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Reliance Jio, the country’s largest telecom company, has alleged that Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea (Vi) are instigating its customers under the guise of farmer agitation. According to Jio, both these companies are claiming that porting Jio’s mobile number on their (Airtel or Voda’s) network will support the farmer movement.
Ports having large number of customers
According to Jio, ‘a large number of port requests are being received, in which customers are leaving Jio without any complaint related to Jio service.’ Reliance Jio has written a letter to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) seeking strict action against these two companies. Jio said that this attitude of the opposing companies may affect the safety of Jio employees.
ALSO READ: Full talktime of BSNL is available in these top-up recharge vouchers, learn details
Bharti Airtel and Vodafone-Idea have dismissed Jio’s allegations as ‘baseless’. Reliance Jio said that it had lodged an objection in a letter to TRAI earlier also, but despite this both companies are maintaining their negative publicity. Jio said that both companies want to take advantage of the farmers’ opposition. Thousands of farmers of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh are agitating against the new agricultural laws on various borders of Delhi.
Also Read: Vodafone Idea’s Rs 65 Prepaid Plan Returns! Talktime will also be available with data
Vodafone-Airtel dismissed the charge
Bharti Airtel has written these allegations in a letter to TRAI as baseless. The letter stated, ‘Some rivals can go to any extent to make baseless allegations. We have always done our business with transparency. We are proud of what we are known for. Vi’s spokesperson also dismissed the allegations, saying that the company believes in doing business with full ethics.


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RITESH CHOPRA, Field Sales and Marketing Manager, India & Saar Countries, Norton Lifelock
We are in the second year of the pandemic and according to the Norton Cyber Safety Insights Report (NCSIR) 2021, one in two Indian adults has been the victim of hackers in the past 12 months. “The need of the hour is to secure not only computers, but also smartphones and all other devices connected to the Internet that track the activity and data of consumers on the go,” says Ritesh Chopra, Director, Sales and ground. Marketing, India and Saarland, NortonLifeLock, in interaction with Sudhir Chowdhary. Extracts:
Have you seen a change in consumer behavior when it comes to protecting their online identity?
Yes, there has been a noticeable change in that direction. According to the 2021 Norton Cyber Safety Insights report, nearly 9 in 10 Indian adults have taken action to help protect their online activities and personally identifiable information in the past year. Almost three-quarters of them (74%) say they have done so due to changes in lifestyles and work environment since the start of the pandemic. 76% of Indian adults were proactively looking for better ways to do it.
Making passwords stronger is the most common measure to protect personal data and our report shows that 43% of Indian adults are already doing this. Meanwhile, around 36% limit the information they share on social media.
What new threats have emerged over the past two years as we continue to use home networks for office work?
While most organizations have robust cybersecurity policies, cyber attacks can still occur on home networks despite all precautions. Phishing scams have seen a massive increase during the nationwide lockdown, as have ransomware attacks, where people lose control of their devices and are then blackmailed into regaining access. Spyware, or click bait, embedded in news articles is also on the rise, and once the user clicks on such a link, the spyware is downloaded in the background without their knowledge. It will copy the user’s passwords or their credit card details when they use it. Deepfakes are another worrying threat that manipulates visual and / or audio content using deep neural network-based machine learning methods to perform malicious actions or steal its identity.
With the recent cases of cyber attacks on notable brands, what steps should be taken by organizations and governments to ensure the protection of consumer data?
The government has suggested several measures to combat the increase in cybercrime by strengthening cybersecurity. The key is to ensure strict and comprehensive implementation of these measures. Organizations, on the other hand, need to secure their networks and ensure their employees are using secure devices. Consumers, on the other hand, should make efforts to keep an eye on the cyber threat landscape and beware of cyber attacks, especially phishing, which could target their personal data when connected to an insecure network. If they are connected to a public network or an unsecured private Wi-Fi connection, it is highly recommended that they use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to protect the privacy and security of their browsing activity.
What proactive steps can consumers take to ensure that their online identity is secure and that there is a clear division of the network used for personal or official purposes?
It is essential to have a clear division of the network regarding personal and official use. Additionally, there are a few basic steps consumers can take to avoid falling prey to cyber attacks:
Talk to your employer to understand the new policies to help keep you, your coworkers, and the company safe.Always use the company’s technology toolkit, as it will likely include a firewall and virus protection, as well as security features like VPN and two-factor. Authentication Beware of coronavirus-themed phishing emails used by cybercriminals. Immediately report such phishing attempts to your employer Keep your VPN on, as it provides a secure link between employees and businesses by encrypting data. A VPN helps protect information from cybercriminals and competitors.
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The US online poker market is still in the process of being rolled out. Only three states have successfully passed legislation introducing online casinos and poker—Nevada, New Jersey and Delaware. Pennsylvania is the next closest state to online gambling expansion, though nothing has been made official yet. New Jersey has expressed interest in forming an interstate compact that would foster a dense player pool, but some logistical issues are causing delays. Currently Nevada and Delaware share an interstate gambling compact that allows them to share their online poker player pool with provisions in the agreement that would allow for the same sharing with online casino games as well.
New Jersey’s online gambling market has brought in roughly $700 million in revenue in its nearly 4 years of service. The lion’s share of that revenue comes through the online casinos, leaving online poker to wither away. The Garden State has begun exploring potential avenues for expanding their poker market, and their best possible solution is joining forces with other states. They have even gone so far as to propose a compact with the UK Gaming Commission, one of the largest player pools in the international market.
Lawmakers have reached an impasse with their targets for a poker market. On the international front, the UK Gaming Commission simply cannot justify teaming up with New Jersey. While New Jersey has been in the market for nearly four years, that fact that it is struggling does not exactly scream ‘lucrative business partner’. Currently, the UK online poker market is dense and works with PokerStars, one of the largest online poker brands. A deal with New Jersey would force them to cut ties with the industry leading outfit, something that does not seem worthwhile.
The other obstacle in New Jersey’s way is the language of their online gambling law. The current law requires any operator licensed by New Jersey (a license would be required in order to service local residents) to have their servers located in Atlantic City. This is where the logistical issues arise—New Jersey’s small player pool does not justify the UK relocating servers to New Jersey. This issue is also why states like Nevada, Delaware and Pennsylvania might have difficulty entering into an interstate agreement. In order for anything to happen, New Jersey may have to amend their online poker legislation.
An interstate poker network makes sense for multiple reasons. For starters, the domestic player pool would increase by millions, supporting more competition and revenue brought in from player traffic. Another reason the compact would be beneficial is that it would make for a more high-quality online gaming experience. Online gaming software brands would be more incentivized to offer their games to a larger poker network versus small individual states. A common understanding between states would foster an online poker market that could churn revenue back into states that could be applied to state infrastructure.
For New Jersey, they have an ace in the hole for their online poker sector—sports betting. The US Supreme Court is currently hearing a case between NJ and the major sports leagues. New Jersey is fighting for the right to host sports betting. If the case ends up in their favor, online sports betting could be introduced as well. This could be the catalyst in driving traffic to their online gambling sites, which could translate to an increase in poker numbers.
If an interstate poker network is to exist, lawmakers must create an environment that can feasibly and logistically support it. Geolocation is a big part of US online gambling because states have to verify if players are located within state lines, however, it would not be necessary if all states could have legal online poker. The future looks bright for US online poker, but it seems it will take quite a while for it to hit full stride.


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The local introduction of the R2.95-million Bentley Bentayga Diesel took place in the Cape Winelands recently and we savoured our first opportunity to drive the British first-class SUV on home... Read More
Bentley has revealed its first plug-in hybrid model for the Bentayga. It claims to have started a new sector in the market called the luxury hybrid.
Obviously, Bentley doesn't regard the Porsche Panamera or... Read More
The top finalists in all 6 categories of the prestigious 2017 World Car Awards have been announced.
Following a recent first round of voting by the 75 international motoring journalists that make up its... Read More
The Bentley Bentayga has its critics, but now, there’s an even more ostentatious model to cast your eyes on.
German car tuning company, Mansory, got their hands on a Bentayga and went to town on turning... Read More
The first diesel-powered Bentley has been revealed and while diesel engines don't have sporty aspirations at face value, the outputs and performance of the diesel Bentayga suggest otherwise.
At the... Read More
Bentley’s flagship SUV is called the Bentayga and it is now available in South Africa. Here are 5 amazing facts about the world’s fastest and most powerful luxury SUV.
While its looks are not to... Read More
Its gestation period was extremely long, but now the Bentley Bentayga has arrived in South Africa.
The Bentayga is now officially available and, if you’re wealthy enough to order one, the new... Read More


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Ministry unveils top software firms
China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) released a list of the top 100 software companies in China by sales revenue for 2017.
Enterprises on the list generated 771.2 billion yuan ($111.2 billion) of revenues from their software businesses last year, up 16.5 percent compared with the figure in 2016.
The threshold for companies to enter the list went up 11.9 percent to stand at 1.62 billion yuan, data showed.
The top 100 firms saw a 15.8 percent rise in net profit to 171.3 billion yuan, which accounted for 19.6 percent of the whole industry, according to the report.


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The market seemed to defy logic in late January, when the WallStreetBets subreddit became a platform for organizing retail investors against short-sellers. In the frenzy of actions that followed, a number of companies that seemed long past their primes saw their share prices spike temporarily, despite a lack of any significant improvements to their underlying businesses. And those surges didn't just affect well known companies. Virtually any stock with a high percentage of its shares sold short had the potential to be pumped up with dramatic short-term gains as retail traders attempted to create short squeezes.
Ligand Pharmaceuticals (LGND 1.52%) was one of the lesser-known stocks that benefited from all of this. There are several reasons to believe the drama is over for the biopharmaceutical. But that doesn't mean there aren't still reasons to buy the stock.
1. Short interest has dropped
When someone sells a stock short, they are betting its price will decline. The mechanics can seem complicated, but it's relatively straightforward. Being "short" means that an investor has borrowed stock they don't own, and then sold it in the hopes that they'll be able to buy it back at a cheaper price later in order to return it to the entity from whom they originally borrowed it.
If the stock price goes down, that scenario plays out as planned and the short-seller profits. If the stock price goes up, the trader still has to buy back the shares to return them, and therefore loses money. When a lot of short-sellers are in positions where they're going to lose money on a specific stock, it can create a buying frenzy as they seek to close their positions and limit their losses, which pushes the stock's price up still further.
That's called a short squeeze, and it's what happened earlier this year to Gamestop and AMC Entertainment, as well as some lesser-known companies like Ligand Pharmaceuticals.
From 2014 through the middle of 2018, about 20% of Ligand's outstanding shares were sold short. That rocketed to 67% over the next year. The jump got the attention of the Reddit crowd, whose relentless buying more than doubled the stock's price from where it began 2021. Though the feedback loop of the short squeeze ran out of fuel and Ligand's stock price headed back downward, it is still up 45% year to date, but the percentage of shares outstanding that are sold short has dropped to less than 10%.
2. The company reported great results
Ligand's goal is to be a high-growth business driven by royalty contracts. During February's earnings call, CEO John Higgins outlined four key areas of strength for the company: its antibody discovery platform, its work with Gilead Sciences (GILD 0.89%), acquisitions, and financial performance. Let's consider them one by one.
OmniAb, the company's antibody discovery platform, uses artificial intelligence and genetic engineering to produce fully human antibodies from animals. More than 40 biopharmaceutical companies and universities are customers, using these antibodies in research. Management expects a Chinese company to receive the first ever approval of a drug developed using the OmniAb platform this year. Antibodies are in high demand; the success rate of medicines developed with them is nearly twice that of small-molecule drugs.
Capitsol is another Ligand product. It's designed to improve the stability and solubility of drugs. The ingredient is a key component in Gilead's Veklury (remdesivir) treatment for COVID-19. It's widely used in drug development, where Amgen, Eli Lilly, Merck, Pfizer, and Bristol-Myers Squibb are also customers.
Growth through acquisitions has been a core part of Ligand's business strategy over the years. The company bought OMT (the developer of OmniAb) five years ago, and CyDex Pharmaceuticals (which owned Captisol) a decade ago. In the past year, management stuck to that strategy, acquiring Pfenex, which had developed a valuable protein-expression platform, and buying the assets of Icagen, including an ion-channel platform. Both are expected to bolster Ligand's antibody business.
And finally, there's the company's financial performance. It grew revenue 55% to $186.4 million in 2020, while adjusted net income was $4.55 per share, up from $3.09 in 2019. Ligand expects to continue adding more partners and collecting more milestone payments this year. In fact, management raised its 2021 guidance to $291 million in revenue and $6.15 in adjusted EPS, which would represent annual increases of 56% and 35%, respectively. With that type of performance, you might be surprised to find shares trading at only 23 times adjusted 2021 earnings.
3. Management is willing to buy back shares
Since 2018, Ligand has reduced the number of shares outstanding by 22%. During November alone, the company repurchased nearly $5 million in stock at $84 per share, significantly below where it currently trades.
Though the company has recently expressed more interest in spending on acquisitions and retiring debt, Ligand still has considerable excess cash, and management believes shares are significantly undervalued. The recent deals and impressive financial results, plus management's clear willingness to deploy cash on share buybacks, are likely to dampen any further interest in shorting the stock.
Ligand's stock price in early 2021 took a roller-coaster ride. That said, the company has been consistent in its execution. It has delivered revenue and profit growth, and appears ready to add partners and royalties as products hit the market. With a forward price-to-earnings ratio that's half its growth rate, it's easy to argue that Ligand stock is cheap.


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Amazon's Cloud Ascent: Optimism Fuels Rally in Pursuit of AI Dominance, Challenging Microsoft's Throne
"Amazon's Skyward Surge: Cloud Business Boosts Stock 7% Amid AI Market Ambitions, Challenging Microsoft's Dominance
On October 27, Amazon.com experienced a 7% rise, fueled by renewed growth in its highly lucrative cloud business, intensifying its pursuit of a greater share in the flourishing artificial intelligence (AI) market, where it faces stiff competition from Microsoft. The e-commerce giant, trading as AMZN.O, appeared poised to augment its market capitalization by nearly $90 billion based on its latest share price of $128. In contrast, smaller cloud rival Microsoft (MSFT.O) saw a 1.5% increase, while Alphabet (GOOGL.O) dipped by approximately 1.3%.
Amazon's CEO, Andy Jassy, declared that the cloud business was entering a phase of stability, attributing the positive trajectory to substantial expansions with existing clients and anticipated first-time agreements. Jassy also underscored the immense AI opportunity for Amazon Web Services (AWS), projecting "tens of billions of dollars in revenue over the next several years." This optimistic outlook resonated with Wall Street, prompting cheers from investors eager to witness a resurgence in the business that constitutes nearly all of Amazon's profits. Jassy's assurance that AWS growth could re-accelerate even without AI brought relief to tech investors, according to analysts at Bernstein.
Approximately 26 brokerages raised their price targets for Amazon, collectively driving the median view to $173, as per LSEG data. Despite Amazon's shares enjoying a 40% rally throughout the year, a recent 8% dip followed Alphabet's warning about cloud customer spending constraints.
In the July-September quarter, Amazon recorded its first quarter-on-quarter increase in cloud growth in nearly two years, with AWS growing by 12.3%. However, this growth was outpaced by Microsoft's Azure cloud business, which boasted a 29% rise, and Google Cloud, which achieved a 22.5% growth during the same period. Despite Amazon's larger cloud business size compared to Microsoft and Google, it is considered a laggard in the AI race, where Microsoft's OpenAI initiatives and a focus on significant clients have propelled it to the forefront.
To narrow this gap, Amazon has strategically invested up to $4 billion in chatbot-maker Anthropic and launched its Bedrock AI service, attracting thousands of customers. While Amazon's forward earnings estimates trade at 38.49 times, compared to Microsoft's 27.85 and Alphabet's 18.66, the e-commerce giant remains steadfast in its pursuit of dominance in both the cloud and AI landscapes, setting the stage for an intriguing market rivalry."
"Revitalizing Growth: Generative AI Positioned as Key Catalyst for AWS, Says Global X Analyst
Global X analyst Tejas Dessai has identified generative AI as a substantial catalyst with the potential to reignite growth within Amazon Web Services (AWS). Dessai emphasized the significance of major partnerships secured in the current quarter, viewing them as pivotal in driving sustained growth in the quarters to follow.
As the landscape of artificial intelligence continues to evolve, the strategic positioning of generative AI is expected to play a transformative role within the AWS franchise. Dessai's insights shed light on the dynamic nature of AWS's growth strategy, showcasing a forward-looking approach that capitalizes on emerging technologies and strategic collaborations.
The evolving narrative around generative AI not only positions AWS as a frontrunner in technological innovation but also highlights the strategic foresight required to navigate the ever-changing digital landscape. The ongoing efforts to secure key partnerships underscore AWS's commitment to staying at the forefront of industry advancements.
The statement by Dessai provides a glimpse into the intricate dynamics at play within AWS, as it adapts to leverage generative AI for sustained growth. As the market eagerly awaits further developments, the emphasis on major partnerships signals a strategic roadmap that could shape AWS's trajectory in the competitive landscape of cloud computing and artificial intelligence."
"In conclusion, the assessment by Global X analyst Tejas Dessai underscores a transformative shift within Amazon Web Services (AWS), with generative AI emerging as a powerful catalyst poised to reignite growth. The strategic importance placed on securing major partnerships in the current quarter reflects a forward-looking approach, indicating AWS's commitment to staying ahead in the rapidly evolving landscape of cloud computing and artificial intelligence.
The evolving narrative around generative AI not only positions AWS as a leader in technological innovation but also highlights the dynamic nature of the company's growth strategy. Dessai's insights provide a glimpse into the intricate dynamics at play within AWS, showcasing an adaptive and forward-thinking approach to leverage emerging technologies for sustained success.
As the industry awaits further developments, the emphasis on generative AI and strategic partnerships underscores the pivotal role AWS aims to play in shaping the future of cloud computing. The coming quarters are poised to reveal the impact of these initiatives, solidifying AWS's position in the competitive realm of technology and reaffirming its commitment to driving innovation and growth in the digital landscape."


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The time to vote for your favourite Kenyan blogs in the Kenyan Blog Awards, organized by the Bloggers Association of Kenya (BAKE), is here with us again. The voting phase was launched at an event at the Intercontinental Hotel Nairobi. The launch coincided with the announcement of nominees in the competition’s 18 categories.
This is the fourth year of the Kenyan Blog Awards with the maiden one taking place in 2012. This year’s competition was launched on January 8th 2015 with the opening of the submission phase where Kenyans were invited to submit blogs. The submission phase was closed on February 18th 2015 and thereafter judges took over and came up with 5 nominees in each category from the submitted blogs. This year’s judges were Philip Mwaniki, Lynda Nyangweso, Mbugua Njihia, Joel Macharia and Ahmed Salim. At the voting phase launch BAKE Chairman Kennedy Kachwanya announced that this year’s submissions were a whooping 1880 blogs. “The blog content creation in Kenya is growing and this is evident from the increase in nominations and voting numbers over time” he added.
Airtel Kenya are this year’s Gold Sponsors and at the event the CEO Adil El Youssefi had this to say about their support of the blog awards and Kenyan bloggers. “We must support the ecosystem around our business & bloggers are part of our ecosystem, we are sponsoring the blog awards this year because we also believe in local content”.
Other Kenyan Blog Awards 2015 sponsors include the Hivos Foundation, Intel, Xpose, and X News.
Voting will run from today 2nd March 2014 and will end on April 30th 2014. You can vote for your favourite Kenyan blogs here blogawards.co.ke/vote.
Here is a list of the nominees in the various categories.


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Mar. 12—Brinson Powersports of Corsicana has been officially selected as an authorized dealer of Bobcat Company, a global leader in compact equipment. Founded more than 10 years ago, Brinson Powersports serves customers in Navarro County and other surrounding counties.
“Our community is bound to farming, ranching and construction. As our farmers, ranchers and
construction owners continue to grow and thrive, they are looking for new options to avoid
traveling 50 miles for equipment,” said Marisol Castaneda, executive manager at Brinson
Powersports of Corsicana. “Given the need in our area for greater availability and value, we
believe offering Bobcat equipment will greatly assist us in partnering with our customers to
make our community the best it can be.”
As part of Brinson Auto Group, Brinson Powersports of Corsicana provides sales, service and parts for
Bobcat compact equipment, as well as a variety of outdoor power equipment, including boats, jet ski, ATV and UTVs. The dealership has continued to grow over the last decade, which led to building an expanded facility in 2015, the current home of Brinson Powersports of Corsicana.
“Adding Bobcat equipment is a natural fit and complements our existing outdoor equipment and vehicle offerings,” Castaneda said. “Bobcat products are known for their durability and quality, which is something our customers want and expect, so we are excited to grow our business and offer greater
availability of Bobcat locally.”
Brinson Powersports of Corsicana is located at 1931 Martin Luther King Blvd., Corsicana, by phone 903-229-4330, or online at www.brinsonpowersports.com.
“Given their location and the demand in the area, Brinson Powersports of Corsicana is an excellent addition to our dealer network, and we are excited to welcome them to Bobcat,” said Steve Ross, director of channel development at Doosan Bobcat. “We look forward to our partnership with them, as well as the opportunity to introduce new customers in Texas to Bobcat.”
For more information on Bobcat and the dealer network, visit www.bobcat.com.
About Bobcat Company
Bobcat Company is a worldwide leader in the manufacturing and distribution of compact equipment. Headquartered in West Fargo, North Dakota, Bobcat offers a complete line of compact equipment including skid- steer, mini track and compact track loaders; excavators; VersaHANDLER® telescopic tool carriers; utility vehicles; ToolcatTM utility work machines; compact tractors; small articulated loaders; zero-turn mowers; attachments and implements. As a global brand with a worldwide network of dealers and distributors, Bobcat is the industry’s original innovator, beginning in 1958 with the first compact machine and predecessor to the skid-steer loader. Bobcat continues to lead the industry by offering quality product solutions and technologies to empower people to accomplish more. For more information, visit Bobcat.com.


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After a four-month paralysis, Dubai is counting on the return of tourists to revive the sector, presenting itself as a safe destination, where everything is in place to protect visitors from the new coronavirus.
The emirate, which welcomed 16.7 million visitors last year, opened its doors to tourists despite global travel restrictions and scorching summer temperatures, hoping to see the sector rebound before peak season , which begins in the last quarter of 2020.
The first visitors arrived Tuesday on Emirates flights, where cabin crew are dressed in protective overalls and visors. They were greeted by temperature checks and virus tests.
Helal al-Marri, head of the Dubai tourism department, said tourists may still be reluctant to travel, but studies show they are actively seeking destinations.
"When you look at the indicators and compare (the tourists) who were trying to buy stays ten weeks, six weeks ago, with those of today, the situation turns out to be extremely different," AFP said. Mr. Marri.
"People were worried (but) today, they are really looking for their next destinations, which is a very positive sign and I see a strong return" of the holidays abroad, he adds. .
Crisis linked to new coronavirus has showered Dubai's hope of bringing the number of visitors to 20 million this year, and has forced Emirates, the largest airline in the Middle East, to reduce its sprawling network as well as remove an undisclosed number of jobs.
Unlike the global financial crisis of 2008, the consequences of which have taken several years to be absorbed, the current slowdown is a "shock" limited in time, assures Mr. Marri.
"As soon as we start talking about next year and beyond, we see a strong recovery. Because once things have returned to normal, people will start traveling again," he promises.
- New priorities -
The reopening of the United Arab Emirates comes while the seven Emirates that compose it - including Dubai - are still facing the Covid-19 disease, which has infected more than 53,500 people, 328 of whom have died.
Around the world, the new coronavirus has paralyzed the tourism industry. Those now ready to travel again have new priorities: the health situation in the country of destination is one of them, believes Mr. Marri.
With its advanced medical infrastructure, Dubai hopes to have all the cards on its side.
Tourists "(also) expect the airline to follow precautionary measures," as does the airport, he said.
According to him, tourists also check compliance with health regulations "in taxis, restaurants, shopping centers and on the beaches".
Tourists arriving in Dubai must present a negative test result for the new coronavirus, performed four days before the flight. They can also take the test upon arrival, but must isolate themselves while awaiting the result.
Although physical distancing and the wearing of masks are widely practiced, many restaurants and places of attractions multiply precautions with employees dressed in protective gear and menus replaced by QR codes.
But, says Marri, Dubai "has returned to pleasure." "As you can see, everything is open," he says.
© 2020 AFP


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A Chinese investor from Central China's Henan Province has sealed a deal to buy Parchim Airport in
Germany at a cost of 1 billion yuan ($130 million).
is said to be the first time a Chinese company has wholly owned an European
airport, which is located in Schwerin, not far from Hamburg and Berlin.
Pang Yuliang, chairman of the board of LinkGlobal Logistics Co Ltd, beat 10
other global competitors, including FedEx, Hamburg Airport, and Emirates
Airline, in an international tender.
Pang told Economic Daily News: "China's vast logistics market has attracted
Germany which expects to boost its economy through cooperation with Chinese
"The demand of Chinese enterprises for logistic services to Europe is also
huge. If we have our own airport in Europe, transport costs will be reduced
According to the deal, LinkGlobal has 100 percent property rights to Parchim
Airport and its facilities, as well as permanent ownership of land in an
economic cooperation zone affiliated to the airport.
The purchase will help Pang further expand the logistics network of
LinkGlobal, a Beijing -based company. It has a network covering more than
200 cities in China and about 90 countries worldwide.
However, there are doubts about Pang's ability to pay the agreed price, and
he has remained silent about his company's assets.
But he told Economic Daily News that a Nigerian bank will vouch for his
company, and no domestic banks are involved.
Pang is said to have business relations with Nigeria.
The governments of Henan Province and Zhengzhou - the provincial capital and
Schwerin's sister city, and Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport have signed
an agreement with Pang's company to set up a Zhengzhou-based aviation logistics
The company will operate a cargo transport business between China and
Germany, and Pang's company will hold a majority stake.
(China Daily 05/26/2007 page2)
(For more biz stories, please visit Industry Updates)


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By Nicole Latimer, CEO, StayWell
If you’re like me, your smartphone and tablet have become an integral part of your daily life. They’ve probably replaced your phone, your camera and your alarm clock. And with the ever-growing number of apps, these mobile devices are a go-to source for a variety of tasks, like managing household budgets, building grocery lists and making purchases.
You probably even use your phone to track your health and fitness. More than 102 million fitness trackers were sold in 2016, according to IDC, enabling you to connect to mobile apps, which help you map calories burned, steps taken, heart rate, quality sleep and other key metrics.
Knowing how important mobile functionality is to a growing number of our users, StayWell is now making it even easier to support well-being on-the-go. We announced earlier this week that we acquired Provata Health, a digital health company that has developed native iOS and Android mobile apps and uses cutting-edge technology to support health and wellness programs — whether users are at home, at work or at their healthcare providers’ offices.
While innovation is great, it’s more important that users can embrace it to make positive changes in their lives. Like StayWell’s solution, Provata’s technology is scientifically proven, with peer-reviewed published studies demonstrating how it has helped people embrace healthy changes in their lives. Provata’s platform is a great complement to our existing offering, and will enable us to further streamline the user experience and deliver even greater physical and mental health benefits through its “mobile-first” approach.
As we integrate new technology into the StayWell platform, you can expect to see some impressive new features:
- Enhanced digital health coaching
- Real-time data analytics and dashboards to measure and support participant engagement and client reporting
- Advanced activity tracking
- Pioneering use of virtual reality (VR) to support meditation and stress management
- Access to a network of more than 80,000 U.S. licensed physicians
- Integration with electronic medical records (EMRs) to capture participants’ lab values and other data
- Digital health games
If you would like to learn more about the innovation taking place at StayWell, or see the platform in action, join us at HIMSS18 in Las Vegas (March 5-9). We’ll be on hand to officially debut the solution there, and be able to answer all of your questions.


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Whether it’s McDonald’s or Burger King, KFC, or Domino’s, they all need great designs for their packaging. Part of eating a great burger or meal is the enjoyment of holding something in your hand that just look good even before opening the box and eating it.
The same goes for all the packaging you see in your local grocery store. The manufacturers are usually not the people who create the look ‘n feel of their product even though they do have final say of course.
Agencies who’re specialised in making the packaging of food look great. Because before consumers taste their food, they first have to see it and (in grocery stores) hold it in their hands before they’ll buy and consume your food.
If it doesn’t look good, it won’t be bought and eaten. Companies spend millions and millions of Ponds each year to design and redesign their packaging. Often changing their packaging several times over the course of a few years. Following trends but also making sure their packaging looks different than the no-brand look-a-likes. Those competitors often (closely) imitate the packaging of their brand-name “parents” because that will increase their likelihood of being bought.
Back in August Burger King launched its first Vegan burger. The Impossible Whopper. They’re now introducing 2 more Vegan options to their menu.
The Rebel Whopper and the Rebel Chicken King are the next to burgers to be added to their menu. When the Vegan options are coming to the UK is unclear.
Many people have complained that the Impossible Whopper is not a real Vegan burger. If you just order the Impossible Whopper without adding the fact that you’d like it Vegan, it’s true! But if you tell the person who’s helping you at the registry you like it vegan they will cook the burger for you on a separate boiler. This way the animal (by-products) from the other menu items isn’t mixed with your Vegan Burger.
In the Sweden the 2 new burgers have already been introduced.
Steve Easterbrook, McDonald’s CEO since March 2015 has been forced to step down. An e-mail at the company uncovered he had a relationship with a subordinate. Managers at McDonald’s are not allowed to have relationships with subordinates.
The board called a vote for the dismissal of Easterbrook.
He had “violated company policy” and has shown “poor judgement”.
“Given the values of the company, I agree with the board that it is time for me to move on,” Easterbrook said.
Chris Kempczinski will replacement with immediate effect. Kempczinski was President for McDonald’s US operations.
In a constant struggle for companies to become more and more environment friendly, McDonalds has made the move to go from a plastic straw to a paper one. The company uses 1.8 Million straws per day in the UK alone.
Online pressure from their customers has pushed McDonalds into changing their straws to paper ones. But now an online petition is asking to reverse its decision. People are concerned the straw “dissolves” in their drinks.
A lot of users are complaining online. Their straw dissolving even before they can drink any of their milkshake.
Others are thankful that the straws won’t be around in 400 years time.
For the first time in history McDonalds has introduced a Vegan menu for children (and their parents) who don’t eet meat based foods in the UK. The company says that eating vegan has become mainstream. The time is now to introduce a Vegan recipe.
Back in 2017 the company added a Vegan burger to their lineup in Finland but also mentioned they wouldn’t launch this around the globe. McDonalds UK & Ireland has made the choice to introduce the Vegan menu because they wanted to offer greater choice to their customers.
The menu bears the stamp of the Vegetarian Society. McDonalds has developed the menu in close collaboration with the Society. They’re proud to have received their stamp of approval.
The big restaurant and delivery brands are having a lot of trouble with their staff lately. The staff is striking because they say “we can’t live of the wage we’re getting now”. Staffers are demanding to be paid at least 10 Pounds per hour. The last strike happened on October 4th.
McDonalds is saying that only a really small portion of their 120,000 workforce in the UK is paid less than 10 Pounds per hour. They’re calling the strike disappointing.
A lot of people who are working in the restaurants are being paid a low wage because it’s fairly easy to fill in the spots with students and young people. Older people who are completely reliant on their wage from McDonalds, Uber and Deliveroo can’t get ends meet because of the low pay. Less than 10 Pounds an hour is not a wage you can live on. You’ll make about 1600 Pounds before taxes a month. In big cities the rent alone would account for more than 60% of someone’s wage. Let alone paying for groceries, child care, car payments, etc.
4.5 million people are employed in the hospitality sector alone in the UK. They represent about 10% of the total employment in the country. So a lot of people depend on them. More and more people around the world are striking to get better wages. The economy is on the rise. Employment rate is up so workers can demand more. In the US people in the hospitality sector are demanding wages of $15 per hour as a minimum wage.
A few big chains in the US have already or have said they will raise their wages to $15 per hour. We’ll be following the news in the UK to see how the big chains here are responding to the strikes and if they’ll fold to the demands made.
It’s been a few weeks now since the first problems about their chicken delivery surfaced. KFC has yet to fix all the problems related to their delivery problems. KFC recently switched to a different delivery supplier who can’t meed the demand and is mixed up in a logistical nightmare. The new supplier just cannot fulfill the demand as quickly as it should.
More and more restaurants are opening up again. Not every restaurant is open with a full menu. Some are not serving all menu items. The below image was posted on their website and on twitter.
KFC is trying to make the best of it but they are losing a lot of money and a lot of clients. Some consumers even called the police because they thought something was wrong. Others called their local MP and told them how upset they were with the closing of their local KFC.
Consumers are not the only ones who are worried and upset. A lot of KFC stores are owned by franchisers who aren’t getting any money in the bank while their rent keeps tallying up.
KFC has actually contacted their old delivery supplier again to get things on the road again. How much that’s gonna cost KFC is unknown, but they’ll probably bleed quite a bit for that. DHL, their new delivery supplier has taken a part of the blame.
There are more secret menu’s out there, but they aren’t from the menu’s we have on our website. Please leave comment and give us a heads up what secret menu’s you’d like from what restaurant chains.
Secret menu’s are exactly what they say they are. Several restaurants have menu’s that are secret. They contain items that can be ordered, but are not on display. Not all employees at the restaurant chains know the secret menu by heart. It’s important YOU know what you want and that you know that the item you describe exists.
Today was national burger day! What #nationalburgerday hashtags, posts, grams did you spot today? What were your favorite burger gifs, pics, vids? Post em in the comments!
Here are ours:
Have a great National burger day!
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Another iPhone 8 Schematics Leak Points To Vertical Twin Cameras, Wireless Charging, More
It’s getting to the point where you cannot leave your home without someone apparently throwing an iPhone 8 leak at you, because at this rate, we may not go a day between now and the phone’s announcement without someone, somewhere, leaking information about it.
The latest comes courtesy of various sources on Twitter, though none are able to fully confirm its legitimacy. With that in mind, we have to suggest a dose of cynicism here, but this new leak of supposed iPhone 8 schematics does jive well with information appearing elsewhere.
Spotted via Twitter account @OnLeaks amongst others, this new leak comes in the form of a schematic that clearly depicts an iPhone with the vertical twin-camera configuration we have seen pop up of late as well as a large area that could potentially be space for a wireless charging component to live.
Nowhere on the schematic is anything to suggest a rear-facing Touch ID sensor as has also been rumored so heavily, though that does not necessarily prove a lot as to this leak’s accuracy.
At this point, it is very possible that there are different schematics for different iPhones that Apple plans to launch later this year, but it is also possible that these schematics are for a prototype iPhone that will never see the light of day outside of Cupertino.
We really would not want to try and guess which side we think you should place your trust, but with the sheer number of leaks appearing over the last week or two alone, it is looking increasingly likely that the next five months are going to be very interesting indeed.
We just hope that there are at least some surprises left when Tim Cook takes to his stage to announce the new iPhones in September.


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Redefining the Luxury Market
This month, we shed more light on what has been called the “luxury market.” Tim Costello has been leading our readers to “Follow the Money” with his columns in CustomRetailer. The series continues next month with yet another specific market segment, as well as the strategies necessary to prepare your business to go after them.
The luxury market segment stands out as an obvious target because, as Willie Sutton supposedly once said, “I rob banks because that’s where the money is.” Luxury, however, like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder. Luxury means different things to different people. In the absence of being able to objectively define and quantify the “luxury market,” the American Affluence Research Center also believes it’s best to follow the money, and to understand the size, attitudes and behavior of the affluent market; i.e., the people who can afford the higher priced items in the categories of products and services that would be considered expensive by middle income consumers.
AARC has always defined the affluent market as the wealthiest 10 percent of U.S. households, as determined by the Federal Reserve Board, based on net worth. This is an objective, quantifiable definition of a market segment that should be the focus of marketers who believe they are offering a luxury product or service.
The twice-yearly study of the mood and spending plans of the wealthiest 10 percent of U.S. households, which accounts for almost half of all consumer spending, is designed to provide information critical for effective marketing to luxury customers and the affluent in the U.S. and abroad.
These customers have become increasingly value-driven and more and more demanding of superior service, intelligent communication and a personalized understanding of their wants, likes and desires. The most important attributes of a sales transaction is relationship-based, and these customers value knowledgeable, trustworthy, polite and courteous service that is considerate of their time.


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Minju Kim, Carven Ong, Tube Gallery and other Asian sensations headline The Front Row festival.
Luxury watch companies are in a hurry to unveil new timepieces as the world economy starts to get back on track.
WATCH AFICIONADOS ARE literally going back in time, as the popularity of vintage classical timepieces hit a new high. Record prices have been fetched at auctions, while pre-owned watch shops specialising in vintage pieces are mushrooming. On top of that, luxury watch brands with a rich heritage have been rolling out the classics, so collectors are now spoilt for choice.
A new paper argues that luxe brands must adopt more technology to enhance their customer experience. Not everyone agrees
Three brand favourites get a fresh facelift for 2020
Creative director Daniel Boey says going digital might just rescue the local industry
Vote in comfort and style with these picks from our favourite local fashion labels.
Complete your wardrobe with these gender neutral basics from the Pre-Fall 2020 collections
The pandemic has turned high-end stores into high-security mini-airports. But luxury is stylishly fighting back


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Chevrolet Announces the Tech & Turbo Heavy 2023 Colorado
The Chevrolet Colorado is one of the most universally-loved pickup trucks on the market. It’s a simple, mid-size truck that offers customers greater performance, capability and customization. Now, Chevrolet has announced that the 2023 year models will offer more tech, muscle, and style that might make its bigger sibling, the Silverado, a bit jealous.
The 2023 Colorado is available as a work truck (WT), and four other trims (LT, Z71, ZR2, Trail Boss) that offer a wide range of capabilities for both work and play.
“We set out to design the Colorado as a tough, muscular and capable midsize truck, which we think especially came through in the wide ZR2 trim with the aggressive grille shield.” said Phil Zak, executive design director. “Across all trims, the exterior’s presence and attitude is reflected in the interior, which is designed around the large center stack screen.”
The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado will now come equipped with a 2.7L Turbo engine, which is seen in the Silverado and can put out between 237-310 horsepower and 259-430 lb-ft of torque, depending on the trim.
The engine also features a 2nd-gen eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers smoother shifting, quicker downshifts, and greater mobility at low speeds while off-roading.
“The new Colorado is a lifestyle enabler,” said Nicholas Katcherian, vehicle chief engineer. “Because outdoor activities are a big part of our Colorado customers’ lifestyles, we’ve made the truck even more capable to support them — from increased bed functionality to comprehensive performance enhancements that help take them farther.”
One of the 2023 Colorado’s most notable upgrades is its 11.3-inch infotainment screen that offers a more enjoyable and convenient driving experience. Some of the other tech-related upgrades found in the 2023 model include:
- Customizable and configurable screens with higher resolution than previous models
- Five drive modes (Normal, Tow/Haul, Off-Road, Terrain, Baja)
- Segment-first available Google Built-In for accessing maps, music, vehicle functions and more
- All-new Off-Road Performance Display: an available app that helps drivers monitor their real-time off-road performance with different readouts for Overlanding (altitude and GPS guidance), Terrain (pitch, roll and tire pressure) and Baja (g-force, wheel slip indicator and transfer case status) driving situations
- More camera views than any competitor in its class, with up to 10 camera views accessible on the infotainment screen — including a segment-first available underbody camera on Z71 and ZR2.
Production for the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado is scheduled to begin in the first half of 2023.


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SOUTHPORT Market is performing above expectations after celebrating its first Christmas since its £3.6m renovation.
Officials are delighted at the success of the site, which was running at 95% occupancy before the festive period.
And confidence in the market could be further boosted next week as it battles for glory in the NABMA (The National Association of British Market Authorities) awards.
Since it reopened last summer, several businesses have flourished in the redesigned building. Some traders have already expanded into neighbouring units due to their initial success.
A few units have been vacated since Christmas but the market’s operators, Quarterbridge, confirmed that new businesses were already lined up to replace them.
More than 15,000 people crowded through the doors of the landmark building at its official reopening in July, and the market was busy over Christmas with Santa’s Grotto pulling in families.
Raymond Linch, managing director of Quarterbridge, is pleased with the market’s performance in the six months since it opened.
He told the Visiter: “It’s doing better than we had hoped.
“After Christmas you lose a few people and a couple have gone but we have got some new ones coming in. The Christmas grotto we did was an amazing success and we have got one of our butchers, Blackhursts, soon celebrating 50 years as trading as a family business within the market and we have got traders who have expanded ... it’s trading above expectations and we are delighted with how it’s going.”


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Trump Rejects TPP: President-elect says US will quit Pacific free-trade deal - VW Reconfigures: Car maker to scrap thousands of jobs, focus on e-mobility - Refugee camp sees trade flourish
German companies are closely following all developments that might give them an idea of exactly how the United Kingdom will leave the European Union. Soft or hard Brexit — that's the question yet to be answered.
The automotive industry is coming under increasing pressure worldwide due to a growing focus on electric mobility, autonomous driving and digital services. Competition from China is also on the rise.
The German development minister has warned African businesses against taking out loans from China. At the same time, the German Finance Ministry is hoping Beijing will be using more financial services from overseas.
Berlin has offered some assurance to British nationals living in the German capital. In the event of a "no deal" Brexit, Britons will be allowed to continue residing in the German city-state.
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Garden and art lovers alike will find enjoyment just outside Elmore at Schedel
Arboretum and Gardens.
“It’s very beautiful out here and we’re just trying to get the word out that we’re here”, said events coordinator Veronica Sheets. “We’re teased about being the hidden garden or the secret garden because so many people just stumble on us on their own.”
Seventeen acres of “well manicured” gardens intertwined with artwork play host to annual garden seminars, guided tours and other events. Enthusiasts of all ages are invited to explore the grounds.
An easement parcel in the Village of Walbridge hasn’t been abused or overburdened by the village to the extent the easement should be extinguished, the Sixth District Court of Appeals ruled last week.
The decision upholds a decision in 2008 by the Wood County Common Pleas Court which rejected a request by local business owners Terry and Gloria Carroll to have the easement terminated.
The 35-foot by 180-foot easement runs perpendicular from N. Main Street and extends from the street to the parking lot of a health club facility the Carroll’s own at 417 Main.
The easement was created in 1984 by deed prior to the Carroll’s purchase of the property. The easement grants the village the right to enter and use land located alongside a shopping strip at the corner of Main and Breckman streets.
According to the decision, the focus of the Carroll’s argument was “…the use of the easement parcel by third parties – non-patrons of their health club who use the easement parcel to enter the health club parking lot from Main Street and to park their vehicles in the health club parking lot and by truck drivers, with business as the shopping center, who turn around in the parking lot.”
A century is a long time to keep a business afloat, but Reddish Sporting Goods
has managed to do just that.
Reddish Sporting Goods moved to 400 Main St. six years ago, but the family-owned business has been an East Toledo fixture since 1909.
"We opened up our shop in 1991," said Gary Reddish, who owns the business with his wife, Debra. "Previous to that, my father (Maxwell) had the sporting goods store. When he died in 1990, we put together our own shop and opened in 1991.
To its opponents, it represents a power grab by Ohio’s agri-business industry and an attempt to thwart efforts to improve treatment of animals on large factory farms.
To its supporters, it represents a comprehensive but flexible mechanism to address animal care issues.
“It” is Issue 2, a proposed amendment to the Ohio Constitution that will be on the Nov. 3 ballot.
According to the ballot language it would: • Require the state to establish the Livestock Care Standards Board to prescribe standards for animal care and well-being “that endeavor to maintain food safety, encourage locally grown and raised food, and protect Ohio farms and families.” • Authorize the bi-partisan board of 13 members to consider factors such as agricultural best management practices, bio-security, disease prevention, animal morbidity and mortality data, food safety practices, and the protection of local, affordable food supplies for consumers when establishing standards. • Provide that the board is comprised of Ohio residents, including representatives of Ohio family farms, farming organizations, food safety experts, veterinarians, consumers, the dean of the agriculture department at an Ohio college, and a county humane society representative. • Authorize the Ohio department of agriculture to enforce the standards established by the board, subject to the authority of the state legislature.
Jerusalem Township trustees are considering alternatives to spending over $300,000 to continue getting patrolled by Lucas County deputy sheriffs.
Recently, Lucas County Commissioners decided to cut the sheriff’s budget next year as a result of the recession. Since the Ohio Revised Code does not require the county to provide police protection to township residents, Lucas County deputies will no longer provide patrols to eight townships in Lucas County unless townships pay for the service. The county expects to save $5.1 million as a result.
“The sheriff’s job is to keep the peace and run a jail,” Pete Gerken, president of the Lucas County Commissioners, said last week. “And in tight economic times, we certainly are going back to those core services that we can afford to deliver. Right now, we just can’t afford to pay for townships that don’t pay for their own police services. Everyone’s cutting their budgets, and this is just one of the unfortunate aspects of our budget.”


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Absolutely Amazing Hospitality Experiences
Celebrating three decades of absolutely amazing hospitality experiences across hotels, spas, residences, food and retail, Banyan Tree Group is evolving its corporate umbrella brand from Banyan Tree Group to Banyan Group. This brand shift reflects the Group’s evolution into a dynamic, multi-brand hospitality powerhouse.
Since 2019, the Group has doubled its brand portfolio, bringing its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences, and purpose driven mission to new destinations, including Banyan Tree AlUla in Saudi Arabia; Garrya in Kyoto and Folio in Osaka, Japan; Dhawa in Ho Tram, Vietnam; Homm in Huzhou, China; and Banyan Tree Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. 2023 also marks a year of strong and steady business performance that has surpassed pre-pandemic levels.
“As we celebrate the Group’s 30th anniversary and its evolution into Banyan Group, this milestone is not only testament to the Group’s enduring success in the hospitality industry but also sets the stage for an exciting future,” said Eddy See, President and CEO of Banyan Group. absolutely amazing hospitality experiences
“This brand evolution reflects our portfolio transformation from a single luxury brand to the diverse offering we have today. Almost half of all countries we operate in carry a multi-branded presence, most of them high-growth travel destinations. With a keen eye on expansion, we are seizing new opportunities with our distinct brands, designed to meet evolving traveller preferences and needs in these dynamic markets,” he added.
Banyan Group currently manages 12 global brands, 75 hotels and resorts, over 60 spas and galleries and 14 branded residences across 22 countries. As part of a robust pipeline of properties, the Group’s expansion in 2024 will include 19 new properties and residences in Cambodia, China, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam and Mexico. absolutely amazing hospitality experiences
Highlights include the Group’s first property in Cambodia with Angsana Siem Reap; the first Banyan Tree property in Japan: Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto; Angsana Quan Lan in Halong Bay, Vietnam; Garrya Mu Chang Chai, Vietnam; and Cassia and Homm Sokcho, South Korea.
“As Banyan Group celebrates our collective success over the last 30 years, we also recognise that the progress can’t stop here,” commented Ren Yung Ho, Senior Vice President, Brand & Commercial at Banyan Group. “The core beliefs and values that have guided Banyan Group to this milestone will continue to underpin our growth strategy as we remain dedicated to being a force for positive change for both people and the planet.”
During its 30th anniversary in 2024, Banyan Group will launch Beyond, a new digital companion that offers a holistic experience across its codified well-being framework, and with Banyan, an experiential members programme that rewards engagement, interactions and actions. The celebration extends globally with 11 trade pop-ups, engaging global consumer campaigns, the launch of eight signature scents inspired by the Group’s eight pillars of well-being and limited edition artisanal anniversary gifts, all crafted in collaboration with the communities where the Group operates.
Source: Petrie PR.


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Chemicals and oil remain long-term drivers of regional prosperity as important UK producers and local employers
The Humber is one of the UK’s four largest chemicals-producing regions. The industry flourished around the estuary where it is easy to get raw materials in and finished products out. Yorkshire and the Humber accounts for 12 per cent of UK chemicals employment, second only to north-west England, according to the Office for National Statistics.
The area has two main clusters: Saltend Chemicals Park, near Hull, and a development spread along the south bank between Immingham and Grimsby, which includes two of the UK’s six remaining oil refineries, operated by Total and Phillips 66.
There’s a lot of focus on renewables and rightly so, but there will be a place for petrochemicals in the long term
About 100 chemical and refining companies employ approximately 6,000 people in the Humber area and generate a combined annual turnover of £6 billion, according to Humber Local Enterprise Partnership. Four fifths of the chemicals sector’s products are exported.
“There’s a lot of focus on renewables and rightly so, but there will be a place for petrochemicals in the long term,” says David Talbot, regional chairman of the Energy Institute, a professional body. He is also chief executive of Catch, a public-private training body that serves the chemicals, process and energy industries.
Mr Talbot adds: “The industry has been in the region now for a number of decades, so there is investment required in the infrastructure, but as a whole the industry seems to be in a positive frame of mind.”
Reinvigorating chemicals manufacturers
Some parts have seen declining employment. Total’s Lindsey refinery, which opened in 1968, saw its capacity halved and its workforce reduced from 580 to 400 in 2016, but it has also received £33 million in investment to improve efficiency.
Other investments include a £58-million wood chip plant being built at Saltend by Tricoya Technologies, a consortium including parent group Accsys Technologies and BP. Scheduled to open in early-2019 and provide about 30 jobs, it will manufacture acetylated wood chips, used to make durable panels that can clad buildings and line swimming pools.
Croda International, a speciality chemicals manufacturer based near Goole, is investing £27 million to almost double the capacity of its Hull plant, enabling it to meet growing demand for polymer additives until 2030.
Ineos has expanded its Saltend factory to increase production of ethyl acetate, used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and inks. It has also been considering Saltend as a location for a vinyl acetate monomer plant to supply the coatings, films and adhesives markets.
The refineries of the future
The Phillips 66 oil refinery near Immingham, which opened in 1969, employs 750 staff and 300 to 400 regular contractors. It has had more than £1 billion in investment over the past ten years, says Darren Cunningham, general manager.
“We are trying to position ourselves as the refinery of the future,” Mr Cunningham adds. It makes high-value products including low-sulphur petrol and diesel, liquefied petroleum gas, heating oil and industrial feedstocks such as polypropylene. The plant also produces petroleum coke, an ingredient in smelting steel and aluminium. The company’s fuel brand in the UK is Jet.
Since 2013 it has built up sales of high-grade synthetic graphite to supply electric battery manufacturers in China, initially for smartphones and now for electric vehicles. Mr Cunningham is keen to interest the UK government, which wants to develop an electric car battery supply chain. The refinery has also been trialling the production of biofuels from waste cooking oil.
Mr Cunningham says: “To continue to operate a refinery successfully in today’s environment requires an ongoing level of investment to remain competitive and we intend to do that.”
Investing in the future
A new owner and operator has taken charge at Saltend Chemicals Park near Hull, one of the UK’s most important industrial complexes. PX Group, a Teesside-based infrastructure business, acquired the 370-acre site from BP, which had owned it for 50 years. PX says it intended to work with existing and new operators to develop and expand the park, which was established in 1914. It is a collaborative cluster of businesses that manufacture more than a million tonnes of chemical products a year, used in items such as clothing, paints, pharmaceuticals and packaging. Air Products, BP, Engie, Ineos, Nippon Gohsei, Perenco, Vivergo and Yara operate at the park, which has had £500 million in investment in recent years. The companies share services, feedstocks and utilities, enabling them to drive down costs and boost profitability. BP will remain as owner and operator of two acetyls plants at Saltend, the largest producers of acetic acid in Europe. The park also hosts one of BP’s principal global research and technology centres for petrochemicals. Alan Menzies, director of planning and regeneration at East Riding Council, says that in addition to a Tricoya wood chip plant being built at the site, “we are talking to at least two others about further investments”.


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22nd October 2016, The Courier Saturday, Oct 22, 2016'Celebrate Oktoberfest in style at Balgove Larder's Steak Barn on October 28 from 5pm - 9pm, when it's transformed, for one night only, into a jolly Bavarian style bierkeller.'
1st October 2016, The Courier Saturday, Oct 01, 2016'Congratulations to Balgove Larder, near St Andrews, which recently picked up a Great Taste Award for its pork, sage and thyme sausages and its Scotch eggs.'
3rd September 2016, The Courier Saturday, Sep 03, 2016'Celebrate the start of autumn with Balgove Larder's latest night market on September 14, showcasing the delights of rural foods and drinks from local producers and vendors.'
25th August 2016, The Courier Thursday, Aug 25, 2016Innovative Restaurants 'Across Dundee, Perth, Fife and Angus you'll find some of the country's top chefs, using creative cooking techniques and local produce to put this eastern pocket of Scotland on the food map.'
10th August 2016, The Courier Wednesday, Aug 10, 2016Family Feeds: Balgove Larder, St Andrews
7th December 2010, The Courier Tuesday, Dec 07, 2010
Nora McElhone investigates the rise and rise of the farm shop.
27th September 2010, The Courier Monday, Sep 27, 2010
Miles better off buying local and seasonal.


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LAUNCH:SILICON VALLEY 2013Product Launch Platform for Innovative Startups
OVERVIEWIn its 8th year, Launch: Silicon Valley is now firmly established asthe premier product launch platform for cash strapped startups.The event, co-presented by SVForum, Garage Technology Venturesand Microsoft, provides the next generation of emergingtechnology companies with the opportunity to pitch their productsto, and network with, an audience of Silicon Valley’s top VCs,Angels, corporate business development executives, prospectivecustomers and partners, bloggers and media.
OVERVIEWAs in previous years, Launch: Silicon Valley 2013 will feature newcompanies that are ready for launch, but are not yet well known.These are companies that have a product or service available (as ofJune 4, 2013), but have not been out in the marketplace for morethan a few months.Companies that are interested in presenting their products atL:SV2013 should send an Executive Summary of no more than 2pages to Launchsv@svforum.org by latest Friday April 26, 2013.
OVERVIEWLaunch: Silicon Valley 2013 is designed to uncover and showcaseproducts and services from the most exciting of the newest startupsin information technology, mobility, digital media, next generationinternet, life sciences and clean technologies. Up to 30 of the mostinteresting companies will be invited to leverage Launch: SiliconValley 2013 as the springboard to launch their product or service,and to network with the audience of Silicon Valley’s top moversand shakers at the Pre-L:SV Event Party on the evening of June 3, aswell as at the event itself on June 4.
WHENJune 4th 2013WHEREMicrosoft Building 11065 La Avenida St, Mountain View, CaliforniaAGENDATo see the detailed agenda visit the event websitehttp://www.launchsiliconvalley.org/


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With the proliferation of real-time social technologies, marketing has quickly moved away from traditional display ad channels towards how brands can better harness “now” moments. The highly-anticipated release of Twitter’s ad API will accelerate this trend as brands learn to automate their Twitter campaigns and compare the results with what they are currently doing in social, search and display.
Look around. Opportunities to leverage real-time moments are happening every second, especially when people engage in online social conversations during major events like the Oscars, Super Bowl and the Grammys. This year, we’ve seen a number of industry firsts taking place behind the scenes during these events, from some of the most iconic brands in the world. When the lights went out during the Super Bowl, the social team at Oreo quickly launched into action with a real-time display ad and social response that let viewers know the brand’s creative team was right there with them for the ride, instantly tweeting, “Power out, No problem. You can still dunk in the dark.” This “now moment” garnered rave reviews from audiences and advertisers, and drove higher affinity with the brand. And I believe it’s a sign of things to come.
“Now-marketing” isn’t just about appointment based televised events either. People are engaging more and more in online conversations about brands throughout the day. Just do a Twitter search for hashtag topics like #Hyundai or #letsdolunch and people are explicitly indicating their interest in these brands. This online behavior provides powerful information for brands and advertisers who understand how to leverage these social mentions, and connect with these same people via relevant display ads across the web and on mobile devices.
The beautiful thing about hashtags is they can encompass much more than just a company or a brand name. They can convey an emotion, a category or theme. For example, during holidays like Valentines Day, an advertiser like flowers.com or Mars may wish to target users who tweet #love, #commitment or #gift. Upping the ante even further is American Express, a global brand that recognized the ubiquity of social by launching a new technology that allows cardholders to pay for purchases using hashtags on Twitter.
This is an exciting time, as the rules of marketing continue to change. The victors will be those who can effectively capitalize on the inherent potential of these real-time moments in a seamless way that drives continued brand engagement. May the odds be ever in your favor.
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There were speculations that BMW might have given up on the BMW 2-Series Active Tourer but it looks like we might have jumped the gun on that as the vehicle was spotted getting tested out in the open this week.
The vehicle was heavily camouflaged which means most of the design is hidden behind the stickers but what we can see is that it will look sportier than before. In the front sits a larger grille now. The front end also appears to be taller which will help gove the model a more crossover-like design.
In the back, the vehicle will be keepings its rakish windows along with the tailgate-mounted spoiler and slimmer taillights. The new model is said to be riding on the UKL platform which could grow in size. No word on what engine we will be seeing this time around.
On the inside, it was reported that the dual-display setup seen on the iNext concept could be makings its way to the BMW 2-Series Active Tourer as well.


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Making an app from scratch takes a lot of time, and SDKs are building blocks developers can use instead. These chunks of code often come at a price to app users, though. SDKs can be free to developers in exchange for user data, which essentially means you can be tracked by companies you've never heard of. When you download an app that finds cheap gas, for instance, your location data may be actively sold to data brokers.
The practice is widespread across the data industry, and companies say it's transparent because it's disclosed in their privacy policies. But studies have found that the majority of people don't read privacy policies, casting doubt on these assertions of transparency.
In its lawsuit, Facebook argues that MobiBurn wasn't transparent about its actions, accusing the company of siphoning data from people's devices without consent. The SDK would grab a digital key for the "Log In with Facebook" feature, and use it to make requests for data from Facebook every 24 hours.
If your device had an app that was built with MobiBurn's SDK, and that app was also linked to your Facebook account, the app would siphon data such as your name, time zone, email address and gender from your profile, the social network said. Facebook sent a cease-and-desist order to the UK-based company last November.
The lawsuit said MobiBurn had its SDK in about 400 apps for gaming, security and utility. In addition to grabbing data from Facebook accounts, the SDK would also take a device's call logs, location data, contacts, browser type, email and other apps installed on the phone, according to court documents.
In a November statement, MobiBurn denied the accusations, saying "no data from Facebook is collected, shared or monetized by MobiBurn."
On Friday, MobiBurn doubled down on its defense, stating that it couldn't have stolen data because none of the apps its SDK was installed on had the "Log In With Facebook" feature.
"MobiBurn and the other Defendants respect Facebook's genuine but in this case unwarranted privacy concerns and were, and remain, prepared to give undertakings to the English courts to remove these concerns," the company said in a statement.
Facebook accused MobiBurn of paying developers to install its SDK in their apps, where the code remained hidden. The code harvested data until the social network disabled app access last November. MobiBurn has also since disabled its SDK.
The social network said that MobiBurn isn't cooperating with Facebook's request for an audit. The lawsuit marks the first time Facebook has sued a UK app developer. The social network says it wants an injunction to reinforce its ban against MobiBurn using Facebook's platform. It's still seeking an audit.
"Today's actions are the latest in our efforts to protect people who use our services, hold those who abuse our platform accountable, and advance the state of the law around data misuse and privacy," Jessica Romero, Facebook's director of platform enforcement and litigation, said in a statement.
MobiBurn said that it complied with Facebook's request for an audit, to be carried out by a third-party cybersecurity company rather than the social network.
Watch this: Facebook braces for Apple's privacy changes, Fall Guys is most downloaded PS+ game ever
This isn't the first time Facebook has turned to legal action against alleged data abuse. In February, the social network sued data analytics firm OneAudience for a similar practice, alleging the company paid developers to install its SDK in shopping and gaming apps so it could harvest data.
Along with Thursday's lawsuit against MobiBurn, Facebook also announced litigation against Nakrutka, a service it accused of using bots to generate fake likes, comments, views and followers on Instagram.
The service's website, which is entirely in Russian, openly markets fake engagement from bots.
Nakrutka didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.


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TOTO just introduced a new toilet called 1G and announced that it’s the first manufacturer to break the one-gallon per flush barrier for a gravity-fed toilet, according to a recent statement.Â 1G is like a tornado in the toilet — less the noise of pressure-assist version — with a Double Cyclone flushing system.
TOTO’s Double Cyclone system propels water through two nozzles for a total flush that “clears the bowl first time, every time.”
Plus, 1G’s bowl and rim are coated with SanaGloss, a nanotechnology glaze that seals the porcelain with a barrier to repel matter and bacteria.Â This keeps the bowl free of waste and is supposed to help reduce cleaning time and the use of cleaning agents.
I’ve asked for pricing and availability details from TOTO and will update this article when we get that information.Â In the mean time, contact a distributor for more information.
Update 4/27/2012 – I’ve learned from TOTO that the company doesn’t have a business plan for the toilet yet but estimates the retail price to be about $600 for the 1G.
Credits: TOTO USA.


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Shocking origin of meat in ‘Australian made’ bacon
COUNTRY of Origin labelling laws are wasted on time poor consumers who don't realise that water may be the only local ingredient in some 'Australian made' bacon and ham, says a farming lobby group.
Australian Pork general manager of marketing Peter Haydon said the COO labelling, which came into full effect in July last year after a two year transitional stage, had not cut through.
The labelling for products grown, produced or made in Australia, contain a bar chart, as well as text, indicating the percentage of Australian ingredients.
Mr Haydon said many consumers were seeing the 'Made in Australia' labelling but not fully reading the text nor deciphering the bar chart.
He said a lot of the prepacked, and even supermarket deli, smallgoods, such as bacon and ham, came from Canada, US and Denmark could contain less than 20 per cent of local ingredients.
"Most of the Australian content is water to give the texture and moisture in the meat that the consumer wants," Mr Haydon said.
"We have country of origin laws that allows a consumer to know how much was Australian ingredients but nobody knows they exist or how to read them."
It's estimated more than $700 million of pork is imported each year.
Mr Haydon said Australian Pork would start an awareness campaign in early 2020 to assist consumers wanting to make a conscience choice to purchase products with a high percentage of local ingredients.
He said pork that was cooked at home, like mince, chops and roast, was Australian and even many local butchers have almost 100 per cent Australian sausages and bacon.
"We are planning to do a market trial in early 2020 to explain country of origin labelling to see if it affects their behaviour," he said
"All fresh pork is Australian and that's why we focus on fresh pork and every ham you buy with a bone in it is also Australian."
Veteran Federal MP Bob Katter said the Australian government should never have opened the door for imported pork from Canada and Europe.
The Katter Australia Party leader said the importing and exporting industries were not on equal footing the government had failed miserably in protecting the livelihoods of Australian farmers
"The pork should never have been allowed into Australia," Mr Katter said.
"The European countries take none of our live beef so we should just say we won't take their pork until they take our beef. But of course we're the only virgins in the brothel so we just keep copping it all of the time."
West End butcher Shane Rogers was of the impression that locals were conscience of the new food labelling displayed on their fresh meat cabinets at The Stores.
He said their 'Australian Made' sausages consisted of at least 95 per cent local ingredients and they used free-range pork.
"We use 100 per cent Australian pork and the five per cent is a safety threshold in case some of the salts and seasoning are not local, but we are pretty close to 100 per cent," he said.
Mr Haydon understood why some of the big manufacturers imported pork for bacon and sandwich ham, but wanted consumers to be more aware of the growing trend.
Higher grain, power and labour costs were partially the reason pork had to be imported for smallgoods, he said.
"The big players have to cater for rich and not-so-rich …. and the imported ham and bacon is cheaper for a number of reasons," he said
"Pigs grow better in winter and Canada has obviously a lot longer winter than ours and so imported pork has been used for a while."


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Recent speculation has suggested that former Nokia CEO Stephen Elop, who is in the running to replace Ballmer, is interested in selling the Xbox and Bing arms of the Microsoft business as he doesn’t believe they’re profitable.
Speaking about the Xbox One, as reported by Geek Wire and Seeking Alpha, Ballmer said the console’s integration of Bing and SkyDrive are examples of Microsoft executing on its plan to unify the company’s devices and services.
“No other company could have delivered what we are delivering with Xbox One,” Ballmer said. The console is a “reflection of what is possible when a company, our company, is unified under a common vision,” he added.
Ballmer announced his resignation in August, saying at the time that he would step down within the next 12 months, but not before a successor was named. Nokia CEO Stephen Elop, reportedly a front-runner to become new Microsoft CEO, may consider selling off the Xbox business and killing Bing entirely if he gets the job, according to a Bloomberg report this month. Elop joined Microsoft in September when Microsoft purchased Nokia’s handset business for $7.2 billion.
What’s more, Microsoft cofounder Steve Allen’s investment group Vulcan Capital said earlier this month that the next Microsoft CEO would be smart to sell of the Xbox business because it is “detracting” from Microsoft’s core competencies.


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FOR the first time in many decades, milk and cheese are again being bottled and hand-crafted at Tilba.
Tilba Tilba dairy farmers Erica and Nic Dibden last week started bottling their ABC Tilba milk that is now available at shops and supermarkets across the Far South Coast, while they also produced the first cheeses in their spotless, state-of-the –art ABC Cheese factory at Central Tilba.
“We’re a local dairy family that has taken the emotional and financial challenge of building the business up and controlling the whole process from paddock to plate,” Erica said.
Artisan cheese and milk is making a comeback in the district with the Bodalla Dairy Shed also starting milk and cheese production earlier this year.
Plans are afoot to start distributing Bodalla Dairy Shed milk and cheese, including a new line of native flavourings, to more outlets.
The Dibdens meanwhile took over ownership of the Tilba factory some months ago and contracted a New Zealand company to fit out the back factory with all the latest stainless-steel equipment.
The milk comes from their Jersey cow dairy herd located a short distance away down the Princes Highway at Tilba Tilba.
Master cheese maker Geoff Southam of Grandpa’s Garden is acting as an expert consultant helping out with the cheese production. He started his apprenticeship at the ABC Cheese factory back in 1972.
Geoff was a cheese maker and manager of the cheese plant at the Bega Cheese factory for many years before leaving to focus on his Grandpa’s Garden produce shop in Narooma.
Geoff said the last time milk was sold in the Tilba area was when Wallaga Lake dairy farmer Bob Turner used to leave buckets of milk on fence posts at local properties, while it was 1981 when the last cheese was made from milk at the ABC Cheese factory.
After that the factory became a retail outlet packaging and adding flavours to cheddar cheese made in other factory in Victoria.
The first cheese made at the factory last week was a granular cheddar followed by a Havarti semi-soft cheese the next day.
Other varieties that Erica is keen to try include Gouda, Romano, fetta and Camembert.
A big motivation for the Dibdens is also doing their bit for the local economy and keeping their towns alive by putting dollars back into the community, through investment and wages.
“We couldn’t have done it without our fabulous staff and their commitment to their jobs is fantastic,” Erica said.
The core beliefs of the business are transparency, integrity and quality, she said.
“We hope to be here for many years and I hope to build up the business, but not too big so that we stay true to our roots and the community.”
Tilba ABC Milk meanwhile is full-cream, unadulterated Jersey cow milk and the only processing it goes through is pasteurising being brought up to 72.5 degrees and then back down to 4 degrees in a very quick process that kills the harmful bacteria.
“Milk from Jersey cows is heaps richer and we actually have to take out some of the fat to make cheeses, “ she said.
But at the same time she points out that full-fat milk is actually healthier and as the labels proudly proclaim the product is in fact 95 per cent fat free.
“The key with milk supply is reliability and people need to know their milk will be delivered rain, hail or sunshine.”
The milk will be stocked in IGA supermarkets at Dalmeny and Narooma, the Spar and Triple 7 supermarkets in Bermagui, IGA Narooma, Merimbula Fresh Fruit and Veg, Tyrells Store Bodalla, Cobargo Supermarket and the Bega Heritage Centre.
In Tilba itself, the milk will be available at the Dibden’s South Coast Cheese Café as well as Bates General Store and the Tilba Bakery.
The milk bottling equipment can bottle up to 4000 bottles and there are plans to stock the product as far north as Moruya, with a twice-weekly bottling run planned at the moment. She is also encouraging local cafes and restaurants to start serving Tilba ABC Milk.
“It was milked this morning, straight into the bottle,” she said. “It’s fresh, has low food miles and is made by a family business.”
Back to the cheese making and it’s clearly visible for shoppers and tourists who visit the ABC Cheese factory through large windows that open onto the factory floor.
Last week, the soft curds were put into various size moulds to become individual Havarti cheeses that would go on sale after a few weeks maturing.
The new cheeses will be available at the factory, her own South Coast Cheese café at Central Tilba as well as all the stockists of her existing South Coast Cheese label.
Shipping and packing the cheese is a challenge as different varieties require either wax, natural rinds or vacuum packing.
In the long-term, Erica has plans for cheese-making classes allowing people to learn the techniques and make their own cheese, while she would also love to see school groups come through.


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Debenhams Black Friday deals 2019: 40 percent off gifts tomorrow
Debehanhams will be kicking off its Black Friday gift sale from tomorrow. There will be discounts on the department store’s exclusive designer and branded fashion as well as its home electricals and beauty ranges.
There will be a new half price deal every day.
Steven Cook, Debenhams’ MD of Fashion, Beauty & Home, said: “Debenhams has a long tradition of kick-starting the Christmas shopping season with amazing offers [on the last payday before Christmas.
“We always have an event in the week Black Friday falls and this year’s is bigger and better than ever!
“Whether you are doing your Christmas gift shopping or indulging in a bit of’me-time’, Debenhams has the perfect offer for you.”
Debenhams Black Friday 2019 deals
- Up to 15 percent off selected beauty and skincare including favourite brands such as Clarins, Lancome, Lauder, Urban Decay and Benefit - shop HERE
- VAT-free on all fragrance, including luxury brands such as Tiffany and Viktor & Rolf - shop HERE
- Up to 30 percent off women’s partywear - shop HERE
- Up to 40 percent off selected gifts - shop HERE
Argos Black Friday 2019: The 15 early deals you simply can not afford to miss [DEAL]
Ryanair: Save whopping 25% off flights in today’s Black Friday deal [CHEAP TRAVEL]
Google Home Black Friday 2019 deals make this smart speaker cheaper [TECH]
- Up to half price on women’s, men’s and children’s fashion including Mantaray, Star by Julien Macdonald, Baker by Ted Baker, knitwear and sleepwear - shop HERE
- Up to half price on coats, boots and bags - shop HERE
- Half price on lighting, bedding and selected cookware including Denby - shop HERE
- Hot offers on popular electrical brands including Babyliss, Russell Hobbs and Nespresso - shop HERE
Online deals launch at 6.30am on Monday 25 November with daily updates on new offers at 6.30am each day.
On average the website will receive 180 orders per minute.
What are the ASOS Black Friday deals?
For everyone who misses out on the weekend of sales in the shops, Black Friday is followed by Cyber Monday, where huge discounts are seen from many etailers.
ASOS reigns supreme for online fashion, offering the latest fashion at affordable prices.
Last year, the etailer offered 20 percent off absolutely everything, including key brands and everything new season or full price.
There was a further sale of up to 70 percent on selected lines.
But what can you expect this year?
This article contains affiliate links, we may receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more


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BMW-owned Mini is considering diesel variants for the U.S. along with definite plans for a plug-in hybrid gas version as it also contemplates feasibility for battery electric models.
This news came out of a one-on-one interview with Automotive News Europe and Peter Schwarzenbauer, BMW’s board member in charge of Mini.
Presently European consumers opt for 41 percent of diesels, and while their value proposition is not as clear in the United States, Americans are increasingly requesting diesels in premium German cars, and Schwarzenbauer said Mini knows it.
“I think that the U.S. market is ready for diesel engines now and this is something we definitely have to consider also for Mini,” he said.
But perhaps of more interest is the prospect going electric which not only improves mpg, it is cleaner in emissions.
“There will be electrification within the Mini brand, including a plug-in hybrid for certain,” said Schwarzenbauer. “We’re still investigating pure EVs.”
Last year Mini sold a record 301,000 units and the company is expanding its manufacturing and product line. It intends to offer in the near term as many as eight to 10 engine varieties including a surprisingly quick three-cylinder.
And it will receive trickle down from BMW’s new UKL (from the German words Unter Klasse) architecture – a front-wheel-drive design to be shared with entry-level BMWs
Schwarzenbauer did not elaborate further on electrification, but his confirmation should be taken as a cue to watch for more news on yet another respected global brand to head toward plugging in.


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The cannabis industry continues to grow rapidly. Just two years ago, the global market was valued at nearly $18 billion dollars. Expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of more than 25% over the next several years, the industry is expected to be worth a staggering $134.4 billion by 2030.
Dispensary owners need to be careful that they adequately protect themselves from both the legal and financial risks that are commonly faced by those in the medical marijuana industry.
This article provides an overview of the unique coverages needed to fully protect marijuana dispensaries and retailers from liability.


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Binance is behind a newly established crypto exchange in Hong Kong that intends to apply for a license in the city, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported, citing sources familiar with the matter.
Binance is the driving force behind HKVAEX, which was established last December by Binance and set up its trading platform in February, the SCMP said, citing three industry insiders close to the company who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the information is private.
SCMP: Binance is behind the Hong Kong crypto exchange HKVAEX, which is seeking a licence in the city, sources say pic.twitter.com/iGrWIW4rYS
— News and Market (@newsandmarket) October 25, 2023
HKVAEX operates as a separate entity under BX Services Limited in Hong Kong, although the companies are said to share resources, according to the report. Moreover, the report says HKVAEX uses Binance’s servers for fetching content, such as shared code, and the exchange’s content delivery domain bnbstatic.com.
The report also highlighted multiple instances of collaboration between the two companies in Hong Kong this year, such as a promotional campaign where Binance was referred to as a “partner” in incentivizing opening an HKVAEX account.
While responding to inquiries regarding its association with Binance, HKVAEX asserted that it is an independent virtual asset exchange platform based in Hong Kong.
“HKVAEX is an independent virtual asset exchange platform based in Hong Kong,” the company said in an email in response to SCMP when it was asked about its relationship with Binance. “It’s operated by a team of technology and seasoned professionals from the financial services sector, currently preparing to apply for the license.”
HKVAEX is Not Linked To Us – Binance
A Binance spokesperson said “HKVAEX is not in the Binance Group of companies.”
The world’s largest crypto exchange defines its “Binance group” in its terms of service as an “ecosystem centered around its online exchange for Digital Assets trading,” and is distinct from “Binance Affiliates,” the story said.
Setting up an independent exchange in Hong Kong could allow Binance to leverage the opportunities presented by a market seeking to establish itself as a global cryptocurrency hub.
This all comes at a time when Binance faces mounting legal scrutiny and liquidity challenges in various markets around the globe.
— BluShark Media (@blusharkmedia) June 10, 2023
Hong Kong’s formulation of a new licensing scheme this year was geared at attracting industry players by offering legal stability.
Many exchanges with links to China have announced their intention to pursue a Hong Kong license since the scheme’s announcement over a year ago. However, Binance, which was founded in Shanghai in 2017, has largely stayed silent on the issue.
While Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao has talked up the city’s new crypto regime and the potential of China’s crypto market, the company has not publicly expressed any intention of getting its own virtual asset license in the Asian financial hub.
According to the SCMP report, industry observers said Binance would face many challenges getting a license on its own given the headwinds it faces overseas.
In the US, Binance is facing lawsuits from the Commodities Futures Trading Commission and the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The crypto company exited Canada in May following new regulations around stablecoins and restrictions placed on crypto exchanges.
There has also been an exodus of senior executives and following the legal actions against the company in various countries.
Binance Top executive resignations in last 3 months. pic.twitter.com/Jgyp3r25GL
— Crypto India (@CryptooIndia) September 16, 2023
- Binance Says US Law ”Does Not Control The World” In Renewed Bid To Dismiss CFTC Lawsuit
- US Court Orders SEC To Re-Review Grayscale Bitcoin ETF Application, Sending Crypto Prices Soaring
- Binance UK Chief Joins Executive Exodus From Beleaguered Crypto Exchange
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