Finance

Financial Giants Shine in Q1; Hertz Stock Accelerates

Stocks (^GSPC, ^IXIC) seesawed heading into the weekend, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI) dipped, weighed down by a decline in UnitedHealth (UNH).

Charles Schwab (SCHW) shares climbed after the firm reported record-breaking revenue for the first quarter. American Express (AXP) beat earnings expectations, though elevated expenses came in higher than anticipated.

Hertz (HTZ) continued its upward momentum following news of a significant investment from Bill Ackman's Pershing Square.

TECH

U.S. Officials Say New Technology May Bend Time and Space

A comment by White House science adviser Michael Kratsios has gone viral after he claimed in a recent speech that U.S. technology can “manipulate time and space,” sparking widespread speculation and debate online.

The viral spread of Kratsios’s statement highlights how social media can shape public perception of government messaging—sometimes distorting nuanced or metaphorical language into more sensational interpretations.

Although the White House has not formally clarified the remark, context from the speech suggests it was metaphorical—meant to emphasize the transformative power of innovation, rather than suggest literal control over time or space.

Kratsios, who heads the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, made the statement during a keynote at the Endless Frontiers Retreat in Austin, Texas, on April 14.

The line, intended to underscore the far-reaching impact of modern technologies, has since gained traction online, with some users interpreting it as a claim about advanced or even science-fiction-level capabilities.

In the same address, Kratsios called for reduced regulatory barriers and emphasized the need for American leadership in tech innovation.

CRYPTO

Binance Advises Governments on Shaping Crypto Regulations

Binance, one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges, is increasingly stepping into a policy advisory role, working with governments around the world to help shape crypto regulations. As digital assets gain mainstream adoption, regulatory frameworks have struggled to keep pace—prompting officials to seek input from industry leaders. Binance has positioned itself as a key player in these conversations, offering guidance on best practices, compliance strategies, and risk management. The move reflects both a maturing crypto industry and Binance’s efforts to shift its image from regulatory rebel to global partner in financial innovation.