Mario Nawfal

BREAKING: Russian Phosphorus Bombing of Bakhmut: Desperation or Escalation? Recently, Ukraine released drone footage capturing the city of Bakhmut in flames as it was bombarded with white phosphorus rain. Ukrainian officials have accused Russia of orchestrating a significant escalation by employing phosphorus munitions to attack the city—a war crime when used in civilian areas. The assault on Bakhmut is viewed as a grave escalation due to the nature of the weapons used and their impact on civilian areas. Speculation has emerged suggesting that this escalation is a retaliatory response to the drone attack on the Kremlin and threats made by Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner Group, regarding the withdrawal of troops from Bakhmut. These events could potentially be perceived as false flags aimed at justifying Russia's escalation and subsequent military actions. The situation is further complicated by conflicting reports regarding Wagner's withdrawal. Some sources claim a redeployment plan with Russian or Chechen soldiers taking over, while Ukrainian officials believe that Wagner is relocating mercenaries to capture Bakhmut before Russia's Victory Day celebrations. White phosphorus, a wax-like substance that ignites upon contact with oxygen, inflicts severe burns on human flesh. Its ability to cause fast-spreading fires, which are difficult to extinguish and can re-ignite, raises significant concerns when used near civilian populations. The deployment of phosphorus munitions, despite their questionable strategic value in capturing Bakhmut, demonstrates Russia's readiness to employ devastating weaponry in its assault on the city. Although the provided videos and evidence indicate that the attack primarily targeted unoccupied areas of Bakhmut, the impact on civilian zones remains unconfirmed. This escalation in the conflict has heightened tensions between Ukraine and Russia, with reports suggesting that Ukraine is preparing for a large-scale counteroffensive in the following weeks. In summary, the alleged phosphorus attack on Bakhmut marks a major intensification in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The utilization of such weaponry, ongoing military operations, and the potential for a significant counteroffensive indicate a dangerous escalation in the conflict.

What topic should we cover in tomorrow’s space?

BREAKING: Trump Deposition Video Made Public A video recording of Trump being questioned about the rape allegations against him was just made public. Jurors got to see the video of Trump’s October 2022 deposition over the past few days at the trial over a lawsuit filed against him by advice columnist E. Jean Carroll. Written transcripts of Trump’s testimony had also previously been made public, but not the recording itself. The video was made available Friday to news organizations covering the proceedings.

BREAKING: Leader of Wagner Group Launches Rare Attack on Russian Government A new graphic video (displayed in black and white to obscure the dead bodies) depicts Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner Group, aggressively criticizing key members of the Russian government, including the Defense Minister. He calls them “scumbags” and “fu**ing b*tch” and that they will be eating the guts of the dead Wagner soldiers in hell. Prigozhin, a businessman and a close associate of Putin, is known to have strong ties to the Kremlin. His criticism of key government figures suggests that there may be divisions within the Russian military and political establishment. This morning, Prigozhin announced via his Telegram account that he intends to withdraw his forces from Bakhmut on May 10, which would be a serious strategic loss for Russia. The Wagner Group is the main force fighting Ukrainians in Bakhmut. They control most of the region, and if they were to pull out, it would be detrimental to Russia’s war efforts. This seems like an internal struggle for power, with the Wagner group seeking more military support from the Kremlin. Prigozhin's recent criticism of key members of the Russian government came in the wake of the failed Wagner Group operation in Ukraine. A group of Russian mercenaries were captured by Ukrainian forces, and Prigozhin criticized the Russian government's handling of the operation. He said that it had been poorly planned and executed, and that the mercenaries had been left behind by their commanders. Prigozhin's comments are significant because he is known to be close to Putin and believed to have influence within the Russian military and intelligence community. His criticism suggests that there may be divisions within the Russian military and political establishment over how to handle the conflict in Ukraine. Some argue that the heart of the issue is that Wagner Group's operations have not been as successful as Russian officials hoped. If there is a growing rift between Putin and his allies, it could make it more difficult for Russia to pursue its strategic objectives and could lead to greater instability at the Kremlin. Rumors of Putin being ousted have been growing since the war started, and any videos showing disagreements or dissent among Russian leadership should be taken very seriously.

BREAKING: COVID-19 Vaccine Can Cause Blindness A group of scientists recently conducted a study that investigated a potential link between COVID-19 vaccines and a type of eye condition known as retinal vascular occlusion. This condition occurs when blood vessels in the eye become blocked, leading to potential vision loss. The study was published in the journal Nature. The scientists analyzed a cohort of individuals who had received the COVID-19 vaccine and compared them to those who had not. They discovered that the risk of retinal vascular occlusion was higher in those who had been vaccinated compared to those who had not. The risk was found to be highest in the first few weeks after vaccination but could last for up to 12 weeks. Furthermore, the incidence of retinal vascular occlusion was significantly higher in those who received the vaccine after 2 years, with an overall hazard ratio of 2.19. This means that vaccinated persons are 2 times more likely to be inflicted with blindness. Additionally, 12 weeks after being vaccinated, the potential for blindness was higher for all ages. The research also revealed that individuals who had received the BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273 vaccines had a significantly increased risk of developing retinal vascular occlusion 2 years after vaccination. It is important to note that the risk of blindness caused by the vaccine did not vary based on the brand or dose of the vaccine. This means that all COVID-19 vaccines were associated with this side effect. Despite the risks, the paper still recommends people to be vaccinated, referencing the 14.4 million excess deaths prevented by the vaccine and "the lack of definite causation between retinal vascular occlusion and vaccinations." It took us a while to verify this information as I was shocked to see no mainstream media whatsoever covering the story.

BREAKING: Banking Crisis - Guarantee Deposits or Banking Collapse Senior banking executives have stated that ALL deposits must be guaranteed above the $250,000 limit in order to prevent a regional banking crisis. The last time this was increased was in 2008 after the Global Financial Crisis where the limit was $100,000. The crisis has sparked renewed calls for the FDIC and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to guarantee larger deposits as smaller banks face an uncertain future and customers are anxious about their deposits. A guarantee of deposits above this limit could provide much-needed reassurance to a market in disarray. However, this issue is polarizing as there are those who argue that guaranteeing deposits above the $250k limit could increase moral hazard, leading to greater risk-taking behavior by banks. Furthermore, some argue that this is yet another example of the wealthy taking care of their own. According to a survey conducted by the FDIC in 2021, the median bank account balance for households in the US was $3,500. Therefore, if you are securing deposits above $250k, you are essentially securing the funds of the affluent. Others argue that a guarantee is necessary to prevent further damage to the financial sector and protect customers' deposits. Bill Ackman has weighed in on the issue, stating that "It is very important for depositors to know that their deposits are guaranteed, particularly during a time of crisis." Ackman believes that deposit insurance is necessary to prevent bank runs and maintain financial stability. The risks involved if deposits are not guaranteed above the $250k limit could be dire. If customers begin to withdraw their funds from smaller banks, it could trigger a bank run and potentially lead to a wider banking collapse. The regional banking crisis is a serious issue that has polarized opinions. While some argue that deposit guarantees could increase moral hazard, others believe they are necessary to prevent further damage to the financial sector and protect customers' deposits. I’m not gonna pretend to have the answer to this dilemma as I see both sides. Trust in the system is key, and maybe increasing the limit could lead to more confidence in the system, therefore less banks failing, and less need for the bailouts in the first place, saving the DFIC money. But can the DFIC even afford to insure deposits above $250k if the system collapses? Are bailouts really the answer every time the system cracks?

BREAKING: Moscow Blame US for Attack on Kremlin The Moscow spokesman has accused the US of being responsible for the attempted attack on the Kremlin and on Putin. However, the White House has denied these allegations. This represents a major escalation and could potentially lead to a NUCLEAR war. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated, "Attempts to disown this attack, both in Kiev and in Washington, are absolutely ridiculous. We know very well that decisions about such actions, about such terrorist attacks, are made not in Kiev but in Washington." In response, White House spokesman John Kirby has accused Peskov of lying and stated that the United States did not encourage or enable Ukraine to attack outside its borders. He also stated that it was still unclear what exactly had occurred at the Kremlin. Who was the behind the attack on the Kremlin?

BREAKING: Western Alliance Stock Collapses After Reports of Sale By The Financial Times Western Alliance, a regional bank with $71 billion in assets, was reported by the FT that it exploring a potential sale as it becomes the latest US regional bank to seek a lifeline. The news rattled the market and shares collapsed by over 60%. Western Alliance claim the story is “categorically false” and they are “considering all our legal options” This story highlights 3 important points: 1. Panic within the banking sector is the highest it’s been since 2008 2. Mainstream media needs to be careful as they are still trusted by most, especially in the finance world 3. Information spreads fast and regulators are not ready BUT, the pain doesn't end there... PacWest, another bank that has unnerved investors, announced that it too was exploring its options. All this within 24 hours of Fed Chair Jerome Powell reassuring everyone "the US banking system remains sound and resilient." I understand he needs to ease fears, but lying like this will only loose the Fed credibility. We don't want the Fed to have Cramer's reputation, and we already know the Fed had concerns around SVB before they collapsed, showing they know more then they let out. Even banking executives agree that things are bad. They all came together yesterday to request the FDIC and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to increase the guarantee limit for bank deposits to more than the current $250k limit. Regional banks are getting SLAUGHTERED, and JPMorgan's regulator-brokered takeover of First Republic did nothing to ease fears or slow the sell-off. Western Alliance have said that all reports of a sale are false. But with share prices tumbling is there an alternative solution?

🚨BREAKING: PacWest Bank Tanks - Next Banking Domino To Fall? PacWest Bancorp just collapsed 40% as Bloomberg broke a story about the bank weighing a range of strategic options, including a sale. Unidentified sources claim PacWest has been working with a financial adviser and has also been considering a breakup or a capital raise. They've been struggling to sell the business as there aren’t many potential buyers interested in the entire bank, and there's a risk the buyer would book a big loss marking down some of the bank's loans. With SVB, Credit Suisse, First Republic and now PacWest, the banking sector is cratering as the Fed continues to focus on inflation. Will PacWest finally force the Fed to pivot?

🚨BREAKING: 25bp Fed Rate increase. FOMC Press-Conference Starting. How are markets reacting? Could bank runs continue? The conference is about to start, let's see what Jerome Powell says: (A LIVE Thread) t.co/4sI3isDiY4

LIVE: Fed decision in 15 minutes. CME predicts an 82% probability of a 25bp rate hike. How will the market react? What will Powell say in the press conference? t.co/7fzbOIJlRO

Former NYC Mayor Rudy Giuliani & Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn are joining the Roundtable TONIGHT to talk all things Trump, Biden, Russia, and more. What would YOU like to know from them?

BREAKING: A group of lawmakers, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Rep. Pramila Jayapal, urged the Fed to halt its rate hikes to “avoid engineering a recession that destroys jobs and crushes small businesses.” Pramila and Boyle raised their concerns about the Fed’s monetary policy strategy and its “potential to throw millions of Americans out of work,” in a letter Monday to Fed Chair Jerome Powell. The letter was sent ahead of the Fed’s anticipated rate hike announcement Wednesday. It would be the 10th increase since last year, as the central bank has tried to tame inflation. Some expect the Fed to pause hikes after Wednesday. The irony of politicians presenting themselves as economists in order to secure votes is striking.

BREAKING: US Banking Crisis - Bank Shares Plummet Shares of major U.S. regional banks fell further on Tuesday in the aftermath of the collapse of First Republic Bank, the largest U.S. bank failure since the 2008 financial crisis. Shares of PacWest Bancorp tumbled nearly 30%, while Western Alliance Bank and KeyCorp fell 21% and 10%, respectively. The KBW Regional Banking Index was down 5.2%, hitting its lowest since December 2020. Experts warn “If a 'confidence crisis' can happen to First Republic, it can happen to any bank in this country.” Analysts from Evercore ISI speculate on the implications of JPMorgan being the government's first line of defense in the event of such a crisis. The repercussions of our insatiable greed and reckless money printing have led us to the dire state in which we find ourselves YET AGAIN! Things could get MUCH worse if the Fed doesn’t pivot.

BREAKING: Vice Almost Bankrupt The company has been struggling to find a buyer this year, and the bankruptcy filing could come in the upcoming weeks. Vice News made headlines with their hit-piece against @cobratate, but the documentary was debunked upon its release. With the news that Buzzfeed was closing earlier today, this is now the second publication to do so in as many weeks. NYT must be terrified as they cover this story 😅

BREAKING: JPMorgan could be Liable for Epstein Sex Trafficking According to a Reuters, a US judge has ruled that JPMorgan Chase & Co could be held liable for damages resulting from Jeffrey Epstein's sex trafficking activities if it is found that the bank's former CEO, Jes Staley, had knowledge of Epstein's illegal activities. The ruling came in response to a lawsuit filed against the bank by a victim of Epstein's sex trafficking who alleges that Staley had a close relationship with Epstein and was aware of his criminal conduct. The judge rejected JPMorgan's argument that it could not be held liable for Epstein's actions because the bank did not have a direct relationship with the victim. The case is one of several lawsuits against JPMorgan related to its relationship with Epstein, who was a client of the bank for many years. Can JPMorgan be held accountable despite their immense power?

❗IMPORTANT UPDATE: We've been doing non-stop spaces for weeks, not skipping a day, so I decided to give the team a break tonight as I fly out of NY It's been an INSANE 12 months with crazy guests: - @elonmusk - Hunter Biden - Mark Cuban - Marc Andreessen - Rudy Giuliani - Congressman Thomas Massie - Congresswoman Lauren Boebert - Kari Lake - Alex Stein - SBF - Bill Ackman - Eric Weinstein and too many others to list... Who's been your favorite and who should we have on next? P.S. Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn (@GenFlynn) will be joining us tomorrow

BREAKING: If Congress does not raise or suspend the debt limit, the Treasury Department will be unable to continue to satisfy all of the government's obligations by early June 1. According to a recent letter sent by the US Treasury Secretary, Janet Yellen: 1) Congress needs to act as soon as possible to increase or suspend the debt limit. If this is not done, the government will be unable to satisfy all of its obligations by June 1, 2023, potentially causing severe harm to American families and impacting the country's global leadership position. 2) Yellen notes that it is impossible to predict the exact date when the Treasury will be unable to pay the government's bills, but it is imperative that Congress acts soon to increase or suspend the debt limit. 3) The Treasury is also suspending the issuance of State and Local Government Series (SLGS) Treasury securities, which will deprive state and local governments of an important tool to manage their finances. 4) She said the past has taught us that waiting until the last minute to suspend or increase the debt limit can cause serious harm to business and consumer confidence, raise short term borrowing costs for taxpayers, and negatively impact the credit rating of the United States. Therefore, Congress must act quickly to prevent this from happening. Is this the start of another financial crisis?

You have every right to make fun of me... t.co/X7cvJ4N1Gl

BREAKING: JP Morgan Profits Massively While The Fed Panics From A Banking Contagion JP Morgan just said it’s acquisition of First Republic will generate an IMMEDIATE gain of $2.6 billion and $500 million in yearly profit. On top of all this, the FDIC is covering $13 billion in losses and providing $50 billion in financing CONCLUSION: The Fed Is TERRIFIED more banks will fail, so they want to make sure the First Republic acquisition goes smoothly to keep confidence high, and they did this by heavily supporting JP Morgan. But... commercial real estate is cratering. If that happens, the dominoes will almost certainly fall. Warren Buffet's right hand man Charlie Munger confirmed my fears yesterday by warning about banks' exposure to bad commercial real estate loans. The worst is not over...

🚨BREAKING: First Republic Bank Is Seized & Sold to JPMorgan in Second-Largest U.S. Bank Failure The FDIC avoided another banking crisis by seizing First Republic and selling it to JP Morgan, including all $103.9 billion in deposits and $229.1 billion in assets. First Republic represents the second largest bank failure in the US, loosing $100 billion in deposits 2 months ago after the fall of Silicon Valley Bank 3 of the 4 largest-ever bank failures have now taken place in the past 8 weeks: First Republic, Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank. We also saw the spectacular fall of Credit Suisse in March, bailed out by the Swiss National Bank and acquired by UBS. Most analysts don’t expect First Republic to cause a domino effect like we saw in 2008. I don't understand how they can come to such a conclusion when we know banking is a confidence fame. Remember, in the US we have a factional reserve system, meaning banks only need to hold 10% of the funds customers deposit. So a relatively small panic can cause a bank run. FDIC insurance can only do so much to restore confidence in such an environment, especially in today's world where information and fear spreads faster than ever before. As the Fed continues to fight inflation by raising interest rates, we are seeing more and more cracks in the system. Are you worried of more banks failing? Could we see a similar economic collapse as 2008?

🚨BREAKING: A massive barrage of cruise & hypersonic missiles, one of the largest since the war broke out, is incoming from Russia towards Ukraine The missiles are expected to reach their targets imminently. Air sirens should start any minute. Launch Commands are still being put out over the Russian Strategic Net The Head of Ukraine's presidential office says "do not ignore the air raid alerts"