“While it is February, one can taste the full joys of anticipation. Spring stands at the gate with her finger on the latch.” —  Patience Strong

105 Easy Super Bowl Snacks

Learn More

Compass CEO Sees Homebuyer Demand Rising

• 192 mph winds? Yikes! Some are exploring a new classification of Cyclone/Hurricane/Typhoon: Category 6! The threshold for a Category 5 is 157-mph, but for of the most powerful 5 storms globally exceeded this to qualify for Category 6 status. (USA TODAY)

• At least 15% of counties in the U.S. have effectively halted new utility-scale wind, solar, or both. These limits come through outright bans, moratoriums, construction impediments and other conditions that make green energy difficult to build. (USA Today)

• Nearly 300 gigawatts of new power plants are needed over the next 5 years and 500 gigawatts over the next decade to meet the need. Solar demand is expected to grow 26% per year compounded over the next 5 years as the economics of generating solar power become increasingly attractive. Contrary to (well-funded) narratives, utility-scale solar costs anywhere from $24- 96 per megawatt hour without subsidies, about 56% cheaper than nuclear and gas peaking and 42% less expensive than coal at the top end of the cost estimate range. (CNBC)

• Closets in luxury homes are getting bigger and more expensive, as homeowners look to display increasingly extensive, curated fashion collections. Large closets that used to cost around $60,000-80,000, now are costing $200-300,000 as they grow in size and grandeur. A recent $1 million closet was a duplex with an elevator and spray-tan booth… chic! (WSJ)

• Ultra-luxe retailers are buying the retail spaces from their landlords, flush with massive recent profits fueled by luxe-flation. Prada, Gucci and now LVMH are buying up buildings on Fifth Avenue for hundreds of millions. Buy vs. Rent?(WSJ)

Please let me know if I can ever be of assistance, in any way, to you or your family, friends, and colleagues.