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Cryptocurrency

Bitcoin Surge: Dogecoin vs. XRP - Which is a Better Buy?

2024-12-02

The crypto market is currently in a state of full swing. Bitcoin, in particular, has witnessed a significant surge in price since election night, briefly reaching the $100,000 mark. Investors are optimistic about a more favorable regulatory environment under President-elect Donald Trump and a lower interest rate environment, which has historically been beneficial for the crypto sector.

Dogecoin: The First Meme Token

In 2013, software engineers Billy Markus and Jackson Palmer created Dogecoin as a lighthearted joke. It was based on a meme of a Shiba Inu dog. Surprisingly, it became an instant success, rising to widespread fame during the meme stock and crypto craze of the pandemic. Celebrities like Elon Musk and Mark Cuban embraced the token and even used it for their businesses.Dogecoin has no real practical use other than blockchain payments, like most cryptocurrencies. It has an unlimited supply, but each new block rewards 10,000 Doge. One of its major attractions is its ability to create a strong community and go viral. This is likely the reason behind its $59 billion market cap and its position as the seventh-largest cryptocurrency. Having Musk and his large following on X is a powerful marketing tool. Whenever Musk tweets about Dogecoin on X, it often leads to a significant movement in the token's price.

XRP: Designed for Cross-Border Payments

While all cryptocurrencies have the potential for cross-border payments, Ripple specifically designed XRP for this purpose. It can process transactions in just three to five seconds and handle over 1,500 transactions per second, making it highly suitable for commercial use. Additionally, Ripple pre-mined 100 billion tokens and uses a consensus protocol instead of the mining process to validate transactions. This makes XRP more energy-efficient and reduces transaction fees.Although 100 billion is a large number, it is a fixed amount, providing better protection against inflation compared to Dogecoin. XRP could potentially become a spot exchange-traded fund (ETF), which would increase its liquidity and exposure. Several companies have taken initial steps in the ETF process, and XRP recently started trading on Robinhood.However, XRP has faced some challenges. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) sued Ripple and its founders for selling XRP as an unregistered security in 2013. This lawsuit had a significant impact on the crypto sector as the SEC and stakeholders debated regulatory jurisdiction. A federal judge has ruled in Ripple's favor, but the SEC appealed the decision earlier this year. With SEC Chair Gary Gensler set to step down in January, the lawsuit may be resolved sooner than expected.

Which to Buy?

While Dogecoin has shown the ability to appreciate in a bullish crypto market, I still prefer XRP. In my view, XRP has a better use case, a fixed supply, and is more likely to see the introduction of spot XRP ETFs. Dogecoin could also potentially obtain ETF status in the future. I also believe that the lawsuit has been a drag on XRP's price in recent years, and this situation is likely to change soon.Both Dogecoin and XRP have their unique characteristics and potential. Investors need to carefully consider their investment goals and risk tolerance when deciding which cryptocurrency to invest in. The crypto market is highly volatile, and it is important to conduct thorough research and seek professional advice before making any investment decisions.

IMG has once again joined forces with the National Hockey League (NHL) to take charge of its international social media strategy. This extended partnership holds significant importance for both parties as they aim to enhance fan engagement and drive international growth.

Uniting Hockey and Social Media for Global Impact

Managing International Social Media Channels

The renewed partnership enables IMG to continue managing and delivering end-to-end content production, publishing, and reporting for the NHL's 28 international social media channels across eight markets. Dedicated channels are established for audiences in Australia, Czech Republic, Germany, Finland, Mexico, Sweden, Switzerland, as well as the pan-European Instagram and TikTok channels. This comprehensive approach ensures that the NHL's message reaches a wide international audience.For instance, during the 2024 NHL Global Series games in Munich, Prague, and Tampere, IMG led the social media production. They delivered on-site digital content capture in five languages, demonstrating their ability to connect with fans on a global scale. By partnering with broadcasters, commercial partners, and hockey organisations across Europe and North America, IMG creates a seamless experience for fans.

Overseeing New Channel Launches

Earlier this year, IMG took on the responsibility of overseeing the launch of four new channels across Instagram and WhatsApp. This expansion of the League's social media footprint in international markets showcases their commitment to reaching a broader audience. By adding these new channels, the NHL can engage with fans in different ways and provide them with more content.For example, the new channels allow the NHL to share exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, player interviews, and game highlights directly with fans. This not only increases fan engagement but also helps to build a stronger connection between the League and its international fanbase.

Advising on International Media Rights Deals

IMG also serves as an advisor on the NHL's international media rights deals outside North America and Nordic territories. Their expertise in the digital space helps the NHL navigate the complex world of media rights and ensure that the League's content is distributed effectively to international audiences.Through their work on Sport 24, IMG broadcasts live coverage of the League to international aircrafts and cruise ships. This provides fans who are on the go with the opportunity to stay connected to the NHL and enjoy the excitement of the game.

Importance of Fan Engagement

As stated by Jaka Lednik, NHL Senior Vice President, International, "Social media remains key in driving fan engagement, among both our core fanbase and casual hockey fans." By speaking to fans in their local language with relevant storylines and taking into account local cultures, the NHL can create a more personalized experience for fans.Lewis Wiltshire, SVP and Managing Director, Digital at IMG, added, "The success of the NHL Global Series shows the power of fan engagement and digital to drive international growth." This partnership allows the NHL to leverage the power of social media to reach new fans and grow the sport globally.In conclusion, the renewed partnership between IMG and the NHL for international social media is a significant step forward. By combining their expertise and resources, they are able to create a more engaging and global experience for hockey fans around the world.

NCIS, a staple in the television landscape, has been captivating audiences for over two decades. Premiering in 2003 as a spin-off of JAG, this long-running procedural series follows the dedicated special agents of the U.S. Navy's Naval Crime Investigative Service as they tackle the most challenging cases. With 22 seasons under its belt and currently on hiatus for the winter, fans are on the edge of their seats awaiting its return.

The Enduring Journey of NCIS - Will Season 23 Be the Next Chapter?

History and Success of NCIS

NCIS stands out as one of the longest running shows on television today. Since its inception in 2003, it has become a household name, captivating viewers with its engaging storylines and compelling characters. Over the years, it has achieved remarkable success, resulting in multiple spin-off series. The fact that it has been on TV for well over 20 years and is still going strong is a testament to its popularity and enduring appeal. It has become a cultural phenomenon, with fans eagerly awaiting each new episode. The series has managed to maintain its relevance and charm, attracting new audiences while keeping its loyal fan base engaged.

NCIS has not only entertained viewers but has also had a significant impact on the television industry. Its success has paved the way for other crime dramas and spin-offs, setting a benchmark for quality and longevity. The show's ability to consistently deliver engaging content has kept it at the top of the ratings, making it a must-watch for many.

Current Status and Renewal Speculations

As of now, CBS has not renewed NCIS for Season 23. Despite its huge success, the network has yet to make a decision on the next season. However, it seems highly likely that the show will be renewed, given its popularity and the positive reception it has received over the years. Many experts and fans believe that a 23rd season is all but confirmed and will likely occur sometime in 2025.

The renewal of NCIS for Season 22 in April 2024 gives us some hope that a new season will be on the way soon. CBS has a history of renewing popular shows, and NCIS clearly falls into that category. While we wait for the official word, fans are eagerly speculating about what the future holds for the show. Will there be any major changes in the cast or storyline? Only time will tell.

Casting Updates and Expectations

There have been no casting updates yet for NCIS Season 23. Given the show's success, it is likely that the potential cast will look similar to the previous seasons. Gary Cole is expected to return as Supervisory Special Agent Alden Parker, and Timothy McGee (Sean Murray) is also likely to make a comeback. These beloved characters have become an integral part of the NCIS universe, and fans are eager to see them continue their adventures.

The stability of the cast is an important factor in the success of any television series. NCIS has built a strong ensemble cast over the years, and fans have grown attached to these characters. Any changes to the cast could potentially have a significant impact on the show's dynamics and popularity. Therefore, it is understandable that fans are hoping for a familiar face in Season 23.

Recent Update on NCIS: Origins

There was a more recent update regarding the current status of the new prequel spinoff NCIS: Origins. This spin-off has generated a lot of excitement among fans, as it offers a new perspective on the NCIS universe. While details about the spinoff are still scarce, fans are eagerly awaiting more information about its release and storyline.

The addition of a prequel spinoff adds another layer of excitement to the NCIS franchise. It allows fans to delve deeper into the history and origins of the Naval Crime Investigative Service, providing a unique viewing experience. As we wait for more news about NCIS: Origins, fans are keeping their fingers crossed that it will live up to their expectations.