Haliey Welch has released a statement addressing the Hawk Tuah Memecoin scandal, shedding light on the situation. Investors are now pursuing legal action over the issue. Also, 2024 is now marked as the year when the US had the most CEO turnovers in major companies. All this and more in today's Money Making Moves:  

> Investors who lost £120,676 ($151,000) in the HAWK meme coin have sued its creators and partners in New York, accusing them of violating securities laws and exploiting Haliey Welch's fame to promote the unregistered token. The coin's value crashed 95% shortly after launch, despite initially reaching a £392 million ($500 million) market cap. Defendants allegedly evaded laws by converting the Tuah Foundation into an offshore entity and secretly selling 17% of the token supply. Welch, not named in the lawsuit, pledged to support affected investors and assist in uncovering the truth.

> Starbucks' largest workers union has launched a nationwide strike, including in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Seattle, just before Christmas, citing the company’s failure to offer a viable pay package during contract negotiations. The union, representing over 10,000 baristas, claims Starbucks has not delivered on promises to reach contracts by year-end and has unresolved labor disputes, prompting escalating strikes that could affect hundreds of stores. Starbucks counters that it offers competitive pay averaging over $18 per hour and robust benefits, calling the union's wage increase demands unsustainable. Meanwhile, community support for striking workers has been strong, with regular customers providing supplies and food to those on picket lines.

> CEO turnover in 2024 reached a record high, with 327 changes reported by November, the most since 2010 and an 8.6% increase from 2023. High-profile exits included leaders from Boeing, Nike, Starbucks, and Peloton, driven by investor impatience with stagnating growth and strategic missteps amid a strong economy. Consumer-focused companies saw greater turnover, as they face shifting preferences, while industries like oil and utilities maintained more stable leadership. Key replacements include Brian Niccol at Starbucks, Kelly Ortberg at Boeing, and Peter Stern at Peloton, reflecting a focus on revitalizing strategies and addressing operational challenges.

Virtual interior design is an emerging industry combining augmented reality with interior design expertise, allowing online shoppers to visualize furniture and décor in their homes. With the interior design service market projected to grow to $177 billion by 2029, this innovative approach taps into a booming industry and rising interest in home décor. Early entrants can seize opportunities in this relatively untapped market, offering convenience and personalized solutions to clients. Platforms like Havenly and Spacejoy already connect virtual designers with clients, showcasing the potential for tech-driven transformation in home design services.

As the holiday vibe remains in full swing, this might be a great time to consider a lucrative side hustle - launching a unique delivery service, such as offering freshly baked cookies delivered straight to customers’ doors at any hour. This idea capitalizes on the universal love for cookies and the convenience people crave, especially late at night. You could replicate the appeal of big-city 24/7 accessibility in your own hometown. With minimal startup costs and high demand, this is a fun and profitable way to turn your baking skills into a thriving business.

> Robert Croak, creator of Silly Bandz, stresses the importance of disciplined saving, encouraging young people to hold off on big purchases until they’ve built significant savings. He recommends focusing on personal and professional growth in their 20s to develop valuable skills and a strong personal brand. Instead of buying a personal home, Croak suggests starting with income-generating properties, like duplexes, to establish a solid financial base. By setting long-term goals and making thoughtful investments, anyone can work toward financial independence and success. Ready to start your journey? Check this out. 

> Second-hand charity shops in the UK, such as those run by Oxfam, are experiencing a surge in popularity during the holiday season, driven by cost-of-living pressures and growing interest in sustainability. Shoppers are turning to "pre-loved" items like toys, books, and clothes as affordable and eco-friendly Christmas gifts, with second-hand Christmas gift spending in the UK estimated to reach £2 billion this year. Figures like Wayne Hemingway and trends on platforms like Vinted highlight how second-hand gifting has gone from niche to mainstream, with younger generations embracing the circular economy and conscious consumption. While some still prefer new items for Christmas, advocates see this shift as a positive step toward a more sustainable and generous holiday tradition.

> A new study on universal pre-K in Connecticut highlights its economic benefits for parents, showing a 21% increase in earnings and an average of 12 extra working hours weekly during the program. These benefits persisted for up to six years, attributed to career continuity and early investment in professional growth. While universal pre-K programs offer children educational opportunities and access to healthcare, their most significant impact may be enabling parents to re-enter the workforce and improve family finances. Despite challenges like high implementation costs, supporters argue that universal pre-K can promote economic stability and long-term societal gains.