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TECH TODAY

Toyota Moves Into Rockets: Toyoda, Chairman, said on Monday “and speaking of the sky, we’re exploring rockets, too. Because the future of mobility shouldn’t be limited to just Earth, or just one car company” 👀 wonder who he meant!

John Deere: You don’t hear John Deere and tech to often in the same sentence but they’re innovating using tech and coming after your lawn.

Consumer Tech: Retailer are hoping Trump’s tariff’s done ruin the 2025 party.

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HEADLINE NEWS 👀

Congress Certifies Trump As 47th U.S. President

On a snowy Monday in Washington, Congress certified Donald J. Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election, completing a peaceful ritual of democracy that had been violently disrupted just four years earlier. The mood was calm, the process orderly, no echoes of the chaos that once shook the Capitol.

Vice President Kamala Harris, unlike her predecessor’s refusal to concede in 2020, acknowledged her defeat with dignity. Democrats, in stark contrast to Republican objections four years ago, raised no challenges as the electoral votes were tallied. The session unfolded quickly, with lawmakers reading out the results state by state, their words deliberate and procedural: “Regular in form and authentic.”

The divide in the chamber was visible only in applause. Republicans cheered for Trump’s victories, rising for a standing ovation when his majority was confirmed. Democrats clapped for Harris’s wins, applauding as her total was read, though it was clear her role as Senate president would soon end.

Harris presided over the session, leading senators into the chamber and taking her seat beside Speaker Mike Johnson, a man who had once sought to overturn the election results of 2020. Her demeanor was steady, her small talk polite. In a video posted earlier, she called her ceremonial role a “sacred obligation,” rooted in faith in the Constitution and the American people.

The Capitol itself, blanketed in snow and fortified by heightened security, bore reminders of January 6, 2021. Tall black fencing surrounded the building, and federal and local forces stood ready. This was no ordinary certification, it was a day marked as a “national special security event,” a designation underscoring the shadow cast by history.

President Biden, on the eve of the anniversary of that dark day, issued a stark warning. Writing in The Washington Post, he accused Trump and his supporters of attempting to “erase” the memory of the Capitol riot, which had left seven people dead, including three officers. Four years after urging his followers to “fight like hell,” Trump had pledged to pardon many of those convicted for their roles in the attack. Yet, Monday saw no mention of that violence from Trump’s allies, some of whom had once condemned it as “anti American.”

Harris’s presence was a poignant reminder of the stakes. Her aides called presiding over the certification one of her final and most important acts in office, a quiet, yet resolute upholding of democracy. And as lawmakers filed out into the snow, the message was clear: the process endures, even under the weight of its scars.

Live Streaming Gets Upgrade With Hulu And FuboTV

Disney has reached an agreement to combine its Hulu + Live TV streaming service with sports-focused FuboTV. Then deal resolves ongoing litigation over the formation of a new sports streaming service, Venu. Disney will hold about 70% of the new venture, with Fubo’s management team leading operations. Both Hulu + Live TV and Fubo will remain separate services but together will boast over 6.2 million subscribers in North America.

The litigation stemmed from Fubo’s lawsuit in February 2024, which aimed to block the launch of Venu, a joint venture between Disney’s ESPN, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Fox Corp. Fubo claimed the companies excluded it from carrying sports channels for the service. In August, a judge ruled to block Venu, citing concerns over reduced competition. Disney, Fox, and Warner have agreed to pay $220 million to settle the legal battle and Disney has pledged a $145 million loan to Fubo for 2026.

Fubo’s stock surged following the announcement. The merged company will become the second largest online pay TV provider after YouTube TV, catering to sports fans and cable news viewers. Together, Hulu and Fubo expect to generate over $6 billion in revenue, with projections of $7.5 billion by 2028. Additionally, Fubo will have the chance to develop a new sports and broadcast service featuring Disney networks and ESPN+.

Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway Sued By Federal Regulators

A federal regulator has filed a lawsuit against Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, a company owned by Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway. The regulator accused it of making loans to manufactured home buyers that were unaffordable. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) claims that Vanderbilt ignored clear signs that borrowers could not repay their loans, even though some were already behind on debt when the loans were granted. The bureau alleges that Vanderbilt knowingly trapped people in risky loans to close sales.

The lawsuit seeks to force Vanderbilt to change its practices, offer restitution to affected customers, and pay penalties. Vanderbilt, a subsidiary of Clayton Homes, the nation’s largest builder of manufactured homes, has been criticized for years for its sales and lending practices, especially targeting lower income buyers in rural areas. The CFPB’s research suggests that many of these loans have high interest rates and are difficult to refinance, leaving borrowers unable to keep up with payments. As a result, some face foreclosure and loss of their homes.

Vanderbilt has dismissed the lawsuit, calling it politically motivated, and pointed out that less than 1% of its loans were flagged as problematic by regulators. The CFPB has ramped up enforcement actions in recent months, with several high profile lawsuits aimed at various companies, including accusations against Rocket Homes and three major banks.

Nippon Steel And U.S. Steel Sue U.S. Government

This week the we report Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel, industrial manufacturing giants, are fighting back and are suing the U.S. Government to allow their planned merger. Last week The Grind reported Biden decided to block the merger between Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel (see Jan 3. article below).

U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel are suing the U.S. government over President Biden’s decision to block their $14.1 billion deal. The companies argue that Biden’s move violated constitutional due process and procedural rules, claiming political influence played a part in halting the deal. They are seeking to overturn the blocking order and challenge the review process by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, which failed to approve the acquisition.

In a separate suit, U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel are targeting Cleveland-Cliffs, its CEO, and the head of the Steelworkers Union, accusing them of attempting to sabotage the deal. Cleveland-Cliffs, which initially tried to buy U.S. Steel before Nippon’s offer, is charged with colluding to weaken competition and prevent Nippon from supplying American-made steel.

Both lawsuits aim for an injunction against further "anticompetitive behavior" and seek significant monetary damages. Cleveland-Cliffs has yet to comment. Meanwhile, U.S. Steel’s stock rose over 4% following the news. The United Steelworkers Union supports the administration's move, stating it protected U.S. interests and the domestic steel industry.

(January 3, 2025) President Biden is set to block the $14 billion acquisition of U.S. Steel by Japan’s Nippon Steel, citing national security risks, according to sources. The decision, expected Friday, marks an extraordinary use of executive power just weeks before Biden leaves office, signaling a sharp break from America’s tradition of open foreign investment.

The move aims to protect U.S. steel production, particularly in Pennsylvania, a critical swing state. U.S. Steel’s powerful union strongly opposed the deal, fearing job losses and pension risks. The Committee on Foreign Investment in the U.S. (CFIUS) raised security concerns, but its lack of formal recommendation left the decision to Biden.

The deal faced political headwinds from the start. Vice President Kamala Harris and President elect Donald Trump both publicly opposed the sale, with Trump vowing to block it upon taking office. Biden’s rejection could strain U.S. Japan relations and discourage foreign investments in sensitive industries.

Nippon Steel, the world’s fourth largest steelmaker, pledged to keep U.S. Steel’s Pittsburgh headquarters and invest heavily in its aging mills. U.S. Steel executives warned that without the deal, job cuts and relocations might follow.

The fate of U.S. Steel, an iconic company with a dwindling workforce, remains uncertain. Efforts to preserve its American roots could impact the very workers they aim to protect.

SPORTS

With the 2024-25 NFL regular season ending yesterday today marks the infamouse “Black Monday” the day teams separate themselves from the coaches that didn’t lead their teams in the direction ownership, and most often fans too, wanted to see. Six teams, as of Monday afternoon, have fired the head coach they started the season with as part of the annual “Black Monday” tradition. Here are some of the notable changes:

Jerod Mayo was let go by the New England Patriots after just one season.

Doug Pederson was dismissed by the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Matt Eberflus was fired by the Chicago Bears.

Dennis Allen was let go by the New Orleans Saints.

Robert Saleh was dismissed by the New York Jets.

Lou Anarumo, the defensive coordinator for the Cincinnati Bengals, was also fired.

It’s a busy time for NFL teams as they look to make changes and prepare for the next season. May your team do well in the playoffs, and if it didn’t make it may they get it right next year!

💰️ Smart Money Matters 💰️ 

Culture Corner

2025 Golden Globes Who And What Movies Of 2024 Won

Best Motion Picture, Drama
"The Brutalist"

Best Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy
"Emilia Pérez"

Best Motion Picture, Animated
"Flow"

Cinematic and Box Office Achievement
"Wicked"

Best Motion Picture, Non-English Language
"Emilia Pérez"

Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture, Drama
Fernanda Torres, "I’m Still Here"

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture, Drama
Adrien Brody, "The Brutalist"

Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy
Demi Moore, "The Substance"

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy
Sebastian Stan, "A Different Man"

Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in Any Motion Picture
Zoe Saldaña, "Emilia Pérez"

Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in Any Motion Picture
Kieran Culkin, "A Real Pain"

Best Director, Motion Picture
Brady Corbet, "The Brutalist"

Best Screenplay, Motion Picture
Peter Straughan, "Conclave"

Best Original Score, Motion Picture
Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, "Challengers"

Best Original Song, Motion Picture
"El Mal," "Emilia Pérez"

Best Television Series, Drama
"Shogun"

Best Television Series, Musical or Comedy
"Hacks"

Best Limited Series, Anthology Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
"Baby Reindeer"

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series, Drama
Anna Sawai, "Shogun"

Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series, Drama
Hiroyuki Sanada, "Shogun"

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series, Musical or Comedy
Jean Smart, "Hacks"

Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series, Musical or Comedy
Jeremy Allen White, "The Bear"

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Limited Series, Anthology Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television
Jodie Foster, "True Detective: Night Country"

Best Performance by an Actor in a Limited Series, Anthology Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television
Colin Farrell, "The Penguin"

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Supporting Role
Jessica Gunning, "Baby Reindeer"

Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Supporting Role
Tadanobu Asano, "Shogun"

Best Performance in Stand-Up Comedy on Television
Ali Wong, "Ali Wong: Single Lady"

ECONOMY

Fed Vice Chair Steps Down Avoiding Clash With Trump

Michael Barr, the Federal Reserve’s Vice Chair for Supervision, announced Monday he will resign at the end of February, sidestepping a potential legal showdown with the incoming Trump administration. Barr, a staunch advocate for tougher banking regulations, will remain on the Fed’s board of governors, a position he holds until January 2032.

Barr’s departure comes amid sharp criticism from Trump allies over the Fed’s regulatory policies. Speculation had swirled that President elect Trump might attempt to remove Barr, triggering a possible court battle. “The risk of a dispute over the position could be a distraction from our mission,” Barr stated, adding he believes he can better serve the public as a governor.

The Fed’s leadership has previously asserted that a president lacks the legal authority to fire a Fed chair or vice chair, though such a claim has never been tested in court. Barr’s resignation does not suggest Fed Chair Jerome Powell is considering a similar move, sources say.

For now, the Fed will hold off on major regulatory decisions until Barr’s successor is appointed. Trump will have the chance to nominate a replacement from among the current governors. However, a new governor’s appointment likely won’t come until January 2026, when the next term expires.

The vice chair role, created after the 2008 financial crisis, was designed to fortify oversight of the banking system. Under Barr’s leadership, efforts to impose stricter capital requirements on major banks faltered last September, bowing to heavy industry resistance.

Barr’s exit marks the latest shift in a tumultuous era for financial regulation, setting the stage for a more industry friendly approach under the new administration.

FINANCE

CFO’s See Challenges But Are Optimistic For 2025

Inflation, artificial intelligence, and shifting policies under a new Trump administration define the road ahead for CFOs in 2025. While clarity is emerging, one constant remains, they’re faced with managing relentless change.

Inflation lingers as companies brace for higher costs. Tariffs on key trading partners like Canada, Mexico, and China may push supply chains to their limits. CFOs like Rimini Street’s Michael Perica are rethinking strategies, balancing “must have” projects against the rising cost of doing business.

2025 is the year AI takes center stage. ADP’s Don McGuire highlights how generative AI streamlines operations, from sales coaching to investor prep. “The big difference with GenAI is its ability to process millions of interactions and deliver actionable insights,” McGuire says. Companies across sectors are leveraging AI to do more with less.

The U.S. economy remains strong, with low unemployment and steady growth, says McGuire. Yet rising Treasury yields signal challenges ahead. New York Power Authority CFO Adam Barsky warns of bond market volatility tied to inflation and federal deficits.

Dealmaking is heating up, fueled by expectations of regulatory easing and lower interest rates. David Dean of WTW predicts a surge in life sciences, financial services, and AI driven acquisitions. Yet Bain & Co.’s Suzanne Kumar notes valuation disagreements and expensive financing still temper the market.

2025 promises a whirlwind of opportunities and challenges, with CFOs navigating inflationary pressures, embracing AI, and preparing for a reshaped regulatory landscape. The ability to adapt will be key to thriving in a year defined by change.

POLITICS

Who Will Lead Democrats As Conservatives Control of Congress

Days before Republicans take control of Washington, Democrats still cannot get out of their own damn way, and are embroiled in a divisive fight for D.N.C. chair. Revealing tensions over donor influence, state party power, and internal grudges. The race pits Ken Martin of Minnesota, who champions empowering state parties, against Ben Wikler of Wisconsin, a skilled fundraiser tied to major donors. Neither has sparked widespread enthusiasm, with critics dismissing their pitches as uninspired.

Martin’s supporters accuse Wikler of being a Washington insider, while Wikler’s backers see him as dynamic, citing his success in turning local elections into national causes. Yet, both face scrutiny. Martin’s leadership in Minnesota is marred by the party losing control of the state legislature. Wikler’s failure to deliver Wisconsin to Kamala Harris in 2024 raises doubts, as do his connections to billionaire donor Reid Hoffman.

The chairmanship is often a thankless job, especially with Democrats out of power. The next leader must unite a fractured party, secure funding, and oversee the 2028 presidential primary. Despite endorsements from figures like Chuck Schumer (for Wikler), neither front-runner has solidified majority support among the 448 D.N.C. voters.

Other candidates, including Martin O’Malley and long shot hopefuls like Marianne Williamson, remain far behind, with no clear path to victory. Discontent simmers, with some Democrats calling for a broader reckoning over the party’s direction. As the February 1 vote nears, the race has exposed deeper divisions within the party, leaving its future leadership uncertain.

THE GRIND FACTORY ⚙️

UNIQUELY INTERESTING

💡 Epiphany Moments

Rivian Automotive founder Robert "RJ" Scaringe, developed a passion for cars and nature from a young age. He pursued this interest academically, earning a doctorate in mechanical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

In 2009, Scaringe founded Mainstream Motors, which later became Rivian Automotive, with the vision of producing electric adventure vehicles. Initially, the company focused on developing a mid engine hybrid sports car, but by 2011, it shifted its focus exclusively to electric vehicles, aiming to revolutionize the automotive industry with sustainable transportation solutions.

Under Scaringe's leadership, Rivian introduced its first two models, the R1T pickup truck and the R1S SUV, both designed for offroad capabilities and equipped with advanced electric drivetrains. The company has attracted significant investments and partnerships, including a notable joint venture with Volkswagen in 2024 to co-develop hardware and software platforms.

Scaringe's commitment to innovation and sustainability has positioned Rivian as a prominent player in the electric vehicle market, contributing to the broader adoption of eco friendly transportation solutions. The future of Rivian is still up in the air but it will survive a while longer with its recent Federal loan of $6 billion.

 🍎 One Smart Apple

Ready Pac Produce achieved true success in the mid 1990s by revolutionizing the fresh food industry with its single serve salad kit. Known as the Bistro Bowl®, this innovative product transformed the way consumers accessed fresh, healthy meals on the go. Combining convenience, freshness, and portability, it met the rising demand for healthier, ready to eat options and set Ready Pac apart as a pioneer in the pre packaged produce market.

The single serve salad kits quickly became a hit, appearing in grocery stores, convenience stores, and even airline meals. This success drove rapid expansion, with Ready Pac extending its product lines to include fruit and snack packs, becoming a household name for fresh, convenient food. Strategic partnerships with major retailers like Walmart and fast food chains further cemented its market dominance.

In 2017, Ready Pac’s success culminated in its acquisition by Bonduelle, a French agricultural powerhouse, for $409 million. This marked the company’s transition from a U.S. leader to a global player in fresh produce.

Ready Pac’s breakthrough wasn’t just a product it redefined a category, proving that fresh, healthy food could also be convenient and accessible. The single serve salad kit remains a cornerstone of its legacy, reshaping consumer habits and the fresh food industry. 🍏 

 HEALTH & LONGEVITY •ᴗ•

Are You A New Years Resolution Kind Of Person? Know Your Why

When setting health goals, we often focus on the what, how, and when. But the real game changer is asking yourself why. Why do you want to lose weight, run that marathon, or sleep better? Your why is the emotional fuel that drives real, lasting change.

"Your why adds emotional weight to your goals, no pun intended. This aligns your mindset with your ambitions," says Kelly Lynch, Lifeforce Senior Health Coach. It's more than a plan, it's purpose. Health coach Sara Ramirez emphasizes that your why should connect to your core values, like living fully for your family, pursuing personal fulfillment, or boosting your quality of life.

Visualization, journaling, or meditating can help uncover this deeper purpose. Imagine the life you want. Write about moments of joy and contentment. Define what truly matters. Life coach Patrick Doyle calls your why the "engine" that keeps your goals moving, even when the journey gets tough.

Once you know your why, weave it into your daily life. Break it into actionable steps, like consistent workouts or better sleep habits. Write it down as a mantra. Share your progress with a friend or coach, like professionals or in running a business accountability fuels success. Tools like the WOOP method (Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, Plan) can reinforce focus and help overcome challenges.

Finding your why isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. It transforms goals into commitments. And with support from a trusted team or community, it can lead to profound, lasting change.

 HAPPY NEW YEAR 💋

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