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The FINANCIAL — Since the model’s market launch in Europe in April 2013, Mercedes-Benz has handed over more than 100,000 CLA to customers all over the world. Altogether, sales of the new generation of compact cars with the three-pointed star have reached more than 800,000 units. Since the beginning of this year alone these have included more than 250,000 A-, B-, GLA- and CLA-Class vehicles, according to Daimler AG.
“100,000 CLA and altogether 800,000 new compact models show very clearly that our model initiative in the compact segment is definitely hitting the mark”, said Ola Källenius, Member of the Divisional Board Mercedes-Benz Cars responsible for Marketing & Sales. “Month after month, these models are the most important drivers of our growth worldwide.”
As part of its growth strategy “Mercedes-Benz 2020”, the Stuttgart-based premium manufacturer is currently undertaking the most extensive model initiative in the history of the company, aimed both at retaining the loyalty of existing customers and, at the same time, at making the brand even more appealing to new target groups. The new compact car models proof: the strategy is bearing fruit. Particularly with the CLA and the A-Class vehicles, Mercedes-Benz is winning new and significantly younger customers, all over the world.
The CLA can demonstrate major successes in its most important single market, the USA. One in four vehicles in this model range is driven by a customer in America. Since the model’s introduction almost a year ago, some 27,000 CLA have been sold in the USA. It is the first time, a model is available for under 30,000 US-Dollar there. The CLA is Mercedes-Benz’s first compact-segment car to be on sale in the US. Thus the compact coupe is the brand’s new entry-level model. In the USA, the average age of CLA drivers is 45 and thus some ten years younger than American Mercedes-Benz customers across the full range, according to Daimler AG.


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A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition reveals that the key to shedding those extra pounds isn't skipping artificial sweeteners or that extra piece of bread at your next meal—instead, it's all about ditching meat.
In the study, a group of 74 individuals—all with type 2 diabetes—were fed a vegetarian diet consisting of grains, vegetables, fruits, and nuts. Researchers found that those on a vegetarian diet were able to lose twice as much weight as their meat-eating counterparts. In total, the dieters lost an average of 14 pounds versus seven pounds.
But the positive effects didn't stop there. Those on the vegetarian diet also reduced muscle fat and were able to boost their metabolism through a leaner eating plan.
"This finding is important for people who are trying to lose weight, including those suffering from metabolic syndrome and/or type 2 diabetes," said Dr. Kahleová, who studied the fat tissue of the patients. "But it is also relevant to anyone who takes their weight management seriously and wants to stay lean and healthy."
While it may be hard for some of you to completely give up your carnivorous habits, there are leaner alternatives that are just as satisfying! When you're craving a burger, opt for one made of black beans or chickpeas for a comparably hearty and mouthwatering taste that will leave your belly content.
We know it may take time to get used to (and enjoy) the switch, but remember, it's the ticket to losing weight and staying healthy. Your body will thank you for it in the long run, and at the very least, who doesn't want to shed a few pounds for swimsuit season?

domain: news


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For years, there have been rumors that Samsung might be making smart glasses. Now, as reported by SamMobile, the company has filed in South Korea to trademark a new logo related to “computerized vision-assisting eyewear,” suggesting that the idea of Samsung building a Google Glass-like headset is still on the table.
The first hint of Samsung developing some sort of Google Glass-style wearable was back in 2013, with a design patent for a pair of “sports glasses.” Then, in 2014, a report from the Korea Times cited unnamed Samsung officials who said Samsung was indeed making its version of Google Glass, tentatively called Galaxy Glass. The glasses never surfaced, and talk about such a product slowed to a halt. This new trademark application is the first indication since 2014 that Samsung is still interested in and pursuing its own brand of smart glasses.
The trademark filing is unnamed, but mentions several use types associated with the logo, including, “computer software for analyzing and configuring vision-assisting eyewear,” “computer software for setting up, configuring, and controlling wearable peripheral for computer and mobile devices, namely headsets, display devices and glasses,” and “computerized vision-assisting eyewear consisting of a camera, computer and display to capture, process, and present images.”
Certainly, a trademark filing isn’t a definitive answer as to whether or not some iteration of Samsung’s smart glasses will be announced, but it is an implication that the company hasn’t abandoned such a concept.


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A few days ago, I posted that Microsoft is buying Yahoo for $44.6 billion (full post HERE) but Yahoo is not too keen about the "takeover" and gave a curt statement about it --
Its Board of Directors will evaluate this proposal carefully and promptly in the context of Yahoo!'s strategic plans...I thought Apple will come to Yahoo's rescue (read my post HERE) but rumors say Google will be Yahoo's salvation! Check out the videos below and tell me what you think =)
P.S. Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer was very confident talking to WallStreet Journal about Yahoo integration in his company. Is the takeover a done deal then?? Watch the news report about it HERE!


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MILAN — Giorgio Armani SpA on Thursday named Bruno Laguardia as chief executive officer of its U.S. subsidiary, replacing Bridget Ryan Berman, who left in September.
Laguardia, 61, most recently spearheaded the creation and organization of Trimil SpA, a joint venture set up by Armani and Ermenegildo Zegna SpA in 2000, to oversee manufacturing and distribution of the Armani Collezioni men’s wear line. He began his career at Bassetti Group, an international manufacturer and distributor of home textile products, and also has worked in executive roles at Zegna.
Hermès is launching a Laundromat pop-up shop in NYC - dubbed Hermèsmatic - where customers can bring their old scarves to be dip-dyed by an expert. Get all the details on WWD.com. #wwdnews (📷: @donstahl)


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by Daisy Whitney on Jun 29, 1:54 PM
When planning a recent international trip with my daughter, I was faced with a first-world problem: should I download a season of "My Little Pony" to the Amazon Kindle Fire for her to watch on the ten-hour flight or opt for iTunes, then buy and synch to an iPod?
by Daisy Whitney on Jun 28, 1:21 PM
Online video advertising is a powerful tool to boost the reach and effectiveness of a TV campaign, according to a comScore report on cross-media marketing. If an advertiser allocates 90% of a campaign to TV and 10% to digital video, that mix can increase the reach by 5 percentage points and the effectiveness by 16 percentage points, comScore said.
by Daisy Whitney on Jun 27, 1:19 PM
Mobile is both its own beast and an increasingly important venue for video. You've seen all the reports on mobile video viewing increasing. Much of that increase comes from a growth in complementary TV viewing -- either in looking up videos related to TV content, or tuning into TV shows or clips. But the mobile viewing experience isn't always pleasant for consumers.
by Daisy Whitney on Jun 26, 12:29 PM
Consumer packaged goods are the biggest advertisers in online video, regularly accounting for about one-quarter to one-third of online video ad spend. But does the money actually work? Are consumers going to stores and buying more toothpaste, soap, cereal and so on?
by Daisy Whitney on Jun 25, 1:27 PM
Targeting is vital to the success of most Internet marketing campaigns. But marketers need to make sure they are targeting not just by demo, or age, or sex, or "intent to purchase." Daypart targeting is also a necessity in online video buys, especially given the growth in mobile consumption of video because mobile video habits fluctuate greatly throughout the day.
by Daisy Whitney on Jun 22, 3:22 PM
Have you heard branded video is the next big thing? Well, it is, and that's why we're seeing a new wave of offerings from online video technology providers as they fine-tune their products in this area.
by Daisy Whitney on Jun 21, 12:37 PM
One of the newest business case uses of video is for recruiting and job interviewing. With tech startups like Ovia and enRecruit offering technological platforms for companies to implement video pre-screening of applicants, on-camera skills are going to be even more vital for -- well -- anyone. And not being good on camera won't cut it as an excuse. You don't need to be model gorgeous or talk like a news anchor, but there are a few things anyone can do better on video to improve the quality. Here they are.
by Daisy Whitney on Jun 20, 1:33 PM
Here's how you make a good branded video: find a dog theme. Or cats, because cats and dogs are cool. But dogs in sunglasses are particularly cool. Dogs wearing sunglasses while shot in slo-mo are the coolest. Look, it's not rocket science. People just like pets. So rather than put its models in shades, Diesel placed its eyewear on pooches in its newest campaign.
by Daisy Whitney on Jun 19, 8:55 AM
Internet video will play a major role in the quadrupling of the Internet over the next four years. That traffic growth from 2011 to 2016, according to Cisco's latest report, will be driven by a proliferation in devices. Cisco projects that by 2016 the number of network connections will reach nearly 19 billion -- up from 10 billion last year, due to the growth in tablets, mobile phones and other smart devices.
by Daisy Whitney on Jun 18, 11:37 AM
Sure, video viewers are watching more TV shows, movies and other long-form content via broadband video -- but which devices are getting the most action? The answer: gaming consoles and connected TVs, said Ooyala in its recently released report on first-quarter viewing habits. That includes over-the-top devices like Boxee, Roku and Google TV.


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Enka Colombia 1Q 2020 Net Income Improves, but 2Q Outlook Dims
Medellin-based textile and plastics-recycling specialist Enka Colombia revealed in a May 15 filing with Colombia’s Superfinanciera oversight agency that its first quarter (1Q) 2020 net income jumped to a positive COP$1.73 billion (US$443,000), up from a net loss of COP$3 billion (US$767,000) in 1Q 2019.
Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) likewise rose 79% year-on-year, to COP$11.3 billion (US$2.9 million), while EBITDA margin improved to 11.1%, from 6.2% in 1Q 2019.
“The first quarter ends with positive results, without significant impact from Covid-19,” according to Enka. “Our market diversification strategy has allowed us to expand our presence in the North American market — up 33% — reaching a corporate-wide sales share of 16%,” according to Enka.
“However, the effects of the mandatory quarantine measures will be seen and will be reflected as of the second quarter due to the reduction in sales and the stoppage of operations,” the company added.
“From the first period of mandatory preventive isolation ordered by the national government in Decree 457 of March 22, 2020, the company suspended most of its production, leaving only the ‘EKO-PET’ [plastic-bottle recycling] line in operation to guarantee the supply of an essential input for the manufacture of food packaging and cleaning products,” according to Enka.
“With the authorization of the national government and after the implementation of the biosafety protocols recommended by the Ministry of Health, on April 20 the company gradually resumed operations to supply raw materials to various sectors involved in managing the current situation, especially the manufacture of medical clothing, hospital equipment, agro-industrial products, supplies for the transport of goods, recycling of post-consumer waste, among others.
“Post-consumer bottle collection volumes have been reduced by some restrictions imposed on the recycling sector during the isolation stages.
“Said restrictions have been normalizing and, consequently, the collection volumes have been gradually recovering. In addition, to help waste recyclers over 60 years old, who cannot exercise their trade to protect their health, we coordinate resources with important companies such as Tetra Pak, Postobón, Bavaria and Alpina to deliver market-basket foods to more than 2,300 waste pickers in 17 departments, 40 municipalities and 108 waste picker organizations,” the company added.
Meanwhile, Enka has “strengthened its liquidity position by making use of its lines of credit with the financial sector to meet its commitments with its employees, taxes, suppliers and other stakeholders,” according to the company.
‘Green’ Businesses Mostly Positive
For Enka’s various recycling operations, total revenue in 1Q 2020 hit COP$33 billion (US$8.4 million), taking a 33% share of the company’s sales. Exports totaled US$1.5 million, equivalent to 16% of business income. So far in 2020, post consumer plastic-bottle-collection has increased by 10% year-on-year.
The “EKO-PET” line (4,498 tons in 1Q 2020) “continues to operate at 100% of its capacity and has an increase in sales volume of 5%. Revenues for 1Q 2020 decreased 10% due to lower international PET prices, as a consequence of lower oil prices and lower world demand due to the effect of Covid-19,” according to Enka.
The “EKO-Fibras” line (3,162 tons) had a 15% increase in sales volume “mainly in the local market, covering greater market needs due to the uncertainty about the availability and prices of imported products by Covid-19 and the strong devaluation of the peso,” according to the company.
The “EKO- Polyolefins” line (566 tons) “continues to evolve positively, managing to consolidate recurring businesses in both the local and export markets. So far this year, sales have grown by 475 tons (up 521%),” according to Enka.
Textile, Industrial Business Lines
For this segment, revenue hit COP$69 billion (US$17.6 million), reaching a 67% share of the company’s total sales. Exports reached US$11.9 million, representing 61% of textile/industrial lines, with the United States, Canada and Brazil as main destinations.
The “Industrial Threads” line (3,083 tons) saw 5% sales growth “due to the good performance of the North American market and the development of new clients in this region, both in canvas for tires and in technical threads, which offset a lower demand from the automotive industry in Mexico and Brazil,” according to Enka.
The “Textile Filaments” line (2,533 tons) saw sales volume dip 5%, “mainly due to lower exports to Argentina due to credit restrictions and lower demand for textile ‘Nylon’ in Brazil, partially offset by the better performance of the local market,” according to Enka.
The “Resins” line (870 tons) saw sales grow 28% in tons “due to higher demand for Nylon resins for electrical cables — especially abroad — and higher demand for virgin PET for beverage containers and toiletries,” according to Enka.


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Paper receipts have served us well — they’re simple and practical. But in this digital world, that little scrap of paper is headed toward extinction.
E-receipts are often promoted as a way to save paper — and that’s certainly true. They’re also convenient — easy to file and easy to find if you want to return an item, make a warranty claim or need a receipt for tax or business purposes.
But let’s be honest, there’s something more going on here.
Merchants see digital receipts as a way to “engage” with their customers. Translation: They see this as a new marketing channel — an efficient way to sell you more stuff.
“Collecting customer data is always a challenge, even at the register,” said Ian Goldman, CEO of Celerant Technology Corp. “There are all kinds of issues about getting an effective customer list and emailing receipts is a fairly effective and simple way to get accurate contact points for your customer base.”
Armed with your email address, a retailer can try to up-sell or cross-sell you with personalized sales incentives.
According to a 2012 report from Epsilon International, 83 percent of the retailers that offered electronic receipts did so to acquire customers’ email addresses. The report says electronic receipts have proven to be “an innovative communications vehicle for retailers that offer limitless marketing possibilities.”
The Epsilon report also noted that digital receipts “offer retailers deeper insight into consumer shopping habits, which can lead to more targeted advertising mailers, promotions, and emails.”
Jason Shapiro, CEO of TransactionTree, a company that specializes in digital receipts, warns retailers that using email addresses for intrusive marketing could backfire.
The TransactionTree electronic receipt system does not add email addresses provided for e-receipts to the retailer’s marketing database. A customer must opt-in for that to happen.
“We are extremely against the assumption that the customer who wants an e-receipt also wants additional marketing,” Shapiro said. “You already have the opportunity to deliver personal marketing messages to them on that digital receipt, but that does not give you permission to start blanket marketing to them.”
Shapiro said this no-spam policy makes customers more likely to say “yes” when asked if they’d like their receipt emailed to them.
Old habits are hard to changeApple was the first to offer a digital receipt back in 2005. Today, it’s an option at stores all across the country. Rental car companies and hotels also offer electronic receipts to speed you on your way.
But are customers choosing the non-paper option?
“Nationwide, it’s still a tiny fraction of the receipts given out at brick-and-mortar stores,” said Jack Gold, president of the research firm J. Gold Associates. “Retailers have to tread carefully. They want to move to this new technology, but they can’t move until their customer base is ready.”
A lot of this is also generational. Young shoppers feel comfortable getting things electronically, but many older people still want to walk out of the store with a paper receipt in their hands.
Gold expects digital receipts to be much more rapidly accepted in large metropolitan areas on both coasts and then spread to smaller cities and towns.
“The market is not going to change in one fell swoop,” he told me. “People who think we’re magically going to switch over to all digital receipts in the next two or three years are wrong.”
And what about privacy concerns?Paul Stephens, director of policy and advocacy at the nonprofit Privacy Rights Clearinghouse, wants you to stop and think before you voluntarily give up another piece of personal information.
“If you’re offered that option, don’t accept it,” Stephens said. “You’re giving up information that can be hacked, as we saw in the Target breach. The more information a retailer has on you, the more information a hacker can get a hold of if they breach the system.”
Criminals can use those stolen email addresses to develop phishing attacks specifically targeted at the store’s customers. It’s called spear phishing and it’s a much more effective way to disguise spam and trick people into responding.
“You are much more likely to believe that bogus email is legitimate,” Stephens said. “The odds that you will respond and give out private information increase exponentially.”
Into the futureDespite the concerns and potential downsides, digital receipts are the future. So how do you deal with it?
Consumer advocates recommend setting up a separate email account that you only use for your e-receipts.
“That way, you can track them more easily and they won’t get mixed up with all of your other email,” explained Katherine Hutt, director of communications and media relations for the Council of Better Business Bureaus. “You can also see if a company is being over-aggressive with their marketing to you.”
Remember, because digital receipts are emailed, they can get caught by spam filters or be sent to the wrong person, if the clerk types in the wrong email address. That’s why the BBB suggests checking your smartphone — while you’re at the register — to make sure you received that e-receipt. If not, ask for an old-fashioned paper one.


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Last week CBS reported on the labour market in the first quarter of this year (Dutch only).
UWV: fewer new unemployment benefits in sector health care and welfare
UWV paid out 188 thousand new unemployment benefits in the first four months of this year, i.e. 26 thousand fewer (- 12 percent) than in the same period last year. The number of new benefits fell across all sectors, except in the segment retail department stores. Remarkable is the sharp decline in new benefits in the health care and welfare sector (- 26 percent).
Following the adoption of the Work and Security Act (Wwz), a new classification method on the basis of income adjustment was introduced in July 2015, which structurally increased the number of current unemployment benefits; firstly, because people who start working may still be entitled to income supplement under the Unemployment Act (WW) and secondly, their entitlement to a benefit is only terminated after a check has been performed to verify whether their self-reported income matches the income as stated by their employer. These data are available in the Policy administration.
More young men unemployed
In April last year 7.0 percent of the labour force were unemployed, versus 6.4 percent in April 2016, but unemployment among 15 to 25-year-old men rose from 10.8 to 12.0 percent in the span of one year. Most people in this age group were secondary school pupils and students often looking for small part-time jobs. Unemployment among 15 to 25-year-old women decreased from 11.1 to 10.4 percent in the same period.
Nearly 8.4 million people employed
The population in the Netherlands includes 12.7 million people aged between 15 and 75. In April 65.7 percent of them (nearly 8.4 million people: 4.5 million men and nearly 3.9 million women) were working in paid employment.
The other 4.4 million people in the age category 15-74 do not have paid jobs: 572 thousand are unemployed and 3.8 million are not seeking employment or not immediately available for the labour market. In the latter group women are in the majority with 2.2 million.
UWV: Number of current benefits noticeably down among young people
By the end of April 461 thousand people were receiving unemployment benefits from UWV, nearly 10 thousand fewer (- 2 percent) than in March. The number of benefits paid to under-25s decreased by almost 7 percent. Across all sectors, except in the segment retail department stores, the number of current unemployment benefits decreased in April compared to March.


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Apple is well known for having a closed and rather restrictive digital ecosystem. It’s a method that’s allowed them to have a close grip on what goes into their iOS app store and how they’re sold. One of these restrictions was the price point system, where developers could only sell their apps or games for a set price selected from a list. However, that’s set to change, at least partially, with Apple announcing in a recent developer update that they would be adding numerous new price points for developers and publishers to choose from.
In the post, Apple states “Under the updated App Store pricing system, all developers will have the ability to select from 900 price points, which is nearly 10 times the number of price points previously available for most apps. This includes 600 new price points to choose from, with an additional 100 higher price points available upon request. To provide developers around the world with even more flexibility, price points — which will start as low as $0.29 and, upon request, go up to $10,000 — will offer an enhanced selection of price points, increasing incrementally across price ranges (for example, every $0.10 up to $10; every $0.50 between $10 and $50; etc.).”
What does this mean for publishers and developers?
A major part of this change is the ease it will offer to developers and publishers. Especially for those that aren’t selling their games in dollars. Previously, for currencies like Yen that tend to work in the thousands rather than the tens or single digits for purchases, it made pricing games accurately to the actual cost quite difficult for developers. The consideration for foreign currency includes provisions for automatic pricing adjustments across non-native currencies for developers as well.
As stated on the blog post “This means, for example, a Japanese game developer who gets most of their business from Japanese customers can set their price for the Japan storefront, and have their prices outside of the country update as foreign exchange and tax rates change. All developers will also be able to define availability of in-app purchases by storefront.”
Although this will alleviate a major headache for developers and publishers on the platform, in a post-IDFA world there are still major concerns with how Apple treats those that put apps on its platforms. With the UK CMA (Competitions & Markets Authority) investigating Apple and Google for a purported duopoly in web browsing, criticism of Apple’s approach to a digital ecosystem remains prominent.


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SAN FRANCISCO (CBS.MW) -- In the first of what could become a trend for Transmeta, the chipmaker signed a multi-year royalty contract Thursday to license a low-power, leakage-reduction technology to semiconductor giant NEC Electronics.
"This shows how we are intending to leverage our intellectual property for shareholder benefit," said Arthur Swift, executive vice president of marketing for Transmeta
Investors responded to the news by boosting shares 8.4 percent to $3.89 on heavy volume of 8 million on Thursday.
Primarily known as a maker of microprocessors used in notebook computers and mobile communications devices, Santa Clara, Calif.-based Transmeta debuted in October a technology to cut excessive chip heat and power leakage.
The technology, called LongRun2, was demonstrated then in Transmeta's new flagship chip Efficeon. Swift said standby power consumption was reduced 70 fold and active power use also came down.
NEC Electronics NIPNY plans on applying LongRun2 to its chips used in cell phones, broadband networking and digital consumer electronics. Swift said NEC could incorporate the technology in production chips by the end of 2005.
Representatives from the two companies held a press conference in Tokyo on Thursday afternoon to announce the strategic relationship.
Exact terms of the contract with NEC were not disclosed, but the Tokyo-based company will pay a licensing fee and royalties to Transmeta. Also, NEC took an equity stake in Transmeta as part of a 25 million-share common stock offering on Dec. 18.
Swift said the stake was for less than 2 percent of shares outstanding prior to the offering, which would make for an initial investment of less than 2.8 million shares or $8.1 million, based on the stock sale terms and Transmeta's shares outstanding.
"It was a small equity stake but it was designed to show the long-term significance of the relationship between the two companies," Swift said.
Swift said other companies have expressed interest in using LongRun2. "This could be broadly applied in any product that needs low power," said Swift.
The deal with NEC is non-exclusive and covers technology for transistor wires at 90 nanometers, as well as 65 and 45 nanometers.
The chip industry is just beginning to manufacture chips made on 90 nanometer technology, while research and development continues at 65 and 45 nanometer nodes.
A single red blood cell measures between 2,000 and 5,000 nanometers across. The tinier the features are that get packed on a chip, the faster it can process data. Chips also become cheaper as they become smaller.
The technological hurdles for manufacturing semiconductors, however, grow as chips get smaller. "The leakage power issue might prevent the continued scaling of transistors," said Swift, who compared power leakage on chips to light bulbs that still burn dimly when turned off.
On a processor, though, there are upwards of 70 million transistors all bleeding power when they're supposed to be dormant.


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The all-new 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport was named "Utility Vehicle of the Show" by the Southern Automotive Media Association (SAMA) at the 42nd annual Miami International Auto Show. Determined by a panel of judges consisting of industry-leading automotive journalists, the accolade took into consideration a full range of utility vehicles from SUVs, pickup trucks and crossovers. One of three awards issued by SAMA at the show's annual press day luncheon, "Utility Vehicle of the Show" marks 2012 as the first year for the category.
"Hyundai is deeply honored to receive the 'Utility Vehicle of the Show' award for the 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport by SAMA," said Jim Trainor, senior group manager of product public relations, Hyundai Motor America. "Santa Fe is proving to be a fantastic example of Hyundai's commitment to value with a wide variety of features and options that resonate well with the South Florida market." For the 2013 model year, Santa Fe is all-new with two distinct bodystyles and multiple interior configurations. The five-passenger Santa Fe Sport features a direct-injected four-cylinder engine family, available Active Cornering Control All-Wheel Drive and interior features such as a 40:20:40 folding rear seat and panoramic sunroof. Santa Fe Sport offers exceptional utility for the money.
"The Santa Fe Sport is precisely the right size with optimum accessories for today's market. It's a superb vehicle for the price and worthy of being named SAMA's 'Utility Vehicle of the Show'," said Jaime Florez, SAMA President and judge. Formed in 2007, SAMA consists of more than 100 journalists and public relations managers from the Southern region. Since its formation, the organization has put on the awards to recognize the best that the automotive industry has to offer at the Miami International Auto Show. For 2012, the category "Utility Vehicle of the Show" replaced the former "Concept Vehicle of the Show" award. The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport joins the Hyundai Genesis Sedan which was named "Star of the Show" in 2008.
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It’s not easy for American films to find their way into Chinese theaters, but when they do, they sure make a lot of money.
“Star Trek: Into Darkness” was the first Trek film to experience that back in 2013, where $57 million of its total $467 million worldwide gross came directly from China.
Now “Star Trek: Beyond” hopes to build on that momentum, getting an investment boost from China-based Alibaba Pictures, which could very well open the door for “Beyond” to show up in the country.
The Chinese studio is a subsidiary of the massive e-commerce corporation Alibaba Group, which reported revenue of $11.8 billion last year. The deal allows Alibaba to handle marketing, promotion and merchandising in the country, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Paramount has partnered with Alibaba in the past, joining forces last year for “Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation,” which earned just under $136 million in China.
The new deal not only includes “Beyond,” but also “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows.”
“We had a great experience working with Paramount on ‘Mission: Impossible,’ and are very excited to join forces again for these two pictures, both of which have terrific fan bases in China that we hope to cooperate with Paramount to grow even larger,” Zhang Wei, president of Alibaba Pictures, told THR in a statement.
“Into Darkness” was released in China a year before Alibaba launched its film division, forcing Paramount to find other ways to promote what is mostly an unknown film franchise to the country. With the help of Alibaba’s vast social media network and other promotional abilities, Paramount hopes to increase the Chinese film market take, which could easily cross well over $100 million this time around.
“Star Trek: Beyond” premieres in North America July 22.


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When her single “Bodak Yellow” shot to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 last year, Cardi B instantly became one of the best-known female rappers in the business. And her influence extends beyond music — Cardi is also a major fashion influencer.
She makes a splash whether she’s on the streets or the red carpet, choosing everything from black platform sandals to sultry thigh-high boots. In honor “Invasion of Privacy,” her debut album, which came out today, FN is taking a look at some of Cardi’s most memorable shoe looks.
In one of her most glittery looks, Cardi opted for Saint Laurent’s crystal-covered Niki boots for an MTV VMA pre-show performance last August. The shoes — which had a massive waitlist and sold for $10,000 — made a bold statement when paired with an equally blingy bodysuit.
Cardi, who raps about Christian Louboutin shoes in “Bodak Yellow,” often sports footwear from the luxury label. At the Grammy Awards in February, the hitmaker matched a swanlike Ashi Studio dress to lace-covered Louboutin pumps.
Another notable Louboutin moment came during a December appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.” There, she paired a fur-trimmed green top with tapered trousers and dark green pumps.
Designers have also taken note of the musician’s bold style — and the star sat front-row for the fall ’18 shows at Alexander Wang, Prabal Gurung, Jeremy Scott and more during New York Fashion Week.
Of course, not all of Cardi’s footwear choices come at an astronomical price point. The Bronx-born beauty starred in a commercial for Steve Madden, and she looked stylish in over-the-knee boots from the brand as she sat alongside Anna Wintour at Alexander Wang’s show.
Despite Cardi’s major influence in the fashion world, music remains her main focus. “Invasion of Privacy” shot to gold status within mere minutes of its release — cementing Cardi’s status as a hitmaker.
See more of Cardi B’s best shoe styles.


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The OpenSea Non-Fungible Token Marketplace has announced the inclusion of BNB Chain NFTs, with buying and selling expected to begin before the end of the year.
Multiple creator payouts, collection management, and other benefits will be available to BNB Chain creators who want to list and sell digital collectibles on OpenSea’s marketplace.
BNB Chain investment director, Gwendolyn Regina, stated:
“Our goal is to provide the best in class experience to NFT creators and users, and this is a significant step in that direction as BNB Chain NFTs will now be available for listing and sale on OpenSea, the world’s largest NFT marketplace by volume. The integration will bring a large number of creators into the larger system, as well as empower creators and NFT initiatives within the BNB Chain ecosystem.”
BNB Chain’s blockchain provides OpenSea users with affordable trading capabilities
The integration will undoubtedly bring more users to OpenSea from the BNB Chain NFT community, with many projects vying for a prized spot on the massive marketplace. BNB Chain’s blockchain technology will also provide OpenSea users with access to the popular blockchain’s quick and affordable trading capabilities.
Jeremy Fine, OpenSea’s head of business and corporate development, stated:
“We’re excited to start using Seaport across multiple blockchains, including BNB Chain, to improve the OpenSea experience for everyone. This update will make it easier to reach even more users and creators on their preferred chains.”
With the integration of OpenSea NFTs, Binance NFT recently introduced the first phase of upgrades to its marketplace, allowing users to explore non-fungible tokens from multiple marketplaces and blockchains. Binance NFT intends to integrate additional marketplaces and chains, as well as expand its digital asset offerings.


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Case Manufacturers and Sellers Have Begun Prepping For ‘iPhone SE 2’ Launch
Although Apple has yet to officially announce the low-entry iPhone that is expected to launch this early spring, case sellers and manufacturers have already begun to prep their storefronts.
According to MacRumors, Totallee, the popular iPhone case maker has launched its landing page for the unannounced iPhone SE 2. A listing on its website has pre-orders set on ‘Thin iPhone SE 2 Case’. The page also suggests that shipments will begin to be sent on March 24th, which aligns with the latest reports. Amazon and Alibaba have also begun to ready similar products on their websites.
Interestingly enough, the use of the ‘iPhone SE 2’ name has been used across the board. Whereas many of the rumours have debated over whether or not the new device from Apple will be called iPhone SE 2 or iPhone 9, it appears as though one side is currently winning the debate as far as case makers are concerned.
Case manufacturers ran into a similar situation upon the reveal and launch of the iPhone X. At the time, Apple had been following a fairly standardized naming convention. Following the iPhone 8, many case makers put all their eggs into the iPhone 9 basket and began creating product boxes and labels under that name. They soon discovered the device would be called the iPhone X and had to quickly react.
As for the dimensions of the case, it has been long-rumoured that the iPhone SE 2 would be nearly identical to the iPhone 8. It is said to be 4.7 inches, with a Touch ID button and a single rear camera. The latest reports wager that the iPhone SE 2 will cost roughly $399.


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The International Monetary Fund is maintaining its 6.2 percent forecast of the expansion of the Ghanaian economy in 2022.
This is bigger than the 4.7 percent growth rate it projected for last year.
Though it did not give reasons for the projected high Gross Domestic Product for this year, the expected increase in economic activities, following further easing of COVID-19 restrictions will trigger that.Improved aggregate demand and supply of goods, exports as well as government and household spending will influence the expansion of the economy, which before the COVID-19 pandemic had been growing at a rate of about six per cent on the average.
In its October 2021 World Economic Report, the IMF said Ghana’s economy will grow at a rate of 6.2 percent in 2022.
This is higher than forecasts by research institutions, sighted by Joy Business. The higher growth rate indicates that businesses will be able to generate more revenue from sales and expand into the future.
Industry is expected to pick up this year, whilst the Services and Agriculture sectors are expected to consolidate their gains in 2022.
Ghana’s economy expanded by 6.6 per cent in the 3rd quarter of this year, provisional data from the Ghana Statistical Service indicated.
This is a significant increase from what was recorded during the same period last year, which was a contraction, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The main sub-sectors that expanded in quarter three of 2021 are Education (24.2%); Health & Social Works (20.5 percent ); Information & Communication (17.0 percent ); Professional Administrative & Support (16.7 percent ); Hotel & Restaurants (16.4 percent ); Public Administration &Defence, Social Security (16.3 percent ), Fishing (14.3 percent ); Real Estate (11.5 percent ); Crops (9.8 percent ).
For sectoral growth rates, the Services sector recorded the highest growth rate of 13.4%, followed by the Agriculture sector with 9.2 per cent.
However, Industry contracted by 2.0 per cent. This was as a result of contraction in the mining sub sector.


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The Spyder concept debuted at the beginning of 2011 and promised to be the German luxury sports car maker's most extreme offering to-date. Rumors at its unveiling said the Weismann Spyder was slated for production fast-track, but Eurozone economics have kept that in check.
Now, a new report on TopSpeed says that the supercar could enter production yet. The company, says TopSpeed, has neither confirmed nor denied that the Spyder will go to production - which is definitely not a "no."
The concept was a powerful one. The sleek roadster spyder design was typical of Weismann saloons, with the driver sitting just ahead of the rear wheels to accommodate a huge engine compartment that occupies most of the tiny car's displacement. The little Spyder concept weighed under 2,200 pounds and was little more than a shell to carry the huge 4.0-liter V8 from BMW, pumping out 420 horsepower to give the little Spyder a 0-60 time of barely 4 seconds and a top speed of 180 miles per hour.
Last year, Weismann put out the final version of their venerable MF3 roadster, which this concept is based upon, and the company has yet to name a successor to that model, one of their best offerings so far. This could be good or bad news for the Spyder, depending on how you look at it. If Weismann is serious about shelving the Roadster MF3, then this Spyder that's based upon it would have to be shelved as well. If, however, the company wants to get one last run out of one of their most popular models, then what better way than to put out a supercar version of it - ala this Spyder concept?
Whatever the case, the German super car maker is on a roll, with a recent top-shelf showing at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.


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Target, one of the nation’s most popular big box stores was hacked during its busiest time of the year. Thieves managed to get every credit card number that was swiped in an American Target store from November 27th to December 15th. How massive was this breach of Target’s credit card security? Here are five statistics that tell the story:
1. 40 million credit and debit cards stolen
First of all, 40 million people shopped at Target in an 18 day period? That’s more than 1 in 8 Americans! Granted there are probably several million repeat customers in there, but the number discounts anyone who paid with cash. Regardless, the hackers successfully stole the credit card and debit card information of 40 million customers. Yikes.
2. 1,797 Target stores hacked
That would be all of them in the United States. Not sure if this is more or less mind-boggling than the 40 million number, but it shows that the breach of Target’s security was complete. We’re still waiting to hear if Target’s 124 stores in Canada were also breached.
3. 0 online purchases hacked
Some good news: the Target security breach does not extend to those who shopped online. Just one more reason that Cyber Monday is superior to Black Friday.
4. 3rd Largest Retailer In The U.S.
Target, with $72 million in sales in 2012, according to Stores.org, is America’s third largest retailer. It goes to show that size does not always mean safety. While Target can afford a large and sophisticated security team, they are also a major, um, target, for hackers looking to strike gold.
5. 2nd largest retail hack ever
The Target hack didn’t quite break the record, but it came close. The largest known security breach was in 2007, when hackers stole the credit card information of 45.7 million shoppers of T.J. Maxx and Marshalls over an 18 month period. While the Target hackers fell short of that number they were much more efficient: the Target hackers scored over 2 million credit and debit cards a day. If this is a sign of the future of hacking, that’s a reason to be frightened.


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Doroni Aerospace, manufacturer of a personal two-seater electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) has announced the launch of its Series A Reg D Offering, “providing accredited investors with easy online access to participate in this investment opportunity, marking a significant milestone in the development and growth of its cutting-edge technology,” said the company.
“This investment opportunity is critical step in the organization’s process to obtain official certification from the FAA. Additionally, the company will start delivery of the first units sold in the second half of 2025,” the company reports. “By supporting their efforts, investors can contribute to enhancing the company’s operations, as well as assisting with recruitment and research and development, ultimately bringing the company’s goals to fruition.”
Doroni reports that over the past six months it has completed 53 successful test flights and USD3.6 million raised through equity crowdfunding from over 1,900 investors.
Doroni Aerospace’s H1, a two-seater personal eVTOL, available for pre-order, has already begun receiving deposits. With an estimated starting retail price of USD250,000, the H1 will provide individuals with a new way to own, fly, and park their very own “flying car” in a standard two-car garage. To get started, customers will only need a current valid driver’s license and to complete a 20-hour training course, provided by the company, to ensure a safe and seamless experience.
For more information


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The Facebook Messenger app is now available on Windows Phone 8 as Microsoft continues its aim to provide a more desirable apps selection.
Facebook finally made it to the Windows Phone mobile operating system, two years after its debut on Android and iOS. According to The Inquirer, the pleasure is not only Facebook's. Microsoft also seemed pleased when it announced the development in a blog post. It mentioned that a promise had been made at last week's Mobile World Congress 2014 that Facebook Messenger will land in the Windows Phone Store.
Windows Phone currently has an app where the user can see who is online. It allows group conversations, sending stickers and location sharing. However, users cannot do voice messaging with it. It also does not support Chat Heads.
As for Facebook Messenger, one can send a private message and include stickers and pictures. The app also allows users to share location for others to know if you are nearby. Users can manually add friends themselves, or import contacts. The names can be found in Facebook's People Tab.
With Facebook Messenger for Windows Phone, the Windows Phone Store's app selection appears to be improving. As The Verge reported, Nokia announced earlier that Blackberry Messenger is coming to Windows Phone, to follow the latest addition of Vine and Instagram.
Facebook Messenger's landing on Windows Phone may have taken quite a while compared to its Android and iOS debut, but its arrival now is a few weeks ahead of a major update of Windows Phone 8.1. Microsoft is expected to roll out the update in early April.


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Streaming brands set to gain from Reliance Jio’s broadband plans3 min read . Updated: 11 Jul 2018, 11:51 PM IST
Reliance Jio GigaFiber will have huge implications for cable, DTH, TV broadcasting, OTT services
Imagine a home with connected devices, with gadgets and appliances such as mobiles, refrigerators, televisions, geysers and air conditioners talking to each other. A smart home will soon be a possibility with the help of a single service provider Jio GigaFiber, the high-speed fixed line broadband from Reliance Jio Infocomm. The announcement of the service was made by Reliance Industries chairman and managing director Mukesh Ambani on 5 July at the company’s 41st annual general meeting.
The service will include ultra high definition entertainment on TV, virtual reality, gaming, smart home solutions and e-commerce. The company will offer a router, set-top box and a fixed line phone, among other things. The fibre connectivity to 1,100 towns and cities will target 50 million broadband users.
Reliance’s entry in this segment is expected to be hugely disruptive for the media and entertainment industry as it will have far-reaching implications for cable, direct-to-home (DTH), television broadcasting as well as over-the-top (OTT) video streaming brands such as Amazon Prime, Netflix and Hotstar, among others.
The biggest beneficiary of the Jio GigaFiber would be OTT services, says Ashish Pherwani, partner (media and entertainment) at consulting firm EY. “The more there is wired infrastructure in place, the more houses that have fibre, the better it is for OTT platforms. It will give a leg-up to subscription-led OTT because OTT content will now be seen on TV. In fibre-to-home, the quality of broadband is much better," he says.
For some sections of the media and entertainment business, Jio GigaFiber may pose a challenge. For instance, on the day of the announcement of the service, shares of broadband and cable TV operators like Hathway Cable & Datacom, Den Networks and Siti Networks tanked as both cable and internet service providers (ISPs) business may face stiff competition from GigaFiber. “What if it (Jio) offers 250 TV channels and 50GB data for ₹ 500 a month? Nobody can compete with that," says a media executive. However, Ashok Mansukhani, a cable industry veteran as well as CEO and managing director of Hinduja Ventures Ltd, the holding company of Hinduja Group’s media firms, does not agree. He says cable has several unique strengths such as local content, convenience of service and low pricing. Also, cable can provide broadband. Besides, cable (especially Hinduja’s HITS platform) is servicing remote rural areas and has access to difficult hinterlands. “While any new technology and service impacts the industry, we feel cable will innovatively move ahead with the strengths it has in understanding customers for the last 20 years or more."
Media industry experts expect an impact on DTH as well since DTH is not a two-way technology and the world is moving towards a model where content is reaching the consumer directly. Mihir Shah, vice-president at research firm Media Partners Asia (MPA), says that vanilla linear channel offerings will not be adequate to attain meaningful average revenue per user growth in the pay-TV sector. “Product innovation will be vital for the DTH industry. Already operators like Airtel and Videocon D2H have rolled out connected STBs (set-top boxes) allowing consumers to stream online content, though the deployments have not yet attained any meaningful scale."
Besides, Jio will also have better negotiating power with broadcasters as it will become the largest multi-system operator and television distributor in the country. Experts say that broadcasters may lose their pricing power for content as Jio can flaunt the number of homes that it hooks.
To be sure, the consumer stands to gain. Right now, every home has multiple service providers—one each for landline, TV and broadband. With Jio, it will be the first time that one company will offer all three services. And although its pricing strategy is not known, Jio may offer these at very low prices to capture the market.
But the question is, will the consumer switch? It may not be easy. Experts say the conversion may be slower than what it was for its mobile service. In the case of SIM cards, the situation was different. Many people tried Jio phones while keeping their existing connections. In this case, whether a consumer replaces his existing service providers remains to be seen.
But given its earlier record, Jio will go all out to woo the consumer. Says MPA’s Shah: “In comparison to the mobility segment, the subscriber uptake in the fixed broadband segment will be slow. However, the quality of subscriber growth going forward will be superior, with many upgrading to next-gen broadband technologies."
Shuchi Bansal is Mint’s media, marketing and advertising editor. Ordinary Post will look at pressing issues related to all three. Or just fun stuff.


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In addition, although the team has softened on their former stance about having no difficulty options, Days Gone is said to be “pretty hard”.
And, at the Deacon’s Red Ale Sampling promotional event in Long Beach, Sony said they’re expecting it to be a returning franchise.
- Early graphics comparison video shows "Days Gone" has been upgraded
- Naughty Dog dev responds to The Last Of Us Part 2 release date 2019
- Super Smash Bros. Ultimate – will Joker get a release date on April 11?
Sony wants Days Gone to be a franchise rather than a one-off hit
Sony’s Days Gone promotional event, Deacon’s Red Ale Sampling, was a team-up with Ballas Point Brewing to make an exclusive event only beer inspired by the game.
In a conversation with Average Caucasian Shark’s Jason Hendricks, an unnamed Sony PR guy said that Sony sees Days Gone as a franchise because “The goal is always to make a game that people love and want more of.”
Hendricks also spoke to Bend Studio’s director, Christopher Reese, about the upcoming game and why Bend decided to create a post-apocalyptic zombie game when the genre is overplayed.
Reese responded by saying the team are massive fans of Sons Of Anarchy and The Walking Dead, and that he expects Days Gone to surprise people as the Freakers are very different from typical zombies.
Although there has been minor (but still unwarranted) controversy surrounding some of the game’s zombies resembling children, Days Gone has received a lot of positive previews. It has the slickest menus since Persona 5, and the reception towards protagonist Deacon has largely been great thanks to Bend's character changes after the first negative reactions from the public.
Days Gone launches for PlayStation 4 only on April 26.
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A Renaissance Is Brewing Among Japan’s Craft Beer Makers
On an unusually warm October day, beer brewers from across Japan set up their tents in an amusement park south of Tokyo. On offer were melon beers, brown-sugar beers, and soy-sauce beers. Visitors at the Yokohama Kanazawa Craft Beer and Gourmet Festa didn’t bat an eyelid.
For decades, Japanese beer meant only one thing: pilsner-style pale lagers made by the country’s handful of major brewers. But the market is changing rapidly today, and the change is being led by craft-beer makers keen to shake up the industry. New flavors and ingredients—including exotic elements like soba, miso, sweet potato, and Japanese pepper—are transforming the market, along with the regulatory changes. The result is more variety in both brews and drinkers.
Peaches and Melons
The 17 craft beer makers at the festival in Yokohama’s Hakkeijima Sea Paradise, an aquarium and theme park, hailed from beer-making hotspots like Tokyo and Kanagawa as well as far-flung prefectures like Okinawa, Okayama, and Kagawa. The latter was represented by mamemame brewery from Shōdoshima, an island in the Inland Sea famed for its olive plantations—and its soy sauce.
“This is a dry stout beer made in the imperial stout style,” says mamemame owner and founder Nakata Masaya, pouring a half-pint into a plastic glass. “We always use ingredients from Shōdoshima. This one has soy sauce that gives it richness, depth, and some bitterness.”
An Osaka native, Nakata spent time in the United States, where he was influenced by Brooklyn Brewery’s flagship beer, Brooklyn Lager. He cofounded mamemame in April 2017 as the sole beer brewery on Shōdoshima. Its other brews feature ingredients like strawberries, dekopon (a variety of mandarin orange), coriander seeds, rose geranium, and various herbs.
Another beer-lover experimenting with ingredients is Arai Shōichi, head brewer at local maker South Yokohama Craft Beer Laboratory. One brew they serve at events like the Yokohama Kanazawa beer festival is a New England IPA with a twist: it’s green and tastes like watermelon. It’s called Meron Sugiru Ēru, or Too Much Melon Ale.
“It’s popular at craft beer events because it’s so fruity,” says Arai. “This appeals to people who might not be used to drinking beer or can’t handle too much of it. They also love our peach-flavored beer.”
The Real Beer Revolution
Until this April, however, the brews made by Nakata and Arai were not beer under Japanese law. They were happōshu (quasi-beer), a tax category for liquor with low malt content compared to traditional beer or with ingredients that differ from the authorized lineup of malt, sugar, hops, rice, corn, sorghum, potato, and starch. On a typical 350-ml can of beer, which can cost about ¥200 to ¥300 yen, the government collects a whopping ¥77 in tax, but it’s only ¥47 for a can of happōshu. This has made it an appealing category for brewing companies looking to get products into the hands of price-conscious drinkers.
Often associated with cheap suds sold in convenience stores, the happōshu label has been slapped on everything from fruity European imported beer to domestically brewed products with less than 67% malt content. Since it’s cheaper than officially recognized beer, happōshu has a working-class credibility, but doesn’t hold much appeal for beer connoisseurs.
In 2018, however, the government overhauled the beer tax laws for the first time in 110 years, lowering the required malt content to 50%. It also allowed ingredients such as fruit, spices, seaweed, shellfish, and bonito flakes. Meanwhile, the taxes on beer, happōshu, and dai-san, the so-called “third-sector” no-malt beverages, which have the lowest taxes because they lack malt entirely, will be brought closer together.
Nakata’s and Arai’s brews are now officially beer.
“The craft beer industry is heating up,” says Arai. “It’s important not only to improve quality and taste but to have more beer with Japanese characteristics, and not just products inspired by beer in America and Germany.”
A Shifting Market
Japan’s craft beer boom is nothing new. In 1994, Japan relaxed the minimum brewing volume requirements for licensing, sparking an explosion in so-called ji-bīru, or microbrews. Hundreds of microbreweries appeared seemingly overnight. Dozens later shut down, often because their products were of poor quality, launched in part to lure visitors to hot springs and other tourist spots with catchy local labels and names and nothing in the way of brewing expertise to back them up. Today, though, there’s a greater emphasis on quality, experimentation, and food pairings. Kurafuto bīru, or “craft beer,” has largely replaced the term ji-bīru, and new breweries and brewpubs are continuing to open every month. There are now more than 300 craft beer makers across Japan, controlling about 2% of the domestic market.
According to Tokyo Shōkō Research, major craft beer makers saw sales rise 1% in January to August 2018 over the same period a year earlier. That’s a modest gain, but things aren’t rosy at all at Japan’s major brewers. Sales of beer, happōshu, and third-sector no-malt beverages by Asahi, Sapporo, Kirin, Suntory, and Orion fell by 3.6% in the first six months of this year compared to the same period in 2017; it was a record low for the sixth consecutive half-year period.
It’s no wonder, then, that Japan’s big brewers have been increasing their presence in the craft beer scene with new brews, brewpubs, and even craft beer subsidiaries. In 2015, for instance, Kirin launched Spring Valley Brewery, a wholly owned subsidiary that opened brewpubs in Yokohama, Kyoto, and Tokyo’s fashionable Daikanyama district.
In August 2018, Spring Valley Brewery opened Beer to Go, a deli and beer counter in Ginza Sony Park, an underground complex on the site of Sony’s former Ginza building. Beer to Go has the feel of a fast-food outlet, but it’s aimed at office workers looking for something other than the standard izakaya drinking experience. The shop has about than 10 craft beers on tap, including Daydream, a “Japanese white” with hints of yuzu citrus and Japanese sanshō pepper, as well as Jazzberry, a fruit beer made with raspberry juice. The beers are still categorized as happōshu because they have more than 5% nonstandard ingredients, but that doesn’t seem to be an issue for local workers lining up for brews to go with their mini-hamburgers, salads, and fries.
“The recent tax changes in Japan are a great opportunity to make beer more fun,” says Suzuki Yūsuke, marketing manager for Spring Valley Brewery. “Japanese tend to think of beer as only being yellow, bubbly, and chilled—a typical pilsner. But craft beer doesn’t have to be like that. Now is a great time to discover the many varieties and flavors in Japanese craft beer.”
The Quest for Japanese-Style Suds
Japan’s largest craft beer maker, Yoho Brewing, welcomes the tax changes. The lobby in its brewery in Saku, near Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, is redolent with the warm aroma of malt. In a laboratory-style room, workers conduct quality checks with sophisticated equipment. But they’re also experimenting with new brews created from Japanese ingredients and fruits. To coincide with the new tax rules, Yoho launched Sorry Umami IPA, a previously limited-edition beer featuring umami extracts from katsuobushi bonito flakes.
Founded in Nagano Prefecture in 1996 by Hoshino Resorts and now one-third owned by Kirin, Yoho Brewing operates a number of taprooms in Tokyo. Its brews are distributed throughout Japan and in about 10 other countries.
Yoho’s most popular product is Yona Yona Ale, an American Pale Ale introduced with pronounced citrus, and Aooni (“Blue Demon”), an India pale ale. Another of its offerings, however, is an example of how the new tax rules can still make it tough to meet Japan’s official standards for beer. Launched in 2012, Suiyōbi no Neko is a Belgian white-style with 99% malt content; the name translates as “Wednesday Cat” and is meant to appeal to women in need of a midweek tonic. It was classified as happōshu because of its orange peel and coriander seed flavorings, and remains so due to an ingredient used to control the beverage’s clarity. Despite this status, it’s taxed like beer because of its malt content. But the company isn’t overly concerned about that.
“Whatever it’s classified as, we’re making craft beer,” says Hara Kentarō, spokesperson for Yoho Brewing. “Even though lager is great beer, we aim to enrich the Japanese market by producing a variety of beers with distinct personalities. That’s our mission as a craft beer maker.”


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More than a third of American adults are tapping into their savings accounts to help them pay higher prices, according to new research.
In the face of high inflation, 36% of people say they withdrew an average of $617 from their savings in the first six months of this year, according to New York Life’s latest Wealth Watch survey. Over the same period, the US personal savings rate fell to 5.1% in June from 8.7% in December 2021, according to the most recent measurement of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.
By age group, Generation X (those born between 1965 and 1980) got the most savings for daily expenses: an average of $644, according to the survey.
Learn more about personal finance:
30 companies that help their employees repay their student loans
Here’s how to save on groceries in the face of food price inflation
Typical job changer got almost 10% pay rise, study finds
High inflation continued to weigh on consumer budgets, although it may ease somewhat. The July measure – released on Wednesday – shows prices are up 8.5% from a year ago, but not as high as the 9.1% year-on-year increase recorded in June.
Income, however, is not keeping up: the latest reading of hourly wages showed an increase of 5.2% in July compared to a year earlier, which means that inflation generally wiped out the increase in income.
‘Find out what your expenses are’
If you’re one of those who turn to saving to meet their daily needs, experts say it might be time to take a closer look at your income and expenses.
The ideal solution is to increase your income, said certified financial planner Douglas Boneparth, president of Bone Fide Wealth in New York. “Optimizing turnover – how much you earn – can really help,” he said.
If that’s not a viable option, then you really need to look at your spending, Boneparth said.
“Find out what your expenses are,” Boneparth said.
“A lot of people probably haven’t done this exercise,” he said. “Really go back and look at three or six months of your spending and figure out what needs to stay and what needs to go.”
While turning to savings to meet living expenses isn’t ideal, it’s better than going into debt to do so, Boneparth said.
Nevertheless, many consumers accumulate credit card debt. The sales reached a 890 billion collective dollars in the second quarter, a jump of 13% compared to the previous year and the largest annual increase in more than 20 years, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.


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A great David Kocieniewski piece in the New York Times makes the case for corporate income tax reform by looking at the extremely cushy tax treatment of the video game industry:
Those tax incentives — a collection of deductions, write-offs and credits mostly devised for other industries in other eras — now make video game production one of the most highly subsidized businesses in the United States, says Calvin H. Johnson, who has worked at the Treasury Department and is now a tax professor at the University of Texas at Austin.
Because video game makers straddle the lines between software development, the entertainment industry and online retailing, they can combine tax breaks in ways that companies like Netflix and Adobe cannot. Video game developers receive such a rich assortment of incentives that even oil companies have questioned why the government should subsidize such a mature and profitable industry whose main contribution is to create amusing and sometimes antisocial entertainment.
The deeper issue isn’t just that we don’t need a special subsidy for video game production, we really shouldn’t be offering special tax subsidies for any line of business. The idea of the corporate income tax should be to raise a little revenue without distorting investment priorities or spurring executives to spend a lot of time thinking about manipulating the tax bill. Absent all these various loopholes and deductions, it would be simple to get the revenue we need with a low tax rate, and it’d be mission accomplished.


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Panasonic has just announced UK pricing and availability for the GH4, it's latest high-end mirrorless CSC capable of 4K video recording - and it isn't cheap
Panasonic has confirmed the UK availability and price of its upcoming Lumix GH4. The mirrorless system camera, which is the first Lumix model capable of broadcast-quality 4K video capture, will be arriving on our shores from the 5th of May – but it won’t come cheap.
First impressions: Panasonic Lumix GH4 Hands-on review
With a new 16-05-megapixel sensor capable of recording 4,096×2,160 4K video at 24fps (cinema 4K) or 3,840×2,160 at 30fps (Ultra HD, the 4K TV standard), along with a choice of bitrates up to a maximum 200Mbit/s, the GH4 has serious video credentials. It can also output real-time 10-bit colour footage over HDMI to an external recording device, for broadcast-quality raw capture. This is all processed by the quad-core Venus image processor unit, which according to Panasonic boosts sensitivity, colour gradation and image detail.
It has both 3.5mm microphone and headphone jacks built into the body, but the optional DMW-YAGH expansion unit will add XLR inputs for more serious microphones and allow the GH4 to be connected to an uninterrupted power supply.
Other improvements over the outgoing Lumix GH3 include a splash-proof magnesium allow body, an OLED EVF and 3in flip-out rear screen, and compatibility with the latest UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) SD cards, which have a minimum write speed of 240Mbit/s (30MB/s).
However, these professional-level features come at a serious cost. The body-only version of the GH4 will cost a massive £1299.99 when it arrives in May, while the model with an included 14-140mm kit lens will set you back a whopping £1799.99. Finally, Panasonic will also sell a bundle that includes the body-only GH4 and the DMW-YAGHE interface unit, which will retail for £2,499.99. Even at this price the GH4 looks to be one of the cheapest ways to start filming in 4K – we can’t wait to get one into our labs to put it through its paces.


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Ultra Beasts Nihilego, Pheromosa, Buzzwole, and Xurkitree to be available in Pokémon GO Fest 2022: Finale event
During the Pokémon Presents presentation broadcasted on August 3rd, it was revealed that the Ultra Beasts Nihilego, Pheromosa, Buzzwole, and Xurkitree, which appeared in the Pokémon GO Fest 2022 worldwide event, Berlin event, Seattle event, and the Sapporo event respectively, will appear again in the Pokémon GO Fest 2022: Finale event. The event will be held on August 27th, from 10am to 6pm local time, and will be available to players worldwide.
Trainers who had purchased ticket for the global Pokémon GO Fest event on June 4th and 5th, will be granted a ticket for the finale event at no extra charge. Stand-alone finale tickets will also be available at a date to be announced, priced at USD$10.99 (or equivalent pricing tier in local currency).


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Bitcoin price hits all-time high, while major card issuer embraces crypto
Bitcoin has reached a new record high, soaring past the $68,000 mark for the first time ever. As altcoins follow suit, the total market capitalization of all crypto tokens approached $3 trillion.
Reaching an all-time high of $68,382, bitcoin rose by nearly 5% during Asian trading hours on Tuesday. As of 05:30 GMT, the rally slowed, but the cryptocurrency was still trading close to the $68,000 mark.Also on rt.com US turns into battlefield for crypto innovation contest as NYC mayor wants to out-bitcoin mayor of Miami
Since the start of October, bitcoin has been bullish, with the crypto market in total adding nearly $1 trillion to its total value in one month. The total market capitalization of cryptocurrencies reached nearly $3 trillion overnight, according to CoinMarketCap. As bitcoin is increasingly viewed by investors as a store of value asset, blockchain data from Glassnode shows that the number of unique wallets with a positive bitcoin balance is now edging close to its record high of 38.7 million in May.
Ether, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, also set a new record on Tuesday, reaching $4,823.95 per coin.Also on rt.com Walmart sets up hundreds of bitcoin ATMs at its stores across the US
Meanwhile, CoinDesk reported that Mastercard has launched crypto-linked payment cards in the Asia-Pacific. The cards will enable consumers and businesses across the region to instantly convert cryptocurrencies into traditional fiat money for payments, the company said in a statement on Monday.
Mastercard also said last month it was working on ways to allow merchants and banks in the US to build cryptocurrency into their offerings with digital asset platform Bakkt.
For more stories on economy & finance visit RT's business section


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Puma SE (PUMG.DE)
15 Aug 2014
|Market Cap (Mil.):||€2,910.92|
|Shares Outstanding (Mil.):||15.08|
BERLIN, Aug 21 - Sponsors Puma, Evonik and Signal Iduna will buy a stake in Borussia Dortmund as the Ruhr Valley club raises funds to compete with Bayern Munich, the German league champions.
BERLIN, Aug 20 - German soccer club Borussia Dortmund will on Thursday announce a capital increase that could bring it around 110 million euros ($146 million) in new funds, German business daily Handelsblatt reported on Wednesday.
BERLIN, July 29 - German sportswear firm Puma said sales of World Cup soccer boots and national team shirts as well as new Arsenal jerseys beat its expectations as it reported second-quarter earnings that fell less than feared and reiterated its outlook.
BERLIN - German sportswear firm Puma said sales of World Cup soccer boots and national team shirts beat its expectations as it reported second-quarter results in line with analyst forecasts and reiterated its expectations for 2014.
July 29 - Puma SE : * Shares rise 2.7 percent in early trade after Q2 results
* CEO says confident of 2014 turnaround (Adds CEO comment, background, detail, share price)
BERLIN, May 14 - The chief executive of German sportswear company Puma SE is not aware of any takeover interest in the firm, adding he has an excellent relationship with majority shareholder French luxury group Kering.
- A mid-stage trial of Puma Biotechnology's experimental drug neratinib showed that it was more effective, given before surgery, than Herceptin, the Roche drug commonly used in women with a type of breast cancer fueled by a protein called HER2.
April 7 - A mid-stage trial of Puma Biotechnology's experimental drug neratinib showed that it was more effective, given before surgery, than Herceptin, the Roche drug commonly used in women with a type of breast cancer fueled by a protein called HER2.
PHNOM PENH - Scores of garment workers have fallen sick this week at factories in Cambodia, including two that produce clothing for sportswear groups Puma SE and Adidas, workers and the companies said on Thursday.
Earnings vs. Estimates
Analyst Research Reports
Puma SE: Business description, financial summary, 3yr and interim financials, key statistics/ratios and historical ratio analysis.
Provider: Reuters Investment Profile
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Provider: Wright Reports
Provider: MarketLine (a Datamonitor Company)
Provider: Wright Reports
NYSE and AMEX quotes delayed by at least 20 minutes. NASDAQ delayed by at least 15 minutes. For a complete list of exchanges and delays, please click here.


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Dow Seeks Entries for Packaging Innovation Awards
Prestigious global competition converts to a biennial format to boost participation
Dow has announced that the deadline for entering its Packaging Innovation Awards (PIA) is March 8, 2024. Nominations are open to packaging designs from all industries and geographies. Winners will be selected by an independent jury composed of global packaging professionals and sustainability experts.
This year the annual competition, which has been held for 35 years, is converting to a biennial format that provides a longer submission period to give participants more time to collaborate with partners on an entry. The goal, organizers say, is to provide an accessible platform for a greater pool of packaging professionals to have their most innovative designs judged on the global stage, with the aim of further accelerating packaging innovation.
The awards, one of the best-known honors in the packaging industry, recognize breakthroughs in technological advancement, sustainability and enhanced user experience. The global program will be held entirely in Asia-Pacific as the region plays host for the first time to the judging event and awards ceremony. Organizers say this is a milestone for the event as it continues its mission of highlighting innovative packaging across industries and geographies.
“Given Asia-Pacific’s well-established role as the manufacturing hub of the world, there is no better time or place to shine a spotlight on and underscore the importance of packaging innovation and the impact on our lives today,” says David Luttenberger, the 2023 PIA Jury Chairperson and Global Packaging Director for Mintel Group Ltd., of London. “With the enhanced biennial format and more multiple engagement points for participants, I look forward to seeing even more aspiring innovators rise to the mounting challenges faced by the packaging industry amidst ever-growing consumerism globally,”
PIA promote designs that demonstrate what packaging can be when industry talent harnesses creativity and technology to solve contemporary challenges across the complete packaging value chain. The 2022 edition drew more than 180 submissions from 30 countries, and 28 entries were recognized for their demonstrable excellence.
The submission period opened on Oct. 10. Award finalists will be notified on Aug. 28, 2024, with the awards ceremony set to take place in Tokyo, in October 2024.
Entry to the 2023/2024 PIA competition is free; applicants are not required to use Dow materials in their products. All entries must be commercial products that have been on the market for more than six months by the last day entries are open to submission.
Emerging up-and-comers and well-established brands alike have the opportunity for their most innovative packaging to be judged on the world’s stage. The PIA competition celebrates creations that challenge the accepted limits of what’s possible, showcase new technologies or techniques and inspire future innovation.
Winning packages will be showcased across the global packaging industry, receiving recognition among industry peers and gaining exposure in new markets and with new audiences. Interested parties can learn more at https://pia.awardsplatform.com


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Nikhil TanejaJan 11, 2007 11:53:29 IST
Last week, Engadget got their hands on some leaked pictures of an upgraded Xbox 360 nicknamed Zephyr (the original 360 is called the Xenon, for those of you that didn't know). This upgraded 360 will feature an HDMI port, full 1080p support, and a 120 GB. However, the existence of such a prototype wasn't confirmed until Chris Satchell, general manager of the game developer group at Microsoft shed some light on it, in an interview with Gamespot. Here is what Chris had to say:
"We're always working on prototypes and new technologies and just playing with stuff in Redmond to see what's interesting. I think at the moment we have the widest available connections on the system. If you want to get great HD, I think we've got a good solution for that. In the future it's interesting to see where standards evolve to."
I wonder how this news will affect the sales of the Xbox 360. People may be a little hesitant to purchase the console now, as they’ll probably want to wait for the release of the upgraded version.


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SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., July 22, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — American CBD brand Premium Jane – long established as one of the industry’s leading firms for hemp-derived cannabidiol products – is aiming to “revamp” the greater CBD market with an innovative new product range that caters to use-specific application. The new range includes high-potency products that have been specifically formulated for various uses relating to sleep difficulty, stress and immunity.
Customers that visit the official Premium Jane site can now filter products according to the scope of effects they’re trying to achieve.
“What we’ve done is created an integrative approach to CBD product formulation and selection,” says Premium Jane co-founder Jeff Yauck. “Our entire organization is driven by customer response and feedback, and one thing we were seeing was customers were having a hard time finding the right product type to suit a desired range of effects.”
For example, those looking for a sleep related product can browse specific products like the brand’s 1500mg “Sleep Aid” gummies, which are infused with melatonin, CBN, chamomile, and GABA.
“The CBD market has been growing for years, and it’s going to continue to grow and expand for years to come,” says Yauck. “For the average customer this can be a double-edged sword; there are more products available now than ever before, but the key is finding the right product that will suit a specific range of needs. This is where our new formulations and innovative new product-selection platform comes in.”
Premium Jane has also developed a novel topical formulation that includes a 450mg infusion of cannabigerol (CBG). Like CBD, CBG is a hemp-derived non-intoxicating compound known for its natural positive effects on the body.
The brand has also been a leader in the CBD potency department, and is one of the few firms on the market to offer oil tinctures that approach the 5,000mg mark. To browse the complete selection of use-specific CBD products, readers can visit the company’s official website at www.PremiumJane.com.
For additional information, contact:
SOURCE Premium Jane


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By Lisa Johnston
New products on display at the American International Toy Fair, held in N
Toshiba's Gigabeats are back, but this time through the Toshiba group that markets portable computers, computer accessories, PocketPCs and business projectors.
Responsibility for marketing MP3 players and portable media players (PMPs) was handed off earlier this year by Toshiba America Consumer Products (TACP) in Wayne, N.J., to the digital products division of Toshiba America Information Systems (TAIS), a spokesman said.
For its first act, the TAIS division launched a 2GB flash-memory MP3 player with photo-viewing capabilities in a choice of silver or black chrome with 1.1-inch OLED display at an expected everyday $99. TheU202 also features an FM tuner and an MP3 encoder, enabling consumers to record music from the internal tuner and rip music directly from a CD player without using a computer. Distribution is through www.toshibadirect.com and retailers.
The U202 weighs 1.48 ounces and sports a lithium-ion battery that lasts up to 20 hours on one charge. It's compatible with Windows Media Player 10 and up and stores music in MP3, WAV and protected WMA formats.
The division plans a video-capable MP3 player with 2-inch screen for its next act, a spokesman said without specifying a time frame.
This TWICE webinar, hosted by senior editor Alan Wolf, will take a look at what may be the hottest CE products at retail that will be sold during the all-important fourth quarter. Top technologies, market strategies and industry trends will be discussed with industry analysts and executives.


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Note: Gretchen Schimelpfenig, Senior Energy Engineer at Energy Resources Integration, is always in tune to the latest developments in energy efficiency and optimization for the controlled-environment agriculture industry. She attended the annual Marijuana Business Conference and Cannabis Expo (MJBizCon) late last year, and following the event, Greenhouse Grower Senior Editor Brian Sparks sat down with Gretchen for a virtual discussion of her top takeaways, and where the greenhouse cannabis market may be headed in 2023.
Gretchen Schimelpfenig: MJBizCon was sort of a different affair this year. It was great to connect with manufacturers to see what they’re coming up with and learn what they’ve been hearing about energy codes in 2023. It’s been a rough year for many in the industry, but one of the things I definitely noticed about the show was that the cannabis market continues to become more mature and professional. People are coming with more of a business mindset. There are also many who are new to having a business in this industry and are definitely trying to learn as much as they can. Design solutions are still kind of hard to navigate for growers, and many of the exhibiting companies are looking for ways to be the place where the grower can get everything.
Brian Sparks: With the challenging year this industry has had, are you seeing more reluctance for new companies to enter the market?
Gretchen Schimelpfenig: The costs of getting into the market and staying in operation are becoming prohibitive for some. As the adult use license market opens up, potential growers are having to invest a lot of money just in development. There are equity programs in cannabis licensing laws for pretty much every state, but for smaller growers, there’s still the financial hurdle just in terms of licensing fees. Once they do begin operating, some aren’t able to hit good margins because of equipment or materials costs. There’s also quickly a steep learning curve for costs of running a legitimate business, like compliance with requirements for tracking of the product. Inventory tracking is important for cannabis because it prevents people from selling across state lines. So even when people get into the market, if the number of farms in that market is high or if the regulations for that market change, the margins businesses need to achieve might not make it viable.
Find Out Who Won the 2023 International Grower of the Year Award at IPM Essen
Brian Sparks: When you look at the information that is currently available to the market, are you seeing any gaps?
Gretchen Schimelpfenig: It’s definitely evolved over the past few years. At this year’s MJBizCon, I really liked that they separated the show floor into cultivation technology and postharvest dispensary supplies. A grower could simply go to the cultivation section, and then the person on their team who’s in charge of the dispensary could go to the other section of the floor.
One thing I saw much more of this year, and I think we will continue to see, is LED horticultural lighting technology one from end of the quality spectrum to the other. There was also a lot of HVAC and application equipment on display.
I do think there’s a gap in the ancillary services for controlling those pieces of equipment, especially when it comes to technology specific to greenhouse production. It’s still very much an indoor-focused conference. There were greenhouse companies there, but I would say there’s still a gap in that control space.
Brian Sparks: From the conversations you’ve had, where do you see production trending in terms of greenhouse versus indoor/warehouse versus outdoor?
Gretchen Schimelpfenig: I definitely think that the cannabis greenhouse market is on the upswing. One of the things that’s been interesting to see in the food side of the industry is that vertical farming companies are starting to have some constriction, so the businesses that weren’t going to be viable are starting to fall off. With indoor farming of cannabis, I don’t think there’s a completely identical trend, but we are, I think, going to see that greenhouse cannabis is going to be more economical in certain regions. It’s going to have a better environmental impact than indoor and maybe have different energy costs, and that’s going to change the proportion of the market. Let’s use Vermont as an example. A lot of people applied for outdoor licenses in Vermont, and there’s a portion of those people who are applying for mixed licenses who have both outdoor square footage and some controlled environment square footage, like hoop houses. The glass greenhouse market in Vermont has yet to emerge, but our climate doesn’t make sense for long harvests of only outdoor cannabis production. At the same time, indoor is going to have higher new construction costs, and the state doesn’t have a lot of square footage ready for indoor production. I think energy costs are going to lead to a larger greenhouse market. The problem is twofold. In a lot of places, electricity costs are getting higher. At the same time, some places have climates that require more heating, and heating fuel costs could prevent the greenhouse market from getting bigger in those regions.
I work with a lot of growers in Southern California, which is a very large greenhouse market. I think that greenhouse cannabis in certain regions of the country is going to dominate because that approach to cultivation protects the crop from climate change and doesn’t have some of the higher energy costs or higher operating costs of indoor environments.
Brian Sparks: It’s interesting to follow what’s happening with energy costs in Europe. Do you think we’ll see similar issues develop here in the U.S., regardless of crop?
Gretchen Schimelpfenig: As I mentioned in my last article, with the cost of electricity generated in North America being sourced from natural gas, and crude oil prices going up after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, utilities are increasing rates in the U.S. for electricity and for natural gas. What’s interesting is that propane costs for heating haven’t gone up much compared to last year, and natural gas is only going up by around 10% in some areas, compared to electricity costs which might go up by 30%.
I think in 2023, we’re going to start to see the ripple effects of this happening in the U.S. because utilities are setting their rates and asking for rate increases based off of the costs they have to pay to make energy. Because of this, there could be a rise in the need for smart energy choices for companies with greenhouses in multiple states. On the MJBizCon show floor, I heard a lot of people talking about rebates, and suppliers were being more proactive in marketing them. Growers themselves may be more curious about that this year because of the energy cost conversation.
How Is the Greenhouse Cannabis Market Trending for 2023?


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We can thank M&Ms for this one! The official X-Men: Apocalypse synopsis has been released, and it promises one of the most thrilling chapters in this long running franchise. 20th Century Fox and Mars Chocolate North America have announced a partnership between M&M's and the latest X-Men adventure. While the press release comes with a cute photo of the Yellow and Green M&M's dressed as Storm and Magneto, there was something much more cooler buried within. Yes, the full plot of this movie has now officially been revealed. You can read it here, followed by the full M&M's press release.
"Since the dawn of civilization, he was worshiped as a god. Apocalypse, the first and most powerful mutant from Marvel's X-Men universe, amassed the powers of many other mutants, becoming immortal and invincible. Upon awakening after thousands of years, he is disillusioned with the world as he finds it and recruits a team of powerful mutants, including a disheartened Magneto (Michael Fassbender), to cleanse mankind and create a new world order, over which he will reign. As the fate of the Earth hangs in the balance, Raven (Jennifer Lawrence) with the help of Professor X (James McAvoy) must lead a team of young X-Men to stop their greatest nemesis and save mankind from complete destruction."
Spoiler alert! The X-Men are adding a few new colorful members to the mix: Red, Yellow, Green, Orange, Blue and Brown. Today, Mars Chocolate North America announced a partnership between M&M'S Chocolate Candies and 20th Century Fox's upcoming motion picture event X-Men: Apocalypse. The deal makes M&M'S the exclusive chocolate and confectionary promotional partner of the film, which opens Friday, May 27 and is considered one of the most widely anticipated movies of 2016. Said Berta de Pablos-Barbier, Vice President, Marketing, Mars Chocolate North America.
"This deal truly brings together two of the biggest superheroes of Hollywood - M&M'S and X-Men. X-Men is one of the most popular and thrilling franchises in movie history, and we like to say M&M'S are the official chocolate candies of the movies. Together, we hope to make the experience even more fun for movie lovers."
Said Zachary Eller, Senior Vice President, Marketing Partnerships, 20th Century Fox.
"Who doesn't love M&M'S and their hilarious band of characters? M&M'S Chocolate Candies are a part of the movie experience, so what better movie to pair them up with than the next film in our epic X-Men film franchise. The work that Mars is doing to bring this partnership to life is fantastic."
M&M'S Brand plans to leverage the partnership with a full 360-degree campaign including retail displays and packaging; digital and out-of-home media; TV and in-cinema advertising; consumer promotions; public relations; and social media content. M&M'S World and My M&M'S also will support the partnership with themed merchandise and special blends of candy featuring icons from the film. M&M'S will tease the partnership at the Mars booth space at New York Comic Con, Oct. 8-11 at the Javits Center in Manhattan. You can check out this cute M&M's meets X-Men: Apocalypse mashup photo here.


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NEW YORK — U.S. designers received a different kind of legal aid this weekend when the American Bar Association’s section of intellectual property law backed stronger federal copyright legislation for fashion designs.
The section gathered during the ABA’s annual meeting in New York to take up competing resolutions on the matter and eventually passed an endorsement of the Design Piracy Prohibition Act or similar legislation.
The adopted Resolution 2008 Council-1A reads, in part, “…believing that there is sufficient need for greater intellectual property protection than is now available for fashion designs, [the section] supports, in principle, enactment of federal legislation to provide a new limited copyright-like protection for such designs….”
A competing resolution that opposed such legislation was sent back to committee.
“It’s great to have the support of a prominent legal organization. It’s one of the many things that will help pass this legislation next year,” said Steven Kolb, executive director of the Council of Fashion Designers of America. Kolb said the CFDA would be working harder and faster to get legislation passed following the presidential election in November. The Design Piracy Prohibition Act, introduced by Rep. Bob Goodlatte (R. – Va.) in 2006, would amend current federal copyright law to allow designers to register their works for three years’ protection. Opponents of the bill have argued that it could inhibit creativity and fuel petty litigation.


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Store owner under fire for banning child’s service dog
Posted on April 2, 2010 under Pet Health & Safety
The Americans with Disabilities Act ensures that service dogs can accompany their owners even if the facility does not allow animals- but when 5-year-old Amanda Ivancevich, entered a local store with her mother and service dog, Ellie, the store owner insisted the dog stay outside, North Carolina NBC affiliate WECT 6 reported.
According to OhmiDog.com, Ellie has the ability to alert people when Ivancevich is about to suffer from a seizure, as service dogs are trained for emergency situations and must remain in prime dog health care to complete their duties.
Owner Robert Bryant, who thought the dog was unsanitary and would mess up his merchandise, apologized for the incident after Ivancevich’s mother, Susan, garnered support from local residents to boycott Bryant’s store.
Bryant remains apologetic and has since set-up a special visit with the family and Ellie.


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A new teaser video posted online shows the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon is going to be substantially lighter than the Hellcat. With the video being appropriately titled "Reduction", it shows how Dodge has focused one of it goals to make the Demon trim a lighter vehicle.
The press release reveals that the Demon is 200 pounds lighter than the standard Hellcat which is a decent drop off. Considering the Challenger Hellcat weighed in about 4,500 pounds, it's understandable to see why a few pounds could be shed.
Dodge claims the Demon will be the brand's performance halo car. In the pursuit of speed it is believed the Challenger Demon will surpass the Hellcat's 707 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque although the numbers for the vehicle haven't been revealed just yet.
A glaring visual in the teaser video is the larger hood bulge which might lead to the possibility of it containing a bigger supercharger.
Take a look at the teaser video below.
Stark Auto Sales
160 Union St, Toronto


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Military dog “Duoduo” raised its forelegs to salute veterans including its trainer who were bidding farewell to their sentry post in Siyang County, Suqian, Jiangsu Province on Nov. 28, China News reported.
55th Myanmar Gems Emporium held in Nay Pyi Taw
Farmers harvest lotus roots in China's Guangxi
Int'l Yoga Day marked in China
Blueberries enter into harvest season in China's Hebei
Modern creations, traditional costumes staged in Xi'an, NW China
Fashion contest staged as a job-hunting platform in China's Tianjin
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Blue roads offer people eco-friendly travel choice in E China
1,424 historical and cultural sites protected in China's Tibet
Confucius Institute in Uganda marks anniversary, praised for closer ties
Number of volunteers keeps growing in Chongqing
Players perform Xuncheng opera in north China's Shanxi