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TECH TODAY

AI Whistle Blower: Found dead in his San Francisco apartment. A little conspiracy theory to start the week.

What’s Next For Apple iPhone: Foldable iPhones described as big iPads.

Threads Threatened Competes With Bluesky: Meta is rolling out its own take on Bluesky’s Starter Packs. Curated lists of suggested accounts for new users to follow.

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HEADLINE NEWS 👀

Mad Men Era Turns Into Math Men & Women Advertising

The advertising world is undergoing a seismic shift. Omnicom Group and Interpublic Group, two of the largest ad holding companies, announced a $30 billion merger, creating the biggest advertising powerhouse globally, as The Grind reported last week. While data, technology, and AI dominated the announcement, creativity once Madison Avenue’s hallmark was scarcely mentioned.

Generative AI, now a central focus for the industry, promises to revolutionize ad creation with faster, cheaper, and hyper-personalized content. Omnicom plans to invest $750 million in AI technologies, leveraging data driven insights and automation to outpace rivals like Publicis. Omnicom CEO John Wren called the merger a way to “take control of our own future.”

The deal marks a stark contrast to the golden era of advertising, defined by iconic campaigns like Apple’s Think Different and Nike’s Just Do It. Rising costs, AI driven efficiencies, and declining creative budgets are reshaping the industry. Former ad rock stars, like chief creative officers, have seen salaries drop by 20% in the past decade, as data analysts and tech specialists now take center stage.

The merger comes as tech giants like Meta and Google dominate 71% of the $1 trillion global ad market, with AI further blurring the line between creativity and automation. Coca Cola, Mondelez, and others are already experimenting with AI for faster, cost efficient ad development.

As AI takes over the creative process, advertising’s future will be driven by a blend of math and imagination. The “Mad Men” era is fading, giving way to the reign of the “Math Men and Women.”

TikTok Matures As Media Seeks Younger Audience

Legacy media companies are betting on TikTok to connect with young viewers as traditional TV audiences age out. Fox News, with a median viewer age of 69, is tapping personalities like foreign correspondent Trey Yingst to create short, selfie-style TikTok videos for its 852,000 followers—nearly half of the network’s own TikTok account.

TikTok’s appeal is undeniable: 39% of adults under 30 get their news from the platform, according to Pew Research. Unlike TV, TikTok thrives on individual creators over branded accounts, pushing news outlets to lean on engaging personalities to stand out.

Fox News, MSNBC, NBC, CBS, and The New York Times are all experimenting with TikTok content, from quick political breakdowns to personal stories. NBC’s Steve Kornacki and CBS’s Ramy Inocencio have generated millions of views with their personality driven clips. The Washington Post’s Dave Jorgenson uses humor, while CBS TikToks highlight unpolished, real-time moments.

Despite TikTok’s uncertain future in the U.S. and limited ad revenue, media companies see it as a long-term strategy to cultivate younger audiences. Experts agree success depends on showcasing authentic faces behind the stories, not repurposing traditional content for the app.

“You have to meet audiences where they are,” said Fox’s Yingst. “For younger viewers, that’s TikTok.”

Trump's Tariff Plans Trigger CEO’s Lobbying Frenzy

President elect Trump’s sweeping tariff threats are spurring a behind the scenes lobbying blitz as U.S. and global businesses scramble to mitigate the potential fallout. Yet, they face a tough reality: Trump isn’t budging. Here’s a quick look at how the tariff’s would impact businesses and consumers.

Executives are struggling to influence the president-elect, who is charting his own path on tariffs. His late-night social media posts, often surprising even close advisers, have unveiled plans for steep tariffs on imports from China, Mexico, Canada, and beyond, raising fears of a trade war.

Trump’s proposals include a 25% tariff on Mexican and Canadian imports to address border issues, a 10% levy on Chinese goods over fentanyl concerns, and even a 100% tariff on goods from BRICS countries if they challenge the U.S. dollar’s dominance. His broader promise of a 20% tariff on all imports could disrupt global supply chains and raise consumer prices.

While companies lobby for exemptions, Trump’s team, including incoming advisers like Marco Rubio and Scott Bessent, has signaled little room for negotiation. Many believe Trump is using tariffs as a bargaining chip, but businesses are bracing for real impacts.

Some Republicans, like Senator Tom Cotton, suggest Trump may ease up on allies like Mexico and Canada but warn of a harder stance on China. Meanwhile, industries affected by previous tariffs, like steel, are raising alarms about supply chain disruptions and higher costs.

Despite the uncertainty, companies are hiring lobbyists to push their concerns. Firms like LG Electronics and Constellation Brands are emphasizing the economic importance of cross-border trade, hoping to soften Trump’s tariff ambitions.

With Inauguration Day approaching, Trump’s tariff plans remain a key flashpoint in U.S. economic policy, leaving businesses and global markets on edge.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Impeached

South Korea’s National Assembly voted on Saturday to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol, suspending him from office in a stunning political upheaval sparked by his controversial declaration of martial law earlier this month.

Prime Minister Han Duck soo will serve as acting president while the Constitutional Court reviews the impeachment a process that could take up to six months. The court’s decision will determine whether Yoon is reinstated or permanently removed from office.

The impeachment marks a pivotal moment in Yoon’s presidency, which began in 2022 with a slim victory on a conservative platform but has been marred by escalating protests and legislative deadlock.

The crisis erupted on December 3 after Yoon declared martial law accusing opposition lawmakers of obstructing his administration. Military forces were dispatched to the National Assembly in an unprecedented move, reportedly to prevent lawmakers from reaching the 150 votes needed to override the declaration. Images of armed soldiers attempting to control the legislature ignited public outrage across the country.

Yoon rescinded the martial law order within days and issued a public apology, but the damage was done. Opposition leaders accused him of attempting a coup and quickly mobilized to push for his impeachment. Public anger swelled, with tens of thousands of citizens protesting nationwide, demanding Yoon’s removal.

Though Yoon survived an initial impeachment vote on December 7, mounting public pressure and divisions within his conservative party eroded his support. By Thursday, Yoon delivered a defiant address, defending his actions as necessary and pledging to challenge his impeachment in court.

As South Korea faces months of political uncertainty, the impeachment deepens the nation’s crisis. The Constitutional Court’s ruling will not only decide Yoon’s fate but could also reshape the country’s political landscape for years to come.

Elf On The Shelf 'Twas the Toy They Said Would Fail’

Not all toys begin their journey to stardom wrapped in shiny paper and bow topped. Some toys, like this holiday underdog, are written off as misfits,

destined for the damaged goods bin, naysayers declared. Yet, like Rudolph finding his glow, this creation defied expectations and soared straight into the hearts of families.

It’s a tale as magical as Santa’s sleigh ride. Once dismissed as a flop, the toy's creators tinkered like Christmas elves, fine-tuning every detail. With a sprinkle of innovation, a dash of resilience, and perhaps a bit of holiday luck, their product transformed into a phenomenon as beloved as a roaring yule log. Brandy and eggnog flowed in celebration.

Now, shelves are emptied faster than Santa's sack on Christmas Eve, and the toy is the season's must have gift. Proof even underdogs can shine brighter than the North Star.

💰️ Smart Money Matters 💰️ 

Culture Corner

Kelly Reilly Says Farewell to Yellowstone But Don’t Saddle Up Just Yet

WOW, it’s hard to believe the end to one of the best series Tv has seen in quite some time has ended. The sun has set on Paramount Network’s Yellowstone. Star Kelly Reilly confirmed on Instagram that tonight’s Dec. 15 episode is indeed the grand finale of the main series.

“Across the pond, the finale is happening,” Reilly wrote from the UK, where she’s working on another project. “Whatever the future holds, this marks the end of a show we’ve been building for seven years.”

Reilly got sentimental, thanking creator Taylor Sheridan, the cast, and crew, saying the role of Beth Dutton “lit me up” and “challenged me in every way.” It’s been a transformative ride, she added, making “lifelong friends” along the way.

But wait don’t put away your cowboy hats just yet! While the Dutton family saga is closing this chapter, Reilly and Cole Hauser (aka Rip Wheeler) are gearing up for a spin-off. Production is reportedly saddling up soon.

So while this may be goodbye to Yellowstone as we know it, the Beth and Rip show must (and will) go on. Giddy up, yeeha!

* SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS NEWS *

Corporate Transparency Act (CTA)

12/11/24 Update: U.S. Businesses May Face $10K Fines for Missing Ownership Reporting Deadline Under New Law

Small businesses must comply with the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) by reporting beneficial ownership information (BOI) to the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) by Jan. 1, 2025. The CTA, passed in 2021, targets illicit finance by requiring transparency around who owns or controls companies operating in the U.S.

An estimated 32.6 million businesses, including corporations and LLCs, are subject to the new rules. Noncompliance could result in fines of $10,000 or more, plus possible jail time for "willful" violations.

Despite the looming deadline, many businesses remain unaware or unprepared. The Treasury has not disclosed how many BOI reports have been filed so far. A federal court in Texas has temporarily halted enforcement of the law, but the mandate is still in place.

The law seeks to prevent crimes like money laundering, terrorism, and corruption by eliminating the anonymity often enabled by shell companies. As Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen emphasized during FinCEN's BOI portal launch in January, "Corporate anonymity enables money laundering, drug trafficking, terrorism, and corruption."

For more details, visit FinCEN’s Corporate Transparency Act page or learn about beneficial ownership reporting here.

12/4/24 Update: A federal court has halted the implementation of the Corporate Transparency Act’s beneficial ownership reporting requirements. This will remain in effect until the conclusion of legal proceedings. As of this update, businesses are not required to comply with the reporting requirements.

ECONOMY

Americans Stockpile Goods With Tariff Fears

Tariff worries are fueling a spending spree among Americans, with many rushing to upgrade cars, appliances, and stock up on goods before potential price hikes. A University of Michigan survey found 25% of Americans now believe it’s a good time for big purchases, up from 10% a month ago a record high. Meanwhile, a third of respondents in a CreditCards.com survey reported buying more due to tariff concerns.

Economists warn that such preemptive spending could inadvertently fuel inflation. The consumer-price index rose 2.7% year over year in November, driven partly by surging durable goods purchases linked to President elect Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs. Trump has floated steep tariffs on imports from countries including China, Mexico, and Canada, ranging from 25% to 100%.

“People might think, ‘If I’m going to buy a TV next year, maybe I should buy it now,’” said Robert Barbera of Johns Hopkins University.

Consumers like Cape Cod resident Gerard Szarek, 66, are taking no chances. He’s stockpiling coffee, paper goods, and other essentials, spending $44,000 on a Toyota RAV4 hybrid and $2,300 on a new washer and dryer. “Always be prepared,” said Szarek, who fears tariffs and labor cost increases.

Others, like New York designer Tia Hrubala, are targeting smaller items. She stocked up on European skincare products and replaced her car battery early, saying, “I wouldn’t want to take that risk.”

Retailers and manufacturers are warning of price increases. Best Buy CEO Corie Barry said tariffs will likely be passed on to consumers, with executives from Walmart, Lowe’s, and AutoZone echoing the sentiment. Some businesses are stockpiling imports to get ahead of potential costs.

Historically, tariffs have led to significant price hikes. For example, Trump’s 2018 tariffs on washing machines resulted in a 10% price increase, according to Duke economist Felix Tintelnot.

Shoppers are also splurging on luxury goods. Christopher Foote, a software consultant in California, spent over $12,000 on electronics, citing fears of another round of price spikes. Content creator Christina Liu in Los Angeles stocked up on computer chips ahead of Biden’s proposed semiconductor tariff hike and potential increases under Trump.

The rush to buy now may lead to higher prices later. Columbia economist Harrison Hong warns that hoarding could trigger shortages and further inflation. “If the run is big enough, retailers will have to raise prices,” he said.

For many, the strategy is simple: act now, just in case. “If I’m wrong, at least there’s a return policy,” said Foote.

FINANCE

Bitcoin's Long Journey to $100K Sparks Divided Wall Street

Bitcoin’s climb to a $100,000 valuation has been marked by wild volatility and skepticism, even as it grows into a $2 trillion asset class. Renewed optimism about digital assets, particularly under a potential Trump administration, has fueled a crypto resurgence, pushing the total market cap toward $4 trillion. Wall Street’s top voices, however, remain split on its value and utility.

Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, remains a staunch critic, famously branding Bitcoin a “fraud” in 2017 and calling it a “pet rock” this year. Despite his skepticism, JPMorgan has embraced blockchain and facilitated Bitcoin-linked ETFs.

Larry Fink of BlackRock has flipped from dismissing Bitcoin as a “money-laundering index” in 2017 to championing it as “digital gold” and a portfolio hedge against instability. His firm now operates the world’s largest Bitcoin fund.

Ken Griffin, Citadel’s CEO, once likened crypto enthusiasm to a “jihadist call against the dollar.” While admitting his earlier criticism was a mistake, he questions Bitcoin’s economic utility, calling it a bubble.

Warren Buffett has been an unwavering detractor, dismissing Bitcoin as “rat poison squared” and a product of gambling instincts.

Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater, has softened his stance, calling Bitcoin “one hell of an invention” and likening it to gold. However, he warns government crackdowns remain its biggest risk.

As the crypto market evolves, Wall Street’s top players wrestle with its potential, divided between embracing innovation and challenging its purpose.

POLITICS

ABC News Settles Trump Defamation Lawsuit

ABC News has agreed to pay $15 million to Donald Trump’s presidential foundation or museum to settle a defamation lawsuit filed by the president-elect over comments made by anchor George Stephanopoulos. The network will also cover $1 million in legal fees for Trump’s lawyer, according to court filings released Saturday.

The lawsuit stemmed from a March broadcast of This Week, during which Stephanopoulos incorrectly stated that Trump had been found civilly liable for raping writer E. Jean Carroll. A federal jury had actually determined Trump was liable for sexual abuse, not rape.

As part of the settlement, ABC News issued a public statement expressing regret over the comments. “We are pleased the parties have reached an agreement to dismiss the lawsuit,” an ABC spokesperson said.

The settlement follows Trump’s legal battles with Carroll, in which he was found liable in 2023 for sexual abuse and defamation, resulting in $5 million in damages. In 2024, a jury awarded Carroll an additional $83 million for further defamation by Trump. Both verdicts are under appeal.

THE GRIND FACTORY ⚙️

UNIQUELY INTERESTING

💡 Epiphany Moments

The Salesforce origination story began In March 1999 when Marc Benioff and his trio of collaborators—Parker Harris, Dave Moellenhoff, and Frank Dominguez set out to revolutionize software delivery. Working out of a one bedroom cozy apartment in San Francisco's Telegraph Hill they envisioned a groundbreaking new concept. Software delivered over the internet rather than installed on physical servers or hard drives. This bold idea became the foundation of Software-as-a-Service (SaaS).

The startup was unconventional from day one. Their mantra was simplicity and speed, and even Benioff’s dog, Koa, pitched in holding court as the “Chief Love Officer.” When Salesforce officially launched on February 7, 2000 its tagline, “The End of Software,” declared war on traditional computer industry methods.

Salesforce weathered the dot com crash and saw explosive growth during this tumultuous period. By 2003 they had hit 10,000 customers. A year later, they made history by going public and cementing their place as a SaaS pioneer. Today, Salesforce is a cloud computing juggernaut, shaping the software world it once sought to disrupt.

 🍎 One Smart Apple

When marrying right is right. Stan Kroenke is a billionaire whose wealth stems from both his entrepreneurial ventures and his connection to the Walton family, heirs to the Walmart fortune.

Kroenke's self-made success began with the Kroenke Group, a real estate development firm he founded in 1983. Kroenke Group specializes in shopping centers and apartment complexes. He expanded his empire by acquiring major sports franchises through Kroenke Sports & Entertainment owns the Los Angeles Rams, Denver Nuggets, Colorado Avalanche, and Arsenal F.C.

However, his marriage to Ann Walton in 1974, a Walmart heiress, significantly bolstered his financial foundation. This connection to one of the world's wealthiest families provided access to additional resources and opportunities that have shaped his rise 🍏 

 HEALTH & LONGEVITY •ᴗ•

The Surprising Perks Of Aging

Turns out the old adage “with age comes wisdom” is more than just a cliché. According to Laura Carstensen, director of Stanford’s Center on Longevity, aging brings emotional clarity. With fewer “what ifs” clouding their minds, older adults embrace the present and feel better for it.

Contrary to popular belief, getting older doesn’t necessarily mean becoming lonelier or more anxious. Research shows that older people tend to handle life’s challenges like grief, health issues, and ageism better than their younger counterparts. Why? They’ve learned to focus on the positives, leaving the stresses of constant future planning behind.

With life expectancies rising and centenarians expected to quadruple by 2055, Carstensen says it’s time to rethink how we live those extra years. Her “New Map of Life” proposes bold ideas: longer childhoods, gap years during high school for internships or community service, and flexible work schedules that reflect life’s changing demands. Retirement, she suggests, shouldn’t happen at 65 by default but whenever it makes sense.

As we age, Carstensen notes, we see our place in the world more clearly. "People figure out what they’re good at and what they’re not and learn to be OK with it,” she says.

With advances in health and technology, longer lives are a gift, but only if society evolves alongside them. Carstensen’s advice? Embrace aging as an opportunity to live more fully, not just longer. After all, the best years might still be ahead.

🎁 Happy Holiday’s  🎄

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