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Light in the Darkness: Why Hanukkah Matters More Than Ever

                    The first night of Chanukah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, on Bondi Beach in 2008. In a world that often feels uncertain, Hanukkah’s message of resilience and hope shines with renewed relevance. The holiday commemorates the triumph of the Maccabees and the miracle of the oil that lasted eight nights, but its meaning extends far beyond ancient history. Resilience in adversity : Hanukkah reminds us that even in times of struggle, perseverance can lead to victory. The power of light : Lighting the menorah is more than tradition—it’s a symbol of bringing warmth and clarity into dark times. Community and connection : Gathering with family and friends reinforces the importance of unity, especially when the world feels divided. Faith and miracles : Hanukkah encourages us to believe in possibilities beyond what seems rational, inspiring hope in everyday life. As challenges continue to shape our global lands...

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Stocks close mixed as tech pares losses


On Tuesday, January 9, 2024, the US stock market closed with mixed results. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI) slipped 0.4% or about 150 points. The benchmark S&P 500 ( ^GSPC) fell by nearly 0.2%, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite ( ^IXIC) crawled above the flatline, in a reversal of earlier losses. The tech rally wavered after a Samsung profit warning took the shine off the sector. Samsung’s update weighed on hopes for a rebound in the PC and mobile sector, a key market for its memory chips. The Korean company said it expects a 35% drop in fourth-quarter operating income, far short of estimates, as demand continues to lag.

Investors are focusing on the December consumer inflation reading due Thursday and what it could mean for the chances of easing interest rates. Two Federal Reserve officials on Monday poured cold water on Wall Street’s already fading expectations that a cut could come in the next few months. The idea that inflation is cooling underpins investors’ belief that the US economy will skirt recession. That conviction faces a crucial test on Friday, when big banks kick off the fourth-quarter earnings season.

Oil prices ( CL=F) ( BZ=F) rose just under 2%, recouping some of Monday’s near 4% fall as investors weighed the impact of tensions in the Middle East and Saudi Arabia’s decision to cut crude prices.


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