📈 Stocks / Finance

Redfin Downgraded Amid Financial Challenges

GuruFocus

Goldman Sachs downgraded Redfin (RDFN) to 'Sell', citing affordability concerns and competition. Shares dropped 4.42%. Redfin's Altman Z-score is 0.06, suggesting distress. ROE is -1694.25%, reflecting struggles. The stock appears overvalued, with GF Value at $7.04 versus a price of $8.

Nasdaq Rises Despite Geopolitical Tensions

CNBC

The Nasdaq gained 1.04%, closing at 18,987.47, led by Nvidia's 5% surge ahead of earnings. The S&P 500 also rose 0.4%, while the Dow fell 0.28%. Investors showed resilience despite escalating Russia-Ukraine tensions, moving towards safe havens as Treasury yields and gold increased.

Visa and Mastercard Executives Defend Swipe Fees to Senate

CNBC

The Senate Judiciary Committee questioned Visa and Mastercard executives over their alleged 'duopoly' and high swipe fees. Both parties support the Credit Card Competition Act to address fees that cost merchants over $100 billion annually, while Visa and Mastercard argue that the fees incentivize fraud reduction and service quality.

🪙 Crypto

Bitcoin's $100K Milestone Hinges on Institutional Adoption

CoinTelegraph

Bitcoin's potential rise to $100,000 could significantly impact derivatives markets, with futures open interest projected to grow. Institutional adoption, especially via spot ETFs, is key. Regulation and proposals like a "Strategic Bitcoin Reserve" by Senator Lummis could drive broader market integration.

🌎 Global Economy

China’s Critical Mineral Dominance and Supply Challenges

World Economic Forum

China leads in refining critical minerals like rare earths but faces significant supply vulnerabilities, including dependency and price fluctuations. Western countries are diversifying supply chains through partnerships, while China’s strategy includes domestic mining, efficiency improvements, and international cooperation, indicating that collaboration may mitigate geopolitical tensions.

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