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Fortnite maker sues Apple & Google after app store removal
Google, Apple and Alphabet on Thursday removed the popular video game Fortnite from their app stores for violating in-app payment and in-app purchases, prompting developer Epic Games to file antitrust lawsuits challenging their rules and accusing them of anti-competitive behavior.
On Thursday, Epic Games challenged not only Apple, but Google as well, introducing a new way to buy discounted clothing and weapons for characters in the app by paying Epic Games directly instead of using Apple’s in-app shopping service, which is required for digital goods. Apple accounts for 30% of these sales.
Apple and Google Called Direct Payments Option Deployed in Fortnite App as Violation.
Epic has filed a lawsuit in a U.S. court, seeking not monetary compensation from Apple or Google, but an injunction that they believe would end the companies’ bad practices with regard to their app stores..
«Apple has become what it once opposed: a monster that seeks to control markets, block competition, and stifle innovation. Apple is bigger, more powerful, stronger and more dangerous than the monopolists of the past», – According to Epic’s lawsuit filed in the Northern District of California.
Epic also attacked Apple by creating a parody of the famous Apple TV ad. «1984», and via social media, launching a campaign with the hashtag #FreeFortnite, urging players to seek reimbursement from Apple if they are denied access to the game.
In a parody that quickly garnered hundreds of thousands of views, a female Fortnite fighter throws a unicorn-shaped baton to shatter a screen where an Apple-headed character talks about «anniversary of the platform unification directives».
Apple takes a 15% to 30% cut for most in-app subscriptions and in-app payments, although there are some exceptions for companies that already have a credit card for iPhone customers if they also offer in-app payments that go to Apple’s favor.
Analysts believe games are the largest contributor to user spending on the App Store, which is the largest component of Apple’s services segment, with $ 46.3 billion in annual revenue..
Apple said in a statement that Fortnite was removed because Epic launched a payment feature with «clear intent to violate App Store policies».
«The fact that their (Epic’s) business interests now force them to insist on a special agreement does not change the fact that these guidelines create a level playing field for all developers and make the store safe for all users.», – Apple said.
Google has also removed Fortnite from its Play Store, but a company spokesperson Dan Jackson declined to comment on the lawsuit when contacted by Reuters.
«However, we welcome the opportunity to continue our discussions with Epic and bring Fortnite back to Google Play.», – he said in a statement. Jackson said Epic violated the rule that developers must use Google’s in-game billing system for video game products. Apple and Google were among the largest U.S. tech companies to be subject to anti-competitive scrutiny in hearings before lawmakers last month..
During the hearing, the CEO of Apple Tim Cook argued that Apple is not anticompetitive because it does not have a controlling stake in the markets in which it does business, including mobile phones, where Android devices from Alphabet Inc. have a large share.
However, Epic’s lawsuit argued that app distribution and in-game payments for Apple devices represent a separate market for anti-competition purposes, as Apple users rarely leave. «sticky» ecosystem.
Free video game «Fortnite» by Epic in the genre «battle royale» has gained immense popularity among young gamers since its launch in 2017 and competes with «PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds» by Tencent Holdings.
Removing a game from the App Store means that new players will not be able to download it and existing players will not be able to receive updates, but the game should continue to work on devices that already have it installed.
Epic Games did not disclose how many iOS users Fortnite has. Many fans play the game primarily on PCs or game consoles, using their mobile phones as a backup, but iPhone users bring in much more revenue for Epic..
Fortnite had nearly 2 million downloads in both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store in July 2020, according to mobile analytics company SensorTower. But according to SensorTower, Apple users spent about $ 34 million and Android users only $ 2 million..
Since Android works differently than iOS, users can still download «Fortnite» from the Epic website and other non-Google stores such as Samsung Electronics Co Ltd store and install it on your devices.
«Epic is not seeking any monetary indulgence, but rather only instructing Google to stop continuing to impose its anti-competitive behavior on the Android ecosystem.», – says the company’s lawsuit.
Spotify Technology SA, Apple’s streaming music rival that has filed antitrust lawsuits against the iPhone maker in Europe, and the Match Group, which has publicly complained about Apple’s rules, praised Epic’s actions against the tech giant..
«We applaud Epic Games’ decision to take a stand against Apple and shed further light on Apple’s abuse of dominance», – said a Spotify spokesman Adam Grossberg in a statement to CNBC.
Epic Games wants to create its own gaming marketplace that works across all platforms including iPhone, Android, and Windows. One of the main benefits of the Epic Games store for game developers is lower purchase fees..


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Unique releases from Beyoncé, Drake, Jay Z and other music stars.
DONDA creates Kanye's new album cover and more.
"Feeling Myself" lyrics and singer's new T-shirts spark social media beef between the Young Money labelmates.
Says the model was a "walking billboard" for her butt injections.
The International Federation of Phonographic Industry introduces new rules.
MCs who just couldn’t leave rap alone.

domain: news


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OraSure Technologies, a Bethlehem maker of medical diagnostic products, today announced it is buying for $53 million a Canadian company that makes products used to collect DNA samples from saliva.
DNA Genotek, based in Ottawa, Canada, provides tools used to collect DNA and RNA samples used by more than 3,000 customers around the world, including hospitals and universities. OraSure officials said the company's products are a good fit with OraSure's diagnostic tools that can check oral fluid samples for HIV.
OraSure CEO Douglas Michels said both companies have some overlap in their customers, but their products are distinct. The acquisition enables OraSure to enter the $4 billion molecular diagnostics market.
The cash deal is expected to close in the third quarter. OraSure expects the acquisition to boost earnings in 2012. Staffing changes are not expected at either company as a result of the deal. DNA Genotek, which has about 80 employees, will be operated as a subsidiary.
DNA Genotek's leading product is the Oragene DNA sample collection kit, which collects, stabilizes, transports and purifies DNA samples from saliva. The product is good for researchers because it allows them to collect DNA samples more easily than with blood samples. Users spit in a container and close it, which releases an agent that preserves the DNA sample, which can then be sent back to researchers and labs through the mail.
"You can mail it to someone at home and they can take the sample and mail it back," said Ian Curry, president of DNA Genotek. "You get more people participating in diagnostic tests, because they don't have to get a blood sample taken."
DNA Genotek had 2010 revenues of $14 million.
OraSure stock closed at $9.25 Monday, down about 5 percent for the day. The company has been pumping money into research and development of new products, including a Hepatits C test and an over-the-counter HIV test that uses an oral fluid sample. That spending routinely pushes the company into the red, but officials say they are investing in products that will bring future growth.


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EventMB has been at the forefront of the virtual event revolution. Since February, over 25,000 event professionals have attended our events.
As we grow tired of content being thrown at us, we expect more from virtual experiences.
We have been using Zoom for over two years to run dozens of webinars. Yet, we felt that something was missing: attendee connection.
Today, we are excited to announce a better experience for our events thanks to the great folks at SpotMe. Technical partnerships are crucial in virtual environments, and you need someone to rely on for complex online experiences.
Speaking on behalf of EventMB, we are thrilled about what we will be able to deliver at our next event.
Pierre Metrailler, CEO of SpotMe, shares our same enthusiasm:
“This is a defining moment for our industry. Event pros need answers, and Julius Solaris and his team at EventMB have a lot of them. SpotMe wants to be part of this forum, trigger conversations, and connect great content with an audience eager to know what the future holds.”
You may ask yourself, what’s in it for me?
Well, you will find out at our next event, which will be announced next week.
I cannot wait to try something new with you and to bring innovation to online experiences as we discover how to safely go back to live events.


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Car shoppers looking for a deal on a Maybach 57, the ultra-luxury sedan from Mercedes-Benz parent company Daimler AG, could buy a used one for just over $100,000. That’s not bad for a car that cost about $375,000 when new.
Or you could bid for the tricked-out version that appeared in the “Otis” video with Jay Z and Kanye West.
Auction house Phillips de Pury & Co. said the chopped-up car will be the first lot to cross the block during its New York Contemporary Art Evening sale on March 8. The auction is to benefit Save the Children. The pre-sale estimate for the car is $100,000 to $150,000.
You can see a slideshow and video of the car after the jump.
Daimler AG has decided to discontinue its Maybach ultra-luxury cars after failing to find a fix for their dwindling sales and lack of profitability, barely a decade after resuscitating the Maybach brand.
Instead, the German luxury car maker said it plans to expand its top-of-the line Mercedes-Benz segment—the S-Class—to six variations from the current three when a new generation of the flagship model is launched in 2013. Until then, Daimler said it would continue to produce the ultra-premium Maybach.
In their new music video “Otis,” rappers Kanye West and Jay-Z are nearly upstaged by a radically chopped Maybach limousine that burns rubber, does four-wheel drifts through corners and spits fire.
Typically the idea of taking cutting torches grinding discs and reciprocating saws to a car that costs close to $400,000 would be sacrilege. But for the Maybach, which has never lived up to the hype surrounding its launch for the 2004 model year, the high-profile exposure could only help.
Indeed, the back-alley car customizers in the video add a dash of excitement to the Maybach’s staid looks. By the time their work is done the car looks a bit like and open-air version of the million-dollar Bugatti Veyron super sports car.
Driver’s Seat is a blog featuring news, views, and advice about cars, auto safety, driving, and transportation. Driver’s Seat is written by Jonathan Welsh with contributions from auto critic Dan Neil, columnist Joe White and Wall Street Journal staffers and others.


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18 DE julio DE 2013
The group is about to open its first restaurant in Rome and is preparing its official invasion of the US east coast, where it already has 12 restaurants in Florida and is planning to add at least one in NY and another in Washington, DC by year-end.
Gema B. Muñoz
Restalia's looking to take over the world and it appears to be on the right track. After 12 years in the Spanish market, where it already has 300 La Sureña and 100 Montaditos restaurants, parent company Restalia is about to enter Chile and is preparing to conquer Europe, with its first locale in Rome slated to open in the next few days.
But these two events won't be the company's only milestones in 2013. Restalia, founded by José María Fernández Capitán and based in Islantilla, Huelva, already has a dozen 100 Montaditos restaurants in Florida and is preparing to head up the US east coast. The parent company is looking to open at least one locale in New York and another in Washington, DC before the end of the year.
This year Restalia's montaditos will also arrive in London, and in Guadalajara and San Luis de Potosí, in Mexico.
Restalia also has plans for the Spanish market in mind. After summer the company will launch a new brand, which sources describe as "green" and "complementary to the 100 Montaditos and La Sureña offer", their sources tell Qcom.es.
Five years ago, Restalia turned Euromania (selling products for one euro) into a trend that still exists in Spain's foodservice sector. To meet all of its objectives, it will take its plans for expansion even further, and in 2014 it will open in the south of France (Toulouse is one of the candidates) and in Munich, Germany.
However, before crossing the Pyrenees and the Alps, Restalia will try to set up shop closer to the Pacific, opening a locale in Santiago de Chile in September, the first in that country. As Restalia sources have told Qcom.es, the company reached an agreement with the Senerman family to develop the company in Chile.
Tasty Italy: the driver in Europe
Back in Europe, the company's most immediate challenge is to open 100 Montaditos in the "Eternal City", near to the Olympic Stadium. “The plan is to first test this market at local level, and then to develop an expansion plan for the rest of the country which includes opening 60 to 100 restaurants in the next 10 years," says Rosa Madrid, who was appointed as Head of Europe at Restalia barely a month ago.
Her appointment coincided with changes in the company's executive team. As a result, Carlos Pérez Tenorio is CEO of Restalia America, and Virginia Donado, formerly Head of Growth, is now part of management. Her previous post will be filled by Álvaro Martín.
Martin and Madrid will provide the support that Donado needs to expand 100 Montaditos and La Sureña, in and outside of Spain. In addition to Rome, Restalia aims to open a restaurant in London before year-end.
And that's not the only project for the English-speaking market. On the other side of the Atlantic, where Restalia already has 12 restaurants in Florida (including its most emblematic restaurant, on Lincoln Road, one of the busiest shopping streets in the US), the company is looking to extend its brand along the east coast.
Trying out the Big Apple
Known in the US press as the "Zara of sandwiches", and with Dollarmania (the American version of Euromania) as one of its insignias, Restalia is looking to take its first bite out of the Big Apple and open a restaurant in New York, and one in Washington, DC. As Restalia sources have told Qcom.es, those restaurants are already in the works and could very well open before Christmas.
And two restaurants that will most certainly open before the holidays are 100 Montaditos in Guadalajara and San Luis de Potosí, in Mexico, where the company already has two units up and running in Mexico City, and where Euromanía has its local version: Pesomania. “Mexico is one of our most strategic markets and has the greatest scope for growth in the coming years", says Restalia.
In fact, the company envisions around 40 new restaurants there per year over the next decade. It’s also looking to strengthen its presence in Colombia by adding another 30 restaurants to the existing two in Bogotá.
Restalia expects to create 2,000 new jobs in 2013. And with so many destinations on the horizon, it's working on a global menu, which includes a variation on some local dishes in each country, and where the common denominator will be typically Spanish products, such as ham and Spanish omelet.


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The heiress showed off her booty — which is certainly less ample than Kardashian’s most famous asset — in a sparkling see-through gown at Wednesday’s opening of the Charbel Zoe store in LA.
The only thing that came between Hilton and her nude-and-silver dress was a pair of white thong underwear — which unfashionably peeked out from behind the gown’s sparkles but did, thankfully, manage to cover up Hilton’s unmentionables.
The 34-year-old’s dress was from the designer’s collection.
Her nipples were masked by what appeared to be bits of fabric or pasties.
Via Instagram, the couture designer called Hilton “the iconic Barbie.”


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Samsung Techwin America Is Changing Its Name to Hanwha Techwin America
The new name will become official on April 1 and follows the company’s purchase by the Hanwha Group in December 2014.
Samsung Techwin America will change its corporate namesake to Hanwha Techwin America effective April 1, the company announced today during a phone conference with industry trade publication editors. The company’s products will continue to be marketed under the Samsung brand.
The move comes more than one year after Samsung Techwin was acquired by Hanwha Corp., a South Korean-based business conglomerate. Samsung Techwin America made its security industry debut in the United States at ISC West in 2010 after consolidating products lines by Samsung Electronics and Samsung Techwin.
The company remains a co-owner of the Samsung brand, and aside from the renaming there are no other organizational changes being made, said Tom Cook, vice president, sales, Samsung Techwin America.
“Everything else remains the same. Our R&D, our manufacturing, our facilities, our sales and marketing structure – overseas and in the Americas – it is a name change only,” he said. “We are doing this by choice. This is the next move in incorporating ourselves underneath the Hanwha corporation.”
Cook said Hanwah is a $56 billion firm that is focused on the development of defense-related, business-to-business products. “They are looking at us as a major investment, and down the road looking at major acquisitions possibly to compliment what we do. To us this is extremely exciting because we now are a focus of our corporate entity.”
Announcing the name change precedes the Samsung Techwin STEP Partner Summit in Puerto Rico, which begins on Sunday, and ISC West in April. The company’s booth at ISC West will reflect the new namesake, which will be incorporated with its Samsung and WiseNet brands.
Cook gave no timeframe but said the company will in due course drop the Samsung branding altogether. “Eventually we want to make it our own brand. The Samsung brand does carry some weight in the consumer mentality when you talk to end users and consultants,” he said. “It will be our decision when we want to do that and when it is the right time.”
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This year, we are proud to announce that Lucid Outsourcing Solutions will be joining us as a Silver Sponsor for Into the Box 2021. The company has ample experience in Coldfusion and it offers a wide range of products, services and consultancy in ColdFusion Web Application Development , Mobile Application Development, e-Commerce and other IT Solutions.
With over 1,000 projects completed, Lucid has become one of the go-tos in the industry. It comes as no surprise that ever since its founding in 2012, Lucid Solutions has grown into a company with a loyal clientele, given their cutting edge technology, regular innovation packed research with a cost-effective approach. As such, we are happy to have them onboard at this year’s Into the Box.


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The European Union head has called for DNA tests on beef products across Europe, the lastest in the widening horsemeat scandal that has affected several countries already.
"I would like to see DNA testing of processed meat products during process and as finished products established as soon as possible right across every member state," said Owen Paterson, Britain's agricultural minister, according to Reuters.
"I expect the full force of the law to be brought down on anyone involved in this kind of activity," he said.
The talks are being hosted in Brussels by the EU's Health Commissioner Tonio Borg, but they were first called for by Ireland, where DNA tests found frozen beef products that contained up to 100 percent horsemeat, The Journal reported.
"This is impacting on the integrity of the food chain, which is a really significant issue for a lot of countries," said Simon Coveney, Ireland's farming minister.
"Now that we know this is a European problem, we need a European solution," he added.
Britain's National Beef Association has already called for clearer labeling of meat earlier this month, but as the investigation into the use of horsemeat, pork, and other meat in supposedly all-beef meals continues, many European countries are joining in that request, CNN reported.
However, some experts have said privately that the complexities of the meat supply chain would make that impossible, according to Reuters.
More from GlobalPost: Anatomy of a burger: 5 things you don't want to know about beef


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Wall Street analysts forecast that Gap Inc (NYSE:GPS) will post earnings per share of $0.69 for the current quarter, Zacks Investment Research reports. Eight analysts have provided estimates for GAP’s earnings, with the lowest EPS estimate coming in at $0.60 and the highest estimate coming in at $0.74. GAP reported earnings of $0.61 per share during the same quarter last year, which indicates a positive year over year growth rate of 13.1%. The firm is scheduled to issue its next quarterly earnings report on Thursday, March 7th.
On average, analysts expect that GAP will report full-year earnings of $2.57 per share for the current financial year, with EPS estimates ranging from $2.54 to $2.60. For the next fiscal year, analysts anticipate that the company will report earnings of $2.67 per share, with EPS estimates ranging from $2.38 to $3.00. Zacks Investment Research’s EPS calculations are a mean average based on a survey of sell-side research firms that that provide coverage for GAP.
GAP (NYSE:GPS) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, November 20th. The apparel retailer reported $0.69 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the Zacks’ consensus estimate of $0.68 by $0.01. GAP had a net margin of 5.57% and a return on equity of 29.45%. The business had revenue of $4.09 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $0.58 earnings per share. The business’s revenue for the quarter was up 6.5% on a year-over-year basis.
Shares of NYSE GPS traded down $0.01 on Monday, reaching $25.24. 4,509,064 shares of the company’s stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 6,708,400. GAP has a 12 month low of $24.25 and a 12 month high of $35.68. The company has a market capitalization of $9.94 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.85, a P/E/G ratio of 1.13 and a beta of 0.67. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.36, a quick ratio of 0.85 and a current ratio of 1.97.
The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, January 30th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, January 9th will be paid a dividend of $0.2425 per share. This represents a $0.97 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.84%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, January 8th. GAP’s dividend payout ratio is presently 45.54%.
Several institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of GPS. AQR Capital Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of GAP by 456.0% during the 3rd quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 9,883,253 shares of the apparel retailer’s stock worth $285,132,000 after acquiring an additional 8,105,713 shares during the last quarter. Point72 Asset Management L.P. increased its holdings in GAP by 626.8% in the 2nd quarter. Point72 Asset Management L.P. now owns 2,743,079 shares of the apparel retailer’s stock valued at $88,848,000 after acquiring an additional 2,365,680 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its holdings in GAP by 5.4% in the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 27,822,458 shares of the apparel retailer’s stock valued at $802,678,000 after acquiring an additional 1,433,737 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc increased its holdings in GAP by 5.4% in the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc now owns 27,822,458 shares of the apparel retailer’s stock valued at $802,678,000 after acquiring an additional 1,433,737 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Marshall Wace LLP bought a new stake in GAP in the 2nd quarter valued at $42,264,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 56.53% of the company’s stock.
GAP Company Profile
The Gap, Inc operates as an apparel retail company worldwide. The company offers apparel, accessories, and personal care products for men, women, and children under the Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, Athleta, and Intermix brands. Its products include denim, tees, button-downs, khakis, and other products; and fitness and lifestyle products for use in yoga, training, sports, travel, and everyday activities to women and girls.
Read More: What is the quiet period?
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Actis has sold its remaining 7.5% stake in Edita Food Industries (Edita) to 42 blue-chip international investors from the USA, UK, Germany, South Africa, and the UAE.
AfricInvest and Mediterrania Capital Partners have sold their stakes in Grupo San Jose & Lopez (SJL), a logistics and international road freight transport company with operations in the Maghreb and Europe.
Centum has sold its 26.43% stake in KWA Holding East Africa (KWA), one of the foremost manufacturers and distributors of spirits and wines in Kenya, to Distell International Holdings, a subsidiary of Distell Group.
Injaro Investments, the manager of the agricultural impact fund IACHL, has sold its 30% stake in seed producer Nafaso to the founders and other shareholders.
ADP I Fund has successfully sold its 27.7% shareholding in CAL Bank in Ghana to Arise BV, a financial services investment company whose major shareholders are Norfund, Rabobank and FMO.
FlightScope, a developer of 3D Doppler ball-tracking radar for sports, has bought out its venture capital partner, HBD Venture Capital.
Inspired Evolution, a South African clean energy and resource efficiency specialised fund manager, has exited a number of its renewable energy investments held in its Evolution One Fund portfolio.
CDG Capital Private Equity, a private investment fund based in Morocco, has sold its stake in regional outsourcing company Intelcia to Altice Group, a multinational group operating in telecommunications, content and media.
Actis has fully exited its remaining 14.3% stake in Uganda’s principal electricity distribution and supply business, Umeme via the Ugandan and Kenyan capital markets.
Ajinomoto has acquired a 33.33% stake in Promasidor Holdings, a major processed foods manufacturer in Africa, for $532m from Tana Africa Capital and the company’s founding partners.
Catalyst Principal Partners, East Africa focused private equity firm, has sold its controlling stake in Kenya’s pharmaceutical retailer Goodlife Pharmacy to LeapFrog Investments.
Hermes-Sojitz, an international direct investments fund, has sold its 60.3% stake in Sinopac, a company involved in exploration and mining of rare earth metals in Africa, for $340m.
Cauris Management, a private equity fund manager in Francophone West Africa, has sold its shares in Atlantic Business International (ABI) and Bridge Bank Group Côte d'Ivoire.
Absa Bank, a wholly owned subsidiary of Barclays Africa Group, has announced that it will sell its 49% stake in RainFin to the company’s founders and management.


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VR games for PlayStation
Resident Evil 7 is the first game that introduced a total integration of the VR experience. Therefore, the amount of playing time increased tremendously. Some say the use of a VR set has doubled ever since. Get Resident Evil 7 for free with a code from free PSN codes and try it out yourself. What is even more exciting than Resident Evil, is the new game that is coming, Farpoint. This adventure/shooting game will also be completely in virtual reality and it comes with a PlayStation VR Aim Controller. In other words, the PlayStation VR gun.
Expectations about Virtual Reality
Virtual reality has been on the market for a while now. While before the release the expectations of sales were not that high. People were saying that VR would become the biggest gaming and entertainment evolution since years. That being said, it still had to become true. At that time, even Sony was saying it had their doubt about virtual reality. It is generally known that when you release a new product or service you need to wait how the market will react. For example, what the demand and user experiences will be like. Based on the lack of knowledge about demand and experience Sony manufactured a limited amount of VR sets.
Selling the PlayStation VR headset
Due to all the excitement of a new product, you automatically assume a high manufacturing amount. Being careful in the back of their mind, Sony set in on low numbers. Eventually, it turned out Sony was too cautious. In Japan, the country where the PlayStation VR headset released, was a constant scarcity of headsets. Sony mentioned in an interview that in approximately four months, it sold about 1 million VR sets. The great demand in VR was a suprise to anyone from Sony. There are people that even had to stand in line in order to purchase a virtual reality set for their PlayStation.
Sony is selling VR in combination with their PlayStation console. This is giving Sony a great advantage on big competitors such as the Facebook Oculus and HTC. There are cheaper VR sets available, but these sets use a phone for visuals. Unfortunately this is not coming close to the virtual experience you will get when you connect your set to a gaming console or computer. Research showed that the sales figures of Sony are more than double the amount of their competitors. While Sony is already being cheaper than others, it said to lower prices in the future. With lowering the price, Sony will try to reach most PS4 owners.


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DVLA explain how to pay vehicle tax by Direct Debit
Car owners have been targeted with a new scam in which fraudsters purport to be from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). In the fraudulent email, customers are told their last car tax payment was not received by the DVLA and are threatened with a fine or even the crushing of the owner’s cars.
In an email seen by Express.co.uk, the email address was not a legitimate DVLA address.
Instead, it came from a Hotmail account, which would not be an official form of correspondence from the driving authority.
The email asks customers to provide their credit card details via a link embedded in the body text.
There was also a number of noticeable spelling mistakes in the original email; a common sign of phishing attempts.
It reads: “DVLA have been notified electronically about you latest payment for your vehicle tax failed because there is not enough money on you debit card. Your vehicle is no longer taxed.
DVLA scam warning: Drivers are being targeted in a new email scam
“We have generated a new invoice, and we suggest you to use a credit card instead of a debit, to avoid any other consequences that might appear in case again won't be enough funds inside."(sic)
It continues: “It’s illegal to drive your vehicle until you’ve taxed it.
“You will be fined £80 if you do not tax your vehicle or tell DVLA that it’s off the road.
“You’ll also have to pay for the time it was not taxed.
Car tax changes are ‘not as simple’ as switching petrol and diesel fee [COMMENT]
Top Gear recreates road trips when sat-navs didn't exist in new series [INSIGHT]
Car manufacturers raise concerns over 2030 car ban [WARNING]
“If you do not pay your fine on time your vehicle could be clamped or crushed, or your details passed to a debt collection agency.”
A DVLA spokesperson told Express.co.uk: "As we regularly remind customers, the only place to access official information on DVLA and its services is GOV.UK. We never ask for bank or credit card details by text message or email, so if you receive something like this, it’s a scam.
“Scammers are becoming more persistent in their efforts to target motorists. Some of the more recent scams may at first seem legitimate, however, they are designed to trick motorists into providing their personal details.
“Customers should report suspicious emails to the NCSC immediately. Anyone concerned they may have been a victim of fraud should contact the police through Action Fraud straight away.”
The DVLA has previously warned it will never ask for customers' bank details by email or text.
In a tweet, the DVLA said: “Scammers pretend to be DVLA giving false information through texts and emails ‘phishing’ for your information.
“Don’t fall for it. Make sure you use GOV.UK to find DVLA services and information.”
A spokesperson for the DVLA also previously stated: “The only website to access official information about DVLA and our services is GOV.UK.
“We don’t send emails or texts asking for bank details or vehicle tax refunds.”
The DVLA is frequently hit by scam attempts, and drivers are urged to remain cautious.
In the latter half of 2020, the DVLA said it received approximately 7,000 reports of car owners who had been sent emails, texts and phone calls in which the fraudster was posing as the DVLA.
All of these were scams, according to the driving authority.
Action Fraud has urged drivers to familiarise themselves with online safety and the basic traits of a scam, in a bid to stop them from falling victim.
They urged drivers to always use official Government channels.
They said: “Taking a couple of minutes to familiarise yourself with a few simple online safety tips can be significant in protecting yourself from becoming a victim of online fraud.
“You should always be cautious when sharing personal information online and avoid being scammed by only using GOV.UK for government services online, such as the DVLA.
“If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, please report it to us.”


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Ambulance manufacturer closing in Elkhart
ELKHART –– SJC Industries has decided to close its Elkhart facilities in July, according to a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification filed with the state Monday.
According to the notice, about 165 workers will be terminated at the company’s facility at 25161 Leer Drive.
The company is an ambulance manufacturer that Thor Industries sold May 6 to Allied Specialty Vehicles. ASV confirmed the site will close.
The closing does not affect Goshen Coach Inc. bus manufacturing or its employees.
For more on this story, read Wednesday’s edition of the South Bend Tribune.


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A giant freighter operated by Taiwan Evergreen Shipping ran aground on the Suez Canal, which blocked the traffic on this busy maritime trade route. Some analysts say that this may affect the transportation of oil, natural gas and other materials from the Middle East to Europe, and even affect the global supply chain in the next few months.
At present, several tugboats in Egypt are involved in the rescue work. However, Zhengrong Steamboat told AFP that "we still don't know how long it will take" to re-float, and said that it is currently trying to dig the river under the bow and plans to tow the boat again when the tide is high.
The company also said that the ship has an insurance policy, but the details and costs are not yet known.
What impact will it have on shipping and economy and trade?
The Suez Canal is located on the west side of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt, across the Isthmus of Suez at the junction of Asia and Africa, connecting the Mediterranean and the Red Sea. It is the shortest waterway between Europe and Asia, and it is also a vital maritime route in the world. The existence of this canal prevents ships from Asia and Europe from bypassing the Cape of Good Hope at the southern tip of Africa, greatly saving voyages.
Nowadays, the grounding of the "Changci" has made it impossible for the cargo ships before and after it to pass, and the voyage has been delayed. According to a report from the Associated Press on Thursday, at least 150 ships are currently affected and stuck on the Suez Canal. The report pointed out that the blockage of the canal may affect the transportation of oil and natural gas from the Middle East to Europe.
According to estimates by Lloyd's List, an internationally renowned shipping industry magazine, the suspension of the Suez Canal for one day will result in a delay of 9 billion U.S. dollars worth of freight.
Lars Jensen, chief officer of Danish shipping consulting agency SeaIntelligence Consulting, told The Associated Press that the blockage of the Suez Canal will bring about a domino effect, not just freight delays, but "will also affect the supply chain in a matter of months."


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The US Secret Service (USSS) has reportedly bought a product that allows them to access location data from certain apps on unsuspecting people’s phones. The product, called Location X, was sold as part of a contract between the USSS and Babel Street which ran between September 28, 2017, and September 27, 2018, for the cost of $36 000.
The contract, which was obtained by Motherboard through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request, confirms the findings of Protocol, who published a report on the matter in March this year. Protocol found that the Secret Service, US Customs and Border Patrol, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement have all used Location X, with one employee telling the publication that it was used by the USSS to seize illegal credit card skimmers installed at gas pumps in 2018.
Many apps use our location data and, often, it can be our best interest to give it up – particularly for weather and GPS applications. However, many apps don’t really need this data, and a lot of it is sold to companies for advertising purposes. Location is typically not expected to be sold to government agencies. But, according to Motherboard, it increasingly is being sold to the likes of the USSS and ICE.
Law enforcement agencies would usually need a warrant to access user data like location, but companies like Babel are allowing them to bypass this by paying directly to obtain this anonymous (but not really) information.
Senator Ron Wyden told Motherboard that he is planning legislation that would block these types of purchases with the ‘The Fourth Amendment Is Not For Sale’ bill. “It is clear that multiple federal agencies have turned to purchasing Americans’ data to buy their way around Americans’ Fourth Amendment Rights. I’m drafting legislation to close this loophole, and ensure the Fourth Amendment isn’t for sale,” he said in a statement to Motherboard.
Both the USSS and Babel Street failed to respond to a request for comment from Senator Wyden and Motherboard.


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Fubo Gaming has rolled-out its maiden sponsorship with a National Basketball Association franchise, after becoming a long-term partner of the Cleveland Cavaliers.
The partnership will promote the Fubo Gaming brand through an integrated marketing campaign highlighted by broadcast-visible signage, a presence on team television and radio game programming, as well as activation on the Cavs’ digital and social channels and other marketing assets.
Furthermore, the company will also be the presenting partner of Cavs Pick ‘Em, the free-to-play live predictive gaming platform that debuted last season in GameDay+, a second screen platform inside the Cavs App.
“We couldn’t be more excited to align our Cavaliers brand with Fubo Gaming, a company that shares a mutual passion for innovation and as we like to say, who are ‘obsessed with finding a better way’ in such a new and rapidly-evolving sports gaming category,” said Shelly Cayette, Cleveland Cavaliers senior vice president of global partnerships.
“We are proud to team up with Fubo Gaming and help bolster their brand presence across the greater Cleveland region, all over Ohio, and with our fanbase for many years to come.”
Beginning with the upcoming 2021-22 season, the Fubo Gaming brand will be prominently featured inside the bowl of Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse via in-venue signage that will be visible to all Cavs fans in attendance, as well as those watching games on television from home.
“We’re thrilled to have our first NBA team partnership with the Cleveland Cavaliers, an innovative sports franchise known to have one of the most passionate fan bases in the league,” commented Scott Butera, president of Fubo Gaming.
“This partnership is a natural extension of our overall goal to deliver sports fans dynamic and engaging experiences with the teams and sports they love.”
Fubo Gaming, an authorised gaming operator of the NBA, expects to launch Fubo Sportsbook in the fourth quarter 2021, subject to requisite regulatory approvals. The launch timeline in individual states is yet to be announced.


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BUMAX has offered to provide companies that are producing much-needed ventilators with at-cost premium fasteners for their devices – as well as doing its best to maintain supply for all customers.
All around the globe, healthcare providers are using ventilators to treat the growing number of Covid-19 patients. Ventilators are essential in keeping people alive by helping to oxygenate their bloodstream. However, many hospitals don’t have enough ventilators and BUMAX has offered to support the production of ventilators by providing at-cost fasteners.
“We have already offered at-cost fasteners to companies manufacturing ‘basic’ breathing machines that can be rapidly produced on a large scale to cope with demand and save lives,” says Patrik Lundström Törnquist, managing director at BUMAX. “This is an open offer to all companies around the world who are developing and producing ventilators and other critical medical equipment to deal with Covid-19 – so please contact me to find out more.”
Manufacturers of medical components, including for ventilators, typically opt for BUMAX fasteners as they offer higher strength and consistency. “Our products reduce the risk of device failure – which can be critical in medical applications,” says Törnquist.
Premium fasteners play an important role in a wide range of critical applications all around the world. BUMAX is working to maintain the supply of its fasteners to ensure Covid-19 has minimal disruption on the global supply chain.
“We already maintain a large stock of our products that are ready for shipping – including both standard BUMAX products and some custom products,” explains Törnquist. “We have also set up our production teams in Sweden to minimize the direct impacts of Covid-19 on our production.”


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Alternative Gift Market For The Holidays
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KFSM) — The holiday shopping season is in full swing and a group in northwest Arkansas is using the holidays to highlight humanitarian causes.
The Alternative Gift Market was held Sunday (Dec. 2) in Fayetteville.
The market is a place for shoppers to donate to a cause — it’s a purchase-free gift that supports various causes in honor of a loved one.
Organizers said it is all about helping people celebrate the season – while escaping from object-based gift giving.
“It’s a variety of gifts that range from $1. We have our Sunday school classes coming down soon to make purchases for the children if they want to do a smaller gift, to up to $100, and each organization has set up a booth where they have mission-driven gifts that can be made that range from $10 to like I said at least $100 or more,” said Alternative Gift Market Committee Chair Mary Elizabeth Eldridge.
If you missed Sunday’s Gift Market – you can find out how to keep up to date when future events are happening by visiting this page.


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Deep discounts, among other things, are behind Indian e-tail’s phenomenal growth. A new analysis, however, shows that discounts will matter less for future growth. An AT Kearney report shows that by 2020, 60% of the buyers will shop online because it would offer greater convenience of ordering and delivery, compared to 48% today, while buyers motivated by discounts will fall from 56% today to 52%. As the internet reaches more Indians, more than 125 million shoppers will come online—taking the estimated total from 50 million today to 175 million—and the number of women shopping online will grow by five times. Value-added services will become the key differentiator; 46% buyers surveyed for the Kearney analysis say that they will pay extra for faster delivery while 37% and 35% say they will pay for hassle-free return and extended warranty, respectively.
Even as the new guidelines for e-tail severely limit the room for e-tailers to offer the kind of discounts they have done so far, the Kearney findings should prod them further away from this model. In fact, with value-added services likely to become that much more important, online marketplaces in India could learn a lot from what firms abroad are doing. For instance, Lamoda, a fashion e-tailer in Russia, has trained delivery personnel to offer fashion advice to buyers—a service typically expected from shop assistants—with the option of immediate return if the garment doesn’t fit or is not up to the buyer’s liking. China’s JD.com offers a 3-hour delivery for premium buyers. There are, of course, other ways of ensuring more convenient delivery/ordering—for instance, helping the buyer locate a store that stocks an item ‘out-of-stock’ on the online marketplace. For Indian e-tail, there is simply much more to offer than just big bargains.


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DENMARK: Carlsberg sells off local assets
Danish brewer Carlsberg is selling its shopping centre assets, north of Copenhagen.
The brewer said today (2 March) that it had signed an agreement to sell the shopping centre, which is still under construction, at the Tuborg premises in Hellerup, north of Copenhagen.
The sale of Carlsberg's share is expected to result in a gain of around DKK120m (US$19.2m) in 2007 while the previously expected annual rental income of about DKK15m will no longer figure in its accounts. Carlsberg's share of the sales proceeds will be around DKK350m.
Carlsberg announced the sale as it was not included in its profit forecast that it gave to the Copenhagen Stock Exchange on 21 February.
"Currently, agreements have been entered into on the delivery of properties and apartments at Tuborg Syd in Hellerup for the period 2006-08," Carlsberg said.
"The financial consequences of these agreements are that in 2006-2008 around DKK410m, DKK400m and DKK20m, respectively, will be invested, while sales proceeds in 2006-2008 will be around DKK105m, DKK770m and DKK780m, respectively.
"Thus, the development of these properties will have a negative impact on free cash flow in 2006 as a result of investments which will not lead to sales until the following years.
"The gain on sales in 2006-2008 is expected to amount to around DKK85m, DKK275m and DKK285m, respectively."
Carlsberg has finally hooked up with a state-owned Vietnamese brewer....
Carlsberg has entered into negotiations with the IBM Group regarding a possible outsourcing of the Danish brewer's IT services in Europe....
Carlsberg's rating has been lowered following its disappointing Q1 figures earlier this week....
Carlsberg said today that global beer volume showed a 20% increase in the first quarter of the year driven by strong organic growth in BBH as well as a considerable contribution from acquisitions, inc...
Carlsberg has appointed a managing director for its Chinese operations....
Carlsberg has increased its ownership in Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Berhad from 49.66% to 51%. The investment amounts to approximately US$6m....
Dutch brewer Heineken is rumored to have released a self-chilling beer can....
The Bosnian government has put a majority stake in the country's brewery Banjalucka Pivara up for sale. Previous efforts to privatise the brewer have failed....
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The recent Leviathan expansion for Europa Universalis 4 has managed to earn itself an unflattering spot amongst the lowest-ranked products on Steam, with a positive review rating of only seven percent from 3955 reviews. Players said the DLC was seriously
Microsoft has released a new dynamic theme for Xbox Series X/S which brings to life the retro, Matrix-inspired aesthetic of the OG Xbox.
The animated background, named “The Original”, is more akin to the loading animation you got when first
Three design and multiple implementation flaws have been disclosed in IEEE 802.11 technical standard that undergirds Wi-Fi, potentially enabling an adversary to take control over a system and plunder confidential data.
Called FragAttacks (short for FRgmentation and AGgregation attacks), the
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is not only the 3rd best-selling Switch game of the system’s life to date, but it’s also right at the top among the most active online communities. Fighters keep fighting, Nintendo keeps the DLC coming, and
Currently being tested in the US.
Ever since the new generation of consoles released at the end of last year, both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series consoles have suffered from stock shortages – and as a result of that,
But will grow F2P as “additional way to experience” its big franchises.
Ubisoft has said it will release big budget free-to-play versions of some of its major franchises – as well as continue its traditional full-price AAA releases of things


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Diversity is vital for securing SSE’s future
SSE’s Metering and Smart Transformation Director, Sara Jane Asquith, has joined the judging panel for the Worldpay everywoman in Retail Ambassadors awards.
The Worldpay everywoman in Retail Ambassadors awards is an international awards programme designed to celebrate the careers of inspirational woman who show how retail businesses can offer exciting and rewarding careers.
A number of SSE employees have been nominated for the awards. Candidates are nominated by their colleagues in recognition of their dedication, hard work and the inspiration they give to their fellow colleagues on a regular basis.
Sara Jane said: “We are extremely pleased several women in our Retail team have been nominated for this year’s award programme. This is just one part of our efforts to recognise and develop talent within SSE’s retail business and our aim to be a more diverse and inclusive company. We all wish them the best of luck for both the awards and their future careers with SSE.”
SSE has a strong track record in encouraging diversity. A strategy for how it aims to become a more diverse and inclusive organisation – called ‘In, On, Up!’ – has been rolled out right across the company, with a focus on the following three key areas:
- attracting women to join SSE;
- supporting women to stay; and
- ensuring there’s a fair playing field for women to progress their careers.
People have always been considered SSE’s most important asset. But getting the right mix is important to help the company grow. Evidence shows more diverse organisations perform better and are more robust in tough times.
SSE is under no illusion; there is a lot of work to be done to achieve better gender balance, not only in SSE but across the wider industry. By supporting programmes such as the Worldpay everywoman in Retail Ambassadors Awards it will help us to take bold steps towards reaching these diversity goals.


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SWITZERLAND: Carlsberg to close Swiss brewery
Carlsberg consolidates in Switzerland and France
Carlsberg is to close one of its two breweries in Switzerland as part of the group's ongoing consolidation of beer operations in Western Europe.
Carlsberg said today (31 August) that its subsidiary in Switzerland, Feldschlösschen, will close its brewery in Fribourg by June 2011. Carlsberg will concentrate production for the Swiss market at its brewery in Rheinfelden.
Demand for beer in Western Europe has declined over the last few years and most major brewers have sought to streamline their operations.
Some of the beer production at Fribourg will be transferred to the Obernai brewery in France, Carlsberg said. Obernai is part of Brasseries Kronenbourg, which Carlsberg acquired in 2008 as part of its carve-up of Scottish & Newcastle with Heineken.
"During the last years, Feldschlösschen in Switzerland has been producing below its capacity," said Carlsberg. "With volume moving to France, overcapacity will become even more significant."
All 75 affected employees in Fribourg will either be offered alternative employment within Feldschlösschen or will retire, the brewer said. The micro brewery Valaisanne in Sion, which has ten employees, will be unaffected.
Western Europe's beer market shrank by 1% in volume for the first half of 2010, compared with the same period of 2009, Carlsberg said in its full-year results announcement earlier this month.
The French market shrank by 2% over the same six-month period and Brasseries Kronenbourg lost some market share as it continued to restructure its business with a greater focus on premium brands, Carlsberg said.
Drinks packaging giant Rexam has recorded an increase in full-year profits and said it remains focused on making investments in 2011....
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DEARBORN, MI – Sales of Ford utility vehicles have been skyrocketing worldwide, with the exception of fullsize body-on-frame SUVs.
Since 2005, global demand for those big, truck-based vehicles have fallen 22%, the auto maker says, though it has no intention of pulling the plug on such models as the Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator.
“We think that’s a stable group of customers, and we don’t see that segment going away or dramatically changing,” Jim Farley, executive vice president-global marketing, sales and service and Lincoln, says at a media backgrounder here.
Although fullsize-SUV sales remain stable, Farley says customers are taking notice of the fuel-economy improvements in other vehicle segments and expect to see similar innovations in their models. The ’13 Expedition equipped with a 5.4L V-8 achieves a modest 13/18 mpg (18.0-13.0 L/100 km) city/highway.
“There’s still quite a bit of transformation that is going to have to happen in the execution of the product, but it’s an important and stable segment,” Farley says, declining to reveal what improvements Ford is planning.
Fuel economy is top of mind among many consumers, especially in mature markets such as the U.S. and Europe, but it’s of little concern to customers in the Middle East, an important export destination for the Kentucky-built Expedition and Navigator.
“Expedition and similar-sized vehicles are extremely popular (in the Middle East) and one of the most important exports from the U.S.,” Farley says. “In the Middle East fuel prices are negligible, so it’s a great solution for those customers.”
In 2012, 41% of the 67,434 Expeditions built were exported to the Middle East, according to WardsAuto data.
Other. auto makers also are exporting their U.S.-built fullsize, truck-based SUVs in relatively big numbers to the region. Toyota shipped 43.9% of the 27,128 Sequoias fullsize SUVs it assembled in 2012 to the Middle East, while General Motors exported 8.9% of its Chevrolet Suburban and 37.8% of its GMC Yukon production to the region.
Sales of other Ford utility vehicles have been on the rise, especially in markets such as California, where the Detroit Three historically have struggled.
Explorer midsize SUV deliveries rose 43% in the state through April, Ford says, while sales of the Escape small cross/utility vehicle jumped 51%. In first-quarter 2013, the auto maker says it captured 15% of the California utility segment, up six percentage points from 2006.
Ford also is having success with its utility lineup globally. Demand for small Ford utility vehicles has shot up 154% since 2005, while sales of medium-sized models have risen 56%.
“In North America, we took (utility sales) for granted,” Farley says. “Now it’s happening around the world.”
The growth in global utility-vehicle sales is expected to continue. By 2017, deliveries will rise 12% in North America, 26% in Europe and 30% in the Middle East and North Africa, Ford predicts. Demand will jump 101% in China and 36% in Southeast Asia, the auto maker adds.
B- and C-sized CUVs are expected to account for 12% of total global vehicle sales by 2017. Ford is hoping to capitalize on that growth with its Escape and Kuga C-segment CUVs and B-segment EcoSport.
The EcoSport, a longtime best-seller in South America, also is sold in Europe, China and Russia. Farley says Ford is mulling whether to offer the model in the U.S.
“EcoSport is a ‘One Ford’ product, so we have that ability (to sell it in the U.S.),” he says. “It’s a very small market here in the U.S., but as a leader we’re studying it very closely.”
Utility vehicles, especially body-on-frame SUVs, were hot sellers in the U.S. in the 1980s and 1990s until rising gasoline prices caused consumers to edge away from the segment.
Farley says the current rising popularity of utility vehicles overall is sustainable, noting newer, car-based models are more fuel-efficient than their predecessors and are attracting Baby Boomers looking to downsize.
“The death of utilities was premature; it just came back in a different form,” he says, noting today’s consumers aren’t interesting in the rugged, off-roading image of earlier SUVs. “Today the idea of a utility is in an urban setting. It’s quite different than the 1980s.”


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Online Retailers Gear Up for Anticipated ¥1 Trillion in Spending with a New Round of Promotions: Chinese New Year Preview Update
Spring Festival, or the “Chinese New Year,” is a major spending period in China — and in recent years more and more spending, gifting and sending money has gone digital. Online retailers are tapping into this trend by stepping up holiday promotions to grab a bigger slice of the Spring Festival pie. In this update to our recent Chinese New Year Preview report, we review the latest promotions offered on major marketplace websites.
- Chinese e-commerce platforms, such as Tmall, JD.com and Suning, are heavily promoting various traditional and non-traditional goods — many starting far in advance to tap into consumer spending early.
- Retail and food service sales during the Lunar New Year more than doubled since 2011, from ¥405 billion to ¥926 billion in 2018.
- We expect total retail and food-service sales in this year’s holiday season to hit ¥1 trillion.


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A radical idea is sweeping the world of American bicycle manufacturing: building bikes that people will use for actual transportation.
After decades of pushing models designed for recreation, from full-suspension mountain bikes to ever-faster road bikes, industry heavyweights are now moving into commuters -- rugged specimens made for riding to work. Nearly every major manufacturer has a new or revised commuter model for 2007. They may look like 1940s Schwinns, but materials like aluminum and carbon make the frames lighter, while technological advances mean better brakes, shock-absorbing seats, smoother shifters and even electric power. The models usually come with practical accessories, like racks for carrying briefcases, fenders for splash protection on wet roads, lights that turn on automatically at dusk and big chain guards to keep legs and clothing away from chain grease.
Specialized's new Globe commuter line has nine selections, from $410 to $1,300. The 2007 Transporter from Diamondback is billed as an "AWB" (All-Weather Bike), thanks to fenders and lightly treaded, all-purpose tires. Manufacturer Breezer, which came out with its first commuter models in 2002, has added a new version of its Uptown 8 this season, with LED headlights, more comfortable handlebars, a full chain case and more puncture-resistant tires.
Europeans, of course, have been riding commuter bikes for decades. In Holland, there are twice as many bikes as cars, and nearly as many bicycles as people. Now, in the U.S., the industry is pitching the new models as gas prices remain high and concerns over obesity grow. They also come as cities and states move to become more bike-friendly.
Last month, New York City's Department of Transportation announced it will add 200 miles of new on-street bicycle paths, lanes and routes over the next three years. Florida just implemented a new state law that requires motorists to maintain a minimum three-foot distance when passing bicyclists -- following similar legislation in Arizona, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Utah and Wisconsin.
Whether many Americans will trade their cars for bikes remains to be seen. Sales of commuter bikes rose 15% over the past two years, according to Boston-based Bicycle Market Research Institute. However, at an estimated $900,000 in annual sales, it is still a small niche. Less than 0.5% of Americans commute by bike, according to the 2000 U.S. Census report. "There's no way it will happen here," says Bicycle Market Research Institute President Ash Jaising, who projects the segment's rise in sales will slow to 5% to 10% over the next two years. "The roads are just too dangerous."
Manufacturers are trying to attract newcomers, with the hope that the commuters will go on to buy road and mountain bikes for fun. "It's a first bike," says Dan Grunig, executive director of advocacy group Bicycle Colorado. "It gets you into shape and healthy to the point where you're interested in biking as a recreation."
A Gym Alternative
Ernie Soloman isn't entirely new to bicycling, but his 20-year-old ride has long gathered dust in the garage. "I kept meaning to ride it, but I never did," he says. A couple of months ago, the Alameda, Calif., contractor decided he should start biking to work for exercise -- and the local shop wanted to charge $400 to repair his old model. Instead, he bought a Specialized Globe. He now makes the two-mile commute by bike three days a week.
Saving the world is one part of the pitch. "Think about some of the major problems we face in our time -- air pollution, ozone depletion, obesity, high blood pressure, stress -- it's obvious that if you can succeed at getting noncyclists on bikes more often, all these problems will become a little smaller," says a blurb for the Globe in Specialized's 2007 catalog.
It is also a chance for the industry to jolt itself back to life. Last year, 19.8 million bicycles were sold in the U.S., according to the National Bike Dealers Association. While that number has grown over the past few years, unit sales are down 5% from 20.9 million five years earlier. An estimated 41.4 million Americans age 7 and older rode a bicycle six times or more in 2002, according to the latest figures from the National Sporting Goods Association. That's down from 54.6 million participants in 1992.
Some specialty-bike shops are playing up the new models as they face increased competition from mass-market retailers like Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and Costco Wholesale Corp. Last year, there were 4,705 specialty stores in the U.S., down 24% since 2000, according to the National Bicycle Dealers Association. Fred Clements, the group's executive director, says the shops tend to attract "enthusiasts" -- mostly higher-income white males. The association is about to embark on a marketing campaign called "The Bike Shop Advantage" to demonstrate how specialty stores can help all kinds of customers. "One of our challenges is to broaden our reach," he says.
A year ago, Fat Tire Cycles in Albuquerque, N.M., featured an array of road, mountain and hybrid bikes inside the front door. When owner Steve McCampbell gets the latest 2007 models, he will park three of Electra's new $550 Amsterdam commuter bikes (in white, black and blue) at the entrance instead. "I'm absolutely convinced they're going to fly out the door," he says.
But in the bike industry -- which has niches within niches -- something as simple as a bike to ride to work can get confusing. Many other bike categories already overlap; it can be hard to tell the difference between cruisers (often colorful, heavy bikes for running errands), comfort bikes (with wide seats and upright positioning, often aimed at older riders) and Townie bikes (often for college kids to get around campus), for instance.
The commuter category is already starting to subdivide and blur. Some models, with names like Continental and Amsterdam, are influenced by European styles. "We really wanted to capture the feeling and essence and aesthetics of the classic Dutch bike," says Jeano Erforth, co-founder of Electra Bicycle Co. Like many Dutch versions, its $550 Amsterdam has a fully enclosed metal-chain cover, coaster brakes (that require pedaling backward) rather than hand brakes, a coat/skirt guard that partially covers the rear wheel, steel fenders and a front mud flap. It also features leather hand grips, a generator-powered headlight, a rear rack and a bell. The maker is targeting Americans who have "traveled to Europe a lot and seen how much of a lifestyle biking could be," says Mr. Erforth.
Netherlands-based Batavus is introducing models in the U.S. for the first time this year, through Seattle Bike Supply, in response to emails from Americans who said they were interested in buying.
Specialized wanted a more homegrown style with its new Globe line, says project manager Deacon James. The bike is more lightweight than many Dutch models and is built to enhance the feeling of speed. "The U.S. market is all about recreation and excitement and adrenaline and fun," he says.
For Americans who don't want all the exercise, electric bikes are now being lumped under the commuter umbrella as well. The $1,999 IZIP electric bike, out from Currie Technologies this year, uses a lithium phosphate battery and bills itself as a hybrid: The more you pedal, the more the motor kicks in. The $1,699 Schwinn Continental has a battery that plugs directly into the bike's rack. Both are made to look more like a regular bike than a moped.
Another commuter variation is the folding bike. Los-Angeles based Dahon, which produced its first folding bike in 1982, had 10 new versions in 2006. Monty Bicycle, based in Spain, introduced five new models for 2007, while Breezer introduced two. Trek plans to bring out a new folding bike for 2008. Still, some American dealers are resistant to the idea. "You have to be a scientist to know how to put them together," says Rick Garner of Yosemite Bicycle & Sport in Oakhurst, Calif.
New shifting systems are making bikes easier to use. Ellsworth Handcrafted Bicycles -- better known for its full-suspension mountain bikes -- is introducing a gearless commuter model called The Ride. A new type of hub lets riders change modes for hills or speed by twisting the handlebars. Last month, Japanese component maker Shimano released a three-geared automatic shifting system called "coasting" that will go on some 2007 Raleigh, Trek and Giant models.
More niches are ahead. Sport-utility bikes are evolving from largely custom-built models into models that can accommodate another adult or a couple of children on the back. "Fat tire" bikes, for riding over mud, snow, ice and sand, are gaining ground as well. A frame from Surly, called the Pugsley, accommodates 3.7-inch wide, low-pressure tires -- almost double the average 2.1-inch width on a mountain bike tire.
Amy Morfas already has two bikes: a $2,500 titanium road bike and a cyclocross bike (a road bike with wide tires originally made for racing) that she rides to work when the weather is good. With gas prices so high, the marketing manager from Boulder, Colo., would like to start commuting in the winter now, too. Her road bike is too expensive and her cyclocross bike doesn't do well in rain or snow -- but so far, the commuter models she has seen are all too "cool" or too "geriatric," she says. "I'm still waiting for the right one."
How Wheeler-Dealers Get to Work
The push into commuter bikes this season has most major manufacturers putting out new or revamped models. Here's a rundown of the latest.
|Batavus Vivente||$1,549||Black, silver||Batavus is exporting to the U.S. for the first time this year. The aluminum-frame Vivente has a computer that tracks speed and distance, a built-in light and an integrated lock.|
|Breezer Uptown 8||$1,099||Ruby red, black sapphire||Updated with several new features, including an LED headlight system, more comfortable handlebars, a full chain cover, and tires that won't puncture as easily.|
|Cannondale Street Premium||$1,300||Fine silver||Billed as "the civilized way from A to B," this commuting bike is also sold in standard and women's versions. Too many potholes in the road? Model comes with front suspension.|
|Currie Technologies IZIP Urban Cruiser NuVinci||$1,999||Focus silver||This bike bills itself as an electric hybrid: The more you pedal, the more the motor kicks in. Its NuVinci "continuously variable transmission" system eliminates gears.|
|Diamondback Transporter||$450||Dark gray||The Transporter is the company's first foray into commuter bikes. Diamondback calls this a "rugged and reliable urban utility and transportation" bike.|
|Electra Amsterdam Classic||$550||Black, green, white, blue||Modeled after Dutch commuter bikes, this new offering from the maker of stylish cruisers has double-chrome plating in the handlebars. Aimed at people who have traveled to Europe.|
|Ellsworth Handcrafted Bicycles The Ride||$2,995||Red, white, black||A departure for the maker, which is known for its full-suspension mountain bikes. There are no gears -- riders change the drive ratio by twisting the handlebars. Out in December.|
|Schwinn Continental||$1,699||Charcoal, silver||An electric bike designed not to look like one, with a battery that plugs into the rack. The Continental resembles European commuter bikes -- only without fenders or chain guards.|
|Specialized Globe City 3.1||$1,200||Black||Specialized added the commuter bike category to its 2007 lineup. Comes with a rack, fenders, chain guards and a lighting system with LED in rear and halogen in front.|
|Trek Portland||$1,699||Burnt orange||Trek's 2007 commuter bike is closer to a road bike than most others in the category, with drop-down handlebars and a carbon fork. Its disc brakes can be an advantage on wet roads.|
Write to Nancy Keates at firstname.lastname@example.org


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Confectionery companies in the US are hoping that today, the day of romance, could help lift lagging sales.
According to a survey by the National Retail Foundation, Americans, despite the recession, plan to spend an average of $95 (€108) for Valentine's Day gifts this year. Last year's average was $83.
Valentine's Day is not the top-selling holiday for the $24 billion confectionery industry, but it still makes quite an impact. This year, the National Confectioners Association expects nearly $1.1 billion in Valentine's Day sales, a $40 million jump from last year.


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Tattoo-related digital hub Tattoodo has raised $2.5 million in funding. The investors included Jimmy Maymann, president of AOL Content and Consumer Brands and Tom Ryan, CEO of Pluto TV.
Copenhagen, February, 2015 – Tattoodo, a digital hub for all things tattoo-related, announced today that a group of prominent leaders in the tech industry have made an investment of $2.5 million in the company while also taking on advisory roles. These well-known entrepreneurs include the likes of Jimmy Maymann (President of AOL Content and Consumer Brands), Tom Ryan (CEO, Pluto TV), Jake Nickell (CEO, Threadless), Rene Rechtman (International President, Maker Studios) and other major executives. This prestigious group of investors is a clear sign of the growing mainstream popularity of tattoos and tattoo culture along with the potential Tattoodo has to tap into this thriving market.
All bring their own unique insight to the company like Tom Ryan who co-founded PlutoTV, the fast-growing over-the-top television service. Among other notable investors and advisors include Jake Nickell, founder and CEO of the ecommerce artist community, Threadless, Jimmy Maymann, who brings extensive experience in digital advertising and new media strategy as current President of AOL Content and Consumer Brands, and Rene Rechtman, who comes with extensive experience in international media and technology as the International President of Maker Studio. Each member provides deep insight for Tattoodo as they work to extend the brand to reach every kind of user interested in tattoos.
Tattoodo is an online lifestyle outlet and marketplace that aims to serve as a one stop shop for the tattoo industry. The site connects users through its interactive platform which uses content, powerful visuals, and artist interviews in order to inspire anyone interested in tattoos, with a special focus on those who are new to the community. In addition, Tattoodo features a marketplace where users can work with artists in order to find the perfect design by submitting an idea and receiving feedback and drawings. The simplicity of the communication between artist and client allows for Tattoodo to have a fluid customer experience.
“We’re aiming to be the online home for not just tattoo-centric people, but those who have never even thought about entering into this permanent commitment as well,” said Mik Thobo-Carlsen, Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of Tattoodo. “I believe that with the track records of our club of investors in advertising and creative, they can really help us get to that next level where we can reach people who were never even involved in the tattoo community. These guys are always one step ahead of the curve and I’m honored and excited by this talented and diverse group of corporate leaders who have recently invested in Tattoodo. Their knowledge and experience will be invaluable in the company’s efforts to grow and expand its user base and offerings.”
Tattoodo’s large growth over a short span of time is an example of how the global trend of tattoos is becoming more popular in all types of communities. Tattooing is the sixth fastest growing market in the retail industry with roughly 30% of Americans going under the needle. In light of this, the group of tech leaders are well positioned to help Tattoodo take advantage of the growth in the market.
“I was impressed by Tattoodo’s approach to building a massive global community for tattoo culture,” said Ryan. “Thanks to their open platform, strong social marketing and partnerships with some of the biggest tattoo artists and influencers, Tattoodo has strong momentum and is the leader in a nearly untapped market with huge potential.”


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On September 27, Publicis Communications creative agencies and Publicis Media media agencies of the French communications holding company Publicis Groupe held ‘The Power of One’ closed conference in the DI Telegraph space in Moscow, Russia. The conference partners were: IMHO Digital Sales House, Gazprom-Media Digital, LBL, Hearst Shkulev Media, Mail.ru Group, LENTA.RU (RAMBLER&Co Group), GAZETA.RU (RAMBLER&Co Group), ALLEN MEDIA, Happy Monday Family and Timeout Moscow.
Publicis Groupe presented a new approach to accumulating all market expertise within one holding group, forming optimal project teams and offering solutions more quickly. More than 600 of the group’s clients and partners attended the event, and speakers from the UK, France and the Middle East were specially invited to the conference. Representatives of major advertising platforms were among the speakers: Facebook, Google, Mail.ru.
Technology has changed the concept of service, consumer behavior and marketing today. In order to lead this tidal wave of change, Publicis Groupe has radically transformed itself – the holding group has been turned into a flexible, modular and dynamic platform.
Yulia Arakelova, Chief Strategic Officer at Publicis Communications Russia, offered proof of why the model had to be changed. She showed a film of interviews with the marketing directors of top advertisers about issues in modern communications, agency relations and the future of the industry.
Yulia Udovenko, Business Transformation Director, and Dragorad Knezi, Disruption Evangelist at Publicis Communications Russia, talked about how companies are changing services and consumers needs. They also discussed marketing’s ‘magic push button’ on the market.
Jeff Chalmers and Tatyana Maslova, Chief Operating Officers at Publicis Media and Publicis Communications Russia, presented a response to the rapidly changing reality. They talked about the Groupe’s new approach, called The Power of One, and said that now the Groupe had all the expertise available on the market today, without exception.
The group then presented its new products and practices. Artem Korolev, Data Scientist at Publicis Media Russia, spoke about how Publicis Groupe uses artificial intelligence technologies to analyze brand target audiences.
Irina Kozlova, Development Director at Performics, and Dmitry Inozemtsev, Content Director at Performics, talked about the new approach to SEO developed by Publicis Media.
Amin Rafinejad from Prodigious, part of the French division of Publicis Groupe, talked about how their production was transformed into a unified platform able to quickly prepare content for all the clients’ objectives and make it multi-channel right away, and Jim Kite from Publicis London presented his NextTechNow project, which connects startups with large companies for mutually beneficial projects.
Representatives of major advertising platforms attending the conference talked about the change in their ecosystems: Dmitry Sergeev from Mail.ru Group, Ilya Alexeev from Facebook, Yury Dolzhenko from Google, and Alexander Ivanov from Rambler&Co.
The conference wasn’t only theoretic – you could also test some products right there. You could chat with a robot with a facial recognition system, go on a VR quest and view VR brand case studies.
Publicis Groupe launched its fundamental restructuring process in January of last year. A month before this, Maurice Lévy, then-CEO of Publicis Groupe, announced the change in the business model. The holding was previously based on a multi-divisional structure with international networks of agencies, but the large number of levels became barriers. Therefore, it was decided to organize key disciplines into four hubs: Publicis Communications — creative, Publicis Media — media, Publicis HealthCare — pharmaceutical marketing, Publicis Sapient — technologies. This changed the structure from a pyramid to a horizontal and integrated one, with the client at the center, who gains quick access to all of the holding’s expertise. The new approach was given the name The Power of One.


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Travelers Cos. boosted its dividend Thursday as first-quarter operating profit exceeded analyst expectations and the company continued to raise prices.
Net income fell 3.9% to $806 million but rose when measured on a per-share basis to $2.02 a share, Travelers said in a statement Thursday. The company earned $839 million, or $1.92 a share, in last year's first quarter.
Operating profit of $2.01 a share beat the consensus expectation of analysts surveyed by Thomson Reuters TRI -0.46% by 49 cents as underwriting income and revenue improved. Operating profits exclude some investment results.
Last year's first quarter included a $104 million benefit from the resolution of a tax matter in the company's favor. Ongoing measures of the company's financial results, including revenues, reserve adjustments and catastrophe losses, improved from a year earlier.
The company raised its dividend by five cents to 46 cents per share.
Travelers shares rose 3.8% in early trading to $61.72.
Travelers has been pushing through price increases for more than a year, partly in response to a rise in natural disasters and a decline in interest rates that have damped returns in its investment portfolio. But the latest results may be a sign of the consequences of the move: The number of business-insurance customers that renewed their policies declined from last year's first quarter, the number of consumers with Travelers home- and auto-insurance policies dropped, and new business volumes decreased in both segments.
Chief Executive Jay Fishman said the company was "extremely pleased with the pricing gains," and characterized customer retention as "strong and stable."
The price increases and other positive trends helped boost premium revenue 2.8% to $5.52 billion. Among the favorable factors: an improved economy meant that business-insurance clients had more to insure.
The company said its business-insurance segment, its largest unit, raised rates on returning customers by 8% in the first quarter, up from 6% in the fourth. It was the fifth consecutive quarter that the company raised rates, and the biggest increase to date.
Travelers' retention rate, a measure of how many customers renewed their policies, fell "modestly" in the first quarter at its business-insurance segment, the company said. Travelers said the decline was "consistent" with its effort to raise prices and improve returns.
For consumers, renewal premiums for auto insurance sold through agents rose 4% while the segment that includes home insurance saw 10% increases. The company said it was raising deductibles on its home-insurance policies and still working with state regulators to raise rates further in several states in response to "the potential for continued unusual weather patterns."
Travelers said the number of drivers with auto policies purchased through agents declined 1%. Home-insurance policies-in-force also "decreased slightly" from last year's first quarter. New-business volumes decreased in both lines of business.
Overall, Mr. Fishman said customer retention was "generally consistent" with last year's fourth quarter, while down from last year's first quarter.
The company earned an underwriting profit of $248 million, down less than 1% from the same period a year earlier. The company paid out $109 million on catastrophe claims, tied in part to tornadoes and hail storms in the Midwest and Southeast U.S. The disaster costs were down from last year's $122 million.
Last year's underwriting profit included much of the benefit from the tax issue.
Investment income declined 4.7% to $593 million as the company earned less in its fixed-income portfolio.


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Rumors of the next generation of AMD RDNA 3 ‘Navi 3X’ GPUs have already begun to hit the internet as reliable leaker, KittyYuko, who sent accurate information to Ampere GPUs months before release, has now posted the first alleged specifications for AMD’s Navi 33 GPU which gets the next generation Radeon RX graphics card for gaming.
AMD Navi 33 GPU for next generation Radeon RX graphics card reportedly has RDNA 3 ‘GFX11’ GPU IP with 80 computer devices and 5120 cores
According to KittyYuko, the AMD Navi 33 GPU is supposed to have the same specifications as the Navi 21 GPU, but will be based on the next generation of RDNA 3 GPU IP core. This means we get the same performance as the existing Big Navi 21 (RDNA 2) GPU in future mainstream graphics cards. This certainly sounds too good to be true, but given that AMD has promised huge performance gains with its RDNA 3 series of Radeon RX graphics cards, this may very well be the case.
Navi 33 (?) = Navi 21 + Next Gen IP Core
– Yuko Yoshida (@KittyYYuko) May 2, 2021
In terms of specifications, if Navi 33 matches Navi 21, we can expect a total of 80 computing units that will pack a total of 5120 stream processors if AMD keeps the number of CU cores to 64 SPs as the existing chips. What’s interesting now is that an earlier rumor had suggested that the Navi 31 GPU should also have 80 computing devices, but would be based on the new RDNA 3 IP. It seems that the 80 CU rumor could also be true, but those are not the full specifications that the chip will offer.
AMD Navi 31 chips end with an MCM solution and have dual 80 Compute Unit chip shapes, and each has 5120 cores. This will round up to a maximum of 160 computer units and a total of 10,240 stream processors. If that ends up being the case (and it looks more than ever that it would be), then we can definitely expect an 80 CU Navi 33 part. The Navi 32 SKU could end up with around 120-140 CUs, and it could also be a multi-chip module design.
This would compensate for a very hefty GPU design, and we can also expect it to be based on a brand new process node like TSMC’s 5nm. AMD has already patented an active brochiplet solution for its next-generation GPUs that comes with an integrated cache and connects the multiple dies found on Navi 3X (RDNA 3) GPUs, you can read more about that here.
You mean the highest level version of RDNA3?
Oh, it’s going to be a big bang.
– kopite7kimi (@ kopite7kimi) May 2, 2021
I assume Ampere’s life will be extended at least until the end of next year.
– kopite7kimi (@ kopite7kimi) April 28, 2021
AMD RDNA 3 ‘Navi 3’ GPU lineup of Radeon RX graphics cards will compete with NVIDIA’s own MCM GPUs based on either Ada Lovelace GPUs. From now on, the next generation parts are still not expected in late 2022 or early 2023, so treat this information with a light grain of salt.


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In the past day, while Ether and Bitcoin remained stable, XRP has witnessed a remarkable surge, making it the best-performing major cryptocurrency. XRP traders are closely monitoring this trend, despite Ripple’s separation from the coin.
What’s Behind the Spike in XRP Price?
The surge in XRP’s performance can be attributed to enthusiasm and speculation around potential improvements in the Ripple ecosystem. Even though Ripple distanced itself from XRP, traders remain vigilant about events that could impact the token’s value.
On Monday, XRP prices rose by nearly 11%, and trading volumes increased from $1 billion to $2 billion on Sunday. XRP’s market capitalization surpassed Binance Coin (BNB), making it the fourth-largest cryptocurrency, trading at 69 cents.
This recent price surge and increased trading volumes reflect growing investor confidence in XRP’s future potential. Notably, the gains in XRP were primarily driven by spot trading rather than liquidations, indicating the responsible use of leverage.
XRP’s Growth in Dubai
While there wasn’t an obvious driver for the recent increases, it’s possible that investors responded to two positive developments for payments startup Ripple. Last week, Ripple received important permissions to operate in Georgia and Dubai.
Ripple announced that the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) has approved XRP under its virtual assets regime, allowing licensed companies in the Dubai International Financial Centre to offer XRP as part of their crypto services.
Additionally, Ripple is collaborating with the National Bank of Georgia on the Digital Lari (GEL) pilot project, utilizing its central bank digital currency (CBDC) platform. This platform has already been adopted by the governments of Taiwan and Hong Kong and supports a wide range of CBDC services, including retail and wholesale use.
Ripple has historically maintained a distance from XRP, the coin underpinning some of its products and the XRP Ledger network. Nevertheless, traders perceive a connection between the two, and developments in Ripple’s legal proceedings and licensing have a clear impact on XRP prices.


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Caretaker Economy Minister Amin Salam supported the President of the Republic’s decision not to sign the decree on the customs’ dollar exchange rate according to Sayrafa, saying, “I am opposed to raising the customs dollar all at once to LBP 25,000… It is preferable to begin with LBP 18,000 and gradually increase it.”
Speaking to “Al-Horra” TV Channel earlier today, Salam responded to a question on the adoption of LBP 12,000 per USD as an exchange rate for Lebanese customs, as some have suggested, considering this as “unrealistic and does not lead to the required solutions.”
He added: “I asked the Ministry of Finance to inform us of the commodity regulations that will be directly affected by raising the customs’ dollar exchange rate, and I will ask all importers to inform the Ministry of Economy of the goods that have entered or are entering Lebanon at the current customs dollar price, so that there is no exploitation of these goods by traders when rates are raised.”
In response to another question about the expected date of raising the customs’ dollar rate, Salam said: “I think the issue has been postponed for at least two weeks.”
On the issue of subsidized wheat, Salam stressed that “smuggling continues to Syria” and that “the borders are not controlled.” He said: “It is impossible to control the borders without a framework agreement between the Lebanese and Syrian states,” noting that while the Lebanese state ensures control over legal crossings, 80% of smuggled goods occurs through illegal crossings.


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FDA Approves First Humira Biosimilar
Posted 23 September 2016 | By
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Friday announced it had approved Amgen's Amjevita (adalimumab-atto), the first biosimilar version of AbbVie's best-selling biologic Humira (adalimumab).
In July, FDA's Arthritis Advisory Committee voted unanimously to support the approval. Despite the approval, FDA did not clear Amgen's biosimilar for all 10 of Humira's indications. According to FDA, both drugs share the following six indications:
- moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis;
- active psoriatic arthritis;
- active ankylosing spondylitis (an arthritis that affects the spine);
- moderately to severely active Crohn's disease;
- moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis; and
- moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.
However, FDA says that Amjevita is only indicated for juvenile idiopathic arthritis in patients four or older, while Humira is indicated to treat patients as young as two or older. And, unlike Humira, Amjevita is not approved to treat pediatric Crohn's disease, hidradenitis suppurativa or uveitis.
According to FDA, Amjevita is also required to display a boxed warning on its label over the increased risk of serious infections when taking the drug.
As with the three previous US biosimilar approvals, FDA says it has not approved Amjevita to be interchangeable with Humira.
The approval marks the fourth biosimilar approved under the Biologics Price Competition and Innovation Act's 351(k) pathway, which allows sponsors an abbreviated path to market by demonstrating their product is biosimilar to a reference product. In early August, AbbVie filed a lawsuit to stop the marketing of Amgen's biosimilar to Humira and it remains to be seen when Amjevita may hit the US market. Humira first one approval in 2002.


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Overwatch, the hero shooter from Blizzard Entertainment, is preparing the launch of its sequel, a launch that is on the horizon, however, the updates, especially with its seasonal content, have not stopped and very soon we will have a new event.
It has been a few hours since Blizzard has confirmed the start date for the Halloween Terror event in Overwatch, which, like its other events, will bring back Junkenstein’s Revenge Brawl and new skins that we can get from the boxes special event loot.
As we can see in the teaser, the Halloween Terror 2021 event in Overwatch will start on October 12 and end on November 2, so there will be a good amount of time to get all the new collectibles from this event.
In addition, as we can see, one of the first legendary skins has already been revealed, which will be for Roadhog, which is referring to the Pennywise clown from Stephen King’s well-known IT novel and he will also get what seems to be a new Gameplay Intro of departure.
Overwatch is available on Playstation 4, Playstation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S and PC platforms.


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What a difference 14 months can make. Last March, Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) appeared to be in deep trouble. Ford shares had already been on a five-year decline. Amid the pandemic, the stock market crash, a C-Suite shakeup, and worries it was missing the boat on electric vehicles, F dropped to around $4. Ford’s debt was downgraded to junk status. Today, Ford is like a different company. It has an EV-focused turnaround plan and two of the hottest EVs on the planet. With all eyes on EV companies, analysts are upgrading F, and shares are up about 80% so far this year.
Ford stock isn’t perfect. It has a “B” rating in Portfolio Grader, reflecting factors like the company’s sizeable debt. There are also risks in the car business, ranging from a global shortage of computer chips to the potential for rising interest rates making car loans less affordable. However, for the first time in decades, Ford feels like it is undergoing a resurgence.
F stock at the $16 level is a five-year high, but I suspect that a year from now, we’ll be looking back at it as cheap.
At May’s investor day event, Ford outlined a new turnaround plan. The company is going all-in on electric vehicles, and is expecting to spend $30 billion on developing new EVs and related technology by 2025. Ford is projecting that 40% of its sales will be EVs by 2030.
After years of focusing on hybrids instead of EVs, this is a major change in direction. And it’s one that is expected to pay off for Ford investors.
Must-Have EVs From Ford
Ford customers are lining up for the new Bronco, the company’s modern take on its iconic sport utility vehicle. That’s good news, of course. However, what really has Ford, car-buyers, and investors alike excited are the company’s two new EVs.
The Mustang Mach-E is an all-electric, crossover SUV version of the company’s popular muscle car. Going electric and adopting an SUV form factor (from a two-door sports car) were big risks, with fears that loyal Mustang buyers would be alienated. However, the Mach-E is turning into a big success story for Ford.
For an example of just how popular the Mustang Mach-E is, look at Norway. That country is the world’s top EV market, with over 60% of new vehicles sold there now being battery-powered. All the big EV players are represented in Norway. In May, Norwegian buyers registered 1,384 Mustang Mach-Es. That made Ford’s first fully electric vehicle the top-seller, taking 10% of total car sales in that country.
The F-150 Lighting will be even more important for Ford. The battery-powered version of its pickup truck is due to be released in 2022. The F-150 pickup truck is Ford’s top-selling vehicle and critical to the company’s bottom line. It’s been called the greatest “profit machine in the history of the industry.” Pickup trucks dominate U.S. auto sales, accounting for five of the top 10 best-selling vehicles in 2020. Ford’s F-150 took top honors as the best-selling vehicle in America — for the 39th straight year.
The all-electric F-150 Lightning is a make-or-break vehicle for Ford. And by all signs, it is going to be a hit. Within 48 hours of pre-orders being opened, Ford took nearly 45,000 reservations for the new pickup truck.
Analysts Like What They See
You would have had a tough time rounding up analysts with a positive view on Ford’s prospects at this time last year. However, the company is winning them over with its EV plans.
In a May industry note, Wedbush analyst Daniel Ives pointed to a $5 trillion market opportunity over the next decade for the EV sector as the Auto industry undergoes one of its biggest transformations since the 1950s. With incentives like President Joe Biden’s administration’s “green tidal wave,” Wedbush is projecting today’s 3% EV sales market share to become 10% in 2025, and 20%+ by 2030.
At the end of May, after hearing Ford’s turnaround plan, RBC Capital analyst Joseph Spak upgraded Ford stock to “Outperform” with a $17 price target. Shares have continued to surge since then, and that seemingly aggressive 12-month price target is already within reach.
Bottom Line on Ford Stock
An investment in Ford stock is taking advantage of a green wave hitting an immutable force. Americans will never give up their pickup trucks, muscle cars, or SUVs. At the same time, the pressure is on to electrify. Ford is positioned to leverage the American love for gas-guzzling vehicles to become a global leader in EV sales. If the company can execute — and the reviews of the Mustang Mach-E are definitely pointing in that direction — then F-stock’s performance in 2021 may be just the beginning.
On the date of publication, neither Louis Navellier nor the InvestorPlace Research Staff member primarily responsible for this article held (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article.
Louis Navellier, who has been called “one of the most important money managers of our time,” has broken the silence in this shocking “tell all” video… exposing one of the most shocking events in our country’s history… and the one move every American needs to make today.