January 28th, 2025
Books, Bears, & Bullets
Hate to Read and Lazy like me? Listen to this newsletter instead…
What you READING?
I read books sometimes…
Lately I’ve been re-reading Stephen King’s On Writing. It helps me re-center myself and try to take some good advice. Most of all, it motivates me- because King holds nothing back. He knows how hard this is.
“Writing isn’t about making money, getting famous, getting dates, getting laid, or making friends. In the end, it’s about enriching the lives of those who read your work, and enriching your own life, as
well. It’s about getting up, getting well, and getting over. Getting happy, okay? Getting happy.”
- Stephen King
MONEY
Nasdaq and S&P 500 indices declined following the release of China’s DeepSeek AI model, which impacted tech shares. Investors expressed concerns over the potential competitive threat posed by DeepSeek to U.S. tech companies, leading to a sell-off in the sector. The Dow Jones Industrial Average, however, remained relatively stable, as it is less concentrated in technology stocks.
Analysts suggest that the emergence of advanced AI models from China could intensify global competition in the tech industry, potentially affecting the market share and profitability of established U.S. firms.
The Fed’s anticipated decision to maintain current interest rates following a series of rate cuts has everyone in a wah wah. Analysts seem wondery about the Fed’s future actions, debating whether it will continue to hold rates steady or implement further cuts.
The stock market closed lower yesterday, reflecting investor caution ahead of key earnings reports and economic indicators.
• S&P 500: 6,012
• Dow Jones Industrial Average: 44,713
VOOG: 369.38
VONG: 103.88
MGK: 343.85
Nvidia Corporation (NVDA)
Nvidia’s stock plunged by up to 13%, marking a significant loss in market value. This decline is attributed to the introduction of DeepSeek, a new AI model from China that poses a competitive threat to Nvidia and other U.S. tech companies.
Apple Inc. (AAPL)
Apple is set to report its first-quarter fiscal year 2025 earnings on January 30, 2025. This quarter includes the crucial holiday season, which could significantly impact Apple’s financial performance. Analysts are closely watching for insights into iPhone sales and services revenue.
Tesla Inc. (TSLA)
Tesla’s stock has experienced volatility, with recent trading sessions showing fluctuations. Investors are keenly observing Tesla’s production numbers and delivery forecasts, especially in light of increased competition in the electric vehicle market
PODCASTING
Today I listened to:
Film Courage
Pro Writer’s Advice: Plot Points, Loglines, Beat Sheets and Outlines, January 27th, 2025
This was yet another a fantastic episode about breaking into the screenwriting industry from someone who’s actually done it.
If you’re new to Film Courage, they also have a very successful YouTube Channel.
“There’s something on the edge of impossible.” - Steve Harper
We all want to believe that. Writing a story like that.
NEWS
Ukraine
North Korean Troops are getting their butts royally kicked: Approximately 11,000 North Korean soldiers were deployed to assist Russian forces near Kursk. After heavy casualties, including the loss of a top commander, they have retreated to regroup.
Political and Diplomatic Developments:
EU Sanctions: The European Union has extended sanctions against Russia for six months, aiming to deprive Russia of funds for its war against Ukraine.
Belarus Election: Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claimed an 87% victory in a widely criticized election, ensuring his continued rule.
Infrastructure and Cybersecurity:
Ukraine destroyed 200 Shahed drones in an attack on Russian warehouses in the Oryol region.
Ryazan Refinery Strike: Ukraine struck the Ryazan oil refinery, one of Russia’s largest and used by its air forces
Undersea Cable Damage: An undersea fiber optic cable between Latvia and Sweden was damaged, suspected to be external influence, leading NATO to deploy patrol ships and Swedish authorities to investigate.
International Relations:
U.S. Sanctions Threat: President Donald Trump threatened to impose strong taxes and sanctions on Russia if an agreement to end the war in Ukraine is not made.
U.S.-Russia Relations: Unlike in 2017, Russia is under no illusion that President Trump will rebuild ties.
Please note that the situation is dynamic, and developments are ongoing.
Business
We are most focused on organic, meaningful growth. We don’t just want subscribers. We want super fans. People that think like us, love the things we love, and generally want to stay engaged in a community.
Finding those kinds of people, takes time. Especially in the newsletter space.
Things we are working on are leveraging different content types (audio, visual, etc) and starting some cross-platform promotion.
It’s a haul, but we’re going to keep moving.
THE GOOD STUFF
Tonight I watched a few episodes of “See” on Apple TV.
It’s a post-apocalyptic world where humanity has lost the ability to see (big yikes) and society has adapted to this new reality in unique and, at times, frightening ways dudes.
The world-building is awesome. The premise, which seems simple on the surface, taps into deep philosophical questions about the senses, survival, and human connection.
Jason Momoa plays a fierce warrior and protector in a tribe led by the blind. His performance is solid, blending physicality with the depth of a man struggling to protect his family and his people.
The show’s tension hinges on a key twist: a pair of newborn twins who are miraculously able to see.
Not bad, 3.8 Stars from me.
Still working on Season 1 of Severance. I’m almost there- I promise
What’s for dinner?
Tonight I’m having leftover chicken Parmesan.
I didn’t make it. Sadly.
Here’s a recipe for you anyway if you’re interested.
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Always,
-Unprofessional