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WHILE the impact of the ban on Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) in Metro Manila remains limited, the northernmost town of Santa Ana, Cagayan, is reeling from the aftermath of the government's decision to shut down these gaming entities. Santa Ana, where POGO operations began two decades ago before expanding nationwide, is perhaps the hardest hit by the exodus of these foreign companies. Register to read this story and more for free . Signing up for an account helps us improve your browsing experience. OR See our subscription options.President-Elect Trump Wants to Again Rename North America's Tallest PeakNoida International Film City: The master plan for the construction of the first phase of the eagerly awaited Noida International Film City has been submitted by filmmaker Boney Kapoor and the Bhutani Infra-backed company Bayview Projects. Officials have stated that they hope to finish the work within three years after approval. On Tuesday, Kapoor delivered the master plan for Bayview Projects to the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA). YEIDA CEO Arun Vir Singh confirmed receiving the master plan and told reporters, "It will be our endeavour to ensure that the plan is approved at the earliest if it conforms to all norms and guidelines." The Uttar Pradesh government's ambitious project would be constructed in Sector 21 of YEIDA, along the Yamuna Expressway near Delhi, on 1,000 acres of land in a public-private collaboration. In the first phase, about 230 acres will be developed. Out of the four bidders, Bayview Projects won the bid on January 31 and offered the Uttar Pradesh government the largest revenue share (18%). Speaking to the media alongside Singh, Boney Kapoor outlined his plans for the growth of the film city, highlighting its potential to transform Indian cinema and draw in international talent. According to Kapoor, the project's initial phase would involve building a dedicated film university and sound stages. ALSO READ: Yearender 2024: Delhi-NCR Real Estate Sector Sees Growth Amid Infrastructure Development, Demand For Luxury Homes "The university is being built to train talent from across the country, particularly Uttar Pradesh, enabling individuals to come with a script and leave with a complete film," Kapoor said. According to him, the facilities would cover every facet of production, including post-production. He said, the first phase, which is expected to be finished in three years, would provide the groundwork for the film city's growth. Kapoor intends to extend an invitation to international filmmakers to make use of the facilities. Noida International Film City: Facilities Kapoor listed a number of the film city's most notable characteristics, including underwater production facilities and virtual studios. According to him, there will also be a special floor with cutting-edge technology that will take the place of conventional green screens and allow actors to see scenes on LED screens in real-time. Additionally, he said, there would be enormous water tanks for filming intricate underwater shots and ship-based scenarios. In a structure modeled after Parliament's visitor galleries, Kapoor hopes to allow the public to watch live filming and, at their convenience, speak with directors or actors during breaks.
NoneMaking a noteworthy insider sell on December 24, Kang Jyh Lee , Chief Executive Officer at Photronics PLAB , is reported in the latest SEC filing. What Happened: Lee's decision to sell 8,750 shares of Photronics was revealed in a Form 4 filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Tuesday. The total value of the sale is $212,887. The latest market snapshot at Tuesday morning reveals Photronics shares down by 0.0%, trading at $23.85. Get to Know Photronics Better Photronics Inc is a U.S.-based company that is principally engaged in manufacturing photomasks. The photomasks are photographic quartz or glass plates that contain microscopic images of electronic circuits that are used as a component in the manufacture of integrated circuits and flat-panel displays. The revenue from products designed for integrated circuits production accounts for the majority of total revenue, with the rest derived from products for flat-panel display production. The company's assets are located in Taiwan, Korea, and the United States. It generates revenue world-wide, including in the United States, Europe, Taiwan, Korea, China, and elsewhere in Asia, with Taiwan contributing the majority of total revenue. A Deep Dive into Photronics's Financials Decline in Revenue: Over the 3 months period, Photronics faced challenges, resulting in a decline of approximately -2.13% in revenue growth as of 31 October, 2024. This signifies a reduction in the company's top-line earnings. In comparison to its industry peers, the company trails behind with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Information Technology sector. Insights into Profitability: Gross Margin: The company issues a cost efficiency warning with a low gross margin of 36.97% , indicating potential difficulties in maintaining profitability compared to its peers. Earnings per Share (EPS): With an EPS below industry norms, Photronics exhibits below-average bottom-line performance with a current EPS of 0.55 . Debt Management: The company maintains a balanced debt approach with a debt-to-equity ratio below industry norms, standing at 0.02 . Valuation Analysis: Price to Earnings (P/E) Ratio: With a lower-than-average P/E ratio of 11.41 , the stock indicates an attractive valuation, potentially presenting a buying opportunity. Price to Sales (P/S) Ratio: With a lower-than-average P/S ratio of 1.72 , the stock presents an attractive valuation, potentially signaling a buying opportunity for investors interested in sales performance. EV/EBITDA Analysis (Enterprise Value to its Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation & Amortization): At 2.7 , Photronics's EV/EBITDA ratio reflects a below-par valuation compared to industry averages signalling undervaluation Market Capitalization Analysis: Positioned below industry benchmarks, the company's market capitalization faces constraints in size. This could be influenced by factors such as growth expectations or operational capacity. Now trade stocks online commission free with Charles Schwab, a trusted and complete investment firm. The Impact of Insider Transactions on Investments While insider transactions should not be the sole basis for making investment decisions, they can play a significant role in an investor's decision-making process. Exploring the legal landscape, an "insider" is defined as any officer, director, or beneficial owner holding more than ten percent of a company's equity securities, as stipulated by Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. This encompasses executives in the c-suite and major hedge funds. These insiders are required to report their transactions through a Form 4 filing, which must be submitted within two business days of the transaction. Highlighted by a company insider's new purchase, there's a positive anticipation for the stock to rise. But, insider sells may not necessarily indicate a bearish view and can be motivated by various factors. Understanding Crucial Transaction Codes When dissecting transactions, the focal point for investors is often those occurring in the open market, meticulously detailed in Table I of the Form 4 filing. A P in Box 3 denotes a purchase, while S signifies a sale. Transaction code C indicates the conversion of an option, and transaction code A denotes a grant, award, or other acquisition of securities from the company. Check Out The Full List Of Photronics's Insider Trades. Insider Buying Alert: Profit from C-Suite Moves Benzinga Edge reveals every insider trade in real-time. Don't miss the next big stock move driven by insider confidence. Unlock this ultimate sentiment indicator now. Click here for access . 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.Former Tulane quarterback Darian Mensah has already found a new program in Duke, while Mississippi State's Michael Van Buren Jr., Wisconsin's Braedyn Locke and Cal's Fernando Mendoza are exploring changes of their own in the transfer portal. Mensah, a redshirt freshman with three years of eligibility remaining, told ESPN on Wednesday he has transferred to Duke. He attended the Blue Devils men's basketball game against Incarnate Word on Tuesday night. The Blue Devils (9-3) will face Mississippi in the Gator Bowl, but without 2024 starting quarterback Maalik Murphy and backup Grayson Loftis, who also entered the portal. Mensah, viewed as one of the top players in the portal, threw for 2,723 yards and 22 touchdowns and completed 65.9% of his passes. He led the Green Wave to a 9-4 record and the American Athletic Conference championship game, where they lost 35-14 to Army. Tulane will play Florida in the Gasparilla Bowl on Sunday. Van Buren, Mendoza and Locke announced on social media they had entered the portal. Van Buren started eight games as a true freshmen for the Bulldogs. He threw for 1,886 yards on 55% passing with 16 total touchdowns and seven interceptions for the Bulldogs (2-10, 0-8 Southeastern Conference). He took over as the starter when Blake Shapen suffered a season-ending shoulder injury in a 45-28 loss to Florida on Sept. 21. Shapen has said he plans to return next season. Van Buren, a 6-foot-1, 200-pound passer from St. Frances Academy in Maryland, had two 300-yard performances for the Bulldogs, including 306 yards and three touchdown passes in a 41-31 road loss against Georgia. Mendoza threw for 3,004 yards in 2024 with 16 TDs, six interceptions and a 68.7 completion percentage. "For the sake of my football future this is the decision I have reached," he posted. Locke passed for 1,936 yards with 13 touchdowns and 10 interceptions for Wisconsin this season. He said he will have two years of eligibility remaining at his next school. Michigan duo enters draft ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Michigan cornerback Will Johnson has joined defensive tackle Mason Graham in the NFL draft. Johnson declared for the draft on Wednesday, one day after Graham decided he would also skip his senior season with the Wolverines. Both preseason All-America players are expected to be first-round picks. Johnson was limited to six games this year due to an injury. He had two interceptions, returning them both for touchdowns to set a school record with three scores off interceptions. Johnson picked off nine passes in three seasons. Graham played in all 12 games this season, finishing with 3 1/2 sacks and seven tackles for losses. He had 18 tackles for losses, including nine sacks, in his three-year career. AP announces All-SEC team Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson is The Associated Press offensive player of the year in the Southeastern Conference and South Carolina defensive lineman Kyle Kennard is the top defensive player. Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia was voted the top newcomer on Wednesday while the Gamecocks' Shane Beamer is coach of the year in voting by the panel of 17 media members who cover the league. Sampson led the SEC and set school records by rushing for 1,485 yards and 22 touchdowns. He is tied for third nationally in rushing touchdowns, recording the league's fifth-most in a season. Sampson was chosen on all but two ballots. Mississippi wide receiver Tre Harris and his quarterback, Jaxson Dart, each got a vote. Kennard led the SEC with 11-1/2 sacks and 15-1/2 tackles for loss. He also had 10 quarterback hurries and forced three fumbles. Beamer led the Gamecocks to just their fifth nine-win season, including a school-record four wins over Top 25 opponents. They've won their last six games and ended the regular season with a win over eventual ACC champion Clemson. South Carolina plays Illinois on Dec. 31 in the Citrus Bowl. Pavia helped lead Vandy to its first bowl game since 2018 after transferring from New Mexico State. He passed for 2,133 yards and 17 touchdowns with four interceptions. He ran for another 716 yards and six touchdowns, directing an upset of Alabama. Campbell gets new deal with ISU AMES, Iowa — Matt Campbell, who led Iowa State to its first 10-win season and became the program's all-time leader in coaching victories, has agreed to an eight-year contract that would keep him with the Cyclones through 2032. University president Wendy Wintersteen and athletic director Jamie Pollard made the announcement Wednesday, four days after the Cyclones lost to Arizona State in the Big 12 championship game. “Given all the uncertainty currently facing college athletics, it was critical that we moved quickly to solidify the future of our football program,” Pollard said. “Matt is the perfect fit for Iowa State University and I am thrilled he wants to continue to lead our program. Leadership continuity is essential to any organization’s long-term success." The Cyclones won their first seven games for their best start since 1938 and are 10-3 heading into their game against Miami in the Pop Tarts Bowl in Orlando, Florida, on Dec. 28. BRIEFLY FLAG PLANT: Ohio Republican state Rep. Josh Williams said Wednesday on social media he's introducing a bill to make flag planting in sports a felony in the state. His proposal comes after the Nov. 30 fight at the Michigan-Ohio State rivalry football game when the Wolverines beat the Buckeyes 13-10 and then attempted to plant their flag at midfield. MALZAHN: Gus Malzahn, who resigned as UCF’s coach last month to become Mike Norvell’s offensive coordinator at Florida State, said he chose to return to his coaching roots rather than remain a head coach distracted by a myriad of responsibilities.
Aziz Shamuratov Listen below or on the go on Apple Podcasts and Spotify The department store chain accepts at $6.5B buyout offer. (0:16) The Container Store files for Chapter 11 . (1:15) U.K. looks to facial recognition to limit social media use. (4:46) This is an abridged transcript of the podcast. Our top story so far. Department store chain Nordstrom ( NYSE: JWN ) has accepted a $6.25 billion all-cash buyout offer to end its 53-year run as a publicly traded company. Operators signed a deal with Erik, Pete, Jamie Nordstrom and other members of the Nordstrom family and El Puerto de Liverpool, S.A.B. de C.V. ( OTCPK:ELPQF ). Following the close of the transaction, the Nordstrom family will have a majority ownership stake in the company. Common shareholders will receive $24.25 per share. In addition, the board intends to authorize a special dividend of up to $0.25 per share immediately before and contingent on the close of the transaction. Nordstrom first went public in August 1971. At that time, it offered shares under the name "Nordstrom Best" and was recognized as the West Coast's largest volume fashion specialty store shortly thereafter, with annual sales surpassing $100 million by 1973. The company then formally changed its name to Nordstrom, Inc. Shares of the retailer peaked in 2015. In addition, the Container Store Group ( OTC:TCSG ) filed for Chapter 11 after 46 years in business. The company plans to implement a recapitalization transaction to bolster its financial position, fuel growth initiatives, and drive enhanced long-term profitability. CEO Satish Malthora said, "The Container Store is here to stay. Our strategy is sound, and we believe the steps we are taking today will allow us to continue to advance our business, deepen customer relationships, expand our reach, and strengthen our capabilities." Looking to the economy, November durable goods orders (moved a day earlier due to the shortened trading day on Christmas Eve) sank more than expected. New orders of durable goods fell -1.1% M/M , reversing from a 0.8% increase in October, which was revised up from 0.2%. The forecast was for a drop of -0.3%. Core durable goods, which excludes transportation, saw orders tick down -0.1% vs. a 0.2% rise in October and a +0.3% rise expected. Nondefense new orders for capital goods dipped 0.3% during the month. Pantheon Macroeconomist Samuel Tombs notes: “A slump in aircraft orders was responsible for nearly all the drop in headline durable goods orders. In addition, orders ex-transportation were held back by a 12% decline in defense orders.” “The somewhat better performance of orders compared to shipments in November might reflect businesses starting to place orders for delivery in a few months time, in order to lock in prices ahead of potential import tariffs.” In addition, the Conference Board’s measure of consumer confidence unexpectedly fell to 104.7 in December from 112.8 in November. Economists predicted a small rise to 113 with a change in the White House ahead. But the Expectation Index sank 12.6 points to 81.1 points, just above the threshold of 80 that usually signals a recession ahead. The Present Situation Index fell by 1.2 points to 140.2, and Tombs said: “Households have become more downbeat on future business and employment conditions, as well as income expectations. The cutoff for the survey was December 16, before the FOMC meeting and the associated drop in stock prices, so we think the deterioration likely reflects the incoming administration starting to talk about spending cuts, which were not part of Mr. Trump's election pitch.” Among active stocks today, the fact that a federal jury ruled in favor of Qualcomm ( QCOM ) on two of three counts in its lawsuit with Arm Holdings ( ARM ) is seen as a "clear win" for the San Diego-based chipmaker. Bernstein analyst Stacy Rasgon says, "At this point Qualcomm’s roadmap (and their license?) appear safe." Perhaps most importantly, the third question that the jury decided on — whether Qualcomm's CPUs that use designs from Nuvia are licensed under Qualcomm's Arm architectural license — was a big decisive victory, Rasgon added. Xerox ( XRX ) said it will acquire Lexmark International from Ninestar , PAG Asia Capital and Shanghai Shouda Investment Centre in a $1.5 billion deal. The deal is expected to be immediately accretive to earnings per share and free cash flow. And ResMed ( RMD ) and Inspire Medical Systems ( INSP ), two companies reliant on sleep apnea devices, are under pressure after Eli Lilly's ( LLY ) Zepbound gained an additional indication for sleep apnea in obese individuals . ResMed is a top manufacturer of CPAP machines, considered the gold standard treatment for sleep apnea. Inspire makes a neurostimulation implant for sleep apnea. In other news of note, social media companies will be expected to remove millions of underage users from their platforms using facial recognition age checks, according to John Higham, head of online safety policy at the U.K.'s communications watchdog Ofcom. Apps like Meta's ( META ) Facebook, Instagram, TikTok ( BDNCE ), and Snapchat ( SNAP ) could face multi-billion-pound fines under the Online Safety Act if they fail to protect children from harmful content online. According to Ofcom estimates, around 60% of children aged 8-11 years - about 1.6M kids - in the U.K. have social media accounts despite the apps having a minimum 13-year age limit. And a third of children aged 5-7 are reportedly using social media unsupervised. Higham said in a newspaper interview: "It doesn't take a genius to work out that children are going to lie about their age," adding that Ofcom will announce plans next month detailing how apps would be expected to handle the issue. "The sort of thing we might look to is some facial age estimation technology that we see companies bringing in now, which we think is really pretty good at determining who is a child. We will expect the technology to be highly accurate and effective," he said. And in the Wall Street Research Corner, Goldman’s equity team introduced a model to pick industries that are poised to outperform an equal-weighted index by 5 percentage points or more “to identify ‘high conviction’ views with significant alpha potential.” Strategist David Kostin says: “Our model incorporates macro, fundamental, and valuation data as independent variables. We run the profit model for each sector separately and only include variables with statistical and economic significance. Our model does not capture fiscal policy changes or secular themes such as artificial intelligence.” The model's highest-conviction picks are in materials and in software and services, while it also currently recommends Overweights in health care, utilities and real estate. “Our model recommends a large number of defensive Overweights in part because of the level of economic growth optimism already priced into the equity market today,” Kostin said. Among the value stock picks in those sectors are Akamai ( AKAM ) and IBM ( IBM ) in software, Mosaic ( MOS ) and Eastman Chemical ( EMN ) in Materials, NRG Energy ( NRG ) and ConEd ( ED ) in Utilities and Biogen ( BIIB ) in Healthcare. Growth names include Palantir ( PLTR ) and ServiceNow ( NOW ) in software, FreeportMcMoRan (FRE) in Materials, Realty Icome ( O ) in Real Estate and Merck ( MRK ) and Lilly ( LLY ) in Healthcare. Editor's Note: This article discusses one or more securities that do not trade on a major U.S. exchange. Please be aware of the risks associated with these stocks.Mahakumbh Nagar, December 24: Mahakumbh 2025, the world's largest cultural and spiritual event, is set to begin in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj on January 13. Preparations are underway at full speed to make this a grand event. As part of these efforts, Indian Railways is ensuring world-class facilities for the millions of devotees attending the Mahakumbh. This includes arrangements for shelter for more than one lakh passengers and the operation of nearly 3,000 special-fare trains. In addition, IRCTC, the tourism and hospitality branch of Indian Railways, has completed the construction of the luxury tent city, Mahakumbh Gram, near the Triveni Sangam. This tent city, located in Sector No. 25 of Naini, Arail, in Prayagraj, is situated about 3.5 km from the Sangam on the banks of the Ganga. It will offer world-class accommodations, including super deluxe tents and villas, complete with modern amenities. Mahakumbh Mela 2025: Indian Railways Sets Up Luxury Tent City for Devotees Attending Maha Kumbh; Check Rates Here . The rent for these tents will range from Rs 18,000 to Rs 20,000 per day, and guests will have the facility of private bathrooms, hot and cold water, air blowers, bed linens, towels, and food services. Villa guests will also have access to a private seating area and television. Online bookings for stays at 'Mahakumbh Gram' are set to open from January 10 to February 28. IRCTC Ensures Facilities for Mahakumbh Mela 2025, Luxury Tent City Open for Bookings . Reservations can be made easily through the IRCTC website at www.irctctourism.com/mahakumbhgram, with additional information available on both the IRCTC and Tourism Department websites and the Mahakumbh App. Bookings can also be made through IRCTC's business partners, MakeMyTrip and GoIBIBO. For the safety and comfort of guests, the tent city will provide first aid services and will be under constant surveillance with CCTV cameras. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 24, 2024 09:07 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com ).
The Bose SoundLink Flex is a portable Bluetooth speaker that’s marketed as being rugged and stylish. But is it worth the price tag? I recently got my hands on one to test it out, and I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised. In this review, I’ll go over my experience with the SoundLink Flex, including its design, sound quality, features, and overall value. The Bose SoundLink Flex is a compact and portable Bluetooth speaker designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Released in 2021, it boasts a durable design, IP67 water and dust resistance, and aims to deliver Bose’s signature sound quality in a grab-and-go format. It’s marketed towards those with active lifestyles, promising to be a reliable audio companion for adventures and everyday use alike . First Impressions: Unboxing the SoundLink Flex, the first thing that struck me was its design. It’s undeniably sleek and modern, with a minimalist aesthetic that’s become synonymous with Bose. Available in a variety of colors, the unit I tested was a vibrant blue that immediately caught the eye. The speaker feels robust and well-built, with a soft-touch silicone exterior and a powder-coated steel grille. It’s compact and lightweight, easily fitting into my backpack or even a large coat pocket. Design and Build Quality: Bose has clearly put a lot of thought into the design of the SoundLink Flex. The speaker has a rectangular shape with rounded edges, making it comfortable to hold and carry. The controls are located on the top of the speaker and are easy to use. They’re seamlessly integrated into the design, with raised buttons for power, volume, and Bluetooth pairing. There’s also a handy utility loop made from tear-resistant fabric, allowing you to attach the speaker to a backpack, belt loop, or carabiner. The IP67 rating means the SoundLink Flex is fully dustproof and can be submerged in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes. This makes it ideal for use at the beach, by the pool, or even in the shower. I tested its water resistance by taking it to the pool, and it performed flawlessly. Even after being submerged for several minutes, the speaker continued to work perfectly. Sound Quality: While the SoundLink Flex is undeniably stylish, I was initially skeptical about its sound quality. Could such a small speaker truly deliver the rich and balanced audio Bose is known for? The answer, to my surprise, is a resounding yes. The SoundLink Flex produces a surprisingly powerful sound for its size. The bass is deep and punchy, the mids are clear and detailed, and the highs are crisp and well-defined. I tested the speaker with a variety of music genres, from classical to hip-hop, and it handled everything I threw at it with ease. Even at high volumes, there was minimal distortion. The SoundLink Flex also features Bose’s PositionIQ technology, which automatically adjusts the EQ based on the speaker’s orientation. This ensures that you get optimal sound quality whether the speaker is standing upright, lying flat, or hanging from its utility loop. Features: The SoundLink Flex keeps things simple in terms of features, focusing on core functionality. Here are some highlights: Battery Life: Bose claims that the SoundLink Flex has a battery life of up to 12 hours. In my testing, I found this to be fairly accurate. I was able to get around 10-11 hours of playtime at moderate volume. The battery life will obviously vary depending on the volume level and type of music you’re playing. Charging is done via a USB-C port, and a full charge takes around four hours. What Could Be Improved: While the SoundLink Flex impressed me overall, there are a few areas where I think Bose could make improvements: Who is the SoundLink Flex for? The Bose SoundLink Flex is an ideal speaker for anyone who wants a portable, durable, and stylish speaker with good sound quality. It’s perfect for use outdoors, thanks to its IP67 rating, and it’s also great for use around the house. I would particularly recommend this speaker to: Final Verdict: The Bose SoundLink Flex is a great all-around portable speaker that excels in both design and sound quality. While it may not be the most feature-packed speaker on the market, its combination of durability, portability, and audio performance make it a compelling option for many users. If you’re looking for a stylish and reliable speaker that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the SoundLink Flex is definitely worth considering.
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The Dallas Cowboys are shutting down CeeDee Lamb for the rest of the season after the star wideout played through a shoulder injury for nearly two months. Lamb initially sprained the AC joint in his right shoulder on Nov. 3 but has not missed any of the Cowboys' first 15 games this season. "Additional examinations and scans this week on CeeDee Lamb's shoulder have determined that his injury has now progressed to a point that he will be listed as ‘Out' for the remaining two games of the season," a team spokesperson said in a statement to media outlets. "He will undergo a process of treatment and rehabilitation for his shoulder, is not currently expected to require surgery and is projected to make a full recovery." The Cowboys (7-8), eliminated from playoff contention, face two division rivals to close the season. They visit the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday and will host the Washington Commanders in Week 18. Lamb, 25, hauled in 101 receptions for 1,194 yards and six touchdowns this season. It marked his fourth straight 1,000-yard season, and he may be selected to a fourth straight Pro Bowl for his efforts. Lamb signed a four-year, $136 million contract extension in August, covering the 2025-28 seasons. --Field Level MediaAt Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport, more than a year of war has taken its toll. Global airlines have canceled flights, gates are empty and pictures of hostages still held in the Gaza Strip guide the few arriving passengers to baggage claim. But one check-in desk remains flush with travelers: the one serving flights to the United Arab Emirates, which have kept up a bridge for Israelis to the outside world throughout the war. The Emirati flights, in addition to bolstering airlines’ bottom lines, have shined a light on the countries’ burgeoning ties — which have survived the wars raging across the Middle East and could be further strengthened as U.S. President-elect Donald Trump prepares to return to office. “It’s a political and economic statement,” said Joshua Teitelbaum, a professor of Middle Eastern studies at Israel’s Bar-Ilan University. “They are the main foreign airlines that continue to fly.” Since the wars began with Hamas’ initial Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel, many international airlines have halted, restarted and halted again their flights into Israel’s main gateway to the rest of the world. The concern is real for the carriers, who remember the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 over Ukraine 10 years ago and Iran shooting down Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 after takeoff from Tehran in 2020. But FlyDubai, the sister airline to the long-haul carrier Emirates, has kept up multiple flights daily and kept Israel connected to the wider world even as its other low-cost competitors have stopped flights. Abu Dhabi’s Etihad has continued its flights as well. While maintaining the flight schedule remains politically important for the UAE after its 2020 diplomatic recognition of Israel, it also provided a further shot in the arm for revenues — particularly for FlyDubai. Since the Israeli’s wars against Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon started, international carriers such as Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines, Germany’s Lufthansa and other major airlines halted their flights. Some resumed, only to stop again after Iran’s Oct. 1 ballistic missile attack on Israel and Israel’s Oct. 26 retaliatory strike on the Islamic Republic. Tehran has threatened to strike Israel again. That’s brought major business to Israel’s national carrier El Al, which had struggled in the coronavirus pandemic and prior years. The airline posted its best-ever half-year results this year, recording a $227 million profit as compared to $58 million profit in the same period last year. El Al stock has risen by as much 200% over the past year, as compared to a 29% rise in the wider Tel Aviv 125 stock market index. El Al, however, lacks the routes and connections of major international carriers. Low-cost carriers as well have stopped flying into Israel during periods of the war, sending the price of El Al tickets ever higher. Passenger numbers through Ben Gurion halved compared to the same period the year before, El Al said in its second-quarter financial results. However, FlyDubai has kept flying. The carrier has operated more than 1,800 flights to Israel since October 2023, cancelling only 77 flights overall, according to Cirium, an aviation analytics company. In September alone, it flew more than 200 flights. As a line snaked toward the FlyDubai check-in counters at Ben Gurion Airport, UAE-bound Motti Eis said the flights were “a symbol that the Emirates countries decided to keep the peace.” FlyDubai declined to answer questions from The Associated Press about the flights. Etihad, the flag carrier for Abu Dhabi, has kept flying into Tel Aviv, but the number of its flights has been dwarfed by FlyDubai. FlyDubai had 3.6% market share at Ben Gurion, compared to El Al’s 43.2% in the second half of 2024. However, at least two of the foreign low-cost airlines with greater market, Wizz Air and Blue Bird, stopped flying for extended periods this year. Etihad said it maintains a close watch on the situation in the region, but continues its daily flights to and from Tel Aviv. “Ben Gurion International Airport remains open, employing best practices in safety and security practices, enabling Etihad and other airlines to provide essential air connectivity as long as it is secure to do so,” the airline said in a statement. Beyond the financial impact, the decision also takes root in the UAE’s decision to recognize Israel in 2020 under agreements brokered by President Donald Trump known as the Abraham Accords. While Abu Dhabi has repeatedly expressed concern and outrage at Israel’s conduct during the wars, Israel’s consulate in Dubai and embassy remain open in the country. And while Dubai, broadly speaking, remains focused on business in the country, Abu Dhabi’s focus long has been on its geopolitical aims — which since the 2011 Arab Spring have been squarely focused on challenging Islamist movements and those who back them in the wider region. The UAE, a hereditary autocracy, long has viewed those groups as serious challenges to its power. Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Here's How Much You Would Have Made Owning Illumina Stock In The Last 20 YearsWe condemn thelatest statement by the US Embassy in Azerbaijan, which interferesonce again in our country’s internal affairs under the pretext ofdefending human rights, the Western Azerbaijan Community said in astatement, reports. "In terms of substance, the statement is baseless, manipulative,and far from the truth. The current US administration’s activities under the guise ofpromoting human rights are entirely harmful and incompatible withthe concept of human rights. The U.S. administration has ignored the mass human rightsviolations committed by Armenia against ethnic Azerbaijanis andhas, in practice, allowed ethnic and religious discriminationagainst them. This discrimination is the greatest blow to the veryidea of human rights. We call on the current US administration, at least in its finaldays, to refrain from using human rights as a tool for politicalpurposes and to support the genuine human rights issue of thereturn of Western Azerbaijanis to their homeland," the Communityadded.Yuletide: Bode George Urges Tinubu to Reduce Fuel Price To N300 Per Litre
Seahawks place RB Kenneth Walker III (ankle) on injured reserve( MENAFN - GetNews) Did you know that QR codes are expected to be used by over 5 billion people worldwide by 2025? What started as a tool for tracking inventory has now become a game-changer in many industries, from retail to weddings. Today, QR codes are changing how businesses connect with customers, making things easier, more engaging, and more efficient. This shift isn't just a trend-it's a permanent move toward digital, with QR codes playing a key role in boosting both customer satisfaction and business growth. Industries like retail, food and beverage, real estate, events, and weddings are using QR codes to meet specific needs and enhance customer experiences. For example, a QR code for wedding pictures allows guests to easily access and share photos without the usual hassle. By looking at how QR codes are applied, we can see their growing role in business and the benefits they bring to various sectors. Retail: A New Shopping Experience QR codes enhance the shopping experience by giving customers quick access to product details, exclusive discounts, and loyalty programs. By scanning codes on products or ads, shoppers can easily find information like ingredients, instructions, and prices, helping them make informed choices. Using these codes also makes shopping more enjoyable. Customers can read reviews and access special offers right on their phones. This creates a more interactive shopping experience, especially for tech-savvy shoppers. Retailers gain valuable details into customer preferences, which helps them create personalized marketing. Weddings: Simplifying Photo Sharing QR codes are becoming popular at weddings, making it easy for guests to share photos. Couples often create unique codes that link to online albums, allowing guests to upload and exchange photos from the event. This digital solution not only simplifies photo management but also encourages guest participation. The shared albums create a sense of community, giving the couple a variety of memories from different perspectives. Guests can quickly add their candid shots, making sure no moment goes unnoticed. Using technology in this way adds a modern twist to wedding traditions, increasing engagement and connection among family and friends. Food and Beverage: Streamlining Menus and Ordering QR codes in restaurants and cafés are making the ordering process faster and improving customer experiences. Scanning the codes lets customers view digital menus with details on items, ingredients, and prices, all without touching physical menus. This change supports hygiene, especially in a post-pandemic world where minimizing contact is important for both businesses and customers. QR codes do more than just show the menu; they let customers order and pay straight from their phones. This makes things run smoother in busy restaurants, allowing staff to focus on preparing food and providing service instead of handling transactions. Real Estate: Virtual Tours Made Easy Using QR codes in real estate makes it easier for buyers to explore properties. Placed on for-sale signs, these codes allow quick scans that lead to detailed property info, like pricing, square footage, and key features. QR codes can also link to images and video tours, giving potential buyers a better sense of the space without needing to visit in person. This saves time and expands the reach of listings, making it easier for people to compare options. More than just a marketing tool , QR codes represent a move toward using technology to simplify and improve the home-buying experience. Events and Entertainment: Connecting Guests Effortlessly QR codes are transforming how people experience events like concerts, festivals, and conferences. By scanning the codes, attendees can enter without physical tickets, speeding up entry and reducing wait times. This makes for a smoother flow of visitors and helps organizers manage crowds, improving the overall event experience. QR codes also give attendees easy access to schedules, maps, and live updates during the event. This keeps guests informed about sessions, performances, and any changes. Networking is also easier with QR codes, as attendees can share their social media profiles and quickly exchange contact information. QR codes have emerged as a versatile tool that enhances convenience and engagement across multiple industries. From transforming retail shopping and streamlining food service to simplifying real estate transactions and enriching event experiences, their applications are wide-ranging and impactful. In weddings, QR codes add a modern, interactive touch, making photo sharing seamless and inclusive. Their ability to provide instant access to information, services, and connections highlights their adaptability in meeting diverse needs. As businesses and individuals continue adopting QR technology, it's clear that these small codes are leaving a significant mark on how we interact, shop, celebrate, and stay informed in an increasingly digital world. MENAFN23122024003238003268ID1109025397 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
State Sen. Nate Boulton, center, speaks with other Democrats in downtown Des Moines on Oct. 16, 2024, the first day of early voting in Iowa. Former state Rep. John Forbes, left and Democratic congressional candidate Lanon Baccam, right, are also shown. (Photo by Kathie Obradovich/Iowa Capital Dispatch) Iowa Sen. Nate Boulton, D-Des Moines, conceded his race for reelection Friday after the recount for Iowa Senate District 20 concluded and found Republican Mike Pike maintained his lead. Boulton served in the Iowa Senate since 2017 and held the position of Iowa Senate Democratic whip in the most recent General Assembly. In his concession statement, he thanked his constituents and family for their support while congratulating Pike on his victory. “It has been the honor of a lifetime to represent my community, and serve my state, as a member of the Iowa Senate for the past eight years and as the Minority Whip this past session,” Boulton said in a statement. “The election is over and the recount has concluded. By one of the narrowest margins in the state, I will not be returning to the Iowa Senate this January.” Pike, a plumber who has not previously held political office, did not respond to requests for comment on the race. The incumbent Democrat lost by 44 votes to his GOP challenger, according to preliminary results leading into the recount. An update on the final vote count has not yet been released. In addition to Senate District 20, covering eastern parts of Des Moines, Altoona, Pleasant Hill and southwest Ankeny, recounts were called for two other legislative races. Republican Mark Hanson requested a recount in his race to unseat Sen. Sarah Trone Garriott, D-Waukee in Senate District 14, and GOP challenger Nathan Ramker requested a recount in his race against incumbent Rep. Monica Kurth, D-Davenport for House District 98 earlier in the week. While the recount outcomes from these two races have yet to be announced, GOP trifecta control of the Statehouse has already been confirmed. Republicans won a supermajority in the Iowa House and held onto their existing supermajority in the Iowa Senate in the 2024 general election. While Boulton’s loss will not have an impact on Democrats’ status as the minority party in the Iowa Senate, he was floated as a potential candidate to replace Senate Minority Leader Pam Jochum, D-Dubuque, who did not run for reelection in 2024. Senate Democrats planned to meet Friday evening to discuss their caucus leadership for the 2025 legislative session, Radio Iowa reported. Boulton said he plans to return to his law practice, where he specializes in labor law, workers compensation and personal injury. He said in his concession statement that he was pleased with the work he was able to accomplish at the the Iowa Legislature. “I’m proud of the work we’ve been able to do and the things we have accomplished over the past eight years,” Boulton said. “Fighting for Iowa’s workers — leading an all-night floor (debate) to challenge legislation that gutted workplace rights for thousands of union workers who answer the call of public service. Fighting to protect injured workers whose bodies and earnings are damaged as they contribute to Iowa’s economic success. Standing up for kids and introducing and passing through the Senate bipartisan legislation designed to help them get coverage for the medical care they need. ... While this term in the Iowa Senate is ending, I remain dedicated to working towards economic and social justice as we pursue a brighter, stronger future for our community, our state, and our nation.”The US says it pushed retraction of a famine warning for north Gaza. Aid groups express concern.
