When it’s time for a cheap bit, few places pack more bang for your buck than Chipotle does. Founded in 1993 in Denver, Colorado, the massive food chain now runs over 2,300 locations, many of them located in the United States. Today, we are going to break down each of these locations according to their […] The post The Number Of Chipotle Locations By State appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. When it’s time for a cheap bit, few places pack more bang for your buck than Chipotle does. Founded in 1993 in Denver, Colorado, the massive food chain now runs over 2,300 locations, many of them located in the United States. Today, we are going to break down each of these locations according to their home state in order to determine the total number of Chipotle locations by state. To get this data, 24/7 Wall Street used the publicly available list found on Chipotle’s website, titled “Locations.” In addition to the number of locations within the state, we’ve also compared the state on Google Maps to see how dispersed the locations are and which major cities in each state have the most locations. Let’s get started! Alabama – 23 Alabama currently has 23 Chipotle locations across the state. The city with the largest number of Chipotle locations is Birmingham, at three, while the remaining 20 locations are spread across cities with either one or two locations total. The majority of cities in the state have zero or one location. Arizona – 92 Arizona boasts a total of 92 Chipotle locations statewide. Leading the cities is Phoenix, with 21 locations, making it the city with the highest concentration of Chipotle restaurants. Following behind, Tucson and Scottsdale have 10 and 9 locations, respectively. The remaining 52 locations are spread across various cities in the state. Overall, Arizona has a higher number of total locations than the rest of the states. Arkansas – 9 Arkansas is on the lower end of the list, with a total of nine locations statewide. Among the cities in the state, Fayetteville and Little Rock stand out with the highest “concentration,” although they each only have two locations each. The remaining five locations are distributed across other cities in the state. California – 457 The Golden State is home to an impressive 457 Chipotle locations, solidifying its status as a major hub for the chain and leading all of the states for total locations. Regarding cities, Los Angeles comes in first 25 restaurants, making it the city with the highest concentration in California, a number higher than entire states across the US. Following closely behind, San Diego holds a strong presence with 14 locations, while San Francisco rounds out the top three with 8. Colorado – 80 Unsurprisingly, Denver leads the way with 15 Chipotle restaurants, solidifying its position as the birthplace of the chain. Following close after, Colorado Springs and Aurora contribute to the state’s Chipotle landscape, hosting nine and eight locations, respectively. Although Colorado isn’t as densely populated as many other states on the list, it likely has a high number of locations due to its being founded within the state. Connecticut – 34 Connecticut has a high number of locations for the population of the state, but most of the locations are spread out and not concentrated around a single city. The largest Chipotle “hub” is Danbury, with three total locations. Delaware – 11 Delaware, a very small state in population and footprint, has 11 total locations. The city with the most Chipotle’s is Newark, with three locations. Florida – 222 Florida comes in second among the states and has a total of 222 Chipotle locations, making it a significant hub. Orlando takes the lead with 18 Chipotle restaurants, followed closely by Miami with 16, and Jacksonville with 12. The remaining locations are spread out across various cities, most of which with between 1 and 3 locations. The widespread distribution helps to ensure that no matter where you are in Florida, you can find a location. Georgia – 94 Georgia has a total of 94 Chipotle locations, bringing it near the top of the list. Atlanta emerges as a prominent hub with 16 Chipotle restaurants in the state’s largest city. Marietta follows with four locations. The remaining 74 Chipotle restaurants are distributed across cities with 1-3 locations. Idaho – 5 Idaho isn’t much of a bustling Chipotle hub and only has five locations in total. Leading the way is the capital city, Boise, which has four Chipotles. Meridian, the only other city in Idaho with a location, contributes to the total with one location. Illinois – 158   Illinois has a total of 158 Chipotle locations, one of the states with the most locations. Chicago takes the unsurprising lead with an impressive 40 restaurants, while Naperville contributes to the culinary landscape with four locations. The rest are spread across cities with between 1-3 locations. Indiana – 49 Indiana has a total of 49 Chipotle locations. Most of the locations are in the state capital, Indianapolis, with 11 total locations. Bloomington and Carmel each contribute to the total with three locations. The remaining locations are concentrated within cities with between 1-2 locations. Iowa – 10 Iowa is another lower overall player as a state, with 10 total locations. West Des Moines has the most, with two, while the remaining eight cities with Chipotles only have one. Kansas – 37 Kansas has a total of 37 Chipotle locations in the state. Witchita has the most, totaling eight, while Overland Park, the city with the second most, has five. The remaining locations are spread through cities with 1-3 locations total. Kentucky – 26 Kentucky has 26 total Chipotle locations in the state. Most of the locations are in Louisville and Lexington, both of which with a total of six. The remaining locations are in cities with between 1 and 2 Chipotle’s. Louisiana – 11 Louisiana has a total of 11 Chipotle locations, but no city has any more than one location. Maine – 6 Maine has a total of six Chipotle locations, but no city has more than one location. Maryland – 107 Maryland has a total of 107 Chipotle locations, making it one of the states towards the top of the list, according to total locations. The city with the most locations is Baltimore, with 13, followed by Silver Spring, with five. A few cities have three locations, while the rest have between 1 and 2. Massachusetts – 69 Massachusetts has a total of 69 Chipotle locations, which is about average compared to the rest of the states. The city with the most locations is Boston, with six locations, followed by Cambridge, with four locations. The remaining cities almost all have a single location, besides Waltham, which has two. Michigan – 53 Michigan has a total of 53 Chipotle locations, which is about average compared to the other states. The city with the most locations is Ann Arbor, with four, while the remaining cities have between 1 and 3 locations. Minnesota – 74 Minnesota has a total of 75 Chipotle locations, which is a little over average compared to the other states. The city with the most locations is Minneapolis, with nine locations. The remaining locations have between 1 and 3 locations. Mississippi – 6 Mississippi sits towards the bottom of the list with a total of six Chipotle locations. The locations are distributed evenly between six cities, each with a single location. Missouri – 44 Missouri has a total of 44 Chipotle locations, making it about average compared to the other states. The city with the most locations is Kansas City, with 13 locations. The rest of the cities have between 1 and 3 locations. Montana – 4 Montana has a total of four Chipotle locations, making it one of the lowest on the list. Billings, Bozeman, Kalispell, and Missoula each have a single location. Nebraska – 16 Nebraska has a total of 16 Chipotle locations, keeping it lower on the list. Omaha is the city with the most locations, with six, followed by Lincoln, with five. The remaining cities have a single location. Nevada – 34 Nevada has a total of 24 Chipotle locations, most of which are concentrated in Las Vegas, the state’s largest city. Las Vegas has 21 locations (North Las Vegas has two more), while Reno and Henderson have four. Nevada’s Las Vegas has one of the highest percentage of total locations concentrated within a single city. New Hampshire – 12 New Hampshire has a total of 12 Chipotle locations, placing on the lower side of the list. The city with the most locations is Nashua, with two, while the remaining 10 are spread across cities and towns with a single location. New Jersey – 87 New Jersey has a total of 87 Chipotle locations, putting it above the average on our list. The cities with the most locations are Jersey City and Paramus, each with two, while the remaining locations are spread across cities with between 1 and 2 locations each. New Mexico – 11 New Mexico has a total of 11 Chipotle locations, one of the states with the fewest on our list. Albuquerque has a whopping seven locations, while the remaining four locations are spread evenly across four cities. New York – 200 Another state with a lot of locations, New York, has 200 total Chipotles, most of them concentrated in a single area. The layout that Chipotle has is a little confusing, as it lists both New York City as a city while also listing each borough. From our research, it appears that “New York City” only refers to Manhattan. “New York City” has a total of 57 locations, the Bronx has 11, Brooklyn has 21, Queens has two, and Staten Island has two. Even still, the matter gets even more confusing because there are neighborhoods within New York City that are listed as their own city. For example, Jackson Heights (a neighborhood within Queens) is listed as having a location. The same problem exists for Long Island City, Astoria, and a few more. North Carolina – 79 North Carolina has a total of 79 Chipotle locations. Most of the locations are concentrated in Charlotte, the state’s largest city and home to 14 Chipotle’s. Other notable Chipotle hubs include Durham, with six, and Raleigh, with seven. North Dakota – 3 North Dakota is home to a mere three Chipotle locations, putting it solidly towards the bottom of the list and tied with Vermont. All three locations are located with Fargo, the largest city in the state. Ohio – 229 Ohio is a bit of a sleeper when it comes to Chipotle locations. The state has 229 locations, more than much more heavily populated states like New York and Florida. The city with the most locations is Colombus, with 22 locations. It’s followed closely by Cincinnati, with 19 locations, Akron, with five locations, and Dayton, with four locations. The remaining locations are spread across the state in cities with between 1 and 3 restaurants each. Oklahoma – 14 Oklahoma has a total of 14 Chipotle locations in the state. The city with the most locations is Tulsa, with five. The remaining locations are spread out across cities with between 1 and 2 restaurants each. Oregon – 40 Oregon has a total of 40 Chipotle locations across the state. The majority of the locations are in Portland, which has nine, followed by Beaverton, with four. The remaining locations are spread out across cities with between 1 and 3 restaurants each. Pennsylvania – 120 Pennsylvania has a total of 120 locations across the state, one of the higher states on the list. The city with the most locations is Philadelphia, with 14, closely followed by Pittsburgh, with 13. The remaining locations are spread out across cities with between 1 and 3 restaurants each. Rhode Island – 12 Rhode Island, the smallest state in the country, somehow doesn’t have the fewest locations! There are 12 Chipotle locations across the state, most of them spread out. Providence and Warwick have two each, while the rest are spread evenly across 10 other cities and towns. South Carolina – 37 South Carolina has a total of 37 Chipotle locations, most of them spread out across the state. Columbia has five locations, while the rest of the cities have between 1 and 3 locations each. South Dakota – 2 South Dakota is among the states with the fewest total Chipotle locations, with two in the entire state. Both of the locations are in Sioux Falls, the largest city in the state. Tennessee – 39 Tennessee has a total of 39 Chipotle locations across the state. Nashville and Knoxville have the most, with eight and five locations, respectively. Memphis has four, while the remaining locations are in cities with between 1 and 2 total locations. Texas – 281 Texas has a total of 281 Chipotle locations across the state and is one of the largest states with the most overall locations. Houston has a total of 32 locations, Dallas has 20, Austin has 18, Fort Worth has 13, and San Antonio has 19. Other cities with more than three locations include Arlington, with four, El Paso, with nine, Frisco, with six, Irving, with four, Katy, with five, Plano, with eight, and Spring, with six. Utah – 18 Utah has a total of 18 Chipotle locations across the state. The location are mostly spread out, with no city having more than two Chipotle’s. Notable cities like Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Provo have two, one, and one locations, respectively. Vermont – 3 Vermont has three Chipotle locations across the state. Each of the three is located in its own city, Burlington, Rutland, and South Burlington. Virginia – 122 Virginia has a total of 122 Chipotle locations across the state. The cities with the most locations are Alexandria and Arlington, each with six. They are followed by Virginia Beach, with five, Falls Church, Fredericksburg, and Norfolk, with four. The rest of the locations are in cities with between 1 and 3 restaurants. Washington – 61 Washington has a total of 61 Chipotle locations across the state. The city with the most locations is Seattle, with nine. Other cities with higher densities of Chipotle locations include Bellevue, with four, and Vancouver, with five. Washington DC – 22 Washington DC is classified on Chipotle’s website as having its own set of locations. There are 22 Chipotle locations in Washington DC. Since there are no cities within Washington DC, the region would have to be broken into regions by neighborhood. West Virginia – 10 West Virginia has a total of 10 Chipotle locations across the state. The city with the most locations is Morgantown, while the remaining locations are in cities with a single Chipotle. Wisconsin – 26 Wisconsin has a total of 26 Chipotle locations across the state. The city with the most locations is Madison, while the remaining cities have between 1 and 2 locations each. Wyoming – 1 Wyoming, the last state on the list, also has the fewest number of Chipotle locations (besides those with none). The only Chipotle in the entire state is located in Cheyenne in the Frontier Mall parking lot. States With No Chipotle Locations Unfortunately, not all states in the US are home to a Chipotle. Currently, there are no locations in two states, neither of which are in the contiguous US. Let’s take a look at them. Alaska Alaska is the largest state in the US and somehow isn’t home to a Chipotle. Unfortunately, it makes sense, as the supply chain for Chipotle doesn’t yet extend into the far northern reaches of North America. There are locations in Canada, but the company’s commitment to freshness makes it somewhat difficult to get ingredients to one of the most remote places in the world. Hawaii For many of the same reasons that Alaska doesn’t have Chipotle, Hawaii doesn’t either. The difficulty of crossing huge expanses of open land or sea makes getting fresh ingredients hard. Additionally, the added logistics can make certain locations less profitable, and that may be the case for both Alaska and Hawaii. Sponsored: Attention Savvy Investors: Speak to 3 Financial Experts – FREE Ever wanted an extra set of eyes on an investment you’re considering? Now you can speak with up to 3 financial experts in your area for FREE. 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Most everyone has made at least one trip to Lowe’s (NYSE: LOW) at some point in their life. It’s not uncommon to find yourself in a situation that calls for a trip to one of the leaders in home repair. Ever since 1921, Lowe’s has been helping people find their way and learn about different […] The post 5 Reasons To Avoid Lowe’s Today appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. Most everyone has made at least one trip to Lowe’s (NYSE: LOW) at some point in their life. It’s not uncommon to find yourself in a situation that calls for a trip to one of the leaders in home repair. Ever since 1921, Lowe’s has been helping people find their way and learn about different ways to enhance the value of their homes. However, this doesn’t mean you should continue going to Lowe’s. There are more reasons than you’d think to not shop at Lowe’s anymore. It might seem strange or weird to hear, but it’s true. This is why you should avoid shopping at Lowe’s at all costs. Mostly Everything They Sell, You Don’t Need In today’s day in age, we try to show off as much as we possibly can. One of the ways we do this is by adding things to our house that we don’t need. Lowe’s is one of the places where you can easily do this. Now, that’s not to say everything they offer is something you don’t need. There are times when they can provide something you need. But 99% of the time, you’re just wasting time and money on stuff that’s not a necessity. With how expensive things like rent, groceries, and gas are these days, you’re better off not going and buying things that aren’t what you need to stay alive. You’ll Spend More Than You Should Even if you shop at a place like Amazon, you’re going to spend more money than you want. Whenever you do take a trip to Lowe’s, how often do you truly just go and get the one thing you have on your list? Never. This is on purpose. They make the things like screws and everyday items hard to find so that you’re forced to walk through the things they know you want. This is dangerous because if you have a budget of say $30 on your trip, you can easily find yourself spending $130 instead. It’s smarter to not put yourself in a situation where you might end up going over budget and not being able to buy the things you need to survive. Instead of worrying about having too much fun and spending too much money inside the department store, just don’t go. That will help solve all of your problems. You Can Get Better Deals Elsewhere If you ever do find yourself needing to complete home repairs, then Lowe’s isn’t the place you should go to. It’s well-known Home Depot (NYSE: HD) has much better deals when it comes to these tools and projects. If you’re shopping at Lowe’s for flowers and landscaping materials, you’re much better off going to a local flower shop. It makes you feel better to support local businesses because it means much more to the owners than it does to Lowe’s. If you buy a lawnmower or flower pot, odds are nobody at the top of Lowe’s will even notice. If you go to a local store, everyone will notice and be grateful. You’ll also be helping stimulate the local economy, giving you a much better feeling. Going to stores that aren’t Lowe’s will help you save money and keep local businesses going, something to feel good about. It Takes a Long Time to Shop at Lowe’s As most people know, going to Lowe’s isn’t a 15 to 20-minute activity. Sometimes, it can take the entire day. Why waste all day walking around a store, feeling like you’re being teased with so many different options? There are much better ways to spend your day, regardless if you’re single or have a family. If you have a family, you’ll get more out of spending the day with them. Odds are, if you don’t, you’ll either feel guilty for leaving them for the day, or you’ll get into an argument about it. If you’re single, you’re probably looking for a partner for your future. It’s rare to find them strolling the aisles of Lowe’s. The world is a big, amazing place, that’s worth exploring and living in. Lowe’s Runs Out of Their Stock Quickly Anyone who’s ever been to Lowe’s knows how hard it can be to find the product you’re looking for. There’s nothing more annoying and frustrating than going somewhere, just to not find what you’re looking for. You feel like you’ve wasted your time and gas for nothing. Lowe’s is known for having issues staying stocked, which means every time you go is a risk. There are plenty of other stores you can go to that don’t run out of their stock quickly at all. The next time you’re thinking about making a trip to Lowe’s, think again. It might end up saving you time and money in the long run. Sponsored: Attention Savvy Investors: Speak to 3 Financial Experts – FREE Ever wanted an extra set of eyes on an investment you’re considering? Now you can speak with up to 3 financial experts in your area for FREE. By simply clicking here you can begin to match with financial professionals who can help guide you through the financial decisions you’re making. And the best part? The first conversation with them is free. Click here to match with up to 3 financial pros who would be excited to help you make financial decisions. The post 5 Reasons To Avoid Lowe’s Today appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.......»»

Several pieces of research claim that they have identified the world’s, or America’s, beer capital. Some are based on the number of breweries. Others are based on beer consumption per capita. Still others are based on where the world’s largest breweries are located. For decades, one city has held the title of “Beer Capital of […] The post The Beer Capital Of The World Keeps Shrinking appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. Several pieces of research claim that they have identified the world’s, or America’s, beer capital. Some are based on the number of breweries. Others are based on beer consumption per capita. Still others are based on where the world’s largest breweries are located. For decades, one city has held the title of “Beer Capital of the World,” whether that is supported by statistics today or not. That city is Milwaukee. Every state has a great local beer. Milwaukee likely got the title because it was home at one point or another to the headquarters of Miller, Schlitz, Pabst, and Blatz. Schlitz was founded in the city in 1849. Miller began its brewing operation in Milwaukee in 1855. Frederick Pabst, Joseph Schlitz, Jacob Best, and Valentin Blatz are buried in one of Milwaukee’s cemeteries, dead for over a century. The headquarters are also gone, and the brands, if they survive, are owned by larger firms, including MillerCoors, based in Chicago. (There is even a theory that Milwaukee got the name because it was close to beer-consuming Chicago.) Milwaukee has fallen on hard times. It had a population of 741,324 in 1950. That has fallen to 563,305. For the period, several nearby suburbs grew. Milwaukee proper has several demographic signs of decline. The median home value is about $136,000, according to the Census. Nationwide, the figure is closer to $400,000. The median household income is approximately $45,000. The national figure is close to $70,000. The poverty rate is 24%, about twice the national figure. Milwaukee was a manufacturing city driven by beer production, much like Detroit, Cleveland, and Toledo, although these made cars and car parts. Nevertheless, the progression of their central cities has been about the same. Is Milwaukee the Beer Capital of the World.? Perhaps so, but it is based on memory more than reality. Sponsored: Want to Retire Early? Here’s a Great First Step Want retirement to come a few years earlier than you’d planned? Or are you ready to retire now, but want an extra set of eyes on your finances? Now you can speak with up to 3 financial experts in your area for FREE. By simply clicking here you can begin to match with financial professionals who can help you build your plan to retire early. And the best part? The first conversation with them is free. Click here to match with up to 3 financial pros who would be excited to help you make financial decisions. The post The Beer Capital Of The World Keeps Shrinking appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.......»»

Electric vehicle maker Rivian Automotive (NASDAQ: RIVN) began trading in the public markets on November 10, 2021. The company raised $12 billion in cash, selling 153 million shares for a valuation of $66.5 billion. Shares reached an all-time high just seven days after the IPO at nearly $180. Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) owned about 160 […] The post Rivian (RIVN) Stock Price Prediction in 2030: Bull, Base & Bear Forecasts appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. Electric vehicle maker Rivian Automotive (NASDAQ: RIVN) began trading in the public markets on November 10, 2021. The company raised $12 billion in cash, selling 153 million shares for a valuation of $66.5 billion. Shares reached an all-time high just seven days after the IPO at nearly $180. Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) owned about 160 million shares at the time of the IPO, and Ford Motor Co. (NYSE: F) owned about 100 million. Ford has since reduced its share count to less than 10 million shares, while Amazon has maintained its position as Rivian’s largest shareholder with about 16.5% of the outstanding shares. Since its IPO, Rivian stock has dropped around 85% of its value; since its peak, the share price has fallen by around 90%. The basic prediction about Rivian is whether or not it will still exist in 2030. How Rivian got here A combination of product delays related to the COVID-19 pandemic, a weak economy, and a convertible debt offering that raised $1.5 billion in October has almost drowned the stock. Since its first quarterly earnings report in December of 2021, Rivian’s revenue has risen from $1 million to $1.34 billion. Profitability, of course, remains far in the future. At the end of the third quarter, Rivian reported $9.1 billion in cash, equivalents, and short-term investments, along with net debt of $5.9 billion. Free cash flow in the September quarter totaled nearly a negative $1.1 billion. That means there should be enough cash to keep the company going through the end of 2025. Then Rivian’s story needs to change. The biggest challenge has to be halting the $30,000 loss the company takes on every vehicle it sold in the third quarter. In the second quarter, Rivian lost twice that much on each vehicle sold. Rivian delivered 15,564 vehicles in the third quarter and posted a gross loss of $477 million. Another challenge is hitting its upgraded target of producing 54,000 units this year (up from an initial target of 50,000 and a target of 52,000 announced in October). At the end of the third quarter, Rivian had produced more than 39,000 units and delivered more than 36,000. The good news is that sales have beaten estimates in each of the last two quarters and losses have been somewhat smaller than the Street’s consensus. Still, driving costs down may not be enough. Can Rivian afford to lower its prices? An entry-level R1T pickup has a sticker price of around $73,000, with the top-tier Performance line beginning at $89,650. Just 3 of 17 available configurations quality for the partial federal tax credit of $3,750.  An entry-level R1S SUV with dual motors costs $78,000, and a quad-motor version starts at $92,000. If Rivian has to raise prices, that will not help it in a marketplace that is headed in the direction of getting EVs down to around $25,000. Those prices reflect the high prices Rivian must pay suppliers for the low volumes and reported complexities of the necessary parts. What the numbers say With just nine quarters of public data available, the numbers don’t offer a lot of guidance. Here’s a look at the past 5 quarters’ revenues, losses per share, and trailing 12-month price-to-sales ratio. 2022 third quarter Revenue: $536 million Per Share Loss: -$1.88 Price/Sales: 24.6x 2022 fourth quarter Revenue: $663 million Per share loss: -$1.87 Price/Sales: 10.8x 2023 first quarter Revenue: $661 million Per share loss: -$1.45 Price/Sales: 5.9x 2023 second quarter Revenue: $1.12 billion Per share loss: -$1.27 Price/Sales: 7.9x 2023 third quarter Revenue: $1.34 billion Per share loss: -$1.44 Price/Sales: 4.4x Projected 2030 stock prices for Rivian Our predicted prices for Rivian stock in 2030 are $32 ‌(base), $128 (bull), and $0 (bear). We’ll break down each of these scenarios in more detail below. Base-case for Rivian in 2030 Along with its investment in Rivian, Amazon has ordered 100,000 of the EV maker’s delivery vans, all to be delivered by 2030. As of mid-October, Amazon has taken delivery of more than 10,000 of the vehicles. Amazon also agreed earlier this month to end its exclusivity agreement for Rivian’s electric vans. The list price for the basic van is $83,000; a larger version has a sticker price of $87,000. With 90,000 vans remaining on the Amazon contract, and the possibility of additional orders from other customers, van sales could play a bigger role in Rivian’s eventual success. If more orders don’t materialize, that would hurt, but not fatal. Ford, GM, and Stellantis combined sold more than 1.6 million pickups in the United States last year. U.S. consumers purchased more than 6 million SUVs. The market exists, and Rivian’s production has to double by the end of next year to around 9,000 units a month to begin capturing its share. That’s the first element for the base case. The second is revenue. Profitability may not be in the cards for another five years. Street estimates call for revenue to rise to $4.39 billion this year, $6.33 billion next year, and $10.49 billion in 2025. Per share losses are forecast to drop by more than half in those three years, from $4.87 this year to $2.12 in 2025. Because the company still won’t be profitable, the share price depends on how much investors are willing to pay for the stock, and that depends on Rivian’s performance to investors’ expectations. Solid, steady, better-than-expected progress toward the Street’s estimate could double the share price to around $32, a level it hasn’t come close to in 13 months.  That’s our base case. Only a couple of analysts are forecasting a profit that first arrives in 2028. Bear case for Rivian by 2030 This one’s easier. Despite a significant cash pile, Rivian’s future depends on its ability to reduce its costs and produce more vehicles that consumers want to buy. If investors don’t see actual progress toward profitability, the stock will simply fall to zero. The writing will be on the wall by the end of 2025. Bull case for Rivian by 2030 The average of three analysts’ estimates for Rivian revenue in 2030 is $45.71 billion. That’s more than 4 times the consensus estimate of $10.49 billion for 2025. Revenue more than doubles by 2027 and repeats that doubling three years later. If Rivian’s share price should follow that growth pattern, by 2030, the stock price would reach $128 a share, still short of its all-time high posted a week after its IPO, but a lot closer than where the stock trades right now. Sponsored: Tips for Investing A financial advisor can help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of investment properties. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now. 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There are many jobs in the United States that have long hours, low pay, few benefits, clueless managers, or all of the above. Many Americans work in these positions that come with an exceptionally poor combination of low pay and higher incidences of injuries, from carpal tunnel syndrome to serious spinal injury. On top of […] The post This Is the Worst Job in America According to Data appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. There are many jobs in the United States that have long hours, low pay, few benefits, clueless managers, or all of the above. Many Americans work in these positions that come with an exceptionally poor combination of low pay and higher incidences of injuries, from carpal tunnel syndrome to serious spinal injury. On top of that, many of these positions are declining in numbers, which increases job insecurity. A total of 495 occupations with data were considered to find the worst jobs in America. 24/7 Wall St. constructed an occupation index comprising three measures — projected employment growth, wages, and nonfatal injury and illness rate — using data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The three measures were weighed equally, which resulted in an occupation index score between zero and 100. Based on these measures, the lower the score, the worse the job.  People who weld, solder, or operate related machinery have the highest incidence of nonfatal workplace accidents, with 1,338 injuries per 10,000 workers, according to government figures. They earn a median annual wage of just $32,300, well below the median of $45,760 for all workers. On top of these issues, demand for these workers, currently numbered at about 32,000 nationwide, is projected to fall by nearly 8% by 2031, as robots continue to replace people in many manufacturing positions. Demand for nursing assistants and orderlies is growing as the U.S. population ages, but the workers needed to fill these positions barely earn a median annual salary of $30,000 (less for orderlies). Their rate of musculoskeletal injuries is comparable to firefighters and is way higher than police officers, construction workers, and even registered nurses, thanks to repeatedly lifting patients without assistance or protective gear. (Also see the labor laws your boss doesn’t want you to know about.) According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, it is estimated that by 2031 there will be 4.7% more jobs in these occupations than the 1.34 million nursing assistants and 46,000 orderlies in the workforce as of 2021. However, the projected growth for all jobs is even higher, at 5.3% The worst jobs with the largest number of workers are nursing assistants, followed by licensed vocational nurses (entry-level health care providers), correctional officers, and paramedics. The fastest-growing jobs with high nonfatal injury rates are athletes, occupational therapy aides, and psychiatric technicians (aides who work in mental health facilities). (While these are jobs with high nonfatal injury rates, here are the 23 deadliest jobs in America.) With the exception of four professions, all of these jobs pay less than the $45,760 median wage for all workers, and all jobs except for athletes pay less than $49,000 annually full-time. Ambulance drivers earn the least among these occupations, at $29,120. Three other jobs earn less than $30,000: tire repairers, florists, and orderlies. Here are the worst jobs in America. 25. Tire repairers and changers Occupation index score: 41.6 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: 3.1% – #199 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $29,580 – #38 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 368.3 per 10,000 employees – #25 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 95,300 24. Pourers and casters, metal Occupation index score: 41.1 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: -12.5% – #29 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $45,850 – #216 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 261.8 per 10,000 employees – #54 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 6,700 23. Grinding and polishing workers, hand Occupation index score: 41.0 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: -18.7% – #13 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $35,670 – #91 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 92.3 per 10,000 employees – #206 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 16,100 22. Ambulance drivers and attendants, except emergency medical technicians Occupation index score: 40.8 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: -1.0% – #113 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $29,120 – #24 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 333.2 per 10,000 employees – #34 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 11,900 21. Athletes and sports competitors Occupation index score: 40.7 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: 35.7% – #492 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $77,300 – #411 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 1,280.5 per 10,000 employees – #2 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 15,800 20. Coil winders, tapers, and finishers Occupation index score: 40.6 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: -17.9% – #17 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $38,360 – #164 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 139.7 per 10,000 employees – #137 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 11,400 19. Tool grinders, filers, and sharpeners Occupation index score: 40.6 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: -7.9% – #56 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $38,430 – #167 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 300.8 per 10,000 employees – #42 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 6,300 18. Floral designers Occupation index score: 40.5 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: -21.0% – #9 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $29,880 – #49 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 28.7 per 10,000 employees – #363 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 44,400 17. Data entry keyers Occupation index score: 40.5 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: -24.7% – #4 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $35,630 – #90 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 13.1 per 10,000 employees – #430 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 155,900 16. Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses Occupation index score: 40.3 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: 6.3% – #318 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $48,070 – #268 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 608.4 per 10,000 employees – #9 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 657,200 15. Electronic equipment installers and repairers, motor vehicles Occupation index score: 40.0 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: -23.4% – #7 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $40,670 – #188 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 92.4 per 10,000 employees – #205 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 9,200 14. Emergency medical technicians and paramedics Occupation index score: 39.8 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: 6.9% – #336 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $36,930 – #117 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 554.2 per 10,000 employees – #11 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 261,000 13. Switchboard operators, including answering service Occupation index score: 39.6 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: -24.0% – #6 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $30,150 – #64 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 21.3 per 10,000 employees – #394 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 49,000 12. Textile knitting and weaving machine setters, operators, and tenders Occupation index score: 38.7 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: -15.1% – #24 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $33,990 – #85 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 227.3 per 10,000 employees – #69 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 17,000 11. Print binding and finishing workers Occupation index score: 38.7 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: -24.8% – #3 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $36,590 – #107 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 93.8 per 10,000 employees – #201 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 42,200 10. Cutters and trimmers, hand Occupation index score: 37.0 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: -28.4% – #2 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $30,230 – #66 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 56.7 per 10,000 employees – #281 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 8,200 9. Word processors and typists Occupation index score: 36.1 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: -38.2% – #1 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $44,030 – #195 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 40.3 per 10,000 employees – #327 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 46,100 8. Telephone operators Occupation index score: 35.1 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: -24.5% – #5 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $37,630 – #139 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 249.8 per 10,000 employees – #61 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 4,000 7. Psychiatric aides Occupation index score: 32.3 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: 4.6% – #266 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $30,260 – #67 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 771.9 per 10,000 employees – #7 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 41,000 6. Correctional officers and jailers Occupation index score: 31.7 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: -10.3% – #39 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $47,920 – #261 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 688.1 per 10,000 employees – #8 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 402,200 5. Psychiatric technicians Occupation index score: 31.7 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: 10.9% – #407 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $36,570 – #104 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 941.8 per 10,000 employees – #5 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 98,000 4. Occupational therapy aides Occupation index score: 31.4 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: 13.6% – #426 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $33,560 – #84 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 975.0 per 10,000 employees – #4 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 3,500 3. Orderlies Occupation index score: 29.3 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: 4.7% – #271 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $29,990 – #58 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 887.8 per 10,000 employees – #6 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 46,200 2. Nursing assistants Occupation index score: 26.0 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: 4.7% – #271 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $30,310 – #68 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 1,023.8 per 10,000 employees – #3 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 1,343,700 1. Welding, soldering, and brazing machine setters, operators, and tenders Occupation index score: 14.7 out of 100 Projected growth, 2021-2031: -7.9% – #56 smallest change of 495 occupations Median wage, 2021: $38,580 – #171 lowest of 495 occupations Injury and illness rate, 2020: 1,337.6 per 10,000 employees – #1 highest of 495 occupations Employment, 2021: 32,300   Methodology To find the worst jobs in America, 24/7 Wall St. constructed an occupation index comprising three measures — projected employment growth, wages, and nonfatal injury and illness rate — using data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Each measure was normalized and weighted equally in the index, resulting in an occupation index score between zero and 100. The lower the score, the worse the job based on these measures.  Projected employment growth from 2021 to 2031 came from the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Employment Projections program. Median annual wage for 2021 is for non-farm wage and salary workers only and came from the same source, citing the Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program of the BLS. Nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses involving days away from work per 10,000 full-time workers in 2020 came from the BLS’ Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses Data. A total of 495 occupations with data were considered. Sponsored: Find a Qualified Financial Advisor Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to 3 fiduciary financial advisors in your area in 5 minutes. 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There are many large cities that are suffering from urban decline. Several factors can bring about this fast-shrinking population. Significant contributions and changes to environmental, social, and economic issues can lead to high unemployment rates, a decline in housing, and higher poverty numbers. Although there are currently signs of recovery post-pandemic, many cities don’t have […] The post The 19 Fastest Shrinking Big Cities in America appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. There are many large cities that are suffering from urban decline. Several factors can bring about this fast-shrinking population. Significant contributions and changes to environmental, social, and economic issues can lead to high unemployment rates, a decline in housing, and higher poverty numbers. Although there are currently signs of recovery post-pandemic, many cities don’t have the same numbers they once had. Several American cities over the past half-decade or so have undergone extreme population growth, while a number of prominent American urban areas recorded a major exodus of residents. 2022 saw the U.S. population experience a historically slow growth, increasing just 0.4% compared to the previous year. Although many of these declines occurred in Rust Belt metropolitan areas, there are quite a few exceptions.  In order to identify the most rapidly shrinking large United States cities, 24/7 Wall St. reviewed population data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2021 American Community Survey one-year estimates. All 19 metropolitan statistical areas with at least a 5% population drop from 2016 to 2021 were listed. We added seasonally-adjusted December employment figures – used to calculate employment growth from 2016 to 2021 – from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.  A substantial share of the nation’s population resides within three states: California, Texas, and Florida, with the latter two states contributing significantly to population growth. This illustrates that the enduring shifts in U.S. geographical patterns remain unchanged. However, our findings reveal that even within the most populous states, specific metro areas experienced a decline in residents. (Also see, the 15 countries Americans are moving to the most.) The metropolitan areas on this list range from the least-populous Danville, Illinois, with 73,000 residents, to the more populated Corpus Christi, Texas, with 423,000 residents. While not on this list, some smaller population centers are also shrinking. These are America’s disappearing small towns. Here are the fastest shrinking big cities in America. 19. Cumberland, MD-WV 2016-2021 pop. growth: -5.0% (-4,955) 2021 population: 94,586 — #364 highest out of 381 2016 population: 99,541 — #354 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: -1.6% — #100 largest decrease out of 150 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 5.0% — #298 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 5.9% — #316 lowest out of 381 18. Fairbanks, AK 2016-2021 pop. growth: -5.0% (-5,012) 2021 population: 95,593 — #363 highest out of 381 2016 population: 100,605 — #351 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: -2.2% — #86 largest decrease out of 150 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 4.7% — #275 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 6.0% — #322 lowest out of 381 17. St. Joseph, MO-KS 2016-2021 pop. growth: -5.7% (-7,254) 2021 population: 120,274 — #326 highest out of 381 2016 population: 127,528 — #306 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: -3.7% — #55 largest decrease out of 150 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 2.7% — #65 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 3.9% — #84 lowest out of 381 16. Weirton-Steubenville, WV-OH 2016-2021 pop. growth: -5.8% (-7,063) 2021 population: 113,798 — #336 highest out of 381 2016 population: 120,861 — #321 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: +0.1% — #230 largest increase out of 231 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 5.3% — #313 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 7.2% — #369 lowest out of 381 15. Goldsboro, NC 2016-2021 pop. growth: -5.9% (-7,315) 2021 population: 116,835 — #331 highest out of 381 2016 population: 124,150 — #313 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: -2.4% — #79 largest decrease out of 150 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 4.0% — #210 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 5.7% — #300 lowest out of 381 14. Beckley, WV 2016-2021 pop. growth: -6.0% (-7,226) 2021 population: 113,698 — #337 highest out of 381 2016 population: 120,924 — #320 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: +6.5% — #84 largest increase out of 231 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 3.9% — #197 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 6.3% — #339 lowest out of 381 13. Danville, IL 2016-2021 pop. growth: -6.4% (-5,016) 2021 population: 73,095 — #377 highest out of 381 2016 population: 78,111 — #377 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: -5.0% — #37 largest decrease out of 150 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 5.1% — #305 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 7.0% — #367 lowest out of 381 12. Corpus Christi, TX 2016-2021 pop. growth: -6.6% (-30,012) 2021 population: 422,778 — #130 highest out of 381 2016 population: 452,790 — #114 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: -2.4% — #77 largest decrease out of 150 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 6.3% — #354 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 6.3% — #339 lowest out of 381 11. Champaign-Urbana, IL 2016-2021 pop. growth: -7.2% (-17,176) 2021 population: 222,696 — #204 highest out of 381 2016 population: 239,872 — #189 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: +2.1% — #173 largest increase out of 231 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 3.7% — #162 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 4.9% — #210 lowest out of 381 10. Pine Bluff, AR 2016-2021 pop. growth: -7.8% (-7,324) 2021 population: 86,747 — #367 highest out of 381 2016 population: 94,071 — #363 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: -2.0% — #87 largest decrease out of 150 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 4.8% — #282 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 5.1% — #233 lowest out of 381 9. Chico, CA 2016-2021 pop. growth: -8.2% (-18,555) 2021 population: 208,309 — #212 highest out of 381 2016 population: 226,864 — #196 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: -8.5% — #8 largest decrease out of 150 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 5.5% — #331 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 6.4% — #346 lowest out of 381 8. Blacksburg-Christiansburg, VA 2016-2021 pop. growth: -8.2% (-15,007) 2021 population: 168,404 — #254 highest out of 381 2016 population: 183,411 — #226 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: +2.3% — #163 largest increase out of 231 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 2.9% — #79 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 4.6% — #172 lowest out of 381 7. Bloomington, IL 2016-2021 pop. growth: -8.8% (-16,437) 2021 population: 170,889 — #251 highest out of 381 2016 population: 187,326 — #224 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: -8.9% — #5 largest decrease out of 150 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 3.8% — #181 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 4.8% — #199 lowest out of 381 6. Panama City, FL 2016-2021 pop. growth: -10.8% (-21,725) 2021 population: 179,168 — #240 highest out of 381 2016 population: 200,893 — #217 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: +0.7% — #208 largest increase out of 231 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 3.5% — #141 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 4.6% — #172 lowest out of 381 5. Grand Island, NE 2016-2021 pop. growth: -11.0% (-9,409) 2021 population: 76,175 — #376 highest out of 381 2016 population: 85,584 — #368 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: +1.6% — #183 largest increase out of 231 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 1.8% — #5 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 3.2% — #28 lowest out of 381 4. Sioux City, IA-NE-SD 2016-2021 pop. growth: -11.0% (-18,547) 2021 population: 149,400 — #282 highest out of 381 2016 population: 167,947 — #247 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: -0.2% — #146 largest decrease out of 150 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 2.9% — #79 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 3.5% — #54 lowest out of 381 3. Shreveport-Bossier City, LA 2016-2021 pop. growth: -11.9% (-52,612) 2021 population: 389,155 — #138 highest out of 381 2016 population: 441,767 — #120 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: -1.6% — #98 largest decrease out of 150 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 4.6% — #270 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 6.2% — #331 lowest out of 381 2. Fort Smith, AR-OK 2016-2021 pop. growth: -11.9% (-33,566) 2021 population: 247,661 — #191 highest out of 381 2016 population: 281,227 — #169 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: +0.4% — #216 largest increase out of 231 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 2.7% — #65 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 4.2% — #115 lowest out of 381 1. Kalamazoo-Portage, MI 2016-2021 pop. growth: -22.5% (-75,769) 2021 population: 261,108 — #187 highest out of 381 2016 population: 336,877 — #151 highest out of 381 2016-2021 employment growth: -3.3% — #61 largest decrease out of 150 Dec 2021 unemployment rate: 5.0% — #298 lowest out of 381 Dec 2016 unemployment rate: 4.5% — #156 lowest out of 381 Sponsored: Tips for Investing A financial advisor can help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of investment properties. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now. Investing in real estate can diversify your portfolio. But expanding your horizons may add additional costs. 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Social media has become part of our daily lives. It is our go-to medium to find out what’s trending, scroll pictures, watch videos, and search and download content. Nearly 4.6 billion people use social media, which accounts for over half of the world’s population. The average user engages with 6-7 different social media platforms on […] The post 17 Twitter Competitors: What Share Of Social Media Does It Have? appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. Social media has become part of our daily lives. It is our go-to medium to find out what’s trending, scroll pictures, watch videos, and search and download content. Nearly 4.6 billion people use social media, which accounts for over half of the world’s population. The average user engages with 6-7 different social media platforms on a regular basis. Twitter (now known as X) has been a juggernaut in the social media market almost since its inception, though it was falling a bit flat when Elon Musk took the helm in October 2022. (Social media is one of the most iconic and transformative innovations in communication history. See the full list of those communication innovations here.) Musk’s acquisition of the company initially provided a big boost to the platform’s user base. Now, however, Twitter/X is losing ground to its competitors at a clip that is sounding alarms within the company, although some of Musk’s comments on the matter seem to signal apathy rather than alarm. Musk’s acquisition of Twitter was international news. To be fair, almost anything the richest person in the world does is considered newsworthy. His ownership of Twitter has shined a much different spotlight on him, though. While Musk has never been one to mince words, the self-proclaimed “free speech absolutist” has become even more polarizing after his acquisition of Twitter. Instead of making headlines about an amazing new technological achievement at SpaceX or Tesla, Twitter/X has often highlighted his bombastic personality and politically charged rhetoric. News Share vs. Market Share Musk has been the primary driver of the never-ending news coverage regarding Twitter/X. The company’s share of daily news headlines far outpaces its actual social media market share, though. There are numerous social media outlets with far larger shares of the social media market than the (former) bird app, but their owners are usually content to remain in the background. Musk has never been one to do that. 24/7 Wall St. evaluated the latest available monthly user data to compile this list of 17 social media sites that have larger user bases than Twitter/X. 18. Twitter/X Launched: 2006 Worldwide users: 393 million Not that long ago, it would have seemed almost impossible that 17 social media platforms would dwarf Twitter’s share of the social media market. However, 2023 has seen a precipitous drop in the site’s base of daily and monthly users. Musk renamed the company, “X,” in July 2023. His love of the letter is well documented with SpaceX, Tesla’s Model X, and xAI. He even named one of his sons “X AE A-XII Musk,” with “X” as his first name. For many users, though, X did not mark the spot when it came to Twitter. The name change raised many questions. Twitter was one of the most recognizable brands in the world. It even created a new dictionary definition for the word, “tweet.” Most companies dream about such brand recognition, yet it was essentially erased when Twitter became X. Musk pushed back against the criticism, explaining that the name change was a precursor to what he called, “X, the everything app.” Many of the changes and additions that he alluded to have yet to materialize, though. Musk also directed changes to Twitter’s functionality, including the algorithms that govern the site’s feed. One of the most recent changes that drew the ire of users was the elimination of headlines when sharing links on the site. Declining User Numbers Downloads of the Twitter/X app have now reached their lowest point in a decade. Traffic on the site has dropped 10% globally and 15% in the U.S. from the same time last year. Ad revenue is also down sharply from a year ago. Some of the decline could reflect users’ disapproval of the name, appearance, and/or functionality  changes on the site. However, a large portion of that drop is almost certainly attributable to Musk’s polarizing persona. He is the most followed person on Twitter/X with 163 million followers. It should be noted, though, that tens of millions of accounts that follow Musk have no followers of their own, meaning they could be bots. Regardless, Musk has unquestionably become the star of the show on Twitter/X. Millions of formers users have decided they don’t care to watch that show anymore, though. In November 2022, Musk said that he expected Twitter/X to reach one billion users in 2024. That was before the platform began hemorrhaging users throughout much of 2023. In fact, eight months after his projection of one billion users, Musk admitted that the site may fail altogether. A user base of one billion certainly seems like a pipe dream now. It is indeed reasonable to question whether Twitter/X will even exist at all in the coming years. 17. Pinterest Launched: 2010 Worldwide users: 482 million Pinterest is the self-described “app for inspiration.” Users can share and save ideas ranging from recipes and how-to tips to motivational and inspirational life content. These ideas can be saved (“pinned”) to boards that the user creates. 16. Reddit Launched: 2005 Worldwide users: 500 million Reddit is a social site that allows registered users (“redditors”) to post content such as text, pictures, and videos. That content is then voted up or down by other Reddit members. These posts are categorized into communities or “subreddits” which are organized by Reddit users. 15. Qzone Launched: 2005 Worldwide users: 517 million Qzone is a social media platform owned by Tencent, a Chinese technology and entertainment conglomerate. It is a blogging site that also allows users to share photos, watch videos, and listen to music. 14. QQ Launched: 1999 Worldwide users: 572 million QQ is also owned by Tencent. The social media microblogging platform allows users to play games, listen to music, and chat with friends. 13. Weibo Launched: 2009 Worldwide users: 582 million Twitter/X is banned in China, although an unknown number of users get around this ban through VPNs. Weibo is China’s approved version of Twitter. It is a popular microblogging site that functions in much the same way as Twitter, allowing users to share and comment on messages, pictures, and videos. It also features a multimedia instant messaging option. 12. Kuaishou Launched: 2011 Worldwide users: 673 million Kuaishou was the first short video social media platform in China. It began as an app called GIF Kuaishou which allowed users to create and share, you guessed it, GIFs. In 2013, the app expanded to include short videos. It added live-streaming in 2016. While it has been outmuscled by Douyin and especially by TikTok (more on both of those platforms momentarily), the social video app still boasts an impressive user base. Most users are in China, but its reach does extend worldwide. 11. Douyin Launched: 2016 Worldwide users: 743 million Douyin is essentially China’s version of TikTok (although Douyin actually preceded TikTok). ByteDance, a Chinese internet technology company, owns both social media video platforms. While the design and functionality of Douyin and TikTok are basically the same, the two apps are separate entities. TikTok is not available in China and user data is not shared between the two platforms. 10. Snapchat Launched: 2011 Worldwide users: 750 million This social platform was originally launched as “Picaboo,” then relaunched under its current name. It was the brainchild of three students at Stanford University. On the surface, Snapchat may have seemed somewhat similar to other social media sites. However, there was one major difference. All pictures that were uploaded to this new app would eventually disappear. The idea was that Snapchat allowed users to capture and share the true and pure emotions of a moment, without worrying about creating the perfect picture that would live on the internet forever. In the middle of the social media world where so many people try so hard to curate images that promote a fake persona, Snapshot was seen as more authentic, raw, and real. Mark Zuckerberg recognized the potential of the app and made multiple offers to purchase Snapchat. He was was rebuffed each time. In response to those rejections, Facebook countered with an app called “Poke” in 2012. The app flopped and was discontinued in 2014. Some of Snapchat’s innovations, particularly its stories, are now seen on other social media platforms such as Instagram. 9. Telegram Launched: 2013 Worldwide users: 800 million Telegram is a messaging app that allows users to send messages, pictures, videos, and files. It supports voice and video calls, too, which feature end-to-end encryption. The app also features voice and video chat for groups. Users can create groups as small as a couple of people to massive groups of 200,000. 8. LinkedIn Launched: 2003 Worldwide users: 950 million LinkedIn launched in 2003 and reached one million users the following year. By 2007, it had ten million users. Microsoft acquired the site in 2016. Today, LinkedIn is the world’s largest social networking site designed specifically for business. The platform allows users to create profiles that they can use to look for jobs, join industry groups, and connect with other professionals. 7. Facebook Messenger Launched: 2011 Worldwide users: 1.036 billion Facebook first introduced a messaging feature known as Facebook Chat in 2008. It then launched Facebook Messenger, often known simply as Messenger, in 2011. The app allows users to send messages, photos, videos, audio files, and more. It also allows users to make voice and video calls. While it does not claim the same user base as WhatsApp (also owned by Meta), Messenger remains one of the most popular social messaging apps worldwide. 6. TikTok Launched: 2016 Worldwide users: 1.218 billion TikTok’s rise to social media prominence has been meteoric. It was launched by ByteDance in 2016. The following year, ByteDance acquired musical.ly, a popular social media app that allowed users to share short videos that were usually music-driven. By late 2018, TikTok was the most downloaded free app in the United States. By 2021, the app had over a billion monthly active users worldwide. The platform began as a way to share short videos lasting around 15 seconds. The name “TikTok” was a reference to the short allotted time for these videos. Today, videos as long as ten minutes are supported. The platform is so culturally engrained that the videos themselves are now known as “TikToks.” ByteDance is based in Beijing (although it is registered in the Cayman Islands). Concerns over privacy and fears that the Chinese government can demand user information from ByteDance have fanned the flames of controversy. Some U.S. lawmakers have called for a complete ban on TikTok. Many users seem unconcerned, though. TikTok is one of the fastest-growing social media platforms in the world. 5. WeChat Launched: 2011 Worldwide users: 1.327  billion, Mostly in China WeChat is a Chinese app that allows users to message, play video games, send mobile payments, share pictures and videos, and much more. The social media platform is subsidized by the state. Tencent owns WeChat, but is required to share users’ information with the Chinese government. WeChat is the most popular social media platform in China. Other social media sites such as Facebook and Instagram are banned by the government. This makes Facebook’s 3.03 billion users all the more impressive, considering it is prohibited in the most populous nation in the world. Facebook is also banned in nations such as Russia, Iran, North Korea, and Turkmenistan. 4. Instagram Launched: 2010 Worldwide users: 2 billion Instagram, the wildly popular photo and video-sharing site, was founded by Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger in 2010. The first prototype of the site was called Burbn, a nod to Systrom’s affinity for whiskey and bourbon. It was launched with the express purpose of sharing photos taken on mobile devices. The platform was purchased by Facebook, Inc. (Meta) in 2012. Meta owns three of the top four social media platforms in the world. Approximately 95 million pictures and videos are uploaded to Instagram each day. 3. WhatsApp Launched in 2009 Worldwide users: 2 billion WhatsApp, was founded by two former Yahoo employees in 2009. It was purchased by Facebook, Inc. (Meta) in 2014. The name, “WhatsApp,” is a play on the common greeting, “What’s up?” It is a social platform that allows users to send private text messages, pictures, and locations. It also supports voice calls, recorded voice messages, and video calls. Many users prefer WhatsApp over SMS text messaging because of increased privacy and security. 2. YouTube Launched: 2005 Worldwide users: 2.491 billion YouTube is the second most visited website in the world, trailing only Google (which owns YouTube). What started as an idea for sharing amateur videos (then known as “home movies”) has grown into a video and social media platform that has become the dominant force in online media. The site supports over 100 million channels and nearly two and a half billion users. The top four YouTube channels alone have more subscribers than Twitter/X users. 1. Facebook Launched: 2004 Worldwide users: 3.03 billion To paraphrase Mark Twain, the reports of Facebook’s death have been greatly exaggerated. It seems to be an accepted fact in many circles that Facebook is on the decline due to the number of Gen Z users rejecting the platform in favor of other social media outlets. While it is true that Facebook’s smallest U.S. audience is teenagers (3.4%), the largest demographic of users remains 25-34-year-olds (23.6%). That hardly makes it “your grandma’s social media” (not that we have anything against grandmas who used Facebook). The social media platform’s worldwide user base is staggeringly large. Over 37% of the world’s 8.1 billion people have a Facebook account. If Facebook were its own country, it would be the most populous nation on Earth. The social media giant has more users than the two most populous countries (China and India) combined. It’s user base is more than 7.7 times that of Twitter/X. Remember when users could “poke” one another on Facebook? A lot of people now “poke” fun at the platform as being old and outdated, but Facebook is laughing all the way to the bank. It remains the undisputed king of social media. Sponsored: Tips for Investing A financial advisor can help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of investment properties. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now. Investing in real estate can diversify your portfolio. But expanding your horizons may add additional costs. If you’re an investor looking to minimize expenses, consider checking out online brokerages. They often offer low investment fees, helping you maximize your profit. The post 17 Twitter Competitors: What Share Of Social Media Does It Have? appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.......»»

AI has become part of our lives almost overnight. The uncertainty about its place in the world has caused a massive divide among many people. Those who are for it talk about the amazing things it can do at the drop of the hat. They say it’ll be easier to solve issues like hunger, teach […] The post 5 AI Stocks That Wall Street Loves appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. AI has become part of our lives almost overnight. The uncertainty about its place in the world has caused a massive divide among many people. Those who are for it talk about the amazing things it can do at the drop of the hat. They say it’ll be easier to solve issues like hunger, teach children, and so much more. Anyone who’s against it is afraid of what AI might become. We’ve been programmed with so many robot movies that we think AI will end up taking over our world as we know it. Another knock against it is relying on someone else to do something. Part of the living experience is being able to use our hands and minds to come up with answers and solutions. Taking that away makes us not have to do anything anymore. Regardless of your stance on AI, there are tons of stocks to make money off of, some of which have been around ever since 2018. These five have Wall Street head over heels. NVIDIA Corp November 2022 Price: $156.39 November 2023 Price: $478.21 Even though the company was first formed in 1993, NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA) has become one of the leaders in AI technology. They are one of the main suppliers of software used when creating AI. The company was first founded with the idea it’d be one of the leaders in graphics for computers in the future. Being able to see the future has been one of the best traits NVIDIA has shown over its history. The stock price is reflective of the support Wall Street sees in them. In November 2022, you could buy one share of NVIDIA for $156.39. In November 2023, you’ll have to shell out $478.21 just to have one share. This is an increase of almost 206% in just one year. With how big AI is becoming, NVIDIA is bound to continue to grow. Helix Energy Solutions Group Inc November 2022 Price: $6.30 November 2023 Price: $9.21 Helping our planet is the most important legacy we can leave behind. Today, Helix Energy Solutions Group (NYSE: HLX) is becoming one of the leaders in cleaning up oil rigs and wells. While this might not seem like the most interesting or exciting business, they’re using AI to create the most efficient and safest ways to clean up. This is important because the world is leaving oil behind and finding new ways to power life. The more and more we use alternative energy sources, the more oil wells will need to be cleaned. The best part is you can get in on Helix early, as they’re only selling for $9.21 per share. One year ago in November 2022, they were selling for $6.30, so their value is already on the rise. Symbotic Inc November 2022 Price: $11.16 November 2023 Price: $53.80 One of the first areas of business that’s been heavily impacted by AI is warehouses. It’s becoming easier and easier to program robots to complete certain tasks using AI. Symbotic (NASDAQ: SYM) has been the leader in this technology. Businesses like Amazon and UPS have started using this technology to cut costs. The stock price has also been reflective of amazing growth in just one year. In November 2022, you could buy one share of Symbotic for $11.16. In November 2023, the price has gone up to $53.80 per share. That’s an increase of 382% in just 365 days. Because corporations are looking to increase profit margins as much as possible Symbotic will be around for a long time. C3.ai Inc November 2022 Price: $12.25 November 2023 Price: $29.67 We are all curious to see how exactly AI can be part of everyday business like marketing and finance. Well, C3.ai (NYSE: AI) is already starting to merge the two worlds. Their goal is to make AI understand the software and learn what each different business needs to be the best. They also want to help the carbon footprint we leave behind in our everyday lives. C3.ai has already seen a great price increase from November 2022 to November 2023. One year ago, it was $12.25. Today, it’s selling for $29.67 which is a 142% increase. Whether or not, AI is going to be used a lot more in business meetings coming up. UiPath Inc November 2022 Price: $11.77 November 2023 Price: $18.98 UiPath (NASDAQ: PATH) has begun the creation of robotic process automation. This is a type of business algorithm that takes data from software or AI agents. They track simple office tasks, customer relationships, and customer satisfaction, along with many other things that can be controlled virtually. The stock price shows those on Wall Street have high hopes for this company. In November 2022, one share was selling for $11.77. As of November 2023, you’d have to pay $18.98 to get in on it. It’s been a rollercoaster of a ride on this stock, but it only fell below $11.77 once in the past year. Sponsored: Attention Savvy Investors: Speak to 3 Financial Experts – FREE Ever wanted an extra set of eyes on an investment you’re considering? Now you can speak with up to 3 financial experts in your area for FREE. By simply clicking here you can begin to match with financial professionals who can help guide you through the financial decisions you’re making. And the best part? The first conversation with them is free. Click here to match with up to 3 financial pros who would be excited to help you make financial decisions. The post 5 AI Stocks That Wall Street Loves appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.......»»

Crime is up and down in the US in 2023, depending on the type of crime.  FBI statistics have often been used for measurements, but that may change. More recent information comes from the think tank Council on Criminal Justice. It showed murders down through the first half of the year across the 34 cities […] The post America’s Most Dangerous City appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. Crime is up and down in the US in 2023, depending on the type of crime.  FBI statistics have often been used for measurements, but that may change. More recent information comes from the think tank Council on Criminal Justice. It showed murders down through the first half of the year across the 34 cities measured. However, property crime was up 34% from the first half of last year. As is the case with most demographic statistics, figures vary widely from state to state and city to city. A new study from Scholaroo titled “Safest Cities to Live in the U.S.” looked at 150 major US cities. The research also showed the most dangerous metros. Among the measures were the number of police officers, murders, sexual assault, sex offenders, and robberies. These were used to create an index. The authors wrote about the top of the list, “These cities not only provide a sense of security but also offer a high quality of life to their residents.” The “safe” list was topped by St. Paul, MN, the twin city of Minneapolis, with a score of 101. The lower the city’s number, the safer it is considered. It was followed by Port. St. Lucie, FL, and Cranston, RI. At the far end of the list were several cities that were large when America’s industrial sector was booming. The bottom of the list belonged to Detroit, which often does very poorly on this kind of ranking. Detroit was followed by Memphis, Baltimore, and Cincinnati. Another measure of metros includes the drunkest states. Detroit has been considered so dangerous recently that it has been called “The Murder Capital of America.” The city has been plagued by trends that often go hand in hand with crime rates. The population has dropped by half since 1950. Detroit’s median household income is $34.762, about half the national average. The poverty rate is almost 32%, which is more than double the national figure. The demographic trends are such in Detroit that it is unlikely to ever be a safe city again. Sponsored: Want to Retire Early? Here’s a Great First Step Want retirement to come a few years earlier than you’d planned? Or are you ready to retire now, but want an extra set of eyes on your finances? Now you can speak with up to 3 financial experts in your area for FREE. By simply clicking here you can begin to match with financial professionals who can help you build your plan to retire early. And the best part? The first conversation with them is free. Click here to match with up to 3 financial pros who would be excited to help you make financial decisions. The post America’s Most Dangerous City appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.......»»

The trend of each decade being warmer than the previous one is something that has been occurring since the 1980s and shows no sign of changing. The hottest years on record have all occurred within the last 13 years. According to NASA, 2022 was the fifth warmest year on record and marked the ninth year […] The post Climate Change Has Made These Cities The Worst To Live appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. The trend of each decade being warmer than the previous one is something that has been occurring since the 1980s and shows no sign of changing. The hottest years on record have all occurred within the last 13 years. According to NASA, 2022 was the fifth warmest year on record and marked the ninth year straight that has collectively been the warmest year ever measured. Meanwhile, the ocean’s heat content – a measure of the amount of heat stored in the upper levels of oceans – broke another record high in 2022, surpassing the record high set in the previous year. Average sea levels have risen over 8 inches since 1880, with about 3 inches over the past 25 years, according to the U.S. Global Change Research Program. This acceleration is expected to continue in the foreseeable future, and the NOAA predicts average sea levels to rise 10-12 inches along the U.S. coastline by 2050. At those levels, infrastructure along even the most developed coastlines would be overwhelmed, increasing the frequency of devastating flooding in the same manner as we have already begun to witness in many parts of the world. Indeed, the problem is global. 24/7 Wall St. reviewed a study, 2050 Climate Change City Index, published in Nestpick, a platform for furnished rental apartments to find which cities in the world will be most impacted by climate change in the next 20-30 years. The study includes 85 cities that are top destinations and that had data in research papers used for this report. Each city was rated across three categories: sea level, climate, and water shortage. Cities are ranked by their total score (out of 100). A score of 100 indicates the most extreme changes in climate over the next three decades. These cities are popular global destinations including rich cities like New York and London as well as poorer ones like Manila in the Philippines and Nairobi in Kenya. The cities with the greatest exposure to the effects of global warming, including rising sea levels and water shortage, have an overall risk score of between 28.6 for Oslo, Norway, to 100 for Bangkok, Thailand. (Here are countries where climate change is most evident.) Six of these 25 cities on this list are located in East Asia or Southeast Asia, including Manila, Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Seoul, South Korea. Five of these cities are located in the United States, due to the number of its popular cities located adjacent to bodies of water. Though most of these cities have large populations, three are home to fewer than a million people: the metropolitan area of New Orleans, Cardiff, U.K., and Marrakesh, Morocco. (Some of these popular cities are home to human-made landmarks climate change is destroying.) Here are the most popular cities in the world most impacted by climate change. Here is our detailed methodology. 25. Oslo, Norway Overall score (0-100): 28.6 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 1.1 (43rd largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 43.9°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 48.0°F (32nd largest increase) Population, 2018: 1,012,000 24. New York, US Overall score (0-100): 29.0 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 16.1 (14th largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 53.6°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 58.9°F (15th largest increase) Population, 2018: 18,819,000 23. Philadelphia, US Overall score (0-100): 32.9 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 18.3 (12th largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 53.9°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 59.7°F (5th largest increase) Population, 2018: 5,695,000 22. London, UK Overall score (0-100): 33.6 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 28.5 (7th largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 52.0°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 55.8°F (41st largest increase) Population, 2018: 9,046,000 21. St. Petersburg, Russia Overall score (0-100): 33.7 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 1.2 (41st largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 41.7°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 46.8°F (17th largest increase) Population, 2018: 5,383,000 20. Helsinki, Finland Overall score (0-100): 34.5 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 1.0 (44th largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 41.7°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 46.8°F (18th largest increase) Population, 2018: 1,279,000 19. New Orleans, US Overall score (0-100): 36.1 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 37.4 (5th largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 69.5°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 72.9°F (49th largest increase) Population, 2018: 979,000 18. Santiago, Chile Overall score (0-100): 38.0 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 1.0 (44th largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 59.7°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 61.8°F (81st largest increase) Population, 2018: 6,680,000 17. Kiev, Ukraine Overall score (0-100): 38.0 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 1.0 (44th largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 46.3°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 51.7°F (14th largest increase) Population, 2018: 2,957,000 16. Beijing, China Overall score (0-100): 39.3 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 1.0 (44th largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 54.4°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 58.1°F (40th largest increase) Population, 2018: 19,618,000 15. Istanbul, Turkey Overall score (0-100): 39.3 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 2.4 (33rd largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 57.3°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 61.0°F (39th largest increase) Population, 2018: 14,751,000 14. Toronto, Canada Overall score (0-100): 39.3 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 1.0 (44th largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 47.1°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 52.6°F (12th largest increase) Population, 2018: 6,082,000 13. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Overall score (0-100): 40.7 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 15.3 (16th largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 73.4°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 76.2°F (65th largest increase) Population, 2018: 7,429,000 12. Chicago, US Overall score (0-100): 40.7 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 1.0 (44th largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 50.3°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 55.9°F (7th largest increase) Population, 2018: 8,864,000 11. Manila, Philippines Overall score (0-100): 40.8 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 37.0 (6th largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 81.3°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 84.0°F (66th largest increase) Population, 2018: 13,482,000 10. Marrakesh, Morocco Overall score (0-100): 44.6 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 1.0 (44th largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 66.8°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 72.0°F (16th largest increase) Population, 2018: 976,000 9. Nairobi, Kenya Overall score (0-100): 44.8 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 1.0 (44th largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 65.5°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 69.7°F (30th largest increase) Population, 2018: 4,386,000 8. Boston, US Overall score (0-100): 44.8 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 8.2 (21st largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 50.5°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 55.2°F (19th largest increase) Population, 2018: 4,308,000 7. Seoul, South Korea Overall score (0-100): 45.8 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 6.3 (22nd largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 54.0°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 57.8°F (38th largest increase) Population, 2018: 9,963,000 6. Cardiff, UK Overall score (0-100): 47.0 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 45.9 (4th largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 50.9°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 54.0°F (57th largest increase) Population, 2018: 471,000 5. Melbourne, Australia Overall score (0-100): 49.5 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 2.2 (34th largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 59.6°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 62.1°F (70th largest increase) Population, 2018: 4,771,000 4. Shenzhen, China Overall score (0-100): 62.2 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 28.1 (8th largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 73.1°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 76.5°F (50th largest increase) Population, 2018: 11,908,000 3. Amsterdam, Netherlands Overall score (0-100): 84.3 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 89.6 (2nd largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 50.1°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 52.3°F (76th largest increase) Population, 2018: 1,132,000 2. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Overall score (0-100): 85.3 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 88.7 (3rd largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 81.5°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 84.5°F (58th largest increase) Population, 2018: 8,145,000 1. Bangkok, Thailand Overall score (0-100): 100.0 Potential sea-level rise impact 2050 (0-100): 100.0 (the largest impact) Avg. annual temperature, 1970-2000: 83.1°F Avg. annual temperature, 2050: 86.1°F (58th largest increase) Population, 2018: 10,156,000 Sponsored: Find a Qualified Financial Advisor Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to 3 fiduciary financial advisors in your area in 5 minutes. Each advisor has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. If you’re ready to be matched with local advisors that can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now. The post Climate Change Has Made These Cities The Worst To Live appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.......»»

The middle of August can be tough for many people. It’s the middle of summer with no end in sight. At least in September you know it’s going to cool down somewhat soon. The entire United States is warm during the summer months, but some places are hotter than others. One of the most important […] The post Discover The 5 Warmest States appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. The middle of August can be tough for many people. It’s the middle of summer with no end in sight. At least in September you know it’s going to cool down somewhat soon. The entire United States is warm during the summer months, but some places are hotter than others. One of the most important things to do during August is always to have tons of water on deck and a safe place where you can cool off in the shade. If you don’t have this, you’re going to be in a lot of trouble. Another problem for a lot of states is the drought that seems to have overtaken many different parts of the United States. If you’re looking to escape the heat during the summer months, try your best to avoid these five states. They’re the five hottest in August. Some of the best and worst states to live in make this list. Texas It’s no shock to anyone that Texas would be the hottest state. Even though it’s the second biggest state in terms of overall land, the average temperature throughout the state is 94.6 degrees. Thankfully, there are parts of Texas that are cooler than others. If you live in Dallas or Houston, you know how brutal it can be. This is made even worse by the awful humidity the state sees every year. You are also able to go to beach towns in Texas that are next to the Gulf of Mexico. It might not be easy for some people to get to, but there’s always that option. The record for the hottest temperature ever in Texas was 120 degrees in Laredo. 30 million people call this amazing state home, but most spend the summers indoors. Arizona Another state that absolutely nobody is surprised to see on this list is Arizona. Phoenix, the capital of Arizona, never sees a day where the temperature isn’t at least 100 in August. There are usually two weeks where temperatures can reach 110 every day. The reason it’s not first on this list is there are parts of Arizona that experience all four seasons. T his means temperatures in the summer are mild and modest. On average, Arizona sees a temperature of 93.2 degrees. Believe it or not, the hottest temperature here was at Lake Havasu one day, where the temperature reached 128 degrees. Make sure to pack some water and sunscreen for your visits to Arizona during August. Oklahoma Nestled in the middle of the United States is the next state to make our list, Oklahoma. It makes sense that Oklahoma cracks this list, thanks to how close it is to Texas. The western part of the state, where not a lot of people live, is why Oklahoma is here, thanks to their consistent 100-degree days in the summer. Places like Oklahoma City and Tulsa aren’t as hot as that, but they sure do feel like it. Much like in Texas, the humidity adds to how hot it feels in Oklahoma. The average temperature throughout the state is 92.9, putting it right behind Arizona. Summer football sounds brutal in a place like Oklahoma, but their teams are always really good. Louisiana Time to head to the southeastern part of the United States. The whole state averages roughly the same temperature throughout the month, thanks to its elevation not changing. The lack of elevation change is why temperatures stay where they do. In Louisiana, most cities don’t get too far above 95 or 96 degrees, but the state’s average is 92.2 degrees. Whenever you visit, make sure you’re on the lookout for alligators and different creatures. Even though most alligators don’t like humans and want little interaction with us, some do. Louisiana is known for the animals and muggy weather in the summer, so make sure you also pack a second shirt in case it gets too hot. Florida The fifth hottest state in August is Florida, another unsurprising add to this list. Miami and Tampa are two of the warmest places year-round we have in the United States, meaning the summer months are extra hot. The average temperature is 91.3 degrees throughout the state, but the humidity adds even more to that. On days when it’s around 96 degrees, the humidity can make it feel up to 116 degrees. Thankfully for those who live in and visit Florida during this time of year, the beach is easily accessible to cool down. Make sure you’re also prepared for an afternoon thunderstorm if you’re visiting. Even though it’s the summer, the rain still comes in and doesn’t cool you down. If anything, it adds to the humidity in the air and makes it hotter. Sponsored: Want to Retire Early? Here’s a Great First Step Want retirement to come a few years earlier than you’d planned? Or are you ready to retire now, but want an extra set of eyes on your finances? Now you can speak with up to 3 financial experts in your area for FREE. By simply clicking here you can begin to match with financial professionals who can help you build your plan to retire early. And the best part? The first conversation with them is free. Click here to match with up to 3 financial pros who would be excited to help you make financial decisions. The post Discover The 5 Warmest States appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.......»»

  In every sense of the word, Apple (Nasdaq:AAPL) is a behemoth. The world’s largest company by market capitalization (the term for the total value of a publicly traded company’s stockholder-owned shares), it’s also the world’s largest technology company by revenue, the fourth-largest PC vendor by unit sales, the largest manufacturing company by revenue, and […] The post 25 Huge Companies That Apple Could Buy Right Now, With Cash appeared first on 24/7 Wall St..   In every sense of the word, Apple (Nasdaq:AAPL) is a behemoth. The world’s largest company by market capitalization (the term for the total value of a publicly traded company’s stockholder-owned shares), it’s also the world’s largest technology company by revenue, the fourth-largest PC vendor by unit sales, the largest manufacturing company by revenue, and the world’s second-largest mobile phone manufacturer. So it goes without saying that they’ve got some cash laying around.  Apple’s current cash balance is currently about $61 billion. Apple is no stranger to major acquisitions; it’s bought more than 100 companies over the years, ranging from weather forecasters (Dark Sky) to music recognition apps (Shazam) to headphone companies (Beats). While most of the companies Apple acquires are ones that have perfected a software or hardware that Apple can incorporate into existing products – AI and machine learning, image recognition, wireless charging, payments, and low-light photography companies, for example – it’s fun to imagine the possibilities if they should decide to merge with something completely unexpected, like Ford (NYSE: F), Nintendo, or Kroger (NYSE:KR). Because with the amount of cash the company has on hand, it’s not beyond the realm of possibility. In fact, with its current cash flow, Apple can buy all of these companies with cash.   Warner Bros. Discovery Market Cap: $24.38 B A mass media and entertainment conglomerate formed in 2022 when WarnerMedia was spun off from AT&T and merged with Discovery, Inc., Warner Bros. Discovery nine divisions, each with a wide variety of assets. These include Warner Bros. Entertainment (assets including DC Studios), CNN Worldwide, Warner Bros. Discovery U.S. Networks (assets including Discovery Channel, Food Network, and TBS), HBO, and Warner Bros. Discovery Sports. It has its hand in everything from comic books to amusement parks to streaming platforms, and its 2022 revenue was $33.8 billion. Dollar General Market Cap: $25.88 B A discount general merchandise store headquartered in Tennessee, Dollar General (NYSE:DG) operates more than 19,400 stores in the US and Mexico, and is one of the most profitable stores in rural parts of the US. It’s what’s called a “variety store” specializing in general merchandise ranging from food to clothes to household goods to toiletries, and in 2022 it brought in nearly $38 billion in revenue. HP Market Cap: $27.29 B Formerly known as Hewlett-Packard before the computer and printer side was spun off in 2015, HP (NYSE: HPQ). is the world’s second largest personal computer vendor by sales. Founded in Palo Alto by Bill Hewlett and David Packard in 1939, HP today develops PCs, printers, and 3-D printers. In 2022, it brought in about $30 billion from the sale of laptops and about $11 billion from the sale of desktops. Kroger Market Cap: $31.57 B The United States’ largest supermarket operator by revenue, Kroger (NYSE: KR) was founded by Bernard Kroger in Cincinnati in 1883. Today, it operates more than 2,700 grocery stores in 35 states and Washington, DC under many names including Fred Meyer, Harris Teeter, King Soopers, Fry’s, and Ralphs. A merger with Albertsons is expected to close in early 2024. Adidas Market Cap: $32.55 B Europe’s largest sportswear manufacturer and the second largest in the world (after Nike), Adidas was founded in Germany by Adi Dassler in 1924; the name is an amalgam of his first and last names. It first found popularity with spiked running shoes. Nowadays it’s a true global behemoth, and while shoes are still one of its top sellers, it makes official products for just about every sport as well as t-shirts, jacket, hoodies, and sandals. It’s also the world’s second-largest manufacturer of sports bras. 7-Eleven Market Cap: $33.19 B The world’s most famous convenience store chain, 7-Eleven is headquartered in Irving, Texas, and it operates, franchises, and licenses more than 78,000 stores in 19 countries and territories. Just about every American has stopped into a 7-Eleven at some point in their lives, either for a snack or soda, to buy a lottery ticket, or to purchase a hot dog or their signature frozen drink, the Slurpee. Spotify Market Cap: $33.36 B A streaming music service founded in Stockholm, Sweden, in 2006, Spotify (NYSE: SPOT) has over 574 million monthly active users who tune in to listen to more than 100 million songs and 5 million podcasts. It offers both free subscriptions (with ads) and paid ad-free subscriptions, and is available in 184 markets worldwide. DoorDash Market Cap: $34.83 B If you’ve ordered food delivery at any point within the past few years, there’s a good chance you’ve ordered through DoorDash (Nasdaq: DASH). America’s largest food delivery company with 56% market share, in 2020 it surpassed 450,000 merchants, 20,000,000 customers, and a million couriers. In recent years, it’s been experimenting with ghost kitchens called DoorDash Kitchen, with multiple restaurants operating out of each location. Yum! Brands Market Cap: $35.30 B Yum! Brands is the parent company behind KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, and The Habit Burger Grill. It can trace its origins to 1977, when PepsiCo spun it off as Tricon Global Restaurants after acquiring Pizza Hut, and was officially formed in 2002 when Tricon merged with Yorkshire Global Restaurants. Today it has restaurants in more than 130 countries and territories worldwide, with $6.84 billion in 2022 revenue. Electronic Arts Market Cap: $35.71 B Founded by Apple employee Trip Hawkins in 1982, EA pioneered games intended to be played on home computers instead of separate consoles. Its most popular line of games, EA Sports, includes FIFA Football, Madden NFL, NBA Live, and NASCAR. Other popular EA games include The Sims, Star Wars, and Mass Effect.  General Mills Market Cap: $37.94 B Originally a large flour miller back in the 1850s, General Mills is today the manufacturer and marketer of some of the food world’s most well-known brands. Along with breakfast cereals sold under the General Mills name including Cheerios, Chex, Lucky Charms, and Trix, other General Mills brands include Betty Crocker, Yoplait, Pillsbury, Haagen-Dazs, and Nature Valley. Its revenue in 2020 was $17.63 billion. The Hershey Company Market Cap: $39.15 B America’s most famous candy company, Hershey’s was founded by Milton Hershey in 1894 and famously headquartered in Hershey, Pennsylvania. It rose to fame with Milton’s perfection of the milk chocolate bar in 1900, and seven years later the Hershey’s Kiss, which benefitted from machine wrapping. Mr. Goodbar, Hershey’s Syrup, chocolate chips, and the Krackel bar followed within the next few decades, and today Hershey Company brands include Almond Joy, Kit Kat, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Twizzlers, Jolly Ranchers, Milk Duds, and York Peppermint Patties. Ford Market Cap: $39.46 B Founded by Henry Ford, the Ford Motor Company famously pioneered using assembly lines to build cars, and its Model T famously made automobiles affordable for the masses. Today, it’s the second-largest US automaker behind GM, and it sells cars under both Ford and Lincoln brands. It’s the 11th-ranked American company on the Fortune 500, and it produced more than 4 million vehicles in 2022. Kraft Heinz Market Cap: $40.34 B Formed in 2015 by the merger of two of the food world’s biggest brands, Kraft Heinz is now America’s third-largest food and beverage company. Several dozen are in its portfolio (along with Kraft and Heinz), including Grey Poupon, Philadelphia Cream Cheese, Oscar Mayer, A.1 Sauce, Boca Burger, Ore-Ida, Jell-O, Velveeta, Lunchables, and Maxwell House. Pernod Ricard Market Cap: $44.23 B You may not be familiar with French company Pernod Ricard, but you’re most likely with some of the world’s second-largest wine and spirits seller’s brands: Beefeater, Seagram’s, and Plymouth gin; Kahlua; Gosling’s and Malibu rum; Absolut vodka; Chivas, Glenlivet, and Jameson whiskey; and Mumm and Perrier-Jouet Champagne. It’s also well-known for its anise-flavoured pastis apéritifs Pernod and Ricard. Universal Music Group Market Cap: $46.08 B The world’s biggest music company, UMG can trace its roots back to the formation of Decca Records in 1934, and it’s tangentially related to Universal Pictures (although the two have different owners). Known for its innovation in the music industry, UMG is one of the Big Three music labels (along with Sony and Warner), and it’s signed licensing agreements with more than 400 platforms worldwide. Its main labels include Capitol Music Group, Decca Records, Def Jam Records, EMI, Island Records, Motown Records, and Polydor. Lululemon Athletica Market Cap: $52.34 B Commonly styled as lululemon, Lululemon Athletica was founded in Vancouver by Chip Wilson in 1998, and is credited with inventing yoga pants. The company became hugely successful be selling women’s yoga wear, and it’s since expanded into other athletic wear, bags, yoga mats, and other exercise-adjacent products. Today, there are more than 650 locations worldwide.  Nintendo Market Cap: $52.95 B Founded in 1889 as a playing card company, Nintendo expanded into video games in the 1970s and became an international phenomenon in the 80s with the release of Donkey Kong and Super Mario Bros. It’s produced some of the industry’s most successful game consoles including Game Boy, N64, Wii, and Switch, as well as some of the most popular video games of all time, including The Legend of Zelda, Pokémon, Super Smash Bros., and Animal Crossing. It’s one of Japan’s most valuable companies. Heineken Market Cap: $52.96 B Heineken is best known as the Dutch pale lager beer, but its parent company, Heineken N.V., owns more than 165 breweries in more than 70 countries and produces nearly 350 beers and ciders worldwide. Founded in Amsterdam in 1864, the company today owns brands including Tecate, Amstel, Fosters, Krušovice, and Birra Moretti. Dell SANTA CLARA, CA – OCTOBER 19: The Dell logo is displayed on the exterior of the new Dell research and development facility on October 19, 2011 in Santa Clara, California. California governor Jerry Brown and Dell Chairman and CEO Michael Dell attended a ribbon cutting to open the new Dell research and development facility that was followed by a career fair to hire hundreds of employees for the new facilty. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) Market Cap: $53.17 B Founded by college freshman Michael Dell in 1984, Dell today sells personal computers as well as servers, software, TVs, cameras, and other electronics. Dell remains chairman and CEO, and in 2022 it had revenue of $101.6 billion. Marriott International Market Cap: $58.03 B The largest hotel chain in the world based on number of rooms, Marriott was founded by Mormon missionaries J. Willard and Alice Marriott in 1927 as – believe it or not – a root beer stand. Today, Marriott operates 30 hotel chains internationally, including The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, W Hotels, Sheraton, Renaissance, Westin, and Aloft. Based in Bethesda, Maryland, it had a 2022 revenue of $20.77 billion. Chipotle Mexican Grill Market Cap: $58.19 B A pioneer of what’s today known as “fast casual” dining, Chipotle was founded by Steve Ells in 1993 after he was inspired by the large, filling burritos he fell in love with in San Francisco’s Mission District. The first location opened in Denver, and today it has more than 3,000 locations nationwide and a handful overseas. Along with burritos, Chipotle also serves bowls, tacos, and quesadillas, and in 2022 it brought in $8.6 billion in revenue.  PayPal Market Cap: $59.04 B Founded as X.com by a team that included Peter Thiel and Elon Musk and renamed PayPal in 2001, the online payments company went public and was acquired by eBay (at a valuation of $1.5 billion) in 2002. It was spun off to become an independent company in 2015, and today it’s a very popular payment processor for online vendors. It’s ranked 143rd on the 2022 Fortune 500 of the largest United States corporations by revenue. Target Market Cap: $60.00 B Minneapolis-based Target Corporation was founded by George Dayton in 1902, and today there are nearly 2,000 locations nationwide and it’s number 32 on the Fortune 500. Its stores sell what’s called general merchandise, which includes clothes, electronics, toys, home goods, food – basically anything you want. Despite its success, efforts to open international locations haven’t been successful. Ferrari Market Cap: $61.34 B The legendary Italian luxury sports car manufacturer, Ferrari was founded by race car driver Enzo Ferrari in 1939. Some Ferraris sold during the 50s and 60s count among the most expensive cars ever sold at auction, and in 2019 it was actually named the world’s strongest brand by Brand Finance, largely due to its devoted fans and licensing deals. It became a public company in 1960. Sponsored: Tips for Investing A financial advisor can help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of investment properties. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now. Investing in real estate can diversify your portfolio. But expanding your horizons may add additional costs. If you’re an investor looking to minimize expenses, consider checking out online brokerages. They often offer low investment fees, helping you maximize your profit. The post 25 Huge Companies That Apple Could Buy Right Now, With Cash appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.......»»

Department stores have been slowly losing the allure they once had. Shopping malls were the place to be in the 2000s and early 2010s. One of the most popular stores you’d see in any mall is Macy’s (NYSE: M). One of the reasons Macy’s is so popular is because they have such a wide variety […] The post 5 Reasons To Avoid Macy’s Today appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. Department stores have been slowly losing the allure they once had. Shopping malls were the place to be in the 2000s and early 2010s. One of the most popular stores you’d see in any mall is Macy’s (NYSE: M). One of the reasons Macy’s is so popular is because they have such a wide variety of things to choose from. You can get makeup, clothes, sports jerseys, shoes, jewelry, and so much more. It also was nice that most were attached to a mall where you could get food from. However, Macy’s has started to not do as well. It’s sad to see so many parts of our childhood being taken down and destroyed. It might be for the better, though. This is why you shouldn’t spend your time and hard-earned money shopping at Macy’s. Macy’s Isn’t as Nice as it Used to Be One of the downsides of malls going out of business is the surviving businesses inside aren’t quite as nice anymore. When you used to go to Macy’s, it would be crowded and energetic. These days, it’s quiet and calm and seemingly empty, minus a few people. If you do, you might start to feel down and depressed because of the lack of energy and people around you. This isn’t good for your mental health. While it’s still good to go out and buy new things, don’t do so just for nostalgia. You might end up feeling worse if you do. Macy’s is Becoming More Expensive Another negative thing associated with the downfall of these stores is the products are becoming more and more expensive. This is to try and keep profits as high as they can. Unfortunately, this is done at the expense of the paying customer, you. There were times when Macy’s was reasonably priced for what you were getting. Now, the high prices aren’t worth what you’re paying for. With how much things like groceries and rent costs these days, it’s better to set aside your money for the things you need. You can’t rely on Macy’s for sales you used to experience, so it’s not worth even checking anymore. Macy’s Isn’t Keeping Up with Current Styles and Trends It’s normal to want to feel trendy and stylish when going out, especially after going through Covid-19. People are making up for those two lost years of going out and feeling free. One of the best ways to ensure a fun night out is to dress as well as you can. Unfortunately, the styles Macy’s has don’t align with what’s going on fashion-wise right now. It’s a lot easier to go online to places like Fashion Nova where they have fun shirts for guys and cute dresses for girls to wear. Macy’s has them, but as talked about before, the prices just aren’t competitive at all. This story is kind of like Blockbuster and Netflix. Macy’s didn’t think people would ever want to stop shopping in person and that their name would carry them through anything. Unfortunately, online shopping has taken over. Online Shopping is Easier and More Fun Who wants to waste gas driving somewhere, trying to fight with other people about parking, hoping they have your size, and having to go to a whole different location if they don’t? Nobody, that’s who. The explosion in popularity of online shopping makes it easy to shop for yourself. The stores usually have your size in whatever you want, and if they don’t, then you can sign up to be notified when they do. You don’t have to drive around and waste a whole day trying to find something. You can also bookmark something to buy when you do have the funds for it. When you go in person, you might be surprised at what some things can cost you. There are also two different highs you get as an online shopper, when you purchase the item and when it officially gets to you. When you shop in person, you only get the first high of purchasing the item. You Don’t Need What Macy’s Sells The cost of living is at an all-time high. People are living paycheck to paycheck, hoping to make ends meet each month. Unfortunately, this means we all have to sacrifice some of the things we love. One of the first things to do is always buy new clothes. Since Macy’s is a fashion and design store, it makes sense to not be concerned with what they sell. You can always buy something cheaper, you just have to look hard enough. One day, you’ll be in a position where you can splurge even more on the things you like. Until that day comes, it’s best to not force yourself into buying things. Sponsored: Tips for Investing A financial advisor can help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of investment properties. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now. Investing in real estate can diversify your portfolio. But expanding your horizons may add additional costs. If you’re an investor looking to minimize expenses, consider checking out online brokerages. They often offer low investment fees, helping you maximize your profit. The post 5 Reasons To Avoid Macy’s Today appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.......»»

There has always been a degree of scorn from Wall Street and “so-called” investment professionals for those who invested in Gold. Laughed at as “Gold Bugs,” the argument against the precious metal, even though Gold is one of the most significant financial assets in the world, and central banks have been loading up on the […] The post 5 Ultra Dividend Gold Stocks To Buy Now As Gold Explodes Over $2000 To Record Highs appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. There has always been a degree of scorn from Wall Street and “so-called” investment professionals for those who invested in Gold. Laughed at as “Gold Bugs,” the argument against the precious metal, even though Gold is one of the most significant financial assets in the world, and central banks have been loading up on the commodity, is that typically, it’s not a tradeable investment. Warren Buffett owns zero and has previously said it is an investment with “no utility.” The argument for gold and gold miners is two-fold: the precious metal can provide a strategic hedge against inflation, and some of the top miners also mine silver and other needed commodities used in industrial applications. One thing is for sure: from a technical standpoint, there could be a massive breakout to the upside as spot gold is trading through highs printed back in March. We screened our 24/7 Wall Street commodity database, looking for the top miners and royalty companies rated Buy and pay dependable (sometimes significant) dividends. Five top stocks stood out for investors. Agnico Eagle Mines Gold pan used to sift for gold. This top stock is one of Wall Street’s most preferred North American gold producers and pays a dependable 3.21% dividend. Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE: AEM) is a senior Canadian gold mining company that has produced precious metals since 1957. Its eight mines are located in Canada, Finland, and Mexico, with exploration and development activities in each region, the United States, and Sweden. The Company and its shareholders have total exposure to gold prices due to its long-standing policy of no forward gold sales. Agnico Eagle has declared a cash dividend every year since 1983. The stock has rallied off the early fall lows, and with inflation still surging, you can bet many savvy portfolio managers are ready to add back top companies like this that trade well below the 52-week high. Barrick Gold Miners working in an underground mine. This stock is another one of the top companies in the sector and still offers a solid entry point and a 2.46% dividend. Barrick Gold Corporation (NYSE: GOLD) and Randgold Resources completed their merger on Jan. 1, 2019. This has created the world’s largest gold company in production, reserves, and market capitalization. The company holds a 50% interest in the Veladero mine located in the San Juan Province of Argentina; 50% interest in the KCGM, a gold mine located in Australia 95% interest in Porgera, a gold mine located in Papua New Guinea 50% interest in the Zalda­var, a copper mine located in Chile 50% interest in the Jabal Sayid, a copper mine located in Saudi Arabia Barrick also owns gold mines and exploration properties in Africa and gold projects in South America and North America. Barrick Gold Corporation has a strategic cooperation agreement with Shandong Gold Group Co. Ltd. Kinross Gold Jewelry made with gold and silver. This is another smaller-cap mining company that more aggressive investors may want to consider that pays a 2.15% dividend. Kinross Gold Corporation (NYSE: KGC) engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of gold properties principally in the United States, the Russian Federation, Brazil, Chile, Ghana, and Mauritania. The company is also involved in extracting and processing gold-containing ores, reclamation of gold mining properties, and producing and selling silver. Kinross Gold reported an outstanding third-quarter 2023 profit of $109.7 million or 9 cents per share, compared with $65.9 million or 5 cents per share reported in the year-ago quarter. Newmont Corporation Underground mining operation. This is one of the largest mining companies, pays a massive 4.26% dividend,  and is a solid buy for more conservative accounts. Newmont Corporation (NYSE: NEM) is a gold producer which produces gold. It operates through the following geographical segments: North America, South America, Nevada, Australia, and Africa. The North America segment consists primarily of: Carlin, Phoenix, Twin Creeks, and Long Canyon in the state of Nevada Cripple Creek and Victor in the state of Colorado The South American segment consists primarily of: Yanacocha in Peru Merian in Suriname The Australia segment consists primarily of: Boddington, Tanami, and Kalgoorlie in Australia The Africa segment consists primarily of: Ahafo and Akyem in Ghana Wheaton Precious Metals Cast and minted bars of gold and silver. This precious metals company makes good sense for more conservative accounts looking to have exposure to the sector. Wheaton Precious Metals (NYSE: WPM) is a Canadian-based precious metals streaming company with approximately 60% of its revenues from the sale of silver and 40% from gold. Under the terms of long-term contracts, the company purchases silver and gold from a variety of mines, including Goldcorp’s Penasquito mine in Mexico Vale’s Salobo mine in Brazil Lundin Mining Zinkgruvan mine in Sweden Glencore’s Antamina and Yauliyacu mines in Peru Proper asset allocation should always include at least a single-digit percentage holding of precious metals like gold and silver. Not only does gold hedge inflation, but the sector has been stagnant most of the year, and with inflation still way above the Federal Reserve target of 2%, continued demand from central banks and worried investors could drive the prices much higher in December and 2024.           Sponsored: Want to Retire Early? Here’s a Great First Step Want retirement to come a few years earlier than you’d planned? Or are you ready to retire now, but want an extra set of eyes on your finances? Now you can speak with up to 3 financial experts in your area for FREE. By simply clicking here you can begin to match with financial professionals who can help you build your plan to retire early. And the best part? The first conversation with them is free. Click here to match with up to 3 financial pros who would be excited to help you make financial decisions. The post 5 Ultra Dividend Gold Stocks To Buy Now As Gold Explodes Over $2000 To Record Highs appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.......»»

Walking through a Costco (NASDAQ: COST) makes you feel like you’ve entered a whole new world. The ceilings are stocked to the very top with food. You can find some of the biggest bulk items in the world. The free samples they offer can fill you up and be used as an entire meal. And […] The post 5 Reasons To Avoid Costco Today appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. Walking through a Costco (NASDAQ: COST) makes you feel like you’ve entered a whole new world. The ceilings are stocked to the very top with food. You can find some of the biggest bulk items in the world. The free samples they offer can fill you up and be used as an entire meal. And best of all, the hot dog combo is still $1.99. However, it’s not all glitz and glam when you take a trip to Costco. We think that Costco is the best deal around town, and other than gas, it isn’t at all. There are more negatives than positives to shopping at the local store. If you’re a person who shops at Costco, this is why you should reconsider where you go to the store. You Need a Membership to Shop at Costco Even though the membership fee for Costco is only $60 annually, it feels wrong to charge people just to be able to walk into your store. Imagine Target all of a sudden charging you an annual fee just to walk in. That wouldn’t happen in a million years. It’s one of the reasons Target has become such a popular place to shop and hang out. You feel like you’re welcome, no matter what. There’s a certain feeling of not being good enough if you don’t have a Costco card. With how things are trending thanks to Millennials and Gen-Z, these types of shops will have to either change or go out of business. It’s not worth putting money into something you aren’t sure is going to continue to be a thing. You’ll Waste Tons of Food Costco has made its name by selling wholesale bundles of food. While this might feel like you’re getting a good deal, unless you’re shopping for a party or massive get-together, you’re probably going to waste tons of food. You’d have to only get a certain amount of food each trip to ensure it doesn’t go bad before you can eat it. At that point, why not just shop at a regular grocery store? There are times when you can eat all the food you get from a Costco trip, but it’s rare and not worth the membership price you pay each year. You’ll Spend More Money Than You Need to If there’s anything we’ve learned over the last few years, it’s to only spend money on things that are necessities. While groceries are necessities, the average Costco trip can cost over $100. Now that might seem comparable to a regular store, but imagine buying everything you need to cook at home from Costco. You’d spend close to $300 or $400 per trip. Costco has great prices because they wholesale their items, and it is cheaper to buy them in bulk here. But odds are, you’re not going to use it all and will end up spending more than if you bought the regular amount of what you needed from the grocery store. There are also a lot of other things Costco has that aren’t food-related that you’ll be tempted to buy whenever you’re there. It’s best to just remove yourself from the scenario. It Takes A Lot Longer to Shop at Costco This might not seem like a huge deal, especially if you’re single and don’t have kids to worry about at home. But even if you don’t, do you want to spend up to three hours trying to park, walking around a massive warehouse, and trying to load up everything you bought? Probably not. Shopping at Costco takes a lot longer than it does at other grocery stores, and this is on purpose. The longer you spend in there, the more you’re likely to buy. The parking lot also serves as another way to spend money. You feel like you want your trip to be worth it, so you stock up on whatever you can. This can even include impulse purchases and things you didn’t intend on buying. You have a life that’s worth living, not where you have to plan your whole day around the trip to the store. They Don’t Have Curbside Pickup We didn’t realize how great and important curbside pickup would be even just five years ago. Being able to comfortably pick what you need from your couch can save a lot of time. All you have to do is drive up and have the store associate pack your truck with what you’ve purchased. Costco is one of the few places that doesn’t offer this option at any of their stores. You have to walk in and shop around for what you want. Now this might not seem as bad, but as we stated before, this is when impulse purchases happen. Curbside pickup is a great way to save money and make sure you’re not buying anything you don’t need. Sponsored: Tips for Investing A financial advisor can help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of investment properties. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now. Investing in real estate can diversify your portfolio. But expanding your horizons may add additional costs. If you’re an investor looking to minimize expenses, consider checking out online brokerages. They often offer low investment fees, helping you maximize your profit. The post 5 Reasons To Avoid Costco Today appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.......»»

There are a lot of great things Florida has to offer. The ocean water is warm and reminds you of the Caribbean since it is the Caribbean Sea. It doesn’t snow, so you’ll never have to worry about it being cold. There are tons of fun things to always be doing in the big cities. […] The post Discover the 5 Most Hurricane-Prone Places in Florida appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. There are a lot of great things Florida has to offer. The ocean water is warm and reminds you of the Caribbean since it is the Caribbean Sea. It doesn’t snow, so you’ll never have to worry about it being cold. There are tons of fun things to always be doing in the big cities. However, one of the major downfalls of Florida is the constant threat of hurricanes. Because of its location in the Caribbean Sea, Florida takes the first hit of any natural disaster that comes the way of the United States. They only average hitting every three years or so, but you always have to be aware. Thankfully, technology has evolved to be able to predict when and where hurricanes will strike, allowing people to escape and not be caught in the storm. These five places in Florida are the most prone to getting hit by a hurricane. Tampa Tampa is known for its successful sports teams over the last five years. Unfortunately, the city is also prone to getting hit by a hurricane. Something you’ll notice about all the different cities on this list is how close they are to the water. Even though hurricanes themselves are rare in Tampa, they still get rain and storms from every storm that hits the United States. The most recent hurricane here was in August 2023, Hurricane Idalia. It was a Category 3 hurricane that caused millions to have to evacuate. The worst storm to hit Tampa was in 1921 where four people died due to the flooding the storm caused. Tampa is a beautiful city, but make sure you’re keeping up to date with the weather report whenever you visit. Key West The Florida Keys are consistently talked about as one of the nicest places in all of the United States to live. It’s like living on an island, while still having the benefits of home. The one benefit that residents have to worry about is tropical storms and hurricanes. The islands don’t have any buffer to stop a hurricane from causing extreme damage to the city. Like Tampa, hurricanes in the Key West aren’t very common. They do get the rain and wind damage that comes with a hurricane whenever a storm is racing through the Caribbean. The other danger with the Florida Keys is the inability to escape easily. There’s only one way out, and that’s usually backed up. Whenever you’re down there, enjoy yourself, but make sure you’re getting weather updates. Naples Slightly south of Tampa is the beautiful coastal city of Naples. It makes sense Naples would also be on this list, thanks to how close it is to the water. One of the biggest issues the city faces is how low it is in elevation. The city sits at almost exactly sea level, making it hard for water to naturally escape. Whenever it rains here, residents have to be ready for it to take a long time to clear. Naples, like the other cities on this list, gets a lot of the rain and wind that comes with most hurricanes in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. The beach water here is amazing, but don’t get stuck here during a tropical storm. It will last longer than you’d like. Miami The 305 is where people go to let off steam and have a fun time. Even though the city only gets hit about every five years by a direct hurricane, the proximity to the coast means they get tons of rain and wind. Like Naples, Miami sits at sea level, making it hard for water to get away. The other issue with Miami is how many different things go flying. Miami is a very outdoor place, meaning there are tons of things the wind can pick up and throw around if it wants to do so. Whenever a storm is approaching Miami, the local businesses have to prepare and get everything inside for everyone’s safety. Fort Lauderdale Right up the road from Miami is Fort Lauderdale, the last city on our list. Many people who want the proximity to Miami, but don’t want to constantly deal with the traffic and tourists want to live here. There have been 17 hurricanes that have had a direct impact on the city. But they also get the wind and rain. The further and further you go up the coast, the less and less the hurricane has an impact. It’s no wonder these southern, coastal cities are where you have to pay the most attention to the weather report. Make sure you pack your sunscreen and have fun, though. Florida is truly a great place to relax. Sponsored: Tips for Investing A financial advisor can help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of investment properties. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now. Investing in real estate can diversify your portfolio. But expanding your horizons may add additional costs. If you’re an investor looking to minimize expenses, consider checking out online brokerages. They often offer low investment fees, helping you maximize your profit. The post Discover the 5 Most Hurricane-Prone Places in Florida appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.......»»

Notable insider buying in the past week included biotech and energy companies, including some that have just gone public. Also, renowned hedge fund manager Bill Ackman continues building a stake in a real estate firm. The post Insiders Are Loading Up on These Biotech and Energy Stocks appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. Some of the biggest insider purchases of the past week were in biotech and energy companies, including some that have just gone public. Also, renowned hedge fund manager Bill Ackman continues building a stake in a real estate firm. Here is a look at these and other notable insider buying of the past week. A well-known adage reminds us that corporate insiders and 10% owners really only buy shares of a company because they believe the stock price will rise and they want to profit from it. Thus, insider buying can be an encouraging signal for potential investors. This is all the more so during times of uncertainty in the markets, and even when markets are near all-time highs. Remember that when the earnings-reporting season is in full swing, many insiders are prohibited from buying or selling shares. Below are some of the more notable insider purchases that were reported recently. Buying Into the Cargo Therapeutics IPO Buyer(s): 10% owners Third Rock Ventures V and Samsara BioCapital GP Total shares: nearly 2 million Price per share: $15 Total cost: nearly $30 million These two owners acquired these Cargo Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: CRGX) shares (via derivative conversion) at the initial public offering price. The shares of this cancer-focused clinical-stage biotechnology company were trading near that price on last look, so no quick gain for these buyers. Cargo reportedly intends to use proceeds from the IPO ($281 million) to continue its phase 2 trial and to fund internal R&D and potential licensing assets. Block Director Scoops Up Shares Buyer(s): a director Total shares: over 540,600 Price per share: $50.63 to $51.00 Total cost: more than $27.5 million This appears to be a fresh stake, and the shares were acquired indirectly. The San Francisco-based mobile payments company Block Inc. (NYSE: SQ) recently posted a smaller-than-expected quarterly loss and beat revenue projections, and it offered rosy guidance. The stock is up more than 34% since then to $57 or so. That is a gain of more than 10% for that director. The $71.71 consensus price target suggests there is 27% or so more upside in the coming year. Insider Buying at Madrigal Pharmaceuticals Buyer(s): a director Total shares: almost 156,900 Price per share: $155.51 to $162.00 Total cost: over $23.6 million These indirect purchases of Madrigal Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: MDGL) shares lifted the director’s stake of more than 1.54 million. They also came after the recent appointment of a new chief commerce officer and the release of stage 3 trial results. Shares are up more than 23% in the past week and were trading at more than $172 apiece, above the director’s purchase price range. The stock is down about 42% in the past six months, but the $319.83 consensus price target suggests analysts see plenty of room for shares to run. Who Is Acquiring Talos Energy Shares? Buyer(s): 10% owner Control Empresarial de Capitales Total shares: almost 1.7 million Price per share: $13.34 to $14.25 Total cost: almost $23.7 million Talos Energy Inc. (NYSE: TALO) is a Houston-based exploration and production company focused on the Gulf of Mexico. Its third-quarter earnings fell short of expectations in the recent report. The share price has retreated more than 9% since then to above $14. That is near the top of the owner’s purchase price range. The stock is more than 17% higher than six months ago, while the Dow Jones industrials are up less than 5% in that time. The consensus price target is up at $20.67. Hedge Fund Manager Loves Howard Hughes Buyer(s): 10% owner Pershing Square Capital Management Total shares: almost 159,700 Price per share: $7.13 to $74.77 Total cost: over $11.4 million Bill Ackman continues to build a stake in real estate developer Howard Hughes Holdings Inc. (NYSE: HHH), in compliance with Rules 10b-18 and 10b5-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Pershing Square has purchased more than 10 million shares of the stock so far this year. The share price popped almost 6% in the past week but is still down more than 3% year to date. The consensus price target is up at $92.25, and all five analysts covering the stock recommend buying shares. Three TXO Partners Insiders at the Buy Window Buyer(s): three directors Total shares: nearly 471,900 Price per share: $17.60 Total cost: over $8.30 million Two of those directors were also founders of Texas-based energy master limited partnership TXO Partners L.P. (NYSE: TXO). The company recently declared its highest quarterly dividend since its initial public offering earlier this year. The yield is 8.3%. The share price is down about 16% since the IPO and was last seen trading above $18, about a buck higher than the purchase price above. The consensus price target of three analysts who follow the stock is $30.67. A Beneficial Owner Believes in ProFrac Buyer(s): 10% owner THRC Holdings Total shares: almost 630,500 Price per share: $9.63 average Total cost: around $6.07 million ProFrac Holding Corp. (NASDAQ: ACDC) is a Texas-based energy services and products provider that posted declining revenues and a widening net loss in its third quarter. The stock fell to a 52-week low of $7.75 after that report, but they were last seen trading above $8 a share. Note that THRC has been scooping up shares since last spring, and the share price was in double-digits until recently. And Other Insider Buying Some insider buying was seen at Caesars Entertainment, CenterPoint Energy, Darling Ingredients, Emerson Electric, Keurig Dr Pepper, W. K. Kellogg, Topgolf Callaway Brands, Perrigo, and SolarEdge Technologies in the past week as well. Sponsored: Want to Retire Early? Here’s a Great First Step Want retirement to come a few years earlier than you’d planned? Or are you ready to retire now, but want an extra set of eyes on your finances? Now you can speak with up to 3 financial experts in your area for FREE. By simply clicking here you can begin to match with financial professionals who can help you build your plan to retire early. And the best part? The first conversation with them is free. Click here to match with up to 3 financial pros who would be excited to help you make financial decisions. The post Insiders Are Loading Up on These Biotech and Energy Stocks appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.......»»

The United States military is renowned worldwide not only for its size but for having the largest defense budget of any nation on the planet. They come in at number one in many areas of Global Firepower’s ranking and resume their top position of the most powerful militaries in the world. According to the Office […] The post 34 US Military Firearms That Are All-American appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. The United States military is renowned worldwide not only for its size but for having the largest defense budget of any nation on the planet. They come in at number one in many areas of Global Firepower’s ranking and resume their top position of the most powerful militaries in the world. According to the Office of Management and Budget, in 2022, the Department of Defense (DOD) spent $766 billion, which is not even at the top of previous expenditures. As a result, a domestic military-industrial complex has grown into a burgeoning industry. Many of the aircraft, vehicles, and small arms that are used in the U.S. armed forces are produced domestically for a number of reasons. The prime one is quality control. (See every combat drone used by the U.S. military.) The Buy American Act of 1933 requires that small arms for the military, as well as other weapons, vessels, and aircraft among others, be produced within the U.S. While there are some weapons that originated outside of the U.S., they are still mostly produced here. A significant amount of small arms produced by the United States are some of the most recognized weapons within the U.S. military. As a result of their longevity, or popularity within U.S. gun culture, many of these weapons have become household names. Accordingly, guns made by Remington or Colt have a place in American military history, and iterations still continue in active service. (Here is every standard issue U.S. military rifle since the American Revolution.) To identify which small arms used by the U.S. military are made in the United States, 24/7 Wall St. reviewed a range of sources, including military handbooks, government press releases, and firearms publications. Data from Military Factory, an online database of military vehicles, aircraft, arms, and more used by militaries across the world, is included on the type of weapon, caliber, maximum range, and year entered service.  The list of these American-made weapons ranges from sniper rifles, shotguns, battle rifles, and even mortars. Some of these active-service small arms even reach as far back as the Korean War era.  Here’s a look at U.S. military small arms made in the United States: Accuracy International Mk 13 (SOCOM) > Type: Bolt-action sniper rifle > Caliber: .300 Win Mag > Length: 47.4 in > Maximum range: 3,940 ft > Military branches used: Navy, Marines > Year entered service: 2017 Barrett M107 > Type: Anti-material / anti-personnel sniper rifle > Caliber: .50 BMG > Length: 57.1 in > Maximum range: 1,850 ft > Military branches used: Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard,USSOCOM > Year entered service: 2008 24/7 Wall St. Every Standard Issue US Military Rifle Since the American Revolution Browning M2 > Type: Multi-role heavy machine gun > Caliber: .50 BMG > Length: 61.4 in > Maximum range: 6,550 ft > Military branches used: Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, Navy, Coast Guard > Year entered service: 1921 Colt M16 (Series) > Type: Infantry assault rifle / assault carbine > Caliber: 5.56×45 mm > Length: 39.5 in > Maximum range: 1,800 ft > Military branches used: Marine Corps, U.S. Navy SEALs > Year entered service: 1963 Colt M1911 > Type: Semi-automatic service pistol > Caliber: .45 ACP > Length: 8.3 in > Maximum range: 82 ft > Military branches used: Marine Corps, U.S. Army Special Operations > Year entered service: 1911 Colt M4 > Type: Assault carbine > Caliber: 5.56×45 mm > Length: 33.0 in > Maximum range: 1,640 ft > Military branches used: All branches > Year entered service: 1994 Fabrique Nationale M249 SAW / LMG > Type: Light machine gun / squad support weapon > Caliber: 5.56×45 mm > Length: 40.8 in > Maximum range: 2,600 ft > Military branches used: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines > Year entered service: 1984 24/7 Wall St. The US Military’s Bombs and Missiles, and How They’re Used in Combat Fabrique Nationale FN SCAR (Mk 16 / Mk 17) > Type: Modular automatic assault rifle > Caliber: 5.56×45 mm and 7.62×51mm > Length: 13.8 in > Maximum range: 1,980 ft > Military branches used: United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) > Year entered service: 2009 Fabrique Nationale M240 > Type: General purpose machine gun / medium machine gun > Caliber: 7.62mm x 51mm > Length: 49.0 in > Maximum range: 5,905 ft > Military branches used: Army, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard > Year entered service: 1977 GA MSSR (Marine Scout Sniper Rifle) > Type: Semi-automatic sniper rifle / designated marksman rifle > Caliber: 7.62x51mm > Length: 42.3 in > Maximum range: 3,610 ft > Military branches used: Army > Year entered service: 1996 GAU-19 > Type: Gatling gun > Caliber: .50 BMG > Length: 53.9 in > Maximum range: 19,685 ft > Military branches used: Army, Navy > Year entered service: 1983 General Dynamics / Raytheon FIM-92 Stinger > Type: Man-portable, air defense missile system > Caliber: Varied > Length: 59.8 in > Maximum range: 15,750 ft > Military branches used: Army, Marine Corps > Year entered service: 1981 24/7 Wall St. The Biggest US Army Tanks of All Time General Dynamics Mk 47 Striker AGL (Mk 47 Mod 0) > Type: 40mm automatic grenade launcher > Caliber: 40 mm grenades > Length: 37.0 in > Maximum range: 5,600 ft > Military branches used: SOCOM > Year entered service: 2006 General Electric GAU-17/A Minigun > Type: Six barrel gatling gun > Caliber: 7.62mm x 51mm > Length: 31.5 in > Maximum range: 3,280 ft > Military branches used: Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, Navy > Year entered service: 1965 Heckler & Koch HK M27 IAR (Infantry Automatic Rifle) > Type: Squad support / designated marksman weapon > Caliber: 5.56×45 mm > Length: 37.0 in > Maximum range: 1,800 ft > Military branches used: Marine Corps > Year entered service: 2011 M110 SASS (Semi-Automatic Sniper System) > Type: Designated marksman rifle / sniper rifle > Caliber: 7.62x51mm > Length: 40.5 in > Maximum range: 2,624 ft > Military branches used: Amy, Marines, SOCOM > Year entered service: 2007 M120, 120mm Mortar > Type: Towed heavy field mortar > Caliber: 120mm > Length: N/A > Maximum range: 23,750 ft > Military branches used: Army, Marine Corps > Year entered service: 1991 24/7 Wall St. Every US Military Combat Drone M136 Light Anti-Armor Weapon (AT4) > Type: Man-portable, disposable anti-armor rocket launcher > Caliber: 84mm > Length: 40.2 in > Maximum range: 985 ft > Military branches used: Army, Air Force > Year entered service: 1987 M167 Vulcan > Type: Towed / static air defense system > Caliber: 20×102mm > Length: 186 in > Maximum range: 14,763 ft > Military branches used: Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, Navy, Coast Guard > Year entered service: 1967 M224, 60mm Mortar > Type: 60mm lightweight mortar > Caliber: 60mm > Length: 41.7 in > Maximum range: 11,447 ft > Military branches used: Army, Marine Corps > Year entered service: 1978 M252, 81 Mortar > Type: Medium weight extended range mortar > Caliber: 81mm > Length: 50.0 in > Maximum range: 18,618 ft > Military branches used: Army, Marine Corps > Year entered service: 1987 M26 (MASS) > Type: Modular accessory shotgun system > Caliber: 12 gauge > Length: 19.7 in > Maximum range: 130 ft > Military branches used: Army > Year entered service: 2003 ALSO READ: How Much US Military Servicemembers Are Paid at Every Pay Grade M39 Enhanced Marksman Rifle (EMR) > Type: Designated marksman rifle / sniper rifle > Caliber: 7.62x51mm > Length: 44.2 in > Maximum range: 2,550 ft > Military branches used: Marines > Year entered service: 2008 MK 20 Mod 0 Sniper Support Rifle > Type: Bolt-action sniper rifle > Caliber: 7.62x51mm > Length: 40.5 in > Maximum range: 1,980 ft > Military branches used: Army > Year entered service: 2004 Mk14 Mod 0 EBR (Enhanced Battle Rifle) > Type: Battle rifle / designated marksman rifle > Caliber: 7.62x51mm > Length: 35.0 in > Maximum range: 1,500 ft > Military branches used: Army, Navy, Coast Guard > Year entered service: 2004 Mossberg Model 590 > Type: Pump-action shotgun > Caliber: 12 gauge > Length: 18.5 in > Maximum range: 130 ft > Military branches used: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines > Year entered service: 1975 Raytheon . Lockheed Martin FGM-148 Javelin > Type: Anti-tank guided missile launcher > Caliber: 127mm explosive > Length: 47.0 in > Maximum range: 8,202 ft > Military branches used: Army, Marines > Year entered service: 1996 ALSO READ: Every Standard Issue US Military Rifle Since the American Revolution Remington M2010 ESR (Enhanced Sniper Rifle) > Type: Bolt-action sniper rifle > Caliber: .300 Win Mag > Length: 46.5 in > Maximum range: 3,935 ft > Military branches used: N/A > Year entered service: 2011 Remington M24 SWS (Sniper Weapon System) > Type: Bolt-action sniper rifle > Caliber: 7.62x51mm > Length: 43.0 in > Maximum range: 2,624 ft > Military branches used: Army, Air Force, USSOCOM > Year entered service: 1987 Remington Model 870 > Type: Pump-action shotgun > Caliber: 12 gauge > Length: 50.4 in > Maximum range: 140 ft > Military branches used: Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Coast Guard > Year entered service: 1950 Remington MSR (Modular Sniper Rifle) > Type: Remington MSR (modular sniper rifle) > Caliber: 7.62×51 mm, .300 Norma Magnum, and .338 Norma Magnum > Length: 47.2 in > Maximum range: 4,920 ft > Military branches used: Army, SOCOM > Year entered service: 2013 Saco M60 > Type: General purpose machine gun > Caliber: 7.62mm x 51mm > Length: 43.5 in > Maximum range: 3,280 ft > Military branches used: Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, USSOCOM > Year entered service: 1957 24/7 Wall St. The US Military’s Bombs and Missiles, and How They’re Used in Combat Saco Mk19 > Type: 40mm automatic grenade launcher > Caliber: 40 mm grenades > Length: 43.1 in > Maximum range: 4,500 ft > Military branches used: Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, Navy > Year entered service: 1967 Sponsored: Want to Retire Early? Here’s a Great First Step Want retirement to come a few years earlier than you’d planned? Or are you ready to retire now, but want an extra set of eyes on your finances? Now you can speak with up to 3 financial experts in your area for FREE. By simply clicking here you can begin to match with financial professionals who can help you build your plan to retire early. And the best part? The first conversation with them is free. Click here to match with up to 3 financial pros who would be excited to help you make financial decisions. The post 34 US Military Firearms That Are All-American appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.......»»

There has always been a degree of scorn from Wall Street and “so-called” investment professionals for those who invested in Gold. Laughed at as “Gold Bugs,” the argument against the precious metal, even though Gold is one of the most significant financial assets in the world, and central banks have been loading up on the […] The post 5 Ultra Dividend Gold Stocks To Buy Now As Gold Explodes Over $2000 appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. There has always been a degree of scorn from Wall Street and “so-called” investment professionals for those who invested in Gold. Laughed at as “Gold Bugs,” the argument against the precious metal, even though Gold is one of the most significant financial assets in the world, and central banks have been loading up on the commodity, is that typically, it’s not a tradeable investment. Warren Buffett owns zero and has previously said it is an investment with “no utility.” The argument for gold and gold miners is two-fold: the precious metal can provide a strategic hedge against inflation, and some of the top miners also mine silver and other needed commodities used in industrial applications. One thing is for sure: from a technical standpoint, there could be a massive breakout to the upside as spot gold is trading through highs printed back in March. We screened our 24/7 Wall Street commodity database, looking for the top miners and royalty companies rated Buy and pay dependable (sometimes significant) dividends. Five top stocks stood out for investors. Agnico Eagle Mines Gold pan used to sift for gold. This top stock is one of Wall Street’s most preferred North American gold producers and pays a dependable 3.21% dividend. Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE: AEM) is a senior Canadian gold mining company that has produced precious metals since 1957. Its eight mines are located in Canada, Finland, and Mexico, with exploration and development activities in each region, the United States, and Sweden. The Company and its shareholders have total exposure to gold prices due to its long-standing policy of no forward gold sales. Agnico Eagle has declared a cash dividend every year since 1983. The stock has rallied off the early fall lows, and with inflation still surging, you can bet many savvy portfolio managers are ready to add back top companies like this that trade well below the 52-week high. Barrick Gold Miners working in an underground mine. This stock is another one of the top companies in the sector and still offers a solid entry point and a 2.46% dividend. Barrick Gold Corporation (NYSE: GOLD) and Randgold Resources completed their merger on Jan. 1, 2019. This has created the world’s largest gold company in production, reserves, and market capitalization. The company holds a 50% interest in the Veladero mine located in the San Juan Province of Argentina; 50% interest in the KCGM, a gold mine located in Australia 95% interest in Porgera, a gold mine located in Papua New Guinea 50% interest in the Zalda­var, a copper mine located in Chile 50% interest in the Jabal Sayid, a copper mine located in Saudi Arabia Barrick also owns gold mines and exploration properties in Africa and gold projects in South America and North America. Barrick Gold Corporation has a strategic cooperation agreement with Shandong Gold Group Co. Ltd. Kinross Gold Jewelry made with gold and silver. This is another smaller-cap mining company that more aggressive investors may want to consider that pays a 2.15% dividend. Kinross Gold Corporation (NYSE: KGC) engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of gold properties principally in the United States, the Russian Federation, Brazil, Chile, Ghana, and Mauritania. The company is also involved in extracting and processing gold-containing ores, reclamation of gold mining properties, and producing and selling silver. Kinross Gold reported an outstanding third-quarter 2023 profit of $109.7 million or 9 cents per share, compared with $65.9 million or 5 cents per share reported in the year-ago quarter. Newmont Corporation Underground mining operation. This is one of the largest mining companies, pays a massive 4.26% dividend,  and is a solid buy for more conservative accounts. Newmont Corporation (NYSE: NEM) is a gold producer which produces gold. It operates through the following geographical segments: North America, South America, Nevada, Australia, and Africa. The North America segment consists primarily of: Carlin, Phoenix, Twin Creeks, and Long Canyon in the state of Nevada Cripple Creek and Victor in the state of Colorado The South American segment consists primarily of: Yanacocha in Peru Merian in Suriname The Australia segment consists primarily of: Boddington, Tanami, and Kalgoorlie in Australia The Africa segment consists primarily of: Ahafo and Akyem in Ghana Wheaton Precious Metals Cast and minted bars of gold and silver. This precious metals company makes good sense for more conservative accounts looking to have exposure to the sector. Wheaton Precious Metals (NYSE: WPM) is a Canadian-based precious metals streaming company with approximately 60% of its revenues from the sale of silver and 40% from gold. Under the terms of long-term contracts, the company purchases silver and gold from a variety of mines, including Goldcorp’s Penasquito mine in Mexico Vale’s Salobo mine in Brazil Lundin Mining Zinkgruvan mine in Sweden Glencore’s Antamina and Yauliyacu mines in Peru Proper asset allocation should always include at least a single-digit percentage holding of precious metals like gold and silver. Not only does gold hedge inflation, but the sector has been stagnant most of the year, and with inflation still way above the Federal Reserve target of 2%, continued demand from central banks and worried investors could drive the prices much higher in December and 2024.           Sponsored: Tips for Investing A financial advisor can help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of investment properties. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now. Investing in real estate can diversify your portfolio. But expanding your horizons may add additional costs. If you’re an investor looking to minimize expenses, consider checking out online brokerages. They often offer low investment fees, helping you maximize your profit. The post 5 Ultra Dividend Gold Stocks To Buy Now As Gold Explodes Over $2000 appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.......»»

The people who live in Wisconsin are proud to call it their home. The midwestern culture is clear from the second you step foot in there. There are plenty of areas where you don’t need to lock your doors at night, going to the grocery store can take a few hours because of talking to […] The post The Biggest Snowstorm to Ever Hit Wisconsin in the Month of December appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.. The people who live in Wisconsin are proud to call it their home. The midwestern culture is clear from the second you step foot in there. There are plenty of areas where you don’t need to lock your doors at night, going to the grocery store can take a few hours because of talking to neighbors, and you feel like everyone is family. If you want a good pension, Wisconsin is the place to be as well. However, one thing Wisconsin doesn’t have going for it is the cold weather. Winters can be harsh and snowy in certain parts. Milwaukee averages around 50 inches of snow per year. This has to do with how close the city is to Lake Michigan. But believe it or not, the worst December snowstorm didn’t take place in or near Milwaukee. It didn’t even take place near Lake Michigan. This is the largest December snowstorm in the history of Wisconsin. What Was the Worst December Snowstorm in Wisconsin? It’s time to get in a time machine and head back to December 1904. We will then have to take a trip to Neillsville, Wisconsin, a small town that’s home to only 2,000 people a the time of the storm. Christmas Day was just as magical as any other. However, the next day, people woke up to the start of a storm that would have 26 inches of snowfall in a 24-hour timeframe. Imagine how hard it must have snowed to average more than one inch per hour for an entire day. It wasn’t as easy to predict the weather as it is today, but the citizens were as prepared as they could have been. It helps that they were already more than likely prepared for the next storm to come. Modern heat wasn’t around then, making it hard to stay warm and safe. The roofs weren’t able to withstand that much weight in snow, so you’d have to routinely go out and make sure the roof was cleared of any snow. There was a snowstorm in Eau Claire in 2010 that saw 22 inches of snowfall, almost breaking this record. Where is Neillsville? Neillsville is almost right between Minneapolis and Milwaukee, almost exactly in the middle of the state. On average, Neillsville only gets 30 inches of snow per year. The city was first inhabited by the Ojibwa people, one of the oldest Native American tribes we have. You’d have to go back to 1845 to find when the first European people found Neillsville and settled down. The town was also home to William Steele, one of the most celebrated architects from Chicago. He would live out the rest of his life in Neillsville after he retired from designing buildings like libraries, fire stations, and even courthouses. You can also find the world’s largest talking cow in Neillsville, should you ever want to see that. Will Wisconsin Ever See a December Storm Like This Again? It’s hard to say with global warming being such a powerful thing these days, but you can’t discount recent history. Because of the fact there was a powerful storm in 2010, odds are Wisconsin will see another storm like this at some point in time. The most likely place for a storm like this to occur is a place near Lake Michigan. Lake effect snow is a real thing, just look at Chicago or Buffalo if you need any more proof. Wisconsin is known for being a state that’s home to cold and snow, making it likely to see something like this again. Where Does This Storm Rank in All of Wisconsin’s Snowstorms? In terms of a 24-hour timeline, this is the worst storm in all of Wisconsin’s proud history. However, there was one storm that lasted 48 hours in Milwaukee where 28.5 inches of snow fell on the ground. Throughout February and March 1881, there were reports of four feet of snowfall in some of the southern parts of the state. The problem with this storm is that it took place before modern technology was around to keep proper track. It’s hard to know for sure how much snow there truly was, as people have been known to exaggerate all numbers in their lives. What to Do If You’re Ever in a Storm Like This? If you ever find yourself in a severe snowstorm, get into warmth as quickly as you can. Frostbite is a real thing and can destroy nerves in your body forever if you don’t take it seriously. It’s also important to keep your roof and trees clear of snow. If you don’t help your trees, the branches could snap and destroy parts of your house. Make sure you’re stocked up on food and supplies if a storm is heading your way. You don’t want to be stuck without anything to eat or drink. Sponsored: Want to Retire Early? Here’s a Great First Step Want retirement to come a few years earlier than you’d planned? Or are you ready to retire now, but want an extra set of eyes on your finances? Now you can speak with up to 3 financial experts in your area for FREE. By simply clicking here you can begin to match with financial professionals who can help you build your plan to retire early. And the best part? The first conversation with them is free. Click here to match with up to 3 financial pros who would be excited to help you make financial decisions. The post The Biggest Snowstorm to Ever Hit Wisconsin in the Month of December appeared first on 24/7 Wall St.......»»