MARKHAM, ON , Dec. 12, 2024 /CNW/ - Enghouse Systems Limited ENGH announces its fourth quarter (unaudited) and audited year-end financial results for the period ended October 31, 2024 . All figures are denominated in Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated. Fourth Quarter and Annual Financial Highlights: Revenue increased 2.1% to $125 .7 million from $123 .1 million in the fourth quarter last year and 10.7% for the fiscal year to $502 .5 million from $454 .0 million last year; Recurring revenue, which includes SaaS and maintenance services, grew 1.1% to $88.2 million compared to $87.2 million in Q4 2023, and represents 70.2% of total revenue. For the fiscal year, recurring revenue increased to $346.6 million from $297.6 million in the prior year, an increase of 16.4%, as we continue to see increased demand for SaaS; Results from operating activities decreased to $33 .4 million compared to $35 .7 million in Q4 2023 and increased in the fiscal year to $133 .8 million, from $122 .1 million in the prior year; Net income was $22.6 million compared to $25.1 million in Q4 2023 and $81 .3 million in the fiscal year compared to $72 .2 million last year as we continue to grow our business with a focus on profitability; Adjusted EBITDA decreased to $35 .6 million compared to $37.9 million , while achieving a 28.3% margin for the quarter. Annual adjusted EBITDA was $143.8 million compared to $133 .8 million in the prior year, an increase of 7.5%; Cash flow from operating activities, excluding changes in working capital, was $40 .3 million compared to $43 .5 million in the prior year's fourth quarter and $151 .8 million for the fiscal year compared to $140 .5 million in the prior year. Cash and cash equivalents increased to record levels of $274.2 million as at October 31, 2024 . Fiscal 2024 yielded a third year of consecutive revenue growth following the COVID period, which saw an unprecedented spike in demand for our Vidyo applications. We achieved a significant milestone, with revenue for the fiscal year exceeding $500 million , representing double digit growth of 10.7%. During the year we deployed cash of $43.4 million on acquisitions and returned $53.1 million to our shareholders through dividends. At the same time, we increased our cash reserves to $274.2 million , with no external debt, which positions the Company well for further acquisition growth. We are also pleased to announce record annual SaaS and maintenance services revenue of $346.6 million , an increase of $49 .0 million or 16.4% compared to the prior year. SaaS and maintenance services continue to be an important source of revenue characterized by their predictable and recurring nature. They now represent 69.0% of total revenues for the year compared to 65.6% in the prior year. In addition to the SaaS and maintenance growth, our professional services and hardware revenue showed marked increases for the year. In the current business environment, demand for on-premise, perpetual software licenses has declined as more customers are choosing SaaS solutions that require less upfront capital investment. During this market transition, we continue to focus on maintaining profitability as demonstrated by the 12.6% increase in our net income to $81.3 million from $72.2 million in the prior year. We closed the year with a double digit increase in revenue and net income, significant expansion of our recurring revenue, record cash reserves and no external debt, positioning us to pursue opportunities that meet our acquisition criteria while continuing to pay dividends to our shareholders. The growth in revenue was achieved through our ability to acquire and effectively integrate new acquisitions into our business model. Quarterly dividends: Today, the Board of Directors approved the Company's eligible quarterly dividend of $0.26 per common share payable on February 28, 2025 to shareholders of record at the close of business on February 14, 2025 . Enghouse Systems Limited Financial Highlights (unaudited, in thousands of Canadian dollars) For the period ended October 31 Three months (Unaudited) Twelve months 2024 2023 Var ($) Var (%) 2024 2023 Var ($) Var (%) Revenue $ 125,702 $ 123,129 2,573 2.1 $ 502,505 $ 454,022 48,483 10.7 Direct costs 44,967 41,213 3,754 9.1 175,586 149,999 25,587 17.1 Revenue, net of direct costs $ 80,735 $ 81,916 (1,181) (1.4) $ 326,919 $ 304,023 22,896 7.5 As a % of revenue 64.2 % 66.5 % 65.1 % 67.0 % Operating expenses 47,133 46,115 1,018 2.2 191,464 179,438 12,026 6.7 Special charges 169 117 52 44.4 1,609 2,477 (868) (35.0) Results from operating activities $ 33,433 $ 35,684 (2,251) (6.3) $ 133,846 $ 122,108 11,738 9.6 As a % of revenue 26.6 % 29.0 % 26.6 % 26.9 % Amortization of acquired software and customer relationships (9,322) (11,205) 1,883 16.8 (40,505) (39,605) (900) (2.3) Foreign exchange gains (losses) 1,870 2,753 (883) 32.1 (1,680) 1,266 (2,946) (232.7) Interest expense – lease obligations (126) (164) 38 23.2 (556) (695) 139 20.0 Finance income 2,825 2,581 244 9.5 10,121 6,264 3,857 61.6 Finance expenses (8) (27) 19 70.4 (49) (163) 114 69.9 Other (expense) income (424) 17 (441) (2594.1) 89 (1,950) 2,039 104.6 Income before income taxes $ 28,248 $ 29,639 (1,391) (4.7) $ 101,266 $ 87,225 14,041 16.1 Provision for income taxes 5,607 4,517 1,090 24.1 19,938 14,977 4,961 33.1 Net Income for the period $ 22,641 $ 25,122 (2,481) (9.9) $ 81,328 $ 72,248 9,080 12.6 Basic earnings per share 0.41 0.45 (0.04) (8.9) 1.47 1.31 0.16 12.2 Diluted earnings per share 0.41 0.45 (0.04) (8.9) 1.47 1.31 0.16 12.2 Cash flows from operating activities 31,583 28,318 3,265 11.5 132,071 115,298 16,773 14.5 Cash flows from operating activities excluding changes in working capital 40,270 43,504 (3,234) (7.4) 151,803 140,492 11,311 8.1 Adjusted EBITDA Results from operating activities 33,433 35,684 (2,251) (6.3) 133,846 122,108 11,738 9.6 Depreciation 655 627 28 4.5 2,347 2,451 (104) (4.2) Depreciation of right-of-use assets 1,375 1,491 (116) (7.8) 5,981 6,764 (783) (11.6) Special charges 169 117 52 44.4 1,609 2,477 (868) (35.0) Adjusted EBITDA $ 35,632 $ 37,919 (2,287) (6.0) $ 143,783 $ 133,800 9,983 7.5 Adjusted EBITDA margin 28.3 % 30.8 % 28.6 % 29.5 % Adjusted EBITDA per diluted share $ 0.64 $ 0.69 ( 0.05) (7.2) $ 2.60 $ 2.42 0.18 7.4 Consolidated Statements of Financial Position (in thousands of Canadian dollars) As at October 31, 2024 As at October 31, 2023 ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 274,240 $ 239,532 Short-term investments 487 827 Accounts receivable 92,348 93,383 Prepaid expenses and other assets 16,100 15,515 Income taxes recoverable - 114 383,175 349,371 Non-current assets: Property and equipment 4,192 3,273 Right-of-use assets 11,473 12,242 Intangible assets 98,594 109,659 Goodwill 309,831 280,241 Deferred income tax assets 26,228 28,884 450,318 434,299 $ 833,493 $ 783,670 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 70,087 $ 67,769 Income tax payable 5,525 - Dividends payable 14,397 12,156 Provisions 1,834 2,238 Deferred revenue 114,080 109,019 Lease obligations 5,344 6,322 211,267 197,504 Non-current liabilities: Income taxes payable - 1,333 Deferred income tax liabilities 10,500 13,340 Deferred revenue 8,094 8,170 Net employee defined benefit obligation 2,081 1,912 Lease obligations 5,744 6,080 26,419 30,835 237,686 228,339 Shareholders' equity Share capital 118,217 107,701 Contributed surplus 9,764 10,404 Retained earnings 446,748 426,397 Accumulated other comprehensive income 21,078 10,829 595,807 555,331 $ 833,493 $ 783,670 Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income ( in thousands of Canadian dollars , except per share amounts) Three months Twelve months Periods ended October 31 2024 (unaudited) 2023 (Unaudited) 2024 2023 Revenue Software licenses $ 15,860 $ 17,467 $ 72,906 $ 80,054 SaaS and maintenance services 88,196 87,196 346,579 297,635 Professional services 18,469 16,483 70,046 67,273 Hardware 3,177 1,983 12,974 9,060 125,702 123,129 502,505 454,022 Direct costs Software licenses 397 622 3,501 2,910 Services 43,043 39,108 165,221 141,802 Hardware 1,527 1,483 6,864 5,287 44,967 41,213 175,586 149,999 Revenue, net of direct costs 80,735 81,916 326,919 304,023 Operating expenses Selling, general and administrative 22,642 23,702 94,303 90,889 Research and development 22,461 20,295 88,833 79,334 Depreciation 655 627 2,347 2,451 Depreciation of right-of-use assets 1,375 1,491 5,981 6,764 Special charges 169 117 1,609 2,477 47,302 46,232 193,073 181,915 Results from operating activities 33,433 35,684 133,846 122,108 Amortization of acquired software and customer relationships (9,322) (11,205) (40,505) (39,605) Foreign exchange gains (losses) 1,870 2,753 (1,680) 1,266 Interest expense – lease obligations (126) (164) (556) (695) Finance income 2,825 2,581 10,121 6,264 Finance expenses (8) (27) (49) (163) Other (expense) income (424) 17 89 (1,950) Income before income taxes 28,248 29,639 101,266 87,225 Provision for income taxes 5,607 4,517 19,938 14,977 Net income for the period $ 22,641 $ 25,122 $ 81,328 $ 72,248 Items that may be subsequently reclassified to income: Cumulative translation adjustment 2,882 12,394 10,249 19,800 Other comprehensive income 2,882 12,394 10,249 19,800 Comprehensive income $ 25,523 $ 37,516 $ 91,577 $ 92,048 Earnings per share Basic $ 0.41 $ 0.45 $ 1.47 $ 1.31 Diluted $ 0.41 $ 0.45 $ 1.47 $ 1.31 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows ( in thousands of Canadian dollars ) Three months Twelve months Periods ended October 31 2024 (Unaudited) 2023 (Unaudited) 2024 2023 OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net income for the period $ 22,641 $ 25,122 $ 81,328 $ 72,248 Adjustments for non-cash items Depreciation 655 627 2,347 2,451 Depreciation of right-of-use assets 1,375 1,491 5,981 6,764 Interest expense – lease obligations 126 164 556 695 Amortization of acquired software and customer relationships 9,322 11,205 40,505 39,605 Stock-based compensation expense 112 368 1,188 1,639 Provision for income taxes 5,607 4,517 19,938 14,977 Finance expenses and other (income) expense 432 10 (40) 2,113 40,270 43,504 151,803 140,492 Changes in non-cash operating working capital (7,674) (11,624) (7,920) (11,244) Income taxes paid (1,013) (3,562) (11,812) (13,950) Net cash provided by operating activities 31,583 28,318 132,071 115,298 INVESTING ACTIVITIES Purchase of property and equipment, net (516) (453) (1,977) (1,060) Acquisitions, net of cash acquired* - (27,189) (43,448) (55,167) Recovery (payment) of purchase consideration for prior-year acquisitions - 13 171 (999) Sale (purchase) of short-term investments - 65 - (4) Net cash used in investing activities ( 516) (27,564) (45,254) (57,230) FINANCING ACTIVITIES Issuance of share capital 2,990 - 9,085 604 Normal course issuer bid share repurchases (3,088) (425) (5,994) (425) Repayment of lease obligations (1,283) (1,440) (7,030) (7,194) Dividends paid (14,397) (12,159) (53,139) (44,765) Net cash used in financing activities (15,778) (14,024) (57,078) (51,780) Impact of foreign exchange on cash and cash equivalents 1,238 4,018 4,969 8,140 Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 16,527 (9,252) 34,708 14,428 Cash and cash equivalents - beginning of period 257,713 248,784 239,532 225,104 Cash and cash equivalents - end of period $ 274,240 $ 239,532 $ 274,240 $ 239,532 * Acquisitions are net of cash acquired of nil and $742 for the quarter and year ended October 31, 2024 , respectively and nil and $2,088 for the quarter and year ended October 31, 2023 , respectively. Enghouse Systems Limited Segment Reporting Information (in thousands of Canadian dollars) For the period ended October 31, 2024 Three months Twelve months IMG AMG Total IMG AMG Total Revenue $ 74,731 $ 50,971 $ 125,702 $ 308,920 $ 193,585 $ 502,505 Direct costs (25,900) (19,067) (44,967) (102,390) (73,196) (175,586) Revenue, net of direct costs 48,831 31,904 80,735 206,530 120,389 326,919 Operating expenses excluding special charges (21,235) (13,071) (34,306) (90,871) (47,238) (138,109) Depreciation (416) (239) (655) (1,574) (773) (2,347) Depreciation of right-of-use assets (940) (435) (1,375) (3,870) (2,111) (5,981) Segment profit $ 26,240 $ 18,159 $ 44,399 $ 110,215 $ 70,267 $ 180,482 Special charges (169) (1,609) Corporate and shared service expenses (10,797) (45,027) Results from operating activities $ 33,433 $ 133,846 For the period ended October 31, 2023 Three months Twelve months IMG AMG Total IMG AMG Total Revenue $ 78,578 $ 44,551 $ 123,129 $ 265,311 $ 188,711 $ 454,022 Direct costs (24,337) (16,876) (41,213) (78,788) (71,211) (149,999) Revenue, net of direct costs 54,241 27,675 81,916 186,523 117,500 304,023 Operating expenses excluding special charges (21,807) (10,450) (32,257) (84,493) (45,169) (129,662) Depreciation (485) (142) (627) (1,969) (482) (2,451) Depreciation of right-of-use assets (904) (587) (1,491) (4,184) (2,580) (6,764) Segment profit $ 31,045 $ 16,496 $ 47,541 $ 95,877 $ 69,269 $ 165,146 Special charges (117) (2,477) Corporate and shared service expenses (11,740) (40,561) Results from operating activities $ 35,684 $ 122,108 About - Enghouse Enghouse Systems Limited is a Canadian publicly traded company ENGH that provides mission-critical vertically focused enterprise software solutions. Our core technologies are used for contact centers, video communications, virtual healthcare, education, telecommunications, networks, IPTV, public safety and transit. The Company's two-pronged strategy to grow earnings focuses on both organic growth and acquisitions, which, to date, have been funded through cash flows from operating activities as the Company has no outstanding external debt financing. The Company is organized around two business segments, the Interactive Management Group ("IMG") and the Asset Management Group ("AMG") due to their unique customer segments and technology offerings. Further information about Enghouse may be obtained from the Company's website at www.enghouse.com . Conference Call and Webcast A conference call to discuss the results will be held on Friday, December 13, 2024 at 8:45 a.m. EST . To participate, please call +1-289-514-5100 or North American Toll-Free +1-800-717-1738. Confirmation code: 59402 A webcast is also available at: https://www.enghouse.com/investors.php . The Company uses non-IFRS measures to assess its operating performance. Securities regulations require that companies caution readers that earnings and other measures adjusted to a basis other than IFRS do not have standardized meanings and are unlikely to be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. Accordingly, they should not be considered in isolation. The Company uses Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin and Adjusted EBITDA per diluted share as measures of operating performance. Therefore, these collective Adjusted EBITDA measures may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Adjusted EBITDA is calculated based on results from operating activities adjusted for depreciation of property and equipment and right-of-use assets and special charges for acquisition related restructuring costs. Management uses Adjusted EBITDA to evaluate operating performance as it excludes amortization of software and intangibles (which is an accounting allocation of the cost of software and intangible assets arising on acquisition), any impact of finance and tax related activities, asset depreciation, foreign exchange gains and losses, other income and restructuring costs primarily related to acquisitions. SOURCE Enghouse Systems Limited View original content: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/December2024/12/c8792.html © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.genie scissor lift 。

Enghouse Releases Fourth Quarter and Year End ResultsAs of midday, the total turnover of the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges exceeded 1.5 trillion RMB, reflecting strong market activity. Market sentiment remained cautious amid uncertainties surrounding geopolitical tensions and economic recovery prospects.Tai'Reon Joseph scores 28 off the bench to help UTSA defeat North Dakota 95-85

"Graceful" serves as a poignant reminder of Xiao Qian and Ning Sheng's enduring love. The tender melody and soul-stirring lyrics encapsulate the depth of their emotions and the obstacles they must overcome to be together. The song's emotional resonance speaks to the universal themes of love, sacrifice, and destiny, resonating with audiences around the world.

It is important to note that the optical adhesive effect is not specific to the Apple Watch and can be observed in other devices with similar design characteristics. However, Apple Watch users tend to notice this phenomenon more frequently due to the device's sleek design and popularity.Republican delegates decide Saturday who will lead the state party

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is a significant risk factor for skin cancer, including melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can damage the skin's DNA and increase the likelihood of developing skin cancer. It is crucial to take measures to protect the skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. Regular skin checks and early detection are also essential in preventing the progression of skin cancer.None

Internet Sensation Vinegar Berries Xuan Xuan Announces Extended Break to Adjust State, Denies Relationship ControversyThe groundbreaking collaboration between two storied luxury brands continues to blend the artistry of collectible treasures with the pinnacle of experiential travel BETHESDA, Md. , Nov. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Luxury Group by Marriott International today unveils the next chapter of its exclusive brand partnership with auction house Sotheby's , "Iconic Pieces. Extraordinary Experiences." Building on the success of their inaugural offerings earlier this year, the two global luxury powerhouses will introduce new exclusive experiences for The Luxury Sales this December in New York . Rooted in a shared vision of reimagining the boundaries between luxury travel and collectible art, the continued collaboration underscores the synergy between the Luxury Group's world-class approach to experiential hospitality and Sotheby's curatorial expertise across its extensive sales categories. The Luxury Group and Sotheby's will auction two captivating experiences designed to pair world-class hospitality with exceptional treasures from Sotheby's auctions offering guests the chance to explore their passions while discovering unforgettable destinations: Geneva Grandmasters: A Watchmaking Odyssey Curated by The Ritz-Carlton Watch enthusiasts will have the exclusive opportunity to bid on an intimate horology immersion at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix, Geneva with legendary watch brand Girard-Perregaux, including a hands-on workshop with the artisans; singular opportunities to shop limited-edition timepieces; and a private culinary experience at the Villa Girard-Perregaux in La Chaux-de-Fonds, the brand's ancestral home. Geneva Grandmasters: A Watchmaking Odyssey will be presented within Sotheby's Important Watches sale on Friday, December 6 , marking the first time Marriott International will offer an experience in a live auction. A Taste of France : An Epicurean Voyage Curated by The Luxury Collection Guests will check into Prince de Galles , a Luxury Collection Hotel, Paris before exploring the country's culinary treasures, from a guided day trip to Champagne Lallier's historic Maison in Aÿ for a taste of its latest harvests, to an afternoon tea with Global Explorer and esteemed chef and artist, Laila Gohar , whose food-inspired works have been showcased around the world. As a part of the Finest Wines auction, A Taste of France is available for online bidding now until Tuesday, December 10 . "The expansion of our brand partnership with Sotheby's reflects our common belief that true luxury combines both the tangible and intangible," said George Hammer , Global Head of Luxury Marketing, Marriott International . "We're continuing to explore the interplay art and travel with experiences that not only celebrate our audience's passions but also inspire a deeper connection and appreciation for the artistry behind them. As this collaboration evolves, we're excited to leverage our international presence and the diverse expertise across our portfolio to surprise our guests with even more dynamic, never-been-seen experiences." "This collaboration represents a unique fusion of Sotheby's expertise in curating exceptional luxury collectibles and the Luxury Group's unparalleled approach to hospitality," said Eléonore Dethier, Sotheby's Global Head of Partnerships . " We are delighted to present these experiences during The Luxury Sales in New York , celebrating the pinnacle of hospitality, craftsmanship, and savoir-faire, while creating unforgettable moments for our clients that transcend traditional luxury." In addition to the experiential auction offerings, the collaboration will showcase the Luxury Group's world-class approach through hospitality, curated events, and exclusive editorial content when Sotheby's exhibitions open to the public on December 5th . Collectors and travelers alike can look forward to additional offerings from the Luxury Group and Sotheby's in 2025 as the collaboration continues to grow worldwide. For more details surrounding the experiences and Sotheby's Luxury Sales, please visit www.sothebys.com/en/series/luxury-sales . ABOUT THE LUXURY GROUP ® With an unrivaled portfolio of eight dynamic luxury brands, Marriott International is creating authentic, rare, and enriching experiences sought by today's global luxurian. Spanning all corners of the world, Marriott International's luxury brands group offers a boundless network of more than 510 landmark hotels and resorts in 70 countries and territories through The Ritz-Carlton, Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, EDITION, The Luxury Collection, JW Marriott, and W Hotels. From the world's most iconic destinations to the ultimate undiscovered gems, the international hospitality leader's collection of luxury brands is focused on elevating travel with highly contextualized, nuanced brand experiences that signal the future of luxury by allowing guests to indulge their passions while sparking personal growth. For more information on the Luxury Group, stay connected on Instagram . ABOUT MARRIOTT BONVOY ® Marriott Bonvoy's extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with 32 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy MomentsTM, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques ® . To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com. ABOUT SOTHEBY'S Established in 1744, Sotheby's is the world's premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby's promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, ecommerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate. Sotheby's believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative. SOURCE Marriott International, Inc.

An Uxbridge manufacturing company, UCEL Inc., has been awarded almost $1.4 million by the Ontario government to help it expand its operations. The award was announced last week by Pickering-Uxbridge MPP and finance minister Peter Bethlenfalvy. An announcement by Bethlenfalvy’s office said the government award is in support of UCEL’s $10.8 million investment to boost local manufacturing and create 25 new jobs in Uxbridge. The funding is provided through the Regional Development Program’s Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness(AMIC) Stream. “UCEL Inc.’s investment will boost the local manufacturing sector and create more good-paying jobs for workers and families in Uxbridge,” Bethlenfalvy said. UCEL, which manufactures construction hoists and industrial elevators, plans to expand its operations and adopt new technologies that will offer new elevator system supporting solutions. The investment will also see UCEL bring additional manufacturing capabilities in-house, including work that is currently outsourced overseas.Hallmark Fave Andrew Walker Goes Inside His Skincare Line and Shares Holiday Plans (VIDEO)In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the incident of sheltering a female master’s graduate and allegations of holding a banquet underscores the importance of truth-seeking and objective reporting. As responsible members of society, we must prioritize accuracy, integrity, and empathy in our quest for understanding and justice. Let us strive to uncover the truth behind the headlines and ensure that all individuals are treated with fairness and respect in the pursuit of transparency and accountability.

Nebraska’s Consumer Privacy Law Takes Effect Soon and Targets Businesses Selling Personal Data

"Nezha 2" faces stiff competition from other highly anticipated films also set to debut during the Spring Festival, creating a challenging environment for box office success. However, the strong brand recognition and positive reputation established by the first film give "Nezha 2" a competitive edge in attracting audiences and generating buzz. With its engaging story, visually stunning animation, and charismatic characters, the sequel has the potential to become a standout hit in the crowded Spring Festival lineup.

Scrapping Vancouver Park Board could save $7M a year, report finds

Lea en español For many people, this time of year is all about the shopping. And there's a fair chance many feel less than joyful about the prospect. If fulfilling your lengthy list feels overwhelming, learning what brain science and evolutionary psychology say about shopping and gift-giving might help you understand exactly why you're stressed – and even point you toward a healthier, happier holiday season. Our reactions are encoded into our nervous system, said Dr. Beth Frates, a part-time associate professor in the department of physical medicine and rehabilitation at Harvard Medical School in Boston. "By understanding these brain responses, people can develop strategies to manage stress better, such as setting realistic expectations, focusing on mindfulness and simplifying holiday preparations," said Frates, who also is the immediate past president of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. The idea of exchanging gifts at this time of year can be traced back to pagan solstice celebrations. But the drive to share with another is as old as humanity itself, said Dr. Diego Guevara Beltran, a postdoctoral fellow in psychology at the University of Arizona in Tucson who studies cooperation and generosity. The science of generosity is more about survival than stocking stuffers, Guevara Beltran said. Sharing food gave early humans an evolutionary advantage. "Generosity is just one of the ways by which we can accumulate resources, be it wealth itself or friendships or work partners or more attractive, more intelligent mates," he said. Sharing with other people, Guevara Beltran said, is "a signal that communicates how much you value them, their welfare, your relationship with them." Research has shown that helping people makes us feel good. Part of that, he said, is because when someone is part of a community, they feel protected. One way this manifests is through the act of giving gifts. But to derive happiness from gift-giving, the giver needs to feel both that it was not an obligation and that it was effective, according to the 2019 World Happiness Report . That means it could be stressful to be in a culture where gift-giving feels mandatory, or if we can't see that a gift helped someone, Guevara Beltran speculated. It also might be stressful if gift-giving becomes a competition to show that you care about somebody more than the others around them. Our brains on shopping Stressful shopping can cause several physiological responses to kick in, Frates said. First is the "fight or flight" reaction that comes with stress. The release of chemicals that increase our heart rate, raise our blood pressure and intensify our breathing evolved to give us bursts of energy to escape danger. Frates said that while holiday stressors are not life-threatening, they can still trigger the stress response. The pressure to stay within budget could create a sense of scarcity, she said. "This taps into an evolutionary response, where the fear of losing resources like money can feel urgent and distressing." The holiday season also involves a lot of choices. "The brain has limited capacity for decision-making, and making multiple decisions can lead to decision fatigue," Frates said. "This fatigue reduces the ability to self-regulate and cope, which can lead to heightened stress responses when confronted with even minor setbacks, like a long line or out-of-stock item." The stress of needing to complete tasks within a limited time can intensify the fight-or-flight response, she said, as the brain interprets the ticking clock as a sense of urgency or threat. Meanwhile, Frates said, holiday shopping can also trigger brain chemicals that affect our feelings. "Dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, is released when we anticipate something exciting or enjoyable, like finding a great gift or finding a good deal," she said. "This anticipation can feel rewarding even before any actual purchase is made." For some people, this dopamine boost can make shopping a relaxing experience. "It provides a temporary distraction from other stressors and allows them to focus on something positive, creating a 'holiday high,'" Frates said. For some people, that can be problematic. "When shopping becomes a way to chase that next dopamine hit, it can lead to excessive spending or impulsive purchases," she said. "This can become a trap, particularly during the holidays, when deals, sales and gift-giving pressures are everywhere." Understanding how all these processes work can help people recognize why they feel the way they do and adopt strategies to cope, Frates said. Here are some of her suggestions. 1. Start with self-care before shopping Prioritizing self-care means people can be their best selves and make good decisions, Frates said. So, "eat food that is delicious and nutritious. Get seven to nine hours of sleep. Make sure to enjoy physical activity. Take walks when you can and invite friends along. Practice stress reduction like meditation or yoga to help you calm your body and mind." Before going shopping, try taking deep breaths using stress-relieving techniques such as 4-7-8 breathing (inhale through your nose for four counts, hold for seven counts, and exhale through your mouth for eight) or box breathing (inhale through the nose for four counts, hold your breath for four, exhale for four, then hold for four). 2. Be strategic Don't shop when you're hungry, tired, lonely or stressed, Frates said. And don't start shopping 15 minutes before a store closes or a website's online deals end, she said. That's setting yourself up for triggering the fight-or-flight response. 3. Be mindful Before making a purchase, take a moment to consider whether it's truly needed or whether it's an impulsive choice. To avoid overindulging, set a specific budget or limit yourself to a couple of hours or specific shopping days. "This keeps dopamine-driven spending in check while still allowing for the enjoyable aspects of holiday shopping," Frates said. Look for post-shopping activities that provide rewards without the financial cost. That can satisfy your brain's desire for more dopamine in a healthier way. "Plan enjoyable, stress-relieving activities after shopping, like going for a walk, spending time with friends or indulging in a hobby," she said. 4. Bring a friend Not only does this support healthy social connections, Frates said, but if things start feeling stressful, "you have a buddy, and you have a support system right there for you." 5. Rethink the focus of the season "With gift-giving, we need to change mindsets in order to be able to manage the stress," Frates said. The holidays could be used to emphasize social connections, she said. "Thinking about the connection with the person and making gift-giving more about deepening the connection than anything else, I think, will really help to reduce the stress around the process," she said. So instead of scouring shops and websites for the "perfect" gift, think about making a meaningful and personal one, she suggested. It could be a poem, a painting, a song or a framed photograph that captured a special time. 6. Lessons for children It's easy to get caught up in the hunt for a hard-to-get item, Frates said. But ask yourself what the holiday means in your family's traditions. "Is it about getting that perfect gift for the child? Or is it about celebrating the meaning of that holiday?" So instead of having children ask for one specific toy, or a specific brand of clothing, teach them to leave a little leeway on their lists. "It is a good reminder to express to children that this season is about giving and sharing what we can in the best way that we can," she said, "and sometimes the exact gift is not available." Encouraging such an attitude can be a tall order, Frates said, but it's a place to start. "A simple mindset shift could be the difference between a stressful holiday shopping season or a joyful journey to find meaningful gifts for people you care about." American Heart Association News covers heart and brain health. Not all views expressed in this story reflect the official position of the American Heart Association. Copyright is owned or held by the American Heart Association, Inc., and all rights are reserved. Sign up here to get the latest health & fitness updates in your inbox every week!Recognizing the urgency of the situation, village leaders and community representatives have submitted multiple petitions and appeals to local authorities, calling for immediate action to repair and improve the village roads. They have emphasized the importance of maintaining safe and accessible transportation infrastructure to ensure the well-being and prosperity of the community.

In the world of women's tennis, the race for the prestigious title of WTA Player of the Year is always highly anticipated. This year, the spotlight was on the remarkable performances of top players, with China's Zheng Qinwen emerging as a strong contender for the title. However, it was ultimately Australian tennis sensation Ashleigh Barty who claimed the coveted honor, leaving Zheng Qinwen and others behind.

The exposé has sparked a debate about the ethics of virtual live streaming and the responsibility of content creators to provide genuine and authentic experiences to their audience. While the use of green screen technology can enhance creativity and storytelling, it also comes with a responsibility to maintain transparency and integrity in the content production process.If you're gearing up for the festive season or hunting for that elusive perfect present for a dad who won't drop any hints, you can't go wrong with a classic bottle of Jack Daniel's. Often praised and recognized as an emblematic tipple, its original Tennessee Whiskey is legendary, but whisper it, there's an alternative Jack that connoisseurs rave about. For a limited time, you can indulge your taste buds and snag yourself a 70cl bottle of Jack Daniel's Gentleman Jack Tennessee Whiskey at Amazon for £20 —a big drop from the standard £36. Lauded as the one and only double-mellowed whiskey in existence, Gentleman Jack brings a uniquely velvety character paired with a rich, premium taste. Ideal straight, on the rocks, or jazzing up a cocktail, this particular Jack undergoes the same initial crafting process as the iconic No 7, but gains an extra smoothing touch thanks to another round of charcoal filtering, bringing about more maturity without sacrificing the cherished JD essence. The flavour bouquet boasts hints of maple, fruit, and vanilla spice, reports the Express . And it's not just smooth by nature—it's a hit among Amazon shoppers too, where it's bagged an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars across a whopping 18,760 ratings. Echoing the sentiment of countless satisfied customers, one elated five-star critic commented: "Smooth, mellow, great taste and makes the perfect JD and Coke," further affirming, "Slightly smoother that the normal blend and worth the price as a treat." " Jack Daniel's Gentleman Jack Tennessee Whiskey is the epitome of smoothness and sophistication," gushed one satisfied customer. They further enthused, "With its double-mellowed process and balanced flavor profile, it offers a premium whiskey experience that delights the senses." Another chimed in with their own glowing review: "I have bought this before for family and they were absolutely delighted with the Jack Daniels whiskey. It has a pleasant taste and comes in an unique bottle." Yet taste is subjective, as one critique pointed out: "Just not enough in the taste department for me," In agreement was another, who commented, "Not quite sure what the fuss is about concerning Gentleman Jack. While a little smoother, to me there is less flavour than offered up in the original No.7 Jack Daniel's." If your taste buds are keen to try something different, the Burnt Ends Blended Whiskey available at Debenhams is up for grabs at £29.93, presented in an elegant bottle to spruce up any liquor collection.