Today’s topics

• Federal Reserve's crucial policy meeting

• AirPods Pro 2 now double as hearing aids

• Historic first private spacewalk

• Amazon mandates full office return

  and more…

The S&P 500 edged up 0.13% to close at 5,633.09, while the Dow Jones soared to a new all-time high, gaining 228.30 points or 0.55% to finish at 41,622.08. Meanwhile, the Nasdaq Composite dipped 0.52% to 17,592.13. Investors are holding their breath as the Federal Reserve's crucial policy meeting looms, with expectations set for the first rate cut since 2020.

All eyes on the fed: will Powell play it safe or go big? As the Fed prepares to cut interest rates for the first time since 2020, the question isn't if, but how much. Markets are torn between a modest quarter-point cut or a bolder half-point move, with investors eager for relief after two years of aggressive hikes. While a quarter-point cut has been the expected play, some analysts argue that Powell might need to go further to catch up. But don’t count out the possibility of a hawkish surprise—Powell could still keep everyone on their toes.

Amazon mandates full office return: five days a week starting January. Amazon is leading the Big Tech pack by requiring employees to return to the office five days a week starting January 2, 2024. CEO Andy Jassy announced the shift from the previous three-day office requirement in a message to staff on Monday.

Mastercard to boost cybersecurity with $2.65 billion Recorded Future acquisition. Mastercard is set to acquire cybersecurity firm Recorded Future for $2.65 billion, aiming to enhance its fraud prevention and identity services with advanced threat intelligence and AI. This move underscores the increasing importance of cybersecurity as the company integrates Recorded Future’s cutting-edge technology into its offerings. The deal is expected to be finalized by early 2025.

OpenAI's "Strawberry" Model: Smarter, Sweeter Problem Solving

OpenAI has unveiled its new AI model, o1, internally known as "Strawberry," which boasts enhanced human-like reasoning abilities. By dedicating more time to computing answers, this model can now tackle multi-step challenges, from complex math to intricate coding problems. As competition heats up, OpenAI’s latest release positions it to stay ahead of the pack with smarter, more thoughtful responses.

Apple Watch and AirPods get FDA green light for health-boosting features. Just in time for the Apple Watch Series 10 release, the FDA has approved a sleep apnea detection tool for Apple Watch users, with those sporting Series 9 and Ultra 2 models able to access it now via watchOS 11. In another win for health tech, Apple AirPods Pro 2 can now double as hearing aids, thanks to the FDA's approval of a feature that helps people with mild to moderate hearing impairment. Both updates mark Apple's continued push into innovative health solutions, blending convenience with care.

It’s Here! iOS 18 Brings Exciting New Features to Your iPhone. iOS 18 has officially begun rolling out to compatible devices, following its debut at WWDC 2024. The iPhone's Photos app gets a fresh redesign, while new options for Home screen and wallpaper customization offer more personalization than ever. Expect upgraded Messages reactions and a boost to privacy features. Plus, AI-driven features, dubbed Apple Intelligence, will make their debut on select iPhones, adding a smart twist to everyday tasks.

Chipotle’s new robot revolution: avocado peeler and automated bowl assembly. Chipotle is rolling out the Autocado, a cutting-edge robot designed to peel, core, and slice avocados in just 26 seconds, enhancing efficiency in guacamole production. Currently being tested at a Huntington Beach location, this “collaborative robot” aims to free up staff for other tasks. Alongside the Autocado, Chipotle is also trialing an automated bowl assembly line to streamline operations further.

Polaris Dawn: Private Spacewalks and Splashdown Success!

SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn mission made waves, literally, splashing down in the Gulf of Mexico after its historic first private spacewalk. Spearheaded by billionaire Jared Isaacman, the crew overcame delays due to the mission’s complexity, like developing SpaceX's own EVA suits and adding a "Skywalker" hatch to the Dragon capsule. Originally planned for 2022, the mission might have taken longer, but it proved well worth the wait with a smooth landing and groundbreaking achievements in space exploration!

Earth’s new mini-moon: tiny asteroid to orbit our planet for 2 months. Earth will welcome a new 'mini-moon'—a small asteroid named 2024 PT5—starting at the end of September. This 33-foot-wide space rock will orbit Earth from September 29 to November 25, making a 57-day tour before drifting away. Despite its close flyby, the mini-moon will be challenging to spot due to its small size.

From Rails to Reefs: MARTA Railcars Find New Life Under the Sea

In a splashy eco-friendly move, two retired MARTA railcars have been repurposed as artificial reefs, now thriving habitats in the Atlantic. Partnering with Georgia's Department of Natural Resources, MARTA ensured the cars were cleaned and prepped before their underwater journey. Early signs show the railcars are already creating a vibrant reef, turning rusty transit into a marine oasis!

76th Emmys: "Shogun" Shatters Records, "Hacks" Wins Big

The 76th annual Emmy Awards, held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, saw "Shogun" setting a record with 18 wins, including Best Drama Series, with Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai taking home acting awards. "Hacks" was named Best Comedy Series, while "Baby Reindeer" and "The Bear" each secured four awards.

New chameleon species spotted in Madagascar! Tourists in Madagascar have uncovered a brand-new chameleon species, Brookesia nofy, in a fragile patch of coastal rainforest. This tiny, leaf-like lizard adds a fresh splash of biodiversity to the region's threatened habitat.

Aloha spirit: Hawaii tops the happiness charts. It’s no surprise that Hawaii takes the crown as the happiest state in the U.S., with an impressive score of 68.71. While work-life balance may be a bit more "surfer casual" at 31st place, the islands shine in emotional well-being and community support. With the lowest depression rate and 86% of adults feeling good, it's clear the Aloha spirit is alive and well. Add in low unemployment and high incomes, and you’ve got a paradise not just for tourists but for residents, too!

Bear takes a beach day. A massive bear made waves at a crowded South Lake Tahoe beach, strolling past sunbathers and kayaks before taking a refreshing dip in the water. Videos capture the bear's casual beachside walk and its leisurely swim just offshore, turning a sunny day into a memorable wildlife encounter.

TikTok of the day: watch here

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