Elon Musk Spent 18 Hours Reviewing 5-Minute Presentations From xAI Team Member On Grok Improvements

Elon Musk spent 18 hours reviewing 5-minute presentations from a member of his xAI team on improvements to Grok - highlighting the CEO's commitment to refining the AI system developed by his company. Also, newly-elected US President Trump has threatened a 100% tariff on exports from BRICS nations planning on creating their currency to unseat US dollar dominance - all these and more in today's Money Making Moves: 

> Elon Musk’s leadership at xAI stands out for his intense involvement, including an 18-hour session to review five-minute presentations from team members while refining the Grok chatbot. His direct and rigorous approach pushes for high-quality results, often leading to significant improvements in projects. However, this level of involvement has a downside, as it can put immense pressure on employees, potentially leading to burnout and a stressful work environment. While his methods drive innovation, they also highlight the challenges of balancing ambition with sustainable team dynamics.

> Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares abruptly resigned on Sunday, following mounting tensions with the board and major shareholders after a profit warning and a 40% drop in the company's share value this year. The automaker has faced slumping North American sales, bloated inventories, and a forecasted cash burn of up to €10 billion, leading to significant leadership reshuffles. Dealers and unions criticized Tavares' management, citing inventory buildup, declining vehicle sales, and labor conflicts as key issues. Stellantis plans to appoint a new CEO by mid-2025, with an interim executive committee led by Chairman John Elkann managing operations in the meantime.

> The 2024 presidential election is influencing holiday shopping trends, with Trump supporters feeling optimistic about the economy and spending, while Harris voters are more cautious due to concerns about policies and inflation. Data shows a 50.4% increase in shipping volumes to red states post-election, compared to an 11.2% decrease in blue states, highlighting contrasting consumer confidence. Holiday spending forecasts predict slow growth, with inflation continuing to dampen real gains despite higher nominal spending. Retailers expect mixed results across categories, with furniture and electronics facing declines, while apparel and grocery show modest growth, as many consumers grapple with rising costs.

Starting a small moving business can be a lucrative venture, tapping into the ongoing demand fueled by shifting migration patterns between cities and suburbs. With people frequently relocating, movers can capitalize on hourly or per-job rates, especially for multi-day or out-of-state moves. The moving industry thrives as few people enjoy the hassle of relocating, creating consistent demand for reliable services. By offering personalized and efficient assistance, a small moving company can carve out a profitable niche in this booming market.

Babierge offers a unique side hustle opportunity by allowing you to rent out baby equipment to traveling families. As an independent agent, you can provide items like cribs, strollers, and high chairs to parents who can't bring everything with them. By joining this crowdsourced platform, you can earn money by renting out your own equipment to families in need. It’s a flexible way to generate income while helping make family travel easier and more convenient.

> In Kitui County, Kenya, Esther Munani Kyalo and Josphat Muthui Kangata have transformed their agricultural practices through the Farmer Field Schools, a community-based initiative aimed at improving livestock and crop production. Esther, once struggling with poultry farming, now manages a successful business by implementing new feed and health practices, increasing her chicken count from 10 to 295. Similarly, Josphat's honey production has soared in quality and value, with his group adopting better beekeeping techniques and boosting their hives from seven to 48. The initiative, supported by the FAO and the World Bank, has positively impacted nearly 300,000 farmers, enabling them to enhance their incomes and reduce rural poverty. For more farming investment ideas, check here. 

> The SEC has approved the 24X National Exchange, America's first round-the-clock securities exchange, which will operate in two phases starting in late 2025. The exchange, backed by billionaire Steve Cohen's Point72 Ventures Fund, will allow global investors to trade US-listed shares from 4 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, with plans for 23-hour trading, five days a week, excluding holidays. Focused on the Asia-Pacific market, the exchange will prioritize cost efficiency, speed, and liquidity in US stocks, using advanced technology from MEMX Technologies. While the approval marks a major milestone, the move has faced criticism from consumer advocates and some institutional investors concerned about volatility and low trading volumes during overnight sessions.

> Donald Trump has threatened a 100% tariff on exports from BRICS nations if they proceed with plans to create a new currency to challenge the US dollar's dominance. The BRICS group, consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new members like Saudi Arabia and Iran, has been exploring alternatives to the dollar in international trade. While experts agree the US dollar remains dominant, BRICS nations argue its dominance creates risks for developing countries, leading to efforts to bypass US sanctions. Trump's threat could strain US relations with BRICS members, potentially disrupting global trade and leading to retaliatory tariffs.