Hedge fund manager Bill Ackman proposed taking SpaceX public through a SPARC (special purpose acquisition rights company) combination, a structure that raises cash only after a target is identified. The pitch underscores intense investor demand for exposure to SpaceX and Starlink while navigating regulatory scrutiny and founder control considerations.
Source: Seeking Alpha
EU backs “always-on” digital euro with online and offline payments
EU member states agreed a negotiating stance for a digital euro that works both online and offline, pairing instant settlement via the ECB or intermediaries with cash-like offline capability. The framework includes holding limits and capped fees to protect financial stability and merchants, with pilots eyed from 2027 and a potential launch around 2029.
Source: FinanceFeeds
Interactive Brokers seeks U.S. National Trust Bank charter
Interactive Brokers is reportedly pursuing a National Trust Bank charter, a step that would bring federal oversight and enable expanded trust and custody services. The move highlights the convergence of brokerage and banking as firms seek to broaden client cash management and asset safekeeping capabilities.
Source: Seeking Alpha
Eliquis to be offered free to Medicaid under U.S. pricing deal
Bristol-Myers Squibb’s blockbuster blood thinner Eliquis will reportedly be provided at no cost to Medicaid as part of a U.S. pricing arrangement. The concession could materially reduce state drug spending and highlights intensifying policy pressure on high-cost medicines heading into 2026.
Source: Seeking Alpha
Universal Studios to build new theme park in Saudi Arabia
Universal Studios plans a new theme park in Saudi Arabia, expanding its international footprint and aligning with the kingdom’s Vision 2030 push into leisure and tourism. The project signals continued big-ticket entertainment investment in the Gulf and intensifies competition for global destination spending.
Source: Seeking Alpha
Crypto-linked stocks fall while Argentine banks surge
In a weekly wrap, crypto-exposed equities retreated alongside digital asset weakness, while Argentine banks rallied on reform momentum and improving macro sentiment. The divergence captures investors rotating toward policy-driven emerging-market financials and away from riskier crypto beta after recent volatility.
Source: Seeking Alpha
MTA to impose $8 surcharge for unactivated e-tickets; subway fare to hit $3
Starting Jan. 4, the MTA will levy an $8 surcharge if Metro-North or LIRR passengers board with unactivated e-tickets, aiming to speed conductor checks and reduce on-board conflicts. The change lands alongside broader fare adjustments, including a standard NYC bus/subway fare increase to $3.
Source: Crain's New York Business
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