Third-place Madrid restored its three-point lead over fourth-place Athletic Bilbao, which beat Villarreal earlier Sunday. Rodrigo De Paul gave Atletico the perfect start when he lashed home a stunning opener in the 10th minute. However, goals from Dodi Lukébakio, Isaac Romero and Juanlu Sanchez put Sevilla 3-1 up early in the second half and Atletico, without the vocal support of some home fans in a dispute over tickets, seemed lost in an unusually quiet at Metropolitano Stadium. Simeone’s side, though, is known for its resilience and it was not long before the fightback began. Griezmann reduced the deficit in the 62nd minute and 17 minutes later, after Simeone made five substitutions in a quarter of an hour, Samuel Lino got the equalizer with a low shot from 30 yards. Griezmann himself got the winner in stoppage time to consolidate Atletico’s third place. The Madrid club now has 35 points, one behind city rival Real and three behind league leader Barcelona. “We struggled to get into the game,” Griezmann said. “We missed the support of the fans behind the goal. But in the end we managed to come back.” Athletic Bilbao consolidated fourth place with a comfortable 2-0 win over Villarreal, the team immediately below it in the table and one of its closest rivals for a Champions League spot. Aitor Paredes put Athletic ahead when he glanced home a corner kick in 14 minutes and Iñaki Williams made it 2-0 midway through the second half. It was the fourth consecutive league win for Athletic but the victory was marred by a silent protest from an organized fan group. The group refused to sing or chant in response to a rift between it and the club president, who reported threats to police earlier in the week. Several Athletic players expressed solidarity with the president and the team did not salute the fans behind the goal after the match. “It’s a very sad win and a time for everyone to pull together,” club captain Óscar De Marcos said in comments reported by newspaper Marca. “The silence was notable during the game but we need to keep doing our job.” Earlier Sunday, Real Sociedad won for the fourth time in a row, beating Leganes 3-0 at the Butarque stadium near Madrid. Three days after his extra-time goal gave Sociedad a 1-0 win at fourth-tier Conquense in the Copa del Rey, Brais Méndez scored again to give the visitors an early lead. Substitute Ander Barrenetxea’s first goal of the league season doubled its lead 10 minutes from time and then Mikel Oyarzabal added a third in stoppage time. It was only the fourth time in 16 matches that Sociedad has scored twice in a league game and the win lifted it into sixth, above Osasuna, which drew 2-2 with Alaves. Alaves took only 37 seconds for Kike Garcia to put the team ahead with a diving header. However, Ante Budimir and Rubén García scored early in the second half to put Osasuna in front before Kike Garcia got his second of the game to tie the scores at 2-2. The point was the first for new Alaves coach Eduardo Coudet but still leaves it in 15th place without a win in five games. AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

Fearne Cotton shares update after getting tumours removedChechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov has accused Elon Musk of remotely disabling his Tesla Cybertruck, which Kadyrov claimed was a gift from Musk. The Chechen leader made the allegations in a Telegram post, criticizing Musk's actions as "unmanly." What Happened: Kadyrov, who has governed Chechnya since 2007, claimed the modified Cybertruck, equipped with a machine gun, was intended for use in the war against Ukraine. "Elon Musk behaved badly. He gives expensive gifts from the heart, and then turns them off remotely," Kadyrov wrote . He also noted in the post that he had to tow the vehicle after it was disabled. While Kadyrov asserted that Musk had personally gifted him the Cybertruck, Musk has categorically denied the claim. The mystery surrounding how Kadyrov obtained the vehicle is heightened by the fact that US sanctions prohibit direct export of the Cybertruck to Chechnya. Earlier in August, Kadyrov had publicly showcased the vehicle, calling it a "Cyberbeast" and praising its technology . Also Read: Putin Pal? Elon Musk Fires Back At Critics Accusing Him Of Supporting Russia Experts have voiced skepticism about the utility of the Cybertruck in combat scenarios. Mark Cancian , a senior advisor with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said the vehicle would be "totally useless" on the battlefield due to its weight and charging requirements. Despite Kadyrov's assertions of the truck's combat readiness, analysts doubt its practicality in war zones. This incident highlights broader concerns regarding Tesla's vehicle security and the potential misuse of its products in conflict areas. The ability to remotely disable vehicles could raise questions about the implications for international security and Tesla's reputation as a global brand. Read Next Elon Musk’s Controversial Civil War Prophecy: Is Europe On The Edge? This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

NoneNC State defensive coordinator Tony Gibson is named head coach at Marshall

HAMILTON, N.Y. (AP) — Dejour Reaves' 20 points helped Iona defeat Colgate 79-73 on Sunday. Reaves also contributed nine rebounds and six steals for the Gaels (4-8, 1-1 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference). Yaphet Moundi added 13 points while finishing 6 of 8 from the floor while they also had five rebounds. Adam Njie had 12 points and shot 5 of 11 from the field, including 1 for 4 from 3-point range, and went 1 for 4 from the line. The Raiders (3-10) were led in scoring by Nicolas Louis-Jacques, who finished with 27 points. Jalen Cox added 16 points, four assists and two steals for Colgate. Parker Jones also had seven points and two steals. Reaves scored 11 points in the first half for Iona, who led 36-32 at the break. Iona used a 7-0 run in the second half to build an eight-point lead at 43-35 with 16:42 left in the half before finishing off the win. Up next for Iona is a matchup Sunday with Harvard at home. Colgate hosts Army on Thursday. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .

Cricket Analysis Software Market is Going to Boom | Major Giants IBM Watson, GameChanger, CricViz 12-26-2024 05:14 PM CET | IT, New Media & Software Press release from: HTF Market Intelligence Consulting Pvt. Ltd. Cricket Analysis Software Market HTF MI recently introduced Global Cricket Analysis Software Market study with 143+ pages in-depth overview, describing about the Product / Industry Scope and elaborates market outlook and status (2024-2032). The market Study is segmented by key regions which is accelerating the marketization. At present, the market is developing its presence. Some key players from the complete study are CricViz, IBM Watson, Hawk-Eye Innovations, NV Play, SportsMechanics, GameChanger, Catapult Sports, SAP Sports One, Hudl, StanceBeam. Download Sample Report PDF (Including Full TOC, Table & Figures) 👉 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/2775514-covid-19-outbreak-global-cricket-analysis-software-industry-market?utm_source=Akash_OpenPR&utm_id=Akash According to HTF Market Intelligence, the Global Cricket Analysis Software market is expected to grow from 120 Million USD in 2024 to 500 Million USD by 2032, with a CAGR of 17.5% from 2024 to 2032. The Cricket Analysis Software market is segmented by Types (Performance Analytics, Player Tracking, Strategy Building, Fan Engagement), Application (Team Management, Player Coaching, Match Analytics, Fan Experience) and by Geography (North America, LATAM, West Europe, Central & Eastern Europe, Northern Europe, Southern Europe, East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, Oceania, MEA). Definition: The Cricket Analysis Software Market is transforming how cricket teams strategize and perform. These software solutions use data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and video analysis to evaluate player performance, identify weaknesses, and refine game strategies. They also aid in injury prevention and fitness monitoring, making them invaluable for players, coaches, and analysts. Dominating Region: • Asia-Pacific Fastest-Growing Region: • Middle East & Africa Market Trends: •AI Integration, Real-Time Analytics, AR Visualizations Market Drivers: •Sports Data Boom, Player Development Focus, Rising Fan Engagement Market Challenges: •Costly Implementations, Limited Adoption, Complex Training Have a query? Market an enquiry before purchase 👉 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-before-buy/2775514-covid-19-outbreak-global-cricket-analysis-software-industry-market?utm_source=Akash_OpenPR&utm_id=Akash The titled segments and sub-section of the market are illuminated below: In-depth analysis of Cricket Analysis Software market segments by Types: Performance Analytics, Player Tracking, Strategy Building, Fan Engagement Detailed analysis of Tank Container Shipping market segments by Applications: Team Management, Player Coaching, Match Analytics, Fan Experience Geographically, the detailed analysis of consumption, revenue, market share, and growth rate of the following regions: • The Middle East and Africa (South Africa, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Israel, Egypt, etc.) • North America (United States, Mexico & Canada) • South America (Brazil, Venezuela, Argentina, Ecuador, Peru, Colombia, etc.) • Europe (Turkey, Spain, Turkey, Netherlands Denmark, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, Russia UK, Italy, France, etc.) • Asia-Pacific (Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam, China, Malaysia, Japan, Philippines, Korea, Thailand, India, Indonesia, and Australia). Buy Now Latest Edition of Cricket Analysis Software Market Report 👉 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/buy-now?format=1&report=2775514?utm_source=Akash_OpenPR&utm_id=Akash Cricket Analysis Software Market Research Objectives: - Focuses on the key manufacturers, to define, pronounce and examine the value, sales volume, market share, market competition landscape, SWOT analysis, and development plans in the next few years. - To share comprehensive information about the key factors influencing the growth of the market (opportunities, drivers, growth potential, industry-specific challenges and risks). - To analyze the with respect to individual future prospects, growth trends and their involvement to the total market. - To analyze reasonable developments such as agreements, expansions new product launches, and acquisitions in the market. - To deliberately profile the key players and systematically examine their growth strategies. FIVE FORCES & PESTLE ANALYSIS: In order to better understand market conditions five forces analysis is conducted that includes the Bargaining power of buyers, Bargaining power of suppliers, Threat of new entrants, Threat of substitutes, and Threat of rivalry. • Political (Political policy and stability as well as trade, fiscal, and taxation policies) • Economical (Interest rates, employment or unemployment rates, raw material costs, and foreign exchange rates) • Social (Changing family demographics, education levels, cultural trends, attitude changes, and changes in lifestyles) • Technological (Changes in digital or mobile technology, automation, research, and development) • Legal (Employment legislation, consumer law, health, and safety, international as well as trade regulation and restrictions) • Environmental (Climate, recycling procedures, carbon footprint, waste disposal, and sustainability) Get 10-25% Discount on Immediate purchase 👉 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/request-discount/2775514-covid-19-outbreak-global-cricket-analysis-software-industry-market?utm_source=Akash_OpenPR&utm_id=Akash Points Covered in Table of Content of Global Cricket Analysis Software Market: Chapter 01 - Cricket Analysis Software Executive Summary Chapter 02 - Market Overview Chapter 03 - Key Success Factors Chapter 04 - Global Cricket Analysis Software Market - Pricing Analysis Chapter 05 - Global Cricket Analysis Software Market Background or History Chapter 06 - Global Cricket Analysis Software Market Segmentation (e.g. Type, Application) Chapter 07 - Key and Emerging Countries Analysis Worldwide Cricket Analysis Software Market Chapter 08 - Global Cricket Analysis Software Market Structure & worth Analysis Chapter 09 - Global Cricket Analysis Software Market Competitive Analysis & Challenges Chapter 10 - Assumptions and Acronyms Chapter 11 - Cricket Analysis Software Market Research Methodology Key questions answered • How Global Cricket Analysis Software Market growth & size is changing in next few years? • Who are the Leading players and what are their futuristic plans in the Global Cricket Analysis Software market? • What are the key concerns of the 5-forces analysis of the Global Cricket Analysis Software market? • What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key vendors? • What are the different prospects and threats faced by the dealers in the Global Cricket Analysis Software market? Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter-wise sections or region-wise report versions like North America, LATAM, Europe, Japan, Australia or Southeast Asia. Nidhi Bhawsar (PR & Marketing Manager) HTF Market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited Phone: +15075562445 sales@htfmarketreport.com About Author: HTF Market Intelligence Consulting is uniquely positioned to empower and inspire with research and consulting services to empower businesses with growth strategies. We offer services with extraordinary depth and breadth of thought leadership, research, tools, events, and experience that assist in decision-making. This release was published on openPR.Affiliate Disclosure If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Read our ethics policy . Grab Apple's M3 15-inch MacBook Air with 24GB RAM, 1TB for $1,699 ($200 off) Christine McKee | Dec 11, 2024 Grab an exclusive discount on this M3 MacBook Air. 0 Facebook x.com Reddit This 2024 15-inch MacBook Air in the elegant Midnight colorway features an upgrade to 24GB of unified memory and 1TB of storage. Best of all, it's discounted to $1,699 when you shop at B&H Photo using the exclusive pricing links in this post on a laptop or desktop. Get the MacBook Air deal Normally $1,899, the M3 MacBook Air can be used on the go or in your home office thanks to its 10-core GPU and upgraded specs. Enjoy a boost in performance with the bump up to 24GB of RAM and a comfortable 1TB of storage that make this ultraportable laptop a convenient addition to any Apple setup. (*) Activation instructions : To activate the exclusive deals at B&H, shop through the pricing links above from a laptop or desktop computer. 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( MENAFN - PR Newswire) NEW YORK, Dec. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global home services market size is estimated to grow by USD 6.54 trillion from 2024 to 2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 40.34% during the forecast period. The report provides a comprehensive forecast of key segments below- Segmentation Overview Get a glance at the market contribution of rest of the segments - Download a FREE Sample Report in minutes! 1.1 Fastest growing segment: The home care and design segment generates revenue through services including interior designing, pest control, deep cleaning, sofa cleaning, laundry services, glasswork, woodwork, waterproofing, masonry, and carpentry. This market is fragmented with numerous small and large players offering various home care and design services. For instance, TaskRabbit Inc. Provides house cleaning and furniture assembly, Helpling offers cleaning and furniture assembly in multiple cities, Cleanly specializes in laundry and dry-cleaning, and Serviz offers a wide range of cleaning services. Amazon also entered the market with offerings in deep cleaning, carpet cleaning, tile cleaning, grout cleaning, and gutter cleaning. The market's growth is driven by an increasing number of vendors and their business expansions in the segment. Analyst Review The Home Services Market is experiencing significant growth in the digital age, with the rise of online platforms and cloud-based solutions transforming the industry. Services such as home cleaning, landscaping, maintenance, repair, and improvement activities are now easily accessible through non-cellular and m-commerce platforms. The Internet and digitalization have made it possible for consumers to book appointments, track progress, and manage their homes more efficiently. Homeowners can now avail of services like plumbing, electrical work, and remodeling through e-commerce platforms, offering convenience and transparency. Companies have embraced cloud-based solutions like Microsoft Azure to offer virtual versions of their services, allowing for remote consultations and virtual assessments. The physical entity of home services is being complemented by these digital offerings, providing a more comprehensive and convenient experience for consumers. Services like Ginger, One Medical, and Zimmber, among others, are leading the charge in this digital transformation. They cater to various needs, from health and welfare to home cleaning and maintenance. Timesaverz and similar platforms are making it easier for homeowners to manage their homes and schedules, while healthcare providers are leveraging technology to offer telemedicine and remote consultations. The future of home services is a blend of physical and digital offerings, providing consumers with greater convenience, accessibility, and value. Market Overview The Home Services Market is a dynamic and growing industry that caters to various needs of homeowners, renters, and property managers. This market includes a wide range of services such as home cleaning, landscaping, plumbing, electrical work, remodeling, and maintenance activities. With the increasing trend of digitalization and e-commerce, the market has seen the emergence of mobile and m-commerce platforms, cloud-based solutions, and virtual versions of physical entities. Non-cellular devices like smartphones have become essential tools for booking appointments and managing services online. The market serves diverse customer segments, including homeowners, renters, and property managers, who seek to ensure safety, comfort, aesthetic appeal, and maintenance of their homes. The Ageing Housing Stock and DIY trends present opportunities for growth, while regulatory difficulties, labour shortages, and technological disruptions pose challenges. Environmental considerations and price wars are also significant factors influencing the market. Services offered include plumbing, electrical repairs, HVAC maintenance, appliance repairs, home improvement, renovations and remodeling, carpentry and woodworking, and various cleaning services such as house cleaning, carpet cleaning, window cleaning, and gutter cleaning. To understand more about this market- Download a FREE Sample Report in minutes! Key Topics Covered: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Vendor Landscape 11 Vendor Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: SOURCE Technavio MENAFN15122024003732001241ID1108995591 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.

Outsource Debt Collection Services Market Overview and Leading Players: Transworld Systems Inc (TSI), Altus GTS Inc., Cerved, KRUK Group, TCM Group, Link Financial, Prestige Services Inc (PSI), Arrow Global 12-15-2024 10:18 PM CET | Business, Economy, Finances, Banking & Insurance Press release from: STATS N DATA Outsource Debt Collection Services Market The Outsource Debt Collection Services Market is emerging as a pivotal sector within the broader financial services landscape, providing essential support to businesses seeking to recover outstanding debts efficiently. As companies increasingly turn to third-party agencies to manage their debt recovery processes, the relevance and scope of outsourced debt collection services are expanding significantly. This growth is not only driven by the need for improved cash flow management but also by the evolving landscape of consumer behavior and payment preferences. Recent technological advancements have played a crucial role in the market's evolution. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and data analytics is revolutionizing how debt collection agencies operate. These technologies enable agencies to tailor their approaches based on individual consumer profiles, leading to more effective recovery strategies and enhanced customer experiences. Furthermore, strategic collaborations between debt collection agencies and technology firms are fostering innovation, allowing for the development of new tools and platforms that streamline debt recovery processes. You can access a sample PDF report here: https://www.statsndata.org/download-sample.php?id=97720 As the market continues to evolve, staying attuned to current trends is paramount. Companies that leverage these advancements while aligning their strategies with changing consumer expectations are poised to thrive. The demand for more ethical and sustainable debt collection practices is also on the rise. Businesses that prioritize transparency, communication, and customer-centric approaches stand to gain a competitive edge in this dynamic environment. Key Growth Drivers and Trends Several critical factors are influencing the demand for outsourced debt collection services. The trend towards sustainability is becoming increasingly relevant, as consumers show a preference for companies that demonstrate social responsibility. Debt collection agencies that adopt sustainable practices not only enhance their brand image but also attract clients who prioritize such values. Digitization is another significant driver. The shift towards online transactions and digital payment methods has altered consumers' expectations regarding debt recovery processes. As a result, debt collection agencies must adapt to these changes by implementing digital solutions that facilitate seamless interactions with debtors. Consumer awareness has also surged, with individuals becoming more informed about their rights and the various debt collection practices. This heightened awareness compels agencies to adopt more ethical and transparent approaches, reshaping the market landscape. The integration of AI into debt collection processes is a transformative trend that is reshaping the industry. By utilizing AI-driven analytics, agencies can predict consumer behavior, optimize collection strategies, and improve overall efficiency. Additionally, product customization is gaining traction, as clients seek tailored solutions that align with their specific needs and objectives. Emerging technologies, such as chatbots and virtual assistants, are further enhancing the efficiency of debt recovery operations, allowing for faster responses and improved customer engagement. Market Segmentation The Outsource Debt Collection Services Market can be segmented into various categories for a comprehensive understanding of its dynamics. - Segment by Type - Early Out Debt: This segment focuses on accounts that are still in the early stages of delinquency. Agencies specializing in early out debt collection employ proactive strategies to engage debtors and encourage timely payments. - Bad Debt: This segment deals with accounts that have been significantly overdue. Agencies often utilize more rigorous collection strategies to recover these debts, which may involve legal action or negotiation. - Segment by Application - Healthcare: The healthcare sector represents a substantial portion of the market, with agencies collecting overdue payments for medical services and treatments. - Student Loans: As student debt continues to rise, agencies specializing in student loan collections are increasingly relevant, helping borrowers manage repayment. - Financial Services: This broad category includes various financial institutions that require debt recovery services to manage credit card debts, loans, and other financial obligations. - Government: Government entities often rely on outsourced debt collection services to recover unpaid taxes, fines, and other public debts. - Retail: Retailers are frequently faced with overdue payments from customers, making this sector a significant application area for debt collection services. - Telecom & Utility: Companies in telecommunications and utilities also utilize outsourced services to recover unpaid bills, a critical aspect of maintaining cash flow. - Mortgage & Others: This category encompasses mortgage-related debt collection and other miscellaneous debt recovery services, reflecting the diverse applications of outsourced debt collection. Get 30% Discount On Full Report: https://www.statsndata.org/ask-for-discount.php?id=97720 Competitive Landscape The competitive landscape of the Outsource Debt Collection Services Market is characterized by a diverse array of players, each contributing to industry innovation and best practices. Notable companies include: - Transworld Systems Inc (TSI): A leader in debt recovery, TSI combines advanced technology with personalized service to optimize the debt collection process for clients across various industries. - Altus GTS Inc.: Renowned for its comprehensive debt recovery solutions, Altus GTS focuses on client partnerships and innovative strategies to enhance recovery rates. - Cerved: This prominent firm specializes in credit information and debt collection, leveraging extensive data analytics to support its clients' recovery efforts. - KRUK Group: With a strong presence in the market, KRUK Group employs cutting-edge technology to streamline its collection processes while maintaining a focus on ethical practices. - TCM Group: TCM Group is known for its tailored solutions and commitment to customer satisfaction, establishing itself as a trusted partner for businesses seeking debt recovery services. - Link Financial: This company emphasizes transparency and communication, utilizing a customer-centric approach to foster positive relationships with debtors. - Prestige Services Inc (PSI): PSI is recognized for its innovative collection techniques and commitment to compliance, ensuring that recovery efforts align with regulatory standards. - Arrow Global: Arrow Global is a key player in the market, offering a diverse range of debt recovery services while focusing on sustainable practices. - PRA Group: A global leader in asset recovery, PRA Group employs data-driven strategies to enhance its debt recovery efforts across multiple sectors. - Bierens Debt Recovery Lawyers: Specializing in legal debt recovery, Bierens provides expertise in navigating complex debt situations and enforcing collections through legal channels. - B2Holding: B2Holding operates across Europe, offering comprehensive debt recovery services while emphasizing compliance and ethical practices. - Atradius Collections: This firm specializes in international debt recovery, leveraging its global network to assist clients in recovering debts across borders. - EOS Group: With a wide range of services, EOS Group focuses on innovative solutions and customer engagement to enhance recovery rates. - GC Services: GC Services is a major player in the market, providing a full suite of debt collection services while prioritizing client relationships. - Lowell: Lowell employs a technology-driven approach to debt recovery, ensuring efficient and effective collection practices. - Axactor: Axactor is committed to transforming the debt collection industry through innovative technology and a customer-first approach. - iQera: Known for its analytical capabilities, iQera utilizes data insights to optimize its debt collection strategies. - Intrum: Intrum is a leading credit management company, focusing on ethical debt recovery practices and customer engagement. - Creditreform: Creditreform combines credit information with debt recovery services, ensuring a comprehensive approach to managing outstanding debts. - iQor: iQor is dedicated to enhancing the customer experience in debt recovery through innovative communication strategies. - Hoist Finance: This company emphasizes responsible lending and ethical practices in debt recovery, aligning its services with consumer rights. - IC System: IC System is known for its commitment to compliance and customer service, ensuring positive debt recovery experiences. - Asta Funding: Asta Funding focuses on acquiring and managing consumer debt, employing innovative strategies to maximize recovery. - Encore Capital Group: This firm specializes in asset recovery and management, leveraging data analytics to drive its collection processes. - coeo Inkasso GmbH: Coeo is recognized for its customer-centric approach, working collaboratively with clients to achieve optimal recovery results. - Weinberg & Reis: This firm specializes in legal debt collection, providing expertise in navigating complex debt recovery scenarios. - Weltman: Weltman offers a comprehensive suite of debt recovery services, focusing on ethical practices and client satisfaction. - Arvato (Bertelsmann Group): Arvato combines technology with extensive industry expertise to provide effective debt recovery solutions. - Alorica: Alorica offers a range of customer engagement services, including debt recovery, focusing on enhancing the overall customer experience. - UNIVERSUM Group: This group emphasizes innovative debt recovery strategies while maintaining a focus on ethical practices. The contributions of these companies are shaping the future of the Outsource Debt Collection Services Market. Their commitment to innovation, client satisfaction, and ethical practices not only drives industry standards but also sets a benchmark for emerging players. Opportunities and Challenges The Outsource Debt Collection Services Market presents numerous opportunities for growth and expansion. Untapped regions, particularly in emerging markets, hold significant potential for debt recovery agencies. As economies develop and consumer credit usage increases, the demand for effective debt collection services is likely to rise. Evolving consumer preferences also present opportunities for companies willing to adapt. Consumers are increasingly seeking more personalized and transparent debt recovery experiences. Agencies that can offer tailored solutions and demonstrate empathy in their collection approaches are better positioned to build trust and loyalty among their clients. However, the market is not without its challenges. Regulatory constraints can pose significant hurdles, as agencies must navigate complex legal landscapes and comply with varying regulations across jurisdictions. Operational inefficiencies, such as outdated processes and insufficient technology, can impede recovery efforts and reduce overall effectiveness. Additionally, talent shortages in the industry can limit agencies' ability to deliver high-quality services. To address these challenges, agencies should invest in training and development programs to enhance their workforce's skills. Embracing automation and technology can also streamline operations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. Furthermore, fostering partnerships with legal and regulatory experts can help agencies stay compliant and navigate the ever-changing regulatory landscape. Technological Advancements Technological advancements are fundamentally transforming the Outsource Debt Collection Services Market. Artificial intelligence is at the forefront of this transformation, enabling agencies to analyze vast amounts of data quickly and gain insights into consumer behavior. AI-driven analytics allow for more accurate predictions of payment patterns, enabling agencies to tailor their collection strategies accordingly. Virtual tools and communication platforms are also revolutionizing the debt recovery process. Chatbots and automated messaging systems enhance customer engagement, allowing agencies to interact with debtors in real-time and provide timely updates on their accounts. This technology not only improves efficiency but also fosters a more positive experience for consumers. Moreover, the Internet of Things (IoT) is emerging as a valuable tool in debt collection. IoT-driven systems can provide agencies with real-time data on consumer behavior and payment trends, allowing for proactive engagement and timely interventions. By leveraging these cutting-edge technologies, agencies can streamline their operations and enhance their recovery capabilities. Research Methodology and Insights The insights presented in this press release are based on a rigorous research methodology employed by STATS N DATA. Our approach includes both top-down and bottom-up methodologies, ensuring a comprehensive analysis of the Outsource Debt Collection Services Market. Primary research involves direct engagement with industry experts, key stakeholders, and market participants to gather firsthand insights. Secondary research encompasses an extensive review of existing literature, market reports, and industry publications to support our findings. This multi-faceted approach allows us to triangulate data and ensure accuracy in our insights. Through this comprehensive research methodology, STATS N DATA provides actionable insights that empower businesses to make informed decisions in the Outsource Debt Collection Services Market. Our commitment to delivering reliable and up-to-date information positions us as a trusted authority in the industry. In conclusion, the Outsource Debt Collection Services Market is poised for significant growth, driven by technological advancements, evolving consumer expectations, and increasing demand for ethical practices. By understanding the market's dynamics, key players, and emerging trends, businesses can navigate this evolving landscape and capitalize on the opportunities it presents. For customization requests, please visit: https://www.statsndata.org/request-customization.php?id=97720 Full Outsource Debt Collection Services Market Report Link: https://www.statsndata.org/report/Global-Outsource-Debt-Collection-Services-Market-97720 Related Reports: Very Edge AI Chipset Market https://www.statsndata.org/report/very-edge-ai-chipset-market-2803 Securities Fraud Lawsuit Services Market https://www.statsndata.org/report/securities-fraud-lawsuit-services-market-272554 Floating Brake Caliper Market https://www.statsndata.org/report/floating-brake-caliper-market-123548 Luxury Scented Candles Market https://www.statsndata.org/report/luxury-scented-candles-market-61799 RAN Analytics & Monitoring Market https://www.statsndata.org/report/ran-analytics--monitoring-market-50524 John Jones Sales & Marketing Head | Stats N Data Phone: +1 (315) 642-4324 Email: sales@statsndata.org Website: www.statsndata.org STATS N DATA is a trusted provider of industry intelligence and market research, delivering actionable insights to businesses across diverse sectors. We specialize in helping organizations navigate complex markets with advanced analytics, detailed market segmentation, and strategic guidance. Our expertise spans industries including technology, healthcare, telecommunications, energy, food & beverages, and more. Committed to accuracy and innovation, we provide tailored reports that empower clients to make informed decisions, identify emerging opportunities, and achieve sustainable growth. Our team of skilled analysts leverages cutting-edge methodologies to ensure every report addresses the unique challenges of our clients. At STATS N DATA, we transform data into knowledge and insights into success. Partner with us to gain a competitive edge in today's fast-paced business environment. For more information, visit https://www.statsndata.org or contact us today at sales@statsndata.org This release was published on openPR.US stocks closed near session highs on Friday as investors surveyed President-elect Donald Trump's efforts to build his team and bitcoin's ( BTC-USD ) bid to reach a key milestone. The S&P 500 ( ^GSPC ) advanced 0.3%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average ( ^DJI ) gained over 400 points, or almost 1%, to close at a record. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite ( ^IXIC ) rose 0.2%. The major gauges closed out the week with wins of over 1%, despite getting off to a lackluster start as the post-election rally stalled. Markets regrouped after Nvidia's ( NVDA ) earnings fell short of definitively settling the question of whether AI would keep boosting stocks . Some of the "Magnificent Seven" tech megacap stocks closed lower on Friday, including Alphabet ( GOOG , GOOGL ), dogged by the potential forced sale of Google Chrome. Consumer Discretionary ( XLY ), Industrials ( XLI ), and Financials ( XLF ) led the sector gains this week, with XLF closing at an all-time high. Wall Street is still waiting to learn whom Trump will tap for his Treasury secretary — an announcement that could sway markets, given its importance to the economy. The president-elect tapped former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi to be the US attorney general after his prior pick, Matt Gaetz, withdrew his name from consideration on Thursday. Meanwhile, surging bitcoin continued to move near the landmark $100,000 level , buoyed by growing confidence that the Trump administration will support pro-crypto policies. The leading token broke above $99,500 early on Friday before retreating amid hopes for looser regulatory oversight after SEC Chair Gary Gensler said he will step down soon. Smaller cryptocurrencies also got a boost. By subscribing, you are agreeing to Yahoo's Terms and Privacy Policy Stocks rose on Friday with the Dow Jones Industrial Average ( ^DJI ) closing at a record high. The blue chip index added more than 400 points, or about 1% while the S&P 500 ( ^GSPC ) gained almost 0.4%. The Nasdaq Composite ( ^IXIC ) rose slightly. All three major averages rose more than 1% for the week. The 'Magnificent 7' stocks were mixed on Friday with Nvidia ( NVDA ) shares dipping more than 3% while Tesla ( TSLA ) shares popped almost 4% on Friday, helping lift the Consumer Discretionary ( XLY ) sector. Investors also gravitated towards Industrials ( XLI ), and Financials ( XLF ) which also led the weekly sector gains. Oil moved higher for the week as traders priced the threat of a supply disruption amid an escalating Russia-Ukraine war. Meanwhile Bitcoin ( BTC-USD ) hovered around $99,200 as of 4 p.m. ET as investors watched the cryptocurrency climb toward the $100,000 milestone. Next Thursday the stock market will be closed due to the Thanksgiving holiday. The biggest winning sectors this week were the ones leading Friday's gains — Consumer Discretionary ( XLY ), Industrials ( XLI ), and Financials ( XLF ). Here's a 5-day chart of the sector action. Consumer Discretionary includes EV giant ( TSLA ), which is up for the week. Investors have also been rotating into Industrial stocks and bank stocks since Donald Trump's presidencial win earlier this month. Oil moved up more than 1.5% on Friday as the Russia-Ukraine war escalated. West Texas Intermediate ( CL=F ) futures climbed to settle at $71.24 per barrel, while Brent ( BZ=F ), the international benchmark, rose above above $75. Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday he will continue testing a new missile after a recent strike against Ukraine in response to Kyiv’s use of US and British made weaponry this week. Crude prices were on pace for a weekly gain amid concerns that an escalated war could lead to the interruption of Russian supply. Nvidia ( NVDA ) shares dipped more than 3% to hit session lows on Friday afternoon despite quarterly results earlier this week that beat analyst expectations. Enthusiasm over how much higher shares of the chip giant can run seems to have stalled as investors have rotated out of the AI darling and into Consumer Discretionary ( XLY ), Industrials ( XLI ), and Financials ( XLF ). Yahoo Finance's Dan Howley reports: Microsoft ( MSFT ) is preparing to roll out its long-delayed artificial intelligence-powered Recall feature for Windows 11 PCs to developers as part of its Windows Insider program. The company initially announced Recall back in May when it debuted its Copilot+ PCs , AI PCs that have a specific set of features for running native AI applications. Recall is designed to capture screenshots of the various tasks you perform while using your computer, whether that’s browsing the web or working on a document. Read more here. Bitcoin ( BTC-USD ) rose back above $99,000 as investors watched the cryptocurrency climb toward the $100,000 milestone. The token has been at the center of the Trump trade over optimism that the incoming administration will implement pro-crypto policies. Year to date, bitcoin is up more than 120%. Tesla ( TSLA ) shares popped 4% on Friday, helping lift the Consumer Discretionary ( XLY ) sector. Shares of the EV giant are on track for a weekly win. The stock is up roughly 40% since the presidential elections earlier this month over optimism that CEO Elon Musk's support for President-elect Donald Trump will result in looser regulations around autonomous driving. Satellite TV provider DirecTV ( T , TPG ) will no longer merge with rival Dish Network ( SATS ) after bondholders rejected the offer. The deal, which was contingent on a key debt exchange, would have created one of the nation's largest pay-TV providers . Both companies had discussed a possible combination more than two decades ago. “While we believed a combination of DirecTV and Dish would have benefited all stakeholders, we have terminated the transaction because the proposed exchange terms were necessary to protect DirecTV’s balance sheet and our operational flexibility,” DirecTV CEO Bill Morrow said in a statement. Shares in EchoStar, which owns Dish Network, fell by more than 4% on Friday following the news. The deal would have helped aid EchoStar's heavy debt load while also helping cut costs for the owners of DirecTV. AT&T spun off DirecTV in 2021, moving it into a joint venture with private equity investor TPG. At the time, it was valued at about $16 billion with the telecom giant taking a $15.5 billion impairment charge in 2020 to account for subscriber losses. DirecTV was dealt yet another blow after it lost its coveted Sunday Ticket package to Alphabet's YouTube TV ( GOOGL , GOOG ) in late 2022. Amid those struggles, AT&T recently revealed it would sell its entire 70% stake to TPG for $7.6 billion in a move that allows the telecom operator to fully exit the TV business. That deal is still on. AT&T previously had agreed to hold on to its stake in DirecTV for a three-year period, which expired on July 31. Nvidia ( NVDA ) shares dropped more than 2% on Friday, dragging on the Nasdaq Composite ( ^IXIC ). Shares of the AI chip heavyweight opened in the red after wavering between positive and negative territory on Thursday in reaction to the company's latest quarterly results. Other 'Magnificent Seven' stocks were also under pressure, with Alphabet ( GOOGL , GOOG ) down more than 1% after losing more than 4% in the prior session. E-commerce giant ( AMZN ) was also down less than 1%. Meanwhile, Tesla ( TSLA ) stock rose more than 1%. The Nasdaq was struggling to stay in green territory, down roughly 0.3% by 10:30 a.m. ET. US economic output is roaring as businesses prepare for lower interest rates and a new administration in Washington. S&P Global's flash US composite PMI , which captures activity in both the services and manufacturing sectors, came in at 55.3 in November, up from 54.1 in October. Economists had expected the index to tick up to 54.1. The composite PMI reading for November also signaled the fastest expansion of business activity since April 2022. Chris Williamson, chief business economist at S&P Global Market Intelligence, said the data shows business ramping up activity amid a changing operating environment, headed into 2025. “The business mood has brightened in November, with confidence about the year ahead hitting a two-and-a-half year high," Williamson said. "The prospect of lower interest rates and a more pro-business approach from the incoming administration has fueled greater optimism, in turn helping drive output and order book inflows higher in November." Super Micro Computer ( SMCI ) — an AI server maker that uses Nvidia's chips and has a major deal with Elon Musk's xAI — continued a sharp ascent Friday. Shares rose over 9% in early trading, putting the stock on track to record a weekly gain of over 65%. The stock's rally this week has been driven by the company's announcement that it's hired a new auditor and submitted a compliance plan to avoid delisting by the Nasdaq. Super Micro's prior accountant, Ernst & Young, resigned in late October, saying it was "unwilling to be associated with the financial statements prepared by management," and the server maker has been at risk of delisting. Super Micro is reportedly being investigated by the Department of Justice over allegations of accounting violations and other questionable business dealings outlined in a scathing report by short seller firm Hindenburg Research in late August. Reddit ( RDDT ) stock fell over 8% in early trading on Friday as investors reacted to a Bloomberg report that a company shareholder — Conde Nast parent Advance Magazine Publishers Inc. — is looking to establish a credit facility using its stake in the social media platform. Citing people familiar with the matter, Bloomberg reported that Advance Magazine Publishers Inc. is offering 7.8 million shares for $145.38 to $148.54 each, which would be valued at as much as $1.2 billion. That price range represented as much as an 8% discount on Reddit's closing price Thursday of $158. Reddit stock has been on a massive rally over the past month, surging more than 90% since its earnings beat in late October. The social media company went public in March in one of 2024's few hot IPOs, surging nearly 50% after its debut. Shares rose 16% on Thursday alone. The Dow Jones Industrial Average ( ^DJI ) added 250 points, or 0.6%, shortly after the market open as shares of Home Depot ( HD ), Honeywell ( HON ), and Nike ( NKE ) rose. The S&P 500 ( ^GSPC ) gained 0.4%, while the Nasdaq Composite ( ^IXIC ) stepped above the flat line. Stocks wavered at the open on Friday, but the major averages were still on track to end the week with wins. Meanwhile, investors watched the price of bitcoin ( BTC-USD ), with the leading token trading a stone's throw away from $100,000. The S&P 500 ( ^GSPC ) rose slightly, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average ( ^DJI ) was little changed. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite ( ^IXIC ) fell slightly. Alphabet ( GOOGL , GOOG ) shares extended losses after dropping more than 4% on Thursday amid the threat of a forced sale of Google's Chrome browser. Bitcoin climbed above $99,400 early on Friday before retreating. The cryptocurrency has been on fire since Donald Trump's presidential victory earlier this month, amid optimism that his incoming administration will implement crypto-friendly policies. By 9:30 a.m. ET, bitcoin was trading at just under $98,000. Bitcoin ( BTC-USD ) neared the $100,000 level Friday in its latest flirtation with the milestone. Yahoo Finance's Julie Hyman reports on bitcoin's recent surge, up nearly 50% in the past month: The most-held cryptocurrency has been surging since the US presidential election as the crypto community expects a more friendly regulatory regime with President-elect Trump as "HODLer-in-chief." That added to an already torrid rally this year, prompted by the introduction of spot bitcoin ETFs. On the policy front, encouraging signs have been mounting: Coinbase ( COIN ) CEO Brian Armstrong reportedly met with Trump to discuss his picks for the head of the Securities and Exchange Commission. And SEC boss Gary Gensler and FDIC Chair Martin Gruenberg, seen as crypto foes by the industry, are stepping down around Inauguration Day. Read the full story here. Economic data: S&P Global US manufacturing & services PMI (November preliminary); University of Michigan consumer sentiment (November final) Earnings: No notable earnings releases. Here are some of the biggest stories you may have missed overnight and early this morning: YF columnist Rick Newman: Musk's DOGE is already overreaching 2025 Medicare premiums will eat into Social Security checks Bitcoin's surging to $100K — and that's what it needs to do Boeing CEO tells staff to focus on competition, not complaining Gold gains, set for biggest weekly jump in 13 months Honeywell to sell PPE business for $1.33B Cryptos targeted by SEC rise after Gensler steps away

Manchester City plunged deeper into trouble in the Champions League by losing 2-0 at Juventus on Wednesday, the latest setback in a scarcely believable run of poor results for the ailing English champions. City dropped to 22nd place in the 36-team standings, with only the top 24 advancing. Progressing to the next round of the new-look format looked a certainty before the season for a team that was European champion in 2023 and has won the last four Premier League titles. But not anymore as City manager Pep Guardiola battles injuries and an apparent loss of belief among his players. City has won just one of its last 10 matches in all competitions, with goals by Dušan Vlahović and Weston McKennie inflicting the latest defeat and igniting Juventus' qualification hopes. City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan described the team's problem as a “mental issue.” Opponents “are able to break our rhythm with the smallest of things,” Gundogan said. "They don’t even need to do much and it has such a big effect on us right now.” Barcelona jumped into second place in the league standings, behind Liverpool, and is guaranteed to advance after a 3-2 win at Borussia Dortmund. Raphinha and Ferran Torres, with two goals, scored for Barca. Arsenal beat Monaco 3-0 mainly thanks to two goals by Bukayo Saka to move into third place and be the highest of six teams on 13 points. The top eight qualify directly for the last 16 and the teams placed No. 9-24 go into a two-legged playoff. Danger for City City has two games to save its faltering Champions League campaign and the first is against Paris Saint-Germain, another giant in trouble in 25th place — one spot out of the qualifying positions. Vlahović put Juventus ahead in the 53rd when he powered a header goalward straight at City goalkeeper Ederson, who could only parry the ball over his own line. Two American substitutes sealed the win for Juve, with McKennie volleying home from Timothy Weah's cross. Juventus moved into 14th place. Super-sub Torres Ferran Torres came off the bench to inspire Barcelona to a fifth win in six games and push Dortmund, last season's runner-up, out of the top eight. Torres came on in the 71st to replace Robert Lewandowski, who had a quiet game against his former club. Just four minutes later, Torres scored a goal on the rebound from Dani Olmo’s shot. Serhou Guirassy’s second goal of the game leveled the score at 2-2 but Torres scored again in the 85th off Lamine Yamal’s pass on the counter. Raphinha gave Barcelona the lead before Guirassy equalized from the penalty spot. Raphinha and Guirassy are tied for second place in the scoring chart on six goals, behind Lewandowski's competition-high seven. Home comforts for Arsenal Arsenal secured a third straight home win without conceding in the league stage, with Saka scoring in the 34th and 78th minutes and sending in a shot that was turned into the net by substitute Kai Havertz in the 88th. Arsenal is ahead of Bayer Leverkusen, Aston Villa, Inter Milan, Brest and Lille on goal difference. Lille won 3-2 at home to Sturm Graz on Wednesday. In-form Alvarez Man City could sure do with Julian Alvarez at the moment. With a brilliant curling finish to open the scoring, the Argentina striker helped Atletico Madrid beat Slovan Bratislava 3-1 and provide a timely reminder of what City is missing after selling him for more than $100 million in August. Alvarez has 12 goals for the season, with four coming in the Champions League. Antoine Griezmann scored Atletico’s other two goals at Metropolitano stadium as the Spanish team climbed to 11th place after a 10th straight win in all competitions. Tribute to grieving teammate When Lukasz Lakomy gave Young Boys the lead against Stuttgart, he ran toward the sideline and held up teammate Meschack Elia’s jersey as others gathered around him. The gesture was a tribute after Elia’s son died unexpectedly this week after a short illness. Elia wasn’t playing as he was on his way to his native Congo, where his son died, to be with his family. Both teams wore black armbands and there was a moment of silence before the game, which was won 5-1 by Stuttgart. Late winner Tammy Abraham scored an 87th-minute winner as AC Milan beat Red Star Belgrade 2-1 to move one point off the top eight. Milan lost Alvaro Morata and Ruben Loftus-Cheek to muscle injuries in the first half. Benfica’s five-match winning streak ended with a 0-0 home draw against Bologna, and Feyenoord had a 4-2 win over Sparta Prague. ___ Steve Douglas is at https://twitter.com/sdouglas80 ___ AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer Steve Douglas, The Associated PressThe Masked Singer fans don't have to wait for the new year to tune into the popular singing competition. On Boxing Day, the family can gather together to unwind and watch the Christmas special on the ITV programme. Of course, there will be festive-themed costumes as viewers try to guess the celebrity behind the masks. Although Love Island star Maya Jama has been announced as a new judge on the main show, she won't be present for the special. The special will see judges Dawn French, Jennifer Saunders, Jonathan Ross and Mo Gilligan come together to solve the mystery behind the costumes. Like every series, the judges will have to guess who is singing by following clues, listening to the songs and watching the mystery celebrities dance. This year, fans will be treated with performances from Christmas Cracker, Star, Turkey Crown and a Nutcracker. Here's everything we know about the Christmas special, including all the costumes... The celebrity behind the Christmas Cracker could be seen rocking an elaborate costume that resembled a Christmas Cracker. It looked like the cracker was already half pulled open as gadgets were spilling out of the cracker to resemble all the fun gifts we get in a cracker every Christmas. Meanwhile, Star is a much simpler costume featuring lots of different patterns and colours. To make it even more adorable, two giant eyes are emblazoned on the top. Meanwhile, one celebrity is rocking a full-roasted Turkey costume, complete with a giant crown where the turkey's head would have been. You can't have a Christmas event without turkey! We also have Nutcracker ready to perform, but it's not ordinary Nutcracker. Instead of a normal human, the star is dressed as what looks like a Fox in a Nutcracker costume. ITV teased the show on their Instagram Stories with a short clip they captioned: "id you REALLY think we'd make you wait for series 6!? As if!" Meanwhile, Maya Jama has replaced Rita Ora as a judge on the main competition. Speaking about joining the programme, Maya said in September: "I'm such a Masked Singer fan, so joining the panel alongside Davina, Jonathan, and Mo — and of course working with Joel— is going to be so much fun! "I can't wait to figure out who's underneath all those incredible costumes, vibe to their performances, and get front-row seats to the unmaskings. I've watched the show for a long time, so I'm definitely bringing my A-game to the panel!" Maya responded to The Masked Singer's social media announcement adding: "So excited." The Masked Singer: Christmas Special will air on ITV1 at 7.30pm on Boxing Day Follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .

Stock futures declined early Friday after major averages posted solid gains so far this holiday week. Futures tied to the Dow Jones Industrial Average shed 120 points. S&P 500 futures and Nasdaq 100 futures dipped 0.3% each. These moves follow thin trading action in Thursday's regular session . The 30-stock Dow eked out a narrow gain for its fifth winning day, while the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite ended the session just below the flatline. The three major U.S. indexes are in the green week to date after posting strong back-to-back gains at the start of the shortened holiday week. The S&P 500 is up 1.8% so far this week. The broad market index posted its best Christmas Eve performance since 1974 on Tuesday, according to Bespoke. The Dow has gained 1.1% this week, and a run-up in megacap tech stocks has pushed the Nasdaq Composite 2.3% higher. Although trading has been muted this week, investors hope stocks will surge into the new year, spurred by the so-called "Santa Claus rally ." This refers to the market's tendency to rise in the final five trading days of the year and the first two in January. "The nation is experiencing a collective sigh of relief after navigating through a contentious election cycle and unusual market dynamics to end 2024 with strong year-to-date gains," said Todd Ahlsten, chief investment officer at Parnassus Investments. "Looking ahead to 2025, the markets are expected to broaden and improve." In December, the Nasdaq is on pace for a 4.2% advance, lifted by a jump in Tesla and Alphabet shares, as well as by a rally in Apple that's brought the iPhone maker closer to a $4 trillion market cap. The S&P 500 is toting a nearly 0.1% gain on the month. The Dow is on pace for its worst month since April, with a roughly 3.5% decline. Stocks in Europe edged higher on Friday, with the pan-European Stoxx 600 index up 0.2% at 8:25 a.m. London time. Friday is the first full trading session for major European indexes after closures over the Christmas holiday. Investors were reacting to disappointing economic data out of China, with official figures showing industrial profits in the world's second biggest economy contracted for the fourth consecutive month in November . Mining stocks were among those in negative territory, while autos and healthcare stocks led gains. — Chloe Taylor The S&P 500 is likely to end next year near 7000, or nearly 16% above where the index closed Thursday, according to a forecast reiterated by Capital Economics chief markets economist John Higgins between last week's Fed meeting and Christmas. The London-based researcher is sticking with the projection even though "we think Fed policy will be a bit less accommodative than we had previously projected," and a selloff in bonds drove last week's weakness in stocks. The sanguine view is based on a belief that "the 10-year TIPS yield – which is typically used as a proxy for this risk-free component because equities are 'real' assets – won't end next year higher than it is now," Higgins wrote. "What's more, we still aren't expecting a major deficit-financed fiscal expansion in the U.S. that could bring out the bond vigilantes and drive up Treasury term premia substantially from still-low levels by the standards of the past," Capital Economics said. In addition, forward 12-months earnings per share for the S&P 500 "will continue to grow a bit next year." — Scott Schnipper Stock futures were marginally lower Thursday evening shortly after 6 p.m. ET. Futures tied to the Dow Jones Industrial Average shed 22 points, hovering just below flat. S&P 500 futures and Nasdaq 100 futures each dipped less than 0.1%. The three major U.S. indexes have posted strong gains during this holiday-shortened trading week. — Pia SinghUS troops in Syria to prevent Islamic State resurgenceTrump has pressed for voting changes. GOP majorities in Congress will try to make that happen ATLANTA (AP) — Republicans in Congress plan to move quickly in their effort to overhaul the nation’s voting procedures, seeing an opportunity with control of the White House and both chambers of Congress. They want to push through long-sought changes such as voter ID and proof-of-citizenship requirements. They say the measures are needed to restore public confidence in elections. That's after an erosion of trust that Democrats note has been fueled by false claims from Donald Trump and his allies of widespread fraud in the 2020 election. Democrats say they are willing to work with the GOP but want any changes to make it easier, not harder, to vote. Americans are exhausted by political news. TV ratings and a new AP-NORC poll show they're tuning out NEW YORK (AP) — A lot of Americans, after an intense presidential election campaign, are looking for a break in political news. That's evident in cable television news ratings and a poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. The poll found nearly two-thirds of Americans saying they've found the need recently to cut down on their consumption of political and government news. That's particularly true among Democrats following President-elect Donald Trump's victory, although a significant number of Republicans and independents feel the same way. Cable networks MSNBC and CNN are really seeing a slump. That's also happened in years past for networks that particularly appeal to supporters of one candidate. Israel strikes Houthi rebels in Yemen's capital while the WHO chief says he was meters away JERUSALEM (AP) — A new round of Israeli airstrikes in Yemen have targeted the Houthi rebel-held capital of Sanaa and multiple ports. The World Health Organization’s director-general said the bombardment on Thursday took place just “meters away” as he was about to board a flight in Sanaa. He says a crew member was hurt. The strikes followed several days of Houthi attacks and launches setting off sirens in Israel. Israel's military says it attacked infrastructure used by the Houthis at the international airport in Sanaa, power stations and ports. The Israeli military didn't immediate respond to questions about the WHO chief's statement. The US says it pushed retraction of a famine warning for north Gaza. Aid groups express concern. WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. officials say they asked for — and got — the retraction of an independent monitor's warning of imminent famine in north Gaza. The internationally Famine Early Warning System Network issued the warning this week. The new report had warned that starvation deaths in north Gaza could reach famine levels as soon as next month. It cited what it called Israel's “near-total blockade” of food and water. The U.S. ambassador to Israel, Jacob Lew, criticized the finding as inaccurate and irresponsible. The U.S. Agency for International Development, which funds the famine-monitoring group, told the AP it had asked for and gotten the report's retraction. USAID officials tell The Associated Press that it had asked the group for greater review of discrepancies in some of the data. India's former prime minister Manmohan Singh, architect of economic reforms, dies aged 92 NEW DELHI (AP) — India’s former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, widely regarded as the architect of India’s economic reform program and a landmark nuclear deal with the United States, has died. He was 92. The hospital said Singh was admitted to New Delhi’s All India Institute of Medical Sciences late Thursday after his health deteriorated due to “sudden loss of consciousness at home.". He was “being treated for age-related medical conditions,” the statement added. A mild-mannered technocrat, Singh became one of India’s longest-serving prime ministers for 10 years and earned a reputation as a man of great personal integrity. But his sterling image was tainted by allegations of corruption against his ministers. What is known about a plane crash in Kazakhstan that killed 38 of 67 people on board The crash of an Azerbaijani airliner in Kazakhstan has killed 38 of 67 people on board. Azerbaijan Airlines’ Embraer 190 was en route from Azerbaijani capital Baku to the Russian city of Grozny in the North Caucasus on Wednesday when it was diverted for reasons that aren’t fully clear yet. It crashed while making an attempt to land in Aktau in Kazakhstan after flying east across the Caspian Sea. Officials in Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan and Russia haven't commented on a possible cause of the crash pending an official investigation. Some commentators pointed out holes in the plane's tail section pictured after the crash as a sign that it could have been fired upon by air defense systems. Ukraine's military intelligence says North Korean troops are suffering heavy battlefield losses KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ukraine's military intelligence says North Korean troops are suffering heavy losses in Russia's Kursk region and face logistical difficulties as a result of Ukrainian attacks. The intelligence agency said Thursday that Ukrainian strikes near Novoivanovka inflicted heavy casualties on North Korean units. Ukraine's president said earlier this week that 3,000 North Korean troops have been killed and wounded in the fighting in the Kursk region. It marked the first significant estimate by Ukraine of North Korean casualties several weeks after Kyiv announced that North Korea had sent 10,000 to 12,000 troops to Russia to help it in the almost 3-year war. How the stock market defied expectations again this year, by the numbers NEW YORK (AP) — What a wonderful year 2024 has been for investors. U.S. stocks ripped higher and carried the S&P 500 to records as the economy kept growing and the Federal Reserve began cutting interest rates. The benchmark index posted its first back-to-back annual gains of more than 20% since 1998. The year featured many familiar winners, such as Big Tech, which got even bigger as their stock prices kept growing. But it wasn’t just Apple, Nvidia and the like. Bitcoin and gold surged and “Roaring Kitty” reappeared to briefly reignite the meme stock craze. Holiday shoppers increased spending by 3.8% despite higher prices New data shows holiday sales rose this year even as Americans wrestled with still high prices in many grocery necessities and other financial worries. According to Mastercard SpendingPulse, holiday sales from the beginning of November through Christmas Eve climbed 3.8%, a faster pace than the 3.1% increase from a year earlier. The measure tracks all kinds of payments including cash and debit cards. This year, retailers were even more under the gun to get shoppers in to buy early and in bulk since there were five fewer days between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Mastercard SpendingPulse says the last five days of the season accounted for 10% of the spending. Sales of clothing, electronics and Jewelry rose. Why this Mexican American woman played a vital role in the US sacramental peyote trade MIRANDO CITY, Texas (AP) — Amada Cardenas, a Mexican American woman who lived in the tiny border town of Mirando City in South Texas, played an important role in the history of the peyote trade. She and her husband were the first federally licensed peyote dealers who harvested and sold the sacramental plant to followers of the Native American Church in the 1930s. After her husband's death in 1967, Cardenas continued to welcome generations of Native American Church members to her home until her death in 2005, just before her 101st birthday.

Springfield, IL (Capitolnewsillinois.com) A conservative Catholic legal group is suing Illinois over a landmark state law enshrining a "fundamental right" to abortion care and requiring insurance companies to cover abortion and other reproductive health care. The lawsuit, filed Wednesday in federal court in Chicago by the Thomas More Society, seeks to prevent the state from requiring insurers to cover abortion coverage by arguing that doing so violates the First Amendment and 14th Amendment rights of its plaintiffs. It also argues that the state is in violation of the Comstock Act, which criminalizes mailing abortion-related materials, because it requires health insurers to cover providers who send abortion medication in the mail. This federal provision, which hasn't been widely enforced against abortion providers in decades, has been discussed among anti-abortion activists and conservative politicians as one way to crack down on abortion access. The lawsuit also relies on the Coats-Snowe Amendment and the Weldon Amendment, which prevent states that receive federal funding from discriminating against health care entities because they don't provide abortions. It was filed on behalf of six organizations and six individuals against Gov. JB Pritzker, Illinois Department of Insurance Director Ann Gillespie and Attorney General Kwame Raoul. "Gov. J.B. Pritzker and his administration are on an uncompromising campaign to transform the Land of Lincoln into the nation's abortion capital," Thomas More Society's head of litigation Peter Breen said in a statement. "In doing so, they have shown little-to-no regard for the rights of those who believe that all human life is worth protecting." The plaintiffs involved in the lawsuit include three anti-abortion advocacy groups, a church, a private Christian school, a DuPage County machining business and six individuals. The law at the center of the legal complaint, the Reproductive Health Act, passed in 2019 and was meant at the time as a protective measure ahead of the expected overturning of Roe v. Wade. It has been strengthened several times in the years since. The legal complaint alleges the law forces Illinoisans "to choose between paying for other people's elective abortions with their premiums or forgoing health insurance entirely." The lawsuit equated that to a choice of struggling to recruit staff by not offering insurance on principal or subjecting themselves to "charges of hypocrisy" by offering insurance that covers behaviors they condemn. They argue this prevents them from being able to engage in "expressive association" as guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution. The Thomas More Society previously but unsuccessfully challenged Illinois' abortion insurance requirements in state court on behalf of the Illinois Baptist State Association. In 2020, it sued the state's Department of Insurance and Pritzker in another attempt to prevent them from enforcing the Reproductive Health Act. That lawsuit claimed the law violated the state's Religious Freedom Restoration Act, which protects individuals' right to freedom of religion, and the Illinois Health Care Right of Conscience Act, which allows doctors and other practitioners to conscientiously refuse to provide medical treatments, including abortion. Sangamon County Circuit Court Judge Chris Perrin ruled in favor of the state in September of this year, noting that the claim in that case failed because the plaintiffs did not demonstrate that the Reproductive Health Act "imposes the type of coercive choice necessary to establish a substantial burden." State and federal law often rely on different legal standards, so whether a federal judge will reach the same conclusion is still untested. In the meantime, the Thomas More Society has filed an appeal in the state case. At the time of the Sangamon County decision, Attorney General Kwame Raoul said it was "a win in a years-long fight that is by no means over." On Wednesday, he said that remains true. "And I remain steadfast in my commitment to protecting reproductive rights in the state of Illinois," Raoul said in a statement. Other abortion rights advocates reacted to the legal challenge with confidence that abortion access will prevail in the case. Rep. Kelly Cassidy, D-Chicago, said the federal case was "a pathetic retread of a case that they lost." Cassidy was the chief sponsor of the Reproductive Health Act and is a longtime champion of abortion protections at the Statehouse. "Fundamentally, without appropriate access, a right isn't a right," Cassidy said. "So this is fundamental to ensuring that we truly have an accessible system here in Illinois. If it's only available to those who can afford it, it's not a right." This story is provided as a service of the Institute for Nonprofit News’ On the Ground news wire. The Institute for Nonprofit News (INN) is a network of more than 475 independent, nonprofit newsrooms serving communities throughout the US, Canada, and globally. On the Ground is a service of INN, which aggregates the best of its members’ elections and political content, and provides it free for republication. Read more about INN here: https://inn.org/ . Please coordinate with jrogers@capitolnewsillinois.com should you want to publish photos for this piece. This content cannot be modified, apart from rewriting the headline. To view the original version, visit: https://capitolnewsillinois.com/news/new-federal-lawsuit-from-conservative-legal-group-challenges-illinois-abortion-protections/Gordon Brown declares opposition to assisted dying lawJoy Taylor argues the criticism of Deion Sanders' NFL coaching potential is unwarranted, emphasizing his achievements and impact in college football. Colorado Buffaloes head football coach Deion Sanders laid down the rules for his team as they arrived at their hotel in preparation for the Alamo Bowl in San Antonio, Texas. Sanders was seen in a video telling his players there was no smoking allowed. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders before the game against the Oklahoma State Cowboys at Folsom Field in Boulder, Colorado, Nov. 29, 2024. (Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images) "If I smell smoke on any floor or if I get someone that tells me somebody is smoking on that floor, that will be your last puff," Sanders said. Colorado players started laughing but Coach Prime made clear he was serious. "I’m just trying to tell you – it will be your last puff. That’ll be your last puff. I hope it was good because that’s gonna be your last one," he said. "I promise you, if I smell smoke on your clothes at practice in the morning, at breakfast, at anything, that’s gonna be your last time." Sanders is taking his first Football Bowl Subdivision bowl game very seriously. 2024-25 COLLEGE FOOTBALL BOWL GAME SCHEDULE: SCORES, DATES, TIMES, TV CHANNELS Colorado head coach Deion Sanders talks with quarterback Shedeur Sanders during a timeout in the Central Florida game, Sept. 28, 2024, in Orlando, Florida. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack, File) The Buffalos will enter their first bowl game since the 2020 season, which was shortened due to the coronavirus pandemic. But the football program hasn’t won a bowl game since 2004, when Gary Barnett was still roaming the sidelines for the Buffaloes. Colorado has two players who are certain to go in the top five in the upcoming NFL Draft in Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders . Because of that, Colorado took out disability insurance in case the players get hurt in the Alamo Bowl and mess up their draft stock. "We have a multitude of players that are draftable, that they received a draft grade. They’ve disability (insurance) all season long. We want to make sure that if something were to happen, they would cover it," Sanders said Monday. Colorado head coach Deion Sanders congratulates place kicker Cristiano Palazzo after he kicked an extra point against Oklahoma State, Nov. 29, 2024, in Boulder. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski) CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP "We happen to have two players that are probably going to be the first two picks of the NFL Draft. I think we all know who those two are, and they have received, I think, the highest number of coverage that has ever been covered in college football. It far exceeds anyone that has ever played this game of college football. So, we’re happy and excited." Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter . Ryan Gaydos is a senior editor for Fox News Digital.

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