Tag Archives: transformation

ITV Targets Extra $46M In Cost Savings Amid “Softening Economy” In UK

UK network ITV is planning to save another £35 million ($45.7 million) in the coming quarter, despite posting steady year-to-date group revenues.

In a Q3 trading update, the broadcaster and content group said it had identified the additional “temporary savings” in its Media & Entertainment division, which houses its linear networks and streamer ITVX.

“UK macro data is showing a softening economy, with increased uncertainty in the lead-up to the UK Budget, which is impacting the wider advertising market, and we are adjusting our costs to match this current reduction in demand,” said ITV CEO Carolyn McCall in the trading update. “We do not anticipate these temporary savings to impact our ability to deliver our strategic plan.”

The plan involves moving £20 million of programming spend into 2026 and making an additional £15 million of non-content savings, primarily through “reduced discretionary spend” and “reduced marketing spend aligned with the adjusted content slate.” This adjustment means ITV’s total content budget for 2025 will be around £1.21 billion.

Overall, total year-to-date group revenues for the nine months ending September were £2.8 billion, up 2% from £2.74 billion a year ago. A strong performance at production and sales division ITV Studios was credited with offsetting an anticipated 9% drop in total advertising revenue.

For the full year, ITV stated it is “on track to deliver good revenue growth in ITV Studios at a margin of 13-15%,” while cautioning that the “economic outlook in the UK remains uncertain with widespread caution being exercised across business sectors ahead of the Budget in November.”

ITV Studios’ revenue came in at £1.35 billion, up 11% from £1.22 billion in 2024, with external revenue rising 20% thanks to demand for programs from streamers. During the quarter, ITV Studios launched shows such as *The Reluctant Traveler* Season 3 for Apple TV and *Love Island Games* for Peacock.

However, internal revenues dropped 7% due to the absence of shows like *Saturday Night Takeaway*, sports production, and phasing of productions.

The Media & Entertainment networks arm saw total revenue fall 5% to £1.44 billion, though digital advertising revenue rose 15% as ITVX viewing increased total streamed hours by 14%. Overall digital revenues were up 13%.

ITV said its overall performance for the nine months to the end of September had been “better than market expectations” thanks to its long-term More Than TV strategy. Full-year revenue and margin outlooks remain unchanged.

“ITV has delivered a good performance in a tough advertising market,” said McCall. “Both our businesses are performing well, reflecting the significant transformation we have delivered. Our strategic initiatives continue to progress well, and we remain confident in delivering good growth in ITV Studios revenue and digital revenue for the full year. This is supported by laser-focused strategic cost management and underpinned by our resilient and highly cash-generative linear broadcast business.”
https://deadline.com/2025/11/itv-q3-trading-update-cost-savings-1236608762/

Solana (SOL) Recovery Attempt Builds, But Volume Still Signals Caution

From a young age, Aayush exhibited a natural aptitude for deciphering complex systems and unraveling patterns. Fueled by an insatiable curiosity for understanding market dynamics, he embarked on a journey that would lead him to become one of the foremost authorities in the fields of Forex and crypto trading.

With a meticulous eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Aayush honed his craft over the years, mastering the art of technical analysis and chart interpretation. As a software engineer, he harnesses the power of technology to optimize trading strategies and develop innovative solutions for navigating the volatile waters of financial markets. His background in software engineering has equipped him with a unique skill set, enabling him to leverage cutting-edge tools and algorithms to gain a competitive edge in an ever-evolving landscape.

In addition to his roles in finance and technology, Aayush serves as the director of a prestigious IT company, where he spearheads initiatives aimed at driving digital innovation and transformation. Under his visionary leadership, the company has flourished, cementing its position as a leader in the tech industry and paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in software development and IT solutions.

Despite his demanding professional commitments, Aayush is a firm believer in the importance of work-life balance. An avid traveler and adventurer, he finds solace in exploring new destinations, immersing himself in different cultures, and forging lasting memories along the way. Whether he’s trekking through the Himalayas, diving in the azure waters of the Maldives, or experiencing the vibrant energy of bustling metropolises, Aayush embraces every opportunity to broaden his horizons and create unforgettable experiences.

Aayush’s journey to success is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a steadfast commitment to continuous learning and growth. His academic achievements are a testament to his dedication and passion for excellence, having completed his software engineering with honors and excelling in every department.

At his core, Aayush is driven by a profound passion for analyzing markets and uncovering profitable opportunities amidst volatility. Whether he’s poring over price charts, identifying key support and resistance levels, or providing insightful analysis to his clients and followers, Aayush’s unwavering dedication to his craft sets him apart as a true industry leader and a beacon of inspiration to aspiring traders around the globe.

In a world where uncertainty reigns supreme, Aayush Jindal stands as a guiding light, illuminating the path to financial success with his unparalleled expertise, unwavering integrity, and boundless enthusiasm for the markets.
https://www.newsbtc.com/analysis/solana-sol-recovery-attempt-160/

Binance CEO Bullish on India, Seeks Regulatory Clarity to Boost Crypto Market Standing ⋆ ZyCrypto

In a recent interview with CNBC at the ongoing Hong Kong Fintech Week (November 3-7), Binance CEO Richard Teng highlighted India as a crucial market for cryptocurrency. He attributed this to the country’s large, tech-savvy youth population, which drives rapid crypto adoption. Teng expressed hope that clearer regulations from the Indian government and regulators could significantly boost India’s position in the global cryptocurrency landscape.

“India is a very important market. It has one of the largest demographics in the world — a very tech-savvy and young population. In countries with such demographics, crypto adoption tends to be faster compared to others,” Teng said during the interview.

Teng’s comments come amid reports from Chainalysis and TRM Labs, which rank India at the top in crypto adoption indices. He reaffirmed Binance’s optimistic outlook on India and stressed the company’s ongoing collaboration with regulators.

“So, we are bullish on India and working closely with the government to see how we can support their efforts,” Teng told CNBC.

According to a report by Business Standard, Binance once controlled 90% of India’s 4 billion crypto investors. However, the exchange faced significant regulatory hurdles, including a ban that lasted nearly seven months because it was not registered with local regulators. Initially fined $2 million, Binance’s penalty later surged to $86 million.

Despite these challenges, Binance has managed to reestablish its presence in the Indian market. Vishal Sacheendran, Binance Head of Regional Markets, highlighted this progress at the Binance India Super Meetup in November 2024.

“India has always been a very important market for Binance, and the community here is a testament to what we have strived to achieve over the past few years,” Sacheendran said, as quoted by Business Standard.

Binance’s renewed focus on India coincides with growing interest from Indian policymakers and virtual asset service providers (VASPs) in cryptocurrency. In a significant policy shift, India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the transformative impact of innovations like stablecoins on global finance.

Speaking in early October, she noted that stablecoins are reshaping how money moves across borders, warning that India could miss out if it doesn’t take appropriate steps.

“Innovations like stablecoins are transforming the landscape of money and capital inflows. These shifts may force nations to make binary choices: adapt to a new monetary architecture or risk exclusion. Such developments underscore the scale of transformation underway,” Sitharaman said.

Meanwhile, Coinbase has resumed its operations in India after securing registration and approval from the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). The crypto exchange had shut down its India operations about three years ago, citing regulatory challenges.

With a clearer regulatory environment potentially on the horizon, the Indian crypto market appears poised for significant growth, drawing both industry leaders and policymakers closer to embracing digital assets.
https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/crypto/binance-ceo-bullish-on-india-seeks-regulatory-clarity-to-boost-crypto-market-standing-%e2%8b%86-zycrypto/

Solana (SOL) Decline Intensifies — Bears Tighten Grip, Recovery Looks Unlikely

From a young age, Aayush exhibited a natural aptitude for deciphering complex systems and unraveling patterns. Fueled by an insatiable curiosity for understanding market dynamics, he embarked on a journey that would lead him to become one of the foremost authorities in the fields of Forex and crypto trading.

With a meticulous eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Aayush honed his craft over the years, mastering the art of technical analysis and chart interpretation. As a software engineer, he harnesses the power of technology to optimize trading strategies and develop innovative solutions for navigating the volatile waters of financial markets. His background in software engineering has equipped him with a unique skill set, enabling him to leverage cutting-edge tools and algorithms to gain a competitive edge in an ever-evolving landscape.

In addition to his roles in finance and technology, Aayush serves as the director of a prestigious IT company, where he spearheads initiatives aimed at driving digital innovation and transformation. Under his visionary leadership, the company has flourished, cementing its position as a leader in the tech industry and paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in software development and IT solutions.

Despite his demanding professional commitments, Aayush is a firm believer in the importance of work-life balance. An avid traveler and adventurer, he finds solace in exploring new destinations, immersing himself in different cultures, and forging lasting memories along the way. Whether he’s trekking through the Himalayas, diving in the azure waters of the Maldives, or experiencing the vibrant energy of bustling metropolises, Aayush embraces every opportunity to broaden his horizons and create unforgettable experiences.

Aayush’s journey to success is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a steadfast commitment to continuous learning and growth. His academic achievements are a testament to his dedication and passion for excellence, having completed his software engineering degree with honors and excelling in every department.

At his core, Aayush is driven by a profound passion for analyzing markets and uncovering profitable opportunities amidst volatility. Whether he’s poring over price charts, identifying key support and resistance levels, or providing insightful analysis to his clients and followers, Aayush’s unwavering dedication to his craft sets him apart as a true industry leader and a beacon of inspiration to aspiring traders around the globe.

In a world where uncertainty reigns supreme, Aayush Jindal stands as a guiding light, illuminating the path to financial success with his unparalleled expertise, unwavering integrity, and boundless enthusiasm for the markets.
https://www.newsbtc.com/analysis/solana-sol-decline-intensifies-162/

Earle-Sears campaigns in Loudoun County as Republicans push to reclaim Virginia’s swing suburbs

Once a model of Virginia’s suburban shift leftward, Loudoun County is now showing the first hints of movement back, signaling that the GOP’s message on parental rights, education, and safety still resonates in northern Virginia’s fast-growing exurbs.

The event also served as a show of unity for the Republican ticket, with Governor Glenn Youngkin, Attorney General Jason Miyares, and lieutenant governor nominee Winsome Earle-Sears joining John Reid on stage to close out the campaign’s final weekend.

### Loudoun’s Shifting Vote Totals

Loudoun’s changing vote totals underscore this political transformation. Although then-Vice President Kamala Harris still carried the county in 2024, the numbers told a more complicated story: she won more precincts than in 2020, yet Democrats drew nearly 10,000 fewer votes, while Donald Trump gained about 10,000 votes.

This overall swing toward Republicans narrowed what had once been a comfortable Democratic margin and rekindled GOP hopes that the D.C. suburbs may once again be competitive.

### A Larger Political Story

This result highlights how Loudoun’s shift fits into a broader narrative. Once a battleground during former President Barack Obama’s campaigns, the county had become reliably Democrat — until now. In 2024, Virginia’s modest swing toward Republicans was driven largely by northern Virginia, long a Democratic stronghold, which moved more to the right than the nation overall.

For Earle-Sears, who is campaigning to succeed Youngkin, Loudoun’s exurbs and conservative enclaves like Patrick Henry College represent a crucial test of whether the coalition that fueled the governor’s 2021 upset can still deliver statewide.

### Voices from Loudoun

“People’s hearts are turning, especially when it comes to the kids and the schools,” said Kathleen Hannon, 55, a Loudoun County resident who cited classroom policies and law enforcement among her top issues. “She just needs to win over enough in northern Virginia to take the state.”

George Hollis, 79, reflected on Loudoun’s transformation as mirroring Virginia’s political story, emphasizing that Republicans can still win if they turn out their voters. “I think Loudoun’s been the linchpin for years,” Hollis said. “If it goes red again, the rest of the state follows. I just wish this crowd was about three times bigger.”

At the back of the gym, Rebecca Phillips, 20, a journalism student who recently moved to Virginia from California, noted Loudoun has become a flashpoint for cultural debates resonating far beyond the state.

“I think [Winsome Earle-Sears] can win, but it’ll be close,” Phillips said. “Abortion and women’s privacy with the transgender issue are really important to me. At the very least, parents’ rights are being stripped away, and Loudoun has been the center of that fight.”

### Republican and Democratic Campaign Efforts

Earle-Sears’s rally in Purcellville came as Democrats staged their own high-profile push: on Saturday in Norfolk, former President Barack Obama joined Abigail Spanberger, the Democratic gubernatorial candidate on the campaign trail, underscoring how seriously both parties are treating Virginia’s off-year elections.

Introducing Earle-Sears, Youngkin cast the race as a moral and political crossroads, warning that Democrats’ support for attorney general nominee Jay Jones, who has faced backlash over violent remarks he made years ago, revealed “how far the party has fallen.”

He also referenced Obama’s campaign stop in Norfolk earlier in the day for Spanberger, contrasting the Democratic push with Republicans’ closing message in northern Virginia.

“Elections have consequences,” Youngkin told the crowd. “When we go down the right path, Virginia thrives.”

He added that Virginians had “a chance to choose common-sense conservative values” again, pointing to the administration’s record of economic growth.

“We’ve seen $143 billion of investment come to Virginia, more than the last five administrations combined,” he said. “That’s what happens when we choose the right path.”

Notably, neither Youngkin nor any of the Republican candidates mentioned Trump, signaling a deliberate effort to keep the message centered on Virginia rather than Washington.

### Earle-Sears’s Rally Speech

Earle-Sears delivered a fiery speech centered on patriotism, faith, and contrast, brandishing a Virginia flag as she warned that “forward is the only way I know, there’s only darkness back there, and Abigail Spanberger represents the darkness.”

Her message focused on schools, taxes, and public safety—the same issues that helped Republicans regain footing in Loudoun County after years of Democratic dominance.

She vowed to scrap the car tax, keep taxes low, and defend Virginia’s right-to-work law, mocking Democrats who “think you haven’t paid enough” and calling clean-energy policies “solar and wind nonsense.”

Earle-Sears accused Spanberger of hypocrisy for continuing to stand by Jay Jones, citing his past remarks, and charged that the Democrat “sold Virginia down the road for $150,000,” alluding to a donation from the National Democratic Redistricting Committee to Jones’s campaign.

On law enforcement, she touted endorsements from more than 80 sheriffs and said Spanberger “voted against the Laken Riley Act” and “wants to keep the border open.”

She closed by invoking Virginia’s founding ideals, declaring that “the party of Lincoln nominated me, an immigrant to this great country, to be lieutenant governor.”

As the crowd cheered, she added, “Tuesday’s coming, we haven’t come this far to only go this far.”

**OBAMA TAKES AIM AT TRUMP IN VIRGINIA GET-OUT-THE-VOTE EVENT FOR SPANBERGER**

[This section can be linked or expanded upon if needed.]
https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/campaigns/state/3871859/earle-sears-loudoun-county-rally/

Miss Universe announces a new CEO just days before contestants are set to arrive in Thailand for the 2025 pageant

Beauty queens from around the world are soon set to arrive in Thailand for the start of the Miss Universe pageant, which will take place from November 2 to 21. In the days leading up to the event, there has been a major leadership shake-up behind the scenes.

On Wednesday, the Miss Universe Organization announced that Anne Jakrajutatip was replaced as CEO. Jakrajutatip made history as the first woman to own the 74-year-old pageant when her Thai-based company, JKN Global Group, purchased the organization from Endeavor for $20 million in October 2022.

She is being replaced by Mario Búcaro, a former diplomat who most recently served as the Miss Universe Organization’s vice president for international relations. Búcaro has previously worked as the ambassador of Guatemala to Israel, Mexico, Bulgaria, and Cyprus. He also served as Guatemala’s Minister of Foreign Affairs for two years before joining Miss Universe.

Both Jakrajutatip and the Miss Universe Organization did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

### A New Regime

The organization stated that Búcaro will work alongside Raul Rocha, who will continue to serve as president. Rocha has held this title since Jakrajutatip sold a 50% stake of Miss Universe to his company, Legacy Holding Group USA Inc., in January 2024. Rocha also did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Miss Universe said in its announcement that Búcaro helped the pageant expand “its presence to over 130 countries.” As the new CEO, he will continue to focus on global outreach and “enriching the candidate experience while upholding integrity and fairness.”

The Board of the Miss Universe Organization expressed its full confidence in Mario Búcaro’s leadership to guide the organization into a new era of growth and global influence.

“His vision of Miss Universe as a worldwide movement that celebrates authenticity, transformation, and empowerment will continue to unite cultures, expand opportunities for women, and elevate the values that define our brand,” the organization added.

### A Troubled Predecessor

When Jakrajutatip took over Miss Universe in October 2022, it was heralded as a historic new era. She gave a rousing speech at her first Miss Universe in January 2023, telling fans that the pageant was “going to be run by women, owned by a trans woman, for all women around the world.”

However, financial issues quickly followed. In September 2023, Jakrajutatip’s company missed a payment on a multimillion-dollar loan. In a letter to the stock exchange president, the company said, “The financial liquidity management of the company is not in line with the expected forecast.”

JKN Global petitioned Thailand’s bankruptcy court at the time and said it planned to restructure its debt.

By June 2024, rumors began circulating that Jakrajutatip was stepping away from the Miss Universe Organization after Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission filed a complaint against JKN Global. The complaint alleges that Jakrajutatip and her sister, Pimauma Jakrajutatip, included false or misleading information in the 2023 financial statements for the fiscal year and in the Q1 2024 accounting documents.

On June 6, JKN Global sent a letter to the president of Thailand’s Stock Exchange confirming that the sisters had resigned and that a special audit was underway.

The same day, the Miss Universe Organization stated that Jakrajutatip remained in charge of the pageant.

“We categorically deny any reports suggesting a change in leadership within the organization. Anne Jakrajutatip remains the chief executive officer of the Miss Universe Organization,” the statement read.

However, in the new statement announcing Búcaro’s succession, the Miss Universe Organization said Jakrajutatip stepped down as CEO on June 20 and was now turning her focus to her family.

### Controversies and Scandals

Before the 72nd Miss Universe competition in El Salvador, Jakrajutatip promised fans that the pageant was always “my first priority in life. Our universe must go on, must be great and must stay on top as the legendary Beauty Olympics in the World! I will sacrifice and do everything for the great success of OUR UNIVERSE!” she wrote in a statement posted to Instagram in November 2023.

However, Jakrajutatip became embroiled in several scandals. A video from an October 2023 Miss Universe staff meeting, obtained by Business Insider, showed Jakrajutatip telling staff that diverse contestants “can compete, but they can’t win.” She later clarified on Facebook that she was discussing a potential Miss Universe reality show.

Weeks before Miss Universe 2024, Jakrajutatip and advisor Osmel Sousa judged contestants’ photos on Instagram Live. Sousa, who once told The New York Times that inner beauty “was something that unpretty women invented to justify themselves,” was seen laughing and making faces with Jakrajutatip at some contestants.

After Miss Denmark Victoria Kjær Theilvig was crowned Miss Universe in November 2024, Jakrajutatip told reporters she didn’t believe the pageant needed to evolve anymore.

“We have blond and blue eyes,” Jakrajutatip said, referring to Theilvig’s appearance. “We already got the best here.”

In March, former Miss Universe judge Denise White told Business Insider that Jakrajutatip pressured longtime Miss Universe president Paula Shugart to ensure Miss Thailand made the top five during the 2023 pageant in El Salvador.

White recalled Shugart telling her, “I can’t believe Anne is telling me that, no matter what, we have to make sure Thailand is in the top five.” Shugart, who resigned during the competition, refused to comply. Thailand’s contestant ultimately placed as first runner-up.

Jakrajutatip did not respond to a request for comment at the time and never publicly addressed the allegation.

### Parallel Challenges at Miss USA

Miss Universe has shared similar struggles with the Miss USA pageant, which it oversees. Following two years of scandal under former CEO Laylah Rose, the organization announced in September that Thom Brodeur was taking over Miss USA and Miss Teen USA.

Brodeur told Business Insider he had just four weeks to plan the 2025 pageants, which took place on October 23 and 24 in Reno, Nevada.

In the VIP section of the event, Mario Búcaro sat, preparing to take the reins of his own pageant.

The Miss Universe Organization now looks forward to a new leadership era under Mario Búcaro, aiming to strengthen its global presence and renew its commitment to authenticity, empowerment, and fairness.
https://www.businessinsider.com/miss-universe-pageant-new-ceo-mario-bucaro-anne-jakrajutatip-replaced-2025-10

Ethereum Turns Lower — Market Sentiment Softens As $4K Level Gives Way

From a young age, Aayush exhibited a natural aptitude for deciphering complex systems and unraveling patterns. Fueled by an insatiable curiosity for understanding market dynamics, he embarked on a journey that would lead him to become one of the foremost authorities in the fields of Forex and crypto trading.

With a meticulous eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Aayush honed his craft over the years, mastering the art of technical analysis and chart interpretation. As a software engineer, he harnesses the power of technology to optimize trading strategies and develop innovative solutions for navigating the volatile waters of financial markets. His background in software engineering has equipped him with a unique skill set, enabling him to leverage cutting-edge tools and algorithms to gain a competitive edge in an ever-evolving landscape.

In addition to his roles in finance and technology, Aayush serves as the director of a prestigious IT company, where he spearheads initiatives aimed at driving digital innovation and transformation. Under his visionary leadership, the company has flourished, cementing its position as a leader in the tech industry and paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in software development and IT solutions.

Despite his demanding professional commitments, Aayush is a firm believer in the importance of work-life balance. An avid traveler and adventurer, he finds solace in exploring new destinations, immersing himself in different cultures, and forging lasting memories along the way. Whether he’s trekking through the Himalayas, diving in the azure waters of the Maldives, or experiencing the vibrant energy of bustling metropolises, Aayush embraces every opportunity to broaden his horizons and create unforgettable experiences.

Aayush’s journey to success is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a steadfast commitment to continuous learning and growth. His academic achievements are a testament to his dedication and passion for excellence, having completed his software engineering degree with honors and excelling in every department.

At his core, Aayush is driven by a profound passion for analyzing markets and uncovering profitable opportunities amidst volatility. Whether he’s poring over price charts, identifying key support and resistance levels, or providing insightful analysis to his clients and followers, Aayush’s unwavering dedication to his craft sets him apart as a true industry leader and a beacon of inspiration to aspiring traders around the globe.

In a world where uncertainty reigns supreme, Aayush Jindal stands as a guiding light, illuminating the path to financial success with his unparalleled expertise, unwavering integrity, and boundless enthusiasm for the markets.
https://www.newsbtc.com/analysis/eth/ethereum-turns-lower-4k/

Jason Momoa Looks Unrecognizable With Bald Hair Transformation

Jason Momoa’s latest transformation takes the Iron Throne—literally. The *Game of Thrones* alum surprised fans by debuting a bald hairstyle for his new Chime holiday campaign, making him almost unrecognizable with the fresh look.

In the “Bank Smarter This Season” ad, Jason plays several characters while narrating the chaos of gift-giving. One of his standout roles is a bed salesman who sports long copper hair on the sides but is bald on top. To fully embody the character, the 46-year-old donned wire-framed glasses and wore a wool gray suit, clutching a clipboard in a mattress store setting.

The commercial doesn’t stop there. Jason also rocks a mullet as a security officer and appears in an all-pink outfit paired with pearl-adorned spectacles to portray a store cashier. For the *Aquaman* star, dressing up as various characters added an extra layer of fun to his collaboration with Chime.

This playful campaign showcases Jason Momoa’s versatility and willingness to embrace bold, unexpected looks—all in the spirit of holiday cheer.
https://www.eonline.com/news/1424231/jason-momoa-bald-hair-transformation-photos?cmpid=rss-syndicate-genericrss-us-top_stories

‘The Epstein Ballroom’ Is Getting Funded By Tech Bribes

Turns out, it’s not just “patriot donors” funding the new White House ballroom — tech giant Alphabet, the parent company of Google and YouTube, is chipping in, too. CNBC reports that the company is contributing $22 million to the $250 million project, with the money routed through a legal settlement reached last month over Trump’s YouTube ban following the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.

The Google-owned platform froze Trump’s account in the riot’s aftermath, warning his posts could spark further violence. Trump later sued, claiming censorship and wrongful suspension. Under the Oakland, California, federal court settlement, nearly 10% of the ballroom’s estimated construction costs will now come from Alphabet.

CNBC reports the money will be donated on Trump’s behalf “to the Trust for the National Mall, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entity dedicated to restoring, preserving, and elevating the National Mall, to support the construction of the White House State Ballroom.”

Images of cranes tearing into the East Wing to make way for the 90,000-square-foot ballroom sparked public backlash this week and raised fresh questions about who is footing the bill. Trump has repeatedly insisted the project is privately funded and will cost taxpayers nothing.

“For more than 150 years, every President has dreamt about having a Ballroom at the White House to accommodate people for grand parties, State Visits, etc. I am honored to be the first President to finally get this much-needed project underway—with zero cost to the American Taxpayer!” Trump wrote on Monday on Truth Social.

Trump has pledged some of his own money to the project, and other donors include Lockheed Martin, reportedly contributing more than $10 million. Tech companies are also pitching in: Beyond the settlement contribution, Google is committing at least $5 million. Comcast—parent company of CNBC—is also listed as a donor, though the amount is unknown. The company will spin off CNBC later this year under a new parent, Versant.

The project has drawn scrutiny from Treasury Department employees, whose offices overlook the demolition site. The department has barred staff from sharing images of the work, citing security concerns, though critics argue transparency is vital for public oversight.

The East Wing’s demolition, including the removal of historic elements like trees and architectural details, has fueled complaints that the project is far more than a simple upgrade—it represents a substantial transformation of one of the nation’s most symbolic spaces.

Preservationists are weighing in as well. On Tuesday, the National Trust for Historic Preservation sent a letter urging a pause on demolition until proper public review processes are completed. Carol Quillen, National Trust’s president and CEO, stressed that while a larger meeting space may be useful, the scale and height of the proposed ballroom could “overwhelm the White House itself” and disrupt its classical design.

She called for consultations with the relevant review agencies and public input to ensure the project respects the historic significance of the building and its grounds.

“The National Trust stands ready to assist the White House, the National Park Service, and relevant review agencies in exploring design alternatives and modifications that would accomplish the objectives of the Administration while preserving the historic integrity and symbolism of the People’s House,” Quillen added.

Trump has insisted the ballroom “won’t interfere with the current building.”

“It’ll be near it but not touching it, and pays total respect to the existing building, which I’m the biggest fan of,” he said in July. But that doesn’t appear to be the case anymore.

The New York Times reported Wednesday that the White House has decided it would be “cheaper and more structurally sound to demolish the East Wing” rather than build an addition. The full demolition is expected to be finished by this weekend.

The White House has also dismissed criticism, comparing the project to minor modifications under former President Barack Obama, such as adding basketball lines and baskets to the tennis courts. But those changes were far less disruptive than dismantling the East Wing.

With Alphabet, Lockheed Martin, and other major donors helping foot the bill, Trump is moving full steam ahead on a ballroom he says will be “happily used for generations to come,” promising a mix of private financing and personal investment.

The project underscores Trump’s ongoing fascination with leaving a permanent mark on the White House, turning construction into both a legacy project and a showcase for corporate support.
https://crooksandliars.com/2025/10/what-trump-calls-donors-are-actually

Samsung Is Now On The Cusp Of Revealing Its Galaxy Z TriFold

**Samsung to Unveil Its All-New Triple-Folding Smartphone: Galaxy Z TriFold**

South Korea is set to host the APEC Summit at the end of October in the historic city of Gyeongju. The event will attract world leaders, including US President Donald Trump, making it a significant gathering on the global stage. Alongside the summit, the APEC CEO Summit Korea 2025 will take place from October 28 to October 31, focusing on important topics such as energy transition, digital and AI transformation, trade, and biotechnology.

Amidst this global highlight, Samsung plans to capture attention by unveiling its latest innovation: the Galaxy Z TriFold. This all-new triple-folding smartphone is expected to generate significant media buzz as it makes its debut at the summit.

### A First Look at the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold

The Galaxy Z TriFold introduces a pioneering design featuring three display sections connected by two hinges. This design allows the device to transform seamlessly into a full-sized tablet when fully unfolded. The phone will boast a 10-inch OLED inner display alongside a 6.5-inch outer display.

Unlike Huawei’s Mate XT, which combines both inward and outward folds, Samsung’s new foldable adopts a U-shaped folding mechanism. This design choice emphasizes screen protection, ensuring that the outer display does not merge with the inner display when the device is opened.

### Key Features and Specifications

– **Display:** A sizeable 10-inch OLED inner screen coupled with a 6.5-inch outer display.
– **Folding Mechanism:** U-shaped with two hinges for durable, user-friendly folding.
– **Build:** A titanium shell enhances durability and premium feel.
– **Battery:** Equipped with three batteries, delivering a combined capacity exceeding 5,000mAh for extended usage.
– **Processor:** Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC for top-tier performance.

### Availability and Event Details

While attendees at the APEC Summit will get a first look at the Galaxy Z TriFold, Samsung will showcase the device behind glass panels, meaning the phone will not be available for hands-on use during the event.

The Galaxy Z TriFold is expected to launch in multiple countries, including the United States, the United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam, soon after its official unveiling.

Stay tuned for more updates on Samsung’s groundbreaking foldable smartphone as the APEC Summit approaches!
https://wccftech.com/samsung-is-now-on-the-cusp-of-revealing-its-galaxy-z-trifold/