Good morning readers. Meta's platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, experienced a hiccup on Tuesday, leaving thousands of users in the dark due to what the company termed a "technical issue." Despite the brief disruption lasting around two hours, frustration rippled across social media as users grappled with login woes and inaccessible feeds. Even Threads, Meta's answer to Elon Musk's X, stumbled, flashing error messages instead of content. Nevertheless, service was restored by noon, with Meta extending apologies and assuring users of a swift fix.

Let’s jump into today’s storylines.

In today’s digest:

• Dodge is creating an electric and gas powered Charger

• Headline Hustle: It’s Biden vs. Trump in 2024, Google takes aim at AI-generated content gaming its systems, Biden launces task force targeting unfair and illegal corporate pricing

• There’s a gold rush on Wall Street

• Pulse Points: What’s Trending

AUTO

Dodge charges into the future with its EV lineup

In a world where the rumble of a muscle car is as iconic as the American Dream, Dodge is revving up to ensure that future generations can still feel that thrill—whether it's powered by electrons or gasoline.

Dodge, a name synonymous with high-performance muscle cars, has thrown down the gauntlet with its latest announcement: the next-generation Charger will be available in both all-electric and gas-powered variants. The electric variant, christened the Daytona, boasts a staggering 670 horsepower and 627 foot-pounds of torque, promising to shoot from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.3 seconds. Not to be outdone, the gas-powered successors are gearing up with a new inline-six engine, ready to hit the streets by 2025.

Legends never die; they just evolve

This move is the company’s answer to the automotive industry's existential predicament—embracing the electric revolution without sidelining the gasoline giants that have defined American muscle. The decision to offer both EV and gas-powered Chargers comes amidst a backdrop of uncertainty about the future of traditional muscle cars and the slow adoption rate of electric vehicles (EVs).

But Dodge is approaching this uncertainty with a dual approach: ensuring the Charger and Challenger legends live on in the electric era without abandoning their gasoline heritage.

The significance of Dodge's strategy extends beyond keeping the muscle car spirit alive; it's a testament to the brand's commitment to innovation, adaptability, and sustainability. By integrating both electric powertrains and traditional engines, the company not only caters to the die-hard enthusiasts of American muscle but also aligns with parent company Stellantis' vision for a greener future.

Looking ahead…Dodge's roadmap is clear. The company is gearing up to launch a lineup of Chargers that promise to cater to every type of enthusiast, from the "Banshee" EV, which is set to redefine performance standards, to gas-powered Chargers that keep the traditional spirit alive. With these moves, Dodge is not just making a statement about its commitment to innovation and tradition; it's ensuring that the legendary roar of muscle cars continues to echo through the streets, electrified or not.

IN THE KNOW

Headline Hustle

🤝 It’s a Trump vs. Biden rematch. On Super Tuesday, both former President Trump and President Biden surged towards their party's nominations, seizing the majority of delegates across numerous states, including crucial wins in Texas and California. This pivotal voting day highlights the frontrunners' dominance, with Trump and Biden solidifying their positions ahead of the November elections. Meanwhile, notable victories include former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley's win in Vermont and Rep. Adam Schiff's lead in California's open primary, potentially securing a Democratic stronghold.

🤖 Google takes aim at AI-generated content in search rankings overhaul. Google has declared war on AI-generated content designed solely to manipulate search rankings. In a recent blog post, Google outlined algorithmic changes aimed at combating low-quality content, particularly automated material churned out by AI. Elizabeth Tucker, a Google product management director, highlighted the intent to refine ranking systems to favor user-friendly and informative content. This move aims to reduce the prevalence of low-quality content by 40%, targeting both AI-generated spam and third-party content aiming to exploit reputable websites.

💲 Biden takes aim at corporate pricing practices in bid for fairer economy. President Biden launches a new task force targeting unfair and illegal corporate pricing, aiming to alleviate the disconnect between falling inflation rates and a robust economy. Co-led by the FTC and DOJ, it signifies Biden's administration's aggressive stance against anti-competitive practices. The move coincides with the White House Competition Council's meeting, emphasizing Biden's commitment to consumer welfare. Despite economic indicators, concerns persist over corporations not passing on savings. Biden's push against corporate pricing aims to address public perceptions and ensure fair market practices.

BUSINESS

We might be in the middle of a gold rush

Gold's price just hit the jackpot, and it's not only treasure hunters who are excited. On Tuesday, the price of gold climbed to an all-time high of $2,141.90 per ounce, sparking a frenzy among investors who believe the Federal Reserve might lower interest rates later this year.

A golden investment

This surge in gold's price has everyone from long-time gold enthusiasts to casual investors paying attention. The expectation that the Federal Reserve might cut rates has turned gold into the investment darling of the moment. When interest rates go down, investments that usually pay out, like bonds, become less attractive. That's where gold steps in, shining brightly as a solid alternative.

Many are also turning to gold as a safety net against inflation. The thinking here is that even if the cost of living goes up, gold will hold its ground or even increase in value. This belief is pushing more people towards gold, especially when the economic forecast looks a bit cloudy.

The retail rush. The buzz around gold has even caught the eye of big retailers like Costco, which started selling gold bars late last year. They've seen a spike in sales, showing that gold's appeal isn't just theoretical—it's real and tangible, especially when compared to the rollercoaster ride of the stock market.

What’s next? Everyone's now watching the Federal Reserve, hanging on every word from Jerome Powell, the Fed's chair, for clues about what's next for interest rates. Meanwhile, Bitcoin, often called digital gold, is also on a tear, hitting new highs, although it recently took a small step back.

SNIPPETS

Pulse Points

• Congress introduced a bill mandating ByteDance to divest TikTok to prevent the app's ban in the U.S.

• The Dartmouth College men's basketball team voted to become the first college athletes to join a union, marking a historic shift in the collegiate sports industry.

• Target reported holiday-quarter revenue and earnings exceeding Wall Street expectations but anticipates another year of weak sales. The stock jumped by 12%.

• The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) introduced new regulations on March 5, 2024, capping credit card late fees at $8 per incident, significantly lower than the previous average of $32. The rule takes effect 60 days post-publication in the Federal Register.

• The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission approved a controversial land swap with SpaceX, exchanging 43 acres of Boca Chica State Park for 477 acres near Laguna Atascosa, despite significant public opposition and concerns over conservation and cultural impacts.

• Target announced the launch of a $99 per year membership program, Target Circle 360, in April, offering promotional and ongoing discounts, unlimited free same-day delivery for orders over $35, and other perks, positioning itself against rivals Amazon and Walmart.

• Sen. Bob Menendez and his wife were charged with additional obstruction of justice crimes, accused of accepting gold bars, cash, and a luxury car in exchange for favors to assist three businessmen.

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