Peter Thiel says he warned Elon Musk to ditch donating to The Giving Pledge because Bill Gates will give his wealth away ‘to left-wing nonprofits’

SpaceX has successfully launched another Starship rocket, marking a significant step in its mission to develop a fully reusable spacecraft. This test is crucial as it demonstrates the company's commitment to innovation in space travel, potentially reducing costs and increasing access to space for future missions. With Elon Musk at the helm, SpaceX continues to push the boundaries of aerospace technology, which could have far-reaching implications for both commercial and scientific endeavors.

The latest rankings of the top 100 richest people in the world reveal a dynamic landscape of wealth, showcasing influential figures like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos. This list not only highlights individual fortunes but also reflects broader economic trends and the impact of technology on wealth accumulation. Understanding these rankings is crucial as they can influence market movements and investment strategies.

Bill Gates and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) are exploring strategies to make weight-loss drugs accessible in lower-income countries. This initiative is significant as it aims to address the growing obesity epidemic and improve health outcomes for millions who struggle with weight-related issues. By focusing on affordability and accessibility, they hope to ensure that effective treatments reach those who need them most, potentially transforming lives and reducing healthcare costs in the long run.

Tesla continues to shine not just because of Elon Musk, but also due to the significant contributions of its other executives and directors. The company rewards its top talent with substantial stock awards, highlighting the importance of teamwork in driving its success. This recognition of leadership beyond Musk is crucial as it showcases Tesla's commitment to fostering a strong management team, which is essential for sustaining innovation and growth in the competitive electric vehicle market.

Samsung Electronics has reported an impressive 32% increase in its operating profit for the third quarter, surpassing market expectations. This significant growth highlights the company's strong performance in a competitive tech landscape, driven by robust demand for its semiconductor and smartphone products. Investors and analysts are optimistic about Samsung's ability to maintain this momentum, which could lead to further innovations and market expansion.

Capstone has successfully sold a 25% stake in its Santo Domingo project to Orion for up to $360 million. This strategic move not only strengthens Capstone's financial position but also highlights the growing interest in mining investments. The deal is significant as it allows Capstone to focus on its core operations while partnering with Orion, a reputable player in the industry. This partnership could lead to enhanced development and exploration opportunities for the Santo Domingo project, benefiting both companies and their stakeholders.

Former Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross has raised alarms about China's potential to weaponize its supply chain, particularly in the realm of rare earths. This concern highlights a significant economic threat, as these materials are crucial for various technologies and industries. The implications of such a move could disrupt global markets and supply chains, making it a critical issue for investors and policymakers alike.

Rio Tinto is optimistic about its fourth quarter performance, which is crucial for meeting its annual iron ore production forecast. The company is also seeing a positive trend in copper production, indicating a strong finish to the year. This is significant as it reflects the company's resilience and ability to adapt to market demands, potentially boosting investor confidence and impacting the global mining sector.

Delta Air Lines, despite being recognized for premium economy satisfaction, is facing backlash as numerous passengers report being stranded overseas due to a peculiar rule. This situation highlights the challenges travelers face and raises questions about airline policies, especially as Delta served over 200 million customers in 2024. The dissatisfaction among travelers could impact Delta's reputation and customer loyalty, making it a significant issue in the airline industry.

The United States has condemned China's actions following a recent vessel clash in the South China Sea involving the Philippines. This incident highlights ongoing tensions in the region, as the US reaffirms its commitment to supporting its allies and maintaining freedom of navigation. The situation is significant as it underscores the geopolitical struggles in the South China Sea, where multiple nations have competing claims, and it could impact future diplomatic relations and security in the area.