In conclusion, Russia's significant presence in the Middle East is facing numerous challenges and a substantial decline in influence. The country's military interventions, diplomatic efforts, and strategic alliances in the region have been met with criticism, competition, and limitations, undermining its position as a key player in the Middle East. As Moscow grapples with economic pressures, international scrutiny, and shifting power dynamics, the future of Russia's engagement in the Middle East remains uncertain.Logistical issues meant that thousands of Namibians were still waiting to vote in pivotal presidential and legislative elections late on Wednesday as the polling stations were scheduled to close. The vote could usher in the desert nation's first woman leader even as her party, the ruling South West Africa People's Organisation (SWAPO) faces the strongest challenge yet to its 34-year grip on power. Some voters told AFP they queued all day, for up to 12 hours, blaming technical problems which included issues with voter identification tablets or insufficient ballot papers. According to Namibia's electoral law, those in the queue before the polls closed -- scheduled at 9:00 pm (1900 GMT) -- should be allowed to vote. "We have the obligation to make sure that they pass their vote," said Petrus Shaama, chief officer of the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN). The main opposition party, the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) has blamed the ECN for the long lines and cried foul play. "We have reason to believe that the ECN is deliberately suppressing voters and deliberately trying to frustrate voters from casting their vote," said Christine Aochamus of the IPC. She said the party had "started the process" of approaching a court "to order the ECN to extend the voting time". At one polling station inside Namibia's University of Science and Technology in the capital Windhoek, hundreds of people were still in line at 09:00 pm despite some having arrived at 6:00 am, an hour before polls opened. It was a similar situation at the Museum of Independence, according to an AFP reporter, where one voter said he arrived 12 hours earlier and was still in line with hundreds of others. SWAPO's candidate and current vice president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, was one of the first to vote and called on Namibians "to come out in their numbers". An estimated 1.5 million people in the sparsely populated nation had registered to cast their ballot. SWAPO has governed since leading mineral-rich Namibia to independence from South Africa in 1990 but complaints about unemployment and enduring inequalities could force Nandi-Ndaitwah into an unprecedented second round. Leader of the IPC, Panduleni Itula, a former dentist and lawyer said he was optimistic he could "unseat the revolutionary movement". "We will all march from there and to a new dawn and a new era of how we conduct our public affairs in this country," the 67-year-old told reporters after voting. Itula took 29 percent of votes in the 2019 elections, losing to SWAPO leader Hage Geingob with 56 percent. It was a remarkable performance considering Geingob, who died in February, had won almost 87 percent five years before that. Namibia is a major uranium and diamond exporter but not many of its nearly three million people have benefitted from that wealth. "There's a lot of mining activity that goes on in the country, but it doesn't really translate into improved infrastructure, job opportunities," said independent political analyst Marisa Lourenco, based in Johannesburg. "That's where a lot of the frustration is coming from, (especially) the youth," she said. Unemployment among 15- to 34-year-olds is estimated at 46 percent, according to the latest figures from 2018, almost triple the national average. For the first time in Namibia's recent history, analysts say a second round is a somewhat realistic option. That would take place within 60 days of the announcement of the first round of results due by Saturday. "The outcome will be tight," said self-employed Hendry Amupanda, 32, who queued since 9:00 pm the night before to cast his ballot. "I want the country to get better and people to get jobs," said Amupanda, wearing slippers and equipped with a chair, blanket and snacks. Marvyn Pescha, a self-employed consultant, said his father was part of SWAPO's liberation struggle and he was not going to abandon the party. "But I want SWAPO to be challenged for better policies. Some opportunistic leaders have tarnished the reputation of the party, they misuse it for self-enrichment," the 50-year-old said. While lauded for leading Namibia to independence, SWAPO is nervous about its standing after other liberation-era movements in the region have lost favour with young voters. In the past six months, South Africa's African National Congress lost its parliamentary majority and the Botswana Democratic Party was ousted after almost six decades in power. clv/br/lhd/sbkNEW YORK (AP) — There's no place like home for the holidays. And that may not necessarily be a good thing. In the wake of the very contentious and divisive 2024 presidential election, the upcoming celebration of Thanksgiving and the ramp-up of the winter holiday season could be a boon for some — a respite from the events of the larger world in the gathering of family and loved ones. Hours and even days spent with people who have played the largest roles in our lives. Another chapter in a lifetime of memories. That's one scenario. For others, that same period — particularly because of the polarizing presidential campaign — is something to dread. There is the likelihood of disagreements, harsh words, hurt feelings and raised voices looming large. Those who make a study of people and their relationships to each other in an increasingly complex 21st-century say there are choices that those with potentially fraught personal situations can make — things to do and things to avoid — that could help them and their families get through this time with a minimum of open conflict and a chance at getting to the point of the holidays in the first place. DO assess honestly where you are with it all For those who feel strongly about the election's outcome, and know that the people they would be spending the holiday feel just as strongly in the other direction, take the time to honestly assess if you're ready to spend time together in THIS moment, barely a few weeks after Election Day — and a time when feelings are still running high. The answer might be that you're not, and it might be better to take a temporary break, says Justin Jones-Fosu, author of “I Respectfully Disagree: How to Have Difficult Conversations in a Divided World.” “You have to assess your own readiness,” he says, “Each person is going be very different in this.” He emphasizes that it's not about taking a permanent step back. “Right now is that moment that we’re talking about because it’s still so fresh. Christmas may be different.” DON’T miss the bigger picture of what the holiday is all about Keep focused on why why you decided to go in the first place, Jones-Fosu says. Maybe it’s because there’s a relative there you don’t get to see often, or a loved one is getting up in age, or your kids want to see their cousins. Keeping that reason in mind could help you get through the time. DO set boundaries If you decide getting together is the way to go, but you know politics is still a dicey subject, set a goal of making the holiday a politics-free zone and stick with it, says Karl Pillemer, a professor at Cornell University whose work includes research on family estrangement. “Will a political conversation change anyone’s mind?" he says. “If there is no possibility of changing anyone’s mind, then create a demilitarized zone and don’t talk about it.” DON’T take the bait Let’s be honest. Sometimes, despite best efforts and intentions to keep the holiday gathering politics- and drama-free, there’s someone who’s got something to say and is going to say it. In that case, avoid getting drawn into it, says Tracy Hutchinson, a professor in the graduate clinical mental health counseling program at the College of William & Mary in Virginia. “Not to take the hook is one of the most important things, and it is challenging,” she says. After all, you don’t have to go to every argument you’re invited to. DO think about what will happen after the holiday If you risk getting caught up in the moment, consider engaging in what Pillemer calls “forward mapping.” This involves thinking medium and long term rather than just about right now — strategy rather than tactics. Maybe imagine yourself six months from now looking back on the dinner and thinking about the memories you'd want to have. “Think about how you would like to remember this holiday,” he says. “Do you want to remember it with your brother and sister-in-law storming out and going home because you’ve had a two-hour argument?” DON'T feel you have to be there uninterrupted Things getting intense? Defuse the situation. Walk away. And it doesn't have to be in a huff. Sometimes a calm and collected time out is just what you — and the family — might need. Says Hutchinson: “If they do start to do something like that, you could say, `I’ve got to make this phone call. I’ve got to go to the bathroom. I’m going to take a walk around the block.'" Deepti Hajela, The Associated PressIn the journey of Emily's life, marked by two kidney transplants and countless struggles, one thing remains clear: parental love transcends all obstacles and is the greatest gift one can receive. It is a love that bestows not just one, but multiple lives, shaping destinies and transforming hardships into triumphs. Emily's story is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the unbreakable bond between a parent and child.
Iowa turns to former walk-on QB to start against MarylandFeds suspend ACA marketplace access to companies accused of falsely promising ‘cash cards’According to sources close to the project, the game, known for its innovative gameplay mechanics and stunning visuals, was plagued by a series of setbacks and mismanagement issues. Developers reportedly faced unrealistic deadlines, conflicting creative directions, and a lack of communication from upper management, leading to a breakdown in the development process.
Radiography Market to See Rapid Expansion Over the Next Decade 2024-2032 12-19-2024 08:08 PM CET | Health & Medicine Press release from: Cognate Insights Radiography Market Latest Market Overview The global radiography market is expected to reach a valuation of USD 12.5 billion in 2024, with projections to expand to USD 18.7 billion by 2032, demonstrating a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.3% over the forecast period. Radiography, essential for medical imaging and diagnostics, remains a key component in healthcare due to its extensive application across diagnostics, interventional procedures, and treatment monitoring. Growing adoption of advanced imaging technologies, increasing demand for minimally invasive procedures, and rising prevalence of chronic conditions drive the market's robust expansion. The Radiography Market has experienced steady growth in recent years and is expected to continue expanding at a strong pace from 2024 to 2032. This analysis offers a comprehensive overview, providing valuable insights into key trends and developments within the Radiography industry. These findings equip business leaders with the necessary knowledge to devise more effective strategies and enhance profitability. Furthermore, the report serves as a useful resource for new and emerging businesses, helping them make informed decisions as they navigate the market and seek growth opportunities. Some of the key players in the global radiography market include: General Electric Company (GE Healthcare) - USA - Revenue: USD 20.3 billion (2023) Siemens Healthineers - Germany - Revenue: USD 24.2 billion (2023) Philips Healthcare - Netherlands - Revenue: USD 18.5 billion (2023) Canon Medical Systems - Japan - Revenue: USD 6.8 billion (2023) Fujifilm Holdings Corporation - Japan - Revenue: USD 25.5 billion (2023) Get Latest PDF Sample Report @ https://www.cognateinsights.com/request-sample/radiography-market-research Our Report covers global as well as regional markets and provides an in-depth analysis of the overall growth prospects of the market. Global market trend analysis including historical data, estimates to 2024, and compound annual growth rate (CAGR) forecast to 2032 is given based on qualitative and quantitative analysis of the market segments involving economic and non-economic factors. Furthermore, it reveals the comprehensive competitive landscape of the global market, the current and future market prospects of the industry, and the growth opportunities and drivers as well as challenges and constraints in emerging and emerging markets. Global Radiography Market Landscape and Future Pathways: North America: United States Canada Europe: Germany France U.K. Italy Russia Asia-Pacific: China Japan South Korea India Australia China Taiwan Indonesia Thailand Malaysia Latin America: Mexico Brazil Argentina Korea Colombia Middle East & Africa: Turkey Saudi Arabia UAE Korea Speak to Our Analyst for A Discussion on The Above Findings, And Ask for A Discount on The Report @ https://www.cognateinsights.com/check-discount/radiography-market-research Key drivers and challenges influencing the Radiography market: Regional Analysis: The report involves examining the Radiography market at a regional or national level. Report analyses regional factors such as government incentives, infrastructure development, economic conditions, and consumer behaviour to identify variations and opportunities within different markets. Market Projections: Report covers the gathered data and analysis to make future projections and forecasts for the Radiography market. This may include estimating market growth rates, predicting market demand, and identifying emerging trends. Company Analysis: Report covers individual Radiography manufacturers, suppliers, and other relevant industry players. This analysis includes studying their financial performance, market positioning, product portfolios, partnerships, and strategies. Consumer Analysis: Report covers data on consumer behaviour, preferences, and attitudes towards Radiography This may involve surveys, interviews, and analysis of consumer reviews and feedback from different by Application. Technology Analysis: Report covers specific technologies relevant to Radiography. It assesses the current state, advancements, and potential future developments in Radiography areas. Reason to Buy this Report: -Analysis of the impact of technological advancements on the market and the emerging trends shaping the industry in the coming years. -Examination of the regulatory and policy changes affecting the market and the implications of these changes for market participants. -Overview of the competitive landscape in the Radiography market, including profiles of the key players, their market share, and strategies for growth. -Identification of the major challenges facing the market, such as supply chain disruptions, environmental concerns, and changing consumer preferences, and analysis of how these challenges will affect market growth. -Evaluation of the potential of new products and applications in the market, and analysis of the investment opportunities for market participants. For In-Depth Competitive Analysis - Purchase this Report now at @ https://www.cognateinsights.com/purchase-report/radiography-market-research Contact Us: Cognate Insights Web: www.cognateinsights.com Email: info@cognateinsights.com Phone: +91 8424946476 About Us: We are leaders in market analytics, business research, and consulting services for Fortune 500 companies, start-ups, financial & government institutions. Since we understand the criticality of data and insights, we have associated with the top publishers and research firms all specialized in specific domains, ensuring you will receive the most reliable and up to date research data available. To be at our client's disposal whenever they need help on market research and consulting services. We also aim to be their business partners when it comes to making critical business decisions around new market entry, M&A, competitive Intelligence and strategy. This release was published on openPR.As open enrollment for Affordable Care Act plans continues through Jan. 15, you’re likely seeing fewer social media ads promising monthly cash cards worth hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars that you can use for groceries, medical bills, rent and other expenses. But don’t worry. You haven’t missed out on any windfalls. Clicking on one of those ads would not have provided you with a cash card — at least not worth hundreds or thousands. But you might have found yourself switched to a health insurance plan you did not authorize, unable to afford treatment for an unforeseen medical emergency, and owing thousands of dollars to the IRS, according to an ongoing lawsuit against companies and individuals who plaintiffs say masterminded the ads and alleged scams committed against millions of people who responded to them. The absence of those once-ubiquitous ads are likely a result of the federal government suspending access to the ACA marketplace for two companies that market health insurance out of South Florida offices, amid accusations they used “fraudulent” ads to lure customers and then switched their insurance plans and agents without their knowledge. In its suspension letter, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) cited “credible allegations of misconduct” in the agency’s decision to suspend the abilities of two companies — TrueCoverage (doing business as Inshura) and BenefitAlign — to transact information with the marketplace. CMS licenses and monitors agencies that use their own websites and information technology platforms to enroll health insurance customers in ACA plans offered in the federal marketplace. The alleged scheme affected millions of consumers, according to a lawsuit winding its way through U.S. District Court in Fort Lauderdale that seeks class-action status. An amended version of the suit, filed in August, increased the number of defendants from six to 12: — TrueCoverage LLC, an Albuquerque, New Mexico-based health insurance agency with large offices in Miami, Miramar and Deerfield Beach. TrueCoverage is a sub-tenant of the South Florida Sun Sentinel in a building leased by the newspaper in Deerfield Beach. — Enhance Health LLC, a Sunrise-based health insurance agency that the lawsuit says was founded by Matthew Herman, also named as a defendant, with a $150 million investment from hedge fund Bain Capital’s insurance division. Bain Capital Insurance Fund LP is also a defendant. — Speridian Technologies LLC, accused in the lawsuit of establishing two direct enrollment platforms that provided TrueCoverage and other agencies access to the ACA marketplace. — Benefitalign LLC, identified in the suit as one of the direct enrollment platforms created by Speridian. Like Speridian and TrueCoverage, the company is based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. — Number One Prospecting LLC, doing business as Minerva Marketing, based in Fort Lauderdale, and its founder, Brandon Bowsky, accused of developing the social media ads that drove customers — or “leads” — to the health insurance agencies. — Digital Media Solutions LLC, doing business as Protect Health, a Miami-based agency that the suit says bought Minerva’s “fraudulent” ads. In September, the company filed for Chapter 11 protection from creditors in United States Bankruptcy Court in Texas, which automatically suspended claims filed against the company. — Net Health Affiliates Inc., an Aventura-based agency the lawsuit says was associated with Enhance Health and like it, bought leads from Minerva. — Garish Panicker, identified in the lawsuit as half-owner of Speridian Global Holdings and day-to-day controller of companies under its umbrella, including TrueCoverage, Benefitalign and Speridian Technologies. — Matthew Goldfuss, accused by the suit of overseeing and directing TrueCoverage’s ACA enrollment efforts. All of the defendants have filed motions to dismiss the lawsuit. The motions deny the allegations and argue that the plaintiffs failed to properly state their claims and lack the standing to file the complaints. The Sun Sentinel sent requests for comment and lists of questions about the cases to four separate law firms representing separate groups of defendants. Three of the law firms — one representing Brandon Bowsky and Number One Prospecting LLC d/b/a Minerva Marketing, and two others representing Net Health Affiliates Inc. and Bain Capital Insurance Fund — did not respond to the requests. A representative of Enhance Health LLC and Matthew Herman, Olga M. Vieira of the Miami-based firm Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan LLP, responded with a short message saying she was glad the newspaper knew a motion to dismiss the charges had been filed by the defendants. She also said that, “Enhance has denied all the allegations as reported previously in the media.” Catherine Riedel, a communications specialist representing TrueCoverage LLC, Benefitalign LLC, Speridian Technologies LLC, Girish Panicker and Matthew Goldfuss, issued the following statement: “TrueCoverage takes these allegations very seriously and is responding appropriately. While we cannot comment on ongoing litigation, we strongly believe that the allegations are baseless and without merit. “Compliance is our business. The TrueCoverage team records and reviews every call with a customer, including during Open Enrollment when roughly 500 agents handle nearly 30,000 calls a day. No customer is enrolled into any policy without a formal verbal consent given by the customer. If any customer calls in as a result of misleading content presented by third-party marketing vendors, agents are trained to correct such misinformation and action is taken against such third-party vendors.” Through Riedel, the defendants declined to answer follow-up questions, including whether the company remains in business, whether it continues to enroll Affordable Care Act clients, and whether it is still operating its New Mexico call center using another affiliated technology platform. The suspension notification from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services letter cites several factors, including the histories of noncompliance and previous suspensions. The letter noted suspicion that TrueCoverage and Benefitalign were storing consumers’ personally identifiable information in databases located in India and possibly other overseas locations in violation of the centers’ rules. The letter also notes allegations against the companies in the pending lawsuit that “they engaged in a variety of illegal practices, including violations of the (Racketeer Influenced & Corrupt Organizations, or RICO Act), misuse of consumer (personal identifiable information) and insurance fraud.” The amended lawsuit filed in August names as plaintiffs five individuals who say their insurance plans were changed and two agencies who say they lost money when they were replaced as agents. The lawsuit accuses the defendants of 55 counts of wrongdoing, ranging from running ads offering thousands of dollars in cash that they knew would never be provided directly to consumers, switching millions of consumers into different insurance policies without their authorization, misstating their household incomes to make them eligible for $0 premium coverage, and “stealing” commissions by switching the agents listed in their accounts. TrueCoverage, Enhance Health, Protect Health, and some of their associates “engaged in hundreds of thousands of agent-of-record swaps to steal other agents’ commissions,” the suit states. “Using the Benefitalign and Inshura platforms, they created large spreadsheet lists of consumer names, dates of birth and zip codes.” They provided those spreadsheets to agents, it says, and instructed them to access platforms linked to the ACA marketplace and change the customers’ agents of record “without telling the client or providing informed consent.” “In doing so, they immediately captured the monthly commissions of agents ... who had originally worked with the consumers directly to sign them up,” the lawsuit asserts. TrueCoverage employees who complained about dealing with prospects who called looking for cash cards were routinely chided by supervisors who told them to be vague and keep making money, the suit says. When the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services began contacting the company in January about customer complaints, the suit says TrueCoverage enrollment supervisor Matthew Goldfuss sent an email instructing agents “do not respond.” The lawsuit states the “scheme” was made possible in 2021 when Congress passed the American Rescue Plan Act in the wake of the COVID pandemic. The act made it possible for Americans with household incomes between 100% and 150% of the federal poverty level to pay zero in premiums and it enabled those consumers to enroll in ACA plans all year round, instead of during the three-month open enrollment period from November to January. Experienced health insurance brokers recognized the opportunity presented by the changes, the lawsuit says. More than 40 million Americans live within 100% and 150% of the federal poverty level, while only 15 million had ACA insurance at the time. The defendants developed or benefited from online ads, the lawsuit says, which falsely promised “hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars per month in cash benefits such as subsidy cards to pay for common expenses like rent, groceries, and gas.” Consumers who clicked on the ads were brought to a landing page that asked a few qualifying questions, and if their answers suggested that they might qualify for a low-cost or no-cost plan, they were provided a phone number to a health insurance agency. There was a major problem with the plan, according to the lawsuit. “Customers believe they are being routed to someone who will send them a free cash card, not enroll them in health insurance.” By law, the federal government sends subsidies for ACA plans to insurance companies, and not to individual consumers. Scripts were developed requiring agents not to mention a cash card, and if a customer mentions a cash card, “be vague” and tell the caller that only the insurance carrier can provide that information, the lawsuit alleges. In September, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss the claims. In addition to denying the charges, they argued that the class plaintiffs lacked the standing to make the accusations and failed to demonstrate that they suffered harm. The motion also argued that the lawsuit’s accusations failed to meet requirements necessary to claim civil violations of the RICO Act. Miami-based attorney Jason Kellogg, representing the plaintiffs, said he doesn’t expect a ruling on the motion to dismiss the case for several months. The complaint also lists nearly 50 companies, not named as defendants, that it says fed business to TrueCoverage and Enhance Health. Known in the industry as “downlines,” most operate in office parks throughout South Florida, the lawsuit says. The lawsuit quotes former TrueCoverage employees complaining about having to work with customers lured by false cash promises in the online ads. A former employee who worked in the company’s Deerfield Beach office was quoted in the lawsuit as saying that senior TrueCoverage and Speridian executives “knew that consumers were calling in response to the false advertisements promising cash cards and they pressured agents to use them to enroll consumers into ACA plans.” A former human resources manager for TrueCoverage said sales agents frequently complained “that they did not feel comfortable having to mislead consumers,” the lawsuit said. Over two dozen agents “came to me with these complaints and showed me the false advertisements that consumers who called in were showing them,” the lawsuit quoted the former manager as saying. For much of the time the companies operated, the ACA marketplace enabled agents to easily access customer accounts using their names and Social Security numbers, change their insurance plans and switch their agents of record without their knowledge or authorization, the lawsuit says. This resulted in customers’ original agents losing their commissions and many of the policyholders finding out they suddenly owed far more for health care services than their original plans had required, the suit states. It says that one of the co-plaintiffs’ health plans was changed at least 22 times without her consent. She first discovered that she had lost her original plan when she sought to renew a prescription for her heart condition and her doctor told her she did not have health insurance, the suit states. Another co-plaintiff’s policy was switched after her husband responded to one of the cash card advertisements, the lawsuit says. That couple’s insurance plan was switched multiple times after a TrueCoverage agent excluded the wife’s income from an application so the couple would qualify. Later, they received bills from the IRS for $4,300 to cover tax credits issued to pay for the plans. CMS barred TrueCoverage and BenefitAlign from accessing the ACA marketplace. It said it received more than 90,000 complaints about unauthorized plan switches and more than 183,500 complaints about unauthorized enrollments, but the agency did not attribute all of the complaints to activities by the two companies. In addition, CMS restricted all agents’ abilities to alter policyholders’ enrollment information, the lawsuit says. Now access is allowed only for agents that already represent policyholders or if the policyholder participates in a three-way call with an agent and a marketplace employee. Between June and October, the agency barred 850 agents and brokers from accessing the marketplace “for reasonable suspicion of fraudulent or abusive conduct related to unauthorized enrollments or unauthorized plan switches,” according to an October CMS news release . The changes resulted in a “dramatic and sustained drop” in unauthorized activity, including a nearly 70% decrease in plan changes associated with an agent or broker and a nearly 90% decrease in changes to agent or broker commission information, the release said. It added that while consumers were often unaware of such changes, the opportunity to make them provided “significant financial incentive for non-compliant agents and brokers.” But CMS’ restrictions might be having unintended consequences for law-abiding agents and brokers. A story published by Insurance News Net on Nov. 11 quoted the president of the Health Agents for America (HAFA) trade group as saying agents are being suspended by CMS after being flagged by a mysterious algorithm that no one can figure out. The story quotes HAFA president Ronnell Nolan as surmising, “maybe they wrote too many policies on the same day for people who have the same income or they’re writing too many policies on people of a certain occupation.” Nolan continued, “We have members who have thousands of ACA clients. They can’t update or renew their clients. So those consumers have lost access to their professional agent, which is simply unfair.” Ron Hurtibise covers business and consumer issues for the South Florida Sun Sentinel. He can be reached by phone at 954-356-4071, on Twitter @ronhurtibise or by email at rhurtibise@sunsentinel.com.
There's no sugarcoating how terribly Nike ( NKE 0.40% ) has performed in 2024. At the time of this writing, the stock is down a staggering 27.4% compared to a 26.8% gain for the S&P 500. The only worse-performing Dow Jones Industrial Average stock this year is Boeing -- a company undergoing a complete makeover to return to positive cash flow and profitability. However, Nike is generating near-record sales and earnings. So, investors may be wondering why the stock is down so much. The answer has to do with Nike's evolving business model and investor expectations. Here's where Nike came up short, how it can recover, and why Nike is a compelling value in a relatively expensive market. Thinking big-picture with Nike In 2017, Nike made a bold decision to grow its direct-to-consumer business. Fiscal 2017 was the first year Nike began reporting its Nike brand sales in two buckets -- wholesale and direct-to-consumer (changed to Nike Direct in fiscal 2018). Note that Nike's fiscal year ends on the last Thursday in June. Fiscal Year Revenue 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Nike Direct (in billions) $9.08 $10.43 $11.75 $12.38 $16.37 $18.73 $21.31 $21.52 Wholesale (in billions) $23.08 $23.97 $25.42 $23.16 $25.9 $25.61 $27.4 $27.76 Total Nike brand (in billions) $32.23 $34.49 $37.22 $35.57 $42.29 $44.44 $48.76 $49.32 Nike Direct share of Nike brand 28.2% 30.2% 31.6% 34.8% 38.7% 42.1% 43.7% 43.6% Data source: Nike As you can see in the table, Nike Direct had grown to become a larger share of total Nike Brand Sales every year until fiscal 2024. Nike Direct flourished during the COVID-19 pandemic and helped drive Nike's stock price to an all-time high of $179.10 a share on Nov. 5, 2021. It was a similar narrative as Walt Disney 's streaming service, Disney+, which launched in November 2019 and helped Disney grow during the pandemic even when its parks and movie businesses were floundering. Disney hit an all-time high in March 2021 during the height of the pandemic. Nike Direct has several benefits. It gives Nike more control over its relationship with consumers, boosting engagement with the brand and leading to more customized promotions tailored to customer preferences. However, the biggest downside of Nike Direct is that it somewhat cannibalizes Nike's wholesale business and can even damage Nike's relationship with retailers. Nike Direct was the company's crown jewel and the anchor of the growth narrative of the investment thesis. But now, Nike Direct is in what looks to be a prolonged downturn. In Nike's most recent quarter (the first quarter of fiscal 2025, ended Aug. 31), Nike's revenue fell 10% compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2024, with Nike Direct down 12% and wholesale down 7%. It's worth mentioning that Nike Direct consists of different marketing strategies, including Nike stores and Nike Digital (sales made through Nike's website or app). Perhaps the most concerning point from the recent quarter was that Nike stores sales were up 1%, but Nike Digital was down 20%. On the earnings call, the company said it expects Nike Digital sales to be down double digits for the full fiscal year. Put another way, what was the strongest aspect of Nike's business is now its weakest -- which is a legitimate threat to Nike's long-term investment thesis. Another red flag is leadership uncertainty. Nike's new CEO took the helm on Oct. 14 -- so the upcoming second-quarter fiscal 2025 earnings call will be a chance for investors to hear about management's new strategic direction for the company. But there's a big difference between making plans and implanting them effectively. Valuation matters Nike's falling sales and the struggles of Nike Direct are certainly causes for concern, especially when newer brands like On Holding and Deckers Outdoor -owned Hoka are thriving. But Nike's struggles shouldn't distract from the fact that it is still a highly profitable, industry-leading brand. As you can see in the following chart, Nike's stock price is hovering around an eight-year low even though its sales and earnings have grown substantially over that period. NKE data by YCharts Growing earnings paired with a languishing stock price has made Nike a far better value . Analyst consensus estimates have Nike's earnings declining over the next 12 months compared to the trailing 12 months. So Nike's forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio is higher than its current P/E. But even then, the forward P/E would still be lower than its median P/E over the last three to 10 years -- illustrating the extent of the discount the market is putting on Nike. NKE PE Ratio data by YCharts Another factor Nike has going for it is its capital return program. Over the last decade, Nike has increased its dividend by 186% and decreased its share count by 13.9% -- which has allowed earnings per share to grow faster than net income, making the stock a better value. On Nov. 14, Nike announced an 8% dividend increase, its 23rd consecutive year of raising the dividend. Making a substantial raise during a challenging period for the business indicates management's confidence that the dividend is affordable. If Nike were in real trouble, we likely would have seen a modest raise to keep the streak alive. With a payout of 2.1%, Nike isn't a high-yield stock, but it can still be a decent source of passive income . The right way to approach Nike Long-term investors are getting an excellent opportunity to buy Nike while it is on sale. However, it's important to be mindful of the factors weighing on the company. Nike's top brands are under pressure from competition, and Nike's direct-to-consumer approach has not been working. A bad fiscal 2025 is likely already baked into the stock price, but if Nike progresses throughout the year and its downturn shows no signs of ending, then the stock price is probably not going to react favorably. Even investors who believe in the Nike brand may still want to listen to a few earnings calls with the CEO before pouncing on the stock. In sum, Nike is an excellent stock to buy now, but if you do, just make sure you approach the investment in a way that suits your risk tolerance.CANCUN, Mexico (AP) — Sam Hines Jr. scored 17 points as SE Louisiana beat North Dakota 76-60 on Wednesday. Hines also had five rebounds for the Lions (3-4). Brody Rowbury added 13 points while going 3 of 9 and 7 of 8 from the free-throw line while they also had eight rebounds. Jakevion Buckley shot 4 of 8 from the field and 4 of 6 from the free-throw line to finish with 12 points. The Fightin' Hawks (3-4) were led by Amar Kuljuhovic, who posted 14 points, seven rebounds and four assists. Treysen Eaglestaff added 13 points for North Dakota. Dariyus Woodson also recorded 11 points and two blocks. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .
BBC Strictly's Pete Wicks sparks fan frenzy after 'near kiss' with pro Jowita PrzystalElection results on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean have set the background for the final stretch of campaigning for Irish parties ahead of polling day on Friday. Donald Trump’s presidential election victory in the US has brought heightened concern that his administration’s proposals around corporation tax and tariffs would significantly impact Ireland’s economic model. Mr Harris, leader of Fine Gael, has argued Ireland and other EU countries need to prepare for the possibility of trade shocks as he criticised the scale of Sinn Fein’s spending pledges as well as their saving plans. He said: “I think that is irresponsible, I think it is dangerous and I think it is reckless.” He accused Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald of not being able to say what her party was prepared to do in the event of an economic crash, adding that Fine Gael would borrow and stop putting money towards a rainy-day fund. Asked if the party was engaging in “project fear” to dissuade voters against Sinn Fein, Mr Harris said: “I call it ‘project truth’. It’s telling people what’s being discussed right across European capitals.” Ms McDonald told an RTE interview on Wednesday morning that a Sinn Fein government would also be prepared to start borrowing in the event of an economic downturn. Both Mr Harris and Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin, who were partners in the last coalition government in Ireland, have made clear they will not countenance Sinn Fein as a potential partner in the next administration in Dublin. One day after the only three-way debate featuring the leaders of the main parties, Mr Martin accused Sinn Fein of being “dishonest” about how they will fund their manifesto plans. Speaking in Dublin on Wednesday, he said he is anxious to get clarity on the issue. “I think Sinn Fein have been very dishonest, frankly, in terms of the funds, because if you go through their figures, and this is a matter of fact, not opinion, they’re predicting a surplus of a billion in 2026, a billion in 2027. “Even in 2025, they’re talking about a mini budget, which would mean reducing the surplus that we’re anticipating in 2025. “There’s a legislative obligation now on any new government to put 0.8% of GDP to one side, and into the funds. There’s no way you can do that with a surplus of a billion in 2026 or 2027, and we would argue they would not have enough funds next year either to put into the funds.” He added: “It means they have no room to manoeuvre if things go wrong, if there’s headwinds come externally, or there are shocks internationally, Sinn Fein is not allowing any headroom at all in terms of room to respond or to move it.” Ms McDonald accused the other two parties of conspiring to keep Sinn Fein out of government and prevent change in Ireland. She said the two men were now “indistinguishable” from each other as she claimed they were suffering “acute amnesia” in regard to their records in government. On a visit to Naas fire station in Co Kildare, she said: “To listen to them, you’d imagine they had just arrived on the scene and that they were going to come up with all of these solutions. “They have had ample chances, ample opportunity, to make things better, and they have failed, and in between the two of them I make the case that now we ask for our chance, with our plans, with our team, to demonstrate how change can happen, how your community, your family, yourself, can be supported when the government is actually on your side.” Mr Martin’s and Mr Harris’ coalition partner Roderic O’Gorman, the leader of the Greens, issued a warning to the public over a future government without his party. On Wednesday, he said it is looking likely that Fianna Fail and Fine Gael will be returned to government – but cautioned they may not want the Greens to continue “fighting hard” on policies. He told reporters: “My sense is certainly the mood music from Fianna Fail and Fine Gael is that they’d like an easier life in the next government – and my concern is they use these small populist parties and right-wing independents.” Mr O’Gorman argued that the Greens could continue to provide stability to government at a time when economic shocks may be around the corner. As the Green leader suggested that relying on independents would be unstable, Mr Martin has also argued that “too much fragmentation would lead to incoherence in government”. Reflecting on Tuesday night’s debate, the Fianna Fail leader said the race remained “too close to call” while Mr Harris said it is “all to play for”. The leaders of Ireland’s three main political parties clashed on housing, healthcare and financial management in the last televised debate before Friday’s General Election. The tetchy debate, which was marked by several interruptions, saw the parties set out their stalls in a broadcast that commentators said did little to move the dial before polling day. The latest opinion poll on Wednesday put the parties in a tight grouping, with Fianna Fail slightly ahead of Sinn Fein and Fine Gael in joint second. After the 2020 general election delivered an inconclusive result, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail, two parties forged from opposing sides of Ireland’s Civil War of the 1920s, agreed to set aside almost a century of animosity and share power – with the Greens as a junior partner. From 2016 to 2020, Fianna Fail had supported Fine Gael in power through a confidence-and-supply arrangement from the Opposition benches in the Dail parliament. Sinn Fein won the popular vote in 2020 but a failure to run enough candidates meant it did not secure sufficient seats in the Dail to give it a realistic chance of forming a government.Analysts' ratings for IREN IREN over the last quarter vary from bullish to bearish, as provided by 10 analysts. The table below offers a condensed view of their recent ratings, showcasing the changing sentiments over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months. Bullish Somewhat Bullish Indifferent Somewhat Bearish Bearish Total Ratings 5 4 1 0 0 Last 30D 1 0 0 0 0 1M Ago 3 2 1 0 0 2M Ago 0 1 0 0 0 3M Ago 1 1 0 0 0 Analysts have set 12-month price targets for IREN, revealing an average target of $18.2, a high estimate of $23.00, and a low estimate of $14.00. This current average reflects an increase of 15.56% from the previous average price target of $15.75. Interpreting Analyst Ratings: A Closer Look A clear picture of IREN's perception among financial experts is painted with a thorough analysis of recent analyst actions. The summary below outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets. Analyst Analyst Firm Action Taken Rating Current Price Target Prior Price Target Lucas Pipes B. Riley Securities Raises Buy $16.00 $15.00 Stephen Glagola Jones Trading Announces Buy $22.00 - Reginald Smith JP Morgan Raises Neutral $15.00 $9.50 Paul Golding Macquarie Raises Outperform $19.00 $13.50 Brett Knoblauch Cantor Fitzgerald Raises Overweight $23.00 $20.00 Joseph Vafi Canaccord Genuity Raises Buy $17.00 $15.00 Mike Colonnese HC Wainwright & Co. Raises Buy $16.00 $13.00 Brett Knoblauch Cantor Fitzgerald Maintains Overweight $20.00 $20.00 Brett Knoblauch Cantor Fitzgerald Maintains Overweight $20.00 $20.00 Darren Aftahi Roth MKM Announces Buy $14.00 - Key Insights: Action Taken: In response to dynamic market conditions and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their reaction to recent developments related to IREN. This insight gives a snapshot of analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company. Rating: Offering a comprehensive view, analysts assess stocks qualitatively, spanning from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of IREN compared to the broader market. Price Targets: Analysts provide insights into price targets, offering estimates for the future value of IREN's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time. Assessing these analyst evaluations alongside crucial financial indicators can provide a comprehensive overview of IREN's market position. Stay informed and make well-judged decisions with the assistance of our Ratings Table. Stay up to date on IREN analyst ratings. Discovering IREN: A Closer Look IREN Ltd is engaged in data center business powering the future of Bitcoin, AI and beyond utilizing renewable energy. Key Indicators: IREN's Financial Health Market Capitalization Perspectives: The company's market capitalization falls below industry averages, signaling a relatively smaller size compared to peers. This positioning may be influenced by factors such as perceived growth potential or operational scale. Revenue Growth: IREN's revenue growth over a period of 3 months has been noteworthy. As of 30 September, 2024, the company achieved a revenue growth rate of approximately 58.12% . This indicates a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company surpassed expectations with a growth rate higher than the average among peers in the Information Technology sector. Net Margin: IREN's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional net margin, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable net margin of -95.07%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost management. Return on Equity (ROE): IREN's ROE falls below industry averages, indicating challenges in efficiently using equity capital. With an ROE of -4.64%, the company may face hurdles in generating optimal returns for shareholders. Return on Assets (ROA): IREN's ROA lags behind industry averages, suggesting challenges in maximizing returns from its assets. With an ROA of -4.25%, the company may face hurdles in achieving optimal financial performance. Debt Management: The company maintains a balanced debt approach with a debt-to-equity ratio below industry norms, standing at 0.0 . The Significance of Analyst Ratings Explained Analysts work in banking and financial systems and typically specialize in reporting for stocks or defined sectors. Analysts may attend company conference calls and meetings, research company financial statements, and communicate with insiders to publish "analyst ratings" for stocks. Analysts typically rate each stock once per quarter. Some analysts also offer predictions for helpful metrics such as earnings, revenue, and growth estimates to provide further guidance as to what to do with certain tickers. It is important to keep in mind that while stock and sector analysts are specialists, they are also human and can only forecast their beliefs to traders. Which Stocks Are Analysts Recommending Now? Benzinga Edge gives you instant access to all major analyst upgrades, downgrades, and price targets. Sort by accuracy, upside potential, and more. Click here to stay ahead of the market . This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
As the story of Mr. Li's unconventional entry method spread through the city, he became somewhat of a local legend, with commuters eagerly anticipating his daily arrival at the station. People would cheer him on as he made his way through the dog hole, and some even started to imitate his quirky entrance, adding a touch of whimsy to their morning commute.Sandra Lee is busy. The queen of semi-homemade has been all over our TVs lately, serving as the host and executive producer of two shows: Dinner Budget Showdown on ROKU, which premiered in May, and Blue Ribbon Baking Championship, which dropped on Netflix in August. You can also catch her on QVC. She launched her Aunt Sandy Claus line earlier in the month and has a weekly one-hour show called "Sandra Lee Now" on the network (catch it every Sunday this month at 4 pm Eastern) and she's also an ambassador of QVC's Age of Possibility platform, which celebrates women over 50. Related: Sandra Lee's Favorite Things to Buy at Costco & Sam's Club 😋😋 SIGN UP to get delicious recipes, handy kitchen hacks & more in our daily Pop Kitchen newsletter 🍳 🍔 What's on Sandra Lee's Thanksgiving Menu? Parade recently got the chance to chat with Lee about what she's been up to and her plans for the holiday season. She revealed she's only doing two Christmas trees this year and that gingerbread and copper are big themes for her (and for her QVC line). She loves that both gingerbread and copper can take you from Thanksgiving right into Christmas with just a few easy swap-outs. "I just replace the Thanksgiving turkeys with red berries," she says, for example. "It's so much work to put up Christmas to only enjoy it for four to six weeks," she says. We couldn't agree more! After we chatted about all things decor, we had a few more pressing questions to ask, including getting some info on what she's serving on that beautifully decorated table this year. In a surprise to no one, she had everything figured out. For Thanksgiving, there will be an herb-butter roasted turkey, cornbread stuffing (that she cooks inside the bird), steamed broccoli florets with butter-toasted sliced almonds and her 'very secret, very sacred fruitcake,' which she serves during the entire holiday season. And then, in passing, she mentioned that she makes 'the best gravy in the world.' You can't drop phrases like that in front of us without a follow-up question (or three). Here's how Sandra Lee makes her famous gravy, so you can make it at your house too. Related: 25 Steal-the-Show Christmas Dinner Ideas That Are *Chef's Kiss* How to Make the Best Gravy in the World, According to Sandra Lee To really celebrate like Lee, serve this rich gravy on mashed sour cream potatoes. The base of Lee's gravy is a broth she makes with the giblets, the turkey bits that are in that packet that you find inside the turkey cavity. She covers them in water and simmers them for her broth. "I simmer them for a long time, maybe 10 hours," she says. Once the stock is done she puts it in the fridge until it's turkey time so the broth can continue to deepen in flavor. Once the turkey is out of the oven, Lee makes a roux with equal parts oil and flour, cooking it down until it's nice and brown. She adds the drippings from the turkey, which includes some of the "delicious crumbly bits" from the stuffing. The addition of the stuffing bits means it won't be a totally smooth gravy, but that's just fine with Lee. She adds her simmered down stock to the gravy and if she needs more liquid to thin the gravy, she'll whisk in some turkey stock. "I buy the turkey stock early because it's hard to find that," say says. "And then you're left with a chicken stock, which is not turkey stock." (She does say that you can use chicken stock in a pinch, though.) She finishes the gravy off with some poultry seasoning and then lets it simmer down until it's the texture she likes. "I literally just reduce, reduce, reduce," she says. Up Next: Related: We Tried 17 Different Kinds of Store-Bought Gravy and You Can Buy the Winner at WalmartNEW YORK (AP) — There's no place like home for the holidays. And that may not necessarily be a good thing. In the wake of the very contentious and divisive 2024 presidential election, the upcoming celebration of Thanksgiving and the ramp-up of the winter holiday season could be a boon for some — a respite from the events of the larger world in the gathering of family and loved ones. Hours and even days spent with people who have played the largest roles in our lives. Another chapter in a lifetime of memories. That's one scenario. For others, that same period — particularly because of the polarizing presidential campaign — is something to dread. There is the likelihood of disagreements, harsh words, hurt feelings and raised voices looming large. Those who make a study of people and their relationships to each other in an increasingly complex 21st-century say there are choices that those with potentially fraught personal situations can make — things to do and things to avoid — that could help them and their families get through this time with a minimum of open conflict and a chance at getting to the point of the holidays in the first place. DO assess honestly where you are with it all For those who feel strongly about the election's outcome, and know that the people they would be spending the holiday feel just as strongly in the other direction, take the time to honestly assess if you're ready to spend time together in THIS moment, barely a few weeks after Election Day — and a time when feelings are still running high. The answer might be that you're not, and it might be better to take a temporary break, says Justin Jones-Fosu, author of “I Respectfully Disagree: How to Have Difficult Conversations in a Divided World.” “You have to assess your own readiness,” he says, “Each person is going be very different in this.” He emphasizes that it's not about taking a permanent step back. “Right now is that moment that we’re talking about because it’s still so fresh. Christmas may be different.” DON’T miss the bigger picture of what the holiday is all about Keep focused on why why you decided to go in the first place, Jones-Fosu says. Maybe it’s because there’s a relative there you don’t get to see often, or a loved one is getting up in age, or your kids want to see their cousins. Keeping that reason in mind could help you get through the time. DO set boundaries If you decide getting together is the way to go, but you know politics is still a dicey subject, set a goal of making the holiday a politics-free zone and stick with it, says Karl Pillemer, a professor at Cornell University whose work includes research on family estrangement. “Will a political conversation change anyone’s mind?" he says. “If there is no possibility of changing anyone’s mind, then create a demilitarized zone and don’t talk about it.” DON’T take the bait Let’s be honest. Sometimes, despite best efforts and intentions to keep the holiday gathering politics- and drama-free, there’s someone who’s got something to say and is going to say it. In that case, avoid getting drawn into it, says Tracy Hutchinson, a professor in the graduate clinical mental health counseling program at the College of William & Mary in Virginia. “Not to take the hook is one of the most important things, and it is challenging,” she says. After all, you don’t have to go to every argument you’re invited to. DO think about what will happen after the holiday If you risk getting caught up in the moment, consider engaging in what Pillemer calls “forward mapping.” This involves thinking medium and long term rather than just about right now — strategy rather than tactics. Maybe imagine yourself six months from now looking back on the dinner and thinking about the memories you'd want to have. “Think about how you would like to remember this holiday,” he says. “Do you want to remember it with your brother and sister-in-law storming out and going home because you’ve had a two-hour argument?” DON'T feel you have to be there uninterrupted Things getting intense? Defuse the situation. Walk away. And it doesn't have to be in a huff. Sometimes a calm and collected time out is just what you — and the family — might need. Says Hutchinson: “If they do start to do something like that, you could say, `I’ve got to make this phone call. I’ve got to go to the bathroom. I’m going to take a walk around the block.'" Deepti Hajela, The Associated Press
Thank you for your attention and cooperation.Feds suspend ACA marketplace access to companies accused of falsely promising ‘cash cards’
In conclusion, Sherman's insights shed light on the competitive nature of the Premier League title race and the fierce competition among Manchester City and the other top contenders. With each team bringing their own strengths and challenges to the table, the race for the title promises to be a thrilling spectacle for fans and neutrals alike. Only time will tell who will emerge victorious, but one thing is for sure – the battle for Premier League supremacy is well and truly on.
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Jedward have warmed hearts as they opened up about spending the festive season with showbiz pal Gemma Collins , after revealing a poignant family situation. Chatting to The Mirror at Tulleys Christmas Light Festival just last Friday, John and Edward Grimes shared how they find comfort in their friendship with Gemma during a time when most of their relatives are no longer here . The twins said: "Christmas is really sad, this year we're going to be spending it with Gemma because most of our family have sadly passed. Gemma's a real one, you know, having someone like Gemma in our lives has definitely been hugely uplifting. We spent Christmas with Gemma last year." They noted the absence of their grandparents makes the holiday season bittersweet, reflecting on the nostalgia of past Christmases: "I feel like Christmas is sad because we don't have our grandparents but we have all our memories so at Christmas time, those feelings come rushing in and you hold that during the holidays." Jedward also spoke candidly about the struggle they face during what should be a cheerful time, touching on their personal losses: "It's very hard. I feel like as much as people think we bring the energy, we do find ourselves in low moments." Their mum sadly died in 2019 . They elaborated on the emptiness felt during the festivities, saying: "It's a hard time, our mum's not around, our granny and grandad and people that meant a lot to us aren't around, so that alone hits you hard during the holidays when everyone is complaining about their family members or whoever, at least they have them around", reports the Mirror . Jedward are getting into the festive spirit with their BFF Gemma, sharing how they plan to spend Christmas together and offering tips on tackling the winter blues. The dynamic duo advised fans, "You've got to keep living until the sunlight gets back." Their holiday season will be full of joy and companionship, as they revealed, "We're going to be spending it with Gemma, she's already invited us. She got us Christmas decorations for our tree. During the festive season, she'll literally be staying at ours. She got us customised stockings. It's really sweet, it's nice that Gemma's able to rise to the occasion and be such a great friend." Holiday cheer is in the air with Jedward's new Christmas anthem, LOVEmas, which they'd happily perform at any festive wedding or engagement—throwing in Kerry Katona's name as a potential wedding to serenade. Gemma and Jedward are practically family, enjoying their past Christmases together, including a memorable one where Gemma showcased the twins crooning 'Feliz Navidad' on Instagram and expressed her affection for them: "It's OFFICIALLY CHRISTMAS when @jepicpics (the twins' Instagram page) come to stay for the whole time. The kindest people to me and real friends."One of the key features of Microsoft's Zero Water Vapor Data Center Design is the use of innovative air-based evaporative cooling systems that efficiently dissipate heat generated by the servers. By harnessing the power of natural elements, such as air and humidity, Microsoft's data centers are able to achieve optimal cooling without the need for water. This not only reduces water consumption but also enhances energy efficiency, resulting in a more sustainable and cost-effective solution.