President Trump touted the government’s new investment in Intel, expressing his enthusiasm for similar deals to benefit the U.S. economy. This recent investment, a 10% stake valued at approximately $8.9 billion, is part of a broader strategy to establish a sovereign wealth fund, according to White House economic advisor Kevin Hassett. Trump believes these deals will bring more money and jobs to America, and he signed an executive order to start such a fund. Hassett noted this move isn’t unprecedented, citing previous government involvement in private companies like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
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Norway’s sovereign wealth fund announced the sale of its shares in 11 Israeli companies, citing the “serious humanitarian crisis” in Gaza as the backdrop for the decision. The fund, which invests Norway’s oil and gas profits, stated that these sales were finalized recently, following a decision to divest from companies not in the Norwegian Finance Ministry’s index. Additionally, the fund will move its Israeli company investments in-house and terminate contracts with external managers in Israel. These actions aim to simplify investment management and strengthen due diligence in response to the deteriorating conditions in the region.
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Norway more than doubles its aid to Ukraine, pledging a staggering $7.8 billion for 2025. This represents a significant increase from the previously planned 35 billion Norwegian crowns, showcasing a substantial commitment to supporting Ukraine’s ongoing struggle. The decision, reached through collaboration between the government and opposition leaders, underscores a bipartisan consensus on the importance of continued aid. It’s a powerful demonstration of solidarity in the face of ongoing conflict.
This substantial increase in financial assistance reflects Norway’s unique position. As home to the world’s largest sovereign wealth fund, boasting assets exceeding $1.8 trillion, Norway possesses considerable financial capacity. Furthermore, the surge in gas sales to Europe following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has significantly boosted Norway’s national income, providing a further impetus for increased aid.… Continue reading
Facing potential waning US military aid to Ukraine and criticism for insufficient contributions, Norway is considering significantly increasing its support. This involves exploring options to utilize portions of its massive sovereign wealth fund, potentially exceeding previously committed amounts. While the finance minister cautions against altering existing budgetary rules, leading politicians across the political spectrum are advocating for increased spending, with proposals ranging from bolstering defense budgets to directly allocating billions to Ukraine. The government plans to present a proposal to parliament soon to address this critical issue.
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Trump’s alleged plan to liquidate public lands to fund a sovereign wealth fund is alarming. This isn’t just about selling off some extra acres; it’s about dismantling a fundamental part of America’s heritage and future. The scale of this potential land grab is breathtaking, encompassing national parks and Bureau of Land Management areas. These lands aren’t simply undeveloped spaces; they are invaluable natural resources, crucial for clean water, air, and the livelihoods of countless communities.
The potential buyers are equally unsettling: tech billionaires and other wealthy individuals, painting a picture of a future where access to these lands is limited to the ultra-rich.… Continue reading
Elon Musk’s recent clash with the CEO of Norway’s sovereign wealth fund highlights a fascinating dynamic between immense wealth and perceived entitlement. The crux of the issue appears to be Musk’s displeasure over the fund’s investment decisions regarding Tesla, specifically their refusal to approve a significant financial package that would have significantly benefited Musk personally. This rejection, seemingly viewed by Musk as a betrayal of a supposed friendship, prompted a series of actions and comments that raise questions about his approach to business and international relations.
The situation escalated when Musk publicly questioned the CEO, Nicolai Tangen, about the leak of their private text messages to the press.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood