Category Archives: general

Hegseth: U.S. Strike in Caribbean Kills 3, Warns Narco-Traffickers ‘We Will Kill You’ [WATCH]

The U.S. military conducted a strike on a vessel in the Caribbean on Thursday, resulting in the deaths of three men aboard the boat, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced. He described the vessel as operated by a “Designated Terrorist Organization,” according to Fox News.

Hegseth shared the news in a post on X, accompanied by a short unclassified video clip showing the vessel being struck. He confirmed that the strike occurred in international waters and that no U.S. forces were harmed during the operation.

“Today, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization,” Hegseth wrote. “The vessel was trafficking narcotics in the Caribbean and was struck in international waters. No U.S. forces were harmed in the strike, and three male narco-terrorists who were aboard the vessel were killed.”

The video footage of the strike was included in the announcement, marking the latest in a series of U.S. maritime strikes targeting suspected drug-trafficking vessels. This campaign began in September and has involved multiple strikes across the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. According to Hegseth’s statement and various reporting outlets tracking the operations, approximately 69 to 70 people have been killed cumulatively in these strikes.

Hegseth framed the operation as part of an intensified U.S. effort under the Trump administration to disrupt maritime narcotics routes. In his post, he issued a blunt warning to traffickers:

“To all narco-terrorists who threaten our homeland: if you want to stay alive, stop trafficking drugs. If you keep trafficking deadly drugs—we will kill you.”

He also reiterated the administration’s messaging that equates drug cartels to extremist threats. President Donald Trump has previously referred to “the cartels as the ISIS of the Western Hemisphere.”

These operations have raised questions from lawmakers and oversight officials, who are seeking more details about the legal basis for the strikes, the identities of the groups designated as terrorist organizations, and the evidence linking specific vessels to narcotics trafficking. Some senators and watchdog groups have pressed the administration for the underlying legal opinions and intelligence supporting the use of lethal force in international waters.

Pentagon officials maintain that the strikes aim to stem the flow of drugs into the United States and to target organizations labeled by the administration as threats to U.S. security. Hegseth’s release of video footage from the latest strike follows a pattern of the Defense Department posting short clips on public platforms to document these operations.

Critics argue that the footage and official statements are insufficient substitutes for transparent and verifiable disclosures about targets and the legal authorities involved.

The Trump administration has reaffirmed its commitment to continuing maritime actions against trafficking networks until what officials describe as the “poisoning of the American people” ends. Hegseth’s warning and the announcement of another lethal strike highlight the administration’s willingness to use military force at sea as a key component of its anti-drug strategy.
https://www.lifezette.com/2025/11/hegseth-u-s-strike-in-caribbean-kills-3-warns-narco-traffickers-we-will-kill-you-watch/

College Football Odds: Northwestern at USC, Tulane at Memphis for Friday Night

It’s time for some Friday night college football! We have a trio of exciting games on the slate this evening. The action kicks off with Houston taking on UCF at 8:00 PM ET, followed by two more matchups at 9:00 PM ET: Northwestern at USC and Tulane at Memphis.

Here’s a closer look at the odds, game lines, and more for tonight’s trio of matchups.

### Friday, November 7th College Football Odds

| Start Time | Matchup | Spread | Total Points | Moneyline |
|————|————————–|———————————–|—————————–|————————-|
| 8:00 PM ET | Houston (7-2) at UCF (4-4) | UCF -1.5 (−105) / Houston +1.5 (−115) | Over 47.5 (−112) / Under 47.5 (−108) | UCF −112 / Houston −108 |
| 9:00 PM ET | Tulane (6-2) at Memphis (8-1) | Memphis -3.5 (−110) / Tulane +3.5 (−110) | Over 53.5 (−115) / Under 53.5 (−105) | Memphis −175 / Tulane +145 |
| 9:00 PM ET | Northwestern (5-3) at USC (6-2) | USC -14.5 (−110) / Northwestern +14.5 (−110) | Over 51.5 (−105) / Under 51.5 (−115) | USC −800 / Northwestern +500 |

### Spotlight on the Matchups

**Houston vs. UCF**
Houston comes into the game with a strong 7-2 record, while UCF sits at 4-4 this season. The spread favors UCF by 1.5 points, and the total points line is set at 47.5.

**Tulane vs. Memphis**
Tulane (6-2) faces an undefeated Memphis squad (8-1). Memphis is favored by 3.5 points, with the total expected points pegged at 53.5. This promises to be a high-scoring contest at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis, Tennessee.

**Northwestern vs. USC**
In a marquee matchup, Northwestern (5-3) takes on USC (6-2). USC is heavily favored with a 14.5-point spread, and the total points line is set at 51.5. This game could be a test of Northwestern’s ability to keep up with one of the top teams in the country.

### Always Remember to Bet on Sports Responsibly

Betting on sports is one of the best ways to stay engaged, test your knowledge, and add excitement to every game — but it’s important to always do it responsibly. Responsible sports betting means keeping things fun, controlled, and focused on entertainment rather than chasing wins or losses. When done the right way, betting can enhance your sports experience instead of taking away from it.

Here are a few key points to keep in mind when betting responsibly:

– **Set a budget and stick to it:** Only wager what you can comfortably afford to lose. Think of it like paying for a ticket to a game — it’s part of the entertainment.
– **Avoid chasing losses:** Everyone hits rough stretches. Trying to win back money by increasing your bets usually leads to bigger losses and frustration.
– **Stay informed:** Make picks based on research, matchups, and logic — not emotion or impulse.
– **Take breaks when needed:** If betting starts to feel stressful or no longer enjoyable, it’s a good time to step back.
– **Use tools that help you stay in control:** Many platforms offer deposit limits, time reminders, and cooling-off options to help keep your play balanced.

At the end of the day, sports betting should be about having fun and staying connected to the games you love. Keep things smart, set limits, and remember — responsible betting is the best way to make sure the excitement lasts all season long.

### Need Help?

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call **1-800-GAMBLER**. This service is available in AZ, CT, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, PA, OH, TN, VA, VT, WV, WY only. Full terms and conditions apply.

For responsible gaming resources, visit [morethanagame.nc.gov](https://morethanagame.nc.gov) (North Carolina only).

*Photos:*

– Memphis Tigers quarterback Brendon Lewis scoring a 2-point conversion against South Florida, taken at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium.
– USC Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley reacting during a game at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
– Northwestern Wildcats head coach David Braun walking out with players before a game at SHI Stadium, Piscataway, New Jersey.

Enjoy the games and good luck with your picks tonight!
https://www.bleachernation.com/betting/2025/11/07/college-football-1107/

Trump administration asks appeals court to immediately halt ruling on SNAP funding

The Trump administration has asked the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to issue an emergency stay of a judge’s ruling Thursday ordering the administration to fully fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by today.

Lawyers for the Department of Justice argue that the district court ruling makes a “mockery of the separation of powers.” In their filing, the DOJ stated, “This unprecedented injunction makes a mockery of the separation of powers. Courts hold neither the power to appropriate nor the power to spend. Courts are charged with enforcing the law, but the law is explicit that SNAP benefits are subject to available appropriations.”

U.S. District Judge John McConnell, in his ruling Thursday, ordered the Trump administration to fully fund SNAP for the month of November by Friday.

Last week, McConnell ordered the government to use emergency funds to pay for SNAP in time for the November 1 payments to be made. However, the administration committed to only partially funding the program, stating they needed to reserve additional funds for child nutrition programs.

In his Thursday ruling, McConnell described the government’s argument—that it did not want to tap into emergency funds in order to protect child nutrition programs—as implausible. He accused the Trump administration of “erroneously and intentionally” conflating the funding.

“People have gone without for too long. Not making payments to them for even another day is simply unacceptable,” the judge said.

The government has asked the circuit court to allow the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which operates SNAP, to continue with the partial payment of benefits and to “not compel the agency to transfer billions of dollars from another safety net program with no certainty of their replenishment.”

Judge McConnell himself denied a request from the government to stay his own decision, stating, “The request for a stay of this decision, either a stay or an administrative stay, is denied. People have gone without for too long. Not making payments to them for even another day is simply unacceptable.”
https://abcnews.go.com/US/trump-administration-asks-appeals-court-immediately-halt-ruling/story?id=127294307

Bo Nix: “I’ve been booed before, and I’ll be booed again”

Broncos fans expected much more than they got last night. And they weren’t bashful about making their feelings known.

Not long after the Chiefs made the Raiders look like they should be relegated to the UFL, the Broncos struggled to outscore a team that has struggled on a weekly basis, in all phases. As a result, the boo birds were flying in the direction of the Denver offense—at times as loud as anything the woeful Dolphins heard from their home fans just one week earlier.

“I’ve been booed before, and I’ll be booed again,” quarterback Bo Nix told reporters after the 10-7 win. “Not going to be the last time. It’s obviously unfortunate. You don’t want your own fans booing you, but it’s part of it.”

It’s the right thing to say publicly. However, it’s hard not to wonder whether Nix and other Broncos players were thinking privately, “What the f—? We’re 8-2.”

In football, 11 players on the field are trying to do one thing, and the other 11 players are trying to do the exact opposite. When an offense sputters, the opposing defense deserves some credit for that. The players on offense are trying their best, but their efforts are countered by a defense that is also giving it their all.

Add to that the fact that fans are now wired to crave yards and points—thanks to the ongoing proliferation of fantasy football and prop bets—and the frustration deepens. Many fans may have a personal financial interest in seeing Nix and others hit their “overs” or score “anytime” touchdowns.

Regardless, Broncos fans expected a blowout. They wanted a game decided by halftime, one where the starters could leave the field early. They anticipated media members complaining non-stop on social media—not because the game was close and ugly from both teams, but because it would be not close and ugly from only one side.

What everyone got instead was a close game that remained undecided until Raiders kicker Daniel Carlson missed a 48-yard field goal that would have tied the score at 10 with 4:26 left to play. Even then, the Denver offense had to grind out three first downs to seal the victory—and they managed to do just that.

Those efforts, however, weren’t met with cheers. By that point, it was far too late to satisfy Broncos fans disappointed by what they had witnessed—even as their favorite team emerged as the first in the NFL to reach eight wins this season.
https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/bo-nix-ive-been-booed-before-and-ill-be-booed-again

$500M in Fake Transactions? Bittrex Bankruptcy Records Raise Major Red Flags

$500M in Fake Transactions? Bittrex Bankruptcy Records Raise Major Red Flags

A new analysis claims that the crypto exchange Bittrex’s bankruptcy filings include over $500 million worth of suspicious and possibly fabricated transactions. These findings could significantly impact how much creditors and customers eventually recover.

Regulatory researcher Pasha Onur, who reviewed the bankruptcy documents, told DL News, “Certain patterns in the filed documents immediately raised serious red flags.” His investigation uncovered tens of thousands of unlikely or repetitive transfers, including transactions that do not make economic sense.

Thousands of Transactions Don’t Add Up

Onur’s review found more than 21,500 withdrawals that were below Bittrex’s own minimum withdrawal limit. The exchange charged a $35 minimum for withdrawals and added extra fees on top, yet somehow these smaller transactions were still processed.

Even more peculiar, the filings show over 10,000 identical Bitcoin withdrawals, each for the exact same fractional amount, all occurring on the same day. DL News also identified over 200 transactions linked to “LMC,” a token related to LoMoCoin — a blockchain that ceased operations in 2021, two years before these supposed transactions took place.

“Our analysis of court documents and Bittrex hot and cold wallets reveals over $500 million in fabricated transactions filed with the bankruptcy court across multiple dockets,” Onur said.

What It Means for Customers and Creditors

If these transactions are fabricated or inaccurate, they could completely distort how much money creditors are owed. Bittrex had about 1.6 million users at the time of its bankruptcy filing in May 2023, but fewer than 36,000 (less than 3%) actually submitted claims.

“If withdrawal transactions are fabricated, customer account balances are wrong, meaning creditor claim amounts are incorrect,” Onur explained. This discrepancy might delay payouts and raise doubts about whether some claims were miscalculated from the start.

Even the top 20 creditors list, which determines payment priority, might be based on faulty data. Among those creditors is the U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), which is owed $24 million from an old sanctions case.

A Pattern of Compliance Failures

This is not the first time Bittrex has faced regulatory troubles. Since its launch in 2014, the exchange has encountered multiple compliance issues.

In 2019, New York regulators rejected Bittrex’s license application, citing inadequate anti-money laundering controls and the existence of fake account names such as “Elvis Presley” and “Donald Duck.” In 2022, it was fined $53 million for processing $263 million worth of illegal transactions. Then, in 2023, Bittrex paid $24 million to settle SEC charges for operating an unregistered securities exchange.

With bankruptcy claims now closed and creditors still awaiting payment, investigators face mounting pressure to uncover what truly happened within Bittrex’s books.


https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/tech/500m-in-fake-transactions-bittrex-bankruptcy-records-raise-major-red-flags/

Russia authorities deploy thermal vision drones in campaign against illegal crypto farms

**Russian Authorities Capture Fugitive Cryptocurrency Miner Operating Mobile Farm in the Caucasus**

Russian authorities have apprehended a fugitive cryptocurrency miner who operated a mobile mining farm in the Caucasus, evading capture for several months. The mobile coin-minting operation was eventually located using a quadrocopter equipped with a thermal camera, according to officials from the power utility in Dagestan.

### Dagestan Deploys Drones in the Fight Against Rogue Miners

Russia is increasingly turning to modern technologies—similar to those used on the battlefields of Ukraine—to identify makeshift crypto mining facilities. These unauthorized operations are causing energy shortages, equipment breakdowns, and significant financial losses by illegally connecting to the electricity grid.

This new approach has been implemented in Dagestan, a republic in the North Caucasus, where illegal digital currency mining has become widespread. Employees of Dagestan’s energy distribution company, Dagenergo, spent three months tracking down the improvised crypto farm, announced Magomedshapi Shapiev, the acting director of Dagenergo, a local branch of the Rosseti transmission network.

### The Mobile Mining Farm on Wheels

The mining hardware was installed in the cargo bay of a Gazelle van owned by a resident of the village of Tashkapur in the Levashinsky district. According to Shapiev, the man had placed 72 mining rigs inside the converted vehicle.

This is not the first incident involving the same individual. Shapiev revealed that authorities had confiscated a similar mining installation from him about a year ago during a control operation. He stated:

> “It’s worth noting that the mining farm was discovered with the same consumer who had a similar mining farm liquidated and equipment confiscated during a control operation last year.”

Preliminary estimates suggest that the unauthorized mining operation caused financial damages of approximately 1.5 million Russian rubles (around $18,500).

### Evidence of Illegal Electricity Consumption

The utility admitted that the van had been powered through an electricity meter that recorded over 152,000 kWh of consumption. However, electrical engineers suspect that the meter was tampered with to display false readings.

### Discovery via Night Vision-Equipped Drone

One of the most remarkable aspects of the case is that the mining farm was discovered using a drone with night vision capabilities. The Novye Izvestia daily published a video showcasing the operation.

Shapiev’s team began employing such UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) technology in the summer of this year. The thermal cameras on these drones enable them to detect heat emissions from mining devices running in hidden locations such as attics, basements, and other concealed spaces.

All evidence collected from the mining-equipped Gazelle van has been thoroughly examined by technicians and handed over to law enforcement for forensic analysis.

### Russia Takes a Firm Stand Against Illegal Crypto Mining

Magomedshapi Shapiev emphasized that the offense is particularly serious since mining has been officially banned in Dagestan since the beginning of the year. Dagestan is among about a dozen Russian regions that have partially or fully prohibited cryptocurrency mining.

In 2024, Russia legalized mining but requires miners consuming more than 6,000 kWh of electricity per month to register with the state and pay taxes. Despite this, low — often subsidized — electricity rates in some regions have attracted numerous legal, amateur, and illegal miners, leading to power deficits and complaints from local consumers.

### Energy Restrictions and Enforcement Measures

Authorities across various regions—from Siberia to the Caucasus—have introduced seasonal and permanent restrictions on mining activities, with approval from the federal government in Moscow. Two more regions are expected to join this list soon, according to reports from Cryptopolitan.

The Russian government reportedly loses over $120 million annually in budget revenues due to unregistered mining operations, with less than one-third of businesses registered with the Federal Tax Service (FNS). Rogue miners face fines and confiscation of illegally minted cryptocurrency.

The seizure of the mobile mining farm in Dagestan follows the removal of one of the largest unlicensed mining installations in Irkutsk—known as Russia’s mining capital—which was dismantled by authorities in mid-October.

*If you’re reading this, you’re already ahead. Stay informed with our newsletter.*
https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/crypto/russia-authorities-deploy-thermal-vision-drones-in-campaign-against-illegal-crypto-farms/

Japan’s FSA Eyes Tightening Crypto Lending Rules

**Japan’s Financial Services Agency Plans to Tighten Cryptocurrency Lending Regulations**

The Financial Services Agency (FSA) in Japan is moving to strengthen rules surrounding cryptocurrency lending, aiming to bring these services under the purview of the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act. This initiative is part of Japan’s broader effort to protect investors and enhance the security and transparency of its digital asset market.

### New Regulatory Measures for Crypto Lending

According to a recent announcement by Wu Blockchain on X, the FSA has been actively discussing plans to tighten regulations on crypto lending. Previously, some entities exploited loopholes by bypassing registration requirements under the pretext of borrowing activities. By closing these gaps, the agency seeks to enforce stronger risk management and custody controls within the rapidly evolving digital asset ecosystem.

The FSA has also proposed placing investment limits on Initial Exchange Offerings (IEOs) that lack financial audits. This move aims to curb excessive retail speculation and mitigate risks associated with unverified offerings. However, experts have cautioned that such caps could potentially be circumvented through secondary market transactions.

Additionally, the agency plans to focus on improving risk management around re-lending and asset pledging by ensuring proper asset segregation and mandatory risk disclosures. These efforts underscore Japan’s commitment to building a safer and more transparent crypto market.

### Japan’s Integration of Cryptocurrency with Traditional Finance

In a significant development, the FSA is considering allowing banks to invest in and hold Bitcoin (BTC) and other cryptocurrencies. Integrating digital assets into mainstream financial instruments will be accompanied by strict risk management protocols and capital safeguards, ensuring that these emerging assets are securely governed.

The move reflects the growing maturity of Japan’s crypto ecosystem, which continues to attract new businesses and technological advancements. For instance, on October 28, TIS Inc.—a publicly traded IT services company that supports major Japanese financial institutions—launched a multi-token platform in partnership with blockchain developer Ava Labs. This platform enables banks to issue and manage stablecoins and security tokens while adhering to ERC-20 token standards. Importantly, it incorporates key management infrastructure designed for financial-grade security.

### Conclusion

Japan’s Financial Services Agency is clearly taking proactive steps to regulate the cryptocurrency market more effectively. By tightening lending rules, setting investment limits, and potentially integrating cryptocurrencies within traditional banking frameworks, Japan aims to foster a robust, secure, and investor-friendly digital asset environment.

*Disclaimer: Coinspeaker is committed to providing unbiased and transparent reporting. This article is intended to deliver accurate and timely information but should not be considered financial or investment advice. Market conditions can change rapidly; please verify information independently and consult a professional before making decisions based on this content.*
https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/crypto/japans-fsa-eyes-tightening-crypto-lending-rules/

HA Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. (HASI) Q3 2025 Earnings Call Transcript

Operator Greetings, and welcome to HASI’s Third Quarter 2025 Earnings Conference Call and Webcast.

[Operator Instructions]

As a reminder, this conference is being recorded.

It is now my pleasure to introduce your host, Aaron Chew, the Senior Vice President of Investor Relations.

**Aaron Chew, Head of IR**

Thank you, operator, and good afternoon to everyone joining us today for HASI’s Third Quarter 2025 Conference Call.

Earlier this afternoon, HASI distributed a press release reporting our third quarter 2025 results, a copy of which is available on our website, along with the slide presentation we will be referring to today.

This conference call is being webcast live on the Investor Relations page of our website, where a replay will be available later today.

Some of the comments made in this call are forward-looking statements, which are subject to risks and uncertainties described in the Risk Factors section of the company’s Form 10-K and other filings with the SEC. Actual results may differ materially from those stated.

Today’s discussion also includes some non-GAAP financial measures. A reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP financial measures is available in our earnings release and presentation.

Joining us…
https://seekingalpha.com/article/4840205-ha-sustainable-infrastructure-capital-inc-hasi-q3-2025-earnings-call-transcript?source=feed_all_articles

The Rock shares massive update; fuels WWE return speculation

The Rock has shared a massive update that could fuel speculation about his potential WWE return. The “Final Boss” hasn’t appeared on television since *Elimination Chamber: Toronto*, where he orchestrated John Cena’s heel turn.

In a recent interview with *The Hollywood Reporter*, The Rock revealed that filming for the live-action *Moana* movie has officially wrapped. He has also concluded the promotion of *The Smashing Machine* following its disappointing box office performance.

“Playing Maui has been the gift of a lifetime. Growing up as a Samoan, half Samoan and half Black, in Samoan culture, Polynesian culture—we’re proud people, proud of our culture,” Rocky shared. “And what *Moana* has represented is a really awesome global embrace of Polynesian culture, our values and our qualities, our pride and our mana. Today’s Tuesday. Just this past Friday, around 8:00 pm, we officially wrapped the live-action version of *Moana*, so we can’t wait.”

With the *Moana* live-action project completed and *The Smashing Machine* tour concluded, many fans are curious to see if The Rock will get involved with WWE again during the Road to WrestleMania for the third consecutive year.

Looking ahead, The Rock’s next film under director Martin Scorsese is expected to begin filming sometime in 2026. Industry reports suggest this will likely happen in the second or third quarter of the year, as Scorsese is slated to start shooting *What Happens at Night* with Jennifer Lawrence and Leonardo DiCaprio in January or February 2026 (according to *IndieWire*).

### The Rock vs. Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 42?

In addition to The Rock’s potentially open schedule during the Road to WrestleMania 42, WWE star Cody Rhodes recently teased that The Final Boss character is only scratching the surface, and his story is far from over.

With Roman Reigns currently without a clear program for next year’s WrestleMania, the possibility of a marquee matchup between Reigns and The Rock has once again captured fans’ imaginations. The dream match was originally planned for WrestleMania 39 but was ultimately scrapped. There were also talks of booking it during the Road to WrestleMania 40, but fan backlash and desire to see Cody Rhodes finish his storyline put those plans on hold.

At present, Seth Rollins is sidelined with a shoulder injury, and Jey Uso has yet to reach The Tribal Chief’s level, opening more questions about WWE’s long-term plans.

Could WWE be preparing to deliver one of the biggest dream matches in its history?

The Road to WrestleMania 42 officially begins on January 31, 2026, at the Royal Rumble event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. WWE Universe will be watching closely to see if The Rock makes his highly anticipated return.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/news-the-rock-shares-massive-update-fuels-wwe-return-speculation