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Mojtaba Khamenei’s Rise Sparks Market Turmoil as Hardliners Mobilize

People attend a gathering to support Iran's new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei, amid the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, in Tehran, Iran, March 9, 2026.  Iran’s hardline factions mounted a powerful show of support for newly appointed Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei , rallying across Tehran in a display that signaled a tightening of conservative control and diminished hopes for de-escalation in the Middle East.  The demonstrations, marked by mass gatherings and imagery linking Mojtaba to his late father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, underscored the regime’s consolidation at a moment of heightened regional conflict.  Analysts warn that the hardliners’ unified backing suggests Iran is unlikely to soften its stance amid ongoing tensions with the U.S. and Israel. Global markets reacted sharply. Fears that prolonged instability could further disrupt energy supplies sent oil prices soaring and triggered steep declines in major stock indices. With one of the most significan...

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Smart Celebrations: How to Stretch Your Holiday Budget Without Sacrificing Joy

 

The holiday season often brings cheer, but it can also strain wallets. With rising costs and endless temptations, keeping spending under control requires a thoughtful approach. Here are some practical strategies to help you celebrate without financial stress:

  • Set a clear budget: Decide how much you can afford before shopping, and stick to it.
  • Prioritize experiences over things: Shared activities like baking, movie nights, or volunteering can be more memorable than expensive gifts.
  • Shop smart: Compare prices online, take advantage of seasonal sales, and avoid last-minute splurges.
  • Give creatively: Handmade gifts, personalized notes, or “time vouchers” (like babysitting or cooking a meal) often mean more than store-bought items.
  • Limit impulse buys: Make a list before hitting the stores—or browsing online—and resist adding extras.
  • Plan ahead for next year: Start a small savings fund in January to ease the burden when the holidays roll around again.

By focusing on thoughtful choices and meaningful traditions, you can enjoy the season’s magic without the financial hangover.

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