China Resources Beverage shares rise in Hong Kong trading debut as IPOs gather momentum
Shares of China Resources Beverage advanced in their trading debut in Hong Kong, as the momentum of initial public offerings (IPO) gathers pace in one of the busiest weeks this year for the local exchange, which may raise up to US$1.3 billion. Listed under the code 2460, CR Beverage changed hands at HK$16.50, a 13.8 per cent jump from its IPO price of HK$14.50, in first trades when chairman Zhang Weitong struck the ceremonial gong to mark the debut with Wang Xiangming, the chairman of its state-controlled parent company. The stock ended the day 14.6 per cent higher at HK$16.62. CR Beverage raised HK$5.04 billion (US$650 million) after selling its shares to outside investors at the top end of the marketed price range. The IPO attracted bids that exceeded the available shares by 234 times, which may encourage CR Beverage to exercise an option to sell an additional 52.2 million shares at the same price and swell the proceeds to US$747 million. The opening premium values CR Beverage at HK$39.02 billion, according to data from the stock exchange. “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the government and relevant departments at all levels of the group for their long-term care and assistance to China Resources Beverage, [and] for the strong support given by the Hong Kong stock exchange and various intermediary agencies in the company’s IPO process,” Zhang said before the commencement of trade. The IPO attracted nine cornerstone investors who were slated to buy US$310 million worth of shares, according to the term sheet. UBS Asset Management was to take up about a third of the cornerstone block. Source link
23 October 2024
Here’s how you can keep your spirits high at Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival
Hongkongers and tourists will be among an estimated 150,000 participants raising their glasses and exploring different types of cuisine at the five-day Wine and Dine Festival, which starts on Wednesday. In addition to more than 300 booths that will participate, the event taking place at the harbourfront in Central will offer over 1,000 varieties of wine, classic whiskies, creative cocktails and craft beers. It will also have food options to pair with those drinks, ranging from starters to desserts, with vegetarian choices on the table. The Post lists some of the key events and offers. The right bottle of wine A wine and dine search function is available on a dedicated webpage run by the Hong Kong Tourism Board. Users can filter by preferences, such as the type of wine, its origin and the number of tokens needed. Source link
23 October 2024
Tender for Hong Kong youth hostel project in Kai Tak to begin by end of year
The tendering process to turn unused Covid-19 isolation facilities in Kai Tak into a youth hostel will begin by the end of the year, a Hong Kong minister has said, while the government has approved a fifth hostel project under a subsidy scheme to boost the supply of homes for young people. Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs Alice Mak Mei-kuen said on Wednesday the planned Kai Tak hostel project was set to enter the tendering process by the end of the year and would gradually come into use in 2025. “Since the facility is quite large, we believe that through the tendering process, we can find suitable operators,” she told a radio show. “These operators will need to consider how to make this place a genuine space for youth exchange and provide young people with opportunities for development.” Mak added that potential operators would need to submit proposals detailing how they would use the existing space, which was built as an isolation facility during the Covid-19 pandemic but never used. She acknowledged some modifications might be needed, but the government’s requirement was that the works must allow for gradual use of the facilities starting next year. Source link
23 October 2024
Hong Kong’s financial system has learned from past crises, braced to beat shocks: Paul Chan
Hong Kong’s financial system has learned to better overcome external shocks and market volatility from the lessons of past global and regional crises, a top minister has told a forum in the US. Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po also said Hong Kong authorities would embrace technology and “enable the responsible and sustainable development of digital assets”. “Hong Kong is a small, fully open and externally oriented economy. That means we are prone to external shocks and volatility,” he said in a keynote speech at the Bloomberg Global Regulatory Forum in New York on Tuesday. He cited the Asian financial crisis in the late 1990s, the global financial crisis in the 2000s and “the market squeeze during the onset of the Covid pandemic” as examples and good lessons to learn from. Chan arrived in New York on Tuesday and will stay until Thursday as part of a trip that also took him to Peru earlier this week for an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) meeting. The official acknowledged Hong Kong had experienced “several challenging years” that also included social unrest, but emphasised the city was “back once again with a stable, welcoming and promising business environment”. Finance minister Paul Chan acknowledges Hong Kong has experienced “several challenging years”. Photo: Handout Source link
23 October 2024
Hong Kong’s South China Morning Post scoops 3 awards at digital media competition
The South China Morning Post has picked up three prizes at the 19th annual w3 Awards, presented by the Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts in the United States to recognise outstanding work in digital media. The Post’s flagship video interview programme, Talking Post with Yonden Lhatoo, won gold in the category of “general video – news and politics”. The winning episode, produced by the Post’s video team, takes a deep dive into Hong Kong’s notorious “coffin homes” and highlights the plight of the city’s underprivileged families forced to live in dire conditions. The Post’s food and culture programme, Eat Drink Asia, won silver at the w3 Awards for “video series – food and drink”. Each episode of the show focuses on an ingredient, dish or cooking technique, and tells the story of its origins, evolution, cultural impact and international influence. The five-part podcast series, Inside China’s demographic revolution, also won silver in the “podcast individual episodes – news and specials category”. Each episode delves into an aspect of China’s shifting demographics and discusses its impact on the country’s economy and society. “Once again, our award-winning journalists have made us proud,” Post editor-in-chief Tammy Tam said. “Our audiovisual content is right up there with the best from around the world, and we are pleased to see the judges recognise the top-quality journalism that the Post is known for.” Source link
23 October 2024
Body of sailor found 10 metres underwater in Hong Kong after 2-day search and rescue operation
A two-day search for a sailor who went missing after falling into the sea at a pier in Hong Kong ended on Wednesday when divers discovered his body 10 metres (33 feet) below the surface. The 24-year-old man, surnamed Xiang, fell into the sea at around 12.30pm on Monday after helping to secure a docked ship with ropes at a fill bank off Lung Mun Road in Tuen Mun. The site is used to load ships with sand and gravel for transport to construction sites, according to a source. The site is managed by a subcontractor with the Civil Engineering and Development Department. Upon receiving the report of the missing man on Monday, marine authorities and fire services deployed vessels to carry out a search and rescue operation, with the assistance of a Government Flying Service helicopter checking the area by air. The insider said divers from the Fire Services Department carrying out an underwater search found the man’s body at a depth of 10 metres at around 7.19am on Wednesday. He said a preliminary investigation found nothing suspicious about the case. Source link
23 October 2024
Dinosaur bone fossils found in Hong Kong for first time, in what expert calls ‘very lucky’ discovery
Dinosaur bone fossils have been discovered in Hong Kong for the first time, on a remote island off the northern part of the city, and the remains will be put on public display from Friday, authorities have said. The Development Bureau said on Wednesday the fossils were found on Port Island, while experts believed they were from the Cretaceous period, about 66 million to 145 million years ago. “The discovery is of great significance and provides new evidence for research on palaeoecology in Hong Kong,” Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn Hon-ho said. The fossils will be displayed from Friday onwards at the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre in Kowloon Park, Tsim Sha Tsui. Photo: SCMP Authorities said the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department discovered sedimentary rock containing suspected vertebrate fossils on the island in March. Mainland Chinese experts from the Institute of Vertebrate Palaeontology and Palaeoanthropology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences conducted a field investigation between June and August. It was believed the bone fossils could be associated with larger types of dinosaurs, including sauropods and ornithischians, but further study was required to confirm the species. “Experts speculate that the dinosaur may have been buried under sand and gravel after death, then washed to the surface by a large flood and subsequently reburied at the discovery site,” a bureau spokesman said. “Due to the scattered distribution and fragmented weathering of the dinosaur bones found, the chances of the dinosaur dying and being buried in the same place after death are relatively low.” Source link
23 October 2024
Vendors at Hong Kong Lunar New Year fair worried over retail slump, bids for stalls weak
Vendors at Hong Kong’s largest Lunar New Year fair have expressed worries over how their businesses will perform, with most successful bids for regular dry goods stalls lagging behind the average price from the most recent edition. The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department on Wednesday conducted the second round of a three-day auction, putting up for grabs 99 dry goods stalls for the Victoria Park fair, which will be held between January 23 and 29 next year. Cat Lau, managing director of Wo Hing Loong Food Company, said business would drop by 20 per cent compared with the last edition, adding he felt that the pessimism among retailers was also reflected in the low hammer prices. “We will keep prices low, hopefully selling a larger volume, with eight packs of candied roast peanuts going for HK$50 [US$6.4] and HK$30 for two packets of ‘dragon’s beard candies’,” he said. Bidders on Tuesday snapped up four fast food stalls and 175 wet goods stalls, which typically sell flowers. The rest of the 216 dry goods stalls will go under the hammer on Thursday. The highest price for regular 4.5 square metre stalls stood at HK$30,000, with three going for the starting amount of HK$8,540. Source link
23 October 2024
Hong Kong may ‘substantially’ cut quarantine period for certain pets, minister says
The quarantine period for certain cats and dogs being imported into Hong Kong could be “substantially shortened” by measures such as rabies vaccines and antibody testing under a proposal being prepared by the government, the environment chief has said. Secretary for Environment and Ecology Tse Chin-wan also said on Wednesday that authorities were considering the feasibility of allowing the private sector to operate some quarantine facilities for the pets and would strive to launch a pilot scheme in the first half of next year. Pets currently arriving from countries or places considered high-risk areas, such as mainland China, Macau and Malaysia, must undergo 120 days of quarantine before being allowed entry into the city. Authorities in June said the proposal to reduce the quarantine period was in its “final stage”. Asked how much the period would be shortened by, the environment chief declined to give specifics but said it could be “substantial” after due consideration of certain suggestions had been “finalised”. “We promise that the period can be substantially shortened. But of course, we can only reveal the details after finalising some suggestions with different regions,” he said. Source link
23 October 2024
2 human traffickers plead guilty after tricking 5 Hongkongers into forced labour overseas
Two human traffickers have pleaded guilty to coaxing five Hongkongers into travelling to Southeast Asia, where they were held captive and forced to scam others online in one of the worst cases involving residents’ safety overseas in recent years. Ma Che-hou, 32, and Joshua Cheung Man-waai, 25, each admitted to a charge of conspiracy to defraud in the District Court on Wednesday. A count of the same offence against a third defendant, Shum Mung-sze, 29, was dropped before trial due to insufficient evidence. The two convicted men tricked five men, now aged between 20 and 32, into travelling to either Cambodia or Thailand in 2021 and 2022 under the pretence of earning quick cash, collecting prize money or developing business opportunities abroad. Two victims flew to Cambodia and were taken to Sihanoukville, a port city which has become a semi-lawless region due to the proliferation of scam businesses controlled mostly by Chinese mafia groups. The other three went to Thailand and were taken by land to neighbouring Myanmar to work at KK Park, a Chinese-run fraud factory where thousands of forced labourers are believed to have been detained. One victim, Ng Sik-ming, 29, told the court he was subject to repeated physical abuse after he refused to work. He said he was assaulted while handcuffed to either a bed or pole, electrocuted with a stun gun and once locked in a cage for four days during his month-long ordeal that began in July 2022, the court heard. Source link
23 October 2024
Employee at Hong Kong care home for mentally disabled charged with rape
A staff member at a care home run by the Hong Chi Association, Hong Kong’s largest non-governmental organisation serving people with mental disabilities, has been charged with sexually assaulting two residents. The alleged attacks on a male and a female took place in August but were only made public when the association and the Social Welfare Department revealed the case in separate statements on Wednesday evening. The association said an investigation was launched after a parent asked about an injury her daughter suffered in August. It was suspected that two residents were harmed and a staff member was involved, the NGO said. “As the employee was in serious breach of the association’s code of conduct, we terminated his employment,” it said. The case was reported to both police and the Social Welfare Department. A source familiar with the case said the suspect, 38, was accused of raping a 21-year-old woman and sexually assaulting a 20-year-old man. Source link
23 October 2024
Hong Kong set to ban newly emerging drug known as ‘space oil’ next year
Hong Kong is set to ban a newly emerging drug known as “space oil” next year by adding it to the existing narcotics law, the security minister has said. The drug, usually packaged as e-cigarette capsules, contained the anaesthetic etomidate, which could cause mental and physical harm, Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung said on Wednesday, vowing to tackle the rising prevalence of space oil by updating the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance. Etomidate would be added to the list of banned substances in the first half of next year, he added. Once the drug was listed, anyone possessing, smoking, inhaling, injecting or otherwise ingesting space oil containing etomidate will face up to seven years’ imprisonment and a HK$1 million (US$128,650) fine, Tang noted. Trafficking in the substance could result in life imprisonment and a fine of HK$5 million, he added. Tang said frontline anti-drug workers noticed the emergence of space oil last year after the Covid-19 pandemic subsided, with some young people vaping it. According to government figures, 69 people have been arrested for possession or sale of the drug so far this year, up from nine cases in 2023. Six teenagers were arrested last week by Kwai Tsing district police on suspicion of selling or possessing space oil disguised as e-cigarette capsules. The Action Committee Against Narcotics reported last month that space oil had become the third-most popular drug among young users, after cannabis and cocaine, in the first half of the year. Source link
23 October 2024
Hong Kong civil service restrictions on WhatsApp, WeChat needed in light of risks, experts say
Hong Kong has taken a more aggressive approach to protect the government from cyberattacks than some Western countries, experts have said, attributing new restrictions on using desktop instant messaging platforms to a weaker cyber-risk surveillance system and intensifying geopolitical tensions. The experts also called for improvements in the government’s risk intelligence systems and employee cybersecurity awareness, adding that social media platforms could be reopened in stages after the situation improved. Anthony Lai Cheuk-tung, a director of cybersecurity firm VX Research, supported the government’s decision. “When you do not have a capable surveillance system, you cannot identify if downloads from the internet contain viruses, or if there is any abnormality in your internal system,” he said on Wednesday. “The most straightforward measure is to cut access to channels that may invite risks.” Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Sun Dong announced on Tuesday that civil servants would be restricted from using instant messaging platforms, such as WhatsApp and WeChat, and cloud storage services like Google Drive on their work computers due to “severe internet safety risks”. Source link
23 October 2024
Over 100,000 Hong Kong households eye subsidised homes in revamped scheme
More than 100,000 Hong Kong households are eyeing the first batch of subsidised homes since a scheme was revamped to give priority to families with newborns, according to preliminary figures. The Housing Authority gave the update on Wednesday evening for applications received under the Home Ownership Scheme as of 5pm, two hours before the cut-off time. The figures mean about 14 households will be competing for each flat. This year, 7,132 subsidised flats are being offered at a 30 per cent discount from the market value. About 172,000 applicants entered the draw last year for 9,154 homes sold at 62 per cent of the market price, with more than 18 applicants competing for a flat. As part of the efforts to boost the city’s birth rate, 40 per cent of the flats this year, or 2,900 homes, are reserved for families with newborns and households with elderly members. These groups will also be given priority when it comes to selecting homes. With prices ranging from HK$1.43 million (US$183,960) to HK$4.67 million, the latest subsidised homes are sized between 186 sq ft and 510 sq ft. Source link
23 October 2024
First dinosaur fossil unearthed in Hong Kong, exhibition scheduled for year-end at The Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre
Port Island. Insert picture: Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn 23rd October 2024 – (Hong Kong) The Development Bureau has revealed the groundbreaking discovery of a dinosaur fossil in Hong Kong. Dinosaur fossils from Port Island, Hong Kong, dating back to the Cretaceous period (approximately 145 million to 66 million years ago), have been unearthed. The flat-shaped fossils are preliminarily attributed to a large aged dinosaur, hinting at a fascinating chapter in the region’s ancient history. Further excavation of fossils, meticulous preparation, and rigorous scientific research are underway to unravel the mysteries surrounding these ancient relics. This comprehensive approach aims to not only identify the species of the dinosaur but also to piece together the narrative of dinosaurs in Hong Kong, providing invaluable insights into the prehistoric world that once roamed these lands. Anticipated to make waves in the scientific community and beyond, the fossil will be publicly displayed for the first time at The Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui by the end of this year. Concurrently, Port Island will undergo a temporary closure to facilitate the momentous exhibition. Meanwhile, Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn expressed her enthusiasm, highlighting the immense value of this discovery in shedding light on Hong Kong’s rich geological history. Source link
23 October 2024
Dinosaur bone fossils discovered in Hong Kong for first time
Dinosaur bone fossils have been discovered in Hong Kong for the first time, on a remote island off the northern part of the city, and the remains will be put on public display from Friday, authorities have said. The Development Bureau said on Wednesday the fossils were found on Port Island, while experts believed they were from the Cretaceous period, about 66 million to 145 million years ago. “The discovery is of great significance and provides new evidence for research on palaeoecology in Hong Kong,” Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn Hon-ho said. The fossils will be displayed from Friday onwards at the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre in Kowloon Park, Tsim Sha Tsui. Photo: SCMP Authorities said the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department discovered sedimentary rock containing suspected vertebrate fossils on the island in March. Mainland Chinese experts from the Institute of Vertebrate Palaeontology and Palaeoanthropology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences conducted a field investigation between June and August. It was believed the bone fossils could be associated with larger types of dinosaurs, including sauropods and ornithischians, but further study was required to confirm the species. “Experts speculate that the dinosaur may have been buried under sand and gravel after death, then washed to the surface by a large flood and subsequently reburied at the discovery site,” a bureau spokesman said. “Due to the scattered distribution and fragmented weathering of the dinosaur bones found, the chances of the dinosaur dying and being buried in the same place after death are relatively low.” Source link
23 October 2024
Hong Kong’s Bar Leone and COA Celebrated at the World’s 50 Best Bars 2024 with Bar Leone Claiming Highest Hong Kong Bar in the List Ever
Hong Kong’s Bar Leone ranks No.2 and takes The Best Bar in Asia 2024 Award and Disaronno Highest New Entry Award 2024 at World’s 50 Best Bars 2024 (Credit: World’s 50 Best Bars) Lorenzo Antinori, Founder of Bar Leone (Credit: Bar Leone) Jay Khan, Founder of COA (Credit: Hong Kong Tourism Board) HONG KONG, October 23, 2024–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The World’s 50 Best Bars for 2024 were unveiled in front of the world’s leading bartenders, tastemakers and drinks industry professionals at an exciting countdown ceremony in Madrid last night. This year’s edition of one of the world’s most prestigious surveys of cocktail tastes and trends saw two Hong Kong bars claiming coveted places among the world’s best, reinforcing the city’s position as a hub at the forefront of cocktail culture This year’s list saw Hong Kong favourites Bar Leone and COA make the cut, at No. 2 and No. 18 respectively. Additionally, Bar Leone took home both The Best Bar in Asia 2024 and Disaronno Highest New Entry Award. The inclusion of these globally recognised establishments follows the city claiming two places on the 51–100 long list revealed previously, which recognized Argo (No. 58) and The Savory Project (No. 82) among the very best bars in the world. Lorenzo Antinori, Founder of Bar Leone, said, “It is a true honour to be recognised among the world’s best bars, and to represent Hong Kong on such a prestigious global platform. Following on from our recognition at Asia’s 50 Best Bars earlier this year, we are excited to continue to showcase the city’s rich cocktail culture to the world.” “We’re so excited to have COA named among the World’s 50 Best Bars again, and to have The Savory Project listed in the top 100 for the first time. This acknowledgment is a testament
23 October 2024
Tropical Storm Trami gains strength near 1,200km southeast of Hong Kong, aims East for Hainan Island next week
23rd October 2024 – (Hong Kong) Tropical Cyclone Trami, now upgraded to a severe tropical storm, has intensified this afternoon to become a potent weather system. As of 2pm, it was located approximately 1,200 kilometres southeast of Hong Kong. Over the next two days, Trami is forecasted to traverse the northern part of Luzon Island in the Philippines before heading into the northern part of the South China Sea and passing near Hainan Island. The exact trajectory and intensity of its movement remain variable, with a possibility of lingering near Hainan Island early next week. According to the latest predictions released by the Hong Kong Observatory, Trami is anticipated to make a significant turn near the vicinity of Hainan Island, crossing the northern part of the South China Sea in an eastward direction. Both the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) and two artificial intelligence weather prediction models suggest that Trami might perform a rare meteorological manoeuvre known as a “return to the starting point,” moving eastward after reaching the coast near Xingang in central Vietnam by Monday, 28th October. The spokesperson at the Hong Kong Observatory highlighted that computer models indicate a potential eastward turn near Hainan Island, crossing the northern part of the South China Sea. The ECMWF and other weather prediction models suggest that Trami could perform a unique manoeuvre, potentially moving towards the west by early November after crossing the northern part of the South China Sea, nearing the western coast of Luzon before dissipating in the South China Sea by midweek, or even circling back towards Hainan Island, potentially affecting areas closer to the Pearl River Delta as a long-lasting weather system. Source link
23 October 2024
HKEX’s third-quarter profit rises 7% on IPOs, turnover and investment income
Net profit rose 7 per cent year on year to HK$3.15 billion (US$403 million), or HK$2.49 per share, for the three months to September, matching analysts’ estimates, according to an exchange filing. This was HKEX’s best third quarter since making HK$3.25 billion in the same period in 2021. The strong quarterly earnings helped HKEX post its second-best nine-month profit of HK$9.27 billion, unchanged from a year earlier. “The vibrancy and diversity of Hong Kong’s markets were on full display in late September, as investor sentiment turned more favourable following the announcement of economic stimulus measures in mainland China, as well as the monetary easing policies adopted by major central banks,” CEO Bonnie Chan Yiting said. “By continuously expanding our product offerings, forging international partnerships and investing in our infrastructure, we are well-positioned to navigate the evolving macro-environment and propel sustained growth.” 09:30 HKEX Chief Executive Bonnie Chan on building a vibrant market in Hong Kong HKEX Chief Executive Bonnie Chan on building a vibrant market in Hong Kong HKEX shares rose as much as 4 per cent after the company reported its earnings during the lunch break, before closing 1.2 per cent higher at HK$314.80. The stock has risen nearly 20 per cent this year. Source link
23 October 2024
McDonald’s in Hong Kong not affected by E coli outbreak linked to burgers in US, firm says
The McDonald’s fast food chain in Hong Kong has sought to reassure customers it is not affected by an E coli outbreak linked to Quarter Pounder burgers in the United States, as different ingredients are used locally. The fast food chain’s announcement on Wednesday followed reports of people falling ill after eating the burgers in the US, with the country’s Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting 49 cases in 10 states, with one death. “We want to reassure our customers that this issue does not impact McDonald’s operations in Hong Kong in any way. None of the affected products or ingredients are used in our restaurants in Hong Kong,” the company said. According to the fast food chain’s menu in the city, it does not serve the Quarter Pounder. E coli is a pathogen which can cause gastrointestinal problems such as intestinal bleeding. It can be transmitted through drinking contaminated water or eating undercooked and contaminated foods. US diners reportedly fell ill after eating McDonald’s Quarter Pounders, with the CDC saying investigators were working to determine whether onions were the source of the outbreak. Source link
23 October 2024
Three High Growth Tech Stocks In China To Watch
23 October 2024
Chinese Ship Expelled From Neighbor’s Waters
23 October 2024
U.S.-China Tech War Seen Heating Up
U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and former U.S. President Donald Trump in a tight race for the coveted post of the U.S. President The U.S.-China tech war is all but certain to heat up no matter whether Republican Donald Trump or Vice President Kamala Harris wins the Novemvber 5 U.S. presidential election. New efforts to slow the flow of less-sophisticated Chinese chips, smart cars and other imports into the U.S. are expected, alongside more curbs on chip-making tools and highly-prized AI chips headed to China, according to former officials from the Biden and Trump administrations, industry experts and people close to the campaigns. In her bid for the U.S. presidency, Democrat Harris has said she will make sure “America, not China, wins the competition for the 21st century.” Republican candidate Trump has pitched ever-increasing tariffs as a cure-all that includes combating Chinese technological advancement. In short, the battle to keep U.S. money and technology from boosting China’s military and artificial intelligence capabilities is bound to escalate under either Harris or Trump. “We’re seeing the opening of a new front on the U.S. China tech cold war that is focused on data, software and connected devices,” said Peter Harrell, a former national security official in the Biden administration. Last month, the U.S. proposed rules to keep connected cars made with Chinese components off America’s streets, while a law was passed this spring that said the short video app TikTok must be sold by its Chinese parent by next year or be banned. “There is a lot of concern if a Chinese company is able to access and provide updates to devices,” Harrell said. Should Harris win the election, her approach would likely be more targeted and coordinated than Trump’s, people close to both administrations say. For example, she is likely to
23 October 2024
‘Border Peace, Mutual Trust And Respect Should Be Priority’: PM Modi To Xi
Kazan, Russia: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Russia today for the first bilateral meeting since 2019. Ties between India and China had taken a severe hit since the military stand-off in Ladakh as a result of Beijing’s “unilateral” actions of violating the Line of Actual Control, the de-facto boundary between the two countries. The bilateral talks between PM Modi and Xi Jinping took place on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in the city of Kazan in Russia. It happened less than 72 hours after a breakthrough in talks – both at diplomatic and military levels – ensuring that the status quo returns to what it was before May 2020, when the stand off in Ladakh began with the military clash in Galwan. The breakthrough in the patrolling arrangement comes four years after the Galwan Valley clash and signals a move towards de-escalation in a region where both countries stationed tens of thousands of troops. The meeting underscored the upturn in the India-China relation following a consensus on patrolling arrangement along the Line of Actual Control that had faced multiple hiccups over the last few years. PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held their first bilateral meeting in 5 years WHAT PM MODI SAID “Excellency, I am happy to meet you, and like you mentioned, this is a formal meeting between us after five years. It is my belief that the importance of India-China relations is not just for the citizens of our two countries, but also very significant for peace, stability, and progress for the entire world. Excellency, We welcome the consensus reached on the issues that have arisen in the last 4 years along the border. It should be our priority to ensure there is peace and stability along our border.
23 October 2024
China should use fiscal policy to boost growth: IMF
Gaspar spoke to AFP from the IMF headquarters in Washington, D.C. (Tierney CROSS) The Chinese government should use its tax-and-spend policies to help boost flagging economic growth, a senior IMF official told AFP ahead of key meetings this week in Washington. The IMF has raised concern about the levels of global public debt, which it estimates will reach a record $100 trillion this year, with debt expected to rise in both the United States and China, the world’s two largest economies. “China is in the process of a major transition,” Vitor Gaspar, head of the IMF’s department that advises governments on fiscal affairs, said in an interview from his IMF headquarters office close to the White House. “Fiscal capacity can help China reach a different plateau in terms of its economic ambition, in terms of its economic prosperity,” he said ahead of the Monday opening of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank annual meetings. Gaspar noted China’s “very strong fiscal capacity to act.” The IMF estimates that China’s economic growth will ease over the coming years, slowing from 5.2 percent in 2023 to 4.8 percent this year, and 4.5 percent in 2025. Countries like China and the United States, which have rising levels of public debt while also being “safely away from debt distress,” should move gradually but decisively to adjust fiscal policy to bring down their debt-to-GDP ratios, Gaspar said. At the same time, China should also be looking to implement fiscal policies to help drive growth and reverse its expected economic slowdown. “For a continental economy like China, the main driver of growth and development has to be domestic,” he said, noting that if this issue was tackled it could help to rebalance the Chinese economy. China should also be looking to tackle “financial misallocations” stemming
23 October 2024
Cameron Calls for Tech Engagement with China Despite Cyber Threats
The US, UK and like-minded nations should strengthen their security strategy against Chinese cyber threats but also try to collaborate with Beijing on other technological fronts, according to David Cameron. The former British Prime Minister, who was also Foreign Secretary under Conservative Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, was invited to close Recorded Future’s Predict 2024 event in London on October 22, while the extended BRICS countries, including Russia, China and India, were in Kazan, Russia, for the 16th BRICS Summit. Speaking with Recorded Future CEO Christopher Ahlberg on stage, Cameron said that the US, the UK and partner countries should “harden their systems against Chinese espionage” but also try finding ways to cooperate with China. “Of course, the US must invest in protecting itself and have a very tough message on why it doesn’t agree [with cyber espionage conducted by Chinese-backed hackers], but also engage in cooperation in other areas, like climate change, for instance,” he explained. “Yes, China is one of the biggest polluters in the world, but it is also one of the greatest investors in green technology.” Former British Prime Minister David Cameron was invited to speak during the closing session of Recorded Future’s Predict 2024 event in London on October 22. Credit: Infosecurity Magazine In May 2024, Anne Keast-Butler, the new GCHQ director of the UK’s Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ), warned that China’s irresponsible actions in cyberspace could weaken the safety of the internet for all. US “Confrontational” Approach Towards China Sharing a 2015 meeting with Xi Jinping, the former British Prime Minister said that when he asked him what worried him the most during a private conversation, the Chinese president said: “The two things I absolutely must avoid are falling into the middle-income trap and war with America.” “Since then, the actions taken by his countries
23 October 2024
Modi-Xi meeting at BRICS: What India said after bilateral talks with China | Latest News India
Oct 23, 2024 06:51 PM IST PM Modi met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Kazan during the BRICS Summit, marking the first formal interaction in five years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday in Kazan, Russia, during the BRICS Summit. This meeting represents the first formal structured interaction between the two leaders in five years and comes after an agreement was reached to resume regular patrols along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. (Live updates) PM Modi attends the Open Plenary Session of BRICS heads of delegation during the 16th BRICS summit, in Kazan on Wednesday. (ANI) PM Modi’s last formal bilateral meeting with Xi took place in October 2019 in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, just months before the June 2020 clashes in Galwan, which escalated tensions into a military standoff. Although they had brief encounters at the Group of 20 meeting in Bali in 2022 and again in Johannesburg in 2023, this marks a significant renewal of dialogue. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on October 21 that an agreement had been reached concerning patrolling arrangements along the LAC in the India-China border regions. India’s full statement issued after the Modi-Xi meeting Welcoming the recent agreement for complete disengagement and resolution of issues that arose in 2020 in the India-China border areas, Prime Minister Modi underscored the importance of properly handling differences and disputes and not allowing them to disturb peace and tranquility. The two leaders agreed that the Special Representatives on the India-China boundary question will meet at an early date to oversee the management of peace & tranquility in border areas and to explore a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable solution to the boundary question. The relevant dialogue mechanisms at the level of Foreign Ministers and other officials
23 October 2024
Congress raises questions about India-China pact to ease LAC tensions | Latest News India
The Opposition Congress has raised a raft of questions about the agreement between India and China on patrolling arrangements along the contested Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Ladakh theatre, with its concerns primarily centred around whether the Indian Army will be able to patrol areas that were cut off due to the Chinese People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) forward presence in several pockets. The development comes at a time when the two sides are moving ahead to defuse border tensions under an agreement. (PTI file photo) In a statement issued on Wednesday, Congress general secretary (communications) Jairam Ramesh posed six questions to the government, urging it to take the country into confidence and provide answers. He asked if Indian troops will be able to patrol up to the country’s claim line in Depsang to five patrolling points past the ‘Bottleneck junction’ as they were able to earlier, if they will be able to visit the three patrolling points in Demchok that have remained out of bounds for more than four years, and if the army will continue to be restricted to Finger 3 on the northern bank Pangong Tso when earlier they could go as far as Finger 8. The development comes at a time when the two sides are moving ahead to defuse border tensions under an agreement on patrolling arrangements in forward areas including Depsang and Demchok. Also Read: Signs of thaw in India-China ties On October 21, external affairs minister S Jaishankar and foreign secretary Vikram Misri announced that India and China had achieved a breakthrough in negotiations to resolve their stand-off in Depsang and Demchok, the two remaining flashpoints in Ladakh where the army and PLA have been eyeball-to-eyeball for almost four-and-a-half years. The two armies earlier disengaged from four other friction points along the
23 October 2024
Apple promises more China investment amid rising tech regulations
Tim Cook went to China earlier this year to speak at the China Development Forum 2024. Credit: GettyImages/Bloomberg. Apple CEO Tim Cook reiterated the company’s commitment to China in a meeting with the country’s Minister of Industry and Information Technology, Jin Zhuanglong, during his second visit to China this year. In a Ministry post to the Chinese messaging app WeChat, it said that Apple would “continue to grow its investments in China and help the high-quality development of the supply chain”. The IT Minister also urged Cook to continue to invest in China to drive innovation and collaborate with Chinese companies to share the rewards of development. The trip comes as Apple’s iPhone sales in the country have staggered and domestic competition has gained market share. The US company has also faced hurdles from the Chinese Government and regulators. AI features developed with OpenAI that are set to arrive for some of the latest iPhone models will not be available in China until next year. Cook told the local news outlet Jiemian that Apple needs to complete a thorough regulatory process first. OpenAI has curbed access to ChatGPT in China before. The country has highly demanding rules and limits for AI products, which must reflect “the core values of socialism” and avoid “undermin[ing] national unity”. Some consumers have been reluctant to purchase the new iPhone 16 given they won’t have access to the AI system available in other territories. Falling sales Despite this reluctance, sales shot up 20% in the first three weeks when the iPhone 16 was put on sale. It was a welcome development for Apple, which has been experiencing a trend of falling sales in China in the face of government curbs and stronger domestic competition. According to Counterpoint Research, overall iPhone unit sales
23 October 2024
PM Modi holds bilateral meet with China’s Xi Jinping during BRICS Summit, first in 5 years | Latest News India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Russia. Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the dinner hosted for BRICS leaders, in Kazan on Tuesday.(ANI) This is the first meeting between the two leaders in five years. PM Modi and Xi Jinping had last had a structured meeting in Mamalllapuram in October 2019, months before the border standoff between India and China in eastern Ladakh. The meeting also comes two days after India and China reached an agreement on patrolling along their disputed border. The agreement on patrolling along the LAC was the outcome of several rounds of diplomatic and military talks between India and China. It also followed a string of meetings of senior leaders of the two sides in recent months – external affairs minister S Jaishankar met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the margins of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Kazakhstan on July 4 and on the sidelines of ASEAN-related meetings in Laos on July 25, while National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met Wang during a BRICS-related meeting in St Petersburg on September 12. India supports dialogue and diplomacy, not war: PM Modi Ahead of the bilateral meeting with Xi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed an Open plenary session of the BRICS Summit in Kazan city. In a message aimed at resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Modi said that India supports dialogue and diplomacy, not war. “We support dialogue and diplomacy, not war. And, just as we together defeated a challenge like COVID, in the same way, we are fully capable of creating new opportunities for a safe, strong and prosperous future for the future generation…Similarly, we should work for global
23 October 2024
U.S. rivalry with China will continue for years, Ambassador Burns says
IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser. Morning Rundown: Battleground states inundated with voting lawsuits, IRS announces new tax brackets, and bird flu cases tick up across the country Now Playing Ambassador Burns tells NBC News that rivalry with China will continue for years 02:22 UP NEXT ‘Make China Great Again’: How China’s social media views the U.S. election 01:31 What candidate does Beijing prefer to win the U.S. election? 04:51 Two giant pandas arrive at National Zoo from China 02:33 China launches massive war games around Taiwan 04:56 China launches its latest round of war games around Taiwan dubbed ‘Joint Sword-2024B’ drills 00:54 China is confident in achieving its economic growth target this year 01:26 Families of Americans detained in China put pressure on Biden administration 03:58 Temu and Shein traders face tougher conditions amid plans to narrow loophole 01:44 TikTok fights law that could ban app in U.S. in crucial hearing 01:32 GOP lawmakers push ‘tough on China’ policy bills 03:20 Super Typhoon Yagi makes landfall in China 00:32 Chinese President Xi proposes elevation of China-Africa relations 00:56 Watch: Philippines coast guard vessel collides with Chinese ship at contested shoal 00:27 Eyewitness video shows deadly fire raging at shopping mall in southwest China 01:21 Biden says he is ‘ready to deal’ with Putin and Xi 03:53 Taiwan Coast Guard monitors Chinese military vessels in South China Sea 00:46 NATO rebukes China as a ‘decisive enabler’ of Russia and its war in Ukraine 02:22 Watch: Chinese space rocket launches accidentally and crashes in flames 01:01 China prepares to send two pandas to the U.S. 01:48 Ambassador Nicholas Burns told NBC News’ Janis Mackey Frayer that competition between the U.S. and China will continue for years into the next decade. He also
23 October 2024
Apple’s Tim Cook talks with China’s top industry regulator
Apple’s Chief Executive Tim Cook met with China’s top industry regulator on Wednesday in Beijing, exchanging views on data security and cloud service, which are related to the upcoming artificial intelligence services on iPhone in the domestic market. Jin Zhuanglong, Minister of the Industry and Information Technology, met with Cook in Beijing, exchanging views on various topics, including Apple’s development in China, network data security management, and cloud services, MIIT said in a statement on its website. Apple has not included the highly-anticipated Apple Intelligence, its own AI service, with the latest iPhone 16 models released last month. The company promised to launch the service in the United States later this year and in other regions including China next year. Ti Gong Apple’s Chief Executive Tim Cook meets with China’s top industry regulator on Wednesday in Beijing. Data security and cloud services are fundamental factors to the operation of on-device AI services, which must adhere to local regulations and safeguard data privacy. Apple also needs to find Chinese partners to support its AI services, as its US partner, OpenAI (the developer of ChatGPT), is not accessible in Chinese mainland, industry experts said. Jin underscored China’s ongoing efforts to broaden its telecommunications sector, fostering an environment conducive to foreign investment and growth, according to the MIIT statement. He stressed the government’s dedication to promoting high-level openness, digital industrialization, and the digital transformation of industries. Jin suggested Apple to further immerse itself in the Chinese market, bolster innovation, and partner with local companies to partake in the benefits of high-quality development. Cook, in turn, demonstrated Apple’s eagerness to get involved in China’s opening-up process. He pledged the company’s ongoing commitment to increasing investment in China and to enhancing the quality of development of industrial and supply chains, signaling a strong and continued
23 October 2024
‘Indictment of PM’s gullibility’: Congress asks 6 questions on truce with China in Ladakh | Latest News India
Days after the Ministry of External Affairs announced an agreement with China in eastern Ladakh, the Congress on Wednesday described the over four-year-long standoff between the two countries as “a complete indictment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s gullibility and naiveté”. The opposition party posted six direct questions to the BJP-led Centre on India’s truce with China in eastern Ladakh, and said it hopes New Delhi’s “worst foreign policy setback in decades is being honourably resolved”. Jairam Ramesh demanded that the Centre must take the people of the country into confidence regarding its latest agreement with China. (PTI file photo) “Many questions remain about the Modi government’s announcement that an agreement has been reached with China on patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The Foreign Secretary has said that this is ‘leading to disengagement and eventually a resolution of the issues that had arisen in these areas in 2020,” said Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh in a written statement. “We hope that India’s worst foreign policy setback in decades is being honourably resolved. We expect that the disengagement will restore the status quo ante as it existed in March 2020,” he added. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday elaborated on India and China’s disengagement process, saying the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) will return to what it was before May 2020. Jairam Ramesh accused PM Modi of being gullible about China’s designs. “This sorry saga is a complete indictment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s gullibility and naiveté regarding China. As CM of Gujarat, Modi was lavishly hosted by China three times. As PM, he made five official trips to China and held 18 meetings with Chinese Premier Xi Jinping, including a friendly jhoola session on the banks of the Sabarmati on his 64th birthday,”
23 October 2024
PM Narendra Modi and Xi Jinping meeting in Russia today: A look at India-China tensions since 2019 | Latest News India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will hold their first bilateral meeting in five years Wednesday, October 23, days after their countries reached an agreement to allow border patrolling operations in both countries along the Actual Line of Control (LAC) to resume, completing a disengagement process along the disputed borders. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Mamalllapuram in October 2019, months before start of the border standoff. (AP) The PM Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping meeting will take place on the sidelines of the three-day 16th Brics Summit hosted by President Vladimir Putin in the Russian city of Kazan, a sign of a potential thaw between the neighbours since clashes between their troops in 2020. “There will be a bilateral meeting held between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping… on the sidelines of the Brics summit,” foreign secretary Vikram Misri said late on Tuesday. The leaders of the world’s two most populous nations last held face-to-face formal talks when Xi Jinping visited Narendra Modi in the Mahabalipuram in October of 2019. Months later, in 2020, relations plunged after a skirmish along their contested frontier in the high-altitude Himalayan region of Ladakh, in which 20 Indian and several Chinese soldiers were killed. Main India-China conflicts and tensions since 2019: 1. Doklam standoff (2017) – Precursor to 2019 tensions: Although the Doklam standoff took place in 2017, it set the stage for heightened tensions. Indian and Chinese forces faced off in the Doklam region, near the tri-junction of India, Bhutan, and China. The conflict lasted 73 days and revolved around China’s attempt to build a road on disputed territory. 2. 2019: Rise in border tensions: Tensions began to rise in 2019 after the abrogation of Article 370, which revoked Jammu and Kashmir’s special
23 October 2024
In charts: How a slowdown in China impacts India
NEW DELHI : China’s gross domestic product (GDP) in the quarter ended 30 September 2024 grew at the slowest pace since the quarter ended 31 March 2023. The slowdown in the world’s second-largest economy is having knock-on effects around the globe, from the global oil market to Indian exports of spices. The Chinese government announced a stimulus package in September, but analysts expect it to take some time to have an effect. Instead, the worry is that after decades of blazing growth, the Chinese slowdown is more long-term than just cyclical in nature. If that is the case, the adjustment for the global economy could be painful. Closer home, the effects are already being felt. Indian exports to China fell 23% year-on-year (y-o-y) in August to $1 billion. This monthly figure is the lowest since August 2022, when parts of China had just emerged from severe covid-19 lockdowns. India’s exports to China have now fallen for six consecutive months on a y-o-y basis. The fall in exports is one reason for India’s merchandise trade deficit with China (exports minus imports) hitting new highs. It was about $41 billion for the five-month period from April to August 2024, an increase of about 14% from the year-ago period. India’s trade deficit with China in April-August accounted for around one-third of its total trade deficit. Incidentally, imports from China rose to their highest monthly level in August, of $10.8 billion. Weak domestic demand in China means that Chinese exporters, already among the most competitive globally, will seek to make greater inroads into foreign markets. Growth pangs In the 11 quarters beginning 2022, China’s y-o-y GDP growth has been below 5% in eight quarters, including the last two. The current slowdown in China has been driven by the implosion of its real estate sector,
23 October 2024
India China border agreement importance – India-China border deal diplomatic military victory amid Modi Xi Jinping meeting
India has pulled off the seemingly difficult task of getting a stubborn China to return to the patrolling agreements along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh that was in place before the Galwan clashes in April 2020. Given that China had maintained a dogged stance of not agreeing to India’s status quo demand for four years makes the victory sweeter — not only diplomatically but militarily as well. The disengagement agreement came after 17 rounds of working mechanism meetings and 21 rounds of military dialogue. “What it will entail is that in the pending areas under discussion, patrolling and grazing activities, wherever applicable, will revert to the situation as it existed in 2020,” Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said, echoing External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s remarks at a media event. The agreement also set the stage for the first meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Russia since the border standoff brought ties close to breaking point. Armoured vehicles of the Indian Army at a military camp in Eastern Ladakh (AFP) HOW BORDER AGREEMENT BENEFITS INDIA MILITARILY? The new agreement will facilitate Indian troops to resume patrolling up to their old patrolling points in Depsang and Demchok — the two major friction areas that were left to be sorted between the two nations. Disputes have already been settled in Gogra-Hot Springs, Pangong Lake, and Galwan Valley, the site of a fierce hand-to-hand combat between the two troops that resulted in fatalities on both sides. The Depsang plains, located in the north of Ladakh, and Demchok in the south accounted for the majority of the disputed area. The significance could be gauged from the fact China was reluctant to discuss the two regions until about a year ago. The Depsang Plains, in particular, hold
23 October 2024
China Galaxy Securities and CGS International Successfully Conclude Forum to Boost China-Southeast Asia Cooperation
SINGAPORE, Oct. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — China Galaxy Securities (CGS) and CGS International Securities (CGS International) successfully concluded the CGS SEA Bilateral Investment Forum 2024, held in Haikou, Hainan, from 16 to 17 October 2024. The forum brought together 400 leading policymakers, industry experts, and business leaders to explore emerging macroeconomic trends and bilateral investment opportunities between China and Southeast Asia. The event featured guests from the Hainan government including Chen Huai Yu, member of the Hainan Provincial Government’s Party Leadership Group and Vice Governor; Cai Qiang, Secretary of the Party Leadership Group and Director of the Hainan Provincial Department of Finance. Keynote speakers included Liew Chin Tong, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, Malaysia, Khairy Jamaluddin, former Malaysian Minister and former Member of Parliament, and Wang Sheng, Chairman of CGS, delivered keynote addresses. In his speech, Cai Qiang, Secretary of the Party Leadership Group and Director of the Hainan Provincial Department of Finance, emphasised that the Hainan Free Trade Port is a significant reform personally planned, deployed, and promoted by China President Xi Jinping, making it a key national strategy. Since 2020, the Chinese government has provided Hainan with three “zero tariff” lists and preferential tax policies support the construction and development of the Hainan Free Trade Port. The huge market in Southeast Asia, as well as its proximity, makes it an important trading partner for Hainan. Enterprises can leverage Hainan’s unique position a free trade port and China’s largest special economic zone to expand their businesses into China and Southeast Asia. In his address, Wang Sheng highlighted that China and ASEAN are a role model of collaboration in the Asia Pacific region to advance the economies of both regions. The economic and trade relationships between the two have become increasingly close, with significant growth in bilateral
23 October 2024
Staff at pricey Japan boutique kneel in apology after China woman angered by ‘rude’ service
A Chinese woman shopping at a Fendi outlet in Japan expressed so much outrage at the rudeness of its sales staff that four employees knelt in front of her to apologise. While some people have criticised the woman for being too harsh, she gained widespread support on mainland social media. The incident came to light via a series of posts by a Xiaohongshu blogger known as Annie Datouzai, who claims to be a fashion specialist who studied at Columbia University and the University of Toronto. The blogger has 8,200 followers and is currently based in New York. While travelling in Japan, she visited a Fendi store in Tokyo to buy a woollen shawl. After trying it on, she decided to buy it and requested a new one from the shop’s stock. Named and shamed: the woman holds the name cards of staff she said were rude. Photo: Xiaohongshu However, a senior sales representative approached her, abruptly removed the shawl from her shoulders without asking permission, and then handed it to his clients, a Chinese couple. Source link
23 October 2024
CGTN: How China contributes to greater BRICS cooperation | Foreign Policy International Affairs
BEIJING, Oct. 22, 2024 /CNW/ — Leaders of the BRICS countries are having their first face-to-face gathering in the Russian city of Kazan after the group’s historic expansion from five members to 10 in January. Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Kazan on Tuesday for the 16th BRICS Summit. Xi will exchange views with other leaders on practical cooperation and the development of the BRICS mechanism for emerging economies, among other topics, during the summit. China has consistently been a staunch supporter and participant in the BRICS cooperation mechanism, seeking win-win cooperation with other members and following the spirit of openness and inclusiveness. Win-win cooperation Since its founding, BRICS has sought win-win cooperation, with the Shanghai-headquartered New Development Bank (NDB) being a flagship project of BRICS cooperation. As the first multilateral development bank established by emerging economies, the NDB provides financing support for infrastructure development, clean energy, environmental protection, and building cyberinfrastructure across BRICS countries. By the end of 2023, it had approved 105 projects in all member countries for approximately $35 billion. The NDB serves as a significant platform for international cooperation that transcends the territorial boundaries, which not only amplifies the voices of BRICS countries but also represents the shared aspirations of other nations, Dilma Rousseff, president of the NDB, told media recently. China has been committed to deepening mutually beneficial cooperation with BRICS partners. In the first quarter of this year, trade between China and BRICS countries reached 1.49 trillion yuan (about $209.7 billion), an increase of 11.3 percent year on year, according to customs authorities. Ronnie Lins, executive director of the Brazil-China Research and Business Center, said China plays a crucial role in building consensus among BRICS countries, promoting coordination and cooperation, and advancing a common agenda. ‘Not a closed club’ Openness and inclusiveness have remained
23 October 2024
Tim Cook meets China regulator in Beijing but no final word on Apple Intelligence
Apple chief executive Tim Cook spoke with China’s top industry regulator on Wednesday on a range of topics, according to an official Chinese statement, but the announcement fell short of providing any information on the roll-out of Apple’s AI service in the country. Cook met with Jin Zhuanglong, the Industry and Information Technology Minister, to discuss topics ranging from Apple’s further development in China, one of its largest overseas markets, to cyber and data security and cloud services, according to a statement published by the Chinese regulator on Wednesday. The ministry is a key government agency overseeing AI applications in China. The statement did not mention whether the two talked about Chinese market access for Apple Intelligence, the bundle of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) services that is slated to launch soon in certain countries but not China, where a permit is required from Beijing for any public release of GenAI software. As of August, China has approved a total of 188 GenAI services for Chinese users, all of which are developed by local firms. Tim Cook poses for a self with Chinese photographer Chen Man in Beijing. Photo: Weibo Analysts have said that the exclusion of Apple Intelligence from the China market will weigh on iPhone sales in the country, where local competitors from Xiaomi to Oppo have been touting how the addition of AI has made their devices more capable in various tasks, from writing content to editing photos. Chinese consumers have also been vocal about their desire to see Apple bring its GenAI services – which are expected to be released as part of the iOS 18.1 update on October 28 – to China as soon as possible. Under a post about his visit to China, published by Cook on Chinese microblogging service Weibo on Monday, one user
23 October 2024
Taiwan says blockade would be act of war as China holds more drills | South China Sea News
Taiwanese defence chief says a blockade would have far-reaching consequences for international trade. Taiwan’s defence chief has warned that a Chinese blockade would be an act of war and have far-reaching consequences for international trade after Beijing held military exercises to encircle the self-governed island. Taiwanese Defence Minister Wellington Koo made his comments on Wednesday as the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) continued exercises near the democratically-ruled island after last week carrying out war games that included a simulated blockade. “If you really want to carry out a so-called blockade, which according to international law is to prohibit all aircraft and ships entering the area, then according to United Nations resolutions it is regarded as a form of war,” Koo said in remarks to reporters at parliament. “I want to stress that drills and exercises are totally different from a blockade, as would be the impact on the international community,” Koo added. China claims Taiwan as its territory and has said it reserves the right to use force to bring it under its control, with the PLA regularly holding drills – including simulating blockading key ports and assaulting maritime and ground targets – around the island. Taiwan, also known by its official name the Republic of China, has never been ruled by the People’s Republic of China and rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims. Beijing also asserts jurisdiction over the entirety of the Taiwan Strait, a 180km-wide (110-mile) waterway separating mainland China from Taiwan. Taiwan and other members of the international community reject Beijing’s claim, with the United States, Japan and several European countries asserting its status as an international waterway. The US navy, in particular, regularly sails through the strait to maintain freedom of navigation rights. Taiwanese President William Lai Ching-te visits a military base in Taoyuan in response to Chinese
23 October 2024
PM Modi, Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping: A show of unity at Brics Summit dinner after India, China reach border agreement | Latest News India
Oct 23, 2024 08:31 AM IST PM Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met as India and China reached an agreement on patrolling arrangements at the LAC. At an informal Bric Summit dinner in Kazan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave a thumbs-up as Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping engaged in conversation, highlighting a moment of camaraderie among the leaders. Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi attend a concert before an informal dinner on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia October 22, 2024. (via REUTERS) This interaction between Modi and Xi comes at a time when India and China have reached an agreement on “patrolling arrangements” and resolved the military stand-off at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The moment also showcased the deepening ties between China and Russia, a bond that has grown stronger over the years, especially since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The visuals from the Brics Summit also captured a friendly moment when Vladimir Putin greeted Narendra Modi with a handshake and a hug, showcasing their close relationship. Modi and Xi are slated to hold bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the Brics Summit in Russia’s Kazan on Wednesday, foreign secretary Vikram Misri said on Tuesday. It is a breakthrough in ending the over four-year-long military standoff between the two countries. Relations between the two Asian giants worsened significantly after the intense clash in the Galwan Valley in June 2020, which was the most serious military conflict between them in decades. However, at the Brics gala dinner, President Putin was seated between PM Modi and President Xi Jinping, indicating a shift towards closer diplomatic relations among the three countries. Modi and Xi last had a structured meeting during their second informal
23 October 2024
Elon Musk PAC warned by DOJ that $1 million sweepstakes may be illegal
The Department of Justice (DOJ) recently contacted Elon Musk’s America PAC about its historic $1 million giveaway to swing-state voters after the agency was warned by lawyers who claimed that the initiative may be illegal. On Monday, the DOJ was sent a letter from a “group of attorneys and public officials” requesting an investigation into
24 October 2024
North Korea troops in Ukraine would escalate conflict, Lukashenko tells BBC
Alexander Lukashenko says North Korea troops in Ukraine would escalate conflict There aren’t many world leaders who’ve been in power for 30 years. Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus has been accused of stealing elections, crushing dissent and dismantling democracy. The UK, the EU and the US do not recognise him as the legitimate president of Belarus.
23 October 2024
IDF soldiers should refuse orders which may be war crimes, Israeli ex-security adviser tells BBC
IDF could be committing war crimes in northern Gaza, says Eran Etzion As someone who served four Israeli prime ministers and was deputy head of the country’s National Security Council, Eran Etzion’s judgement was trusted at the highest levels of the state. A longstanding critic of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, he is also someone whose
23 October 2024
Scientists Say They Know How the Universe Will End
How the universe will end is an ongoing debate among cosmologists, and outcomes vary depending on specific theories. A new paper analyzes the end of the universe in relation to a theory known as “holographic dark matter,” in which gravity and space form a quantum illusion of our true, 2D reality. The study finds that, in this scenario, the universe would eventually grind to a halt and decay into nothing, a process these scientists call the “long freeze.” All good things must come to an end, and that includes the universe. But exactly how that end will arrive is a long-standing debate among cosmologists, who offer up theories with terrifying monikers such as “big freeze” or “big crunch.” Now, a pair of scientists from the U.S. and India have another idea that instills a similar amount of foreboding—the “long freeze.” The idea comes from a theory known as “holographic dark energy,” which tries to explain the mysteries of quantum gravity. This theory posits that the force of gravity is actually a hologram of some lower-dimensional reality. In other words, our known universe is actually two-dimensional, but quantum forces create the illusion of gravity and 3D space. This holographic principle is also a feature of theoretical frameworks like string theory. Related Story Dark energy is the force many cosmologists believe is behind the expansion of the universe. Although decades have passed since its first “discovery,” no scientist has ever observed dark energy directly (if they did, you would have definitely heard about it). Dark energy makes up roughly 70 percent of everything in the universe, and as it expands, its density decreases. In this new, non-peer reviewed paper published on the preprint server arXiv, scientists decided to follow this holographic theory of dark matter to its conclusion, and calculate how the
23 October 2024
Israeli strikes pound Lebanese southern coastal city of Tyre | Hezbollah News
Israeli warplanes have attacked multiple buildings in Lebanon’s southern coastal city of Tyre, sending up large clouds of black smoke, as the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah confirmed that a top official widely expected to be the group’s next leader had been killed in an Israeli strike. There were no reports of casualties in Tyre, where the Israeli military had issued evacuation warnings ahead of the strikes. The Lebanese state-run National News Agency reported on Wednesday that an Israeli strike on the nearby town of Maarakeh had killed three people. Meanwhile, Hezbollah fired a new barrage of rockets into Israel, including two that set off air raid sirens in Tel Aviv before being intercepted. The group also confirmed the death of Hashem Safieddine, who had been widely expected to take over the leadership of Hezbollah following the killing of Hassan Nasrallah last month. Israel said on Tuesday that it had killed Safieddine in a strike earlier this month in Beirut’s southern suburbs. “We pledge to our great martyr and his martyred brothers to continue the path of resistance and jihad until achieving its goals of freedom and victory,” Hezbollah said in a statement. Safieddine, a powerful cleric within the party ranks, was the head of Hezbollah’s highest political decision-making body, the executive council. He was widely expected to succeed Hassan Nasrallah, one of the group’s founders and longtime leader, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike last month. Hezbollah began firing rockets towards Israel on October 8, 2023, after Israel launched its ongoing deadly assault on the besieged Gaza Strip in response to a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel. The exchanges of fire continued on a near-daily basis for months, but Israel’s military drastically escalated the fighting last month, killing much of Hezbollah’s senior leadership and launching air raids across Lebanon.
23 October 2024
Ivanishvili holds mass rally before crucial vote
GIORGI ARJEVANIDZE/AFP Georgian Dream’s founder Bidzina Ivanishvili is under pressure from four opposition groups Three days before Georgians vote in an election billed as a decisive moment in their country’s future, the founder of the governing Georgian Dream party has told thousands of supporters “we choose peace, not war”. After 12 years in government, Bidzina Ivanishvili’s Georgian Dream faces a close race against four opposition groups to cling on to power in this Caucasus state. His party accuses the opposition of aiming to drag Georgia into involvement in the war in Ukraine, but the opposition argues the election is a choice between Russia under Georgian Dream, or Europe. Ivanishvili, seen as Georgia’s most powerful figure, told the crowd in Liberty Square that they should have “a dignified European future based on equality”. Georgians overwhelmingly back joining the European Union, but the EU froze that process this year amid stinging accusations from Brussels that the government was backsliding on democracy. The party is accused by the opposition of sabotaging Georgia’s bid to join the EU, even though Georgian Dream insists they are still on course to do so by 2030. Opinion polls in Georgia are not considered reliable, but the latest survey suggests that Georgian Dream will win the race, but that the four opposition parties combined would beat them. GIORGI ARJEVANIDZE/AFP On Tuesday it was Georgian Dream’s chance to fill Liberty Square in Tbilisi Last Sunday, the opposition filled Liberty Square and surrounding streets with supporters waving Georgian and EU flags. This time it was Georgian Dream’s turn, as a group of supporters waving Georgian and party flags marched towards the stage chanting “Long live Georgian Dream”. Ivanishvili, the party’s billionaire founder and honorary chairman, addressed the crowd behind protective glass. Tbilisi Mayor and Georgian Dream general secretary Kakha Kaladze
23 October 2024
Texas Cop Fired After Road Rage Shooting
Read the full story on The Auto Wire Texas Cop Fired After Road Rage Shooting A Fort Worth, Texas police officer has been fired after he shot another driver in a road rage incident. William Martin wasn’t on the clock, in uniform, or in a police department vehicle when the fight unfolded, but he reportedly ended it by discharging his pistol several times. Driver runs a red light to clear the way for an ambulance. The department called the shooting “unjustified force.” It’s unclear what started the road rage exchange, however at some point the other driver rammed Martin’s car, then took off. Martin reportedly chased down the other driver, discharging his weapon into the vehicle repeatedly. Martin called 911, stating he had been hit by the other driver, who was in a Ford F-150, and that he was chasing the suspect down. Then he claimed the truck tried ramming his Honda again, so he opened fire. While the other driver was struck by at least one bullet, he did survive. That man says he had no idea he struck Martin’s vehicle, plus he didn’t know the guy was a cop, so there’s a big gap between the two men’s stories. It sounds like this case is going to be a legal dogfight with many heated claims as evidence is drug out. There’s the possibility of a trial and of civil litigation on top of the criminal case. The next time someone makes you really angry while you’re driving, remember that a rageful act in the moment could have a lasting effect on your life. Not only could you get hit with criminal charges and possibly convicted, you might be facing a civil lawsuit for your actions. Would suffering in jail and/or prison plus paying large sums of money for
23 October 2024
Why Trump should avoid talking about intelligence leaks and Israel
Some classified U.S. intelligence documents related to Israel and a potential strike on Iran appeared online in recent days, and while officials in Israel have said the disclosure isn’t likely to have a meaningful practical impact, it’s nevertheless a problem when information like this is divulged. The FBI, not surprisingly, has launched an investigation. At first blush, there’s no obvious reason why this controversy would intersect with the American presidential campaign, though Donald Trump apparently sees some electoral value in the story anyway. Hours before the FBI announced its probe, the former Republican president published an odd item to his social media platform, declaring: “U.S. leaked highly confidential Documents from Israel. May have come from Defense Department. Israel has been seriously damaged and compromised by this. Wartime strategy and data. Probably came from Defense Department. MUST FIND THE LEAKER! Israel no longer wants to share documents with U.S., and who can blame them!” Note how the GOP candidate went from saying the information “may have come” from the Pentagon to “probably came from” the Pentagon over the course of a few sentences. Later in the day, Trump also claimed — without a shred of evidence, of course — that it was an “enemy from within” who leaked the intelligence documents. Part of the problem is that the Republican nominee has no idea what he’s talking about: He has no idea who or what was responsible for the disclosure, but that hasn’t stopped him from just popping off irresponsibly with baseless speculation. Another part of the problem is that Trump keeps referencing a “leak” that might not have been a leak: As The Washington Post reported, “White House officials have said it has not been determined yet whether the documents were leaked or hacked.” But even if we put these relevant
23 October 2024
At least four dead in terror attack at Turkish aviation company
Getty Images Smoke rises as rescuers arrive at the scene At least four people have been killed and 14 injured in an attack at the headquarters of an aviation company near the Turkish capital Ankara, authorities have confirmed. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya posted on X that two attackers were “neutralised” in the incident, which saw gunshots and explosions. Initial images shown by the NTV television channel were of a large cloud of smoke in front of the entrance of Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), which is located some 40km (25 miles) outside the capital. Firefighters and medical teams have been dispatched to the scene. It is not clear how many people were involved in the attack and if there are other suspects to be apprehended. Local media is reporting that blast took place around the time of a shift change, and staff had to be directed to shelters. Some outlets have carried a photograph purporting to show one suspect climbing over a turnstile and entering the building holding a gun. Watch: Explosion and gunshots seen near Turkish city of Ankara Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan – who is in Russia for the Brics summit – gave his reaction. “I condemn this vile terror attack and wish God’s mercy on our martyrs,” he said during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, in remarks broadcast live on TV. Ankara metropolitan mayor Mansur Yavas said in a statement earlier on Wednesday that he was “deeply saddened” by the news. “I wish God’s mercy upon our martyrs and a speedy recovery to our wounded. We condemn terrorism. My condolences.” Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc announced on X that the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has launched a “judicial investigation” into the incident. TAI is a key player in Turkey’s aerospace industry, designing, developing and manufacturing
23 October 2024
Elon Musk’s ex Grimes stirs controversy over claim she became ‘way less gay’ after getting pregnant
Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Elon Musk’s ex-partner Grimes has sparked controversy for claiming she felt her sexuality change after she got pregnant. The 36-year-old, who welcomed three children with the CEO of Tesla, spoke out about her identity shift on X, questioning if her hormones were to blame for the sudden feeling. Grimes shares X Æ A-Xii, four, Exa Dark Sideræl, two, and Techno Mechanicus, two, with Musk. “I became way less gay after I was pregnant,” she wrote on Sunday (October 22) before adding: “My ability to focus on reading and writing went way up, as did my general creativity, but my ability to focus on technical things went *way* down. Is this all explained by hormones?” Grimes has never publicly labeled her sexuality, but has previously joked about “colonizing Europa,” one of Jupiter’s moons, to start a “lesbian space commune.” Her inquiry prompted widespread debate online as her 1.3 million followers rushed to offer their opinions on how maternal hormones could have influenced her sudden disinterest in dating women. The “Genesis” creator, whose real name is Claire Elise Boucher, added that her testosterone levels were “way down.” “Yeah it’s the progesterone sister,” one X user commented, referring to the hormone that supports menstruation and pregnancy. Grimes shares X Æ A-Xii, four, Exa Dark Sideræl, two, and Techno Mechanicus, two, with Musk (Getty Images for Coachella) Progesterone is known to affect libido levels but not sexuality. Another X user thought Grimes feeling “less gay” was caused not by pregnancy but by the fact
23 October 2024
Dividend Investor Earns $300K Per Year On $4.4M Investment: Their Top 10 Picks
Dividend Investor Earns $300K Per Year On $4.4M Investment: Their Top 10 Picks Benzinga and Yahoo Finance LLC may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below. Dividend-paying stocks offer a versatile approach to enhancing income and growth potential, regardless of your life stage. For those years away from retirement, reinvesting dividends can significantly boost returns. Consider a hypothetical investment in the S&P 500 Index Fund in 1993. According to Charles Schwab, reinvesting dividends would have grown it to over $158,000 by the end of 2022, while not reinvesting would have limited it to $88,000. Don’t Miss Out: Investing in reliable, long-term dividend stocks usually positions investors to survive a market downturn or recession and thrive during bull markets. About a month ago, a Redditor on r/Dividends shared their income report and portfolio, saying they hit their $300,000 12-month goal on investments of about $4 million. Professional_Panic67, who has about 150 holdings, wrote that the top 10 stocks they’ve invested in account for about 25% of the $300,000 in earnings. Trending: This billion-dollar fund has invested in the next big real estate boom, here’s how you can join for $10.This is a paid advertisement. Carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the Fundrise Flagship Fund before investing. This and other information can be found in the Fund’s prospectus. Read them carefully before investing. Professional_Panic’s top 10 in order are: BlackRock Science and Technology Term Trust (NYSE:BSTZ) has an annual dividend yield of 9.18%. Nuveen Real Asset Income and Growth Fund (NYSE:JR) has an annual dividend yield of 6.57%. DoubleLine Income Solutions Fund Common Stock (NYSE:DSL) has an annual dividend yield of 10.36%. Neuberger Berman Real Estate Securities Income Fund Inc. (NYSEAMERICAN: NRO) has an annual dividend yield of 9.4%. Kayne Anderson Energy Infrastructure Fund
23 October 2024
Russia hosts meeting of world leaders aimed at challenging the West
IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser. Now Playing Russia hosts meeting of world leaders aimed at challenging the West 04:55 UP NEXT Paul Whelan speaks out after more than five years in Russian prison 02:29 Ukraine’s Zelenskyy references North Korea’s ‘effective involvement’ in war with Russia 00:26 Russia says Trump sent Covid tests to Putin during the pandemic 06:02 Russian court sentences 72-year-old U.S. man to years in prison on mercenary charges 00:49 ‘Russia can only be forced into peace,’ Zelenskyy says 01:19 WATCH: Huge explosion at Russian missile facility after Ukrainian drone attack 00:58 Putin warns the West not to allow Ukraine to target Russia with long-range weapons 01:02 Russian officials say they shot down 15 drones attacking the Moscow region 00:27 Videos show aftermath of Ukrainian attack on airbase inside Russia 00:28 Putin visits Chechnya and meets troops and volunteers readying to fight Ukraine 01:03 Ukrainian air force video said to show Kursk bridge being attacked 00:26 Ukraine gains new ground in its offensive inside Russia 01:35 Los Angeles ballerina sentenced to 12 years in Russian penal colony 00:40 Russia sentences US ballerina to 12 years in prison for treason 00:30 Putin says Ukraine’s incursion into Kursk is an attempt to stop Moscow’s eastern offensive 00:31 Watch: Video said to show Ukrainian soldiers raising flag in Russia’s Kursk region 01:00 War games: Video game streamers take Russia’s propaganda war to the next level 06:02 Russia says it destroyed U.S.-supplied Bradley fighting vehicles in Kursk 00:42 Ukrainian forces come under attack after crossing border into Russia 00:51 More than 20 world leaders are gathering in Russia for the BRICS summit of emerging economies. The alliance formed as an economic and political counterweight to the West. NBC News’ Keir Simmons reports
23 October 2024
2 Things Boomers Shouldn’t Worry About in Retirement and 2 Things They Should
©Shutterstock.com Retirement is often sold as a time when most of your cares ebb away now that you have time to enjoy leisure, relaxation and put down the burdens of working as hard as you did for many years. Find Out: 7 Things You’ll Be Happy You Downgraded in Retirement Learn More: 6 Subtly Genius Moves All Wealthy People Make With Their Money However, for many boomers, new worries crop up, such as how to stretch a more limited income, health concerns and more. It’s also easy to be anxious about things going on in the world that might affect the economy, Social Security or Medicare. Christopher Stroup, CFP and owner of Silicon Beach Financial, offered retired boomers some insight on things they should not worry about in retirement and several they should. Trending Now: Don’t Worry About the Stock Market If you’re losing sleep about ups and downs in the stock market, Stroup suggested you redirect your anxiety. “How the stock market behaves on any given day, month or year is totally out of our control,” he pointed out. What is fairly predictable, however, is that the stock market regularly experiences a bear market once out of every five years, he said. This means that over a 20- to 30-year retirement, you can expect to navigate at least four to six bear markets, he explained. While most retirees will most likely need to participate in the stock market to some degree in order to ensure that they don’t outlive their assets, it shouldn’t be a cause of you losing sleep. “Even though market volatility can be scary, especially when living on a fixed income, it’s an integral aspect to securing the growth that the stock market has delivered to long-term investors.” So long as your investments are well diversified,
23 October 2024
New £13m-a-year support package announced
BBC Four mothers who spoke to BBC Spotlight said they were struggling to get the support they need to care for their sons Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has pledged £13m a year to boost support for families of children with complex needs. The announcement follows a BBC Spotlight programme highlighting the plight of families of children with autism and a severe learning disability. I Am Not Okay showed the children displaying extremely distressed behaviour that often led to them unintentionally hurting themselves or others. The families told the programme that short breaks, where their child would go into a respite facility for one or two nights a month, were no longer available, leaving everyone in the family at risk of injury. ‘Unacceptable current situation’ Nesbitt said he had been clear the situation was not sustainable. “I believe the funding I have announced will deliver improvements in a matter of months,” he said. “I expect clear and measurable improvements in short breaks, but this is also about providing a much greater level of support in the family home. “I pay tribute to the recent Spotlight documentary I Am Not Okay which highlighted the unacceptable current situation very effectively.” Julie Tipping appeared in the film alongside her 11-year-old son Theo. Along with the other mums from the documentary she met the health minister on Tuesday. “I thought he was genuine and really listening. He seemed to be touched by some of the stories we were telling him,” she said. “I would like to know if the money is going to be ringfenced for residential and overnight respite.” Julie Tipping has struggled to secure overnight respite for her son, Theo Carly Braiden, whose son Rudy’s behaviour has deteriorated significantly over the past few weeks, welcomed the announcement and said clarification was needed on
23 October 2024
Who is Hashem Safieddine, Hezbollah heir to Nasrallah Israel claims to have killed?
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Israel claims to have killed Hashem Safieddine, heir apparent to slain Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, in an early October airstrike on southern Beirut. The Israeli military said on Tuesday that its airstrikes on the Dahiyeh suburb killed Safieddine, head of Hezbollah’s executive council, along with Ali Hussein Hazima, the group’s intelligence chief, three weeks ago. Hezbollah is yet to confirm or deny the Israeli claim. “We have reached Nasrallah, his replacement and most of Hezbollah’s senior leadership,” Israeli army chief Herzi Halevi said, according to Reuters. “We will reach anyone who threatens the security of the civilians of the State of Israel.” The Israelis also claim to have killed three Hezbollah commanders and around 70 fighters over the past 48 hours in southern Lebanon. What do we know about Hashem Safieddine? Safieddine was born into a prominent Shia family in southern Lebanon in 1964. He joined Hezbollah in its early days during the 1980s, a period marked by the Lebanese civil war and Israel’s invasion of the country. Safieddine rapidly rose up Hezbollah’s ranks, recognised for his leadership skills and ties to the Shia community, and ultimately became a central figure in the organisation. He was designated a terrorist by the US in 2017. While Washington has classified Hezbollah as a terrorist organisation in its entirety, the EU has only blacklisted its armed wing. File. The head of Hezbollah’s executive council, Hashem Safieddine, attends a ceremony of the Iran-backed Shiite militant group in Beirut’s southern suburbs on 24 May 2024 (AFP via Getty Images) “As Nasrallah’s cousin and longtime presumed successor, he would likely be able to unify Hezbollah ranks around him,” Matthew
23 October 2024
Seattle teen detained after allegedly killing parents, siblings
Disclaimer: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised. A 15-year-old boy has been detained after allegedly killing five members of a family and injuring another at a Fall City home in Washington, authorities said on Tuesday, October 22. Police found two adults and three children dead at the lakeside house 25 miles east of Seattle on Monday. Another teenage girl was found injured, who was shot twice but escaped from the scene and is receiving treatment in hospital. Neighbours describe the shocking incident as “unfathomable”. They described the young victims as “so sweet and polite”. Mike Mellis, a deputy with the King County Sheriff’s Office, said the shooting was a “family incident” and confirmed that the youth has been taken into custody. While all six members of the family lived in the same home, their relationships with each other are not yet known. A 911 call was made by someone in the home. “They shot the other family members, I believe there is five total, not including the RP (reporting party) who’s hiding in the bathroom,” a dispatcher said during a call, according to Fox13. “I only saw the children in the driveway yesterday afternoon,” Lynne Trowern, a neighbour, told Fox13. She described that it had been quiet until around 4 pm after which the family came home and one of the boys played the piano in the garage. “I’m shocked. I kept bursting into tears.” “They immediately took one young teenage male into custody,” said Mellis. “It does appear to be a family incident, a domestic violence incident that involves a young man who’s in significant trouble, and involves firearms.” He added that it was clear if more than one weapons were used. According to the Gun Violence Archive, this incident was the 25th mass murder
23 October 2024
Here’s Why This Account Offers The Best Returns On Cash, Says Expert
Lock In 5%: Here’s Why This Account Offers The Best Returns On Cash, Says Expert Certificates of deposit are emerging as a prime destination for cash holdings, offering returns up to 5% even as the Federal Reserve signals future rate cuts. The guaranteed returns dwarf the average savings account yield of 0.57%, potentially generating $500 annually on a $10,000 deposit compared to just $57 in a standard savings account. “CDs are a great place for your cash if you don’t need the money for a specific amount of time,” Jeremy Keil, a financial planner in Wisconsin, said to CNBC. The timing consideration proves crucial, as CD investments require committing funds for a predetermined period in exchange for their returns. Don’t Miss: The investment vehicle’s appeal extends beyond its yield. Federal deposit insurance covers CDs up to $250,000 per depositor, establishing them as one of the market’s safest options. “The return of your money is more important than the return on your money,” Florida-based certified financial planner Buz Livingston was quoted in a Bankrate report. The current economic climate amplifies CDs’ advantages. While high-yield savings accounts offer comparable rates today, their variable nature leaves them vulnerable to the Fed’s projected rate cuts. The benchmark interest rate could fall to 2.5% by 2026, down from its current 4.75-5% range. Trending: Warren Buffett once said, “If you don’t find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die.” These high-yield real estate notes that pay 7.5% – 9% make earning passive income easier than ever. CDs, by contrast, lock in today’s elevated rates for their entire term. The rate protection matters for specific financial goals, like saving for home down payments or vehicle purchases. The fixed returns allow precise calculation of future gains, facilitating more accurate financial planning.
23 October 2024
McDonald’s where Trump worked overwhelmed by negative Yelp reviews: ‘Got bronzer on my fries’
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email The Pennsylvania McDonald’s restaurant where Donald Trump worked the fryer for a campaign photo-op has been inundated with fake reviews on Yelp in the wake of his stunt. Yelp, where customers review local businesses online, has had to temporarily disable the review function for the restaurant in Feasterville, Bucks County, after Trump visited the branch on Sunday. “While we don’t take a stand one way or the other when it comes to this incident, we’ve temporarily disabled the posting of content to this page as we work to investigate whether the content you see here reflects actual consumer experiences rather than the recent events,” a message on Yelp said to users. Before Yelp disabled the review function, scores were posted to the site, ranging from comical to more serious political statements about the stunt. “Senile old man got bronzer on my fries, didn’t wear gloves,” one person joked, leaving a one-star rating. “The fries were too salty as if someone who lost a major election had been crying over them for an hour,” another person jested, referring to Trump’s false claims the 2020 election was stolen. Many criticized the McDonald’s franchise for agreeing to the publicity stunt. “Stay away from this location. It closed its doors for a fake political photo op,” one person said. “The political photo op featured a convicted felon. I didn’t believe McDonald’s would approve of being used this way.” Another said: “Went to this McDonalds to try the new chicken big Mac and was stunned to see a convicted felon operating the drive through. Your company hires felons? Also closing the store for the day to perform this political theater is
23 October 2024
Russia Tells BRICS Summit Guests to Bring US Dollars, Euros
Russian President Vladimir Putin is hosting the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia. Putin is touting trade in local currencies, a move away from the US dollar. Despite the de-dollarization push, summit organizers advised attendees to bring dollars and euros. Thanks for signing up! Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you’re on the go. download the app By clicking “Sign Up”, you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. You can opt-out at any time by visiting our Preferences page or by clicking “unsubscribe” at the bottom of the email. Russian President Vladimir Putin is hosting a major summit with over 20 world leaders, whom he’s trying to convince to ditch the dollar. De-dollarization is one of Putin’s priorities because trading in local currencies means that a heavily sanctioned Russia would not be beholden to the Western US dollar-dominated global financial order. But it’s not easy to move away from the greenback. BRICS’ summit organizers have advised foreign attendees to bring cash — specifically, US dollars and euros — to the event, in the Russian city of Kazan. Most Russian banks will only take US dollars or euros — which Moscow has deemed “toxic currencies” — to exchange for rubles, according to a guide on the summit’s website. Going cashless isn’t an option, since it’s not possible to use Mastercard or Visa cards issued outside Russia in the country. The two card issuers halted local operations days after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. China’s Union Pay cards may be used — “but with restrictions,” per the guide. Attendees may apply for Russia’s Mir payment card — and there’s a bank at Kazan’s international airport to get a card, exchange currency, and withdraw cash. These issues with payments not only undermine the bluster of the BRICS group’s call
23 October 2024
Meta Platforms, Inc. (META) Unveils New AI Models to Enhance Autonomous Learning; Investors Remain Optimistic Amidst Heavy AI Investments
We recently compiled a list of the 15 AI News Investors Should Not Miss. In this article, we are going to take a look at where Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META) stands against the other AI stocks investors should not miss. Artificial Intelligence developments are making headlines across various sectors. From high-profile legal battles to groundbreaking advancements in model performance and safety protocols, AI is reshaping the landscape across industries at an unprecedented pace. READ ALSO: 15 AI News Investors Should Not Miss and 20 Trending AI Stocks on Latest News and Ratings Before we move on to the breaking news on AI, let’s talk about Morningstar’s recent report. The investment research firm reveals that for the third consecutive year, investors are leaving exchange-traded funds related to specific themes for funds linked to broad stock-market benchmarks “that are hitting record highs”. Despite overall growth in equity ETFs, thematic ETFs have lost $5.8 billion in investor capital in the year 2024. This is greater than $4.8 billion outflows in all of 2023. The reason? Broad market index returns are setting a higher bar for thematic funds this year. “It’s not that people don’t like the idea of themes any longer, but that a bull market dominated by a handful of megacaps makes it hard for any theme to stand out”. -Aniket Ullal, ETF analyst at CFRA, a market research firm. As per Morningstar, thematic ETFs often struggle due to mistimed investments, with investors usually missing out on two-thirds of their returns. Despite some AI-themed funds having strong holdings, higher fees and timing challenges reduce their overall appeal. “I think that when S&P 500 megacaps stop delivering the way they do today, the focus will shift back to thematic ETFs”. -Taylor Krystkowiak, investment strategist at Themes ETFs, an investment management firm. Moreover, while AI
23 October 2024
Palestinians fleeing Jabalia say bodies are left lying on streets
Reuters Israel’s military said on Tuesday that tens thousands of Jabalia residents had been evacuated in the past 24 hours Palestinians who fled from the Israeli ground offensive on the Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza have given harrowing accounts of the situation there. One man told the BBC that he saw streets strewn with bodies after being ordered to leave a shelter by Israeli forces, while a woman said some people left in such panic that they left their children behind. The UN agency for Palestinian refugees called for a temporary truce to enable safe passage for families still wishing to flee, while two local hospitals warned that they were running out of supplies. The Israeli military said its troops were continuing operations against Hamas fighters while enabling the secure evacuation of civilians. More than 400 people are reported to have been killed and tens of thousands have been displaced since the military said it was launching a third offensive in the Jabalia area on 6 October, saying it was rooting out Hamas fighters who had regrouped there. It came as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken flew to Israel to try to revive the stalled diplomatic process for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal in the wake of last week’s killing by Israeli troops of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. After meeting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, he told reporters that he wanted “to make sure that this is a moment of opportunity to move forward”. Mr Blinken also emphasized the need for Israel to take additional steps to increase and sustain the flow of humanitarian assistance into Gaza. BBC Arabic’s Gaza Today programme interviewed several displaced people who had recently fled Jabalia camp and sought refuge in the nearby Rimal neighbourhood of Gaza City. A man called Saleh
23 October 2024
Russians accused of crimes offered choice
Novosibirsk courts administration Andrey Perlov has been told his case will be frozen if he joins the army At about 06:45 on 28 March, police arrived at Andrey Perlov’s house near Novosibirsk in Siberia. They accused him of stealing about three million roubles ($32,000; £24,000) from a Novosibirsk football club where he was the managing director – he and his family deny this. Perlov, who is 62, is an Olympic gold medallist, having won the 50km race walk in 1992. He has been detained for more than six months and his family says he is being pressured to agree to fight in Ukraine. He’s been told that, in return, the embezzlement case against him would be frozen and potentially dropped when the war ends. Getty Images Andrey Perlov (centre) won a gold medal at the Barcelona Olympics It’s no secret that prisoners have been recruited to fight in Ukraine, but BBC analysis can reveal how the initial focus on convicted criminals has shifted to include people yet to face trial. The latest laws mean that both prosecution and defence lawyers are now legally obliged to inform people who are charged with most crimes that they have the option to go to war instead of court. The legislation, passed in March 2024, means that if they sign up, the prosecution and any investigation will be stopped. Their cases will generally be closed completely at the end of the war. “This has turned Russia’s law enforcement system upside down,” says Olga Romanova, the director of Russia Behind Bars – an NGO that provides legal assistance to detainees. “Police can now catch a man over a corpse of someone he has just killed. They tighten the handcuffs and then the killer says: ‘Oh wait, I want to go on a special military operation,’
23 October 2024
UK and Germany to sign landmark ‘defence’ treaty
Getty Images UK Defence Secretary John Healey and his German counterpart Boris Pistorius in July Britain and Germany will sign what the UK government is calling a “landmark defence agreement” aimed at boosting security, investment and jobs. Under the agreement, German defence company Rheinmetall will open a new factory in the UK to manufacture barrels for artillery guns – supporting 400 jobs. Both countries will work together to develop drones and a new long-range missile. German maritime surveillance aircraft will also periodically fly patrols of the North Atlantic from RAF Lossiemouth in Scotland. Labour promised to build closer military ties with Germany while in opposition and this is part of a wider push by this government to reset relations with key European allies post Brexit. The German Ambassador to the UK, Miguel Berger, said the European Commission will have a very strong focus on defence in the next five years, and there is space for the UK to be involved. “Obviously the question is – what can the role of the British defence industry and of the capacities of the United Kingdom be in this joint endeavour?” he told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme. The UK already has a defence pact with France – the Lancaster House Treaty signed in 2010 by David Cameron and Nicholas Sarkozy – but this is the first with Germany. Germany and the UK are the two largest defence spenders in Europe and the biggest European military donors to Ukraine. Defence Secretary John Healey said it was a “milestone moment”, bringing the two countries’ militaries and defence industries closer. In reality the two nations already co-operate as members of the Nato alliance. In a joint venture, they are also building new tanks and armoured vehicles for the British Army, Germany’s Rheinmetall and the UK’s BAE
23 October 2024
佳源國際：不覆核聯交所取消上市地位決定 將於10月29日除牌 (18:34) – 20241023 – 即時財經新聞
在作出除牌決定時，上市委員會考慮了公司股份自 2023 年 4 月 3 日起暫停買賣。根據上市規則，如果公司未能在2024年10月2日前恢復買賣，則聯交所有權取消公司之上市地位。 上市委員會認為截至復牌截止日期及至今，公司未達成任何復牌指引。公司股份仍暫停買賣﹔上市委員會認為公司 2022 年全年業績及隨後的財務業績仍未公佈。因此，公司未達 成復牌指引﹔上市委員會認為針對公司之清盤令尚未撤回或解除及清盤人尚未解除。因此，公司 未達成復牌指引。 以及上市委員會認為公司資不抵債，且針對公司的清盤令仍然有效。因此，公司未達 成復牌指引 ﹔公司未能證明集團管理層及或對公司管理及營運具有重大影響 力的任何人士的誠信、能力及╱或品格不存在合理的監管擔憂。因此，公司未達成復牌指引 上市委員會認為應在公司滿足所有其他復牌指引後，再評估復牌指引的履行情況。基於上述原因，公司未達成復牌指引。在這些情況下，上市委員會認為聯交所有權根據上市規則取消公司之上市地位。 除非公司根據上市規則第 2B 章規定的權利申請覆核除牌決定，否則公司股份上市的最後一日將為 2024 年 10 月 28 日，股份的上市地位將於 2024 年 10 月 29 日上午 9 時正取消。公司已決定不申請覆核除牌決定。 為避免疑義，股份在聯交所取消上市地位後，目前公司在聯交所上市的債券其上市地位將在2024年10月29日股份取消上市地位後維持不變。 其他報道 【久利生專欄】數碼港可搬去啟德郵輪碼頭？ 金沙訂新5年期融資共涉款324.5億元 錦藝擬組合營貨機租賃公司 新東方料第二季淨營收升25至28% 新文旅業務25財年將貢獻有意義收入 戶口互聯丨金管局銀行同業數據共享正式命名為「戶口互聯」 虛擬保險OneDegree母企易名為AIFT 全日沽空金額增25% 南方恒生科技沽空減13% 恒指收市升261點 科指升1.8% 成交、北水回升 華潤飲料升15% 天瀧標售成交增至19伙 4房5134萬沽出 戶口互聯｜匯豐：指定個人客戶今年底前可於App上檢視其他銀行戶口 戶口互聯｜渣打香港：第四季推跨行戶口查詢服務 歐央行據報開始討論要否減息到中性水平以下 歐元貶值見兩個月最弱
23 October 2024
XAU/USD Analysis Today – 23/10: Gold Hits Peak (Chart)
Created on October 23, 2024 Despite the strong gains of the US dollar, the price of gold rose to around $2753 per ounce, trading at record levels, the highest in the history of the gold market. Its successive gains were supported by its status as a safe-haven asset. Reports indicated that tensions in the Middle
23 October 2024
ASMPT擬將先進封裝材料部門售予A股公司至正高 (18:53) – 20241023 – 即時財經新聞
根據安排，今次ASMPT出售先進封裝材料國際公司的代價中，有49%會用至正高的股份支付，餘額會以現金支付。同時深圳至正高將向南寧市先進半導體科技公司，安排資產置換，將手上的非半導體業務脫手。ASMPT指，由今年9月30日至業務交割日止，待售的先進封裝材料國際公司的盈利及資產淨值增加，均劃歸深圳至正高，ASMPT則會承擔該業務在待交割前的虧損及資產淨值減少。該集團指，通過今次出售交易，可獲現金流外，亦料可能為獲得A股公司股份，及在半導體材料領域具進一步增長潛力下，為股東創造額外的價值。 深圳至正高早於10月11日起將股份停牌，料停牌時間不少於10個交易日。在進行資產置換同時，其將出售上海至正新材料的100%股權交易擱置。其預計，今次交易涉及重大資產重組及涉關連交易，但是不會觸發控制權變更。 此外，若按至正高發行股份達7450萬股計，增發至已擴大後股本兩成的話，將需增發1490萬股。若按發行價32元人民幣計算，料今次交易的股份代價最少約4.77億元人民幣。由於股份代價佔49%，因此按現金代價佔比計算，料約值4.96億元人民幣。因此料ASMPT出售先進封裝材料國際股權的估值最少值9.73億元人民幣，約為10.61億港元。 其他報道 【久利生專欄】數碼港可搬去啟德郵輪碼頭？ 金沙訂新5年期融資共涉款324.5億元 錦藝擬組合營貨機租賃公司 新東方料第二季淨營收升25至28% 新文旅業務25財年將貢獻有意義收入 戶口互聯丨金管局銀行同業數據共享正式命名為「戶口互聯」 虛擬保險OneDegree母企易名為AIFT 全日沽空金額增25% 南方恒生科技沽空減13% 恒指收市升261點 科指升1.8% 成交、北水回升 華潤飲料升15% 天瀧標售成交增至19伙 4房5134萬沽出 戶口互聯｜匯豐：指定個人客戶今年底前可於App上檢視其他銀行戶口 戶口互聯｜渣打香港：第四季推跨行戶口查詢服務 歐央行據報開始討論要否減息到中性水平以下 歐元貶值見兩個月最弱 星展香港CEO近半億破頂價購THE ASTER特色戶 匯豐降周大福目標價 美國麥當勞「足三兩」含大腸桿菌 香港發言人：不涉香港產品及食材 滬指午後穩守3300點 連升四個交易日 華昊中天唐莉：料優替德隆注射液價格未來兩年不會有太大變化 金價再創新高 銀價12年高 比特幣連跌3日 奇瑞汽車已選中金等 安排香港IPO 最快明年上市 許正宇：重點關注央行數碼貨幣、移動支付及虛擬資產交易等領域 【有片：埋身擊】比特幣後市料橫行 可趁低吸少量以太幣 瑞銀梁展嘉︰內地人置業意願升利好港住宅市場 料明年樓價升最多5% 半日沽空金額增23% 潤電沽空增53倍 Source link
23 October 2024
Nvidia Shares Hit All-Time High: Time to Buy?
Recently, the beloved Nvidia NVDA has hit fresh all-time highs. As we know, stocks making new highs tend to make even higher highs, particularly when a company’s earnings outlook remains positive. And we’ve all become familiar with the bullish outlook surrounding the stock thanks to the AI frenzy, with analysts consistently revising expectations higher following record-breaking quarterly results. Should investors keep tapping into the momentum? Let’s look at how the Mag 7 member stacks up. Should You Buy Nvidia Shares? Nvidia’s Data Center results have been remarkable, consistently blowing away our consensus expectations in each of its last five releases. As shown below, the beats have not been small by any means, with the most recent totaling a sizable $1.4 billion amid another period of scorching-hot demand. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research CEO Jensen Huang provided yet another bullish long-term comment following the release, confirming strong demand for Hopper and anticipation for Blackwell. ‘NVIDIA achieved record revenues as global data centers are in full throttle to modernize the entire computing stack with accelerated computing and generative AI.’ Unsurprisingly, a bigger question is the valuation picture, with many wondering if shares are too stretched after a massive run. But the reality is that shares aren’t expensive on a relative basis, with the current 40.9X forward 12-month earnings multiple comparing favorably to the 50.7X five-year median. The current PEG also works out to 1.2X, again well beneath historical averages. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research It’s worth noting here that NVDA shares traded well above current valuation levels in 2020 and 2021 when the AI theme had yet to emerge fully. Historically strong growth has helped keep multiples now. The company’s margins have also been historically strong in recent quarters, aiding its profitability picture in a big way. Please note that the chart
23 October 2024
XAU/USD declines to $2,720 corrective decline may continue
XAU/USD Current price: $2,719.65 Rising US Treasury yields amid looming US elections back the US Dollar. Polls show a tight intention vote between Vice President Harris and former President Trump. XAU/USD aims to extend its corrective advance, could pierce the $2,700 level. Spot Gold reached yet another record high on Wednesday, trading as high as $2,758.36 before turning south. The bright metal retreated from such a high and trades at around $2,720 as the US Dollar maintained its positive momentum across the FX board. Financial markets are in risk-averse mode, with global stocks under pressure. Tech shares led the slide, albeit speculative interest is also looking at government bond yields, which jumped this week in anticipation of the United States (US) presidential election. The world’s largest economy heads into the polls in little over two weeks, with no clear winner ahead of the event. It seems Vice President Kamala Harris is leading and has a roughly 2% lead over former President Donald Trump, yet the difference is barely significant. Meanwhile, Treasury yields extended their weekly advance. The 10-year note currently offers 4.26%, while the 2-year note yields 4.06%, levels not seen since early in July. XAU/USD short-term technical outlook The XAU/USD pair is currently stuck at around the 23.6% Fibonacci retracement of the $2,601.87/$2,756.36 rally at $2,721.20. The decline seems corrective, although it may continue towards $2,698.66, the 38.2% retracement of the same rally. In the daily chart, technical indicators turned south, with the Relative Strength Index (RSI) indicator correcting overbought conditions and the Momentum easing from October highs. Both indicators support another leg lower, yet a break through the daily low at $2,708.57 will help confirm the slide. Additionally, it is worth mentioning moving averages maintain their firm upward slopes far below the current level, keeping the long-term
23 October 2024
Bringing FX to the forefront with tastyfx — TradingView Blog
As part of our commitment to providing traders worldwide with the tools they need to execute strategies of any level, we present tastyfx, our newest brokerage partner. This integration opens up new prospects for US users to navigate the forex market. Founded in 2019, tastyfx has quickly become the third-largest forex brokerage in the US. The brokerage is backed by IG Group, a major global online trading provider with over 50 years of experience. With IG’s backing, tastyfx offers not just competitive trading terms but also opportunities for individual support and education, all to fulfill its goal of providing the best trading experience in forex. tastyfx is strongly focused on commission-free trading and competitive spreads starting at just 0.8 pips. These tight spreads without hidden fees, as well as cashback rebates of up to 15%, daily market insights, and robust, round-the-clock support, are some of the features offered by the broker to provide a smooth trading journey to its 300,000+ users worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned trader or just starting, the latest integration of tastyfx within the TradingView ecosystem is designed to enhance your trading experience in forex markets. Check it out yourself now: head to the trading panel, find the tastyfx icon, log in with your brokerage credentials, and leap to trading. tastyfx broker profile Source link
23 October 2024
Nasdaq leads stocks lower as Wall Street braces for Tesla earnings
The Nasdaq sagged on Wednesday, as doubts about rate cuts weighed on investors dealing with a busy day of earnings highlighted by Boeing (BA) and Tesla (TSLA). The Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI) fell more than 300 points, or 0.7%. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite (^IXIC) slid about 1%, while the benchmark S&P 500 (^GSPC) was off more than 0.6%. The rally in stocks has stalled as investors debate how quickly the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates over the next year. Gloom about the prospect of rates staying higher for longer has dragged on bond prices in recent days, sending the 10-year Treasury yield (^TNX) to levels not seen since July. The yield rose slightly on Wednesday, firmly above the 4.20% level. Tesla’s (TSLA) earnings, due after the market close, will be closely watched amid questions about the EV maker’s long-awaited cheaper EV, robotaxi specifics, and its AI shift. More broadly, Wall Street is looking to divine whether Big Tech megacaps will keep fueling the stock rally — and what the AI arms race means for their performance. Several big tech names were lagging leading into the report, with Apple (AAPL), Alphabet (GOOGL, GOOG), Amazon (AMZN), Meta (META) and Nvidia (NVDA) all off more than 1%. Read more: What the Fed rate cut means for bank accounts, CDs, loans, and credit cards Meanwhile, Boeing (BA) posted a big loss in its quarterly report before the bell on the same day it will find out whether striking factory workers have voted to accept a pay deal. Elsewhere on the corporate front, McDonald’s (MCD) stock slid over 4%, weighing on the Dow, after the company’s Quarter Pounder burgers were officially linked to an E. coli outbreak in some states. Investors are on the alert for surprises after Starbucks’s (SBUX) shock sales drop
23 October 2024
Old Dominion’s Q3 Earnings Match Estimates, Decrease Year Over Year
Old Dominion Freight Line’s ODFL third-quarter 2024 earnings per share of $1.43 was in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate but decreased 7.1% year over year. Management has stated that all per-share data, even for the prior-year period, have been adjusted to reflect the two-for-one stock split. The stock split was announced by ODFL in the first quarter. Find the latest EPS estimates and surprises on Zacks Earnings Calendar. Revenues of $1.47 billion fell short of the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.51 billion and decreased 3% year over year. A 4.8% decrease in less-than-truckload (“LTL”) tons per day hurt results. Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart | Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. Quote Revenues from LTL services came in at $1.46 billion, down 2.9% year over year. Segmental revenues were below our projection of $1.53 billion. Revenues from other services fell 6.5% to $13.1 million, which was just below our projection of $13.7 million. In the quarter under review, LTL weight per shipment dipped 1.4% and LTL revenue per shipment inched up 0.1%. LTL shipments and LTL shipments per day were down 1.9% and 3.4%, respectively, on a year-over-year basis. LTL revenue per hundredweight increased 1.5%. Total operating expenses remained flat at $1.07 billion. Operating income decreased 9.7% to $401.8 million. Old Dominion exited the September quarter with cash and cash equivalents of $74.2 million compared with $433.8 million in 2023-end. Long-term debt at the end of the quarter was $40 million compared with $60 million at 2023-end. Capital expenditures were $242.8 million. The matric incurred in the reported quarter. The company paid out dividends worth $168.2 million and repurchased its shares worth $824.8 million in the first nine months of the year. For 2024, ODFL anticipates total capital expenditures to
23 October 2024
中遠海運港口1.1億美元入股長和泰國林查班港 逾2800萬美元入股埃及蘇科納港 (20:22) – 20241023 – 即時財經新聞
中遠海運港口（中遠）（1199）宣布，出資1.1億美元，向長江和記（0001）旗下和記港口、中國-東盟投資合作基金及一泰國公民組成的公司Sapphire，分別收購泰國拉查班港的HLT及TLT公司30%及12.5%股權。集團將以內部資源應付是次收購。 中遠一方完成是次收購後，長和為首一方仍佔HLT及TLT公司70%及49%權益。截至2023年底止年度，HLT及TLT分別錄得稅後虧損近9.9億銖及稅後盈利4898.8萬銖。在收購拉查班港業務之外，該集團還指，由於在訂立今次交易前12個月，其另與長和旗下公司訂立埃及蘇科納港口合營協議，並進行交割，因此按例視之為一系列交易，並要按例披露。根據今年3月份埃及港口合營協議，中遠撥出首筆股權融資額達2812.5萬美元，隨著5月份股權交割，該集團在該港口佔股25%。 該集團指出，泰國政府大力支持林查班港口發展，為其營建穩定有利的監管環境，從而最大限度減低營運風險。此外，泰國東部經濟走廊計劃等基建項目持續推進，進一步鞏固林查班港口及周邊地區的長遠增長及發展前景。至於蘇科納港則鄰近世界最繁忙海運航道之一蘇伊士運河的南入口，可通達地中海、紅海及印度洋，繼而進入中東、歐洲及非洲市場。藉投資林查班及蘇科納兩個港口，其可加強輻射多元市場的能力，規避與區域經濟或政治動蕩相關的風險，同時提升自身管理航線及航期的整體能力。 中遠海運港口（中遠）（1199）宣布，出資1.1億美元，向長江和記（0001）旗下和記港口、中國-東盟投資合作基金及一泰國公民組成的公司Sapphire，分別收購泰國拉查班港的HLT及TLT公司30%及12.5%股權。集團將以內部資源應付是次收購。 中遠一方完成是次收購後，長和為首一方仍佔HLT及TLT公司70%及50%權益。截至2023年底止年度，HLT及TLT分別錄得稅後虧損近9.9億銖及稅後盈利4898.8萬銖。在收購拉查班港業務之外，該集團還指，由於在訂立今次交易前12個月，其另與長和旗下公司訂立埃及蘇科納港口合營協議，並進行交割，因此按例視之為一系列交易，並要按例披露。根據今年3月份埃及港口合營協議，中遠撥出首筆股權融資額達2812.5萬美元，隨著5月份股權交割，該集團在該港口佔股25%。 該集團指出，泰國政府大力支持林查班港口發展，為其營建穩定有利的監管環境，從而最大限度減低營運風險。此外，泰國東部經濟走廊計劃等基建項目持續推進，進一步鞏固林查班港口及周邊地區的長遠增長及發展前景。至於蘇科納港則鄰近世界最繁忙海運航道之一蘇伊士運河的南入口，可通達地中海、紅海及印度洋，繼而進入中東、歐洲及非洲市場。藉投資林查班及蘇科納兩個港口，其可加強輻射多元市場的能力，規避與區域經濟或政治動蕩相關的風險，同時提升自身管理航線及航期的整體能力。 其他報道 滔搏半年盈利跌35% 中期息削12.5%每股派15.07仙 股價單日急升55% 電訊首科：不悉原因 中煤能源第三季盈利跌不足1% 首三季少賺13% 聯易融首三季科技解决方案處理交易總量增加17% 戶口互聯丨上商：已處理超過5000萬中小企貸款 ASMPT擬將先進封裝材料部門售予A股公司至正高 地平線暗盤最多升36% 一手帳面賺864元 佳源國際：不覆核聯交所取消上市地位決定 將於10月29日除牌 【久利生專欄】數碼港可搬去啟德郵輪碼頭？ 金沙訂新5年期融資共涉款324.5億元 錦藝擬組合營貨機租賃公司 新東方料第二季淨營收升25至28% 新文旅業務25財年將貢獻有意義收入 戶口互聯丨金管局銀行同業數據共享正式命名為「戶口互聯」 虛擬保險OneDegree母企易名為AIFT 全日沽空金額增25% 南方恒生科技沽空減13% 恒指收市升261點 科指升1.8% 成交、北水回升 華潤飲料升15% 天瀧標售成交增至19伙 4房5134萬沽出 戶口互聯｜匯豐：指定個人客戶今年底前可於App上檢視其他銀行戶口 戶口互聯｜渣打香港：第四季推跨行戶口查詢服務 歐央行據報開始討論要否減息到中性水平以下 歐元貶值見兩個月最弱 星展香港CEO近半億破頂價購THE ASTER特色戶 匯豐降周大福目標價 美國麥當勞「足三兩」含大腸桿菌 香港發言人：不涉香港產品及食材 Source link
23 October 2024
Building a Python Forex Trading Bot: What I Learned from Losing Money | by Thomas Ott | Oct, 2024
A hands-on guide to coding Forex trading strategies in Python, exploring mean reversion, and understanding the value of failure Photo by PiggyBank on Unsplash I’ve had some time to continue working on my Python Forex Trading Bot (code borrowed from this source and tweaked by me) now that we’re all self-isolating. Note: This project is purely for educational purposes because, so far, when I run this bot, it tends to lose money. It’s losing less now, but it’s still not profitable. I say “educational” because coding isn’t my primary career — I’m teaching myself as I go along. That said, coding has been quite beneficial in other areas of my life and helps me get things done. Learning and Improving I now understand the concept of Classes, which is great because it allows me to make my code more modular. Originally, I thought I could write functions within the MomentumTrader class to act as stop and trailing stop orders. I implemented that but discovered I was creating those orders after the trade, and when the bot tried to close or add to a position (since it uses a mean reversion strategy), it would sometimes crash. Source link
23 October 2024
DJT stock extends gains after shares surge to highest level since July on bets Trump will win US election
Trump Media & Technology Group stock (DJT) extended gains on Wednesday, rising another 3% in morning trading as investors bet on former President Donald Trump’s improved odds of winning the November election in less than two weeks. The moves come after the stock hit its highest level since July on Tuesday, with shares closing up nearly 10%. Shares in the company, the home of the Republican nominee’s social media platform Truth Social, have seen a recent surge as both domestic and overseas betting markets shift in favor of a Trump victory, with prediction sites like Polymarket, PredictIt, and Kalshi all showing Trump’s presidential chances ahead of those of Democratic nominee and current Vice President Kamala Harris. National polls, however, show both candidates in an incredibly tight race, especially in key battleground states like Pennsylvania and Michigan, which are likely to decide the fate of the election. The recovery in shares comes after the stock traded at its lowest level since the company’s debut following the expiration of its highly publicized lockup period last month. Shares had also been under pressure, as previous polling around early September saw Harris edging slightly ahead of the former president. Trump’s recent campaign momentum, which just included a stop at a local Pennsylvania McDonald’s, follows an appearance by Elon Musk at his rally in Butler, Pa., earlier this month. It was the same location where the former president survived an assassination attempt in July. Tech billionaire Musk, who serves as the CEO of Tesla (TSLA) and SpaceX and also owns social media platform X (formerly Twitter), has been outspoken about his support of Trump ahead of next month’s election. Trump has even said he would consider a Cabinet position for Musk but that the businessman likely would not be able to serve “with all the
23 October 2024
Noteworthy ETF Inflows: QQQ, META, TSLA, COST
Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel, one standout is the Invesco QQQ (Symbol: QQQ) where we have detected an approximate $3.6 billion dollar inflow — that’s a 1.2% increase week over week in outstanding units (from 599,400,000 to 606,650,000). Among the largest underlying components of QQQ, in trading today Meta Platforms Inc (Symbol: META) is off about 0.7%, Tesla Inc (Symbol: TSLA) is down about 1%, and Costco Wholesale Corp (Symbol: COST) is up by about 0.9%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the QQQ Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of QQQ, versus its 200 day moving average: Looking at the chart above, QQQ’s low point in its 52 week range is $342.35 per share, with $503.52 as the 52 week high point — that compares with a last trade of $493.06. Comparing the most recent share price to the 200 day moving average can also be a useful technical analysis technique — learn more about the 200 day moving average ». Exchange traded funds (ETFs) trade just like stocks, but instead of ”shares” investors are actually buying and selling ”units”. These ”units” can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. Each week we monitor the week-over-week change in shares outstanding data, to keep a lookout for those ETFs experiencing notable inflows (many new units created) or outflows (many old units destroyed). Creation of new units will mean the underlying holdings of the ETF need to be purchased, while destruction of units involves selling underlying holdings, so large flows can also impact the individual components held within ETFs. Click here to find out which 9 other ETFs had notable inflows
23 October 2024
Nvidia stock is still undervalued, BofA analyst argues
Listen and subscribe to Opening Bid on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts. It’s no secret that computer gaming chipmaker turned artificial intelligence wunderkind Nvidia (NVDA) has had a fantastic year, but the party may have just begun for investors. “The revenue monetization opportunity is so much greater [than investors appreciate],” Bank of America analyst Vivek Arya told Yahoo Finance executive editor Brian Sozzi on Yahoo Finance’s Opening Bid podcast (video above; listen below). “They really are a system integrator at this point,” Arya added. “They’re selling complete racks with all the computing, the networking, the optical resources, the memory, everything thrown in.” The top semiconductor analyst just made a few waves in the market with his latest call on Nvidia. He lifted his earnings per share estimates for 2024 and 2025, citing likely strong demand for its new Blackwell chip. Demand for Nvidia’s prior AI chip — Hopper — remains hot, Arya said. Given this, Nvidia’s stock is still cheap trading on a forward price-to-earnings multiple of 37 times, per Arya. With the company poised to haul in a whopping $200 billion in free cash flow the next two years, Arya said the stock looks cheap on a price-to-cash flow basis too. Arya sees at least 40% more upside in Nvidia’s stock. Shares are already up 190% year to date and hovering near records amid an 18% surge in October. Rival AMD’s stock (AMD) is only up 5% on the year, as the performance specs on the company’s AI chip released a few weeks ago disappointed investors. Meanwhile, Intel (INTC) continues to slog through one of the worst periods in its existence, dominated by layoffs and inferior products. Shares have plunged 55% this year. Key drivers for Arya’s bullish Nvidia call (alongside less bullish views
23 October 2024
ACCESS ASIA: SGX FX Aims to Grow Electronic FX Options Trading
Lee Beng Hong, CEO of SGX FX and head of wholesale markets & platforms at Singapore Exchange (SGX Group), said the company would like to grow electronic trading of currency options as average daily volume (ADV) of both over-the-counter and exchange-traded derivatives reached a record. SGX reported that OTC FX ADV surpassed its target by increasing 47% to reach $111bn in the last financial year, between 1 July 2023 and 30 June 2024. In the same period, FX futures ADV grew 36% to about 204,000 contracts. In September this year, combined OTC and futures ADV reached a notional $168bn. Lee Beng Hong, SGX Lee told Markets Media: “One pillar that SGX FX wants to grow is electronic trading of options. Unlike the rest of the FX market, the options market is still traded largely bilaterally or on voice. There is a big opportunity to bring the same efficiency we provide into the options market to uplift the overall efficiency of the entire market.” The fixed income, currencies and commodities (FICC) segment has had a compound annual growth rate of more than 20% in the previous three financial years, according to SGX’s 2024 full-year results. Lee said SGX expects strong momentum in FX futures due to greater adoption and market conditions, but also because of regulations such as the uncleared margin rules, which make it more capital intensive to use uncleared products. “There is no product that is more capital efficient than one that is centrally cleared on an exchange,” he added. A differentiator for SGX is that it solves for access to both liquid and illiquid FX products, and continues to invest in new solutions, technology and automation, according to Lee. He continued that SGX has launched a unique tool, Trading Plan (T-Plan), which allows OTC FX clients to automate
23 October 2024
What would a Kamala Harris or Donald Trump victory mean for the stock market?
The stock market has climbed over the course of the presidential campaign, raising questions about whether the rally will continue depending upon which candidate wins: Vice President Kamala Harris or former President Donald Trump. The S&P 500 has soared more than 20% this year, repeating a feat that the index achieved in 2023. The Nasdaq has jumped 23% this year, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average has increased 14%. Over the full span of the next administration, the market will likely move higher whether the nation elects Harris or Trump, experts told ABC News. However, they added, each candidate’s policies could favor different types of stocks while posing unique risks. Here’s what to know about what a win by Harris or Trump could mean for the stock market: What would a Trump presidency mean for the stock market? Trump has vowed to extend the corporate tax cuts signed into law during his first term when they begin to phase out in 2025. If approved by Congress and signed into law, the tax cuts would accompany an anticipated deregulatory agenda taken up by federal agencies within the Trump administration. That combination of low corporate tax rates and loose regulation would likely bolster corporate profits and propel the stock market higher, experts said. “Taxes do have consequences,” Peter Morici, a professor emeritus at the University of Maryland’s School of Business, told ABC News. “With the Trump administration, it will be like a cork coming out.” Trump policies would favor sectors such as oil and gas as well as artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, firms focused on renewable energy could suffer if Trump undermines financial incentives enacted under Biden, some experts said. “The Inflation Reduction Act was a big deal for solar and electric vehicle stocks,” Callie Cox, chief market strategist at Ritholtz Wealth Management,
23 October 2024
Billionaire Warren Buffett Sold 56% of Berkshire’s Stake in Apple and Is Piling Into Wall Street’s Most Prominent Reverse Stock Split of 2024
The Oracle of Omaha has parted with more than 515 million shares of Apple in favor of Wall Street’s most unique stock-split stock. There’s arguably not a billionaire money manager that garners more attention on Wall Street than Berkshire Hathaway‘s (BRK.A) (BRK.B -0.58%) chief, Warren Buffett. The accurately dubbed “Oracle of Omaha” has led his company’s Class A shares (BRK.A) to a mouthwatering aggregate return of more than 5,600,000% since he became CEO almost six decades ago. Riding Buffett’s coattails has been a surefire long-term investment strategy. Mirroring his trades is made simple thanks to required Form 13F filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). No later than 45 calendar days following the end to a quarter, institutional investors with at least $100 million in assets under management are required to file Form 13F with the SEC. This filing provides a concise snapshot of which stocks Wall Street’s best money managers are buying and selling — and there’s no 13F more anticipated each quarter than Berkshire Hathaway. Berkshire Hathaway CEO Warren Buffett. Image source: The Motley Fool. Over the last two years, Buffett and his team have been decisive net sellers of stocks. Based on the seven quarters of cash flow statements from Berkshire Hathaway (from Oct. 1, 2022 through June 30, 2024), Buffett and his top investing aides, Todd Combs and Ted Weschler, have sold close to $132 billion more in stocks than they’ve purchased. While no Warren Buffett stock has been given the heave-ho quite like Berkshire’s No. 1 holding, Apple (AAPL -0.26%), the Oracle of Omaha is finding value in Wall Street’s most prominent reverse stock split stock of 2024. Buffett has sent over 515 million shares of Apple to the chopping block since October 2023 Amid Warren Buffett’s selling spree, top holding Apple has been
23 October 2024
Dubai Start-up Avenix Fzco Launches AI-Powered Forex Trading Bot Forexigo
Dubai Start-up Avenix Fzco Launches AI-Powered Forex Trading Bot Forexigo – Chainwire Home Newsroom Dubai Start-up Avenix Fzco Launches AI-Powered Forex Trading Bot Forexigo We use cookies to make Chainwire’s website a better experience. Cookies help us provide a more personalized experience and relevant advertising for you, and web analytics for us. The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network. The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you. The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes. We use cookies to make Chainwire’s website a better experience. Cookies help us provide a more personalized experience and relevant advertising for you, and web analytics for us. The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network. The technical storage or access is necessary for the
23 October 2024
Norway’s $1.8 trillion wealth fund issues stock market warning
Trond Grande, deputy chief executive officer of Norges Bank Investment Management, during a news conference in Oslo, Norway, on Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024. Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM), one of the world’s largest investors, said heightened uncertainty and concerns over the economic outlook mean that stock market risks are tilted to the downside. NBIM, which manages Norway’s $1.8 trillion sovereign wealth fund, said that it was important to be clear-sighted about concerns down the road, even as it stands by its position of not making large asset allocation shifts on a short-term basis. “We [started] with 70% in equities and 30% in bonds, and that’s typically where you will find us in any market situation. Now, that said, you have to be realistic,” Trond Grande, deputy CEO of NBIM, told CNBC’s Silvia Amaro on Tuesday. “The fund that we run has doubled in size over the last five years. Our equity portfolio has returned more than 100%. So, I think it is a time of being a little bit cautious.” Norway’s wealth fund, the world’s largest, was established in the 1990s to invest the surplus revenues of the country’s oil and gas sector. To date, the fund has put money in more than 8,760 companies in 71 countries around the world. NBIM’s Grande cited concerns including the political climate in the U.S. ahead of next month’s presidential election, China’s stimulus-fueled bid to restore confidence in the world’s second-largest economy and the narrative of “stagnant growth” in Europe. “So, it is a time to be a little bit cautious, and I think the risks are more on the downside in the equity markets than on the upside,” Grande said. NBIM’s stock market warning comes shortly after Norway’s sovereign wealth fund reported a third-quarter return of
23 October 2024
Beat the Nasdaq With This Cash-Gushing Dividend Stock
Earning returns on par with the Nasdaq Composite is simple enough: Just invest in exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that track the index. But what if you want to do even better than the Nasdaq? Building a portfolio that can outpace it isn’t easy. If I were to give it a shot, though, I’d seriously consider including AbbVie (NYSE: ABBV). This drugmaker might have what it takes to beat the Nasdaq, partly thanks to its robust dividend program. The incredible power of dividends AbbVie is among an elite group of companies known as Dividend Kings, which have raised their payouts for more than 50 years. The pharmaceutical leader’s streak is currently at 52 when including the time it spent under the wing of its former parent company, Abbott Laboratories. And since it split from Abbott in 2013, AbbVie has raised its payout by 288%. The ability to maintain a solid dividend program for years is an incredibly attractive quality to long-term investors. First, it says a lot about the company’s underlying business. There will always be unforeseen risks and setbacks, economic issues, geopolitical troubles, pandemics, and so on. Any corporation that can continue hiking its dividend despite all that, as AbbVie has done, likely has at least some of the qualities of a forever stock. Second, while it’s hard for dividends to replace a person’s entire salary — you’d need millions invested for that — reinvesting the dividend can work wonders on long-term returns. Time plus dividend plus compounding is a potent combination. Let’s illustrate: Since 2013, AbbVie’s stock price has lagged the pace of the Nasdaq Composite. ABBV data by YCharts. But let’s see what happens when we look at the total returns they have provided — total returns include dividends reinvested. In this case, AbbVie is ahead by a substantial
23 October 2024
Real Estate Is a ‘Generational Opportunity’ As Stock, Bond Gains Fade
Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan Asset Management are becoming a bit less bullish. Although the US economic outlook is strong, returns may have been pulled forward. However, real estate — specifically the commercial side — may be poised to take off. Thanks for signing up! Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you’re on the go. download the app By clicking “Sign Up”, you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. You can opt-out at any time by visiting our Preferences page or by clicking “unsubscribe” at the bottom of the email. A pair of Wall Street juggernauts are getting slightly more skeptical about stocks and bonds, but a compelling investment opportunity may be hiding in plain sight. Goldman Sachs Goldman Sachs stole headlines recently by forecasting that US equities will only rise 3% a year in the next decade, down from an average annual gain of 13% in the prior 10 years. The firm’s rationale is based on a more challenging backdrop characterized by lofty valuations, an unusually high concentration in the market’s biggest stocks, increased recession risk, lower profits, and elevated interest rates. Goldman Sachs Top minds at JPMorgan Asset Management (JPMAM) agree that stocks might not post the returns that investors have come to expect, though they’re not nearly as pessimistic. The firm, which manages $3.5 trillion in assets, expects US large-cap equities to appreciate by 6.7% a year in the next 10 to 15 years, according to its yearly long-term capital market assumptions report released on October 21. For reference, JPMAM thinks global stocks will rise between 7.2% and 8.1% a year in that same span. A mid-single-digit annual gain for US large caps is nothing to sneeze at, though it would be down substantially from 7.9% two years ago and 7% last year.
23 October 2024
USD/CAD Forecast: Traders Lock Profits Ahead of BoC Meeting
The USD/CAD pair had a steep rally in October. Canada’s inflation has eased significantly, increasing bets for a super-sized BoC rate cut. Oil rose due to an improving demand outlook in China. The USD/CAD forecast suggests profit-taking after a strong rally, with the pair easing ahead of the crucial Bank of Canada policy meeting. At the same time, the Canadian dollar strengthened as oil prices rallied due to an improved demand outlook. –Are you interested to learn more about Australian forex brokers? Check our detailed guide- The USD/CAD pair had a steep rally in October, with the stronger US dollar as the primary catalyst. Simultaneously, the Canadian dollar has weakened with increasing Bank of Canada rate cut expectations. The greenback strengthened as it became clear that the US economy was on solid ground. Therefore, the Fed has enough room to gradually lower borrowing costs. Initially, there were fears that the economy was slowing down rapidly. As a result, Fed policymakers voted for a significant rate cut in September. However, since then, they have shifted their outlooks and taken on a more cautious tone, boosting the dollar. Furthermore, the greenback has gained due to speculation on the upcoming US presidential election. At some point, Trump was in the lead, which increased the likelihood of high inflation. At the same time, uncertainty about the possible outcome is sending traders to safe-haven assets. On the other hand, Canada’s inflation has eased significantly, increasing bets for a super-sized BoC rate cut. As a result, the CAD has fallen sharply. However, a rally in oil prices on Tuesday allowed the loonie to recover slightly. Oil rose due to an improving demand outlook in China due to recent stimulus efforts. USD/CAD key events today BoC monetary policy meeting BoC rate statement BoC press conference USD/CAD technical
23 October 2024
恒指收市升261點 科指升1.8% 成交、北水回升 華潤飲料升15% (16:23) – 20241023 – 即時財經新聞
恒指今早高開26點，高位升443點，低位跌50點，高低波幅493點，是10月18日後最闊。上升股份比例為35.06%，下跌為31.29%，無升跌為33.63%。 恒指收市升261點或1.27%，報20760點，大市成交金額1926億元，較上日增加24.45%，是10月21日1955.63億元成交後最多；國指升115點或1.56%，報7478點。恒生科技指數收報4605點，升1.86%。 藍籌股成交金額819.69億元，佔大市成交42.55%；科指成份股成交金額476.92億元，佔大市成交24.76%；國指成份股成交金額699.04億元，佔大市成交36.29%。 24隻雙櫃台股，總成交1.65億元人民幣，相當於約1.79億港元，佔大市成交的0.09%。 窩輪及牛熊證成交金額增加15.08%，至177.22億元，佔大市成交9.19%。牛熊證成交金額87.85億元，增加23.13%；窩輪成交金額89.36億元，增加8.12%。 藍籌56隻升，24隻下跌，2隻無升跌。信義光能（0968）升12.43%，收報3.8元，是升幅最大的藍籌，華潤電力（0836）跌6.6%，收報19.38元，是跌幅最大的藍籌。 恒生科技指數成份股21隻升，9隻下跌。升幅最大的是理想（2015）收報107.4元，升6.34%；跌幅最大的是舜宇（2382）收報48.2元，跌3.7%。 恒指升穿10天線(20620.85點)，20天線(20867.47點)得而復失。科指升穿10天線(4546.81點)，20天線(4608.4點)得而復失。 北水南下合計淨流入93.99億元，較上日增加59.14%，淨流入金額是10月21日124.3億元後最多，對上一次連續3日淨流入是10月15日。北水連續第3日流入，累計流入277.36億元。北水本月累計流入641.44億元，按月增加51.55%，連續第2個月增加，金額是6月後新高，連續第16個月流入。 三大指數表現 恒指曾升最多2.16%，是10月18日後最大升幅，當日升幅為4.35%。高見20942.26點，是10月18日20952.99點後最高。今日收市報20760.15點，是10月18日後收市新高，當日報20804.11點。連升2日，累計升281.69點，對上一次連升2日是10月7日。 科指曾升最多3.28%，是10月18日後最大升幅，當日升幅為7.17%。高見4669.85點，是10月15日4682.83點後最高。收市報4605.62點，是10月14日後收市新高，當日報4668.18點。連升2日，累計升113.72點，對上一次連升2日是10月7日。 國指曾升最多2.54%，是10月18日後最大升幅，當日升幅為4.94%。高見7550.15點，是10月15日7570.47點後最高。收市報7478.23點，是10月14日後收市新高，當日報7579.94點。連升2日，累計升137.67點，對上一次連升2日是10月7日。 午後消息股表現 匯豐降周大福（1929）目標價。周大福上季港澳同店銷售跌30%，黃金存貨對沖致中期盈利跌最多46%。收報7.85元，升7.83%。 金價再創新高 銀價12年高 比特幣連跌3日。 黃金股 中國黃金國際（2099）收報37.8元，跌2.33%。 靈寶黃金（3330）收報3.21元，升2.56%。 紫金礦業（2899）收報17.34元，升0.81%。 招金礦業（1818）收報14.58元，升3.4%。 價值黃金（3081）創上市新高，見65.16元，收報65.1元，升0.93%。 SPDR金ETF（2840）創上市新高，見1977元，收報1977元，升0.69%。 山東黃金（1787）收報17.88元，升0.9%。 奇瑞汽車已選中金等 安排香港IPO 最快明年上市。 電車股 吉利（0175）創52周高，見14.9元，收報14.54元，升6.6%。 比亞迪（1211）收報289.2元，升1.62%。 小鵬（9868）收報44.15元，升4.25%。 理想（2015）收報107.4元，升6.34%。 蔚來（9866）收報41.2元，升1.48%。 零跑（9863）收報29.7元，升2.06%。 恒大汽車（0708）收報0.345元，無升跌。 瑞銀梁展嘉︰內地人置業意願升利好港住宅市場 料明年樓價升最多5% 本地地產股 新世界發展（0017）收報8.04元，升0.25%。 新鴻基地產（0016）收報84.3元，跌0.18%。 長實集團（1113）收報32.6元，跌0.91%。 恒地（0012）收報26.15元，無升跌。 信和置業（0083）收報8.38元，跌0.83%。 華置（0127）收報1.28元，升0.79%。 嘉華國際（0173）收報1.82元，無升跌。 海豐（1308）首三季收入升19% 派特別息0.4元。收報22.3元，升2.06%。 信置（0083）副主席黄永光：對香港樓市有信心 視市況定價。收報8.38元，跌0.83%。 港交所（0388）第三季多賺7%至31.45億 收入升6% 符預期。收報314.8元，升1.22%。 今早及隔晚消息股表現 貝萊德大幅增持拼多多。美團（3690）收報194.9元，升5.47%。 特步（1368）第三季主品牌零售銷售錄中單位數增長。收報5.7元，跌0.18%。 優必選（9880）折讓19%配股 籌4億。收報111.9元，升3.9%。 潤電（0836）折讓5%配股 籌71億。收報19.38元，跌6.6%。 多間公司最快今日公布業績，績前表現如下，中廣核電力（1816）收報2.92元，跌3.31%。 中煤能源（1898）收報9.45元，跌1.87%。 麗珠醫藥（1513）收報28.4元，無升跌。 上海石油化工股份（0338）收報1.19元，跌0.83%。 海豐國際（1308）收報22.3元，升2.06%。 滔搏（6110）收報2.84元，升2.9%。 華潤飲料（2460）上市，定價14.5元。公開發售超購逾233倍，一手中籤比率三成。華潤飲料暗盤收報16元，高上市價一成，每手賬面賺300元。創上市新高，見16.78元，收報16.68元，升15.03%。 呂宇健旗下利駿（8360）響應簡樸房政策，改名簡樸生活集團。收報0.72元，升28.57%。 龍源電力（0916）16.86億人幣收購母公司8項新能源業務。收報7.18元，升4.51%。 越秀地產（0123）25.33億人幣投得北京昌平居住及設施用地。收報6.29元，升0.96%。 國藥（1099）第三季淨利潤按年減一成至3.22億人幣。收報20.5元，升1.23%。 思捷（0330）將德國附屬轉售當地百年老店Deichmann。收報0.148元，跌3.9%。 聯通（0762）首三季純利升10%至190億元人幣，聯通雲收入升近兩成。收報7.14元，升4.08%。 神話世界（0582）擬在濟洲項目增投資，冀吸引日台旅客。收報0.193元，無升跌。 泡泡瑪特（9992）第三季整體收益增至多125%。創52周高，見76.7元，收報75.2元，升18.52%。 匯彩（1180）擬拓菲律賓市場。收報0.93元，無升跌。 中電信（0728）首三季純利升8%至293億元人幣。收報4.67元，跌0.43%。 李寧（2331）伙紅杉資本組合資公司拓海外市場，涉資2億。李寧第三季零售流水按年錄中單位數下降。收報15.28元，跌4.86%。 淘寶雙11昨首輪售賣，174個品牌成交額破億元人民幣。阿里巴巴（9988）收報97.3元，升0.05%。 東方海外（0316）112億人幣，租6集裝箱船15年。收報111.1元，升1.37%。 國泰（0293）：今年首9個月載客破2000萬人次，單月增近18%至181.7萬人次。收報8.04元，升0.88%。 破頂股表現 破頂股包括，價值黃金（3081）創上市新高，見65.16元，收報65.1元，升0.93%；SPDR金ETF（2840）創上市新高，見1977元，收報1977元，升0.69%；成都高速（1785）創上市新高，見2.49元，收報2.44元，升5.63%；淮北綠金股份（2450）創上市新高，見1.6元，收報1.52元，升2.7%；奇富科技－Ｓ（3660）創上市新高，見135.3元，收報134.6元，升2.75%；萬國國際礦業（3939）創上市新高，見10.12元，收報9.93元，升1.12%；吉利汽車（80175）創上市新高，見13.6元，收報13.36元，升6.88%；ＳＰＤＲ金ＥＴＦ（2840）創上市新高，見1977元，收報1977元，升0.69%；Ａ潘渡創新主題（3056）創上市新高，見16.98元，收報16.98元，升0.12%；Ａ博時港元（3152）創上市新高，見1074.1元，收報1074.1元，升0.06%；Ａ工銀中金美－Ｕ（9011）創上市新高，見1153.85元，收報1153.85元，升0.03%；ＰＰ美國庫Ａ－Ｕ（9078）創上市新高，見567.95元，收報567.95元，升0.36%；價值黃金－Ｕ（9081）創上市新高，見8.37元，收報8.37元，升0.9%；價值黃金－Ｒ（83147）創上市新高，見59.6元，收報59.6元，升0.88%；恒生人幣金ＥＴＦ（84403）創上市新高，見40.6元，收報40.6元，升1.05%；一脈陽光（2522）創上市新高，見35.85元，收報34.95元，升11.66%；老鋪黃金（6181）創上市新高，見188元，收報185.6元，升8.73%；廣聯科技（2531）創上市新高，見22.85元，收報22.6元，升10.51%；華潤飲料（2460）創上市新高，見16.78元，收報16.68元，升15.03%；吉利（0175）創52周高，見14.9元，收報14.54元，升6.6%；京東物流（2618）創52周高，見16.26元，收報16.06元，升6.36%；福耀玻璃（3606）創52周高，見58.9元，收報57.85元，升0.17%；鈞濠集團（0115）創52周高，見7元，收報7元，無升跌；第一太平（0142）創52周高，見4.72元，收報4.72元，升5.36%；吉利汽車（0175）創52周高，見14.9元，收報14.54元，升6.6%；利時集團控股（0526）創52周高，見0.243元，收報0.242元，升24.1%；順誠（0531）創52周高，見0.48元，收報0.48元，無升跌。 破頂指數成份股包括，吉利（0175）創52周高，見14.9元，收報14.54元，升6.6%。 破底股方面 7隻股份創上市新低，包括中國通才教育（2175）低見1.05元，收報1.11元，跌3.48%；眾誠能源（2337）低見1.98元，收報2.04元，無升跌；盈利時（6838）低見0.395元，收報0.395元，跌4.82%；寶積資本（8168）低見0.031元，收報0.035元，跌12.5%；萬里印刷（8385）低見0.106元，收報0.11元，升1.85%；TOPSTANDARDCORP（8510）低見0.07元，收報0.08元，無升跌；佛朗斯（2499）低見11元，收報11.34元，升0.53%。 15隻股份創52周低，其中十隻包括，國際家居零售（1373）低見1.06元，收報1.07元，跌0.93%；科聯系統（0046）低見1.88元，收報1.88元，跌2.08%；和記電訊香港（0215）低見0.94元，收報0.94元，無升跌；永發置業（0287）低見3.45元，收報3.45元，無升跌；權威金融（0397）低見0.1元，收報0.103元，跌2.83%；鐵貨（1029）低見0.089元，收報0.091元，跌9%；金石資本集團（1160）低見0.209元，收報0.209元，無升跌；靄華押業信貸（1319）低見0.21元，收報0.21元，無升跌；樂氏國際控股（1529）低見0.07元，收報0.073元，跌6.41%；億仕登控股（1656）低見1.22元，收報1.22元，無升跌。 異動股 上升異動股，包括，興利（香港）控股（0396）收報0.121元，升57.14%；電訊首科（3997）創52周高，見0.86元，收報0.81元，升55.77%；中國天億福（8196）收報0.095元，升50.79%；順風清潔能源（1165）收報0.056元，升47.37%；汽車街（2443）收報25.4元，升43.5%；卡姆丹克（0712）收報0.125元，升37.36%；富一國際控股（1470）收報0.063元，升34.04%；TRUE PARTNER（8657）收報0.44元，升33.33%；恒嘉融資租賃（0379）收報0.054元，升31.71%；利駿集團香港（8360）收報0.72元，升28.57%。 下跌異動股，包括，僑雄國際（0381）收報2.04元，跌35.65%；新威國際（0058）收報0.58元，跌22.67%；滿地科技股份（1400）收報0.036元，跌21.74%；同景新能源（8326）收報0.122元，跌20.78%；裕興科技（8005）收報0.173元，跌19.53%；九台農商銀行（6122）收報1.16元，跌19.44%；大地教育（8417）收報0.014元，跌17.65%；寶沙發展（1069）收報0.049元，跌16.95%；萬城控股（2892）收報0.32元，跌16.88%；國茂控股（8428）收報0.32元，跌15.79%。 其他報道 渣打香港：第四季「戶口互聯」推跨行戶口查詢服務 歐央行據報開始討論要否減息到中性水平以下 歐元貶值見兩個月最弱 星展香港CEO近半億破頂價購THE ASTER特色戶 匯豐降周大福目標價 美國麥當勞「足三兩」含大腸桿菌 香港發言人：不涉香港產品及食材 滬指午後穩守3300點 連升四個交易日 華昊中天唐莉：料優替德隆注射液價格未來兩年不會有太大變化 金價再創新高 銀價12年高 比特幣連跌3日 奇瑞汽車已選中金等 安排香港IPO 最快明年上市 許正宇：重點關注央行數碼貨幣、移動支付及虛擬資產交易等領域 【有片：埋身擊】比特幣後市料橫行 可趁低吸少量以太幣 瑞銀梁展嘉︰內地人置業意願升利好港住宅市場 料明年樓價升最多5% 半日沽空金額增23% 潤電沽空增53倍 海豐首三季收入升19% 派特別息0.4元 恒指半日升342點 科指升2.3%升穿10天、20天線 華潤飲料升12% Source link
23 October 2024
Cathie Wood Says Software Is the Next Big AI Opportunity — 1 Super Stock You’ll Regret Not Buying If She’s Right
Ark Investment Management operates a portfolio of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) focused on innovative technology stocks. Its founder and chief investment officer, Cathie Wood, thinks software companies could be the next big opportunity in the artificial intelligence (AI) industry. In fact, she predicts they will eventually generate $8 in revenue for every $1 spent on chips from suppliers like Nvidia. Since making that forecast last year, Wood has plowed money into leading AI software start-ups like OpenAI, Anthropic, and xAI through the Ark Venture Fund. Plus, Ark’s ETFs hold several publicly traded AI software stocks like Meta Platforms, Tesla, and Microsoft. If Wood turns out to be right about AI software companies, here’s why C3.ai (NYSE: AI) could be one of the biggest winners. Image source: Getty Images. The world’s first enterprise AI company C3.ai was founded in 2009 to help businesses unlock the power of predictive analytics, which is better known today as AI. It was the first company of its kind, and it now offers more than 40 turnkey and customizable AI applications to organizations in 19 different industries, including oil and gas, financial services, and manufacturing. It takes a considerable amount of time, money, and expertise to build AI software from scratch, which is why many businesses turn to third parties — and C3.ai can deliver finished applications to customers within six months of an initial meeting. Georgia-Pacific manufactures pulp and paper for consumer products, building supplies, packaging, and more. The company’s machines each have over 5,000 sensors that produce 1 billion data points every day. Georgia-Pacific uses C3.ai’s Reliability application to help with predictive maintenance, and so far, it has led to a 5% improvement in overall equipment effectiveness. Plus, C3.ai is so good at tracking technical issues that Georgia-Pacific employees now spend 80% of their time
23 October 2024
新盤開價｜啟德DOUBLE COAST I 首批78伙 折實均價17899元 入場費422.5萬元
啟德新盤又來了，今次還要位處跑道區。由四大發展商會德豐地產、恒地（012）、新世界（017）及中海外（688）合作發展的DOUBLE COAST I 今日開價，首批78伙，折實均價17,899元，對比，資料顯示一眾發展商於2019年樓市高峰期以每呎樓面地價1.37萬元投得地皮。 項目首批78伙，戶型涵蓋開放式至三房間隔，包括9伙開放式、17伙一房、 42伙兩房、4伙三房，實用面積由265至627方呎，以最高折扣12％計，折實價由422.5萬元至1,266萬元，折實呎價15,943至20,315元，折實平均呎價17,899元，當中8成單位，即65伙售價低於800萬元。入場費單位位於3座1樓G室，實用面積265方呎，開放式間隔，折實422.5萬元，呎價15,953元。 對比跑道區近期開售新盤，維港‧雙鑽上月公布首批141伙折實均價18,456元，柏蔚森今年7月公布首批60伙折實均價17,188元。中原地產東南中九龍區高級營業董事李玉祥表示，項目今日首張價單訂價極具競爭力，與同區一手現樓貨尾最少有10%折讓。項目已屆現樓，可即買即住。而啟德租賃暢量，連續4個月逾百宗，每呎租金普遍50至60元不等，少部份高逾70元，回報逾3厘。 資料顯示，項目位處啟德跑道區第4B區1號地段，會德豐地產、恒地（012）、中國海外（688）及新世界（017）眾財團於2019年以98.93億元投得地皮，地皮面積約103,151平方呎，最高可建樓面面積約722,060平方呎，每呎樓面地價約1.37萬元。 整個Double Coast項目分3期發展，提供1,590伙，全數已獲批預售。今次推售的Double Coast I位於啟德承豐道19號，屬於第3座及第5座，合共提供361伙，戶型涵蓋開放式至4房戶，實用面積由265至1,275方呎，另設有特色戶。項目已屆現樓。 密切留意BossMind動向！立即CLS FB Instagram Youtube Source link
23 October 2024
今年第3季新盤撻訂大減逾七成 中原：業主憂被追差價及一手交投回落｜一手市況
今年第3季新盤撻訂大減逾七成 中原：業主憂被追差價及一手交投回落｜一手市況 據中原地產統計，今年第三季新盤撻訂宗數錄40宗，較第二季的149宗大減73.2%，創2023年第二季後的五季新低。該行研究部高級聯席董事楊明儀指出，相信因為有業主擔心取消交易會被追收撻訂單位差價，所以變得審慎，加上第三季撤辣效應消退，交投回落，發展商暫緩處理撻訂個案所致。 不過，首三季撻訂共錄349宗，已經較2023年全年總數261宗高出34%，如只計撻大訂宗數，則今年已較去年更高出42%，今年撻大訂比例為78%，略高於去年的74%。 於今年第三季取消交易的40宗一手私人住宅之中，截至今年9月有17宗已成功重售，重售比例跌破五成，僅43%，較第二季截止於6月的重售比例56%，下跌13個百分點，明顯受同期樓市氣氛轉淡影響。樓市撤辣前，截至2023年12月當季已重售比例最低只有22%。隨著今年2月底撤辣後，市況轉旺及成交急增，重售比例曾經連續兩季企穩五成半以上，其中截至今年3月當季已重售比例更迅速急升37個百分點至近六成，達59%。 啟德維港1號成第三季錄11宗撻訂佔最多 據統計指，第三季撻訂宗數最多的8個一手項目中，有6個的重售比例達五成或以上。第三季撻訂宗數最多的是啟德「維港1號」錄得11宗，南昌站「維港匯」2期及1期則錄得4宗及3宗，全部是撻大訂個案。上述三個項目中，「維港匯」2期的重售比例錄75%，而「維港匯」1期及「維港1號」僅有33%及9%略低。值得留意是，屯門「NOVO LAND」第3B期及啟德「柏蔚森」1期各錄2宗撻訂，全為撻細訂個案。 至於第三季重售降價幅度達兩成或以上的個案，大部分是在2021年5月至2022年8月期間即樓價高峰時一手售出，其中有3個一手撻訂單位重售成交價降幅接近三成，均為500方呎以下的小型單位。啟德「維港1號」第2B座3樓H室，實用面積348方呎，原於2021年12月以813.8萬元買入，呎價23,385元，單位於今年8月取消交易，其後重新以591.4萬元售出，呎價16,994元，重售價下降27%。 此外，屯門「飛揚」1期2座2樓C室，實用面積283方呎，2022年6月以478.3萬元購入，呎價16,901元，今年6月取消交易，其後再以349.7萬元售出，呎價12,357元，重售價下調約27%。馬鞍山「SILVERSANDS」第5B座3樓C室，實用面積433方呎，2021年7月946萬元成交，呎價21,848元，今年5月取消交易，隨後再以695萬元售出，呎價16,051元，重售價下降27%。 今年第3季新盤撻訂大減逾七成 中原：業主憂被追差價及一手交投回落｜一手市況 是次統計是根據「一手住宅物業銷售資訊網」截至今年9月30日的銷售資料。資料包括2016年及以後五大發展商(長實、恆基、新世界、新鴻基、信和)首次推出之新盤及其他發展商包含300個單位以上的項目。資料只包括於2023年至2024年第三季撻訂的一手私人住宅。降價幅度是根據帳面成交價計算所得的百分比，當中不包括任何稅項或回贈。如同一單位單位撻訂多於一次，會按最後一次撻訂日期作分析；數字不包括「柏傲莊」3期已取消交易但未重售之單位。 即睇全港各區最新筍盤、一手盤、二手盤及樓市走勢等資訊 (House730) 原文刊登於 AM730 Source link
23 October 2024
中原：上季6個樓市片區「捧蛋」 豪宅區人口流失情況顯著｜樓市數據
中原：上季6個樓市片區「捧蛋」 豪宅區人口流失情況顯著｜樓市數據 隨着本港人口老化，加上近年人口流失，政府實施一系列「搶人才」行動，成效顯著。中原地產及政府統計處數據顯示，近年豪宅區人口流失率較為顯著，被視為全球最貴地段之一的山頂，人口流失率達30%。然而，近年有不少新盤落成的地區，包括沙田九肚山及將軍澳日出康城，人口激增80%至90%。 《施政報告》推出多項刺激樓市措施，包括放寬按揭及優化新投資者入境計劃，各界普遍看好第四季樓市。回顧第三季，二手樓市交投淡靜，只錄得6,801宗二手私人住宅買賣登記，總成交金額478.2億元，較第二季的9,920宗及754.6億元下跌31%及36%。 上季首10個二手交投量最活躍的「樓市片區」，由高至低順序排名為北角(169宗)、土瓜灣(167宗)、深水埗(159宗)、元朗市中心(149宗)、灣仔(139宗)、天水圍(136宗)、康城(128宗)、西半山(126宗)、馬鞍山(121宗)及粉嶺(119宗)。另外，上季有6個片區錄得零成交，包括山頂、舂坎角、深水灣、華富、沙頭角及流浮山。 舂坎角、山頂、深水灣是全港收入最高的片區。當中舂坎角2021年家庭每月收入中位數201,040元，而山頂及深水灣的家庭每月收入中位數則達195,850及183,000元。上述三個豪宅區，2021年居住人口合共為7,030人，較2016年8,468人減少17%；舂坎角屬全港人口最少，最新為1,457人，較2016年1,515人少4%；山頂人口亦由2016年多達5,837人，減少至4,044人，跌幅30.7%，屬全港人口跌幅最大片區。深水灣人口卻見上升，由2016年1,116人，升至2021年的1,529人。 統計署資料顯示，2021年北角家庭每月收入中位數為32,930元，在173個片區中排名第83位，但該區於今年第三季的成交量卻是全港之冠，此區居住人口則為100,402人。 陳永傑：政府大力搶人才 助填補人口流失 對於豪宅人口減少，中原地產亞太區副主席兼住宅部總裁陳永傑認為，面對移民潮、內房爆雷及人口老化問題，向來屬頂尖富豪聚居的傳統豪宅區，人口流動情況亦出現變化。過去兩、三年，市場不乏內地富豪劈價賣樓個案，或淪為銀主盤出售。不過，有關數字只反映2021年情況，隨着政府大力搶人才，帶動住屋需求，經濟逐步復甦，相信政府下次公布人口數據時，豪宅人口會回升。 政府2022年底推出新的輸入人才機制，至今共收到超過38萬宗申請，約16萬名人才攜同家人抵港。政府統計處公布，2024年年中香港人口的臨時數字為753.18萬人，較2021年733.7萬人增加近3%。 即睇全港各區最新筍盤、一手盤、二手盤及樓市走勢等資訊 (House730) 原文刊登於 AM730 Source link
23 October 2024
Blue Coast II開賣｜長實趙國雄：頭籌內地客擲7800萬買4伙 積極考慮加推｜黃竹坑新盤
《施政報告》出爐後首個周末，一手市場氣氛熱鬧，長江實業集團(1113)與港鐵(066)合作發展的黃竹坑站港島南岸第3C期「BLUE COAST II」今日(19日)首輪發售256伙，以「120 Plus付款計劃」提供最高14%折扣計算，折實售價由921.4萬元起，折實平均呎價21,761元。長實執行董事趙國雄表示，項目開賣首小時已套現逾10億元，頭籌買家為內地客，斥資約7,800萬元購入4伙，另有其他大手買家購入3至4伙。 中原地產亞太區副主席兼住宅部總裁陳永傑稱，該行於項目大手時段，暫時錄得15組客購入2伙或以上，購入4伙錄得2組，其中最大手斥資逾6,660萬元買入3伙三房及1伙兩房單位。 據了解，截至下午4時，項目首輪售出七成半，以定價計總值逾28億元。長實指，樓市已見底，換樓鏈加速，因此現積極考慮加推。早前曾稱未來再加推有更大提價空間，幅度料約3%至5%。 「Blue Coast II」首輪截收約8,000票，超額認購約30倍。發售單位全數位於第5座，涵蓋151伙兩房及105伙三房，實用面積介乎474至802方呎。單位折實售價由921.4萬至1,891.2萬元，折實呎價介乎18,998元至24,458元。最低售價單位為第5座7樓G室，實用面積485方呎，兩房間隔，折實售價921.4萬元，折實呎價18,998元。 項目首輪銷售分為F、A1、A2及B組揀樓，當中F組須認購3伙至8伙，當中包括最少3伙三房；A1組須認購2至4伙，當中包括最少1伙三房；A2組只可認購1至2伙三房；而B組須認購1至2伙。F組及A組發售單位涉及153伙。「BLUE COAST II」由第3座及第5座住宅大樓組成，提供558伙，實用面積介乎443至1,267方呎。項目預計關鍵日期為2026年2月28日。 原文刊登於 AM730 Source link
19 October 2024
Blue Coast II開賣｜中原陳永傑：投資客佔比增加 最大手客擬斥近8000萬購5伙｜黃竹坑新盤
《施政報告》出爐後首個周末，一手市場氣氛熱鬧，長江實業集團(1113)與港鐵(066)合作發展的黃竹坑站港島南岸第3C期「BLUE COAST II」今日(19日)首輪發售256伙，以「120 Plus付款計劃」提供最高14%折扣計算，折實售價由921.4萬元起，折實平均呎價21,761元。今早10時開始報到並進行抽籤揀樓，大約9時多已有大批準買家到達項目位於紅磡置富都會的售樓處外排隊等候，人龍更伸延至天橋外近紅磡站出口，氣氛熱鬧，發展商安排工作人員旁邊協助，整體秩序良好。 中原地產亞太區副主席兼住宅部總裁陳永傑表示，減息、政府樓市「組合拳」、股票市場造好，利好消息集中在本月，而今日推售的兩個全新盤均擁鐵路概念，料可雙贏，雙雙「一Q清枱」。 陳永傑指，「Blue Coast II」售樓處場面熱鬧，買家以用家為主，佔約七成。現時息口下跌，租金回報向升，有市民轉為買樓收租，出席投資者比例增加至約三成。現時為大手客時段，該行最大手客計劃購入5伙兩房至三房，涉資近8,000萬元。 src= src= class=caas-img> 他續指，10月份一手成交已暫錄逾1,500宗，預計今日單日一手成交量可錄超過500宗。截至今日，本月一手成交量有望突破2,000宗，較上月全月多1.7倍，創7個月新高。 首輪截收8000票 超額30倍 「Blue Coast II」首輪截收約8,000票，超額認購約30倍。發售單位全數位於第5座，涵蓋151伙兩房及105伙三房，實用面積介乎474至802方呎。單位折實售價由921.4萬至1,891.2萬元，折實呎價介乎18,998元至24,458元。最低售價單位為第5座7樓G室，實用面積485方呎，兩房間隔，折實售價921.4萬元，折實呎價18,998元。 項目首輪銷售分為F、A1、A2及B組揀樓，當中F組須認購3伙至8伙，當中包括最少3伙三房；A1組須認購2至4伙，當中包括最少1伙三房；A2組只可認購1至2伙三房；而B組須認購1至2伙。F組及A組發售單位涉及153伙。 「BLUE COAST II」由第3座及第5座住宅大樓組成，提供558伙，實用面積介乎443至1,267方呎。項目預計關鍵日期為2026年2月28日。 原文刊登於 AM730 Source link
19 October 2024
「簡樸房」獲市民激讚 面積較重犯倉大幾多？
特首李家超以絕橋「簡樸房」解決劏房問題，獲市民激讚。參考懲教署資料，「簡樸房」最低面積標準較重犯囚室更多出1平方米；不過說到劏房，可謂當年香港經濟起飛的產物，而為了解決人口急增住屋需求，房委會亦曾將公屋間位間細滿足需求。 「簡樸房」獲市民激讚 面積較重犯倉大幾多？圖為高度設防赤柱監獄。 (ANTHONY WALLACE/AFP via Getty Images) (ANTHONY WALLACE via Getty Images) 下載Yahoo財經APP 美股外幣即時報價 多國新聞任睇 李家超：有劏房戶讚美所住單位 李家超在施政報告中宣布「劏房規管框架」，符合面積、通風、消房等最低要求的劏房，可登記為「簡樸房」，特首更表示調查指有住戶覺得劏房治安好、衛生好、面積佳而「讚美所住單位」。不只特首讚好，連網民都化身誇誇群，大讚特首解決香港多年劏房問題，也有人覺得「簡樸房」一詞取得好，認為「高尚很多」，很有日系感覺；不過亦有網民擔心劏房改名後業主借勢加租，令基層市民百上加斤；也有人發現繼簡約公屋後，再出現簡樸房一詞，可見本屆政府對「簡」字情有獨鍾。 不過要晉身「簡樸房」也不簡單，首先是劏房必須設有窗戶、有獨立廁所，而且面積不少於8平方米；據懲教署披露資料，單獨囚禁的甲類重犯囚室為7平方米，簡樸房比重囚居住面積多出1平方米，大約是9平方呎。 簡樸房獲激讚「高尚好多」，標準比重犯監倉多一平方米，圖為一個120方呎劏房單位。 (AP Photo/Kin Cheung) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) 李家超在施政報告中宣布「劏房規管框架」，符合面積、通風、消房等最低要求的劏房。 (ANTHONY WALLACE via Getty Images) 李家超指有部分住在分間單位其實讚美所住單位。 (Vernon Yuen/NurPhoto via Getty Images) (NurPhoto via Getty Images) 偷渡潮令住屋需求急增 說到劏房，可以說是香港早期經濟起飛的產物。為了逃避貧窮和飢餓，自1950年代起大批人口從中國偷渡到香港，估計歷年有多達200萬人冒著生命危險到香港定居，突然而來的人口除了為香港帶來勞動力，造就香港「亞洲四小龍」的經濟奇跡之外，亦衍生不同問題，劏房以及山邊木屋、天台屋、籠屋和臨時房屋區，突然在香港各區湧現，以應付突而其來急增人口的住屋需求。隨著港人逐漸富裕，加上港府實施「長遠房屋策略」，木屋和臨屋消失，但劏房就有增無減，不少劏房單位面積少於一百方呎，起居飲食擠在狹小空間，通風不良、衛生環境欠佳，尤其是對兒童心理發展有不良影響，社區組織協會調查指2020年本港有逾22.6萬人居住於床位、太空倉、板間房、天台屋及劏房等惡劣居住環境。 一般人認為「劏房」就是私人業主將單位分間牟利，例如財政司司長則被爆在1994年和1995年間，透過擔任投資公司董事購入大批大角咀單位作「劏房」出租，令他有「劏房波」的外號；他當年回應傳媒提問稱那些是「板間房」而已。除了政府高官，原來房委會亦曾為勢所逼，曾經出租劏房單位。 中國偷渡客抵達香港後，被駐港英軍及啹喀兵截獲，攝於1982年。 (Photo collected by Alex Bowie/Getty Images) (Alex Bowie via Getty Images) 1980年葵芳邨單位天花倒塌，需要進行修補﹐但最終亦難逃整棟清拆的命運。 (Staff Photographer/South China Morning Post via Getty Images) (South China Morning Post via Getty Images) 1980年葵芳邨單位天花倒塌，需要進行修補﹐但最終亦難逃整棟清拆的命運。 (Staff Photographer/South China Morning Post via Getty Images) (South China Morning Post via Getty Images) 房委會推劏房 安置拆樓租戶 時間回到1980年代初，當年有多棟公屋大廈出現石屎剝落，檢驗後揭發有人施工時偷工減料，當時政府公布577座公屋需要維修，26座大廈及一校舍需要清拆，受影響近八萬人需要遷出，安置至新落成公屋或臨時房屋區，由於當時公屋缺乏一至二人小型單位，所以房委會將部分當時空置或稍後清拆的公屋單位，分間成為「劏房」，當中樓齡較新的25棟Y3、Y4型公屋大廈，每條走廊末端的部分大單位，分間為「一屋三戶」，設有獨立廚廁和電表。 雖然被稱為「劏房」，但平均150方呎的空間，比現時簡樸房最低8平方呎（即86方呎），多出接近一倍，當年曾出現劏房的公屋包括將軍澳景林邨、柴灣峰華邨、屯門良景邨等。市場消息指部分單位已透過租者置其屋出售，最平僅十餘萬元，而房委會在1990年起亦將劏房單位陸續還原。 Source link
17 October 2024
Liverpool continue record-setting start to season under Slot
Liverpool‘s relentless start to the season under new manager Arne Slot is seeing the team pump out record after record, and the scene of their latest win felt poignant. Liverpool ground out a 1-0 victory in the Champions League on Wednesday at RB Leipzig, one of the clubs that former manager Jurgen Klopp, who recently left the Reds after nearly nine years as its popular manager, will soon be overseeing in his new role as head of global soccer at Red Bull. Editor’s Picks Few can have imagined that Slot would escape Klopp’s shadow at Liverpool this quickly. After all, Liverpool has now won the opening six away games of a season for the first time in the club’s 132-year history and Slot is the first manager to win as many as 11 of his first 12 games in charge across all competitions in English top-flight history. The Dutchman has already guided Liverpool to the top of the Premier League eight games into the season. Now, a third straight win in the Champions League has left Liverpool as one of only two teams — along with Aston Villa — on a maximum nine points so far. “So many great teams
24 October 2024
Olympics and Paralympics: Survey indicates hundreds of British athletes could quit unless funding increases | Olympics News
A new survey has indicated that hundreds of Olympic and Paralympic athletes cannot afford to keep competing through to the Los Angeles Games in 2028 unless funding increases. Sixty-four per cent of 189 athletes surveyed by the British Elite Athlete Association (BEAA) said they would end their careers if their funding did not change for the next cycle, with a further 21 per cent saying they would be unsure about continuing if it stayed the same. The survey sample reflects roughly one in six funded athletes and if it were scaled up to cover them all, the BEAA says 750 athletes would feel unable to represent their country in the USA in 2028. Funding levels for the cycle through to Los Angeles are set to be confirmed by the Government after the Autumn Budget. Image: Three-time Olympic diving champion Jack Laugher revealed during the Paris Games that he posts images of himself on OnlyFans to boost his income “Across sport I’ve seen athletes becoming increasingly reliant on their families to sustain their careers, or quit altogether because they can’t afford to continue,” said Olympic hockey champion Hollie Pearne-Webb. “A lot held on until Paris, but many won’t be able to
23 October 2024
PANORAMA: USA Basketball moves games to NBCU for 11 years; Olympic winner Khelif turning pro; shooting was worried about LA28 inclusion
Olympic Biathlon champ Martin Fourcade of France (Photo: Peter Porai-Koshits via Wikipedia) ★ The Sports Examiner: Chronicling the key competitive, economic and political forces shaping elite sport and the Olympic Movement.★ ★ To get the daily Sports Examiner Recap by e-mail: sign up here! ★ ≡ THE 5-RING CIRCUS ≡ ● Olympic Winter Games 2030: French Alps ● The five-time Olympic champion biathlete, Martin Fourcade, made it clear that he is interested in being the chief executive of the in-formation organizing committee for the 2030 Winter Games. He told the French all-sports newspaper L’Equipe he would focus on the domestic sponsorship program and refining the organizing effort for maximum efficiency. Fourcade, 36, and retired since 2020, is a member of the International Olympic Committee from his 2022 election to the IOC Athletes’ Commission. If selected – and it’s a major political issue with the national government and the two French regions which will host the Games involved – he would follow in the path of Olympic canoe slalom star Tony Estanguet, 46, who successfully led the Paris 2024 organizing effort. ● Alpine Skiing ● Norwegian star Aleksander Aamodt Kilde, a two-time Olympic medalist in 2022, will not compete in the
23 October 2024
Tyson Fury reveals wife Paris suffered miscarriage a day before his fight with Oleksandr Usyk in May | Boxing News
Tyson Fury has revealed he was struck by personal tragedy on the eve of his first fight with Oleksandr Usyk, before only learning of his wife’s miscarriage when he returned home. Paris Fury was six months pregnant with the couple’s eighth child – a boy – but miscarried the day before her husband lost his WBC world heavyweight title to Usyk in Saudi Arabia in May. Speaking on the subject for the first time, at the launch press conference for the Fury vs Usyk rematch on December 21, the British boxer said he was shielded from the news ahead of his bid to become the division’s first undisputed champion for 24 years. Fury said: “The [child] that she was having, she lost that on the Friday of the fight, which was pretty s****y. She was six months pregnant. It’s not like a small miscarriage at the beginning. “You have to physically give birth to a dead child, on your own, while your husband is in a foreign country. To go through that on your own isn’t good. “I could not be there for her in that moment. And that’s tough for me. I have been with the woman for longer
23 October 2024
Thomas Tuchel a ‘great appointment’ for England – Graham Potter
Graham Potter has welcomed new England head coach Thomas Tuchel as a “great appointment” but said homegrown managers are “absolutely” good enough to win major international trophies. Englishman and former Chelsea boss Potter, 49, was linked with the Three Lions job but did not confirm if he had been interviewed for the role. German Tuchel, who Potter succeeded as the Chelsea manager in September 2022, was named the third non-British permanent boss of the England men’s team earlier this month. “They’ve made a really good appointment for a coach that is obviously successful, and has won lots of things,” Potter told the BBC’s Planet Premier League podcast. “It feels like that was the movement towards how we need a winning coach, a top coach that can help these top players. [For that] Thomas is a fantastic coach and a great appointment.” Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham said “approximately 10 people” were interviewed, including “some English candidates”, before Tuchel was given the job. Potter refused to state if he was one of those candidates, saying he has “had conversations with quite a few people”. England Under-21 head coach Lee Carsley took over the senior role on an interim basis and
23 October 2024
Novak Djokovic withdraws from Paris Masters; ATP Finals spot at risk | Tennis News
Defending champion Novak Djokovic has pulled out of next week’s Paris Masters, potentially jeopardising his chances of qualifying for the end-of-year ATP Tour Finals. Djokovic is currently sixth in the race to reach the Turin tournament between November 10-17, with the top eight to play in Italy, live on Sky Sports. No reason has been given for the 24-time Grand Slam champion’s withdrawal from Paris, with Djokovic writing in an Instagram Story: Unfortunately I won’t be playing this year. Sorry to everyone who was hoping to see me play there.” Twitter This content is provided by Twitter, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options. Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once The 37-year-old last played in the third-place play-off at the inaugural Six Kings
23 October 2024
Atalanta 0-0 Celtic: Hoops keep first Champions League clean sheet for seven years in stalemate | Football News
Celtic kept their first Champions League clean sheet for seven years as they held Europa League champions Atalanta to a goalless draw in Bergamo. Brendan Rodgers set his team up to defend deep, keen to avoid a repeat of the 7-1 thrashing at Borussia Dortmund in their last European outing, but this game could have ended in similar fashion had Atalanta’s Mario Pasalic been more clinical. Pasalic missed five big chances, a feat only four other players had managed in the Champions League since the 2010/11 season, four of those coming in the first half. The midfielder hit the target just once from his six efforts on goal. Atalanta equal unwanted record Atalanta tonight became just the second team on record in the UEFA Champions League (2008-09 onwards) to have 20+ shots and 50+ touches in the opposition box and not score a goal, along with Paris SG against Borussia Dortmund in last season’s semi-final second leg. Celtic were more comfortable in the second half, despite ceding even more possession to their hosts, in large part because they stopped the flow of crosses from former Chelsea wing-back Davide Zappacosta, who created all his four chances in the first half. Rodgers’
23 October 2024
England v New Zealand: Henry Slade to prove fitness with Exeter ahead of All Blacks game
England centre Henry Slade will play for Exeter this weekend in a bid to prove his fitness ahead of the autumn opener against New Zealand on 2 November. The 31-year-old had shoulder surgery over the summer and has yet to feature for his club this season. But he will fly back early from England’s training camp in Girona to prepare to face Harlequins in the Premiership on Sunday. “He wanted some rugby, we wanted him to get some rugby, so he’s going to get some rugby,” said senior England assistant Richard Wigglesworth. Slade, who has been capped 65 times, established himself as one of Steve Borthwick’s key players over the past year, having been a shock omission from the Rugby World Cup squad. He has started all of England’s eight Test matches in 2024, partnering Ollie Lawrence in midfield for the last six. That centre combination now looks likely to face the All Blacks provided Slade is able to pick up some match sharpness with the Chiefs. “We’ll see what he looks like in training today [Wednesday], does he get through everything and is he really happy,” Wigglesworth told BBC Sport. “Same the next couple of days for Exeter, then
23 October 2024
Geoff Capes: World’s strongest man and British shot put record holder Capes dies aged 75
Geoff Capes, British shot put record holder and two-time world’s strongest man, has died aged 75. Capes set the record for the furthest shot put throw by a British man with a distance of 21.68m in 1980. In a statement, Capes’ family said: “The family of Geoffrey Capes would like to announce his sad passing today, 23rd October. “Britain’s finest shot putter and twice world’s strongest man.” Capes had an illustrious career, twice winning shot put gold at the Commonwealth Games and the European Indoor Championships. He was a three-time Olympian and came closest to winning a medal with a fifth-place finish at the 1980 Games in Moscow. Capes, who was born in Lincolnshire, was also a six-time world champion competitor at the Highland Games. His victories in the prestigious world’s strongest man event came in 1983 in Christchurch, New Zealand and 1985 in Cascais, Portugal. Following his retirement from competition Capes took up coaching and helped many aspiring athletes, as well as appearing on two reality television shows. Source link
23 October 2024
Ferguson leaves Inverness CT after administration
Speaking outside the Caledonian Stadium on Wednesday, former Dundee United, Rangers, Everton and Newcastle forward Ferguson said he and two of his coaches had been let go. Earlier, Ferguson said he had “always been against administration”. Players and other staff are expected to hear if they still have jobs on Thursday. Administrators BDO said they were working to “secure the long term future” of the Highland club by attempting to find new owners. If that fails, assets could be sold and the money raised distributed to creditors. Investor Alan Savage, a former club chairman, told BBC Scotland News he would give it his “best shot” to help save the club. Asked if he was confident it could be saved, he replied: “Of course I am, yeah.” Savage pledged to help anyone who lost their job to find a new one. Asked about his own role if the club survives, he said: “It’s a step-by-step process and until we’ve gone through those steps it’s a bit early to say.” Source link
23 October 2024
Oleksandr Usyk vs Tyson Fury 2: Live stream of launch press conference ahead of December 21 rematch | Boxing News
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player The launch press conference ahead of Oleksandr Usyk vs Tyson Fury 2, on December 21. Follow our live stream of Wednesday’s press conference featuring heavyweight rivals Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury as the countdown to December’s eagerly-anticipated rematch in Saudi Arabia truly begins. The launch press conference will accelerate the build-up to the December 21 contest in Riyadh when Fury will bid to avenge his defeat from the original blockbuster fight in May. Usyk emerged victorious via split decision when the rivals met to become the first undisputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis in 1999 and first in the four-belt era, although he has since relinquished his IBF belt. Fury had seemingly been in control of the fight at the midway point when Usyk made a stunning breakthrough, a thrilling ninth round seeing the Ukrainian threaten to stop ‘The Gypsy King’, who received a standing count. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Tyson Fury’s quick response when asked whether he was ready for the rematch with Oleksandr Usyk as he entered the press conference ahead of the fight. Usyk ultimately earned victory with scores of 115-112,
23 October 2024
Zimbabwe smash 344 in T20 cricket as records tumble during 290-run win over The Gambia | Cricket News
Zimbabwe plundered the highest score in T20 cricket after racking up 344-4 against The Gambia in the sides’ regional World Cup qualifier in Nairobi. The Chevrons’ total eclipsed the 314-3 Nepal cracked against Mongolia in September 2023. Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza hit 133 not out from 43 balls, reaching his century in 33 deliveries and hitting 15 sixes and seven fours. The Gambia were rolled for 54 in 14.4 overs in reply as Zimbabwe secured a 290-run win, the highest victory margin in the format, trumping Nepal’s 273-run demolition of Mongolia. Image: The numbers from Zimbabwe’s record-breaking innings in Nairobi Gambian seamer Musa Jobarteh registered eye-watering figures of 0-93 from his four overs, giving him an economy rate of 23.25. Those figures were the most expensive in T20 cricket, eclipsing the 0-82 Derbyshire leg-spinner Matthew McKiernan conceded against Somerset in the 2022 Vitality Blast. Zimbabwe openers Brian Bennett (50 off 26) and Tadiwanashe Marumani (62 off 19) hammered 98 for the first wicket in 34 balls, before Raza and Clive Madande (53no off 17) thumped 141 in 40 deliveries for the fifth wicket. Zimbabwe – whose 27 sixes was also a record in men’s T20Is – are hoping to advance to
23 October 2024
Mohammed Kudus: Micky van de Ven and Ange Postecoglou question FA’s decision to fine Tottenham after West Ham melee | Football News
Ange Postecoglou and Micky van de Ven have both questioned the FA’s decision to fine Tottenham after West Ham forward Mohammed Kudus “punched” the Netherlands defender in the face last weekend. The FA confirmed on Wednesday that Tottenham had been fined £20,000 for failing to “ensure their players didn’t behave in an improper and/or provocative way” during the 4-1 win against West Ham on October 19. Kudus’ foul on Van de Ven in the 82nd minute sparked a melee between both sets of players, with the defender hitting the ground shortly before his team-mate Pape Matarr Sarr was also shoved by Kudus. The West Ham forward was initially shown a yellow card by referee Andy Madley but this was later upgraded to a red following a check from VAR. Twitter This content is provided by Twitter, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options. Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented
23 October 2024
Tiger Woods at the Zozo Championship: PGA Tour players remember his record-equalling 2019 win in Japan | Golf News
When Tiger Woods stepped onto the fourth tee during the opening round of the 2019 Zozo Championship, there was little indication of the history-making week ahead of him. The former world No 1 was returning to action for the first time since knee surgery earlier in the summer, having completed only 17 competitive rounds in the months following his remarkable success at The Masters. Woods made a nightmare start to his latest comeback from injury at Accordia Golf Narashino Country Club in Japan, bogeying each of his opening three holes, although responded in style to claim a three-stroke victory and record-equalling 82nd PGA Tour title. Five years on from that victory – the PGA Tour stars in this week’s field reflect on Woods’ most recent worldwide success and look at what the future could hold for the 15-time major champion… Twitter This content is provided by Twitter, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options.
23 October 2024
John McGinn: Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is incomparable
Captain John McGinn says he has never met anyone else like Unai Emery and that the Spaniard’s place among the legendary figures in Aston Villa’s history is already assured. Villa’s impressive start to the season continued with a 2-0 victory over Bologna as they went top of the Champions League table. Emery, who celebrates two years in charge at Villa Park on Thursday, has also guided the side to fourth in this season’s Premier League, four points behind leaders Liverpool. The 52-year-old has yet to win a trophy with the club but McGinn believes his place in Villa history is safe. “No matter what happens until now and whenever he leaves – we hope it’s never – he will certainly go down as one of our club’s greatest managers,” McGinn said. “You feed off your leader. He is our leader and we feed off that. No-one can question what he puts in, the effort – and everything which comes his way and our way is on the back of hard work. “He is just so driven. I have never met anyone like him,” added the 30-year-old. McGinn acknowledged Emery has been the “only person” who has not been excited by
23 October 2024
Pakistan vs England, third Test: Pitch and Ollie Pope talking points as tourists target Rawalpindi repeat | Cricket News
Ahead of the series-deciding third Test between Pakistan and England in Rawalpinidi, we look at the big talking points, including the pitch, problems for Ollie Pope, and inexperienced spinner Shoaib Bashir… What can we expect from the pitch? Such has been the conjecture over the Rawalpindi pitch in the lead-up, you could almost end this piece here with the solitary talking point. Images have shown two large fans, six gas-powered heaters and two giant windbreaks on the playing surface, with Pakistan seeking to dry out and wear a pitch notoriously favourable for batting. Image: There were fans in Rawalpindi days before the start of the match… “It has been the flattest of flat tracks that you can imagine,” former Pakistan women’s international Urooj Mumtaz said last week. And in such conditions, Pakistan have failed to win any of their last four Tests at the venue, dating back to Ben Stokes’ side smashing 500-plus on it to open their 2022 tour (more on that in a moment). England earned a famous win in that Test and also claimed the opening match of this series, winning by an innings on another belting batting track in Multan. But with Pakistan opting to use
23 October 2024
Taylor Swift and Olympics Push Heathrow Airport to Bumper Summer
London’s Heathrow Airport said it had a “super summer” for passenger traffic. Europe’s busiest airport said musicians like Taylor Swift and the Olympics had boosted footfall. Swift helped boost passenger numbers coming into Europe, with thousands of American fans flying over. Thanks for signing up! Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you’re on the go. download the app By clicking “Sign Up”, you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. You can opt-out at any time by visiting our Preferences page or by clicking “unsubscribe” at the bottom of the email. Heathrow Airport, Europe’s busiest, has raised its forecast for annual passenger numbers in 2024 after having a record-breaking busy season that it has termed a “super summer.” From June to September, 30.7 million passengers passed through Heathrow, bringing the total for the first nine months of the year to 63.1 million, the airport operator said in its quarterly earnings report. “Consecutive record-breaking weeks and strong operational performance characterised the summer months,” Heathrow said, adding that it had experienced both the busiest departures and busiest arrivals day in the airport’s history on 24 July and 2 September, respectively. The airport said it now expects 83.8 million
23 October 2024
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, Carlos Sainz target late Constructors’ Championship title push over final 2024 races | F1 News
Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz are targeting winning the Constructors’ Championship for Ferrari after a one-two at the United States Grand Prix catapulted the Italian squad back into contention. With the thrilling and contentious battle for third place between Drivers’ Championship contenders Max Verstappen and Lando Norris dominating both the race and its aftermath, Ferrari’s superb Sunday in Austin was something of an afterthought. Leclerc inherited the lead at the first corner as Verstappen took himself and Norris wide, and never looked like relinquishing it as the Ferrari eased clear of the field. Sainz, who progressed to third at the opening corner, underlined Ferrari’s pace by comfortably clearing Verstappen to finish well clear of the title-contending pair. With five rounds of the season remaining, including Sprint weekends in Brazil and Qatar with extra points available, Ferrari have closed to within 48 points of McLaren and trail Red Bull by just eight. The race for the F1 Constructors’ Championship Team Points Gap 1. McLaren 544 2. Red Bull 504 +40 3. Ferrari 496 +48 Given the consistency of McLaren’s cars and drivers, when they pulled clear of Red Bull, who have been unable to rely on Verstappen’s team-mate Sergio Perez to
23 October 2024
Champions League: Celtic’s Callum McGregor deserves European joy
Rodgers is brave, in a sense. He’s sticking to his guns, no matter the noise. He’s totally sold on the belief that things will turn around soon enough. What he sees, few others see, but if he’s to be proven right then he needs some encouragement on nights like this. He needs some ammunition to fire at all the sceptics. A combative performance is required. That type of display becomes all the harder when you note Celtic’s penchant for imploding under pressure, their ruinous habit of conceding goals in bunches. They conceded the first two in Dortmund in four minutes and conceded two later on in three minutes. It was the continuation of a brutal trend. They conceded in the 82nd and 85th minute against Lazio in Rome last season. They conceded in the 60th and 66th minute against Atletico in Madrid. Postecoglou’s team had this weakness, too. Real Betis. Real Madrid and Leipzig all scored twice in rapid order in games on his watch. It was also a feature of Rodgers’ first spell. Barcelona scored three times in 10 minutes. PSG scored in the 34th and 40th minute and in the 83rd and 85th minute in one game and
23 October 2024
NBA: Why are Jeremy Sochan and OG Anunoby only current players with British links?
Despite the lack of British stars in the NBA, the league generates a large British-based audience. In Europe, Great Britain has the second largest number of NBA League Pass subscriptions, only behind Germany. The NBA app also had an average weekly viewer increase of 52% in 2023-24 compared to the previous season from British-based fans. Between 2013 and 2019, London’s O2 Arena hosted yearly regular-season NBA matches. Since then, Paris has been the preferred European destination for global matches. In terms of basketball participation across Great Britain, a study from Statista found that in 2023, 344,400 people in the United Kingdom were playing basketball twice a month, a growth of almost 50% since 2021. Although interest in the NBA is higher and participation levels are on the up, funding and the rate of which top-level British players are being developed into the NBA are low. Including America, 20 countries have three or more players currently contracted by NBA sides. European counterparts Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, France, Germany, Italy, Lithuania, Serbia, Turkey and Ukraine are all among those. Internationally, Great Britain are ranked 50th in Fiba’s rankings, below Cape Verde, Iceland and Estonia. The British Basketball League, which had served as Britain’s
23 October 2024
Karen Bardsley column: Is England’s number one shirt in Hannah Hampton’s hands?
Keating, who only turned 20 in the summer, exceeded expectation with City last season, and performed well above expected levels, in terms of the shots she saved. That earned her an England call-up at the end of 2023, but she has been rotated with Ayaka Yamashita this season, and has not started a WSL game. Moorhouse is much older at 29 and has not had a straightforward path into the England set-up – she was only called up for the first time in the summer, and is yet to win a full cap, but the way she is playing at the moment is what justifies her place. Equally, you could argue Sophie Baggaley deserves to be in the squad based on how well she’s playing for Brighton, but Moorhouse’s selection is a reminder to everyone that just because someone is not playing in the WSL, it doesn’t mean they are not capable players. Moorhouse left the WSL in 2020 to move to Bordeaux in France and, since 2022, has been with Orlando Pride in the United States. Her story is an example of how all players need to find coaches and environments where they feel comfortable, understood and allowed to
23 October 2024
NFL best stats and records: Patrick Mahomes posts worst passer rating of career while Josh Jacobs ends long wait | NFL News
Sky Sports Cricket statistician – and big Buffalo Bills fan – Benedict Bermange dives into the 2024 NFL season to pick out the best stats from each week… Parker Washington’s 96-yard punt return touchdown for the Jacksonville Jaguars against the New England Patriots at Wembley was not only the first special teams touchdown in an international game, but the longest touchdown ever in an international game: Longest touchdowns in NFL international game Player Team Opponent Year TD Parker Washintgon Jax NE 2024 96-yard punt return Derrick Johnson SF Ari 2005 78-yard fumble return Tyrell Williams LAC Ten 2018 75-yard reception Jamize Olawale Oak Hou 2016 75-yard reception The result marked the first time the Patriots have lost as many as six games in a row since they dropped seven on the bounce from Week Seven to 14 in the 1993 season. Kenneth Walker of the Seattle Seahawks became just the eighth player in NFL history to have both a rushing and receiving touchdown on his birthday: Players with rushing and receiving TDs on birthday Player Date Team Opp Tom Woodeshick 03/12/1967 Phi Was Andy Johnson 18/10/1976 NE NYJ Boobie Clark 08/11/1976 Cin Rams Darryl Stingley 18/09/1977 NE KC Bo Jackson
23 October 2024
Lebron James and Bronny James make NBA history as father-son duo play in Los Angeles Lakers’ season opener | NBA News
LeBron James and Bronny James made history by becoming the first father and son duo to play in the NBA together during the Los Angeles Lakers’ season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves. LeBron and Bronny checked into the game together with four minutes left in the second quarter, prompting a big ovation from a home crowd aware of the enormity of the milestone. The 39-year-old LeBron had already started the game and played 13 minutes before he teamed up with his 20-year-old son to make history, making them the first father and son to play in the NBA at the same time. Twitter This content is provided by Twitter, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options. Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once “Y’all
23 October 2024
Xiaomi 15 Ultra leaked renders show a weird camera arrangement
Xiaomi is due to launch the 15 and 15 Pro later this month, but the Ultra is only set to follow in February. Even so, today we have the first set of leaked renders showing the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, and it’s definitely got a distinctive camera arrangement – and one that might not please fans of symmetry. While the camera bump itself is circular like it’s always been in the Ultra line, the placement of the cameras themselves within the island is, as you can see, asymmetrical. According to the source of these shots, the lone camera on the top is the 200 MP 4.3x zoom periscope telephoto, which uses Samsung’s ISOCELL HP9 sensor. On the bottom row we can find the 50 MP main camera, the 50 MP ultrawide, and the 50 MP 2x telephoto. For selfies, you’ll get a 32 MP snapper. Xiaomi 15 Ultra leaked renders The Xiaomi 15 Ultra is also rumored to come with a 6.7-inch 120 Hz LTPO OLED micro-quad-curved display, the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset at the helm, and a 6,000 mAh battery with support for 90W wired and 80W wireless charging. The Ultra should run HyperOS 2.0 based on
24 October 2024
We got a sneak peak at the Asus ROG Phone 9, one of the first Snapdragon 8 Elite phones, and it’s going to be fast
Monday at the Snapdragon Summit in Maui, Qualcomm unveiled its new flagship mobile SoC – the Snapdragon 8 Elite – which is powered by the company’s 2nd-gen Oryon CPU cores. Qualcomm flew TechRadar to Maui to check out the latest chips, and I managed to track down some surprises that will soon delight mobile gamers. During the keynote, Xiaomi announced that its 15 series flagship would be the first phone to ship with the Snapdragon 8 Elite later this month. Honor then revealed that its Magic7 series handsets would also feature Qualcomm’s new mobile chip and launch Oct 30. ASUS followed suit with the ROG Phone 9, a gaming flagship coming Nov 19 that also packs Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite. But unlike the competition, ASUS reps were on hand with its new handset and I got to check it out at the event. While the company wasn’t willing to share any specs or pricing, I was able to handle the new ROG Phone 9 for a few minutes. So here are my brief first impressions. The ROG Phone 9 looks a lot like the ROG Phone 8 (Image credit: Myriam Joire / Future) The ROG Phone 9 shares the same
23 October 2024
Samsung US has a great daily deal on the Galaxy Z Fold6, week-long offers for Z Flip6 and S24 Ultra
Samsung Electric Industries (now Samsung Electronics) was established in 1969, meaning that this year the company is celebrating its 55th anniversary. The celebration mostly takes the form of a week-long sale of all sorts of Samsung gadgets. Naturally, we’re interested in the phones. The highlight offers are for the Galaxy S24 Ultra and the two Z foldables. We’ll start with the Z Fold6. This week, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 has an enhanced trade-in offer of up to $1,200 or a straight $300 discount if you’re not trading in. Also, select models have an additional $300 discount (check the different color and storage combos). However, a daily deal boosts the straight discount to $500 off when not trading in an old device. This is on top of the $300 discount for select color/storage options. And before you ask, no, we haven’t heard anything about the Z Fold Special Edition coming to the US. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 12/512GB $300 off with no trade-in this week$500 off with no trade-in on Oct. 23 onlyfurther $300 off on select color/storage combosup to $1,200 enhanced trade-in offer available Read our review The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 price can be reduced by
23 October 2024
The new Apple iPad mini (2024) is now available globally, AI features coming later this month
Announced last week, the new Apple iPad mini (2024) is now available. The new slate comes with 128GB storage for $500, double what its predecessor had. This is for the Wi-Fi only model, but there is also a Wi-Fi+Cellular version available for $650. If you need more storage, 256GB and 512GB options are available as well. The key upgrade is the Apple A17 Pro, aka the iPhone 15 Pro chipset but with some downgrades. This, along with the extra RAM (8GB), allows the new mini to run Apple Intelligence. Apple Intelligence will arrive as a software update soon-ish – iPadOS 18.1 will bring the first batch of features later this month, more features will be added in the coming months. There is a “but” here – Apple Intelligence will be available only in US English initially (essentially, it’s only for people in the US). The new iPad mini also has faster connectivity. It supports Wi-Fi 6E (ax), up from regular Wi-Fi 6. Also, the USB-C 3.2 Gen2 goes up to 10Gbps, double what the port on the old mini could do. You can find the Apple iPad mini (2024) over on Apple’s online store. Source Source link
23 October 2024
Realme GT 7 Pro display detailed ahead of launch
Realme GT 7 series is set to debut on November 4 in China but Realme decided to unveil one of the phone’s key features – its Samsung Eco² OLED Plus display. This is an 8T LTPO panel that goes away with the polarizing layer found in traditional OLED panels while simultaneously increasing contrast and visibility. Realme claims the panel on the GT 7 Pro can peak at over 2,000 nits global maximum brightness and over 6,000 nits local peak brightness. Realme GT 7 Pro’s Samsung Eco² OLED Plus display The more impressive bit is that despite the brightness levels, the new panel consumes up to 52% less power than the one on the Realme GT 6. Realme also confirmed the GT 7 Pro covers 120% DCI-P3 color gamut – an industry first. The Samsung-made panel offers hardware-level full-brightness DC dimming with a 1 fps low-flicker rate with uniform colors even in low brightness scenarios. It is also HDR-certified and supports Dolby Vision. The display on the GT 7 Pro will feature the trendy micro-quad-curve design with sloping sides. It will also support a Qualcomm ultrasonic fingerprint scanner. GT 7 Pro is getting a quad-curve
23 October 2024
TSMC discovers its chips made their way to Huawei products
The Taiwanese chipset company TSMC found that some of its chips made their way to Huawei, according to an insider that spoke with Bloomberg. The report revealed a third-party client provided chipsets for the sanctioned Chinese company, which equipped its AI servers with said processors. The information comes days after a report revealed the Bureau of Industry and Security at the US Commerce Department started investigating alleging potential violations of US export controls TSMC issued a statement, saying it is a “law-abiding company” that is committed to complying with all rules and regulations, including applicable export controls. In a separate statement, Huawei said it hadn’t obtained any TSMC chips since the company was blacklisted by the US Department of Commerce in 2020. The client was not named in the report because of the sensitive nature of the issue. It is also unclear whether it acted on Huawei’s behalf or where it is based; the report simply confirmed previous information that TSMC chips do power AI servers that Huawei is using to develop its artificial intelligence models. The Huawei Mate 60 Pro motherboard with Korean-made memory and 5 nm chipset Huawei is currently using 7nm chips made by SMIC, although capabilities
23 October 2024
ARM is dropping Qualcomm’s chip design license
Qualcomm is in the midst of getting its chip architectural license stripped from ARM. A new Bloomberg News report suggests ARM has sent out a 60-day notice to Qualcomm, informing the semiconductor giant that it is terminating its chip design license. This development could prove to be a severe blow to Qualcomm’s chipset development plans for smartphones, laptops, and automotive industry. The current situation traces its roots to a legal dispute from 2022 when ARM filed a lawsuit against Qualcomm over a breach of contract and trademark infringement regarding the development of custom Phoenix cores without ARM’s consent. Qualcomm is one of ARM’s biggest customers, and canceling its contract would be detrimental to both companies. Newer Qualcomm CPUs like Oryon don’t use ARM cores anymore but they still rely on ARM’s instruction set that allows hardware and software to communicate. It remains to be seen how Qualcomm will respond and if it will reach a deal with ARM in time before the legal dispute reaches US federal courtroom in Delaware this December. Speculations suggest that an out-of-court settlement may be on its way beforehand though. Source (paywall) Source link
23 October 2024
Our vivo X200 Pro battery life test results are out
The vivo X200 Pro unveiled last week has arrived at our office for review. It’s still a work in progress, but we already tested its battery endurance and thought of sharing the results with you while you wait for the full review. Note that we are talking about the Chinese model, running Android 15-based OriginOS 5. The international version, which should debut in India and other countries by early December, will boot Funtouch OS 15. The Chinese vivo X200 Pro is powered by the Dimensity 9400 SoC (3nm) and packs a 6,000 mAh battery. Its predecessor, the X100 Pro, came with the Dimensity 9300 chip (4nm) and a 5,400 mAh battery. Despite packing a bigger battery, the vivo X200 Pro is thinner than the X100 Pro. This can be attributed to vivo’s use of a Silicon Carbon battery on the X200 Pro instead of a Lithium Ion battery used for the X100 Pro. Silicon Carbon batteries have a higher energy density than Lithium Ion batteries, which allows manufacturers to fit a higher-capacity battery of the same size or trim down the phone’s thickness without reducing the battery capacity. Talking about battery tests, the vivo X200 Pro achieved an Active Use
23 October 2024
Boox Palma 2 adds faster chipset, Android 13 and a fingerprint scanner
The original Boox Palma gained traction as a compact e-reader that also doubled as a smartphone and the new Palma 2 is here to fix some of its shortcomings. While it may look identical to its predecessor, Palma 2 features an upgraded eight-core CPU which should help it perform faster in day-to-day tasks. The new model also boots Android 13 which may not be the latest version but it’s still a nice update coming from the Android 11 interface on Palma 1. The other new addition is the fingerprint scanner which is embedded in the power button. The rest of the hardware is carried over form the Palma 1 with 6.13-inch E Ink Carta 1200 screen with Boox Super refresh technology. You also get dual speakers, a programmable smart button and the same 16MP rear facing camera. Palma 2 also features a microSD card slot and a 3,950 mAh battery. Boox Palma 2 comes in black and white colors. Pricing starts at $280 for the 8/128GB trim and you can pre-order from Boox’s website. The device is available for pre-order from Boox. Boox Palma 1 is now discounted to $246. Boox Palma 2 Boox also announced a
23 October 2024
Samsung Galaxy S25 series to go all Snapdragon, another tipster claims
Samsung will use Snapdragon 8 Elite on all three Galaxy S25 phones, claims yet another tipster. According to Ice Universe, the Korean company will not use Exynos 2500 or Dimensity 9400, which might be a chip only seen in the Galaxy S25 FE. Renders of Samsung Galaxy S25 • Galaxy S25+ • Galaxy S25 Ultra Samsung opting for an all-Snapdragon approach could be due to yield issues with the Exynos 2500. Reports from Korea revealed that the new 3nm process is not as good as expected, and more chips fail to pass quality certification, leading to unstable production numbers. Initial expectations pointed to a Snapdragon chipset only for the Galaxy S25 Ultra, while the other two would be split between Qualcomm’s and Samsung’s own chipset depending on market. This is the third time we have heard this, and while we cannot verify it the odds of it turning true are pretty high. This particular leakster is usually on point with Samsung rumors, too. Source Source link
23 October 2024
Apple iPhone 16 vs. Apple iPhone 16 Plus
So, you’re looking for a shiny new iPhone? The iPhone 16 is certainly a very well-rounded device. Of course, a Pro model will be even better, but unless you really need the extra camera or the high refresh rate, you are probably better off sticking to one of the two vanilla models. If there is one thing Apple excels at (and it’s definitely more than one thing), it must be consistency. Hence, it is hardly a secret, nor a surprise, that there is very little difference between the iPhone 16 Plus and iPhone 16. The Plus is simply bigger, with a bigger display and a larger battery pack. Otherwise, the hardware and experience are identical. So how much better is the Apple iPhone 16 Plus to deserve its price premium? Let’s look into it. Table of Contents: For starters, you can compare the complete specs sheets or directly continue with our editor’s assessment in the following text. Size comparison Let’s address the elephant in the room first – size. The 16 Plus is substantially bigger than the vanilla iPhone 16. The only dimension the two devices share is thickness, which is a nice touch. Other than that, the Plus is
23 October 2024
Mobile phone networks and Bluetooth technology could help researchers improve animal tracking
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Animal tracking studies for ecology and conservation all face technological limitations, such as high costs or the need for tags to remain in close proximity to detectors. In research published in Methods in Ecology and Evolution, investigators describe a solution that can overcome many current limitations by employing the massive global network of personal mobile phones as gateways for tracking animals using Bluetooth low energy beacons. In areas with a medium to high density of people, these simple, lightweight, and inexpensive beacons can provide regular updates of position with a battery life of 1–3 years. Through field testing with sulfur-crested cockatoos and white-winged choughs, the beacons were capable of producing reliable high-frequency tracking data. The researchers were further able to demonstrate the potential of this method to study movements, home ranges, and social networks of urban living animals. “We know that wildlife exhibit fascinating responses to urban habitats, and the ability to cheaply and reliably track animals will help to unlock many secrets of our urban animals,” said corresponding author Damien R. Farine, Ph.D., of the Australian National University. More information: Low-cost animal tracking using Bluetooth low energy beacons on a crowd-sourced network, Methods in Ecology
23 October 2024
Forget iPhone 17 Pro Max — Snapdragon 8 Elite could bring my most requested camera feature to Android phones
I shoot a lot of videos. I’m not just referring to the short bits I’d share on social media, but the ones I shoot professionally. Usually I rely on my trusty Panasonic Lumix S5 for all the heavy lifting, but I often come to use some of the best camera phones as backup or b-roll cams to supplement my footage. With the announcement of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform, it finally could bring the one video camera feature I’ve been asking for — and the iPhone 17 Pro Max better be worried. Qualcomm’s latest flagship chipset is now official, but thankfully it won’t be long before we see Android phones that have them. In fact, the Asus ROG Phone 9 series is one of the first phones to feature the new silicon that’s based on the company’s 3nm manufacturing process. And the Galaxy S25 Ultra and OnePlus 13 are also on the way. While the Snapdragon 8 Elite should be a beast when it comes to all the stuff we do on our phones, I’m most interested in how the chip enhances the camera recording abilities of future phones. Namely, I’ve been asking for the ability to record video
23 October 2024
Realme GT 7 Pro’s launch date announced
The Realme GT 7 Pro, which was set to launch this month, will be unveiled on November 4. It will be introduced at an event in China that will begin at 2 PM local time. The poster shared by Realme gives us a glimpse of the GT 7 Pro’s back. You can also see the smartphone has antenna lines on the top frame, suggesting a metal build. It houses what appears to be an IR blaster and a secondary microphone. Realme GT 7 Pro On the front, we have a centered punch-hole display, sourced from Samsung. Rumors claim it will have an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner embedded. Realme previously confirmed that the GT 7 Pro will be powered by the freshly announced Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC, and it will be the first smartphone to launch in India next month with Qualcomm’s flagship silicon at the helm. The brand also teased an IP68/69 rating for the GT 7 Pro – a first for a Realme smartphone. Source (in Chinese) Source link
23 October 2024
WhatsApp is changing how contacts work
Today, WhatsApp has announced an important overhaul of how it handles contacts. Up until this point, contacts in WhatsApp are the contacts on the phone it’s installed on. That can be a problem for those who lose their phone and don’t have backups of their contacts, for example. This can also be a headache for those who share a phone, as well as those who manage multiple accounts with separate contacts on one device. Thankfully, though, WhatsApp has a solution: a built-in contact manager. This will let you save contacts in the app, and so you won’t lose them if you switch phones. The first step of implementing this new feature is having the ability to save contacts on WhatsApp Web and Windows. WhatsApp owner Meta says eventually you will be able to save contacts on other linked devices. The contacts you save in WhatsApp use a new privacy-preserving storage technology called Identity Proof Linked Storage (IPLS), which Meta says keeps names and numbers encrypted and only lets you access them. The new contacts feature will, at some point in the future, be followed by a username system which will let you use the app without tying your account to
23 October 2024
Oppo Reno13 Pro specs leak
Oppo’s Reno12 Pro arrived in June, and so we’re almost at the point where its successor will launch – remember, the Reno series is on a six-month release schedule. Today, some details about the upcoming Reno13 Pro have surfaced. The phone is said to feature a 6.78-inch quad-micro- curved LTPO OLED screen with 1264×2780 resolution, a 50 MP 3x periscope telephoto camera, and a 5,900 mAh battery. Oppo Reno12 Pro The Reno13 Pro will support 80W wired charging, 50W wireless charging, and will have a high dust and water resistance rating. Magnetic wireless charging might be supported via a dedicated case. The phone will most likely be powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity 9300 SoC. As the Reno13 series should become official within the next few weeks, expect to hear much more about the Reno13 and Reno13 Pro in the very near future. Via Source link
23 October 2024
Google Pixel 9a’s main camera comes from a much more expensive device
Google’s Pixel 9a is expected to land in March, and we’ve already seen it in some intriguing leaked renders, which very much highlighted its lack of a camera bar/visor thing. Now a new rumor tells us the Pixel 9a will ditch the 64 MP main camera of its predecessors, and will instead borrow the 48 MP unit used in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Google’s most expensive smartphone. The Pro Fold being a foldable device, and one not made by a Chinese manufacturer, you shouldn’t expect top level quality. But still, this should be a better snapper than what the Pixel a line has had before. While the main camera will change, the ultrawide will allegedly remain the same one used in the Pixel 8a, with 13 MP resolution. The selfie snapper is also unchanged. The Pixel 9a will get the “Add Me” feature that made its debut alongside the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold back in August. This lets you AI-ify a picture so that you’re added to a photo with your friends and family in order not to require the assistance of any strangers for the capture. Source Source
23 October 2024
Broadband Breakfast on November 6, 2024
Broadband Live Join us to discover how this proposal could reshape the mobile landscape. The Federal Communications Commission recently put forward a proposal requiring mobile service providers to unlock customers’ phones within 60 days of activation, stirring up a heated debate within the wireless industry and beyond. On one side, advocates see this rule as a way to enhance competition and digital equity, giving customers the freedom to switch carriers that better meet their needs. On the other side, critics caution this could upend affordable phone programs and pave the way for increased smartphone fraud. Join us to dive deeper into this pressing issue and discover how this proposal could reshape the mobile landscape. Panelists Panelists have been invited Drew Clark (moderator), CEO and Publisher, Broadband Breakfast Source link
23 October 2024
Insta360 Ace Pro 2 action cam shoots 8K video with its Leica lens
Insta360 has launched the Ace Pro 2 action camera today, its entrant in the space dominated by GoPro and where DJI is also a contender. The camera costs $399.99, which actually makes it $50 less than its predecessor. In the EU, it’s €449.99. The GoPro inspiration for the design is clear, and yet the Insta360’s front display only displays information, not a live feed of what the camera sees. For that you get the hinged main screen, now 2.5″ in size, with improved brightness and pixel density. The Ace Pro 2 is rugged and water resistant up to 12m (with precise underwater controls). It can record 8K video at 30fps and 4K120fps slow-mo using a 1/1.3″ type sensor. This is paired with a 157-degree wide-angle Leica Summarit lens. Speaking of Leica, you get Leica color profiles. The hardware paired with the AI-enhanced software is promised to deliver “stunning low light clarity”. And with PureVideo, noise is reduced while brightness and details are enhanced (this is only available up to 4K60fps). Photos are captured in 50 MP resolution. Zooming in to 2x is promised not to lose any image quality, and the new integrated wind guard keeps noise at a minimum.
22 October 2024
Owners identity five of 20 mobile phones stolen at concert
Five iPhones out of the 20 phones recovered by the Kochi City police from Delhi following the alleged theft of mobile phones during a concert of an international artiste earlier this month have been identified by their owners. The Mulavukad police have registered one more case based on a petition filed by one of the owners. More people are likely to turn up for verifying whether their phones were among those recovered. “The phones are being identified by verifying their IMEI [International Mobile Equipment Identity] numbers among other things. The phones will be submitted before court, and the owners will have to get them by filing release petitions,” said city police sources. The police had arrested two suspects — Atiq Ur Rahman, with eight pending cases including theft and assault, and Waseem Ahammed, with four criminal cases — from Delhi and brought them to Kochi on Sunday. They remain remanded in judicial custody. The police will file a petition for their custody on Wednesday. Another two — Sunny Bhola Yadav, a history-sheeter with four criminal charges, and Shyam Baranwal from Uttar Pradesh, with seven criminal cases — who were arrested from Mumbai will be brought to the city on Wednesday
22 October 2024
A New Phone Chip Helps You Take the Perfect Pet Pawtrait. I Tried It Out
In my iCloud, there are 3,542 photos of my cat. Whether he’s curled up like a cinnamon roll or basking in a sunbeam, he is constant perfection, but the photos I take of him are not all winners. Among my vast library of feline photos are many duplicates — a result of me snapping away until I get the perfect photo of him staring down the lens. I know I’m not the only pet owner with this precise problem. Most of us don’t have pets who are also professional models, and we therefore usually need several takes to get the perfect shot. With the latest developments in camera technology, this might soon be a problem of the past. At its Snapdragon Summit in Hawaii, Qualcomm demonstrated how its latest mobile chip, the Snapdragon 8 Elite, will enable us to take the perfect shot of our pets with no duplicates needed. The updated neural processing unit that sits on the chipset powers a variety of AI features, which can process information coming from multiple inputs and data sources simultaneously. It’s thanks to this technology that some phone cameras in the coming year will be able to track your pet and use autofocus
22 October 2024
Huawei announces HarmonyOS Next – the new version of its Android rival
Huawei just ushered in a new page in its history with the official launch of HarmonyOS Next. This marks Huawei’s first operating system built independently of Android and the Linux kernel as it aims to transition its devices to an entirely in-house OS. HarmonyOS Next is set to power the current and future generations of Huawei devices in China for now, though a global release was confirmed previously. It will work across a broad range of devices ranging from smartphones to wearables, smart home devices and car cockpits. HarmonyOS Next uses a self-developed microkernel based on the OpenHarmony open-source core. It supports apps via the Huawei Ark compiler with Huawei Mobile Services (HMS) and promises a seamless unified architecture between HarmonyOS Next devices, the cloud as well as interconnectivity across various device form factors. Huawei Consumer Business Group Chairman, Richard Yu announced that 15,000 apps and services are now part of the HarmonyOS Next ecosystem with more on the way. We also learned that the previous versions of HarmonyOS are currently running on over 1 billion devices globally. This figure includes smartphones, tablets, smart wearables, smart home and car infotainment systems. HarmonyOS Next comes with a refreshed visual identity with
22 October 2024
Troy man charged in iPhone thefts as thieves target porch deliveries
If you are having a mobile phone delivered, police are urging that you have it sent with a signature requirement or arrange to pick it up at a store. Thieves nationwide, including metro Detroit, have been targeting these devices. It’s unclear how closely — if at all — these thefts are tied together. In Troy, the thefts seemed to start last month. There, a 23-year-old man, who police said was caught on home surveillance cameras swiping delivery packages, was arrested and arraigned last week in district court and charged with five counts of larceny. He had been wearing an Amazon vest, bucket hat, mask and drove a silver, Dodge Caravan. Police said the thefts are part of a growing trend, sometimes called porch piracy, in which all sorts of valuable packages arrive and are left unsecured outside residences, and before they can be retrieved, they are stolen and often sold for cash. In some cases, automated door cameras are helping to catch the pirates, but police said the best way to prevent the thefts is to make sure the packages get delivered with a signature — or to a secure location where they can’t be easily picked up. In Texas,
22 October 2024
Latest Tech
Flying Taxi is coming ..
As the world grapples with the challenges of worsening traffic congestion and the need for more sustainable transportation solutions, a new era of urban air mobility is on the horizon. At the forefront of this revolution is Hyundai, the global automotive giant, which has unveiled its ambitious plans for an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that could transform the way we move through our cities. In recent years, many manufacturers have been preparing flying taxis, which may become the next important development direction of travel vehicles. So nowadays, in major exhibitions, you can always see some of these products. Hyundai released a prototype of the SA-1 aircraft , in CES 2020, built with Uber in the pavilion. It has a huge propeller that can seat a total of four passengers, which is quite pompous in terms of styling (at least on the ground). This year’s CES, Hyundai unveiled a new “flying car” concept called the S-A2. This is a continuation of the S-A1 concept that debuted at CES 2020, and its purpose is roughly the same, which is to carry out short-distance point-to-point transportation within the city, which is the concept of air taxis. The S-A2 has a cruising speed
3 April 2024
Doctor’s ‘best meal’ recipe clears arteries and cholesterol
A culinary delight that could work wonders for your arteries has been revealed by health guru Dr Eric Berg DC. He says the tantalising dish might just be “the best” option for slashing “decreasing your risk of coronary heart disease”. The nutrition virtuoso is the author of ‘The Healthy Keto Plan’ and is famed for his expertise in healthy ketosis and intermittent fasting. He has drawn the attention of over 12 million people on YouTube who subscribe to his channel. One of his most viewed videos is titled: “The best MEAL to clear out your arteries.” The clogging of arteries is known as Atherosclerosis. British Heart Foundation (BHF) warns atherosclerosis is a “potential silent killer” as some people may not realise they have it until symptoms emerge. Atherosclerosis is caused by a pileup of fatty deposits within our vital blood vessels. It can trigger severe health issues like heart attacks or strokes, as it disrupts smooth blood circulation. It’s not uncommon for individuals to first discover their problematic atherosclerosis post-crisis, following a stroke or heart attack , reports Surrey Live. Dr Berg says the plaque that builds up in arteries is largely a combination of calcium, proteins, and cholesterol. He details: “In many cases,
23 October 2024
11 Best Prepared Meal Delivery Services, Tested by Experts
11 Best Prepared Meal Delivery Services, Tested by Experts If you’re ordering takeout more than you’d like, you’re not alone – even our dietitians and chefs at GH rely on prepared foods more often than not. And while it may be convenient, ordering in and dining out can be expensive and far from healthy at times. Prepared meal delivery services offer a happy medium for those seeking weeknight convenience. They tend to be a bit more cost-effective than takeout since the meals are shipped together for the week, and many services offer options for different dietary needs and preferences. Not only do these premade dishes take the stress (and mess) out of meal prep, but they definitely beat a frozen TV dinner and give you something to look forward to eating. Our food and nutrition experts tested over 50 meal delivery services, and we asked consumer testers to weigh in. We sent the services to over 300 home cooks to find the best options for every lifestyle and budget. You can learn more about how we evaluate meal delivery services — and find our comprehensive guide to the best meal delivery services by diet — at the end of this
23 October 2024
Shorts and stops: Healthy eating, Republicans, McDonald’s
Audio articles on Wilson County News made possible by C Street Gift Shop in downtown Floresville! I like this! Here are some tips from the Mayo Clinic for healthy eating: Eat out no more than once a week; avoid processed foods; eat fresh or organic, non-GMO foods when possible; and eat with someone — dinners with family and friends encourage community. Good information but it’s not like we are unaware of how to be healthy — and stay healthy — it’s just not always easy to stick to those rules. It doesn’t hurt to be reminded. Why? “Illegal Alien Sentenced to Prison for Organized Criminal Activity in North Texas: Sergio Cardenas- Salinas has been deported from the U.S. twice.” (from TexasMinute) So now we taxpayers must foot the bill for housekeeping while this criminal is held in an American prison. How much cheaper it would have been if we had kept him out of this country in the first place — or in the second place — as it were. By Elaine Kolodziej Republicans are slow “And Tucker Carlson told you to consider rushing in your support … Glenn Beck followed Tucker’s lead … Then Ben Shapiro put his
23 October 2024
日本Mister Donut香港首店10月開幕選址尖沙咀！多達20多款口味／送限定文件夾／紙扇 | 港生活 – 尋找香港好去處
Mister Donut香港首店落戶K11 K11 Art Mall又有過江龍進駐喇！繼內地茶飲店霸王茶姬最近開業，超人氣冬甩店Mister Donut亦公布了香港首間分店將開設於尖沙咀 K11 Art Mall，並宣布將於10月26日（星期六）隆重開幕！為了慶祝Mister Donut香港店開幕，店舖於開幕日10月26及10月27日期間已經為大家準備2大驚喜開幕優惠，想知就立即看圖啦。 香港Mister Donut款式口味 香港分店Mister Donut將會提供多達20款不同口味的冬甩，必食人氣熱賣Pon de Ring波堤系列，外觀有如花花形狀，就像一個環形的麻糬，另外還有法式扭紋、鬆脆冬甩、朱古力及酵母冬甩等多款選擇，即刻睇下有甚麼口味及價錢啦！ Mister Donut曾於2021年被「U Lifestyle」評選為「香港最期待開設的餐飲品牌」第8名，是香港市民期待已久的品牌，相信開幕初期會大排長龍，大批食客「朝聖」。 Mister Donut香港1號店 地址﹕尖沙咀河內道18號 K11 Art Mall 地庫1樓 B103A 營業時間﹕每週一至週日，上午11時至晚上10時 來源：Mister Donut Mister Donut香港分店請人 店舖選址油尖旺區 早前在招聘網站上發現宣布於10月進軍香港的Mister Donut請人，當中包括副主管、資深甜圈製作員、及全職甜圈製作員。招聘啟事表示歡迎學生及家庭主婦申請，自問喜歡食Donut，又是Mister Donut粉絲的朋友，不妨睇睇喇！ 全職甜圈製作員 全職資深甜圈製作員 全職副主管（店舖） 來源：moovup、ミスタードーナツ Mister Donut 10月進軍香港 根據Mister Donut母公司「ダスキン」（Duskin）的官方文件，公司與香港的公司Dragon Circle Enterprise Limited達成協議，簽訂了香港特許經營權。按文件日程，將會在4月簽約，並擬於2024年10月在香港開設分店。 文件顯示，Duskin為了進一步發展，正根據「2022年中期管理政策」在亞洲區擴大業務，繼2023年進軍新加坡後，今次選定香港為下一個發展地區。至於負責香港特許經營的Dragon Circle Enterprise Limited，品牌的CEO Fanny Su 同時為敬洋（香港）國際貿易的CEO，集團旗下擁有日本蛋糕甜品店Chateraise的香港特許經營權。 雖然現階段未知分店選址哪一區，但預計今年底在香港開分店這件事，相信已經足夠讓Mister Donut的粉絲興奮！ 來源：ダスキン﹑Mister Donut Source link
23 October 2024
23 October 2024
Review: Salter ceramic cookware 2024
It’s been a long time coming, but I’m finally at a stage in my life where I’m actually starting to enjoy cooking and eating more varied, nutritious, and interesting foods—rather than just sticking to my go to spaghetti bolognese or takeaway meals. However, no matter how much I enjoy sitting down to enjoy my finished masterpiece, the thought of cleaning up afterward almost makes me never want to cook again. And while I’m generally pretty blasé about most things when it comes to what I eat, I actually care a lot about the chemicals used during the cooking process. Salter Ceramic 6-Piece Frying Pan & Saucepan Pan Set Cons Not oven friendly Sometimes had a strange smell when cooking on high heat Like all non-stick pans, non-stick coating will fade and need to be replaced How we tested I am a woman in my late twenties who recently moved to London and is still, 6 months later, trying to get into my usual groove of healthy cooking, meal prepping and considering what I eat. As I am also new to the city and still in the long and labourous process of sorting out my home, as luck would have it
23 October 2024
23 October 2024
8 healthy fast food picks for when you’re on the go
Need to grab a meal on the go? Join the club. In the U.S, 50% of consumers eat fast food at least twice a week—and the number is increasing thanks to rising grocery costs. But fast food meals can be a nutrition nightmare, containing an average of 1,193 calories, 2,110 milligrams of sodium, 68 grams of sugar and 14 grams of saturated fat. That’s nearly the recommended daily limit of sodium for adults, and more than the daily limit of saturated fat—just in one meal. Too much saturated fat, sugar, and sodium is linked to heart disease. And eating too many ultra-processed foods, like burgers and fries, may lead to cognitive decline. “One meal is not going to make or break your overall health; all foods, including indulgent foods, can fit into an overall healthy diet,” says Vandana Sheth, RDN, CDCES, FAND, registered dietitian nutritionist and author of My Indian Table: Quick & Tasty Vegetarian Recipes. “When it comes to making healthy choices, pay attention to portion size, protein, fiber, fat, sodium and added sugars.” The next time you’re on the road, pressed for time, or too tired to cook, choose one of these eight healthy options. 1. Dunkin: Wake-Up Wrap
23 October 2024
23 October 2024
Low-carb Chinese Pork Recipes – My Chinese Home Kitchen
Pork is one of the staples of the Chinese diet. The Chinese people consume more than half of all the pork eaten worldwide each year. The traditional Chinese character for house included the symbol for pork. All of the low-carb Chinese pork recipes listed here have less than 20 grams of carbohydrate per serving. Two of these recipes are fried. One, fried pork tenderloin, can be pan-fried in a small amount of olive oil for a quick snack. However, the other is deep-fried. Though it is our single-most popular recipe, year after year, and it is low in carbohydrate and high in protein, you should probably limit this dish to special occasions. The list of low-carb Chinese pork recipes on My Chinese Home Kitchen We will periodically update this list as we add new, low-carbohydrate pork recipes, so please check back with us often. 1 Stir-fried Pork with Snow Peas This pork stir fry with snow peas is a simple dish to prepare, with a pleasing contrast of colors and textures. Crunchy pepper slices and snow pea pods with tender pork. The doubanjiang (red broad bean paste) gives the pork a bit of flavor and spice. However, this is a
23 October 2024
23 October 2024
Low Carb Chinese Recipes – My Chinese Home Kitchen
With the current national focus on healthy diet, we thought it was time to focus on the healthy aspects of Chinese recipes. We have many recipes on My Chinese Home Kitchen, and more than 50 of them are healthy, low-carb dishes. With a couple exceptions, most are not deep-fried or heavily reliant on oil. Those that do use some oil in the wok can be made with heart healthy olive oil. So, we are happy to introduce our new series focusing on low-carb Chinese recipes. Low Carb Chinese Recipes.Image Credit: Glenn Emerson for My Chinese Home Kitchen, 2024. The COVID ordeal has triggered a new awareness of the generally poor health of Americans. A growing number of doctors and experts are pointing to metabolism as the cause of many chronic, inflammatory diseases, such as type II diabetes, various food allergies, intestinal disorders, fatty liver disease, and many more. One presidential candidate, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. even centered his campaign on the theme “Make America Healthy Again.” Much of the talk is about the food pyramid adopted in the early 1990s, which pushes lots of ultra-processed foods loaded with empty carbohydrates and seed oils. Twenty years ago, the Atkins Diet introduced
23 October 2024
23 October 2024
Finger Food, Party Food & More
Impress with a delicious spread of party and finger food with these catering services in Hong Kong, including favourites like Habitu, Shamrock, Gingers and Relish Kitchen. We all know the key to a successful soiree is good food. So why not leave it to the professionals who will ensure it’s taken care of by some of the finest caterers in the city? We’ve rounded up the best party food catering companies in Hong Kong serving everything from finger food to salads, canapés and more to ensure that your bash is talk of the town. Read More: Top Hong Kong Event Planners For Birthday Parties & More Bain Marie – No-fuss, zero-waste food catering services Is it your turn to organise the next corporate lunch or dinner with friends? Leave the cooking and cleaning to the pros at Bain Marie. Simply place your order at least 48 hours in advance and have it delivered to you fresh on the day in plastic-free packaging. The food is prepared on the day by the in-house culinary team using tried-and-tested homemade recipes. Once your party has had their fill, put all your empty dishes and cutlery back in the box they came in to be collected
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
Fueling Recovery: Experts List Fun Ways To Encourage Healthy Eating In Children Fighting Cancer
When kids are diagnosed with cancer, it can feel overwhelming, not just for them but for their families, too. One important aspect of their care is what they eat. A healthy diet can help during treatment. However, getting children excited about nutritious food can be a challenge. Studies show that up to 58% of children with cancer in India are malnourished at the time of diagnosis, which can increase complications, prolonged hospital stays and reduce survival rates. We spoke to experts who explained how nutrition must be integrated into every stage of paediatric oncology care, from diagnosis to recovery. According to a 2023 study, children with cancer face a significant risk of both short-term and long-term nutritional issues due to their illness and the side effects of various treatments. Their nutritional status can impact key clinical outcomes, including overall survival, event-free survival, treatment tolerance, infection risk, and quality of life. Fun Ways to Encourage Healthy Eating in Children Fighting Cancer Innovative Strategies for Nutritional Engagement Innovative strategies are key. Gamifying nutrition with activities like food bingo or reward-based charts makes eating fun and encourages healthy habits. Healthcare providers and caregivers must work closely to create a supportive environment. According to
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
Lebanon city schools highlight healthy eating during School Lunch Week
Throughout October, Lebanon School District is marking its commitment to good nutrition by observing National School Lunch Week and National Farm to School Month. The district held a special lunchtime event on Friday, Oct. 17, at Northwest Elementary School, and it was clear that the days of hot dogs, tater tots, and processed cheese sticks in school cafeterias are long gone. Instead, grade schoolers enjoyed fruits, vegetables, and fresh food made on-site, while paying hardly any attention to reporters, faculty, public officials, and other assorted grownups milling about. Cafeteria lines haven’t changed much over the years, but the food that goes on kids’ trays has. (LebTown) A special visitor was U.S. Department of Agriculture Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services Deputy Under Secretary Cindy Long, who gave after-lunch remarks in the school’s courtyard on a sunny fall afternoon. The school district works with food service company the Nutrition Group and Lancaster-based farm-to-school nutrition organization Smart Partners to provide healthy meals throughout the school year. All of the district’s roughly 5,300 students are eligible for free breakfast and lunch. To receive federal reimbursements for meals they serve, school districts must offer food that meets strict federal nutrition standards centered around fruits, vegetables,
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
Food Lion Recalls Three Varieties of Food Lion Frozen Waffles
Food Lion Blueberry Waffles Food Lion recalls frozen blueberry waffles. Food Lion Buttermilk Waffles Food Lion recalls frozen buttermilk waffles. Food Lion Homestyle Waffles Food Lion recalls frozen homestyle waffles. SALISBURY, N.C., Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Food Lion is notifying customers of a recall affecting Food Lion frozen waffles after being alerted by supplier TreeHouse Foods of possible Listeria Monocytogenes contamination. This recall affects only the products listed below. Food Lion Blueberry Waffles12.3 ounceUPC 03582609144 Food Lion Buttermilk Waffles12.3 ounceUPC 03582609146 Food Lion Homestyle Waffles12.3 ounceUPC 03582609145 Customers may have purchased these products on Friday, Oct. 18. Customers who purchased the affected product should not consume it and may return it to their local Food Lion store for a refund equal to double the purchase price in accordance with Food Lion’s “Double Your Money Back Guarantee.” About Food LionFood Lion is an omnichannel grocery retailer committed to nourishing its neighbors. More than 82,000 associates across 1,100+ stores deliver an easy, fresh and affordable shopping experience throughout 10 Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic states. With a focus on hunger relief, Food Lion is a pioneer in food rescue. In 2014, Food Lion Feeds was created and has since donated more than
21 October 2024
21 October 2024
Food experts share simple ways to get children involved in dinner planning
Join Fox News for access to this content You have reached your maximum number of articles. Log in or create an account FREE of charge to continue reading. By entering your email and pushing continue, you are agreeing to Fox News’ Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, which includes our Notice of Financial Incentive. Please enter a valid email address. Having trouble? Click here. Weeknights for families are often a balancing act with after-school activities, homework and family obligations. And that’s not counting dinner. As parents have likely experienced, children may want different meals at dinner. It’s why food experts suggest involving your children in meal planning. DON’T HAVE TIME TO EAT HEALTHY FOODS? YES, YOU DO, CELEBRITY CHEF INSISTS This proactive approach can take the stress out of dinners and make your children part of a dinner game-plan. Here are some simple and smart ways to involve your children as you plan your dinner menus. A mother and daughter have fun with vegetables in the kitchen. (iStock) 1. Get the kids involved Feeding children can be stressful, and busy parents know it’s easy to get into the routine of making separate dinners for them. This strategy can be counterproductive, time-consuming
21 October 2024
21 October 2024
Healthy cooking: Susan Jane White’s pear and matcha compote is the happiness hit your porridge is missing
Susan Jane White’s pear matcha compote. Photo: Susan Jane White Pears rank particularly high when it comes to dietary fibre and delectably dribbly sweetness. I’ve noticed my local supermarket “sale shelf” is full of pears this week, too. So with a bit of alchemy, zero-waste ambition and my Mary Poppins wand (OK, and the dopamine dump I get from bagging a bargain), I gift you a little ripper of a recipe. For taste and texture reasons alone, pear compote is always a good idea on top of home-made granola, yoghurt, chia pudding or porridge. Sneak in some ginger and matcha, and let the neighbourhood rub your halo. Matcha green tea is humming with L-theanine. This amino acid, beloved of celebrity neuroscientist professor Andrew Huberman, has shown to help improve sleep and reduce anxiety. Taking a closer look, we see that theanine tickles a neurotransmitter called GABA, responsible for calming the brain. Yes please. Source link
21 October 2024
21 October 2024
AI Told Me What to Eat for a Week. Here’s How It Went
In my endeavor to become a better and more consistent cook, I’ve started meal planning. I’ve been interested in this process as a way to save money and try new meals, but especially as a way to reduce food waste along with my overall carbon footprint (more on that later). Searching for recipes and creating a meal plan on my own is possible, but it can also be time-consuming. So, as an editor at CNET, I wondered whether artificial intelligence, specifically ChatGPT, could help. If this generative AI application can be used to negotiate bills, write resumes and even help you talk to your doctor about your health symptoms, could it help with something as simple as meal planning, too? This story is part of CNET Zero, a series that chronicles the impact of climate change and explores what’s being done about the problem. I decided to find out. I asked ChatGPT to create a seven-day healthy-dinner meal plan for me, with a few parameters. Here’s how it did. Read more: ChatGPT 4 Review: A Smarter AI Chatbot, but It’ll Cost You Meal planning with ChatGPT Prompt: “Hi, ChatGPT. Can you provide me with a seven-day meal plan for quick and healthy dinners
21 October 2024
21 October 2024
Inside the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival: feast on Thai milk tea canelés, Vietnamese egg coffee and Chinese baijiu
The Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival returns bigger and better this year, not just in size – with more than 300 booths set to participate – but also in duration, taking place over five days between October 23 and 27 until 11pm each night. Staged at its usual haunt in the Central Harbourfront Event Space, the festival features offerings from 35 countries, spanning categories such as fine wine, whisky and cocktails, as well as street food and dishes from Michelin-starred restaurants. Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival returns this October. Photo: Dickson Lee You can look forward to wines from places such as France’s Bordeaux, Chile and Australia, alongside emerging Chinese wines and spirits from Ningxia, Yunnan and Shandong. Think Guizhou baijiu, traditionally served at state banquets, and Xige Estate Jade Dove Cabernet, which was recognised as one of the Top 10 Wines of the Year in China in 2020 by wine critic James Suckling. The festival’s “Dine” section features a new thematic zone, Culinary Stars, showcasing chefs from Michelin-recommended restaurants, including three-Michelin-starred Forum and Michelin Bib Gourmand awardee Fisholic. More than 110 food booths promise a veritable world tour in delicacies, from Argentinian chorizo sandwiches to Thai milk
21 October 2024
21 October 2024
Chicken Congee 生滾雞粥 | Chinese Recipes at TheHongKongCookery.com
Another classic congee dish: the comforting Chicken Congee 生滾雞粥, a creamy rice porridge infused through and through with yummilicious chickeny flavor and dotted with lusciously tender chicken pieces. Congee 粥 is a traditional Cantonese type of rice porridge, wherein the rice grains are cooked down until deliciously thick and creamy before being served with different meats and aromatics. This congee is made with the 生滾 method, translated as “raw boiled” method. Raw ingredients are cooked directly in the congee itself, allowing the flavors of the raw ingredients to permeate the congee. We’ve previously used this method with our fabulous Fish Congee 魚粥. You’ll find that it’s an easy way to make a most yummilicious and comforting congee! The first basic congee (made with scallops!) is the most exquisite with delicately nuanced flavors but takes the longest to make. The second, made with century egg, is the quickest to make and umami packed but requires a bit of day before prep and an overnight in the freezer. The last is the most basic of all, just made with rice and water. Choose your basic congee and make a big potful and then it’s onto the chicken! Once the basic congee is made
20 October 2024
20 October 2024
‘At 47, I lost 9kg with Joe Wicks’ 3-month workout + meal plan’
I wasn’t active growing up. My parents are of Indian origin and, even though I grew up in the United Kingdom, they taught me to prioritise studying instead of fitness. Plus, a lot of professional athletes aren’t from India, so I didn’t have role models around me. The way I learned to think of health was by being well-fed—in my household, the ability to have food was seen as a sign of wealth and status. So, I always ate until my plate was clean, even if I was full. In fact, I’d sometimes have two dinners, one at a friend’s house and one at my house. Even though I’m grateful that my parents were able to provide for me, I never felt comfortable in my skin. Growing up, I had low self-esteem because I was chubby. At 21, I went to university. Being there was a total eye-opener: It was the first time I saw people balancing academics and sports. I really started looking after myself and prioritising exercise. I started going to the gym multiple times a week, but most of the workouts I did on my own were really random—I was just picking classes and programs that looked
20 October 2024
20 October 2024
These bagel varieties and spreads are healthier options, dietitians say
Join Fox News for access to this content Plus special access to select articles and other premium content with your account – free of charge. By entering your email and pushing continue, you are agreeing to Fox News’ Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, which includes our Notice of Financial Incentive. Please enter a valid email address. Having trouble? Click here. There’s arguably something comforting and satisfying about a bagel in the morning. Not only can bagels be affordable. They are a go-to breakfast or brunch choice that can be eaten simply with cream cheese spread. They can also be loaded with smoked fish or other spreads and toppings. Some people may steer clear of bagels because they are high in carbohydrates, but to learn more about whether bagels really can sway health goals, Fox News Digital asked registered dietitians for the best bagel varieties and what bagel toppers are the best nutritional picks. YOGURT IS A HEALTHY SNACK MADE MORE NUTRITIOUS WITH THESE TIPS FROM DIETITIANS Here’s the baked-in story. Experts shared which bagel varieties could be better nutritional picks. (iStock) ‘Bagels often get a bad rep’ Can bagels be considered part of a “well-rounded” diet? “Bagels often get
19 October 2024
19 October 2024
Weight loss: A doctor shares the meal you should never skip to ‘burn fat’
While diets – such as time-restricted eating – may naturally mean mealtimes are skipped, a doctor told GB News why this is not always beneficial. Slimmers have been warned against skipping breakfast as it could make weight loss and fat-burning more difficult. This is according to wellness expert at Daily Glow LLC Dr Nicole Maholy who shared advice focusing on how to burn fat. She said: “My best advice for weight loss and fat burning include strategies that stabilise blood sugar and minimise insulin release. Skipping breakfast could get in the way of weight loss results GETTY “High blood sugar and insulin levels encourage fat storage rather than fat burning, so it’s imperative to avoid blood sugar spikes that trigger insulin release.” The expert suggested there are a few simple ways to do this, including eating plenty of protein and cutting back on late-night eating. One meal she said dieters should not skip is breakfast, as doing so can be detrimental to blood sugar levels and, ultimately, make it more difficult to slim down. She added: “I’d love to encourage eating a protein-rich breakfast. Skipping breakfast is associated with worse blood sugar regulation throughout the day. “Studies show skipping breakfast
19 October 2024
19 October 2024
Why are many Chinese-Australian parents taking their children back home?
Key Points Lagging numeracy and Chinese language skills have led many first-generation migrants to take their children back to China. Educational experts say Chinese and Australian students have their own academic strengths. OECD PISA data from 2018 shows Australian students were three-and-a-half years behind their Chinese peers in maths. Like many Chinese migrants, Ying Lu came to Australia in 2010 in search of cleaner air, safer food and rewarding work opportunities. But after becoming a mother, she realised a “good” primary education for her two children far outweighed other reasons to stay on. Having lived in Glen Waverley in Melbourne’s east for a decade, she took her family back to China in 2020 when her son turned five. She says that she preferred her children to do their primary schooling in China before returning to Australia for secondary schooling and higher studies. I wanted my son to develop better study habits in a mainstream Chinese school. Ying Lu, mother of two Australian-born children SBS Chinese understands that she is not alone in pursuing this temporary reverse migration. The triggers responsible for this move are said to be the emerging lag in numeracy and Chinese language skills amongst the young members
18 October 2024
18 October 2024
Chef Robert Irvine offers no-nonsense food tips to eat healthfully at home
Join Fox News for access to this content Plus special access to select articles and other premium content with your account – free of charge. By entering your email and pushing continue, you are agreeing to Fox News’ Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, which includes our Notice of Financial Incentive. Please enter a valid email address. Having trouble? Click here. Making healthy decisions at the grocery store can be simple, celebrity chef Robert Irvine claims. Irvine shared his thoughts with Fox News Digital about what to buy when it comes to shopping for food at the grocery store. (See the video at the top of this article.) The Florida-based chef and host of the popular Food Network show “Restaurant: Impossible” offered his advice for those looking to eat healthfully at home. 5 EGG MYTHS DISPELLED BY AN EXPERT, PLUS TIPS FOR EVERY EGG LOVER “Don’t buy processed food. Buy fresh food and cook yourself,” he said in a video interview. The chef said he does it every day — even on the road when he’s traveling and is away from his usual environment. Chef Robert Irvine, based in Tampa, Florida, spoke to Fox News Digital about how to keep healthy
18 October 2024
18 October 2024
Men & Women May Need Different Breakfasts For Weight Loss, Says Study; Here’s Why
We all know everyone’s body responds differently to different foods. But, did you know that one of the many factors influencing this could be the gender of the person? Well, according to a new study, it has been found that breakfast foods affect men’s and women’s health and energy levels very differently. Intrigued? Read on to learn more about this study. Breakfast Affects Men’s & Women’s Health & Energy Levels Differently Image Courtesy: Canva (representative image) A new study, Modelling Sex-Specific Whole-Body Metabolic Responses To Feeding and Fasting, from the University of Waterloo has found that men’s and women’s metabolisms respond differently to foods. The report found that a person’s sex plays an important part in how their body reacts to certain foods. As per the report, men and women should eat different breakfasts to lose weight. For this, employed a mathematical model to understand men’s and women’s metabolisms. They found that men’s metabolisms respond better to “a meal laden with high carbohydrates like oats and grains after fasting for several hours.” On the other hand, for women, a “meal with a higher percentage of fat, such as omelettes and avocados” could do wonders if they’re trying to lose weight
18 October 2024
18 October 2024
The Vitamin Shoppe’s secrets and supplements for longevity
New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you buy through our links. Featured pricing is subject to change. What is longevity, and why are some of us so obsessed with it? For many of us, time is currency. Most would love nothing more than to reach old age or perhaps even extend life expectancy to spend more time with loved ones, even if that means popping a handful of pills every morning, noon, and night. Unfortunately, the numbers aren’t looking up — at least in the U.S., where the CDC has reported that life expectancy has dropped since the pandemic. As of 2022, women averaged around 80.2 years, and men are still struggling to close off the gap, aggregating roughly 74.8 trips around the sun. The topic of longevity always seems to be well and alive in the news cycle; there’s always plenty of talk of medical advances in treating memory loss, social media trends like juice cleanses and fasting and cold plunging, research into what the ideal BMI is for longevity, and of course, the rapidly growing supplement industry. RELATED: Best NMN supplements for anti-aging, according to experts Some celebrities are suspected of harboring
23 October 2024
Wellness Habits I’m Ditching in My 30s, & What I’m Doing Instead
I’m turning 30 and this milestone feels like it’s taking over my life. Between the changes in my friendships, career, and body (I blame my Saturn Return), I’m noticing old patterns and routines that used to serve me no longer do. And while I plan on keeping some wellness habits I learned in my 20s (i.e. my meditation practice and addiction to SoulCycle), sometimes growing up means letting go. Instead of fighting to keep wellness habits that no longer feels effective, I’ve decided to start 30 with a clean slate. I’m accepting that my body is changing and that it’s time to curate a wellness routine that works for this new decade. If everyone says your 30s are your best years, I might as well make the most of them. Here are the habits I’m letting go of in my 30s and the ones I’m adopting instead. “Sometimes growing up means letting go…” 1. I’m swapping high-intensity workouts for strength training When I turned 29, I felt knee pain for the first time in my life. I was skiing down a mountain and honestly didn’t think I’d make it to the bottom because my knees were in so much pain.
23 October 2024
New Stroke Guidelines Include GLP-1 Drugs and Diet, Lifestyle Changes
Share on Pinterest PIKSEL / Getty ImagesNew guidelines for stroke prevention from the American Stroke Association emphasize the benefits of GLP-1 drugs, a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight.PIKSEL / Getty Images The American Stroke Association has updated its guidelines on stroke risk reduction for the first time since 2014. In their recommendations, the ASA urges healthcare professionals to carefully screen patients for risk factors such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, obesity, and high blood sugar. The new stroke guidelines highlight unique risk factors for females and transgender women and how social determinants of health impact stroke risk. The guidelines also emphasize the benefits of GLP-1 drugs for cardiovascular health, and encourage a balanced diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting adequate sleep. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates nearly 800,000 people have a stroke every year in the United States. Of these, more than 600,000 will be a first-time stroke. For the first time in 10 years, the American Stroke Association (ASA) has updated its guidelines for reducing stroke risk. According to an ASA news release, up to 80% of strokes may be preventable through diet and
23 October 2024
Research shows healthy habits tied to brain health
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain In middle-aged people, having risk factors like blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol that are not well-controlled combined with not following certain healthy habits including exercise, diet and sleep, are linked to a higher risk of stroke, dementia or depression later in life, according to a study published in the October 23, 2024, online issue of Neurology. These results do not prove that not having healthy habits increases the risk of these conditions, they only show an association. The eight cardiovascular and brain health factors, known as the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8 are: being active; eating better; maintaining a healthy weight; not smoking; maintaining a healthy blood pressure; getting enough sleep; and controlling cholesterol and blood sugar levels. “Brain health is paramount for the optimal well-being of every person, enabling us to function at our highest level and constantly adapt in the world,” said study author Santiago Clocchiatti-Tuozzo, MD, MHS, of Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, and member of the American Academy of Neurology. “Our study found that making these healthy lifestyle choices in middle age can have meaningful impacts on brain health later in life.” For the study, researchers evaluated data from
23 October 2024
23 October 2024
80% of strokes are preventable, says American Stroke Association
Strokes are the fifth-leading cause of death in the United States, and the leading cause of disability — but up to 80% of them are preventable. That’s according to the American Stroke Association (ASA), which on Monday published its updated guidelines for stroke prevention in the journal Stroke. This was the first update since its 2014 set of guidelines. STROKE SIGNS, SYMPTOMS, RECOVERY AND PREVENTATIVE MEASURES: LIFE CHANGES A SURVIVOR MAY FACE “The key to preventing stroke is to understand what the risk factors are and have access to care to address the ones that may require medications, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes,” study author Cheryl Bushnell, professor of neurology and stroke division chief in the Department of Neurology at Wake Forest University Health Sciences in Winston-Salem, told Fox News Digital. Strokes are the fifth-leading cause of death in the United States, and the leading cause of disability — but up to 80% of them are preventable. (iStock) “Other prevention approaches are lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, being physically active, avoiding sitting all day during waking hours, eating a healthy diet (such as the Mediterranean diet), treating sleep apnea (which prevents optimal sleep at night)
23 October 2024
23 October 2024
How The Rapper Lost More Than 100 Pounds
Country star Jelly Roll has been open about his struggles to maintain a healthy weight over the years. At one point, the singer and rapper weighed more than 500 pounds and he’s been determined to make a change. Jelly Roll has long been candid about the efforts he’s taken to make healthy lifestyle changes since the start of 2024 and they’re paying off. Ahead, read everything Jelly Roll has shared about his recent weight loss and his health goals. How did Jelly Roll lose weight? Jelly Roll, who’s real name is Jason DeFord, kickstarted his weight loss by running. He stunned viewers of the Academy of Country Music Awards in May 2024 when he looked noticeably slimmer on the red carpet. The appearance came just a couple of weeks after he ran his first 5K race in recent years (and perhaps ever) — the 2 Bears 5K in Los Angeles on May 7, 2024. Reflecting on completing the 3.1 mile run, he said it was “really emotional” because he “couldn’t walk a mile” in January, when he started training for the 5K. “So the fact that we got three point whatever it was done today, I feel really, really good about
23 October 2024
23 October 2024
The Blue Zones Project Grocery Store Pledge
The Blue Zones Project Grocery Store Pledge includes ways to encourage customers to purchase healthier items in the store while preserving profits and attracting new customers. Blue Zones are places around the world where people live significantly longer and healthier lives. They were popularized by a 2023 Netflix series, “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones.” More people are learning about the secrets to longevity uncovered by Dan Buettner, a National Geographic Fellow, best-selling author and the founder of Blue Zones Project®. In his travels across the globe, Buettner identified five “Blue Zones” with the highest concentration of healthy people living to 100 years or older: Okinawa (Japan), Sardinia (Italy), Nicoya Peninsula (Costa Rica), Ikaria (Greece) and Loma Linda (California, U.S.A.). After discovering Blue Zones across the globe, a team of researchers identified “the power 9,” or the diet and lifestyle habits, they all shared that contribute to overall health and longevity. Since the average lifespan for Americans is 77.5 years, and more than half suffer from chronic diseases in adulthood, the Blue Zones offer a holistic approach that food retailers can use to engage shoppers in a variety of ways. [RELATED: Just How ‘Functional’ Are Functional Foods and
23 October 2024
23 October 2024
Lifestyle showcasing flexibility, function and health/wellness at market
Lifestyle Enterprise is expanding its functional upholstery category at HPMKT. HIGH POINT — With an eye on consumer behavior, Lifestyle Enterprise is bringing something for every home to the company’s showrooms at High Point Market. In what might be referenced as a democratization of customization or “by the slice” purchase options, Lifestyle is offering modular upholstery that allows consumers to configure sofas and sectionals to fit small or large spaces in a variety of fabrics and silhouettes, most priced less than $999 retail. Along with the numerous modular options, Lifestyle is also expanding its functional stationary category, adding extra features to frames including storage and sleep/lounge options: multipurpose furniture that maximizes square footage in limited spaces. “We’re introducing over 20 new upholstery SKUs across our assortment of stationary, motion, modular programs and our chair program,” said Michael Hsieh, CEO. “Consumers expect more than what they see, and we’ve focused on how to offer more design and flexibility for everyone at affordable price points. “Lifestyle will continue to build upon the success in the functional stationary category,” Hsieh said. “Although this is relatively new on the retail floor, this category has been met with increasing success. Today, consumers are living in
23 October 2024
23 October 2024
Deadline is deadline – 香港經濟日報 – 報章 – 副刊
我記得年輕時入職某機構首天，上司一早善意提醒我：Dealine is deadline（死綫就是死綫）。從此，我牢記於心，投身職場，死綫是沒有商量餘地的，除非老細或客戶主動地把死綫押後。 在死綫前交到貨，我認為是最基本的，姑勿論交出的貨質素如何。因此，對於在死綫前公然交不到貨、還諸多藉口的人，我認為是一種非常不負責任的表現。昨天提到令人感到家門不幸的下屬，此類人種可能與一般人對工作標準有很異常的理解。當老細要當着其他人面指出下屬未有如期交到功課，其實必定是忍了很久、去到忍無可忍之地步才這樣做。 若老細還要加設另一新部門，或找其他同事去執不達標下屬之手尾，即說明，老細對此君之辦事能力和效率，已經不寄予希望，惟有委派其他信得過的人去完成工作。去到這個地步，其實當事人應感到尷尬和面懵。一個有工作尊嚴的人，是不會容忍自己被老細和同事看成團隊裏的一粒老鼠屎的，理應痛定思痛、發奮圖強才是。但若這個時刻還多多事實、諸多藉口死撑自己無問題，那就無可救藥了。 看一個人的質地，不是看他有幾多錯失，而是要看錯失被指出後，他如何反應和回應。近排見到一個我認為不能接受的場景：對於老細公開表示有人未能如期交到貨，當事人以此解釋為——因為要修改。喂，預計要有修改的時間，不是包括在死綫內的嗎？譬如一年後要向上司交貨，你不是要預算這一年內幾時把第一稿寫好，再要預時間修改一至兩轉的嗎？修改應是死綫前做，而不是死綫後做的，這是工作常識。 若連這個常識和意識都沒有的人，在商業世界早已炒得。而事實上，我亦炒過一個這樣的人，個個月養着一個對機構毫無貢獻的人，直情是負資產，這類人，沒有一個老細不想把他們送走的，那只是遲早問題。 撰文 : 利嘉敏 欄名 : 攻關女子 Source link
23 October 2024
23 October 2024
Halloween 2024: Wisesky Drives New Trend of Healthy Living with Early Bird Black Friday Deal on Its Advanced W-Cat Air Purifier Designed Specifically for Cats
LOS ANGELES, Oct. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Wisesky, an innovative brand that focuses on air purification technology and is committed to solving the problems faced by pet-raising families, is celebrating Halloween 2024 with the launch of an early bird Black Friday discount on its advanced W-Cat air purifier designed specifically for cats. With health technology making steady inroads into domestic life, small appliances have become a key tool for improving the quality of life for cat lovers all over the globe. Focusing on the health needs of pet families, Wisesky is driving this trend with the launch of its W-Cat air purifier, providing a more comfortable home experience for people with allergies. The official launch of Wisesky’s early bird Black Friday discount as early as Halloween means feline fans can enjoy an early discount. Available from October 23 on the Wisesky website and on Amazon for a Black Friday early bird discount price of $287, which is nearly 30% off the original price of $399, including 10 pre-filters worth $25.99 free of charge. The limited time deal helps pet families enjoy a healthy life just in time for the holiday season. Health technology takes center stage for air quality in
23 October 2024
23 October 2024
Daily habits & lifestyle changes for hormonal harmony | By Alex Kain
West Bend, WI – Starting to pay attention to your health can make all the difference in a day, especially as we age. Incorporate quality sleep, regular physical activity, and mindful eating into your routine to support hormone balance. Remember, small, consistent changes can lead to a healthier, more responsive body. Below is a list of tips to keep in mind from A1 Health & Fitness in West Bend, WI. Daily Habits and Lifestyle Changes for Hormonal Harmony Click arrow in lower left corner to advance the page. To learn more, check out A1 Health & Fitness in West Bend, WI. Like this: Like Loading… Related Work or the content on WashingtonCountyInsider.com cannot be downloaded, printed, or copied. The work or content on WashingtonCountyInsider.com prohibits the end user to download, print, or otherwise distribute copies. Source link
23 October 2024
23 October 2024
Alex de Minaur rallies in Vienna – Blue Water Healthy Living
Second seed Alex de Minaur of Australia bounced back from a tough first set and defeated Germany’s Jan-Lennard Struff 2-6, 6-2, 6-2 in the first round of the Erste Bank Open on Tuesday in Vienna, Austria. Struff won 10 of his 11 first-serve points in the opening set, but de Minaur took over from there. He finished the match 4-for-6 in both saving break points and converting chances to break Struff’s serve. Luciano Darderi of Italy defeated Dominic Thiem 7-6 (6), 6-2 in the final match of the retiring Austrian star’s career. The former World No. 3 never regained his form after a major right wrist injury in 2021. After the match, Thiem received a thunderous ovation and his racket was placed in a glass case. Also advancing in straight sets were American No. 5 seed Frances Tiafoe, Italian No. 6 seed Lorenzo Musetti, British No. 7 seed Jack Draper, American Marcos Giron, Frenchman Gael Monfils and Serbia’s Miomir Kecmanovic. Swiss Indoors Basel No. 3 seed Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece needed 2 hours, 32 minutes to battle past Argentina’s Francisco Cerundolo 6-3, 6-7 (3), 7-6 (4) in the first round in Switzerland. Tsitsipas trailed the third-set tiebreaker 4-2 before pulling
23 October 2024
23 October 2024
Bruce Springsteen’s Longtime Director and Producer Talk 1-Meal-a-Day Diet: ‘Healthy Living’
Bruce Springsteen. Bruce Springsteen is making headlines for his one meal a day diet — and his longtime director and producer have some thoughts. While at the Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band premiere on Monday, October 21, Thom Zimny praised Springsteen, 75 for his habits. “The last 24 years I’ve just watched Bruce perform for three and a half hours, four hours a night, and it’s just been a lifestyle of healthy living I’ve witnessed,” Zimny exclusively told Us Weekly at the Los Angeles event held in the Academy of Motion Pictures Museum’s David Geffen Theater. “I think he’s a great influence.” Jon Landau, however, said he doesn’t take a page out of Springsteen’s diet book. “Well, I don’t follow it,” Landau exclusively told Us. “That’s all I can say about it. I think he does stick to it though.” Everything Bruce Springsteen Has Said About Diet, Food and Exercise Over the Years: 1 Meal a Day and More Springsteen revealed in a recent interview that he only eats one full meal a day. “I’ll have a bit of fruit in the morning and then I’ll have dinner,” Springsteen told The Times on Friday, October 18.
23 October 2024
23 October 2024
The true potential of peptide therapy for skin health
Modern skincare is becoming increasingly sophisticated, with cutting-edge treatments and techniques emerging seemingly by the day. But every so often, something comes along that really changes the game, and peptide therapy might just be one of them. The innovative therapyhas been making waves in recent years as a powerful solution for improving skin health and is favoured by a host of notable celebrities as well as beauty industry experts, being heralded as the secret weapon we’ve all been waiting for in the fight against the signs of aging. Peptides, which are short chains of amino acids, are being embraced for their ability to support collagen production, enhance cell communication and deliver targeted anti-aging benefits such as enhanced plumpness of the skin and a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In a recent discussion on YouTube, Dr Craig Koniver, a leader in performance medicine, and renowned neuroscientist Andrew Huberman, talked about how innovative uses of peptides could transform skin care, as well as health in general. By unlocking the science behind these bioactive molecules, we can better understand how peptide therapy can change the future of skincare. Here, we take a closer look at what it is, how
23 October 2024
23 October 2024
Utah collaborative looking to create model health care system – Deseret News
With the cost of health care premiums rising faster than salaries, public officials say Utah — like much of the nation — is on an unsustainable trajectory without action to manage both care costs and the need for it. With that concern in mind, in 2022, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox launched the One Utah Health Collaborative, a community-owned 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a goal over the next 15 years to build an affordable and high-caliber health care system by bringing together providers, the public, government and funders in a quest to create a model care system the nation could emulate. One rooted in solid research and driven by innovation. Tuesday, surrounded by board members of the collaborative, patients, legislators and health care partners, Cox said the state has adopted what’s being called the Utah Model of Care, with three priorities: affordability, high quality and trust. “This may seem idealistic, but I promise you it’s well within reach,” Cox said of creating a health care system for the state that is a model and envy of the nation. The effort is expected to evolve over 15 years or more in order to reach its full potential. “We do not look in two-year
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
I spend a six-figure sum every year to halt the ageing process – I’ve already taken 10 years off and want to live to 150
The average life expectancy for humans around the world may only be 83 – but one woman is hoping to double that using a rigorous biohacking regime. Kayla Barnes-Lentz, 33, from LA, spends six figures annually on keeping up her uber healthy lifestyle in the hope of being able to ‘live healthily’ until she’s 150-years-old. In an interview with The Telegraph, the biohacker revealed her stringent program for etching on the years, including taking 20 supplements a day, walking 15,000 steps, sleeping in a cage and using ‘oxygen treatment’. The self-described biohacker is the co founder of a ‘biology upgrading clinic’ in LA in the US, called LYV The Wellness Space. She also hosts her own podcast called Longevity Optimization, where she tells listeners how they can eek out extra minutes of life using ‘biohacker’ methods. Kayla Barnes-Lentz, (pictured) 33, calls herself a biohacker and spends six figures annually on keeping up her uber healthy lifestyle in the hopes of being able to ‘live healthily’ until she’s 150-years-old The 33-year-old claimed she has reversed her biological age by 10 years using ‘small lifestyle changes’ – which she insists other’s can achieve using her multi-step longevity protocol The 33-year-old claimed she has reversed
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
Bhavana Panday’s bold take on women’s health: Healthy habits to help you thrive during perimenopause | Health
Bhavana Panday broke taboos in season 3 of Netflix show Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives, where she openly discussed her personal experience with perimenopause. The diva shared her symptoms, including hot flashes and decreased sex drive, sparking a refreshing conversation but this candid discussion normalised the often-stigmatised topic, offering a relatable perspective on women‘s health. Bhavana Panday’s bold take on women’s health: Healthy habits to help you thrive during perimenopause (Photo by X/SimplyAminaxx) In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Sushruta Mokadam, Consultant Obstetrician at Motherhood Hospital in Pune’s Kharadi, explained, “Perimenopause is a type of indication from your body that your menopause is around the corner. This helps women and their bodies get prepared for this transitional shift. A woman’s body tends to change drastically physically as well as psychologically which can be frustrating. Perimenopause usually occurs in women between the age groups of 30s to 40s.” Perimenopause affects sexual life in some women.(Unsplash) Perimenopause Symptoms No One Talks About: Dr Sushruta Mokadam explained, “During menopause, the hormonal levels tend to fluctuate dramatically which can be discomforting. One can experience a range of symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, hormonal imbalance, irregularities in the menstrual cycle, decreased sex drive,
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
This simple health quiz could reveal the shocking truth about your well-being | Health
India has made impressive strides in education, particularly in secondary schooling and technical skilling, even for those who may pursue blue-collar jobs in adulthood but what if we applied that same emphasis to health education? Could we shift from merely treating diseases to preventing them in the first place? The answer is yes and it starts with health literacy. This simple health quiz could reveal the shocking truth about your well-being (Photo of Goodnet) In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Rajiv Kovil, Head of Diabetology at Zandra Healthcare and Co-Founder of Rang De Neela initiative, shared, “Health literacy refers to the ability to understand and use health information to make informed decisions about your well-being. Unfortunately, 9 out of 10 individuals in India lack this crucial skill. The consequences are staggering, both in terms of personal health and the nation’s economy. A poorly informed population burdens healthcare systems, increasing societal costs and indirectly affecting India’s GDP.” The food industry wants the label to be a guideline informing the consumer about the quantity of salt, sugar, sodium and fats in the packet without giving a health warning. (File Photo/Pradeep Gaur/ Mint) Imagine the impact if every citizen had a
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
Standing desk’s health benefits and hidden dangers
Representative image of a person staning and working Standing while working has become increasingly popular among those seeking to counteract the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle, often resulting from sitting for hours in front of computers. Standing desks, in particular, have gained widespread use among office workers, with many utility companies promoting them as a solution to health-related issues. In today’s work environment, which heavily relies on screen time, people are often encouraged to use standing desks to ensure their well-being, as prolonged sitting is linked to various health risks, including cardiovascular diseases (CVD). However, recent studies indicate that while standing desks have grown in popularity, they might not effectively counteract the risks of physical inactivity. In fact, they could lead to issues like swollen veins and blood clots in the legs, raising concerns about their overall benefits. Also Read: India has 23.4 crore people living in poverty — highest in the world: UN report Standing more has health risks Despite the growing popularity of standing desks in offices and other efforts to reduce sitting time, research reveals that standing more does not necessarily improve cardiovascular health and may even increase the risk of certain circulatory diseases. The study,
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
Stroke Prevention Guidelines: New stroke prevention guidelines have this to say about Ozempic |
Fresh guidelines for stroke prevention released by the American Heart Association (AHA) and American Stroke Association (ASA) have recommended the use of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy in patients with diabetes and cardiovascular disease, to lower the risk of stroke. The recommendations, updated after a decade, for the first time, talk about the potential of weight loss drugs in stroke prevention and gender-specific tips for preventing stroke in women.The guidelines also emphasise on stroke prevention by adopting healthy lifestyle habits to tackle damages done by sedentary lifestyle. It urges healthcare professionals to screen people for risk factors such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, high blood sugar and obesity.“Glucagon-like protein-1 receptor agonists have shown to be effective not only for improving management of type 2 diabetes but also for weight loss and lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. On the basis of this robust recommendation, we provide a new recommendation for the use of these drugs in patients with diabetes and high cardiovascular risk or established cardiovascular disease,” read the guidelines published in the journal Stroke. The use of weight loss drugs reduces the risk of obesity which can further translate into impressive benefits for overall health
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
Computational algorithm based on health and lifestyle traits to categorize lifemetabotypes in the NUTRiMDEA cohort
Descriptive characteristics of NUTRiMDEA population Participants’ phenotypic characteristics in the NUTRiMDEA study were categorized by sex (female and male) and age (< 40 years and ≥ 40 years), whose data are shown in Tables 1, 2 and 3. Regarding the analysis of factorial interactions between sex and age, significant differences were found in education, home situation, number of meals per day and snacking habits, nap habit, weight, BMI, and PCS12. A higher proportion of women and younger participants declared university education, while the younger population reported a higher rate of students and a lower rate of employment. Younger men were more likely to live alone, whereas older individuals reported living as couples and with children. Regarding cardiometabolic diseases, older man informed a higher prevalence. About family history, females reported a higher prevalence of familial high blood pressure (HBP) and dyslipidemia. Younger females stated more depression, while older men informed a lower incidence. Considering lifestyle, younger men reported a higher rate of the smoking habit, whereas younger women tended to have a lower prevalence, but a higher meal frequency and more snacking habits. Younger individuals, regardless of sex, informed replacing food with snacks more often and consumed more water than older participants. Subjects under
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
Harvey Weinstein has chronic myeloid leukemia, NBC reports – Blue Water Healthy Living
(Reuters) – Former Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein has chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), NBC News reported on Monday, citing sources. Weinstein is currently undergoing treatment for CML, a type of bone marrow cancer, while in prison at Rikers Island in New York to face trial on rape charges, according to the NBC report. Craig Rothfeld, Weinstein’s legal healthcare representative, declined comment when asked by Reuters on the status of his health, citing respect for Weinstein’s privacy. Weinstein, 72, has been beset with health problems, his lawyers had earlier said. He was rushed to the hospital from Rikers Island jail in September to undergo heart surgery. Weinstein, who has denied having any non-consensual sexual encounters with anyone, was found guilty on rape charges in February 2020 in a case that provided impetus for the #MeToo movement. The New York Court of Appeals threw out the conviction in April, finding Weinstein did not get a fair trial because a judge improperly allowed testimony by accusers he was not formally charged with assaulting. He is in prison awaiting a retrial. Weinstein still faces two other criminal counts from an earlier indictment where he also pleaded not guilty, including another first-degree criminal sexual act charge
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
Can the ‘meat-only’ diet be good for you?
One 2023 study of more than 2000 people who followed the carnivore diet (67 per cent were men in their 40s) found few experienced adverse effects and participants reported high levels of satisfaction and improved overall health. But there may be several physiological benefits that explain this. “It helps to increase protein intake, which is important for muscle and skeletal health, and it can help to balance blood sugar levels for those with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes,” says Amelia Phillips, a registered clinical nutritionist and exercise scientist. “And like any diet, when you start to pay attention to what you eat, invariably your diet quality improves.” The improvement in diet quality, and what you invariably cut out, accounts for many of the improvements that people experience. “If you are having a typical Western diet – a lot of junk, refined processed foods, a lot of meat, a lot of alcohol – remove that for six months, you will drastically change your health, no doubt,” says Professor Luigi Fontana, an expert in nutrition and healthy longevity and scientific director of the Charles Perkins Centre Royal Prince Alfred Clinic at the University of Sydney. Is going cold turkey a pathway
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
The War of the Rohirrim Poster Previews Anime Fantasy Movie
A new The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim poster is out, previewing the main character of the anime fantasy film set to release later this year. The new poster comes courtesy of Nerdist, who shared it over social media. The poster doesn’t give away much of anything, but does show off many of the main characters of the upcoming movie. It includes some looks at some of the large-scale battles set to take place in the film. Check out the new The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim poster below: What is The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim about? “Set 183 years before the events chronicled in the original trilogy of films, The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim tells the fate of the House of Helm Hammerhand, the legendary King of Rohan,” the synopsis reads. “A sudden attack by Wulf, a clever and ruthless Dunlending lord seeking vengeance for the death of his father, forces Helm and his people to make a daring last stand in the ancient stronghold of the Hornburg— a mighty fortress that will later come to be known as Helm’s Deep.
23 October 2024
The Room Next Door & I’m Still Here Wide Release Dates Set
Sony Pictures Classics has announced the wide release dates for two of its upcoming movies, The Room Next Door and I’m Still Here. When are The Room Next Door and I’m Still Here wide release dates? The Room Next Door will premiere in theaters on December 20, 2024, in New York and Los Angeles. After that, the film will expand to select cities on January 10, 2025, before opening nationwide on January 17, 2025. I’m Still Here will release on January 17, 2025, in New York and Los Angeles, before having its nationwide release a month later, on February 14, 2025. The film will also receive a one-week awards qualifying run in New York and Los Angeles in November before the wider rollout in January. The Room Next Door is written and directed by Almodóvar, based on Sigrid Nunez’s 2020 novel What Are You Going Through. The film stars Tilda Swinton, Julianne MOore, John Turturro, Alessandro Nivola, Juan Diego Botto, Melina Matthews, Raúl Arévalo, Victoria Luengo, Esther McGregor, Alex Høgh Andersen, and Alvise Rigo. “Ingrid and Martha were close friends in their youth, when they worked together at the same magazine,” reads the film’s synopsis. “Ingrid went on to become an
23 October 2024
Yes, Khloe & Kim Kardashian Dressed up as Tigers for Halloween One Year
Khloe Kardashian cherished her precious festive memories with her family in a recent Snapchat post. She shared some adorable throwback Halloween photographs on the platform. One of the stills in the carousel showcases two cute kids with tiger face paint on. The media personality captioned the photo, “Me and Kim as tigers”. Although the face paint makes it hard to distinguish who is who in the picture, it can be presumed from the caption that “Kim” refers to her sister Kim Kardashian. Both of them appear to be enjoying themselves during Halloween with matching tiger face paint. Khloe Kardashian shared old Halloween photos of the sisters (Photo Credit: @khloekardashian / Snapchat) Khloe Kardashian is bringing in the festival energy with the captivating throwback Halloween pictures she has shared on Snapchat. She began by writing, “Let’s take a look at some of my favorite Halloween costumes from previous years.” One photo sees her and her sister Kim Kardashian as tigers. One of the photos in the post shows Khloe, Kim Kardashian, and Kourtney Kardashian standing together in their cute Halloween costumes, as they pose for the camera. Khloe appears to be in a white costume with black spots, which is a
23 October 2024
Disney Eyes Major MCU Star as Live-Action Lead
Disney’s planned Prince Charming movie may have found its lead, with Deadline reporting that Chris Hemsworth has been in talks to star in the upcoming project. Reports of Hemsworth’s involvement first surfaced earlier this week in a report from The InSneider, with Deadline now following up and noting that Hemsworth has been in talks with Disney to take on the role of the iconic character. Paul King — who directed the first two Paddington films and 2023’s Wonka, and who also provided story help on the upcoming Paddington in Peru — will not only serve as director but is also set to co-write the project alongside Simon Farnaby and Jon Croker. As of yet, the cast outside of Hemsworth and the rest of the crew for the upcoming movie is unknown. What do we know about the Prince Charming movie? Currently, nothing is known about the Prince Charming movie, although Deadline’s original report on the film notes that the project will not be connected to Cinderella in any way. The specific character Prince Charming is known for his appearance in Cinderella, although the term “prince charming” has come to be used for any number of love interests for various Disney
23 October 2024
牛津大學博士網上放賣舊書被呃走$40萬！事主自認謹慎呻：騙子好專業 | 港生活 – 尋找香港好去處
牛津大學博士賣二手書被騙走40萬元 昨晚播出的《呃錢》講到網購騙案，今次受騙的苦主是一名牛津大學博士，該名苦主透過網上買賣平台放賣舊書，豈料因而遭騙走40萬港元！女苦主Red受訪時坦言沒想到自己如此謹慎仍誤墮騙局，窩心地表示希望藉著自己的經歷揭發騙徒惡行之餘，並提醒大家網上交易千萬要小心，Red說：「我哋嘅對手係專業嘅騙子，佢哋係一個好有經驗嘅集團，好掌握到我哋嘅狀態。」 發送偽冒官方電郵騙取授權 首次使用旋轉拍賣平台（Carousell）的Red，本打算以150港元放賣三本二手英文書籍，將相關圖片及資訊上載到平台後，約一分鐘便有「買家」表示有興趣，不過卻是騙徒的圈套。（按圖看詳細經過） Red形容當時心情激動得猶如「心跳停頓了」一樣：「我未經歷過嗰種震驚，我覺得我個心跳係停咗！」雖然Red已即時致電銀行及報警求助，但仍無法終止相關轉賬或凍結戶口。 Red事後回想整個受騙經過，提醒用戶要留意以下事項，提高警覺，以免重蹈覆轍。Red坦言若遇到騙子，學歷不但未必幫到手，更分分鐘有可能是絆腳石。 拍賣平台Carousell提醒用戶點擊連結前要三思。勒索軟件最常入侵企業網絡嘅方式係透過私訊或電子郵件。 通常，詐騙集團會使用看似合法的惡意QR code，打開QR code前要三思。 另外，除了提防假電郵，假支票詐騙案件有增加趨勢，詐騙者利用支票結算過程的延遲，欺騙受害者認為資金已可用，直至發現支票為假。他們常將溝通引導至WhatsApp等平台外進行。為避免誤墮陷阱，Carousell有以下安全建議。 來源：TVB《呃錢》、Carousell Source link
23 October 2024
Babygirl’s Nicole Kidman Says She Had to Pause Filming to Prevent Orgasms
At 57, Hollywood veteran Nicole Kidman continues to experiment with her roles. The versatile artist has long been amazing audiences with her acting chops and has received multiple accolades for her performances. In her latest venture, Babygirl, Kidman portrays the role of a hot-shot CEO who risks her hard-earned career, as well as her family, in order to initiate an affair with an intern. In a recent discussion, Kidman talked about her experience while filming Babygirl, especially highlighting her intense sex scenes in the film. Nicole Kidman describes the struggles of shooting Babygirl’s sex scenes The Eyes Wide Shut star revealed that she had a torrid time while performing intimate scenes in the 2024 erotic drama. Nicole Kidman shared her feelings of discomfort during the filming of Babygirl in a recent interview. The actress disclosed that she had to pause production as she was “turned on.” “There were times when we were shooting where I was like, ‘I don’t want to orgasm anymore,’ Kidman stated. “It was so present all the time for me that it was almost like a burnout,” she added. (via The US Sun) The Academy Award winner conveyed that the filming process took a heavy toll
23 October 2024
Baby Face港男原來係YouTuber？親身交代相親事件後續！霸氣7字堅拒婚介公司賠償… | 港生活 – 尋找香港好去處
黃生開直播交代後續發展：已聘請律師 事實上，黃先生去年8月在YouTube上經營一個頻道，大致內容為棟篤笑（獨角喜劇）的短片，現時已有1.15K人數追蹤。昨晚（22日）黃先生就在頻道開直播交代完整事件以及後續發展，他透露自己當日看完奧運賽事後，在神志不清的情況下被婚介公司遊說到福田參加相親，損失金額高達$2萬元。黃先生表示，現時已聘請內地律師處理以及追討該筆款項，而且今晚會在尖沙咀碼頭繼續開Live直播，歡迎其他受害者勇敢站出來舉報或是訴苦。 霸氣7字堅拒婚介公司賠償 自從事件曝光後，涉事婚介公司亦有聯絡黃先生，表示願意賠償約一萬三千元人民幣（大約是相親套餐的7成金額，不包含律師費）。但黃先生明言不會妥協，亦不會因此簽下和解協議，他說：「因為我條氣唔順，$2萬蚊乘5000名香港傻仔中招，佢賺咗成億喎！」 黃生親自回應網友嘲諷「點解你咁自信」 面對部分網友嘲諷「點解你咁自信」、「專揀靚女相親」，黃先生亦有對此親自回應，他指出相親對象大多是內地女生，年收入平均只有$8萬人民幣，「我一個月都唔止呢個數啦」。加上當時婚介公司不斷對他說一些讚美說話（例如：你都幾靚仔丫、你都幾幽默喎等等），「讚到我飄飄然」，他亦因此相信了。 以受害者角度陪觀眾睇《呃錢》！抱怨節目組故意「特寫肚腩」 此外，黃先生又在個人YouTube頻道上傳影片，以受害者角度陪觀眾看《呃錢》，當時他第一句劈頭就說「影得（我）咁樣衰」。隨後，他表示拍攝當日自己有點緊張，所以說話才會「九唔搭八」，並抱怨節目在拍攝時故意暴露他的缺點，「特寫我肚腩」。 看到節目改編一幕，黃先生對於橋段中扮演「婚介公司顧客」的演員感到不滿，他直言「（節目組）你搵個演員都唔似我」，過程中更一時尷尬，一時又掩住嘴大笑，並表示「我以後都唔會再信人」。 港男搵真愛慘陷入婚介公司騙局 TVB全新節目《呃錢》已於本周一（21日）首播，第一集講述港男透過小紅書婚介公司找相親對象，引起全港關注。苦主黃先生表示，自己因工作關係未有機會結識心儀對象，最近才透過內地一間婚介公司去結識另一半，他認為自身條件不錯，「我有Baby Face，點會無市場？」加上他對於相親對象要求不高，只有兩大擇偶條件，原以為很快會找到伴侶，卻沒想到會因此墜入婚姻介紹騙局 … ▼按圖看完整事件▼ ▼黃先生呻約會過程好「伏」▼ 港人大讚「勇氣可嘉」：肯出面分享自己經驗 節目一出，隨即引發全港市民熱烈討論，有人稱讚黃先生「勇氣可嘉」，簡直是自信心爆棚，「自信心已經澎脹到一個非一般人既境界，叻仔」、「上鏡仲要唔洗打格，認真自信」，並欣賞他願意站出來以自身經歷警惕大家；但亦有港人認為黃先生太過自信，缺乏了自我認知，「做人要有自知之明」、「自己得3分要求7分以上靚女」、「完美示範憑實力單身」。 ▼網友點講▼ 錯把焦點放在主持身上：點解可以忍住唔笑 此外，亦有不少人把焦點放在主持梁敏巧身上，不少人大讚新聞系出身的她採訪時表現專業，「主持點解可以忍住唔笑」、「主持好專業！訪問過程中冇笑出聲」，亦有人笑稱「因為個主持有讀過演員的自我修養」。 來源：東張+ Source link
23 October 2024
No, Liam Payne’s Toxicology Report Is Not Complete
In the wake of Liam Payne‘s tragic death, questions continue to arise regarding the circumstances surrounding the former One Direction singer’s passing. Reports have emerged indicating that the toxicology report related to his death is still not complete. This has sparked concern amongst fans. As authorities in Argentina conduct their investigation, people are wondering whether Payne’s toxicology report is complete. Here is everything to know about it. Is Liam Payne’s toxicology report complete? As of now, authorities in Argentina have confirmed that Liam Payne’s toxicology report is not yet complete. Following the tragic death of the singer, who fell from a third-floor balcony of a hotel in Buenos Aires, investigations into the circumstances of his passing are ongoing. Initial toxicology findings have reportedly revealed the presence of cocaine in Payne’s system. However, officials have warned that these preliminary results do not accurately reflect the concentration of the drug at the time of his passing. Geoff Payne, the singer’s father, was informed by representatives from the Public Prosecutor’s Office that the necessary toxicological and histopathological examinations have yet to be finalized. This is preventing the release of his son’s body to the family. (via Sky News) As reported, the investigation is
23 October 2024
張繼聰蔡卓妍新戲拍攝疑硬闖店舖取景 店方公開怒轟直指同強姦無分別 | 港生活 – 尋找香港好去處
賀歲片2025｜翁子光回應疑揭內幕? 過往曾執導《踏血尋梅》丶《風再起時》的導演翁子光今日火速於社交平台轉發相關帖文，並疑似揭開爭議內幕，全文如下︰ 賀歲片2025｜I Never Use Foundation發文控訴 天然護膚品牌I Never Use Foundation早前於網上發文，控訴電影團隊硬闖店舖拍攝，全文如下︰ I Never Use Foundation於網上發文，於早前曾有電影團隊與其聯絡，希望借用場地取景拍攝賀歲片，店方表示自己清晰回覆拍攝團隊需要逐小時計的租場費用以及如果有任何損毁都需要團隊負責。團隊回覆指演員只需入內「兜幾個圈」，店方則回覆仍需收一小時費用，但雙方沒有共識。不過於10月22日，店內同事見到團隊在店外準備拍攝，原本以為僅在外面拍攝，但依然強調「不可走入店內」，然後就沒有理會。不過突然電影團隊突然就將對講機放到店內門邊，同時兩位演員亦照樣走入店內，而對講機則清楚聽到向演員傳達的指令，而同時店內仍有客人正在休息。短短十分鐘，店方表示「夾硬嚟」同強姦無分別，解釋自己前前後後強調多次拍攝的要求，在商言商應該要收費。最後雖然沒有揭露演員的名字，不過就公開了製作公司為「本地製作有限公司」，亦概嘆「難怪港產片每況愈下」。 賀歲片2025｜本地製作有限公司 本地製作有限公司由資深製作人及監製伍健雄於2006年成立，最近為公開拍攝賀歲片，主演為張繼聰及蔡卓妍，疑似為今次風波中的演員。目前本地製作有限公司至截稿為止尚未有任何回應。 賀歲片2025｜I Never Use Foundation I Never Use Foundation由藝人徐天佑太太Olive Wong於2014年創立，目前已經開設3間分店，其中於中環九如坊的概念店，於2023年更獲得商業室內設計金獎，亦為今次風波中的涉事店舖。 Source link
23 October 2024
Yes, Ivanka Trump Attended Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour Concert in Miami
Donald Trump’s daughter Ivanka Trump recently attended Taylor Swift‘s Eras Tour concert in Miami with her daughter, sparking curiosity and public interest. The appearance has led many to speculate on the significance of the outing, especially considering the underlying tensions between certain public figures involved. Here’s a closer look at the event, its timing, and the potential implications surrounding Ivanka Trump’s attendance. Did Ivanka Trump attend Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour concert in Miami? Yes, Ivanka Trump attended Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour concert in Miami with her 13-year-old daughter Arabella and friends (via PEOPLE). This outing occurred on October 19, 2024, at Hard Rock Stadium, just weeks after Swift publicly endorsed Kamala Harris for the upcoming presidential election. Despite her father’s strong disapproval of Swift, Ivanka’s attendance at the concert highlights her focus on her daughter’s enthusiasm for the pop superstar. This event follows a statement from Donald Trump, who expressed disdain for Swift on social media. He said, “I HATE TAYLOR SWIFT!” His animosity reportedly stems from Swift’s vocal support for Democratic candidate Kamala Harris, who is running against him in the 2024 election. Additionally, Swift criticized Trump’s use of her likeness in AI-generated content for his campaign. This prompted
23 October 2024
UNIQLO x Marimekko 24 秋冬系列販售資訊：溫暖又可愛，讓人想通通打包！
隨著 10 月就要邁入尾聲，接著 JW Anderson、white mountaineering… 之後，UNIQLO 下一個聯名系列是廣受喜愛的固定班底，來自芬蘭的設計品牌 Marimekko！2024 秋冬系列延續了始於去年「享受四季的戶外時光」的靈感，收盡北歐的秋季原野風情，推出包括女裝、童裝、配件… 共 21 項單品，並誠意滿分地以 Marimekko x UNIQLO 四款全新花色打造。 在寒冷的季節裡，衣著打扮時常與沈穩的深色系劃上等號，不過 UNIQLO x Marimekko 2024 秋冬聯名系列可是為冬日賦予了滿滿的生命力，取材於如詩如畫的盎然景緻，對比的藍色與橘色，還有米色調，彷彿晨霧到夜幕的夢幻時光，設計師 Maija Isola 共打造了 Kimalainen、Koppelo、Seireeni、Suomu 四款專屬此次系列的獨特印花。 UNIQLO x Marimekko 2024 秋冬聯名系列可以逛到溫暖柔軟的刷毛開襟外套、舒適的小羊毛圓領毛衣、洋裝及迷你裙，當然也少不了衣櫃中必備的 HEATTECH，包括了高領 T-Shirt、襪子、針織帽。另外，像是經典配件如 Padded 圍巾、抽繩肩背包也換上了這次的花色，無論是喜歡亮眼高調的穿搭風格、低調地點綴細節，都能找到適合的印花單品。 UNIQLO x Marimekko 2024 秋冬聯名開賣日期 至於 UNIQLO x Marimekko 2024 秋冬聯名系列什麼時候開賣呢？居住在台灣的朋友請留意 11 月 1 日這天，包括網路商店、 UNIQLO 台北全球旗艦店、西門店、高雄漢神巨蛋購物廣場店、Lalaport 台中店皆會販售全系列；香港與澳門的販售資訊尚未公開，有興趣的朋友不妨可以多加留意。 加入 Popbee Circle 和訂閱 Popbee 電子報，即時閱覽最新情報，更可快一步了解精彩的尊享禮遇及折扣優惠！除了這篇外，最近還有以下的報導值得你留意： Source link
23 October 2024
Who Is Zach Bryan’s Ex-Wife? Rose Madden’s Job & Relationship History
Zach Bryan was in a short-lived marriage before he started dating Brianna LaPaglia. Recently, the American singer took to Instagram to announce his split from LaPaglia as well, expressing his love and respect for her. He also thanked her for her unconditional love. Since then, many have become invested in delving into Bryan’s past relationship, specifically his marriage to his now ex-wife Rose Madden. So, here are the details. Who is Zach Bryan’s ex-wife? Bryan was previously married to Rose Madden. In 2020, Bryan officially tied the knot with Madden. However, he confirmed his marriage reports a month later while responding to a fan. The fan shared an interesting meme tagging Bryan and requesting his new merchandise. He replied while suggesting he’s been busy in his personal life and wrote, “Ya sorry brother had to get married that’s my bad.” This confirmed that he exchanged vows in July 2020 with Madden. In December 2020, Brady Bates Photography also shared the couple’s photos on their Facebook page, confirming the month. However, they got divorced later. What is Rose Madden’s job? Madden worked as a naval aviator in the US Navy. According to her LinkedIn profile, she completed her degree in Anthropology
23 October 2024
徐天佑太太店舖被電影公司夾硬闖入拍攝 同業翁子光批評：有人利字當頭中飽私囊 – 香港經濟日報 – TOPick – 新聞 – 社會
【徐天佑太太 / 徐天佑老婆 / 賀歲片】拍戲是否真的大晒？徐天佑太太Olive Wong在2014年創立天然護膚品牌I Never Use Foundation（INUF），並有3間分店，當中在中環九如坊的概念店，去年更獲商業室內設計室內設計金獎，可見店舖裝修設計出色。 但也或者如此，吸引電影公司取景，不過卻遇上不愉快事件，INUF於官方IG控訴有電影公司硬闖入店拍攝，形容行為「同強姦其實冇分別」。 SHINE成員丨徐天佑與太太從英國回香港 做身心靈療癒師開近百堂 ▲ I Never Use Foundatio在中環九如坊的概念店。（取自INUF 9UF SHOP 九如坊店Facebook） 攝製組夾硬闖入拍戲 帖文指，有電影公司曾聯絡INUF九如坊店，表示想借用場地拍攝一部賀歲片。公司回覆如要借場需要每小時計算租場費用，以及若有任何損毁都必須由電影公司負責，對方回覆：「器材工作人員唔會入嚟，只係演員入嚟兜幾個圈好快就出返去。」INUF於是回覆，同樣要收1小時借場費，最終雙方未能達成共識而不了了之。 但在昨日（10月22日） ，INUF員工稱下午時份發現電影工作人員在其店外set機拍攝，員工即出外提醒工作人員不可進入店內拍攝。 可是豈料戲組人員竟在店內門邊放下對講機，兩位演員還走入店內兜幾個圈：「個對講機突然勁大聲向演員發出指令，演員又好大聲咁講對白。大佬！我哋上面有兩位客人休息緊㗎！店內工作中嘅同事完全反應唔過來，之後佢哋又再次入嚟做同一樣嘅，有crew仲要話我哋同事影佢哋相，搞到我啲同事好驚。」 ▲ 徐天佑與太太Olive Wong。 形容「同強姦其實冇分別」 電影公司硬闖入店過程約10分鐘，INUF形容「同強姦其實冇分別」，指：「這不是普通顧客打卡，而只商業用途，在商言商，就係要計數。我哋打開門做生意，每天交着高昂嘅租金人工水電媒，你哋請個臨記都要封番封利是啩？！」有網民建台方尋求法律協助討回公道。 雖然發文未有開名，但最近「本地製作有限公司」在拍賀歲片《賭鑊金》（暫名），該電影由伍健雄監製、羅耀輝執導，由張繼聰、蔡卓妍主演。 翁子光批評：有人利字當頭 而身為同行的《踏血尋梅》、《風再起時》導演翁子光，在個人社交平台轉發INUF投訴帖文並發文感慨地稱：「香港拍戲總是預算有限，明白的，為省錢可以做很多說起來羞澀的事，可能是為了電影的製作著想，但是某電影製作公司，以拍攝本地製作為名，製作成本左慳右慳，結果是有人利字當頭，中飽私囊，肉眼可見的把製作做到尷尬的因陋就簡。」 然後，他續指：「而且這種短視的作風，仍可長年不停有新片推出，香港電影業形勢嚴峻，為拍好戲而努力的心，相信其實就是良知，以我所知知、也感動於香港電影工業九成人都是有這底線的，希望極少數（甚至是一間）這類製作單位不會影響香港電影工業的形象。」 ▲ 翁子光發文講感受。 最新影片推介： 下載HKET App，追蹤TOPick WhatsApp頻道，睇全方位資訊： 【中下學試題免費下載】 【名校專區升學攻略】 【食物安全超市大搜查】 【職場智慧求生術】 Source link
23 October 2024
Who Ended Up on Top & Bottom in Dancing with the Stars?
With the conclusion of Dancing With The Stars Week 6, viewers are curious to know the scores registered by their favorite pairs. This week was interesting, with the contestants showcasing numerous dance forms on Disney songs. While some managed to keep their leg in the game with excellent scores, it was a disheartening night of critique and poor scores for some. Here’s a detailed guide on DWTS Week 6 scores, including individual and team performances. Who scored the most in Dancing with the Stars Week 6? Two contestants, Danny Amendola and Chandler Kinney, scored the most in Dancing With The Stars Week 6. Danny Amendola performed jazz-style on the viral song “Bye Bye Bye” by N’SYNC from Deadpool & Wolverine. Their dance replicated scenes from the music video and the MCU movie, wowing the judges and fans. The judges loved their homage to Marvel on Disney Night and gave them 27 as a score. Kinney, who starred in Zombies 2, performed a special paso doble on her film’s song, “We Own The Night.” Judge Inaba showered her with compliments, saying, “You come out on this dance floor and throw down like nobody’s business! That was a passionate and powerful performance.” The
23 October 2024
Is There a S.W.A.T. Season 9 Release Date & Is It Coming Out?
With the recent release of S.W.A.T. Season 8, fans have been wondering whether Season 9 has a release date. The uncertainty amongst fans regarding a ninth season is understandable, as the show was once canceled after Season 7, only for that decision to be reversed with a renewal for Season 8. Here’s all the S.W.A.T. Season 9 release date information we know so far, along with all the details on when it will be out. Is there a S.W.A.T. Season 9 release date? S.W.A.T. Season 9 does not have an official release date, but it will likely be announced in the future. As of this writing, CBS or the series creators have not officially confirmed whether a ninth season of the crime drama is happening. CBS will likely wait to see how Season 8 performs in viewership and ratings before deciding whether to renew the show for one more season or cancel it. Notably, upon renewal, CBS reportedly decided not to bill Season 8 of S.W.A.T. as its last season. Where is S.W.A.T. Season 9 coming out? S.W.A.T. Season 9 could come out on CBS. This is because all seasons of S.W.A.T. have aired on CBS. S.W.A.T.’s story follows Daniel ‘Hondo’ Harrelson, a
23 October 2024
Blue Lock Chapter 280 Spoilers & Manga Plot Leaks
The spoilers for Blue Lock Chapter 280 are finally out. The previous chapter depicted how Yoichi Isagi was unsuccessful in blocking Kaiser’s kick and gave a glimpse at Loki’s Godspeed. Thus, with the recent plot leaks circulating online, fans of the Blue Lock manga can determine what would happen next. So, here are the much-anticipated spoilers for Blue Lock Chapter 280. List of Blue Lock Chapter 280 spoilers Listed below are all the spoilers of Blue Lock Chapter 280 that have stirred a storm on the internet. The spoilers tease that the title of this chapter will be “The Prodigy’s Wall.” It takes off after Loki blocks Kaiser’s free-kick, and the ball gets transferred to Tabito Karasu. The latter then makes a pass to Zantetsu Tsurugi, who takes the ball and runs toward the opposition’s goal. While the players of Bastard Munchen try to find ways to stop the counterattack by Paris X Gen, Isagi tries to understand the meaning of a true genius as he acknowledges the talent of players like Loki. Later, the Blue Lock Chapter 280 spoilers showcase Isagi trying to seek advice from Noel Noa about what should be his next steps. However, Noa ignores Isagi
23 October 2024
林明禎現身鰂魚涌隊咖啡啤 現場有人大叫Edan呂爵安 | am730
林明禎現身鰂魚涌的發布會，宣傳全新的罐裝咖啡啤。 大馬女神林明禎連續兩年獲邀擔任本地環保手工啤酒BOB（Bottle Of Bread）代言人，今日（22日）現身鰂魚涌7仔舉行的發布會，宣傳全新的罐裝咖啡啤。 林明禎今日穿上綠色吊帶裙性感現身，吸引半百粉絲到場支持，她在活動上大讚將麵包與咖啡渣釀製成手工啤酒既敢試又創新：「我最欣賞有創意、大膽又敢試的人！」明禎表示喜歡啤酒清涼爽快的感覺，又謂自己酒量很不錯：「真的沒有喝醉過，我可以先喝咖啡啤，再喝麵包啤。」她指平日跟朋友聚會亦會喝啤酒：「覺得跟朋友聚會的時候，大家一起喝啤酒，聊聊天，感覺很搭。」剛推出新歌《On Cloud Nine》的她，笑謂下次可以為品牌唱廣告歌：「我想再製作讓人輕鬆、快樂的歌，氣氛跟BOB真的很搭，對吧。」她還透露稍後會挑戰唱廣東歌。 友情價續任代言人 活動後，林明禎受訪時表示再次與BOB合作是友情價，又自爆很喜歡喝酒：「我成家人媽咪、細佬都好鍾意飲酒，我都好喝得㗎，從來都未醉過。平日與朋友都會喝，我覺得飲酒是氣氛，我見到香港的朋友隔日會醉好辛苦，對我來說，飲酒是開心，所以從來不喝醉。」對於跟她傳緋聞的呂爵安（Edan）也有代言啤酒，明禎表示不知道男方有為另一啤酒品牌拍廣告，而當提起Edan時，明禎就說：「我已經好配合，你哋放過我啦！」 活期期間，現場有人大叫「Edan」，明禎立即呆了一下，之後才繼續回答司儀問題。 立即更新/下載AM730手機APP 體驗升級功能 Source link
23 October 2024
Folie à Deux’s Digital, DVD & Blu-ray Release Date?
The Joker: Folie à Deux digital release date is much awaited by fans excited to see Arthur Fleck’s journey further unfold. Moreover, they are eager to know the Joker 2 Blu-ray and DVD release dates. After creating significant buzz with its theatrical release, the sequel to the 2019 hit is back in the spotlight, with the audience curious about when they can watch it at home. So, here’s everything to know about the digital, Blu-ray, and DVD release dates of Joker: Folie à Deux. When does Joker 2: Folie à Deux come out on digital and VOD? Joker Folie à Deux will arrive for watching in Digital HD, starting October 29, 2024. Fans will be able to purchase or rent Joker 2 on popular VOD platforms like Amazon Video and iTunes. The digital release date comes just a few weeks after the film’s theatrical debut on October 4. It will allow viewers to experience Arthur Fleck’s journey from the comfort of their homes. Given the hype surrounding the sequel, the digital release is expected to draw significant numbers in terms of viewership. When does Joker 2: Folie à Deux come out on DVD and Blu-ray? For those who prefer physical
23 October 2024
巾幗梟雄之懸崖｜古巨基唱主題曲《就算天空塌下來》 網民高呼回憶返晒嚟 | 港生活 – 尋找香港好去處
巾幗梟雄之懸崖主題曲：古巨基《就算天空塌下來》 昨晚七爺及柴十七的出場均戲味+氣場甚濃，前者以大Red唇、睿智笑容加強勢戒指帶出霸氣，後者則以入木三分的翹著二郎腿腳䟴䟴＋嘴藐藐囂張狀態現身，配以張華標式的抵死對白，難怪贏得網民不少好評：「製作認真，港劇而言大成本，劇情緊湊，好睇」、「啲對白真係難背，點記？」、「咁快就一集完，證明好好睇」。網民對於古巨基繼《巾幗2》後再唱主題曲大感驚喜，並笑言《巾幗》回憶返晒嚟：「其實我都估唔到仲會搵返古巨基依啲有返咁上下份量嘅歌手嚟唱」、「一聽到佢把聲，《巾幗》嘅回憶返晒嚟。」 監製透露《巾幗4》與七字有緣 《巾幗》首集男主角柴九深入民心，黎耀祥今次第四季飾演柴十七，令不少網民揣測兩個角色是否有親，留言：「十七會唔會係柴九嘅曾曾曾孫」，相當搞笑。昨晚黎耀祥帶領胡定欣、陳曉華、羅天宇及蕭正楠為劇集首播作直播宣傳時，爽性公開「柴十七」命名之謎，並謂出處是《易經》：「點解姓柴係一個情意結嚟，十七呢個名係標哥取自《易經》八十一理數入面嘅。《易經》十七卦叫隨卦，隨遇而安咁解，十七為吉（卦），意思係排除萬難、有貴人助、把握時機、可得成功，完全係符合咗柴十七嘅人物性格，大家要明白編劇嘅苦心，佢連角色名都唔係求其嘅。」 黎耀祥又指《巾幗》系列每季角色都截然不同，故希望觀眾能當四季是全新的故事看待：「巾幗同梟雄只係一個概念，冇框框，大家冇需要比較，我哋都冇壓力嘅。」監製嘟嘟則透露《巾幗4》與七字相當有緣：「我哋十月七日開工，十二月十七日收工，加上角色名都有個七字。」 黃包車場口做足安全措施 除了招牌式「口水花」大場面，昨晚還有不少巾幗Style焦點場口，分別是韋豪（羅天宇飾）與一人坐擁三角的蕭正楠的精彩對打；七爺返回娘家時與外甥偉強（周百恩飾）、因七爺與親姊桂嫦（甄采浠飾）昔日的桃色恩怨而引發的激烈爭執及掌摑事件；及七爺及柴十七的「丁鈴噹啷極速黃包車」場口，相關場口相當刺激，醉酒的七爺與柴十七分別坐上黃包車，然後由車伕極速拉著二人沿著樓梯極速向下滑，柴十七全程呼天搶地的狀態與開心大叫的七爺形成強烈對比。 黎耀祥及胡定欣昨晚於直播期間，透露場口分開兩段拍攝、並拍攝了一整個晚上，劇組更為二人準備了威吔等道具以策安全，黎耀祥說：「嗰場戲算係少少危險動作，但比想像中好好多，好玩嘅，仲比想像中冇咁刺激添！」胡定欣即笑著補充：「因為拍咗太多次。」二人續說：「其實喺樓梯墊咗啲嘢已經卸咗啲力，嗰場戲真係拍足N咁多次，拉車嘅都係武指，佢哋好有經驗。」胡定欣說：「好在黃包車個底有個位可以畀隻腳𨅝住，否則你真係覺得會飛出去。」 Source link
22 October 2024
Wordle Help, Hints & Clues for Today, October 23
The NYT Wordle for October 23 might be a challenging one, and we’re here to help guide you. For those new to the game, Wordle is a popular online puzzle by The New York Times. The goal is to guess a five-letter word within six attempts. Each block starts off grey, but once you guess a letter correctly, the block will turn yellow. If the letter is in the correct position, the block will turn green. For letters not in the word, the corresponding block will remain grey. Using these clues, you need to guess the word by figuring out the correct letters and their placement. Here are the NYT Wordle hints for today. Wordle hint for October 23 Below are some clues to help you decode today’s Wordle answer: Hint 1: How many vowels are in the word?The word contains only one vowel. Hint 2: Is the word a place, object, or animal?Neither. It is an adjective. Hint 3: What does the word start with?The word starts with the letter ‘G.’ Hint 4: What’s the origin of the word?The word is a variant of an English dialect and means “foolish clown.” Hint 5: Are there any repeated vowels?Yes, the vowel appears twice. What is
22 October 2024
A24 Partners With Alamo Drafthouse to Make Theaters Smell Like Blueberry Pie
A24 is partnering with Alamo Drafthouse to create an immersive moviegoing experience for advancing screenings of Heretic. Heretic releases in United States theaters in November 2024. Directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, the horror film stars Hugh Grant, Sophie Thatcher, and Chloe East. Per Variety, A24 has partnered with Joya Studio to create multi-sensory advanced screenings that will be held at Alamo Drafthouse theaters nationwide on October 30, 2024. The screenings will make the theater smell like blueberry pie in one of the movie’s pivotal scenes. Tickets for the multi-sensory screenings are available to purchase by clicking here. Other advanced screenings will come with scratch-and-sniff cards, along with other exclusive treats. “The blueberry pie in Heretic is activated by Hugh Grant’s Mr. Reed as a metaphor for blind faith and a disturbing reminder to question everything,” Beck and Woods said in a statement. “When we first heard A24’s bold idea to resurrect the multi-sensory experience to underline this crucial sequence it made us howl with laughter. We’re so excited that audiences have this unique opportunity to be immersed in the world of the film.” Joya Studio Frederick Bouchardy added that “humor” has been “missing from the fragrance world by
22 October 2024
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Scores New Box Office Milestone, Beats Dune: Part Two
The Michael Keaton-led Beetlejuice Beetlejuice has just become the highest-grossing movie of the year domestically at Warner Bros., replacing Dune: Part Two at the top spot. While the horror-comedy sequel has already arrived on digital platforms a few weeks ago, the feature — which debuted in theaters in September of this year — has continued to dominate the box office, even surpassing Dune: Part Two’s record as Warner Bros.’ highest-grossing movie of 2024. What were the totals for the Beetlejuice Beetlejuice domestic box office? Though Dune: Part Two is still winning overseas, with a $427 million box office record against Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’s $150 million, the sequel has just accumulated $283 million domestic box office earnings. This makes it Warner Bros.’ most successful movie of 2024 and the fourth highest-grossing movie of the year overall. Apart from its impressive box office earnings thus far, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice also received favorable reviews from critics and audiences alike. ComingSoon’s Jonathan Sim called Beetlejuice Beetlejuice a “solid sequel” and “a lovingly kooky movie that does not take itself seriously.” Additionally, the movie currently holds a 77% critic score and an 80% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Serving as a follow-up to Tim Burton’s 1988 cult
22 October 2024
星二代｜大女湯愛嘉出嫁帶淚感謝父母 湯鎮業三子女同為名校UCLA高材生 – 香港經濟日報 – TOPick – 親子 – 家事百科
【湯鎮業/湯愛嘉/星二代/五虎將】被封為「娛圈多仔公」的湯鎮業經歷兩段婚姻，他跟前妻姜坤的大女湯愛嘉早前出嫁，擁高顏值的湯愛嘉仙氣登場，穿deep V晚裝大晒弗爆身材，婚禮上更帶淚感謝父母。 婚禮現場星光熠熠，昔日五虎成員苗僑偉到賀，劉德華更拍片祝賀一對新人，另外，劉嘉玲、上山詩鈉女兒Hillary、鄺美雲、向華強夫婦、謝玲玲、堂妹湯洛雯跟丈夫馬國明等。 最新影片： 最美星二代｜湯鎮業感動哽咽 新任外父湯鎮業於抖音上載愛女出嫁的短片，片段開首寫道：「今天是我大女兒的大喜日子」，紅光滿面的湯鎮業滿場飛跟賓害拍照，另外他跟現任太太所生的一對孖女也有到賀，她們更上台致辭祝賀「嘉嘉姐姐」，湯鎮業更一度哽咽添。 其中愛嘉於台上致辭感謝父母，「多謝你一直照顧我，一直睇住我長大，同埋多謝你哋一直咁愛我，所以我都唔可以喊。」最終愛嘉忍不住喊了，老公Alex即在旁安慰。 ▲ 湯鎮業跟前妻姜坤育有三名子女。（網上圖片） 最美星二代｜靚佬湯子女出身名校 湯鎮業跟前妻育有大女湯愛嘉、孖仔湯君慈（Bruce）及湯君耀（Chris），湯愛嘉可說有樣又有學歷，她是名校畢業生，畢業於美國加州大學洛杉磯分校（UCLA）傳理系，至於一對孖仔湯君慈跟湯君耀跟爸爸年輕時一樣靚仔，二人畢業於名校聖士提反書院，之後跟姐姐一樣入讀UCLA，主修社會經濟學，副修電影，之後加入娛樂圈。 對於子女入讀名校湯鎮業感到驕傲，他直言很注重子女的學業，阿湯曾說：「花咁多錢捱到佢哋咁大，都係希望佢哋讀到好學校，我成日問大女，兩個細佬考成點？但個女覺得我好煩，做老竇就係咁喇，好緊張學業。」 加州大學洛杉磯分校（University of California, Los Angeles，UCLA）創立於1919年，為QS世界大學排名（QS rankings）50大名牌大學，每年學費約為277,399港元 。 相關新聞： 【內斂父愛】笑罵孖仔「生活白痴」家像狗竇 6孩爸湯鎮業口硬心軟父愛在心中 60歲湯鎮業娛樂圈多仔公育6個孩子 傳統爸爸盼兒子負責任女兒嫁得好【有片】 下載HKET App，追蹤TOPick WhatsApp頻道，睇全方位資訊： 【全港中小學選校資訊】 【中小學試題免費下載】 【名校專區升學攻略】 【兒童健康百科】 【職場文化智慧】 【家事百科全書】 Source link
22 October 2024
AirAsia Travel Insurance launches in Hong Kong with Tune Protect
Tune Protect and bolttech launch AirAsia Travel Insurance in Hong Kong, offering comprehensive coverage for travelers on AirAsia flights. HONG KONG – Tune Protect Re Limited in partnership with bolttech Insurance (“bolttech”), the Hong Kong general insurance arm of international insurtech, bolttech, launched AirAsia Travel Insurance for Hong Kong customers on AirAsia Berhad (“AirAsia”) flights. This is made possible through AirAsia Berhad, the licensed corporate agent of bolttech Insurance in partnership with Tune Protect Re Limited, the insurance programme manager of the airline. AirAsia Travel Insurance is available to purchase via the airline’s website, AirAsia Move Mobile App and Tune Protect AirAsia website for customers departing from Hong Kong on all AirAsia flights. Customers can choose between the Lite Comprehensive Plan and the Plus Comprehensive Plan, for benefits like personal accident coverage, trip cancellation, baggage and flight delay coverage, and 24-hour Worldwide Travel Assistance. This initiative is part of Tune Protect’s strategic plan to expand its regional presence and offer comprehensive and affordable travel protection for its customers. By partnering with bolttech Insurance, Tune Protect aims to meet the evolving needs of travellers in Hong Kong. This collaboration is a synergy of bolttech’s local market reach and expertise and Tune
23 October 2024
Southwest Airlines Captain Matt Prebish adopts kitten after flying shelter pets out of Hurricanes Milton, Helene
A pilot who flew more than 100 shelter animals out of areas impacted by Hurricanes Milton and Helene has adopted a kitten, making it the first adoption out of the group. Southwest Airlines Captain Matt Prebish piloted the emergency flight on Oct. 12 and airlifted 145 cats and dogs from animal shelters in Tennessee and Florida. They were flown from Myrtle Beach, Florida to Milwaukee, Wisconsin and are now up for adoption in eight shelters. Prebish told “Good Morning America” when he heard about the volunteer opportunity, he jumped to help. “We had probably 60 people supporting in one way or another to help make this flight happen. And it went really well,” Prebish said. Southwest Airlines teamed up with Greater Good Charities and Lucky Dog Animal Rescue for the special journey. “We do everything we can to make sure that it’s a safe flight, it’s a comfortable flight, and it operates on time. So that was really the focus,” Prebish said of the flight’s mission. After the flight, Prebish said he noticed one particular feline who caught his eye. “Once we landed in Milwaukee, [I] started to notice the animals a little bit more,” the longtime Southwest pilot recalled.
23 October 2024
8 Offbeat Towns to Visit in England
Welcoming about 40 million visitors in 2024, the United Kingdom (UK) comprises England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. While some traits unite the four distinct countries, England is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, with its unique history, cultural diversity, and famous landmarks. Away from the world economic hub of London, home to some of the busiest airports anywhere, travelers often search for the road less traveled. Get a real sense of local lifestyle through offbeat towns offering something a little different, like Shrewsbury, the birthplace of Charles Darwin. The 48-meter silver Speke’s Mill Mouth Waterfall sliver cascades off a coastal bluff near Heartland. For cheddar and tearooms, head to Cheddar and find one of the country’s most spectacular views. Whether you’re on a quest to find the oddest town or enjoy the surprises in one, these English gems offer an escape away from the ordinary. Alston The village center of Alston, Cumbria, England. Image credit Wozzie via Shutterstock. Alston, England’s highest market town at 1,000 feet above sea level, is worth the drive and scenic climbs up its steeply cobbled streets. A beautiful and diverse area with rare alpine flora and moorland birds, you might
23 October 2024
5 Most Haunted Towns in America To Visit This Halloween
Looking for a chilling getaway this spooky season? If you’re in the market for a little extra scare this fall, Travel + Leisure has revealed the top five haunted towns to visit in the U.S. while on TODAY Oct. 22. The eerie destinations stretch across the country, from east to west, and provide a good fright with a dose of nostalgia. Take a look at the most haunted destinations to visit across America, and some creepy activities to do while in town. Newport, Rhode Island Take in the history and scenic views of Newport, Rhode IslandGetty Images Known for its rich history, old mansions and waterfront views, Newport, Rhode Island, is listed as a top getaway during Halloween season. The coastal town has ties to the 2022 film “Hocus Pocus 2.” Though the sequel is set in Salem, Massachusetts, the filming took place in Rhode Island in various locations, including Newport’s Washington Square and The Newport Colony House. Newport is also known for its historic mansions from the Gilded Age, and many host Halloween events throughout the season. For those looking to combine history with paranormal activity, Fort Adams is the go-to stop. Investigators take groups through a four-hour experience
23 October 2024
HK Express launches direct flights between Hong Kong and Shizuoka
HK Express introduces direct flights from Hong Kong to Shizuoka, Japan, marking its third new Japanese destination in 2024. HONG KONG – HK Express Airways (HK Express) is expanding its footprint in Japan, with the announcement of its latest direct service between Hong Kong and Shizuoka. Starting on 17 December 2024, the low-cost carrier will offer three weekly flights to Mount Fuji Shizuoka Airport (FSZ), marking the first-ever direct route between these two cities. This addition comes as HK Express celebrates its 11th anniversary, making it a significant milestone in the airline’s history. The new Shizuoka route is the third Japanese destination added by HK Express this year, following Hiroshima and Sendai. The non-stop service will allow passengers to reach Shizuoka in just over three hours, offering greater convenience for both leisure and business travelers. Hong Kong (HKG) <> Shizuoka (FSZ) ** (Local Time) Flight Route Departure Time Arrival Time Frequency UO894 Hong Kong (HKG) > Shizuoka (FSZ) 09:15 13:45 Tuesday, Thursday UO865 Shizuoka (FSZ) > Hong Kong (HKG) 14:45 18:40 Tuesday, Thursday UO894 Hong Kong (HKG) > Shizuoka (FSZ) 08:55 13:45 Saturday UO845 Shizuoka (FSZ) > Hong Kong (HKG) 14:45 19:00 Saturday HK Express has also highlighted the opportunity for travelers
22 October 2024
Get Ready for Hong Kong FinTech Week 2024!
As we stand on the brink of the highly anticipated Hong Kong FinTech Week 2024, the eagerness and anticipation in the air are palpable. Themed “Illuminating New Pathways in Fintech,” the ninth edition of Hong Kong FinTech Week promises to be an unparalleled gathering of the global financial community. From premier banks to tech giants, groundbreaking fintech trailblazers, visionary business leaders, savvy investors, and regulatory stalwarts, the stage is set for a convergence of minds and ideas like never before. “We are delighted to unveil the comprehensive program for Hong Kong FinTech Week 2024, a testament to our commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration within the fintech ecosystem. As we gear up for this year’s event, we remain steadfast in our mission to position Hong Kong as a global leader in the realm of financial technology. I look forward to engaging in impactful discussions that will chart a course toward an even more robust and innovative future”, King Leung, Global Head of Financial Services, Fintech & Sustainability, Invest Hong Kong This year, we are excited to introduce a dynamic program featuring 8 themed forums designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the FinTech landscape. These forums will offer a platform
22 October 2024
【Multi-destination travel to Macao and Zhuhai】MGTO arranges for overseas tourism offices’ representatives in Hong Kong to inspect island resources for international market expansion
MGTO arranges for overseas tourism offices’ representatives in Hong Kong to inspect island resources for international market development Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) arranged for a delegation of overseas tourism offices’ representatives based in Hong Kong to pay a familiarization visit to Dong’ao Island and Guishan Island in Zhuhai on 18 and 19 October, to learn more about the unique tourism resources and appeal of the islands. The visit aims to raise the awareness and promotion of multi-destination island tour routes and products in Macao and Zhuhai in international tourism markets, in turn tapping into international markets and attracting international visitors to Macao and Zhuhai for island travel. Familiarization visit to islands for update on tourism development The delegation comprised 11 members including overseas tourism offices’ representatives based in Hong Kong from Malaysia, Thailand, Korea and Samoa, as well as MGTO’s market representatives in Hong Kong. Accompanied by Deputy Director of Zhuhai Culture, Radio, Television, Tourism and Sports Bureau,Jiang Yi, Deputy Director of Social Affairs Bureau of Wanshan Marine Development Experimental Zone of Zhuhai, Yan Jing, and local governmental officials, the delegates visited Dong’ao Island and Guishan Island to gain a fuller picture of the cultural travel attractions, hotel facilities
22 October 2024
AirAsia Partners with bolttech, Tune Protect for Hong Kong Travel Insurance
Free Newsletter Get the hottest Fintech Malaysia News once a month in your Inbox AirAsia has partnered with Tune Protect and bolttech Insurance to offer travel insurance to passengers flying from Hong Kong. The insurance is available for purchase on the AirAsia and Tune Protect AirAsia websites as well as the AirAsia Move mobile app, covering passengers flying out of Hong Kong on all AirAsia flights. AirAsia acts as the licensed corporate agent of bolttech Insurance for this offering, while Tune Protect is the insurance programme manager for AirAsia. The insurance offers two plans, Lite Comprehensive and Plus Comprehensive, which include coverage for personal accidents, trip cancellations, baggage loss, flight delays, and 24-hour Worldwide Travel Assistance. This collaboration is part of Tune Protect’s strategy to expand its offerings across the region, providing more accessible travel insurance options. The partnership with bolttech aims to meet the needs of travelers in Hong Kong by combining bolttech’s local market knowledge with Tune Protect’s insurance capabilities. A notable feature of the plan is the On-Time Guarantee, which provides compensation for delays of two hours or more from the original or rescheduled departure time advised by AirAsia. Alister Musgrave Alister Musgrave, Regional General Manager for
22 October 2024
Global Cruise Travel Booms as Trip.com Anticipates Record Demand for Disney Adventure
Global cruise bookings rise by 344% in 2024, driven by younger age groups Join Trip.com’s waitlist for Disney Adventure’s 2025 launch, sailing from Singapore SINGAPORE, Oct. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The cruise industry is experiencing a renaissance, and 2024 is proving to be a record-breaking year. Trip.com Group has observed a remarkable surge in global cruise bookings, with a 344% year-on-year growth from January to October 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. This rise reflects a global trend of travellers rediscovering the appeal of cruise vacations as they seek diverse destinations and experiences in a single journey. Fly-Cruise Bookings Surge by 520% in 2024, Driven by Younger Age Groups A standout trend is the substantial rise in fly-cruise bookings, with bookings from international tourists up by 520% year-on-year. The combination of air travel and cruising allows international travellers to start their voyages in exotic locations, contributing to the overall growth of the industry. Additionally, younger travellers are at the forefront of this growth. Bookings from millennial travellers skyrocketed by 857%, while those of Gen Z travellers increased by 450%. Older age groups too, saw significant growth, with a 112% rise in bookings from those born in the 1950s
22 October 2024
Cathay Pacific celebrates 50 years in Australia and inaugural Sydney-Hong Kong route
Cathay Pacific marks an important milestone today, celebrating the 50th anniversary of its inaugural direct flights between Sydney and Hong Kong, a journey that has transformed travel to Asia. 108 passengers boarded the first Boeing 707 bound for Hong Kong in 1974, a direct route that eliminated the need for complicated layovers across Australia and Asia, not only revolutionised travel but also strengthened ties between two vibrant cities. In the past five decades, Cathay Pacific has evolved into one of the world’s strongest and most connected airlines, now serving over 90 passenger and cargo destinations globally. “We are proud to celebrate Cathay Pacific’s 50-year milestone of flying between Sydney and Hong Kong,” Sydney Airport group executive Greg Botham said. “This iconic route has been a vital cornerstone of our Asia network, fostering connections and promoting tourism between two major cities. “Cathay Pacific’s unwavering commitment to service and excellence has played a pivotal role in enhancing Sydney Airport’s position as a global gateway, and we look forward to many more years of partnership and growth together.” Cathay Pacific 2024 interim returns. “Cathay Pacific has had a long history with Australia, with one of our founders being Sydneysider, Sydney de Kantzow,” Cathay
21 October 2024
“Nanchang Welcomes You!” Nanchang Cultural Tourism (Hong Kong) Promotion Event Shows up in Hong Kong
NANCHANG, China, Oct. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — To further deepen the cultural and tourism collaboration between Nanchang and Hong Kong, and to promote mutual assistance in cultural tourism, interchange of visitors, and resource sharing between the two places, on October 17th, the “Heroes Take the Stage, Life is Where We Meet • Nanchang Welcomes You!” Nanchang Cultural Tourism (Hong Kong) Promotion Event, organized by the Nanchang Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio and Tourism, was successfully held. Mr. Li Songdian, a member of the Standing Committee of Nanchang Municipal Committee and the Minister of the Propaganda Department, Hongkong legislators, Mr. Yao Boliang and Mr. Yang Yongjie, as well as over 100 distinguished guests from the Central Liaison Office, Hong Kong Asia Cultural Cooperation Center, Hong Kong Legislative Council, Hong Kong Tourism Board, Hong Kong Tourism Federation, Hong Kong Education Workers’ Federation, Hong Kong China Tourism Association, Hong Kong China Travel Service, and other well-known tourism enterprises, and media journalists attended the event. At the promotion event, Mr. Li Songdian, a member of the Standing Committee of Nanchang Municipal Committee and the Minister of the Propaganda Department, stated that Nanchang is a historically and culturally famous city with a profound heritage and is filled
21 October 2024
Evgeny Kissin’s Hong Kong piano recital on 16th November cancelled due to travel issues
21st October 2024 – (Hong Kong) The Leisure and Cultural Services Department revealed today, on 21st October, that the highly anticipated piano recital by Evgeny Kissin, set for 16th November at the Concert Hall of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, has regrettably been cancelled. The renowned performer is unable to fulfil his Hong Kong performance as originally planned. Refunds for ticket purchases will be processed as outlined below:For those who made ticket payments using Visa, Mastercard, American Express, UnionPay, Alipay, WeChat Pay, or mobile payment via electronic wallet, refunds will automatically be initiated through the same payment method used for ticket purchase, based on the latest URBTIX records. The refund process is estimated to take approximately 60-80 days. Ticket holders who made payments in cash, through Octopus, or via the Faster Payment System are advised to present their original intact tickets (including stubs) for refunds during office hours at the specified location and within the designated period: Refund period: 28th October, 2024 (Monday) to 27th January, 2025 (Monday)Location: URBTIX Maoyan Customer Service CentreUnit 1418, 14/F, Leighton Centre, 77 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay, Hong KongOffice Hours: Monday to Friday, 10am to 7pm For comprehensive details regarding the refund process, please consult
21 October 2024
Hong Kong ranks 7th in 2024 Best In Travel Poll
21st October 2024 – (Hong Kong) Following the trend of post-lockdown ‘revenge travel’, travellers are once again exploring to discover new underrated gems. Their focus this year led to breakout names, with Singapore, Bali, and Japan dominating the scene. Notably, Hong Kong (and Cathay) witnessed a modest resurgence, although the iconic The Peninsula Hong Kong, a staple in polls, dropped off the list. India also unveiled some hidden treasures. The international audience, discerning and well-travelled, is on the lookout for experiences in 2024. The overarching trend seems to be the pursuit of ‘experience’ as the new luxury. Travellers, ranging from tech-savvy Gen Zs to wellness-conscious Millennials and information-seeking Baby Boomers, seek authenticity in service. Brands are adapting to cater to these varied demands, keeping pace with the evolving preferences of their audience, which is a balanced mix of genders and age groups. While younger female travellers display an adventurous spirit, Gen X and male Baby Boomers lean towards classic options with a solid traditional appeal. Families with young children tend to be more cautious in their travel choices. The success of hotels and airlines in 2024 was heavily reliant on providing a ‘feel-good’ factor, primarily driven by personal interactions rather
21 October 2024
“Nanchang Welcomes You!” Nanchang Cultural Tourism (Hong Kong) Promotion Event Shows up in Hong Kong
NANCHANG, China, Oct. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — To further deepen the cultural and tourism collaboration between Nanchang and Hong Kong, and to promote mutual assistance in cultural tourism, interchange of visitors, and resource sharing between the two places, on October 17th, the “Heroes Take the Stage, Life is Where We Meet • Nanchang Welcomes You!” Nanchang Cultural Tourism (Hong Kong) Promotion Event, organized by the Nanchang Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio and Tourism, was successfully held. Mr. Li Songdian, a member of the Standing Committee of Nanchang Municipal Committee and the Minister of the Propaganda Department, Hongkong legislators, Mr. Yao Boliang and Mr. Yang Yongjie, as well as over 100 distinguished guests from the Central Liaison Office, Hong Kong Asia Cultural Cooperation Center, Hong Kong Legislative Council, Hong Kong Tourism Board, Hong Kong Tourism Federation, Hong Kong Education Workers’ Federation, Hong Kong China Tourism Association, Hong Kong China Travel Service, and other well-known tourism enterprises, and media journalists attended the event. At the promotion event, Mr. Li Songdian, a member of the Standing Committee of Nanchang Municipal Committee and the Minister of the Propaganda Department, stated that Nanchang is a historically and culturally famous city with a profound heritage and
21 October 2024
Malaysians Travelling to Hong Kong are No Longer Required to Fill Out Arrival and Departure Cards
Did you know that Malaysians make up one of the most travellers to Hong Kong annually? In fact, 225,304 Malaysians travelled to the special administrative region from January to August 2024, the 10th highest nationality on the list. For Malaysians who have travelled to Hong Kong before, you’d know that the autonomous region’s immigration enforced a rather troublesome requirement in the form of arrival and departure cards. If you’re not familiar, those who didn’t register for Hong Kong’s Automated Immigration Clearance (e-Channel) have to fill out and hold on to paper arrival and departure cards when visiting Hong Kong. Malaysians travelling to Hong Kong are no longer required to fill out arrival and departure cards For illustration purposes Well, we’ve got some good news for Malaysians planning to travel to Hong Kong, as the special administrative region has officially scrapped the arrival and departure card requirement for visitors! Implemented since 16 October 2024, the Hong Kong Immigration Department announced that all visitors are no longer required to complete and furnish arrival or departure cards when passing through immigration clearance points. For illustration purposes This is in sharp contrast to most countries, including Malaysia’s, requirements for foreign tourists, whereby all
21 October 2024
Indonesia to boost tourism by offering visa-free travel to 96 countries,
In a bid to boost tourism, Indonesia has announced visa-free travel to 96 countries. The beautiful archipelago with over 17,000 islands, is a coastal dream destination for visitors from across the globe. As of October 2024, Indonesia has experienced a substantial surge in inbound tourism, driven by its expanded visa-free policy, booming economic growth, and improved infrastructure. The new visa-free policy now allows citizens from 96 countries, including the USA, Japan, UK, UAE, and Mexico, to enter Indonesia without a visa, significantly boosting its appeal to international visitors. Let’s find out more about this:Surge in international arrivals boosts Indonesia’s tourism in May 2024May 2024 saw a significant rise in international tourist arrivals to Indonesia, reaching 1.15 million visitors. This represents a 7.36% increase compared to April 2024 and a 20.11% rise compared to May 2023. World’s 7 wildest safari destinations for ‘Big Five’ spotting FacebookTwitterPintrest The consistent growth in tourism underscores Indonesia’s rising popularity as a global travel destination. The majority of visitors came from neighboring countries, with Malaysia (17.47%), Australia (11.98%), and Singapore (9.69%) leading the way. This trend reflects Indonesia’s strong regional ties and its strategic position as a travel hub in Southeast Asia. Read more: Thailand in
20 October 2024
Storm Ashley – live: Flights cancelled and River Severn bursts banks as UK on high alert over flood warnings
Storm Ashley set to batter UK with 80mph winds Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Injuries and danger to life are likely during the 80mph winds and rain hit parts of the UK in the first named storm of the season. Dozens of flights have been cancelled at Belfast City Airport and Dublin Airport due to the storm. Several flights to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen have also been cancelled. Floodwaters have also submerged the town of Worcester in Worcestershire after the River Severn burst its banks. The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for Storm Ashley in Northwest Scotland on Sunday, as well as a yellow warning for the entirety of Scotland and Northern Ireland, and parts of north-west England and Wales. According to the Environment Agency’s website, there are 39 active flood warnings, which points to expected flooding, and 127 flood alerts, meaning flooding is possible. The more severe amber warning will be in force from 9am on Sunday until midnight, and the yellow between 3am and midnight. A further warning for heavy rain in southwest England and south Wales is in
20 October 2024
UK raises maintenance funds requirement for student visas, impacting Indian students
If reports are to go by, the United Kingdom is set to introduce changes in its student visa requirements. From January 2025, students applying for UK student visas will need to show increased minimum maintenance funds, a move aimed at keeping up with inflation and the rising cost of living. This change may pose financial challenges for Indian students, who form a significant proportion of international students in the UK. A key requirement for obtaining a UK student visa has always been demonstrating sufficient funds to cover living expenses while studying in the country. This amount must be held in the applicant’s bank account for at least 28 days before the visa application. The required amount varies based on the location of the study institution—London or outside of London. Pretty cold winter destinations to bookmark for this November vacation FacebookTwitterPintrest Currently, students studying outside London need to show they have £1,023 per month (INR 1,12,248.98) for living expenses, while those in London must show a minimum of £1,334 per month (INR 1,46,373.55). These amounts need to cover up to nine months, adding up to substantial sums. Starting January 2025, the monthly requirement will increase by over 11%, with students studying
19 October 2024
Biden hits Germany with lightning-quick visit focused on Middle East, Ukraine
Berlin — President Joe Biden made a lightning-fast, pomp-filled visit to Germany Friday, making an in-person push for transatlantic unity and scooping up Germany’s highest civilian honor. Biden also met in Berlin with Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany, President Emmanuel Macron of France, and Prime Minister Keir Starmer of the United Kingdom, to discuss a range of issues behind closed doors – including how to continue to support Ukraine against Russian aggression, and the rapidly changing situation in the Middle East. “They talked about President [Volodymyr] Zelenskyy’s victory plan and how we can all work together to try to see if we can’t get to a just peace that President Zelensky and the Ukrainian people will approve of,” said John Kirby, White House national security spokesperson. “And of course, you know, can implement.” And the brutal conflict in Gaza injected itself into Friday’s state visit, with news that Israeli forces had killed the leader of the U.S.-designated terror group Hamas, who was the mastermind behind the October 7, 2023, attack that triggered the war. Standing on the tarmac minutes after landing in Germany late Thursday, Biden addressed the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar by Israeli troops, calling it a
18 October 2024
An Editor’s Guide to Hong Kong Shopping, Dining and Spas
Where to shop Indie brands abound at incubator meets shopping destination PMQ. The local design hub I like to check out local independent creators wherever I travel, and PMQ is like a design incubator meets shopping destination set in a former police school in Sheung Wan. Rows of small studios surround an open-air courtyard, filled with emerging talent like Edmund Ip of Bathe to Basics, who studied perfumery but uses essential oils to craft a beautiful hand sanitizer spray in a flat circle bottle, roll-on perfume oils and haircare. Taste Library is a kitchen lab offering cooking workshops, author talks and a wide range of culinary books to bring food traditions and stories to life. Miru Wong embroidering slippers at the Sindart shop in Jordan. The magical slippers Shoemaker Miru Wong’s grandfather founded Sindart in 1958; she grew up in his workshop, learned to embroider at 6 years old and eventually took over the business in her twenties. She runs it from a tiny shop in a commercial building in Jordan, where the walls are covered in an array of colourful slippers, from fuchsia velvet to lemon yellow satin to silver mesh, hand-embroidered with chrysanthemums, peonies or butterflies. With most
18 October 2024
China Visa For Hong Kong Residents: Update Allows 5-year Multi-Entry
Hong Kong Airport | Image credit: Trey Ratcliff/Flickr To boost tourism and business ties, Hong Kong authorities have announced an important relaxation in China visa rules for its non-permanent residents. Effective immediately, foreign passport holders residing in Hong Kong can apply for a multi-entry visa to mainland China, valid for five years. Regardless of permanent or non-permanent status, this new policy allows visa holders to stay in mainland China for up to six months at a time, making it easier for travellers, businesspeople, and academics to visit and explore the region. Planning a visit soon? Check out this local’s guide to Hong Kong. Hong Kong’s new visa policy explained Lantau Island, Hong Kong | Image credit: Bianca Polak/Flickr Earlier, non-permanent Hong Kong residents could only apply for visas that allowed access to mainland China for 2 years. The initiative seeks to draw more foreigners, including tourists and aspiring entrepreneurs, to Hong Kong, further solidifying its position as an international hub. As part of the update, applicants working for Hong Kong-registered companies will enjoy priority processing. The new visa policy does not apply to foreign domestic workers. Further, as part of the Hong Kong visa update, applicants would not be required
18 October 2024
Discover Hong Kong’s MICHELIN-Recommended Restaurants by MTR: Island Line, Middle Section
Hong Kong Island is not very large at all. In fact, it only takes about 20 minutes to get from the east to the west side. For those who enjoy a slower pace of life, taking the MTR is an essential experience. The MTR Island Line from Kennedy Town to Chai Wan spans 16.3 kilometres with 15 stations in total. Each stop has plenty to see, do, and eat. Making up the middle section of the Island Line, Admiralty, Wan Chai, and Causeway Bay are home to many office buildings, residences, and shopping malls. In addition to several MICHELIN-recommended restaurants, there are also many stylish and luxury hotels in the area, too. RELATED: Discover Hong Kong’s MICHELIN-Recommended Restaurants by MTR: Island Line, East Section Hong Kong Visual Arts Centre Admiralty is a major commercial and financial hub outside Central. Commercial buildings from the 1970s, such as Murray Building, have become Hong Kong architectural icons. The Museum of Tea Ware, which occupies the former site of Victoria Barracks from the 19th century, as well as art museums like the Hong Kong Visual Arts Centre, are all worth a special trip. This district also has several five-star hotels, such as the Island Shangri-La, Hong
18 October 2024
Lammy’s visit a new start for China-UK ties – Opinion
Photo/VCG UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy”s visit to China on Friday and Saturday will mark a significant opportunity for a new beginning in Sino-British relations. The relationship between the United Kingdom and China is not only of importance for the people of both nations but also for the wider global community. As two permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and two of the world’s nuclear powers, their cooperation — or lack of it — has far-reaching implications for international peace, development, climate change mitigation, and the reform of the global governance system. It is crucial that Lammy’s visit leads to concrete steps toward re-establishing a productive partnership between the two sides, one that can help shape the future of the world. China and the UK have shared periods of both strong collaboration and discord. The “Golden Era” of Sino-British relations demonstrated the potential of a positive, mutually beneficial partnership. During this period, which started two years after the 2008 global financial crisis, trade between the two sides surged significantly, and diplomatic ties strengthened. In 2015, The Plough, a pub in Cadsden, Buckinghamshire, hosted then UK prime minister David Cameron and Chinese President Xi Jinping for pints and fish
18 October 2024
REL Publication | Stabilizing School Performance Indicators in New Jersey to Reduce the Effect of Random Error
The Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015 requires states to use a variety of indicators, including standardized tests and attendance records, to designate schools for support and improvement based on schoolwide performance and the performance of groups of students within schools. Schoolwide and group-level performance indicators are also diagnostically relevant for district-level and school-level decisionmaking outside the formal accountability context. Like all measurements, performance indicators are subject to measurement error, with some having more random error than others. Measurement error can have an outsized effect for smaller groups of students, rendering their measured performance unreliable, which can lead to misidentification of groups with the greatest needs. Many states address the reliability problem by excluding from accountability student groups smaller than an established threshold, but this approach sacrifices equity, which requires counting students in all relevant groups. With the aim of improving reliability, particularly for small groups of students, this study applied a stabilization model called Bayesian hierarchical modeling to group-level data (with groups assigned according to demographic designations) within schools in New Jersey. Stabilization substantially improved the reliability of test-based indicators, including proficiency rates and median student growth percentiles. The stabilization model used in this study was less effective for
21 October 2024
GBS Malta launches groundbreaking new campus
LONDON, Oct. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — GBS Malta, a proud member of Global Education (GEDU), has launched a cutting-edge campus in the vibrant heart of San Ġiljan, marking a new era for student learning and campus life in Malta. Members of the GEDU Group greet guests. Maltese Minister for Education, Youth, Research and Innovation, the Hon. Dr Clifton Grima MP said: “As a country, we (Government and Opposition) might argue over many things, but there are certain instances where we come together, because we know and understand that when there is unity, there is stability, and when there is stability, there is potential.” Maltese Shadow Minister for Education and Trades, the Hon. Justin Schembri MP said: “The establishment of this campus is a testament to GBS’ commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education that equips students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in today’s competitive market.” GEDU Deputy CEO, Professor Ray Lloyd said this is a significant step forward. “Our mission is to change lives through education and provide students with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed in an ever-changing world,” said Professor Lloyd. “This new campus is a significant investment and as we continue
18 October 2024
Rising Stars Program Gains Education Partner in North Carolina
School Launch Concludes the 2024 Fall Semester Kick-Off Rising Stars Logo Rising Stars Logo Cleveland, Ohio, Oct. 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tremco Construction Products Group (Tremco CPG), a global construction products manufacturer, is proud to announce the addition of Hopewell High School (Hopewell) as an education partner in the Charlotte metropolitan area for its nationally renowned Rising Stars Program. The program officially launched at Hopewell on October 10, making it the final location to launch for the 2024 fall semester. The Rising Stars Program is designed to empower the next generation of underrepresented youth aged 16-24 by providing opportunities for sustainable careers in construction. Led by industry veterans, the curriculum includes seminars and hands-on training in carpentry, project management, solar panel installation, roofing, construction management and architecture. Offered in five cities across the United States, including Brooklyn, N.Y.; Newark, N.J.; Boston, Mass.; Cleveland, Ohio; and Charlotte, N.C., the Rising Stars Program continues to add new partners in existing cities while also growing its national footprint by launching in new locations. Prior to commencing the formalized partnership with Hopewell, the program had been offered in Charlotte at the Grier Heights Community Center. “Bringing the Rising Stars Program to Hopewell School
15 October 2024
The Profs Tutors Achieve Exceptional A-Level Results Surpassing National Averages in 2024
London, United Kingdom, Oct. 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Profs Tutors have once again set a new benchmark for A-level tutoring success in 2024, with 91% of students achieving a grade improvement, compared to the national average where only 27.8% of students were awarded an A or A*. The Profs’ students not only performed above average, but 60% achieved an A or A*—a remarkable leap from the 10% who were initially on track to secure those top grades before starting work with professional tutors. These results not only demonstrate the dedication of students but also highlight The Profs’ strategic approach to tutoring, which focuses on tailored, high-impact support that consistently leads to outstanding academic achievement across the UK. By concentrating on each student’s unique needs, The Profs help turn potential into tangible success. Top Marks for The Profs’ A-Level Students The Profs’ 60% A/A* achievement rate is a significant contrast to the 27.8% national average, and 25% of students secured an A* after working with The Profs. On average, students needed just 22 hours of tutoring to make these considerable gains, demonstrating the effectiveness of The Profs’ personalised teaching strategies, which focus on boosting both subject knowledge and exam confidence.
15 October 2024
YCYW Worldwide Campuses Unite to Celebrate 92 Years of Legacy
Leading Future Education with Innovation HONG KONG, Oct. 10, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The Yew Chung Yew Wah (YCYW) Education Network campuses worldwide celebrated Founder’s Day on 10 October, to honour the 92-year legacy and the remarkable contributions of its founder, Madam Tsang Chor-hang, to the field of education. YCYW Founder’s Day and YWIES Guangzhou 10th Anniversary Ceremony YCYW held the ceremony at the Yew Wah International Education School of Guangzhou (YWIES Guangzhou). This year also marks the milestone of YWIES Guangzhou’s 10th anniversary. The school’s steady growth reflects YCYW’s strong commitment to innovation in China. During the ceremony, Dr Betty Chan Po-king, CEO and School Supervisor of YCYW said, “We are united by Hau Cheung Po Po’s mission to ‘Honouring China’ through exceptional education.” In 1932, Madam Tsang Chor-hang founded the first Yew Chung School with a vision of uplifting the nation through education during a time when China faced severe internal and external challenges. She guided the school through the difficult years of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the post-war turmoil, nurturing countless students. What began as a humble kindergarten in Hong Kong SAR has since evolved into a global network of schools, spanning early
10 October 2024
Cool3c
Cool3c市集 你的名字 雲端服務 市調：玩家、遊戲公會、開發商最新觀點！從邊玩邊賺的 GameFi 走入元宇宙可行嗎？ 癮特務 市調：玩家、遊戲公會、開發商最新觀點！從邊玩邊賺的 GameFi 走入元宇宙可行嗎？ 雲端服務 AWS 媒體與娛樂解決方案助力《阿凡達：水之道》打造頂尖電影特效 助力一流特效公司 Wētā FX 打造雲端工作室，支援《阿凡達：水之道》高達 33 億個渲染執行緒小時的雲端製作任務 癮特務 AWS 媒體與娛樂解決方案助力《阿凡達：水之道》打造頂尖電影特效 助力一流特效公司 Wētā FX 打造雲端工作室，支援《阿凡達：水之道》高達 33 億個渲染執行緒小時的雲端製作任務 新品資訊 制霸電競的關鍵在此！星海蟲王 SoBaD 張軒齊！TP-Link Archer GE800 Wi-Fi7電競路由器第一手體驗心得分享！ 癮特務 制霸電競的關鍵在此！星海蟲王 SoBaD 張軒齊！TP-Link Archer GE800 Wi-Fi7電競路由器第一手體驗心得分享！ 新品資訊 給 iPhone 16 新機全方位保護：imos 藍寶石低藍光保護貼 / 藍寶石鏡頭貼 癮特務 給 iPhone 16 新機全方位保護：imos 藍寶石低藍光保護貼 / 藍寶石鏡頭貼 新品資訊 【一鍵實現 iOS 降版本】更新 iOS 18 後悔了？2 個方法輕鬆完成 iPhone 降版本！ 癮特務 【一鍵實現 iOS 降版本】更新 iOS 18 後悔了？2 個方法輕鬆完成 iPhone 降版本！ 科技應用 台積電 晶圓代工廠 NVIDIA cuLitho 台積電採用 NVIDIA cuLitho 平台 加速晶片製程突破 台積電宣布採用 NVIDIA cuLitho 運算式微影平台，透過 H100 GPU 加速運算，突破晶片製程物理極限，縮短生產時間並降低成本與能耗。 台積電宣布採用NVIDIA cuLitho運算式微影平台，透過加速運算方式突破半導體晶片的物理極限，藉此改變過往的半導體製造方式。 將電路轉移到矽片上的運算式微影是目前晶片製程裡的關鍵步驟，而此步驟需要透過複雜的運算作業完成，其中涉及電磁物理、光化學、運算幾何、迭代最佳化與分散式運算。 典型的晶圓代工廠會專門設立大量的資料中心來進行這項運算，同時也需要透過大量運算資源的工作負載完成。在最先進的晶圓代工廠中，一組典型的晶片光罩可能需要超過3000萬 Mash Yang 7 個小時前 蘋果新聞 SWIFT 學生挑戰賽 蘋果 Swift 學生挑戰賽 2025 年 2 月登場 鼓勵學生創新 蘋果宣布 Swift 學生挑戰賽 2025 年 2 月開放作品提交，將選出 35 名獲獎學生，並推出新資源協助學生準備和發展 App 開發技能。 蘋果宣布Swift學生挑戰賽 (Swift Student Challenge)將於2025年2月登場，讓全球各地成千上萬的學生提供展現創造力和培養實用技能的機會。 這個挑戰賽將讓學生能加入全球開發者社群的行列，運用專業人員也使用的Swift程式語言打造創新應用服務。 2025年Swift學生挑戰賽將於2025年2月開放提交作品，學生、教育者及其支持者可透過蘋果開發者官網 (developer.apple.com)瞭解如何為挑戰賽做好準備，並且註冊成 Mash Yang 7 個小時前 遊戲天堂 碧血狂殺 不死夢魘 《碧血狂殺》登上 PC 版 支援 4K 及超寬螢幕 《碧血狂殺》將於 10 月 29 日登上 PC，支援 4K、144Hz、超寬顯示，並包含「不死夢魘」內容，透過 Rockstar 商店、Steam 等平台銷售。 Rockstar Games宣布曾於2010年5月18日在PlayStation 3和Xbox 360上發行的《碧血狂殺》 (Red Dead Redemption)，將於10月29日正式登上PC平台。 此項移植作業，是由Rockstar Games與英國雙十一遊戲工作室 (Double Eleven)合作，並且加入現代化的PC平台設計，其中包含最高能以144Hz畫面更新率顯示，並且原生以4K畫質呈現，同時也支援21:9顯示比例與32 Mash Yang 7 個小時前 科技應用 AMD Zen 4c AMD 推出 EPYC 嵌入式 8004 系列 提供高效能嵌入式解決方案 AMD 推出 EPYC 嵌入式 8004 系列處理器，採用 Zen 4c 核心架構，針對網路、儲存和工業邊緣應用設計，提供卓越每瓦效能和系統可靠性。 針對網路系統、路由器、安全設備、企業和雲端暖／冷儲存，以及工業邊緣應用需求，AMD宣布推出EPYC嵌入式8004系列處理器，標榜在嚴苛的嵌入式環境中依然能提供出色效能，同時確保無縫處理動態工作負載。 EPYC嵌入式8004系列處理器針對運算密集型嵌入式系統所設計，可為高需求工作負載提供卓越效能，同時以緊湊的尺寸規格為空間和功率受限型應用最大程度地提升能源效率，並整合一套全面的嵌入式功能，以進一步增強系統效能與可靠性。 其中，EPYC嵌入式8004 Mash Yang 8 個小時前 新品資訊 Dyson Purifier
10 October 2024
Hampton University Climbs in Ranking of Nation’s Top 10 HBCUs, “Best National Universities” in 2025 U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Colleges”
Historic Leadership Transition Sparks Launch of Bold Strategic Plan, Pioneering Amazing Programs in Engineering, Computer Science, Psychology Hampton University Ascends in National Rankings Unity in Excellence A Timeless Symbol of Hampton’s Legacy Hampton University’s Clock Tower Hampton, VA, Oct. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hampton University proudly announces its impressive rise in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report rankings, securing a position as #7 among the nation’s top 10 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), up one spot, and among “Best National Universities.”These milestones reflect the university’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and student success. In addition to its ranking among HBCUs, Hampton University has been recognized for its outstanding undergraduate engineering programs, placing #115 at schools where a doctorate isn’t offered. The university’s Computer Science and Psychology programs have also garnered acclaim, highlighting the institution’s focus on producing graduates who are well-equipped for today’s competitive job market. Further emphasizing its dedication to fostering student success, Hampton University ranks #97 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, marking a notable jump of one place in this crucial category. This recognition highlights the university’s efforts to provide pathways for underserved populations to achieve their educational and professional goals. “We’re proud to
5 October 2024
Pan Pacific Orchard Named Best Tall Building Worldwide by Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat
Singapore’s ambitious environmental vision exemplified in notable “hotel in nature” Pan Pacific Orchard Singapore’s Pan Pacific Orchard was name CTBUH 2024 Best Tall Building Worldwide. Mun Summ Wong Mun Summ Wong, Founding Director of WOHA, the architectural firm behind Pan Pacific Orchard. Chicago, Oct. 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) named Singapore’s Pan Pacific Orchard “2024 Best Tall Building Worldwide” at its recent annual international conference, in London and Paris. The award recognizes the project’s groundbreaking approach to high-density urbanism, combining nature, community and sustainability within the city’s bustling Orchard district. (See below for a complete list of CTBUH 2024 Award of Excellence category winners.) Amidst Orchard’s renowned shopping malls, tree-lined boulevards and mixed-use towers, Pan Pacific Orchard stands out as a beacon of Singapore’s environmental vision. The project’s “hotel in nature” concept transforms the traditional high-rise into a vertical green space, with multiple terraced gardens and water features integrated into the building, achieving a green plot ratio of more than 300 percent. By holistically incorporating greenery into its design, Pan Pacific Orchard honors Singapore’s heritage while pushing the envelope of sustainable urban development in a dense, urban setting. “Pan Pacific Orchard represents
2 October 2024
Giant Magellan Telescope Launches Universo Expansivo Program to Enhance Accessibility in Astronomy Education
New education program provides multisensory learning experiences across Chile and the United States PASADENA, Calif., Sept. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Giant Magellan Telescope today announced the launch of Universo Expansivo, a new education program designed to increase accessibility in astronomy education, particularly for students with vision loss, through tactile astronomy kits and accompanying lesson plans. Materials for Universo Expansivo were developed in collaboration with Parque Explora in Colombia and Red Aprender in Chile, and is supported by the U.S. Embassy in Chile and its network of 14 “American Spaces.” Following a successful pilot phase with six community organizations across Chile and the United States, the Giant Magellan now welcomes interested educators and members of the public to utilize the initiative’s free resources in both countries. “Universo Expansivo reflects both the Giant Magellan’s priority in making astronomy more accessible, and our commitment to working with partner organizations to co-develop and implement equity-driven initiatives,” said Valerie Hirschberg, Education and Outreach Manager for the Giant Magellan Telescope. “We are incredibly grateful for our collaborators who have helped make Universo Expansivo a reality throughout Chile and the United States.” Students from Escuela Metodista de Coquimbo at Las Campanas Observatory interact with a
30 September 2024
Sarcopenia Market Anticipates Impressive Growth Trajectory Across 7MM During the Study Period (2020–2034) | DelveInsight
The sarcopenia market size shall grow during the forecast period (2024–2034) due to the launch of upcoming therapies and the increasing cases of sarcopenia. This sarcopenia treatment market is expected to increase at a significant rate. New York, USA, Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sarcopenia Market Anticipates Impressive Growth Trajectory Across 7MM During the Study Period (2020–2034) | DelveInsight The sarcopenia market size shall grow during the forecast period (2024–2034) due to the launch of upcoming therapies and the increasing cases of sarcopenia. This sarcopenia treatment market is expected to increase at a significant rate. DelveInsight’s Sarcopenia Market Insights report includes a comprehensive understanding of current treatment practices, sarcopenia emerging drugs, market share of individual therapies, and current and forecasted sarcopenia market size from 2020 to 2034, segmented into 7MM [the United States, the EU-4 (Italy, Spain, France, and Germany), the United Kingdom, and Japan]. Key Takeaways from the Sarcopenia Market Report According to DelveInsight’s analysis, sarcopenia market size in the 7MM is expected to grow at a significant CAGR by 2034. The total diagnosed prevalent cases of sarcopenia in the 7MM was 27.4 million cases in 2023 and this number is forecasted to climb at a significant CAGR
30 September 2024
QS Global MBA & Business Master’s Rankings 2025: World’s Best Business Schools Revealed
LONDON, Sept. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — QS Quacquarelli Symonds has released its annual Global MBA and Business Master’s Rankings. The 2025 edition spans 58 countries and territories, analysing 340 global MBAs alongside a series of high-demand Business Master’s Rankings, including Management, Finance, Marketing, Business Analytics, and Supply Chain Management. The United States dominates the MBA table, with Stanford GSB’s MBA named the world’s #1 for the fifth year while The Wharton School remains second and Harvard Business School comes third. QS Global Full-Time MBA 2025: Top-10 Institution Country/Territory 2025 2024 Stanford GSB US 1 1 Penn (Wharton) US 2 2 Harvard Business School US 3 3 MIT (Sloan) US 4 6 London Business School UK 5 4 HEC Paris France 6 5 Cambridge (Judge) UK 7 =9 Columbia Business School US 8 7 IE Business School Spain 9 8 IESE Business School Spain 10 =9 Global MBA Rankings: Regional Overview Asia: National University of Singapore ranks 25th globally, excelling in Employability, Alumni Outcomes, and Thought Leadership. Canada: Toronto (Rotman) is 39th, the only Canadian school in the top 50. It is a national leader in Employability, Thought Leadership, and Diversity. China: Tsinghua University ranks 29th, boasting excellent Thought Leadership,
25 September 2024
Trip.com Group Highlights Golden Week 2024 Travel Shifts: Chinese Tourists Explore Beyond Capitals and Lesser-Known Options
Mid to high-star hotels drive consumption Chinese travellers are seeking destinations beyond key capitals with a focus on lesser-known destinations Top outbound destinations are in APAC: Japan, Thailand, South Korea European long-haul travel is up almost 30%, with multi-destination trips above the global average length of stay. SHANGHAI, Sept. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — As millions of Chinese travellers prepare for the upcoming Golden Week holiday in October, Trip.com Group’s latest data reveals notable travel flows for their last major travel period of 2024. Already, the Group is witnessing hotel bookings peak in arrivals on October 1st – the day the holiday commences – with the average length of stays over seven days, as workers can enjoy a 10-day break by taking just two days off. Total booking growth for stays has also grown year-on-year. High-Quality, Mid-Tier Stays Thrive When it comes to travel costs, the top outbound destinations (Japan, Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, the Philippines, Australia, the UK, and the USA) have all seen a significant drop in average air ticket prices (including taxes). Travellers increasingly seek high-quality, mid-tier accommodation types. However, in Europe, year-on-year growth of 5-star hotel bookings was almost three times higher than in Asia-Pacific.
25 September 2024
Skout’s Honor Launches in the United Kingdom with Pets at Home
Leading pet specialty brand brings innovative products to British pet parents “across the pond” at the UK’s #1 Pet Retailer Skout’s Honor Lands in the UK Skout’s Honor Now Available at Pets at Home Retail Stores across the United Kingdom! OCEANSIDE, Calif., Sept. 17, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Skout’s Honor, the award-winning pet specialty brand loved for its life-changing pet essentials, today announced its expansion into the United Kingdom (UK) through a partnership with Pets At Home, the UK’s leading pet care retailer with more than 457 locations. Pet owners across the UK will soon have access to a unique selection of Skout’s Honor’s award-winning, innovative pet products, including probiotic grooming and wellness (skin care) solutions, and plant-powered stain and odor products. According to recent studies, there are more than 30 million pets in the UK – including 13.5 million dogs and 12.5 million cats. Further, more than 57 percent of UK households currently have at least one pet. As the top pet retailer in the region, the company also provides in-store services, such as grooming, veterinary care and dog training. “Skout’s Honor has a very strong reputation as a leading pet care brand that offers top-quality products for meeting
17 September 2024
Purdue marketing launches rebrand as university’s internal marketing agency
Now named Purdue Brand Studio, agency aims to elevate brand, expand marketing reach, amplify partnership opportunities Purdue Brand Studio Emily Richwine, senior director of creative services for the university’s internal marketing agency, Purdue Brand Studio, oversees production of a new, 10-minute short film, “Boilers to Mars.” (Purdue University/Greta Bell) Download image West Lafayette, Indiana, USA, Sept. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Purdue University’s award-winning marketing department announced a strategic rebranding to reflect its capabilities and role within the institution. Effective Friday (Sept. 13), the unit officially began operating as Purdue Brand Studio, solidifying its position as a full-service, in-house marketing agency. “Purdue Brand Studio is more than a new name — it’s an acknowledgment of our existing capabilities and a strategic move to align the university with standards of marketing excellence found at major consumer brands,” said Kelly Hiller, the university’s vice president of marketing. “This shift allows us to harness our strengths in creative and brand strategy more effectively, driving us to innovate and enchant. “In reality, our team already performs at an agency level,” she said. “Now, our next giant leap is to formalize that reality in a new way so we can best serve the Purdue brand
16 September 2024
Social entrepreneur Lin Kobayashi to Join USJF Board
WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Renowned Japanese social entrepreneur Lin Kobayashi will join the United States-Japan Foundation Board of Trustees in January. Kobayashi is best known as the co-founder of ISAK, the International School of Asia Karuizawa, which was established in 2014. In 2017, ISAK became part of the United World Colleges (UWC) movement and rebranded to UWC ISAK Japan. The fully residential international high school is now home to 200 students from more than 80 countries, with 70% receiving financial assistance. The high school and its short programs have touched over 1,500 young lives to date. “We look forward to working with Lin and tapping into her creative energy in deepening our connections to Japan’s social impact ecosystem,” said USJF Board Chair Lawrence K. Fish. “I’m honored to serve on the board of USJF,” Kobayashi said. “I hope I can contribute in my humble way to further strengthening the impact of the Foundation.” Kobayashi’s passion for education began when she received a full scholarship from the Keidanren business organization to study at a boarding high school in Canada. Inspired by that experience, she studied development economics at the University of Tokyo and went on to receive a master’s degree
13 September 2024
“(Daguan · Keweiwei) The 9th China Brand Value Top 100” and “The World Brand Value Top 900” Rankings Officially Released at the CIFTIS
BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 September 2024 – At the invitation of China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) in Beijing, “(Daguan · Keweiwei) The 9th China Brand Value Top 100” and “(Daguan · Keweiwei) The World Brand Value Top 900” rankings are officially released at the CIFTIS on September 12, 2024. “(Daguan · Keweiwei) The 9th China Brand Value Top 100” and “(Daguan · Keweiwei) The World Brand Value Top 900” rankings by Chinese Brand Value Evaluation Standards adhere to the principles of justice, fairness and science, follow strictly the shortlisting criteria of The World Brand Value Top 900 enterprises to screen well-known enterprises with brand reputation all over the world, and use a unified Chinese Brand Value Evaluation Standards to measure the enterprise. Chinese Brand Value Evaluation Standards condense the efforts of many experts and scholars from Peking University, Tsinghua University, Policy Research Office of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, Development Research Center of the State Council, National Development and Reform Commission, Ministry of Finance, National Bureau of Statistics, State Taxation Administration, People’s Bank of China, Beijing Normal University, Communication University of China, Central Institute of Cultural Management and other
13 September 2024
Roger Williams University Adds Varsity Men’s Ice Hockey, Women’s Ice Hockey, and Women’s Golf Programs
Three new varsity athletics programs to debut over 2025-26 and 2026-27 academic years Roger Williams University Mascot Swoop Swoop celebrates the addition of three new athletic programs at RWU: Men’s Ice Hockey, Women’s Ice Hockey, and Women’s Golf. Bristol, R.I., Sept. 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Responding to the growing popularity among collegiate athletic competition, Roger Williams University (RWU) will be adding three new varsity athletic programs – Men’s Ice Hockey, Women’s Ice Hockey, and Women’s Golf – bringing the total number of varsity sports at RWU to 25. Both Men’s Ice Hockey and Women’s Golf will debut in the 2025-26 academic year, with Women’s Ice Hockey starting in the 2026-27 academic year. “Involvement in athletics is an enriching experience that complements a student’s education, setting them up to soar to success both in college and beyond,” said RWU President Ioannis N. Miaoulis. “Adding these three varsity sports will provide more opportunities for our student-athletes and attract new students from across the United States and internationally.” A Roger Williams University education encourages students to design powerful combinations of academic studies with real-world work opportunities and co-curricular activities, such as athletics, providing a well-rounded and fulfilling college experience. Collegiate sports foster
12 September 2024
The Profs Tutors Propel Undergraduate Students to Unprecedented Academic Success in 2023
London, United Kingdom, Sept. 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Profs Tutors have delivered outstanding academic results for their students, with 95% of undergraduate clients improving their grades during the 2022 – 2023 academic year. Impressively, 47% of surveyed undergraduate students attained a First-Class degree, demonstrating the significant impact of The Profs’ tailored approach to learning. The average time required to achieve this outcome from a starting grade of an Upper Second-Class degree was just 20 hours of personalised tutoring. Undergraduate Students Achieving Exceptional Results The majority of students didn’t start their tutoring journey as top performers. Of those who achieved a First, only 5% sought tutoring while already on track for that grade. The remaining 95% began with an Upper Second-Class degree or Lower Second-Class degree classification, and 75% of these students experienced a full grade improvement. Those starting on an Upper Second-Class degree required around 20 hours of tutoring to progress to a First, with 60% achieving this leap. For students who began with a Lower Second-Class degree, 91% moved up at least one grade after 30 hours of tutoring. Students needed 40 hours of tutoring to jump two grade boundaries from a Lower Second-Class degree to a First. Re-Sit Success and Tutor Impact The Profs’ success extends
12 September 2024
Hollister Unveils Collegiate Graphics Shop, Representing More Than 30 Universities Nationwide
The collection features more than 65 officially licensed graphics products across categories Hollister Collegiate Graphics Shop Hollister Collegiate Graphics Shop Hollister Collegiate Graphics Shop Hollister Collegiate Graphics Shop Hollister Collegiate Graphics Shop Hollister Collegiate Graphics Shop Hollister Collegiate Graphics Shop Hollister Collegiate Graphics Shop featuring Ohio State University running back, TreVeyon Henderson. Hollister Collegiate Graphics Shop Hollister Collegiate Graphics Shop Hollister Collegiate Graphics Shop Hollister Collegiate Graphics Shop featuring University of Michigan quarterback, Alex Orji. NEW ALBANY, Ohio, Aug. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hollister Co. (“Hollister”), a brand of Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (NYSE: ANF), is rolling out its Collegiate Graphics Shop just in time for the back-to-school and fall sports seasons. The 67-piece collection is rooted in quality basics including crewneck sweatshirts, hoodies and tees, touting vintage-inspired university logos and graphics and represents more than 30 universities across the United States. Hollister is excited to outfit its teen customers for the upcoming season with a wide range of products created through official licensing agreements. Building on the strong success of the brand’s other vintage-inspired graphic designs spanning cars, entertainment, racing and more, the Collegiate Graphics Shop offers on-trend items that represent some of the schools the brand’s customers
11 September 2024
Kohei Itoh, Keio University President, Named USJF Vice Chair
WASHINGTON, Sept. 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Kohei Itoh, president of Keio University, will join the United States-Japan Foundation Board of Trustees as Vice Chair. He will replace in that position Takeshi Niinami, CEO of Suntory Holdings Ltd. and Chairman of the Keizai Doyukai association of Japanese business executives. Niinami will leave the USJF board in October after 10 years of service. Itoh is a pioneer in quantum computing, and a leader in fostering collaborative international research and education in Japan. His research team led the way to uncovering the physics needed for silicon-based quantum computing, which enabled industrialization by Intel Corp. and other leading companies. In 2018, Itoh established the Keio Quantum Computing Center and started close collaboration with IBM. Itoh became president of Keio University in May 2021, and has accelerated Keio’s international activities and visibility. Under his leadership, Keio and Carnegie Mellon University have recently announced a new partnership on AI involving many leading U.S. and Japanese companies. He has also been known as an opinion leader on reshaping higher education in Japan. “We conducted an extensive search to complete the difficult task of replacing Tak Niinami,” said USJF Board Chair Lawrence K. Fish. “We are privileged to have
11 September 2024
GENERATIONAL DIVIDE EMERGING ON INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION, HSBC DATA FINDS
LONDON, Sept. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — 51% of respondents surveyed aspire to send their child overseas for study, or already have a child studying internationally More than two thirds of Gen Z and Millennials are keen for their children to study closer to home, compared to just over half of Boomers 82% of Millennials and 77% of Gen Z believe that an innovative education is important, compared to 30% of Boomers A generational divide in attitudes towards international education and where to study is emerging, according to a new report from HSBC. HSBC’s Quality of Life report suggests emerging preferences as younger generations are shifting towards new academic destinations HSBC’s Quality of Life report, which surveyed more than 11,200 affluent adults in 11 markets around the world, reveals that while the US, UK and Australia remain the top study destinations, younger generations of current and future parents, such as Gen Z (68%) and Millennials (67%), are more likely to prioritise a university closer to their home region. The report found new emerging destinations for overseas university education: Mainland China is increasingly popular among younger Singaporean parents Singapore is emerging as a top destination for younger parents from Mainland China, India, Malaysia and Taiwan
9 September 2024
REL Publication | Strengthening the Pennsylvania School Climate Survey to Inform School Decisionmaking
Home Publications Strengthening the Pennsylvania School Climate Survey to Inform School Decisionmaking Strengthening the Pennsylvania School Climate Survey to Inform School Decisionmaking by Alyson Burnett, Katlyn Lee Milless, Michelle Bennett, Whitney Kozakowski, Sonia Alves and Christine Ross This study analyzed Pennsylvania School Climate Survey data from students and staff in the 2021/22 school year to assess the validity and reliability of the elementary school student version of the survey; approaches to scoring the survey in individual schools at all grade levels; and perceptions of school climate across student, staff, and school groups. The survey encourages data informed efforts in participating Pennsylvania schools to foster supportive learning environments that promote social and emotional wellness for students and staff. The study validated the elementary school student survey but found that one domain—safe and respectful school climate—did not meet the reliability threshold and thus suggests that revisions are needed. At all grade levels noninstructional staff had the most positive perceptions of school climate, followed by classroom teachers then students. The study found that different approaches to combining the school climate scores of students, teachers, and noninstructional staff within schools yielded slightly different distributions of school climate summary
29 August 2024
REL Publication | Examining Implementation and Outcomes of the Project On-Track High-Dosage Tutoring Program
School districts in northeastern Tennessee have had persistently low proficiency rates in grade 3 English language arts, which were exacerbated by disruptions in schooling due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In response, the Niswonger Foundation, a technical assistance provider that supports these districts, developed Project On-Track, a high-dosage, small-group literacy tutoring program for students in grade 1–3. Its online adaptive program, Amplify Reading, groups students by skill level and generates mini-lessons aligned to the science of reading that are delivered by tutors. Although the content of the tutoring sessions is highly structured, Project On-Track offers schools flexibility in how they implement the program, including when they provide tutoring, who provides tutoring, in which grade levels they offer tutoring, and how they identify students within a grade level for tutoring. This flexibility can make it easier for schools to adopt the program, particularly rural schools, which may face greater challenges in hiring tutors or delivering tutoring outside of school hours. However, variation in implementation may also affect program effectiveness. To inform future implementation of the program, this study describes the characteristics of students who participated in a full year of Project On-Track and how schools implemented the program, with a focus on
27 August 2024
Putin welcomes Iran, India, China to BRICS Summit to discuss ‘new world order’ to challenge the West
This week, Russian President Vladimir Putin convened more than two dozen countries to discuss a “new world order” free from Western hegemony and the global dominance of the U.S. dollar. From Tuesday to Thursday, some two dozen members will descend on Kazan, Russia, for this year’s BRICS Summit — offering Putin his biggest global platform since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. By reducing reliance on the dollar, the alliance hopes to evade sanctions imposed by the U.S. and the West. “The dollar is being used as a weapon,” Putin said at the summit. “We really see that this is so. I think that this is a big mistake by those who do this.” In a pivotal move, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the summit to showcase their hopes for a more harmonious relationship after decades of cross-border strife. It came days after China and India agreed to a deal meant to bring to a close their four-year military standoff over the disputed Himalayan region. UKRAINE BLASTS UN CHIEF OVER POTENTIAL MEETING WITH PUTIN AT BRICS, SAYS STAYED AWAY FROM KYIV’S PEACE SUMMIT This week, Russian President Vladimir Putin convened over two dozen countries to
24 October 2024
Trump’s reported racist insult about Mexican American soldier draws bitter backlash — and staunch denials
A racist comment former President Donald Trump is reported to have made about murdered soldier Vanessa Guillén is drawing backlash from some Hispanics, but it could be tempered by her sister’s support for Trump and the current political divide among Latinos. The Atlantic magazine reported that Trump, when he was president, complained about the cost of paying for Guillén’s funeral as he had promised her family he would do in a meeting at the White House in July 2020. Citing two unnamed sources who attended a December 2020 meeting and notes from the meeting, when he was told the $60,000 price tag, Trump responded, “It doesn’t cost 60,000 bucks to bury a f—ing Mexican!” He told his chief of staff at the time, Mark Meadows, not to pay for it, the magazine reported. NBC News has not confirmed The Atlantic’s reporting. Meadows and Trump campaign spokesman Alex Pfeiffer denied he made such a comment, the magazine reported. Guillén’s sister, Mayra Guillén, who was not at the White House meeting at which Trump is alleged to have made the comment, came to his defense on X. “Wow. I don’t appreciate how you are exploiting my sister’s death for politics-hurtful & disrespectful
23 October 2024
Tim Walz says Elon Musk was “skipping like a dip****” during Trump rally, Musk likens Walz to clown
MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is trading barbs with billionaire and X owner Elon Musk. During a rally in Madison, Wisconsin with former President Barack Obama on Tuesday, the Democratic vice presidential candidate jokingly referred to Musk the “running mate” of former President Donald Trump. “Seriously, where is Sen. Vance after he got asked the simplest question in the world at the debate: ‘Did Donald Trump lose the 2020 election?’” Walz said. “After two weeks he finally said, ‘No, he didn’t.’ That’s where he’s been spending his time.” Walz continued on to say Musk, who is the richest man in the world, is spending millions to help Trump “buy an election.” “Elon’s on that stage, jumping around, skipping like a dip**** on these things,” Walz said. “You know it.” Walz was referring to when Musk attended a rally with Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania earlier this month. As Trump was speaking, Musk was enthusiastically jumping around behind him on stage. Musk declared himself a “dark MAGA” when he spoke to the crowd. Tesla CEO Elon Musk (R) jumps on stage as he joins former US President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump during a campaign rally at site of his first
23 October 2024
US confirms North Korean troops in Russia; Zelensky preparing plan to withstand war
Key developments on Oct. 23: Zelensky preparing action plan for Ukraine to withstand war, source says North Korean troops are in Russia, US defense secretary confirms Ukraine has stabilized situation in Toretsk, but Russia is concentrating troops in town’s east, military says UK to allocate $155 million for naval coalition to protect Ukraine’s ports France’s first batch of Mirage 2000 jets for Ukraine to include 3 planes, media reports President Volodymyr Zelensky tasked the Ukrainian authorities to develop proposals for an internal action plan to help the country withstand the war, a source close to the President’s Office told the Kyiv Independent on Oct. 23. According to the source, the document will address military, political, economic, and other areas, including certain decisions regarding law enforcement. The plan is expected to be prepared and presented to the Ukrainian public by the end of 2024, BBC Ukraine reported earlier in the day, citing unnamed government sources. The Kyiv Independent’s source said that it may take several more weeks to develop the document. “The goal is to do everything possible to maintain unity and achieve results in various areas of the country’s development,” a source in Zelensky‘s team told BBC. The plan reportedly
23 October 2024
S&P 500 Sinks To 2-Week Low As Apple And Nvidia Stocks Slump
Topline A rare down week for the stock market got dimmer Wednesday, as an $11 billion hamburger selloff and big-ticket losses for big technology stocks pushed U.S. equity indexes to their worst day in six weeks. Traders work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange on Tuesday. Getty Images Key Facts By mid-afternoon, the leading S&P 500 fell 1.2%, the tech-heavy Nasdaq lost 2% and the blue chip Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 1.2%, or 500 points. All three indexes are on track for their worst daily declines since the first week of September and for their lowest close in two weeks. Contributing most to the share price-weighted Dow’s dip was McDonald’s, as its stock’s 5% ($15 per share) loss Wednesday has shares of the restaurant chain on pace for their worst day since March 2020 as investors reacted to news of an E. Coli outbreak tied to its Quarter Pounder hamburger. The market capitalization-weighted Nasdaq and S&P were dragged down by big tech, as the “magnificent seven” group including the U.S.’ only six trillion-dollar companies and Tesla fell shed a combined $430 billion in Wednesday trading. Each of the magnificent seven stocks dropped at least 0.9%: Apple,
23 October 2024
Vladimir Putin Left Awkwardly Waiting by Chinese President Xi Jinping
Russian President Vladimir Putin awkwardly stood alone and waited, on camera, for his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, to arrive for a photo-op at a BRICS summit hosted in Putin’s own country. After arriving to a Xi-less room, Putin shuffled his feet in front of the Chinese and Russian flags for a few painful seconds until the other world leader showed up, whereupon Putin broke into a smile and shook his hand. Putin intended for the five-country summit in Kazan to be an opportunity to show the world that the West’s efforts to isolate Russia over its war with Ukraine had failed. The embarrassing moment, however, undercuts some of his bravado—and it’s not the first time another world leader has left Putin twiddling his thumbs. Last year, he tidied up pens and papers on a table as he waited to meet with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi during the Russia-Africa summit. And in 2022, he waited in front of a room full of reporters for almost a minute before he met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Read it at Daily Mail
23 October 2024
‘Frighteningly awful’ Biden struggled to complete sentences for over a year before dropping out, book reveals: ‘Like your senile grandfather’
Joe Biden struggled to remember basic words or even stand up at campaign fundraisers over a year prior to dropping out of the presidential race, with witnesses describing him as “frighteningly awful” and a “senile grandfather,” Bob Woodward’s bombshell book “War” reveals. At a Silicon Valley fundraiser in September 2023, guests were extremely concerned by Biden’s appearance as the then-presidential candidate struggled to remain upright and only took two pre-arranged questions. “He could not wait to sit down,” a donor at the event, hosted by Microsoft CTO Kevin Scott, recounted. Biden struggled to complete sentences for over a year before dropping out. Shutterstock Despite bringing a stack of note cards with pre-written answers, the 81-year-old president struggled to stay on point and frequently meandered in his speech, attendees claimed. At a different event at the New York City Four Seasons in June 2023, Biden could not recall the word “veteran,” and pleaded with the crowd for help describing a person who has “served in the military,” Woodward writes. Biden’s problems did not stop there: The president continued to struggle to complete sentences at future fundraisers, with guests describing their interactions with the politician as “painful.” Despite bringing a stack of
23 October 2024
Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi meet, two days after a China-India border deal
China and India should manage their differences properly, Chinese President Xi Jinping told Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, in their first face-to-face meeting since the bilateral relationship was badly strained by a deadly border clash four years ago. “It is important for both sides to have more communication and cooperation, properly handle differences and disagreements, and facilitate each other’s pursuit of development aspirations,” Xi told Modi on the sidelines of the Brics summit in Kazan, Russia. “It is also important for both sides to shoulder our international responsibilities, set an example for boosting the strength and unity of developing countries, and contribute to promoting multi-polarisation and democracy in international relations,” he said. In a post on his X account after the meeting, Modi wrote that India-China relations were “important for the people of our countries, and for regional and global peace and stability”. “Mutual trust, mutual respect and mutual sensitivity will guide bilateral relations,” he said. The meeting came two days after the announcement that China and India had reached an agreement on patrolling their shared Himalayan border, where the two sides had a deadly clash in June 2020, de-escalating a four-year military stand-off.
23 October 2024
Kevin Rudd on Xi Jinping – The Diplomat
Xi Jinping has transformed China, and China’s transformation has in turn changed the world. Since Xi took charge in 2012, China has grown enormously in geopolitical power, with its global influence finally catching up to its eye-watering growth in the first decade of the 21st century. In pursuing what he terms the “China Dream,” Xi made marked departures from the policies and norms established by his predecessors. In his newly released book, “On Xi Jinping: How Xi’s Marxist Nationalism is Shaping China and the World,” Kevin Rudd, former Australian prime minister and current Australian ambassador to the United States, sets out to understand why Xi “has decided to turn much of Chinese politics, economics, and foreign policy on its head from the decades of Communist Party rule that preceded him.” Rudd characterizes Xi’s ideological framework as “Marxist-Leninist nationalism” epitomized by a move to the left in economic and political thinking paired with a significant step to the right when it comes to Chinese nationalism. Ideology may not be the only force that has animated Xi’s decisions, but it plays a critical role in where Xi has taken China, and where he dreams China will go in the future. In the
23 October 2024
Russia bombing aid ships in Ukraine destined for Gaza, South Africa
Russia, which shares diplomatic ties with both Iran and Hamas, has been bombing ships carrying aid that were bound for Gaza, the Telegraph reported on Wednesday, citing British officials and intelligence information. The strikes on ports in Ukraine have reportedly delayed transport to the Gaza enclave, where Palestinian civilians have reportedly suffered a humanitarian crisis as a result of the war against Hamas – the terror group ruling the strip. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer reportedly said that the Kremlin was “willing to gamble on global food security” in his pursuit of victory in his invasion of Ukraine. A number of the ships, described as “collateral damage” by British intelligence, were flagged as belonging to foreign nations and were a part of United Nations efforts to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Ships allegedly hit by Russia One of the four merchant vessels reportedly struck between October 5 and October 14 was a Panama-flagged container ship. The ship, carrying sunflower oil, was reportedly part of a UN shipment. Russia’s President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Akbar Ahmadian during a meeting in Saint Petersburg, Russia September 12, 2024. (credit: Sputnik/Kristina Kormilitsyna/Kremlin via Reuters)
23 October 2024
Biden has forgiven debt for over 1 million public service workers
President Joe Biden and his administration hit a major milestone this October. The administration has now forgiven student debt balances for over 1 million borrowers through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, the Department of Education announced on Oct. 17. Though PSLF has been around since 2007, only 7,000 borrowers in total had qualified and received debt forgiveness through the program prior to Biden taking office. The basic guidelines for PSLF require borrowers to be working in public service and making qualifying payments on their loans for 10 years before they can see any of their balances discharged. But as of 2018, widespread mismanagement of the program had led to 99% of borrowers getting denied the forgiveness many of them believed they’d earned. Servicers and borrowers alike had problems identifying and keeping track of qualifying payments as well as ensuring loan and employer eligibility, leaving most borrowers stuck with their debt. “The progress is historic,” Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said on a press call. “Before President Biden took office, the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program was so riddled with dysfunction that only 7,000 public servants had ever qualified.” Along with his other student debt relief initiatives, Biden has made
23 October 2024
Bill Gates Said He Donated $50M to a Pro-Harris Super-PAC: NYT
Bill Gates said he donated millions to a pro-Harris super-PAC, three sources told The New York Times. He reportedly donated $50 million to Future Forward’s nonprofit arm, which doesn’t disclose donors. The billionaire didn’t confirm or deny this, but told the Times this election was “different.” Thanks for signing up! Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you’re on the go. download the app By clicking “Sign Up”, you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. You can opt-out at any time by visiting our Preferences page or by clicking “unsubscribe” at the bottom of the email. Bill Gates has privately said he donated about $50 million to a pro-Harris super-PAC, The New York Times reported, citing multiple sources. The billionaire Microsoft founder, who has not publicly endorsed either candidate for president, made the donation to Future Forward’s nonprofit arm, Future Forward USA Action, three people briefed on the matter told the newspaper. Future Forward USA Action does not disclose its donors, meaning any contributions would not be made public. Two of the sources said that Gates has talked about his donation with Mike Bloomberg, the former New York City mayor, among others, per the Times. In
23 October 2024
Biden says Trump should be ‘locked up’ – then quickly corrects himself
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email President Joe Biden has declared that Donald Trump should be “locked up” – before quickly correcting himself. The president made the controversial remark while at the Democratic Party‘s Concord, New Hampshire, headquarters on Tuesday where he warned that democracy hangs in the balance as Trump continues to close in on Kamala Harris in the national polls. “I know this sounds bizarre. If I said this five years ago you’d lock me up,” Biden said, claiming that the Supreme Court’s July presidential immunity ruling would mean Trump, a convicted felon, could “eliminate” his enemies. “We gotta lock him up,” he said to applause, before leaving a roughly five-second pause and then quickly backtracking. “Politically lock him up,” Biden clarified. Softening his rhetoric further, the president added: “Walk him out, that’s what we’ve got to do.” The Trump campaign was quick to condemn Biden’s remarks about locking him up as “disgraceful”. Biden made the remarks at the Democratic Party‘s Concord, New Hampshire, headquarters on Tuesday (NBC) “Joe Biden just admitted the truth: he and Kamala’s plan all along
23 October 2024
Kamala Harris to hold town hall with undecided voters after Donald Trump rejects second debate offer – US politics live | US politics
Harris to hold CNN town hall on Wednesday while Trump headlines rally in Georgia US vice-president Kamala Harris will hold a town hall with undecided voters on CNN on Wednesday, after Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump rejected an offer to debate the Democratic nominee for a second time, reports Reuters. Trump will headline a rally Wednesday in Duluth, Georgia with guests Tucker Carlson and Robert F Kennedy Jr, as the race for the White House counts down to less than two weeks. Pennsylvania and Georgia are among seven battleground states that will decide who wins the presidency. Both candidates are likely to spend much of the rest of their campaigns in those states, trying to persuade the small sliver of voters who are still undecided to back them in the 5 November election. Harris tried and failed to push Trump to agree to a second presidential debate on CNN after she was considered to have won the first and only presidential debate between the two candidates, which took place in September on ABC News. Reuters reports that Hariss’s televised town hall will take place before a live audience of undecided voters from Pennsylvania in Delaware County, outside Philadelphia. Harris held
23 October 2024
BRICS Summit 2024 live: PM Modi, Xi Jinping to hold first meeting in 5 years
BRICS Summit 2024 live updates: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other world leaders on Wednesday posed for a family photo at the Kazan Expo Center, ahead of the 16th BRICS Summit. BRICS Summit 2024 live updates: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to hold their first bilateral talks in 5 years on the sidelines of BRICS summit today, in Russia’s Kazan. This comes after both India and China took significant steps to ease the border dispute between the neighbouring countries.…Read More The meeting between PM Modi and Xi Jinping marks the first formal interaction between the two leaders in five years and follows the two countries reaching an agreement on resuming regular patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. Issuing a statement on the same, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said on Tuesday, “I can confirm that there will be a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping tomorrow on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit.” The last time Modi interacted with Jinping was in 2019 in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, just a few months before the military standoff at Galwan in June 2020 which led to multiple
23 October 2024
Are North Koreans fighting in Ukraine? Here’s what we know
Seoul, South Korea CNN — There is growing intelligence that North Korea has been readying itself for a more direct role in Russia’s war in Ukraine, a move that could reverberate far beyond the frontlines of the war raging in Europe. Both Ukraine and South Korea have claimed that North Korean troops were dispatched to Russia for training with the aim of being deployed to Ukraine. Russia and North Korea have denied the reports, while South Korea has hinted that any deployment could cause it to reassess what level of military support it gives Ukraine. In recent months, Moscow and Pyongyang have deepened their anti-United States military partnership and the growing alliance has concerned officials in Kyiv and Washington. Here’s what we know. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeatedly warned that North Korean troops are joining Russia’s war, telling a NATO summit last week that “10,000” soldiers and technical personnel were being prepared. On Tuesday, the president said in his evening address that Ukraine had intelligence about Russia “training two military units from North Korea” involving perhaps “two brigades of 6,000 people each.” Zelensky also told reporters that Ukraine has seen North Korean “officers and technical staff in the temporarily occupied territories”
23 October 2024
South Korea ‘playing with fire’ over intelligence of Pyongyang’s Ukraine war role: critics
South Korea should be wary of intelligence manipulation for political reasons or hasty retaliatory action against the North for its alleged involvement in the Ukraine war, critics warn, with Washington yet to confirm if Pyongyang had deployed troops to join their Russian counterparts. The comments come as Seoul reportedly considered sending a team of intelligence personnel to Ukraine. A top security official has also said South Korea might supply Ukraine with lethal weapons in response to any war collaboration between Moscow and Pyongyang. South Korea’s concerns centre on reports that more than 10,000 North Korean elite special forces are being prepared to be deployed to Russia to support its war efforts. US State Department deputy spokesman Vedant Patel said on Tuesday that his side was still verifying such reports. “The United States has its own processes in place and our own assessments that we need to make before we can publicly say that we are seeing anything as it relates to a particular policy area,” Patel said. He also said any deployment of North Korean troops to Russia – if confirmed – would be “incredibly dangerous”.
23 October 2024
Invisible Joe Biden Disappears From Kamala Harris’ Campaign
In the final stretch of the 2024 presidential race, one person seems notably absent from Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign: President Joe Biden. Since ending his reelection bid in July, Biden has largely stayed off the campaign trail, leaving Harris to carve out her own path and focus on distinguishing herself from the sitting president’s record. On Sunday, NBC reported that multiple unnamed Harris campaign and White House officials confirmed there are no plans for Biden to appear alongside Harris before Election Day. Instead, Biden will privately leverage his political connections, particularly among labor leaders, and continue official duties at the White House to talk up his administration’s achievements. President Joe Biden in Washington D.C., October 20, 2024. In the final stretch of the 2024 presidential race, Biden is notably absent from Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign. President Joe Biden in Washington D.C., October 20, 2024. In the final stretch of the 2024 presidential race, Biden is notably absent from Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign. Manuel Balce Ceneta/ASSOCIATED PRESS Biden’s downsized role was a calculated decision between his and Harris’ teams, with one White House official telling NBC that Biden’s “most important role is doing his job as president,” noting
23 October 2024
Bill Gates Donates $50 Million To Support Kamala Harris’ Presidential Campaign: Report
Last Updated: October 23, 2024, 09:51 IST Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) Gates has expressed concern about the implications of a second Trump presidency. (Photo Credit: X) Bill Gates secretly donated $50 million to support Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign, expressing concern over a potential second Trump presidency. Bill Gates, one of the richest people in the world, has donated USD 50 million to a nonprofit organisation supporting Democratic Presidential candidate Kamala Harris, according to The New York Times. The donation was intended to remain confidential, as Gates has not publicly endorsed Harris, who is running against Republican Donald Trump in the upcoming November 5 election. Microsoft co-founder’s donation went to Future Forward’s nonprofit arm, Future Forward USA Action, which as a “dark money” group does not disclose its donors, according to the report. Therefore, any contribution by the top US billionaire will never appear on any public filing. In private, Gates has reportedly expressed concern about the implications of a second Trump presidency. His philanthropic organisation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is particularly worried about potential cuts to family planning and global health programs if Trump is re-elected. Despite his concerns, Gates has emphasised that he is
23 October 2024
Trump vs Harris: Bill Gates quietly enters political arena with $50million donation
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and one of the world’s wealthiest individuals, has reportedly privately contributed around $50 million to Future Forward, a nonprofit organization supporting vice president Kamala Harris’s bid for the presidency, according to a New York Times report.This contribution signals a dramatic departure from his previous philanthropic strategy, where his public persona remained largely detached from direct political funding.For years, Gates has been a prominent force in global health, poverty alleviation, and education through his philanthropic organization, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. This political donation, however, has been kept under wraps for months.Future Forward operates as a 501(c)(4) nonprofit, or “dark money” group, meaning it isn’t required to disclose its donors publicly. Consequently, Gates’ contribution will not appear in any public filings, a decision likely meant to preserve his apolitical image.In private conversations, Gates has voiced apprehensions over how a second Trump presidency might impact critical issues The Gates Foundation, which funds programs in areas such as family planning and health globally, could see setbacks if Trump’s policies—marked by significant budget cuts in these sectors—were reinstated.The revelations come amid heightened speculation surrounding Harris’ billionaire backers. In a recent interview, Elon Musk stirred controversy by linking Harris’s
23 October 2024
Bill Gates Backs Harris With $50 Million Donation, “Concerned” Over Trump: Report
Billionaire and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has recently donated about $50 million to a nonprofit organization supporting Kamala Harris’ US presidential run, the New York Times reported Tuesday. The donation to Future Forward, the main outside fund-raising group backing Harris, was meant to stay under wraps as Gates has not publicly endorsed the Democrat candidate, who is up against Republican Donald Trump in the November 5 US presidential election. According to an NYT report, Gates, in private calls this year to friends and others, has also expressed “concern” about what a second Donald Trump presidency would look like. His philanthropic organization, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is significantly concerned about potential cuts to family planning and global health programs if Trump is elected again, the report said. Gates, however, has stressed that he could work with either candidate. In a statement in response to the NYT report, Gates stressed his bipartisanship, but also said that “this election is different.” “I support candidates who demonstrate a clear commitment to improving health care, reducing poverty and fighting climate change in the US and around the world,” he told The New York Times. “I have a long history of working with leaders
23 October 2024
BRICS Summit 2024: PM Narendra Modi, China’s President Xi Jinping to hold formal talks after half a decade
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will hold a bilateral meeting on Wednesday during the BRICS summit in Russia, their first formal discussion since border tensions erupted in eastern Ladakh in May 2020, PTI reported. The announcement came from Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, a day after India and China finalized an agreement on patrolling by their militaries along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. The deal is seen as a breakthrough in efforts to end the four-year military stand-off between the two nations, the report added. “I can confirm that there will be a bilateral meeting between PM Modi and President Xi Jinping tomorrow (Wednesday) on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit,” Misri said, as quoted by PTI. Although Modi and Xi briefly exchanged pleasantries at the G20 summit in Indonesia in 2022, this will be their first structured meeting since tensions flared up along the border. The last time the two leaders had an informal interaction was in August 2023 at the BRICS summit in Johannesburg, as per PTI report. The meeting is scheduled in Kazan, the host city for the BRICS summit. Patrolling agreement Asked about the new patrolling agreement reached on
23 October 2024
Biden says ‘lock him up’ in remarks about Trump
President Joe Biden on Tuesday echoed language former President Donald Trump has used in the past, saying of the former president that “we gotta lock him up.” Speaking at a campaign event in New Hampshire, Biden said Trump’s policies are so “bizarre” and dangerous that if he’d warned about them five years ago “you’d lock me up.” “We gotta lock him up,” Biden said to applause from the small crowd before he appeared to catch himself and added, “politically lock him up.” “Lock him out,” Biden continued. “That’s what we have to do.” A White House official later said that Biden’s two immediate clarifications — specifying “politically” locking up Trump and locking him “out” — are how the president’s comments should be interpreted. Biden was speaking to how voters should think about the stakes of the election, the official added. The Trump campaign responded Tuesday night by challenging Vice President Kamala Harris to condemn Biden’s remark. “Joe Biden just admitted the truth: he and Kamala’s plan all along has been to politically persecute their opponent President Trump because they can’t beat him fair and square,” campaign press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement. “The Harris-Biden Admin is the real threat
23 October 2024
5 drinks events and food openings in Hong Kong this weekend, October 25-27
This weekend is all about the pre-Halloween festivities, and while we have you covered on that front, there are plenty of activities for those looking for a more low-key end to the week. Want to avoid the costumed crowds? We have plenty of alternatives to add to your dining agenda. 1. Made in Lantau Festival Take a ferry out to picturesque Mui Wo for the Made in Lantau Festival, which promises a weekend of wholesome activities in the great outdoors, from performances to forest bathing. The highlight for those who love a tipple is the Sip & Savour workshop (1pm-5pm on October 26 and October 27) that invites participants to explore the Ho family’s fruit orchards (which they have tended for seven decades), taste their fresh produce and also use fruits to create two unique cocktails. There is also a special wampee canned cocktail created in collaboration with Hong Kong tea company Sage Tea that is available for purchase during the festival. To find out more and to sign up, visit instagram.com/good_old_soil 2. Plantation Tea Bar For those looking to nurse a cup of tea in a quieter part of town, the peaceful Plantation Tea Bar in Shek Tong Tsui,
24 October 2024
Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival 2024 | Central Harbourfront Event Space
Calling all wine lovers and foodies, the highly anticipated Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival is returning to Central Harbourfront Event Space from October 23 to 27! This year, the Hong Kong Tourism Board is stretching the festival over five days and will extend the festival’s opening hours until 11pm with over 300 participating booths, allowing you to drink and dine the night away. Visitors can expect to enjoy a wide array of classic wines from all corners of the globe, discover emerging wine and spirit varieties, and sip on creative cocktails from master mixologists. Attendees can also find over 110 food booths that showcase dishes from award-winning restaurants such as Forum Restaurant; event-exclusive bites like parma ham and cheese palmiers from The Royal Garden; and plenty of global delicacies. Additionally, the epicurean event will offer exciting culinary masterclasses led by renowned chefs and limited-edition Hong Kong-inspired cocktails created by stellar bartenders. Regular admission tickets to the Wine & Dine Festival cost $40 each, whereas concessionary tickets for children from three to 12, full-time students, individuals with disabilities, or seniors aged 65 and above cost $20 each. You can also choose between three tasting pass tiers, which start from $240 with
20 October 2024
Bus parade and exhibition amid 75th National Day celebrations review important role of bus services in public transport system (with photos/videos)
Organised by the Transport Department (TD), the Bus Parade cum Exhibition for Celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China, featuring buses from the past and present, was launched today (October 19) in Victoria Park in Causeway Bay. It is one of the highlight events held by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government amid National Day celebrations this year. Speaking at the kick-off ceremony this morning, the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mr Lam Sai-hung, said, “Bus services have long been an indispensable and important part of Hong Kong’s economy and people’s livelihoods. Buses have not only met the travel needs of Hong Kong people every day, but have also witnessed the city’s developments.” The event marked the evolution of franchised buses in Hong Kong from the past to the present, engaging with the public to experience the crucial role of bus services in the public transport system, he added. Mr Lam said, “The rapid development of new energy technologies of our country in recent years has enriched Hong Kong’s choices of new energy public transport. Numerous electric double-decker buses and hydrogen fuel cell buses introduced into Hong
20 October 2024
Naomi Osaka set to participate in Hong Kong Tennis Open this October
Four-time Grand Slam champion and former world No. 1 Naomi Osaka will participate in the WTA 250 Prudential Hong Kong Tennis Open taking place in October. The championship, which will run from October 26 to November 3, is set to feature a host of other international stars like Simona Halep and Leylah Fernandez. Naomi Osaka’s upcoming visit marks her return to the city for the first time since she played the Hong Kong Tennis Open in 2017 and 2018. Osaka is the first Japanese tennis player to have won a Grand Slam as well as the first player in Asia to hold the top singles ranking for 21 weeks starting January 2019. Keep reading to know more about the Hong Kong Tennis Open 2024. Naomi Osaka to participate in Hong Kong Tennis Open this October For Osaka’s upcoming outing at Victoria Park, she will be joined by another former world No. 1 Simona Halep, British No. 1 Katie Boulter, former US Open champion Emma Raducanu and defending champion Leylah Fernandez. Russia’s Diana Shnaider and Anastasia Potapova will also be joining the star-studded lineup. China’s Paris Olympics mixed doubles silver medalist Wang Xinyu as well as rising players Yuan Yue and
18 October 2024
6 Halloween events in Hong Kong for a devilish good time
Whether you’re a horror movie aficionado or seeking fun activities for the whole family, these spooky yet stylish events will get you into the Halloween spirit As the veil between worlds thins and the air turns crisp, Hong Kong transforms into a playground of eerie enchantment. This Halloween, step away from the usual raucous parties and embrace a more sophisticated celebration with a Tatler twist. From family-friendly carnivals to horror movie screenings and exquisite Greek-style spooky dinners, we’ve got something for everyone, including delightful options for little ghosts and goblins. So, say goodbye to the typical LKF scene and hello to a Halloween filled with charm, creativity—and, of course, a touch of luxury. Here’s a sneak peek into six fantastic Halloween celebrations around the city. Read More: Toxic relations, cultural appropriation: What we hope not to see in ‘The Twilight Saga’ remake on Netflix Where: Happy Valley New Clubhouse, Happy Valley Old Clubhouse, Sha Tin Clubhouse, Beas River Country Club When: October 25 to 27 What: Dive into a world of Halloween fun with activities for all ages. Kids can participate in DIY workshops, explore the thrilling haunted house and make their unique wicked bread at Happy Valley New Clubhouse.
18 October 2024
5 of the best things to do this weekend in Hong Kong, October 18-20
There are two festivals you may want to check out this weekend in Hong Kong, plus three hang-out ideas. 1. Hong Kong Asian Film Festival This year’s Hong Kong Asian Film Festival (HKAFF) promises to be one of the most ambitious yet. Beyond showcasing many of 2024’s most highly anticipated titles from across the region, as well as a number of acclaimed hits from the global festival circuit, this year’s programme shines a spotlights on New Kazakh Cinema, has a sidebar examining how Palestinian filmmakers are documenting the Israel-Gaza war, and a New Talent Award section elevating new filmmakers from the region. Read our recommendations Dayo Wong (left) and Michael Hui in a still from The Last Dance, one of the two opening films of the Hong Kong Asian Film Festival 2024. For more films and shows to watch this weekend in Hong Kong, click here. 2. Hong Kong Ballet: The Butterfly Lovers The Butterfly Lovers is based on a classical Chinese romance between modest scholar Liang Shanbo and proud heiress Zhu Yingtai, who meet while studying in the same school – one that Zhu could only enter by pretending to be a man. Choreographer Ricky Hu Songwei directed the
18 October 2024
Naomi Osaka confirmed to play at star-studded Hong Kong Tennis Open
Former world No 1 and four-time grand-slam tournament winner Naomi Osaka will play in the WTA 250 Prudential Hong Kong Tennis Open this month, organisers confirmed on Tuesday. Japan’s Osaka joins a roster featuring another former world No 1 in Simona Halep, defending champion Leylah Fernandez, British No 1 Katie Boulter and former US Open champion Emma Raducanu. Osaka’s confirmation for the Hong Kong event at Victoria Park comes two weeks after she was forced to retire during her round-of-16 tie at the China Open in Beijing because of a back injury. The current world No 58 had made a promising start to her Asian swing, winning three matches in Beijing to set up a tie against the United States’ Coco Gauff on October 1. Naomi Osaka (left) leaves the court with Coco Gauff after retiring injured in Beijing. Photo: AP Osaka took the first set against eventual champion Gauff before being forced off court with a lower back problem after losing the second. Source link
17 October 2024
db Asia: September in pictures
Mid-Autumn festivities weren’t the only thing on the agenda in September, with Italian wines taking a trip around China and high-end South African wines being paired with Dior jewellery in Beijing… Banfi at Vinitaly Roadshow Processed with MOLDIV Montalcino’s Banfi estate took part in the Vinitaly Roadshow from 2-6 September with ASC Fine Wines, its exclusive importer and distributor. The roadshow, which traveled through Shanghai, Xi’an and Guangzhou, featured Banfi Centine Bianco, Banfi Centine Rosso, Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva, Banfi Rosa Regale, Banfi Cum Laude and Banfi Poggio Alle Mura Brunello di Montalcino and Banfi Brunello di Montalcino. The Italian wine producer’s participation in the China Roadshow underscores its dedication to elevating the wine culture in China and making high-quality wines accessible to a broader audience. Celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival Hong Kong-based Nimbility, which works with brands to gain them distribution across APAC markets, celebrated the Mid-Autumn Festival in September at a collaborative event with insurance company AIA Group. Wine brands including Mirabeau, Rathfinny, NON and Bertinga were on pour at the event. Gifts of Time wine and jewellery pairing Klein Constantia’s Vin de Constance featured at a wine and jewellery pairing event called Gifts of Time in Beijing this September.
17 October 2024
Lawyer-turned-DJ Awen back in Hong Kong to headline For the Love of Hong Kong EDM festival
Awen is excited about returning to Hong Kong where she spent years working as a lawyer before her “leap of faith” into music. “I performed at Hong Kong’s Art Basel in 2023, but this time feels different because it’s a mini festival with two of the biggest promoters coming together to stage it,” says Awen, real name Lucille Kante, via Zoom from the French capital, Paris. “Hong Kong is where I discovered my sound and my voice, so returning feels incredibly emotional.” Awen is headlining the “For the Love of Hong Kong” electronic music festival at Central’s AIA Vitality Park on October 19, an event organised by Magic Room and Spin Sum. Coachella was incredible. The level of artistry is incredible DJ Awen, who has performed at the California festival twice The one-day festival, held across two stages, also features DJ duo andhim from Germany, Kadosh and 10 Hong Kong-based DJs. “I had a rooftop when I was living in Hong Kong, and went up there many times to look at the city and was always like, ‘wow, I feel lucky to be able to see this’ … There is nowhere else in the world quite like it,” says Awen.
17 October 2024
Today’s Top 3 News: Indonesia AirAsia to Open 2 New International Routes Ahead of Year-End Holiday
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Tempo English compiled the top 3 news on Wednesday, October 16, 2024. Here are the highlights: Indonesia AirAsia to Open 2 New International Routes Ahead of Year-End Holiday, 2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Indonesia vs China 1-2, the First Loss for Garuda Team, and Airlines Suspend Flights as Middle East Tensions Rise. The following is the list of the top 3 news on Tempo English today: 1. Indonesia AirAsia to Open 2 New International Routes Ahead of Year-End Holiday TEMPO.CO, Hong Kong – Low-cost carrier Indonesia AirAsia planned to launch two to three new international routes by the end of 2024, building upon the success of its recently established Jakarta-Hong Kong and Bali-Hong Kong routes, which have received positive feedback and high passenger traffic. “Two of the new routes are planned for China and India,” announced Eddy Krismeidi, Head of Indonesia Affairs and Policy at Indonesia AirAsia, during the Indonesia AirAsia Meets Hong Kong event in Hong Kong on Tuesday, October 8, 2024. Click here to read more 2. 2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Indonesia vs China 1-2, the First Loss for Garuda Team TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – The Indonesian national football team marked its first defeat in the third round of the Asian Zone 2026 World Cup qualifiers against China on Tuesday, October 15. The
17 October 2024
MEGA Show Hong Kong Part-1 (October 2024), Hong Kong – Hong Kong
About the Fair 20th Oct, 2024 to 23rd Oct, 2024 at Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre MEGA SHOW is one of the largest and most international sourcing platforms for a whole world of Asian consumer goods.The popularity and success of the event continues to grow year on year. Gathering all styles of interesting products for modern lifestyle, it is the must-visit destination for the world’s biggest brands to source the freshest designs and create strong business links in Asia. Exhibit Profile:-Fashion Jewelry & Accessories,Soft Furnishings & Home Textiles,Home Appliances,Other Gifts & Premiums. Frequency: Bi-Annual (Twice a year) Audience: Buyer Wholesalers / Dealers Manufacturers Corporate Decision makers Marketing Professionals Media Source link
17 October 2024
Dance to self-defence, 5 must-try wellness events in Hong Kong this weekend, October 18-20
There is so much to get up to this weekend in Hong Kong, from a toddler’s play and yoga session to a women’s self-defence class. Maybe you are a parent of a teen who would like to understand how better to support their mental health by attending a workshop put on by mental health charity Mind HK. There is an interactive dance performance session for the whole family, brought to Hong Kong by the British Council through its Spark 2024 festival of ideas. Or you could enjoy the fine autumn weather on a historic walking tour, taking in sites in the New Territories that include a former Sha Tin police barracks and home for orphans and a 300-year-old temple. Decisions. Decisions. 1. Prioritising Mental Health for Our Youth Teachers and parents with children aged 12 to 18 are welcome to attend this workshop on Saturday afternoon from 3 to 4pm. Source link
17 October 2024
Renowned Eco-Explorer Mario Rigby Joins Barclays MoonTrekker 2024 to Champion Nature Conservation in Hong Kong
~ Run for Nature • Every Step Counts ~ HONG KONG, Oct. 17, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Hong Kong’s trail running community is gearing up for the thrilling annual Barclays MoonTrekker event, happening October 18-19, 2024. For the ninth year, The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is the event’s beneficiary, with renowned adventurer Mario Rigby joining to strengthen the commitment to environmental conservation. Known for his extraordinary 12,000km trek – ‘Crossing Africa’ -, Rigby will be in Hong Kong to run for nature and raise awareness for environmental conservation. From left to right: William Sargent (Founder and Event Organizer of Barclays MoonTrekker), Mario Rigby (Renowned Eco-Explorer), and Lulu Zhou (Director of Strategic Partnerships, Asia Pacific, and Hong Kong Program Lead of The Nature Conservancy), joining forces to run for nature. A passionate advocate for sustainable travel, Rigby embodies the spirit of exploration and environmental stewardship. “Joining MoonTrekker is a fantastic opportunity to support TNC’s crucial work.” Rigby stated. “I believe in the transformative power of nature, and Hong Kong’s stunning landscapes and vibrant ecosystems are a testament to what we can achieve when we prioritize conservation. I look forward to connecting with the local community, witnessing the incredible biodiversity, and sharing my experiences.
17 October 2024
21st Hong Kong Asian Film Festival 2024
The Hong Kong Asian Film Festival is back once again for its 21st edition with a programme of local and Asian films. The festival aims to celebrate the spirit of original filmmaking while bringing incredible Asian films to a Hong Kong audience, and this year’s programme definitely measures up. From October 17 to November 10, moviegoers can visit seven cinemas across Hong Kong, such as Broadway Cinematheque, Palace IFC, Movie Movie Cityplaza, and B+ Cinema APM, to catch a range of specially curated movies. Some superb Hong Kong films that will be screened this year are The Last Dance, an existential look at mortality starring Dayo Wong and Michael Hui; True Love, for Once in My Life, a directorial debut exploring marriage through its highs and lows; An Abandoned Team, about a stray dog that impacts a broken family; as well as a series of locally made short films. The HKAFF 2024 opens with The Last Dance and Blossoms Under Somewhere – the latter is the debut by screenwriter-turned-director Riley Yip, and follows an introverted girl who tries to form meaningful bonds through parasocial relationships online. The closing films will be Daughter’s Daughter, a morally complex look at grief and
13 October 2024
Debtwire Forum Asia Pacific 2024 | Events
Date: 10 October 2024, 09:00 HKTVenue: The Four Seasons Hotel, Hong Kong SAR & Online The Debtwire Forum Asia Pacific returns on 10 October at the Four Seasons Hotel in Hong Kong and online. The Forum will bring together over 800 leading credit professionals from across the region for a day of interactive panel discussions, thought-provoking presentations and exclusive networking. The event will provide the attendees with insights into the latest trends and opportunities available for those pursuing credit strategies in the region. The Forum is accredited with 6 CPD points by the Law Society of Hong Kong. >> View agenda >> View list of speakers ABLJ members/subscribers can enjoy a 15% discount to attend the Forum. Please contact us at book@avcj.com for registration. Alternatively, book your ticket online now and quote the discount code “DWAPACABLJ15” for registration. Source link
13 October 2024
Emerging Innovators to Watch Out for at the Hong Kong Electronic Fair (Autumn Edition) 2024
Catch a glimpse of tomorrow’s technology at EFAE, where innovation meets opportunity! In the fast-paced world of technology, companies are constantly redefining the limits of innovation. Set to take place from October 13-16, 2024, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the HKTDC Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) is the perfect place to witness these revolutionary breakthroughs firsthand. With over 3,200 exhibitors from around the world, the event is a treasure trove of innovative solutions spanning smart mobility, immersive digital entertainment and beyond. This year, the fair will shine a spotlight on revolutionary advancements in several key areas. The Hall of Fame will gather top-tier global brands to unveil their latest flagship products. Over at the Tech Hall, you can dive into next-generation technologies that are driving significant change across industries. Meanwhile, the Startup Zone is dedicated to the game changers—emerging companies introducing disruptive ideas to the market. There’s more to look forward to beyond the product showcases. The fair is packed with invaluable presentations and networking opportunities. Don’t miss the Symposium on Innovation & Technology and the Hong Kong Electronic Forum, where experts will tackle hot topics like microelectronics and AI. For startups, there are programs like
12 October 2024
Volvo China Coast Regatta 2024 Preview
Volvo China Coast Regatta 2024 Preview by Vivian Ngan 9 Oct 20:09 AEDT 11-13 October 2024 Volvo China Coast Regatta 2023 © RHKYC/ Guy Nowell The Volvo China Coast Regatta, the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club‘s premier ‘Big Boat’ event, is scheduled to take place from 11 to 13 October. A forecasted freshening northeasterly monsoon is expected to blow throughout the entire regatta, with a quality fleet of 31 boats set to battle it out in the signature autumn sailing conditions of Hong Kong. Competition will be fierce across all six divisions: IRC 0, 2, 3, Cape 31, IRC Premier, and PHS. In IRC Division 0, an impressive line-up includes three TP52s: Sam Chan’s FreeFire, Noel Chan’s Rampage88, and Nie Hua’s Happy Go, who will be racing alongside the strong team onboard Seawolf, led by William Liu, and Stanley Tse’s Kikukie’s Dream II. The Cape 31s, the fastest expanding fleet in Hong Kong, will have their own division this year with four entries, including Andrew Taylor/Denis Martinet’s Capitano, which will compete against David Kong’s Out of Africa, Noel Chan’s Rampage38, and Randy Yeung’s Tai Chi by Simplicity. IRC Race 2 features five formidable teams. Hat trick
12 October 2024
Unwind and Revitalize in the Urban Wellness Paradise
TORONTO, Oct. 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Autumn is the perfect time to visit Hong Kong, when cozy weather combines with the city’s majestic natural landscape, offering all manner of ways to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul. Get ready to embark on a revitalizing journey to Hong Kong, where you can enhance your physical and mental wellbeing while uncovering the hidden gems of this world-class wellness paradise. Explore like never before! Get Active by Taking Part in World-Class Sporting Events 2024 Sun Hung Kai Properties Hong Kong Cyclothon: Hong Kong’s largest cycling event and carnival promises new excitement (13 October) Turn up the energy dial and join the city’s largest cycling event that will see 6,000 cyclists from all around the globe race for glory, backdropped by Hong Kong’s incredible natural and man-made scenery. This year’s edition will be bigger and better than ever, with new elements including enhanced routes through four tunnels and three bridges that take in incredible views of Hong Kong’s natural landscape and the spectacular Victoria Harbour. Other key highlights include a new finishing point for the enhanced 50- and 32-kilometre rides at the West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD). The expansive harbourside district will also
11 October 2024
Savour Global Flavours: Hong Kong’s Culinary Festival Returns For A 5-Day Celebration.
Hong Kong, 8th of October 2024 : The annual Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival is making a grand return to Central Harbourfront from October 23 to 27, 2024. This year, the festival extends to a bumper five-day celebration of gastronomy, beckoning food and infusion drink enthusiasts from near and far to indulge in sensory delights against the breathtaking backdrop of Victoria Harbour. The festivities align perfectly with the Diwali vacation in India, providing an ideal opportunity for Indian tourists to visit Hong Kong. This year’s edition will see over 300 booths showcasing a rich tapestry of global flavours, as well as interactive gourmet experiences, live entertainment, and a spooky Halloween vibe. In tandem with the Festival, visitors are encouraged to dive further into the city’s day-to-night gastronomic landscape during Taste Around Town, a citywide celebration of gastronomy featuring special menus and other offers at bars and restaurants throughout Hong Kong from October 28 to November 30. Don’t miss the wide range of unforgettable culinary experiences in the global gastronomy capital during the season for world-class cuisines and fine drinks. Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival 2024: A One-Stop Global Gastronomy Experience This year’s edition of the Hong Kong Wine
11 October 2024
Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival Returns for a 5-Day Culinary Celebration
Filipino foodies are in for a one-stop global gastronomy experience, with hundreds of restaurants and bars during Taste Around Town The annual Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival is back from October 23 to 27, 2024, with a five-day feast of flavors and fun. Picture over 300 booths, live entertainment, and a spooky Halloween vibe – all with Victoria Harbour as the backdrop. Here’s what to expect: A World of Wines and Spirits Wine lovers, this one’s for you! Indulge in a selection from over 30 countries and regions. Don’t miss the new gins and whisky zones, plus Cantonese-inspired cocktails from Kinsman, tea-infused creations from Tell Camellia. If you want to try something local, get Hong Kong’s own N.I.P. gin. A Culinary Wonderland With 100+ food booths, you can enjoy Michelin-starred dishes and Bib Gourmand-recommended eats in zones like “Culinary Stars” and “Hotel Delicious.” Taste dishes from three-Michelin-starred Forum Restaurant and award-winners like Hong Kong Cuisine 1983, Ăn Chơi, and Fisholic. Masterclass with the Pros Join themed culinary and wine workshops at the Tasting Theatre, led by star chefs and sommeliers. Ever wondered how a Caesar salad can be reinvented? Find out from James Beard Award-winning chef Nancy Silverton. At
11 October 2024
30,000 Expected to Attend Hong Kong Fintech Week 2024
Free Newsletter Get the hottest Fintech Singapore News once a month in your Inbox Hong Kong is set to host the ninth edition of Hong Kong Fintech Week (HKFW) from 28 October to 1 November 2024. Themed “Illuminating New Pathways in Fintech,” this year’s event aims to solidify Hong Kong’s position as a leading global financial and fintech hub. The event is organised by InvestHK and the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau, in collaboration with the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), and the Insurance Authority (IA). HKFW is expected to attract over 30,000 participants from more than 100 economies. The event will feature a main conference at Hong Kong AsiaWorld-Expo from 28-29 October, with a focus on the latest fintech innovations and trends, including artificial intelligence (AI). Notably, Hong Kong has a high adoption rate of generative AI in the finance sector, surpassing global averages. Attendees can expect insights from hundreds of speakers and engagement with numerous exhibitors, including a strong presence from Mainland Chinese big tech companies. HKFW 2024 will also highlight Hong Kong’s role as a “super connector,” bridging markets across ASEAN and the Middle East. The event programme includes eight
11 October 2024
Hong Kong to celebrate 75th anniversary of PRC with special bus parade on 19th October
The Assistant Commissioner for Transport/Bus and Railway, Miss Amy Tse (centre), today appealed to members of the public to join the event and share the joy of the celebrations together. Beside her are the personnel of franchised bus operators. 10th October 2024 – (Hong Kong) The Transport Department (TD) has unveiled the route and details for the upcoming Bus Parade, commemorating the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Scheduled for 19th October, this event will be part of the National Day celebrations, allowing the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government to engage the public while showcasing the evolution of its bus services. The parade, co-organised with franchised bus operators, will feature a total of eight retired and active buses, including an open-top bus specially themed for the 75th National Day. The festivities will kick off around 11 am, with the parade departing from Victoria Park in Causeway Bay. The route will take the buses along Gordon Road, King’s Road, Causeway Road, Hennessy Road, Fleming Road, and Lung Wo Road, covering approximately 6 kilometres and expected to last around 30 minutes. Members of the public are encouraged to join in the celebration along the parade route,
11 October 2024
The Hong Kong Hang Seng Index Crash of October 2024
The financial world witnessed a significant event as the Hong Kong Hang Seng Index experienced a dramatic crash this week. This event sent ripples across global markets and raised concerns about the economic stability in the region. The Hang Seng Index, which is a barometer for the Hong Kong stock market, saw a sharp decline, marking one of the most substantial drops in recent history. The downturn was triggered by a warning from the World Bank about the Chinese economy, which led to a loss of investor confidence and a sell-off in the markets. The index fell by 9.41 percent in a single day, reminiscent of the financial crisis of 2008. This sudden drop was a harsh reversal for the index, which tracks the largest companies in Hong Kong and Mainland China, indicating a volatile economic environment. The market’s reaction was also influenced by political factors, such as the assembly election results in Haryana, India, where the ruling BJP secured a victory, providing some positive sentiment in contrast to the Hang Seng’s crash. However, the overall impact of the crash was negative, with investors dumping shares after recent sharp gains, leading to a 9.5% plunge in the index. Tekedia Mini-MBA
11 October 2024
How to get free at-home COVID-19 tests this fall
The federal government is once again offering free COVID-19 tests this fall. Every U.S. household is eligible to order four free rapid antigen at-home tests through the United States Department of Health and Human Services, according to its website. The tests are free, including shipping. Orders can be placed online at covidtests.gov. You can also sign up for email alerts when you order to keep track of when your tests will arrive. If you need help placing an order, call 1-800-232-0233. Once you use the test, you can report your result — whether it’s positive or negative — at makemytestcount.org. Fort Collins development news:Habitat, developer clear last big hurdle in proposed workforce housing project behind Odell Want more from reporter Erin Udell? Subscribe to her new newsletter, The Buzz, for a weekly slice of Northern Colorado development, real estate and dining news. Source link
23 October 2024
COVID Map Update: US States With ‘High’ Wastewater Viral Activity Revealed
Coronavirus levels in wastewater remain “high” in certain states, despite low levels of the virus nationwide. Newsweek has revealed this variability in a map based on data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As of October 12, the overall viral activity level in wastewater across the country has been classified as “low” by the CDC, although “high” levels still persist in eight states. “Moderate” levels have been reported in 13 states, and “low” levels are now detected in 18 states, with 10 reporting “minimal” detection levels, the lowest classification in the CDC’s system. After a surge in COVID-19 cases this summer, infection rates seem to be on the decline. As of October 12, positive results account for only 6.3 percent of all tests, excluding at-home testing, in the U.S., down 0.7 percent from the previous week. However, coronavirus levels do remain high in certain states. The map below shows which states have seen the highest detections in wastewater. Viral levels in wastewater are a helpful indicator of disease prevalence within a population. Recent spikes in COVID-19 cases have been largely driven by a new class of subvariants nicknamed FLiRT after the position of the mutations on
23 October 2024
How the coronavirus defeats the innate immune
image: A section of Goodsell et al.’s magnificent “Integrative illustration for coronavirus outreach” highlighting the packaging of the viral genetic material (in pink) by the scaffold “nucleocapsid protein” (in light purple). The cell’s immune system attaches a tag (not pictured) to this protein, disabling its ability to form aggregates and thus preventing the virus from being assembled. However, the novel coronavirus has an enzyme (not highlighted) that can remove the tag and thus evade the innate immune system’s defense mechanism. view more Credit: 2020 Goodsell et al., DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3000815 The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has an enzyme that can counteract a cell’s innate defense mechanism against viruses, explaining why it is more infectious than the previous SARS and MERS-causing viruses. The Kobe University discovery may point the way to the development of more effective drugs against this and possibly similar, future diseases. When a virus attacks, the body’s immune response has two basic layers of defense: the innate and the adaptive immune systems. While the adaptive immune system grows stronger against a specific pathogen as the body is exposed to it multiple times and which forms the basis of vaccinations, the innate immune system is an assortment of molecular mechanisms that
22 October 2024
Germany grapples with divisive impact of COVID-19 pandemic – DW – 10/19/2024
German virologist Christian Drosten became a prominent national figure during the COVID-19 pandemic. He recently claimed that history is now being rewritten by dishonest actors who want to polish their public image. “The dispute over fundamental issues did not exist in science in the way it was presented in talk shows. That was infotainment,” Drosten told the Augsburger Allgemeine newspaper. “The pandemic is history, and we shouldn’t twist it.” The Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW), the populist party led by Sahra Wagenknecht, who opposed state-imposed measures to prevent the spread of the virus, as did the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), have been pushing for an investigative committee to examine policy-making during the pandemic. The BSW accuse the government of exerting undue political influence on the Robert Koch Institute, Germany’s federal disease control agency, and the “suppression of dissenting positions in public discourse,” according to the motion. Mask mandates, curfews, school closures, bans on demonstrations and mandatory vaccinations for health and care workers: The measures introduced by the government — first under Angela Merkel of the center-right Christian Democrats (CDU) then under current center-left coalition headed by Social Democrat (SPD) Olaf Scholz — to stop the spread of COVID-19 and mitigate its impact
22 October 2024
COVID-19 XEC Variant: Symptoms to Watch for as Virus Surges
A new coronavirus virus variant, XEC, is rapidly spreading across the United States. XEC has become the second most prevalent strain in the country, according to data released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), representing more than 1 in 10 cases. But what are the symptoms of XEC and how does it differ to previous strains? “There is no evidence, and no particular reason to believe, that XEC causes different symptoms than all the other SARS-CoV-2 currently in circulation,” Professor Francois Balloux—a computational systems biologist at University College London in England—told Newsweek. “XEC is not expected to cause more (or less) severe symptoms than other lineages currently in circulation.” Photo of a man coughing with an inset of the virus that causes COVID-19. Symptoms of the new XEC variant appear to be similar to what we have seen so far, including a cough and… Photo of a man coughing with an inset of the virus that causes COVID-19. Symptoms of the new XEC variant appear to be similar to what we have seen so far, including a cough and high fever. More Liubomyr Vorona/peterschreiber.media/Getty This means that XEC will likely produce the same cold- and flu-like
22 October 2024
Vaccine against the MERS coronavirus tested as safe and effective in phase Ib clinical trial
The vaccine candidate MVA-MERS-S. Credit: UKE The MERS coronavirus—MERS stands for “Middle East respiratory syndrome”—causes severe respiratory diseases with a high mortality rate. To date, there is neither a vaccine nor a specific treatment. The safety, immunogenicity and optimal dosing regimen of the MVA-MERS-S vaccine candidate developed at the DZIF have now been investigated in a phase Ib study in healthy individuals who were previously infected with the related coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The study, led by Prof Marylyn Addo at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf and published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases, has shown that the vaccine is safe and effective. Further studies on the safety and efficacy of the vaccine in risk groups for severe MERS-CoV disease, including the elderly and people with relevant comorbidities, will follow. First identified in the Middle East in 2012, the MERS coronavirus is transmitted from dromedaries to humans by droplet infection and can also be passed from person to person. The pathogen causes severe respiratory diseases, which are fatal in up to 36% of cases. The MERS coronavirus has been classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as particularly dangerous to public health. To date, more than 2,600 cases of MERS have been confirmed
21 October 2024
Whooping cough cases surge in US, Europe post-COVID pandemic
Cases of pertussis fell during the COVID-19 pandemic, but cases of the “100-day” cough are now increasing. ADVERTISEMENT There has been a resurgence of whooping cough in multiple countries in 2024, with the US reporting more than 18,500 cases since the beginning of the year. The number of US cases of the highly contagious infection, also known as pertussis, is nearly five times higher than at this time last year, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It also marks the highest caseload at this point of the year since 2014, according to CDC data. It comes amid a resurgence in Europe as well, with French health authorities reporting the worst epidemic in 25 years. Public Health France reported last month that there was an ongoing epidemic in the country since early 2024 “with a very significant circulation of the bacteria which has intensified in recent months”. There have been nearly 35,000 confirmed laboratory cases of whooping cough by PCR test and pertussis has killed 22 children in France this year, including 20 babies under the age of one. A surveillance system in France put the number of cases seen by general practitioners at more than
20 October 2024
COVID, mpox, cholera: Is the world prepared for another pandemic? | Climate Crisis News
Some 4.5 billion people worldwide are currently without adequate access to essential healthcare services, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This comes as more than 100,000 cases of mpox and at least 200 deaths have been confirmed globally, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, with the WHO declaring it a public health emergency earlier this year. The ongoing cholera outbreak in Sudan alone has affected almost 15,000 people with at least 473 deaths reported, according to the country’s health ministry. A new COVID-19 variant has spread across 27 countries, infecting hundreds of people. At the 2024 World Economic Summit, it was also revealed that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become the leading cause of death globally and could kill 10 million people by 2050. A report titled Quantifying the Impact of Climate Change on Human Health, launched earlier this year, predicts that by 2050, an additional 14.5 million deaths could occur due to climate change as well as $12.5 trillion in economic losses globally. With healthcare systems across the world already under extra stress, they could face an additional $1.1 trillion burden due to the impact of climate change, the report added. Al Jazeera spoke to
20 October 2024
Why COVID still splits German society – DW – 10/19/2024
German virologist Christian Drosten became a prominent national figure during the COVID-19 pandemic. He recently claimed that history is now being rewritten by dishonest actors who want to polish their public image. “The dispute over fundamental issues did not exist in science in the way it was presented in talk shows. That was infotainment,” Drosten told the Augsburger Allgemeine newspaper. “The pandemic is history, and we shouldn’t twist it.” The Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW), the populist party led by Sahra Wagenknecht, who opposed state-imposed measures to prevent the spread of the virus, as did the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), have been pushing for an investigative committee to examine policy-making during the pandemic. The BSW accuse the government of exerting undue political influence on the Robert Koch Institute, Germany’s federal disease control agency, and the “suppression of dissenting positions in public discourse,” according to the motion. Mask mandates, curfews, school closures, bans on demonstrations and mandatory vaccinations for health and care workers: The measures introduced by the government — first under Angela Merkel of the center-right Christian Democrats (CDU) then under current center-left coalition headed by Social Democrat (SPD) Olaf Scholz — to stop the spread of COVID-19 and mitigate its impact
19 October 2024
Covid XEC: What are the symptoms of new virus strain?
Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check email A new strain of Covid emerging in the UK is spreading as cases increase at a high rate, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has said. Called XEC, the strain is a combination of the KS.1.1 and KP.3.3 variants. Figures from the UKHSA show that the admission rate for patients testing positive for the new strain rose to 4.5 per 100,000 people in the week to October 6. This was up from 3.7 a week earlier. It is thought the XEC strain is more transmissible due to its numerous mutations, and presents symptoms similar to those of other Covid variants including tiredness, headaches, a sore throat and high temperatures. Although self-isolation is no longer a legal requirement in the UK, the NHS has advised anyone who tests positive for Covid to avoid contact with others for at least five days. It is also recommended that contact with more vulnerable people be avoided for 10 days, to reduce the risk to them. As a general rule, it is advised anyone with symptoms at least wait for them to
19 October 2024
After baby massage saved her from postnatal depression, mother holds Hong Kong classes
Baby movement classes were a lifesaver for Hong Kong mum Jen Cooper. Literally. A teacher with 10 years’ experience in the UK and mainland China, Cooper was living in rural Scotland in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns when she gave birth to her daughter. “Everything was shut. There were no cafes, there was no support, there was no way of leaving the house for several months. So it was kind of a recipe for mental health issues,” she says. Taking up baby massage helped Jen Cooper overcome severe postnatal depression. Photo: Edmond So “My daughter was very much a wanted baby and I felt a huge wave of emotion, but then nothing. The doctors wanted to hospitalise me but my husband begged them not to, so they offered an alternative.” That alternative was baby massage, a tradition practised by cultures around the world for millennia. It involves stimulating different parts of a baby’s body to promote healthy joints, better sleep, parent-baby bonding and more. Source link
19 October 2024
Risk of Type 2 Diabetes In Children Increases Following SARS-CoV-2 Infection
The risk of an incident diagnosis of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in children and adolescents was higher within 6 months of a COVID-19 diagnosis compared with patients diagnosed with other non-COVID-19 respiratory infections (ORIs), according to the results of a recent study.1 SARS-CoV-2 infection causes COVID-19, which can increase type 2 diabetes incidence. | Image Credit: © oz | stock.adobe.com SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, has been associated with a variety of chronic illnesses that occur in the weeks and months following diagnosis. Diabetes is no different, with previous studies finding that the risk of incident diabetes was significantly higher among adults who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. Data has indicated the risk is greater in those with a more severe infection.2 Sparse research exists on the incidence of diabetes after COVID-19 among children and adolescents. Most studies that exist feature small study populations, providing insufficient data to make any clinical determinations. However, the incidence of T2D was found to have increased significantly following the COVID-19 pandemic in individuals 19 years and younger, though the increase could also be due to other factors.3 In this trial, the investigators sought clarity in understanding the risk of T2D development in pediatric patients
18 October 2024
COVID-19 linked to type 2 diabetes onset in children
Time Intervals for Outcome Analysis. Credit: JAMA Network Open (2024). DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.39444 Pediatric patients aged 10 to 19 years old diagnosed with COVID-19 have a higher risk of new-onset type 2 diabetes within six months compared to those diagnosed with other respiratory infections, according to researchers at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. The research is a follow-up of meta-data analysis showing an increased risk of type 2 diabetes in adults. The meta-analysis revealed a 66% higher average risk of new-onset diabetes after SARS-CoV-2 infection in adults. In the current retrospective study, “SARS-CoV-2 Infection and New-Onset Type 2 Diabetes Among Pediatric Patients, 2020 to 2022,” published in JAMA Network Open, researchers looked to see if a similar pattern existed in children. The study analyzed a cohort of 613,602 pediatric patients aged 10 to 19 years. After propensity score matching, this cohort was divided equally into two groups: 306,801 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 and 306,801 patients diagnosed with other respiratory infections (ORI). A subset of the cohort with obesity and COVID or ORI was also analyzed, with two groupings of 16,469 patients. The research compared the incidence of new type 2 diabetes diagnoses at one, three, and six months after
18 October 2024
Discordant phylodynamic and spatiotemporal transmission patterns driving the long-term persistence and evolution of human coronaviruses
Genomic recombination landscape across human coronaviruses Recent lineage diversification of HCoV-229E and HCoV-OC43 viruses. Between 2009 and 2018, we obtained more than 3042 nasal swab samples from two cohorts in Singapore and Tanzania. In total, we generated 31 complete genomes from the four HCoVs (Table 1), including HCoV-229E (n = 8), HCoV-OC43 (n = 11), HCoV-NL63 (n = 8), and HCoV-HKU1 (n = 4), that were analysed alongside all available global sequences to understand the changes in relative genetic diversity and population dynamics of HCoV species. Table 1 Sample collection, complete genomes and GenBank accession numbers of human coronaviruses (HCoV-229E, HCoV-NL63, HCoV-OC43 and HCoV-HKU1) from Singapore and Tanzania To determine the frequency and genomic location of recombination breakpoints among the four distinct HCoV species, we employed RDP5 which integrates multiple recombination algorithms in a single analysis. Our findings reveal that recombination in HCoV-229E alphacoronavirus is rare, with only two events detected in the spike–nucleocapsid region (Region 1 in Fig. 1a). This event comprised of two isolates from China in 2018 that were flagged as potential recombinants as they share mosaicism with two parental Chinese isolates detected in 2016 and 2017. In contrast, the other alphacoronavirus HCoV-NL63 displayed a greater frequency of recombination events (n = 16) with breakpoints starting at
17 October 2024
COVID-19 disrupted U.S. cancer detection: A Two-Year review
Cancer detection in the U.S. significantly disrupted during first year of COVID-19 pandemic, partial recovery seen in second year. Study: Recovery From COVID-19–Related Disruptions in Cancer Detection. Image Credit: Inside Creative House/Shutterstock.com In a recent study published in the JAMA Network Open, a group of researchers assessed the disruption and recovery in cancer detection during the first two years of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, using national cancer incidence data from 2000 to 2021. Background The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted oncologic services, affecting cancer screening, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. During the early pandemic, cancer incidence dropped nearly 9% in 2020 and by almost 50% during peak lockdown months due to resource reallocation and patient hesitancy to seek care. Access to diagnostic cancer services was constrained, and risk tolerance for seeking care varied across sociodemographic groups. Health systems adapted by expanding telemedicine and prioritizing cancer diagnostics. However, the effects on cancer care were dynamic. Further research is needed to assess long-term impacts and address gaps in cancer detection during the pandemic. About the study The study design, analysis, and presentation followed the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines for cross-sectional studies. The research team clearly described the study
17 October 2024
Systematic review and meta analysis of cross immunity and the smokers paradox in COVID19
To date, there is no accepted explanation for the low current prevalence of smokers in COVID-19 patients. This work attempts to shed some light on whether cross-immunity can be involved in the underrepresentation of smokers among COVID-19 patients. To do so, it evaluates if smokers are more susceptible to infection by the four ccCoV (229E, NL63, OC43 and HKU1), and whether this could mean greater protection to SARS-CoV-2. First, it is important to note the marked presence of antibodies of these four ccCoV in the vast majority of the population. Previous studies report that common coronaviruses represent 20% upper respiratory tract infections in adults38. Serverance et al.,39 quantified levels of antibodies in a group of 196 generally healthy individuals. The results were positive with the following percentages for each ccCoV: 229E: 91.3%; HKU1: 59.2%; NL63: 91.8%; OC43: 90.8 confirming a high ccCoV seroprevalence level in the general population. This finding agreed with the previous literature40,41,42. The higher incidence of common cold coronaviruses (ccCoV) in smokers can be attributed to several factors related to the effects of smoking on the respiratory system and immune response. Smoking is known to impair the mucociliary clearance mechanism, which normally helps to remove pathogens from
17 October 2024
Study shows no developmental delays in toddlers post-COVID-19 infection
While toddlers seem resilient to COVID-19, this new study highlights how socioeconomic factors, not the virus, may play a larger role in developmental outcomes. Study: Association between SARS-CoV-2 infection before the age of two and child development. Image Credit: Nina Aleksandryuk / Shutterstock.com A recent study published in the journal Pediatric Research evaluates the potential impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection on cognitive development in children two years of age and younger. How does COVID-19 affect children? Initially, SARS-CoV-2 was highly virulent in adults, with children typically experiencing mild or no symptoms. However, the emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant has led more diverse populations to experience symptoms following infection, with respiratory symptoms and fever more frequently observed in younger populations. Simultaneously, the incidence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and post-COVID-19 conditions has increased, particularly among adults and adolescents. Cognitive difficulties are widespread among individuals with long-COVID, even those who experienced mild symptoms during the infection. Since children infected with newer SARS-CoV-2 variants are more likely to experience symptoms than children infected with previous viral strains, it is crucial to assess how cognitive function may be affected after recovery from COVID-19. About the study In the current study, researchers
16 October 2024
COVID-19 raises the risk of type 2 diabetes in children, study reveals
A new study shows that COVID-19 infections in children lead to a significantly higher risk of type 2 diabetes within six months, sparking fresh concerns about the long-term impacts of the virus on young populations. Study: SARS-CoV-2 Infection and New-Onset Type 2 Diabetes Among Pediatric Patients, 2020 to 2022. Image Credit: Neirfy / Shutterstock In a recent study published in JAMA Network Open, researchers at Case Western Reserve University, USA, assessed the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) following severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in children. SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with subsequent chronic illnesses. A meta-analysis reported a 66% increased risk of new-onset diabetes in adults after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Several reports suggest this risk is much greater in males and those with severe COVID-19. Moreover, increased diabetes incidence post-COVID-19 has been reported among people younger than 18. Some studies have also noted associations between COVID-19 and the risk of new-onset type 1 diabetes (T1D) in children. In addition, increases in other disorders post-COVID-19, such as myocarditis, multisystem inflammatory syndrome, etc., have been documented in children. T2D incidence rates in children had increased worldwide before the COVID-19 pandemic. However, research on T2D incidence post-COVID-19 in children has been
16 October 2024
Swiss health office recommends vaccination against flu and Covid
FOPH recommends vaccination against flu and coronavirus Keystone-SDA Listen to the article Listening the article Toggle language selector English (US) English (British) Generated with artificial intelligence. The Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) is once again warning against the flu this year. People at increased risk are recommended to get vaccinated against both influenza and Covid. This content was published on October 15, 2024 – 14:28 +Get the most important news from Switzerland in your inbox According to the FOPH, people with chronic illnesses such as respiratory or heart disease, pregnant women, premature babies and anyone aged 65 and over are at an increased risk of complications. In its press release on Tuesday, the FOPH recommends vaccination for all people at risk of complications from the age of six months, as well as anyone who comes into close professional or private contact with people at increased risk of complications. According to the FOPH, both vaccinations – against influenza and Covid-19 – offer good protection against serious illness. + Excess mortality rate post-Covid could persist until 2033 The best time to get vaccinated against the flu is therefore mid-October until the start of the flu epidemic, which is usually expected between
15 October 2024
New coronavirus strain detected in southern Brazil — MercoPress
New coronavirus strain detected in southern Brazil Tuesday, October 15th 2024 – 20:37 UTC Scientists believe that XEC might have emerged through genetic recombination between previously circulating strains The Rio de Janeiro-based Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) confirmed the presence in the southern part of the continent’s largest country of a sublineage of the Sars-CoV-2 Omicron strain known as XEC, which is rapidly spreading worldwide, Agencia Brasil reported. The variant has been found in the States of Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Santa Catarina after Fiocruz made the first discovery in samples from two patients in Rio last month. The decoded genetic sequences were uploaded to the Gisaid platform on Sept. 26 and Oct. 7. Following the data from Rio de Janeiro, additional XEC lineage genomes from São Paulo, based on samples collected in August, and from Santa Catarina, from two samples taken in September, were also submitted by other research groups. XEC was classified as a variant under monitoring by the World Health Organization (WHO) on Sept. 24. This classification is given when a strain shows mutations in the genome that are suspected of affecting the virus’ behavior, and early signs of a growth advantage compared to
15 October 2024
COVID Infection Puts Young People at Higher Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Credit: CHRISTOPH BURGSTEDT/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/Getty Images Ten to nineteen year olds had a 55% higher risk of a new type 2 diabetes (TD2) diagnosis one month after a COVID infection, compared with young people diagnosed with a non-COVID respiratory virus. The risk of TD2 diagnosis remained elevated at three months and six months, according to a study by Case Western Reserve University researchers. In adults, diagnoses of new-onset T2D have increased following diagnosis with COVID-19, but whether this occurred in young people also was unclear. These researchers conducted an observational study of 614,000 U.S. patients by using electronic medical records from the TriNetX analytics platforms. The study was published this week in JAMA Network Open and led by Margaret G. Miller. They retrospectively analyzed rates of new T2D diagnosis in 613,602 pediatric patients one, three, and six months after infection with either SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID, or another respiratory pathogen. Half of the patients had COVID-19, and half had another respiratory infection. The risk of new-onset T2D was significantly higher from the day of infection to up to six months after a COVID-19 diagnosis than other infections. Boys and girls were at similar risk. Results were similar in overweight or
15 October 2024
Omagh man wants help after ‘life ruined’ by jab
Larry Lowe Larry Lowe struggles with everyday tasks such as walking On 15 December 2021 Larry Lowe’s life changed. He was 54, rarely ill, fit, healthy and running 10km most days – until he got the Pfizer Covid booster. Within days he developed numbness in the right side of his face and started experiencing pain. “I had lost all the feeling in my face, teeth, nose, tongue, eye, that whole side of my head,” he said. These symptoms have spread through his body and intensified over the years, with doctors across the UK saying the vaccine is to blame. Pfizer said patient safety was paramount and it took reports of adverse reactions very seriously. It said hundreds of millions of doses had been administered globally “and the benefit-risk profile of the vaccine remains positive for all authorised indications and age groups”. Mr Lowe, who is from Omagh in Northern Ireland, said that while he was not opposed to vaccines, his life had been destroyed. Larry Lowe Larry pictured with his wife before he developed painful trigeminal neuropathy What does the Public Health Agency say? Northern Ireland’s Public Health Agency (PHA) said the benefits of the vaccines in preventing Covid-19 and
15 October 2024
COVID Map Update: US States With ‘Very High’ Wastewater Viral Activity
While nationwide COVID-19 cases have dwindled in recent weeks, wastewater detections of the virus still remain “very high” in certain states. Newsweek have revealed this variability in a map based on data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As of October 5, the overall viral activity level in wastewater across the country has been demoted from “moderate” to “low,” although “very high” levels are still being detected in two states. A further 14 states have “high” wastewater detection levels, with seven detecting “moderate” levels and 15 classified as “low.” Eight states, including D.C., are now reporting “minimal” detection levels, the lowest classification in the CDC’s system. After a surge in COVID cases this summer, infection rates seem to be on the decline. As of October 5, positive results account for only 7.7 percent of all tests (excluding at-home testing) in the U.S., down 0.8 percent from the previous week. However, coronavirus levels do remain high in certain states, especially in the Northwest. The map below shows which states have seen the highest detections in wastewater. Viral levels in wastewater are a helpful indicator of disease prevalence within a population. Recent spikes in COVID cases have been
15 October 2024
