The week is just getting started, but it has begun with a massive explosion. Stocks have reached all-time highs, the Ultimate Fighting Championship has been sold, and a few new mobile applications have taken the world by surprise.
Whether you’re a user of Apple’s (AAPL, Financial) iOS or remain loyal to the Android operating system, you’ll have most certainly heard about the brand new Pokémon GO at this point. The mobile game was highly anticipated, and the release did not disappoint. Gamers throughout the U.S. have already fallen in love with the idea of roaming their neighborhoods and capturing elusive creatures.
Suffice to say, Nintendo’s (NTDOY, Financial) stock soared with the release. Unfortunately, the launch hasn’t been flawless. A few hiccups and server issues have left some players scratching their heads. Nonetheless, gamers have continued to play Pokémon Go and the game has captured the media spotlight. In all likelihood, Nintendo’s stock will remain high for the rest of the week unless something devastating happens in the near future. With new Pokémon games on the horizon and speculation regarding the Nintendo NX, the company’s year looks very bright.
Nintendo addition to the market isn’t the only mobile app, which has gained attention this week. Those looking for a free dating app will have very little trouble find one that suits their needs. The mobile app scene has also been overloaded with brand-new ridesharing applications. Although Uber currently holds the crown as the champion of the industry, that coveted spot could very well be swiped out from under them within the coming years. Via, Wingz and Juno are all new ridesharing applications, and each would like to siphon off some of Uber’s customers. Via will attempt to do just that by offering low, flat rate shared rides. Unfortunately, the service is only available in Chicago and New York City at this point in time. SEO consultants like Ignite will benefit probably too from this market boost very soon since the market volatility is very visible and no one will stay offline now.
Wingz has already spread to multiple cities, and it gives consumers the opportunity to book in advance and know the agreed upon price before meeting with the driver. Whether any of these companies will be able to put up a fight against Uber remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain. The ridesharing market will continue to grow in the years to come.
UFC owners Frank and Lorenzo Fertitta confirmed today that the company was sold to WME-IMG, a talent agency based out of Hollywood. Dana White, UFC president, states that he will continue managing the company in hopes of making it a global entertainment brand. The Fertitta brothers and White purchased the company 16 years ago for $2 million, but decided to take their leave after the profits started diminishing. Ten percent of the company is still owned by the Abu Dhabi government. While millions of fans tune in to every UFC event, there are a few politicians who find the MMA sport unfavorable. Senator John McCain labeled the sport “human cockfighting.” New York was one of the few states that banned the sport, but the ban was finally lifted earlier this year.
Disclosure: I do not own any shares or any stocks mentioned in this article.
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