jackpot slots game Seasoned retail executive to lead next phase of growth for extreme-value retailer PHILADELPHIA, PA, Dec. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Five Below, Inc. (NASDAQ: FIVE), the trend-right, high-quality extreme-value retailer for teens and pre-teens, today announced the appointment of Winnie Park as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and a member of its Board of Directors, effective December 16, 2024. An accomplished retail executive with a career spanning more than three decades, Ms. Park has extensive experience in driving customer-centric business strategies, merchandising and brand building across a broad spectrum of specialty and value retail. In her new role, she will partner closely with Kenneth Bull, who will continue as Five Below's Chief Operating Officer. In addition, Thomas Vellios, Co-founder, will continue as Executive Chairman, working alongside Ms. Park, Mr. Bull and the rest of the leadership team to drive the Company's strategic priorities. Ms. Park will be based in Philadelphia. "Winnie is a passionate retail visionary with a deep understanding of the consumer and the power at the intersection of trend and value,” Mr. Vellios said. "The breadth of her leadership experience, especially her merchandising expertise, customer acumen, strong global background, and importantly, how she values people and champions organizational culture all make her uniquely suited for the role. Combined with Ken's expertise and deep knowledge of our business, I'm confident that together we will unlock tremendous potential for our customers and shareholders by delivering amazing product at exceptional value in a fun store experience.” Ms. Park served as Chief Executive Officer of Forever 21 since January 2022, leading a transformational brand refresh for the fast-fashion company focused on younger consumers with a social-media-first approach to engaging with customers. Under Ms. Park's leadership, the brand launched its omnichannel capabilities, social commerce and an award-winning metaverse partnership with Roblox. She also expanded categories beyond women's apparel to include kid's, gift, beauty and accessories. Prior to Forever 21, Ms. Park was the CEO of Paper Source, where she drove the business from a traditional brick-and-mortar retailer to an omnichannel lifestyle brand. Under her leadership, Paper Source developed a robust digital presence, encompassing social media, digital content, online subscriptions and affiliate partnerships. Prior to Paper Source, Ms. Park served as Executive Vice President, Global Marketing and eCommerce, and Global VP, GMM, Merchandising, at Hong Kong-based international retail leader Duty Free Shoppers, a division of LVMH. At DFS, Ms. Park launched the company's first global eCommerce site, serving customers across China, Korea, Japan, Southeast Asia, the Middle East and the United States. Ms. Park has also led Women's Merchandising for Dockers at Levi Strauss & Co. and worked at McKinsey in fashion retail and consumer digital. Ms. Park served on the board of Dollar Tree from 2020 to 2024. She earned a BA from Princeton University and an MBA from Northwestern University. "I'm a huge fan of the Five Below brand and its unique ability to connect with and empower teens and pre-teens through an amazing assortment of extreme-value items in a fun shopping environment,” said Ms. Park. "There is enormous opportunity to build on the exciting initiatives that are already underway as we elevate our product, value and experience. I am excited to be a part of the continued growth of the brand and to be partnering with Tom, Ken and the rest of the talented team as we execute on the long runway for growth ahead.” Mr. Vellios continued, "I would like to extend a deep appreciation to Ken for his support as interim CEO over the past several months. His contributions have been critical in helping us refocus and create momentum in the business. I'm delighted that Ken is continuing in his role as COO, and on behalf of the board and the entire Five Below team, I want to thank him.” Mr. Bull said, "I've been honored to call Five Below my home since 2005 and am thrilled to welcome Winnie to the team. Her experience, leadership style and deep focus on people - both customers and crew - make her a great fit. I am excited about the possibilities ahead and look forward to partnering with Winnie to unlock our full potential and drive the next phase of Five Below's growth.” Forward-Looking Statements: This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 as contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which reflect management's current views and estimates regarding the Company's industry, business strategy, goals and expectations concerning its market position, future operations, margins, profitability, capital expenditures, liquidity and capital resources, store count potential and other financial and operating information. Investors can identify these statements by the fact that they use words such as "anticipate," "assume," "believe," "continue," "could," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "plan," "potential," "predict," "project," "future" and similar terms and phrases. The Company cannot assure investors that future developments affecting the Company will be those that it has anticipated. Actual results may differ materially from these expectations due to risks related to disruption to the global supply chain, risks related to the Company's strategy and expansion plans, risks related to our ability to attract, retain, and integrate qualified executive talent, risks related to disruptions in our information technology systems and our ability to maintain and upgrade those systems, risks related to the inability to successfully implement our online retail operations, risks related to cyberattacks or other cyber incidents, risks related to increased usage of machine learning and other types of artificial intelligence in our business, and challenges with properly managing its use; risks related to our ability to select, obtain, distribute and market merchandise profitably, risks related to our reliance on merchandise manufactured outside of the United States, the availability of suitable new store locations and the dependence on the volume of traffic to our stores, risks related to changes in consumer preferences and economic conditions, risks related to increased operating costs, including wage rates, risks related to inflation and increasing commodity prices, risks related to potential systematic failure of the banking system in the United States or globally, risks related to extreme weather, pandemic outbreaks, global political events, war, terrorism or civil unrest (including any resulting store closures, damage, or loss of inventory), risks related to leasing, owning or building distribution centers, risks related to our ability to successfully manage inventory balance and inventory shrinkage, quality or safety concerns about the Company's merchandise, increased competition from other retailers including online retailers, risks related to the seasonality of our business, risks related to our ability to protect our brand name and other intellectual property, risks related to customers' payment methods, risks related to domestic and foreign trade restrictions including duties and tariffs affecting our domestic and foreign suppliers and increasing our costs, including, among others, the direct and indirect impact of current and potential tariffs imposed and proposed by the United States on foreign imports, risks associated with the restrictions imposed by our indebtedness on our current and future operations, the impact of changes in tax legislation and accounting standards and risks associated with leasing substantial amounts of space. For further details and a discussion of these risks and uncertainties, see the Company's periodic reports, including the annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K, filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission and available at www.sec.gov . If one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if any of the Company's assumptions prove incorrect, the Company's actual results may vary in material respects from those projected in these forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement made by the Company in this news release speaks only as of the date on which the Company makes it. Factors or events that could cause the Company's actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to predict all of them. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by any applicable securities laws. About Five Below Five Below is a leading high-growth value retailer offering trend-right, high-quality products loved by teens and pre-teens. We believe life is better when customers are free to "let go & have fun" in an amazing experience filled with unlimited possibilities. With most items priced between $1 and $5, and some extreme value items priced beyond $5 in our incredible Five Beyond Shop, Five Below makes it easy to say YES! to the newest, coolest stuff across eight awesome Five Below worlds: Style, Room, Sports, Tech, Create, Party, Candy and New & Now. Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Five Below today has over 1,750 stores in 44 states. For more information, please visit www.fivebelow.com or find Five Below on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook @FiveBelow. Investor Contact Christiane Pelz Vice President, Investor Relations Five Below, Inc. [email protected] Media Contact Jessica Liddell Partner, ICR [email protected]

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TAIPEI , Dec. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, smart wearable devices enriched with artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) are redefining the boundaries of innovation. Leading the charge, members of the AI on Chip Industrial Cooperation Strategic Alliance, including Jorjin, Singular Wings Medical, and SoundLand, are demonstrating formidable expertise by leveraging their distinctive technological capabilities. Jorjin has made significant strides by integrating AR glasses with AI to facilitate educational training and standard operating procedure (SOP) guidance, helping workers quickly master critical skills. Additionally, the company has launched the MetaSpace AR interaction platform, which enhances visitor engagement through personalized commentary and interactive experiences at immersive exhibitions and educational settings, bringing AR closer to daily life. Singular Wings Medical is revolutionizing blood sugar monitoring with its innovative use of wearable electrocardiograms (ECG) sensors. The company's technology analyzes blood sugar changes without the need for blood sampling or skin punctures, addressing key issues of invasiveness and data discontinuity. By employing AI algorithms and extensive clinical data, the company precisely monitors blood sugar levels, offering personalized health management solutions that boost medical efficiency and cut costs. SoundLand, a pioneer in sound processing, has unveiled its latest electronic and patch-type stethoscopes designed for remote transmission of cardiopulmonary sounds. These cutting-edge devices support telemedicine and educational training, facilitating ongoing monitoring of vital signs and enhancing the convenience of patient care. Together, Jorjin, Singular Wings Medical, and SoundLand are driving industrial innovation, highlighting the vast potential of Taiwanese firms in the global AI and smart wearables market. For more information on Taiwan's premier manufacturers, please contact service@ai-on-chip-b2bmatch.org.tw

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The Walt Disney Company saw its fair share of disasters in 2024, even as Hollywood’s biggest studio continued to wield enormous power across media and politics. Disney repeatedly attacked now-President-elect Donald Trump throughout the campaign cycle, resulting in a bad year for ABC News. The studio saw its biggest streaming show of the year flop with subscribers, yet another ominous sign for the Disney+ service. And Disney closed out the year with a major box-office bomb. For CEO Bob Iger, 2024 was something of a transition period as the company continued in recovery mode following two financially difficult years. Iger swung the ax yet again across multiple Disney properties, with layoffs at Pixar, ABC News, NatGeo, and more. Last year, Iger laid off 7,000 workers worldwide, or three percent of its workforce, as the company’s financials tanked. Disney can take solace in the success of its blockbuster sequels — Inside Out 2 and Deadpool & Wolverine were the two top-grossing movies of the year. But for every Moana 2 that rakes in a fortune, Disney also lays a giant egg, further sullying the studio’s formerly sterling reputation. Here are Disney’s biggest disasters for 2024. The Acolyte With a budget that one estimate put at close to a quarter of a billion dollars, Disney’s latest Star Wars spin-off series aimed to be a streaming blockbuster that would help drive subscriptions. Instead, the series tanked with viewers and was canceled after just one season. Who’s to blame? Most critics pointed to its weak and pointless story, unengaging main actress Amandla Stenberg pointlessly playing two twins, and pointless virtue signaling (a coven of lesbian witches saying they are not welcome in the galaxy, the casting of a transgender actor in a supporting role, and showrunner Leslye Headland herself, who promoted the series as the “ gayest Star Wars ” ever). Disney+ Woes The Acolyte ‘s failure is emblematic of the entire streaming service Disney+, whose original and exclusive content has not resulted in the market dominance Iger had hoped for. As the year drew to a close, headline after headline signaled trouble for the content platform. In September, Disney slashed prices for new subscribers to $1.99 a month, hoping to boost its Q4 numbers. This month, an ad industry expert reported that companies are pulling their dollars from Disney+ due to unimpressive subscriber numbers, and Disney was shut out on the streaming charts by Netflix, Amazon, Paramount+, and even Peacock. Mufasa: The Lion King In what was supposed to be a box-office slam dunk, this “live action” prequel to The Lion King opened to a hugely disappointing $35 million — way off from the already muted expectation of $50 million. The movie could still find its legs, but the opening was a catastrophe for Disney, which was hoping to turn The Lion King into its own movie franchise. ABC News The Disney-owned news network face-planted hard during the presidential campaign. First, debate anchors David Muir and Linsey Davis put their fingers on the scale in favor of Kamala Harris, resulting in a rigged match that was too obvious to ignore. Muir paid the price — his World News Tonight ratings tanked the week after the debate. Then, host George Stephanopoulos stepped in it when he defamed Trump on-air, resulting in a more than $15 million settlement. The Bob Iger wing of the Trump presidential library is going to look grand. Looking Ahead As 2025 approaches, Disney is readying to launch one of its biggest titles: Snow White, starring Rachel Zegler, opens in less than three months. In February, Pixar will release its first-ever TV series, Win or Lose . Both projects have made major changes to appeal more to non-woke audiences. Follow David Ng on Twitter @HeyItsDavidNg . Have a tip? Contact me at dng@breitbart.comDiVincenzo scores 26 to lead Timberwolves past Spurs 112-110 despite 34 points from WembanyamaUnai Emery knows Champions League top-eight spot is possible for Aston Villa

These cute canines are hoping for a “Yappy New Year” having been found abandoned on the streets of the UK. They, like thousands of other unwanted pets, are being cared for by hard-pressed animal shelters. Among them is Tootsie, who was found severely matted and underweight on the streets of Newcastle. She is available from dogandcatshelter.com . Some dogs having been living in shelters for months, even years, often abandoned by owners who find they can no longer care for them. The RSPCA revealed this week the level of animal neglect and abandonment in the UK is soaring, with the issue worsening around the festive period. Figures from the animal welfare charity reveal in the first nine months of 2024 alone, its emergency cruelty line recorded 48,814 incidents of neglect. This marks a nearly 25 per cent increase from the 38,977 cases reported during the same period in 2023. Kelp Social, a social media platform for animal lovers to raise awareness of smaller shelters caring for pets over the New year period when many dogs, bought as Christmas presents, are often abandoned. Mollie Kerr, founder of Kelp Social, said: “This is the season of goodwill, so let’s all spread the love this coming year by supporting our local rescue shelters. “It’s so important to give these dogs a happy life. Please consider supporting these brave dogs and other animals by donating or volunteering.” Among those looking for a new home is eight week old German Shepherd Brave. He was the only survivor in his litter of puppies. His litter mates were born with cleft palates, and Brave himself has a deformed nose. He is available through happyendingsrescue.orgTrump selects longtime adviser Keith Kellogg as special envoy for Ukraine and RussiaAt the risk of giving the game an inflated Christly significance, it's impossible to think back on a time when Metal Gear Solid didn't exist. There is the now and the time Before Snake – and no in between. But that's the interesting thing, for most of the gaming world Metal Gear Solid was kind of a sudden divine bolt of lightning from out of nowhere. The Western world hadn't really seen much of Hideo Kojima up until that point, what with a lot of his projects – however significant they are – sidelined onto doomed consoles or stuck without a localised version for years. Even the earlier Metal Gear games kind of just passed much of the world by without too much attention, and then, one day in 1997, everything changed. While footage of Metal Gear Solid had already been shown at Tokyo Game Show back in 1996 and earlier, it wasn't until E3 the following year that gamers really got a glimpse of what would go on to be one of the PlayStation's defining games. And from that point on, the hype was tangible. "One thing you have to remember is that the first time the world saw this trailer, it was not just on some little TVs at the Konami booth," says Richard Ham, who was the design lead on the PlayStation's Syphon Filter. "This was on a gigantic jumbotron screen that towered over everything, I think it was the first time anything like that had ever happened at E3. And as I recall, every hour they would play that trailer, and for the entire convention this would become like appointment viewing – there'd be a huge crowd and so everyone would come and sit and watch. One thing I remember is being surrounded by a bunch of grizzled hardcore veterans screaming and whooping and hollering [as they] couldn't believe what they were seeing." The massive excitement surrounding that trailer even took Hideo Kojima by surprise, and naturally led Konami to push particularly hard on marketing MGS by the time it was released in 1998. Over 12 million demo discs made it to players around the world, so there was a great deal of anticipation around what might well have felt like a debut game from Kojima, however inaccurate that was. "This is it. This is the surprise hit of 1998," read a standfirst within CVG's February 1998 issue. "You can have your Tekken and Resident Evil sequels, but if you're after original software, watch this!" Metal Gear Solid was featured in an article looking at the "Hot Games Of '98!" and given a detailed rundown of what the game was all about, focussing on its stealth-heavy gameplay, the high-tech espionage story and its fully 3D environment. Curiously, the article also drew close attention to its cinematic qualities. "When playing the game you could be mistaken that you're watching a movie," it read. "That's because the project's director, Hideo Kojima, actually wanted to be a movie director before he got interested in games. This is evident when you see the movement of all the characters and how enemies react." Even before the game was released, the thing that stood out for most people wasn't just the 'thinking man's shooter' gameplay nor the top-tier 3D graphics, but instead it was the presentation of the game and its narrative. "It was so next-level, so many interesting camera angles for everything," says Richard. "It felt so cinematic. Cinematic gameplay is something I was trying very, very hard to achieve with Syphon Filter, with camera locks and being a fan of John Woo and action cinema." Syphon Filter, in the end, offered a "radically different kind of experience" than Metal Gear Solid, but that trailer for all its clever presentation and pseudo-real E3 glamour was a concerning moment for Richard and the team at Bend Studios. "I was despairing," he says. "It looked like they were doing everything that we were trying to do, better." Sneaking mission No one could deny that Kojima's love of movies had an important impact on the way he directed his games, but to overlook the pacing of the game would be discrediting the famed creator – who these days gets some unfair treatment from gamers for his almost bookish attention to replicating a film-like experience in his modern games. But back on the original PlayStation, a game that was like a movie was something to strive for and that was something that Metal Gear Solid provided in a way no other game had before. "In 1998, many people in the industry were talking about the convergence between movie and videogames," says Francois Coulon, who was the creative director of Splinter Cell. "Probably because at that time, videogames were somehow jealous of the movie industry, feeling unfair not to be seen and perceived as an art as the movie industry could be. For a creative person trying to get videogames out of its cultural niche, seeing a sci-fi or heroic fantasy character in a two-minute-long, high-res cinematic before playing him as a ten-pixel high character for hours sounded totally wrong." When Final Fantasy VII released on the PlayStation the year earlier, many had claimed that this was the best that videogames could look, but then the FMVs would end and you'd go right back to characters with cubic hands and three-pronged spikes for hair. Metal Gear Solid didn't have that separation: everything that was shown in a cutscene was then playable in the next gameplay moment, and while the game might not have aged particularly well in the visuals department, it helped to build that immersion – that cinematic experience – by never separating those two distinct parts of the game. "When you started MGS, you were launching a consistent visual experience," says Francois, "with the opening cinematic played from the engine, with the same resolution as the game, in an almost realistic setting." Francois adds that it wasn't just about being consistent with the graphics, however, because MGS transitioned from cutscene to gameplay without loading screens, visual swaps or cues to let the player know that the gameplay was coming. The player was always playing. "Going further into the game, it provided a fully action movie-like experience. "Think of the sequence with the jeep in the tunnel, for example. This was going much further than all previous action games. And that was totally inspiring." Nowadays videogames are all agog about that 'fully immersive' experience, and never taking the player 'out of the game.' For some, exposition and narrative is one of the biggest ways of doing that. Ironically, Kojima's approach to cutscenes grew to become outdated as developers learnt how to tell stories without ever wresting control from the player, but transitioning from quieter moments of character dialogue to full-blown gunfights with minimal separation between storytime and gameplay was arguably one of Metal Gear Solid's biggest innovations. Even the long, highly wrought explanations that accompanied each cutscene felt novel at the time and it drew everyone in, gamers and developers alike. Giving games a voice Naturally all of these attempts to ape cinema would be for naught if there wasn't a story worth telling, and in that sense Metal Gear Solid really stood out among the crowd. The industry was still trying to figure out strong narratives for a videogame, and while the PlayStation had already had some flashes of brilliance in this regard, MGS was on a whole new level. "I think the story itself is a very simple one," says Jeremy Blaustein, who had worked on the original MGS as a translator at Konami. "Save the girl and save the day. It's a classic spy story or an adventure story." And he's not wrong, the tale itself is not so complicated: a hardened war veteran is sent behind enemy lines without any sanctions to single-handedly stop a nuclear launch, it's the plot of practically every Eighties action movie. But it was the multiple layers to the story that made it enthralling, the unravelling of secrets and the way the distinct characters interacted with one another. "I think that the characters are very interesting and that is one of the most compelling aspects of it," adds Jeremy. "I tried to give each character a unique voice and point of view after seeing how much Mr Kojima had worked to do the same thing in Japanese." Even as the series rolled on, memories of those more iconic conversations – the Master Miller reveal, for example – are tied to the overall experience of playing Metal Gear Solid, in part because it was a first time meeting these unique personalities, in part because of the piecemeal answering of hidden agendas and mysteries, but also very much because of their quippy dialogue and professional voice acting. In fact, voice-over was just not a common practice at that point in time, less so to the standard that Konami put into the game. David Hayter became iconic as the voice of Solid Snake, and from there one of the PlayStation's most recognisable characters. "I always viewed Solid Snake as an antihero," says Jeremy. "That's why in my mind the choice to make him sound like Clint Eastwood was obvious. I wanted him raspy and tired of war, and someone burned out. In my mind, the Clint Eastwood character fit the bill exactly." For all this talk of battle-weariness and nuclear war, however, let's not forget that this was very much a game with a sense of humour. If there was a dramatic DARPA Chief death, it was very shortly countered by an equally tongue-in-cheek retort (and accommodating camera focus) about Meryl's behind. "The characters are very cartoonish in a fun way," says Jeremy, "but the setting is very realistic. It was my feeling that a realistic setting was necessary in order to maintain the feeling of authenticity that would allow for such cartoonish characters to be accepted without being laughed at." Genetically modified soldiers, nanomachines, cloaking devices, cybernetic ninjas and of course a stomping nuclear mech were just some of the far-flung pseudo sci-fi that Metal Gear Solid touched on, and that's nothing considering the route that the series took in the long term. But all of it tied into fairly level-headed metaphors, and Kojima definitely had things to say about war, its impact on society and even its effects at an individual human level. "Do you think love can bloom even on the battlefield?" Dr Hal Emmeric, better known as Otacon, once posed to Snake in the game. It's a memetic line and one that drew attention for its cheesiness, but it's a good example of the varied threads that Kojima wanted to pull on with this cast of characters. Cardboard box technology It all added a richness to the story, and that's even before discussing its more supernatural elements: a wolf-mother sniper, a shamanistic raven-father toting a gatling gun, a telepathetic lunatic with a gas mask, all of it rounded out by a fistfight to the death between two cloned super soldiers. Read a string of words like that and you'd be forgiven for snorting at MGS, but its presentation, its cinematic narrative and the deftness with which the game handled its brevity directly alongside its more poignant topics made it one of the most compelling games on the PlayStation. "Another thing that I really do think is incredibly important about Metal Gear is its absolutely odd, quirky sense of humour," says Richard. "It's the thing that they kept doubling down on that pretty much nobody else does. It's just fundamentally weird that a cardboard box is your most powerful weapon in the game, that's just strange, but they don't care. They lean into it, they find the funny, and it's just an oddball mix of stuff." How many games can say they have universally changed the appreciation of the humble cardboard box? It might be ridiculous to think of the world's most famous infiltrator hiding in a cardboard box, but it perhaps highlights Metal Gear at its best, just as Richard suggests. It's all very silly, at the heart of it, portrayed through an oh-so-sincere lens, so the idea of a cardboard box being the greatest asset for a sneaking mission just makes sense. The box became so iconic that it evolved just as much as the series did, while countless memes surfaced around it and the team at Konami found fun ways to include knowing in-jokes as the series grew over the years. But the gameplay wasn't all military-grade packing solutions. "Most people would say the story or setpieces [are the most inspiring parts of MGS], which I also love, but it is the refinement of the stealth gameplay that really sticks with me," says Antonio Freyre, an indie developer whose most recent game is inspired by the Metal Gear series. "No other game has been able to get to that quality and elegant simplicity that the MGS games can do." Certainly as far as stealth gameplay goes, Metal Gear Solid is not overly complicated: watch the minimap, avoid those cones of vision and if you get spotted go and hide under a truck until everyone completely forgets you were there. It's a permissive game, actually, Game Over ("SNAAAAAKKKE!") simply drops you right back at the start of the room where you entered, there's no traipsing back from your last save point or having to repeat a half hour of gameplay. But there are layers to it: footprints in the snow or the sounds of your steps on grated floors could give you away, smoking can help you spot infrared tripwires and there's usually plenty of things to crawl under and hide. At the time players were astounded by the ability to rap on walls to intentionally draw a guard's attention, luring them from their patrol routes to allow Snake to knock them out – or simply bypass them from a different perspective. "The first time I saw Metal Gear Solid was at a Blockbuster," adds Antonio. "They had the demo to play in the store. I didn't understand English back then so I had no clue what to do. I was stuck and couldn't get past the [starting] Cavern area. Every time we went to Blockbuster, I'd try it again. I was captivated by this strange game where I had to hide." For the first time, players were asked to not fire a weapon – if they could help it – and instead use their wits to make it through a level. It was a completely new experience for many, not least since the earlier Metal Gear games had passed most by. "MGS showed us how stealth mechanics should be done," says Francois, who especially points to the "clear rules" that are provided to the player to know exactly what is happening in the game and how to react to it. "It is a complete and consistent set of rules that set the way for any stealth game," he adds. "Remove one of its elements and the experience will be dull, frustrating or ridiculous. MGS was perfectly executed in that regard. No frustration – you know when you lose and don't blame the game for it." You like to play Metal Gear Solid? That's not to say there weren't moments of action, too. In fact, the pacing of Metal Gear Solid is something that gets overlooked, but with all those drawn-out Codec calls and quiet monitoring of patrol patterns, there was sense to add in moments of mandatory combat or set-piece battles. By 1998 the idea of a boss fight was already a long-worn concept, but even here Metal Gear Solid made sure to find new ways to keep these things fresh. The most obvious is the fight with Psycho Mantis, where players could swap the controller to the second port to avoid the mind-controlling capabilities of the creepy psychowarrior, but practically all of Metal Gear Solid's boss battles are memorable for one reason or another. Learning that bullets won't win the day against Cyborg Ninja, a first-person sniper battle in a snowstorm with Sniper Wolf or even going mano a mano with a flipping Metal Gear REX are just some of those stellar boss battles that Metal Gear Solid conjured up, and they only ramped up with inventiveness and impact with each new release. Ultimately, Metal Gear Solid was the game that put Kojima on the map for a generation of players, catapulting him to auteur status in a way that practically no other game director has been. Even now it feels very much like a game with a personality, with a very strict vision on what it is, what it wants to do and how it wants to do it. And while Kojima has since stepped away from the series, for more than two decades it defined his creative endeavours. "If the series has been so iconic for so long, it is simply because all the games were brilliant!" says Francois. "How many game series have been able to succeed over the years without slowly decreasing and repeating itself?" Francois points to Kojima's purity in game design, his high-level vision and a team able to execute it all to perfection as the reasons for the series' long-lasting adoration. "It is hard for me to measure the impact of Mr Kojima alone vs Kojima and his team but, to be honest, it is not important. A creative lead in this industry is someone who can convey his vision to other team members so that they can also bring something to the creative table. I don't know how Mr Kojima is managing his teams but the result speaks for itself!" While there's a deeper story behind the details of how Konami would later go on to handle Kojima, his team and the Metal Gear franchise as a whole, the fact is only a handful of games have had the immediate cultural impact that Metal Gear Solid was able to generate. It became one of the PlayStation's most important releases, it snuck Tactical Espionage Action into a trigger-happy industry and it justified the relevance of gaming as a pastime to game developers and players desperate for videogames to become accepted as more than just toys for kids. If there was doubt, Metal Gear Solid proved gaming could be about so much more than squishing goomba's and blasting cyberdemons and could, in fact, compete with movies. Want to jump into some tactical espionage action? We've got our best Metal Gear games list right here for you!

NEW YORK , Dec. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global styrene butadiene (sb) latex market size is estimated to grow by USD 1.50 billion from 2024 to 2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 3.68% during the forecast period. For comprehensive forecast and historic data on regions,market segments, customer landscape, and companies- Click for the snapshot of this report Report Attribute Details Base Year 2023 Forecast period 2024-2028 Historic Data for 2018 - 2022 Segments Covered Type (Low, Medium, and High), Application (Paper processing, Fiber and carpet processing, Glass fiber adhesives, Adhesives, and Others), and Geography (APAC, Europe, North America, Middle East and Africa, and South America) Key Companies Covered Asahi Kasei Corp., BASF SE, Dow Chemical Co., EcoSynthetix Inc., Fosroc International Ltd., General Industrial Polymers, Hansol Holdings, JSR Corp., Jubilant Industries Ltd., Kumho Petrochemical Co. Ltd., Lanxess AG, LG Chem Ltd., Mallard Creek Polymers, MCTRON Inc., NANTEX INDUSTRY Co. Ltd., Rishiroop Polymers Pvt. Ltd., RPM International Inc., S.R. Chemical, Synthomer Plc, and Trinseo PLC, Rockwood Lithium, AkzoNobel, Chemtura, Bridgestone, MICHELIN, China Petroleum & Chemical, Reliance Industries Limited, Zeon Corporation, Goodyear Rubber Company. Regions Covered APAC, Europe, North America, Middle East and Africa, and South America Region Outlook North America Europe Asia Rest of World 1. APAC - APAC is estimated to contribute 52%. To the growth of the global market. The Styrene Butadiene (SB) Latex Market report forecasts market growth by revenue at global, regional & country levels from 2017 to 2027. The Styrene Butadiene (SB) latex market in Asia Pacific is experiencing significant expansion due to the thriving construction, pulp and paper, paints and coatings, and packaging industries. Key consumers of SB latex in the region include China , Japan , India , and South Korea . The expanding wood and furniture industry, as well as the packaging industry, are major contributors to the increasing demand for SB latex-based adhesives and sealants. These industries' continued growth is driving market expansion in the region. Additionally, the increasing demand for adhesive and sealant products from various industries, such as construction, furniture, and footwear, is expected to further fuel market growth throughout the forecast period. For more insights on APAC's significant contribution along with the market share of rest of the regions and countries - Download a FREE Sample Segmentation Overview Type 1.1 Low 1.2 Medium 1.3 High Application 2.1 Paper processing 2.2 Fiber and carpet processing 2.3 Glass fiber adhesives 2.4 Adhesives 2.5 Others Geography 3.1 APAC 3.2 Europe 3.3 North America 3.4 Middle East and Africa 3.5 South America Get a glance at the market contribution of rest of the segments - Download a FREE Sample Report in minutes! 1.1 Fastest growing segment: Styrene Butadiene (SB) latex is a hydrocarbon compound used extensively in various industries for adhesive and coating applications. SB latex with low butadiene content is gaining popularity due to its environmental benefits. It helps reduce volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, contributing to a smaller carbon footprint. In certain applications, this type of SB latex offers enhanced mechanical properties, such as improved tensile strength and abrasion resistance, making it suitable for industries where durability is crucial. The increasing demand for eco-friendly and high-performing products is driving the growth of the global SB latex market. Specifically, low butadiene SB latex is preferred due to its superior chemical and UV resistance, resulting in more durable coatings and adhesives. This trend is expected to continue during the forecast period. Research Analysis The Styrene Butadiene (SB) Latex market refers to the global trade of styrene butadiene latex, a type of elastomeric dispersion. This market encompasses various applications, including paper processing, mortar additives, adhesives, coatings, sealants, and paper coatings. SB latex is produced through the polymerization reaction of butadiene and styrene monomers, with the assistance of emulsifiers. In the paper processing segment, SB latex is used for coating and sizing paper. In the mortar additives segment, it enhances the plasticity and workability of mortar. In the adhesives industry, it is used in the production of pressure-sensitive adhesives. In the coatings segment, SB latex is utilized in paints and coatings to improve their elasticity and durability. The carpet industry also uses SB latex as a binder in the production of carpet backing. In the sealants segment, it is used to produce high-performance sealants with excellent adhesion and flexibility. The sealants find applications in construction, automotive, and other industries. SB latex is also used in the impregnation of fiber materials, such as glass fiber processing, to improve their strength and durability. The feedstock for SB latex production includes butadiene and styrene, which are obtained from refineries and petrochemical plants. The production process requires refrigeration equipment to maintain the temperature during the polymerization reaction. Market Overview Styrene Butadiene (SB) Latex is a versatile elastomeric material derived from the polymerization of Styrene and Butadiene monomers. It is widely used in various industries due to its excellent properties such as print quality, water resistance, film-forming properties, and adhesion. In the paper processing segment, SB Latex is used as binders for coated paper and impregnation for improving stability and reducing fraying. In the construction industry, it is used as mortar additives for enhancing bonding adhesion, compressive strength, and tensile strength. SB Latex finds extensive applications in adhesives, coatings, sealants, paper coatings, and packaging materials. It is used in the automotive industry for producing lightweight automotive materials and in the renewable energy sector for manufacturing eco-friendly and sustainable latex-based products. The textile, furniture, and e-commerce industries also use SB Latex for producing durable and resilient products. SB Latex is produced through a polymerization reaction involving Styrene, Butadiene, and an emulsifier. The resulting Styrene Butadiene copolymers exhibit excellent properties such as water resistance, abrasion resistance, and adhesion. SB Latex alternatives are also available in the market, offering similar benefits but with different chemical compositions. In the paper industry, SB Latex is used for producing high-quality coated paper, while in the carpet industry, it is used for back coating tufted carpets to improve their stability and durability. The adhesives industry uses SB Latex for producing pressure-sensitive adhesives and bonding adhesives. In the fiber processing industry, SB Latex is used for glass fiber processing and in the production of non-woven fabrics. SB Latex is also used in the production of acrylic, vinyl, and polyurethane coatings, offering improved properties such as print quality, water resistance, and durability. In the automotive industry, SB Latex is used for manufacturing lightweight automotive materials, while in the construction industry, it is used for producing green building materials. The properties of SB Latex make it an ideal choice for various applications, including residential complexes, commercial spaces, and architectural projects. Architects and developers use SB Latex-based products for their excellent bonding properties, durability, and resistance to environmental factors. The production of SB Latex involves the use of refrigeration equipment to maintain the temperature during the polymerization reaction. The resulting latex is a viscoelastic material with plasticity, making it easy to handle and apply. The monomers used in the production of SB Latex include Styrene, Butadiene, and carboxylic acid. The polymerization reaction results in the formation of Styrene Butadiene copolymers, which exhibit excellent properties such as adhesion, abrasion resistance, and water resistance. In summary, Styrene Butadiene Latex is a versatile material with a wide range of applications in various industries, including paper processing, construction, automotive, textile, furniture, e-commerce, renewable energy, and adhesives. Its excellent properties, such as print quality, water resistance, film-forming properties, and adhesion, make it an ideal choice for various applications. The production of SB Latex involves the use of refrigeration equipment and the polymerization reaction of Styrene, Butadiene, and carboxylic acid to form Styrene Butadiene copolymers. Start exploring market insights by 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 Venodr Landscape 11 Vendor Analysis 11.1 Rockwood Lithium 11.2 AkzoNobel 11.3 Chemtura 11.4 Bridgestone 11.5 MICHELIN 11.6 China Petroleum & Chemical 11.7 Reliance Industries Limited 11.8 Zeon Corporation 11.9 Goodyear Rubber Company. 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: media@technavio.com Website: www.technavio.com/ View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/styrene-butadiene-sb-latex-market--52-of-growth-to-originate-from-apac-technavio-302331404.html SOURCE Technavio © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.1 2 Varanasi: A deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery procedure, lasting almost 8 hours, was performed by a team of doctors at the Sir Sunderlal Hospital, Institute of Medical Sciences (IMS), Banaras Hindu University, recently, marking a new era in advanced neurological care at the institution. This was the first such procedure in the Purvanchal region, said a statement issued by the institute on Sunday. It is a surgical operation in which neurosurgeon implants a medical device called neurostimulator to send electrical signals to specific areas of the brain. This technology has proven highly effective in treating a range of neurological disorders, including Parkinson's disease, essential tremor and dystonia. IMS director Prof Shankhwar said DBS was an established US FDA-approved safe neurosurgical procedure for patients with advanced disease in whom medical treatment had failed to provide adequate symptom control and good quality of life, or in whom medical therapy induced severe side effects such as dyskinesias. "We are delighted to announce that the procedure was done under Ayushman Bharat Yojana and all expenditure was taken care of," said Shankhwar, adding that BHU remained committed to providing cutting-edge neurological care and improving quality of life of patients with neurological disorders. "This successful DBS surgery is a testament to the institution's dedication to innovation and patient care," he said. The surgery was performed by the doctors of the departments of neurology and neurosurgery under the guidance of IMS director Shankhwar and medical superintendent Prof K K Gupta. Prof Deepika Joshi and Dr Anand Kumar from department of neurology, Dr Nityanand Pandey from department of neurosurgery, Dr Naren Naik, consultant neurosurgeon from Global Hospitals Mumbai, and Prof R K Dubey from anaesthesia, along with the Medtronics India team, were involved in the procedure. Other faculty from neurology department who were part of the team included Prof V N Mishra, Prof R N Chaurasia, Prof Abhishek Pathak (HoD), Dr Varun Kumar Singh and senior residents Dr Janki Makani and Dr Arpan Mitra.

Heisman Trophy finalist and two-way Colorado star Travis Hunter was named The Associated Press Big 12 defensive player of the year while also being a first-team selection at wide receiver on Thursday. Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders is the league's top offensive player. Kenny Dillingham, the 34-year-old in his second season at Arizona State, was the unanimous choice as Big 12 coach of the year after leading his alma mater to a championship and a spot in the 12-team College Football Playoff. The Sun Devils (11-2) went into their league debut as the preseason pick to finish last among the 16 teams. At cornerback, Hunter had 31 tackles, tied for the Big 12 lead with 11 pass breakups and was tied for second with four interceptions. On offense, he leads the Big 12 with 92 receptions and 14 receiving touchdowns, and is second with 1,152 yards receiving. His 21 catches of at least 20 yards are the most nationally. He is also the AP's player of the year. Sanders is the Big 12 passing leader, completing 337 of 454 passes (74.2%) for 3,926 yards and a school-record 35 touchdowns with eight interceptions for the Buffaloes (10-2) Arizona State freshman quarterback Sam Leavitt, who is 11-1 as a starter, is the league’s top newcomer. The Michigan State transfer has 2,663 yards passing with 24 touchdowns and only five picks in 304 attempts. LAS VEGAS — UNLV is reaching into the Southeastern Conference to keep momentum going for its 24th-ranked football team, hiring former Florida and Mississippi State coach Dan Mullen on Thursday. He will be introduced in a news conference Friday morning. UNLV athletic director Erick Harper, in a news release, called Mullen "an innovator and nationally respected leader.” “The momentum of UNLV football continues to skyrocket with Coach Mullen coming aboard and is even more proof that our university is serious about success," Harper said. "Rebel Nation came alive while watching this program reach new heights the last two seasons and we are excited to keep it moving forward under the leadership of someone the caliber of Dan Mullen.” The 52-year-old Mullen replaces Barry Odom, who left for Purdue on Sunday after going 19-8 and helping the Rebels receive back-to-back bowl invitations for the first time in program history. UNLV will play California in the LA Bowl on Wednesday. Mullen, most recently an ESPN college football analyst, went 103-61 at Florida and Mississippi State. Rich Rodriguez is returning to West Virginia for a second stint as head coach at his alma mater. Athletic director Wren Baker announced the hiring on Thursday, 17 years after Rodriguez made a hasty exit for what became a disastrous three-year experiment at Michigan. “We are thrilled to welcome Coach Rich Rodriguez and his family back home,” Baker said in a statement. “Coach Rodriguez understands what it takes to win at West Virginia, and I believe he will pour his heart, soul and every ounce of his energy into our program. I am convinced Coach Rodriguez wants what is best for West Virginia, WVU and West Virginia football, and I am excited about the future of our program.” Rodriguez, who is the current coach at Jacksonville State, an architect of the spread offense and a polarizing figure in his home state, replaces Neal Brown, who was fired on Dec. 1 after going 37-35 in six seasons, including 6-6 this year. TUCSON, Ariz. — Arizona star receiver Tetairoa McMillan declared for the NFL draft following three stellar seasons. McMillan announced his decision Thursday on Instagram. “Now, it’s time to take the next step. ... I’m officially declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft,” McMillan posted. “This is only the beginning.” McMillian is Arizona's all-time leader in receiving yards, finishing with 3,423 in three seasons, and is projected to be a first-round NFL draft pick. BRIEFLY FCS: The NCAA is taking its Football Championship Subdivision title game back to Tennessee. The FCS championship games at the end of the 2025 and 2026 seasons will be played in Nashville on the Vanderbilt campus. This season’s game will be played Jan. 6 at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas, which will host the game for a record 15th season in a row and was set for at least two more. OC: UCLA announced Tino Sunseri’s hiring as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. Sunseri replaces Eric Bieniemy, who was fired on Dec. 5 after fielding one of the nation’s worst offenses this season. Sunseri spent one season as Indiana’s co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach after following Hoosiers coach Curt Cignetti from James Madison. Get local news delivered to your inbox!Trump threatens to try to take back the Panama Canal. Panama's president balks at the suggestionslots game app 。

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Taking high-quality photos and videos is easier than ever. The rise of smartphones and their inclusion of professional-grade lenses and baked-in software has made photography and videography more obtainable to everyday users. Couple that with the internet, which makes sharing your creations as simple as a button press, and we’re in unprecedented times for photography and videography. We’re all just one shutter click away from creating a masterpiece. That means it’s also more important than ever to have the right tools to ensure your photos and videos are at their best, every single time. One piece of equipment you should never be without? The Hohem iSteady M7 gimbal. The Hohem iSteady M7 gimbal: an essential in every creator’s toolkit You may wonder what a gimbal is and why you would need one in the first place. A gimbal is a device that stabilizes a camera or smartphone using motors and sensors, ensuring smooth footage even during motion by compensating for shakes and tilts. It’s ideal for filmmaking and capturing steady video. The Hohem iSteady M7 features a new, professional 3-axis mechanical stabilization and advanced AI Tracking to keep up with you no matter the scenario you’re shooting in. Let’s say, for example, that you’re filming a vlog of your hiking adventure. You’re walking the trails, camera in hand, and talking about your experience. Afterward, you play the footage back, and you realize that the camera shakes with each step. Rather than having shaky cam footage of your adventure, you could have packed the Hohem iSteady M7. The iSteady M7 is beefy enough to support up to a 500g payload (approximately 17 ounces), including a range of smartphones and accessories like fill lights and microphones. It’s also equipped with its own integrated extendable rod that can stretch a whopping 7.59 inches for flawless selfies, unique low-angle shots, and simulated aerial perspectives with 360° tracking. With the iSteady M7, you gain access to added benefits like advanced AI technology for precise subject tracking for your photos and videos. Whether you’re honed in on the local wildlife, your darling pet who just won’t sit still for the camera, or your own face while on a whirlwind adventure, the iSteady M7 can easily keep your preferred subject in the frame for the best shot possible. There’s no need for special apps here, either. The iSteady’s AI-powered tracking can focus on precision—even your pets go running at once! The M7’s subject tracking can easily be activated or deactivated with supported gesture controls or just one tap on the detachable touchscreen controller. Ai Tracking is compatible with your smartphone’s native camera app. It’s also compatible with popular video and photo apps like Snapchat, FaceTime, and TikTok. A multipurpose film kit in one powerful tool The Hohem iSteady M7 is a multifunctional tool that adds adjustable CCT/RGB fill lights to your smartphone for enhanced photos and videos in low-light, high-motion environments. Easily choose from cool or warm lights, or add some RGB flare with the 360° ambient colors. Take your street photography on the go even late at night, or vlog about your adventures under the stars. The gimbal features a long-lasting 12-hour battery for extended shooting sessions, so it’s ready to go no matter where your adventures take you. If your smartphone runs low, you can even use your gimbal as a power bank to keep the film rolling. The iSteady M7 has a 1.4-inch touchscreen that is available to control the Gimbal. This touch screen is detachable, so you can move away from the phone and still control framing. It’s simple to tap and shoot or adjust your settings on the fly with the press of a button on the vibrant display. You can even take advantage of gesture controls to start and stop your gimbal and control your camera’s shutter. Switching between the front and rear camera is a snap, too, thanks to the M7’s independent magnetic design. The Touchscreen Controller isn’t just limited to control options, either. It can also give you the freedom to adjust the shooting speed and level the smartphone for stable shots. These features ensure smoother footage and precise framing during your shoot. Your smartphone deserves a smart gimbal, and you deserve a reliable toolkit that can help you take the best photos and videos, no matter where your adventures may lead. Whether you’re sailing the seas, hiking the rockiest trails, or relaxing under the stars with your favorite companions, you can trust the Hohem iSteady M7 gimbal to make sure all your footage and photos are clear, sharp, and focused on what matters most. To find out more, visit the official Hohem store or AmazonVicarious Surgical Announces Departure of Chief Financial Officer

( MENAFN - ForPressRelease) December 2024, New Delhi: The Christmas bells are ringing, and The Game Palacio is ready to welcome everyone into a world of holiday excitement, celebration, and unforgettable experiences. This Christmas, step into a winter wonderland filled with the carnival vibes of The Game Palacio – The Palace of Dreams where the magic of the season blends seamlessly with the thrill of gaming and the elegance of fine dining. Christmas is all about togetherness, fun, and food, and we are here to make your celebrations even more special with a specially curated Christmas menu, ensuring every moment is filled with joy and flavour. As you walk through the venue, you'll be immersed in a festive ambiance created by twinkling lights and holiday decorations, setting the stage for a magical experience. Enjoy an array of fun games and festive entertainment, with our delightful mascot spreading holiday cheer throughout the venue. Whether you're celebrating with family, friends, or colleagues, The Game Palacio offers the perfect atmosphere to create lasting memories this Christmas season. At The Game Palacio, the Christmas menu is a feast for the senses, featuring small plates like Winter Vegetable Soup, Melted Brie & Caramelized Onion Bruschetta, and Maple Chicken Poppers. Delight in mains such as Portobello Mushroom Steak with creamy barley risotto, Baked Stuffed Cannelloni with homemade plum tomato sauce, and Roast Turkey served with char-grilled vegetables, pomme purée, and red wine jus. The festive Turkey Pizza, topped with roasted turkey, bacon, berry compote, and crumbled feta, is sure to impress. Conclude your meal with the sweet and indulgent Yule Log Tree – a dessert that perfectly embodies the holiday spirit. Also add a playful touch to your holiday celebrations by indulging into the gaming experience. Start your adventure with our boutique bowling; for those seeking more action, our immersive VR zone offers thrilling experiences that transport you to exciting new worlds. Explore our state-of-the-art arcade gaming zone, featuring over 80 to 100 games, from timeless classics to the latest innovations. Unleash your energy at the trampoline park and dynamic Pokiddo play zone, where joy and excitement fill every corner. Every visit is an opportunity to relive childhood fun and create lasting memories. Discover the elegance of Verde, a luxury Italian fine-dine offering gourmet dishes, decadent desserts, and crafted cocktails. For a vibrant vibe, visit Kamikaze, a global bar perfect for celebrations with refined snacks and curated cocktails. Together, they promise unforgettable flavors and experiences. This holiday season, make The Game Palacio your destination for gourmet indulgence, thrilling entertainment, and cherished moments with loved ones. Celebrate in style and create memories to treasure forever. Venue: The Game Palacio, DLF Mall, Noida Date: 20th December onwards Time: 11am- 12am About Snow World Entertainment Under the vision of Prasuk Jain, Owner of Snow World Entertainment, the company is Empowering new possibilities for the hospitality & entertainment industry. Snow World Entertainment (SWE) is scripting a winning home-grown story, by leading the "Make in India, Make for World" narrative. Started in 2011, SWE is enthusiastic to implement the leading-edge technologies and products in strategic alliance with world-class international partnerships, to create landmark entertainment destinations across the country. Each of their projects are prudently outlined to provide a perfect blend of adrenaline rush and elation whether it be Snow World, The Game Palacio, Amazonia, Koa Café, Formula Karting, Pink Wasabi, The Game Ranch, we have it all in our domain to cater to each and every need of an Individual. Company :-Crosshairs Communication User :- Shilpi Email :... MENAFN22122024003198003206ID1109021414 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.

Luigi Nicholas Mangione, the suspect in the fatal shooting of a healthcare executive in New York City, apparently was living a charmed life: the grandson of a wealthy real estate developer, valedictorian of his elite Baltimore prep school and with degrees from one of the nation's top private universities. Friends at an exclusive co-living space at the edge of touristy Waikiki in Hawaii where the 26-year-old Mangione once lived widely considered him a “great guy,” and pictures on his social media accounts show a fit, smiling, handsome young man on beaches and at parties. Now, investigators in New York and Pennsylvania are working to piece together why Mangione may have diverged from this path to make the violent and radical decision to gun down UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in a brazen attack on a Manhattan street. The killing sparked widespread discussions about corporate greed, unfairness in the medical insurance industry and even inspired folk-hero sentiment toward his killer. But Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro sharply refuted that perception after Mangione's arrest on Monday when a customer at a McDonald's restaurant in Pennsylvania spotted Mangione eating and noticed he resembled the shooting suspect in security-camera photos released by New York police. “In some dark corners, this killer is being hailed as a hero. Hear me on this, he is no hero,” Shapiro said. “The real hero in this story is the person who called 911 at McDonald’s this morning.” Mangione's family and upbringing Mangione comes from a prominent Maryland family. His grandfather, Nick Mangione, who died in 2008, was a successful real estate developer. One of his best-known projects was Turf Valley Resort, a sprawling luxury retreat and conference center outside Baltimore that he purchased in 1978. The Mangione family also purchased Hayfields Country Club north of Baltimore in 1986. On Monday, Baltimore County police officers blocked off an entrance to the property, which public records link to Luigi Mangione’s parents. Reporters and photographers gathered outside the entrance. The father of 10 children, Nick Mangione prepared his five sons — including Luigi Mangione’s father, Louis Mangione — to help manage the family business, according to a 2003 Washington Post report. Nick Mangione had 37 grandchildren, including Luigi, according to the grandfather's obituary. Luigi Mangione’s grandparents donated to charities through the Mangione Family Foundation, according to a statement from Loyola University commemorating Nick Mangione’s wife’s death in 2023. They donated to various causes, including Catholic organizations, colleges and the arts. One of Luigi Mangione’s cousins is Republican Maryland state legislator Nino Mangione, a spokesman for the lawmaker’s office confirmed. “Our family is shocked and devastated by Luigi’s arrest,” Mangione’s family said in a statement posted on social media by Nino Mangione. “We offer our prayers to the family of Brian Thompson and we ask people to pray for all involved.” Mangione's education and work history Mangione, who was valedictorian of his elite Maryland prep school, earned undergraduate and graduate degrees in computer science in 2020 from the University of Pennsylvania, a university spokesman told The Associated Press. He learned to code in high school and helped start a club at Penn for people interested in gaming and game design, according to a 2018 story in Penn Today, a campus publication. His social media posts suggest he belonged to the fraternity Phi Kappa Psi. They also show him taking part in a 2019 program at Stanford University, and in photos with family and friends at the Jersey Shore and in Hawaii, San Diego, Puerto Rico, and other destinations. The Gilman School, from which Mangione graduated in 2016, is one of Baltimore’s elite prep schools. The children of some of the city’s wealthiest and most prominent residents, including Orioles legend Cal Ripken Jr., have attended the school. Its alumni include sportswriter Frank Deford and former Arizona Gov. Fife Symington. In his valedictory speech, Luigi Mangione described his classmates’ “incredible courage to explore the unknown and try new things.” Mangione took a software programming internship after high school at Maryland-based video game studio Firaxis, where he fixed bugs on the hit strategy game Civilization 6, according to a LinkedIn profile. Firaxis' parent company, Take-Two Interactive, said it would not comment on former employees. He more recently worked at the car-buying website TrueCar, but has not worked there since 2023, the head of the Santa Monica, California-based company confirmed to the AP. Time in Hawaii and reports of back pain From January to June 2022, Mangione lived at Surfbreak, a “co-living” space at the edge of touristy Waikiki in Honolulu. Like other residents of the shared penthouse catering to remote workers, Mangione underwent a background check, said Josiah Ryan, a spokesperson for owner and founder R.J. Martin. “Luigi was just widely considered to be a great guy. There were no complaints,” Ryan said. “There was no sign that might point to these alleged crimes they’re saying he committed.” At Surfbreak, Martin learned Mangione had severe back pain from childhood that interfered with many aspects of his life, including surfing, Ryan said. “He went surfing with R.J. once but it didn’t work out because of his back,” Ryan said, but noted that Mangione and Martin often went together to a rock-climbing gym. Mangione left Surfbreak to get surgery on the mainland, Ryan said, then later returned to Honolulu and rented an apartment. An image posted to a social media account linked to Mangione showed what appeared to be an X-ray of a metal rod and multiple screws inserted into someone's lower spine. Martin stopped hearing from Mangione six months to a year ago. An X account linked to Mangione includes recent posts about the negative impact of smartphones on children; healthy eating and exercise habits; psychological theories; and a quote from Indian philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti about the dangers of becoming “well-adjusted to a profoundly sick society.” Police report a darker turn Mangione likely was motivated by his anger at what he called “parasitic” health insurance companies and a disdain for corporate greed, according to a law enforcement bulletin obtained by AP. He wrote that the U.S. has the most expensive healthcare system in the world and that the profits of major corporations continue to rise while “our life expectancy” does not, according to the bulletin, based on a review of the suspect’s handwritten notes and social media posts. He appeared to view the targeted killing of the UnitedHealthcare CEO as a symbolic takedown, asserting in his note that he is the “first to face it with such brutal honesty,” the bulletin said. Mangione called “Unabomber” Ted Kaczynski a “political revolutionary” and may have found inspiration from the man who carried out a series of bombings while railing against modern society and technology, the document said. ___ Associated Press reporters Lea Skene in Baltimore; Jennifer Sinco Kelleher in Honolulu; Maryclaire Dale in Philadelphia; John Seewer in Toledo, Ohio; and Michael Kunzelman in Washington, D.C., contributed to this report.What We Do in the Shadows’ vampire gangs, ranked by who’d be the chillest hang

The Princess of Wales spoke of “challenging times” and how she “didn’t know” what this year would bring as she made a rare public appearance at her annual Christmas carol service. Kate , who is making a gradual return to public events after completing her cancer treatment around four months ago, was heard on broadcast footage telling singer Paloma Faith: “I didn’t know this year was going to be the year I’ve just had.” When Faith replied “the unplanned”, Kate said: “The unplanned, exactly. “But I think lots of people this year have had such challenging times.” It is the fourth time the princess has held her event at Westminster Abbey in celebration of the positive qualities found in many and to bring festive cheer to the capital and associated events around the country. Celebrity performers included Faith, Richard E Grant and Gregory Porter, with Sir Chris Hoy giving a reading for the 1,600 guests who have supported others, whether friends or family, helped individuals through their work or volunteered. Prince Louis left a touching Christmas message to his grandparents inspired by his mother’s annual festive celebration. The young royal and his siblings left notes on a “kindness tree” erected as part of the Together at Christmas carol service dedicated to those “who have shown love, kindness and empathy to others in their communities”. When Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, nine, and Louis, aged six, first arrived with their father William, they stopped at the kindness tree, outside the abbey’s great west door, and hung messages on its branches in recognition of someone who has supported them during their lives. They all arrived clutching their red tags and Louis’ could be seen with the handwritten words: “Thank you to granny and grandpa because they have played games with me.” It is thought the message refers to Kate’s parents Carole and Michael Middleton, who are known to be hands-on grandparents. The princess had travelled ahead of her family to meet the celebrities taking part and personally thank them for their time. She told jazz singer Porter: “Thank you, I’m conscious it’s such a busy time for everybody.” The princess wore a festive red coat featuring a large black bow on the collar and black buttons by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen. She turned to Faith, in a red dress, and singer-songwriter JP Cooper , who wore a similar coloured coat, and smiled as she said: “It’s a celebration, everybody’s wearing red. Faith joked about her eight-year-old daughter, who said, when told her mother was leaving home to sing for a princess: “Are they going to chop your head off?” The singer and Kate laughed as the performer said: “I don’t think they do that any more.” Later, Kate walked through the abbey and stopped to speak to a number of the guests as they sat waiting for the carol service to begin. She chatted to 100-year-old RAF veteran Bernard Morgan from Crewe, who landed in Normandy on D-Day in 1944 and returned to the site of the Second World War campaign with the Royal British Legion in June, to mark the 80th anniversary of the landings. Mr Morgan, who still speaks to schools and colleges about his wartime experiences, said afterwards: “I am very grateful to be invited and I was honoured to light a candle on behalf of all the amazing volunteers at the Royal British Legion who give up their time to support veterans like me. “I am always keen for the younger generation to know exactly what went on during the war and to appreciate the sacrifice that our lads made so that we can enjoy the freedoms we have today. “Being able to continue to tell my story at 100 is wonderful and I am grateful to the Princess of Wales and the Royal British Legion for giving me the opportunity to do that. “It was lovely to see Her Royal Highness looking so well. It was a delightful event at the abbey and a night I will never forget.” Among the members of the royal family attending the carol service were the Duchess of Edinburgh, Princess Beatrice and her husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, and their son Christopher Woolf Mapelli Mozzi. William’s cousin Zara Tindall was also among the guests, as were Prince and Princess Michael of Kent and their daughter Lady Gabriella Windsor, making her first appearance at a royal event since a coroner concluded this week that her husband Thomas Kingston had taken his own life following an inquest into his death. The highlights of the service included Porter performing Do You Hear What I Hear? and Faith singing the classic soul song This Christmas. Actor Richard E Grant recited a passage from Charles Dickens’s classic festive story A Christmas Carol while Downton Abbey star Michelle Dockery read some of her personal reflections. Carols sung by the congregation included Once in Royal David’s City, O Come All Ye Faithful, Away In A Manger and Hark! The Herald Angels Sing. The event will be broadcast as part of the programme Royal Carols: Together At Christmas, screened on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve, and it will feature three films about the stories of people and organisations who have inspired, counselled and comforted others in their times of need. Alongside the service at Westminster Abbey, 15 community carol services are taking place around the UK this month to provide a moment for people to come together and celebrate community work during the festive season.

They have been road warriors nearly all postseason, and the UMass men’s soccer team will have to embrace that narrative one more time if they want to advance to their first College Cup since 2007. The Minutemen (13-3-5) travel to Denver (12-3-4) to take on the third-ranked Pioneers in the NCAA Division I Elite Eight on Saturday afternoon (3 p.m.). UMass defeated No. 6 Penn and No. 11 Virginia on the road after starting the tournament out with a win over Evansville at home. “It’s been a great ride for our guys, I think they’re thoroughly enjoying it,” Minutemen head coach Fran O’Leary said. “To be sitting in the Elite Eight, having won two games against seeded opponents on the road, I think everyone is very, very happy... We’ve worked awfully hard, and we discussed how hard it is to get into the NCAA Tournament. We didn’t want to waste the opportunity by being nervous or anxious. We’ve attacked each of these games with vigor, and it’s a credit to our guys.” What has turned into a historical season for UMass didn’t look that way after a stumble toward the latter half of the regular season. The Minutemen traveled to North Carolina to take on Davidson – a team that isn’t considered among the Atlantic 10 elite. They ultimately surrendered four goals and were doubled up, 4-2, in a shocking defeat that snapped a four-game stretch without a loss. Since then, however, UMass has been nothing short of dominant. It ended the regular season with four straight wins, the finale a 5-1 beatdown over St. Bonaventure on the road, before losing a tough battle in the opening round of the A-10 tournament in penalty kicks to Saint Louis. The big dance came next, and the Minutemen rose to the occasion. The aforementioned win at Rudd Field over the Aces came by a score of 2-1, setting up a pair of 1-0 clean-sheet victories over nationally ranked opponents to get within one win of the Final Four. Following the Davidson loss, UMass is 7-1 – its only blemish the unfortunate slip up in penalties. And after giving up the four goals to the Wildcats, the Minutemen have seen opponents celebrate a score just three times since. O’Leary pointed to that game as the turning point of UMass’ campaign. Article continues after... Cross|Word Flipart Typeshift SpellTower Really Bad Chess “That was a really bad game, but the guys really rallied after a tough night and a bit of adversity,” O’Leary said. “There wasn’t a big conversation, just a bunch of bright guys that knew their standards were dropped in that game. We work off fine margins, so if we drop our standards, our commitment together and our work ethic, that can happen to us. It opened a lot of eyes. Just a bunch of guys realizing we have to give it our all every game, and when we do, we can compete with some of the best teams in the country.” Alec Hughes leads the UMass offense into the Elite Eight, as Hughes currently stands as the program’s all-time leader in goals scored. He’s tallied a whopping 16 this season despite missing three games, and over the last handful of games Hughes has really developed a strong connection with those around him – giving everyone a jolt during the most important part of the season. “The hardest thing to do in soccer is score goals, and that’s what Alec does,” O’Leary said. “Alec is a goal scorer. And when somebody scores, it boosts everyone’s confidence and gives them a lift. He’s had a terrific career, we’re delighted he’s with the program.” Hughes scored goals in the first two tournament games. If he didn’t already before, he’s likely to draw a lot of attention from any opposing defense the Minutemen face moving forward. O’Leary is prepared for that, and is also just as confident in everyone else to find the back of the net if Hughes isn’t able to. Whether it be Johan Feilscher, Matt Cence, Oliver Akintade or Andrew Ortiz, UMass has options. And the Minutemen are certainly known to score goals. They rank 15th in the country in goals (44) and average over two per game. The 44 goals is also most in the Atlantic 1o. “We can work on different things to free [Hughes] up in different areas,” O’Leary said. “He’ll find a way to have opportunities in these games. And a big part of it is the other attacking players around him. They take pressure off. You can’t double team everybody. There are other guys that have proven they can score for us.” UMass will have to find a way to get by Denver’s defense, one that is ranked 11th in the country in goals against average. Saturday is sure to be a defensive battle, given that the Minutemen have also played near-perfect in that third of the field. Senior keeper Alex Geczy is a big reason why, as he has recorded three shutouts in his last four games – including two consecutive clean sheets in the tournament. O’Leary admitted that teams don’t make it this far into the big dance without a lockdown player in the box. “You don’t get to the Elite Eight of the NCAA with a poor keeper, no matter how strong the rest of your team is,” he said. “And [Geczy] is terrific. He’s had an outstanding season. He’s got confidence in his back four, and his back four has confidence in him. That goes a long way. They bail each other out. [Geczy] has stood tall in some really big games for us.” UMass is no stranger to playing in these road environments against top seeds, but the Minutemen haven’t quite faced a task as tall as the one Denver provides. They know what they’re up against, but, quite frankly, they don’t care. UMass is there to play its style of soccer. And if the Minutemen do that, they like their chances against anyone. “They’re very, very good,” O’Leary said. “They’re one of the elite teams in the country. But we’re unafraid, we’re unselfish, we’re unspoiled and we’re going to enjoy the occasion.”

HOUSTON, Dec. 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Data Journey LLC, a leading woman and minority-owned data center provider, is proud to announce the acquisition of its third property, the Spartanburg site, from Greenidge Generation Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: GREE) for $12.1 million. The purchase is a significant milestone for Data Journey as it marks their entry into the South Carolina market and supports the company’s aggressive growth trajectory. Under the leadership of CEO and Founder Dr. Ishnella Kaur Azad, Data Journey is focused on building a more inclusive, sustainable, and scalable future for the data center industry. As the first woman and minority-owned company in this sector, Data Journey is uniquely positioned to look at the entire ecosystem, ensuring that their operations not only meet the growing demands of their customers but also promote environmentally and socially responsible practices that benefit both the company and the community. "I’m excited about the acquisition of the Spartanburg property, which marks an important step in Data Journey's expansion and our mission to provide cutting-edge IT infrastructure solutions," said Dr. Ishnella Kaur Azad, CEO of Data Journey. “This acquisition not only accelerates our growth in the South Carolina market but also strengthens our commitment to sustainable practices across all stages of our operations. The foundation laid by Greenidge at this site allows us to move quickly toward developing a state-of-the-art data center that will deliver unmatched scalability, security, and efficiency for our customers.” The Spartanburg property, which spans 152 acres, offers a strategic location with significant power access, initially providing 60 MW of capacity, scalable up to 100 MW. Greenidge previously purchased the site in 2021 for $15 million, recognizing its potential as a power-rich industrial location. Following a series of transactions, including the 2023 sale of 23 subdivided acres to NYDIG ABL LLC, the property’s remaining land is now poised for its next chapter as a key data center hub for Data Journey. “Data Journey’s purchase of the Spartanburg site marks an exciting milestone in our growth journey,” Dr. Azad continued. “We’re not just building data centers; we’re creating sustainable, forward-thinking infrastructure that supports our customers while minimizing our environmental footprint. As we continue to expand, we’ll ensure that our practices remain centered around the long-term well-being of both our stakeholders and the communities we serve.” The Spartanburg facility will serve as a cornerstone in Data Journey’s broader strategy to establish six new sites by 2025, strengthening their portfolio and their ability to provide customers with scalable and secure data solutions. The site’s strategic power infrastructure and development-ready capabilities will allow Data Journey to quickly bring innovative, high-performance solutions to market. Data Journey’s acquisition of the Spartanburg property is expected to close in Q1 2025. Both Greenidge and Data Journey are optimistic about the potential for future collaboration and additional data center developments across the U.S. For more information on Data Journey’s growth plans and commitment to sustainability, visit DataJourney.com . About Data Journey LLC Data Journey LLC is a leading woman and minority-owned data center provider, offering innovative IT infrastructure solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of modern enterprises. The company is dedicated to sustainability, scalability, and creating long-term value for its customers and the communities it serves. With a focus on cutting-edge security, power-efficient technologies, and environmental stewardship, Data Journey is committed to advancing the data center industry and providing world-class solutions for the digital age. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7f8d5880-a91c-4060-bf65-7026bac1e4e3 Contact (630)728-4016 info@funnelpot.com

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Excelling students, principals awardedAs the world of football continually evolves and surprises us, we often find ourselves immersed in stories that traverse beyond the boundaries of the pitch. One such story that recently emerged was that of Pere Guardiola, the younger brother of renowned football manager Pep Guardiola. In a light-hearted and jestful manner, Pere Guardiola revealed that he sometimes teases his brother, suggesting that if Pep ever finds himself bored, he could consider coaching Girona.

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Stockhead Don't miss out on the headlines from Stockhead. Followed categories will be added to My News. Pursuit Minerals confident of attracting major miner attention in Argentina Country has seen an increase in lithium activity since election of President Javier Milei Australia looking a bit sluggish in comparison Our High Voltage column wraps all the news driving ASX stocks with exposure to lithium, cobalt, graphite, nickel, rare earths, and vanadium. Even though the lithium price is in the trenches due to oversupply and slowing EV demand, there’s still plenty of moves happening in the sector this week. For example, junior explorer Pursuit Minerals (ASX:PUR) made some solid steps on the pathway to becoming a commercial producer in one of the world’s top emerging lithium jurisdictions. The company announced it has more than quadrupled its Argentine lithium resource at Rio Grande Sur 1.104Mt of contained lithium carbonate equivalent, grading 505.8mg/l Li with 591,800t LCE grading 515.1mg/l Li in the indicated category and 512,500t LCE grading 495.4mg/l Li in the inferred category. This comes ahead of the start of a 250tpa pilot operation in Q1 2025 and has caught the eye of investors – and major miners – who’ve been following lithium news in Argentina since the election of its now President Javier Milei late last year led to dramatic reforms to the country’s resources sector. During his campaign, Milei promised to free Argentines from the “oppression” of the state and presented sweeping reforms including steps to facilitate exports, end price controls and privatise companies in a bid to kick-start the process of economic de-regulation. And Argentina’s mining and resources sector is amongst the beneficiaries with the provisions including customs and foreign exchange incentives to encourage investment in the country. “ This resource upgrade elevates Pursuit into a league that commands attention from major mining companies seeking significant lithium investments,” MD and CEO Aaron Revelle said. “The scale of this resource opens the door to significant offtake discussions with several already underway. “It's clear this is no minor upgrade; it's a transformational major resource with the potential to make a substantial impact on the supply chain. Pursuit continues to make progress at the lithium carbonate plant in Salta and anticipate first production of Lithium Carbonate in Q1 2025.” Offtake discussions are continuing with the company fielding multiple requests for product samples from potential partners, Revelle said. “We will further focus on commercial scale production scenarios looking to unlock value for commercial scale Lithium Carbonate production in the near term,” he said. Argentina catches major miners' attention Both Rio Tinto (ASX:RIO) and BHP (ASX:BHP) have entered the Argentinian scene now, pouring in upwards of $13b to acquire lithium and copper assets this year at a time of weak pricing. Rio recently announced a $10b deal to acquire Arcadium Lithium (ASX:LTM) , a counter-cyclical investment that cemented the mining giant’s belief in lithium’s long term prospects, direct lithium extraction processing tech and Argentina’s status as an emerging mining jurisdiction. Its top brass recently reiterated projections lithium demand would grow fivefold by 2035, with a decision on the up to 60,000tpa LCE Rincon development in Argentina due at the end of 2024. It is a show of confidence in Argentina’s lithium scene, with Rio Grande Sur among a handful of large, high-grade resources not owned by the majors. By way of comparison, the more advanced Argosy Minerals’ Rincon brine, where a 12,000tpa LCE project is due for FID in H2 2025, is smaller and runs at a lithium grade of just 329mg/l. Enthusiasm in Argentina is quite the comparison when you look at recent moves in Australia’s lithium sector, where the WA state gov had to throw explorers and miners a life line amid ramp up concerns and blowouts at plants in WA’s south owned by lithium giants like Tianqi, IGO and Albemarle. Since the start of this year we’ve seen Core Lithium (ASX:CXO) close its Finniss mine in the Northern Territory, Pilbara Minerals (ASX:PLS) announcing it would place its secondary Ngungaju plant at Pilgangoora on care and maintenance, Arcadium Lithium (ASX:LTM) planning to close its Mt Cattlin mine in 2025, and Mineral Resources (ASX:MIN) announcing a shut down of its Bald Hill mine, only acquired last year from the administrators of collapsed Alita Resources, placing 300 jobs on the line. And last month, Greenbushes part-owner Albemarle announced plans to chop 6-7% of its global workforce, which comes after the company suspended work to construct two additional 25,000tpa lithium hydroxide trains at a plant near Bunbury in WA’s South West. Battery Metals Winners and Losers Here’s how a basket of ASX stocks with exposure to lithium, cobalt, graphite, nickel, rare earths, magnesium, manganese and vanadium is performing >>> Code Company Price % Week % Month % Six Month % Year Market Cap XTC XTC Lithium Limited 0.2 19900% 19900% 19900% 0% $17,528,272 MHC Manhattan Corp Ltd 0.002 100% 0% 20% -40% $8,995,940 TKL Traka Resources 0.0015 50% 50% -25% -52% $2,918,488 PTR Petratherm Ltd 0.165 43% 200% 617% 230% $47,039,757 HRE Heavy Rare Earths 0.041 41% 5% 17% -52% $3,455,281 AQD Ausquest Limited 0.011 38% 38% -13% 3% $11,604,282 BYH Bryah Resources Ltd 0.004 33% -20% -50% -71% $2,013,147 SRN Surefire Rescs NL 0.004 33% -33% -56% -58% $7,945,231 HAS Hastings Tech Met 0.33 29% 16% 32% -52% $50,631,318 BC8 Black Cat Syndicate 0.72 26% 13% 125% 194% $393,060,542 AKN Auking Mining Ltd 0.005 25% 0% -76% -92% $1,956,751 AXN Alliance Nickel Ltd 0.046 24% 15% 5% -21% $33,388,622 DEV Devex Resources Ltd 0.13 24% -7% -69% -50% $57,419,787 KNI Kunikolimited 0.225 22% 41% 7% -12% $19,956,932 SUM Summitminerals 0.2 21% 8% 0% 74% $16,833,958 M24 Mamba Exploration 0.012 20% -14% -40% -63% $2,256,987 LMG Latrobe Magnesium 0.027 17% -4% -52% -52% $63,410,509 RBX Resource B 0.042 17% 20% 40% -51% $4,337,948 RGL Riversgold 0.0035 17% 0% -53% -75% $5,696,119 ODE Odessa Minerals Ltd 0.007 17% 17% 133% -22% $8,877,978 EUR European Lithium Ltd 0.03 15% -19% -40% -63% $41,943,679 PGD Peregrine Gold 0.15 15% -12% -48% -52% $9,842,371 VUL Vulcan Energy 7.16 15% 57% 49% 205% $1,392,595,425 NVA Nova Minerals Ltd 0.235 15% -13% -2% -6% $68,682,338 PEK Peak Rare Earths Ltd 0.12 14% -33% -50% -68% $36,767,431 PEK Peak Rare Earths Ltd 0.12 14% -33% -50% -68% $36,767,431 QEM QEM Limited 0.041 14% -27% -71% -77% $7,824,181 KAI Kairos Minerals Ltd 0.017 13% 0% 55% 10% $44,725,507 POS Poseidon Nick Ltd 0.0045 13% -10% -18% -71% $16,815,502 WMG Western Mines 0.195 11% -5% -55% -19% $16,604,460 QXR Qx Resources Limited 0.005 11% -17% -58% -83% $5,760,350 ASO Aston Minerals Ltd 0.01 11% 0% -41% -68% $12,950,643 CNB Carnaby Resource Ltd 0.41 11% -2% -47% -33% $61,897,409 AUZ Australian Mines Ltd 0.011 10% -15% 10% -21% $15,383,633 RMX Red Mount Min Ltd 0.011 10% 38% -27% -64% $3,873,578 WA1 Wa1Resourcesltd 15.92 10% 11% -22% 94% $1,086,838,205 VTM Victory Metals Ltd 0.405 9% 13% 50% 72% $43,943,599 IPX Iperionx Limited 4.41 9% 37% 101% 227% $1,339,477,089 CAE Cannindah Resources 0.048 9% 14% -11% -54% $32,341,678 TLG Talga Group Ltd 0.48 9% 20% -33% -51% $206,024,284 ARN Aldoro Resources 0.092 8% 12% 21% 10% $10,769,899 GL1 Globallith 0.205 8% -11% -47% -84% $52,117,577 BNR Bulletin Res Ltd 0.042 8% -7% -18% -74% $12,038,146 TMB Tambourahmetals 0.028 8% -20% -62% -79% $3,096,521 FTL Firetail Resources 0.081 7% -30% 74% -5% $26,831,086 PSC Prospect Res Ltd 0.1 6% 32% -49% 1% $57,172,375 NWM Norwest Minerals 0.019 6% -5% -49% -39% $9,217,271 A8G Australasian Metals 0.078 5% -29% -26% -55% $4,065,399 CMO Cosmometalslimited 0.02 5% 0% -52% -56% $2,619,857 ATM Aneka Tambang 0.905 5% 0% -16% -23% $1,121,138 REE Rarex Limited 0.0105 5% -13% -48% -68% $8,408,881 RAG Ragnar Metals Ltd 0.021 5% -9% 31% -9% $9,953,706 WIN WIN Metals 0.021 5% -52% -42% -83% $10,958,307 ANX Anax Metals Ltd 0.011 5% -8% -75% -61% $9,585,784 MHK Metalhawk. 0.2825 5% 66% 371% 49% $33,014,476 HXG Hexagon Energy 0.023 5% 0% 28% 156% $11,797,066 MEK Meeka Metals Limited 0.071 4% -11% 87% 97% $161,843,779 MAN Mandrake Res Ltd 0.025 4% -4% -26% -39% $15,681,498 ADV Ardiden Ltd 0.13 4% -4% -13% -41% $8,127,276 AVL Aust Vanadium Ltd 0.014 4% -13% -13% -39% $112,250,555 EV1 Evolutionenergy 0.029 4% -26% -55% -81% $10,456,447 EMH European Metals Hldg 0.15 3% -19% -62% -75% $31,116,706 SLM Solismineralsltd 0.09 3% -7% -18% -45% $7,348,519 EGR Ecograf Limited 0.0805 3% 1% -46% -53% $34,968,150 ITM Itech Minerals Ltd 0.069 3% -7% -10% -51% $11,780,742 DVP Develop Global Ltd 2 3% -18% -13% -33% $533,687,954 DYM Dynamicmetalslimited 0.205 3% 5% 21% 28% $7,380,000 AXE Archer Materials 0.3175 2% 44% -27% -22% $76,454,104 A11 Atlantic Lithium 0.225 2% -12% -49% -56% $151,595,629 ILU Iluka Resources 5.61 2% -4% -23% -18% $2,376,783,809 SRL Sunrise 0.245 2% -36% -57% -59% $21,654,600 ARR American Rare Earths 0.28 2% 4% 0% 75% $140,678,524 LTM Arcadium Lithium PLC 8.02 2% -3% 14% 0% $2,355,217,781 MTM MTM Critical Metals 0.068 1% -31% 45% 162% $23,660,777 S32 South32 Limited 3.75 1% 1% -3% 21% $17,048,052,821 STK Strickland Metals 0.081 1% 16% -26% -54% $178,800,594 PAM Pan Asia Metals 0.063 0% -2% -61% -57% $12,746,410 LOT Lotus Resources Ltd 0.24 0% -9% -47% -14% $495,917,386 RIL Redivium Limited 0.004 0% 0% 33% -50% $10,987,419 LPD Lepidico Ltd 0.002 0% 0% -33% -74% $12,883,778 MRD Mount Ridley Mines 0.001 0% 0% 0% -50% $7,784,883 RLC Reedy Lagoon Corp. 0.002 0% -33% -33% -71% $1,523,413 GBR Greatbould Resources 0.042 0% -21% -29% -25% $31,873,304 CLA Celsius Resource Ltd 0.01 0% -9% 0% -17% $26,995,757 MNS Magnis Energy Tech 0.042 0% 0% 0% -22% $50,378,922 ESR Estrella Res Ltd 0.016 0% 14% 256% 220% $30,416,617 SBR Sabre Resources 0.011 0% -15% -39% -71% $4,322,581 VRC Volt Resources Ltd 0.0035 0% -13% -30% -42% $12,476,034 NTU Northern Min Ltd 0.02 0% 0% -44% -43% $181,181,852 PGM Platina Resources 0.019 0% -24% -21% -24% $11,840,426 SGQ St George Min Ltd 0.025 0% 0% 39% -24% $27,213,511 PRL Province Resources 0.041 0% 0% 0% 0% $48,441,219 ADD Adavale Resource Ltd 0.0025 0% -17% -50% -69% $3,059,413 RXL Rox Resources 0.16 0% -16% -6% -5% $69,849,274 ALY Alchemy Resource Ltd 0.007 0% -13% 0% -30% $8,246,534 LEL Lithenergy 0.37 0% 0% -9% -32% $41,440,581 LML Lincoln Minerals 0.006 0% 0% -25% -14% $12,337,557 1MC Morella Corporation 0.029 0% -3% -42% -81% $8,789,569 MRC Mineral Commodities 0.026 0% 0% 0% -13% $25,596,288 PUR Pursuit Minerals 0.0025 0% -17% -38% -74% $9,088,500 LEG Legend Mining 0.011 0% -15% -31% -42% $32,004,249 MOH Moho Resources 0.005 0% -17% 25% -50% $3,369,864 AML Aeon Metals Ltd. 0.005 0% 0% -55% -55% $5,482,003 WKT Walkabout Resources 0.095 0% -2% -24% -32% $63,769,838 AR3 Austrare 0.105 0% 5% -9% -34% $15,863,666 VMC Venus Metals Cor Ltd 0.07 0% 13% -26% -30% $13,729,008 CNJ Conico Ltd 0.001 0% 0% 0% -80% $2,201,528 SLZ Sultan Resources Ltd 0.007 0% -42% -36% -56% $1,620,289 MLS Metals Australia 0.025 0% 19% 14% -29% $18,180,488 MQR Marquee Resource Ltd 0.014 0% -13% 8% -53% $5,412,997 MRR Minrex Resources Ltd 0.008 0% 0% -20% -58% $8,678,940 EVR Ev Resources Ltd 0.003 0% -18% -64% -69% $4,188,814 DTM Dart Mining NL 0.011 0% -15% -52% -25% $5,661,945 LSR Lodestar Minerals 0.001 0% 0% -38% -69% $3,372,329 CTN Catalina Resources 0.003 0% -14% 0% 0% $3,715,461 EMC Everest Metals Corp 0.125 0% -7% -11% 34% $23,285,389 WML Woomera Mining Ltd 0.002 0% 0% -50% -91% $4,333,180 KZR Kalamazoo Resources 0.085 0% -10% -19% -32% $16,905,549 KOR Korab Resources 0.008 0% 0% 60% -56% $2,936,400 OMH OM Holdings Limited 0.34 0% -12% -30% -27% $260,527,312 EMN Euromanganese 0.048 0% -30% -38% -52% $9,352,288 CRR Critical Resources 0.006 0% -25% -50% -77% $14,591,779 ENT Enterprise Metals 0.004 0% 0% -20% 33% $4,713,269 EMT Emetals Limited 0.005 0% 25% 0% -38% $4,250,000 AVW Avira Resources Ltd 0.001 0% 0% 0% -33% $2,938,790 CAI Calidus Resources 0.115 0% 0% -12% -34% $93,678,206 SRZ Stellar Resources 0.018 0% 0% -18% 100% $39,515,261 THR Thor Energy PLC 0.014 0% -7% -22% -53% $3,382,069 AZI Altamin Limited 0.028 0% -4% -21% -42% $16,086,081 CLZ Classic Min Ltd 0.001 0% 0% -80% -98% $1,544,026 OCN Oceanalithiumlimited 0.026 0% -11% -33% -78% $2,144,948 ETM Energy Transition 0.024 0% 9% -27% -38% $33,809,008 IDA Indiana Resources 0.105 0% 8% 38% 76% $66,766,484 M2R Miramar 0.005 0% -29% -52% -72% $1,984,116 WCN White Cliff Min Ltd 0.015 0% -32% -3% 25% $30,247,532 TAR Taruga Minerals 0.01 0% -17% 25% 0% $7,060,268 AOA Ausmon Resorces 0.002 0% 0% -20% -33% $2,117,999 KTA Krakatoa Resources 0.01 0% 11% -41% -80% $4,721,072 CDT Castle Minerals 0.002 0% -33% -60% -80% $3,345,628 CY5 Cygnus Metals Ltd 0.12 0% -17% 60% -14% $57,057,241 LLI Loyal Lithium Ltd 0.105 0% -19% -58% -72% $9,736,972 PBL Parabellumresources 0.05 0% 0% 19% -86% $3,115,000 OM1 Omnia Metals Group 0.078 0% 0% 0% 0% $4,550,568 LLL Leolithiumlimited 0.505 0% 0% 0% 0% $605,458,342 WSR Westar Resources 0.008 0% 0% -20% -69% $3,189,799 REC Rechargemetals 0.026 0% -40% -33% -76% $3,631,939 TMX Terrain Minerals 0.003 0% 0% -14% -25% $5,400,086 LM1 Leeuwin Metals Ltd 0.073 0% 0% 4% -68% $3,420,172 RON Roninresourcesltd 0.16 0% 23% 33% -22% $6,460,002 ASR Asra Minerals Ltd 0.003 0% -33% -57% -63% $6,756,339 PFE Panteraminerals 0.02 0% -29% -58% -65% $9,475,674 KM1 Kalimetalslimited 0.12 0% -27% -70% 0% $8,835,177 BHP BHP Group Limited 40.06 0% -5% -11% -14% $201,839,789,259 CHN Chalice Mining Ltd 1.3875 0% -28% -20% -6% $540,747,235 VHM Vhmlimited 0.385 -1% -11% -17% -41% $62,664,909 PLL Piedmont Lithium Inc 0.1825 -1% -1% -15% -57% $74,263,086 LYC Lynas Rare Earths 6.88 -1% -8% 3% 6% $6,421,513,931 CTM Centaurus Metals Ltd 0.4325 -2% -6% -16% -14% $216,065,028 ICL Iceni Gold 0.056 -2% 19% -19% -8% $15,257,265 BUX Buxton Resources Ltd 0.055 -2% -29% -45% -71% $12,225,536 IGO IGO Limited 4.87 -2% -8% -33% -42% $3,687,894,249 NIC Nickel Industries 0.8975 -2% -7% -4% 25% $3,817,930,793 BMM Balkanminingandmin 0.05 -2% -7% -11% -67% $4,302,026 INR Ioneer Ltd 0.205 -2% -25% -7% 37% $494,691,228 ZNC Zenith Minerals Ltd 0.041 -2% -18% -41% -74% $16,591,209 LIN Lindian Resources 0.1 -2% 4% -13% -41% $112,986,379 ABX ABX Group Limited 0.039 -3% -7% -24% -45% $9,751,572 KOB Kobaresourceslimited 0.075 -3% -35% -50% -5% $11,892,121 LTR Liontown Resources 0.7825 -3% -12% -42% -43% $1,880,352,255 RNU Renascor Res Ltd 0.066 -3% -10% -40% -51% $165,218,929 SYR Syrah Resources 0.2275 -3% -22% -53% -63% $238,025,106 SYR Syrah Resources 0.2275 -3% -22% -53% -63% $238,025,106 FG1 Flynngold 0.03 -3% 0% -9% -59% $7,839,494 BM8 Battery Age Minerals 0.09 -3% -10% -47% -60% $8,447,254 BCA Black Canyon Limited 0.058 -3% -12% -52% -59% $5,067,445 MIN Mineral Resources. 33.495 -4% -2% -55% -46% $6,597,129,536 E25 Element 25 Ltd 0.275 -4% -7% 4% -43% $61,575,472 MLX Metals X Limited 0.405 -4% -13% -11% 50% $358,654,325 BSX Blackstone Ltd 0.027 -4% -21% -51% -67% $15,935,787 GED Golden Deeps 0.026 -4% -16% -38% -51% $3,939,581 DLI Delta Lithium 0.1875 -4% -22% -35% -60% $132,560,232 ASL Andean Silver 0.985 -4% -32% 28% 338% $155,206,017 GAL Galileo Mining Ltd 0.12 -4% -23% -54% -59% $23,714,991 S2R S2 Resources 0.07 -4% -10% -44% -59% $32,605,775 LKE Lake Resources 0.045 -4% -32% -27% -70% $78,170,670 CWX Carawine Resources 0.11 -4% 13% 10% 0% $25,973,799 QPM QPM Energy Limited 0.043 -4% 8% 13% -19% $108,410,691 GW1 Greenwing Resources 0.041 -5% -36% -38% -64% $9,866,711 EG1 Evergreenlithium 0.081 -5% 7% -10% -54% $4,554,630 FBM Future Battery 0.02 -5% 5% -51% -74% $13,307,119 JMS Jupiter Mines. 0.1425 -5% -19% -55% -16% $284,273,271 LIT Livium Ltd 0.018 -5% -10% -31% -42% $23,662,688 PVT Pivotal Metals Ltd 0.009 -5% 13% -55% -55% $8,165,033 CMX Chemxmaterials 0.035 -5% -22% -22% -51% $4,644,804 COB Cobalt Blue Ltd 0.069 -5% -22% -26% -79% $28,728,283 NMT Neometals Ltd 0.085 -6% -11% -26% -62% $66,939,982 ASN Anson Resources Ltd 0.065 -6% -8% -50% -55% $90,002,458 PVW PVW Res Ltd 0.016 -6% -24% -38% -67% $3,182,476 KFM Kingfisher Mining 0.048 -6% -26% -28% -73% $2,578,320 L1M Lightning Minerals 0.077 -6% 35% -6% -50% $7,272,391 STM Sunstone Metals Ltd 0.007 -7% 0% -46% -56% $36,049,325 DRE Dreadnought Resources Ltd 0.014 -7% -13% -18% -56% $56,291,250 GRL Godolphin Resources 0.014 -7% -26% -50% -63% $4,426,957 ASM Ausstratmaterials 0.47 -7% -18% -53% -68% $85,220,229 CXO Core Lithium 0.092 -7% -16% -34% -72% $197,157,430 PNN Power Minerals Ltd 0.092 -7% -8% -34% -63% $10,588,503 SRI Sipa Resources Ltd 0.013 -7% -24% -19% -48% $2,966,056 TVN Tivan Limited 0.052 -7% 8% 4% -33% $95,247,212 VR8 Vanadium Resources 0.026 -7% -45% -51% -42% $14,628,255 ENV Enova Mining Limited 0.0065 -7% -19% -69% -28% $6,402,041 RAS Ragusa Minerals Ltd 0.013 -7% -13% -32% -70% $1,853,784 NVX Novonix Limited 0.715 -7% -11% -9% 3% $372,792,059 MEI Meteoric Resources 0.0925 -8% -12% -50% -56% $211,481,432 KGD Kula Gold Limited 0.006 -8% -14% -40% -82% $3,859,272 GCM Green Critical Min 0.006 -8% 140% 100% -40% $11,445,320 BUR Burleyminerals 0.06 -8% -34% -57% -61% $9,172,628 ARL Ardea Resources Ltd 0.35 -8% -19% -43% -23% $69,889,020 KNG Kingsland Minerals 0.17 -8% -6% -19% -38% $12,335,355 1AE Auroraenergymetals 0.056 -8% 14% -33% -33% $10,027,569 LRV Larvottoresources 0.5 -8% -28% 421% 417% $171,035,053 IPT Impact Minerals 0.011 -8% -15% -42% 0% $33,653,771 JRV Jervois Global Ltd 0.011 -8% -15% -31% -74% $32,433,165 G88 Golden Mile Res Ltd 0.011 -8% -35% -15% -48% $4,728,229 BOA Boadicea Resources 0.022 -8% -8% -8% -46% $2,713,763 SCN Scorpion Minerals 0.011 -8% -27% -48% -77% $4,504,018 EVG Evion Group NL 0.031 -9% 11% 24% -9% $10,755,859 FGR First Graphene Ltd 0.03 -9% -36% -46% -56% $18,759,706 HAW Hawthorn Resources 0.048 -9% -17% -31% -48% $16,080,749 NWC New World Resources 0.019 -10% -5% -53% -53% $56,805,634 ARU Arafura Rare Earths 0.1175 -10% -24% -41% -41% $295,719,443 WR1 Winsome Resources 0.46 -10% -16% -63% -58% $100,782,133 AZL Arizona Lithium Ltd 0.0135 -10% -21% -46% -68% $62,633,403 AX8 Accelerate Resources 0.009 -10% 0% -82% -78% $5,595,785 CRI Criticalim 0.009 -10% -25% -65% -10% $26,723,155 LU7 Lithium Universe Ltd 0.009 -10% -43% -50% -76% $6,801,347 WC8 Wildcat Resources 0.2425 -10% -31% -49% -71% $309,141,075 PAT Patriot Lithium 0.044 -10% 5% -47% -79% $4,553,140 RVT Richmond Vanadium 0.26 -10% -17% 8% -16% $22,414,030 PMT Patriotbatterymetals 0.245 -11% -37% -72% -77% $141,611,681 AGY Argosy Minerals Ltd 0.032 -11% -14% -75% -82% $46,589,470 CHR Charger Metals 0.072 -11% -5% -25% -73% $5,574,258 WC1 Westcobarmetals 0.016 -11% -24% -72% -74% $2,548,265 GT1 Greentechnology 0.06 -12% -33% -40% -84% $24,491,382 INF Infinity Lithium 0.029 -12% -31% -47% -74% $13,415,171 GRE Greentechmetals 0.085 -12% -29% -63% -84% $7,061,798 AAJ Aruma Resources Ltd 0.014 -13% -18% -33% -56% $3,108,814 SMX Strata Minerals 0.021 -13% -19% -5% -63% $4,007,119 IMI Infinitymining 0.014 -13% -50% -69% -88% $4,802,102 FRB Firebird Metals 0.105 -13% -5% -48% -34% $15,659,754 LPM Lithium Plus 0.105 -13% -34% 5% -77% $13,948,200 BKT Black Rock Mining 0.04 -13% -17% -37% -60% $46,325,798 FRS Forrestaniaresources 0.013 -13% -7% -32% -57% $2,827,818 LNR Lanthanein Resources 0.003 -14% -25% -33% -57% $7,330,908 DM1 Desert Metals 0.024 -14% -31% 4% -38% $4,777,662 LNR Lanthanein Resources 0.003 -14% -25% -33% -57% $7,330,908 PNT Panthermetalsltd 0.017 -15% -54% -49% -57% $4,236,275 LRS Latin Resources Ltd 0.165 -15% -11% -34% -11% $462,234,211 VML Vital Metals Limited 0.0025 -17% 25% -38% -75% $11,790,134 TEM Tempest Minerals 0.005 -17% -17% -48% -35% $3,136,349 FIN FIN Resources Ltd 0.005 -17% -29% -58% -81% $3,246,344 PLS Pilbara Min Ltd 2.395 -17% -13% -39% -33% $7,318,051,760 TOR Torque Met 0.043 -17% -43% -80% -76% $10,735,549 AS2 Askarimetalslimited 0.014 -18% -53% -75% -93% $2,149,015 AM7 Arcadia Minerals 0.023 -18% -41% -68% -73% $2,692,152 SYA Sayona Mining Ltd 0.031 -18% -6% -30% -55% $369,385,472 EMS Eastern Metals 0.013 -19% -38% -65% -59% $1,477,791 GLN Galan Lithium Ltd 0.12 -20% -33% -45% -80% $91,736,751 GSM Golden State Mining 0.008 -20% -27% -27% -53% $2,234,965 LCY Legacy Iron Ore 0.01 -20% -20% -26% -35% $97,620,426 IG6 Internationalgraphit 0.052 -21% -9% -53% -71% $10,065,033 IXR Ionic Rare Earths 0.007 -22% -22% -46% -65% $29,218,576 EFEDA Eastern Resources 0.031 -23% -11% -48% -69% $3,974,229 NC1 Nicoresourceslimited 0.098 -25% -7% -35% -67% $10,726,156 YAR Yari Minerals Ltd 0.003 -25% 0% -40% -81% $1,447,073 TKM Trek Metals Ltd 0.02 -26% -31% -55% -57% $10,277,457 RR1 Reach Resources Ltd 0.008 -27% -27% -43% -65% $6,995,451 RR1 Reach Resources Ltd 0.008 -27% -27% -43% -65% $6,995,451 OD6 Od6Metalsltd 0.032 -29% 10% -49% -83% $4,118,086 TON Triton Min Ltd 0.007 -30% -30% -42% -70% $12,547,110 JLL Jindalee Lithium Ltd 0.23 -31% -2% -59% -75% $16,926,125 CZN Corazon Ltd 0.002 -50% -60% -78% -90% $1,535,811 Other Weekly Small Cap Standouts Miramar Resources (ASX:M2R) The company says analysis of RC drill samples from its Mount Vernon project – part of its Bangemall nickel-copper-cobalt-platinum group elements projects in WA – have confirmed the presence of nickel and copper sulphides. The project is part of a geological province in WA’s Gascoyne region that is the same age as the Giles Complex which hosts the large Nebo and Babel Ni-Cu deposits in the West Musgrave region. Bangemall has been identified by the Geological Survey of Western Australia, Geoscience Australia and the CSIRO as having high prospectivity for mineralisation associated with the Kulkatharra Dolerite sills – a feature that reads like the giant Norilsk Ni-Cu-PGE deposits in Russia. This is the first time nickel and copper sulphides have been confirmed within the Kulkatharra Dolerite. While no firm conclusions could be made about potential zoning due to limitations in the resolution of the micro-XRF analysis, the company says the new data indicates the potential for deposits where these nickel-copper sulphides could accumulate. MTM Critical Metals (ASX:MTM) The company has snagged approval of its shares to trade on the over the counter market (OTCQB) in the United States, opening access to North American capital and liquidity. The company has been advancing a technology known as flash joule heating with Rice University in Texas, and has been moving strongly since the announcement last week of restrictions on Chinese exports to the US of gallium, germanium and antimony. The former two are among the metals MTM is looking to produce from scrap in a partnership with Indium Corporation leveraging its FJH tech. MTM MD Michael Walshe said: “This milestone reflects our dedication to broadening MTM’s global reach and investor base. The OTCQB listing not only enhances accessibility for US investors but also underscores our dedication to advancing sustainable technologies like FJH. “These innovations are crucial to onshoring critical material supply chains, enabling the efficient extraction of metals from unconventional waste streams. “By fostering greater national autonomy and sovereignty in critical supply chains, this aligns with US priorities, especially in light of China’s recent export ban on gallium and germanium. “These strategic metals are indispensable for key technologies, including semiconductors and military defence systems. “Listing on the OTCQB will greatly improve access for US-based investors to trade MTM shares, aligning with the ongoing progress of our FJH development program. “Additionally, we anticipate that dual trading on the OTCQB will help diversify our shareholder base and broaden exposure to a wider pool of investors.” Aldoro Resources (ASX:ARN) The company has been moving on surface sampling at the Kameelburg niobium project in Namibia, with investors hoping it will deliver a major niobium discovery – and now Aldoro has confirmed that niobium mineralisation exists across 220 metres of line 3 at an average grade of 0.70% Nb2O5. The commodity, largely used in high-strength and lightweight steel alloys, is highly concentrated, with one mine in Brazil’s Araxa locale owned by CBMM responsible for over 80% of global mined production. Just last week the company reported a 262m line of samples averaging over 0.5% Nb2O5 including 94m with samples averaging 0.93% Nb2O5. A critical diamond drilling program is ongoing, so stay tuned for more news on that front. Green Critical Minerals (ASX:GCM) Green Critical Minerals is well on the way to constructing a pilot plant in NSW to commercialise its VHD tech, where graphite blocks will be produced for the computing sector and solar thermal energy storage systems. The company acquired the tech back in October, drawn by its ability to convert graphite into very high-density graphite blocks that have among the highest thermal conductivity ever recorded for any bulk material – up to 617 W/m·K along the grain – and the lowest electrical resistivity (of 1.2 μΩ·m) ever measured for any bulk graphite product. Notable applications include materials for the defence and nuclear industries, thermal energy storage systems, high-performance electronics, battery electrodes, heat sinks and aerospace. This pilot plant has been designed to support the parallel development of heat sinks and solar-thermal blocks. Smaller VHD blocks will be produced, designed specifically for heat sinks in the high-performance computing sector – for example for gaming computers, super computers and AI data centres. The larger VHD blocks are tailored for solar-thermal energy storage systems, a market with growing demand for innovative solutions to decarbonise power generation and industrial processes. The company says these blocks are critical components for thermal energy storage (TES) in utility-scale renewable energy projects, providing a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. Construction has commenced, with receipt of all critical equipment required, with the plant on track for commissioning in Q3 FY25. M2R, MTN, ARN and GCM share prices today: At Stockhead, we tell it like it is. While Miramar Resources, Green Critical Minerals and Pursuit Minerals are Stockhead advertisers, they did not sponsor this article. Originally published as High Voltage: Junior confident of lithium outlook in Argentina despite sluggish market More related stories Stockhead Net zero goals still need hydrogen Heavy transport and displacing fossil fuel-derived hydrogen are some of the key areas where clean hydrogen can shine. Read more Stockhead Why 2025 could be the year for ASX small caps ASX small caps could rebound in 2025, Shaw and Partners analysts say, with lower interest rates boosting growth along with diversification and returns. Read more

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Eric Trump, the second son of former President Donald Trump, recently made headlines with his bold statement on the future of banking. In a provocative speech at a financial conference, Eric Trump declared that traditional banks are becoming obsolete in the face of rapidly evolving technology, and that the United States must lead the way in embracing the crypto wave. He emphasized the urgent need for the government to develop a clear regulatory roadmap for the crypto industry.Romanians Vote For Parliament Amid Ongoing Presidential Election DisputesThe integration of QuickBooks with Amazon's Seller Central platform will enable sellers to seamlessly sync their sales data, inventory levels, and shipping information in real-time. This will help sellers automate their bookkeeping tasks and eliminate manual data entry, saving time and reducing the risk of errors in financial reporting. Additionally, QuickBooks' robust reporting features will empower sellers to gain valuable insights into their business performance, enabling them to make informed decisions and drive growth.

As the knockout stages loom on the horizon, these upcoming matches are crucial for teams looking to solidify their positions in the group standings and secure progression to the next round. With the stakes high and the pressure mounting, expect fireworks on the pitch as some of Europe's top teams battle it out for supremacy in the most prestigious club competition in world football.

Trump calls Florida meeting with Trudeau productive amid stiff tariff threatIn the world of table tennis, controversies often arise surrounding the use of technology to monitor and track the movement of the ball during matches. Recently, Chinese table tennis player Wang Chuqin has spoken out to clarify that he has not been affected by any disputes related to the ball tracking system, known as the Hawk-Eye system, asserting that it serves to uphold fairness in the sport.

free casino slots game SANTA CLARA — As the 49ers’ season comes to a close amid an avalanche of missed games, Dominick Puni remembers the one that got away. The one snap, that is. It happened with 9:28 to play in the first quarter of an eventual 30-13 win over the New England Patriots in Week 4. Puni took a blow to the stomach on a 1-yard run by Jordan Mason. “I had one snap where I got the wind knocked out of me and they told me to stay down so I missed one snap this year,” Puni said Saturday as the 49ers (6-9) concluded preparations to host the Detroit Lions (13-2) Puni, a rookie third-round draft pick out of Kansas, will be in his usual spot as the starting right guard Monday night as the 49ers close out their home schedule. Jake Brendel will be the center. The rest of the offensive line will be determined at some point before kickoff. Spencer Burford, the third 49ers’ left tackle, was declared out with a calf injury, along with left guard Aaron Banks (knee), linebacker Dre Greenlaw (calf) and defensive end Robert Beal Jr. (ankle). Right tackle Colton McKivitz is listed as questionable but didn’t practice all week with a knee injury. Also questionable were safety Ji’Ayir Brown (ankle), linebacker Tatum Bethune (knee) and cornerback Charvarius Ward (personal matter). Banks is expected to be the 14th player to go on injured reserve, although Bethune is eligible to be activated from I.R. If McKivitz doesn’t play, the 49ers starting line could consist, from left to right, of newcomer Charlie Heck at left tackle, Nick Zakelj at left guard, Brendel at center, Puni at right guard and Austen Pleasants, a recent practice squad promotion who signed on Dec. 17, at right tackle. Coach Kyle Shanahan characterized the challenge of playing mix-and-match this way: “You try to keep it simple for them, try to categorize stuff in groups, and the guys next to them just, they try to communicate as much as possible and you try to help him out,” Shanahan said. Puni, who has established himself as a foundation piece going forward, finds himself possibly being in the unusual position of dispensing advice and wisdom at age 24. “With these tackles, whoever is going to play next to you, you’ve got to tell them some things,” Puni said. “If you just get here you’re not going to know all the tricks of the offense. Other than that, I’m just going try and control my one-eleventh and do my job. It is exciting though.” Puni’s 938 snaps are the most on the team — two more than McKivitz and three more than Brendel. Remarkable when you consider Puni had to nearly avert his eyes during some recent film study of his own practices and game tape when he first arrived as the 86th overall pick of the draft. “I went back to rookie minicamp, the fall camp, the first three training camp practices, just to see how bad I was when I first got here compared to now,” Puni said. “It’s like a night and day difference. When you get here, you don’t know the offense, you don’t know the technique. Yet by the third training camp practice, Puni (6-foot-5, 315 pounds) was the starter. He’s never relinquished the position and health permitting isn’t likely to be out of the lineup for years. “I got a lot of reps with the (first team) and that’s the only reason I was able to do so well early in the year,” Puni said. Puni credits linemates such as McKivitz, Brendel, Banks, Burford and Trent Williams as well as line coach Chris Foerster for helping to bring him along, but it’s clear he’s been a quick learner who wears durability as a badge of honor. While the outside world fixates on who should and shouldn’t play regardless of injury on teams out of the playoffs, Puni’s outlook is appealingly old school. “You don’t ever want to miss a snap,” Puni said. “If you can be out there, you’ve got to play. The last thing I want to do is bring a backup guy in who has been sitting on the sidelines and now he’s got to go in and I don’t think that’s fair. If I can play, I’m going to play.” GUERENDO GOOD TO GO Running back Isaac Guerendo (foot, hamstring) was a full participant in practice and wasn’t given a status after missing the Miami game, meaning the 49ers should get another look at their fourth-round draft pick as a lead back. “It was good to have him back,” Shanahan said. “We had a full speed practice (Friday) and he looked good. So no holdbacks. He’s good to go.” Also good to go is fullback Kyle Juszczyk, who missed the two previous days with an illness. Ward, who lost his 23-month old daughter in October, is awaiting the birth of his son and currently away from the team. KITTLE ON CAMPBELL It’s not difficult to look at 49ers tight end George Kittle and hard-nosed Detroit coach Dan Campbell as kindred spirits. Kittle likes what he’s seen of Campbell from afar. “When you have a head coach who played, and the way he played was gritty and kind of nasty but beloved by all his teammates, it’s easy to play for a guy like that,” Kittle said. “He seems like a really easy guy to play for, makes them grind and earn every second, but you want people like that who hold you to a standard. It’s awesome to see the Lions have gotten to that. but it’s our job to take them down a little bit.” WATTERS, BOLDIN MISS HOF CUT Former 49ers running back Ricky Watters (1991-94) and wide receiver Anquan Boldin (2013-15) did not make the cut to the round of 15 to be considered for induction for the Class of 2025 in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Shanahan spent a lot of time around the 49ers when his father was offensive coordinator and Watters turned into a game-changer in both the pass game and run game. “I was only in middle school, so I can’t act like I really knew strategically what was going on,” Shanahan said. “But he was a really cool player. I loved talking to him and hanging out with him up in Rocklin at training camp.” Mike Holmgren, a San Francisco native who was a 49ers assistant from 1986 to 1991 as quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator, is a coach finalist. — Staff writer Cam Inman contributed to this report

Amie Just: Could the Big 12 be left out of CFP? And, is Ohio State better than Oregon?By ERIC TUCKER WASHINGTON (AP) — A ninth U.S. telecoms firm has been confirmed to have been hacked as part of a sprawling Chinese espionage campaign that gave officials in Beijing access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans, a top White House official said Friday. Biden administration officials said this month that at least eight telecommunications companies , as well as dozens of nations, had been affected by the Chinese hacking blitz known as Salt Typhoon. But Anne Neuberger, the deputy national security adviser for cyber and emerging technologies, told reporters Friday that a ninth victim had been identified after the administration released guidance to companies about how to hunt for Chinese culprits in their networks. The update from Neuberger is the latest development in a massive hacking operation that has alarmed national security officials, exposed cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the private sector and laid bare China’s hacking sophistication. The hackers compromised the networks of telecommunications companies to obtain customer call records and gain access to the private communications of “a limited number of individuals.” Though the FBI has not publicly identified any of the victims, officials believe senior U.S. government officials and prominent political figures are among those whose whose communications were accessed. Neuberger said officials did not yet have a precise sense how many Americans overall were affected by Salt Typhoon, in part because the Chinese were careful about their techniques, but a “large number” were in the Washington-Virginia area. Officials believe the goal of the hackers was to identify who owned the phones and, if they were “government targets of interest,” spy on their texts and phone calls, she said. The FBI said most of the people targeted by the hackers are “primarily involved in government or political activity.” Neuberger said the episode highlighted the need for required cybersecurity practices in the telecommunications industry, something the Federal Communications Commission is to take up at a meeting next month. “We know that voluntary cyber security practices are inadequate to protect against China, Russia and Iran hacking of our critical infrastructure,” she said. The Chinese government has denied responsibility for the hacking.

Eastern states were considered backward earlier I view them as India's growth engine PM Modi

Washington: Most Americans believe health insurance profits and coverage denials share responsibility for the killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO – although not as much as the person who pulled the trigger, according to a new poll. In the survey from NORC at the University of Chicago, about eight in 10 US adults said the person who committed the killing has “a great deal” or “a moderate amount” of responsibility for the December 4 shooting of Brian Thompson . Luigi Mangione, centre, is escorted from Manhattan Criminal Court after his arraignment where he pleaded not guilty to state murder and terror charges in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Credit: AP Despite that, some have cast Luigi Mangione – the 26-year-old suspect charged with Thompson’s murder – as a heroic figure in the aftermath of his arrest, which gave rise to an outpouring of grievances about insurance companies. Police say the words “delay,” “deny” and “depose” were scrawled on the ammunition investigators found at the scene, echoing a phrase commonly used to describe insurer tactics to avoid paying claims. UnitedHealthcare has said Mangione was not a client. About seven in 10 adults said denials for health care coverage by insurance companies, or the profits made by health insurance companies, also bear at least “a moderate amount” of responsibility for Thompson’s death. Younger Americans were particularly likely to see the murder as the result of a confluence of forces rather than just one person’s action. Loading Most Americans get health coverage through their job or by purchasing individual policies. Separate government-funded programs provide coverage for people with low incomes or those who are aged 65 and over or have severe illnesses or disabilities. Americans saw a wide range of factors contributing to UHC CEO’s killing and the poll found that the story of the slaying is being followed widely. About seven in 10 said they had heard or read “a lot” or “some” about Thompson’s death. Multiple factors were seen as responsible. About half in the poll believed that at least “a moderate amount” of blame is rooted in wealth or income inequality, although they did not think other factors like political divisions in the US held the same level of responsibility. Patients and doctors often complain about coverage denials and other complications interfering with care, especially for serious illnesses like cancer and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS. Insurance industry critics frequently point to company profits in questioning whether the interests of patients are their top focus. UnitedHealthcare made more than $US16 billion in profit last year, before interest and taxes, on $US281 billion in revenue. Insurers frequently note that most of the revenue they bring in goes back out the door to pay for care. UnitedHealthcare said this month that it pays about 90 per cent of medical claims upon submission. The insurer has not provided details on the number of claims involved. Among young people, blame was spread equally between insurers and the killer. Americans under 30 were especially likely to think a mix of factors was to blame for Thompson’s death. They say that insurance company denials and profits are about as responsible as Thompson’s killer for his death. About 7 in 10 US adults between 18 and 29 say “a great deal” or “a moderate amount” of responsibility falls on profits made by health insurance companies, denials for health care coverage by health insurance companies or the person who committed the killing. Loading Young people are also the least likely age group to say “a great deal” of responsibility fell on the person who committed the killing. Only about four in 10 say that, compared with about 6 in 10 between 30 and 59. Roughly eight in 10 adults over 60 say that person deserved “a great deal” of responsibility. About two-thirds of young people placed at least a moderate level of blame on wealth or income inequality, in general. Frustrations with health insurers, coverage and the complicated US healthcare system have been simmering for years among patients. About three in 10 Americans said they had problems getting coverage from their health insurer in the [ast year, whether those involved problems finding a suitable provider in-network, a claim getting denied or issues getting prior authorisation or insurer approval before care happens. These struggles were more prevalent among Americans under 60. Loading The poll of 1001 adults was conducted from December 12 to 16 using a sample drawn from NORC’s probability-based AmeriSpeak Panel, which is designed to be representative of the US population. The margin of sampling error for adults overall is plus or minus 4.2 percentage points. AP Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on what’s making headlines around the world. Sign up for the weekly What in the World newsletter here . Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Health insurance USA Tragedy Most Viewed in World LoadingA handful of Democrats are sounding their approval of Republican Florida Sen. Marco Rubio as Secretary of State but others continue to doubt some cabinet picks made by President-elect Donald Trump . Philadelphia news 24/7: Watch NBC10 free wherever you are "I think Marco Rubio is enormously well-qualified for the job for which he's been nominated," Democratic Senator-elect from California Adam Schiff said on NBC's "Meet the Press " on Sunday morning. "I still want to ask questions, I'm not going to completely pre-judge even him, but he's unquestionably qualified." Trump has made a flurry of cabinet picks in the last two weeks, naming his choices for all 15 heads of the executive departments. Eyes are now on the U.S. Senate to confirm the candidates. Rubio is deemed one of the "less MAGA" options within Trump's circle, a Trump ally told NBC News earlier this month , with another saying that he has become "far more aligned with the President on issues regarding tariffs." Trump campaigned in support of universal tariffs in the 2024 election cycle, with a specifically harsh 60% tariff on goods from China . Rubio is notoriously tough on China and is a fierce advocate for the demonetization of social media platform TikTok, owned by China's ByteDance, in the United States. He is also hawkish on Iran while remaining ambivalent about support for Ukraine. Democratic Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman also said that he is a "fan" of Rubio in an interview with Fox News' "Fox News Sunday," and said he will vote to confirm him. Fetterman said he might also "enthusiastically vote yes" for Rep. Elise Stefanik to serve as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, and for union-friendly Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer as Labor secretary. Fetterman also said he is keeping an open mind for other candidates, such as his former rival for the Pennsylvania Senate seat Dr. Mehmet Oz for Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services administrator . "I'm not going to pre-hate this. I'm going to have an open conversation for anyone that I'm open to having part of that conversation," Fetterman said. Democratic Illinois Sen. Tammy Duckworth said she has "a friendship" with Rubio and said she's looking forward to talking to him about his policies. Duckworth, a combat veteran injured in Iraq, weighed in on Trump's defense and veteran affairs picks, as well, in her interview with CNN's "State of the Union" on Sunday morning. While the senator said she is open to conversations with Republican Rep. Doug Collins of Georgia, Trump's pick to lead the Department of Veteran Affairs, she deemed Fox News host Pete Hegseth "unqualified" for the position of Secretary of Defense. "He never commanded a company, let alone battalions, brigades or whole armies," Duckworth said of Hegseth, who is an Army National Guard veteran. "There are ways to be disruptors without actually putting people who have never run an organization larger than a platoon to be Secretary of Defense," Duckworth continued, adding that Collins would be a good example. "The VA has been having a terrible issue with their electronic medical records program. Hopefully Doug Collins gets in there and is a disruptor." Hegseth has also been under fire for a 2017 police investigation in connection with an alleged sexual assault at a California hotel. Another name that has drawn substantial criticism from the Senate is former Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, Trump's candidate for Director of National Intelligence. Sen.-elect Schiff said Gabbard's lack of experience in the House Intelligence Committee, as well as her purported Kremlin ties , concern him. Sen. Duckworth alleged that Gabbard is "compromised," and she worries that the former congresswoman couldn't pass a background check. "I think that she is someone who is wholly backing and supportive of [Russian President Vladimir Putin], and I worry that she will not have America's best interests at heart," Duckworth said. Some Republicans, however, refute the claims that Duckworth is a Russian asset. "I think it's insulting. It's a slur, quite frankly," Republican Sen. Eric Schmitt of Missouri said Sunday on NBC's " Meet the Press ." Meanwhile, H.R. McMaster, who was previously national security adviser during Trump's first term as president, said he doesn't view Sebastian Gorka, Trump's former national security adviser, as the right person to advise on national security in the second term. "I think that the President [and] others who are working with him will probably determine that pretty quickly," McMaster said on CBS's "Face the Nation" on Sunday. McMaster, who has been openly critical of some aspects of Trump's foreign policy agenda after his time in the administration, also said he is worried about some Republican officials' tendencies to parrot Russian President Putin's talking points. "They've got to disabuse themselves of this, you know, strange affection for Vladimir Putin," McMaster said. The vocal pushback from Democrats in Congress has led Trump to float the possibility of forcing the Senate into an extended recess in 2025 to bypass the confirmation process when appointing Cabinet officials. Recess appointments are "and should be on the table," Republican Senator Bill Hagerty of Tennessee told ABC News' "This Week" on Sunday. "This is a constitutionally available tool. What we want to see is Democrats cooperate with us. But if the resistance movement gets as heavy as it was. ... We need to put a team in place around him, and [Trump] needs every tool at his disposal to do that," Hagerty said.

Organisers happy with maiden Lagos Liga tourneyISLAMABAD (AP) — Pakistani police arrested thousands of Imran Khan supporters ahead of a rally in the capital to demand the ex-premier’s release from prison, a security officer said Sunday. Khan has been behind bars for more than a year and has over 150 criminal cases against him. But he remains popular and his political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf or PTI, says the cases are politically motivated. Shahid Nawaz, a security officer in eastern Punjab province, said police have arrested more than 4,000 Khan supporters. They include five parliamentarians. Pakistan has sealed off Islamabad with shipping containers and shut down major roads and highways connecting the city with PTI strongholds in Punjab and northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. Tit-for-tat teargas shelling between the police and the PTI was reported on the highway bordering Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Earlier on Sunday, Pakistan suspended mobile and internet services “in areas with security concerns.” The government and Interior Ministry posted the announcement on the social media platform X, which is banned in Pakistan. They did not specify the areas, nor did they say how long the suspension would be in place. “Internet and mobile services will continue to operate as usual in the rest of the country,” the posts said. Meanwhile, telecom company Nayatel sent out emails offering customers “a reliable landline service” as a workaround in the areas suffering suspended cellphone service. Khan's supporters rely heavily on social media to demand his release and use messaging platforms like WhatsApp to share information, including details of events. PTI spokesperson Sheikh Waqas Akram said Khan's wife Bushra Bibi was traveling to Islamabad in a convoy led by the chief minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ali Amin Gandapur. “She cannot leave the party workers on their own,” said Akram. There was a festive mood in Peshawar, with PTI members dancing, drumming and holding up pictures of Khan as cars set off for Islamabad. The government is imposing social media platform bans and targeting VPN services , according to internet advocacy group Netblocks. On Sunday, the group said live metrics showed problems with WhatsApp that were affecting media sharing on the app. The U.S. Embassy issued a security alert for Americans in the capital, encouraging them to avoid large gatherings and warning that even “peaceful gatherings can turn violent.” Last month, authorities suspended the cellphone service in Islamabad and Rawalpindi to thwart a pro-Khan rally. The shutdown disrupted communications and affected everyday services such as banking, ride-hailing and food delivery. The latest crackdown comes on the eve of a visit by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko . Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said authorities have sealed off Islamabad's Red Zone, which houses key government buildings and is the destination for Khan's supporters. “Anyone reaching it will be arrested,” Naqvi told a press conference. He said the security measures were in place to protect residents and property, blaming the PTI for inconveniencing people and businesses. He added that protesters were planning to take the same route as the Belarusian delegation, but that the government had headed off this scenario. Naqvi denied cellphone services were suspended and said only mobile data was affected. Associated Press writers Riaz Khan in Peshawar and Asim Tanveer in Multan contributed to this report.

Hopes for a Santa Claus rally on Wall Street fell Friday as tech stocks slid lower, while a weaker yen lifted Japanese equities. US indices slid lower at the opening bell, with the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite losing two percent during morning trading. Shares in Tesla were down over three percent in late morning trading while those in AI chipmaker NVIDIA shed around two percent. Wall Street stocks have historically performed well around the year-end holidays in what is popularly known as a Santa Claus rally. A Christmas Eve jump in equities got the Santa rally off to a flying start and indices barely budged in Thursday trading. Briefing.com analyst Patrick O'Hare also pointed to an increase in 10-year US Treasury bond yields to around 4.6 percent, which he noted is an increase of nearly 0.9 percentage points since the US Federal Reserve made its first interest rate cut in September. "The Fed doesn't hold sway over longer-dated maturities like it does over shorter-dated securities, so the bump in rates at the back end of the curve is being watched with an anxious eye as a possible harbinger of a pickup in inflation and/or the budget deficit," O'Hare said. Wall Street stocks took a knock earlier this month when the Fed indicated it would likely cut interest rates less than it had previously expected to. That was in part because of uncertainty tied to the stated intention of incoming president Donald Trump to raise tariffs, which could boost inflation that is already proving sticky. In Asia, Japan's Nikkei index closed up nearly two percent, with the yen's recent weakness proving a boon for major exporters. The yen hit 158.08 per US dollar on Thursday evening -- its lowest in almost six months -- following comments made by Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda that failed to give a clear signal on a possible interest rate increase next month. Recent data has showed Japan's inflation rose for a second month in December, while industrial production declined less than expected in November and retail sales came in higher than estimated last month. Japan's government also on Friday approved a record budget for the next fiscal year, ramping up spending on social welfare for its ageing population and on defence to tackle regional threats. In Seoul, the stock market closed down one percent after the won plunged to a nearly 16-year low of 1,487.03 against the dollar on Friday morning. South Korea is struggling to emerge from political turbulence in the wake of President Yoon Suk Yeol's martial law declaration this month, which prompted his impeachment. Acting President Han Duck-soo was also impeached Friday in a vote that prompted governing party lawmakers to protest with angry chants and raised fists. South Korea's business outlook for January fell in the Bank of Korea's composite sentiment index, the biggest month-on-month slide since April 2020, according to data based on almost 3,300 firms released Friday. In Europe, Frankfurt's DAX index rose after German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier dissolved parliament on Friday and confirmed the expected date for the early general election, emphasising the need for "political stability" in Europe's largest economy. New York - Dow: DOWN 0.8 percent at 42,987.31 New York - S&P 500: DOWN 1.2 percent at 5,967.31 New York - Nasdaq Composite: DOWN 1.7 percent at 19,676.01 London - FTSE 100: UP 0.2 percent at 8,149.78 (close) Paris - CAC 40: UP 1.0 percent at 7,355.37 (close) Frankfurt - DAX: UP 0.7 percent at 19,984.32 (close) Tokyo - Nikkei 225: UP 1.8 percent at 40,281.16 points (close) Seoul - Kospi: DOWN 1.0 percent at 2,404.77 (close) Hong Kong - Hang Seng Index: UP 0.1 percent at 20,116.93 (close) Shanghai - Composite: UP 0.1 percent at 3,400.14 (close) Euro/dollar: UP at $1.0431 from $1.0424 on Thursday Pound/dollar: UP at $1.2589 from $1.2526 Dollar/yen: DOWN at 157.53 yen from 158.00 yen Euro/pound: DOWN at 82.85 pence from 83.19 pence West Texas Intermediate: UP 1.2 percent at $70.42 per barrel Brent North Sea Crude: UP 1.1 percent at $73.62 per barrel burs-rl/rlpAfter running into overtime, the Conference of the Parties (COP29) at Baku in Azerbaijan, hosting 198 countries for nearly a fortnight, finally adopted a ‘roadmap’, or a weaker form of an agreement, to say in traditional climate-talks parlance. While setting the stage for kickstarting UN-approved carbon markets, the Conference failed to deliver on the main goal: a New Collective Quantified Goal on climate finance (NCQG). Amidst opposition and protests, a deal was agreed upon early Sunday to “aim to mobilise” $1.3 trillion a year by 2035, with developed countries agreeing to “lead efforts” to pool in $300 billion a year as a base figure. The NCQG refers to money that will be given to developing countries by developed countries to help the former meet their goals to transition away from the continued use of fossil fuels and to curb greenhouse gas emissions. Developing countries were insisting on mobilising $1.3 trillion annually. To this end, developed countries have mobilised and transferred $115 billion in 2021-22 – though not all countries agree – but per the Paris Agreement , a new target higher than $100 billion had to be agreed upon by 2025. “This new finance goal is an insurance policy for humanity amid worsening climate impacts hitting every country,” said Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change. “But like any insurance policy, it only works if premiums are paid in full and on time. Promises must be kept, to protect billions of lives. It will keep the clean energy boom growing, helping all countries to share its huge benefits: more jobs, stronger growth, cheaper and cleaner energy for all.” This document is an optical illusion: Indian delegation However, this conclusion – hammered out in the early hours of Sunday morning – did little to placate several countries who were expecting much more money. A member of the Indian delegation publicly voiced her objections at the closing plenary of the summit. This was acknowledged by the President of the COP, Mukhtar Babayev, only after he had ceremoniously slammed the gavel declaring the end of discussions on the finance aspects. The objection will however make it to the written COP records. “I regret to say that this document is nothing more than an optical illusion. This, in our opinion, will not address the enormity of the challenge we all face. Therefore, we oppose the adoption of this document,” Indian delegation representative Chandni Raina told the closing plenary . Nigeria backed India’s stance and termed the finance deal a “joke,” Press Trust of India reported. COP29 also reached an agreement on carbon markets – which several previous COPs had not been able to achieve. These agreements will help countries deliver their climate plans more quickly and cheaply, and make faster progress in halving global emissions this decade, as required by science, a UN Presidency statement noted. On day one of COP29, the countries agreed on standards for a centralised carbon market under the UN ( Article 6.4 mechanism ). This is good news for developing countries, who will benefit from fresh flow of finance. And it is particularly good news for least developed countries, who will get the capacity-building support they need to get a foothold in the market, it added. Experts stress need to step up “No country got everything they wanted, and we leave Baku with a mountain of work to do,” said Mr. Stiell. “The many other issues we need to progress may not be headlines but they are lifelines for billions of people. So this is no time for victory laps, we need to set our sights and redouble our efforts on the road to Belem.” The finance agreement at COP29 comes as stronger national climate plans (Nationally Determined Contributions or NDCs) become due from all countries next year. These new climate plans must cover all greenhouse gases and all sectors, to keep the 1.5°C warming limit within reach. COP29 saw two G20 countries, the UK and Brazil, signal clearly that they plan to ramp up climate action in their NDCs 3.0 because they are entirely in the interest of their economies and peoples. “The goal of $300 billion adopted yesterday by CoP 29 in the face of categorical objections of countries including India, Nigeria, Bolivia, Cuba and walk-outs...bodes ill for the future of the NCQG and the collective efforts to address climate change. The multilateral process has not emerged in good light in this event,” said R Rashmi, former environment secretary and Distinguished Fellow, The Energy Resources Institute. “The declared goal is clearly a prisoner of the geopolitics of the present times and is paltry compared to the financing needs of mitigation and adaptation faced by the developing world.” “It kicks the can down the road. The outcome has good intentions and affirmative verbs which are non committal. There is also no description of what constitutes NCQG nor is there any mention of how and from where the finance will come,” said Dhruba Purkayastha, Director, Council on Energy, Environment and Water. Published - November 24, 2024 08:30 pm IST Copy link Email Facebook Twitter Telegram LinkedIn WhatsApp Reddit climate change / United Nations (climate change) / climate change (politics) / carbon emissions

Rockfire Resources (LON:ROCK) Trading Down 8.9% – Here’s Why

Some tech industry leaders are pushing the incoming Trump administration to increase visas for highly skilled workers from other nations. Related Articles National Politics | In states that ban abortion, social safety net programs often fail families National Politics | Court rules Georgia lawmakers can subpoena Fani Willis for information related to her Trump case National Politics | New 2025 laws hit hot topics from AI in movies to rapid-fire guns National Politics | Trump has pressed for voting changes. GOP majorities in Congress will try to make that happen National Politics | Exhausted by political news? TV ratings and new poll say you’re not alone The heart of the argument is, for America to remain competitive, the country needs to expand the number of skilled visas it gives out. The previous Trump administration did not increase the skilled visa program, instead clamping down on visas for students and educated workers, increasing denial rates. Not everyone in corporate America thinks the skilled worker program is great. Former workers at IT company Cognizant recently won a federal class-action lawsuit that said the company favored Indian employees over Americans from 2013 to 2022. A Bloomberg investigation found Cognizant, and other similar outsourcing companies, mainly used its skilled work visas for lower-level positions. Workers alleged Cognizant preferred Indian workers because they could be paid less and were more willing to accept inconvenient or less-favorable assignments. Question: Should the U.S. increase immigration levels for highly skilled workers? Caroline Freund, UC San Diego School of Global Policy and Strategy YES: Innovation is our superpower and it relies on people. Sourcing talent from 8 billion people in the world instead of 330 million here makes sense. Nearly half our Fortune 500 companies were founded by immigrants or their children. Growing them also relies on expanding our skilled workforce. The cap on skilled-worker visas has hardly changed since the computer age started. With AI on the horizon, attracting and building talent is more important than ever. Kelly Cunningham, San Diego Institute for Economic Research YES: After years of openly allowing millions of undocumented entrants into the country, why is there controversy over legally increasing somewhat the number having desirable skills? Undocumented immigration significantly impacts lower skill level jobs and wages competing with domestic workers at every skill level. Why should special cases be made against those having higher skills? Could they just not walk across the border anyway, why make it more inconvenient to those with desirable skills? James Hamilton, UC San Diego YES: Knowledge and technology are key drivers of the U.S. economy. Students come from all over the world to learn at U.S. universities, and their spending contributed $50 billion to U.S. exports last year. Technological advantage is what keeps us ahead of the rest of the world. Highly skilled immigrants contribute much more in taxes than they receive in public benefits. The skills immigrants bring to America can make us all better off. Norm Miller, University of San Diego YES: According to Forbes, the majority of billion-dollar startups were founded by foreigners. I’ve interviewed dozens of data analysts and programmers from Berkeley, UCSD, USD and a few other schools and 75% of them are foreign. There simply are not enough American graduates to fill the AI and data mining related jobs now exploding in the U.S. If we wish to remain a competitive economy, we need highly skilled and bright immigrants to come here and stay. David Ely, San Diego State University YES: Being able to employ highly skilled workers from a larger pool of candidates would strengthen the competitiveness of U.S. companies by increasing their capacity to perform research and innovate. This would boost the country’s economic output. Skilled workers from other nations that cannot remain in the U.S. will find jobs working for foreign rivals. The demand for H-1B visas far exceeds the current cap of 85,000, demonstrating a need to modify this program. Phil Blair, Manpower YES: Every country needs skilled workers, at all levels, to grow its economy. We should take advantage of the opportunity these workers provide our employers who need these skills. It should be blended into our immigration policies allowing for both short and long term visas. Gary London, London Moeder Advisors YES: San Diego is a premiere example of how highly skilled workers from around the globe enrich a community and its regional economy. Of course Visa levels need to be increased. But let’s go further. Tie visas and immigration with a provision that those who are admitted and educated at a U.S. university be incentivized, or even required, to be employed in the U.S. in exchange for their admittance. Bob Rauch, R.A. Rauch & Associates NO: While attracting high-skilled immigrants can fill critical gaps in sectors like technology, health care and advanced manufacturing, increasing high-skilled immigration could displace American workers and drive down wages in certain industries. There are already many qualified American workers available for some of these jobs. We should balance the need for specialized skills with the impact on the domestic workforce. I believe we can begin to increase the number of visas after a careful review of abuse. Austin Neudecker, Weave Growth YES: We should expand skilled visas to drive innovation and economic growth. Individuals who perform high-skilled work in labor-restricted industries or graduate from respected colleges with relevant degrees should be prioritized for naturalization. We depend on immigration for GDP growth, tax revenue, research, and so much more. Despite the abhorrent rhetoric and curtailing of visas in the first term, I hope the incoming administration can be persuaded to enact positive changes to a clearly flawed system. Chris Van Gorder, Scripps Health YES: But it should be based upon need, not politics. There are several industries that have or could have skilled workforce shortages, especially if the next administration tightens immigration as promised and expected. Over the years, there have been nursing shortages that have been met partially by trained and skilled nurses from other countries. The physician shortage is expected to get worse in the years to come. So, this visa program may very well be needed. Jamie Moraga, Franklin Revere NO: While skilled immigration could boost our economy and competitiveness, the U.S. should prioritize developing our domestic workforce. Hiring foreign nationals in sensitive industries or government-related work, especially in advanced technology or defense, raises security concerns. A balanced approach could involve targeted increases in non-sensitive high-demand fields coupled with investment in domestic STEM education and training programs. This could address immediate needs while strengthening the long-term STEM capabilities of the American workforce. Not participating this week: Alan Gin, University of San DiegoHaney Hong, San Diego County Taxpayers AssociationRay Major, economist Have an idea for an Econometer question? Email me at phillip.molnar@sduniontribune.com . Follow me on Threads: @phillip020Yagi Studio Palladyne AI Corp. ( NASDAQ: PDYN ) develops adaptive robots for dynamic environments leveraging its Palladyne IQ AI Software platform. This platform relies on hardware-agnostic systems, real-time processing, closed-loop autonomy, and edge AI to create versatile robotic systems. PDYN’s solutions could be used in Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article. Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.Invesco Ultra Short Duration ETF (NYSEARCA:GSY) Holdings Cut by Thrivent Financial for LutheransChandigarh, Nov 24 (PTI) BJP leader Manpreet Singh Badal on Sunday said the voters of Gidderbaha Assembly segment wanted to break the "arrogance" of Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring as he was referring to the defeat of his wife Amrita in the bypoll. The former finance minister said that he was always committed to serve the people of Gidderbaha Assembly constituency. Also Read | Ajit Pawar To Replace Eknath Shinde As Next Maharashtra CM? NCP Leader Chhagan Bhujbal Replies. AAP candidate Hardeep Singh Dimpy Dhillon won the Gidderbaha seat, defeating his nearest rival and Congress nominee Amrita Warring by a margin of 21,969 votes. BJP candidate Badal, who was seeking re-election, lost his security deposit, stranded at the third spot with 12,227 votes in Gidderbaha. Also Read | Parliament Winter Session 2024: Government Open To Discuss All Issues, Says Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. The AAP won Gidderbaha, Dera Baba Nanak, and Chabbewal assembly segments while the Congress won the Barnala seat in the November 20 bypolls, the results of which were declared on Saturday. In a Facebook page post on Sunday, Badal thanked the voters of the Gidderbaha constituency and said the bypoll outcome was not as per expectations. Taking a swipe at the Punjab Congress chief, Badal said, "Raja Warring's wealth could not save from the defeat (his wife's electoral defeat). Ever since Raja Warring became MLA of Gidderbaha, his two statements are echoing in Gidderbaha'?one is that he belongs to the poor family and second is that he is an orphan. I wish every poor person in Punjab has as much wealth as Raja Warring has." He said Raja Warring had always criticized the Badal family's politics of inheritance. "But when his turn came, he kept the (Congress) ticket with his family, " said Badal as he was referring to Congress fielding Warring's wife Amrita from Gidderbaha seat. Badal said he met thousands of people in Gidderbaha and they told him that they would certainly vote for him in the 2027 assembly polls. "They said this time they want to break the arrogance of Raja Warring," said Badal. Badal also congratulated AAP's Dhillon for winning the Gidderbaha seat and also asked him to honour all promises made with people during the poll campaign. The Gidderbaha seat fell vacant after Raja Warring, who was the Congress MLA, was elected to the Lok Sabha from the Ludhiana seat in the 2024 parliamentary elections. Raja Warring won the Gidderbaha seat in 2012, 2017 and 2022. Badal represented the Gidderbaha seat in 1995, 1997, 2002, and 2007 on the Shiromani Akali Dal ticket. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)

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Nadler Financial Group Inc. Has $7.21 Million Holdings in Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN)Ridgepath Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in NVIDIA Co. ( NASDAQ:NVDA – Free Report ) by 285.5% during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 15,458 shares of the computer hardware maker’s stock after acquiring an additional 11,448 shares during the quarter. NVIDIA accounts for 1.5% of Ridgepath Capital Management LLC’s portfolio, making the stock its 16th largest position. Ridgepath Capital Management LLC’s holdings in NVIDIA were worth $1,877,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Lowe Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in NVIDIA in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $25,000. DHJJ Financial Advisors Ltd. increased its position in shares of NVIDIA by 1,900.0% during the 2nd quarter. DHJJ Financial Advisors Ltd. now owns 200 shares of the computer hardware maker’s stock valued at $25,000 after purchasing an additional 190 shares during the period. CGC Financial Services LLC acquired a new position in shares of NVIDIA during the 2nd quarter valued at $26,000. Koesten Hirschmann & Crabtree INC. acquired a new position in shares of NVIDIA during the 1st quarter valued at $27,000. Finally, Quest Partners LLC acquired a new position in shares of NVIDIA during the 2nd quarter valued at $27,000. 65.27% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In NVDA has been the subject of several research reports. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft raised their price objective on NVIDIA from $115.00 to $140.00 and gave the stock a “hold” rating in a research note on Thursday, November 21st. Raymond James raised their price objective on NVIDIA from $140.00 to $170.00 and gave the stock a “strong-buy” rating in a research note on Thursday, November 14th. Citigroup raised their price objective on NVIDIA from $170.00 to $175.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a research note on Thursday, November 21st. Wells Fargo & Company raised their price objective on NVIDIA from $165.00 to $185.00 and gave the stock an “overweight” rating in a research note on Thursday, November 21st. Finally, Wedbush raised their price objective on NVIDIA from $160.00 to $175.00 and gave the stock an “outperform” rating in a research note on Thursday, November 21st. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, thirty-nine have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus target price of $164.15. Insider Activity at NVIDIA In other NVIDIA news, Director John Dabiri sold 716 shares of NVIDIA stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 25th. The shares were sold at an average price of $142.00, for a total value of $101,672.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 19,942 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $2,831,764. The trade was a 3.47 % decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link . Also, CEO Jen Hsun Huang sold 120,000 shares of NVIDIA stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, September 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $105.33, for a total transaction of $12,639,600.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 75,895,836 shares of the company’s stock, valued at $7,994,108,405.88. This represents a 0.16 % decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Insiders sold a total of 1,796,986 shares of company stock valued at $214,418,399 in the last three months. Company insiders own 4.23% of the company’s stock. NVIDIA Trading Down 1.8 % Shares of NVDA opened at $142.44 on Friday. The firm’s 50-day moving average price is $138.16 and its 200-day moving average price is $125.58. The firm has a market capitalization of $3.49 trillion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 56.06, a PEG ratio of 2.62 and a beta of 1.63. The company has a current ratio of 4.10, a quick ratio of 3.64 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.13. NVIDIA Co. has a 1-year low of $45.60 and a 1-year high of $152.89. NVIDIA ( NASDAQ:NVDA – Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, November 20th. The computer hardware maker reported $0.81 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts’ consensus estimates of $0.69 by $0.12. NVIDIA had a net margin of 55.69% and a return on equity of 114.83%. The firm had revenue of $35.08 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $33.15 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $0.38 EPS. The company’s revenue for the quarter was up 93.6% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts anticipate that NVIDIA Co. will post 2.76 EPS for the current year. NVIDIA Announces Dividend The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 27th. Investors of record on Thursday, December 5th will be given a dividend of $0.01 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, December 5th. This represents a $0.04 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.03%. NVIDIA’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 1.57%. NVIDIA declared that its board has authorized a share buyback program on Wednesday, August 28th that permits the company to repurchase $50.00 billion in shares. This repurchase authorization permits the computer hardware maker to repurchase up to 1.6% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase programs are usually an indication that the company’s board of directors believes its stock is undervalued. NVIDIA Company Profile ( Free Report ) NVIDIA Corporation provides graphics and compute and networking solutions in the United States, Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, and internationally. The Graphics segment offers GeForce GPUs for gaming and PCs, the GeForce NOW game streaming service and related infrastructure, and solutions for gaming platforms; Quadro/NVIDIA RTX GPUs for enterprise workstation graphics; virtual GPU or vGPU software for cloud-based visual and virtual computing; automotive platforms for infotainment systems; and Omniverse software for building and operating metaverse and 3D internet applications. Recommended Stories Five stocks we like better than NVIDIA REIT Stocks – Best REIT Stocks to Add to Your Portfolio Today Fast-Growing Companies That Are Still Undervalued 2 Rising CRM Platform Stocks That Can Surge Higher in 2025 Top Cybersecurity Stock Picks for 2025 EV Stocks and How to Profit from Them Archer or Joby: Which Aviation Company Might Rise Fastest? Receive News & Ratings for NVIDIA Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for NVIDIA and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

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Auburn will travel to Tuscaloosa to face Alabama in the Iron Bowl to close out the regular season on Nov. 30. This rivalry matchup will have a lot at stake. The Tigers will look to spoil the Crimson Tide's SEC title hopes and potentially knock them out of College Football Playoff contention. Depending on how the next two weeks shake out, Alabama is one of the two-loss SEC teams with the best shot at reaching the conference championship game. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Thanks for the feedback.

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Burt died over the weekend, the Crocosaurus Cove reptile aquarium in Darwin, Australia, said. He was at least 90 years old. “Known for his independent nature, Burt was a confirmed bachelor – an attitude he made clear during his earlier years at a crocodile farm,” Crocosaurus Cove wrote in social media posts. The aquarium added: “He wasn’t just a crocodile, he was a force of nature and a reminder of the power and majesty of these incredible creatures. While his personality could be challenging, it was also what made him so memorable and beloved by those who worked with him and the thousands who visited him over the years.” A saltwater crocodile, Burt was estimated to be more than 16 feet long. He was captured in the 1980s in the Reynolds River and became one of the most well-known crocodiles in the world, according to Crocosaurus Cove. The 1986 film stars Paul Hogan as the rugged crocodile hunter Mick Dundee. In the movie, American Sue Charlton, played by actress Linda Kozlowski, goes to fill her canteen in a watering hole when she is attacked by a crocodile before being saved by Dundee. Burt is briefly shown lunging out of the water. But the creature shown in more detail as Dundee saves the day is apparently something else. The Internet Movie Database says the film made a mistake by depicting an American alligator, which has a blunter snout. The Australian aquarium where Burt had lived since 2008 features a Cage of Death which it says is the nation’s only crocodile dive. It said it planned to honour Burt’s legacy with a commemorative sign “celebrating his extraordinary life and the stories and interactions he shared throughout his time at the park”.Giants release quarterback Daniel Jones just days after benching him EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — The Daniel Jones era in New York is over. The Giants quarterback was granted his release by the team just days after the franchise said it was benching him in favor of third-stringer Tommy DeVito. New York president John Mara said Jones approached the team about releasing him and the club obliged. Mara added he was “disappointed” at the quick dissolution of a once-promising relationship between Jones and the team. Giants coach Brian Daboll benched Jones in favor of DeVito following a loss to the Panthers in Germany that dropped New York's record to 2-8. Conor McGregor must pay $250K to woman who says he raped her, civil jury rules LONDON (AP) — A civil jury in Ireland has awarded more than $250,000 to a woman who says she was raped by mixed martial arts fighter Conor McGregor in a Dublin hotel penthouse after a night of heavy partying. The jury on Friday awarded Nikita Hand in her lawsuit that claimed McGregor “brutally raped and battered” her in 2018. The lawsuit says the assault left her heavily bruised and suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. McGregor testified that he never forced her to do anything and that Hand fabricated her allegations after the two had consensual sex. McGregor says he will appeal the verdict. Week 16 game between Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers flexed to Thursday night spot The Los Angeles Chargers have played their way into another prime time appearance. Justin Herbert and company have had their Dec. 22 game against the Denver Broncos flexed to Thursday night, Dec. 19. Friday’s announcement makes this the first time a game has been flexed to the Thursday night spot. The league amended its policy last season where Thursday night games in Weeks 13 through 17 could be flexed with at least 28 days notice prior to the game. The matchup of AFC West division rivals bumps the game between the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals to Sunday afternoon. NBA memo to players urges increased vigilance regarding home security following break-ins MIAMI (AP) — The NBA is urging its players to take additional precautions to secure their homes following reports of recent high-profile burglaries of dwellings owned by Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis and Kansas City Chiefs teammates Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. In a memo sent to team officials, a copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press, the NBA revealed that the FBI has connected some burglaries to “transnational South American Theft Groups” that are “reportedly well-organized, sophisticated rings that incorporate advanced techniques and technologies, including pre-surveillance, drones, and signal jamming devices.” Red Bull brings wrong rear wing to Las Vegas in mistake that could stall Verstappen's title chances LAS VEGAS (AP) — Max Verstappen is suddenly in jeopardy of being denied a fourth consecutive Formula 1 title Saturday night. Red Bull apparently brought the wrong rear wing to Las Vegas and GPS data showed its two cars to be significantly slower on the straights than both McLaren and Mercedes, which led both practice sessions. Red Bull says it doesn’t have a replacement rear wing in Las Vegas to fix the issue and little chance of getting two flown in from England ahead of the race. Caitlin Clark to join Cincinnati bid for 16th National Women's Soccer League team WNBA star Caitlin Clark has joined Cincinnati’s bid for an expansion National Women’s Soccer League team. Major League Soccer franchise FC Cincinnati is heading the group vying to bring a women’s pro team to the city. The club issued a statement confirming Clark had joined the bid group. NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman has said the league plans to announce the league’s 16th team by the end of the year. The league's 15th team will begin play in 2026 in Boston. Aaron Judge won't be bothered if Juan Soto gets bigger contract from Yankees than his $360M deal NEW YORK (AP) — Aaron Judge won’t be bothered if Juan Soto gets a bigger deal from the New York Yankees than the captain’s $360 million, nine-year contract. Speaking a day after he was a unanimous winner of his second MVP, Judge says “It ain’t my money” and adds "that’s never been something on my mind about who gets paid the most.” Judge led the major leagues with 58 homers, 144 RBIs and 133 walks while hitting .322. Soto batted .288 with 41 homers, 109 RBIs and 129 walks in his first season with the Yankees, then became a free agent at age 26. In a 'Final Four-type weekend,' two top-6 clashes put women's college basketball focus on West Coast LOS ANGELES (AP) — Two games featuring four powerhouse teams has put the focus in women's college basketball on the West Coast this weekend. JuJu Watkins and No. 3 Southern California host Hannah Hidalgo and No. 6 Notre Dame on Saturday. Top-ranked South Carolina visits Lauren Betts and fifth-ranked UCLA on Sunday. Both games are nationally televised and the arenas are expected to be packed. WNBA scouts will be on hand to check out some of the nation's top talent. Two teams will come away with their first losses of the season. USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb calls it “a Final Four-type weekend.” A documentary featuring Watkins will air on NBC ahead of USC's game, which leads into the Army-Notre Dame football game. Noodles and wine are the secret ingredients for a strange new twist in China's doping saga Blame it on the noodles. That's what one Chinese official suggested when anti-doping leaders were looking for answers for the doping scandal that cast a shadow over this year's Olympic swim meet. Earlier this year, reports that 23 Chinese swimmers had tested positive for a banned heart medication emerged. None were sanctioned because Chinese authorities determined the swimmers were contaminated by traces of the drug spread about a hotel kitchen. In a strange twist, the leader of China's anti-doping agency suggested this case could have been similar to one in which criminals were responsible for tainting noodles that were later eaten by another Chinese athlete who also tested positive for the drug. Athletes see climate change as threatening their sports and their health. Some are speaking up BAKU, Azerbaijan (AP) — Pragnya Mohan has been a professional triathlete for nearly a decade, but summers in her native India are now so hot that she can’t train there anymore. And she worries about a day when heat around the world kills her sport entirely. She was among athletes who spoke at the United Nations climate summit in Azerbaijan about the threat global warming poses to them, to fans and to sport itself. They described how extreme weather is making training and competing difficult or impossible. With billions of fans worldwide, some athletes and leagues are trying to get more people to care, and act, on climate change.

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BROADVIEW HEIGHTS, Ohio – The city may have to shut down all operations for 15 days starting Jan. 1 because City Council – although it passed the 2025 municipal budget last week – did not muster enough votes to make the budget ordinance go into effect immediately. Council needed a supermajority of five votes to make the budget ordinance go into effect by Jan. 1. Instead, council approved the ordinance 4-3, which means the budget won’t become effective for 30 days after passage or until Jan. 16. “All services will have to stop,” city Finance Director David Pfaff said. “Without money being lawfully appropriated, I cannot pay any bills, nor can I retroactively pay bills if the money was not lawfully appropriated at the time the liability was incurred,” Pfaff said. That also means that the city would not have money to pay police, firefighters or service workers for 15 days. “Under the (federal) Fair Labor Standards Act, an employees must be paid for time worked,” Pfaff said. “However, without money being lawfully appropriated, I have no authority to pay them, therefore they cannot work.” The city has called a special meeting for 7:30 p.m. today (Dec. 23) to see if council can pass a stopgap measure that would fund municipal government for the first 15 days of 2025, until the previously passed budget ordinance kicks in. Voting against the budget ordinance Dec. 16 were council members Brian Dunlap, Glenn Goodwin and Joe Price. “Three people hijacked the way we do our budget process,” Mayor Sam Alai told cleveland.com . “It’s a shame that they’re going to use life safety for our residents and paychecks for our employees to play some sort of childish political game. “This is no joke,” Alai said. “This is a very serious situation that we cannot have. We need to avoid this at all costs. I gave them (council) the way to get out of it, and if they don’t, we will be shutting the city down.” Dunlap called Alai’s comments “absurd.” He said the city administration and some members of council tried to rush the budget through and didn’t provide enough time to resolve disagreements. “The mayor is the one being childish and selfish,” Dunlap said. “It’s ridiculous to say that I don’t want police and fire service in this city. I have kids and grandkids living here.” Goodwin and Price did not return emails seeking comment. Pretzel logic At the Nov. 25 council meeting, Dunlap raised concerns about a salary increase for Alai in the 2025 budget. Under city code that council approved years ago, the mayor must earn 5 percent more than the city’s police and fire chiefs. The idea was to ensure that the mayor is the highest-paid official in the city. In turn, under code, the police and fire chiefs must make 14 percent more than lieutenants in the Police and Fire departments. That’s because, according to Police Chief Steven Raiff and Fire Chief Jeffrey Hajek, lieutenants and even lower-ranking officers at one time were earning more than they were, due to overtime and other benefits that the chiefs do not receive. Earlier this year, police and fire lieutenants received 5 percent raises under a new collective bargaining agreement and will receive raises of 4 percent and 3 percent in 2025 and 2026, respectively. That means the chiefs and Alai also received raises of 5 percent this year and are scheduled to receive another 4 percent and 3 percent over the next two years. This year, Alai’s salary was $141,648 and both chiefs earned $134,903. “I won’t vote for anything that triggers a pay raise for an elected official, and I believe that’s what our budget does,” Dunlap said Nov. 25. Dunlap said “the tether” that connects the salaries of police and fire lieutenants, the police and fire chiefs and the mayor “is a problem.” Councilwoman Jennifer Mahnic asked Dunlap if there was a reason he didn’t bring up the issue during previous Finance Committee meetings where the budget was discussed. “No,” Dunlap said. “No reason.” At the Dec. 16 council meeting, Goodwin wanted to amend the 2025 budget and remove raises that Alai and the two chiefs are scheduled to receive. Goodwin, agreeing with Dunlap, said he was “having a tough time” with how the mayor’s salary is connected to the chiefs’ salaries, even though he was on council when that body approved that arrangement years ago. Goodwin said Alai’s and the two chiefs’ salaries might be higher than their counterparts in other communities, due to the ordinance connecting their salaries. “It was a great idea the way it was set up originally,” Goodwin said. “It just got a little bit out of hand. And like anything, you have to go back and revisit it at some point and now is the time to revisit it.” Price agreed, saying that tying the mayor’s and chiefs’ salaries together might have been a “comfortable decision” years ago “but it may not have been the best (decision.)” However, Law Director Vince Ruffa said the city cannot legally eliminate raises for Alai and the two chiefs without changing the code. Goodwin countered that the city should ask the Ohio Ethics Commission if council can amend the budget and give Alai and the two chiefs zero raises in 2025. Boldt suggested that council pass the 2025 budget and take up with issue of the mayor’s salary connection to the police and fire chiefs’ salaries later in January. Emergency but no emergency Boldt explained that the 2025 budget ordinance won’t take effect until 30 days after passage because it was an emergency ordinance. For emergency ordinances to go into effect faster – in five days – at least five council members would have had to vote in favor. The temporary appropriations ordinance that council will vote on tonight is not an emergency ordinance. Therefore, even with a slim four-vote majority, it would take effect in no more than five days. That’s because under the city charter, ordinances involving the appropriation of money take effect when a simple majority of council approves it and the mayor signs it.The U.S. Department of State is warning those thinking of traveling to Spain about dangers in that country. The department issued its travel advisory for Spain to Level 2 or “Exercise Increased Caution” — citing risks of terrorism and civil unrest on Monday. The advisory warns that terrorist groups may plan attacks there, potentially targeting tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, government buildings, hotels, restaurants, places of worship, and other crowded public spaces. Such attacks could occur with little or no warning, the department said. The advisory also highlights frequent demonstrations, often tied to political or economic issues, significant holidays, or international events. Travelers are urged to avoid protests, stay vigilant in crowded areas, and follow instructions from local authorities. Related Story: Spain and Namibia at Level 2 on Monday Namibia was also updated under the advisory on Monday due to concerns over health risks and violent crimes. The department warned about home invasions, break-ins, muggings, and “smash-and-grab” incidents targeting vehicles near tourist areas or in shopping mall parking lots. Crimes of opportunity, such as the theft of money, cell phones, and personal property, remain common, they said in the travel advisory. Travelers are reminded that Namibia’s sparse population and remote destinations can leave visitors far from emergency services and medical facilities. Health facilities in the country may lack basic medications, particularly outside major cities, the department warned. For more information, . —

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ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — Josh Allen threw two touchdown passes and ran for another score, and the Buffalo Bills clinched the AFC’s No. 2 seed with a 40-14 rout of the unraveling and undisciplined New York Jets on Sunday. The Bills put the game away by capitalizing on two Jets turnovers and scoring three touchdowns over a 5:01 span in the closing minutes of the third quarter. Buffalo’s defense forced three takeaways overall and sacked Aaron Rodgers four times, including a 2-yard loss for a safety in the second quarter. Allen had a short and efficient outing, finishing 16 of 27 for 182 yards with a 30-yard TD pass to Amari Cooper and a 14-yarder to Keon Coleman before giving way to backup Mitchell Trubisky with Buffalo leading 33-0 through three quarters. And Trubisky piled on by completing a 69-yard touchdown pass to practice squad call-up Tyrell Shavers 2:23 into the fourth quarter. Allen’s two-TD passing outing was the 64th of his career to match Peyton Manning for the third most in a player’s first seven NFL seasons. Patrick Mahomes holds the record with 67 two-TD outings in that span, followed by Dan Marino’s 65. Allen also became the NFL’s first player with five consecutive 40-TD seasons, while his 1-yard score was the 65th rushing TD of his career, matching the team record held by Thurman Thomas. The five-time defending AFC East champion Bills improved to 13-3 to match a franchise single-season record, and will open the playoffs hosting the conference’s seventh-seeded team in two weeks. The outing was a meltdown for Rodgers and the Jets (4-12), who will finish with five or fewer wins for the seventh time over a 14-season playoff drought — the NFL’s longest active streak. Rodgers, who entered the game with 499 career TD passes and looking to become just the fifth player to reach 500, instead was shut out and replaced by Tyrod Taylor with 12:37 remaining. Discipline was an issue for a Jets team that fell to 2-9 since Jeff Ulbrich took over as interim coach. New York finished with 16 accepted penalties for 120 yards. Taylor accounted for New York’s only points with a 9-yard TD pass to Garrett Wilson and a 20-yarder to Tyler Conklin in a game played in blustery, unseasonably warm conditions, with temperatures in the mid-50s Farenheit (10 Celsius) and winds gusting up to 35 mph (56 kmph). Rodgers finished 12 of 18 for 112 yards with two interceptions after entering the game having thrown only one in his past eight outings. He was also sacked four times, pushing his career total to 568, moving ahead of Tom Brady (565) and into first place on the NFL list. The outing became a comedy of errors for the Jets. Trailing 7-0 after Allen’s 1-yard run, New York’s three possession of the first half ended with turning the ball over on downs Buffalo’s 24; Rodgers being intercepted at his own 17 by defensive tackle Jordan Phillips ; and being sacked for a safety by A.J. Epenesa. The bottom fell out to close the third quarter when Rodgers’ being intercepted by Christian Benford led to Cooper’s leaping TD grab put Buffalo up 19-0. James Cook scored on a 1-yard run on Buffalo’s next possession with 1:15 left, and Coleman’s touchdown with 12 seconds left in the third was set up after Wilson lost a fumble. The Bills finished their third season with a perfect record, and first since 1990, by going 8-0 at home. They've won 11 straight regular-season home games dating to last season since dropping a 24-22 decision to Denver on Nov. 13. Jets CB Sauce Gardner aggravated a hamstring injury in the first half and was ruled out in the third quarter. Jets: Close the season hosting the Miami Dolphins. Bills: Play their regular-season finale at the New England Patriots. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nflNone

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SAN FRANCISCO , Dec. 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Carlsquare announced its role as exclusive financial advisor to Boomi, the intelligent integration and automation leader jointly owned by Francisco Partners and TPG, on its acquisition of Rivery, an advanced data integration provider offering cutting-edge Change Data Capture (CDC) for real-time, efficient data movement. Founded with a mission to streamline data management, Rivery enables organizations to deploy data pipelines efficiently by utilizing ELT capabilities. With its innovative solutions, Rivery has established itself as a leader in simplifying data management through real-time data integration and advanced CDC technology. The acquisition represents a significant milestone for Boomi as it accelerates its vision to simplify data management, allowing customers to consolidate on fewer vendors and address evolving data management needs in the age of data-driven decision-making and AI. "This acquisition marks an important milestone for Boomi as we expand our platform to address the evolving data management needs of businesses in the age of data-driven decision-making and AI. Carlsquare's expertise and dedication through the entire process was a critical success element. Their deep understanding of the automation and data sectors enabled them to be true champions of our success," said Steve Lucas , Chairman and CEO of Boomi. Susan Blanco , Managing Partner at Carlsquare, added, "Boomi's acquisition of Rivery underscores the growing importance of advanced data integration solutions. We are proud to have delivered an exceptional outcome for Boomi and its stakeholders as they continue to lead in the intelligent integration and automation space." About Boomi: Boomi is the intelligent integration and automation leader, helping organizations around the world streamline critical processes to achieve business outcomes faster. The Boomi Enterprise Platform harnesses advanced AI capabilities to seamlessly connect systems and manage data flows with API management, integration, data management, and AI orchestration in one comprehensive solution. For more information, visit www.boomi.com . About Carlsquare: Carlsquare is a global technology investment bank with over 20 years of experience advising companies and their shareholders on M&A, capital markets, and strategic matters. With 170+ bankers across 8 countries, Carlsquare provides unparalleled access to investors, private equity partners, and strategic buyers. For more information, visit www.carlsquare.com . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/carlsquare-advises-boomi-on-acquisition-of-data-integration-provider-rivery-302336746.html SOURCE Carlsquare, LLCEmergency Location Transmitter Market Size 2024: Global Share, Industry And Report Analysis By 2031 | Linde Material Handling GmbH Mitsubishi Logisnext Co., Ltd. Motrec International Inc.

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Colts QB Anthony Richardson ruled out for Sunday's game against the GiantsS&P/TSX composite ticks lower, U.S. markets rise after latest Trump tariff threat

Dell Technologies Delivers Third Quarter Fiscal 2025 Financial ResultsST.PAUL — Gov. Tim Walz, alongside the Minnesota Turkey Growers Association, presented Minnesota’s official Thanksgiving turkey on Tuesday, Nov. 26, in the Minnesota State Capitol reception room. The tom presented by Walz on Tuesday weighed in at 41.8 pounds. Paisley VonBerge, who has helped raise the bird since it was six weeks old, said the turkey will return back to her family’s farm in Hutchinson “to be enjoyed the way that turkeys are intended to be enjoyed.” ADVERTISEMENT President Joe Biden pardoned two Minnesota turkeys, Peach and Blossom, on Monday, Nov. 26, a contrast to Minnesota’s tradition of selecting a turkey to celebrate before it heads to the Thanksgiving dinner table. “We do it differently than in D.C. because here in Minnesota, we know turkeys are delicious, and we do not hide that fact, we celebrate that fact,” Walz said. During the presentation, Walz touted Minnesota’s turkey industry, which, with 600 farms, 40 million birds and 450 turkey farmers across the state, is number one in the nation, according to the Minnesota Turkey Growers Association (MTGA). MTGA President Jake Vlaminck said that the turkey industry in Minnesota has generated $16.5 billion for the state of Minnesota. Vlaminck said Minnesota’s rich industry is what allowed MTGA, alongside Walz, to donate $10,000 worth of turkey to Minnesota families ahead of Thanksgiving this year. “We delivered hundreds of turkeys last week to a long line of people waiting in the cold waiting for their Thanksgiving meal,” Second Harvest Heartland CEO Allison O’Toole said. “We could see the difference in their faces. It's moments like this that give Minnesota its reputation for a uniquely generous spirit.” Regarding the new administration of President-elect Donald Trump, his proposed tariff increases and their potential effect on some of Minnesota’s agriculture sectors like the turkey Industry, Walz said he will “watch those moves closely.” “Agriculture pays the heaviest price, states like Minnesota pay the heaviest price for that,” Walz said. “And I think at this time we're waiting to see what the forecast comes in.” ADVERTISEMENT Thom Peterson, Minnesota Department of Agriculture commissioner, said Mexico and Canada are some of Minnesota’s biggest markets and that 74% of Minnesota’s exports go to Mexico. Peterson said he and Gov. Walz are already beginning to have conversations with federal officials on how new trade agreements or tariffs could affect Minnesota. “When we were in D.C. yesterday with Peach and Blossom, we were honored to be joined by both Mexican and Canadian embassies,” Peterson said. “Trade is a lot of our [Minnesota’s] relationships. We're going to be active and engaged in that, those conversations. So we we do a lot of that ourselves, but we also have to partner with the federal government if they have a trade agreement.” After the formal presentation of the tom, Walz took a few off-turkey-topic questions — his longest stretch of answering questions from the press since returning from Minnesota. When asked if he regretted running with Vice President Kamala Harris, Walz said his only regret in life is not getting a dog sooner. “I'm proud to have been part of that. I think we put a message out that 75 million Americans liked, but not quite enough,” Walz said. “I was just glad to be out there, to be honest, glad to tell the Minnesota story, that we get things done together.” Walz said after coming home to a split legislature, he is hopeful leaders will be able to work things out and that he expects productivity from his partnered branch of government. ADVERTISEMENT “Look, we are in a split legislature like we were in 2019 and we got a lot done during that time, and it’s my expectation that we can do it, that we will compromise, we will continue to focus,” Walz said.By Marissa Dederer More than 500 online courses are available through Thompson Rivers University (TRU)’s Open Learning department. Each course is crafted with care, and just like in Oz, there’s a powerful being behind the curtain making it all happen. Their work, however, isn’t always obvious. “My work is somewhat hidden. It’s not always obvious in the finished course,” says Melissa Jakubec, one of 10 instructional designers. “You have to dig under the surface to see it.” The courses they produce are popular. Last academic year, more than 16,000 Open Learning students enrolled in over 35,000 courses. The subject matter is vast. Students can earn an MBA, get a veterinary technology diploma or learn about celestial bodies. The sky’s the limit. Students go at their own pace Flexibility is the name of the game in Open Learning. While there are a handful of courses and programs that are cohort based, the majority are self-paced. “We’re creating a course so that if the student sits down at 11 o’clock on a Saturday night because that’s the time they have available to finish something, they can do it without having to wait for resources or answers,” says Jakubec. “We try to anticipate their needs.” TRU’s instructional designers work with subject matter experts to develop course material. They also work with members of the larger Open Learning team, including editors, copyright specialists, multi-media developers, e-learning support technicians and more. “It’s part project management, part pedagogical guidance,” she says. Designing with heart In 2018, Jakubec was recognized with a national award for course design innovation . The course, ENGL 3991: Voices of Protest and Rebellion in Contemporary American Literature, was presented on a WordPress website rather than a traditional learning management system, like Moodle. She worked with subject matter expert, the late Dr. Cameron Reid. “Cameron had this idea of doing a course where the students could choose their own adventure,” she says. “We ended up creating a course where the beginning sets the stage and then students are able to choose to do the readings and the assignments in any order they want.” Jakubec continues to look for opportunities to present coursework creatively. “A lot of the job is seeing the potential in a course,” she says. “As I work with a developer, I might review some course material and suggest it would work well as an interactive media piece or that students would benefit from the addition of a short video to explain a challenging concept.” She approaches her work while keeping student care front of mind. Care is one of the Instructional Design team’s shared core values, along with connection, openness and active learning. These are articulated in their learning design framework . That means using materials that are accessible to students, both in cost and content. Jakubec and other instructional designers strive to incorporate and create open educational resources (OER) whenever possible. German 1111 , for example, was developed as an OER. Students work through the lessons on the website and complete their assessments in Moodle. Student care is also evident in ensuring accessibility: videos are captioned, images have alternate text and colour contrast is carefully considered. Students are given clear expectations to guide their learning. Educational excellence through innovation These principles of design have served Jakubec well. She’s designed more than 100 courses for Open Learning and is exploring topics of engagement and care in open entry courses in her studies in the Doctor of Education in Learning Sciences program at the University of Calgary. Innovation at TRU will continue as a demand for flexible learning opportunities keeps instructional designers busy.

NEW YORK (AP) — An early rebound for U.S. stocks petered out by the end of the day, leaving indexes close to flat. The S&P 500 edged down by 0.1% Thursday, coming off one of its worst days of the year after the Federal Reserve said it may deliver fewer cuts to interest rates in 2025 than earlier thought. The Dow Jones Industrial Average inched up by less than 0.1%, and the Nasdaq composite slipped 0.1%. Treasury yields were mixed in the bond market following reports showing the U.S. economy may be stronger than expected, but manufacturing may be contracting again. THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below. NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks are stabilizing Thursday following one of their worst days of the year . The S&P 500 rose 0.2% in late trading, a day after tumbling 2.9% when the Federal Reserve said it may deliver fewer cuts to interest rates next year than earlier thought. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 136 points, or 0.3%, with less than an hour remaining in trading, following Wednesday’s drop of more than 1,100 points. The Nasdaq composite rose 0.3%. Wednesday’s drop took some of the enthusiasm out of the market, which critics had already been warning was overly buoyant and would need everything to go correctly for it to justify its high prices. But indexes remain near their records , and the S&P 500 is still on track for one of its best years of the millennium . Traders are now expecting the Federal Reserve to deliver just one or maybe two cuts to interest rates next year, according to data from CME Group. Some are even betting on none. A month ago, the majority saw at least two cuts in 2025 as a safe bet. Wall Street loves lower interest rates because they give the economy a boost and goose prices for investments, but they can also provide fuel for inflation. Darden Restaurants, the company behind Olive Garden and other chains, helped lift the market after leaping 15.1%. It delivered profit for the latest quarter that edged past analysts’ expectations. The operator of LongHorn Steakhouses also gave a forecast for revenue for this fiscal year that topped analysts’. Accenture rose 6.7% after the professional services company likewise topped expectations for profit in the latest quarter. CEO Julie Sweet said it saw growth around the world, and the company raised its forecast for revenue this fiscal year. Amazon shares added 1.8%, even as workers at seven of its facilities went on strike Thursday in the middle of the online retail giant’s busiest time of the year. Amazon says it doesn’t expect an impact on its operations during what the workers’ union calls the largest strike against the company in U.S. history. They helped offset a tumble for Micron Technology, which fell 16.7% despite reporting stronger profit than expected. The computer memory company’s revenue fell short of Wall Street’s forecasts, and CEO Sanjay Mehrotra said it expects demand from consumers to remain weaker in the near term. It gave a forecast for revenue in the current quarter that fell well short of what analysts were thinking. Lamb Weston, which makes French fries and other potato products, dropped 22.6% after falling short of analysts’ expectations for profit and revenue in the latest quarter. It also cut its financial targets for the fiscal year, saying demand for frozen potatoes is continuing to soften, particularly outside North America. The company replaced its chief executive. In the bond market, yields were mixed a day after shooting higher on expectations that the Fed would deliver fewer cuts to rates in 2025. Reports on the U.S. economy came in mixed. One showed the overall economy grew at a 3.1% annualized rate during the summer, faster than earlier thought. The economy has remained remarkably resilient even though the Fed held its main interest rate at a two-decade high for a while before beginning to cut them in September. A separate report showed fewer U.S. workers applied for unemployment benefits last week, an indication that the job market also remains solid. But a third report said manufacturing in the mid-Atlantic region is unexpectedly contracting again despite economists’ expectations for growth. The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.57% from 4.52% late Wednesday and from less than 4.20% earlier this month. But the two-year yield, which more closely tracks expectations for action by the Fed in the near term, eased back to 4.31% from 4.35%. The rise in longer-term yields has put pressure on the housing market by keeping mortgage rates higher. Homebuilder Lennar fell 4.8% after it reported weaker profit and revenue for the latest quarter than analysts expected. CEO Stuart Miller said that “the housing market that appeared to be improving as the Fed cut short-term interest rates, proved to be far more challenging as mortgage rates rose” through the quarter. “Even while demand remained strong, and the chronic supply shortage continued to drive the market, our results were driven by affordability limitations from higher interest rates,” he said. A report on Thursday may have offered some encouragement for the housing industry. It showed a pickup in sales of previously occupied homes. In stock markets abroad, London’s FTSE 100 fell 1.1% after the Bank of England paused its cuts to rates and kept its main interest rate unchanged on Thursday. The move comes as inflation there moved further above the central bank’s 2% target rate, while the British economy is flatlining at best. The Bank of Japan also kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged, and Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 fell 0.7%. Indexes likewise sank across much of the rest of Asia and Europe. AP Business Writers Matt Ott and Elaine Kurtenbach contributed.

( MENAFN - UkrinForm) Between 2022 and 2024, Ukraine has commissioned over 860 MW of new renewable energy capacities. This was announced by Deputy Minister of Energy Mykola Kolisnyk during the Energy Freedom by Energy Club online meeting, according to the Ministry of Energy and Ukrinform. Kolisnyk highlighted that a significant portion of renewable generation remains located in territories currently occupied by Russia. He emphasized that the war had deprived Ukraine of much of its coal generation capacity, which now needs to be replaced with climate-neutral technologies. The deputy minister outlined the future of Ukraine's energy sector as a mix of renewable energy sources, nuclear generation, modernized and efficient thermal generation, and distributed generation at local levels. Ukraine's government has already adopted a National Renewable Energy Development Plan, targeting a 27% share of renewable energy in the country's energy mix by 2030. Several initiatives are planned to enhance renewable energy conditions, including: mechanisms to support renewable energy on competitive market terms, long-term direct power purchase agreements (PPAs) between renewable energy producers and consumers, and implementation of guarantees of origin for renewable electricity. Kolisnyk stressed the importance of energy storage systems to improve the resilience of the energy grid. These systems help balance frequency and provide additional capacity during peak demand periods. As reported by Ukrinform, in August, Ukraine's government approved the National Renewable Energy Action Plan through 2030, along with measures for its implementation. The plan includes pilot auctions for renewable energy production quotas, set to fully launch in 2025. MENAFN14122024000193011044ID1108993309 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.People are convinced movie theater etiquette is dead following Wicked ’s opening weekend. Director John M. Chu’s film adaption of the hit Broadway musical Wicked — starring Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba — hit theaters this past weekend (November 22), prompting many fans to sell out showtimes at their local cinemas worldwide . However, those who didn’t buy tickets for the movie musical’s opening weekend have likely already seen several sneak peeks and full scenes on social media. Across TikTok, Instagram, and X/Twitter, pictures and videos of Wicked are being posted from inside the theater, spoiling some of the movie’s best moments. Scenes from fan favorite numbers such as “Defying Gravity” and “Popular” have flooded timelines and For You Pages, sparking outrage among the fans who haven’t been to the cinema yet. On X/Twitter, one person shared a photo of the opening credits and asked others to “show ur ‘wicked part 1’ photosss.” The post quickly received more than 18.4 million views and 2,100 comments, prompting a debate over movie theater etiquette. Several fans slammed the individual for encouraging others to share spoilers, as one person said: “This is SO illegal.” “Disgraceful thread. Have some respect for the people in the same cinema as you,” another added. “Theater etiquette is dead,” a third commented, while a fourth wrote: “It’s people like you that ruin cinema experiences.” Even Alamo Drafthouse, a popular chain of dinner theater cinemas, commented from its official X/Twitter account: “Or, don’t do that.” Despite pleas from fans to stop ruining the movie, many people continued to post pictures and videos throughout the two-hour and 40-minute long film. Before Wicked’s release, some theaters issued a reminder to fans that singing is not permitted unless the screening is a sing-along version. “At AMC Theaters, silence is golden. No talking. No texting. No singing. No wailing. No Flirting. And absolutely no name-calling. Enjoy the magic of movies,” a short, Wicked -themed preshow advisory video said. According to USA Today , Wicked: Part One brought in $114 million at U.S. and Canadian theaters within the first weekend. The first part of the Universal Pictures film grossed $50.2 million in international markets, for a combined global total of $164.2 million. However, the double premiere of Wicked and Gladiator 2 failed to surpass the success of Barbenheimer — last summer’s dual release of Barbie and Oppenheimer — on opening weekend, coming in at $169.5 million domestically compared to $244 million.

Microsoft has logged some new known issues with Windows 11 24H2 and thrown up more safeguard holds until the problems are resolved. The latest glitches noted in Microsoft's Windows Release Health Dashboard are related to audio and gaming. The audio issue was reported by users who upgraded to Microsoft's latest and greatest but found that their device's integrated speakers, Bluetooth speakers, and Bluetooth headsets stopped working and disappeared as far as both first and third-party applications were concerned. The problem is confined to some devices containing Dirac Audio, a technology designed to enhance digital audio. The software component cridspapo.dll is the culprit, and Microsoft said an updated manufacturer driver was required. Until the release of that driver, Microsoft has slapped a compatibility safeguard hold on affected devices, meaning that Windows 11 24H2 will not be offered via Windows Update. The company did not name names, only saying "a limited set of devices from one manufacturer" would be the subject of the hold. This is helpful for users with affected devices that have yet to perform the upgrade. It is, however, not so useful for users wondering why their world has suddenly gone silent. The hold will be lifted once the driver has been released. Gamers using Auto HDR are not so lucky . A compatibility safeguard hold has been put on devices with the technology enabled after users complained about incorrect colors and games ceasing to respond. Auto HDR (high dynamic range) increases the color range and brightness in games. Enabling it, according to Microsoft, "enhances gaming experience by automatically converting standard dynamic range (SDR) content to high dynamic range (HDR)." It's a neat bit of technology that can enhance the look of some games. However, in Windows 11 24H2, it can also leave games unplayable for affected users. For the time being, Microsoft's solution is to turn off Auto HDR. This will allow Windows 11 24H2 to be installed or stop the issues if the update is already present. In the longer term, Microsoft said: "We are working on a resolution and will provide more information when it is available." ®Veralto Announces Increase in Quarterly Dividend

Colts QB Anthony Richardson ruled out for Sunday's game against the Giants

United States women’s head coach Emma Hayes admitted she initially grappled with how best to behave during ‘God Save The King’ ahead of her side’s goalless draw with England in their Wembley friendly. The billing of London-born former Chelsea boss Hayes against England’s Dutch manager Sarina Wiegman – arguably the best two bosses in the women’s game – had generated more buzz in the build-up than the players on the pitch, despite it being a rare encounter between the two top-ranked sides in the world. Hayes enjoyed her return to familiar shores but felt the US lacked the “killer piece” after they looked the likelier side to make the breakthrough. Elite meeting of the minds 🌟 pic.twitter.com/R4d8EArqTp — U.S. Women's National Soccer Team (@USWNT) November 30, 2024 Asked what was going through her mind during the national anthem, Hayes said: “I was definitely mouthing (it), and Naomi (Girma) and Lynn (Williams) could see that I was struggling with where to be and all that. “I got to the end of the anthems and I thought, ‘that’s so ridiculous. I’m proud to be English and I’m proud of our national anthem, and I’m also really proud to coach America’. “Two things are possible all at once. I don’t want to fuel a nationalist debate around it. The realities are both countries are really dear to me for lots of reasons, and I’m really proud to represent both of them.” The Lionesses did not register a shot on target in the first half but grew into the game in the second. US captain Lindsey Horan had the ball in the net after the break but the flag was up, while Hayes’ side had a penalty award for a handball reversed after a VAR check determined substitute Yazmeen Ryan’s shot hit Alex Greenwood’s chest. Hayes, who left Chelsea after 12 trophy-packed years this summer, said: “I’ve been privileged to coach a lot of top-level games, including here, so there’s a familiarity to being here for me. “It’s not new to me, and because of that there was a whole sense of I’m coming back to a place I know. I have a really healthy perspective, and I want to have a really healthy perspective on my profession. “I give everything I possibly can for a team that I really, really enjoy coaching, and I thrive, not just under pressure, but I like these opportunities, I like being in these situations. They bring out the best in me. “You’ve got two top teams now, Sarina is an amazing coach, I thought it was a good tactical match-up, and I just enjoy coaching a high-level football match, to be honest with you. I don’t think too much about it.” Hayes had travelled to London without her entire Olympic gold medal-winning ‘Triple Espresso’ forward line of Trinity Rodman, Mallory Swanson and Sophia Smith, all nursing niggling injuries. Before the match, the 48-year-old was spotted chatting with Wiegman and her US men’s counterpart, fellow ex-Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino, who was also in attendance. England were also missing a number of key attackers for the friendly including Lauren Hemp, Lauren James and Ella Toone, all ruled out with injury. "This shows where we are at and we need to keep improving. It is November now. This is good but we want to be better again. We have to be better again." 👊 Reaction from the boss ⬇️ — Lionesses (@Lionesses) November 30, 2024 Wiegman brushed aside suggestions from some pundits that her side were content to settle for a draw. She said: “I think we were really defending as a team, very strong. We got momentum in the second half, we did better, and of course both teams went for the win. “So many things happened in this game, also in front of the goal, so I don’t think it was boring. “We wanted to go for the win, but it was such a high-intensity game, you have to deal with a very good opponent, so you can’t just say, ‘Now we’re going to go and score that goal’. “We tried, of course, to do that. We didn’t slow down to keep it 0-0. I think that was just how the game went.”Pinstripes ( NYSE:PNST – Free Report ) had its price objective lowered by Oppenheimer from $5.00 to $2.00 in a research report sent to investors on Wednesday, Benzinga reports. The brokerage currently has an outperform rating on the stock. Separately, BTIG Research decreased their price objective on Pinstripes from $4.00 to $3.00 and set a “buy” rating for the company in a report on Wednesday. Get Our Latest Analysis on Pinstripes Pinstripes Trading Up 1.5 % Pinstripes ( NYSE:PNST – Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, September 4th. The company reported ($0.23) earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts’ consensus estimates of ($0.11) by ($0.12). The company had revenue of $30.60 million for the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $34.45 million. As a group, analysts anticipate that Pinstripes will post -0.65 EPS for the current fiscal year. Institutional Inflows and Outflows A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC acquired a new position in shares of Pinstripes during the 2nd quarter worth about $1,714,000. Rothschild Investment LLC bought a new stake in Pinstripes during the second quarter worth about $36,000. Greenwood Gearhart Inc. acquired a new position in Pinstripes during the second quarter valued at approximately $70,000. Lakewood Asset Management LLC bought a new position in Pinstripes in the second quarter valued at approximately $246,000. Finally, Rockefeller Capital Management L.P. acquired a new position in shares of Pinstripes during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $240,000. Institutional investors own 56.79% of the company’s stock. About Pinstripes ( Get Free Report ) Pinstripes Holdings Inc operates a dining and entertainment concept restaurants. The company provides Italian-American food and beverage menu with bowling, bocce, and event space. It also offers private event options and catering services. The company is based in Northbrook, Illinois. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Pinstripes Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pinstripes and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .best slots game 。

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) — Voters dejected by the presidential election results need to find a way to give back and remain involved, Bill and Hillary Rodham Clinton said Saturday as they celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Clinton presidential library. The former president urged audience members in a packed theater to remain engaged and find ways to communicate with those they disagree with despite a divisive political time. The two spoke about a month after former President Donald Trump’s win over Vice President Kamala Harris in the presidential election. “We’re just passing through, and we all need to just calm down and do something that builds people up instead of tears them down,” Bill Clinton said. Hillary Clinton, the former secretary of state who was defeated by Trump in the 2016 election, said she understands the next couple of years are going to be challenging for voters who don’t agree with the decisions being made. “In addition to staying involved and staying aware, it’s important to find something that makes you feel good about the day because if you’re in a constant state of agitation about our political situation, it is really going to shorten your life,” she said. The Clintons spoke during a panel discussion with journalist Laura Ling, who the former president helped free in 2009 when she was detained in North Korea with another journalist. The event was held as part of a weekend of activities marking the of the Clinton Presidential Library’s opening in Little Rock. The library is preparing to of its exhibits and an expansion that will include Hillary Clinton’s personal archives. Hillary Clinton said part of the goal is to modernize the facility and expand it to make it a more open, inviting place for people for convene and make connections. When asked about advice he would give for people disappointed by the election results, Bill Clinton said people need to continue working toward bringing people together and improving others’ lives. “If that’s the way you keep score, then you ought to be trying to run up the score,” he said. “Not lamenting the fact that somebody else is winning a different game because they keep score a different way.” “And in addition, figure out what we can do to win again,” Hillary Clinton added, eliciting cheers. The program featured a panel discussion with cast members of the hit NBC show “The West Wing” and former Clinton White House staffers. The weekend amounted to a reunion of former Clinton White House staffers, supporters and close friends, including former Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe and adviser James Carville. McAuliffe said he and Carville ate Friday at Doe’s Eat Place, a downtown restaurant that was popular with Clinton aides and reporters during Clinton’s 1992 White House run. He said he viewed the library and its planned expansion as important for the future. “This is not only about the past, but it’s more importantly about the future,” McAuliffe said. “We just went through a very tough election, and people are all saying we’ve got to get back to the Clinton model.” Andrew Demillo, The Associated PressWith the Mega Millions jackpot now at the fifth-highest sum in the game's history at a whopping $1.15 billion, what should you do if you find yourself the lucky winner of such a massive reward ? Experts are saying that the smartest thing you could possibly do is actually to keep quiet about it and tell no one about your win. You should keep calm and carry on, financial advisers said. Posting about the win on social media is often a poor decision, some of the advisers told USA TODAY . Rob Burnette, an Ohio-based adviser with Outlook Financial Center, told the publication, "If you're lucky enough to win the lottery, keep it quiet. Get organized and make a plan. Consider staying anonymous, if it's a possibility." Mega Millions jackpot soars over $1 billion as drawing announced for Friday Mega Millions jackpot nears $1 billion just in time for the holidays The massive sum available to whoever is lucky enough to win the Mega Millions by matching all six numbers — the regular five balls and the sixth Mega Millions ball. The chances of that happening are about 1 in 302.6 million. After taxes, an estimated lump sum of about $516.1 million will be available to take home for the lucky winner, who can also opt to receive regular payments over several years. One of the main reasons financial advisers say to keep quiet about winnings is so that scammers won't be as likely to reach out and attempt to siphon off some of the money. Contact should only be had with a financial adviser. Click here to follow the Mirror US on Google News to stay up to date with all the latest news, sports and entertainment stories. Mega Millions said in a statement, "Crooks usually try to get you to wire money for 'taxes' or 'fees,' or may try to get you to provide them with a bank account number, which they will then clean out. No real lottery tells winners to put up their own money in order to collect a prize they have already won." The lottery organization said no representative from Mega Millions would ever call, text or email anyone about a prize they won, stating that winners should be especially weary of anyone who contacts them out of the blue. The best option is to remain anonymous, which, in certain states, you can do. Steve Azoury, owner of Azoury Financial in Troy, Michigan told USA TODAY, "Get a tax attorney and a tax accountant right off the bat and then a financial adviser. They’ll work hand in hand to figure out the plan." DAILY NEWSLETTER: Sign up here to get the latest news and updates from the Mirror US straight to your inbox with our FREE newsletter. This should be done before the payout is collected, as the adviser and lawyers can tell you about the options and help you figure out what's best for you. Age, income projections and other life factors can determine what might be the best option for a particular winner, Max Steber, chief tax officer at Jackson Hewitt, said. Azoury added that finding a "fall guy," or an adviser or other person who will keep you from making loans and other payouts, is also a necessity in most cases, as that person can ensure that you don't squander your money and hand it out to people who might misuse it. Most winners have at least 90 days to claim their prize after finding out they're the winner, and many take that time to figure out what to do with the money. Azoury said "parking" the earnings might be the best option until winners can hire and meet with a financial adviser, tax accountant and attorney who's right for them. Brokerage accounts are also options, as several million can be distributed across multiple banks and accounts, most of it insured, too. The tax accountant and lawyer are both recommended after winning the lottery because doing so is likely to propel an individual into the highest federal tax bracket, but state taxes can be tricky to navigate. Only 12 states don't tax lottery winnings — Alaska, California, Delaware, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wyoming. But others do and to varying degrees. The next drawing for the Mega Millions is scheduled for Friday at 11 p.m. EST. Drawings take place every Tuesday and Friday at the same time. Tickets are sold in numerous locations and are available until 15 minutes before each drawing. DAILY NEWSLETTER: Sign up here to get the latest news and updates from the Mirror US straight to your inbox with our FREE newsletter.Micro Server IC Market Growth Projections: CAGR Value, and Share Insights for 2024-2031 12-03-2024 09:08 PM CET | IT, New Media & Software Press release from: SkyQuest Technology Micro Server IC Micro Server IC Market Scope: Global Micro Server IC Market size was valued at USD 1.36 billion in 2022 and is poised to grow from USD 1.54 billion in 2023 to USD 4.18 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 13.30% during the forecast period (2024-2031). The study of the global Micro Server IC Market is presented in the report, which is a thoroughly researched presentation of the data. The analysis delves into some of the key facets of the global Micro Server IC Market and shows how drivers like pricing, competition, market dynamics, regional growth, gross margin, and consumption will affect the market's performance. A thorough analysis of the competitive landscape and in-depth company profiles of the top players in the Micro Server IC Market are included in the study. It provides a summary of precise market data, including production, revenue, market value, volume, market share, and growth rate. Request for Sample Copy of this Global Micro Server IC Market: https://www.skyquestt.com/sample-request/micro-server-ic-market The best investment markers are insights into the most prominent market trends, which help potential participants make decisions even easier. The research aims to discover the numerous growth chances that readers may take into consideration and take advantage of using all the necessary information. The market growth over the coming years can be predicted with greater accuracy by carefully examining the important growth-influencing aspects including pricing, production, profit margins, and value chain analyses. Micro Server IC Market Segments: Component Hardware, Software Processor Intel, Arm Application Web hosting & enterprises, Analytics & cloud computing, Edge Computing End user Enterprises (Small Scale Enterprises, Medium Scale Enterprises, Large Scale Enterprises), Data Centers Major Players Covered in Global Micro Server IC Market Report: • Intel Corporation• Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (AMD)• ARM Holdings (acquired by NVIDIA)• Applied Micro Circuits Corporation (AMCC)• Marvell Technology Group• Broadcom Inc.• Cavium (acquired by Marvell)• Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE)• Dell Technologies• Super Micro Computer, Inc.• Quanta Computer Inc.• NVIDIA Corporation• Fujitsu Limited• Cisco Systems, Inc.• NEC Corporation• Samsung Electronics• MediaTek Inc.• Ampere Computing• NXP Semiconductors• Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. View report summary and Table of Contents (TOC): https://www.skyquestt.com/report/micro-server-ic-market Report Inclusions: Market Overview: A product/services overview and the size of the global Micro Server IC Market are included. It provides a summary of the report's segmental analysis. Here, the focus is on the product/service type, application, and regional segments. Revenue and sales market estimates are also included in this chapter. Competition: This section includes information on market conditions and trends, analyzes manufacturers, and provides data on average prices paid by players, revenue and revenue shares of individual market players, sales and sales shares of individual players. Company Profiles: This part of the research provides in-depth, analytical information on the financial and business strategy data of some of the top players in the global Micro Server IC Market. This chapter of the report also covers a number of other specifics, such as product/service descriptions, portfolios, regional reach, and revenue splits. Region-wise Sales Analysis: This portion of the study provides market data along with regional revenue, sales, and market share analysis. Additionally, it offers estimates for each examined regional market's sales and sales growth rate, pricing scheme, revenue, and other factors. North America (United States, Canada, and Mexico) Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia, and Italy) Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, and Southeast Asia) South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, etc.) The Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, and South Africa) The research study can answer the following Key questions: (1) What is the estimated size of the global Micro Server IC Market at the end of the forecast period? (2) Is the segment-leading the global Micro Server IC Market anticipated to retain its leadership? (3) Which regions demonstrate the maximum growth potential? (4) Does any player dominate the global Micro Server IC Market? (5) What are the main drivers and restraints in the global Micro Server IC Market? Want to customize this report? Ask here : https://www.skyquestt.com/speak-with-analyst/micro-server-ic-market Table of Contents Chapter 1 Industry Overview 1.1 Definition 1.2 Assumptions 1.3 Research Scope 1.4 Market Analysis by Regions 1.5 Market Size Analysis from 2024 to 2031 11.6 COVID-19 Outbreak: Micro Server IC Market Industry Impact Chapter 2 Competition by Types, Applications, and Top Regions and Countries 2.1 Market (Volume and Value) by Type 2.3 Market (Volume and Value) by Regions Chapter 3 Production Market Analysis 3.1 Worldwide Production Market Analysis 3.2 Regional Production Market Analysis Chapter 4 Micro Server IC Market Sales, Consumption, Export, Import by Regions Chapter 5 North America Market Analysis Chapter 6 East Asia Market Analysis Chapter 7 Europe Market Analysis Chapter 8 South Asia Market Analysis Chapter 9 Southeast Asia Market Analysis Chapter 10 Middle East Market Analysis Chapter 11 Africa Market Analysis Chapter 12 Oceania Market Analysis Chapter 13 Latin America Market Analysis Chapter 14 Company Profiles and Key Figures in Micro Server IC Market Business Chapter 15 Market Forecast (2024-2031) Chapter 16 Conclusions About Us: SkyQuest is an IP focused Research and Investment Bank and Accelerator of Technology and assets. We provide access to technologies, markets and finance across sectors viz. Life Sciences, CleanTech, AgriTech, NanoTech and Information & Communication Technology. We work closely with innovators, inventors, innovation seekers, entrepreneurs, companies and investors alike in leveraging external sources of R&D. Moreover, we help them in optimizing the economic potential of their intellectual assets. Our experiences with innovation management and commercialization has expanded our reach across North America, Europe, ASEAN and Asia Pacific. Contact: Mr. Jagraj Singh Skyquest Technology 1 Apache Way, Westford, Massachusetts 01886 USA (!) 351-333-4748 Visit Our Website: https://www.skyquestt.com/ This release was published on openPR.

Naqvi says formula 'beneficial' for both country, cricket on cards amid Champions Trophy deadlock PCB chief says this isn’t fair Pakistan visit India for ICC events, but neighbouring country doesn’t Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi speaks during a meeting in this undated. — PCB/File DUBAI: Amid ongoing talks with Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over Pakistan-hosted Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has said that they will chalk out a formula which will be beneficial for both country and cricket. "A forumla will be made that will apply to all future events of ICC [International Cricket Council]," Naqvi, who is also the interior minister said while speaking to journalists in Dubai on Saturday. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1700472799616-0'); }); The tournament, scheduled to take place in Pakistan, has become a bone of contention between Pakistan and India, with the BCCI refusing to send its team to Pakistan, citing security concerns despite assurances. An online meeting convened by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday aimed at resolving the issue lasted just 15 minutes without concrete results. The PCB has categorically rejected the hybrid model proposed during the virtual meeting, under which all of India’s matches would be played outside Pakistan. Sources told Geo News that the Indian cricket governing body has reportedly sought more time after Pakistan's firm stance. Talking to the media today, Naqvi said that it isn’t fair that Pakistan visit India for ICC events, but the neighbouring country doesn’t, stressing the need for "long-term talks". He further said that the decisions cannot be limited to the Champions Trophy only, adding that a formula for future tournaments must be chalked out. In another development, the PCB chief met Mubashir Usmani, the chairman of the ICC associate member committee and former secretary of the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) in Dubai today. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the PCB said that Naqvi in his meeting with Usmani discussed “important issues regarding the organisation of the Champions Trophy tournament”. "Pakistan is fully prepared to host the tournament in our country. We are a peaceful nation, and our people have a deep love for cricket." Naqvi told Mubashir. The PCB chairman and his team also assured that all the incoming teams will get presidential-level security during the event. He expressed excitement for the tournament, saying, "Cricket fans in Pakistan are eagerly awaiting the matches. Every participating team will be provided with state-guest-level protocol and security." Reflecting on the concerns raised by the BCCI, Naqvi stressed the importance of keeping cricket separate from politics. “This tournament is a significant honour for our country. We warmly welcome every team with open hearts and will ensure a world-class experience for all,” he added. Besides discussing the Champions Trophy, the meeting also focused on promoting cricket in both Pakistan and the UAE. 'Not acceptable' The PCB chief had already communicated Pakistan’s position during discussions with ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice in Dubai on Thursday, reiterating that the board would not entertain this proposal. “This is not acceptable. Every time Pakistan is required to play in India, we comply. Yet, when it is India’s turn to play in Pakistan, excuses are made. Both nations must be treated equally under the same rules,” Naqvi asserted. He added while other workable solutions could be considered, the hybrid model was entirely off the table. The ICC Board deferred the issue, leaving it to the PCB, ICC, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to find a resolution. Sources revealed that Pakistan’s unwavering stance has put the ICC in a difficult position, with options now including a potential postponement of the tournament, rescheduling or introducing a backup host nation like Sri Lanka. Adding to the ongoing mess, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that it is “unlikely” the Indian team would travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy due to “security concerns.” A spokesman for the External Affairs Ministry put the onus on the BCCI saying that it fears Indian team security. “It is the BCCI that has to make the final call on the team’s visit to Pakistan,” an Indian Ministry spokesman said. BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla consistently emphasized that the Board will strictly adhere to the directives issued by the Indian government. Mohsin Naqvi dismissed the concerns, clarifying Pakistan’s proven track record in hosting international teams over the past six years. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "VideoObject", "mainEntityOfPage":"https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1256771-naqvi-says-formula-beneficial-for-both-country-cricket-on-cards-amid-champions-trophy-deadlock", "name": "Naqvi says formula 'beneficial' for both country, cricket on cards amid Champions Trophy deadlock", "duration":"", "datePublished": "2024-11-30T20:06:00+05:00", "dateModified": "2024-11-30T20:06:00+05:00", "keywords":"", "headline":"Naqvi says formula 'beneficial' for both country, cricket on cards amid Champions Trophy deadlock", "interactionCount": "", "thumbnail": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.thenews.com.pk/assets/uploads/updates/2024-11-30/l_1256771_075455_updates.jpg", "height": 390, "width": 700 }, "description": "DUBAI: Amid ongoing talks with Board of Control for Cricket in India over Pakistan-hosted Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has said that they will chalk out a...", "thumbnailUrl": "https://www.thenews.com.pk/assets/uploads/updates/2024-11-30/l_1256771_075455_updates.jpg", "uploadDate": "2024-11-30T20:06:00+05:00", "contentUrl": "https://players.brightcove.net/6415714528001/a8C5JINxB_default/index.html?videoId=6365358874112" }

LEO MCKINSTRY: The deluded, partisan International Criminal Court has gone too far this time

RIYADH, Saudi Arabi Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) said Tuesday that the kingdom has financed more than 200 development projects in the water sector, amounting to more than $6 billion across 60 developing nations. MBS highlighted at the One Water Summit in Riyadh the pressing global challenges in water management, including rising drought levels and escalating water scarcity, which threaten human lives and communities. Saudi Arabia brought water issues to the forefront of global policy discussions during its G20 presidency in 2020. The kingdom is set to host the World Water Forum in 2027, in collaboration with the World Water Council, according to MBS. He noted that in September 2023, Saudi Arabia announced the establishment of a global water organization in Riyadh to coordinate international efforts to address water challenges comprehensively. It also will focus on solutions through technology sharing, innovative research and strengthening international collaboration, he added. The crown prince invited UN member states, international organizations and private sector stakeholders to join the organization.​​​​​​​ The summit, co-chaired by Saudi Arabia, French President Emmanuel Macron, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and World Bank President Ajay Banga, brings together nations, international bodies and private enterprises to tackle water sector challenges and financing within the broader environmental context. Discussions aim to develop actionable solutions to the worsening global water crisis fueled by climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution. The summit also serves as a preparatory platform for the UN Water Conference in 2026. *Writing by Mohammad Sio

Romania far-right candidate urges voters to turn up for scrapped election

Travis Barker's Daughter, 19, Received Nearly $80K Worth of Christmas Gifts This YearSANTA CLARA, Calif. , Dec. 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Marvell Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: MRVL), a leader in data infrastructure semiconductor solutions, today reported financial results for the third quarter of fiscal year 2025. Net revenue for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 was $1.516 billion , $66 .0 million above the mid-point of the Company's guidance provided on August 29, 2024 . GAAP net loss for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 was $(676.3) million, or $(0.78) per diluted share. Non-GAAP net income for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 was $373 .0 million, or $0.43 per diluted share. Cash flow from operations for the third quarter was $536.3 million . "Marvell's fiscal third quarter 2025 revenue grew 19% sequentially, well above the mid-point of our guidance, driven by strong demand from AI. For the fourth quarter, we are forecasting another 19% sequential revenue growth at the midpoint of guidance, while year-over-year, we expect revenue growth to accelerate significantly to 26%, marking the beginning of a new era of growth for Marvell," said Matt Murphy , Marvell's Chairman and CEO. "The exceptional performance in the third quarter, and our strong forecast for the fourth quarter, are primarily driven by our custom AI silicon programs, which are now in volume production, further augmented by robust ongoing demand from cloud customers for our market-leading interconnect products. We look forward to a strong finish to this fiscal year and expect substantial momentum to continue in fiscal 2026." Fourth Quarter of Fiscal 2025 Financial Outlook GAAP diluted EPS is calculated using basic weighted-average shares outstanding when there is a GAAP net loss, and calculated using diluted weighted-average shares outstanding when there is a GAAP net income. Non-GAAP diluted EPS is calculated using diluted weighted-average shares outstanding. Conference Call Marvell will conduct a conference call on Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 1:45 p.m. Pacific Time to discuss results for the third quarter of fiscal year 2025. Interested parties may join the conference call without operator assistance by registering and entering their phone number at https://emportal.ink/4fngg8m to receive an instant automated call back. To join the call with operator assistance, please dial 1-800-836-8184 or 1-646-357-8785. The call will be webcast and can be accessed at the Marvell Investor Relations website at http://investor.marvell.com/ . A replay of the call can be accessed by dialing 1-888-660-6345 or 1-646-517-4150, passcode 47973# until Tuesday, December 10, 2024 . Discussion of Non-GAAP Financial Measures Non-GAAP financial measures exclude the effect of stock-based compensation expense, amortization of acquired intangible assets, acquisition and divestiture-related costs, restructuring and other related charges (including, but not limited to, asset impairment charges, recognition of future contractual obligations, employee severance costs, and facilities related charges), resolution of legal matters, and certain expenses and benefits that are driven primarily by discrete events that management does not consider to be directly related to Marvell's core business. Although Marvell excludes the amortization of all acquired intangible assets from these non-GAAP financial measures, management believes that it is important for investors to understand that such intangible assets were recorded as part of purchase price accounting arising from acquisitions, and that such amortization of intangible assets that relate to past acquisitions will recur in future periods until such intangible assets have been fully amortized. Investors should note that the use of intangible assets contributed to Marvell's revenues earned during the periods presented and are expected to contribute to Marvell's future period revenues as well. Marvell uses a non-GAAP tax rate to compute the non-GAAP tax provision. This non-GAAP tax rate is based on Marvell's estimated annual GAAP income tax forecast, adjusted to account for items excluded from Marvell's non-GAAP income, as well as the effects of significant non-recurring and period specific tax items which vary in size and frequency, and excludes tax deductions and benefits from acquired tax loss and credit carryforwards and changes in valuation allowance on acquired deferred tax assets. Marvell's non-GAAP tax rate is determined on an annual basis and may be adjusted during the year to take into account events that may materially affect the non-GAAP tax rate such as tax law changes; acquisitions; significant changes in Marvell's geographic mix of revenue and expenses; or changes to Marvell's corporate structure. For the third quarter of fiscal 2025, a non-GAAP tax rate of 7.0% has been applied to the non-GAAP financial results. Marvell believes that the presentation of non-GAAP financial measures provides important supplemental information to management and investors regarding financial and business trends relating to Marvell's financial condition and results of operations. While Marvell uses non-GAAP financial measures as a tool to enhance its understanding of certain aspects of its financial performance, Marvell does not consider these measures to be a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. Consistent with this approach, Marvell believes that disclosing non-GAAP financial measures to the readers of its financial statements provides such readers with useful supplemental data that, while not a substitute for GAAP financial measures, allows for greater transparency in the review of its financial and operational performance. Externally, management believes that investors may find Marvell's non-GAAP financial measures useful in their assessment of Marvell's operating performance and the valuation of Marvell. Internally, Marvell's non-GAAP financial measures are used in the following areas: Non-GAAP financial measures have limitations in that they do not reflect all of the costs associated with the operations of Marvell's business as determined in accordance with GAAP. As a result, you should not consider these measures in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of Marvell's results as reported under GAAP. The exclusion of the above items from our GAAP financial metrics does not necessarily mean that these costs are unusual or infrequent. Forward-Looking Statements under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), which are subject to the "safe harbor" created by those sections. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause our actual results to differ materially from those implied by the forward-looking statements. Words such as "anticipates," "expects," "intends," "plans," "projects," "believes," "seeks," "estimates," "forecasts," "targets," "may," "can," "will," "would" and similar expressions identify such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, but are not limited to, the statements describing our financial outlook and future period revenues. These statements are not guarantees of results and should not be considered as an indication of future activity or future performance. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual events or results may differ materially from those described in this press release due to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to: risks related to changes in general macroeconomic conditions, or expectations of such conditions, such as high or rising interest rates, macroeconomic slowdowns, recessions, inflation, and stagflation; risks related to our ability to estimate customer demand and future sales accurately; our ability to define, design, develop and market products for the Cloud, 5G markets, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) markets; risks related to our dependence on a few customers for a significant portion of our revenue, particularly as our major customers comprise an increasing percentage of our revenue, as well as risks related to a significant portion of our sales being concentrated in the data center end market; risks related to higher inventory levels; risks related to cancellations, rescheduling or deferrals of significant customer orders or shipments, as well as the ability of our customers to manage inventory; our ability to realize the expected benefits from restructuring activities; the risk of downturns in the semiconductor industry or our customer end markets; the impact of international conflict (such as the current armed conflicts in the Ukraine and in Israel and the Gaza Strip ) and economic volatility in either domestic or foreign markets including risks related to trade conflicts or tensions, regulations, and tariffs, including but not limited to, trade restrictions imposed on our Chinese customers; our ability to retain and hire key personnel; our ability to limit costs related to defective products; risks related to our debt obligations; risks related to the rapid growth of the Company; delays or increased costs related to completing the design, development, production and introduction of our new products due to a variety of issues, including supply chain cross-dependencies, dependencies on EDA and similar tools, dependencies on the use of third-party, business partner or customer intellectual property, collaboration and synchronization requirements with business partners and customers, requirements to establish new manufacturing, testing, assembly and packing processes, and other issues; our reliance on our manufacturing partners for the manufacture, assembly, testing and packaging of our products; risks related to the ASIC business model which requires us to use third-party IP including the risk that we may lose business or experience reputational harm if third parties, including customers, lose confidence in our ability to protect their IP rights; the risks associated with manufacturing and selling products and customers' products outside of the United States ; our ability to secure design wins from our customers and prospective customers; our ability to complete and realize the anticipated benefits of any acquisitions, divestitures and investments; decreases in gross margin and results of operations in the future due to a number of factors, including high or increasing interest rates and volatility in foreign exchange rates; severe financial hardship or bankruptcy of one or more of our major customers; the effects of transitioning to smaller geometry process technologies; risks related to use of a hybrid work model; the impact of any change in the income tax laws in jurisdictions where we operate and the loss of any beneficial tax treatment that we currently enjoy; the outcome of pending or future litigation and legal and regulatory proceedings; risk related to our Sustainability program; the impact and costs associated with changes in international financial and regulatory conditions; our ability and the ability of our customers to successfully compete in the markets in which we serve; our ability and our customers' ability to develop new and enhanced products and the adoption of those products in the market; supply chain disruptions or component shortages that may impact the production of our products including our kitting process or may impact the price of components which in turn may impact our margins on any impacted products and any constrained availability from other electronic suppliers impacting our customers' ability to ship their products, which in turn may adversely impact our sales to those customers; our ability to scale our operations in response to changes in demand for existing or new products and services; risks associated with acquisition and consolidation activity in the semiconductor industry, including any consolidation of our manufacturing partners; our ability to protect our intellectual property; risks related to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic (or future pandemics) which have impacted, and for which lingering effects may continue to impact our business, employees and operations, the transportation and manufacturing of our products, and the operations of our customers, distributors, vendors, suppliers, and partners; our maintenance of an effective system of internal controls; financial institution instability; and other risks detailed in our SEC filings from time to time. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties that affect our business described in the "Risk Factors" section of our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other documents filed by us from time to time with the SEC. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and we assume no obligation and do not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. About Marvell To deliver the data infrastructure technology that connects the world, we're building solutions on the most powerful foundation: our partnerships with our customers. Trusted by the world's leading technology companies for over 25 years, we move, store, process and secure the world's data with semiconductor solutions designed for our customers' current needs and future ambitions. Through a process of deep collaboration and transparency, we're ultimately changing the way tomorrow's enterprise, cloud, automotive, and carrier architectures transform—for the better. Marvell ® and the Marvell logo are registered trademarks of Marvell and/or its affiliates. Marvell Technology, Inc. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) (In millions, except per share amounts) Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended November 2, 2024 August 3, 2024 October 28, 2023 November 2, 2024 October 28, 2023 Net revenue $ 1,516.1 $ 1,272.9 $ 1,418.6 $ 3,949.9 $ 4,081.2 Cost of goods sold 1,166.7 685.3 867.4 2,485.1 2,451.7 Gross profit 349.4 587.6 551.2 1,464.8 1,629.5 Operating expenses: Research and development 488.6 486.7 481.1 1,451.4 1,436.6 Selling, general and administrative 205.3 197.3 213.0 602.5 622.0 Restructuring related charges 358.3 4.0 3.4 366.4 105.3 Total operating expenses 1,052.2 688.0 697.5 2,420.3 2,163.9 Operating loss (702.8) (100.4) (146.3) (955.5) (534.4) Interest expense (47.2) (48.4) (52.6) (144.4) (159.1) Interest income and other, net (0.5) 2.6 11.4 5.4 22.1 Interest and other loss, net (47.7) (45.8) (41.2) (139.0) (137.0) Loss before income taxes (750.5) (146.2) (187.5) (1,094.5) (671.4) Provision (benefit) for income taxes (74.2) 47.1 (23.2) (9.3) (130.7) Net loss $ (676.3) $ (193.3) $ (164.3) $ (1,085.2) $ (540.7) Net loss per share — basic $ (0.78) $ (0.22) $ (0.19) $ (1.25) $ (0.63) Net loss per share — diluted $ (0.78) $ (0.22) $ (0.19) $ (1.25) $ (0.63) Weighted-average shares: Basic 865.7 865.7 862.6 865.5 860.1 Diluted 865.7 865.7 862.6 865.5 860.1 Marvell Technology, Inc. Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) (In millions) November 2, 2024 February 3, 2024 Assets Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 868.1 $ 950.8 Accounts receivable, net 997.9 1,121.6 Inventories 859.4 864.4 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 91.4 125.9 Total current assets 2,816.8 3,062.7 Property and equipment, net 781.9 756.0 Goodwill 11,586.9 11,586.9 Acquired intangible assets, net 2,957.7 4,004.1 Deferred tax assets 406.5 311.9 Other non-current assets 1,165.8 1,506.9 Total assets $ 19,715.6 $ 21,228.5 Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 538.1 $ 411.3 Accrued liabilities 825.2 1,032.9 Accrued employee compensation 270.9 262.7 Short-term debt 129.4 107.3 Total current liabilities 1,763.6 1,814.2 Long-term debt 3,965.5 4,058.6 Other non-current liabilities 613.6 524.3 Total liabilities 6,342.7 6,397.1 Stockholders' equity: Common stock 1.7 1.7 Additional paid-in capital 14,629.0 14,845.3 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (0.3) 1.1 Accumulated deficit (1,257.5) (16.7) Total stockholders' equity 13,372.9 14,831.4 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 19,715.6 $ 21,228.5 Marvell Technology, Inc. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) (In millions) Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended November 2, 2024

AP News Summary at 3:17 p.m. EST

Craig Berube Bashes Leafs' Effort, Makes No Excuses for Controversial LossSouth Korea's president avoids an impeachment attempt over martial lawMaurid Institute debunks admission fraud allegation

10-man Barcelona concedes two late goals in draw at Celta VigoChennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President M K Stalin on Saturday congratulated his Jharkhand counterpart Hemant Soren for the JMM-led INDIA bloc’s spectacular win in the Assembly polls in the eastern state. Stalin, in a post on ‘X,’ said: “Congratulations Hon’ble @HemantSorenJMM and our #INDIA bloc for a historic victory against all odds! Despite relentless misuse of power, vendetta politics, and countless obstacles created by the BJP over the past five years, @HemantSorenJMM has fought back with courage and determination.” Congratulations Hon'ble @HemantSorenJMM and our #INDIA bloc for a historic victory against all odds! Despite relentless misuse of power, vendetta politics, and countless obstacles created by the BJP over the past five years, @HemantSorenJMM has fought back with courage and... Also, he said: “The people of Jharkhand have reposed their faith in inclusive leadership. This is a resounding victory for democracy and secularism!”

Hopes for a Santa Claus rally on Wall Street fell Friday as tech stocks slid lower, while a weaker yen lifted Japanese equities. US indices slumped to end the holiday week, with the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite losing 1.5 percent. Shares in Tesla were closed around 5.0 percent lower, while those in AI chipmaker Nvidia shed around 2.0 percent. Wall Street stocks have historically performed well around the year-end holidays in what is popularly known as a Santa Claus rally. A Christmas Eve jump in equities got the Santa rally off to a flying start and indices barely budged in Thursday trading. Briefing.com analyst Patrick O'Hare also pointed to an increase in 10-year US Treasury bond yields to around 4.6 percent, which he noted is a rise of nearly 0.9 percentage points since the US Federal Reserve made its first recent interest rate cut in September. "The Fed doesn't hold sway over longer-dated maturities like it does over shorter-dated securities, so the bump in rates at the back end of the curve is being watched with an anxious eye as a possible harbinger of a pickup in inflation and/or the budget deficit," O'Hare said. Wall Street stocks took a knock earlier this month when the Fed indicated it would likely cut interest rates less than it had previously expected to. That was in part because of uncertainty tied to President-elect Donald Trump's vow to raise import tariffs, which could boost inflation that is already proving sticky. In Asia, Japan's Nikkei index closed up nearly two percent, with the yen's recent weakness proving a boon for major exporters. The yen hit 158.08 per US dollar on Thursday evening -- its lowest in almost six months -- following comments made by Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda that failed to give a clear signal on a possible interest rate increase next month. Recent data has showed Japan's inflation rose for a second month in December, while industrial production declined less than expected in November and retail sales came in higher than estimated last month. Japan's government also on Friday approved a record budget for the next fiscal year, ramping up spending on social welfare for its ageing population and on defense to tackle regional threats. In Seoul, the stock market closed down one percent after the won plunged to a nearly 16-year low of 1,487.03 against the dollar on Friday morning. South Korea is struggling to emerge from political turbulence in the wake of President Yoon Suk Yeol's martial law declaration this month, which prompted his impeachment. Acting President Han Duck-soo was also impeached Friday in a vote that prompted governing party lawmakers to protest with angry chants and raised fists. South Korea's business outlook for January fell in the Bank of Korea's composite sentiment index, the biggest month-on-month slide since April 2020, according to data based on almost 3,300 firms released Friday. In Europe, Frankfurt's DAX index rose after German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier dissolved parliament on Friday and confirmed the expected date for the early general election, emphasizing the need for "political stability" in Europe's largest economy. New York - Dow: DOWN 0.8 percent at 42,992.21 (close) New York - S&P 500: DOWN 1.1 percent at 5,970.84 (close) New York - Nasdaq Composite: DOWN 1.5 percent at 19,722.03 (close) London - FTSE 100: UP 0.2 percent at 8,149.78 (close) Paris - CAC 40: UP 1.0 percent at 7,355.37 (close) Frankfurt - DAX: UP 0.7 percent at 19,984.32 (close) Tokyo - Nikkei 225: UP 1.8 percent at 40,281.16 points (close) Seoul - Kospi: DOWN 1.0 percent at 2,404.77 (close) Hong Kong - Hang Seng Index: UP 0.1 percent at 20,116.93 (close) Shanghai - Composite: UP 0.1 percent at 3,400.14 (close) Euro/dollar: UP at $1.0429 from $1.0424 on Thursday Pound/dollar: UP at $1.2579 from $1.2526 Dollar/yen: DOWN at 157.89 yen from 158.00 yen Euro/pound: DOWN at 82.87 pence from 83.19 pence West Texas Intermediate: UP 1.4 percent at $70.60 per barrel Brent North Sea Crude: UP 1.2 percent at $74.17 per barrel burs-rl/rlp/bys/sms

By MICHELLE L. PRICE WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — An online spat between factions of Donald Trump’s supporters over immigration and the tech industry has thrown internal divisions in his political movement into public display, previewing the fissures and contradictory views his coalition could bring to the White House. The rift laid bare the tensions between the newest flank of Trump’s movement — wealthy members of the tech world including billionaire Elon Musk and fellow entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and their call for more highly skilled workers in their industry — and people in Trump’s Make America Great Again base who championed his hardline immigration policies. The debate touched off this week when Laura Loomer , a right-wing provocateur with a history of racist and conspiratorial comments, criticized Trump’s selection of Sriram Krishnan as an adviser on artificial intelligence policy in his coming administration. Krishnan favors the ability to bring more skilled immigrants into the U.S. Loomer declared the stance to be “not America First policy” and said the tech executives who have aligned themselves with Trump were doing so to enrich themselves. Much of the debate played out on the social media network X, which Musk owns. Loomer’s comments sparked a back-and-forth with venture capitalist and former PayPal executive David Sacks , whom Trump has tapped to be the “White House A.I. & Crypto Czar.” Musk and Ramaswamy, whom Trump has tasked with finding ways to cut the federal government , weighed in, defending the tech industry’s need to bring in foreign workers. It bloomed into a larger debate with more figures from the hard-right weighing in about the need to hire U.S. workers, whether values in American culture can produce the best engineers, free speech on the internet, the newfound influence tech figures have in Trump’s world and what his political movement stands for. Trump has not yet weighed in on the rift, and his presidential transition team did not respond to a message seeking comment. Musk, the world’s richest man who has grown remarkably close to the president-elect , was a central figure in the debate, not only for his stature in Trump’s movement but his stance on the tech industry’s hiring of foreign workers. Technology companies say H-1B visas for skilled workers, used by software engineers and others in the tech industry, are critical for hard-to-fill positions. But critics have said they undercut U.S. citizens who could take those jobs. Some on the right have called for the program to be eliminated, not expanded. Born in South Africa, Musk was once on an a H-1B visa himself and defended the industry’s need to bring in foreign workers. “There is a permanent shortage of excellent engineering talent,” he said in a post. “It is the fundamental limiting factor in Silicon Valley.” Related Articles National Politics | Should the U.S. increase immigration levels for highly skilled workers? National Politics | Trump threat to immigrant health care tempered by economic hopes National Politics | In states that ban abortion, social safety net programs often fail families National Politics | Court rules Georgia lawmakers can subpoena Fani Willis for information related to her Trump case National Politics | New 2025 laws hit hot topics from AI in movies to rapid-fire guns Trump’s own positions over the years have reflected the divide in his movement. His tough immigration policies, including his pledge for a mass deportation, were central to his winning presidential campaign. He has focused on immigrants who come into the U.S. illegally but he has also sought curbs on legal immigration , including family-based visas. As a presidential candidate in 2016, Trump called the H-1B visa program “very bad” and “unfair” for U.S. workers. After he became president, Trump in 2017 issued a “Buy American and Hire American” executive order , which directed Cabinet members to suggest changes to ensure H-1B visas were awarded to the highest-paid or most-skilled applicants to protect American workers. Trump’s businesses, however, have hired foreign workers, including waiters and cooks at his Mar-a-Lago club , and his social media company behind his Truth Social app has used the the H-1B program for highly skilled workers. During his 2024 campaign for president, as he made immigration his signature issue, Trump said immigrants in the country illegally are “poisoning the blood of our country” and promised to carry out the largest deportation operation in U.S. history. But in a sharp departure from his usual alarmist message around immigration generally, Trump told a podcast this year that he wants to give automatic green cards to foreign students who graduate from U.S. colleges. “I think you should get automatically, as part of your diploma, a green card to be able to stay in this country,” he told the “All-In” podcast with people from the venture capital and technology world. Those comments came on the cusp of Trump’s budding alliance with tech industry figures, but he did not make the idea a regular part of his campaign message or detail any plans to pursue such changes.None( MENAFN - The Conversation) With the help of new scientific and technological developments , the HIV/Aids research community is increasingly turning to an ambitious goal: finding a cure for HIV/Aids. If the world is to get close to meeting the UN Sustainable Development Goal of reducing HIV infections and Aids-related deaths by 90% between 2010 and 2030, a cure for HIV/Aids would be a game changer. Much progress has been made during the 30 years in the fight against HIV/Aids. An HIV diagnosis is no longer the death sentence it was in the 1990s. Antiretroviral treatment – which targets and suppresses the replication of the virus within the body – means people living with HIV are able to live long, fulfilling lives , without the risk of spreading the HIV virus to others. However, even with antiretroviral treatments, living with HIV increases the risk of other serious health issues. All of this is ends up putting an economic burden on states, through increased healthcare spending and losses in workplace productivity. South Africa is a good example of a country that would benefit from the discovery of a cure. South Africa's been providing free antiretrovirals through the public healthcare system since 200 . It is the largest factor behind the 50% drop in the number of new HIV infections in South Africa from 2010 to 2021. But the programme is expensive. In 2023, South Africa's total budget for HIV response was R30-billion (around US$1.5 billion). This amount includes funding from international sources, such as the US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief , better known as Pepfar. Consider that the country's total national healthcare budget for 2022/23 was approximately R64.5 billion (around US$3.5billion). Also, we never know when the external funding, or part of it, might dry up. Funding for HIV/Aids response is heavily dependent on political will and leadership . Recent political developments in high income countries, such as the US presidential election, would suggest a reluctance and even opposition towards pumping funds into healthcare beyond their own borders, and especially in Africa. I work in HIV prevention and cure research. My work focuses specifically on understanding interactions between HIV and the immune system and how these may be harnessed and translated for HIV prevention or cure. There is hope and optimism that HIV can be cured, with various strategies beginning to show some promise, with partial successes reported. Cure research is in its infancy, but there are exciting hints that gene therapy and immunotherapies might lead us to a cure. So far, there have been an seven people , worldwide, cured of HIV. They were persons living with HIV who developed cancer, and were treated for the cancer through bone marrow transplantation, a form of gene therapy, and this also led to elimination of HIV because the bone marrow transplants were from donors lacking HIV coreceptors – proteins on cell surfaces that viruses use to bind and enter cells. But a bone marrow transplant is a radical ,expensive and often dangerous procedure . There is no way we can view it as an avenue for developing a cure when there is reliable ART on hand. In contrast, some strategies involving a combination of early treatment and immunotherapy are also showing some promise and these could be developed further for long-term control of HIV without antiretroviral therapy. While curing a viral infection is difficult, medical science is already able to eradicate some viral infections, such as hepatitis C . Others, such as the common cold and Covid-19 , are effectively eliminated by a well-functioning immune system. The challenge with HIV is that it locks into an individual's DNA , making it particularly difficult to get rid of. It also mutates a lot , which is why it is so difficult to develop a vaccine against it. That has led us to explore why some people appear able to neutralise HIV when not taking antiretroviral therapy but on once-off or temporary therapy that boosts their immune system. This seems to happen in some people who are diagnosed with HIV early on in their infection and immediately go on ART, and then interrupt the treatment but simultaneously take the special immune-boosting treatments with antiviral properties. So far, the HIV research community is unable to predict who will react in this way, but the Africa Health Research Institute and the HIV Pathogenesis Programme, within the University of KwaZulu-Natal, are conducting research among a group of young women from a community in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, with a high HIV infection rate. These young women are invited to participate in a socio-economic empowerment programme that has them attend a clinic twice weekly for training in basic computer skills, HIV prevention and other life skills. At each attendance, each woman is tested for HIV. If one is found to have acquired the HIV virus, she is immediately given a standard course of ART. After a while, immune-boosting therapies that include broadly neutralising antibodies are added, and then the woman is asked to stop ART treatment under strict monitoring to establish whether she is able to control the virus on her own. If not, she is immediately returned to ART. Of more than 2,500 attendees since the study began a decade ago, 108 have become HIV-positive. Of these 108 living with HIV, 20 are participating in the cure clinical trial. The study is ongoing , and our hope is that this strategy will lead to long-term control of the virus in the absence of ART in some of the women. This can then help us to better understand the immune mechanisms that may control the virus without antiretroviral therapy, and this could lead to a cure. Much work still needs to be done but finding a cure is important, especially for the 40-million people across the world living with HIV. The world is not on track to meet the UN goal of ending the HIV/Aids pandemic by 2030. While the rate of HIV infection has dropped remarkably, it is still much higher than the targets the global healthcare community has set itself. For example, in 2023 there were new HIV infections worldwide against a target of 500 000 to achieve the aim of nearly eradicating HIV by 2030. It is vital that HIV/Aids research continues in Africa because, while the incidence of HIV infection is reducing markedly , this status quo could change at any time and we could be back fighting a pandemic. It would be good to do so with better tools. Also, we must find a cure or vaccine that is tailored to Africa, where HIV is a young woman's disease , while also seeking the same for the regions where HIV infection is rising – Asia, Latin America and Eastern Europe. We're playing a long game, but there is definitely hope, and that is definitely something to celebrate. MENAFN30112024000199003603ID1108941970 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.

A Delaware judge has once again rejected Elon Musk 's record-breaking compensation package at Tesla. This means that Tesla CEO Musk is prevented from accessing a pay package whose potential value has soared along with Tesla's stock price. "As of Monday, the pay package was worth $101.4 billion, according to Equilar, a compensation consulting firm," as per Reuters. The decision could impact the wealth of the world's richest man. But yes, it will not impact his ranking as the world's richest man, thanks to Tesla’s stock soaring as investors bet on the billionaire’s close relationship with Trump. Musk’s wealth hit an all-time high in November — surpassing the previous record of $340.4 billion set in November 2021 — after a Tesla stock rally following Donald Trump's win in the US presidential election. This isn't the first time that the court has cast doubt on the legitimacy of the compensation package. In January too, Judge Kathaleen St. J. McCormick initially rejected it as excessive, and even after shareholders voted to approve it, she reaffirmed her original decision. McCormick then voided the pay package saying that the deal was unfair to shareholders and that most of the board members were beholden to Musk or had compromising conflicts. In fact, Musk moved his companies out of Delaware for incorporation purposes post McCormick’s January ruling. What judge said in latest ruling while rejecting Elon Musk's $101bn pay package Judge McCormick ruled that Tesla's board was improperly influenced by Musk when they approved the massive pay plan in 2018. Her decision was laid out in a 103-page opinion piece in which she wrote that the attempt by Tesla’s legal team — which Musk has called “hardcore” — to change her mind contained multiple flaws, each of which were fatal on their own. “The large and talented group of defense firms got creative with the ratification argument, but their unprecedented theories go against multiple strains of settled law,” McCormick wrote. “There were undoubtedly a range of healthy amounts that the board could have decided to pay Musk,” said McCormick. “Instead, the board capitulated to Musk’s terms,” she added. In her ruling, she pushed back on the idea that a “stockholder vote can be deployed to reverse any form of judicial ruling, whatever the ruling, no matter how final,” adding that Tesla’s board and its co-founder had no grounds “for flipping the outcome of an adverse post-trial decision based on evidence they created after trial.” McCormick also awarded $345 million to Tornetta’s lawyers. While that amount was far less than the attorneys’ request to be compensated with 29 million Tesla shares — more than $10 billion at the company’s current share price — it’s still among the largest lawyer paydays in US shareholder litigation. “We hope that the Chancellor’s well-reasoned decision will end this matter for the shareholders of Tesla,” said lawyers at the firm of Bernstein Litowitz Berger & Grossmann who led the litigation on behalf of Tornetta. Tesla to appeal court order Shortly after the court's ruling, the Tesla board said that it will appeal the decision with the Delaware Supreme Court. This process could take months. Reacting to the decision on his social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, Musk posted “absolute corruption.” Musk wrote in another X post: "Shareholders should control company votes, not judges." He had previously said he needed a bigger stake in Tesla to maintain control of the electric-car maker and expand further into artificial intelligence. What is Elon Musk's compensation structure Elon Musk's 2018 pay package was based on the idea that he would get all the options only if Tesla’s stock price soared and its sales and earnings grew strongly. His compensation package created 12 tranches of options - each equivalent at the time to 1% of Tesla's outstanding shares - potentially giving him a 12% stake in the automaker. Musk would receive no salary. Under the 10-year deal, Musk was eligible to win an options tranche every time Tesla hit a series of up to 12 targets. Those targets were tied to increases in Tesla's market capitalization in $50 billion increments, and to aggressive hurdles for revenue and EBITDA growth. Musk went on to hit all 12 targets when few had expected him to, given the various struggles of Tesla at that time. He still owns the options.to major Canadian airports, beginning with Vancouver International Airport, in a bid to streamline the boarding process. But while the technology may simplify flying for some — enrolled travellers no longer need to show their boarding pass or physical ID to board most domestic flights — the convenience might not outweigh the potential security concerns, some privacy experts say. “Any type of biometric data is extremely sensitive information,” said Rozita Dara, an associate professor and principle investigator of the University of Guelph’s Data Management and Privacy Governance research program. “Unlike passwords, you cannot change it.” Many U.S. cities have banned facial recognition software, but it remains widely unregulated in Canada. Many U.S. cities have banned facial recognition software, but it remains widely unregulated in Canada. Air Canada’s program launched Tuesday at Vancouver International Airport. It’s also available for customers entering Air Canada’s Maple Leaf Lounges in Toronto, Calgary and San Francisco, as well as the Air Canada Café in Toronto, . “While we don’t have a specific timeline to share for when other airports will have this, we can confirm we are planning to roll our Digital ID as an option at other Canadian airport gates,” a spokesperson for Air Canada told the Star. “It does require some significant investment for equipment, and new processes for our employees.” They continued that the program is entirely optional, and that Air Canada has no plans of making it mandatory. To enrol in the program, travellers over 18 must first create a digital profile on Air Canada’s mobile app by uploading a selfie, a picture of their passport and a scan of their passport chip. These are then shared with a third-party company which generates the facial biometrics for one’s profile and for use in verifying their identity at the airport. This company “has access to and uses your facial biometrics strictly on Air Canada’s instructions and solely for the purposes of the digital ID,” . While Air Canada did not disclose the third-party provider on its website or to the Star, it appears to be , a company that employs to facilitate its work. This digital profile, containing one’s selfie, passport details and a unique identifier, is then encrypted and stored only on one’s device, the airline says; the facial biometric data used to create the profile are immediately deleted. Travellers can then check in on the device where their digital profile was created before their flight, after which facial recognition cameras installed at certain airport gates will match their image with that of their digital profile — no ID or boarding pass needed. What needs fixing, writes Navneet Alang, isn’t whether an employee at Service Canada has a fun app on their phone, but how Canada enforces and What needs fixing, writes Navneet Alang, isn’t whether an employee at Service Canada has a fun app on their phone, but how Canada enforces and “Customers utilizing Digital ID will be among the first to board the aircraft and get settled in sooner,” the airline said in a release. Travellers’ digital profiles are stored only on their mobile devices until the day of one’s flight, the airline said. At that time, the information is encrypted and sent to Air Canada’s biometrics provider for use in identification at the airport. “Our provider does not retain any copy of your biometrics created and used for the authorized purposes,” according to Air Canada. The biometric data generated from the airport facial recognition cameras are “immediately deleted after use,” and those created from one’s selfie on the day of travel are deleted within 36 hours of departure. , Mike Maxwell, aviation leader at OARO, said the “biometrics is facilitated through an anonymized process, maintaining an even higher standard of privacy than called for by Canadian or General Data Protection Regulation requirements.” While experts say Air Canada’s privacy measures appear robust, some expressed concerns with how the systems are trained, what happens when it fails to recognize travellers — and the airline’s third-party facial recognition provider. “These collect a lot of biometric, personal information about you, but you don’t necessarily know who they are or how they protect your data,” said Florian Kerschbaum, a professor at the University of Waterloo’s David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science. The city still makes public residents’ phone numbers, addresses, email addresses and signatures, even as concerns grow over identity theft. The city still makes public residents’ phone numbers, addresses, email addresses and signatures, even as concerns grow over identity theft. He also noted that, because one’s information must be sent from their phone to Air Canada and their third-party provider on their day of travel, it creates an opening where malicious actors can intercept and steal your biometric data. That’s a big issue, according to Dara, because unlike a stolen password, “you can’t change your face.” Malicious actors can then use this information to gain access to your accounts on other platforms that use biometric verification. Canadian airports have been slow to embrace the technology, but facial recognition software has already been in use by some U.S. and international airlines, companies and government security agencies for years. You may already be using it to unlock your iPhone. As more companies adopt the technology and the ecosystem grows, so too does the threat of identity theft and abuse, Kerschbaum and Dara say. “In my opinion, I’d never use (facial recognition),” Dara added. As for whether you should sign up for Air Canada’s program, “it depends on your personal preference,” Kerschbaum said. “These biometrics can be very convenient... But (you have to ask), is boarding a plane important enough for me to use it?”