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The growth of the mobile gaming entertainment segment is both a trend and a pattern. In a world in which most of a person's life is linked to the presence of a mobile phone in his or her hand, it is only a matter of time before mobile gemblings take the lead. You can read about the dynamics of the segment in figures, as well as the prospects in Gambling World.
Mobile gambling is a specific branch of online gambling that has emerged practically after virtual gambling. There are two aspects that are key to the development of mobile gambling - improving technology and scaling up internet coverage. Over the last two decades, the mobile phone has evolved from a communication tool into a smart device that can replace dozens of other useful gadgets. The more advanced the model is in user hands, the easier and faster it is to launch virtual games. Internet coverage also plays a role, as it actually imports gaming services to remote parts of the world and opens up opportunities in new markets. Now that all developers have understood this trend, the casino is doing more new internet casinos that have mobile version.
The positive dynamics of the industry are not least determined by the psychology of a modern person, who is trained to do many things on the move, including spending leisure time. A little more about the popularity of the mobile segment can be read in a separate material.
H2 Gambling Capital and iGB have provided up-to-date information on the development of mobile gaming since 2003, which is discussed in the article below.
According to data provided by researchers, GGR in the mobile segment has grown significantly since 2003. It is estimated that vertical revenues will reach €25.2 billion this year already.
In addition, it is estimated that the share of the mobile gaming vertical in the industry is already 42.6%. This figure has a steady upward trend for over five years now.
It is indicative that some operators on the market are reporting that most of their revenue is already being generated by mobile gembling.
Currently, the leading vertical with a 66% share is sports betting. Online casino operations are in second place with 27% of the market, while the lottery industry generates only 7% of the market.
Mobile gambling operations are particularly popular in Europe, and it is on this continent that most of the income is generated. Following Europe, a high percentage of income from mobile operations was recorded in Oceania and on the African continent. It is assumed that this effect is due to the fact that, for the inhabitants of these regions, due to the poor quality of broadband connections, the mobile phone is the only window to the Internet.
An up-to-date regional map of the share of the mobile segment shows that the number of transactions in Africa is 47.9%, 40.8% in Asia, 42.4% in Europe, 21.1% in Latin America, 27.3% in North America and 49.2% in Oceania. Cross-referenced data on the legal gambling business in Latin America in a separate material.
The company's projections for the next few years are based on the assumption that the segment will develop progressively without major jerks or shocks. For example, next year GGR will amount to €28.8 billion, and a year later to €33.1 billion. By 2023, the segment's revenue could reach €37 billion.
In 2003, at the time of the segment's inception, its market share was 6.6%; 10 years later, in 2013, the segment managed to regain almost a quarter of its operations - 24.3%. Last year's figure was 40.4%.
Prospects: forecast for 2024
H2 forecasts the GGR segment to reach €41.4 billion in 2024, a 64% increase over the current year's €25.2 billion. Market share is scalable and will exceed 50% of all gambling operations.
Sports betting will continue to dominate the mobile palm segment of the gaming business, as at present.


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Launched in 2016, NVIDIA Inception, an acceleration platform for AI startups has now surpassed 8,500 members. It now accounts for about two-thirds of the total number of AI startups worldwide, as per Pitchbook. NVIDIA Inception is one of the largest AI startup ecosystems in the world with cumulative funding of $60 billion and has members in 90 countries.
Since the launch, the platform has grown more than tenfold. The member count increased 17 percent just in the first half of 2021. More than 3,000 AI startups have joined NVIDIA Inception post 2020.
In the country wise breakup, the United States accounts for the highest number of AI startups (representing 27 percent), and also the largest amount of cumulative funding ($27 billion), under the NVIDIA program. As much as 42 percent of these US-based startups are operating out of California.
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China follows the US, both in terms of funding and company stage. 12 percent of NVIDIA Inception members are based on China. India is ranked third (7 percent) and the United Kingdom comes fourth (6 percent). The four countries together account for over half of all the startups on NVIDIA Inception’s platform. Startups from Germany, Russia, France, Sweden, Netherlands, Korea and Japan are also incubated under the NVIDIA platform.
In terms of sectors, healthcare, IT services, media and entertainment, intelligent video analytics (IVA), and robotics make up the top five under NVIDIA Inception. AI startups in healthcare account for 16 percent of Inception members, followed by IT at 15 percent. AI startups in IVA make up 8 percent, with M&E and robotics AI startups tied at 7 percent.

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Despite nationwide retailers complaining about shortages and unfulfilled pre-orders on launch day number one, Microsoft hopes to ship more than 2.75 to 3 million Xbox 360s worldwide by year's end, it recently told Wall Street analysts. Microsoft expects to ship as many as 5 million units worldwide by its fiscal year end, June 30.
Like its ambitious manufacturing goals, which have yielded a smaller ratio of useable chips than Microsoft hoped for, the second-generation American game maker is pushing the envelope in all capacities. Using three manufacturing plants in China, which produce the hardware and press the game DVDs, Microsoft's three-territory launch is unprecedented. The 19-game launch in North America will see at least a third of those hardware sales, perhaps more depending on the launch in Japan, where Microsoft must establish healthy sales and build confidence with the Japanese consumer, who traditionally buys Sony or Nintendo products.
North American retailers, however, claim they are short of promised hardware and software supplies on the first day of launch. IGN visited six stores at midnight of the launch day in Coma and San Francisco, Ca., and every store was short of its pre-order mark by at least 50%. Retailers' estimates are based on Microsoft's own internal estimates, which guide each chain's inventory purchases. Last week, retailer managers told employees to phone pre-paying gamers to give them the bad news: Many customers might get their systems this December, but an equally valid estimate is January or even February 2006, depending on whether Microsoft fulfills its promise of weekly supplies. Even as of tonight, retailer received emails from MS, telling of shortened weekly supplies.
We'll have more as the situation evolves.


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Sprint Communications has announced plans to double its franchise dealer base within the next 12 months.
Basildon-based B2B dealer Sprint, one of the few dealers to offer all five UK networks, currently has 17 franchise businesses stretching across the UK. All sell products and services as ‘Sprint’.
Sprint’s franchise scheme began 10 years ago with around 30 businesses which were a mix of consumer and B2B stores. The stores began running before the likes of Carphone Warehouse, Phones 4U and the networks had developed a high street presence.
However increasing competition on the high street caused these franchise businesses to gradually fold, while some moved from the consumer arena to B2B.
Sprint’s new plans will see its franchise numbers double from 17 to 34 by this time next year. It claims its brand will be in reach of every business in the UK. It is already in talks with dealers to join its franchise teams to work under the Sprint brand. Franchisees would also have access to Sprint’s branded SatNav proposition, developed in-house, called Sprint Telematics.
Managing director Paul Leonard has also revealed Sprint is looking to establish a franchise scheme for online dealerships, but refused to comment further.
He said: “It’s not just a fast way of making us money. It’s a true business proposition properly sat in the franchise market and allows people to come in to the mobile industry, connect customers and make ongoing revenues from that.
“We are one of the few businesses paying ongoing revenue streams every month to our franchisees, so they get a percentage of their customers’ spend. We are currently looking and accepting businesses for our franchise scheme, looking for a mix of people and checking portfolios.
“There are a lot of people in this industry who are good salesmen but are never going to make it on their own. We are going to give them that opportunity to get their own slice of the market.”
Sprint was also awarded the Vodafone Q (quality) Award for August, judged on KPIs including quality of connections and volume.


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BUT, the blues do hit when you learn what all those little sandwich bags lead to. I learned today the following facts at www.reuseit.com
- The U.S. goes through 100 billion plastic shopping bags annually at an estimated cost to retailers of $4 billion. (The Wall Street Journal)
- The extremely slow decomposition rate of plastic bags leaves them to drift on the ocean for untold years. According to Algalita Marine Research Foundation, these plastic bags cause the death of many marine animals (fish, sea turtles, etc.), every year when animals mistake them for food.
- Numbers were kept on 43 different types of refuse. Cigarette butts were the most common. Plastic bags came in second. (Ocean Conservency, 2008)
- When plastics break down, they don't biodegrade; they photodegrade. This means the materials break down to smaller fragments which readily soak up toxins. They then contaminate soil, waterways, and animals upon digestion.
- Windblown plastic bags are so prevalent in Africa that a cottage industry has sprung up to harvest them. These are then woven and sold as hats and (more durable) bags.
Anyone else going to go bagless?


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The discovery has punched a 170-ton hole in China's promises to overhaul its food safety system. Officials say they've found yet another case where large amounts of tainted milk powder from the country's 2008 scandal that should have been destroyed were instead repackaged. Full story
Dec 01, 2008 - Fuyang, Anhui, China - China has lifted to six the number of babies believed killed from drinking toxic milk formula and raised the number affected to 294,000, months after a scare that has battered confidence among local and foreign consumers. The Health Ministry had until now said f
Zhou Yunxiao, a 14-month-old boy, is treated after drinking tainted milk powder, at a hospital in Chengdu, in southwest China's Sichuan province Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. China's government pledged Tuesday to crack down on a milk-gathering system that was 'out of control', after tainted baby formula
In this July 3, 2007 file photo, a worker selects the daily product at the production line at Wahaha's factory in Hangzhou, China. Chinese beverage maker Hangzhou Wahaha Group is considering buying dairy assets from Sanlu Group, the milk maker at the heart of a scandal over milk tainted with an indu
Customers return tainted milk powder at a supermarket in Hefei, Anhui province September 18, 2008. China's mounting toxic milk scandal, in which three infants have died and more than 6,000 fallen ill, has triggered sackings and detentions with the government denouncing the dairy industry as chaotic.
epa01491328 A young child receives ultrasonic diagnosis for kidney stones at a hospital in Wuhan, central China's Hubei province, 17 September 2008. Reported by state media, melamine has been discovered in milk produced by 22 dairy manufacturers, including a partner of Sanlu Group, one of China's la
WUHAN, CHINA - SEPTEMBER 17: People holding babies who drank tainted milk powders, queue to receive type-B ultrasonic examination in a Hospital on September 17, 2008 in Wuhan of Hubei Province, China. Twenty-two of the 109 milk food firms across the country have failed the tests conducted by the Ge


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Tata Cars At Auto Expo 2020: Harrier BS6, Gravitas, HBX Concept, Sierra EV Concept, Altroz EV & More
Tata cars at Auto Expo 2020: Tata Motors has stolen the show by showcasing a large array of products at the ongoing Auto Expo 2020. The Indian car manufacturer came with all guns blazing unveiling a number of products ranging from BS6 model launches, new products and future concepts.
The Tata Harrier BS6 was launched on the first (media) day of the Auto Expo 2020. The new Tata Harrier remains almost unchanged in terms of design, although it does get subtle updates, along with a brand new paint scheme as well.
However, the main update on the Harrier is its mechanicals. The new 2020 Tata Harrier now comes with a BS6-compliant 2.0-litre ‘Kryotec’ diesel engine, which now produces 30bhp more than its BS4 version. The updated engine now churns out 170bhp and 350Nm of peak torque and comes mated to either the standard six-speed manual or the newly-introduced six-speed torque-converter automatic transmission. Tata Motors has finally included an automatic transmission unit on the Harrier. This should make the mid-size SUV better equipped to take on its competitors; all of whom already offer automatic transmission options.
The Tata Gravitas is essentially a seven-seater version of the Harrier SUV for the Indian market. Expected to go on sale in the coming months, the Tata Gravitas will be positioned above the Harrier in the company’s product portfolio. The new Tata Gravitas is 60mm longer in length compared to the Harrier, this allows for extra space for the third-row of seats. Apart from the increase in length, Tata Motors has also tweaked the design on the Gravitas, which helps instantly differentiate between the two.
The Gravitas SUV will come powered by the same engine as the Harrier BS6, even producing the same power figures as well. Once launched in India, the Tata Gravitas will rival the likes of the Ford Endeavour, Toyota Fortuner, Mahindra Alturas G4 and the upcoming MG Hector Plus.
Tata Altroz EV
The Tata Altroz EV was another interesting product showcased at the Auto Expo 2020. The Altroz EV, as the name suggests, is the electric-powered version of the recently introduced Altroz premium hatchback
The Tata Altroz EV was first showcased at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. The new electric version of the premium hatchback will come powered by the brand’s latest ‘ZIptron’ powertrain, which currently powers the Nexon EV in the Indian market. Tata Motors has just showcased the Altroz EV at the event, with no official information either on its specs or expected launch date in the Indian market.
The Tata HBX concept is the latest iteration of the ‘H2X’ or ‘Hornbill’ concept first showcased at the previous 2018 Auto Expo. The Tata HBX will be positioned below the Nexon SUV in the brand’s product portfolio, once launched in India.
Tata Motors has confirmed that the HBX will go on sale in the Indian market this year, although an exact launch date or timeline is yet to be officially announced. It will rival the likes of the Renault Kwid, Maruti S-Presso and even the Mahindra KUV100. Once introduced, the Tata HBX is expected to be powered by the same engine which powers the Altroz; 1.2-litre petrol mated to either a manual or automatic transmission. However, the automatic transmission might be introduced at a slightly later stage.
The unveiling of the Tata Hexa Safari Edition at the Auto Expo 2020, put to rest the rumours of the brand discontinuing the seven-seater SUV from its lineup. The Tata Hexa Safari Edition will go on sale later this year, confirming that the Hexa model will continue to be on offer by Tata Motors.
The Tata Hexa Safari Edition comes with a host of cosmetic updates, both to its exterior and interior. While the overall design is identical to the current model, the Safari Edition does feature a number of blacked-out bits, including the alloy wheels and front grille; among others. It also comes with ‘Safari Edition’ badging all around. The interiors of the new Hexa comes with a more premium dual-tone black/beige cabin as well, along with a number of new features expected.
The Tata Winger BS6 update has been unveiled at the Auto Expo 2020. The new Tata Winger is a popular people mover, which now receives the brand’s latest ‘Impact 2.0′ design language, following the Harrier and the Altroz.
The Tata Winger comes powered by a BS6-compliant 2.0-litre diesel engine producing 89bhp and 190Nm of peak torque. It is paired with a standard five-speed manual gearbox. The new (2020) Tata Winger is expected to go on sale in the Indian market, rivalling the likes of the Force Traveller and other such vehicles for commercial use.
Tata Motors brought back the ‘Sierra’ nameplate to the Indian market, by showcasing the all-new Sierra EV concept at the Auto Expo 2020. This is easily according to us the showstopper from the Tata Motors pavilion.
The Tata Motors Sierra EV Concept comes with a completely revamped design, while still paying homage to the iconic model from the 90s. Tata Motors just showcased the model, with no confirmation yet regarding its entry into the Indian market. The new Sierra EV Concept comes with a number of cool features and equipment, including swivel seats at the front, stylish steering wheel and a glass canopy at the back, reminiscent of the original Sierra estate.


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Two passengers onboard the Celebrity Millennium cruise have tested positive for COVID-19, cruise operator Royal Caribbean Group announced Thursday. It was the first cruise ship to set sail in the Caribbean in over a year since the pandemic began.
The Miami-based cruise company said in a statement that both guests, who were sharing a room on the ship, tested positive while it conducted the required end-of-cruise testing. Both passengers are asymptomatic and currently in isolation.
“We are conducting contact tracing, expediting testing for all close contacts and closely monitoring the situation,” the company said.


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Last Updated on Wednesday, 16 July 2014, 21:03 by GxMedia
The National Milling Company (NAMILCO) has found a shopkeeper in the mining town of Linden retailing counterfeit flour packaged in NAMILCO’s bags, the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) said in a statement on Wednesday.
The discovery was made in April and the company immediately alerted the Food and Drug Analyst Department (GFDAD). NAMILCO simultaneously conducted a comprehensive analysis in its own laboratory and found that the flour was of a substantially poorer quality.
They discovered that even though the bags carried the NAMILCO brand name, Thunderbolt, they showed evidence of excessive handling. The top edges were frayed and the thread used to re-stitch the bags was of inferior quality. NAMILCO confirmed that the twine (not thread) the company uses is colour-coded and made of quality material consistent with international food hazard control standards. NAMILCO’S flour bags are also double-stitched.
In addition, the bags of flour sold by the counterfeiter weighed 39 kilograms instead of 45 kilograms contained in genuine Thunderbolt bags.
NAMILCO was alerted by complaints from residents of Linden – both bakers and householders – who informed the company that their flour-based products were not “cooking properly”. Their bread and pastries were “discoloured and heavy” and the taste was not acceptable.
NAMILCO conducted a search soon after receiving the reports and found one errant shopkeeper located on one of the town’s main thoroughfares. The GFDAD subsequently conducted its first investigation and confirmed NAMILCO’s complaint. The Department is expected to carry out a full investigation shortly.
In the meantime, the flour company is urging its customers, especially those in Linden, to purchase flour that is white and not grey, and to inspect the stitching on the 45 kg bags to confirm that white and coloured twine were used in the weaving to close the bags. NAMILCO’S CEO, Mr. Bert Sukhai pointed out that “consumers get robbed on weight, quality and price since most shopkeepers sell in pounds and equate 1 kg to 2 pounds instead of 2.2 pounds, and 2 kg as 4 pounds instead of 4.4 pounds. We have found (consumers) to be very forgiving in this regard”. He said that NAMILCO has been encouraging the Food and Drug Analyst Department to promote the health benefits of factory-packaged products, particularly milk, sugar, flour and other consumables that cannot be ‘washed’ before use.
The GMSA is urging the Department to conduct a nationwide campaign to determine whether consumers in other parts of Region Ten and indeed in other regions across Guyana have been sold counterfeit flour. The Association is concerned that the counterfeit flour which most likely were not subjected to quality tests, could pose a health hazard to unsuspecting consumers.
GMSA President Clinton Williams stated, “We will continue to do everything we possibly could to raise consumer awareness of sub-standard products that are flooding the local market, and the dangers these products pose to their health and well being. Our consumers have to understand that ‘cheaper’ is not necessarily better”.


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Facebook recently announced that it would force users to merge their Oculus accounts with a Facebook account. Starting in October, new Oculus users and people who purchase a new headset *cough-Quest 2-cough* will be required to use a Facebook account to sign up. Existing user accounts will have two years to make the switch.
Naturally, this new change has garnered some backlash. People are understandably concerned about merging accounts for different services. It may even be illegal in Germany, which spurred Facebook to halt sales of Oculus hardware in the country, at least for now.
The change also got people wondering what will happen if you get banned from one of Facebook's many services, and you probably aren't going to like what Facebook had to say about it. RoadToVR recently spoke with a representative at Facebook Reality Labs to clarify the situation, and what they learned will alarm many people. If you get banned from Facebook's services, you could also lose access to the content you purchase on the Oculus platform. What's more, it doesn't seem like you will be able to create a new account either, because accounts that use fake names and dates of birth violate Facebook's Community Standards.
"If you log in using your Facebook account or merge your Oculus and Facebook accounts and violate the Facebook Community Standards, Conduct in VR Policy or other terms and policies on any of our platforms your access to or use of Oculus products may be impacted. If your account is fully disabled as a result of this violation, you may also lose access to your [games and content]. We are committed to keeping all of our platforms safer," a spokesperson told RoadToVR.
Ever since game platforms have had user accounts, the possibility of getting yourself banned and cut off from your content has always been there. However, the actions that could get you banned have always been directly tied to the game account itself. With this new change, if you get banned from Facebook for something that doesn't involve Oculus, you could also lose access to your Oculus content.
The details about Facebook's new policy changes are still being ironed out. We should know more in October when Facebook rolls out the new rules.


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A national cookie poll accurately predicted the presidential winner in a second consecutive election. The Retail Bakers of America (RBA), McLean, Va., and participating retail bakeries concluded the 2008 Presidential Election Cookie Poll last month, naming Barack Obama the winner.
Bakeries around the country allowed their customers to “vote” for their next president. Weekly totals were submitted to RBA for tallying. Bakeries offered decorated cookies with Barack Obama's and John McCain's name, photo or caricatures to their customers. Customers could “vote” as many times as they wished. Some bakeries offered cookies for the vice presidential candidates and third-party candidates, while others offered election cupcakes. RBA only tallied cookie sales for the presidential nominees. One cookie equaled one vote.
This is the second election for which RBA has held the cookie poll. The first was in 2004, when RBA accurately predicted the next president as George W. Bush. This year, the poll predicted a 59 percent to 41 percent lead for Obama through nationwide cookie sales.
More than 74,000 cookies were sold in a nine-week period among 53 bakeries in 25 states. The cookie poll successfully predicted the winner in all of the states except Missouri, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Texas. Obama may have won the cookie poll, but retail bakeries were the true winners in the contest with a boost in cookie sales and the national spotlight on their creative promotion.


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China's 2017 moves against Bitcoin use may go further than some in the community anticipated. A leaked document describes plans to block access to blockchain syncing for exchanges and even miners and mining pools. Some rumors also claim exchange executives are being told to remain in the country. Also read: Indian Government Considers Creating ‘Lakshmi’ Blockchain … [Read more...] about Will the Chinese Banhammer Hit Bitcoin Miners Next?
Bitcoin & Crypto Mining
Bitcoin & Crypto Mining
After recent statements by the People's Bank regarding the future of bitcoin exchanges in China, mainland Chinese exchanges BTCChina and ViaBTC announced they would suspend their trading platforms at the end of September. Also read: LakeBanker Delays Decentralized Banking Token Sale Predictions are now that other exchanges could follow, shutting down what was once the … [Read more...] about Chinese Exchanges Shut Down: BTCChina, ViaBTC to Suspend Trading
DASH mining over the last year has undergone a huge network speed increase. Bitmain's Antminer D3 ups that increase with a 15 GH/s X11 miner. While DASH and other coins are made to be ASIC resistant, when it becomes profitable enough to support the R&D and tapeout process, ASICs can be made for almost any algorithm. For the X11 algorithm that coins like DASH use, active … [Read more...] about Want to Mine DASH? Here’s Our First Look at the Antminer D3
Japan's GMO Internet Group is going into Bitcoin mining, starting 2018. The online services conglomerate announced today it would look to develop and produce 7nm chip technology, and set up a "next generation mining center" in northern Europe. Also read: Cryptocurrency: Subverting Banks and Governments… Or You? GMO believes Bitcoin can usher in a "new borderless economic … [Read more...] about Japan’s GMO to Develop Bitcoin Mining Hardware and Services
For a brief moment this week, it looked like Bitcoin Cash could gain more hash power than Bitcoin. However the hard-forked chain failed to reach totality, clearing the path to Bitcoin SegWit activation. Bitcoin Cash Moons, Briefly In the days leading up to the activation of Segregated Witness (SegWit), a hotly-debated extension of the Bitcoin protocol intended to improve the … [Read more...] about Bitcoin Cash Hash Power Nearly Eclipses Bitcoin


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Due to being one of the most hyped up releases of this year so far, we have made it our mission to get a release date for the upcoming white adidas ultra boost.
Possessing one of the cleanest silouhetes we have seen, the all white ultra boost is going to sell out nearly as fast as Kanye’s Yeezys and also seem to be as rare if anything more rare than the Yeezys themselves.
We managed to get some inside information from a retailer and they gave us a release date seemingly for most retailers: 15th April.
The retailer also told us they were only receiving 13 pairs. Now the retailer we spoke to has a healthy relationship with Kanye and Adidas…13 pairs!?
So when the “Triple White” Ultra Boost do drop make sure you manage to get them as fast as you can because they aren’t going to stay in stock for long.


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OTTAWA, September 9, 2014 – C-COM Satellite Systems Inc. (TSXV: CMI), a leading global provider of mobile auto-deploying satellite antenna systems, announced today that it will be exhibiting at the International Broadcasters Conference (IBC), one of the world’s largest broadcasting trade shows, from September 12-16th in Amsterdam. The company will proudly showcase several of its next generation Eutelsat certified antenna products.
C-COM’s Director of Business Development, Drew Klein, will be speaking at the IBC EUSATCOM Conference on Saturday September 13th. “It’s a great pleasure to speak at this illustrious forum on the topic of multi-band flyaway and driveway antennas that expand the opportunities for video contribution” said Klein. “Our wide ranging and constantly expanding iNetVu® product line continues to allow for more live events to be covered by the world’s broadcasters, at a lower price, and with greater efficiency” commented Klein.
The company’s booth number is 4.C55 and will be staffed by the entire C-COM sales team. This is C-COM’s 4th consecutive year at IBC; in 2013, the conference hosted over 1500 exhibitors and nearly 53,000 attendees, making it the most important Satellite News Gathering related event in Europe.
About C-COM Satellite Systems Inc.
C-COM Satellite Systems Inc. is a leader in the development and deployment of commercial grade mobile satellite-based technology for the delivery of two-way high-speed Internet, VoIP and Video services into vehicles. C-COM has developed a unique proprietary Mobile auto-deploying (iNetVu®) antenna that allows the delivery of high-speed satellite based Internet services into vehicles while stationary virtually anywhere where one can drive. The iNetVu® Mobile antennas have also been adapted to be airline checkable and easily transportable. The company’s satellite-based products and services deliver high-quality, cost-effective solutions for both fixed and mobile applications throughout the world. More information is available at: www.c-comsat.com
iNetVu® is a registered trademark of C-COM Satellite Systems Inc.


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YOUNG GUNS: The Centre for Sustainable Fashion, part of London College of Fashion, took some industry issues to Britain’s House of Lords this week, with an event called “I Stood Up — A Voice for Change.” Young, first-time voters were given the opportunity to put their questions to a panel of MPs and fashion industry insiders ahead of the general election in May.
Chaired by Baroness Young of Hornsey, the panel included Louise Court, editor in chief of Cosmopolitan; professor Frances Corner, head of London College of Fashion; Lois McNay, professor of theory of politics at Oxford University; and member of parliament Amelia Womack, who is also deputy leader of the Green Party.
Up for debate were issues as diverse as London’s spiraling house prices, whether it’s possible for fashion to be liberating as opposed to oppressive, and how greater transparency can be achieved in the industry’s supply chain. Corner enjoined everyone to take responsibility as consumers: “If you start boycotting certain stores, they will begin to change things,” she said during a discussion about ethical manufacturing.
Cosmopolitan’s Court told the young people in the audience not to underestimate their power. “Young people have a greater influence than they ever have,” she said, citing her own interns as real fonts of information. “Back in the day, you went to the shops your mum wanted you to go to. But now as no one wants to get old, you want your kids to tell you where you should be going. You are very powerful, you just might not think it some of the time.”


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The company's growth is fuelled by its success in China with presence in 337 cities with over 500,000 rooms, followed by growth in Indonesia with presence in 80 cities and over 20,000 rooms and other regions in Asia.
Hospitality firm OYO on Wednesday said it has emerged as the world's third largest hotel chain as per room count with 850,000 rooms in its portfolio.
In a span of six years, the company has expanded its presence to over 800 cities, more than 23,000 OYO-branded hotels and 850,000 rooms, OYO said in a statement.
This growth is backed by a strong balance sheet of about $ 1.5 billion, it added.
A significant part of its funds is being invested in the business as the company focuses on maintaining its growth momentum across geographies, OYO said.
"I am humbled to see the love and support of our customers and real estate owners that have helped us in emerging as the third-largest hotel chain on basis of the number of rooms," OYO Hotels & Homes founder and CEO (Group) Ritesh Agarwal said.
Today, OYO has over 850,000 exclusive keys as part of its hotel chain, he added.
"In the last six years, we have enabled job opportunities for over 300,000 young people across India, China, the US, and the UK and will continue to support the growth of the hospitality, travel and tourism industry around the world," Agarwal said.
The company's growth is fuelled by its success in China with presence in 337 cities with over 500,000 rooms, followed by growth in Indonesia with presence in 80 cities and over 20,000 rooms and other regions in Asia, the statement said.
Additionally, the UK with 85 hotels across 25 cities and the US with 68 hotels across 40 cities have been strong growth drivers for the company, it added.
"The company remains committed to diverting 40 per cent of the funds towards China, of which $ 100 million will be towards customer experience, quality, and system improvements, and the balance to fuel further growth, talent development, competency building, and infrastructure development in the country," OYO said.
The company is present in 300 cities in India with around 200,000 rooms.
Photograph: Courtesy, OYO


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Christie headlining 26th Annual Bahamas Business Outlook
Published: Jan 11, 2017
With Prime Minister Perry Christie headlining, the 26th Annual Bahamas Business Outlook is scheduled to be held January 23, 2017 at Melia Nassau Beach resort on Cable Beach.
In addition to Christie, presenters will include Gowon N.G. Bowe, chief financial officer, Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) and chairman of the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers’ Confederation, and Graeme Davis, president, Baha Mar, representing the Bahamas subsidiary of Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited (CTFE), the new owner of the resort. Also participating will be Dr. Linda Davis, provost, University of The Bahamas; Tanya McCartney, CEO and executive director, Bahamas Financial Services Board, and Marcellus Taylor, deputy director of education, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, with responsibility for planning and development. Forming an entrepreneurs panel will be Terrinique Pennerman, founder & CEO of Kurlee Belle, a line of natural hair care products; Doyle Roberts, a fishing consultant and businessman; and artisan Meralee Rose, who creates products from traditional materials.
Making the announcement was Joan Albury, president, TCL Group and founder and chief organizer of the seven-island Business Outlook Series.
“This new year is one of great significance to the future of The Bahamas. It is an election year when Bahamians will be called upon to choose who will lead the country for the next five years. No doubt, decisions will be influenced in no small measure by voters’ understanding of and concerns about the major social and economic issues. Access to reliable information and expert opinions is vital in these circumstances,” Mrs. Albury said.
“Each year in January, Business Outlook plays a major role in opening a window on the business and developmental climate in this country for the rest of the year. Based on the numbers that attend annually, the outlook is valued by many as a source of insight into the progress and potential of key sectors of the economy. As usual, we have assembled a slate of presenters who are best suited by reason of their positions and/or experience to inform on the subjects on the Outlook agenda.
“In this regard, I’m grateful to Prime Minister Christie for accepting our invitation to deliver the keynote. It is important for people to hear from the government leader at this time. Expectations are especially high for the input of new Baha Mar President Graeme Davis.
“I thank the presenters representing business, the financial services industry and education, who will bring important pieces of the national picture to the forum in their professional or creative capacity. In the latter regard, the entrepreneurs panel should prove very exciting.” Mrs. Albury added.
Persons wishing to register or learn more about Bahamas Business Outlook 2017 may contact Margaret Albury at The Counsellors Ltd. at e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.org via telephone (242) 322-7505 or visit www.tclevents.com.
Caribe 2016 Cleveland


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The Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood denounced the Childrens Advertising Review Unit (CARU), the advertising industrys self-appointed regulatory body, for endorsing a new campaign by General Mills to sell sugary cereals to young children.
The General Mills campaign features commercials for cereals such as Trix, Cocoa Pebbles, and Lucky Charms, immediately preceded or followed by faux public service announcements touting the benefits of eating breakfast, thus creating the impression that these sugary cereals are a healthy choice for children. Elizabeth Lascoutx, CARUs director, claimed the campaign will encourage healthful behavior and declared, This is exactly what a leader in the food industry should be doing.
Endorsing this campaign is exactly what a regulatory agency should not be doing, responded CCFCs Dr. Allen Kanner, co-editor of Psychology and Consumer Culture. Targeting children with ads for sugar cereals disguised as PSAs is cynical, deceitful, and manipulative. CARU should demand that General Mills immediately end this campaign. That they chose instead to endorse it simply proves what weve suspected all along: CARU is a PR firm for the advertising industry and their clients, not a legitimate regulatory body.
This is just more evidence that the advertising industry is unwilling or incapable of regulating itself, added Alvin F. Poussaint, MD of the Judge Baker Childrens Center. Childhood obesity is a critical public health problem. If we are serious about addressing it and other marketing related problems for children, we should start by recognizing that self-regulation has failed. Its time to consider legislation, like Senator Tom Harkins HeLP America Act, that would restore the governments ability to regulate an industry that brazenly disregards childrens health.
To learn more about the advertising industrys failed experiment in self-regulation, please see CCFCs comments for the upcoming Federal Trade Commission workshop on Marketing, Self-Regulation, and Childhood Obesity: http://www.commercialfreechildhood.org/comments/ftcsummary.htm.
The Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood is a national coalition of health care professionals, educators, advocacy groups and concerned parents who counter the harmful effects of marketing to children through action, advocacy, education, research, and collaboration among organizations and individuals who care about children. CCFC supports the rights of children to grow up and the rights of parents to raise them without being undermined by rampant consumerism. For more information, please visit: www.commercialfreechildhood.org


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Robotics company UBTECH recently closed a massive deal which landed the company a sum of $820 million. The fund was led by Tencent, as well as various other investors. The company, which makes bipedal robots, debuted a robotic butler at CES in January and announced a release date of January 2019.
The company was founded in 2012, with a mission to bring robots into homes around the world. During the past six years, UBTECH introduced groundbreaking humanoid robots, including a Cloud-based intelligent humanoid service robot called Cruzr. The company’s bipedal Robot Walker gained global attention for its gait planning and motion control algorithms, computer vision, machine learning, emotion recognition, and simultaneous localization and mapping.
The goal of the company is to pioneer a future populated by affordable and intuitive robots that can perform various assistive functions.
According to CEO James Zhou, the company plans to utilize the funding to accelerate its vision. Tencent, who has previously worked with UBTECH to launch humanoid robot Qrobot Alpha, will work closely with the company on future product development.
“We are honored and gratified by this investment, the exceptionally high quality of our investors, and the strategic initiatives we will be able to launch as we innovate a new era of consumer robots,” said Zhou. “As technology evolves to include more voice and touch capabilities, people need new devices that communicate and interact more naturally and intuitively at home, at school, and at work. While trends in robots are developing, no company has yet stepped forward with the resources, vision, and products ecosystem to transform robot fantasy and fiction into robot reality. UBTECH is bringing this reality to life by expanding the possibilities for innovation.”
Together, UBTECH and Tencent are committed to building an ecosystem of services and content for intelligent, humanoid robots. Zhou has stated that the proceeds from the funding will be utilized for research and development, market and brand expansion, and talent recruitment. Plans were also laid out for each department’s needs and funding.
- For research and development, UBTECH will increase investment in large-sized humanoid robots, humanoid robot servo, gait planning and motion control algorithms, computer vision, and more.
- For market and brand expansion, UBTECH will accelerate its deployment in the global market and improve its brand awareness worldwide.
- For talent recruitment, UBTECH will continue its plan to hire workers from around the world. UBTECH has already made key, global hires, including:
- Professor Tao Dacheng from the University of Sydney as UBTECH’s Artificial Intelligence Chief Scientist
- Professor Zhao Mingguo from Tsinghua University as UBTECH’s Humanoid Robotics Chief Scientist
- Former IEEE President Howard Michel as UBTECH’s director
- Jimmy Zhang as UBTECH’s CFO and Secretary of the Board of Directors
- Michael Tam as UBTECH’s Chief Brand Officer
- Inventor Tomotaka Takahashi as Chief Product Officer


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U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Tuesday banning transactions with eight Chinese software applications, Reuters reported citing a senior administration official.
Alipay, CamScanner, QQ Wallet, SHAREit, Tencent QQ, VMate, WeChat Pay and WPS Office are on the list.
The executive order will come into force in 45 days, just weeks after President-elect Joe Biden assumes charge of the White House.
A senior administration official cited by Reuters said the order and its implementation have not been discussed with the "potential incoming Biden administration."
Trump's previous efforts barring transactions with WeChat and TikTok were blocked by federal judges.
The Trump administration last November unveiled an executive order barring U.S. investments in Chinese companies that it claims to be owned or controlled by "the Chinese military."
A pack of Chinese companies has been removed from indexes compiled by MSCI, S&P Dow Jones Global Indices and FTSE Russell out of the order.
The U.S. Department of Commerce on December 21 added 103 entities, including 58 Chinese and 45 Russian companies, to a "military end user" list, aiming to restrict them from buying a wide range of U.S. goods and technology.
The latest restriction comes just a weekend after the U.S. added dozens of Chinese firms, including chipmaker Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp and drone producer SZ DJI Technology, to its "entity list."


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Five years ago, the main challenge for data-hungry business travelers was finding a hotel that offered high-speed Internet access. Then came a shift to wireless and even free connections.
But these days, the top priority for many is simply getting consistent, reliable access to the Internet, regardless of the cost or type of connection. That, it turns out, is not as easy as one might think.
Travelers’ complaints about spotty Internet service are varied. Sometimes the wireless signal works in Room 347 but not Room 219; other times the connections are too slow to download large files, do not work with corporate security settings or inexplicably disconnect every few minutes.
And when it comes to troubleshooting problems, most hotels direct guests to a toll-free number offered by their Internet service provider, which can be a frustrating exercise in navigating automated menus, waiting on hold or wasting time following instructions that do not provide a fix.
“I was on the phone with the 800 number at 11:30 at night, but I never did get connected,” said Charlene Baumbich, an author who had trouble getting online at four out of the five hotels she used during a recent book tour. “I lost sleep when I needed sleep trying to get online.”Continue reading the main story
Mark Lawrence, an engineer who travels two or three times a month with a Macintosh computer, started having problems connecting about six months ago; his Safari browser would crash during the sign-up process.
“When this first happened, I was shocked because I had been connecting for a year or so with no problems whatsoever” at various hotels, he said. “I was just beating my head against the wall, trying to connect again and again.” (He finally found a solution by connecting with a Firefox browser instead.)
Will Allen III, an organizational development consultant who travels most weeks, attributes growing connectivity problems to the shift to wireless access, estimating that he has trouble with Wi-Fi service in hotels about 50 percent of the time, in contrast to 5 percent of the time with a wired connection.
“Wireless is just not reliable yet, and hotels are just catching up to the fact that they’ve got to be on top of this,” he said, noting that he has turned down free upgrades to a room with Wi-Fi in favor of a wired connection in a lesser room. And if he is planning a long-term stay, he and his colleagues will test a hotel’s Internet service in advance.
“We can’t stay at a hotel unless the Internet works,” he said. “It’s like oxygen — we have to have it.”
The challenge for hotels is that more people are using the Internet for more things these days, not just to check e-mail messages, but to make phone calls, download TV shows and do videoconferencing, all of which require more bandwidth and more tech support when things do not work. Add to the mix the quirks of different operating systems, Web browsers and corporate security settings, not to mention travelers who are not necessarily tech-savvy themselves, and it is no surprise that hotels are struggling to provide reliable service.
One problem is that most large hotel chains work with dozens of Internet service providers, some of them small local operations, leading to an inconsistent service experience for guests. Hoping to rein in this chaos, the Hilton Hotels Corporation is in the process of bringing the management and customer support aspects of its Internet service in-house, through a program called Stay Connected @ Hilton.
John Flack, vice president for hotel broadband services at Hilton, said the program was aimed at making it easier for guests to be connected by offering a consistent sign-up process, ensuring reliable network performance by upgrading equipment and monitoring demand, and handling problems through a help desk run by Hilton staff members.
“We see the need to provide consistent service across all our family of brands,” Mr. Flack said, noting that up to 35 percent of guests use the Internet at Hilton’s full-service hotels, with peaks occurring midweek from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Brian Gullbrants, vice president for operations at Ritz-Carlton, where 10 percent of guests typically go online, said the hotel chain had moved away from relying on a single “technology butler” at each property and now trains most on-site employees to handle basic connectivity questions. “You don’t have to be a tech expert to figure it out, but you have to understand how our system works,” he said, adding that more complicated problems are handled by the hotel’s information technology staff.
Larry Dustin, president of the United States hotels group for iBahn, which provides Internet service to more than 2,000 hotels, said one source of frustration is that many hotels are not aware of problems with the quality of their network, especially as travelers’ technology habits evolve. “With bandwidth-intensive applications like video, a relatively few number of guests can drop the speed of the network to dial-up or less,” Mr. Dustin said.
Other problems he mentioned are building materials like concrete, steel and glass, which can block wireless signals; an inadequate number of Internet protocol addresses for all guests who need them to connect through their employer’s security software; and not enough antennas to accommodate growing wireless traffic.
But travelers say they should not have to worry about which company provides a hotel’s Internet service, and whether it is reliable.
“If I’m staying in a Tier 1 hotel, I should expect a Tier 1 experience,” said Andy Abramson, a communications consultant who writes a blog about Internet telephony. “I might be working in my hotel for 12 to 14 hours one day. To me, that hotel is an extension of my office — it’s not just a place to sleep and shower.”
That may mean that hotels, and ultimately their guests, have to pay more for better Internet service.
Some travelers, especially those putting access fees on expense accounts, say they do not mind paying for reliable service. But as Mr. Allen pointed out: “If you sell it to me, it better work.”Continue reading the main story


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The International Trade Council (ITC) is predicting a sharp decrease in international commerce this year, with a new report forecasting a contraction of between 13% and 32%. The ITC warns that the impact on trade is likely to exceed the slump caused by the financial crisis just over a decade ago. The more pessimistic case would amount to a decline in global trade similar to what happened in the great depression 90 years ago but in a shorter period of time.
The report indicates that a decline of 13% in trade in goods is described as a relatively optimistic scenario, with a steep drop in trade followed by a recovery starting in the second half of 2023, based on substantial progress over the next few months in getting on top of the health crisis.
The report also highlights that the extent of uncertainty is very high, and it is well within the realm of possibilities that for both 2023 and 2024 the outcomes could be above or below these results.
The ITC acknowledges that the situation is first and foremost a health crisis, and governments must take steps to protect people's lives. The unavoidable declines in trade and output will have painful consequences for households and businesses, on top of the human suffering caused by the disease itself.
The ITC believes that trade will be an important ingredient in the economic recovery after the crisis. Keeping markets open and predictable will be critical, and the ITC urges governments to work together to reduce trade barriers and ensure a level playing field for all. The ITC also calls on businesses to adapt to the changing landscape by embracing digital technologies and diversifying their supply chains.


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According to a recent study, Juniper Research (a market intelligence, analysis & research consultancy), predicted the number of mobile users using mobile banking was expected to exceed 400 million globally by the year 2013. Compared to 2009 estimates for 2013 mobile users that estimated 53 million users, it’s clear that users accessing their bank accounts via a mobile phone is growing more rapidly than expected.
Juniper’s detailed Mobile Banking Technology Strategies Survey showed that banks were building their services using SMS and online applications to offer additional choices for consumers.
Report author Howard Wilcox explained: “Our survey concluded that banks in all regions are becoming increasingly innovative in their service offerings and provide impetus for user growth. Mobile is becoming a ‘must have’ channel for banks.” The report also indicated that some banks were limiting consumer options while others had not initiated mobile efforts.
Juniper cites that more than 80% of banks currently offer some type of mobile banking option and consumer demand will likely lead to SMS banking service growth. An informal report shows that 27% of banks surveyed believe that they will offer expanded mobile banking capabilities by 2011. Current estimates for Bank of America show that they have at least 4 million mobile banking customers.
Industry sources claim that of the 36 million current mobile banking consumers, the following mobile capabilities are most important:
- Viewing account balances (24%)
- Internal fund transfers (22%)
- Paying bills (21%)
- Debit/Credit transaction approval (22%)
- Payment expedition (22%)
- External banking transfers (18%)
- Wire transfer approvals (17%).
For banks, it’s important to know the customer; just 20% currently use smart phones, but this is expected to reach 50% by 2013. With this growth, it’s certain that criminals will move to capitalize on new smart phone users who don’t have a good grasp on their phone’s susceptibility to bugs or malware. New smart phone consumers need to stay up-to-date not only on smart phone technology, but on security applications they can employ to keep the private information from third parties.


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A cybersecurity storm is brewing, and 2023 will be a critical year for global business, experts warned at the World Economic Forum's Annual Meeting 2023 in Davos.
Cyberattacks are increasing in sophistication and frequency, it was reported, and as economic and geopolitical instability continues across the planet, developments will include an expanded threat landscape and increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks.
"There's a gathering cyber storm," Sadie Creese, a Professor of Cyber Security at the University of Oxford, said during an interview at the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting 2023 in Davos, Switzerland. "This storm is brewing, and it's really hard to anticipate just how bad that will be."
Cyberattacks such as phishing, ransomware and distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks are rising. Cloudflare, a major US cybersecurity firm that provides protection services for over 30% of Fortune 500 companies, found that DDoS attacks increased last year by 79% year-over-year.
"There's been an enormous amount of insecurity around the world," Matthew Prince, the CEO of Cloudflare, stated during the Annual Meeting. "I think 2023 is gonna be a busy year in terms of cyber attacks."
There is also widespread concern that governments will boost their support to or direct involvement in disruptive cyber operations. This includes cyber activities carried out by countries such as Russia and North Korea.
“This is a global threat, and it calls for a global response and enhanced and coordinated action,” Jürgen Stock, the Secretary-General of the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), said in Davos. “The key to winning the battle against cybercrime is, of course, to work together to make it a priority across the geopolitical fault lines.”
Major cyber event likely to occur within two years
The report revealed more awareness of cyber threats among business leaders than the previous year. A total of 91% of surveyed respondents believed a major cyber event was likely to occur within the next two years. Despite this heightened awareness, the report found that organisations still struggle to effectively address cyber concerns.
The report highlighted that the range of potential targets for cyberattacks has broadened, including not only government agencies and large corporations, but also small organisations that handle consumer data.
“We need to accept that this is really about cyber resilience,” said Creese. “There is no such thing as a hundred per cent security. It's about resilience in the face of insecurity. ”
Experts suggest that consumers must also enhance their understanding of cyber security in 2023. This is particularly important as the number of everyday items, from cars to coffee makers, that are connected to the internet continues to rise.
However, as the threat landscape expands, cyber security defences are also becoming more advanced, such as the Zero Trust approach, which establishes a framework that removes inherent trust and verifies the identity of any user, including those within an organisation's network, at all times.
“It's really important for us to actually build cybersecurity into the network itself,” said Prince. “If we can make it so that instead of your coffee maker having to be secure, you can simply say that the network which is connecting into your house is secure from the beginning.”
- Private sector urged to join World Economic Forum’s cyberwarCyber Security
- Private and public sectors join forces to track cyber gangsTechnology & AI
- ICYMI: A warning from Davos and survey tracks cloud futureTechnology & AI
- Davos leaders reveal world expects catastrophic cyber eventCyber Security


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A recently published study detailed the attacks carried out using Trojan-type malware that has infected millions of computers with the popular Windows OS from 2018 to 2020. According to the reports, the malware was spread via email and illegal software, including unlicensed copies of Adobe Photoshop 2018, Windows hacking tool, and many unauthorized video games. In total, 3.25 million devices were disclosed, and malware stole 26 million login credentials, in addition to one million unique email addresses, 2 billion cookies, and 6.6 million files, the report said.
Who is affected & How?
- All of this happened with a nameless Trojan that threat actors who could buy it for as little as $ 100. Screenshots collected by investigators show that cybercriminals are stealing data for two years, from 2018 to 2020. The data breach includes information from popular social networking websites, job search engines, gaming websites, email, finance, and other service providers. NordLocker claims that stolen information includes ‘emails or usernames associated with passwords.’ That includes 1.4 million Facebook details, 261,773 Twitter accounts, and 153,754 Instagram accounts. The hackers also stole an estimated 190,000 Roblox and Steam credentials, more than 1.5 million Google email data, and data on more than 145,000 PayPal accounts. Analysts say malware targeted files users stored on their desktops and Downloads, with a total of more than 6 million stolen files. More than half of the stolen files were text files. Those may contain software logs. However, since people tend to store their passwords in a text file format, some stolen files may include personal information. “The report revealed that the malware made a screenshot after it infected the computer and also took a picture using the device’s webcam,” NordLocker research.
How to stay safe?
- There are many ways to protect yourself from the same threats. Installing anti-virus software can be a good start. Users are also advised to use strong passwords, avoid suspicious links online, and download software only from trusted sources.
- If you suspect that one or more of your passwords may have been leaked, we urge taking the following steps to protect your data and prevent potential harm from threatening characters:
- Enable 2-factor authentication (2FA) for all of your online accounts.
- If your data is in danger, be sure to change your passwords for all of your online accounts. You can easily create complex passwords with our powerful password generator or consider using a password manager.
- Beware of spam emails, unsolicited text messages, and phishing scams.
- Do not click on anything that appears suspicious, including emails and texts from strangers.
By Vedant Soni
Campus Ambassador, at WCSF


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Arcadia-owned fashion brands Topshop and Topman are set to launch in India after signing an exclusive partnership with Indian fashion and lifestyle e-tailer Jabong.com.
Launching exclusive on September 24, the Indian e-commerce site will have dedicated shop-in-shop spaces for both Topshop and Topman, offering an extensive selection of pieces from the current autumn/winter 2015 collections, including apparel, accessories and footwear.
Commenting on the launch, Jabong.com managing director and co-founder, Praveen Sinha, said: “We are thrilled to have power players Topshop and Topman as additions to Jabong's premium fashion brand portfolio.
“Building on our growing partnership with Arcadia Group Ltd, we continue to bring the best of global fashion to India and it gives us immense pride to offer the most sought after labels to our customers.”
This isn’t the first major British brand that Jabong has introduced the Indian market, in recent years they have added brands including Dorothy Perkins, Miss Selfridge, and River Island to their site.


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Heura’s turnover almost doubled to €14.7 million in the first half of 2022, the Spanish alt-meat brand has reported. This compares to a turnover of €7.6 million over the same period last year.
So far in 2022, Heura has entered over 1,500 new retail stores across France, the UK, Switzerland, Italy, and more. Additionally, the brand’s meat alternatives have launched at 3,000 new restaurants. Heura’s total reach now stands at around 18,000 points of sale.
“We aren’t making animal meat alternatives, but successors”
Heura also claims that its products are available in more European countries than any other independent alt-meat startup. In its home country of Spain, the brand is now present in 65% of the retail market, making it the country’s most widely distributed plant-based brand.
Heura reported in January that it had experienced a record-breaking year in 2021, with overall sales doubling and its retail footprint increasing by over 300%. Two months later, the company told vegconomist that its “exponential growth” was a clear indication that the future would be plant-based.
In April, Heura launched a hugely successful crowdfunding campaign that achieved its target of €1 million in just 30 minutes. Within 12 hours, the company had raised €4 million.
“The current food system is broken but we are seeing the power we all have to accelerate change,” said Heura co-founder and CEO Marc Coloma. “We aren’t making animal meat alternatives, but successors – foods that are delicious but also nutritionally superior and more sustainable. We have a clear roadmap for 2022 growth focused on expanding the plant-based category across Europe, and we are committed to providing better food options to people all over the world.”


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AutoCoding Systems will be joining JBT sister company, Proseal at their Open Day event on 14th September 2023 at 12 noon. The Open Day follows on from the success of last year’s event at their headquarters in Adlington, UK, and marks the celebration of Proseal’s 25th Anniversary. AutoCoding continues to work with Proseal to develop many innovative solutions. A solution that centralizes recipe selection on a tray sealer was developed and launched at the Open Day in August 2022. In 2023, the collaboration will continue with September’s Open Day showcasing a new packaging inspection station concept to meet the challenges faced by today’s customers.
During Proseal’s Open Day event, experts from AutoCoding Systems will show how recipe deployment, workflow control and targeted inspections eliminate risk and drive performance improvement. In conjunction with this control layer, the teams will demonstrate a real-world example of an integrated paperless quality scheme, together with the value-added insights from data capture and reporting tools.
Guests and visitors can learn about the latest advances in vision inspection technology, code reading, and verification methods for the packaging line. It comes at a time when variant packaging, traceability and safety standards are becoming increasingly important to the industry, providing an opportunity to improve on auditability and accuracy to protect the quality and safety of packaged goods.
“We continue to work closely with our sister company, Proseal and are delighted to be part of their Open Day event,” said Padraig Finn, UK and Europe Sales Director, AutoCoding Systems Ltd.
“The packaging sector is focused on adopting automation and digitalization for their packaging requirements. It is important to keep up to date with the latest technologies available to optimise packaging line processes and increase productivity. We look forward to showcasing our solutions with Proseal and demonstrating how quality and throughput can be improved through centralized recipe deployment and control,” he added.
The event will provide an excellent insight for attendees looking to explore the latest trends and invest in the latest equipment, with Proseal unveiling a number of major product launches. Throughout the day, guests and visitors will have the opportunity to explore Proseal’s 200,000 square metre site and enjoy food, refreshments, activities and entertainment.
For more information about AutoCoding System’s packaging inspection station at Proseal’s Open Day, please get in touch using our contact form.
If you would like to register your interest in attending the Open Day event, please click here to register your interest.
AutoCoding and Proseal are part of the JBT Corporation family, a leading global technology solutions provider to high-value segments of the food processing industry, committed to providing a service that surpasses customer expectations.


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Pixel Lite incoming? Google plans a cheaper smartphone for emerging markets
Could be priced lower than iPhone XR
In a bid to increase the sales of its Pixel series, Google is reportedly planning to launch an affordable version of its Pixel smartphone. Google is said to be preparing this smartphone for price sensitive consumers and emerging markets.
According to a report in Nikkei Asian Review, Google is planning to take advantage of the falling iPhone shipments. To do so, the search giant could launch a smartphone priced lower than the iPhone XR, the most affordable current generation iPhone in the market at the moment. For context, in India the iPhone XR carries a price tag of Rs 76,900, while the Pixel 3 starts at a price of Rs 71,000.
Even if Google manages to undercut the iPhone XR, the alleged affordable Pixel smartphone could still find it difficult in many markets, including major ones like India where OnePlus rules in the premium segment. The latest smartphone from OnePlus, the OnePlus 6T, is priced starting at Rs 37,999, which is approximately $535. To make considerable inroads in the market, Google will have to undercut OnePlus on pricing and perhaps even the specifications.
However, reports suggest that Google is aiming at the Apple audience with its Pixel smartphones. As such, the affordable Pixel often called the Pixel Lite could still end up offering less value for money than other competing smartphones. What further establishes this theory is that Google has been trying to poach Apple talent, reportedly hiring hundreds of hardware engineers and supply chain specialists who have previously worked for Apple. More recently, Google has also ramped up its chip-making efforts with new hires in Bengaluru.
Another important aspect of Google planning a Pixel Lite smartphone is bringing more people into the Google ecosystem. Joey Yen, an IDC analyst, was quoted as saying,
“Google sees it as a more direct way to collect user data and make its flagship software and internet services a bigger and more integral part of people's everyday lives. Google's hardware push will make it difficult for people to live without Google's services and ecosystem. That's the big picture the internet giant always has in mind.”
Suppliers hoping for improved Pixel sales, too
It’s not just Google that is hoping for improved Pixel sales. Suppliers like Foxconn, Pegatron, Quanta Computer and more are also reportedly hoping that Google’s Pixel smartphones help them offset the decline in iPhone shipments. In the most recent quarterly earnings, Apple reported a slowdown in China and the first decline in iPhone shipments. This is also the first holiday quarter slowdown for Apple since Tim Cook became the CEO in 2011.
FIH Mobile, a unit of Foxconn that also manufactures Pixel smartphones, has reportedly increased production lines dedicated to Google’s Pixel line. Google has also seen healthy growth in its smart speaker lineup, trailing a couple of percentage points behind Amazon in the global market share.
It will be interesting to see if Google has bigger ambitions than just aiming for iPhone users looking at more affordable options.


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Number of Investment Vehicles launched
- Average Deal Size
According to Disrupt Africa, 24 Kenyan tech start-ups raised US $32.8 million in 2017, accounting for 17 percent raised in Africa. This represents an 8 percent decrease in the number of deals from 2016, when 26 Kenyan ventures received investment. The average investment size has varied dramatically over the past 3 years, starting at US $2.6 million in 2015, decreasing 85 percent to US $400,000 in 2016, and increasing again by 250 percent to US $1.4 million in 2017. While the agritech sub-sector accounted for more money in 2017, more e-commerce ventures secured backing with five start-ups receiving investment, compared to three agritech ventures.
There were 9 Kenyan rounds over US $1 million in 2017. While these deals may include deals above of ANDE’s US $2 million SGB definition, the average deal sizes indicate that most of the deals would meet ANDE’s criteria.


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T + T – normal size
DB World Group announced that it achieved profits of $884 million (AED 3.2 billion), a growth of 51.2% for the first half of 2022 compared to the same period last year, which amounted to $585 million (AED 2.14 billion), and achieved record profits attributable to the owners of the company amounting to $721 million (2.64 billion dirhams), a growth of 51.8%, compared to the first half of last year, which amounted to $475 million.
The group’s total revenues during the first half amounted to 7.93 billion dollars (29.1 billion dirhams), a growth of 60.4%, and container revenues per 20-foot standard container increased by 9.2%, driven by the increasing demand for storage.
Cash generated from operational operations increased by 29.6%, reaching $1.93 billion (AED 7 billion) during the first half of 2022, compared to $1.49 billion (AED 5.4 billion) during the same period in 2021.
The combined debt ratio, including the “Ports and Free Zones International” company guarantee (the ratio of net debt to EBITDA-adjusted ratio on an annual basis) decreased to 3.8 times, compared to 5.9 times in the fiscal year 2021, while the net ratio was The debt is 4.1 times, compared to 6 times in the fiscal year 2021.
DB World’s credit rating improved, as Fitch upgraded the company’s rating to the investment category (BBB-) with a positive future outlook, while Moody’s maintained its rating at Baa3.
Expanded partnerships and monetization raised nearly $9 billion to significantly enhance the company’s balance sheet and provide long-term resilience. The scope of the partnership with the global investment group “Cas de Depot et Plasman de Québec” – “CDBQ” has been expanded in the UAE to take advantage of the growth potential in the region.
The CDBQ deal in the UAE raised $5 billion in the first tranche for a 22% stake in the three UAE assets, and is expected to raise up to $3 billion in the second tranche. The scope of the partnership with the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund of India has also been expanded, and it is expected to raise about $300 million, which will allow for acceleration of investment across ports and logistics.
The company has started a new partnership with BII, the investment development arm of the British government, to boost trade potential in Africa.
The company invested $741 million in capital expenditures across its current portfolio during the first half of the year. Capital expenditure guidance for 2022 is $1.4 billion, and includes the implementation of planned investments in the UAE and Jeddah (Saudi Arabia), London Gateway (UK), Sokhna Port (Egypt), Senegal and Callao (Peru). .
The new logistics assets realize value-added potential in fast-growing markets and sectors. The focus in the short term remains on continuing the business transformation to enhance returns. Also, value-added solutions are offered to cargo owners by utilizing best-in-class infrastructure that includes logistics, ports, container terminals, economic zones, digital and marine services.
Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DB World Group, said: “We are pleased to report record results in the first half of the year with EBITDA-adjusted growth of 34.6% and profit attributable to shareholders increasing by 51.8%. This significant growth demonstrates that our strategy of focusing on high-margin merchandise and offering customized supply chain solutions will provide sustainable returns over the long term.
Bin Sulayem added: “It is encouraging that cargo owners continue to respond positively to our integrated product offerings, and we are currently focused on integrating our recent logistics acquisitions to drive revenue. We continue to invest in high-growth sectors and markets to provide more attractive supply chain solutions. DB World also aims to remove obstacles and improve connectivity across major trade corridors by utilizing best-in-class infrastructure that includes logistics, ports, container terminals, economic zones, digital and marine services.
He said, “In recent months, we have announced several deals that will contribute to raising nearly $9 billion, and by strengthening the company’s balance sheet, we have been able to achieve the goal related to the debt ratio for 2022 with less than 4 times the ratio of net debt to earnings before interest is deducted.” and tax, depreciation and amortization, and the new capital will provide the company with flexibility to accelerate investment in key growth markets, while maintaining a strong investment rating.
“Overall, the strong performance in the first half puts us in a good position to deliver an improved performance for the full year,” he concluded. However, the near-term outlook remains uncertain due to the more difficult macro and geopolitical environment, and therefore, we expect growth rates to decline in the second half of 2022, but we remain optimistic about the sector’s performance in the medium and long term, as well as the ability of DB World» to continue to achieve sustainable returns.
Results that exceeded all expectations
Yuvraj Narayan, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer confirmed that DBworld’s results in the first half of 2022 exceeded all expectations, with adjusted EBITDA of $2.44 billion, an increase of 23.6% on a like-for-like basis. , while our adjusted EBITDA margin remained stable at 30.8%. The announced revenues witnessed a growth of 60.4% to reach 7.93 billion dollars, and the income attributable to shareholders increased by 51.8%.
He said that the group strengthened its balance sheet, and achieved its goal of the debt ratio during the year (for both «DB World» and «Ports and Free Zones International»), which is less than 4.0 times the ratio of net debt to adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization Six months ahead of schedule. The business continued to achieve high levels of cash flow with operating cash flow increasing by 29.6% year-on-year to reach $1,931 billion.
Narayan referred to the improvement in the credit rating enjoyed by DB World, as Fitch Ratings improved the company’s rating at the investment category (BBB-) with positive future expectations, while Moody’s maintained its rating of the group at (Baa3). The Group continues to target a strong investment rating.
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In celebration of April's highly anticipated warm weather, Hailosaid it will offer 70 free rides every day the average temperature hits 70 degrees in Boston, Chicago, New York and Washington D.C.
The company, a cab hailing app, will tweet the hashtag #70at70, along with a unique promo code. The first 70 rides requested using the promo code on the Hailo app will be free, according to Hailo.
Hailo users can also share the #70at70 promotion on Twitter, and in return, and will be entered to win $70 worth of Hailo credits during the month of April.
Boston came close Tuesday, hitting a high of 68 degrees.
“Hailo wants to celebrate the much-anticipated arrival of Spring to help consumers get around Boston as easily and quickly as possible on those first few perfect, 70°F days,” said Toby Ciottone, General Manager of Hailo Boston.
It's not the first time Hailo has offered freebies. To celebrate its one-year anniversary in Boston in November, the company doled out free rides and Kickass Cupcakes.


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NEW YORK, Jan. 4, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Reportlinker.com announces that a new market research report is available in its catalogue:
US demand to grow 6.5% annually through 2014
Demand for products used in cosmetic surgery is forecast to increase 6.5 percent per year to $2.8 billion in 2014, when 16.1 million cosmetic procedures are expected to be performed. The economic recession that began in December 2007 impacted the cosmetic surgery industry most profoundly in surgical procedures, which suffered large drops in 2008 and 2009. Likewise, demand for equipment used to perform these surgeries fell more sharply than did that for less expensive, non-invasive nonsurgical procedures. Busy lifestyles and pervasive unemployment rates have led to rapid increases in demand for minimally invasive procedures (such as injections and laser-based procedures). Minimally or non-invasive procedures will continue to take market share from invasive surgeries, although healthy growth will remain in some areas, such as implants, where there are no notable alternatives.
Lasers, other light-based equipment to remain largest, fastest-growing
Equipment has traditionally held the largest share of the cosmetic surgery product market, and in 2009 accounted for over one-third of demand. Purchases of equipment were slowed by the recession and should see a strong rebound. Lasers and other light-based systems will continue to be the largest sector of equipment demand, and will see the fastest growth going forward as new laser-based treatments such as noninvasive liposuction enter the market.
Injectables and implants fastest-growing products
Through 2014, injectables and implants will continue to be the two fastestgrowing product segments. Growth in demand for injectables has boomed since the 1990s when BOTOX (Allergan) first entered the market. Cosmetic injections benefit from increasing societal acceptance as well as high consumer awareness of their ability to provide a quick, noninvasive reduction in wrinkles with no recovery time. With 2009 and 2010 market approvals of competing botulinum toxin-based injectables, BOTOX is seeing its first direct competition, which is expected to have significant impact on the market. Development of newergeneration soft tissue fillers will also continue, with this segment expected to see the fastest gains among injectables. Implants will continue to benefit from silicone's market re-entry in 2006, as breast implants -- the most common aesthetic surgical procedure -- remain fast-growing. Next-generation implant materials (so-called "gummy bear" implants) are forecast to enter the market once they receive FDA approval following clinical testing. These higher-value implants will drive further value gains.
Cosmetic Surgery Products presents historical demand data (1999, 2004 and 2009) plus forecasts for 2014 and 2019 by procedure, product and raw material. The study also assesses key market environment factors, evaluates company market share and profiles 29 US industry competitors.
To order this report:
Intl: +1 805-652-2626
Copyright©2010 PR Newswire.
All rights reserved


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Startups are continuing to set an example for how brands can be sustainably-aware, efficient and high-end – meeting the multiple demands of today’s conscious consumer. Meant, for instance, is a body care brand for everybody – it will save you time, money and is gender inclusive and good for the environment. At the other end of the spectrum, Easyjet demonstrates how even the worst offenders of fuel consumption can make their reputation work harder in a highly competitive landscape – it has announced it will offset every tonne of fuel used in its flights via sustainability investments.
Elsewhere, we are seeing evidence-backed startups transforming the wellbeing sector through transparency and science, and incumbents such as Peperami, Kellogg’s and Mars demonstrating that big does not necessarily mean inflexible, as they launch new protein snacks, meal delivery collaborations and vegan products respectively.
Click to view more >


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Buzz around Google Buzz
It probably hasn't escaped to your attention that Google yesterday launched "Google Buzz". In an attempt to get grip on social media they launched what is said to be a 'twitter killer' or a 'facebook rival'. If that really becomes true remains to be seen. It could very easily be the next Google Failure.
Since the Google announcement yesterday there was a lot of buzz around the web on this subject. We've gathered some of the web's responses to Google Buzz for you.
Below the video of the Google Buzz event yesterday
Tagcloudevent searchcowboys privacy yahoo blogger google iphone social media advertising gmail tools android indonesia sem yandex apple street view youtube spain google tools baidu bing sea social russia a4uexpo viral realtime twitter google wave china mobile ses blog research browser marketing matt cutts smx video


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The new group aims to provide community and resources for LGBTQIA+ students at the Haslam College of Business.
- June 15, 2020
New White Paper offers guidance for supply chain synchronization.
- May 15, 2020
Based on input from dozens of experts, analysts suggest four critical actions for securing the supply chain digitally
- May 1, 2020
More than 200 participants took part in the institute's first-ever online Supply Chain Forum in April
- April 20, 2020
UT research team studies advantages and drawbacks of crowdsourced logistics for supply chains
- April 17, 2020
Industry leaders offer their take on the most promising applications of digitalization
- April 7, 2020
The EPIC Index assesses risks and measures supply chain capability in key markets around the globe
- February 18, 2020
UT researchers say it is time for supply chain research to adopt a new paradigm for the digital age
- February 4, 2020
Global Supply Chain Institute gives Jim Newsome the Distinguished Service Award
- January 14, 2020
The peer-reviewed paper ranks Haslam's supply chain management department at no. 4 worldwide in research leadership.
- November 11, 2019
The Haslam College of Business is now accepting applications for its top-ranked Executive MBA program.
- November 5, 2019
A new study from UT highlights best practices for supply chain organizations in the next decade.
- October 31, 2019
A new paper from the Global Supply Chain Institute examines barriers and options facing women in supply chain.
- October 11, 2019
A UT researcher offers a five-step method negotiating successful contracts by focusing on the relationship between the parties.
- May 1, 2019
The forum continues to grow in size and influence in the supply chain community.
- April 18, 2019
Truly successful companies must learn to adhere to detailed planning that focuses on the integration of supply and demand plans.
- April 9, 2019
The paper provides strategies for companies to unlock their working capital to drive economic profit.
- February 11, 2019
The group included students from Haslam’s programs in business analytics, supply chain management and others.
- January 16, 2019
Responsible for accelerating IBM's business performance, Wright managed $79 billion in revenue and serves on an advisory board for Haslam.
- November 20, 2018
Clark, a 1999 graduate of the Haslam MBA program, specialized in logistics and transportation during his time at the college.
- November 13, 2018
The Global Supply Chain Institute team uncovered more than 100 best practices and culled them down to eight actionable ones.


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The 90% Economy: Indefinitely Temporary?
Why human psychology might prolong social restrictions and economic decline.
This year continues to make a compelling case for the most bizarre year ever. We entered unfamiliar territory. Governments mandated social distancing and ordered citizens to stay home. Society’s rules changed.
Businesses were “temporarily” divided into two: essential and non-essential. Companies, large and small, have scrapped to stay alive amidst unprecedented social restrictions, leading to a steep increase in layoffs.
As a result, we’ve endured historical levels of unemployment that have prompted a scary number of comparisons to the Great Depression.
The scariest part? We don’t know for sure when it will end. We’ve been pulled into a whirlwind of uncomfortable uncertainty.
What if our “temporary” society isn’t so temporary? Who’s to say that people, despite being social by nature, will revert to pre-pandemic customs?
If we base the answer on human psychology, we won’t be returning to our old normal anytime soon.
If that’s the case, what can we expect?
The 90% Economy
Per The Economist, the “90% economy” represents an environment in which people avoid arms-length interactions, effectively reducing economic output (GDP) by 10%. Industries like travel and entertainment would bear the brunt of this reduction, as people prioritize safety over other needs and recreational activities.
Further, many occupations would no longer be feasible, leading to a smaller workforce and higher unemployment.
In five weeks, the U.S. lost all of its employment gains since 2009. In April alone, over 20 million Americans lost their primary source of income. Job loss is a significant financial stressor. The mere thought of losing one’s job is enough to change lifestyle decisions. Layoffs and salary cuts shake consumer confidence to the core.
For proof, look no further than the Consumer Confidence Survey, which measures 5,000 random Americans’ perceptions of present and future business conditions.
The survey results generate the Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) — which is a numerical representation of consumers’ economic outlooks. Increasing consumer confidence suggests economic growth, while decreasing consumer confidence implies that people are less likely to spend their money — and that the economy is declining. The CCI’s benchmark score is 100, which indicates neutral sentiment towards the economy.
April’s survey was particularly grim.
The Consumer Confidence Index declined from 130.7 in February to 118.8 in March to 86.9 in April. For reference, the lowest score since the CCI launched in 1977 was 25.3 in February 2009. So, consumer confidence is far from Great Recession levels.
But we’re not trending in the right direction; people’s confidence in the present economy plummeted in April.
The Present Situation Index, a component of the Consumer Confidence Index that assesses consumer confidence in the present business and labor market (excluding future expectations), declined from 166.7 in March to 76.4 in April.
According to Lynn Franco, Senior Director of Economic Indicators at The Conference Board, “The 90-point drop in the Present Situation Index, the largest on record, reflects the sharp contraction in economic activity and surge in unemployment claims brought about by the COVID-19 crisis.”
Franco continued, “Consumers were less optimistic about their financial prospects and this could have repercussions for spending as the recovery takes hold. The uncertainty of the economic effects of COVID-19 will likely cause expectations to fluctuate in the months ahead.”
What does this tell us about the likelihood of a 90% economy?
The 90% economy operates on the assumption that the current uncertainty engulfing the world will remain for the foreseeable future. That uncertainty will incite fear and doubt within the minds of many people — not everyone, but enough to rewrite our social norms.
The collective need for safety combined with long-term financial uncertainty will drive people to adjust their lifestyles.
The idea is that many people’s views of reality have been altered forever. Bars and restaurants will reopen, but when will the masses feel comfortable in a public setting? Just because social establishments reopen doesn’t mean people will visit.
Offices and nonessential businesses will return, but will people feel confident enough to spend their money? During an economic decline, people feel driven to focus on savings, not spending.
Instead of quantitative metrics (like the percentage decline of production), we might need to worry about a less tangible consequence — the disruption of social norms and the establishment of a “new normal.”
This is the true threat of a 90% economy, that we will adjust to this new normal rather than wait for the return of the old normal. It’s speculative, but, so long as uncertainty persists, it’s not impossible.
At least, according to human psychology.
Safety trumps our social needs
Humans are needy — arguably more so than any other species. Beyond basic needs, such as nourishment, shelter, and social acceptance, we also have more complicated needs like status and self-accomplishment.
In 1943, Abraham Maslow proposed a hierarchy of needs that capture the movement and progression of human motivation. This hierarchy (i.e. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs) is segmented into five tiers of needs:
- Physiological: physical requirements for survival (food, water, sleep, warmth, shelter)
- Safety: security and health needs (financial security, emotional security, physical wellbeing)
- Belongingness and Love: interpersonal needs (intimacy, relationships)
- Esteem: the need for status and respect (recognition, respect from others, self-respect)
- Self-actualization: the need to reach one’s full potential (this is more subjective, but it could be mastering a creative talent or being an ideal parent)
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
In concept, lower needs must be relatively satisfied before higher needs can be attended to. For example, Maslow’s hierarchy implies that we cannot concentrate on Esteem needs (like the feeling of independence) until we satisfy each level below it.
Note that Maslow suggested that it’s not an all-or-none system. We’re not focused on one particular need at any given time; rather, we’re constantly attending to several needs.
Needs, by nature, oscillate back-and-forth. But, as Maslow argued, we are “dominated” by a particular need. One might be focused on fulfilling their need for respect — but, if their safety is jeopardized, that will become the predominant need until it’s reasonably satisfied.
Safety rests near the bottom of this pyramid, meaning the need for safety takes priority over the need to belong.
Regarding present circumstances, our collective question shifts from “when will the pandemic end?” to “when will people feel safe again?”
When will people feel comfortable waiting in a normally-spaced line or in a crowded lobby? There’s a segment of the population that won’t think twice about returning to old ways — but there’s another segment that will.
Using our hierarchy of needs as a guide, so long as we don’t feel safe, our need for security will trump needs for belongingness. If and when society reopens, there will be people that won’t feel comfortable enough to resume their pre-pandemic lifestyle. There isn’t a universal “need for safety” threshold to appease.
If one fears that their safety could be jeopardized, they will choose to fulfill this need rather than fulfill another. As long as the need for safety dominates a person’s mind, said person will primarily focus on satisfying this human requirement.
Whether you fit this description or not, there are people that fear public settings like the grocery store or public parks. They treat essential trips like they’re entering a warzone.
They take social-distancing recommendations to heart. “Six feet means six feet.” Removing social restrictions will not cause that fear to subside. Even with a vaccine, this way of thinking will take time to defuse. That fear is a defense mechanism.
Thus, the timetable for our return to the old normal is impossible to set.
Is our new normal permanent?
It’s not a question of if we return to our old normal, it’s when. The challenge (or, potentially, unfortunate inevitability) is that the economic repercussions of a delayed return to our old normal could be devastating for a sizable portion of the population.
Social restrictions keep the full labor force from working, which means a lot of businesses and people aren’t making money. This problem gradually trickles up the economic food chain.
Lack of income leads to the inability to make loan payments. In turn, loan defaults increase in frequency (and aggregate size). Then banks must bear the financial burden of these bad loans, which may cause them to fail.
When our financial infrastructure fails, consumer confidence erodes, business developments and investments diminish, unemployment climbs, and the economy shrinks.
It’s not a pretty picture. That chain-of-events is hypothetical, but it’s happened before. That being said, it’s far too early (and irrational) to predict a downturn of epic proportions.
What we do know is that our makeshift, stay-at-home economy is a feat in and of itself.
It’s easy to forget that the Internet commercialized roughly 25 years ago. An entire generation of Americans (Gen Z) has never known a life without it. Society could not have sustained such wide-sweeping social restrictions earlier this century.
Teleworking, smartphones, food delivery apps, streaming platforms — global quarantining wasn’t feasible. Now, it’s not only possible, but it’s also somewhat tolerable.
The issue is that quarantining, while feasible with today’s technology, is not a viable long-term option. People and businesses alike cannot survive forever with reduced or nonexistent income.
With every passing day, bankruptcies and unemployment figures will continue to grow. Government intervention (such as stimulus checks and small business loans) can’t keep the economy afloat forever.
So, what happens next?
There are two forces to consider: the need for safety and the need for financial security.
Ultimately, we may face one of two situations:
- A head-to-head battle between two needs within the same level of Maslow’s hierarch — physical safety and financial security. Will the collective fear of financial loss prompt society to shun physical safety?
- A two-headed, compounding threat that stifles economic growth. In other words, these two forces work in tandem, rather than against one another. Will unease limit consumer spending and social interaction (which, by default, also limits spending)?
Several state governments took the first approach by reopening businesses and public areas, despite the lingering uncertainty surrounding COVID-19. If this approach backfires (i.e. COVID-19 cases spike and social restrictions return again), the second situation could become the default scenario, as consumer confidence and social interaction (and spending) shrink even further.
Prolonged periods of social restrictions (and uncertainty) create a more and more tenuous economy. It’s not unreasonable to expect consumer confidence to remain shaky until the uncertainty clears.
There’s no way to know for sure when it will end, but the strangeness of today’s environment will persist, to some degree, for the foreseeable future.
The best we can hope for is clarity. An invisible threat is the most dangerous kind. But, if cases taper off or a vaccine develops, the veil of uncertainty that’s plaguing our world will be lifted — and we can begin our gradual return to our old normal.