Good Morning! 🌞

A quote that some of you (including me) may need to hear today: "In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity." - Albert Einstein

Economy

Bitcoin Blast Through All Time High

Bitcoin recently soared to a new all-time high, surpassing the $69,000 mark for the first time since November 2021 and reaching an all-time high above $72,000. This surge in value is part of a remarkable year for the digital currency, driven by factors such as the approval of spot bitcoin ETFs in the U.S. and anticipation around the bitcoin halving event expected in mid-April.

The halving, a periodic event that reduces the reward for mining new blocks in half, impacts Bitcoin's supply and has historically preceded price increases. Institutional and retail investor interest, buoyed by new investment vehicles and a growing recognition of Bitcoin's potential as a digital asset, has contributed significantly to its rising valuation. The total crypto market cap has also experienced substantial growth, further emphasizing Bitcoin's dominant position in the market​​​​.

Discussions among financial analysts reflect varied perspectives on Bitcoin's future trajectory, with some projecting significant potential for further growth. The introduction of Bitcoin ETFs has notably increased institutional participation, contributing to the digital currency's recent price dynamics and enhancing its legitimacy among a broader range of investors​​.

As always, it is important to remember crypto currencies are very volatile. If you feel like jumping on the train, know that there is always a possibility you could lose it all. Just remember to do your own research and make informed decisions.

Entertainment

After the Biggest Netflix Show Ever

Go just a few years back and K-dramas and Korean film was a healthy but niche film and TV genre. Then along came Netflix’s Squid Game which currently sits as Netflix’s most viewed show (based on the first 91 days on Netflix).

Since Squid Game’s massive success, K-dramas have gained even more popularity in the U.S and across the world. This coincides with increased interest in foreign films and media. The amazing success of the small budget Japanese film Godzilla: Minus One is one example of this growing interest.

Her comes the big question for both fans of Korean media and those simply looking for well made entertainment. What do we have to look forward to in 2024?

I you want to see a list of upcoming Korean films and K-dramas, check out this site.

Sports

LeBron James Sets Record with 40,000 Career Points in NBA

LeBron James hit 40,000 career points during the Lakers' 124-114 loss to the Denver Nuggets at Crypto.com Arena. He made the historic basket with a left-handed layup in the second quarter, followed by a timeout and a video tribute from the Lakers.

James, who surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's record last season, entered the game needing nine points to reach the 40,000 mark. Despite the milestone, he expressed that winning is his main focus. He finished the game with 26 points, reaching a career total of 40,017 points, and extended his double-digit scoring streak to 1,205 games.

James’s fellow team mate, Anthony Davis, doesn't see anyone surpassing James's scoring record due to his ongoing performance, and Coach Darvin Ham congratulated James despite the team's loss. The Lakers are currently 10th in the Western Conference with a 33-29 record.

In his 21st season, James averages 25.3 points, 7.9 assists, and 7.1 rebounds per game. He holds the record for being selected to 20 All-Star teams and led the Lakers to victory in the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament earlier this season, earning tournament MVP honors.

World News

Kyoto Passes Law to Protect Traditional Geisha

Unruly tourists can be quite frustrating and disruptive, so it is good to see this behavior set straight by the implementation of effective regulations.

In Kyoto, Japan, a new set of fines has been introduced specifically targeting "Geisha paparazzi," to curb the disruptive behavior of tourists who harass the city's professional female entertainers for photos.

Geishas are entertainers who engage in traditional Japanese arts such as singing, playing musical instruments, and serving tea to guests at dining establishments.

The residents of the renowned Gion district, a place where geishas and their apprentices, known as maiko, frequently traverse, have taken it upon themselves to actively enforce Japanese manners directly.

Isokazu Ota, the Representative Secretary of the Gion-town South Side District Council, shared with CNN that fines for taking unauthorized photos of geisha can reach up to ¥10,000 ($67). While such fines technically cannot be imposed on the main public road of Gion, known as Hanamikoji Street, the posted signs warning of these penalties do not disclose this specific legal nuance.

Moreover, the charming narrow lanes of Gion, which are often used by geisha and maiko to dodge the paparazzi, are included in the restriction. Ota did not specify to CNN the reason for this, but it could be because these alleys are dotted with eateries, tea houses, and private homes.

As one strolls through the historic lanes of this neighborhood, they are transported two centuries back, thanks to the geishas adorned in vibrant kimonos, makeup, and fans, enhancing the ambiance.

Mind Stretchers

❓️ 

I am present at the beginning of love, the start of life and I am the end of evil. What am I?

Answer to yesterday’s Mind Stretchers:
Inkstand 😵‍💫 

Be the first to send us the correct answer for today’s mind stretcher for a shout-out with the answer tomorrow. Just send us the answer and your name to [email protected]

If you have any uplifting stories and experience you might want to share, send those over to [email protected] for the chance to be featured.