Author: Political X Patriot

HSBC reported a pre-tax profit of $6.3 billion for the second quarter of 2024, down 29% from the previous year and missing profit expectations due to impairment charges related to Chinese banks and revenue losses from recently disposed businesses. Operating expenses rose by 10%, largely driven by increased spending on restructuring and technology. CEO Georges Elhedery cited “structural challenges” in the global economy, including tariffs and market volatility, complicating the outlook for inflation and interest rates. The bank indicated that while the direct impact of tariffs on revenue would be modest, the overall economic deterioration could affect future profit-generating measures.…

The Minnesota Twins have placed outfielder Byron Buxton on the 10-day injured list due to inflammation in his left thoracic cage. Catcher Ryan Jeffers, freshly activated from the paternity list, takes Buxton’s roster spot. Additionally, the Twins signed right-handed pitcher Pierson Ohl from Triple-A. Buxton left Saturday’s game early due to pain on his left side, and an MRI revealed rib cartilage irritation. Initially thought to have a minor issue, the team has decided he will need more time off. He is eligible to return next Wednesday, though his exact timeline remains uncertain. Buxton is having a standout season, hitting…

A recent 8.8 magnitude earthquake near Russia has triggered tsunami warnings across the Pacific, from Alaska to Antarctica. Aftershocks may prolong these warnings for hours or days. The timing of potential waves is expected between 8:30 PM and 9 PM local time in Alaska, impacting cruise itineraries during the peak season. The earthquake struck the Kamchatka Peninsula at 7:24 PM, with the closest cruise ship, Villa Vie Odyssey, currently located in the Bering Sea, experiencing minimal wave impact. However, other vessels along Alaska’s coastal waters face greater risks. The US Tsunami Warning System has issued warnings and recommendations for various…

The North Carolina Legislature has overridden Governor Josh Stein’s veto of an energy bill, which removes the state’s previously established 70% carbon reduction target for 2030. The vote in the Senate was 30 to 18, and the House voted 74 to 46, enacting Senate Bill 266. After the vote, concerned citizen Miltrene Newell highlighted rising costs, stating her energy bill jumped from $252 to $765. The new law keeps the 2050 Net Zero Mandate while allowing Duke Energy to recover costs for upcoming gas and nuclear plants even before they become operational. Supporters, including lawmakers, argue this will help maintain…

Investigators are exploring whether Shane Tamura, a 27-year-old shooter who opened fire in Manhattan, intended to target the NFL. New York Mayor Eric Adams indicated that Tamura, a former high school football player with documented mental health issues, expressed discontent with the league. The incident occurred when Tamura mistakenly entered the wrong floor of the building housing the NFL headquarters. Tamura carried an M4 assault rifle and fired in the lobby, ultimately killing four individuals, including an off-duty NYPD officer, before he died in the incident. Tamura left a suicide note linking his mental health struggles to Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy…

In Luanda, Angola, protests ignited by a taxi driver strike against rising gasoline prices have escalated into widespread unrest, resulting in four deaths and over 500 arrests. The strike, initiated by a 33% increase in diesel prices amid subsidy cuts, reflects deep public discontent due to soaring living costs. Thousands demonstrated on Monday, blocking roads, looting shops, and clashing with police. President João Lourenço dismissed concerns over fuel prices, asserting Angola’s prices remain low compared to global standards. Despite the taxi organization canceling the strike after negotiations, spontaneous protests continued, with demonstrators expressing dissatisfaction with nearly 50 years of MPLA…

New research sheds light on the formation of lightning, a phenomenon that has intrigued people for ages. A team of engineers and meteorologists, led by Victor Pasco from Penn State University, utilized advanced mathematical models to uncover the processes occurring at cloud tops that generate lightning. Their findings, published in the Journal of Geophysical Research, reveal that within storm clouds, powerful electric fields accelerate electrons, leading to the production of X-rays and high-energy photons associated with lightning strikes. By comparing their upgraded models with data from field observations—gathered through ground sensors, satellites, and reconnaissance planes—the researchers focused on terrestrial gamma-ray…

U.S. health officials are warning about the rising trend of opioid-related ingredients, particularly 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), being added to energy drinks and supplements sold at gas stations. This compound, derived from the Kratom plant, has gained popularity as an unapproved treatment for conditions like pain and anxiety. The FDA is recommending a nationwide ban on 7-OH, labeling it a potent opioid, and suggesting it be placed on the federal list of illegal drugs, similar to heroin and LSD. FDA Commissioner Marty McCurry emphasized the need for regulation and public education to prevent further opioid crises. The agency’s recommendations will be reviewed…

The ongoing issue of poor visibility during rainy Formula 1 races remains unresolved with current ground-effect vehicles, highlighted by the recent Belgian Grand Prix weekend. This has reignited discussions about safety in wet conditions. Max Verstappen criticized the lengthy delays in starting the race, suggesting they were unnecessary, while George Russell emphasized the dangers posed by limited visibility, especially in treacherous areas like Spa’s Raidyon Corner. Despite calls for quicker action, concerns over safety led the FIA to be cautious, reflecting on lessons from previous incidents. The primary problem isn’t tire grip but the spray generated by cars, which hampers…

Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey is closing its winter wonderland-themed attraction after nine years, as announced by a spokesman. This decision is part of a strategic shift to enhance guest experiences during the main operating season, allowing visitors to better enjoy their time at the park. Similar changes are occurring at other Six Flags parks, including Georgia’s “Holiday in the Park.” The winter holiday events at Great Adventure have switched from late November to early January over the years. The park will continue hosting Fright Fest, a popular Halloween event, and is also experiencing delays in constructing a…