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While the Black Friday crowds are storming the local stores, a different and more painful drama continues to play out in the nations which supply a lot of the goods we will be buying.
More than 110 workers died on Nov. 25 in Bangladesh as the result of a fire at a textile manufacturer. Bangladesh exports about $18 billion worth of garments and is a big supplier to companies like Walmart, H&M and Tommy Hilfiger. The New York Times reports that "The two-year-old factory employed about 1,500 workers, had sales of $35 million a year and the factory made T-shirts, polo shirts and fleece jackets."
Over the past several years, largely as a result of pressures applied by the labor unions, free trade agreements have in place enforcement mechanisms to ensure fair environmental and labor standards. However, as the New York Times article points out, "Workers in the country's factories are among the lowest-paid in the world with entry-level workers making a government-mandated minimum wage of about $37 a month" while noting that "Bangladesh's garment industry, the second largest exporter of clothing after China, has a notoriously poor record of fire safety."
China also has exhibited a disregard for such standards and it is amply clear that the enforcement mechanisms built into international trade agreements are at best difficult to enforce and not producing the results intended. Factories which could and should be leading its workers and regions to a better standard of living are not only not doing so in the short run but also producing substantial long run social costs.
I have a personal perspective on this matter. I was born and raised in Sicily and was 20 years old when I emigrated to Connecticut in 1970. In the 1950's, the local Sicilian economy was based almost exclusively on agriculture and the population was demanding change. In 1959, the Italian government, aided by the World Bank, decided to fund a local industrial project in the town of Priolo, about 15 miles away from where I lived and only a handful of kilometers from Siracusa. The overall project would include an integrated chemical manufacturing complex; construction of a plant for the production and processing of polyethylene and ethylene oxide and derivatives and construction of a thermal power plant to meet the increasing demands for power.
While no one can dispute the economic benefits as thousands of new jobs were created, the long term negative impact have only recently begun to be measured: extremely high rates of cancer and birth defects; the air contaminated and the polluting of what was a pristine coastline and sea.
I vividly recall my return trips to visit relatives in Sicily and the drive from the airport in Catania to my home town, trip which required us to drive right in front of this plant: we would hold our breath and close all windows and could still smell the "rotten eggs." And to add insult to injury most of those plants have now closed leaving an economic vacuum and enormous unfunded social costs.
Now, 50 years later, much progress has been made in environmental controls and worker safety: we need not take draconian measures to address our concerns. And while I applaud the intent of the labor unions in attempting to level the playing field in international trade by insisting that such agreements contain environmental and worker safety clauses, enforcement of these agreements is slow and difficult to achieve.
Companies like Walmart utilize what they call ethical sourcing officials to inspect the plants of their supplier and insure compliance with safety laws. The Bangladesh plant in question had been reported for "violations and/or conditions which were deemed to be high risk." Unfortunately it takes three such failures to trigger a penalty in the form of a one-year suspension of that firm as a Walmart supplier.
I like this approach better than any government regulation but would make it much more stringent.
When it comes to safety and environment, our companies should enforce a zero tolerance approach: more frequent inspections, say quarterly, followed by a stringent enforcement that suppliers are suspended on the second such instance within a 12-month period. Such a move would provide the economic incentive that overseas companies need to improve safety while continuing to supply reasonably priced goods.
Paul Pirrotta is president of Paul Pirrotta International in Glastonbury. Reach him through paulpirrottainternational.com.


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Apple to produce line of Macs in the U.S. next year
Apple CEO Tim Cook said Thursday the company will spend $100 million in 2013 to move production of one of its existing lines of Mac computers to the U.S. from China.
NEW YORK — Apple CEO Tim Cook says the company will produce one of its existing lines of Mac computers in the United States next year.
Cook made the comments in part of an interview taped for NBC's "Rock Center," but aired Thursday morning on "Today" and posted on the network's website.
In a separate interview with Bloomberg Businessweek, he said that the company will spend $100 million in 2013 to move production of the line to the U.S. from China.
"This doesn't mean that Apple will do it ourselves, but we'll be working with people and we'll be investing our money," Cook told Bloomberg.
Calls to Apple Inc. for comment Thursday were not immediately returned.
Like most consumer electronics companies, Apple forges agreements with contract manufacturers to assemble its products overseas. However, the assembly accounts for a fraction of the cost of making a PC or smartphone. Most of the cost lies in buying chips, and many of those are made in the U.S., Cook noted in his interview with NBC.
The company and its manufacturing partner Foxconn Technology Group have faced significant criticism this year over working conditions at the Chinese facilities where Apple products are assembled. The attention prompted Foxconn to raise salaries.
Cook didn't say which line of computers would be produced in the U.S. or where in the country they would be made. But he told Bloomberg that the production would include more than just final assembly. That suggests that machining of cases and printing of circuit boards could take place in the U.S.
The simplest Macs to assemble are the Mac Pro and Mac Mini desktop computers. Since they lack the built-in screens of the MacBooks and iMacs, they would likely be easier to separate from the Asian display supply chain.
Regardless, the U.S. manufacturing line is expected to represent just a tiny piece of Apple's overall production, with sales of iPhones and iPads now dwarfing those of its computers.
Cook said in his interview with NBC that companies like Apple chose to produce their products in places like China, not because of the lower costs associated with it, but because the manufacturing skills required just aren't present in the U.S. anymore.
He added that the consumer electronics world has never really had a big production presence in the U.S. As a result, it's really more about starting production in the U.S. than bringing it back, he said.
But for nearly three decades Apple made its computers in the U.S. It started outsourcing production in the mid-90s, first by selling some plants to contract manufacturers, then by hiring manufacturers overseas. It assembled iMacs in Elk Grove, Calif. until 2004.
The news comes a day after Apple posted its worst stock drop in four years, erasing $35 million in market capitalization. Apple's stock rose $8.15, or 1.5 percent, to $546.94 in Thursday afternoon trading.
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Samsung has finally revealed the long-awaited prototype of a triple-screen cell phone and a dual foldable hinge.
This model appeared at the IMID 2021 event (International Meeting on Information Screens or International Meeting on Information Screens) and can be seen in action in the video below, although the cell phone is shown all the time with the screens semi-extended, so how the mechanism works to close it is not appreciated.
The video description shows that the screen is multi-faceted and can be folded in and out. In addition, no other data or information was provided about the specifications of the phone, as the main thing is in the screen technology that Samsung promises.
However, the team looks in a very similar way to what South Korea recently introduced by folding it up. One of them is the Galaxy Z Flip team What happened to our hands We conclude that it is one of the best foldable devices that have been launched since the introduction of this technology.
Having this multimeter from Samsung Known since March 2021At this point, it was said that the company would introduce the first model this year. However, it is not clear if this prototype seen at IMID 2021 will be a commercial product anytime soon.
It is also possible that Samsung’s folding will end up replacing the existing font of smart phones Galaxy Note, which has high-end and premium specs like the Galaxy S, but is aimed at more productive or professional profiles.
In this segment, Samsung’s foldable (or multi-faceted) might make sense now that the technology appears to have matured.
“Proud web fanatic. Subtly charming twitter geek. Reader. Internet trailblazer. Music buff.”


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An issue with the Google Store checkout means that for some buyers, any store credit you have cannot be used with any current purchases.
Google Store Stories November 29
Google Store Stories November 25
Like in previous years, Made by Google is providing a “sneak peek” of holiday deals. The Google Store’s 2021 Black Friday sale will start a week before Thanksgiving, and the highlight is $50 off the Pixel 5a with 5G.
Google Store Stories October 21
Google Store: Pixel 6 buyers that forgot to order Pixel Buds A-Series will still get the freebie
Pixel 6 pre-orderers in the US and Canada are entitled to a free pair of Pixel Buds A-Series earbuds. In the rush to order, some Google Store buyers forgot to trigger the offer. Google today told those customers that they will be getting the free headphones and don’t have to do anything but wait.
Google Store Stories October 20
Google Store opens waitlist if your desired Pixel 6 model is out of stock
Following yesterday’s ordering difficulties, the Google Store has remained in operation for prospective Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro buyers. However, if your desired Pixel 6 model is not available, a waitlist is now available.
Google Store Stories October 19
Pixel 6 trade-ins are worth up to $600, but Pixel 3 owners won’t even get $100
Trade-ins and financing are the name of the game for smartphones sold in the US, and Google is, of course, offerings those options for Pixel 6 buyers in its own Google Store. However, values aren’t all that impressive.
[Update: Fixed] It’s not just you, the Google Store is struggling amid Pixel 6 launch
The Pixel 6 is finally here and pre-orders are technically open, but unfortunately, the best place to buy a Pixel 6, the Google Store, is struggling to keep up with the launch.
Google Store Stories September 26
Google Store Stories September 24
For customers in the Asia-Pacific region, Google is marking its birthday a bit differently this year and using the occasion as an opportunity to promote its upcoming flagship phone. Purchasing something this weekend from one of three Google Stores will net you a discount when buying the Pixel 6 later this year.
Google Store Stories September 19
Google has long marked its company birthday on September 27 — even though the incorporation took place earlier on September 4. In recent years, international Google Stores in Europe and Asia Pacific have run deals to mark this occasion. For its 23rd birthday, Google looks to be giving Store purchasers this upcoming weekend an unspecified “offer” on the Pixel 6.
Google Store Stories September 15
Google Store Stories August 9
Google Store Stories August 3
Google Store Stories July 30
With the launch of Stadia for Android TV last month, Google started offering a discount for those that purchased the Chromecast with Google TV and Controller together. The Google Store is making the Stadia Controller and Chromecast an official “Package” today and discounting Premiere Edition further.
The Stadia for Android and Google TV app officially launches today — though we’ve been using it for a few days through a simple workaround. As part of that, the Google Store is offering a “special offer” that gives you a small deal when buying both the Chromecast with Google TV and Stadia Controller.
Google Store Stories July 28
Google is sending out a promo email to select users of older Google Home and Nest speakers to offer a discount of $25 USD on Nest Audio. The email, which went out this morning, encourages an “upgrade to Nest Audio” for better sound quality and marks down the original $99.99 price to $74.99.
Google Store Stories July 13
Outside of Assistant displays and speakers, as well as thermostats and Wi-Fi routers, Google’s smart home lineup is quite old and due for an overhaul. Google looks to be laying the groundwork for that by selling out of the Nest Detect and removing product listings for the Nest Cam IQ Indoor and Outdoor.
Google Store Stories July 9
Google Store Stories June 30
Google Store Stories June 23
Some Chromecast with Google TV owners can get a Stadia Controller for 50% off
Stadia for Google TV officially launches today, and to celebrate, some Chromecast owners are getting a 50% discount on the Stadia Controller.
Google Store Stories June 21
Google Store Stories June 20
Some Pixel Buds A-Series owners are getting a $10 Google Store credit
Google Store Stories June 18
Google will not restock Nest Detect after current inventory sells out
Google released a new batch of Nest Detect sensors to help existing Nest Secure owners expand their systems in March. In an email today, the company said the Nest Detect will no longer be available after the current inventory runs out.
Google Store Stories June 17
Google Store Stories June 16
Tomorrow, the first permanent Google retail store opens its doors to the public in a project that the company has been working toward since 2016. Since there’s only one — with the company steadfastly not commenting on whether there will be more, here’s a tour of the site in New York.
Google Store Stories June 14
Google Store Stories May 28
Ahead of the opening this summer, we got a sneak peek yesterday at the first Google Store in New York City. The company has said that the retail location is an “important next step” for its hardware division. For prospective visitors, what are you most looking forward to doing at a Google Store?
Google Store Stories May 27
Stadia will make its retail debut at upcoming NYC Google Store [Updated]
Google’s upcoming retail store in New York City will mark the first time Stadia and its hardware are sold in an in-person store.
Google Store Stories May 23
Google Store Stories May 20
Google Store Stories May 10
Google Store Stories May 3
At the end of March, Made by Google started shipping its latest Smart Display in six countries. Google will be making the new Nest Hub (2nd gen) more widely available in Europe next month.
Google Store Stories April 22
Google Store Stories April 16
Google Store Stories April 11
Google Store Stories April 10
Google Store Stories March 16
Stadia Premiere Edition w/ controller, Chromecast gets $40 discount ahead of FIFA 21
Google Stadia works on the hardware you already own, but the experience is best with a Stadia Controller and a Chromecast Ultra. Now, just in time for the debut of EA’s FIFA 21 on the platform, Stadia Premiere Edition is getting a $40 discount.
Google Store Stories March 11
Pixelbook Go gets first Google Store discount of 2021
Google announced the Pixelbook Go in October of 2019, and it’s currently the only first-party Chrome OS device following the Pixel Slate’s quiet discontinuation at the start of this year. The Pixelbook Go is now seeing some slight discounts on the US Google Store.
Google Store Stories March 1
Pixel 4a 5G is $449 on the Google Store, up to $200 off for new Fi customers
Last week, the first Pixel 5a rumors emerged revealing an existing design. The familiar device in question is now down to $449 on the Google Store with the Fi MVNO bringing back a past Pixel 4a 5G promotion.
Google Store Stories February 23
For some time now, the US Google Store has offered an affordable refurbished option for a few select products, including the Nest Cam Indoor and Nest Protect. Today, the Google Store has gained three more refurbished options in the US, the Nest Learning Thermostat, Nest Wifi, and Nest Hello.
Google Store Stories February 16
Nest Audio gets first individual Google Store discount at $79
The Nest Audio was unveiled at last year’s Launch Night In livestream and was immediately discounted when buying a 2-pack. The Google Store is now taking $20 off individual purchases.
Following the completion of Google’s buyout of Fitbit, the company’s own storefront made it pretty clear what was coming. Fitbit watches and trackers would be sold right alongside Pixels and Nest gear. Now, that’s official. Fitbit smartwatches and fitness trackers are now available for purchase directly from the Google Store.
Google Store Stories February 5
‘Barely Blue’ Pixel 4a back in stock on the US Google Store
Back in November — ahead of Black Friday, Google made its most affordable phone available in another color. After being unavailable for the past few weeks, the US Google Store has the Barely Blue Pixel 4a back in stock.
Google Store Stories January 29
Google Store Stories January 28


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'87pc farmer online usage must deliver prompt payments and reduced penalties'
With 87% of farmers applying for their BPS/Greening payment online in 2017, the Deputy President of ICMSA has said that this must translate into an elimination of the kinds of payment delays experienced in previous years and a much speedier identification of errors and rectifications that will enable outstanding queries to be dealt with well in advance of the payment dates: mid September for the ANC payment and the 16 October for the BPS/Greening.
Mr McCormack noted how critical these payments have become to farmers representing a huge percentage of total farm income and their prompt payment is critical in terms of meeting bills and loan repayments that traditionally fall due in the Autumn period.
He acknowledged that the online system has improved year on year in terms of the BPS/Greening/ANC applications and farmers have responded by switching to this system on the basis of a clear commitment from the Department that payments will be made on time.
But he observed that for a certain number of farmers, this has not happened and they have experienced long delays in their payments with serious implications and stress for the farmers involved.
“As regards 2017, it is essential that every farmer is notified of any problem with their application by 1 September at the very latest and that all problems are resolved in advance of the ANC payment date.
"Getting a letter relating to a problem in October or November is hugely frustrating for farmers and this has to be avoided in 2017.
"Farmers should be able to check the status of their application online and when an application is fully processed, a farmer should be notified by text or email that their application is ‘through the system’ and payment will issue on the dates as per the Farmers Charter.
"If this sensible policy was implemented, it would also reduce the volume of phone calls farmers have to make to the Department”, said Mr. McCormack.


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Many firms around the world are racing to be the number one in developing the best driverless cars, but can Stan Boland, founder and chief executive of UK driverless car company Five AI, be the best and beat the American and Chinese cash?
The answer is easy, there might be a chance.
Five AI company is moving quickly to design a driverless car that can drive on the road without any human driver. Things are still under tests on roads of south London, but everyone is optimistic.
FIVE AI Vs Others
Five AI is just a start-up company challenging huge companies in USA and China like US giants Google, Uber and Tesla. Fundings of Five AI for developing driverless cars are negligible ($38m) compared to Google (invested more than $1.1bn on between 2009 and 2015).
Additionally, Five AI a small number of employees is just 120 worker while Uber’s self-driving arm has 2 thousands and Waymo has 3,500 worker.
Actually, words cannot post a comparison between Mr Boland and his team and his American and Chinese rivals, but his ambitions to be the top one to develop the best driverless cars in the world seem serious.
However, Mr Boland has another opinion. This man is realistic and he knows the competition which he is trying to win, but he really sees this project as “a gamble”. He believes that his company and professional team worths tens of billions, and with focused efforts, he will reach his goal and change the way cities operate.


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Attention: “Star Wars” fans
Spend some time getting reacquainted with your favorite “Star Wars” characters up close and personal Saturday, all for a good cause.
Members the Garrison Titan Vader’s 501st Legion will be at BobaKhan Toys and Collectibles from noon to 4 p.m. It’s a chance to have photos taken with colorful figures when donating cans of food or nonperishable items that will go to the Volunteers of American Western Washington Food Bank.
Santa Claus will be there. The store is at 500 SE, Everett Mall Way.
Scholarship money up for grabs: The city of Monroe is accepting applications for the Association of Washington Cities scholarship. Students who are involved in city government or their community from across the state can compete for the money to attend college next fall.
The qualifications, application materials and other information can be found on Monroe’s website or at City Hall. Applications are due by 5 p.m. Feb. 4.
Christmas caroling: The Downtown Monroe Association invites anyone to join its members and local choirs for caroling along Main and Lewis streets from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday. For more information, contact Ben Allen at 503-930-1638 or firstname.lastname@example.org.


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Sakata to set up ink unit in Gujarat
Japan based firm's fully-owned Indian subsidiary Sakata Inx (India) has acquired 20 acres land at Panoli in Gujarat for the new facility.india Updated: Aug 18, 2006 19:31 IST
Sakata Inx (India), a 100 per cent subsidiary of the premium ink manufacturer Sakata Inx Corporation, Japan, has aquired 20 acres of land in Panoli, Gujarat to set up the company's bigest ink manufactureing plant in India.
Japanese ink manufacturer Sakata Inx Corporation said it will invest Rs 60 crore to set up a new facility in India which will be used for global sourcing.
The company said its fully-owned Indian subsidiary Sakata Inx (India) has acquired 20 acres land at Panoli in Gujarat for the new facility.
Sakata said it would make the investment in two phases. While the first phase, which will see investment of Rs 30 crore, will be completed by 2007, the plant will be fully operational by 2009.
The plant will produce high-quality gravure printing inks, which would be further customised to cater to the specific demands of the packaging industry, it said.
"The Panoli plant will focus on manufacturing news ink, thereby targeting the vast number of publishing and media houses and customer base located in western India," Sakata India Managing Director V K seth said.
The company will also manufacture "UV and digital inks to penetrate further in the Indian market," he added.
The plant would be a comprehensive manufacturing base for all type of inks for the domestic as well as the international markets that include West Asia, Africa and CIS countries, it said.
The company, which currently has a production facility at Bhiwadi in Rajasthan, targets to achieve 50 per cent of the export sales from the new plant.
First Published: Aug 18, 2006 19:31 IST


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Charles Schwab Corp. announced Thursday that it plans to reduce its online equity trade commissions and add new products in an effort to gather customers and assets.
Effective Jan. 19, the San Francisco-based investment management company said its retail investors will pay $8.95 per online trade in stocks or non-Schwab exchange traded funds. Schwab’s proprietary ETFs feature commission-free online trading through Schwab accounts. Currently, investors with less than $1 million in household assets at Schwab or those that trade fewer than 120 times annually paid $12.95 per trade plus charges for trades larger than 1,000 shares.
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“We’ve had more things happening in the dairy industry than I’ve ever seen in my life,” Mark Stephenson, dairy economist with the University of Wisconsin, said in the latest “Dairy Situation and Outlook” podcast.
Restrained milk production in the U.S., New Zealand and the EU should support milk prices and provide opportunity for U.S. exports, he and fellow university economist Bob Cropp said.
The other good news is U.S. butter and cheese stocks have declined, and there should be a drawdown in powder stocks as well.
The U.S. saw some good purchases and exports in June and July on top of record volumes of powder exports in May and cheese exports up 8% year over year, Cropp said.
“We have had some strong exports … and I think we’re going to see a little bit more of that,” Stephenson said.
Some of the export buying when cheese was $1 a pound hasn’t showed up yet in export reports, he said.
Cheese exports ahead, however, could be challenging. Cheese prices have declined from their lofty levels, but they’re still about $1 higher than global prices.
Block cheese prices have come down from the $3 level to about $2.62 a pound and barrel prices are up to about $2.45. But those prices are still high enough to support more than a $24 Class III milk price in July, coming close to the record $24.60 set in September 2014, Cropp said.
With butter and powder prices lower, however, the Class IV milk price has stayed below $14 a hundredweight.
It looks like Class III and IV are going to maintain a pretty big spread for a while, Cropp said.
The futures market has those prices coming together pretty well by the end of the year — in the $16 to $17 range, Stephenson said.
But Cropp thinks the futures market is pretty optimistic on Class III prices in the near term. It has the price staying above $20 in August and September, moving to $19 in October and $18 in November.
Those prices are a little high unless milk production really slows and exports stay strong, he said.
On the flip side, the futures market isn’t too optimistic on the Class IV price, which doesn’t get to $15 until December. He thinks there’s opportunity for some strengthening in powder prices, and butter prices should strengthen with holiday buying.
But no one knows how COVID’s going to play out, Stephenson said.
While people are still buying a substantial amount of dairy through retail, demand isn’t going to get much of a boost until the virus slows down, Cropp said.
But it’s going to be a better year than economists were thinking. Even USDA is now forecasting an average Class III price of $18, up from about $14.50 at one time, he said.


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Government said it is working to identify an area where beach vendors can sell their wares legally under the trade and business law.
In May, the Department of Commerce and Investment (DCI) handed out warnings to unlicensed beach vendors, saying it’s time for merchants get compliant under the law or face the penalties in the form of stiff fines.
Beach vendors protested that the burden of cost for the law’s insurance requirements was too burdensome to bear.
The two-week deadline came and went, and it appears an intervention may be in the cards to help get these beach vendors on the right side of the law.
Last week the DCI announced a one month extension before fines will be levied.
Tourism Councillor Joey Hew told Cayman 27 much is going on behind the scenes to help regularise these types of merchants…
“We are trying to identify an area for [beach vendors] to operate with permission so they can be licensed,” said Mr. Hew via text message.


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Toys R Us to allow toy reservations for hot holiday gifts
- Staff Phoenix Business Journal
If you're not the kind of parent that likes to be nearly trampled and killed finding the "it" toy of the holiday season, Toys R Us has a new, but simple idea for you: just reserve it.
According to a Reuters story in the Chicago Tribune, the toy retailing giant will launch a program that allows shoppers to reserve certain toys simply by using a down payment. Get all the details here.
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Jaybird claims the Reign will be different than all those other activity tracker devices in a number of ways. One is something called "Go-Zone" which is supposed to learn about their user and tell owners how ready they are for increased activity based on their heart rate. The Resign app also shows how much sleep their owner might want to take in each night.
Finally, the wristband is supposed to know what specific sport or activity the owner is doing at the time, such as running, hiking, or even swimming. Are you interested in giving the Jaybird Reign a try as your next smart wristband?
Motorola RAZR 2 rumored to come with a bigger 6.7-inch main display
A new rumor claims the Motorola RAZR 2, which is likely to debut sometime in the third quarter of the year, will have a 6.7-inch main display and a slightly larger cover display.
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Launched in 2019, Umpqua Bank’s business barometer report provides an insight into how business leaders have orientated themselves in an unprecedented period that includes the pre-COVID economy, the onset and initial recovery of the pandemic and the current environment of rising inflation and interest rates. In this context, Umpqua Bank’s business barometer for 2022 reveals important differences from previous years. This year, he found that more small companies are ready than ever to make significant changes to their business in response to the growing impact of inflation. Meanwhile, after two years of making major business changes in response to the pandemic, mid-market companies are now facing increasing impacts and higher labor force transformation costs and threats to cybersecurity.
“The last few years have been a remarkable period of disruption and resilience for American business,” said the president of Umpqua Bank. Tori Nixon. “The economic environment before the pandemic of low inflation, cheap capital and high growth has shifted and we are in a period of rising costs for goods, talent and capital. With this new reality, small and medium-sized companies are applying the lessons learned over the last few years and adjusting their strategic focus to ensure that they are stronger and more competitive on the other side. “
The main findings and highlights of the Umpqua Bank report for 2022 include:
After two years of successful turnovers, the reset of the middle market for the transformation of the workforce
Mid-market companies account for only 3% of all US businesses, but they do $ 6 trillion in GDP and 44 million jobs. After major strategic changes over the last two years, the leaders of these businesses expect less need to deal with previous areas of focus, including: pricing models (-15 percentage points), products and services (-16), acquisitions (- 16) or merger (-12), expansion of funding (-12) and digitalisation for efficiency (-5).
Instead, mid-market companies are shifting their focus to tackling the transformation of the workplace and the accompanying labor shortages, which continue to accelerate. Nearly three quarters (72%) reported difficulties in finding qualified staff, an increase of 17 percentage points over last year, with a new impact on the growth of 33% of business (+16 percentage points). More than 30% also have difficulty retaining employees, up 18 points. In response, leaders plan to be even more aggressive than last year in offering more flexibility with remote options (+16), giving bonuses or other incentives (+15), supporting working parents (+14), increasing pay or benefits (+11) and find ways to automate repetitive manual tasks (+8).
“Mid-market companies have done a great job of directing their business to adapt to the supply chain and other challenges to become even more efficient and competitive in the last few years,” he said. Richard Cabrera, Umpqua’s Head of the “Middle Market Banking” Department. “Now they are striving to apply the same strategic focus and creative energy to the challenging workforce environment that has the most immediate impact on the end result and affects growth.”
Small businesses are ready for the most significant business changes since the pandemic
Smaller companies often have fewer levers to pull in response to disruptions than larger companies, and previous Business Barometer reports are more reluctant to accept big changes. This year this trend has reversed. For the first time, small businesses are striving to make more significant changes in their business, especially compared to a year ago. The changes that small businesses expect include: pricing models (+18 percentage points), products and services (+12), funding expansion (+7), efficiency digitalisation (+5) and acquisitions (+4) or mergers (+3).
In the face of continuing labor and supply chain disruptions, more small businesses last year said they were planning aggressive actions to hire new skills to build skills (+13), increase wages and workers’ benefits (+12). , allow remote operation options (+2), find new suppliers (+12) and identify other supply chain impact management partners (+4).
“Small businesses are increasingly feeling the urgency to make changes in their strategies and operations, especially in response to rising inflation, which has a more immediate impact the smaller the business,” they said. Ashley Hayslip, Umpqua’s Head of the Public and Business Banking Department, “This sense of urgency can become a competitive advantage for those businesses that are spinning fast and strategically.”
Economic optimism is declining, but expectations for business growth remain stable
Last year’s economic optimism surpassed pre-pandemic levels as businesses awaited recovery. In 2022, this optimism has waned as fears increase that rising inflation, which ranks as a major concern for both the small (73%) and medium-sized markets (37%), and the evolving impacts of the chain disruption for supplies and labor shortages are here to stay. In terms of economic conditions, businesses are divided. Leaders surveyed this year are as likely to say that current conditions are bad as well as excellent or good (34%).
The economic prospects of leaders vary considerably depending on the size and complexity of the business. Nearly 46% of small businesses believe that the economy will decline further, an increase of almost 20 percentage points in 2020 and 2021. However, more than eight out of 10 companies in the mid-market believe that the economy will improve (31% ) or will remain the same (50%), which is very similar to their predictions before the pandemic. This difference in expectations may explain the greater urgency on the part of small businesses to adopt significant changes this year.
It is important to note that although leaders take a more cautious view of the overall economy, this does not mean a lack of confidence in their ability to adapt and continue to grow their business. When asked about revenue growth and profitability, businesses expect levels of increase similar to previous years.
Cybersecurity is a major concern for mid-market companies
A remarkable 45% of mid-market companies report being subjected to cybersecurity scams in the last 12 months. Of all the possible answers, cybersecurity ranks as the leading area in which mid-market businesses are likely to invest this year, and as the second most important area to tackle next year, after tackling labor challenges. . Middle market leaders also clearly see the need to protect working capital and financial assets. More than six out of 10 plan to invest in financial instruments and infrastructure that protect and strengthen their payment systems.
The impact of the supply chain is increasing for small businesses, moderate for the medium market
This year’s report shows the dramatic progress made by mid-market companies in aggressively tackling supply chain disruptions. In the last year, 60% have applied new inventory management techniques (+24 percentage points), 54% have diversified with new products (+14) and 51% have found new suppliers (+9). As a result, related impacts have improved compared to 2021. Nearly 80% have been able to purchase basic necessities (+8) and, despite inflationary pressures, related costs have risen less dramatically than a year ago.
In contrast, the effects on the supply chain are intensifying for smaller enterprises compared to last year, especially in terms of the price of goods purchased, with 90% experiencing price spikes, 75% experiencing longer delays (+16 ) and 61% have to deliver materials differently (+15). Inflation is the main concern for almost three quarters of small businesses, which are less able to bear the rising cost of goods.
To read and download the full survey, visit www.umpquabank.com/business-barometer.
The Umpqua Bank 2022 business barometer, conducted annually, surveys 1,210 owners, executives and financial decision makers from small and medium-sized companies in the United States. The online survey was conducted in partnership with DHM Research, a public policy and business research firm, and targeted leaders in companies with $ 500,000 to $ 500 million in annual revenue. The study has a 2.8% margin of error and was submitted by From April 13 to April 26, 2022.
About Umpqua Bank
Umpqua Bank, headquartered in Roseburg, Ore., Is a subsidiary of Umpqua Holdings Corporation and operates in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Oregonand Washington. Umpqua Bank is recognized for its innovative customer experience and banking strategy by national publications, including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, BusinessWeek, Fast Company and CNBC. The company has been recognized by FORTUNE magazine as the “100 Best Job Companies” in the country for eight consecutive years and was recently named by the Portland Business Journal the most respected financial services company in Oregon for the 17th consecutive year. year. In addition to its presence in retail banking, Umpqua Bank also owns Financial Pacific Leasing, Inc., a nationally recognized commercial finance company that leases business equipment.
SOURCE Umpqua Holdings Corporation


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More than a year ago, President Obama asked NTIA to convene stakeholders to help develop best practices to address privacy, transparency and accountability issues related to private and commercial use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS).
I want to join Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker in congratulating the stakeholders who reached consensus yesterday on a set of best practices that will help guide the development and growth of UAS in the United States. I also want to thank everyone who put in the many hours of work throughout this process. Multistakeholder processes only succeed through stakeholders’ dedication, hard work and willingness to compromise.
UAS holds the potential to provide significant benefits to both industry and consumers in myriad ways. These include using UAS to inspect cell phone towers without risking human lives, monitor crop growth and take aerial photos of real estate.
The best practices agreed to by a diverse group of stakeholders -- including privacy and consumer advocates, industry, news organizations and trade associations -- represent an important step in building consumer trust, giving users the tools to innovate in this space in a manner that respects privacy, and providing accountability and transparency.


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Radiant Logistics Inc (RLGT) Now Covered by Seaport Global Securities
Research analysts at Seaport Global Securities initiated coverage on shares of Radiant Logistics Inc (NYSE:RLGT) in a report issued on Friday. The firm set a “buy” rating and a $10.00 price target on the stock. Seaport Global Securities’ price objective indicates a potential upside of 98.02% from the stock’s current price.
Several other brokerages also recently commented on RLGT. Zacks Investment Research raised shares of Radiant Logistics from a “hold” rating to a “strong-buy” rating and set a $5.00 price objective for the company in a research report on Saturday, February 11th. Cowen and Company lifted their price target on shares of Radiant Logistics from $5.00 to $7.00 and gave the company an “outperform” rating in a research report on Friday, February 10th. Finally, TheStreet raised shares of Radiant Logistics from a “sell” rating to a “hold” rating in a research report on Monday, November 21st.
Radiant Logistics (NYSE:RLGT) opened at 5.05 on Friday. Radiant Logistics has a 12-month low of $2.45 and a 12-month high of $5.96. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $4.86 and a 200 day moving average of $3.65. The firm has a market capitalization of $245.10 million and a P/E ratio of 420.83.
Radiant Logistics (NYSE:RLGT) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, February 8th. The company reported $0.10 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.04 by $0.06. The company had revenue of $198.88 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $189.49 million. The business’s quarterly revenue was down 3.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the business earned $0.06 EPS. On average, analysts forecast that Radiant Logistics will post $0.24 EPS for the current fiscal year.
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A number of hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. JBF Capital Inc. increased its stake in Radiant Logistics by 332.9% in the third quarter. JBF Capital Inc. now owns 36,410 shares of the company’s stock valued at $103,000 after buying an additional 28,000 shares during the last quarter. Acrospire Investment Management LLC increased its stake in Radiant Logistics by 339.1% in the third quarter. Acrospire Investment Management LLC now owns 56,828 shares of the company’s stock valued at $161,000 after buying an additional 43,886 shares during the last quarter. GSA Capital Partners LLP acquired a new stake in Radiant Logistics during the fourth quarter valued at about $276,000. Two Sigma Investments LP increased its stake in Radiant Logistics by 39.5% in the fourth quarter. Two Sigma Investments LP now owns 81,056 shares of the company’s stock valued at $316,000 after buying an additional 22,937 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Russell Investments Group Ltd. acquired a new stake in Radiant Logistics during the fourth quarter valued at about $453,000.
Radiant Logistics Company Profile
Radiant Logistics, Inc operates as a third-party logistics company, providing multi-modal transportation and logistics services. The Company is organized in two geographic operating segments: United States and Canada. Its transportation services for both the United States and Canada segments are placed into categories of freight forwarding and freight brokerage services.
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2016 has officially marked the release of the three major virtual reality headsets that will fiercely compete for the majority market share. With Oculus Rift kicking off the VR party back at the end of March, only to be followed a week or two later by the HTC Vive, if you wanted to check out the potential future of gaming then you had to have a pretty powerful PC. That all changed, however, in October with the release of Sony’s PlayStation VR.
Now that all three of the headsets are out and we approach the end of the year, it’s time to measure up the successes and failures of the VR platform and establish just how good 2016 has been for them.
In terms of getting your hands on one of these headsets, each one has suffered from pretty severe supply constraints in their opening months. Unfortunately, sales figures for the headsets haven’t been quite as readily available as some would have hoped. But judging by the figures suggested by Steam sales back in July, there are still plenty of sales to be made.
According to the aforementioned Steam sale data, the Vive was nearing an install base of around 100,000 back in July, with the Oculus Rift trailing behind this. Though this is slightly dated, later reports in September suggested that each headset’s sales stalled pretty heavily in July and August. Considering the hefty PC requirements you’ll need to have in order to run a VR headset, it’s no surprise that neither the Rift or the Vive have become mainstream units. Especially when combined with the price of the units themselves.
All eyes turned to Sony and its release of PlayStation VR in October. Again, sales figures haven’t been clear, but from what we can ascertain, the PSVR has been the roaring success in terms of sales, suggesting a cheaper headset that simply plugs into your existing PS4 and plays is more amicable to consumers than its PC counterparts. With Sony initially projecting PSVR sales to be in the hundreds of thousands at launch, and Kenichiro Yoshida, Sony’s CFO stating sales were “on track,” it’s highly likely that the PSVR has outsold combined sales of its two competitors.
All in all, the three VR platforms have made some light headway in their launch periods but seem to have truly failed to capture the market. That doesn’t mean it’s all bad for VR, though.


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A study released on December 10 sends out a strongly worded warning about risks of kidney, liver, and other organ damage from the most popular weight drugs on the market. A University of Rhode Island study funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) states that orlistat, which goes by the prescription brand name Xenical and the over-the-counter name Alli, can cause “severe toxicity” to major internal organs.
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The Food and Drug Administration on Monday warned consumers about a counterfeit version of GlaxoSmithKline’s weight-loss drug Alli. Alli is sold over-the-counter in a variety of retail stores. The counterfeit version was purchased by consumers on the Internet, and GlaxoSmithKline started receiving complaints about the product last month. Glaxo said the product was purchased from online auction sites like eBay.


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As Mastercard Chief Executive Ajay Banga said at the Fortune Global Forum on Tuesday, Bitcoin cannot function as a universal currency for those who are not bankers due to volatility. He also indicated that he does not know who is behind the cryptocurrency.
“I don’t believe in volatility or, for that matter, lack of transparency about who is involved in this currency. That is why we believe in central bank digital currencies.”
Banga also said Mastercard has an important patent library related to CBDC, which may help explain a positive cause for it.
When asked about Bitcoin (BTC) as a potential solution to economic availability, Banga stated that cryptocurrency was insufficient for nonbanks and provided a strange example of Coca-Cola bottle to illustrate volatility. the prices:
“Can you imagine someone financially excluded from trading in such a way that being included in a coin could today be worth the equivalent of two bottles of Coca-Cola and 21 bottles of breakfast? This is not a way to list them. It’s a way to make them fear the financial system.”
He believes that if fiat currencies were digitized, they would “assist in cross-border trade flows,” but added that “the economic inclusion of individuals is a completely different matter.”
Over the years, it has been a strong and anti-transparent cryptocurrency, describing any cryptocurrency subject to nongovernmental sanctions in 2017 and even comparing it to snakes in 2018, saying it “doesn’t deserve” to be considered prey.
However, Mastercard has publicly stated that it is open to government cryptocurrencies.
And in 2019, Mastercard appears to have taken a more open position in terms of cryptocurrency, and has become a co-founder of the Libra Facebook project. But in October last year, the payment provider left the project with Visa, Stripe and Paypal, citing a lack of transparency among the main reasons they left.
The CEO confirmed that Mastercard “has invested a significant amount of money” in CBDC, and added:
“Today we are one of the largest patent holders of the central bank’s digital currency.”
Banga said the ICB’s hedge fund, issued by Mastercard in September, allows central banks and commercial banks to jointly explore central bank currencies for use cases such as “transnational transaction flows.” The tool simulates different types of transaction environments, so that central banks can assess the use cases of central bank currencies. It is not clear which banks are using this tool.


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If the European Commission follows through with its reported plans to impose anti-dumping duties on Chinese solar imports, average pricing for Chinese-manufactured PV modules could surge by 45% in June, cutting some solar project internal rates of return to below 7% and further dampening demand in Europe, according to a new report from IHS.
Chinese modules carried an average price of $0.66/W in March and were expected to increase to $0.67/W in June, based on a forecast from the IHS Solar Module Price Index. However, with EU commissioners planning to impose import duties, IHS says average pricing could surge to $0.97/W in June.
EU commissioners plan to levy import duties on solar modules from China ranging from 37.2% to 67.9%. EU member states will vote on the proposals, expected in the next two weeks, and a preliminary decision will come into force by June 6. A further six months of negotiations is likely before a final decision is made, IHS adds.
"In recent months, prices of Chinese modules have crept upwards in key European markets as a result of the additional overhead incurred from the mandatory registration of imported modules from China," says Ash Sharma, senior director of solar research for IHS.
"However, when the duties go into effect, prices for Chinese modules will rise dramatically, as they cannot absorb these additional costs due to the poor state of their balance sheets," Sharma continues." This likely will force many Chinese PV module suppliers out of the European market and could spur rising costs for installations."
With much of the European market closed to them, Chinese suppliers would likely direct their attentions to other regions, the report says. Japan may soak up some demand for Chinese modules, along with markets in South East Asia.
But to make up for the European sales deficit, the report says a large volume of modules would need to be installed domestically in China. Given the low prices and the long delays in receiving payments for installation projects in China, this may prove to be challenging, IHS explains.
With the levies on Chinese modules already in place in the U.S. and the relatively low demand in emerging markets in places such as Latin America, Chinese vendors will likely suffer a huge impact this year.
IHS says EU-imposed duties could accelerate the consolidation of the Chinese module supplier base and result in more bankruptcies. In addition, Chinese suppliers may outsource module production to PV original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) outside of China in order to circumvent the duties.
Meanwhile, the report says, benefits for non-Chinese suppliers are expected to be somewhat limited.
Despite the reduction in competition from China, Western vendors will be unable to raise prices significantly, as incentive schemes throughout Europe have been repeatedly ratcheted down because of severe price declines for both module and system prices, the report explains.
IHS adds that any major price increases would seriously deteriorate the internal rate of return on solar projects and make PV financially unviable in many segments of the market. Resulting price increases would need to be absorbed by the installer/EPC and/or the owner/investor of the project.
One possible winner may be module producers located in other low-cost regions outside of China, including Taiwan. However, the report notes, total module production capacity in these regions was just 3.4 GW at the end of the first quarter of this year, less than one-tenth of China's 35 GW. Because of that, IHS says the short-term upside is limited for these regions.
Inflation in Europe
According to the report, the increase in module prices will inflate PV system prices in Europe. At the same time, installers and EPCs are likely to absorb some of the additional costs and sacrifice their margins to limit the price increases they pass on to customers. IHS predicts that both events most likely will occur simultaneously.
Large installations that tend to favor low-priced modules will be most impacted, while smaller rooftop installations that gravitate to German, Korean and Japanese modules will be less affected, the report continues.
"The analysis by IHS of project IRRs shows that the most price-sensitive market segments are German ground-mounted and large rooftops without self-consumption," says Dr. Henning Wicht, senior director of solar research for IHS." A system price increase of 10 percent in Germany would reduce the return on investment to less than 7 percent, seriously dampening investor appetite for this sector. This change could eliminate nearly 2 GW of installations that would have otherwise occurred."
Other segments, such as residential and commercial applications, will be less impacted by module prices, the report says. This is because modules contribute to a relatively smaller share of overall system costs in these areas and will continue to provide interesting IRRs for owners and investors, albeit at slightly lower values, IHS adds.
The full IHS report, titled"EU Antidumping Duties to Price Chinese Modules out of the European Market," is available here.


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All the news from the annual Google I/O event, including the latest on Android.
Here's how to set up the new low-balance alerts and automatic transfers in Google Wallet.
See how the newly unveiled Apple iPad Air 2 compares to its Android tablet competitors: the Google Nexus 9 and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S.
Thanks to a recent change in policy, Play Store customers have more time to decide whether to keep that new Android app or game.
Want to get a refund for an app after the initial 15 minutes have passed? Google is now processing some refunds for developers.
Android chief Sundar Pichai likens the evolution of wearable devices to the smartphone revolution during a panel discussion at SXSW.
Wearable tech is everywhere, but expect everything to change again once Google and Apple have their say in 2014. Here's why.
A major PS4 firmware update is causing systems to crash, but Sony is aware of the problem.
Google has a history of offering many pathways to the same result when it comes to its Web services. The newest version of Google Maps is no exception. Read on to find out two easy ways to access the Custom Maps you have created.
No VIPs will be checking out Google Glass onboard the floating structure until at least late spring after the Coast Guard and another public agency raised concerns about Google's plans.
Sennheiser has redesigned its in-ear headphones with the CX range, including red cables that might look familiar...


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Hear from a “food sleuth,” Japan’s prefab veggie factory and how to save big on your supermarket shop.
Good morning, Food News Today is sponsored by ConAgra Foods, who shares with me the desire to provide the most current, interesting, and unbiased food news.
>Daiwa House, Japan's largest homebuilder has introduced the Agri-Cube, a line of prefabricated hydroponic vegetable factories, aimed at housing complexes, hotels, and top-end restaurants. Daiwa calls it the first step in the industrialization of agriculture, and hopes to see the cubes become part of our everyday environments.
With the continued interest in where our food is coming from, and desire for locally grown foods in urban environments – as well as restrictions on what can be grown where the Agri-Cube seems a perfect fit… literally - measuring less than 16 feet long and 8 feet wide. Daiwa's Agri-Cube needs plumbing and electrical utility hookups, but that’s about it… and Daiwa claims each unit can grow about ten thousand servings of fruits and vegetables per year at an operational cost of about $4,500, or about 45 cents per head of lettuce. It’s delivered on a flat bed truck, and offered at a ripe price of $70,000, the Agri-Cube may soon be dispensing fresh fruit and vegetables in your neighborhood.
>We could be looking at something like the Agri-Cube to help bring fresh fruits and veggies year round and in times of unpredictable weather…. But in the mean time we need to be thinking of some easy tips to help make it through times of increasing food costs because of the drought. Obviously you should look for sales and stock up. But it’s also a great time to revisit coupon habits.
Several simple grocery shopping techniques will help to save you cash at the register. Last year, shoppers saved 4.6 billion dollars with coupons! Coupons these days have an average face value of $1.54.
So, how can you get these savings? A focused, planned approach to grocery shopping and using your Wednesday and Sunday newspaper coupons will save you a significant amount each week.
Check your store’s circular, as well as social media sites before you go shopping. Use coupons and deals to make your list. Plan some of your meals around what’s on sale. Check the discounters — yes, those dollar stores! They often have more upscale food items for savings you won’t believe!
Buy what’s in season - when fresh produce is not in season, the price goes up. If your looking for spring or summer fruits this fall, check frozen.
Frozen fruits and veggies are packed at their peak freshness, nutrition and season. Read the ingredient list carefully as some prepackaged fruits and vegetables have added sugar or salt — and should be avoided — but plain frozen produce will save you more than fresh out of season picks.
And always check out supermarketguru.com for more ways to save money.
>Earlier this week I spoke with Lesley Chesson a scientist who studies food adulteration, authentication, and origin; she uncovers the truth about where our foods are coming from and what’s really in them.
Thanks so much Lesley, keep up the fantastic work!
>Remember to log on to Food News Today DOT com any time to access the archives and replay past episodes. Thanks for watching.


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Travel employment continued its steady rise to close out the year, adding 21,600 jobs in December; this was the 10th monthly increase in 2019. Travel job gains were mostly seen in the lodging and amusement/gambling/recreation industries.
In 2019 as a whole, travel employment rose by 127,400, accounting for 6% of the total 2.1 million job increases in total payroll employment. Travel contributed a higher proportion to the economy’s overall job growth in 2019 (6%) than in 2018 (4.5%).
Notably, travel created nearly three times as many jobs in 2019 as the entire manufacturing sector, which added just 46,000 jobs. This stellar performance by the travel industry underscores its vital role as a top U.S. export. While industries such as manufacturing and agriculture are typically the first to come to mind when one thinks of an export, travel is, in fact, America’s second-largest industry export and generates a $69 billion trade surplus.
In the rest of the economy, total nonfarm payroll employment rose by 145,000 in December, and the unemployment rate was unchanged at 3.5%.


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PARIS —Carrefour SA sales declined 2.4 percent, weighed down by unfavorable currency rates and lackluster business in Europe.Stripping out the negative effect of exchange rates — particularly the Brazilian Real — sales were up 2.6 percent to 20.78 billion euros, led by growth in its Latin American markets.The world’s second largest retailer after Walmart Inc., Carrefour is undergoing a broad overhaul as it seeks to adapt to shifting habits in consumption and bolster its digital presence. Chief executive officer Alexandre Bompard, known for steering the French electronics retailer into the digital sphere through a tie-up with the home appliance company Darty, outlined his plans for Carrefour’s turnaround in January.Carrefour said its quarterly performance was affected by bad weather and tough competition in European markets, including its home market, France, where sales were up 0.9 percent.The company is forging ahead with a transformation plan, introducing new payment methods, striking partnerships with other companies to transform e-commerce and opening new convenience stores.In a conference call with analysts, Carrefour’s chief financial officer Matthieu Malige seized on the quarterly performance as an example of why the group is pushing its new plan, called Carrefour 2022.“This quarter demonstrates that Carrefour 2022 is the right strategy for Carrefour and that it is urgent to implement it,” he said.“Even as teams are keenly focused on the day-to-day business, a profound transformation momentum has taken shape since the announcement,” of the plan, he continued.In a separate release, the company said it would name four new independent directors to the board — Amélie Oudéa-Castéra, Aurore Domont, Stéphane Israël and Stéphane Courbit — noting it seeks a younger, and digitally minded board with more women. In the analyst call, Malige lauded the digital and entrepreneurial skills of the new appointees.Latin American sales dropped nearly 12 percent to 3.98 billion euros, dragged down by a worse-than-expected depreciation of the Brazilian Real compared to the euro and ongoing food deflation, the company said.In Asia, sales were down nearly 11 percent to 1.77 billion, as the highly competitive e-commerce channel gained ground with consumers in China. Carrefour in January struck a partnership with Tencent in China to improve its digital and technological capabilities in that market. The deal had resulted in “rapid” progress, including the launch of a mobile application on WeChat that improved the visibility of Carrefour’s online offer in the country, according to Malige.In Europe, the performance was mixed, with 4.4 percent sales growth in Spain led by its recent purchase of Eroski stores, while sales in Belgium decreased 0.4 percent, as business was affected by strikes.Operations in France, which generated 9.49 billion euros, were also affected by strikes called by unions angered by the company’s restructuring plans. Carrefour has been working to decrease its reliance on big box stores —hypermarkets — while bulking up its fleet of smaller, convenient shops, and opened 76 new convenience stores in France over the period. The group introduced a new “pedestrian drive” service whereby customers can swing into stores on foot to collect online orders.Carrefour also introduced a new blockchain tracing system for poultry products this quarter, which is plans to extend to other meat and vegetable products this year, Malige explained.The company extended its assortment of antibiotics-free products in Belgium, Poland and Spain. Malige added that Carrefour intents to increase coordination among its operations in different European countries to leverage negotiations when it comes to purchasing.
Supermodel @helenachristensen teamed up with longtime friend and designer @camillastaerk on a joint @paredeyewear collaboration. The lineup features three styles and 11 offerings, all of which embody a vintage feel. Get all the details on how they celebrated the collab on WWD.com. #wwdaccessories #wwdeye (📷: @slovekinpics)
“It’s a hard industry to keep motivated, as well, so finding different subjects and people is what makes it worth it – when you’re like, oh, I’ve met great people, I feel like I’ve done something good, and I feel proud of having done this,” said French actress Stacy Martin on being grateful for the variety of roles she’s take on. Read @ktauer’s full interview with Martin on her her latest film “Godard Mon Amour.” #wwdeye (📷: @danieldorsa)
After showing in front of the Eiffel Tower for his last two women’s ready-to-wear collection, it looks like @anthonyvaccarello may be heading to the Big Apple. Sources say the designer will stage his next @ysl show in NYC on June 6. Get all the details on WWD.com. #wwdnews #wwdfashion (📷: @aitorrosasphoto)
EXCLUSIVE: Two and half months after John Targon, cofounder and codesigner of Baja East, was hired as creative director of the contemporary division at Marc Jacobs, he has left the company, WWD has learned. Marc Jacobs International, which is owned by LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, confirmed Targon’s departure in a statement: “John Targon is a talented designer and we appreciate the work he has done here. Ultimately working together did not make sense for the brand and we wish him the best.” Read the story by @jessiredale, link in bio. #wwdnews
@theluxurycollection is officially launching a collection, tapping Sofia Sanchez de Betak for the capsule. Over 30 styles will be featured in the Chufy x The Luxury Collection, debuting next month at Bergdorf Goodman, The Webster, FiveStory and more. De Betak, known as “@chufy,” drew inspiration for the collection from her trips to Japan in the past year #wwdfashion
@lhd, founder and CEO of @thewebster, has teamed up with @lebonmarcherivegauche for the European launch of her ready-to-wear line, LHD. The launch will come with an exclusive pop-up opening today that’s set to run through May 20. Located on the second floor, it carries her debut Miami-themed resort collection, launched in November as see-now-buy-now. #wwdfashion


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Contact: Brenon Daly
A decade ago, the financial world started its most recent journey toward ruin. Although the total collapse wouldn’t come for another year, the first tremors of the global financial crisis were felt in August 2007. At the time, few observers could have imagined that a bunch of bad bets made on shady mortgages could reduce some of the world’s biggest banks to heaps of rubble.
For some financial institutions, the destruction was self-inflicted. But others were simply collateral damage, counterparties to risky trades that they may not have fully understood but took on nonetheless. Whatever the cause, the result, which was just starting to be realized 10 years ago, was that everyone was in over their head.
As banks went into survival mode, the financial system dried up. Lenders, already worried about the bad debt on their books, stopped extending loans. It became a credit crisis, with whole chunks of the economy grinding to a halt. There was also a dramatic – if underappreciated – impact on the tech M&A market: the crisis effectively ended the first buyout boom.
Private equity (PE) firms were just hitting their stride when the crisis took away the currency that made their deals work: debt. Don’t forget that just months before August 2007, PE shops had announced mega-deals for First Data ($29bn) and Alltel ($27.5bn). Both of those acquisitions were $10bn bigger than any tech transaction ever announced by a financial acquirer up to that point.
Those deals turned out to be the high-water marks for PE at the time, with the water receding unexpectedly quickly. Of the 10 largest PE transactions listed in 451 Research’s M&A KnowledgeBase for 2007, only one of them came after August. More broadly, the last four crisis-shadowed months of 2007 accounted for just $7bn of the then-record $106bn in PE spending that year.
The late-2007 collapse in sponsor spending continued through 2008-09, as the recession broadened and deepened. The value of PE deals in both of those years dropped more than 80% compared with 2007, according to the M&A KnowledgeBase. The PE industry’s recovery from the credit crisis would take a long time, much longer than the relatively quick bounce-back in the equity markets, for instance. Overall spending by buyout firms wouldn’t hit 2007 levels again until 2015.
For more on the impact of PE activity in the tech market, be sure to join 451 Research for a special webinar on Thursday, September 7 at 1:00pm ET. Registration is free and available by clicking here.


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Livestock prices robust, but several unknowns bear watching
With robust markets and lower feed costs, many Iowa hog and cattle farmers are enjoying some of their best margins in years early in 2014. But there are several unknowns in the market, such as the effect of the porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), consumer buying patterns and possible competition from poultry, all of which have the potential to put a dent in those margins, a commodity market analyst said last week.
"I really think you have to play a disciplined game these days in livestock and stay pretty conservative," Dale Durchholz, a senior market advisor for AgriVisor, said last week during a...
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A bill was filed in November 2013 that will prohibit credit card companies, and banks from imposing hidden penalties or charges on purchases and cash advances made by clients.
Rep. Raymond Mendoza had filed House Bill 2551 as he noted the urgency of the need to protect the consumers from the unreasonably high rates being imposed by banks and credit card companies.
The monthly rates, according to Rep. Mendoza, range from 2.5 to 3.5 percent for cumulative non-compounded interest rates of 30 to 42 percent annually.
“With the penalty,” Mendoza said, “late payment fees and other charges compounding, the rate is more than what ’5-6′ operators charge.”
Mendoza also quoted the High Tribunal’s decision, which ruled, “We are of the opinion that the interest rate and penalty charge should be equitably reduced to 2 percent per month or 24 percent per annum.”
Mendoza said that the bill will take into its effect the cap on interest rates and penalty charges as ruled by the Supreme Court.
Mendoza said that the bill also prohibits credit card companies from charging fees for exceeding the card holder’s credit limit since credit card authorized these transactions which resulted to exceeding credit limits.
Under the House Bill 2551, interest rates imposed by credit card companies on purchases and cash advances made through such facility shall in no case be higher than 1 percent per month or 12 percent per year, without compounding.
Surcharges or penalties shall likewise be limited to 1 percent per month, without compounding.
The provisions of Section 37 of Republic Act 7653, otherwise known as the “New Central Bank Act,” shall apply to erring credit card issuers, acquiring banks, their directors and officers, including, but not limited to, the administrative sanctions that may be imposed, without prejudice to the criminal sanctions against the culpable persons provided in Section 25 hereof, for any willful violation of this law or any regulated rules, regulations, orders or instructions issued by the Monetary Board.
In addition, the violator shall face imprisonment of two to 10 years, or pay a fine of ₱50,000 to ₱200,000, or both, at the discretion of the court.


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Horse meat has been discovered in British school dinners for the first time since the scandal began, it was revealed.
The news that cottage pie testing positive for horse DNA was sent to 47 Lancashire schools came as the Food Standards Agency (FSA) published results of widespread testing into meat products.
The FSA said 2,501 tests have been carried out on beef products, with 29 results positive for undeclared horse meat at or above one per cent.
These 29 results related to seven different products, which have already been reported and withdrawn from sale.
The products linked to the positive results were confirmed to be Aldi's special frozen beef lasagne and special frozen spaghetti bolognese, the Co-op's frozen quarter pounder burgers, Findus beef lasagne, Rangeland's catering burger products, and Tesco value frozen burgers and value spaghetti bolognese.
As the results were confirmed, pub and hotel group Whitbread became the latest company to admit horse DNA had been found in its food, saying their meat lasagnes and beefburgers had been affected.
The firm, which owns Premier Inn, Beefeater Grill and Brewers Fayre, said the products had been removed from their menus and will not be replaced until further testing has been carried out.
In another development as the scandal deepened, it was revealed that burgers containing horse meat have been supplied to hospitals in Northern Ireland.
David Bingham from the health service's Business Services Organisation, which provides meat for the health trusts, said a range from a company in the Republic of Ireland had been withdrawn.
"We have acted immediately; as soon as we got information there may be a confidence issue we withdrew the product," he said.
Earlier on Friday, Lancashire County Council said that it has withdrawn pre-prepared cottage pies from 47 school kitchens.
Lancashire County Councillor Susie Charles, cabinet member for children and schools, said they had sought extras assurance that its external suppliers were not providing any products containing horse DNA.
Testing had returned one positive result, she said.
"Relatively few schools in Lancashire use this particular product but our priority is to provide absolute assurance that meals contain what the label says - having discovered this one doesn't, we have no hesitation in removing it from menus.
"This does not appear to be a food safety issue but I've no doubt parents will agree we need to take a very firm line with suppliers and it is a credit to our officers that we have been able to quickly identify the problem and take the product off the menus."
The Local Authority Caterers Association (LACA), which works with school caterers, said it was currently attempting to assess the situation, adding that the school meals case in Lancashire is the only one it had heard about.
"It appears to be a very small, isolated situation," a spokeswoman said.
"We are trying to assess that. There's a lot of testing been going on in the last week."
A spokesman for Worcestershire County Council said they were proactively testing samples of school meals through their own scientific services.
FSA director of communications Stephen Humphreys said he could "assure" the public that all seven products which had tested positive had now been taken off the shelves.
A Whitbread spokesman apologised to customers for any "concerns or inconvenience" and said the company was "shocked and disappointed at this failure of the processed meat supply chain."
The firm said they had sent 30 products to be tested, receiving the results on Thursday afternoon.
Morning & Afternoon Newsletter


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The UK’s charge of inflation jumped to 10.1 per cent in July, the primary time it has registered a double-digit annual improve in additional than 4 a long time.
Client value inflation, pushed by greater meals costs, rose from 9.4 per cent in June to its highest stage since February 1982. The double-digit charge exceeded economists’ expectations that the speed would edge as much as 9.8 per cent.
With broad rises in costs throughout the UK economic system in July, leading to an inflation charge larger than in different G7 international locations, the figures on Wednesday highlighted the troublesome job the Financial institution of England faces to convey inflation down.
The Workplace for Nationwide Statistics stated that July’s improve in costs — 0.6 per cent within the month alone — was uncommon as a result of costs typically fall in July at a time of high-street gross sales. Inflation final month was at its highest charge for any July since comparable month-to-month measures began in 1988, the statistical company added.
Grant Fitzner, chief economist on the ONS, stated a “big selection of value rises drove inflation up once more this month”.
He famous that bread, dairy merchandise, meat and greens have been the products that contributed essentially the most to the rise in inflation; a knock-on impact was greater costs for takeaways. With chaos at airports and restricted provide of flights, the value of package deal holidays additionally rose a lot sooner this yr than in 2021.
Meals value inflation hit 12.7 per cent in July, the best charge within the class for greater than 20 years.
The core charge of CPI inflation, excluding vitality and meals costs, additionally exceeded expectations in July, rising by 6.2 per cent, forward of economists’ expectations of a 5.8 per cent charge.
Samuel Tombs, chief UK economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, stated this mirrored “near-term momentum” in value rises and never falls in costs a yr in the past.
Whereas all superior economies have seen an increase in inflation, it has been stronger within the UK than in different G7 international locations and most European nations.
This displays the nation’s larger use of fuel, the underlying sturdy development in spending final yr, pay development within the personal sector rising above 5 per cent and the benefit with which corporations count on to go on greater prices to prospects.
Many economists on Wednesday stated the upward surge in inflation — together with strong wage development within the second quarter — would stiffen the Financial institution of England’s resolve, encouraging the central financial institution to lift rates of interest additional and sooner.
Luke Bartholomew, senior economist at Abrdn, stated: “Given the power of underlying inflation strain, we proceed to count on the Financial institution[of England] to ship one other 0.5 per cent rate of interest improve at its subsequent assembly.”
With the BoE prone to increase charges, pressures on households will improve within the autumn as vitality costs are set to leap once more in October, though there was some aid because of decrease petrol prices this month.
The BoE expects the speed of inflation to rise to greater than 13 per cent within the ultimate quarter of this yr and keep excessive via most of 2023.
Separate ONS evaluation confirmed that poorer households have been dealing with larger charges of inflation than these with greater incomes as a result of they spent an even bigger proportion of their budgets on vitality and meals, which have been rising quickest in value.
The hit to family residing requirements would take its toll on financial development, economists stated.
Jamie O’Halloran at Professional Bono Economics, an organisation that advises the charitable sector, stated the speedy rise in costs was “driving a punishing price of residing disaster, with the specter of recession looming ever-nearer”.


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Rattan products are made from products sourced from sustainable forest and medicinal herb farms in Thừa Thiên Huế Province. Local people in Quảng Nam and Thừa Thiên-Huế provinces are being trained in sustainable forest development and natural forest protection. VNS Photo Công Thành … [Read more...] about People benefit from Green Annamites Project
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VNPAY will expand and promote payment development in many areas, especially payments for small business households that have not previously been able to access new forms of payment. The expansion of payment methods would create a pre-condition for the target of accelerating non-cash payments in Việt Nam. This is also one of the Government's aspirations in building e-government, promoting businesses to develop the digital economy and helping the Government run a digital society. … [Read more...] about Fintech VNPAY honoured as Vietnam National Brand 2020
Pia gave birth to her second son, K’Rể, after eight months of pregnancy in 2009. At birth, K’Rể weighed just 600g and was the length of a hand. They thought his small size was due to being born prematurely. However, at the age of seven, K’Rể weighed 3kg and measured 50cm in height. He was unable to speak or walk normally. … [Read more...] about Việt Nam’s smallest boy dies
The working group will also work on policies to give incentives to enterprises which make investment in manufacturing car parts. There will also be preferential credit packages for automobile supporting industries (car part manufacturing) and for buyers of domestically-made cars. … [Read more...] about When will taxes be lowered to reduce automobile prices?
In the year of ASEAN Chair 2020, Vietnam has really worked in the “cohesive and responsive” manner as the theme of the chairmanship’s year. It has helped ASEAN member states stay united in fight against the pandemic and in recovery plans that are partly revealed through the regional Covid-19 response fund and reserve of medical supplies. … [Read more...] about How Vietnam weathers global health crisis and rises?


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InfoBeat, a personalized news and entertainment email service, said today it
acquired direct marketing company AdTools. With the move, InfoBeat will
change the name of the parent company to Indimi. Financial terms of the deal
were not disclosed. The New York-based company said it plans to continue
operating the brands for InfoBeat and AdTools, which is based in Boston.


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By Elly Spencer
The Baylor community doesn’t have to travel to Paris to get an authentic crepe anymore. Baylor Bears can simply visit Bullard junior Madeline Perkins’ food truck, Holy Crepe.
Holy Crepe, Perkins’ creation, makes dozens of different crepes. Prices range from $4.95 to $6.50.
“I decided Waco needed a get-away,” Perkins said. “What’s a better way to do that than to bring a little taste of Paris here?”
Perkins said she got the idea to start her own business while on a study-abroad trip in Europe. The experiences she encountered, especially with food, inspired her to take a leap and start the process.
“I studied abroad all summer in Europe, and everyone always ate a crepe, and that’s where I really fell in love,” Perkins said. “I immediately started looking for a truck when I got back to America on Aug. 1.”
Perkins said the process of starting the business was difficult, but after calling dozens of prospects, she found her truck. The truck went through a special renovation to better hold the crepe equipment, and opened for business on Oct. 11.
Holy Crepe’s ingredients and flavors are chosen the night before any home football game, and Perkins gets “runners” to grab the ingredients she’s missing that customers demand. She said this is the best way to ensure customers get the product they want.
Pasadena junior Grace Tabuena, one of the runners, said the process and variety in crepes have received a large amount of positive feedback.
“It’s so great to see how people respond to how we are doing,” Tabuena said.
This week Holy Crepe will be located off of Fifth Street, immediately following the Homecoming Parade, which starts at 8:30 a.m. Saturday.
Tabuena said the truck can usually be found on game days, in the student tailgating area of McLane Stadium.
Students at the tailgate seem to have responded positively to the change of scenery crepes provide in a sea of hot dogs and hamburgers.
“It’s awesome to have a different option, and it’ll be even better to have a warm crepe when it’s cold outside,” Dayton senior Mary Fielder said.
Perkins is one in a rising trend of young entrepreneurs across the nation.
In 2011, Harvard Business Review statistics stated that entrepreneurship has almost doubled within the last 15 years. The review said 26 percent of all entrepreneurs in America average between the ages of 20-34.
Besides the idea of entrepreneurship and being a part of the backbone of the nation’s future, Perkins said she also wanted to use the food truck as a vessel to share her Christian beliefs to her customers.
“I know I have something really sweet in my hands,” Perkins said. “I have a way to make people smile and a way to share the love of Jesus Christ”
Holy Crepe’s workers and owner are hoping to expand the business within the near future.
“I hope to set up at the farmer’s market and just find more venues to sell at,” Perkins said.
Perkins’ advice to other students wishing to start a business is to be creative and go for it.
“Just try to make a difference,” Perkins said. “The opportunities are endless. You just have to pick the one that’s best for you.”


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IKEA has announced that by 2030, in addition to the assembly guide, all of their products will come with disassembly guides as well. The goal is to make a sustainable lifestyle accessible and affordable.
“Our disassembly Instructions is one of the ways we’re building on our commitment to sustainability,” comments IKEA. “No matter whether you’re moving home, giving your furniture away, or selling it. Taking it apart correctly reduces the risk of damage, and reduces its impact on the environment.”
They have already published instructions for their best-known products: the BILLY bookshelf, the BRIMNES bed, the LYCKSELE sofa bed, the MALM desk, the PAX wardrobe, and the POÄNG chair can now be disassembled professionally!


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Asda is stepping up the battle for dominance in the premium own label market by almost doubling the size of its Extra Special range.
The expanded range, which covers the spectrum of meal occasions, will include 250 products by the end of the year. Asda believes the range can ultimately grow to 500 lines (The Grocer, July 6, p5).
However, it will still lag well behind Sainsbury's Taste the Difference, which boasts 700 products, and market leader Tesco's 1,200-strong, Â£600m Finest range which continues to grow in size by more than 30% year-on-year. However, Asda's determination to raise its game marks a remarkable trend in the UK grocery industry where own label now accounts for more than half of all sales in a growing number of categories.
Highlights among 112 newcomers will include luxury desserts such as Chocolate Truffle Cake, Cappuccino and Walnut Gâ´¥au, Belgian Chocolate and Stem Ginger Sponges, and French Tartes.
There is traditional Christmas fare as well as more contemporary seasonal produce, including Prune, Pecan and Almond, Fruit-topped and Nut Cluster cakes, and Layered Christmas Pudding. International offerings include a Stollen Loaf.
Toasted Onion and Three Cheese variants join the bread selection, while Pork and Haggis and Red Thai and Lemongrass Sausages are new to the prepared meat category.
Meal solutions now include exotic offerings such as Guinea Fowl and Barbary Duck.
Asda says the range aims for deluxe quality, innovation and taste while maintaining its signature value-for-money ethos.
Company chef Neil Nugent said: "We asked suppliers to step away from the production line to think how food can realistically have the eye and hand of a trained chef every step of the way."


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Nearly three-quarters of all Internet of Things (IoT) devices are susceptible to getting hacked or compromised, according to a recent study.
The study by Hewlett-Packard (HP), examined 10 common smart devices, including thermostats, smart TVs and webcams. Each device had approximately 25 vulnerabilities, the study claimed.
Many of the vulnerabilities had to do with a lack of password strength and weak protection software. Eight out of 10 devices failed to require passwords strong enough to be useful, and the same amount put users at risk of having their personal information intercepted via cloud services.
"Late last year, we were hearing a lot about Internet of Things, and a bit about IoT security, but had not seen anything that focused on the complete picture of IoT security," a statement from HP read. "So, we decided to start the OWASP [Open Web Application Security Project] Internet of Things Top 10 Project, which aims to educate on the main facets of Internet of Things security that people should be concerned with."
Information technology research firm Garner predicts there will be 26 billion individual Internet of Things objects in the world by the year 2020. In 2009, there were only about nine million of these devices sold.
"The fact is, that today, many categories of connected things in 2020 don't yet exist," Gartner research director Peter Middleton said in a statement. "As product designers dream up ways to exploit the inherent connectivity that will be offered in intelligent products, we expect the variety of devices offered to explode."
Read more: http://mashable.com/2014/08/02/internet-of-things-hacking-study/


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Uzbekistan, Poland Expand Cooperation In Textile-Garments
To explore the possibility of exporting textile products from Uzbekistan to European Union (EU) nations, particularly Poland, a delegation of the Uztextileprom association along with representatives from the country’s textile and garment-knitwear sectors visited Poland in November third week and presented several proposals to optimise such export.
Both sides agreed to take measures to create the most favourable conditions for the export of textile products to the Polish market, according to an Azeri news portal.
Poland primarily imports cotton and its products (more than 45 per cent), mineral products (25 per cent) and chemical products (20 per cent) from Uzbekistan.
Twenty five enterprises with Polish capital are at present operating in Uzbekistan.


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LUCKNOW — In a heartwarming gesture, a group of lawyers in Lucknow granted bail to the Kashmiri vendors day after being detained by the Lucknow Police
The vendors had been challaned under section 151 CrPc for selling items on the VIP stretch between 1090 and Samta Mulak Crossing.
Anas Ahmad, a lawyer from Tanveer Law Chambers stated that the legal team successfully bailed out the seven vendors, who were challaned under sections 151, 117, and 116 of CrPc and were held at Gomti Nagar police station.
The lawyers’ intervention came after the vendors were detained by the Lucknow Police and Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) during an anti-encroachment drive.
A bail bond of Rs 50,000 was given, along with an agreement that the Kashmiri vendors wouldn’t sell items at the specified location.
A bail bond of Rs 50,000 was provided, along with an agreement that the Kashmiri vendors wouldn’t sell at the specified location.
This followed their apprehension during an anti-encroachment drive by the Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) near the 1090 Crossing on Sunday.
These vendors, mostly youths from Kashmir, come to Lucknow in winters to sell dry fruits and shawls along roadsides. — (IANS)


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AP Eagers (APE)PUBLISHED: 15 Feb 2010 12:36:00 | UPDATED: 16 Feb 2010 05:00:42PRINT EDITION: 15 Feb 2010
Brisbane-based car retailer AP Eagers has picked up Caloundra City Autos and expects the acquisition to provide an immediate boost to earnings.
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Samsung SDS Announces Third-Quarter 2023 Financial Results
Samsung SDS announced its preliminary financial results for the third quarter of 2023, posting a revenue of KRW 3.2081 trillion and an operating profit of KRW 193 billion. Compared to the same period last year, its revenue fell by 23.6% but operating profit increased by 4.3%.
Revenue from IT services business amounted to KRW 1.5093 trillion, up by 1.5% YoY.
Cloud business posted a record-high quarterly revenue of KRW 470.7 billion, achieving a growth of 57.3% YoY and taking up more than 30% of the IT services business revenue for the first time in terms of quarterly revenue.
Among cloud business, the cloud service provider (CSP) business based on Samsung Cloud Platform (SCP) achieved a growth of 49% YoY, driven by the increase of high-performance computing (HPC) services and new revenue generated by cloud network service.
Also, managed service provider (MSP) business revenue grew 91% YoY with the successful signing of cloud migration and implementation projects in the financial industry and app modernization projects of the aviation industry.
Logistics business revenue declined 37.3% YoY to KRW 1.6988 trillion due to the decrease in global freight rates and the global economic downturn.
On the other hand, the company’s digital forwarding platform Cello Square, which is evolving beyond the simple implementation of logistics to become a key enabler of intelligent supply chain management, earned a revenue of KRW 151.1 billion, up by 139% compared to the same period last year.
Moreover, the number of customer companies that have joined Cello Square reached 9,600 with the global expansion of the platform across China, Southeast Asia, the U.S., and Europe.
Meanwhile, Samsung SDS announced the launching of a cloud-based “enterprise Gen AI service” in “REAL Summit 2023” held in September this year.
With “FabriX,” a platform accelerating the integration of generative AI into cloud systems, and “Brity Copilot,” a solution for automating cognitive tasks, companies can easily connect their business systems with data and improve workplace productivity through hyper-automation.
Samsung SDS is currently testing the FabriX-based gen AI service on its internal systems to secure various business cases, and plans to initiate the service based on such cases.
|2023 3Q||2023 2Q||QoQ||2022 3Q||YoY|
* CSP (Cloud Service Provider): a company offering virtualized physical resources such as software, storage, and servers over a network
* MSP (Managed Service Provider): a company offering a range of cloud migration services for the cloud adoption and operation of corporate customers, including consulting, network/infrastructure management, and monitoring


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Sub-Saharan Africa has uplifted itself from the two decade economic low reached in 2016, bringing a slight easing of pressure but not a return to the robust growth rates previously experienced. In the 5th edition of Nielsen Africa Prospects ranking, we look at how the countries have performed across various parameters.
In 1990, 57% of Southeast Asia was in poverty and access to daily necessities one could afford was not to be taken for granted. Today, so much has changed that a new niche at the high end of the affordability spectrum has emerged to fan the aspirations of consumers – premiumization.
Successful companies in the private sector have gained deep insight into consumer psychology and individual and collective decision-making. Public policy leaders and program managers can make use of these insights to improve significantly the likelihood of success in achieving their policy goals.