NORAD Santa Tracker, NBA Christmas Games, and Economic Updates on SquawkPod

Holiday Traditions and Economic Insights

• 🎄 Steve Liesman shares a ranking of favorite Christmas movies based on the CNBC All America Economic Survey, with "Home Alone" topping the list, followed by "Elf" and "Grinch".
• 🎬 The survey also revealed that 66% of Americans watch or stream movies at home on Christmas, while 37% watch live sports.
• 💰 A K-shaped economy is observed, with a higher percentage of the "financial elite" attending movies, plays, or concerts compared to lower-income individuals.
• 💼 Updates include a U.S. judge rejecting a challenge to President Trump's $100,000 H1-B visa fee, a win for the administration.
• ☕ Starbucks baristas at 166 out of 215 affected locations are set to return to work following a strike, though some locations remain under strike notice.

NBA Christmas Day Preview

• 🏀 Rich Kleiman, agent for Kevin Durant, previews the five NBA matchups scheduled for Christmas Day.
• 🌟 He highlights the strong mix of established stars like LeBron, Steph, and Kevin Durant, alongside emerging young talent such as Wembanyama and Anthony Edwards.
• 🗓️ The NBA's five games are considered more significant than the NFL's three games on Christmas this year, partly due to key players being absent from NFL matchups.
• 🌍 Kleiman discusses the NBA's potential expansion in Europe and collaboration with international football clubs, seeing it as a significant growth opportunity.

NORAD's Santa Tracking Mission

• 🎅 General Gregory Guillot, Commander of U.S. Air Force NORTHCOM, explains how NORAD tracks Santa Claus on his global journey.
• 📡 The tracking utilizes radar, satellites, and fighter aircraft, with Rudolph's infrared nose also being a helpful sensor.
• 📞 The tradition began 70 years ago when a child mistakenly called NORAD instead of Santa, a call answered by Colonel Shupe.
• ✈️ General Guillot describes Santa as a highly disciplined and capable aviator who generally avoids any conflicts during his flight.
• 🗺️ Santa is currently over Russia and heading towards the Wake Islands, with NORAD coordinating with all relevant agencies to ensure a smooth journey.