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When Ford announced they were reentering the midsize truck segment with the all-new 2019 Ford Ranger, people knew it was going to be something special. And those people were right. That’s because the 2019 Ranger packs all the power, capability, fuel efficiency and dependability of the 2018 Ford F-150 and 2018 Ford Super Duty lineups into a smaller package. The all-new Ranger will also feature an available FX4 Off-Road Package to make it the perfect choice for off-road adventurers. Last, but certainly not least, the all-new Ford Ranger will be one of the safest and most technologically-advanced midsize trucks available. To see what we mean, we’re going to go over some of the best new safety and driver assistance features of the 2019 Ford Ranger.
[ READ MORE: 2019 Ford Ranger Engine and Powertrain Features ]
As we mentioned, the all-new 2019 Ford Ranger will be one of the safest midsize trucks ever built. We can say this because the 2019 Ranger features safety and driver assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking, an optimized lane keeping assist system, an updated lane departure warning system, an upgraded reverse sensing system, and a class-exclusive blind sport information system that itself features enhanced trailer coverage capabilities. Additional driver assistance features include pedestrian detection capabilities and an adaptive cruise control system. If you go with the FX4 Off-Road Package, you’re also getting Ford’s all-new Trail Control system, which is essentially cruise control for off-road adventures.
For more on the 2019 Ford Ranger lineup and all of our other new Ford models, please contact our staff here at Brandon Ford in Tampa, FL.


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- Published: Wednesday, 06 December 2017 00:37
The Super SUV dubbed as the SSUV is a V8 twin turbo delivering 641bhp with pure Lamborghini DNA, it utilises all the underpinnings of the Bentley Bentayga, Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne a vehicle which performs on all terrain and offers 'unrivalled performance'.
The Urus names derives from a Breed of Bull, quite apt really - The power is delivered by a 4.0 litre twin turbocharged
It's been coming for many years, a Lamborghini SUV, well this evening the vehicle expected to double Lamborghini sales is being unveiled to the world, the vehicle is surrounded by mystery from it's looks, spec and even its price, expected around $200,000. The Super SUV will certainly turn heads -
This is the first SUV for the Italian car manufacturer since the infamous LM002, famed for its appearance in Toys with Robin Williams and LL Cool J,
Dacia are certainly going all out this year with getting their no nonsense car brand out to the public, they are following some of the big brands like Supreme and Kanye West and are opening their first ever pop-up store at Westfield, Stratford.
Starting November 23rd and running till the 3rd Dec, that's right its already started, why not have a look?
The bespoke Liberty Walk EU Aventador will have its global reveal at the Performance Car Show in Birmingham on January 11th, the show which is part of AutoSport International runs from the 11th till the 14th January 2018.
The Performance Car Show's and AutoSport International are part of the Motorsport network, one of the biggest motorsport coverage providers.
Wednesday the 8th of November 2017 saw the official launch of the 2018 Bentley Continental GT. Hosted by the Jack Barclay Bentley Showroom in Mayfair. An opulent event, showcasing the latest GT Continental.

domain: news


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We are pleased to present the updated NEW GENERAL CATALOG, which proposes a new organization of ITALIANA MEMBRANE brand bitumen-polymer products grouped into families according to their specific characteristics. New types of membranes have been added and the certifications of those already present have been updated.
The new revision also affects LOGICROOF V and LOGICROOF P synthetic blankets, SWEETONDALE rock wool section and SCUDO XPS/SCUDO PIR and SCUDOTHERM thermal insulation systems. A new section on ALPHA breathable screens and membranes has also been added, and the section on liquid products and accessories has been enriched, as well as some technical insights covering anti-radon membranes and bituminous shingles. Changes have also been made in the division of sections, making them more usable for browsing and locating products.
This update, together with the new products already presented, is also an important step forward in improving our corporate image to international markets, which identify TechnoNICOL and the ITALIANA MEMBRANE brand as one of the leaders in the waterproofing and thermal insulation sector.
Download the new catalog HERE.


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The British Beer & Pub Association is advising publicans to ensure they have submitted applications to destroy their spoilt beer before the end of July, to avoid charges from water companies.
The trade association said it had hoped water companies would continue to waiver fees and cut bureaucracy for the disposal of spoilt beer in pubs.
Unfortunately though, the water industry has now set deadlines for each region of the UK indicating when applications must be received from pubs wishing to destroy their spoilt beer, under the emergency measures currently in place.
To help publicans destroy their spoilt beer, the BBPA and its members set up a free website for publicans to use, guiding them on how to destroy their beer safely and in an environmentally friendly manner.
Licensees can also record destruction through the platform enabling duty to be claimed back by brewers, who will then agree the means of reimbursing the customer.
Licensees with questions on how to destroy their beer can also email email@example.com for further support.


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Consumer Reports Travel Letter, a monthly newsletter published by Consumers Union, has called on the U.S. Department of Transportation to pay increased attention to the needs of the average passenger when evaluating competitive airline applications for new international routes.
The publication made its recommendations in a letter to Matthew V. Scocozza, Assistant Secretary for Policy and International Affairs, and in an editorial published in its December issue.
"Consumers want roomier seats, daytime flights, more affordable upgrades, and free or low-cost stopovers on long international flights," said Ed Perkins, editor of CRTL. "The time has come for DOT to de-emphasize its old guidelines and instead favor proposals that would improve air service quality and provide innovative fares and schedules."
Currently, the Department of Transportation favors airlines that promise the lowest fares or that provide the most domestic connections when it assigns new international routes.
"The emphasis given to traffic feed often runs counter to consumer interest," said Perkins. "It tends to discourage carriers that lack much online feed from creating fare, service, and schedule innovations. In the end, consumers lose because they have fewer choices."
"While we agree that low fares should always be a priority," Perkins added, "they're not always a realistic option. Some foreign governments refuse to allow them. In such cases, we're asking DOT to give higher consideration to other consumer wants."
Chief among them is seat comfort. According to a recent survey of CRTL readers, cramped, tight seating was their number one air travel complaint. Moreover, a study published in the October issue of CRTL showed that current Economy Class seating on international flights is extremely crowded and uncomfortable. A carrier's commitment to roomier seating, says the newsletter, would be reason enough, when coupled with low fares, for DOT to select that carrier over others.
Another consumer benefit recommended by CRTL is affordable upgrades. "On most international routes," explained Perkins, "the cost upgrading from economy to business class is based on an add-on to full-fare Economy. If a passenger has an cconomy excursion ticket, then the upgrade could be serveral times the cost of the original fare." The newsletter favors giving specialconsideration to carriers that offer upgrades based on the modest add- on to any type of economy fare, such as those available on El Al flights to Tel Aviv.
The newsletter also recommends that DOT encourage proposals that incorporate free or low-cost stopovers. Currently, most international excursion fares don't permit en route stopovers.
Lastly, CRTL is calling for an increase in the availability of daytime flights, which would protect travelers from the discomfort of sitting up all night. Many competing airlines offer only overnight schedules, providing no alternative to the consumer.


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Media sources are abuzz with rumors about the next iPhone which Apple will most likely release in September. Apple hasn't announced anything officially yet. Some new, interesting leaked photos came out recently: on July 9, MacRumors.com published high-quality photos of the casing for the 4.7 inch iPhone, listing Feld & Volk, an after-market iPhone casing manufacturer, as the source. Perhaps more interesting are last week's photos tweeted by noted tech leaker Sonny Dickson. Dickson's photos show large iPhone shells in colors that are very similar to those of the iPhone 5s: gold, silver and space gray. Dickson has a good track record for leaking accurate photos of iPhone parts. He publicized pictures with the correct colors of the iPhone 5c last summer, months before Apple announced anything official. Both the Sonny Dickson photos and the Feld & Volk shot appear in this article's slideshow. Here are more high points of the iPhone 6 rumors circulating now.
Size: Leaked photos have shown 4.7 inch and 5.5 inch iPhone screens for several weeks, as mentioned in the video attached to this article. The leaked photos and videos indicate the new iPhone will have rounded edges and a thinner profile than iPhone 5s. One rumor states that only the 4.7 inch phone is coming out in September and that production on a 5.5 inch model is not happening in time for the September release.
Price: Some rumors indicate that Apple may raise the price of the next iPhone above the $200 price that's been in place new iPhones for the last 4 years. That seems unlikely given the heavy discounting that's taken place on iPhone 5s since before Christmas. Even if Apple loads the default version of the iPhone with more storage and other features, it isn't likely that a higher price will stay in place for long. In competitive environments, technology prices typically go down over time, not up.
Battery life: MacRumors gave us the bad news on July 7 that iPhone's battery life will only improve slightly with the next iPhone. Apparently the battery specs from factories in China indicate the battery just isn't likely to last much longer than the one in the iPhone 5s today. This is disappointing as many other phones offer options with substantially longer battery life.
Lighter weight: The iPhone's weight decreased noticeably from iPhone 4 to iPhone 5. The competing Droids such as Samsung Galaxy 5s are lighter than iPhone 5. We expect Apple to lighten the iPhone 6 product.
Faster microchip: That the new iPhone will have a faster processor than the current models is a certainty. Microchip capability continues to get faster, cheaper, smaller and lighter every year. The newest Androids are faster than iPhone 5s.
Release date: The Tech Buffalo video attached to this article estimates Sept. 19 as the release date for the next iPhone. Last year the iPhone 5c and 5s were in stores by Sept. 20. Two years ago Apple announced iPhone 5 on Sept. 12 and released it shortly thereafter. So Sept. 19 is a reasonable guess. In any case, the date of the announcement will be known soon because these announcements happen at very large events. Invitations go to members of the media a few weeks in advance, and the media people tweet and write about the invitations immediately.
Name: Early on there was speculation that the newest iPhone might be named the iPhone Air. Virtually all the media speculation refers to the device as the iPhone 6 now. Apple has said nothing official about the product or its name yet.
Where to buy: After it's launched, we expect to see the new iPhone at these retail outlets: Cleveland-area Apple retail stores at Crocker Park in Westlake and at Legacy Village in Lyndhurst, Akron's new Apple store at Summit Mall, plus AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, T-Mobile Best Buy, Walmart, Target and Radio Shack stores.


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(Updates with jobless claims)
By Ryan Vlastelica
NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. stock index futures
pointed to a higher open Thursday as an unexpected fall in
jobless claims helped boost sentiment on the weak labor
Weekly jobless claims declined more than expected to a
seasonally adjusted 473,000 in the latest week, though a
measure of underlying labor market trends rose to a nine-month
The report came a day after weak readings on durable goods
and home sales underlined concerns about a double-dip
"The market seems to have a more positive tone right now
and is benefiting from the lowered expectations investors had,"
said Bruce McCain, chief investment strategist at Key Private
Bank in Cleveland.
McCain said problems persisted in the labor market, noting
that "while overall layoffs continue to decline, we're still
not seeing a marked pick-up in new hires."
S&P 500 futures rose 4.4 points and was above fair
value, a formula that evaluates pricing by taking into account
interest rates, dividends and time to expiration on the
contract. Dow Jones industrial average futures was up 39
points, and Nasdaq 100 futures added 10 points.
Central bankers from around the world will converge later
Thursday at the Jackson Hole, Wyoming, mountain resort to
assess the darkening economic outlook.
Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke is likely to
discuss the uncertain prospects for the economy but isn't
expected to give many clues about whether the Fed will pump
more cash into the economy to keep the recovery going.
U.S. stocks staged a comeback on Wednesday, breaking a
four-day losing streak as key technical support triggered
bargain-hunting. That offset weak data showing July durable
goods orders rose less than anticipated and new home sales
In merger news, 3PAR Inc accepted a raised buyout
bid from Dell Inc that trumped an earlier bid from
Hewlett-Packard Co . Shares of 3PAR, a data storage
company, slid 0.8 percent to $26.55 in premarket trading.
Novell Inc is scheduled to report quarterly
results after the market closes Thursday. The software maker is
seen posting a slight decline in profit.
On the technology front, Apple Inc is expected to
show off a snazzier line of iPods next week as speculation
mounts that it may also unveil a new TV product. The stock
edged up 0.7 percent to $244.61 premarket.
Also on tap for Thursday are the Chicago Federal Reserve
Bank's July Midwest manufacturing report and the Kansas City
Fed's August manufacturing report.
In Europe, shares bounced back from a five-week low on
upbeat corporate results. The pan-European FTSEurofirst 300
was up 1 percent. The Nikkei index closed up
(Editing by Jeffrey Benkoe)


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DHS launches vendor information site for it products and services
Officials at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have created a Vendor Information Site at www.vendors.dhs.gov to invite businesses in the emerging homeland security industry to submit details about information technology (IT) products and services for enhancing the security of the homeland. The department is launching this site to invite the submission of IT product and service descriptions with the potential to broaden the invitation to include all products and services, DHS officials say. DHS will retain the information for reference purposes to understand IT products and services that may meet emerging requirements through procurements undertaken in accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulations and other applicable laws. At the appropriate time, the DHS may ask for clarification or for further information using the contacts that vendors provide in their submissions. Any acceptance of vendor submissions does not expressly or implicitly represent any commitment to procure a product or service, DHS officials say. Department officials say they consider vendor submissions to be voluntary and, as a matter of general policy, consider the information to be confidential for internal federal government use only. The submission of any information for which the vendor would first have to request that the department enter into a nondisclosure agreement before submitting such information is discouraged. DHS officials also say they would prefer that vendors make the process easier by entering their company information in the Central Contractor Registration at www.ccr.gov.
RAE Systems to acquire majority interest in Beijing-based KLH
Officials at RAE Systems in Sunnyvale, Calif., a developer and manufacturer of chemical and radiation detection monitors and networks, recently announced that they have signed a definitive agreement to acquire a 64 percent interest in KLH (Ke Li Heng), a privately held company in Beijing, China, for $9 million. KLH is a manufacturer and distributor of security, environmental, and personal safety monitors and equipment. With the acquisition of KLH, RAE Systems officials say they can expand their presence in personal security and safety markets in China and gain access to an established distribution channel. In addition, the acquisition adds a number of patented technologies and fixed systems to the company's portfolio, including sensing solutions for oxygen, LEL, carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, and chlorine. The transaction, which is subject to certain closing conditions as well as Chinese government approval, is expected to be completed by mid-2004 and is expected to be accretive to RAE Systems' 2004 earnings. Additionally, company officials say they expect approximately $3 million to $4 million in additional revenue from this transaction in 2004. The combined companies expect to capitalize on significant growth opportunities resulting from complementary products, technologies, distribution channels, and geographic presence in China. According to the U.S. Commerce Department, China is expected to invest more than $300 billion to build their infrastructure during the coming decade, including $23 billion in infrastructure, security, and safety spending related to the 2008 Beijing Olympics and other similar events. For more information on KLH, visit www.klh-sps.com/index_e.htm and for more on RAE Systems go to www.raesystems.com.


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Mastercards for MTN’s mobile money platform users
Mastercard and MTN Group Fintech have inked a landmark deal aimed at equipping all MTN MoMo customers with payment cards, as announced in a joint statement on Thursday.
This collaboration will usher in both virtual and physical Mastercard companion cards for every MoMo wallet, granting users access to a vast network of over 100 million acceptance locations worldwide.
The strategic partnership leverages Mastercard's state-of-the-art technology and expertise to bolster MTN's vision of becoming Africa's premier fintech platform, catering to both merchants and consumers. This initiative follows closely on the heels of Mastercard and MTN's recent pact involving a minority investment in MTN Group Fintech, the digital financial services arm of Africa's largest mobile network operator, a deal finalized earlier this month.
The newly introduced cards will be extended to all 60 million active monthly MoMo wallets across 13 countries where the mobile money service operates, including South Africa, Benin, Cameroon, Cote d'Ivoire, Eswatini, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, Republic of Congo, Republic of Guinea, Rwanda, Uganda, and Zambia.
By bringing together the expansive reach of MTN's mobile money platform with Mastercard's robust payment solutions, this collaboration aims to bridge the gap between millions of individuals and small businesses in Africa, offering them access to secure mobile payments and the myriad benefits of a cashless digital economy.
With only 43% of Africa's population currently banked and over 90% of transactions conducted in cash, this partnership seeks to fortify local digital payment infrastructure, foster financial inclusion, and catalyze economic growth, particularly for SMEs. Mobile money solutions, coupled with Mastercard's offerings, present SMEs with opportunities for expansion, including setting up e-commerce platforms, enabling QR payments, Tap-on-Phone solutions, and digital card acceptance.
Both Mastercard and MTN underscored the pivotal role of this collaboration in providing enhanced user experiences, secure transactions, and expanded payment acceptance capabilities. Furthermore, Mastercard's cybersecurity solutions will be integrated into MTN's operations, bolstering customer confidence and loyalty.
In addition to empowering local businesses and individuals, the partnership will facilitate the growth of international remittance services, addressing the escalating demand for cross-border transactions across Africa. With daily remittance transactions exceeding US$2 billion, the collaboration aims to tap into the burgeoning market, which saw a 65% year-over-year surge in mobile money wallet remittances in 2020, totaling approximately US$1 billion.


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During their E3 2019 press conference Ubisoft announced their own game subscription service, joining the likes of EA, Playstation, and Xbox.
Ubisoft’s new service, Uplay Plus, gives subscribers access to over 100 PC titles from Ubisoft. The fee for the service is $14.99 per month and will be made available from September 3, 2019, in most of Europe and throughout the US.
Not only will Uplay Plus be accessible via PC, but it can also be accessed by Google Stadia users, though the latter functionality will be introduced in 2020. Brenda Panagrossi, Vice President of Platform and Product Management for Ubisoft, told press that the company would like to see the service expanded to other platforms in the future, but at the moment there is nothing to announce on that front.
Panagrossi confirmed that the library of games for Uplay Plus is growing, and won’t see games rotate in and out, as is seen with the Xbox Game Pass. Upcoming titles such as Watch Dogs Legion and Ghost Recon Breakpoint will launch for the service as they launch for every other platform. Each game in the Uplay Plus library will include all of the additional premium content from launch and as it’s released for each game.
Ubisoft feel as though they have a strong opportunity in the subscription servicer space because of the number of studios they operate, and the strength of their games catalogue. Their legacy titles and games that are still being supported today alone are enough to keep players occupied for hundreds, if not thousands, of hours.
A family subscription service is being looked into for Uplay Plus in the future. This would allow multiple users to access the same subscription service, though again there is nothing to announce on this front currently.
Ubisoft’s subscription service is interesting because the publisher releases so many well-loved titles in established franchises. Rainbow Six: Siege alone has an enormous player base made up of millions of players, each of which purchase a content pass every year. With Uplay Plus season passes become a thing of the past, and fans can access the very latest content for their favourite games as soon as it’s made available. Combined with the accessibility of Google Stadia next year, this service could rise to the top of the market.


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Last week, news broke of a potential PUMA partnership with Kylie Jenner. The deal was disputed by Kanye West, making many headlines for and against the debated deal. Today at Agenda Las Vegas, while stopping by the PUMA booth at Liberty Fairs, we were able to confirm that the Kylie Jenner PUMA partnership is in fact a go.
As originally reported by Us Weekly, the Jenner deal differs in title and role to that of Rihanna’s partnership. Rihanna, who partnered with PUMA in December of 2014, signed on as global ambassador, exclusively wearing PUMA collaborations from her FENTY label.
Conversely, Kylie’s deal will make her a brand advocate, seeing her support specific PUMA products through campaigns and her own personal social outlets. Nice Kicks has learned that PUMA photoshoots with Kylie have already taken place, and the deal is in motion.
Look for Kylie Jenner, your 2015 CSS Rookie of the Year, to start popping up in some exciting new PUMA silos in the very near future.
UPDATE // Puma has released their official statement regarding their work with Kylie Jenner:
“I am pleased and excited to be able to confirm that PUMA is indeed working with Kylie Jenner. Kylie will be featured in the brand’s Spring/Summer women’s training campaign launching in April 2016. Kylie represents a fresh and exciting new era for fashion and we couldn’t think of a more fitting and influential female to headline this campaign for PUMA.”
– Adam Petrick, Global Director of Brand and Marketing for PUMA
lead image by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images via Zimbio


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Here’s a disturbing sign of the times: Younger consumers are so accustomed to poor customer service that they’ve come to expect it, according to a study of 303 adult, college, and graduate students conducted by Douglas Manor, NY-based consultancy Ernan Roman Direct Marketing.
The study notes that most of the students have been “raised” on automated call center menus and haven’t experienced anything else. That’s why they’re less like to be bothered by “menu clutter”-length lists of phone prompts and options. Only 57% of the students surveyed said such clutter bothered them, compared with 78% of all adults. What’s more, the students are less likely to have their opinions of the company swayed by poor customer service or bad contact center experiences.
This doesn’t mean that if you cater to young adults, you needn’t invest in top-notch service, however. Because though they may not stop doing business with a company that offers poor service, they are more likely to continue buying from a company that delivers good service. Ninety percent of the students said a good contact center experience would make them more willing to buy from a company; 88% said they’d be more likely to recommend a company following a positive experience.
Companies, Roman says. “could continue to provide poor service– ‘Well, teens expect poor service, so we’ll give it to them’–or they could recognize how important high-quality customer service.”
The rule of thumb is that it’s seven to ten times more expensive to generate a new customer than it is sell to an existing customer. “By propagating lousy customer service,” Ronan says, “marketers are perpetuating churn, lack of loyalty, and the perception of companies as simply commodity providers, hence not worthy of loyalty.”
To take Ernan Roman’s customer service survey, visit www.erdm.com and click on call center survey found at the bottom left of the page.


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April 14, 2003,
New York — Leading slipcover supplier and retailer Sure Fit has expanded into fashion bedding and coordinate categories as it pursues a strategy to become a total home products resource.
The company introduced four beds during the spring market earlier this month, along with window treatments, decorative pillows and throws.
Approximately $30 million of Sure Fit's $170 million in sales last year were generated by dining chair covers and dec pillows that coordinate back to core slipcover designs, he said. Sure Fit's target for 2003 sales is $206 million.
In the fourth quarter, the company launched coordinate window programs in its consumer direct catalog and Internet channels, said Linda Schropp, vp of designs. Sure Fit hopes to begin rolling out window at retail in the fall at $39 to $49 per panel.
At the recent market, the company also broadened its dec pillow offerings, adding new sizes, more silks, more embellishments and trims, corduroy, suede and patchwork looks as well as leather trims.
Sure Fit's overall design direction cued off texturization rather than jacs or prints, with the emphasis on casual living and natural colors.
Related Content By Author
1200 Suppliers are Ready for You at Intertextile Shanghai
Home & Textiles Today eDaily
Most Viewed Articles
See the August 2017 issue of Home & Textiles Today. In this issue, we look at the Top 50 Retailing Giants Report, plus Manufacturing: Made in the USA gaining ground; International: Portugal ramping up exports; New products: NY Now home textiles introductions; Outlook: Commentary from H&TT's editors; and Planning: Trade show calendar.


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Newcastle's west end set to boom
Newcastle's City Centre Committee has welcomed news the rundown Store building in Newcastle West will be redeveloped into weekend markets.
Local businessman Con Constantine says from next month, the Hunter Street building will host more than 100 stalls, similar to his Parklea Markets in Sydney.
He is confident they will play a crucial role in revitalising the inner city.
Committee Chair Edward Duc agrees, saying it will not be long before Newcastle's west end is returned to its former glory.
"Although it's taking more time than I would have liked, we have the whole Hunter Street Revitalisation Plan we're waiting now for Council to endorse so we can get on with it," he said.
"That together with what Con is up to is all very good news."
The Hunter Business Chamber says the days of Newcastle's east end as a shopping precinct may be over.
As well as the proposed markets in the Store building, construction of a major residential and shopping complex is nearing completion on the former AGL Gasworks site in Steel Street, in the city's west.
Chamber President Brett Derwin says those developments will play a crucial role in revitalising Newcastle.
"There seems to be certainly more retail focus in the west end of Hunter Street in the city now," he said.
"It may be that the east end may not be that retail hub going forward. It's just going to be interesting to see how it all unfolds."


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SMALL BUSINESS, CITY RELATIONSHIP ENCOURAGED AT REVERSE TRADE SHOW
ST. PETERSBURG, FL (April 20, 2012) - Owners and operators of local and small businesses are invited to a Reverse Trade Show on Friday, May 4 to learn how to do business with the city and what opportunities exist. Hosted by the city's Procurement and Supply Management Department, the third annual Reverse Trade Show will be held at the historic Coliseum, 535 Fourth Ave. N. from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Representatives from city departments that purchase more than $210 million in services and supplies annually will be available to determine if a match exists between the city and prospective vendors. Attendees can ask questions, learn about current city bid opportunities and available city contracts, register as city vendors and get information on becoming a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) through the city's Business Assistance Center.
A new feature this year, the city has invited other community partners such as Progress Energy, Pinellas County Schools, the University of South Florida's Supplier Diversity Program, St. Petersburg Housing Authority, Job Corps, Pinellas County Purchasing Department, PSTA, the Pinellas County Clerk and the cities of Pinellas Park, Largo, and St. Pete Beach to participate.
St. Petersburg has current contracts with local small businesses to provide products and services for daily city operations, including construction, roofing and building materials, grounds maintenance supplies, printing services and supplies, custodial products, uniforms, and computer and technology services, and more.
"People usually don't think of the city as a consumer, but it contracts with many local businesses for products and services that allow us to serve our citizens on a daily basis," said Mayor Bill Foster. "The Reverse Trade Show is a great opportunity for those business owners to find out if their product or service can help our citizens, increase their marketability and, ultimately, their bottom line."
City departments represented at the show include Water Resources, Sanitation, Parks and Recreation, Downtown Enterprise Facilities (Sunken Gardens, the Marina, Coliseum, Albert Whitted Airport, the Port of St. Petersburg), Parking and Transportation, Codes Compliance, city Golf Courses and Libraries.
For more information about the 2012 Reverse Trade Show, visit www.stpete.org/purchasing.


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Gear up for an EPIC Festival!
A new ground-breaking Festival in Yorkshire was meant to make its debut in 2020, but was forced to cancel due to the pandemic.
Now, The Yorkshire Motorsport Festival (YMSF) has been given the green light to go ahead by Motorsport UK and Kirklees Council, subject to compliance with national COVID restrictions. The Festival was recently awarded the ‘We’re Good To Go’ COVID-19 industry standard and consumer mark, given by Visit Britain, providing a ‘ring of confidence’ for the Festival, as well as reassurance to local residents and visitors that clear processes are in place.
The Yorkshire Motorsport Festival is the first of its kind to be held in the region, and will attract motoring enthusiasts and festival goers alike. The three-day family-friendly Festival will take place as planned on the 25th, 26th and 27th of June 2021 near Holmfirth. Covering an area of 125 acres, the Festival will be a spectacular outdoor event.
At the heart of the Festival are three days of closed-road hill-climbing, featuring mainly pre-1986 cars, in celebration of the 100th anniversary of hill climbs in the Holmfirth area.
Competing cars include Bentleys, Jaguars, Special Saloons, Sports-Racing and GT cars, some helmed by champion drivers and top names in motorsport. The Wolfstones Hill-Climb is a first for Yorkshire, being the first-ever Motorsport UK licensed hill-climb in the county to have road closures put in place. It will be a draw for diehard petrol heads and new spectators alike, with over 80 classics and high-profile drivers a day competing to set the fastest-time-of-day or win their class by setting the quickest time up the hill. With a focus on the Benjafield Bentleys on Friday and an Aston Martin Owners Club on Sunday the event brings historical value to Kirklees. For those new to the hill-climb it is a must-see spectator sport, set in some of Yorkshire’s most breath-taking countryside.
Families and enthusiasts can enjoy displays of vintage vehicles, rally cars, stock cars, trucks, tractors and plant machinery, American hot rods, supercars, hyper cars and The Palmer Engineering village. There is a Yorkshire shopping village, artisan food and drink stalls, a beach and fun fair. Demonstrations and parades include thrilling stunt shows, aerial displays, sheep theatre, cheerleaders, Formula One demos, driver simulators, and much more. Early evenings feature a full line-up of live music, for which tickets can be purchased separately. The line up is due to be announced shortly.
The event is supporting Yorkshire Air Ambulance, who will also have a presence over the weekend.
Michael McErlain, CEO of the YMSF said “We are delighted to have the full support of Motorsports UK and all of the local residents. We are in full throttle as we prepare for the Festival. We are delighted to announce our Festival ambassador, ex- F1 driver and television presenter Karun Chandhok and special guest Sarah Crabtree from UKTV’s Bangers & Cash. This is something truly spectacular that people can look forward to in the near future that combines the best of the country’s motorsport attractions with the bonus of family entertainment.
Most of the activities take place outside, and we are putting every precaution in place, going the extra mile, to ensure that our event is safe for everyone. We are operating no cash event, with all transactions completed by contactless payments, and we ask all visitors to comply with our safety directions and advisories. It is encouraging that the car and truck displays are almost full but there are opportunities for traders to book stands in the Yorkshire Shopping Village.”
Trade enquiries: contact firstname.lastname@example.org


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FILL ‘ER UP FOR THE FOURTH: KFC TOPS OFF GAS TANKS (AND STOMACHS) TO INTRODUCE THE NEW KFC $5 FILL-UP BOX
As millions of Americans hit the road this Fourth of July weekend, KFC is offering travelers (and their wallets) a break. To launch the new KFC $5 Fill-Up Box, Kentucky Fried Chicken created the KFC $5 Fill-Up Sweepstakes to top off Americans’ gas tanks – and their stomachs.
Begin registration below for your chance to win KFC gift checks for a $5 Fill-Up Box and a $10 gas card. The giveaway will be conducted from July 2, 2009 to July 5, 2009 for a randomly determined time period between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. ET. The first 200 people to register during the giveaway will win.
Please note: You must enter all your information AND be one of the first 200 people to enter each day in order to win. By submitting your information, you are indicating your agreement with the $5 Fill-Up Giveaway Official Rules.
Limit one $5 KFC gift check and $10 gas card per e-mail address/household, regardless of number of submittals. Must be at least 18 years old and a legal resident of the 50 United States or District of Columbia to participate. No entries received by automatic devices will be permitted. No purchase necessary.


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The one-time notices will require an app developer to ask a user's permission before the app tracks their activities "across other companies' apps and websites.
at his age, boys are just stepping into the fantasy world of Hogwarts and beginning to identify with the Wimpy Kid, but Reuben Paul has his eyes on the rain—the green code rain of The Matrix. The third-grader is already an accomplished hacker, app developer, cybersecurity expert and, not surprisingly, CEO of a game development firm, Prudent Games. .
Previously, Sood served as Head-IT Infrastructure & Services for L&T Financial Services.
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The outlook of AgEagle Aerial Systems (NYSE:UAVS) stock is actually quite complicated at this point. As many others have pointed out, it does appear that Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) plans to test the company’s drones.
But regulatory restrictions could prevent the e-commerce giant from deploying drones on a massive scale anytime soon. Despite that potential obstacle, however, I do recommend that risk-tolerant investors buy a small amount of AgEagle’s stock.
Amazon Probably Intends to Try AgEagle’s Drones
Another InvestorPlace columnist, Luke Lango, recently wrote an article which convinced me that Amazon likely does indeed plan to try out AgEagle’s drones.
Among other points, Lango noted that the company had reported “follow-on purchase orders for its drones from an unnamed ‘major e-commerce company’ and that AgEagle had moved its headquarters and factory very close to the site of a planned, large Amazon warehouse.
Further, a leaked video that showed a logo with both companies’ name on it and included footage of “AgEagle’s founder unloading an Amazon drone from its crate” surfaced, Lango noted.
This May Be Only a Test
On Aug. 31, CNBC reported that the FAA had approved Amazon’s application to use drones for delivery. Moreover, according to the website, the agency gave the company a waiver of regulations which require operators to remain within the physical line of sight of drones.
However, Amazon said that, for now, it only plans to test using drones for deliveries.
There are many other federal regulations which could make it difficult for the e-commerce giant to launch drone deliveries on a massive scale.
Specifically, drones are not permitted to fly over people who are not in a covered vehicle or building, and they cannot “fly near other aircraft, especially near airports.” Finally, they are not allowed to fly more than 100 miles per hour.
Another possible limit on Amazon’s use of AgEagle’s drones for delivery is the fact that the two drones currently marketed by the company can apparently only fly for a maximum of 400 acres or one hour, whichever comes first. Moreover, the company’s drones are primarily used in agriculture, and its website indicates that it has only recently begun developing delivery drones. Since farms tend to be isolated, AgEagle probably doesn’t have much experience with developing drones that can avoid people and planes.
I think it will take Amazon and AgEagle time to develop and launch effective delivery drones that comply with all federal regulations. Consequently, it will likely be at least two or three years before Amazon uses AgEagle’s drones on a massive scale.
Walmart’s Example and Self-Driving Cars
Encouragingly for the owners of UAVS stock, Walmart recently unveiled plans to launch “on-demand deliveries of select health and wellness products in the U.S. early next year.” The retail giant is also launching “a pilot project for delivery of grocery and household products.”
But the two companies that are supplying drones to Walmart for these projects — Flytrex and Zipline — appear to have meaningfully more experience with using drones to facilitate deliveries than AgEagle. Further, Walmart’s stores tend to be located much closer to residential areas than Amazon’s warehouses. It is likely making it much easier and cost-effective for Walmart to use delivery drones than Amazon.
Even though it may take years for AgEagle to secure a big drone order from Amazon, UAVS stock is likely to climb. Especially over the next year or two as the two companies partner to develop delivery drones.
I believe that because of the precedent set by companies that develop technology which enables self-driving cars. For example, Cruise, the start-up which developed self-driving technology and was ultimately bought by General Motors (NYSE:GM), was valued at $19 billion in May 2019, even though its products had not yet generated meaningful revenue. And Argo, which also developed autonomous-driving technology and was ultimately acquired by Ford (NYSE:F), received a $7.5 billion valuation in July, even though its products have also not generated significant sales.
Drones are not as cool as self-driving vehicles and in all likelihood will not be as lucrative as robotaxis. Investors are still likely to bid up UAVS stock in anticipation of an eventual big deal from Amazon.
The Bottom Line on UAVS Stock
Investors who expect AgEagle to get a huge order from Amazon within six months are likely to be disappointed. And Amazon could, after testing AgEagle’s drones for awhile, decide to turn instead to a company that has more experience developing delivery drones.
Nonetheless, if Amazon does stick with UAVS stock, the shares are likely to rally as the two companies work together.
On the date of publication, Larry Ramer did not have (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article.
Larry has conducted research and written articles on U.S. stocks for 13 years. He has been employed by The Fly and Israel’s largest business newspaper, Globes. Among his highly successful contrarian picks have been solar stocks, Roku, and Snap. You can reach him on StockTwits at @larryramer. Larry began writing columns for InvestorPlace in 2015.


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However, he added that the more mainstream models will come first: “I would love to have an electric sports car, but we have to organize ourselves. We’re not ready to announce the streak, but it’s clearly on the table.
Nissan’s timeline for solid-state batteries gives clues as to when EVs for enthusiasts might arrive. The research is in a relatively advanced phase and a pilot plant should be commissioned in 2024. The technology should be ready by 2026 and the first production cars using it should be on the road by 2028.
This new technology is expected to significantly increase energy density and accelerate price parity between electric and gasoline and hybrid cars. Nissan estimates an initial cost of $75 (£57) per kWh, compared to the current cost of around £100 per kWh.
Crossover indices for Micra EV
At the other end of the spectrum, Nissan remains committed to smaller, more affordable cars. “It’s super important,” said François Bailly. “In Europe it is a key segment, and it is essential that these young customers turn to electric vehicles, so you are building the next generation.
The replacement for the Micra will not be a traditional sedan, however. Based on the CMF-BEV platform, it will be a compact electric crossover built alongside the Renault 5 relaunched in Douai. Bailly said: “The electric vehicle market is clearly moving towards crossovers, for good or bad reasons. You have the position, the perceived safety, the cargo space. The crossover is a key strategic axis.
Q&A: Guillaume Cartier, president of the Nissan AMIEO region
Why is Nissan only now launching its second electric vehicle?
“Today we have a vision up to 2030 and that’s something new at Nissan. Until recently we act more on MTP [medium-term plans], so a sort of cycle of three to five years. Now we look 10 years ahead. The second point is that not only do we have a vision, but we have a clear vision for electrification. Today you have to decide: do I invest in EV or in EV and ICE? We will not invest in the Euro 7 [for non-hybrid cars].”
More about this article: Read More
This notice was published: 2022-04-13 23:01:23


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Jacob Rees-Mogg: Lords miss key trade point in report
Speaking on BBC Daily Politics, the Tory Brexiteer dismantled the latest House of Lords' Brexit report which claimed food prices would soar immediately if the UK did not manage to negotiate a free trade agreement by the end of the transitional period.
Mr Rees-Mogg argued the Committee had completely ignored a fundamental World Trade Organisation rule that will allow the UK to maintain the same trading standards for ten years while negotiating a free trade deal with the EU.
He said: “The House of Lords has missed one very important thing.
“That is that if you are in a negotiation for a free trade agreement you can maintain your existing standards for ten years under WTO rules.
Brexit news: Jacob Rees-Mogg dismantles Lords Committee's latest report on post-Brexit food trade
“So we have ten years from the moment in which we leave the European Union to negotiate a free trade agreement with the EU which would mean we could carry on with our zero tariffs.
“This is something the report completely ignores, it’s unaware of.
“They don’t know what they’re talking about.
“I’ve read the report, it’s got no reference to this WTO rule."
Asked whether he believed this was another attempt from the upper House to thwart Brexit, he joked: “Well, the Chairman of the Committee is a former member of the EU Parliament so it’s a fairly safe bet that he’s a Remainer.”
'All of us have to compromise' Rees-Mogg on the Brexit trade deal
They don’t know what they’re talking about.
The Lords EU Environment Committee said it was “inconceivable” there would be no impact on produce coming to Britain from the continent.
Half of the food Britons eat is imported - with some 30 per cent coming from across the Channel, 11 per cent coming from countries with EU trade deals, and the rest coming from elsewhere.
The Peers said the EU could slap food tariffs of up to 22 per cent on produce entering the UK if the Government fails to secure a free trade deal after Brexit.
The report read: "While this would not equate to a 22 per cent increase in food prices for consumers, there can be no doubt that prices paid at the checkout would rise.
"To counteract this, the government could cut tariffs on all food imports, EU and non-EU, but this would pose a serious risk of undermining UK food producers who could not compete on price."
The Peers said better-off customers could spend more on home-grown goods, those on lower-incomes might have to plump for lower-quality produce from abroad.
Brexiteers argue food prices should fall after the UK quits the bloc as there will be less regulation and better competition with the rest of the world.
The Government has insisted it wants to secure a free trade deal with the EU after Brexit.


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RAK firm to manufacture EU style furniture
Dubai, February 5, 2009
A new UAE-based company, Ras Al Khaimah Engineering and Design (RED), has announced plans to manufacture European standard furniture locally at its new facility in Ras Al Khaimah.
RED will start production of high-end furniture and partitioning systems from its 7,000 sq m unit in the coming months, said a top company official.
'There is a huge opportunity for locally-produced quality goods, due to the UAE’s reliance on imported products. For local clients seeking high quality European styling, most have no option but to wait for expensive orders from Europe,' Hani Al Qasem, managing director of RED, pointed out.
“By working closely with our European manufacturing partners and our clients, we will be able to deliver European standard furniture to the Middle East and Indian markets in half the time and far more cost-effectively,” Al Qasem noted.
The commercial furniture can also match the expensive European imports for quality, he added.
The company will be officially launched at 'The Office Exhibition' which runs from March 3 to 5.
RED will meet the demand from UAE companies, hotels and retailers for cost effective, functional and stylish furniture solutions, and faster delivery, he noted.
'The company will produce furniture under its own brand, as well as partner with several leading European designers,' he explained.
RED has signed an agreement with Italian partitioning system designer, Lafano, for access to the technical designs and engineering expertise, as well as guaranteeing exclusivity of production in the region.
'In addition to the enterprise with Lafano, RED is finalising negotiations with other leading European office and furniture designers,' he added.
Sinead Bridgett, exhibition director at dmg world media, organisers of The Office Exhibition, said that while the UAE is an incredibly attractive market for imports, it is also becoming a producer and exporter in its own right.
“RED’s decision to manufacture European furniture products in the UAE highlights a maturing market and a strengthening of relationships between international and Middle Eastern manufacturers,” she said.
“Despite the current global economic climate, there is still a strong demand for office space in the UAE and a desire for innovative fit-out and design, including the latest furniture coming out of Europe,” she added.-TradeArabia News Service


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There was always something Marie Antoinetteish about the UK government’s decision to appoint a tech millionaire as its “cost-of-living Tsar,” but then critics have renamed SW1 “Versailles on Thames” for good reason. Anyway, no sooner had Mr Buttress got his feet under his new desk than he has sparked controversy. The answer – which, apparently, no economist or policymaker in the realm had spotted – to the cost-of-living crisis is for businesses to cut their prices… if only someone had thought of it earlier!
The representatives of Britain’s businesses have been quick to hit back, as Michael Race at the BBC reports:
“The Federation of Small Businesses said asking struggling companies to ‘soak up additional costs just isn’t realistic’…
“Martin McTague, national chair of the FSB, said most small firms were ‘well beyond the point of being able to absorb extra costs without passing them on, which is often a last resort… Asking this group to soak up additional costs just isn’t realistic, especially when so many are worried about basic survival, and have already cut all expenses, even necessary ones, to the bone.’”
According to business leaders, it is for government rather than businesses to act to curb rising prices:
“Mr McTague argued there was ‘much more the government could do to help’, such as reducing VAT rates to lift more small firms out of business rates, ‘rather than just a marketing campaign using taxpayer resources to put government branding in shop windows’… Meanwhile Kate Nicholls, chief executive of industry body UK Hospitality, said bars, hotels and restaurants were ‘already highly price competitive’ while it was also facing ‘colossal input costs that make price reductions extremely difficult’.
“’Energy costs are up 74%, goods 55% and labour up 54%, for example,’ she said. ‘While government efforts to help consumers are always welcome, the reality is that just one in three hospitality businesses are now profitable.’”
The bigger criticism is reserved for the government itself:
“The boss of Wetherspoons, Tim Martin, said the campaign proposal was a ‘classic example of tinkering, instigated by ministers who really don’t understand money’. ‘The main economic critique of this government is that it doesn’t have an overarching plan, but just reacts to events, like a doctor who only treats symptoms, not the cause,’ he added.”
The UK government for its part is attempting to hold pay increases below inflation in an attempt to avoid a 1970s-style price-wage spiral – with the prime minister arguing that there is no point giving public sector workers an inflation-busting pay increase. Johnson’s comments echo those of £500k-per-year Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey earlier in the year, when he came under fire for urging Britain’s workforce to forego pay increases following TUC leader Frances O’Grady’s insistence that “Britain needs a pay rise.”
Meanwhile Britain is experiencing a wave of strikes as railway workers, postmen, university lecturers and legal aid barristers stage walkouts over falling pay and conditions. As Jonathan Moules at the Financial Times reported last week:
“More worrying for the government, the demands for significant wage increases are spreading across other key professions. The UK’s main teaching unions are threatening to strike in the autumn if the government cannot provide an inflation-busting 12 per cent pay rise for their members.
“Rolls-Royce’s attempt to allay its workforce’s concerns about the rising cost of living with the offer of a 4 per cent pay rise and a £2,000 cash lump sum rebounded on the engineering group when it was rejected by the Unite union, which represents thousands of the company’s staff.”
Which brings us full circle back to David Buttress’s attempts to encourage businesses to find ways of absorbing their rising input costs in order to cut prices to the end consumer. And this tells us that we are stuck in a predicament – something that cannot be resolved – rather than a problem – for which solutions might exist.
After decades of neoliberalism, most businesses have already squeezed out the inefficiencies and are now operating hyper-efficiently. Indeed, many – particularly small – businesses are coming to the end of the cash they had in the bank. And with interest rates being raised in a vain attempt to make imported oil and gas cheaper, banks are more reluctant to lend to businesses which were already struggling to service existing debt. Rising interest rates also have the perverse effect of sucking investment capital away from the productive sectors of the economy and into unproductive financial assets. So that companies that might otherwise lower their costs through automation – using cheap machines to replace expensive workers – are far less likely to attract funding.
Nevertheless, Buttress has a point insofar as it will be those businesses which can keep prices down which are most likely to survive the unfolding depression. This is because – despite the media claims of a “summer of discontent” – Britain’s remaining – mainly public sector – trade unions are a mere shadow of their 1970s power and, crucially, are negotiating from a position of weakness. Railway bosses, for example, will have saved millions of pounds in wages and fuel costs during last week’s stoppages – which, in a new age of working from home were far less disruptive than expected. But the loss of earnings for workers already facing an eye-watering cost-of-living increase are unsustainable in the long-term. And insofar as workers are not in a position to force wages up, then demand across the economy is going to collapse.
Indeed, the discretionary sectors of the economy have already been hammered, with business insolvencies in May running 80 percent higher than in May 2021, as consumers switch their spending to cover the rising price of essentials like food, household energy and fuel. Indeed, inflation in these discretionary sectors of the economy has already fallen close to its pre-pandemic levels. The headline 10 percent inflation figure is almost entirely due to the increased cost of food (fertiliser and imports), gas, electricity, petrol, diesel and second-hand cars – all items that neither the state nor the central bank can do anything about, and which will only reverse as a result of widespread “demand destruction” – i.e., mass company closures and unemployment.
The short-term means by which the state might intervene to reduce the cost burdens on businesses and households alike is to make big cuts to indirect taxes like VAT, energy standing charges, and fuel duty, together with direct taxes like the UK’s antiquated business rates. Given that, for example, duty and VAT account for half of the price of petrol and diesel in the UK, a big cut could wipe out a large part of the inflation currently besetting the economy – including the knock-on rising shipping and delivery costs faced by most UK businesses since the lockdowns ended. Government has already done something similar on a small scale by providing rebates on the Council Tax paid by Britain’s households – although this is largely an attempt to avoid having to raise the Universal Credit rate, which was cut by £20-a-week once the lockdowns had ended.
The problem for government though, is that it is already facing tax shortfalls just at the point when inflation and rising interest rates are driving up its repayments to the holders of government bonds. For those readers not familiar with the way currency is created, taxation comes at the end of the process rather than at the beginning as so many of us were brought up to believe. That is, government issues IOU’s (bonds) in exchange for currency held by banks and other approved investors. The interest and the final repayment of these bonds comes from the taxes levied on businesses and households. But at a time when business failures are high and household income is being squeezed, government is facing difficulties raising the taxes it needs. Cutting taxes still further risks deterring potential bond investors, thereby lowering the value of the Pound. This, in turn, results in higher inflation as the cost of imports – upon which the UK is heavily dependent – rises even further. So that, while it is true that the UK state could make some temporary tax cuts, its more pressing problem is finding ways of replacing the anticipated tax income which will not be paid.
Put simply, all three actors in this unfolding drama – Businesses, Households, and Government – find themselves locked into predicaments – Insolvency, Unemployment/Under-employment, and Tax-shortages – for which there are only least-bad choices and no easy ways out. And viewed from within, the problem for each appears to be the fault of one or both of the others. The stark reality though, is this is what an economy in overshoot looks like.
We passed the point of peak oil in November 2018 and are now experiencing the impact of “peak everything” as the true energy cost of our consumption comes home to roost. The only theoretical solution would be for clever people somewhere either to find another massive deposit of cheap oil that we somehow overlooked, or to develop some yet-to-be-invented cheap and abundant energy source to replace oil (clue – it isn’t wind, solar or biofuel). These highly unlikely options aside, the only choice before us is to shrink our economic activity sufficiently to bring it into line with the energy available to us. All else is merely a squabble over who is going to eat the losses.
As you made it to the end…
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text: The closes we got to a Nike Air Foamposite Low was the Nike Air Force 1 Low, and now according to Rodrigofresh from Nike Talk, Nike Sportswear will be releasing a low-cut version. Rumored to drop the weekend before Easter in a White-Ice colorway, that will hit majority of retailers. So far, these are just a rumor, but like every rumor there is always truth behind it. Would you like to see a low-cut Foamposite version? Stay tuned to Sneaker Bar for more developing news and info.


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In April 2011, Apple began a series of lawsuits against Samsung for patent infringement. In short, Apple claimed that certain design elements and internal components in some Samsung phones had been, essentially, copied from its range of iPhones and iPads. Specifically, Apple referenced the “rectangular shape, the rounded corners, the silver edges, the black face and the display of 16 colorful icons,”. Separate cases were heard in the UK, which found in favour of Samsung and in the US, which found in favour of Apple.
The UK judgement
In the UK, the case was heard in the High Court, where on 9th July 2012, Judge Colin Birss ruled that Samsung had not infringed Apple’s patent. While Samsung were, presumably, pleased with the ruling, they may have been less happy about the judge’s comments that their products “do not have the same understated and extreme simplicity which is possessed by the Apple design. They are not as cool.”. Apple appealed and lost (and was required to place a statement on its website affirming that Samsung had not infringed its patent) and so the UK case is now effectively over.
The US judgement
Over in the US the case was heard by the Supreme Court, which ruled in favour of Apple. There then followed an appeal, a retrial and a second trial. The case is currently back with the Supreme Court, which has to decide whether or not further fines can be levied on Samsung for the infringement of its patent on certain products. It is estimated that the Supreme Court will give its decision in June 2017 at which point, the existing case should be finally settled although it is always within the bounds of possibility that either or both of the parties will file further lawsuits against each other at some point in the future.
Why did the UK and the US reach completely opposite judgements?
When looking at these opposing rulings, it is important to note that Apple never claimed that Samsung made an exact copy of their iPhones and iPads. Their case was based on similarity, mainly of design and certain components. While the basic argument was the same, Apple’s claim was assessed on different criteria in the U.K. and the U.S. The UK court took a “big picture” view and essentially asked itself the question of whether or not it was likely that “an informed user” would confuse the two product lines. It concluded that they would not and hence found in favour of Samsung. The U.S. court by contrast, looked at the specifics and concluded that the two product lines were similar enough in those particular aspects for Apple to have a valid claim for breach of patent.
Judgements in other parts of the world.
Apple and Samsung have engaged in patent battles in at least 20 countries with mixed results. Outside of the US. many courts have found in favour of both companies with regard to different points. The case regarding the ownership of the “slide-to-unlock” feature common to both iOS and Android devices was dismissed by a court in Mannheim, Germany. In the Netherlands, the court initially found in favour of Apple, but Samsung appealed and had the decision overturned.
The Apple v Samsung battle has been widely covered in both the mainstream media and the technology press. In legal terms, it illustrates both the importance of understanding IP laws in each of the markets in which a company operates and the difficulty of doing so, particularly when there is little to nothing in the way of relevant precedent (this was the first patent infringement case the U.S. Supreme Court has heard in over 100 years). Furthermore it highlights the need to establish the existence (or otherwise) of existing IP (such as patents) before embarking on (expensive) R&D.


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Analysing the Latest Google Core Update
On March 2023, Google rolled out a significant broad core update that has had a huge impact on search rankings and search results for websites across the globe. The Google Core update began on 15th March 2023 and can take up to two weeks to roll out. According to Google, this one touched down fast and hard – its a big one!
Google have stated that the update was aimed at improving the quality of search results for users (as it always is!).
From our initial research we are already seeing big movements across multiple keyword positions.
What is a broad core update?
A broad core update is a major update to Google’s search algorithm that aims to improve the overall quality of search results. Unlike smaller updates that focus on specific aspects of search engine optimization (SEO), broad core updates can impact a wide range of factors that influence search rankings. However, the actual impact of the update can be difficult to predict, and some websites may experience significant changes in their search rankings.
What changed in the March 2023 update?
Google has not provided specific details about what changed in the March 2023 update, other than to say that it was a “broad core update” focused on improving search quality. However, we have already started to see significant changes in search rankings and search results for a variety of keywords and niches.
Reading between the lines, it appears that this core update seems to be related mostly to quality of content and that it seems to be favouring more deserving content across websites. This also suggests that it will have impacted websites that are using more spammy, black-hat techniques to get to the top of the ranks.
It’s important to note that the impact of the update can vary widely depending on a variety of factors, including the quality of a website’s content, backlink profile, user experience, and more.
What can you do to prepare for future updates?
While it’s impossible to predict exactly how future updates will impact search rankings, there are several steps that website owners should take to prepare:
- Focus on high-quality content: Google has always emphasized the importance of high-quality content, and this is
- Unlikely to change in future updates. Website owners should focus on creating content that is informative, engaging, and useful to their target audience.
- Build a strong backlink profile: Backlinks remain an important factor in search rankings, and website owners should focus on building a diverse and high-quality backlink profile. This can include guest posting, outreach, and other strategies.
- Improve user experience: Google has been placing an increasing emphasis on user experience in recent years, and this trend is likely to continue. Website owners should focus on creating a website that is easy to navigate, loads quickly, and provides a positive user experience.
- Stay up-to-date with SEO trends: SEO is a constantly evolving field. SEO practices are changing frequently and staying current with these changes is crucial to maintaining or improving your website’s search visibility. Find an SEO expert who can help with all of this.
In conclusion, the March 2023 Google Core Update is a reminder that search rankings can be unpredictable and subject to change. However, by focusing on high-quality content, building a strong backlink profile, improving user experience, and staying up-to-date with SEO trends, website owners can help ensure that their websites remain competitive in the ever-changing world of search engine optimisation.


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Founder/CEO, Glassnote Records
Grammys? Check. Chart-toppers? Check. Next up: global
One of the high notes of 2013 for Daniel Glass was opening a Glassnote office in London. “The labels that I admired coming up — A&M, Chrysalis, EMI — I loved the fact that they had offices in London, New York and L.A.,” he says. “For us to now be at that point was a significant highlight for me.”
European expansion isn’t the only reason Glass is in a good mood. The former Universal Records president-turned-independent label owner is fresh off a year of accolades, including the Grammy Award for album of the year for Mumford & Sons’ “Babel” and a peer-approved trophy for indie label of the year, care of the American Assn. of Independent Music.
But it’s more than shiny hardware that makes Glass one of the industry’s most closely watched executives. Last year, three new Glassnote albums landed in the top 15 of the Billboard 200 (Phoenix’s “Bankrupt!,” Childish Gambino’s “Because the Internet” and Chvrches’ “The Bones of What You Believe”), while the runaway sensation that was “Babel” galloped on, selling an additional 2.5 million copies in the year following its release, according to Nielsen SoundScan.
That kind of performance from a roster of fewer than 20 artists is a testament to Glass’ “long game” approach, in which a handful of promising acts are developed over years, not months.
“I learned as a parent with three kids that patience is a virtue, patience is a strength,” Glass says. “I’m critical of the cycle of media in some markets around the world, including the U.K. Songs there are masticated and spit out so quickly without being allowed to mature and be nurtured.”
In 2014 Glassnote looks to establish itself as an international force. With most of its artists signed for the world, the label won’t rest on its laurels in London.


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A company known as Zip Phone is making it easier to place secure, Wi-Fi enabled phone calls, in order to save consumers from using up the limited number of cellular minutes that come with their smartphone’s voice plan. That’s a more common problem outside of North America where unlimited calling plans are prevalent, though these consumers can still benefit from Zip Phone while traveling to save on roaming charges.
However, what’s interesting about this startup is how the technology itself is deeply integrated with the Android operating system.
Zip Phone’s founder, Anuj Jain, describes the app as something you just install once, then never look at again. Yes, it’s another one of those “invisible apps” – that is, apps that operate in the background, only kicking off when needed.


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The largest of the Ethereum (ETH) whale wallets have scooped greater than $877 million value of FTX token (FTT) within the final 24 hours. This big accumulation has landed amid the continued hypothesis of FTX shopping for BlockFi.
Bonobo buys $381 mln value of FTX
In line with Whalestats, the FTT token has come out to be the best choice of ETH whales. It stands on the prime of essentially the most bought tokens within the final 24 hours. Nevertheless, FTX token can be holding the highest spot on the tally of the highest 10 tokens utilized by buying and selling quantity.
As per information, the whale address named “Bonobo” has added $381.4 million value of FTX tokens in a number of transactions. The largest transaction recorded has been of shopping for 15 million FTT tokens (value approx $351 million). The pockets is now holding $460 value of FTX tokens.
Nevertheless, one other whale named “BlueWhale0079″ scooped 16 million FTT tokens. The acquisition was valued at round $384 million. The biggest transaction recorded was valued at $235.9 million.
In the meantime, the highest 100 ETH whales cumulatively maintain $494.11 million value of FTX tokens. It’s the third largest crypto held by the biggest wallets.
FTT 24 hr buying and selling vol up by 50%
The current buy hasn’t a lot affected the value of the token. The FTX token jumped by over 2% over the past 24 hours. It’s buying and selling at a median worth of $24.2, on the press time. Nevertheless, its 24 hour buying and selling quantity has surged by 53% to face at $117 million.
In line with experiences, the FTX crypto trade is within the negotiation talks for buying BlockFi. The time period sheet is sort of achieved and reportedly will probably be signed by the tip of this week. The deal has been settled for round $25 million which is definitely 99% under BlockFi’s March 2021 valuation.
Nevertheless, Ledn has introduced a recent proposal for the crypto lending agency. It mentions funding BlockFi fairly than a full acquisition. It’s reported that Ledn shall be main the funding spherical of as much as $400 million whereas offering a $50 million fairness contribution.
The introduced content material could embrace the non-public opinion of the creator and is topic to market situation. Do your market analysis earlier than investing in cryptocurrencies. The creator or the publication doesn’t maintain any accountability to your private monetary loss.


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Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival is teaming up with OpenSea, the pioneering NFT marketplace, to introduce a series of innovative NFT collections known as Coachella Keepsakes. This collaboration is set to revolutionize the festival landscape by merging digital art with tangible, real-world benefits. Leveraging the power of the Avalanche blockchain, these collectibles offer festival-goers unprecedented access to VIP experiences, exclusive merchandise, and more.
The partnership between Coachella and OpenSea marks a significant, swift pivot in the festival’s approach to integrating digital assets into its offerings. This comes as a notable evolution from Coachella’s previous collaboration with FTX, the cryptocurrency exchange. The quick turnaround to embrace OpenSea and the Avalanche blockchain for NFT collectibles highlights Coachella’s adaptability and commitment to staying at the forefront of digital innovation within the live event space. By transitioning from a traditional crypto partnership to a more focused NFT engagement, Coachella underscores its dedication to enhancing festival experiences through cutting-edge technology, ensuring attendees have access to unique, immersive benefits that bridge the digital and physical worlds.
A New Era of Festival Engagement
Coachella Keepsakes represent a paradigm shift in how music festivals operate. By blending the allure of exclusive digital artwork with the excitement of live experiences, Coachella is reimagining what it means to attend a music festival. These NFTs serve as a gateway to premium festival perks, such as access to the VIP Rose Garden, the newly introduced Oasis Lounge, and specially designed Coachella merchandise. The initiative kicks off with the launch of The VIP Pass + Oasis Lounge Keepsake, offering a unique blend of luxury and digital innovation at the festival.
Introducing Coachella Keepsakes – virtual art with the power to unlock never before seen festival experiences. Collect Keepsakes and use their powers to craft your unique festival journey. The VIP Pass + Oasis Lounge Keepsake is available now on @opensea 🐚 pic.twitter.com/Vs8KAqYOhK
— Coachella (@coachella) March 5, 2024
Sam Schoonover, Coachella’s Innovation Lead, emphasizes that this partnership marks the beginning of a new chapter. It showcases how NFTs can enhance festival experiences both online and offline, making Coachella not just an event to attend but an experience to own. OpenSea’s CEO, Devin Finzer, echoes this sentiment, highlighting the collaboration as a milestone that merges the digital and physical realms, enhancing the overall festival experience and setting new benchmarks for live event ticketing.
Future Drops: Expanding the Horizon
Following the initial offering, Coachella and OpenSea are set to release additional collections, including the Canvas Welcome Box Keepsake and an exclusive Artist Collaboration Keepsake. These drops aim to provide a diverse range of benefits, further cementing the role of NFTs in enriching the festival experience. With details to be announced, anticipation is building for what these future collections will bring to attendees.
Goldenvoice and OpenSea: Pioneers in Innovation
Behind Coachella’s success is Goldenvoice, a company with a storied history of promoting concerts and festivals that resonate deeply with music enthusiasts. Their partnership with OpenSea, a leader in the NFT marketplace since 2017, represents a fusion of traditional music promotion with the cutting-edge world of NFTs. OpenSea’s commitment to broadening the horizons of digital ownership is perfectly aligned with Coachella’s vision for a future where festival experiences can be owned and customized through digital tokens.
Coachella and OpenSea are revolutionizing the festival scene with Coachella Keepsakes, NFT collections offering real-world benefits. This partnership not only enhances the festival experience through exclusive access and merchandise but also signifies a new era where digital and physical worlds converge in the realm of live events. With more collections on the horizon, this initiative is set to redefine what it means to attend a music festival.


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Hot on the heels of the recent launch of Harry Potter: Wizards Unite mobile AR game, Japanese developer MIRAIRE today revealed TSUBASA+ to the global gaming community. Established in 2017, MIRAIRE is a studio focused on just AR titles, and TSUBASA+ is its first product based on the classic Captain Tsubasa manga and anime series. MIRAIRE uses the term “X Reality” for its technology aimed at creating “fun motivation that makes people want to move around outside more.” Take a look at the debut trailer for TSUBASA+ below!
According to the website of TSUBASA+, the game is set to launch in 2020 with 8 supported languages. Through the mobile app, players can “turn your familiar city into full mood of football and stadiums appear everywhere in your city,” and in the process make friends with all the active star players to legendary players, as well as Tsubasa, Kojiro and Genzo. Players can also “build up a team with fellow heroes, strengthen the team, and let your team compete with TSUBASA+ users all around the world.” Stadiums will litter the city too!


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Hideo Kojima adds a new project to his list. As the Japanese icon commented, the idea is also to celebrate the 7th anniversary of Kojima Productions.
Each December 16 Kojima Productions celebrates its founding anniversary. In 2022 the company complies 7 years Y Hideo Kojima celebrated with a special announcement. Through his social networks, the Japanese video game designer and developer announced that he is working on a new video game for his collection.
“In addition to Death Stranding 2we are also preparing a completely new game as well as some visual projects” officially declared Hideo Kojima. Currently the founder of Kojima Productions You have on your to-do list the production of DS2 together with top-level actors, a joint project with Microsoft and a big screen adaptation for the original was recently announced Death Stranding.
For now, many details of what this new initiative will deal with were not revealed. Hideo commented on it: “I look forward to bringing you more information about all of this next year.”so the most prudent thing will be to wait for what will come in 2023.
Talking about Death Stranding 2we finally had the official announcement of the sequel to the hit released in 2019 with Norman Reedus in the leading role during the annual event of Geoff Keighley, The Game Awards. After what was the confirmation to Elle Fanning, Léa Seydoux and Shioli Katsuna as members of the cast some time ago, Hideo Kojima took some time to talk about DS2 one more time.
“I promise that we will deliver an even more impressive gaming experience than the first. [entrega]” promised kojimawho is also excited that the fans look forward to his future title. Some rumors link the new proposal with Overdosea horror title that was seen through a leak midyear. However, there is no official source confirming it so far.
Finally, Hideo Kojima closed his statement with the presentation of the new offices of Kojima Productionswhich combine a modern appearance with all the comforts necessary to work in the video game industry. What do you think the novel initiative of Hideo Kojima?


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NEW DELHI (REUTERS) – Swiss giant Holcim’s India units and more than a dozen other cement manufacturers colluded to raise prices and restrict supplies for years, which included regularly inspecting one another to ensure there was no breach of the agreements, according to a federal antitrust probe.
The investigation arm of the Competition Commission of India (CCI) has held top leadership – chief executive officers or managing directors – of Holcim units ACC and Ambuja, market leader UltraTech Cement and 17 other companies such as Shree Cement and Dalmia Cement liable for antitrust violations.
The investigation report, issued last month and seen by Reuters, is the penultimate but most significant stage of the CCI probe that started in 2019. The report, which is not public, will now be reviewed by CCI’s top three officials who have powers to impose fines and will give companies a last chance to defend themselves.
Potentially, the cement giants could be fined millions of dollars. Together, the 20 companies control more than three-quarters of the over 500 million tonne installed cement capacity in India, the world’s second-largest producer after China.
The report said executives of the companies discussed coordinated price hikes in Zoom calls and in-person meetings at company guest houses, with some officials using personal mail to communicate with rivals. WhatsApp messaging was also extensively used.
One company official’s WhatsApp message cited in the report said a “forum” of companies had agreed to gradually raise cement prices in some regions by five rupees (nine Singapore cents) to 10 rupees. Senior executives, including from Holcim’s ACC and UltraTech Cement, were assigned as the “coordinator” for various states.
“Price will go up in each week by equal amount,” the message said.
The message did not give details but typically, cement is sold in 50kg bags to retail consumers, and the cost is between 350 rupees and 450 rupees per bag depending on the location and grade of cement.
CCI did not respond to a request for comment.
Holcim said in a statement that “the Indian companies are managing this matter responsibly and we expect them to continue to do so accordingly.” ACC, Ambuja and UltraTech Cement declined to comment, while Shree Cement and Dalmia Cement did not respond.
India’s Adani Group, which entered into a proposed US$10.5 billion (S$13.7 billion) deal with Holcim in May to acquire its India businesses, also did not respond.
Cement production is a lucrative business in India’s booming economy, with high demand especially from rural housing and infrastructure companies.
An official at the Pavers and Blocks Manufacturers Association, whose members sell concrete paving blocks, told Reuters that price hikes by cement companies in recent years were coordinated, leaving no scope for cutting costs by switching suppliers.
“We sometimes pass the higher cost to consumers,” said the official, who declined to be named since he does business with the cement companies amounting to 50,000 bags a month and was concerned about reprisals.
Overall, the CCI investigation report concluded that the cement companies colluded in 13 states in eastern and southern India, with more than 50 industry executives involved in “cartelisation” activities in an “extremely organised manner”.


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Sonic Solutions (SNIC) shares soared Friday following an announcement by the DVD Copy Control Association of the approval of technology that will allow consumers to download-and-burn copy-protected DVDs. The theory is clearly that Sonic, which makes software used in DVD burning, should be a big beneficiary of any subsequent surge in consumer and retailer use of the technology.
Steven Frankel, an analyst at Canaccord Adams, Friday raised his rating on the stock to Buy from Hold on the news. “While this event alone does not lead to any material change in our estimates,” he wrote in a research note, “it does increase our confidence level that the investments the company has made over the last two years can begin to bear fruit.” He added that “the approval of Download & Burn should provide a much needed psychological boost to the shares,” which it surely has.
Barbara Coffey, an analyst at Kaufman Bros., wrote in a research note that companies will likely start testing the technology later this year. “DVD Burning on Demand has the potential to help DVD retails better manage inventory as they should no longer need racks of DVDs and should never be in an ‘out of stock position’,” she writes.
Finally, I had to chuckle at the following phrase on the quote page for the company on Yahoo Finance, which refers to the fact that the company is behind on its financial filings due to some stock-option backdating issues: “SNIC is deficient and delinquent.” Kind of harsh, no?
SNIC 1-yr chart:


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Qld govt forced to defend another payroll project
Australia, China agree to oppose cyber IP theft
Fibre, wi-fi keep most Shell Prelude staff onshore
ASIC should lead banks' data-sharing regime: MPs
Russian mega carder gets record US prison sentence
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NSW Transport on the hunt for 100 techies
To staff new unit.
Feb 16 2017 6:35AM
Rail worker beats accusations of exploiting Myki loophole
Sacking overturned by Fair Work Commission.
Feb 7 2017 11:55AM
Nokia, Vodafone on the cusp of LTE deal for Melbourne trains
4G to deliver better signalling for metro rail.
Dec 7 2016 12:06PM
Pay for your Uber with an Opal card?
State transport agency eyes off a payments revolution.
Nov 7 2016 6:50AM
Will Australian train stations one day be free of turnstiles?
Inside transport ticketing’s gateless future.
Oct 31 2016 6:50AM
NSW MPs want 'visually distinctive' driverless cars
But caution patience for a national approach.
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The Melbourne road where speed limits are set by algorithm
VicRoads automates variable speed system on the M80.
Jul 21 2016 6:31AM
NSW Opal payments could run on Oyster card code
Contractor signs $26m licensing deal with Transport for London.
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Jun 27 2016 12:09PM
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Jun 22 2016 6:13AM
Hack shuts down NSW Trainlink booking system
Updated: Some customer credit card data, personal info likely captured.
May 29 2016 6:36PM
Vic opposition threatens to refer Myki tender to audit office
Seeks confirmation of system improvements.
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Caltex becomes a reseller for truck telematics
In-house success leads to new business endeavour.
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Partners with NSW to get tailor-made tool off the ground.
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Argos has introduced a new augmented reality (AR) experience on its IOS app, enabling customers to view a variety of TV models in situ via their iPhone and iPad before they buy.
Just in time for those looking to update their TV for the World Cup, users of models newer than Phone6S, iPad Pro and iPad will be able to enjoy the perks of the AR feature that could, says Argos, revolutionise the way large TV’s are purchased.
Hanging the AR app around the World Cup, customers are able to tap ’countdown to kick off’ section on the Argos’ app, then simply click ’summer of football’ – from where they will be transported to a list of different TV’s. Shopper can view a TV in their home using AR with just one tap on ’view in AR’, an animation guiding customers until a compatible flat surface is found, which can display the product.
Within its iOS app, customers can use 25 full-scale, 3D models of TVs from leading brands including Samsung, Hisense, Sony, Hitachi and LG to easily visualise what it will look like on a wall or unit. Shoppers can also watch a video on the TV screen, bringing to life its size and how narrow the bezel or surround is.
Argos has seen sales of giant-screen televisions soar in recent months with sales of 65” TVs or more nearly doubling in the last 12 months.
“As a digitally led retailer, it’s our goal to give customers the best possible shopping experience, whether in-store or online. We are really excited to launch this new version of the app, which will completely change how our customers buy TVs,” says Matt Grabham, digital product manager at Argos. “Giant TVs are becoming increasingly popular with customers looking to create the perfect cinematic experience at home for high profile events like the World Cup. This new AR technology will help our customers find a TV that perfectly fits their home, making the beautiful game even more beautiful.”
In May Argos became the first UK retailer to launch augmented reality-enabled LEGO models through its mobile app, giving customers the chance to view more than 100 full scales, animated 3D versions of best-selling LEGO toys.
Earlier this year, Argos, which is part of the Sainsbury’s Group, announced it has created 150 new technology roles in London and Milton Keynes to bolster its digital shopping operations. The roles vary from graduate to principal positions and new colleagues will join the 300-strong team currently in Argos’s tech division.


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Is a cash-based society sustainable in a pandemic? Hoarders say yes. Health experts say maybe. Visionaries say no: It’s a moment for systemic change.
An IMF official is concerned that central banks may be rushing to develop blockchain systems without properly vetting the technology first
During MIT panel, experts say blockchain is not yet a clear design choice for central bank digital currencies
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Fnality, a high-profile digital fiat project backed by 14 big-name financial institutions, is teaming with the ConsenSys-backed Adhara.
China is taking a great leap forward to develop a central bank digital currency, with more than 80 patents filed by the People’s Bank last week.
With the price of bitcoin headed up again, the idea of blockchains and digital currencies has never been more palatable to the mainstream. We've seen this cycle before, but could this time be different?
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The global remittance and financial payment system have seen great changes in the past decade. Asia is pushing towards reducing the volume of cash payments, with India reducing large denomination notes, and South Korea cutting ....


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XYZ) to learn more about these QR Codes
and to get your own QR Code
that's specifically designed to link your paper business card to your own digital business card, at no cost to you.
Commenting on the system, Kempinski Hotel Ajman director of food and beverage Anish Kuttan said: "We have placed the unique pyramids with QR codes
on them in our guestrooms so that guests can scan the code with their smart phones or tablets and this automatically opens up the food and beverage menu.
To listen to a student's personal statement, viewers who had QR code
readers on their smartphones, iPads or iPods, scanned the code attached to the artwork and, zip-zap, the student's voice came on, describing his or her artwork.
We have developed a method of using QR codes
along with smartphones to enable encrypted 3D information to be securely displayed on mobile devices," said Bahram Javidi, project team leader from the University of Connecticut.
The Rabo Scanner, a piece of hardware, will use an embedded camera and colour display to capture a QR code
that appears on the customer's tablet, smartphone or computer screen.
Latest iterations include the Security QR Code
(SQRC), which can contain both encrypted as well as normally readable data, and the LogoQ and LogoQ Face, which allow a full-color logo or photo to be embedded into a QR Code
This QR Code
equipment tracking software enables business to affix a weather proof QR Code
to equipment and products, that allows them to geo-reference the location of their equipment, view customer information, view service history, instantly create a quote, and capture a customer signature, incorporating a businesses customer to scan the QR Code
to call service for the equipment, and review payment history.
CamCard makes contacts-sharing too easy by offering you multiple sharing options such as SMS, QR code
In spite of being simple, QR Inventory Lite is quite flexible - it allows businesses to define their own transaction types, customize reports and use either QR Codes
or existing manufacturer barcodes to process inventory transactions.
The Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum mosque in Jumeirah 3, is now equipped with the QR code
technology for the first time in government buildings and is part of Phase-I of developing smart mosques that also includes nine other mosques which will follow suit later this year.
All the Honda campaigns in Oman are launched with the QR Code
When a customer gets a Zapper QR Code
on their bill, they just open the app, scan the QR Code
and confirm the amount to be paid.


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AS part of the government’s willingness to explore new, technology-enabled and innovative mechanisms, it will be approving private sector-driven “Property Crowdfunding” platforms to serve as an alternative source of financing for first-time house buyers.
The Securities Commission will regulate these exchange platforms under the peer-to-peer (P2P) financing framework.
Under the P2P financing framework, the buyer will be able to acquire a selected property with 20% of the price of the premises.
The remaining 80% will be borne by potential investors who fund the purchase in exchange for its potential appreciation in value over a particular period of time.
According to Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng, the P2P exchange will go live in the first quarter of next year for first-time home buyers.
This financial innovation for first-time home buyers is the first of its kind in the world, and if successful, will make acquiring a home affordable for many, he said.
At the moment, the P2P financing structure is only for small and medium enterprises and not available to the retail home loan segment.
Areca Capital CEO Danny Wong said for a potential investor to make his money, there must be a sales transaction.
Wong also said that for such a transaction to work, the buyer must be able to come up with 20% of downpayment money on his own.
“If one can do that ... I think he can easily get a bank loan and would not need to resort to crowdfunding,” he said.