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Headwinds Facing the Markets in 2023

Published Sun, 16 Feb 2025 16:22:27 GMT

Despite a rally in the broader S&P 500 index in 2023, which is up slightly more than 14%, smaller stocks with more expansive breath are seeing muted returns. The Russel 2000, which captures a group of smaller stocks, is slightly higher for the year, rising about 5%. Equity indices are made up of the haves and the have-nots. The same can be said for the forex markets and the commodity markets. While some large-cap technology shares are experiencing robust returns, several sectors face significant headwinds and have had little traction during 2023. While the S&P 500 index shows double-digit returns, the equal-weight S&P 500 index is barely higher. While the Russel 2000 is up 5%, the equal-weight Russel 2000 is lower in 2023. Rising interest rates, the continued war in the Black Sea, and the fear of a global recession are weighing on specific sectors. Here are the five things hurting market productivity in 2023.The Haves and Have NotsBefore discussing the different factors...

Meet Ian Robertson-Salt and his Artistic Alchemy that Merges Realism, Abstraction, and Urban Inspirations

Published Sun, 16 Feb 2025 16:22:27 GMT

Summary: Muralist Ian Robertson-Salt, a Los Angeles native, has been creating vibrant murals that explore themes of culture, identity, and ecological awareness.Street artists are freethinkers, disruptors, and risk-takers. They inhabit the spaces we live, work in, and play in, bringing life back to an otherwise mundane urban environment. This is true, especially in Los Angeles. In this vibrant tapestry of Los Angeles’ artistic landscape, Ian Robertson-Salt, a painter and a muralist seamlessly blends in.With a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art, Ian began his muralist journey in 2011 and discovered his purpose in preserving murals across Los Angeles and Long Beach. A tribute to his passion, he studied color theory, public art engagement, and various techniques to cultivate a deep understanding of the intricate relationship between art and its surroundings.“The Artist” Mural Painting by Ian Robertson-SaltIn addition to creating stunning murals, Ian has worked on the restoration ...

Why “Being Fabulous” is Entrepreneur Whitney Alexandra’s Top Core Value

Published Sun, 16 Feb 2025 16:22:27 GMT

Years ago, Whitney Alexandra found herself in a familiar space that resonates with many empowered and ambitious women. On the surface, her life appeared to be on track with a coveted “dream job”, marked by financial success and accolades. However, internally, she was grappling with a cacophony of conflicting emotions.She lingered on the precipice of burnout for an extended period, feeling inundated by the demands of both life and work. Despite feeling overwhelmed, Whitney couldn’t find a better, more lasting way forward. “I just kept pushing through to the next day and the next month, waiting for the ‘perfect time’ where I would finally get a rest. It felt like I was living to work, despite dreaming about a very different life.”Then, during a serendipitous visit to Sephora, her perspective shifted. A chance encounter with her now-favorite fragrance, Tom Ford’s “F*cking Fabulous”, served as a powerful reminder of her inherent strength. This moment became a catalyst ...

Hanxi Li: Creative Director Extraordinaire – Elevating Segway’s Brand Awareness

Published Sun, 16 Feb 2025 16:22:27 GMT

Hanxi Li, the gifted Creative Director, has proven her prowess in boosting brand awareness with her innovative approach and strategic partnerships, significantly elevating Segway’s presence in the market.Segway’s distinguished reputation is rooted in its history of innovation, notably with the Segway Personal Transporter (PT) and founder Dean Kamen’s pioneering work. Its wide-ranging applications across industries, key patents, and acquisition by Ninebot in 2015 have expanded its influence and product offerings. Segway’s ongoing commitment to development and global presence solidify its status as a trailblazer in innovative mobility solutions, attracting renowned creative directors like Hanxi Li to enhance its brand and reach.Hanxi Li’s journey within Segway has been marked by her extraordinary ability to blend creativity and strategic thinking, making her a driving force behind the company’s transformative success. As a Creative Director, her mul...

1 Fatally Injured in Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Crash on Sandhill Road [Las Vegas, NV]

Published Sun, 16 Feb 2025 16:22:27 GMT

One Pronounced Dead after Pedestrian Accident on Edison AvenueLAS VEGAS, NV (December 26, 2023) – One victim died Friday night in a hit-and-run pedestrian collision on Sandhill Road and Edison Avenue.Police arrived at the location shortly after 5:00 p.m. on December 8th. Upon investigation, it was revealed that a pedestrian attempting to cross west outside of a marked crosswalk was struck by a northbound 2006 Ford F-250 on Sandhill Road. The impact propelled the pedestrian onto the southbound lanes.The pedestrian was struck again by the driver of a tan or cream-colored sedan traveling south. The sedan driver did not stop and fled the scene. Emergency Medical Personnel reached the site and declared the pedestrian deceased.Meanwhile, the Ford driver remained at the scene, cooperated with investigators, and showed no signs of impairment. Currently, an active investigation is ongoing to gather additional information.No words can mend the broken hearts and sorrow felt during this d...

Ricky Parraz Died in Single-Vehicle Accident on East Valencia Road [Tucson, AZ]

Published Sun, 16 Feb 2025 16:22:27 GMT

23-Year-Old Driver Dies in a Solo-Car Accident near South Plumer AvenueTUCSON, AZ (December 26, 2023) – Late Monday evening, a solo-vehicle accident claimed the life of Ricky Parraz.On December 18th, just before midnight, police responded in the 2100 block of East Valencia Road near South Plumer Avenue.According to the authorities, the incident involved only a 2005 Chevrolet Corvette driven by 23-year-old Parraz.Upon investigation, the authorities learned that Parraz was speeding in the westbound lanes of Valencia Road. Parraz then switched lanes and lost control of his vehicle.As a result, he veered off the westbound lanes and slammed into a power pole and a block wall. Unfortunately, due to the severity of his injuries, Parraz was pronounced dead at the scene.Furthermore, the authorities stated that excessive speeds and failure to control speed were the contributing factors to the incident. Further investigation is still ongoing.Sincere sympathies to the family and friends o...

Director Wei Yang Chen and Producer Jiaming Chong’s ‘Dream Bowl’ Triumphs on the Global Stage

Published Sun, 16 Feb 2025 16:22:27 GMT

The powerhouse pairing of director Wei Yang Chen and executive producer Jiaming Chong has delivered yet another cinematic gem with “Dream Bowl,” a film already adorned with a string of international film festival awards.Sherry (Shiyu) Liu, an aspiring actress from Los Angeles, brings to the project her keen insight on the complexities of identity, offering a narrative that serves as a vivid allegory for America’s diverse society. Liu’s portrayal in the film promises to explore the interwoven fabric of cultures that challenge the conventional melting pot analogy.“Dream Bowl” has garnered international praise, securing a lineup of awards that includes the Paris Shorts Film Awards, Symbiotic Film Festival, and Crown Point International Film Festival, among others. This acclaim is a testament to the film’s resonant storytelling and the creative team’s dedication to excellence.Endorsed by the Paris Short Film Festival, “Dream BowlR...

Ryan Minor dies at 49; ex-MLB player replaced Cal Ripken Jr. to end consecutive game streak

Published Sun, 16 Feb 2025 16:22:27 GMT

By Noah Trister | Associated PressRyan Minor, the Baltimore Orioles infielder who became part of baseball history when he replaced Cal Ripken at the end of his record-setting consecutive games streak in 1998, has died. He was 49.The University of Oklahoma — where Minor starred in baseball and basketball — said he died of cancer Friday. The Orioles also released a statement on social media.“We are deeply saddened by the passing of former third baseman and longtime minor league manager Ryan Minor, who courageously fought cancer,” the Orioles said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Ryan’s family and friends at this time.”Drafted by the Orioles in 1996, Minor made his big league debut late in the 1998 season. Then, a week later — on Sept. 20 — he was thrust into the spotlight. In the team’s final home game of the season, Ripken decided to end his streak at 2,632 consecutive games. Minor started at third base for the first time in his career.“I had no idea when I was coming to the...

CFB recruiting: Stanford lands commitment from Bay Area linebacker

Published Sun, 16 Feb 2025 16:22:27 GMT

Stanford got a late Christmas present when De La Salle linebacker Drew Cunningham committed to the Cardinal on Tuesday morning. “Thank you to all my coaches, teammates and family for your support. GO CARD!,” Cunningham wrote on social media. Cunningham, a 6-foot-3 linebacker, was rated by the recruiting website 247Sports as a three-star linebacker and also had an offer from Army and a number of other schools.After he signs on National Signing Day (Feb. 7), Cunningham will join a 24-player class that is headlined by four-star Mater Dei quarterback Elijah Brown. Cunningham is the third linebacker to commit to the Cardinal in the class, and was rated as the No. 184 player in California for the class of 2024.The linebacker was named the East Bay Athletic League co-Defensive Player of the Year after had 86 tackles, 10.5 tackles-for-loss, two sacks and one interception. Cunningham also caught two touchdowns as a tight end in De La Salle’s run-heavy attack. More recruiting: Bay Area ...

The 10 most expensive homes that reported sold in Danville, San Ramon, Dublin, Pleasanton the week of Dec. 18

Published Sun, 16 Feb 2025 16:22:27 GMT

A house in Danville that sold for $2.9 million tops the list of the most expensive residential real estate sales in Danville, San Ramon, Dublin, Pleasanton in the past week.In total, 10 residential real estate sales were recorded in the area during the past week, with an average price of $1.7 million. The average price per square foot was $807.The prices in the list below concern real estate sales where the title was recorded during the week of Dec. 18 even if the property may have been sold earlier.10. $1.3 million, single-family residence in the 7400 block of Hillsdale DriveThe 2,014 square-foot single-family home in the 7400 block of Hillsdale Drive has been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in October and the total purchase price was $1,325,000, $658 per square foot. The house was built in 1969. The house features four bedrooms and two bathrooms.Hillsdale Drive9. $1.4 million, single-family home in the 9500 block of Davona DriveA sale has been finalized for the single-...