During an inquiry by Satoshi Hamada from the Party to Protect the People on NHK, Ishiba highlighted the Japanese government’s need for a deeper understanding of global cryptocurrency trends before making such a decision. Prime Minister Ishiba emphasized the challenges the Japanese government faces in fully grasping global cryptocurrency movements, stating, “It is difficult for the government to express its views.” This statement underscores the conservative approach Japan maintains towards volatile and speculative financial strategies adopted by other countries. Under the current Japanese legal framework, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are not recognized as foreign exchange assets. This classification stems from prioritizing the stability and liquidity of the nation’s foreign reserves, primarily managed through securities denominated in stable foreign currencies. Ishiba’s comments reinforce this position, pointing to the high volatility inherent in cryptocurrencies as a barrier to their inclusion in Japan’s financial strategies. Internationally, the concept of integrating Bitcoin into national reserves is gaining traction, with personalities such as Strike CEO Jack Mallers speculating on potential U.S. policies and Brazilian Congressman Eros Biondini proposing a strategic Bitcoin reserve. However, Japan’s stance remains wary, aligning its policies more with maintaining economic stability than with pioneering speculative asset incorporation. Conversely, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse suggested that Japan might explore stablecoins, particularly those pegged to the Japanese yen, due to the country’s relatively clear regulatory landscape. Such a move could align with Japan’s rigorous standards for financial stability while integrating advanced blockchain technologies into its financial systems. The debate around Bitcoin’s role as a reserve asset centers heavily on its volatility. Unlike stablecoins or traditional foreign currencies, Bitcoin’s value can fluctuate dramatically, posing a risk to the financial stability that governments like Japan prioritize. Despite these reservations, Japan has been a pioneer in cryptocurrency regulation and adoption, recognizing Bitcoin as legal tender in 2017 and developing a comprehensive regulatory framework that has supported a robust cryptocurrency sector. This cautious yet progressive approach may position Japan as a key player in shaping international standards for integrating digital assets into traditional financial systems. As global discussions on cryptocurrency evolve, Japan’s cautious stance could influence other nations’ policies, stressing the importance of meticulous risk assessment in managing digital assets. Japan’s strategy reflects a balance between safeguarding economic stability and remaining open to technological advancements.
Smith's career-high 205 yards rushing carries San Diego past Morehead State 37-14Jaland Lowe flirted with a triple-double as Pitt improved to 6-0 with a 74-63 win over LSU on Friday afternoon at the Greenbrier Tip-Off in White Sulphur Springs, W.Va. Lowe finished with a game-high 22 points to go along with eight rebounds and six assists for the Panthers, who have won their first six games of a season for the first time since the 2018-19 campaign. It would have been the second straight triple-double for Lowe, who had 11 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists against VMI Monday. Ishmael Leggett chipped in 21 points and Cameron Corhen supplied 14, helping Pitt outshoot the Tigers (4-1) 44.4 percent to 37.3 percent overall. Vyctorius Miller and Jalen Reed recorded 14 points apiece for LSU, with Reed also snatching seven boards. Cam Carter contributed 11 points. Pitt took control in the first four-plus minutes of the second half, opening the period on a 13-0 run to build a 40-28 lead. The Tigers were held scoreless following the break until Carter converted a layup with 13:13 to go. It was still a 12-point game after Zack Austin hit a pair of free throws with 12:50 remaining, but LSU then rallied. Corey Chest, Reed and Jordan Sears each had a bucket down low for the Tigers during an 8-1 spurt that made it 43-38. However, Lowe stemmed the tide, answering with back-to-back 3-pointers to put the Panthers up 49-38 with 9:31 left. Miller did everything he could to keep LSU in contention, scoring eight points in a span of 1 minute, 23 seconds, with his four-point play getting the Tigers within 56-52 with 6:03 to play. But Pitt never let LSU get the upper hand, and it led by at least six for the final 5:05 of the contest. The Tigers had a 28-27 edge at intermission after ending the first half on an 8-2 run. LSU overcame a quick start by the Panthers, who raced out to a 12-6 advantage and led by as many as eight in the first 20 minutes of action. --Field Level MediaFormer Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, known for his iconic budget speeches, often quoted famous writers and poets in the Parliament. While presenting the Union Budget on July 24, 1991- a landmark budget that ushered in a new dawn for the Indian economy, Singh had quoted iconic French writer Victor Hugo. In 1990, Singh had quoted Allama Iqbal during his speech. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh died on Thursday at AIIMS Delhi. He was 92. Earlier in the evening, he was admitted to the emergency department of AIIMS Delhi after his health deteriorated. In a statement, AIIMS Hospital said, "With profound grief, we inform the demise of former prime minister of India, Dr Manmohan Singh, aged 92. He was being treated for age-related medical conditions and had sudden loss of consciousness at home on 26th December 2024. Resuscitative measures were started immediately at home. He was brought to the Medical Emergency at AIIMS, New Delhi at 8.06 PM. Despite all efforts, he could not be revived and was declared dead at 9.51 PM." In his landmark 1990 Budget speech, the former Prime Minister and the then Finance Minister Manmohan Singh quoted Allama Iqbal. "Yunaan-o-Misr-o-Rom sab mit gaye jahaan se/ Ab tak magar hai baaki, naam-o-nishaan hamara," he said. Manmohan Singh quoted iconic French writer Victor Hugo in 1991, while talking about India's economic potential. "Victor Hugo once said, “no power on earth can stop an idea whose time has come.” I suggest to this august House that the emergence of India as a major economic power in the world happens to be one such idea," Singh said. "Let the whole world hear it loud and clear. India is now wide awake. We shall prevail. We shall overcome." Tributes Pour In PM Narendra Modi extended his condolences, saying, "India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years. His interventions in Parliament were also insightful. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives." Priyanka Gandhi wrote, "Few people in politics inspire the kind of respect that Sardar Manmohan Singh ji did. His honesty will always be an inspiration for us and he will forever stand tall among those who truly love this country as someone who remained steadfast in his commitment to serve the nation despite being subjected to unfair and deeply personal attacks by his opponents. He was genuinely egalitarian, wise, strong willed and courageous until the end. A uniquely dignified and gentle man in the rough world of politics." Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from India and around the world.
A Crystal Palace defender would be the ideal Manchester City signing in January
Readers Write: Satanist display at the Capitol, food systems, Christmas in Bethlehem
Transform Smiles and Confidence in 2025 with Tryon Family Dentistry
MCIT announces formation of Digital Skills Working Group within government institutionsAs we move into 2025, the demand for e-bikes is soaring due to advancements in technology, heightened environmental concerns, and an increasing need for sustainable modes of transportation. E-bikes are more eco-friendly than traditional vehicles, making them an excellent alternative for commuters and tourists alike, whether they are traveling to work or on vacation. Let’s explore the best e-bike deals for 2025, highlighting the top models, their features, and the latest trends in this rapidly evolving market. The best e-bike models present in 2025 along with their features and prices, are as follows: Price: ₹1.21 - ₹1.24 Lakh Top Speed: 85 km/h Range: 80-150 km per charge Charging Time: Approximately 4.5 hours Revolt RV400 is for those who want to use it as a daily rider. It not only looks stylish but also provides performance and connectivity features in advance. Riders can view rides through the smartphone app. Price: ₹1.05 - ₹1.40 Lakh Top Speed: 126 km/h Range: Up to 248 km per charge Charging Time: Around 7.9 hours It is an e-bike for long commutes or a fun weekend drive with its stunning looks and wide range. Price: ₹2.99 - ₹3.99 Lakh Top Speed: 155 km/h Range: Up to 323 km per charge Charging Time: Around 118 minutes Ultraviolette F77 has the capability of a high-speed thrill ride and great technology that appeals to performance lovers looking for a fun ride. Price: ₹4.50 Lakh Top Speed: 95 km/h Range: Up to 108 km per charge Charging Time: About 3.3 hours The BMW CE 02 is one of these luxury bikes that comes with added functionality, an appeal targeted at those who look for top-of-the-range features along with recognition of that brand's status rather than performance or capability. Price: ₹1.19 Lakh Top Speed: 100 km/h Range: Up to 187 km per charge Charging Time: About 102 minutes Oben Rorr is stylish in appearance and performance. It is a bike for regular commutes and leisure rides. Here are some models that will be introduced in early 2025. Some of the latest models include: Price: ₹1.30 Lakh Launched In: January 2025 Price: ₹2.50 Lakh Launched In: January 2025 Price: ₹1.20 Lakh Launched In: March 2025 They will reach with new designs and the latest technology, targeting the markets and catching the fancy of all kinds of riders. By 2025, e-bikes will be smartly connected to smartphones and other equipment, making riding even smoother. Among the standard features that will have developed are GPS tracking, performance monitoring, and health tracking, which will provide very good information for riders. Manufacturers will look to make e-bikes lighter and more efficient in terms of consumption without compromising on durability. In this regard, some of the improvements in terms of materials would be aluminum alloys and carbon fibers that give greater maneuverability while not diminishing strength. The safety aspect will always be at the forefront of the design of e-bikes . Lighting systems that respond to the speed and conditions of the rider's environment, collision sensors that warn the rider of possible dangers, and improved braking systems are continually enhancing overall safety for the rider. The electric bicycle market in 2025 is on the verge of a revolution, driven by innovative designs, smart connectivity features, and a commitment to safety. As the world shifts towards more sustainable modes of transport, e-bikes are emerging as a viable, eco-friendly alternative. With new models and offers on the horizon, the future of electric mobility has never looked more exciting.
Common Myths About Dental Implants Debunked by Highland Implant Center 12-24-2024 12:14 AM CET | Associations & Organizations Press release from: ABNewswire Despite being one of the most effective and long-lasting solutions for replacing missing teeth, dental implants are often surrounded by misconceptions that deter patients from considering them. Highland Implant Center, with locations in Raleigh and Zebulon, is debunking the most common myths about dental implants to help patients make informed decisions about their oral health. Myth 1: Dental Implants Are Too Expensive One of the most prevalent myths about dental implants is that they are prohibitively expensive. While the upfront cost of implants may be higher than other options like dentures or bridges, they offer significant long-term value. Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care, eliminating the need for frequent replacements or adjustments. This durability makes them a cost-effective investment in oral health and quality of life. Myth 2: The Procedure Is Painful Many patients hesitate to pursue dental implants due to fear of pain. However, advancements in dental technology and anesthesia techniques have made the implant process virtually painless. Most patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure, comparable to that of a routine dental extraction. Recovery is typically smooth, with mild soreness that can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Myth 3: Implants Are Difficult to Maintain Another common misconception is that dental implants require extensive maintenance. In reality, caring for dental implants is similar to maintaining natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups are all that's needed to keep implants in excellent condition. Unlike dentures, implants do not require special adhesives or cleaning solutions, making them a convenient and low-maintenance option. Myth 4: Dental Implants Look Artificial Dental implants [ https://www.highlandimplantcenter.com/robotic-full-mouth-dental-implants/implant-expectations/ ] are designed to blend seamlessly with natural teeth, both in appearance and function. The prosthetic crowns attached to implants are custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of a patient's existing teeth, resulting in a natural and aesthetically pleasing smile. Myth 5: Not Everyone Is a Candidate for Dental Implants While certain factors such as bone density and overall health can influence candidacy for implants, advancements in dental technology have expanded the range of patients who can benefit from this treatment. Procedures like bone grafting can help patients with insufficient jawbone support achieve successful implant placement. Highland Implant Center: A Trusted Partner in Dental Implant Care Highland Implant Center is committed to providing accurate information and exceptional care to patients considering dental implants. With state-of-the-art technology and a patient-focused approach, the center offers customized solutions to meet the unique needs of each individual. Serving Raleigh, Zebulon, and the surrounding areas, Highland Implant Center specializes in dental implants, helping patients restore their smiles, confidence, and oral health. Schedule a Consultation Today If you've been hesitant about dental implants due to myths or misconceptions, now is the time to get the facts. Contact Highland Implant Center to schedule a consultation and explore how dental implants can transform your smile. For more information, visit highlandimplantcenter.com [ https://www.highlandimplantcenter.com/ ] or call (919) 618-7047. About Highland Implant Center Highland Implant Center is a premier provider of implant dentistry, serving patients in Raleigh, Zebulon, and the surrounding areas. With a commitment to advanced technology, compassionate care, and exceptional results, the center helps patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles through expert dental implant solutions. Media Contact Company Name: Highland Implant Center Contact Person: Media Relations Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=common-myths-about-dental-implants-debunked-by-highland-implant-center ] Phone: (919) 618-7047 Address:3421 Olympia Dr Suite 201 City: Raleigh State: NC Country: United States Website: http://www.highlandimplantcenter.com/ This release was published on openPR.Mikel Arteta hailed the best away European performance of his Arsenal reign after watching his side dismantle Sporting Lisbon 5-1. The Gunners delivered the statement Champions League victory their manager had demanded to bounce back from a narrow defeat at Inter Milan last time out. Goals from Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Magalhaes, Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard got their continental campaign back on track, lifting them to seventh place with 10 points in the new-look 36-team table. It was Arsenal’s biggest away win in the Champions League since beating Inter by the same scoreline in 2003. “For sure, especially against opposition we played at their home who have not lost a game in 18 months – they have been in top form here – so to play with the level, the determination, the purpose and the fluidity we showed today, I am very pleased,” said Arteta. “The team played with so much courage, because they are so good. When I’m watching them live they are so good! They were all exceptional today. It was a big performance, a big win and we are really happy. “The performance was there a few times when we have played big teams. That’s the level that we have to be able to cope and you have to make it happen, and that creates belief.” A memorable victory also ended Sporting’s unbeaten start to the season, a streak of 17 wins and one draw, the vast majority of which prompted Manchester United to prise away head coach Ruben Amorim. The Gunners took the lead after only seven minutes when Martinelli tucked in Jurrien Timber’s cross, and Saka teed up Havertz for a tap-in to double the advantage. Arsenal added a third on the stroke of half-time, Gabriel charging in to head Declan Rice’s corner into the back of the net. To rub salt in the wound, the Brazilian defender mimicked Viktor Gyokeres’ hands-over-his-face goal celebration. That may have wound Sporting up as they came out after the interval meaning business, and they pulled one back after David Raya tipped Hidemasa Morita’s shot behind, with Goncalo Inacio netting at the near post from the corner. But when Martin Odegaard’s darting run into the area was halted by Ousmane Diomande’s foul, Saka tucked away the penalty. Substitute Trossard added the fifth with eight minutes remaining, heading in the rebound after Mikel Merino’s shot was saved. A miserable night for prolific Sporting striker Gyokeres was summed up when his late shot crashed back off the post.NOAH HOLDINGS LIMITED ANNOUNCES UNAUDITED FINANCIAL RESULTS FOR THE THIRD QUARTER OF 2024
Blinded by Headlights' Glare? You're Not AloneThere's no time like Christmas for popping open the bubbly and settling down for a cosy film night with a box of chocs. This year, I’m so excited to be presenting my Christmas Day show on Radio 2 again and celebrating with the wonderful listeners – I can’t wait to hear what they have planned. Here is my ultimate Christmas Day to-do list and some tips to help create your own perfect day. Whether you’re at home, on the move or at work, these little bits of festive cheer will help make your Christmas Day a good ’un. Play lots of Christmas songs from the moment you get up My personal favourite is All I Want For Christmas Is You, by Mariah Carey. I adore Mariah and I can’t wait to listen to her Radio 2 show when she makes her presenting debut on Christmas Day, not long after my show. Sharing the bill with her is a dream come true, but we’ve already got a bit of history. On Gogglebox, brother and sister Peter and Sophie described her as “America’s version of Jane McDonald.” Well, she found out, got in touch and said: “I’m thrilled to be America’s answer to Jane McDonald!” Of course, I said how thrilled I was to be England’s Mariah Carey! My dream Christmas gift would be to sing All I Want For Christmas Is You with her – so Mariah, if you’re reading this, let’s make it happen next year. Gather friends and family and sing some carols I’ve sung a lot of Christmas songs and hymns in shows, and I love them. Silent Night always gets me as it’s such a beautiful song. And, as a proud Scot, I love to sing Donald, Where’s Your Troosers? It is always a laugh and I will play it on my Christmas Day show. Scour the TV listings in advance so you know what to watch...I love a good Christmas movie for a bit of nostalgia and a good old weep. I’ll definitely seek out It’s A Wonderful Life as the classics are always the best. I always watch A Christmas Carol as well. I feel a bit more generous after seeing it. I will definitely pop on the King’s Speech at 3pm. I never used to watch the Queen’s speech as a child – I was too busy eating my selection box – but now I like to see it. As a family, we loved Christmas specials especially The Two Ronnies and The Andy Stewart Show so I’ll hunt those down. Make cooking the dinner as painless as possible If you have my (lack of) cooking prowess, my tip is to let someone else do the work. I tried cooking Christmas dinner once and nothing was ready at the right time. Instead, I sing a few carols and play songs on the piano while enjoying the aromas coming from the kitchen. If you are cooking, my tip is to have the wireless on – it’s the perfect accompaniment. I’ve got lots of friends and family who are great cooks including my sister and bezzie mate Sue so luckily, I never have to worry and always get my pigs in blankets cooked to perfection. I always buy dates as they seem so festive to me, but I actually never get round to eating them. And I do like soup at Christmas. A family favourite is ham hock with lentils and leeks. My brother and I were born in England, but have a big Scottish family so we take the best festive traditions from both. I’m really proud of my Scottish heritage. Last year, I travelled to Scotland for Hogmanay for the first time, which I’d always wanted to do. Some friends and I travelled to Aviemore and had the best time. And wherever I am, I always toast the New Year with a wee dram. Pull a cracker and go around the table so everyone reads out their joke Here’s a joke for you – Why was the turkey in the band? Because he’s the only one with drumsticks. I also like it when everyone wears the paper hat from a cracker as it’s something you only do at Christmas – but there’s always someone who refuses to, isn’t there? Put on a festive jumper I do love a Christmas jumper because they’re so easy – you don’t have to think about what you’re going to wear and you always look festively glam. Switch on as many fairy lights as possible I adore going all out with the decorations. My tree is covered in baubles and lights and I’m pretty sure you can see my house from space. I don’t think I put the big light on for the whole of Christmas. There are those special decorations, the ones that mean the most to you, reminding you of a special memory from when you were a child or a loved one who is no longer with us. I was given a beautiful bauble of me and my late husband Ed. It goes on my tree every year and, of course, he’s always in my heart. Reminisce with loved ones about Christmases past Every Christmas is special with the ones that you love. Getting my first bike as a child is a wonderful Christmas memory, as was eating a whole selection box from my stocking before dinner. Pop in to see a neighbour or friend who might be alone this Christmas Knock on their door and take them a box of chocs. If you are able to, maybe offer them a seat at your dinner table or invite them over for a cuppa. Check in with those people you have been meaning to message or ring, and let them know you are thinking of them. All my neighbours get together for a lovely Christmas party, which is a great chance to spread some good cheer.Couchbase Announces New Employee Inducement Grants
Businesses face stiff competition for price-sensitive holiday shoppers In a survey of 2,500 Canadian consumers, 71 per cent said they are changing their shopping habits to keep a tighter grip on their budgets, including by waiting to make purchases only when they find the best sale Susan Krashinsky Robertson, The Globe and Mail Nov 26, 2024 1:30 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message While 'early Black Friday' sales are nothing new, stores are attempting to send the message that customers do not have to wait until the real Black Friday on Nov. 29 to find the best promotions. Rob Kruyt, BIV Listen to this article 00:06:38 In any year, the holiday season is a pivotal, make-or-break time for many businesses. But this year, while retailers are working even harder to entice consumers to get in the spending spirit, a number of factors are conspiring to keep Canadian shoppers at bay. First, there is the general consumer malaise: Many people have already been struggling with the high cost of living after unusually high inflation and interest-rate hikes in recent years. In addition, the continuing Canada Post strike may be discouraging those who like to check off their “nice” lists online, for fear that gifts may not arrive in time. Others may be waiting for better deals: this week’s Black Friday discount bonanza falls later in the calendar than usual this year. And for certain items affected by the federal government’s recent announcement of a moratorium on sales taxes – which does not begin until Dec. 14 – shoppers have even more incentive to delay their purchases. In short, price-sensitive shoppers are looking for deals, putting pressure on businesses to compete. “Retailers in Canada are nervous about this holiday season,” said Marty Weintraub, national retail consulting leader at Deloitte Canada. He added: “I do think it’s going to be a pretty hot post-Black Friday shopping season, and retailers are going to have to fight extra hard to get their share.” In its annual Holiday Retail Outlook study, Deloitte predicted that Canadians will on average spend $1,478 this festive season. That represents a 10-per-cent increase compared with last year, but it is still well below prepandemic spending. And people are picking and choosing where their money goes: while Deloitte expects spending on travel and charitable giving to grow significantly, the report predicts gift spending to rise just 4 per cent – only modestly outpacing inflation. “Things cost more. So it’s not necessarily buying more stuff, they just have to spend more money to get said stuff,” Mr. Weintraub said. Retailers have been responding by advertising their discounts – and starting early. While “early Black Friday” sales are nothing new, stores are attempting to send the message that customers do not have to wait until the real Black Friday on Nov. 29 to find the best promotions. Montreal-based outdoor e-commerce retailer Altitude Sports, for example, is advertising Black Friday pricing on more than 3,600 products on its website, with a price-matching guarantee that applies if a customer finds a better price – whether on a competitor’s site or Altitude’s own site – through a later deal. This is important because Altitude’s customer service line has been fielding questions about whether deeper discounts are still to come. “People are calling to know, what will the deals be on Black Friday? Should I wait?” Altitude’s co-chief executive officer, Maxime Dubois, said in an interview. He added that “for retailers, it adds pressure, because people have been trained to know that Black Friday is the time of year when they should act.” Retailers do not want shoppers to wait, for a couple of reasons. First, healthy sales volumes earlier in the season give companies more certainty, knowing that the holidays are going to go well, Mr. Dubois said. And having a “smoother sales curve” is more cost-efficient than having to process a massive surge of orders during the few days between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, he added. The draw of discounts is significant. Altitude also operates a website for clearance sales, called the Last Hunt: While it is a much smaller business, its sales growth has outpaced the larger website in recent years, giving a signal as to just how price-sensitive Canadian consumers have become. It’s not the only online discounter that is gaining traction: Deloitte’s research showed roughly one-third of Canadians are considering doing some of their holiday shopping on global marketplaces such as Temu and Shein, a higher number than in previous years. “That’s not a coincidence,” Deloitte’s Mr. Weintraub said. “It’s because a lot of these marketplaces offer value.” In a survey of 2,500 Canadian shoppers, conducted by research firm Leger for the Retail Council of Canada, 71 per cent said they are changing their shopping habits to keep a tighter grip on their budgets, including by waiting to make purchases only when they find the best sales. Toys “R” Us Canada has added to its usual promotional plans this year, making the sale pricing available in its annual “toy book” valid for three weeks instead of the usual two. Every weekend from October through December, the retailer is also offering additional “weekend deals” on selected products, a program that is new this year. It is intended to help Toys “R” Us “to remain top of mind, to get on to the consideration list of the shopper and to make sure that they are looking at what we have to offer,” said Allyson Banks, the retailer’s marketing director. Indigo Books & Music Inc. IDG-T has also been hosting events to try to prompt visits to its stores, including a 10,000 book giveaway in September. Last Saturday, Indigo advertised copies of Wicked – the novel inspired by L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, and the basis for the hit musical and new movie – for $10 with any book purchase. But chief marketing officer Andrew Sutherland acknowledged in a statement that there is only so much early shopping that customers are willing to do. “Roughly 80 per cent of holiday shopping dollars are spent between Black Friday and Christmas, so a lost week puts a lot of pressure on all areas of the business,” he said in a statement. “Most critically, you’re pushing significant increases in customer traffic through a much tighter window, so the demands on our retail operations teams are intense.” Retailers usually start to see customers pull back on purchases as early as October, knowing that better promotions are coming soon, Leon’s Furniture LNF-T president Lewis Leon said in an interview. Last year, the company was caught out waiting to launch its Black Friday sales in mid-November, and had to change marketing plans on the fly when other retailers moved much earlier. This year, the stores began sales at the beginning of the month, and will continue offering those same discounts through the first week of December. For retailers competing for price-conscious shoppers, the idea of discounts pegged to a certain day or a single weekend is a thing of the past. “It really stretches for maybe four or five weeks, now, the Black Friday promotion,” Mr. Leon said. See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Get your daily Victoria news briefing Email Sign Up More Retail & Manufacturing Vancouver Island retailers take stock of federal government's GST holiday Nov 25, 2024 5:45 AM Shorter holiday shopping season ups pressure on retailers and consumers Nov 25, 2024 1:00 AM West Coast retailers place stock in potential of AI Nov 22, 2024 4:00 PM
The Trump economy: How will tariffs, taxes, and big debt affect workers?Wizards Trade Fits Lakers’ Needs Most Amid Recent RumorsImphal: Two days after the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) introduced a border pass system for Indian and Myanmar nationals residing within 10 km along the international borders, allowing limited entry into either territory for specific purposes, apex body of majority Meitei community in Manipur on Thursday strongly opposed the notification. The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), an umbrella body of the majority Meitei community in Manipur termed the MHA notification of December 24, unfortunate and said that it would harm the interest of the state and its people. Describing MHA notification as a threat to Manipur’s security and communal harmony, COCOMI Media Coordinator Yumkhaibam Surjit Kumar Khuman on Wednesday accused the Assam Rifles of “bias and of facilitating illegal activities.” He urged the withdrawal of the notification, saying that such measures would compromise the state’s integrity. “Already Chin-Kuki narco-terrorists and infiltrators from Myanmar damaged a lot of Manipur and harmed the interest of the people, such an order would further spoil the security, integrity and social harmony of the state,” the COCOMI leader said. The MHA in a letter to the state Chief Secretary Vineet Joshi on December 24 said that it has introduced a border pass system for Myanmar nationals residing within 10 km of the India-Myanmar border, allowing limited entry into Manipur for specific purposes. The scheme, communicated to the Manipur government, replaces the previously suspended Free Movement Regime (FMR) and also applies to Manipur residents residing within 10 km of the border visiting Myanmar. Under the scheme, the Assam Rifles would issue border passes valid for one week for specific purposes such as visiting relatives, tourism, business, medical needs, sports, official duty, border trade affairs, attendance in seminars or conferences and cultural exchange programmes. Travellers would be required to provide proof of identity and residence, and movement would be strictly regulated within 10 km of the border, the MHA notification said adding that “movement of people from 43 designated crossing points would be granted to holders of ‘Border Pass’ issued by authorised representatives of Assam Rifles.” According to the MHA notification, the Border Pass would be issued only to one adult person aged 18 years or above and persons below the age of 18 years are to be accompanied by their parents. “The entry/exit points would be made functional by the deployment of at least two state police representatives and at least two state health representatives at each entry/exit point for smooth implementation of the system,” the MHA notification said. Manipur has around 400 km of unfenced international border with Myanmar and the Assam Rifles have been guarding the mountainous and difficult border.
NoneEl Salvador's Congress on Monday approved a bill promoted by President Nayib Bukele to roll back a ban on the mining of gold and other metals, dismaying environmentalists. The small Central American nation became the world's first country to outlaw metal mining in 2017, warning of the harmful effects of the chemicals used, like cyanide and mercury. The move by Bukele's predecessor, former left-wing rebel Salvador Sanchez Ceren, reflected a growing rejection of mining by rural communities in the region. But last month, Bukele, who is popular at home for his crackdown on street gangs, signaled that he wanted to change course. The bill to bring back metal mining was approved by 57 deputies out of a total of 60, said Ernesto Castro, head of the legislature -- which is dominated by the ruling party -- as environmental campaigners protested nearby. Critics fear that mining will pollute the Lempa River, which runs through a potential mining zone proposed by Bukele and supplies water to 70 percent of the inhabitants of the capital and surrounding areas. "This wretched mining will punish the people, it will contaminate our waters and rivers and that's an attack on life," activist Vidalina Morales told reporters. Bukele said last month that El Salvador, a country of 6.6 million people, had "potentially" the largest gold deposits per square kilometer in the world. "God placed a gigantic treasure underneath our feet," he wrote on social media, arguing that the mining ban was "absurd." "If we make responsible use of our natural resources, we can change the economy of El Salvador overnight," he said. The new law stipulates that the state will be the only entity authorized to search for, extract and process mined metals. However, the government may do so through companies in which it is a shareholder. The bill prohibits the use of mercury in mining operations, which may not be carried out in protected natural areas or places with important water sources. A survey by Central American University published on Monday revealed that 59 percent of respondents do not consider El Salvador "an appropriate country for metal mining." Since El Salvador dollarized its remittances-reliant economy in 2001, it has registered average annual growth of 2.1 percent. Twenty-seven percent of Salvadorans live in poverty, according to the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean, and 70 percent of the workforce operates in the informal sector. Elsewhere in the region, Costa Rica and Honduras have banned open-pit mining, and Panama declared a moratorium on new mining concessions last year after mass protests over plans for a huge copper mine. ob/fj/dr/jgcThe presidential candidate of the Mozemo party, Ivana Kekin, gave a speech after the election results, in which she received 8.87% of the vote, which is over 143,000 votes. “We started this campaign on 10 September and we have grown thanks to your support, your volunteer work and your donations. I would like to remind you that we received 1,300 donations, with an average of 30 euros. We have received twice as many individual donations as all the other seven candidates combined. We are not backed by patrons, tycoons or companies with vested interests – just ordinary citizens, pensioners, students and workers who believe in the idea of a better and healthier Croatia. This was our first candidature in a presidential election. I thank the party for the support it has given me every day,” said Kekin. She reflected on the challenges of the election campaign: “ The election campaign was dirty, it was hard, and there were many low blows , but as we can see, those who relied on it did not benefit from it. In this country, citizens rightly fear that the HDZ will take over the few remaining institutions and spaces of freedom. That was demonstrated in this election, and fortunately that won’t happen here.” Kekin also addressed the voters and explained her choice for the second round: “I can proudly say that our voters stood by our party and supported the unexpected success of Zoran Milanovic. I must say that I disagree with him on many issues, but in a fortnight I will go to the polls and vote for Milanovic.” She emphasised the importance of public interest in politics: “The task of our generation is to fight for a welfare state, and we have built a core group that is ready to take up this challenge with us. The message I received most often in those three months was: ‘Don’t give up.’ Let me say from here – I will not give up or remain silent. There is no way I will stop fighting for the things that matter to the majority. I will fight even harder. We have the local elections ahead of us and that’s what we need to focus on. Together we will continue the fight.”Oh My, This 6% Dividend Yielding REIT Is a Top Buy for 2025
