Gretchen Whitmer’s Surprise White House Invite Underscores Her Delicate Dance with Trump.

 

Democratic Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer made an unplanned splash at the White House on Wednesday, joining a bipartisan delegation to address a range of pressing state issues  from recovery efforts after a recent ice storm to securing funding for an Air National Guard base and discussing tariffs.

But she walked away with an unexpected twist: praise from Donald Trump.

During a brief appearance in the Oval Office, Trump publicly commended Whitmer, catching her and her team off guard.

“We’re honored to have Gretchen Whitmer from Michigan, great state of Michigan, and she’s been, she’s really done an excellent job, very good person,” Trump said, as Whitmer stood silently in the back of the room.

According to a spokesperson, the governor had no prior notice she would be brought into the Oval Office  or that Trump would be signing executive orders before the press.

The moment marked a stark contrast from their past interactions. Four years ago, Trump repeatedly criticized Whitmer, referring to her dismissively as “the woman in Michigan.” Now, as she navigates the responsibilities of leading a key swing state — and eyes a potential 2028 presidential run — the unexpected praise highlights the political balancing act she faces.

Democrats are under mounting pressure from their base, with voters demanding bolder leadership and a tougher stance against the Trump administration. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer recently faced calls to resign after backing a Republican-led funding bill, fueling frustration among progressives. 

At the same time, a new wave of younger challengers has emerged, launching primary campaigns against incumbent Democrats they believe are falling short. Even Governor Gretchen Whitmer wasn’t spared, drawing sharp online backlash from fellow Democrats for her presence in the Oval Office as Trump signed executive orders.

A spokesperson for Governor Gretchen Whitmer clarified that her presence in the Oval Office did not signal support for anything former President Trump said or did during the event.

Whitmer’s careful political posture reflects the unique dynamics of her state — one Trump carried in both 2016 and 2024. With Republicans reclaiming control of the Michigan House last November, Democrats can no longer govern unilaterally, making bipartisan cooperation essential. Whitmer was joined at the White House by Republican House Speaker Matt Hall, underscoring that reality.

While many Democrats slammed Trump’s newly announced tariffs, Whitmer struck a more moderate tone. Her office welcomed the administration’s 90-day pause on most of the measures as “a step in the right direction,” though she remained concerned about their impact on American automakers. That measured stance mirrors the split in her own state, where manufacturers oppose tariffs but some union workers support them.

In Washington, Whitmer acknowledged the balancing act she’s had to maintain, particularly on trade policy. “I understand the motivation behind the tariffs, and I can tell you here’s where President Trump and I do agree: We do need to make more stuff in America,” she said during a fireside chat with journalist Gretchen Carlson. 

She emphasized that tariffs should be used strategically and called for bipartisan cooperation to realize what Trump has described as a “Golden Age of American manufacturing.”

Whitmer has repeatedly resisted being labeled a “resistance” figure. In an interview with the Associated Press earlier this year, she noted the challenges of governing a politically mixed state: “I’ve got a majority-Republican House now to work with. I’ve got to deliver, and that means working with the federal government.”

She also acknowledged the scrutiny she faces from her own party. “No action comes without loud criticism from one realm or another,” Whitmer said. “I could demonstrate on the Capitol lawn for four weeks and some would still say I didn’t go far enough. You just have to accept there will always be critics.

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CoreWeave CEO Explains IPO Pricing: ‘That’s Where the Demand Was

 

CEO Mike Intrator acknowledged Friday that the company’s IPO pricing, which fell below initial expectations, must be viewed within the broader macroeconomic landscape.

“There are significant macro headwinds,” Intrator said on CNBC’s Squawk Box. “We had to scale or rightsize the transaction to align with where the buying interest was.”

CoreWeave, which provides access to Nvidia GPUs for AI training and workloads, priced its IPO at $40 per share—below the initial $47 to $55 per share range. The stock will debut on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “CRWV.”

According to sources familiar with the offering, the lower price created a sufficient discount to the company’s replacement value, helping investors feel more comfortable entering the market, CNBC’s Leslie Picker reported.

Approximately 10-15 long-term and strategic investors comprised the majority of CoreWeave’s backers, sources said.

“We believe that as the public markets become more familiar with us—our execution, infrastructure development, client relationships, and the immense capabilities of our solutions—CoreWeave will achieve great success,” CEO Mike Intrator stated.

Nvidia is supporting the offering with a $250 million order, CNBC reported Thursday.

At $40 per share, CoreWeave raised $1.5 billion, bringing its non-diluted valuation to approximately $19 billion.

Intrator stated that the company plans to use the funds for debt repayment and expansion.

At the end of 2024, CoreWeave carried nearly $8 billion in debt.

The company has also been driven by recent market momentum sparked by DeepSeek, which pushed CoreWeave to “build bigger” and “build faster,” Intrator said.

“One of the key factors behind our effectiveness is our long-term perspective on where this industry is heading,” he noted.

“Our customers are consistently telling us to keep building—we’re struggling to keep up with demand at this scale.”

Intrator also addressed past administrative challenges, including technical defaults on a loan last year.

CoreWeave began utilizing funds from its $7.6 billion loan to scale operations in Europe, according to The Financial Times.

CEO Mike Intrator acknowledged a previous administrative misstep, which the company self-reported in its S-1 filing and promptly resolved with lenders.

“These lenders went on to extend us hundreds of millions of dollars even after these issues were addressed,” Intrator said.

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RCB Misses Out on Ashutosh Sharm: The Next Big Finisher in IPL 2025 Auction.

 

Ashutosh Sharma showcased his talent in IPL 2024 as a reliable finisher, capable of turning games around under pressure. Representing Punjab Kings in the 17th edition of the tournament, he delivered a few match-winning knocks in crucial chases.

As the IPL 2025 mega auction approached, Punjab Kings decided to release Sharma, putting him back in the auction pool. During the bidding war, Delhi Capitals aggressively pursued him and eventually secured his services for ₹3.8 crore.

RCB Kicked Off the Bidding War for Ashutosh Sharma

However, an average cricket fan might be surprised to learn that Delhi Capitals were not the first team to target Ashutosh Sharma. In fact, it was Royal Challengers Bengaluru who initiated the bidding and engaged in an early battle with Rajasthan Royals.

As the bidding war intensified, Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings also jumped in, turning it into a fierce contest. After a back-and-forth tussle, it was the Capitals who eventually secured Sharma’s services. Given his impressive performances under pressure—especially against Delhi Capitals—RCB might now be wondering if pushing further in the bidding war could have strengthened their squad with more depth and flexibility.

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Jan Schwieterman, Actor from ‘Good Burger,’ Passes Away at 52.

 

Jan Schwieterman, best known for playing the villainous Kurt Bozwell in the 1997 Nickelodeon film Good Burger alongside Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell, has passed away at 52.

Schwieterman died on Feb. 28 at Mercy Hospital in Washington, Missouri, as announced by his family. His brother, Chad, shared on Facebook that he had recently been diagnosed with an aggressive form of Stage 4 cancer.

In Good Burger, directed by Brian Robbins—co-creator of Nickelodeon's All That, which inspired the film—Schwieterman portrayed Bozwell, the ruthless owner of Mondo Burger, the rival restaurant of Good Burger, where Thompson’s Dexter and Mitchell’s Ed work.

Born on September 30, 1972, in Bluffton, Indiana, Jan Patrick Schwieterman was an Eagle Scout before moving to California after high school to pursue acting. He made his television debut in 1994 with roles on ABC’s McKenna and NBC’s ER.

Following appearances in three episodes of ABC’s Forever, he secured his role in Good Burger.

Schwieterman’s career also included playing Lewis in four episodes of Felicity during its first season (1998-99) on The WB. His film credits include Warlock III: The End of Innocence (1999), American Intellectuals (1999), Fallen Arches (2000), and his final role in Along the Way (2007).

His family shared that he had a passion for traveling and enjoyed playing Dungeons & Dragons.

He is survived by his parents, Clara and LeeRoy, his brother Chad, and his sisters, Megan and Vanessa. In his memory, donations can be made to the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.

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Why a Showdown Between Fed Chair Powell and Trump Seems Unavoidable.

 

The Federal Reserve Board's highly anticipated quarterly economic forecast, set to be released Wednesday afternoon, is on a collision course with President Donald Trump's agenda.

While Fed Chair Jerome Powell has largely refrained from commenting on Trump's tariff threats and other significant policy moves, these actions are increasingly influencing the economic outlook for the year. As a result, central bank policymakers will need to provide some insight into how they believe the new tariffs could impact inflation, the labor market, and interest rates.

Despite a generally strong underlying economy, major banks like Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan Chase have lowered their projections for GDP growth this year.

Adding to the uncertainty, Trump's trade wars have increased the risk of a troubling scenario: rising inflation alongside slowing growth. This "stagflation" risk is challenging for the Fed to address effectively with its primary tool—adjusting interest rates.

While investors still anticipate rate cuts this year, they largely expect them to respond to a weakening economy rather than as a strategy to control inflation. As a result, Powell's efforts to stay out of the political spotlight may become more difficult, potentially leading to renewed clashes with Trump, who previously criticized the Fed chief for not reducing interest rates quickly enough.

Krishna Guha, vice chair at investment bank advisory firm Evercore ISI, noted, “It will be challenging for Powell to fully avoid the impact of Trump’s trade policies and other measures that are already influencing the economy.”

When Federal Reserve policymakers meet on Wednesday, they are expected to keep interest rates unchanged, maintaining stability amid uncertain financial markets and declining consumer confidence as Trump’s unpredictable tariff strategies unfold.

Higher tariffs on key U.S. trading partners could slow economic growth, potentially leading the Fed to reduce interest rates. However, these tariffs may also increase costs, driving up consumer prices. This inflationary pressure might force the Fed to maintain its current rate or, in a more drastic scenario, consider raising rates again.

Other government actions could also shape the economic outlook — while deregulation and tax cuts may stimulate growth, deportations could reduce the labor pool, leading to higher costs. At the same time, Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency is implementing significant reductions in the federal workforce, which could extend to the private sector, potentially raising unemployment and complicating the Federal Reserve's efforts to stabilize the economy.

Trump acknowledged that the economy could experience “a period of transition” as tariffs take effect.

“What we’re doing is very big,” he said on Fox Business earlier this month. “We’re bringing wealth back to America. That’s a big thing, and there are always periods of, it takes a little time. It takes a little time, but I think it should be great for us.”

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told CBS News last week that even if Trump's policies lead to a recession, it would be “worth it.” This statement came just days after he confidently asserted, “there’s going to be no recession in America.”

“The only reason there could possibly be a recession is because of the Biden nonsense that we had to live with,” Lutnick stated. “Trump’s policies generate revenue, drive growth, and result in factories being built here.”

However, the overall economic impact of these policies remains uncertain.

“Uncertainty is heightened, and that does seem to be having some negative effects, but so far they have not seen that spill over into real economic data,” said Matthew Luzzetti, chief U.S. economist at Deutsche Bank.

Luzzetti noted that the wide range of possible outcomes could lead Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell to emphasize the uncertainty surrounding their projections. The varying scale of potential tariffs could result in vastly different economic scenarios.

Before the Fed’s pre-meeting blackout—during which officials refrain from commenting on monetary policy—Powell stated that the central bank is closely monitoring whether a series of trade-related policy changes might lead to sustained price increases. He expressed concern that if businesses and consumers begin to expect continued inflation, it could become a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Adding to the complexity, inflation has been hovering above the Fed’s 2 percent target, increasing pressure on Powell to avoid lowering rates, even if the economy shows signs of slowing.

“Inflation is coming in hotter than they anticipated even before tariff-driven effects,” Luzzetti said. “The messaging should be one where they are kind of in a wait-and-see mode.”

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Lionel Messi Scores on Comeback, Leads Inter Miami to CCC Quarterfinals.

 

Lionel Messi marked his return to action with a goal as Inter Miami secured a 2-0 victory over Cavalier FC in Jamaica on Thursday, sealing a spot in the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals with a 4-0 aggregate win.

Coming off the bench in the second half, Messi provided a spark to Miami’s attack in his first appearance since February 25 against Sporting Kansas City. The Argentine star had missed three games due to load management, with head coach Javier Mascherano prioritizing his fitness to prevent injuries.

Messi entered in the 53rd minute, replacing Luis Suárez, drawing loud cheers from the crowd at Kingston’s Independence Park. He made his presence felt in the final moments of the match, scoring with a precise strike into the far corner. The goal was assisted by 18-year-old Santiago Morales, a rising talent who made his MLS debut earlier this season.

Ahead of Wednesday’s media session, Mascherano confirmed that Messi would travel with the team to Jamaica but remained tight-lipped about whether the legendary No. 10 would take the field.

“We knew that Leo hadn’t played in the last three or four games,” Mascherano said after Thursday’s match. “Obviously, we wanted him to play, but we needed to find the right moment to put him on the pitch.

“I think it was good because he felt great out there. He scored, and the fans in Jamaica got to see him play. So, overall, a fantastic night for everyone.”

Messi’s first official match in the Caribbean was highly anticipated. Upon arrival at the airport, he and his Inter Miami teammates received a warm welcome from Olivia Grange, Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport.

Cavalier FC, which typically plays in a 3,000-seat stadium, moved the Champions Cup match to Jamaica’s national stadium, boosting capacity to 35,000.

Miami entered the match with a 2-0 lead from the first leg at home, courtesy of goals from Tadeo Allende and Luis Suárez. 

They quickly extended their advantage in the first half of the second leg after earning a penalty when Allende was fouled inside the box. Suárez confidently converted the spot-kick, drilling the ball into the lower left corner.

With the victory, Inter Miami advances to the Champions Cup quarterfinals, where they will face LAFC, who defeated the Columbus Crew in the round of 16.

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Merz Urges Europe to Pursue Independence from US After Conservative Victory in Germany.

 

Berlin : 

Europe must strive for "independence" from the United States, Germany’s likely next chancellor, Friedrich Merz, declared after his opposition conservatives secured victory in Sunday’s elections—an outcome that also saw a significant surge in far-right support.

Merz, a traditional conservative with no prior government experience, is poised to lead Europe’s largest economy and most populous nation after his center-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its sister party clinched 28.6% of the vote, according to preliminary official results.

“Let’s get the party started,” Merz, 69, told supporters at the CDU’s headquarters in Berlin, signaling his eagerness to kick-start coalition negotiations as Europe navigates shifting relations with the US, particularly in the wake of Donald Trump’s influence.

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) secured 20.8% of the vote, its highest-ever result, according to preliminary figures. Once regarded as a fringe party with extremist ties, AfD has now cemented itself as a major political force. However, it remains blocked from governing due to a long-standing “firewall” policy upheld by other parties.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s center-left Social Democratic Party (SPD) suffered a major defeat, securing just 16.4% of the vote after the collapse of its “traffic light coalition” government—a stark decline from its 25.7% victory in the 2021 election.

Now, at 69, Merz faces the daunting challenge of leading Germany after a snap election driven by concerns over immigration, economic stability, and the potential return of US President Donald Trump.

“My top priority will be to strengthen Europe as quickly as possible so that, step by step, we can truly achieve independence from the USA,” Merz stated during a roundtable event on Sunday.

I never imagined I would have to say something like this on television. But after Donald Trump’s statements last week, it has become clear that the Americans—at least this part of the administration—are largely indifferent to Europe’s fate," he said.

Sunday’s preliminary results mark the end of a heated election period that saw unprecedented involvement from White House officials and reignited fierce debate over Germany’s immigration policies.

Trump sent shockwaves through Europe by advancing peace talks on Ukraine with Russia while excluding both Kyiv and European leaders. His move prompted emergency discussions among European officials to formulate a unified response to the crisis.

Merz also criticized what he described as Elon Musk’s “intervention in the German election campaign” in recent days. "The interference from Washington has been just as dramatic, drastic, and ultimately outrageous as the interference we have seen from Moscow," he said during the televised event.

"We are under immense pressure from both sides, and my top priority is to strengthen unity in Europe."

Big task ahead :  

Germany’s post-war reconstruction was anchored in the US-led NATO security alliance, while its later economic prosperity relied on affordable Russian energy and strong trade ties with China.

Now, those once-stable foundations have unraveled. If Merz—who has vowed to shift right and provide strong leadership in Europe—becomes chancellor, he will face a formidable challenge.

Two recent deadly attacks, one in Magdeburg before Christmas and another in Munich last week—both carried out by migrants with different motives—intensified divisions in the lead-up to Sunday’s vote.

The far-right AfD, often accused of scapegoating immigrants, seized on these incidents to bolster its support, even advocating for “remigration”—a policy calling for the mass expulsion of immigrants, regardless of their citizenship status.

In response, both the CDU and SPD ramped up pledges to tighten immigration controls and enhance internal security. Even if the AfD remains excluded from governing, its influence has already shaped the political debate.

Complex negotiations :

Nearly 60 million Germans were eligible to vote on Sunday, according to data from the Federal Statistics Office.

Germany’s political system makes it difficult for any single party to govern alone, leaving coalition-building talks as the next crucial step. However, some aspects are already clear: other major parties have ruled out negotiating with the far-right AfD, effectively shutting it out of power for now.

Merz is expected to reach out to Scholz’s Social Democrats—the other major centrist force—to form a government. Another potential coalition partner is the Greens, who were part of Scholz’s now-collapsed government.

The “traffic light” coalition, an uneasy alliance of three ideologically different parties, unraveled, triggering Sunday’s snap election—a rare occurrence in Germany, which has long been known for its political stability.

Exit polls also showed a notable success for the socialist Die Linke party, which secured 8.8% of the vote, surpassing the 5% threshold needed to enter parliament.

It remains uncertain whether Merz will need one or two partners to secure a majority, as three-way coalitions are rare in German politics. With coalition talks expected to take weeks, Berlin faces a prolonged period of political uncertainty at a time of broader instability in Europe.

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Trump administration removes top U.S. general and Navy chief in unprecedented military leadership shake-up.

 

In a sweeping and unprecedented shake-up of military leadership on Friday night, President Donald Trump dismissed the top U.S. general just moments before his defense secretary removed both the chief of the Navy and the vice chief of the Air Force.

Trump announced the removal of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Charles Q. Brown, appointing retired Air Force Lt. Gen. John Dan “Razin” Caine as his replacement—an unusual move, as Caine is no longer on active duty and does not hold a four-star rank, according to an Air Force official.

Calling Brown a “fine gentleman” and an “outstanding leader,” Trump hinted at further changes, stating, “I have directed Secretary [of Defense Pete] Hegseth to solicit nominations for five additional high-level positions, which will be announced soon,” in a post on his Truth Social platform.

Minutes later, Defense Secretary Hegseth released a statement confirming the dismissal of Admiral Lisa Franchetti, the chief of the Navy.

The removal of Charles Q. Brown, only the second Black man to serve as the nation’s top general, and Admiral Lisa Franchetti, the first woman to serve on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, underscores the administration’s stance against diversity and inclusion initiatives, which it has banned across the military and broader government.

Hegseth, who previously criticized Franchetti as a “DEI hire” in his 2024 book, mocked her historic appointment, writing, “If naval operations suffer, at least we can hold our heads high. Because at least we have another first! The first female member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff—hooray.”

On Friday, Hegseth also announced the dismissal of Gen. James Slife, the Air Force vice chief of staff, and signaled further changes by requesting nominations for the Judge Advocates General of the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

“Under President Trump, we are putting in place new leadership that will focus our military on its core mission of deterring, fighting, and winning wars,” Hegseth stated.

The firings had been anticipated for weeks, with speculation swirling around the Pentagon. Rumors of Brown’s impending dismissal gained traction after a formal list of potential removals was recently shared with some Republican lawmakers.

Trump has repeatedly criticized what he calls “woke” military leadership, with Brown being a frequent target of right-wing attacks. Many Pentagon officials openly questioned whether Brown would be removed shortly after Trump’s inauguration.

According to a U.S. defense official, Brown was informed of his dismissal in a phone call from Hegseth on Friday.

Federal law mandates that top military officers be selected from the combatant commands or service chiefs, all of whom hold four-star ranks. However, the president can waive this requirement if deemed “necessary in the national interest.”

On Friday, Trump defended his choice of Caine, calling him a “warfighter” who played a key role in the “complete annihilation of the ISIS caliphate.”

Plan to Replace JAGs Raises Serious Concerns.

The JAGs serve as the military’s top legal authorities, overseeing the military justice system, including the prosecution and defense of U.S. service members in military courts.

Hegseth has been a vocal critic of the Judge Advocates General, referring to them as “jagoffs” in his book. When questioned about the remark during his confirmation hearing, he defended his stance, stating, “It would be a JAG officer who puts his or her own priorities in front of the warfighters—their promotions, their medals—rather than backing those making the tough calls on the front lines.”

Retired military judge Don Christensen, who previously served as the Air Force’s chief prosecutor, called the move to replace the JAGs “extremely concerning.”

“They serve as the conscience of the military and a moral guide for what’s right and wrong,” Christensen said, warning that the decision suggests the administration is seeking “more compliant people in those positions.”

During his first term, Trump controversially intervened in military legal proceedings, granting pardons in high-profile war crimes cases despite opposition from Pentagon leaders. At the time, CNN reported that then-Defense Secretary Mark Esper cautioned Trump that such actions could undermine the integrity of the military justice system.

Hegseth had demanded Brown's dismissal.

Trump announced Brown’s dismissal on the same day he visited the southwest border, a key priority for the Pentagon under the new administration. During his visit, Brown met with the Joint Task Force North, which oversees the military’s border operations.

“Border security has always been vital to protecting our homeland,” Brown wrote on social media shortly before his removal.

A retired four-star general voiced strong dismay over Brown’s ousting, calling it “a tragic and politically motivated decision for our nation.”

Trump and Brown had previously been seen together at the Army-Navy football game in December. During his first term, Trump appointed Brown as Chief of the Air Force, a role he held until former President Joe Biden nominated him as Joint Chiefs Chair in October 2023. Brown’s term was originally set to run through 2027.

Hegseth had also pushed for Brown’s removal, stating just days before Trump selected him to lead the Pentagon, “First of all, you’ve got to fire the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs.”

Despite this, the two had regularly met and worked together following Hegseth’s confirmation.

Trump has praised Caine for years.

At the 2019 Conservative Political Action Conference, Trump recalled meeting Caine during a visit to Iraq, where Caine was serving as deputy commander for U.S. Special Operations in the Middle East and Operation Inherent Resolve, the mission to defeat ISIS.

Trump described Caine as being straight out of “central casting” and claimed he could have ended the ISIS campaign “totally finished in one week.” According to Trump, Caine told him, “They won’t know what the hell hit them, sir.”

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Cardi B Expresses Regret Over Offset as He Accuses Her of Cheating During Pregnancy: "I've Always Been Too Good for You.

 

Cardi B and Offset. Photo credits: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for TikTok; Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images for TikTok.

Cardi B didn't hold back in response to Offset's accusations of her cheating while pregnant.

On Wednesday, September 25, the estranged couple had a fiery exchange on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).

During an Instagram Live session, Cardi (whose real name is Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar) fired back at Offset (real name Kiari Kendrell Cephus), who claimed she was unfaithful while expecting their child.

“You f--ked with a baby inside, tell the truth!!" he commented, according to Hollywood Unlocked and E!.

In response, Cardi tweeted on X, "AND DID !!!!!!," leading fans to speculate that she was confirming Offset's allegations.

On X, the "WAP" artist remarked, “A hurt man will do the unthinkable.”

During her Instagram Live, the "Bodak Yellow" singer expressed gratitude for their three children but admitted she ultimately "regrets" her ex. 

"But f--- you, I regret you," Cardi declared. "I've always been too good for you."

She continued, “Since you want to threaten me, saying you’ll take my stuff because I’m moving on—just move on! Why can’t you do that?”

Cardi also hinted that their legal issues could be tough. “It’s no fun when Mama’s got the gun, right?” she asked. “Now we’re heading into a court battle, huh?”

Representatives for Cardi and Offset have not yet responded to PEOPLE's requests for comment.

Stay updated with the latest—sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter for the best in celebrity news and compelling human interest stories.

Cardi B and Offset, who share a daughter named Kulture Kiari Cephus, a son named Wave Set Cephus, and welcomed a baby girl in September 2024, have experienced a tumultuous relationship over the years.

Rumors of their romance began in February 2017 when they attended Super Bowl LI together. By October of that year, Offset proposed to Cardi during Power 99's Powerhouse concert in Philadelphia, although it later came to light that they had secretly married on September 20, 2017.

The couple's relationship has seen its share of ups and downs, with Cardi filing for divorce twice—first in September 2020 and again in July 2024. Shortly after the second filing, Cardi announced on Instagram that she was expecting their third child, who arrived just a month later.

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Dallas Cowboys vs. New Orleans Saints: How to Watch, Stream, and Key Things to Watch in Week 2

 

New Orleans Saints vs. Dallas Cowboys

Here’s a rewritten version:

Matchup    : New Orleans Saints (1-0) vs. Dallas Cowboys (1-0)

Date & Time : Sunday, September 15 | 12:00 p.m. CT

Location  :  AT&T Stadium | Arlington, Texas

How to Watch:

 

In Dallas :    Catch the game on FOX 4 or stream it on the FOX Sports App.  

Outside the DFW area   : Stream the game on the NFL App.

1. Cowboys Offense

Here’s a revised version:

Thanks to a dominant showing by the Cowboys' defense and special teams, the offense was able to take a more relaxed approach in their Week 1 win over the Cleveland Browns.

Quarterback Dak Prescott acknowledged that the offense "left a lot of meat on the bone" in that game.

Ezekiel Elliott flashed some spark, recording 10 carries for 40 yards and a touchdown.

However, the Cowboys' passing and running game will likely face greater scrutiny this Sunday.

2. Containing Kamara

The Dallas defense has struggled to stop the run in recent seasons, but a revamped linebacker corps stood out in Mike Zimmer's scheme against Cleveland. The Cowboys held the Browns' running backs to just 54 rushing yards.

In Week 1, the Saints dominated the Panthers on the ground. Running backs Alvin Kamara and Jamaal Williams combined for 121 yards and two touchdowns.

Dallas knows that containing Kamara is crucial to slowing down the Saints' offense.

"It’s going to be a great challenge. He’s still one of the best backs in the league," said Micah Parsons. "He’s had some injuries the last couple of years, but everyone deals with that. From what we’ve seen, he looks healthy, and I’m excited for the challenge. This will be my first time facing him."

3. Can Cowboys rookies continue to shine?

The Dallas Cowboys' rookie starters impressed in their debut against the Browns.

Center Cooper Beebe didn’t give up a single pressure against Cleveland’s tough defense, while tackle Tyler Guyton held his own against elite pass rusher Myles Garrett. 

On the defensive side, the Browns targeted Cowboys cornerback Caelen Carson nine times, but the fifth-round pick allowed only two catches and broke up two passes in his first game.

All three rookies will need to show they can deliver in high-pressure situations going forward.

4. Brandon Aubrey - Future record holder?

Cowboys fans were frustrated when Mike McCarthy chose not to let kicker Brandon Aubrey attempt a 71-yard field goal after his successful 66-yarder was negated by a delay of game penalty.

Aubrey himself believes he can hit from 70 yards, and with the roof expected to be closed at AT&T Stadium, the conditions couldn't be more ideal for a shot at breaking the NFL record of 66 yards.

Whether or not he's aiming for a record, Aubrey's combination of leg strength and accuracy has become a major asset for the Cowboys.

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Commanders Dismiss VP Over Remarks on Players, Jerry Jones, and Roger Goodell.

ASHBURN, Va.  --  The Washington Commanders have dismissed an employee following the release of a video in which he made controversial remarks about the team's players, accused Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones of racism, and referred to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell as a "$50 million puppet."

Rael Enteen, who served as Washington’s vice president of content for the past four years, also criticized the team’s fans, calling them "mouth breathers."

A team spokesperson confirmed Enteen's dismissal on Thursday but provided no further comment.

Enteen had been suspended on Wednesday after the video, posted by the O'Keefe Media Group, circulated on social media. The video revealed that Enteen had met a woman via the dating app Hinge, who turned out to be an undercover member of the media group. The pair reportedly met twice in June at restaurants in Washington, D.C.

In a statement released Wednesday, the team announced it was investigating the situation. Less than 24 hours later, Enteen was terminated.

"The language used in the video does not align with the values of the Commanders organization," a spokesperson for the team said in an initial statement.

In the video, Enteen is seen telling an undercover reporter, "Over 50% of our roster is white and religious, and they believe God says, 'F--- the gays.' That's their interpretation, not mine. Another significant portion of the team consists of low-income African Americans who come from communities that are often very homophobic."

Enteen also commented on the NFL leadership, saying, "I don’t think the commissioner hates gay or Black people. But Jerry Jones, who essentially runs the NFL, I believe, does."

Regarding the NFL's social justice efforts, Enteen described them as "performative," adding, "It’s not out of the goodness of their heart. It’s because George Floyd changed the game. ... The NFL, like any corporation, prioritizes the bottom line above all else." 

In the video, Enteen commented that the league’s significant revenue allows it to "faux-prioritize DEI" (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) primarily for the sake of positive PR.

He went on to describe the fanbase, saying that many are "high-school-educated alcoholics" and referred to them as "mouth breathers."

Regarding the players, Enteen remarked that some are "dumb as hell" while others, who start out smart, "don’t stay that way after getting hit in the head too many times." He suggested that players who "get their heads knocked around" are more prone to believing in conspiracy theories.

In conversation with an unidentified reporter—heard but not seen on the video—Enteen explained that his role was essentially to sell hope. Referring to a past incident at the former FedEx Stadium where fans reported a sewage smell from leaking pipes, Enteen said he downplayed the situation on social media by claiming it was just water, adding, "That is state-run media."

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Eagles Trade for WR Jahan Dotson from Commanders

 

PHILADELPHIA   The Washington Commanders traded former first-round pick Jahan Dotson, along with a 2025 fifth-round pick, to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick and two seventh-round picks.

With the acquisition of Dotson, the Eagles have bolstered their receiving corps, securing a strong No. 3 option to complement star wideouts A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, both of whom signed long-term extensions this offseason.

Dotson's arrival adds another dynamic weapon to quarterback Jalen Hurts' arsenal, which already includes running back Saquon Barkley and tight end Dallas Goedert.

The WR3 spot in Philadelphia saw plenty of competition this summer, with veterans Parris Campbell and Britain Covey, along with rookie Johnny Wilson, all getting first-team reps.

Last season, 24-year-old Dotson recorded 49 catches for 518 yards and four touchdowns with the Commanders.

Washington selected Dotson with the 16th overall pick in 2022 after trading back five spots. However, over two seasons, Dotson didn’t quite evolve into the key receiver Washington hoped for, finishing his stint with 84 receptions, 1,041 yards, and 11 touchdowns in 29 career games.  

Dotson struggled to secure the No. 2 receiver role alongside Terry McLaurin this summer. Though he was used in various positions, he was considered most effective in the slot. Coaches had previously noted that Dotson needed to improve his play strength for greater consistency. Last season, he had a drop rate of 7.4%, ranking 10th in the NFL.

Dotson’s performance this summer has yet to impress. Just last week, coach Dan Quinn mentioned that the team was still evaluating who would fill that role. They drafted Luke McCaffrey in the third round for a similar position, and McCaffrey had a strong showing against the Miami Dolphins on Saturday, recording two catches for 30 yards, along with solid blocking and special teams contributions.

The Commanders also have veteran slot receivers Olamide Zaccheaus and Jamison Crowder. Additionally, they signed veterans Byron Pringle and Martavis Bryant after camp began. Pringle brings more size to the table and could also serve as a kick returner if he makes the roster.

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Shiveluch Volcano Erupts in Russia Following Powerful Magnitude 7.0 Earthquake

 

A volcano near a major naval base on Russia's eastern coast erupted early Sunday following a powerful magnitude-7.0 earthquake in the Pacific, approximately 63 miles away, according to Russian state-run media.

The Shiveluch volcano sent a towering ash plume 5 miles above sea level and unleashed a flow of lava, TASS reported Sunday morning, citing scientists from the Institute of Volcanology and Seismology of the Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

Located about 280 miles from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, a coastal city with over 181,000 residents in Russia's Kamchatka region, the volcano is part of a landscape dotted with volcanic activity and is situated near a key Russian submarine base across the bay.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the earthquake struck 18 miles beneath the Pacific Ocean, with its epicenter located around 63 miles east of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries from the quake.

This photo, released by the Institute of Volcanology and Seismology of the Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences on Sunday, August 18, 2024, captures the eruption of the Shiveluch volcano. The eruption was reportedly triggered by a 7.0-magnitude earthquake located approximately 102 kilometers (63 miles) east of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky on Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula.

The earthquake triggered a tsunami warning, which was later lifted.

Initially, the U.S. National Weather Service's Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Honolulu cautioned that hazardous tsunami waves could affect coastlines within 300 miles (480 kilometers) of the earthquake's epicenter. However, the center later announced that the threat had passed.

They also noted that minor sea level fluctuations might still occur in some coastal areas near the earthquake site for several hours.

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Several Individuals Charged in Connection with Actor Matthew Perry's Overdose Death.

 

Several people have been charged in connection with the accidental overdose death of actor Matthew Perry, law enforcement sources informed NBC News on Thursday.

Perry, 54, was discovered face down in the heated section of his pool at his Pacific Palisades residence on October 28, 2023. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office determined that his death resulted from the acute effects of ketamine, a powerful anesthetic with psychedelic properties.

Sources reported that at least one person was arrested in Southern California early Thursday. Federal prosecutors are expected to unseal an indictment later today, revealing the charges against that individual and others involved.

In May, Los Angeles police confirmed they were collaborating with federal authorities to trace the source of the ketamine that Perry had ingested.

Ketamine has long been a popular party drug, but in recent years, it has emerged as a promising alternative treatment for depression. An increasing number of clinics now offer ketamine infusions or injections to address a variety of mental health conditions.

Perry had been receiving ketamine infusion therapy for depression and anxiety; however, his final session occurred more than a week before his death. The medical examiner determined that the ketamine found in Perry’s system could not have come from his infusion therapy, citing the drug's short half-life.

The medical examiner found that the ketamine levels in his body were significantly high—comparable to those used for general anesthesia in surgery.

The coroner classified his death as an accident, with contributing factors including drowning, coronary artery disease, and the effects of buprenorphine, a medication used to treat opioid use disorder.

Perry, widely known for his role as Chandler Bing on “Friends,” had openly discussed his long battle with opioid addiction and alcoholism, detailing his experiences in his 2022 memoir, “Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing.” However, according to the medical examiner’s report, he had been sober for 19 months at the time of his death.

In cases like this, it’s not uncommon for law enforcement to investigate—and sometimes prosecute—those who provided the drugs leading to a high-profile death.

Following Michael Jackson's death in 2009, his personal physician, Dr. Conrad Murray, was convicted of involuntary manslaughter for administering a lethal dose of powerful drugs to the singer. More recently, in 2021, federal prosecutors in New York charged four men for supplying actor Michael K. Williams with the fentanyl-laced heroin that led to his death.

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Rachael Lillis, Voice of Pokémon’s Misty and Jessie, Passes Away at 46.

 Veronica Taylor, who voiced Ash Ketchum in "Pokémon," announced the passing of Rachael Lillis following her breast cancer diagnosis in May 2024.

By Variety

Rachael Lillis, the voice actor known for her roles as Misty, Jessie, and other characters in the "Pokémon" series and films, passed away on August 10 at the age of 46.

Lillis had been diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2024. Her "Pokémon" co-star, Veronica Taylor, who voiced Ash Ketchum, shared the news of Lillis' passing in a statement on X Monday morning.

“It is with a very heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of Rachael Lillis on Saturday evening, August 10, 2024,” Taylor wrote. “Rachael was an extraordinary talent, a bright light that shone through her voice whether speaking or singing.

"She will be forever remembered for the many animated roles she brought to life, especially her iconic performances as Misty and Jessie in ‘Pokémon,’" Taylor added. "Rachael was deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support she received during her battle with cancer. It truly made a difference. Her family also wishes to extend their thanks as they take this time to grieve privately. A memorial will be planned for a future date.”

Lillis began her voice acting career in the 1990s, contributing to hundreds of TV shows, anime series, video games, and more over the next few decades. 

In 1998, she brought to life Misty, the water-type gym leader, in the original "Pokémon" anime. Misty quickly became one of the franchise's most beloved characters, joining Ash, Pikachu, and Brock in the early adventures of the "Pokémon" universe. Lillis also lent her voice to Jessie, the iconic Team Rocket member, who, alongside James and their talking Meowth, became a memorable antagonist in the series.

Lillis brought the pink, singing Pokémon Jigglypuff to life, along with several other characters in the Pokémon universe. She voiced Jigglypuff in all four entries of Nintendo’s popular "Super Smash Brothers" fighting game series, as well as the Pokémon Goldeen. Lillis also reprised her roles as Misty and Jessie in the 1999 film “Pokémon: The First Movie” and continued to voice them in several other films, including “Pokémon: The Movie 2000,” “Mewtwo Returns,” “Spell of the Unown,” “Pokémon 4Ever,” “Pokémon Heroes,” “Jirachi Wish Maker,” “Destiny Deoxys,” and “Lucario and the Mystery of Mew,” among others.

“We all know Rachael Lillis from the many wonderful roles she played. She filled our Saturday mornings and before/after school hours with her beautiful voice, her terrific comic timing, and her remarkable acting skills,” Taylor wrote. “I was lucky enough to know Rachael as a friend."

"She had unlimited kindness and compassion, even until the very end," Taylor said. "She had a great sense of humor, was wonderful to be with, incredibly intelligent, and had such a memory. She worked hard and cared deeply. I am not sure how this very dark void will be filled now that her light no longer shines in it. Like the shooting stars in the Perseids, Rachael was a magnificent wonder and truly special. She burned bright and vanished too soon. She will live on in our memories for eternity.”

Outside of "Pokémon," Lillis has lent her voice to roles in "Your Lie in April," "Hunter x Hunter," "Winx Club," and several other projects.

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**2024 Olympic Soccer Final Showdown: USWNT vs. Brazil - Preview and Key Insights**

 

The 2024 Olympic women's soccer tournament will reach its climax in Paris on Saturday with a thrilling final between the United States and Brazil. The USWNT, under new head coach Emma Hayes, has been in superb form, winning every match so far. In contrast, Brazil struggled in the group stage but found their stride in the knockout rounds, overcoming World Cup champions Spain and hosts France.

Will the revamped USWNT secure their fifth Olympic gold, the first since 2012? Or will Brazilian icon Marta finally capture her first international trophy? Although the U.S. has had the upper hand against Brazil recently, tournament soccer is always unpredictable.

In anticipation of Saturday's final, ESPN's Sam Borden and Jeff Kassouf dive into the matchup, address the key questions, and share their predictions.

Why could the USWNT win?

Call them whatever you like – though "Triple Trouble" seems to be catching on – but Trinity Rodman, Mallory Swanson, and Sophia Smith have been the driving force behind this team throughout the tournament. This trio has netted nine of the 11 American goals over five games in France, showcasing their versatility with strikes from distance, precise cutbacks, through balls, and even chaotic scrambles.

While it's clear that the U.S. will need a full team effort to overcome a strong Brazil side, there's no question that any American success will likely hinge on one of their frontline stars delivering something extraordinary. Rodman had her moment in the quarterfinals, and Smith shone in the semifinals – could the final be Swanson's time to shine?

Why could Brazil win?

Brazil's attacking depth is impressive, so much so that 2023 NWSL MVP Kerolin—who made a remarkable comeback to the team despite not playing for her club this year due to an ACL tear last fall—was brought off the bench in the semifinal, where she scored in stoppage time. This journey has been achieved without Marta for the last 2½ games. Marta, who has shed many tears in recent years as she fights her final battles for Brazil, will return from suspension for what will be her last Olympic game. It's a fitting narrative for her final chapter. Sending off the six-time world player of the year with a major title, after several close calls—including the gold medal losses to the USWNT in 2004 and 2008—will be a powerful motivation for this squad.

Which duel do you think will be decisive in the final?

The spotlight will naturally be on the USWNT's front three, especially with the likelihood of one-on-one matchups emerging if Brazil sticks to a three-back formation. However, the real battle will unfold in the midfield. Brazil is expected to crowd the central areas with a rotating lineup, similar to Germany's approach in their semifinal against the U.S. For the USWNT, the midfield trio of Sam Coffey, Lindsey Horan, and Rose Lavelle will be crucial—they need to find more opportunities to control the ball and distribute it with precision. Meanwhile, Marta, who has defied her 38 years with a standout season for both club and country, will be determined to leave her mark in what could be her last major showdown against one of her long-time rivals.

I completely agree with you, Jeff. One area where the U.S. has struggled in France is the midfield—Horan and Lavelle have been inconsistent. However, I'm focusing a bit further back on the field. Naomi Girma has been exceptional throughout the tournament, and she'll need to lead another solid defensive effort. As you mentioned earlier, Brazil poses significant attacking threats, including off the bench, and their coach, Arthur Elias, encourages his forwards to press high and often. Spain struggled with that pressure from players like Gabi Portilho and Priscila, and the U.S. will need to handle it better if they want to come out on top.

USWNT player to watch

Trinity Rodman.  It's tough to argue against Girma as the top center-back in the world right now, but I believe Rodman is the player who will capture the attention of a broader audience. Picking just one standout from that dynamic front trio of Rodman, Smith, and Swanson is no easy task, but Rodman brings a unique energy to the pitch. Her fitness is unparalleled, as she dominates the right wing, often driving the USWNT's attacks with more than just her three goals. While it’s been a collective effort to reach this stage, Rodman is the one in form and poised to take charge in this final.

Brazil player to watch

Marta.  How can you not root for Marta? Even the most die-hard USWNT fan, if they truly love women's soccer, has a small part of them that wants Marta to finally have her moment. The Queen of Football has a legendary résumé, and at 38, she's competing in her sixth Summer Games for Brazil. Yet, despite all her achievements, she’s never won a World Cup or an Olympic title. Although the Brazilian team no longer revolves around her as it once did, Marta is set to return after sitting out the last 2½ games due to a straight red card. This is her last chance to shine on the biggest stage, and it’s a show you can't afford to miss.

Score prediction

United States 2-1 Brazil.   Neither of these teams was widely expected to make it this far, and whichever one wins will create an incredible story. For the U.S., it’s a chance at redemption after last year's dramatic World Cup failure; for Brazil, it’s a poetic farewell for one of the sport's greatest legends. Both teams will be battling fatigue, leading to mistakes, but I believe the U.S. front three is better equipped to capitalize on those opportunities against Brazil.

United States 3-2 Brazil.   I’m totally with you on the storylines, Jeff—whether it’s an epic finale for Marta or a phenomenal debut for Hayes, it's going to be something special. As for the match itself, I might be overly optimistic, especially since international finals are often tight affairs, but I have a feeling we could see more goals this time. I’ve mentioned before that Hayes has a certain spark, so I’m sticking with it: USWNT to win in a thriller.

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White Sox fire Pedro Grifol, name Grady Sizemore interim manager.

 

CHICAGO  The Chicago White Sox, who recently matched an American League record with a 21-game losing streak, have parted ways with manager Pedro Grifol and appointed former All-Star outfielder Grady Sizemore as the interim manager.

Grifol's dismissal was part of a broader shake-up announced by the White Sox on Thursday. The team, holding the worst record in the majors at 28-89, had just ended Major League Baseball's longest losing streak since 1988, when the Baltimore Orioles also lost 21 consecutive games.

In addition to Grifol, the White Sox also let go of bench coach Charlie Montoyo, third base coach Eddie Rodriguez, and assistant hitting coach Mike Tosar.

The White Sox snapped their record-tying losing streak with a 5-1 win against the Athletics in Oakland on Tuesday night, only to lose a two-run lead in a 3-2 defeat the following day.

Pedro Grifol, 54, was hired in November 2022 following Tony La Russa's resignation due to health concerns. Grifol came in with a pledge to bring a sharper, more disciplined style of baseball, but that promise fell short as the White Sox regressed under his leadership. This was particularly evident last season when the team, despite having a more competitive roster, struggled significantly. Under Grifol's management, Chicago ended with a record of 89-190.

"As we all recognize, our team's performance this season has been disappointing on many levels," said White Sox general manager Chris Getz.

"Despite the challenges on the field and the lack of success, we want to acknowledge the effort and professionalism that Pedro and his staff brought to the ballpark every day. The past two seasons have been incredibly difficult, and while the results were not what we hoped for, we believe a change is necessary as we focus on the future and look to inject new energy into the team."

Sizemore, 42, joined Chicago's coaching staff earlier this year after previous stints as a minor-league instructor with the Guardians and a minor-league coach with the Diamondbacks.

A three-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glove-winning center fielder, Sizemore had a 10-year major league career with Cleveland, Philadelphia, Tampa Bay, and Boston.

The White Sox also announced that Doug Sisson will serve as bench coach, Justin Jirschele as third base coach, and Mike Gellinger as assistant hitting coach for the remainder of the season.

Grifol's first year as manager was marked by clubhouse issues and mounting losses, leading to the dismissal of top executives Kenny Williams and Rick Hahn.

Following midseason and winter trades, including the deal that sent ace pitcher Dylan Cease to the San Diego Padres, the White Sox were not expected to contend for the postseason in 2024. However, no one anticipated they would flirt with the dubious distinction of challenging the 1962 New York Mets, who lost 120 games, the most in a single season in the modern era (since 1900)."

Earlier this season, the White Sox endured a separate 14-game losing streak, during which manager Pedro Grifol made headlines by bluntly criticizing his team. After a 4-1 loss to Baltimore in May, where Orioles starter Kyle Bradish shut them out for seven innings, Grifol didn't mince words, saying his players were "f---ing flat."

The White Sox had made the playoffs in 2020 and captured the AL Central title in 2021, but things have unraveled since. Tony La Russa stepped down after a .500 season in 2022, and Grifol was brought in to replace him. Grifol, a former minor league catcher with four seasons of managing experience in the Seattle Mariners' system, had spent 10 years in various coaching roles with the Kansas City Royals from 2013 to 2022.

Last season, the White Sox were among the worst-hitting teams in baseball, leading to the August firings of executives Ken Williams and Rick Hahn. Although Grifol retained his position after Chris Getz was promoted to GM, the team’s struggles have continued. 

In the offseason, relievers Aaron Bummer and Gregory Santos were traded, followed by Dylan Cease being sent to San Diego in March. To compound matters, All-Star center fielder Luis Robert Jr. and key hitters Yoan Moncada and Eloy Jimenez were sidelined by significant injuries early in the season, leaving Grifol with little to work with on Chicago’s South Side.

The White Sox have struggled with underwhelming performances from first baseman Andrew Vaughn, the third overall pick in the 2019 MLB draft, and veteran outfielder Andrew Benintendi, who signed a five-year, $75 million contract for the 2023 season.

At last week's trade deadline, the White Sox held on to key players like Luis Robert and ace pitcher Garrett Crochet but traded Eloy Jiménez to Baltimore, pitcher Tanner Banks to Philadelphia, and infielder Paul DeJong to Kansas City.

The team is on track for its sixth 100-loss season, marking the first time in franchise history this would happen in consecutive years. Their worst-ever winning percentage (.325) was set in 1932, with a 49-102-1 record, and the 2024 squad is on pace to surpass that dismal mark.

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Morgan Stanley Approves Wealth Advisors to Offer Bitcoin ETFs, a First for Major Banks

 **Key Points**

- **Morgan Stanley's New Offering:** Morgan Stanley announced it will allow its financial advisors to offer bitcoin ETFs to select clients, marking a first among major Wall Street banks.

- **Advisor Participation:** Starting August 7, Morgan Stanley's approximately 15,000 financial advisors can begin soliciting eligible clients to invest in bitcoin ETFs.

- **Available Funds:** The two bitcoin ETFs available are BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust and Fidelity’s Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund.

Morgan Stanley announced on Friday that it will soon allow its financial advisors to offer bitcoin ETFs to select clients, a first among major Wall Street banks, according to CNBC.

Starting Wednesday, the firm's approximately 15,000 financial advisors can recommend shares of two bitcoin exchange-traded funds to eligible clients. These funds are BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust and Fidelity's Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund, as per sources familiar with the policy.

This move by Morgan Stanley, one of the largest wealth management firms globally, marks a significant step in the mainstream adoption of bitcoin. In January, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission approved applications for 11 spot bitcoin ETFs, introducing an investment vehicle for bitcoin that is easier to access, cheaper to own, and more readily traded.

Bitcoin has weathered market sell-offs, the spectacular collapse of the crypto exchange FTX, and criticism from prominent financial figures like JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon and Berkshire Hathaway CEO Warren Buffett.

Given this context, it’s not surprising that Wall Street's major wealth management businesses were initially hesitant to embrace the new ETFs. They prohibited their financial advisors from pitching these products and only permitted trades if clients specifically requested them.

According to spokespeople at Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo, this cautious approach is still in place at these institutions.

Morgan Stanley has made this move in response to client demand and to align with the evolving digital assets marketplace, according to sources familiar with the bank's internal policies who requested anonymity.

Despite this shift, the bank is maintaining a cautious approach: Only clients with a net worth of at least $1.5 million, a high risk tolerance, and an interest in speculative investments are eligible for bitcoin ETF solicitations. These investments are limited to taxable brokerage accounts, not retirement accounts, the sources noted.

Morgan Stanley will also monitor clients' crypto holdings to ensure they don't have excessive exposure to this volatile asset class.

Currently, the only approved crypto investments for solicitation at Morgan Stanley are bitcoin ETFs from BlackRock and Fidelity. The bank phased out private funds from Galaxy and FS NYDIG, which had been available since 2021, earlier this year.

Morgan Stanley is monitoring the market for newly approved Ether ETFs and has not yet decided whether it will offer access to them, according to sources.

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**Bangladesh Prime Minister Resigns Amid Deadly Anti-Government Rallies**

 

**Dhaka, Bangladesh (CNN)** — Bangladesh's Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, resigned on Monday following weeks of deadly anti-government protests that engulfed the South Asian nation.

The announcement came from Bangladesh’s army chief, Gen. Waker-uz-Zaman, after protesters stormed the prime minister's official residence in Dhaka.

Images showed flames rising from vehicles near Hasina’s residence, with police struggling to control crowds of people charging towards the area. Scenes also depicted protesters climbing a statue of Hasina’s father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country's independence leader, in Dhaka and hacking at its head with an axe, according to Reuters.

Earlier, military and police forces had clashed with demonstrators rallying in the vicinity, reported a CNN journalist in Dhaka.

At least 91 people were killed and hundreds injured on Sunday in clashes between police and protesters demanding the abolition of quotas for government jobs and the resignation of the prime minister. Critics argue that the civil service job quotas are discriminatory.

The death toll on Sunday, which included 13 police officers, was the highest for a single day of protests in the country’s recent history, surpassing the 67 deaths reported on July 19 when students protested against the quotas, according to Reuters. UNICEF reported on Friday that at least 32 children were killed during last month's protests.

The widespread unrest, which spread to cities such as Rajshahi, Barisal, and Chittagong, led the government to impose an indefinite nationwide curfew over the weekend. Human rights groups accused authorities of using excessive force against protesters, a charge the government denies.

Following Hasina’s resignation, the military will form an interim government, according to the army chief, who called on students “to maintain peace and help us.”

"Whatever demands you have, we will fulfill to bring back peace to the nation. Please help us in this and stay away from violence," Zaman said on Monday. He added, "The military will not fire at anyone, and the police will not fire at anyone. I have given orders."

The US embassy in Dhaka has urged US citizens to "shelter in a safe place," according to new travel guidance issued Monday. Authorities also advised US nationals in the capital to consider returning to their home country amid the "unpredictable and volatile" atmosphere.

The main flight hub in Dhaka, Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, was temporarily closed following Hasina’s resignation, according to the Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) state news agency.

On Sunday, Hasina labeled the student protesters as “terrorists” attempting to “destabilize the nation,” according to Reuters. “I appeal to our countrymen to suppress these terrorists with a strong hand,” she stated.

Earlier this year, human rights organizations raised concerns about the rise in political violence following a general election in which Hasina secured a fourth consecutive term.

The main opposition, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, boycotted the national vote in January, with critics warning that Hasina's government was heading toward a one-party system plagued by accusations of authoritarianism.

Reactions to her resignation on Monday were mixed, ranging from jubilation to cynicism.

“Hasina may be gone, but there is still a long road ahead for Bangladesh. Until our religious and ethnic minorities are protected and justice is served to them as well, the nation is not free,” Khatib Zahin, 28, told CNN.

Another resident, Arifeen Mahmood Khan, remarked, “Let’s be better, stronger, and kinder than we’ve ever been before. Let’s work together to build the better Bangladesh we’ve always dreamed of.”

**Police 'Brutally Beating' Protesters in Dhaka**

Earlier today, police opened fire on protesters in Dhaka, as reported by a CNN journalist, amidst growing scrutiny over the security forces' violent crackdown on demonstrators.

At least four individuals were injured during a protest at Dhaka Medical College on Monday, with one person sustaining a gunshot wound to the head.

Protesters informed CNN that the military was blocking the Bakshibazar Gate of Dhaka Medical College. Additionally, police deployed tear gas against the demonstrators, according to a protester on the scene.

Students and protesters at Dhaka University Campus and the Shaheed Minar, a national monument in the capital, were beaten by police as they gathered at these locations.

Protesters reported that the police tried to disperse the crowd by "brutally beating" them with bamboo sticks and using tear gas.

"Direct open firing took place in Shahbag area 15 minutes ago. We don’t have an estimate of how many were injured. It is still ongoing. Near Motijhil Shantinagar, tear gas has been fired on common people," one demonstrator told CNN.

Sheikh Hasina is pictured on November 11, 2021. Protesters celebrated her resignation on Monday as nationwide rallies over government job quotas swept the country. (Christophe Ena/AP)

In other parts of Dhaka, the military has fired warning shots both into the sky and towards protesters.

Information and videos are limited as Bangladesh is experiencing a "near-total national internet shutdown after earlier social media and mobile cuts," according to Netblocks, a global internet monitor.

Video posted on social media and verified by CNN showed security forces firing live rounds into the air near protesters on the N1 highway in Dhaka.

Protesters in Dhaka told CNN that the university campus had been surrounded by armed forces.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

Correction: This story has been updated to reflect that at least 91 people were killed in clashes on Sunday.

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