE Network subscriber numbers at the same time).

Would the risk of booking such a dream match be worth the potential risk and payoff? Only a few select top brass in the WWE would know, those individuals would be the likes of Vince McMahon and Triple H. Pat Patterson would possibly be in the decision making also, and could very well help book the match, should it be scripted, as all WWE matches are. Or, would the WWE just have these men fight for real? Problem is if its for real, as the WWF Brawl For All was, both men could get seriously hurt and be out of action for many months. Then again, both men would be part-times and are special attractions, so it's not like they have to be out on the road going to arena to arena, following such a bout.

There's also talk whether UFC / MMA sensation Conor McGregor may seriously look at one or more matches under the WWE banner no matter what the result from his clash with Floyd 'Money' Mayweather, who is not a stranger to the WWE ring, having previously fought and beat 'The Big Show' at WrestleMania 24.

It's certainly interesting times for the WWE / Sports Entertainment - MMA - Boxing connection.

Let's all hope that a Lesnar vs Jones and the upcoming McGregor vs Mayweather fight surpass the infamous Ali vs Inoki match from 1976.

As Bruce Buffer says, Let's get ready to rumble. Let's now cross to ringside with Mauro Ranallo for the call of the action.

Websites

WWE.com - Brock Lesnar

UFC.com - Jon Jones

UFC.com - Conor McGregor

WWE.com - Pat Patterson

WWE.com - Vince McMahon

WWE.com - Triple H

WWE.con - Antonio Inoki

Muhammad Ali official website

WWE.com - Muhammad Ali highlights

WWE.com - Shows - Hall Of Fame

WWE.com - Mauro Ranallo

Mauro Ranallo official website

Bruce Buffer official website

Ronda Rousey official website

WrestleMania.com