“How many people protesting will actually leave the United States to get an education at these universities in Yemen and Iran? I would wager 0-1%, if that,” wonders Jerry R. 

And James G. adds: “Houthis would love to educate (indoctrinate) American students.” 

“Regarding Houthis offering free education to pro-Gaza protestors on U.S. campuses,” Keith V. continues. “I think the offer will show the hypocrisy of these students. Very few, if any, will take advantage. They just want to participate in mob-mentality protests. Get a life!” 

As for the most asinine idea ever (taxing unrealized capital gains), Jacqueline G. writes: “Just the talk has already led to not saving or investing in the stock market,” 

“This is just another reason young people have no interest in saving, investing or buying a home; spend it now on yourself before the government taxes it away.

“I am no longer adding to my investments, and I’m slowly pulling out of the market. I have switched to buying gold, silver, fine art and, this summer, I will be building a perma-garden with a building to raise chickens.

“I am putting my money in anything the government cannot tax or confiscate.” 

Interesting point; however, the government will get theirs — one way or the other. 

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Your Rundown for Monday, May 13, 2024...

Rest for R2-D2?

A legal battle is unfolding in the German state of Hesse between regional supermarket chain Tegut and the country's centuries-old Sunday rest law when it comes to the company's fully automated stores. 

Four years after launching the automated convenience stores — billed as the future of shopping — Tegut is embroiled in a dispute over whether these staffless stores should be subject to Sunday closing law.

The Sunday closing law stems from Christian tradition and is seen by churches and unions as promoting shared downtime with family and friends. 

Though some restrictions were lifted in 1996, the Sunday ban remains for most businesses (with exemptions for restaurants).

Thus Tegut was ordered by a high court to comply with the Sunday rest rule for its 40 automated supermarkets. Despite having no employees, the courts deemed the self-service stores as “shops” under the law. 

Source: Tegut
AI-powered store

Trade unions like Verdi have opposed Sunday shopping over concerns about retail workers' day off, while some residents argue the unstaffed stores provide convenience for essentials.

Despite economic losses, Tegut has paused expansion of the automated concept in Hesse state, but continues operating some on Sundays elsewhere. 

The case highlights tensions between retail innovation and traditional cultural values in a country where church membership has declined. 

It also raises questions around the purpose and worker impact of Sunday rest policies in a changing AI landscape.

Market Rundown for Monday, May 13, 2024

The S&P 500 is up 0.25% to 5,235. 

Oil is up 0.60% to $78.73 for a barrel of WTI. 

Gold is down 0.80% to $2,354.20 per ounce. 

But Bitcoin is up 2.20% to $62,650. 

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