Gifting Stocks This Holiday Season? Adviser Says It's A Smarter Way To Transfer Wealth, Lower Taxes

Gifting stocks to loved ones this holiday season might be your the most tax-efficient way to share family wealth. Also, Bill Gates shorting Tesla stock could significantly impact his finances if Tesla's market capitalization surges by 200%. All these and more in today's Money Making Moves: 

> Bill Gates, an advocate for environmental sustainability, reportedly shorted Tesla stock, leading to a significant loss. This angered Elon Musk, who viewed it as hypocritical given Gates' environmental focus. Musk believes Gates' actions could lead to the latter's financial ruin if Tesla becomes the world's most valuable company. The tension between the two billionaires escalated when Gates urged Musk to donate more to environmental causes, leading to a heated exchange.

> U.S. car dealers are more optimistic about 2025 due to President-elect Trump's return and positive economic trends, according to Cox Automotive. However, dealer optimism for electric vehicle sales has declined, with concerns about potential policy changes under the Trump administration, such as the elimination of EV tax credits. Despite these concerns, the overall outlook for the auto retail market has improved significantly, with dealers anticipating stronger conditions in the coming months. This renewed optimism is attributed to the resolution of political uncertainty and the potential for supportive measures like tax rebates and lower interest rates.

> Albertsons and Kroger terminated their $25 billion merger after courts blocked the deal, with Albertsons suing Kroger for breach of contract. The merger faced strong opposition from regulators who argued it would lead to higher prices for consumers. Both companies have now announced share buyback programs. Walmart is expected to benefit most from the failed merger as it remains the dominant player in the U.S. grocery market.

Starting an online bakery can be a rewarding venture for baking enthusiasts with entrepreneurial spirit. This model eliminates the need for a physical store, allowing bakers to connect with customers through social media platforms. By showcasing their skills and engaging with potential clients online, bakers can build a strong presence and attract a loyal following. However, it's crucial to comply with all relevant food safety regulations and maintain high hygiene standards. This business model offers a flexible and potentially lucrative opportunity, particularly for home-based entrepreneurs, especially women.

Leveraging Cottage Food Laws, launching a home-based chocolatier side hustle can be a lucrative venture. This allows you to capitalize on the increased demand for gourmet treats during the holiday season. With minimal overhead and the ability to operate from your own kitchen, you can craft unique and delicious chocolates to sell directly to customers, potentially through online platforms or local markets. This can be a rewarding way to share your passion for chocolate while generating extra income during the festive season and beyond.

> Robert Croak, the Silly Bandz inventor, emphasizes disciplined saving, urging young people to delay major purchases until they accumulate substantial savings. He advocates for investing in personal and professional development during their 20s to build a strong skillset and a valuable personal brand. Croak advises against buying a personal home as their first real estate investment, instead recommending income-generating properties like duplexes to build a stable financial foundation. By prioritizing long-term financial goals and making strategic investments, individuals can achieve their own financial success. Ready to be a millionaire? Check this out. 

> Gifting stocks can be a valuable and tax-efficient way to share wealth with loved ones or support charitable causes. By gifting stocks, individuals can lower their own tax liabilities and introduce recipients to the world of investing. However, careful consideration should be given to stock selection, ensuring diversification and avoiding excessive concentration in high-growth but potentially volatile stocks. When gifting to minors, establishing custodial accounts or utilizing 529 plans can help ensure responsible wealth management and prevent potential misuse of funds.

> A viral post claimed YesMadam, an Indian beauty services platform, laid off 100 employees based on a stress survey, sparking outrage. However, evidence suggests the post may be a fabricated PR stunt, with inconsistencies in the email and a lack of corroborating evidence from affected employees. Critics point to potential labour law violations and question the ethical implications of exploiting workplace stress for publicity. This incident serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of sensationalism in corporate branding and the importance of maintaining transparency and authenticity in workplace communications.