TORONTO — When Geoffrey Hinton strode across the Stockholm Concert Hall stage Tuesday to receive his Nobel Prize for physics from King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden, he was beaming. It has taken decades for many beyond the science community to realize the British Canadian computer scientist's life's work was so significant it eventually formed the foundation of artificial intelligence. But on Tuesday, as he accepted the Nobel diploma and its accompanying gold medal with co-laureate John Hopfield, there was no question about the importance of Hinton's discoveries nor how he has shaped history. Instead, there was only pride for the affable 77-year-old, often called the godfather of AI — and that pride stretched from Stockholm to Toronto. A crowd of about 100 students and colleagues at the University of Toronto, where Hinton is a professor emeritus, gathered at the school's downtown campus to watch the Nobel ceremony. Two other watch parties took over the school's Mississauga and Scarborough campuses. Any mention of physics or a sighting of Hinton, clad in a dark suit and white bow tie, generated rousing applause at the Toronto gathering. When the man of the hour headed to retrieve his accolade from the King, a few former students and colleagues wiped tears from their eyes. "There is, at least for me, this sense that Prof. Hinton created the whole ecosystem here, where there are thousands of people who are working on his ideas," Michael Guerzhoy, one of Hinton's former students who went on to teach a course Hinton had once led at the university, said before the ceremony began. The idea that earned Hinton the Nobel dates back to the 1980s, when he was working at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh and AI was far from the buzzy technology it is today. It was then that Hinton developed the Boltzmann machine, which learns from examples, rather than instructions, and when trained, can recognize familiar characteristics in information, even if it has not seen that data before. "It was a lot of fun doing the research but it was slightly annoying that many people — in fact, most people in the field of AI — said that neural networks would never work," Hinton recalled during a press conference on the October day he was named as a Nobel laureate. "They were very confident that these things were just a waste of time and we would never be able to learn complicated things like, for example, understanding natural language using neural networks — and they were wrong." Neural networks are computational models that resemble the human brain's structure and functions. When Nobel physics committee chair Ellen Moons presented Hinton to receive his award, she said these networks are good at sorting and interpreting large amounts of data and self-improve based on the accuracy of the results they generate. "Today, artificial neural networks are powerful tools in research fields spanning physics, chemistry and medicine, as well as in daily life," she said. John DiMarco wasn't surprised that Hinton's work paved the way for such possibilities, but the IT director for U of T's computer science department was taken aback that Hinton's Nobel came in the unlikely physics category. DiMarco met Hinton roughly 35 years ago in a job interview and quickly took note of his proclivity for humour and the quirks in how his mind works. "He is quite insightful and he goes straight to the core of things," DiMarco said. "He would sometimes come out of his office and share some new idea. We didn't always understand what he was sharing, but he was very excited about it." Many of those ideas required lots of computing power the school's systems didn't have, so DiMarco's team patched together a solution with graphics processing units from video game consoles. DiMarco brought one of Hinton's GPUs to the watch party, which was also attended by Joseph Jay Williams, the director of U of T's Intelligent Adaptive Interventions Lab. Williams took one of Hinton's classes and said the Nobel winner "changed the course of my life" by encouraging him to go to grad school, which then led him to win the XPRIZE Digital Learning Challenge, a global competition aimed at rewarding people who modernize learning tools and processes. Other notable mentees and alumni of Hinton's classes include OpenAI co-founder Ilya Sutskever and Cohere co-founders Nick Frosst and Aidan Gomez. With his Nobel win and so many esteemed protege, Williams said Hinton has become a "reluctant celebrity" who is hounded for photos every time he's on campus. Hinton, however, has taken a much more humble approach to his recent win, which he learned of on a trip to California. He initially thought the call from the academy that gives out the Nobel was "a spoof," but later realized it had to be real because it was placed from Sweden and the speaker had a "strong Swedish accent." The award the academy gave him comes with 11 million Swedish kronor (about $1.4 million) from a bequest arranged by Swedish inventor Alfred Nobel. Hinton and Hopfield will split the money, with some of Hinton's share going to Water First, an Ontario organization working to boost Indigenous access to water, and another unnamed charity supporting neurodiverse young adults. Hinton has said he doesn't plan to do much more "frontier research." "I believe I'm going to spend my time advocating for people to work on safety," he said in October. Last year, Hinton left a role he held at Google to more freely speak about the dangers of AI, which he has said include bias and discrimination, fake news, joblessness, lethal autonomous weapons and even the end of humanity. At a Stockholm press conference over the weekend, he said he doesn’t regret the work he did to lay the foundations of artificial intelligence, but wishes he thought of safety sooner. “In the same circumstances, I would do the same again,” he said. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 10, 2024. Tara Deschamps, The Canadian PressQ3 Sales and operating results better than guidance Q3 Sales increase of 7% represents sequential improvement for the fifth consecutive quarter Raises full year 2024 outlook and provides fourth quarter guidance REYNOLDSBURG, Ohio, Dec. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Victoria’s Secret & Co. (“Victoria’s Secret” or the “Company”) (NYSE: VSCO) today reported financial results for the third quarter ended November 2, 2024. Chief Executive Officer Hillary Super commented, “I am very encouraged by the strength of our third quarter business and the positive, early customer response to our holiday merchandise assortments. Sales increased 7% for the quarter, with mid-single digit growth in North America and 20+% growth from our International business. Our sales performance was well ahead of our expectations, and our best quarterly sales growth since 2021. Our strength for the quarter was broad based across all regions, all channels, all major merchandise categories and importantly all brands - Victoria’s Secret, PINK and Adore Me - were up to last year. We won the major moments during the quarter, starting with PINK back to campus in August, followed by our VSX sport launch in September and finishing the quarter with the return of the VS Fashion Show in October. I am particularly optimistic because these results were powered by emotional products she loves and clear, elevated brand marketing and storytelling. Our strength in sales and disciplined inventory management translated to strong margins which were up to last year, and our teams continue to be relentless on controlling costs in our business. I want to thank our VS&Co team whose passion for our brands and commitment to our customers and our transformation fueled these results. It was a great quarter for me to have joined the company and a great quarter to be on the VS&Co team.” Hillary continued, “We are excited to see our momentum from the third quarter continue through Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Our merchandise offering and giftable product assortments are resonating with the customer and driving traffic both in stores and online. The strong product acceptance supported by our best-in-mall store experience and dozens of digital enhancements are driving solid conversion and basket size. As I travel with the teams, I have observed that our stores are often the busiest in the mall and am particularly impressed with how we continue to serve and engage our customers.” Third Quarter 2024 Results The Company reported net sales of $1.347 billion for the third quarter of 2024, an increase of 7% compared to net sales of $1.265 billion for the third quarter of 2023 and above our previously communicated guidance range of a net sales increase of low-single digits. Total comparable sales for the third quarter of 2024 increased 3%. The Company reported a net loss of $56 million, or $0.71 per share for the third quarter of 2024. This result compares to a net loss of $71 million, or $0.92 per share for the third quarter of 2023. Third quarter 2024 operating loss was $47 million compared to $67 million in the third quarter of 2023. Excluding the impact of the items described at the conclusion of this press release, third quarter 2024 adjusted net loss was $39 million, or $0.50 per diluted share, which was better than our previously communicated range of an adjusted net loss of $0.60 to $0.80 per share and better than last year’s third quarter adjusted net loss of $66 million, or $0.86 per share. Third quarter 2024 adjusted operating loss of $28 million was favorable to our previously communicated guidance of an adjusted operating loss in the range of $40 to $60 million, and last year’s third quarter adjusted operating loss of $60 million. Full Year and Fourth Quarter 2024 Outlook The Company is raising its full year outlook and is now forecasting net sales for the 52-week fiscal year 2024 to be up approximately 1% to 2%, compared to prior guidance of down approximately 1%, to a comparative 52-weeks from fiscal year 2023. The Company estimated the extra week in the fourth quarter of 2023 represented approximately $80 million in net sales. At this forecasted level of sales, adjusted operating income for fiscal year 2024 is now expected to be in the range of $315 million to $345 million, or favorable to prior guidance of $275 million to $300 million. The Company is forecasting net sales for the 13-week fourth quarter 2024 to increase approximately 2% to 4% to a comparative 13-weeks from the fourth quarter of 2023. At this forecasted level of sales, adjusted operating income for the fourth quarter of 2024 is expected to be in the range of $240 million to $270 million. Adjusted net income per diluted share for the fourth quarter of 2024 is estimated to be in the range of $2.00 to $2.30. Forecasted adjusted operating income and adjusted net income per diluted share for the fourth quarter and full year 2024 exclude the financial impact of purchase accounting items related to the Adore Me acquisition, including expense (income) related to changes in the estimated fair value of contingent consideration and performance-based payments, as well as the amortization of intangible assets. The Company is not able to provide a reconciliation of forward-looking adjusted operating income or adjusted net income per diluted share to the most directly comparable forward-looking GAAP financial measures because the Company is unable to provide a meaningful or accurate reconciliation or estimation of certain reconciling items without unreasonable effort, due to the inherent difficulty in forecasting the timing of, and quantifying, the various purchase accounting items that are necessary for such reconciliation. Quarterly Earnings Conference Call Victoria’s Secret & Co. will conduct its third quarter earnings call at 8:00 a.m. Eastern on Friday, December 6, 2024. To listen, call 1-800-619-9066 (international dial-in number: 1-212-519-0836); conference ID 5358727. For an audio replay, call 1-800-839-1334 (international replay number: 1-203-369-3831); conference ID 2485654 or log onto www.victoriassecretandco.com . The materials accompanying the earnings call have been posted on the Investors section of the Company’s website. The audio replay will be available approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call. About Victoria’s Secret & Co. Victoria’s Secret & Co. (NYSE: VSCO) is a specialty retailer of modern, fashion-inspired collections including signature bras, panties, lingerie, casual sleepwear, athleisure and swim, as well as award-winning prestige fragrances and body care. VS&Co is comprised of market leading brands, Victoria’s Secret and PINK, that share a common purpose of supporting women in all they do, and Adore Me, a technology-led, digital first innovative intimates brand serving women of all sizes and budgets at all phases of life. We are committed to empowering our more than 30,000 associates across a global footprint of 1,380 retail stores in nearly 70 countries. We strive to provide the best products to help women express their confidence, sexiness and power and use our platform to celebrate the extraordinary diversity of women’s experiences. Safe Harbor Statement Under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 We caution that any forward-looking statements (as such term is defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995) contained in this press release or made by us, our management, or our spokespeople involve risks and uncertainties and are subject to change based on various factors, many of which are beyond our control. Accordingly, our future performance and financial results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in any such forward-looking statements, and any future performance or financial results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding our future operating results, the implementation and impact of our strategic plans, and our ability to meet environmental, social, and governance goals. Words such as “estimate,” “commit,” “will,” “target,” “goal,” “project,” “plan,” “believe,” “seek,” “strive,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “continue,” “potential” and any similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Risks associated with the following factors, among others, could affect our results of operations and financial performance and cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements: we may not realize all of the expected benefits of the spin-off from Bath & Body Works, Inc. (f/k/a L Brands, Inc.); general economic conditions, inflation, and changes in consumer confidence and consumer spending patterns; market disruptions including pandemics or significant health hazards, severe weather conditions, natural disasters, terrorist activities, financial crises, political crises or other major events, or the prospect of these events; our ability to successfully implement our strategic plan; difficulties arising from turnover in company leadership or other key positions; our ability to attract, develop and retain qualified associates and manage labor-related costs; our dependence on traffic to our stores and the availability of suitable store locations on satisfactory terms; our ability to successfully operate and expand internationally and related risks; the operations and performance of our franchisees, licensees, wholesalers and joint venture partners; our ability to successfully operate and grow our direct channel business; our ability to protect our reputation and the image and value of our brands; our ability to attract customers with marketing, advertising and promotional programs; the highly competitive nature of the retail industry and the segments in which we operate; consumer acceptance of our products and our ability to manage the life cycle of our brands, remain current with fashion trends, and develop and launch new merchandise, product lines and brands successfully; our ability to realize the potential benefits and synergies sought with the acquisition of AdoreMe, Inc.; our ability to incorporate artificial intelligence into our business operations successfully and ethically while effectively managing the associated risks; our ability to source materials and produce, distribute and sell merchandise on a global basis, including risks related to: political instability and geopolitical conflicts; environmental hazards and natural disasters; significant health hazards and pandemics; delays or disruptions in shipping and transportation and related pricing impacts; and disruption due to labor disputes; our geographic concentration of production and distribution facilities in central Ohio and Southeast Asia; the ability of our vendors to manufacture and deliver products in a timely manner, meet quality standards and comply with applicable laws and regulations; fluctuations in freight, product input and energy costs; our and our third-party service providers’ ability to implement and maintain information technology systems and to protect associated data and system availability; our ability to maintain the security of customer, associate, third-party and company information; stock price volatility; shareholder activism matters; our ability to maintain our credit rating; our ability to comply with regulatory requirements; and legal, tax, trade and other regulatory matters. Except as may be required by law, we assume no obligation and do not intend to make publicly available any update or other revisions to any of the forward-looking statements contained in this press release to reflect circumstances existing after the date of this press release or to reflect the occurrence of future events, even if experience or future events make it clear that any expected results expressed or implied by those forward-looking statements will not be realized. Additional information regarding these and other factors can be found in “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 22, 2024. Total Net Sales (Millions): 1 – Results include consolidated joint venture sales in China, royalties associated with franchised stores and wholesale sales. Comparable Sales Increase (Decrease): NOTE: Please refer to our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission for further discussion regarding our comparable sales calculation. 1 – Results include company-operated stores in the U.S. and Canada, consolidated joint venture stores in China and direct sales. 2 – Results include company-operated stores in the U.S. and Canada and consolidated joint venture stores in China. Total Stores: 1 – Includes twelve partner-operated stores at 11/2/24.laptop online games 。

( MENAFN - Caribbean News Global) GEORGETOWN, Guyana, (DPI) – The friendship between Guyana and Qatar exemplifies how countries across the globe can come together to drive progress, president Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali emphasised this during a reception on Monday at the Marriott Hotel to celebrate Qatar's National Day. President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, shared a vision for prosperity and development closely links the two countries, stating:“I believe that our partnership can serve as a model for international cooperation, driving progress not only for our nations but for the global community as a whole.” President Ali applauded Qatar's remarkable progress and transformation, and its growing role in fostering regional cooperation and international partnerships. With the recent establishment of a Qatari embassy in Guyana, president Ali underscored that a solid foundation for enhanced dialogue, cultural exchange, and mutually beneficial economic collaboration has been created. The president also pointed out that Guyana and Qatar's interests and development paths are aligned, particularly in the energy sector. “Our nation's oil discoveries have opened unprecedented opportunities for sustainable economic growth and inclusive social development. In this context, Qatar's experience in harnessing its natural resources for the benefit of its people aligns close to our own aspirations,” president Ali added.“We're also keen to explore possibilities in climate change mitigation and adaptation, given our shared commitment to sustainable development.” The president highlighted that this partnership has positioned Guyana as a prominent investment frontier for Qatar and pointed out that the Qatari Investment Authority has been mandated to explore every possibility to partner with the local private sector. The head of state further underscored the potential to broaden this partnership into emerging sectors such as renewable energy, tourism, education, and technology. Qatar is already supporting several large-scale projects in Guyana, demonstrating the impact that strategic partnerships can have on the economy. Qatari company, Assets Group Inc., is constructing a state-of-the-art hotel and convention centre, dubbed the Georgetown Seafront Resort and Convention Centre, and a new stadium, funded by the Qatari government, will be constructed in Region Three. Last September, the Emir of the State of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani embarked on a state visit to Guyana for fruitful discussions in areas of mutual interest. Recently, the two countries also signed an MoU to establish a framework for regular political dialogue and cooperation. Qatar's Acting Charge d'Affaires to Guyana, Mohammed Ebrahim Al Rumaihi also delivered remarks at the ceremony, emphasising the country's dedication to strengthening ties with Guyana across a range of sectors. Qatar National Day is celebrated annually on December 18. It commemorates the unification of Qatar under the leadership of Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani in 1878. This day marks a significant moment in Qatar's history, symbolising the country's unity, independence, and cultural heritage. The post Guyana – Qatar partnership can serve as a model for international cooperation, says president Ali appeared first on Caribbean News Global . MENAFN17122024000232011072ID1109004894 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.A post shared by Logan Jones (@logan.jones65) IOWA CITY — An Iowa senior offensive lineman announced his intentions to return to the program in 2025 on Tuesday. Center Logan Jones posted the announcement, a graphic with a short note explaining the decision, on Instagram. A caption "One last ride!" accompanied the post. "My time at the University of Iowa is something I will cherish forever," Jones said. "Representing the state of Iowa on Saturdays in the fall has created memories that will last a lifetime. To be able to wear the Black and Gold and swarm out with my teammates to the best fans in the country is truly special. "To have the chance to be able to play in the NFL is something I have dreamed of since I was a kid, but I am not done being a Hawkeye yet. Being a hawk has been a dream come true and I am excited for one last season with my brothers! Go Hawks!" Iowa offensive lineman Logan Jones (65) runs onto the field with teammates before an NCAA college football game against Western Michigan, Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, in Iowa City, Iowa. Jones started 38 games over the last three seasons for the Hawkeyes since moving from defensive line to center. The Council Bluffs Lewis Central product earned All-Big Ten first team honors from the league's media and second team honors from the Associated Press and Big Ten coaches. Jones return marks a major win for the Hawkeyes as Pro Football Focus (PFF) rated the senior as the top center in the conference with one sack allowed all season. The 2024 winter transfer portal window opened for college football players on Monday. Keep track of all the departures and commitments. The Iowa football program was well-represented in postseason all-conference honors awarded by the Associated Press and the Big Ten's coaches and media following the conclusion of the 2024 season. Here are some options for Iowa football fans hoping to catch the final game of the 2024 season as the Hawkeyes face Missouri in the Music City Bowl. Get local news delivered to your inbox! University of Iowa Athletics Beat Reporter {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items.None

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BERLIN -- Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel recalls Vladimir Putin's “power games” over the years, remembers contrasting meetings with Barack Obama and Donald Trump and says she asked herself whether she could have done more to prevent Brexit, in her memoirs published Tuesday. Merkel, 70, appears to have no significant doubts about the major decisions of her 16 years as German leader, whose major challenges included the global financial crisis, Europe’s debt crisis, the 2015-16 influx of refugees and the COVID-19 pandemic. True to form, her book — titled “Freedom” — offers a matter-of-fact account of her early life in communist East Germany and her later career in politics, laced with moments of dry wit. Merkel served alongside four U.S. presidents , four French presidents and five British prime ministers. But it is perhaps her dealings with Russian President Putin that have drawn the most scrutiny since she left office in late 2021. Merkel recalls being kept waiting by Putin at the Group of Eight summit she hosted in 2007 — “if there's one thing I can't stand, it's unpunctuality.” And she recounts a visit to the Russian Black Sea resort of Sochi that year in which Putin's labrador appeared during a photo opportunity, although Putin knew she was afraid of dogs. Putin appeared to enjoy the situation, she writes, and she didn't bring it up — keeping as she often did to the motto “never explain, never complain.” The previous year, she recounts Putin pointing to wooden houses in Siberia and telling her poor people lived there who “could be easily seduced,” and that similar groups had been encouraged by money from the U.S. government to take part in Ukraine's “Orange Revolution” of 2004 against attempted election fraud. Putin, she says, added: “I will never allow something like that in Russia.” Merkel says she was irritated by Putin's “self-righteousness” in a 2007 speech in Munich in which he turned away from earlier attempts to develop closer ties with the U.S. She said that appearance showed Putin as she knew him, “as someone who was always on guard against being treated badly and ready to give out at any time, including power games with a dog and making other people wait for him.” “One could find this all childish and reprehensible, one could shake one's head over it — but that didn't make Russia disappear from the map,” she writes. As she has before, Merkel defends a much-criticized 2015 peace deal for eastern Ukraine that she helped broker and her government's decisions to buy large quantities of natural gas from Russia. And she argues it was right to keep up diplomatic and trade ties with Moscow until she left power, Merkel concluded after first meeting then-Sen. Obama in 2008 that they could work well together. More than eight years later, during his last visit as president in Nov. 2016, she was one of the people with whom she discussed whether to seek a fourth term. Obama, she says, asked questions but held back with an opinion, and that in itself was helpful. He “said that Europe could still use me very well, but I should ultimately follow my feelings,” she writes. There was no such warmth with Trump, who had criticized Merkel and Germany in his 2016 campaign. Merkel says she had to seek an “adequate relationship ... without reacting to all the provocations.” In March 2017, there was an awkward moment when Merkel first visited the Trump White House. Photographers shouted “handshake!” and Merkel quietly asked Trump: “Do you want to have a handshake?” There was no response from Trump, who looked ahead with his hands clasped. Merkel faults her own reaction. “He wanted to create a topic of discussion with his behavior, while I had acted as if I were dealing with an interlocutor behaving normally,” she writes. She adds that Putin apparently “fascinated” Trump and, in the following years, she had the impression that “politicians with autocratic and dictatorial traits” beguiled him. Merkel says she tried to help then-Prime Minister David Cameron in the European Union as he faced pressure from British Euroskeptics, but there were limits to what she could do. And, pointing to Cameron's efforts over the years to assuage opponents of the EU, she says the road to Brexit is a textbook example of what can arise from a miscalculation. After Britons voted to leave the EU in 2016, an outcome she calls a “humiliation” for its other members, she says the question of whether she should have made more concessions to the U.K. “tortured me.” “I came to the conclusion that, in view of the political developments inside the country at the time, there would have been no acceptable possibility for me to prevent Britain's way out of the European Union from outside,” Merkel says. Merkel was the first German chancellor to leave power at a time of her choosing. She announced in 2018 that she wouldn't seek a fifth term, and says she “let go at the right point.” She points to three 2019 incidents in which her body shook during public engagements as proof. Merkel says she had herself checked thoroughly and there were no neurological or other findings. An osteopath told her that her body was letting off the tension it had accumulated over years, she adds. “Freedom” runs to more than 700 pages in its original German edition, published by Kiepenheuer & Witsch. The English edition is being released simultaneously by St. Martin's Press.Chiang Mai tourism operators are upbeat about robust bookings during December, thanks to a recovery in flights, festive events, and a new golden tiger "star" at Chiang Mai Night Safari. Punlop Saejew, acting president of the Tourism Council of Chiang Mai, said hotel operators are expecting an 80% occupancy rate for December, while some hotels might be able to secure at least 90% during the last two weeks of the year. Mr Punlop said that this month is typically high season for Chiang Mai, particularly among domestic tourists looking for cool weather in the north. Chiang Mai Night Safari's golden tiger, named "Ava", has risen to fame over the past few weeks, becoming a social media sensation following the rise of the pygmy hippo Moo Deng. "Ava" the golden tiger, pictured at Chiang Mai Night Safari. Photo courtesy of Chiang Mai Night Safari's Facebook page Mr Punlop said the tiger should help attract family groups and young travellers to the province in the same way that Chiang Mai Zoo lured a huge number of local tourists decades ago due to its pandas from China, particularly in terms of attracting busloads of students on field trips. He said related authorities should tap into this trend to promote tourism in the province throughout the year, but particularly during the low season, when zoos can still be visited as a significant activity. In December Chiang Mai will hold several interesting events, including a countdown event, a flower festival, a marathon, and concerts. He said Chiang Mai had already witnessed strong growth since Loy Krathong in the middle of this month, when the airport recorded a new high in daily arrivals, reaching over 35,800. The Transport Ministry also announced it would increase domestic flights during the week of the New Year holiday to maintain affordable airfares. The extended hours of airport operation also helped draw more flights and tourists to Chiang Mai, he added. While the recent travel subsidy known as "Travel North Half-Half" might not significantly stimulate provincial tourism due to its restricted budget, the programme could at least draw public attention to Chiang Mai and other northern provinces. Given that the next roaming cabinet will be held in Chiang Mai, Mr Punlop said the government should accelerate solving the cross-border smog issue, as the recurring issue might emerge as a pain point for the tourism industry again during this year's high season. Regarding foreign tourists who died from drinking alcohol contaminated with methanol in Laos, he said this incident should not impact confidence in Thai tourism. In Chiang Mai, many nightlife and bar operators have already upgraded their services and products to target high-spending tourists, such as with crafted drinks and unique experiences, rather than just cheap alcoholic drinks. He said Thailand has adopted stricter measures in issuing licences for venues and alcoholic beverages to ensure safer travel for tourists.

Minnesota Vikings ruthlessly cut a player on his birthday... and their fans are all predicting the same thing

One person died in Ecuador and ports closed across Peru as massive waves up to four meters (13 feet) high pummeled the region, officials said Saturday. Many beaches along the central and northern stretches of the Peruvian coastline were closed to prevent risk to human life, local authorities said. Waves there submerged jetties and public squares, sending residents fleeing to higher ground, according to images on local media. In neighboring Ecuador, the National Secretariat for Risk Management said a body was recovered in the coastal city of Manta. "The Manta Fire Department reported that, at 6:00 am, the body of a missing person was found lifeless in the Barbasquillo sector," the agency announced on social media. Peru closed 91 of its 121 ports until January 1, the National Emergency Operations Center said on its X social media account. The municipality of Callao, close to the capital Lima and the location of the country's main port, closed several beaches and barred tourist and fishing boats from venturing out. "These waves are being generated thousands of kilometers away from Peru, off the coast of the United States," navy Captain Enrique Varea told Channel N television. "They are waves generated by a persistent wind on the surface of the ocean that is approaching our coasts," he said. Dozens of small fishing boats and businesses near the sea were affected, according to images broadcast on television and social networks. axl/rmb/nro/acbGigaCloud: U.S. Tariffs On Chinese Imports Cast A Dark Cloud Over This B2B Platform

Top US securities regulator to exit, clearing way for Trump pick

6 analysts have expressed a variety of opinions on Artivion AORT over the past quarter, offering a diverse set of opinions from bullish to bearish. The following table encapsulates their recent ratings, offering a glimpse into the evolving sentiments over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months. Bullish Somewhat Bullish Indifferent Somewhat Bearish Bearish Total Ratings 3 3 0 0 0 Last 30D 0 1 0 0 0 1M Ago 1 0 0 0 0 2M Ago 0 2 0 0 0 3M Ago 2 0 0 0 0 Providing deeper insights, analysts have established 12-month price targets, indicating an average target of $32.0, along with a high estimate of $34.00 and a low estimate of $30.00. Witnessing a positive shift, the current average has risen by 3.23% from the previous average price target of $31.00. Investigating Analyst Ratings: An Elaborate Study A comprehensive examination of how financial experts perceive Artivion is derived from recent analyst actions. The following is a detailed summary of key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets. Analyst Analyst Firm Action Taken Rating Current Price Target Prior Price Target Daniel Stauder JMP Securities Maintains Market Outperform $33.00 $33.00 Mike Matson Needham Maintains Buy $34.00 $34.00 Suraj Kalia Oppenheimer Raises Outperform $32.00 $30.00 Daniel Stauder JMP Securities Announces Market Outperform $33.00 - Mike Matson Needham Maintains Buy $30.00 $30.00 Rick Wise Stifel Raises Buy $30.00 $28.00 Key Insights: Action Taken: Analysts frequently update their recommendations based on evolving market conditions and company performance. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Artivion. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company. Rating: Gaining insights, analysts provide qualitative assessments, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings reflect expectations for the relative performance of Artivion compared to the broader market. Price Targets: Understanding forecasts, analysts offer estimates for Artivion's future value. Examining the current and prior targets provides insight into analysts' changing expectations. Capture valuable insights into Artivion's market standing by understanding these analyst evaluations alongside pertinent financial indicators. Stay informed and make strategic decisions with our Ratings Table. Stay up to date on Artivion analyst ratings. If you are interested in following small-cap stock news and performance you can start by tracking it here . Get to Know Artivion Better Artivion Inc offers cardiac and vascular surgeons a suite of aortic-centric solutions. The company's products include Aortic Heart Valve, Mitral Heart Valve, Aortic Allograft, Pulmonary Human Heart Valve, Pulmonary Patch, and Surgical Adhesive among others. Financial Insights: Artivion Market Capitalization Analysis: Reflecting a smaller scale, the company's market capitalization is positioned below industry averages. This could be attributed to factors such as growth expectations or operational capacity. Revenue Growth: Artivion's remarkable performance in 3 months is evident. As of 30 September, 2024, the company achieved an impressive revenue growth rate of 9.02% . This signifies a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company encountered difficulties, with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Health Care sector. Net Margin: The company's net margin is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive net margin of -2.39%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost control. Return on Equity (ROE): Artivion's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROE, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROE of -0.76%, the company showcases efficient use of equity capital and strong financial health. Return on Assets (ROA): Artivion's ROA surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive -0.29% ROA, the company effectively utilizes its assets for optimal returns. Debt Management: Artivion's debt-to-equity ratio stands notably higher than the industry average, reaching 1.19 . This indicates a heavier reliance on borrowed funds, raising concerns about financial leverage. The Core of Analyst Ratings: What Every Investor Should Know Benzinga tracks 150 analyst firms and reports on their stock expectations. Analysts typically arrive at their conclusions by predicting how much money a company will make in the future, usually the upcoming five years, and how risky or predictable that company's revenue streams are. Analysts attend company conference calls and meetings, research company financial statements, and communicate with insiders to publish their ratings on stocks. Analysts typically rate each stock once per quarter or whenever the company has a major update. Beyond their standard evaluations, some analysts contribute predictions for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, furnishing investors with additional guidance. Users of analyst ratings should be mindful that this specialized advice is shaped by human perspectives and may be subject to variability. 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.None

Photo: Contributed A new and weighty document has been drafted, deliberated and delivered to direct the elected officers of Nelson municipal government in their actions during and in accordance with municipal meetings and business. The 88-page document was adopted into a Code of Conduct — which Nelson city council officially adopted on Nov. 5 during its regular business meeting — after two substantive meetings on the matter, as well as a session with an external advisor. “It’s a pretty robust bylaw but it does set the expectations about how councillors behave in a council meeting, and also how they make decisions as a body,” said city director of corporate services, Sarah Winton, in speaking to council. The Code of Conduct for city council establishes a framework promoting ethical behavior, integrity, respect and accountability, enhancing council’s ability to govern effectively and maintain public trust. The current code clarifies expected behaviors and provides mechanisms for addressing conduct issues, said Coun. Leslie Payne. “This is something that is happening all throughout B.C and the country to some degree,” she said. “I think we have all seen the newspaper articles talking about the conduct at various levels of local government, and this is one of the mechanisms that will, hopefully, put a bit of a framework around the value and integrity of working together in local governance.” Informal resolution is the primary means of resolving concerns between council members, Winton explained, as it is more effective, faster, more collaborative and more efficient than a formal complaint and investigation process. When a formal complaint is submitted and an investigation warranted, a third- party investigator will lead that process and provide a report and recommendations to council. The code provides several options for remedies. The code “formalizes the complaint process, which the city has not had formalized up until now,” she pointed out. “This is the primary means of addressing any concerns.” The teeth behind the bark The Code of Conduct is intended to be self-enforcing, said Winton. “However, if not applied impartially, a code of conduct can potentially be weaponized by council members as a tool for personal or political gain,” she said in her report to council. “Accusations or investigations, if handled without fairness or transparency, could be misused to undermine, intimidate, or discredit fellow members rather than address genuine issues.” Consideration of procedural fairness, confidentiality and unbiased enforcement is essential to avoid misuse and ensure that the code fosters constructive relationships and good governance, she added. “The intention of council in enacting this code of conduct is not to stifle council members or to limit their ability to fully perform the governmental and advocacy functions that their position entails,” she said. Some of the key aspects of the code include sections on general conduct, interactions with staff, confidentiality, conflict of interest and a structured complaint process that includes options for individual, informal and formal resolution. The Code of Conduct will be available on the city’s website.he sexual assault allegations against rapper could affect the musical plans of his wife , who is scheduled to perform at the game between the , as well as her 2025 tour. According to , the 43-year-old singer may change her plans following accusations against her husband, for allegedly being involved in the abuse of a 13-year-old girl at an after-party at the in on September 7, 2000, along with , where an anonymous female celebrity was also said to be present. "Bey and Jay are one of the most dominant power couples in the world, so even though the claim has nothing to do with her, her name had already been dragged into online speculation," a source told , adding that "The plan was for Beyonce to perform a new song during her Christmas Day halftime show before kicking off a new era," plus the music diva is about to announce her third act of the three-album saga and a stadium tour in 2025. Jay-Z claims to be victim of blackmail Rapper is facing accusations of sexually assaulting a woman when she was a minor, and the singer called the lawsuit an attempt at "extortion." According to , asked a federal judge to have the plaintiff reveal her identity, in addition to saying he was the victim of a campaign to extort him and force him to pay "an exorbitant sum of money." "What (Buzbee) had calculated is that the nature of these accusations and the public scrutiny would make me want to settle. Quite the opposite! It has made me want to expose him as the fraud that he is in the most public way possible. So no, I WILL NOT GIVE HIM A SINGLE PENNY!" said the rapper, who lamented the impact this accusation may have on his family. 's lawyer filed court papers asking a judge to require his accuser, who is only identified as , to reveal her identity if she wishes to proceed with the lawsuit. added that the accusing party has not provided any evidence to justify its anonymity and that its does not comply with the law with its "vague claims of potential harm are far from meeting the strict requirements".