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Friday, November 01, 2019
Kroger is calling for an end to a more than year-long feud with Visa credit cards. As of Wednesday, the nation's largest supermarket chain is allowing the Visa payment network's credit cards to be used at all of its stores once more, backing off a threat to ban Visa credit cards entirely.
The Cincinnati, Ohio-based grocer stopped accepting Visa credit cards last year at its Foods Co. subsidiary in California. It then escalated the ban by pulling the plug on accepting the plastic in April at 142 Smith's Food and Drug Stores and 108 fuel centers in seven states, citing what it called "excessive fees."
Still, the dispute never reached the overwhelming majority of the 2,800 food stores run by Kroger under brand names including King Scoopers, Harris Teeter, Fred Meyer and Ralphs.
"Kroger now accepts Visa credit cards at all our family of stores, including Smith's and Foods Co.," a spokesperson for Kroger said in an email, declining to elaborate further.
"I see this as a win for Visa and the entire card industry. We don't know the specific terms here, and maybe Kroger got a better deal, but my view is that card bans and surcharges are consumer-unfriendly and could actually hurt merchants," noted Ted Rossman, analyst at CreditCards.com. "While merchants don't like paying two or three percent in interchange fees to card companies, that's a lot better than losing sales."
So-called credit card interchange fees generate billions of dollars in revenue for Visa, MasterCard and other payment networks, prompting retailers including Amazon to search for ways to disrupt the decades-old card payments system. The online retailer's moves have included offering Amazon Prime members an incentive to pay with debit cards instead of credit cards.


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Crowds come out for food at Marshfield Fair
The Marshfield Fair isn’t all about its flashy rides, games and exhibits. The variety of food also draws out the crowds, many of them, summer regulars.
“The lemon fudge is to die for,” Cheryl Collins, of Mansfield said, standing in front of Egypt Country Store of Scituate’s tent.
She settled for Oreo, because the store was all out of lemon, and warned owner Bob Newson, of Scituate, that he better have a batch for her when she comes back on Wednesday.
“I photograph the flower exhibit,” Collins said, “but the only reason I take the job is to get that lemon fudge.”
The fudge tent is only one of the many dessert vendors that visitors can’t resist.
Bridget York, of Bangor, Maine, works at the Deep Fried Sweets stand. She said they’ve only been open for a day and business is already going well.
“We pick different sweets to fry every year,” she said in front of their sign that features fried Klondike bars, Reeses and even peanut butter an jelly sandwiches. “The fried Oreo is always the most popular. Twinkies and Milky Ways are a close second.”
For festival-goers looking for a more savory meal, the Marshield Fair is full of stands that offer Chinese food, Italian food, barbeque, fries, macaroni and cheese, baked potatoes, seafood and more.
Bob Maffeo, of Marshfield, operates Ocean Select seafood stand for the past ten years. He said he wouldn’t keep coming back if it weren’t for his regulars.
“You get nothing but top quality food at the Marshfield fair,” he said. “People that travel with the fair all over the country have told me that Marshfield has the best food.”

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- 2 min read
Uber's ambitions shrink faster than its losses
The complex deal, which was announced late on Monday, involves the sale of Uber Advanced Technologies Group (ATG) to Aurora, and Uber throwing in $400 million in cash as well. In exchange, Uber will retain a 26% stake in Aurora.
NEW YORK: Uber Technologies' future appears increasingly pedestrian. When the ride-hailing service went public in 2019, its ambitions spanned autonomous vehicles, bike-sharing, food delivery, freight and other markets. Now Chief Executive Dara Khosrowshahi is selling its self-driving unit for a stake in autonomous startup Aurora - a sign that its ambitions are shrinking.
The complex deal, which was announced late on Monday, involves the sale of Uber Advanced Technologies Group (ATG) to Aurora, and Uber throwing in $400 million in cash as well. In exchange, Uber will retain a 26% stake in Aurora. The deal is disappointing in that it values ATG at $4 billion, a sharp fall from $7.25 billion last year, when Toyota Motor and SoftBank injected cash into the unit.
True, the deal will reduce Uber's losses. The company's adjusted EBITDA in what it calls "ATG and other technology programs" totaled about negative $300 million over the first three quarters of the year. Presumably most of this was the result of autonomous driving, and Elevate, Uber's flying taxi service, which is also in the process of being sold, according to an Axios report earlier this month.
Uber also eliminates a headache, as it had to contend with lawsuits surrounding autonomous driving and reputational damage after a vehicle struck and killed a person in 2018. Moreover, many firms are pursuing self-driving cars. Given technology markets are often a winner-takes-all game, it makes sense to exchange a big stake for a smaller one if the odds of success are higher. And Khosrowshahi could always dream big again by jumping fully back in to various ventures. When Uber sold its bikes business to rival Lime, it retained equity and acquired an option to buy the firm starting in 2022.
Uber can now concentrate on stemming losses of about $1 billion a quarter. Focus will help, but it's still not clear that ride-hailing and meal delivery will be profitable without autonomous vehicles given continued competition. That makes Uber's $95 billion market capitalization look even more frothy.


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Fashion and food. Two of my favorite things. Throwing in bit of politics is not a bad thing either, at least for me, but at the forefront of the occasion was the Atelier Versace designs. Both First Lady Michelle Obama and Italian Prime Minister’s wife Agnese Landini chose to wear the revered fashion house’s designs, and the fashion elite nodded in approval if you scan the internet and news this morning.
Speaking of food, as it was a state dinner to honor the Italian head of state, Mario Batali was chosen to cook the meal for the final grand occasion of the Obama Presidency with the collaboration of White House executive chef Cristeta Comerford and executive pastry chef Susan Morrison. Have a look at the menu here.
~View all Petite Posts here.


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Bangladesh University of Professionals, one of the best business schools, across the nation hosted Mind Propeller on October 1, 2019.
It was the debut event of the infant club, the Human Resource and Leadership Club (HRLC), a press release said today.
The daylong event was mainly to motivate and assist students to initiate business startups by experience sharing and QA sessions by extremely successful startup founders.
Eleven speakers from acclaimed organizations and start-ups attended the program with chief guest Brig Gen Wasim Ul Haq.
The audience were very much engaged by the eloquence of the speakers.
Ibrahim Mohiuddin, the co-founder of Hungry Naki, brought in the point of necessity of innovation ‘Do not compete, have uniqueness’ and discussed on the building of a business model i.e. the profit acquiring process as well as the necessity to have a strong, integral and cooperative team.
The issue on the strategic planning and process lead of Sheba.xyz, Istiaque Ahmed shared about their tremendous journey of reaching over nine thousand flat owners by their own Sheba Bondhu app. Ending by discussing on innovative business ideas.
Then came one of the founders of countrywide popular ride sharing app, Pathao. Before stepping into the business, while reading about future startups, Kishwar Hashemmee uttered to himself ‘If they can do it, I can too’ which lead him to create Pathao with 5 rides per day to 150000 rides in two years! He believes transformation is necessary and a lot of energy is required, commitment is not enough. He eventually left Pathao in December 2018 to start his new business, Klaudia.
The cofounders of Safewheel, Anas Makki and Rafiq Islam shared about their goal of ambulance services in rural areas faster than burger deliveries!
‘Find a problem which can be solved!’ said the cofounder of Analyzen, the first digital marketing motto by Ridwan Hafiz.
He said that planning is a very crucial step and ideas must not be started without any strategy. He added that finding the right person at the right time is important.
The marketing director of IDLC, Jane Romel talked about how organizations fail due to the lack of owner involvement and how nonbank financial organizations work.
The IM of Avishkar Nazmul Karim also talked about how adapting to new technology is important and how difficult it is to install them.
According to him, a startup can be done by picking any social problem, making it into a solution, create a model and scale it.
The session continued with the insightful discussion on financing new venture by Shadman Rahman, lead specialist, product Innovation, Grameenphone and Afsana zarin Nabila, Business Development Manager, Shopup. Shadman Rahman eloquently pointed out how a Facebook or blogs can be a steppingstone for future business leaders while Nabila mentioned about the SMEs, women entrepreneurship. Differentiating between start-up and traditional business, they drew conclusion of their session with basic tips for the entrepreneurs.
Last but not the least, the CEO of Shopway, Firoz Ahmed Plabon, said that taking business decisions using only intuitions is not wise.
He talked about how he got the idea of this grocery delivery service and shared some of his future and making the bazaar wala bhai into an app based intermediate. Just like the others, he also emphasized on technology.
The program was not only a platform for the speakers, this event was the gateway for the students, to learn and solve their unique queries.
Mind Propeller ended with the phenomenal idea pitching presentation by the top three finalist team.
MedixQ achieved the crest for the best stratup idea by bringing home Tk 10,000 net worth check along with the possibility to have an internship right away!


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Gillibrand proposes New York-grown produce for new USDA program
U. S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand has seen how the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly increased food insecurity in the state. People across the state wait in line to get food from local food banks and pantries.
On the production side, she says a lack of orders from restaurants, schools and event spaces have left farmers with food they cannot get rid of.
To bridge the supply and demand gap, Gillibrand is proposing the U.S. Department of Agriculture use fruits and vegetables grown in New York for its new food purchase and distribution program.
“Here in New York, our farmers are top producers of fruits and vegetables like apples, cabbage, onions, snap peas and grapes,” she said. “Adding these nutritious options include produce from New York farmers to new food purchase and distribution programs will strengthen our diets, our farms, our food systems and our economy at the same time.”
The current Farmers to Families Food Box program runs out in April. No word yet on how long this program will last.


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Tecno appears to be taking on Samsung in the foldable smartphone market without explicitly stating it. Tecno entered the competition against Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series in February with the introduction of the Phantom V Fold.
However, recent signs suggest that Tecno is now gearing up to release a flip phone as a rival to Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Z Flip 5, which is rumoured to make its debut on July 26. The Phantom V Flip 5G from Tecno has received certification from the Bluetooth SIG authority, indicating that it could be released soon.
The Bluetooth SIG authority’s database includes the Phantom V Flip 5G with the model number AD11. The smartphone will feature Bluetooth 5.3, according to the listing. It is worth noting that the Phantom V Fold foldable phone was spotted in December 2022 before its official launch in February this year. As a result, it is possible that the Phantom V Flip 5G may launch in July or August.
Expected Specs of Tecno Phantom V Flip 5G
In the previous month, a Twitter user shared live images of the Phantom V Yoga, one of which displayed the device’s key specifications, revealing its model number as AD11. According to the Bluetooth certification, Yoga V’s official marketing name is going to be “Tecno Phantom V Flip 5G.”
The Phantom V Flip 5G will feature a foldable display with a resolution of 1080 x 2640 pixels. It will be powered by the Dimensity 8050 chipset, accompanied by 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. Additionally, the device will have 8 GB of virtual RAM. It will house a 4,000mAh battery with support for 66W fast charging. The smartphone will run on Android 13 OS with HiOS 13 overlay.
In terms of cameras, it will sport a 32-megapixel front-facing camera and a dual-camera setup on the back, consisting of a 64-megapixel primary sensor. The back panel will feature a round camera module housing a ring flash and a laser autofocus unit.


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Vodafone Idea partners with Paytm to launch recharge facility for all bank account holders; tie-up offers simple, safe solution
The move will help millions of subscribers who use feature phones to top up their numbers without having the need to visit physical retail touchpoints, Vodafone Idea said.
This QR code-based system would allow anyone with a BHIM app to scan the SGQR at NETS terminals for payments in Singapore.
4th anniversary of Digital India: Initiative empowered people, reduced corruption and improved public service delivery system, says Narendra Modi
On the fourth anniversary of his government's flagship programme 'Digital India', Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that the initiative has empowered people, reduced corruption and improved public service delivery to benefit the poor. Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said 3.65 lakh Common Service centres have been opened and 123 crore Aadhaar were generated. Prasad also lauded BHIM-UPI, a unified payments interface and said it is a 'unique fintech innovation' of India that has transformed the digital payment ecosystem.
Customers must be allowed to initiate and accept a reasonable number of digital payment transactions with no charges, the committee suggested
WhatsApp is currently piloting WhatsApp payments and is waiting for a formal approval to be granted.
Narendra Modi in Singapore: PM has done more than any other leader to connect India to financial mainstream
Naysayers may deride the NDA’s push for Aadhaar, Jan Dhan, RuPay, BHIM, demonetisation or GST but the fact remains that Narendra Modi has done more for inclusive development in India through technology and digitization than any other prime minister before him. His place in history is secured.
Narendra Modi in Singapore: At Fintech Festival, PM cites Aadhaar, UPI; says inclusive growth stems from digitisation in India
Delivering the keynote address at the Singapore Fintech Festival, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about the inclusive growth stemming from the digitisation in India, innovation, direct benefit transfer, and the disruption that technology brought about in status quo.
Paytm now has over 33 percent of the overall Unified Payments Interface market share.
At the moment, nothing is changing about the experience in India other than the name to Google Pay.
RBI Governor Urjit Patel unveils UPI 2.0 version; will allow customers to use overdraft limit for making payments to merchants
The second version of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) will also enable customers to check the invoice sent by merchant prior to making payment
Govt to expand BPO promotion scheme to generate employment, plans largest National Data Centre in Bhopal
The government will increase the capacity under the BPO promotion scheme to one lakh seats from the current 48,000 seats, Ravi Shankar Prasad said
NPCI says that WhatsApp's payment feature will only be permitted to launch after it meets all the required norms
Popular digital wallet platform Paytm on Thursday accused WhatsApp of flouting norms laid out by the NPCI and demanded a level-playing field.
Paytm's QR-based payment solution supports all payment methods, including credit/debit cards, net banking, Paytm-BHIM UPI, and its wallet.
The merchant discount rate (MDR) will be borne by the government for two years with effect from 1 January 2018 by reimbursing the same to the banks.
The process requires you to create your own Paytm BHIM UPI ID on the app which will be your mobile-number@paytm.


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Woman crashes Chanel’s runway at PFW but Gigi Hadid saves the show.
October 1, 2019
Everybody is talking about how the American model Gigi Hadid saved Chanel’s runway show during Paris Fashion Week SS20. But what exactly has happened?
French Comedian and Youtube prankster, Marie Benoliel, AKA Marie S’infiltre, who has 194.000 followers on Instagram, hopped onto the Grand Palais catwalk. She stormed the last moments of Chanel’s runway during Paris Fashion Week SS20, but luckily, Gigi Hadid was there.
The French comedian dressed in a black and white Chanel style suit and hat, deceived the security, jumped on the runway and walked together with the models. Gigi Hadid didn’t think twice, she quickly took the comedian by the arm and conducted her to the backstage, far from the eyes of the selected audience. With her swift action and firm attitude, Gigi Hadid literally saved the Chanel runway.
— @Booth (@Booth) October 1, 2019
Who is Marie S’Infiltre?
Before Gigi Hadid saved the day when Marie Benoliel crashed Chanel’s runway show, not many had heard of Marie S’Infiltre.
Marie describes herself as an ‘infiltrator’ and a ‘usurper’. Her YouTube bio reads: ‘Marie infiltrates everywhere, [is an] usurper of all kinds, is encrusted without scruple, to reveal better the COMIC REALITY that is hidden in the news [sic].’
Marie S’Infiltre took to social media afterwards to claim that she’s been infiltrating catwalks all season, but that Chanel was the ultimate challenge.
Her runway prank was met with mixed emotions, especially after she made fun of Gigi Hadid, calling her Chanel’s guard. Many people complained about her being disrespectful and damaging other people’s work. This is the second time this week that the comedian has stormed a show at Paris Fashion Week, previously to Chanel she danced with a model at Etam’s show.
Featured Image via @Footwearnews by David Fisher/ @shutterstock


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KPI — November 2021: Recent Vehicle Recalls
2021-2022 Ram Heavy-Duty Pickup Trucks and Chassis Cabs
Vehicles Affected: Nearly 131,000 Ram heavy-duty pickup trucks and chassis cabs are being recalled, specifically model-year 2021-2022 2500 and 3500 HD pickups, as well as 3500, 4500 and 5500 chassis cabs; all are equipped with the Cummins 6.7-liter turbo-diesel engine.
The Problem: A Ram internal investigation discovered the intake heater-grid relays on certain trucks may exhibit overheating, which could lead to an electrical fire. The company said it is aware of one such potential warranty claim, but no related accidents or injuries.
The Fix: A formal remedy has not been announced yet; however, Ram advises owners whose trucks are equipped with the affected engine produced between Aug. 2, 2020 – Oct. 9, 2021 to park outdoors. Owners will be notified starting Dec. 3.
2001-2007 V70s and XC70s
Vehicles Affected: Nearly 194,500 model-year 2001-2007 V70s and XC70s are being recalled.
The Problem: Volvo announced its second massive vehicle recall in less than a month. Following a recall of S60 and S80 sedans for defective airbag inflators in early October, the automaker is now issuing a recall of more than 194,500 V70 and XC70 wagons for the same reason: propellant degradation after long-term exposure to high humidity, high temperatures and high-temperature cycling.
The Fix: Dealers will replace the driver-side airbag for free. Volvo will begin notifying owners Dec. 14.
2020-2021 Explorers, Aviators and Corsairs
Vehicles Affected: Nearly 228,000 model-year 2020-2021 Explorers, Aviators and Corsairs are being recalled.
The Problem: The vehicles in question are equipped with 360-degree camera systems. The video output may fail and prevent the rearview camera image from displaying, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.
The Fix: Dealers will update the image processing module software as necessary and at no cost. Lincoln parent Ford will begin notifying owners Oct.7.
2011-2013 Ford Explorer
Vehicles Affected: Nearly 126,000 model-year 2011-2013 Ford Explores are being recalled. Specifically affected are those sold or currently registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia and Wisconsin.
The Problem: These SUVs may be equipped with a cross-axis ball joint replacement part that could seize, resulting in a fracture of the outboard section of the rear suspension toe link. This could lead to loss of steering control and/or a crash.
The Fix: Dealers will inspect for the presence of a cross-axis ball joint. If one is found, dealers will inspect its tightness and replace the ball joint, knuckle and toe link as necessary and at no cost. Ford will begin notifying owners Nov. 1.
2017 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Sedan and Tucson Compact SUV
Vehicles Affected: Nearly 95,500 model-year 2017 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid sedans and Tucson compact SUVs are being recalled.
The Problem: The problem is connecting rod bearings – the second such recall of this size the automaker has issued in 10 months. Con-rod bearings help the rods better connect the pistons to the crankshaft. Premature wear can result in engine damage, higher risk of fire and potential vehicle stalls – all of which increase the risk of a crash.
The Fix: Dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, it will be replaced. Dealers also will install a software update containing a new knock-sensor detection system. All repairs will be performed at no charge. Hyundai will begin notifying owners Nov. 12.
*All recall information is courtesy of Cars.com
KPI — November 2021: State of the Economy


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Inadequate broadband is not merely a problem for businesses and households based in the countryside, it has been claimed.
According to Alan Moseley, Chair of the Shropshire Council Scrutiny Committee, many towns are blighted by unacceptable broadband coverage.
Speaking to the BBC, he highlighted the problems caused for businesses by poor quality broadband.
Councillor Moseley said broadband is "essential" to run a business successfully in today's world.
"We were not just concerned with access but with speeds too, as this is vital, particularly for many businesses," he said.
The comments came after BT announced plans to include 41 UK market towns in its latest round of fibre broadband deployments.
BT is in the process of upgrading telephone exchanges across Britain to support next-generation broadband technology.


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The Bundesliga champions aim to create personalized digital experiences in managing relationships with supporters globally to secure their long-term loyalty.
Every virtual NBA game is driven by actual NBA data, which Sportradar obtained as part of a US$1 billion streaming and betting data agreement with the league.
While Unilever is keen to embrace these new virtual worlds, it wants to mitigate the risks and concerns around web3 and the metaverse.
A report says Nintendo is unlikely to announce a new console soon to focus on shipping more Switch units
Report: Tencent aims to increase its stakes in Ubisoft by purchasing shares from the Guillemot family
M1 Pro vs. M1 Max specs: New MacBook Pros arrive with new Apple silicon chips
Just as expected, Apple’s October event highlighted the release of the latest MacBook Pros. However, the tech giant was still able to surprise viewers of the online launch by announcing that there will be two new Apple silicon chips available on both the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro laptops.
M1 Pro vs. M1 Max: How are they different
As part of Apple’s transition to Apple silicon, the company unveiled two new SoCs officially called the M1 Pro and M1 Max. They will both offer significant improvements in technical specifications compared to what the first M1 delivered when it first launched last year.
The two new Apple silicon chips share some similar specs. For one, both MacBook Pro SoCs are powered by a 10-core CPU composed of eight high-performing cores and two high-efficiency cores. With these upgrades, Apple says the new CPU is 70 percent faster than the M1 chipset.
However, the biggest differences between M1 Pro and M1 Max can be found in the GPU and memory-related specs. The M1 Pro’s unified memory configuration is available in 16GB and 32GB, while the M1 was limited to 16GB. But the more impressive upgrade in M1 Pro is that it can deliver up to 200GB/s of memory bandwidth. Apple customers can also configure their order of M1 Pro-powered MacBook Pro with options between 14-core and 16-core GPUs.
Meanwhile, Apple brands the M1 Max as the largest chip it ever built for having 57 billion transistors. The M1 Pro has 33.7 billion transistors.
The M1 Max is available with more GPU cores. Both 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros powered by this SoC can be configured with 24-core or 32-core GPU. M1 Max’s memory bandwidth can reach up to 400GB/s, according to Apple. This capability allows the company to offer the SoC with 32GB and 64GB unified memory options.
MacBook Pro 2021 release date, prices
As mentioned in several reports months ago, the new MacBook Pros launched with new design features. The display bezels are much thinner than the 2020 MacBook Pro, so Apple added a display notch on both models to house the new 1080p FaceTime HD camera.
Apple.com accepts orders for the new laptops now. M1 Pro-powered 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros are available starting at $1,999 and $2,499, respectively. The latest Mac devices will arrive in stores on Oct. 26, but the estimated delivery dates for new orders are currently between early to mid-November.


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Genesis G-Wagen rival a possibility
Hyundai’s luxury division Genesis says it’s possible to use the company’s ladder-frame chassis to build a rugged SUV that rivals Mercedes-Benz G-Class cars.
The platform is currently being developed by Hyundai Motor Group for use as both a Ute and an SUV.
Speaking to Australian media, Hyundai and Genesis Chief Creative Officer Luc Donckerwolke said the possibility of a rugged SUV for the Genesis brand is certainly there.
For more driving news and videos, visit Driving >>
“I don’t see why that wouldn’t fit the brand,” said Mr. Donckerwolke.
“It’s always the same, we create synergies within the group and if we see there is potential to exploit it and it aligns with the brand values, why not?”
Genesis’ rugged SUV could take on anything from the Lexus LX to the Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
“It’s all about the toolbox and the modular systems, and the next question is does it really cover the needs of all markets?” he said.
“It’s nice to have cars that perform, whether it’s off-road, on-road or sporty, so it’s always good. The purer the typology, the better for the design.”
As it stands for Genesis at the moment, the brand is focused on launching an expanded range of electric vehicles – all new models from 2025 onwards will be electric vehicles – but adding additional models seems to be something the South Korean brand is very well prepared for .
“We have a defined set of vehicles, if there are additional satellites that needs to be discussed, but first we need to do that [core]’ said Mister Donckercloud.
Discussing how the potentially rugged SUV would come to life, Mr. Donckerwolke warned that every Genesis vehicle must be authentic and true to the brand values.
“If you have a G-Wagen, for example, that car is justified more by its origins than its performance, so artificially inserting something into a brand if it doesn’t have the right genetic complement could be a mistake [features] with the brand,” he said.
Mr. Donckerwolke, a former Lamborghini and Bentley designer, indicated that he already has designs for such an SUV ready.
“My goal is never to be caught off-guard when the chairman tells me ‘what if’.”
Genesis has sold over 800,000 vehicles worldwide in just over seven years and continues to expand its presence and model range worldwide.
https://7news.com.au/lifestyle/motoring/genesis-g-wagen-rival-a-possibility-c-10252206 Genesis G-Wagen rival a possibility


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Many families gathered around the dinner table this weekend to celebrate the holidays. And as they did, those preparing the food may have noticed a higher grocery bill (and those driving from out of town surely felt the squeeze from climbing gas prices). A thoughtful – and very accessible – piece in The New York Times Weekend Review offered an explanation to readers for what’s happening in “Behind the Rising Cost of Food.”
“Events both at home and internationally are conspiring to shake the confidence of eaters,” wrote the Times’ Kim Severson. “Global famine, war and disaster are no longer so easy to keep from the table.” Indeed, a number of global trends can help consumers understand the sharp increase in fuel and food prices. The price for cocoa beans to produce chocolate, for example, has been impacted in part by rising fuel prices and unrest in the Ivory Coast, “which supplies more cocoa beans to the word than any other country,” Severson noted. “While Laurent Gbagbo tried to hold onto his presidency, his rival cut off export of the cocoa crop, and prices in the United States hit a 32-year high.”
Coffee prices are up 11 percent in the last year. (“Demand for quality beans is growing around the globe, but drought — possibly the result of climate change — is limiting supply.”) The cost of all fresh vegetables is up 10 percent. And of course, as many Americans now experiencing the pain at the pump know, gasoline prices rose 28 percent between March 2010 and March 2011. “Domestically, wholesale food prices rose 3.9 percent in February, the largest increase on record for one month since 1974,” according to Severson. (A The New York Times graphic depicts the change in prices for a list of commodities between March 2010 and March 2011.)
“Even the simple pleasure of a good bowl of cereal is touched by global policy shifts,” Severson wrote. “Drought hurts crops. And as the United States, China and India push for more biofuels, which require large amounts of corn, there is less grain to feed cattle and make into tortillas or Frosted Flakes.”
Higher fuel and food prices may portend greater challenges ahead. The sharp rise in commodity food prices could generate instability in developing countries where people spend a far greater percentage of their income on feeding their families (and where instability would bode poorly for U.S. national security). And, of course, higher crude oil prices could shock the global system at a time when the global economy is still in a precarious rebound. Understanding these global trends is important, and we need to be more attune to them. They may have seemed inconsequential in years past, but as global demand for food and fuel rises and supply becomes increasing constrained, the costs of global climate change and population growth, and energy and resource consumption could be anything but inconsequential.
This Week’s Events
On Tuesday at noon, Deputy Secretary of Energy Daniel B. Poneman will be discussing “America’s Nuclear Energy Future” at the Wilson Center. Then, at 12:30 p.m., SAIS will be hosting a panel discussion on “Sovereignty in the Arctic: Avoiding a New Geopolitical Conflict.” At 5:30 p.m., don’t miss “The Impacts of Events in the Arab World on Central Asia and the Caucasus,” hosted by SAIS.
On Thursday at 1:00 pm., the Middle East Institute will be discussing “Joining the Global Oil Sector: Challenges and Opportunities for Iraq.” Then, at 5:00 p.m. go to Georgetown University for an event on “Poverty, Climate Change and Health in the Pacific Islands.”


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In the April 6, 2010 U.S. News & World Report article How To Tell When The Recession Is Really Over, Rick Newman says "the recession is officially over, but many Americans won't feel the recovery until these things happen."
There are two kinds of recessions: the one that economists measure, and the one that ordinary people feel.
The official recession is over. That's because the economy is growing again after a sharp decline, with GDP back to the levels of mid-2008. For people who have kept their jobs, suffered no loss of income and enjoyed a rebound in their investments thanks to the year-long stock market rally, things are pretty good.
Then there's the unofficial recession, which clearly persists. More than 8 million people have lost their jobs over the past two years, and the economy has barely started to add those back. Many others have had their pay or hours cut. The housing bust, in its fourth year, still isn't over. Foreclosures continue to mount, businesses and consumers remain gloomy, and many families are struggling to get by on reduced income. "It's a recovery, but it sure doesn't feel like it," says Nariman Behravesh, chief economist for forecasting firm IHS Global Insight. Here are five things that still must happen for a robust recovery to kick in.
Banks need to lend more. The government's emergency measures helped stabilize the financial system, but banks haven't taken the next step and increased lending. With trillions in bad loans still on their books, many banks continue to hoard cash and turn down loan applications. That depresses the market for homes, cars, appliances and other costly items that many consumers can't pay for in cash. It also squeezes small businesses, which often rely on credit to meet payroll, order supplies, invest and grow. Behravesh predicts that lending could bottom out and start to pick up by late this year or early next year--although that would probably be the point at which the Federal Reserve starts to raise interest rates to subdue inflation. A few things that will signal improvements in the credit market: a drop in the required down payment for well-qualified home buyers, which is typically 30 percent or more now; increased availability of car loans for subprime borrowers with a credit score below 680; and banks' willingness to increase their customers' credit-card limits, if asked.
Incomes need to rise. Median income was stagnant for about a decade leading up to the recession, and it probably fell 5 percent or more over the past couple of years. Some economists worry that reduced incomes could indefinitely curtail consumer spending, which has long fueled the U.S. economy. A glut of unemployed workers will keep wages low in many industries for years. And since many families have lost wealth because of falling home values or declining investment portfolios, or both, they need to save more to prepare for retirement. That leaves less money to buy stuff. The good news is that inflation is low and energy prices are stable, which helps stretch a dollar.
Housing needs to stabilize. Most of the pain is probably in the past, but home values continue to erode in many regions. Moody's Economy.com predicts that house prices, which have fallen more than 30 percent from their 2006 peaks, could still fall another 5 to 10 percent through the end of this year. Since many families still have the majority of their wealth invested in their homes, the economy can't really get healthy again as long as such a huge asset is falling in value. The end of the federal home-buyer tax credit and other government programs throughout the year will test whether the housing market can stand on its own. If it can't, the government could step back in, but that would only signal further weakness in a sector that accounts for more than 15 percent of the economy. The silver lining is that falling prices make it a great time to buy, for those with enough cash or the ability to get a mortgage.
Confidence needs to rebound. Americans remain gloomy, with most consumer-confidence surveys showing only modest improvements from the low points hit during the recession. The most obvious reasons are the weak job market and a sense that the recovery will be weak at best. Businesses are downbeat too, with CEOs worried that strapped consumers will put their wallets away. That makes them reluctant to hire, which perpetuates the malaise. Confidence is a perplexing psychological phenomenon, and economists aren't sure what it will take to make consumers upbeat enough to propel a robust recovery. But once home prices stop falling, jobs seem more secure, and people feel like the bloodletting is over, that will certainly help.
Jobs need to return. The availability--or lack--of jobs is the single biggest factor in the economy, and unfortunately, a pickup in hiring is likely to be painfully slow. Many of the 8 million lost jobs are probably gone forever, as manufacturers downsize their operations and many companies substitute technology or cheaper foreign labor for American workers. The unemployment rate, which is 9.7 percent now, might even rise throughout the year, as workers who gave up looking for jobs try again and the labor force swells.
Still, economists recognize some familiar patterns in the job market that suggest things are finally getting better instead of worse. Corporate profits are strong, thanks to aggressive cost-cutting over the past two years. That means companies can afford to hire workers, if they decide to. And productivity gains have hit record levels recently, which means companies are extremely efficient; if demand picks up, they may only be able to meet it through increased staffing. A good indicator of real improvement would be several consecutive months of six-figure job gains, due to permanent hiring and not temporary factors like the census or weather-related events. "The recent resumption of employment growth will be sustained and gather strength over time," insists T. Rowe Price chief economist Alan Levenson. That's not the kind of roaring endorsement most Americans want to hear, but it suggests that sooner or later, the recovery in your neighborhood will catch up with the one that economists see in the data.


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Google, Amazon Workers Call to Cancel Billion-Dollar Israel Contract
JNS.org – Hundreds of Google and Amazon employees have signed a public letter demanding that the tech giants cancel Project Nimbus, a billion-dollar contract to provide public cloud computing services to Israel.
In the letter, published by The Guardian on Tuesday, the authors state that they were “morally obliged” to speak out against the project, calling on Amazon and Google to cancel the contract and sever all ties with the Israeli military.
“We cannot look the other way, as the products we build are used to deny Palestinians their basic rights, force Palestinians out of their homes and attack Palestinians in the Gaza Strip—actions that have prompted war crime investigations by the international criminal court,” the letter stated.
According to the letter, 90 employees at Google and 300 at Amazon had signed the missive, but wished to remain anonymous “because we fear retaliation.”


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Virtual call centers are getting some more technology help.
Communication provider CosmoCom, Inc., just rolled out Version 6
of CosmoCall Universe. For collectors, one of the more interesting, new features is the virtual outbound calling that boasts linked campaigns. Linked campaigns mean multiple lists in different formats can be combined into a single campaign. This allows for the blending of different campaigns across a virtual agent population.
Steve Kaish, vice president of product management, says Version 6 is CosmoCom’s biggest release to date. Enhancements include unified customer communications, contact center mobility, real time reporting and analytics, virtual outbound calling, screen recording and multimedia call recording as well as integration with Microsoft Outlook.


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PARIS -- A group of French squat artists have abandoned their makeshift gallery in a derelict hotel for an Internet television show, complaining visitors were more interested in their alternative lifestyle than their art.
Around 30 so-called "squartists" had smuggled their paints, canvases, film reels, and mattresses into the empty hotel as part of a thriving underground community across Paris to give them a base to break into the art world.
But the artists -- once bursting with enthusiasm about bringing live art to the masses -- have packed their bags, saying they are fed up with passing shoppers who drop by to ogle their hippie lifestyles rather than buy their creations.
"We were very well accepted in the area, masses of people came to see our exhibitions and films. But we have realized, one year on, that this was not giving our work any value," French daily Le Parisien quoted one of the artists as saying.
With artwork surrounded by coffee cups, ashtrays, and empty pizza boxes, "squart" galleries have drawn hordes of gaping crowds and some have even been granted official status by the authorities.
The disillusioned artists are hoping a traditional art fair in the south of France and an Internet television program on Canal Web will springboard them into the art world they once labeled as cold and elitist.
"It was a nice adventure, but it should be defined as a performance, a transient artistic act," the artist said.


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The Bitcoin Cash blockchain is preparing for separation: lead developer Amaury Sechet is going to launch its own fork of this coin on November 15.
“Bitcoin ABC and Amory Sechet have announced that they will launch their own fork on November 15. We wish them good luck with the new coin and thank them for distributing coins to all BCH holders, ” Bitcoin Cash co-founder Roger Ver wrote on Twitter.
Disagreements arose over the proposal to create a cryptocurrency development Fund, which will transfer 8% of the reward for block mining. The new release of the Bitcoin ABC client number 0.22.1 supports this offer, and the update will be activated on November 15. 42% of nodes are running on this client Bitcoin Cash. Other clients, including Bitcoin Unlimited and BCHN, do not support the offer, accounting for 55% of active nodes.
Another problem is that both forks do not plan to abandon the name Bitcoin Cash. A dispute is brewing, especially since the developer of Bitcoin ABC does not believe that more than half of the network’s nodes work on Bitcoin Unlimited and BCHN clients. To fabricate the number of nodes is very simple, it is enough to clone and start the desired number of virtual machines.
The Bitcoin Cash cryptocurrency appeared on August 1, 2017 as a result of the bitcoin blockchain hard fork. It was caused by disagreements in the community over the maximum block size and scaling methods.


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TROY, Michigan – The outbreak of the novel Coronavirus (2019 nCoV) is having a negative impact on China’s automotive industry and has the potential to disrupt the North American auto industry as well, according to an alert published by LMC Automotive, a leading independent automotive global forecasting and market intelligence company.
In the alert, LMC ‘s base case scenario expects the epidemic to continue into the second quarter of 2020, damaging consumer confidence, delaying purchasing, and impacting China’s consumer economy which accounts for more than half of the country’s GDP. In this scenario, China’s GDP growth rate would drop towards five percent for 2020, with its personal vehicle market falling by 3-5 percent.
“Overall, we expect the 2019 nCoV outbreak to hit Chinese sales and production by 3-5 percent this year, though this is just one of a number of potential scenarios that we have laid out in the alert, and further revisions are certain as more information becomes available in the coming days and weeks,” said Jeff Schuster, president, Americas Operations and Global Vehicle Forecasts, LMC Automotive. “This is a very fluid situation and one that warrants heightened attention as it has the potential to significantly reduce Chinese automotive production in 2020.”
An outbreak of the novel Coronavirus (2019 nCoV) was first detected in China in December 2019 and has since spread to many regions of the world, having recently been declared an International Health Emergency by the World Health Organization. As some areas of China are still in near-complete lockdown, automakers near the city of Wuhan and the surrounding Hubei Province have extended their Chinese New Year’s shutdowns until at least February 13.
Additionally, the local automotive supply chain has been affected, with a number of suppliers delaying their post-holiday production as well.
The J.D. Power automotive forecast for January 2020, Schuster noted: “This year is starting with less trade uncertainty in the auto sector than in 2019 and, while economic growth is expected to hover just under 2 percent, there could be some upside with trade being less of a drag and it being an election year. Affordability remains a major concern for the US auto market as transaction prices have continued to rise and used vehicles are a viable substitute for some consumers, especially entry-level buyers. At the same time, the battery electric (BEV) market is expected to double the number of entries in 2020 from 16 to 33, but BEV volume is expected to grow by only 50,000 units. So, the average per model will fall from 15,200 to 8,750.”
The 2020 outlook for total light-vehicles sales is 16.8 million units, a decline of 1.2 percent from 2019. Retail light-vehicle sales in 2020 are expected to decline by 1.5 percent to 13.5 million units as fleet share of total light vehicles is expected to increase slightly to 19.7 percent from 19.5 percent in 2019.


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Auto loan origination volume continues to increase despite affordability concerns overshadowing the industry, according to TransUnion’s Q4 2019 Industry Insights Report.
In fact, auto originations grew 4.3% year over year in the third quarter of 2019 to 7.5 million new accounts, the largest jump the credit reporting agency has recorded “in quite some time,” Matt Komos, vice president of U.S. research and consulting, told Auto Finance News.
“We keep seeing vehicle prices are on the rise. That gets reflected in new account balances, which is growing at a comparable rate to those vehicle prices,” Komos explained. “That’s where the concern about affordability comes up.”
Average balance on new auto loans rose to $22,232, up from $21,520 in the prior-year period. Yet, consumers are still gravitating toward more expensive vehicles, such as SUVs and trucks, despite rising vehicle prices.
“It’s kind of a tale of two stories happening,” Komos said. “We hear about affordability a lot, and I think it might be somewhat anecdotal because, from a behavior standpoint, we see that consumers are purchasing more expensive vehicles.”
According to TransUnion data, trucks and SUVs account for 70% of new financed vehicles and 60% of used vehicles.
Average loan terms continue to inch up, landing at 69 months in 3Q19, up from 68 months during the same time the previous year. Similarly, average LTVs also grew for both new and used vehicles, rising to 100.0 and 112.2, respectively. Last year, average new-vehicle LTV clocked in at 99.6, and used-vehicle LTV came in at 109.4.
Looking at performance, 60-plus day delinquencies are still pretty well managed, Komos said, increasing 6 basis points to 1.5%.
For more content like this, join us at the upcoming Auto Finance Sales & Marketing Summit, March 9-10 at the Omni San Diego. Visit www.SalesAndMarketingSummit.com to learn more.


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Part of HuffPost Entertainment. Albert Scaglione founded Park West Gallery in 1969 and is its Chief Executive Officer. These individuals turn their imaginations into reality. “I had a sick feeling in my stomach when we found out what they'd done to us. Albert Scaglione founded Park West Gallery in 1969 and is its Chief Executive Officer. I continue on my journey to share with you some of the world's creative geniuses. Along with his wife Mitsie Scaglione, Albert Scaglione supports organizations across the world. Nearly 20 of the buyers quoted or named in the registry's articles are now plaintiffs in the various Park West lawsuits.Robert English of Rio Rancho, N.M., is not a plaintiff but said he is looking for an attorney who will take his case after he and then-wife Debra English contributed nearly half of the balance in her 401(k) account to buy a set of four works by Peter Max in 2006.In his early days as a startup owner, he met psychedelic and pop artist Peter Max, and over the years developed other business relationships with the families or estates of deceased “masterwork” artists such as Marc Chagall, M.C.Escher and Pablo Picasso.Franks, of Fine Art Registry, has operated and sold an online art registration system for buyers and dealers for more than seven years. Yes, New Park West Gallery Study Finds"Events the foundation is involved with include Jump Shot Your Future,In March 2018, Park West Museum opened in Southfield, Michigan,"Southfield art gallery owner survives Tesla crash""Park West Foundation helps youth transition out of foster care""Gallery's cruise ship strategy makes splash with art sales"https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2016-12-14/ever-bought-artwork-on-a-cruise-prepare-to-be-seasick"The Art of the Cruise: Q&A with Park West Gallery | NCL Travel Blog""Art Auctions on Cruise Ships and on Land - Park West Gallery"Privately held companies based in MichiganMorris Shapiro is the gallery director and has been part of the company for 25 years. Before founding Park West, Albert began his career as a mechanical engineering sciences college professor at Wayne State University in Detroit. She said her company's sales are less than $500,000 per year and she is mismatched in the litigation.Scaglione denies misrepresenting the value of art Park West hassold, and said if it were truly overpriced, it would not find a buyer.Scaglione founded Park West in 1969 after a brief teaching career in mechanical engineering sciences at Scaglione said the gallery sells 300,000 works of art a year, mostly aboard cruise ships, with each of the hosting cruise companies taking 10 percent to 40 percent of gross revenue. But Theresa Franks,founder and CEO of Fine Art Registry, said buyers were leveling allegations against the art dealer before she ever got involved, and the more her company reports on buyer complaints, the more new allegations arise.“After getting the first complaint, I remember I thought that this can't really be happening,” she said. "Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License"Part of Park West Galleries lawsuit over cruise auction could be reinstated"https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Park_West_Gallery&oldid=951229144"Cruise ship art auctions: Britto, Max and Yanke sell on the seas" A 15 percent premium above the auction hammer price goes to“My company is a case of David against Goliath,” she said.In just two years, founder and CEO Albert Scaglione has seen Southfield-based Park West Galleries Inc. go from its most prosperous period to one of its most turbulent.“We completely disagree with that version of the facts and will show that all of the work (Park West) has sold has established provenance,” he said. In fact, Scaglione's own life demonstrates the power of art, as he was so inspired by art that he switched careers from mechanical engineering to opening Park West Gallery … "Are Millennials Interested in Art? After the first reports on her site, new complaints began to mount. You can read more of the interview in Volume 22 of Raine Magazine, the Art Edition.
Albert Scaglione, Park West Gallery’s founder, recently appeared on Detroit’s popular “Paul W. Smith Show” on WJR Radio to discuss Park West’s 50 years in business. ALBERT SCAGLIONE, Founder & CEO . The family then began to do some research and became skeptical of its authenticity.But they are now the source of its legal troubles, and Park West has changed some of its business practices as a result.Franks and attorneys in the lawsuit contend Park Westwaits to enter international waters, which could provide “a legal cloak (against) consumer protection laws,” and targets auction buyers who usually have little experience with fine art or access to shore by phone or e-mail to verify auctioneers' claims about value.In an e-mail, Robin Danek, director of marketing communication for Park West, said Best paid $55 and $65 for two framed lithographs. Park West currently hosts auctions for passengers aboard more than 80 ships for Seattle-based Holland America Inc. cruises; Celebration, Fla.-based Disney Cruise Line; Carnival Cruises; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.-based based Regent Seven Seas Cruises; and Miami-based Oceania Cruises Inc.Scaglione said he is confident of winning all nine cases and says it seems none of Fine Art Registry's reports to expose misdeeds in the “art industry” target anyone but Park West.But he has since added a marketing and public relations department, legal staff and a Web desk to help build the company's online presence and defend its reputation online, he said.
He first discovered his passion for fine art while working at his cousin’s art gallery during high school. “There were people investing their own personal savings into these works, and then coming home from the boat to find out they wouldn't be able to sell them for even a fraction of what they paid.”Neither Scaglione, his family members nor Park West management own an interest in the company, he said.The article below appeared in Crain's Detroit Business on November 29th, 2009 in regards to Park West Gallery.To date, the company has given refunds or exchanges on more than 200 sales.


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JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, December 5, 2016/ — The party that emerges as the winner of Ghana’s general election, to be held on 7 December, should seize the opportunity to drive economic growth by creating policies and a legislative environment where business builders can thrive.
That’s according to Magnus Nmonwu (https://Twitter.com/MNmonwu), Regional Director forSage in West Africa (www.SageAfrica.com), the market and technology leader for integrated accounting, HR & payroll, and payment systems. He says that improving the ease of doing business as well as setting sound macro-economic policies would help to generate GDP growth for the Ghanaian economy. Small & Medium Businesses are an engine for job and wealth creation in several growing economies around the world.
Says Nmonwu: “Ghana has been an exemplary democracy for the past two decades and made some impressive progress in reducing poverty during the last commodities boom. With its sound legal system and a regulatory environment that gives businesses stability, it is one of the most business-friendly countries in sub Saharan Africa.”
“We believe that the time is now ripe for the government to collaborate more closely with the private sector on ways to create jobs and raise income levels. With an estimated 90% of businesses in Ghana being Small & Medium Businesses (http://APO.af/xamu4J), this sector generates and drives much of Ghana’s income and employment. Supporting it can rekindle economic growth for the country.”
Nmonwu says that one of Ghana’s most significant economic opportunities lies in diversifying its economic base and boosting exports. Government can support these opportunities through targeted investments in infrastructure, education and vocational training, and small business financing. “We have seen some interesting initiatives in recent years,” he adds.
Financing remains a challenge
“For example, the launch of the Ghana EXIM (Export Import) Bank (http://EXIMBankGhana.com) addresses the need for financing if business builders in the country are to grow the small business sector and exports. Financing remains a challenge for many smaller Ghanaian companies, so providing them with low-interest loans is an intervention that will make a difference.”
Another area where focus could pay off is skills development, particularly with an emphasis on the science, technology, engineering and mathematics skills needed to boost the economy into the digital age and services economy. Ghana should also look at how investments in roads, power and telecoms – in partnership with the private sector – might drive growth by lifting productivity; it could also be a way to create opportunities for small businesses through procurement.
Modernising government IT
Modernising the government’s ICT system is another opportunity, Nmonwu says. “By implementing the right accounting, payroll and citizen interaction systems, the government can improve efficiencies while showing its commitment to accountability and transparency,” he adds. “It can also use online technology to make it easier for entrepreneurs and individuals to interact with the government.”
“Entrepreneurship has the potential to power the economies in West African countries. It is entrepreneurs who are the drivers of prosperity, and it is in government’s interest to support them,” he says. “Business builders take risks to follow their dreams and pursue their passions, and they hold the key to West Africa’s prosperity.”
Sage (www.Sage.com) is the market and technology leader for integrated accounting, payroll, and payment systems, supporting the ambition of entrepreneurs and business builders. Today, business builders measure success in strong relationships, partnerships, and communities. It‘s why Sage helps drive today’s business builders with the most intelligent and flexible cloud-enabled software, support, and advice to manage everything from money to people. Daily, more than 13,000 Sage colleagues in 23 countries work with a thriving global community of over 3 million entrepreneurs, business owners, tradespeople, accountants, partners, and developers to champion the success of business builders everywhere. And as a FTSE 100 business, we are passionate about doing business the right way, supporting our local communities through the Sage Foundation.
Sage–the market and technology leader for integrated accounting, payroll, and payment systems, powered by the cloud and supporting the ambition of the world’s entrepreneurs and business builders. Because when business builders do well, we all do.
For more information, visit www.Sage.com.


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BlackRock has launched two exchange traded funds that invest in areas that the firm thinks will accelerate the economy.
The iShares Blockchain and Tech ETF (IBLC), seeks to track the NYSE FactSet Global Blockchain Technologies index and is composed of companies that are involved in the “development, innovation and utilisation of blockchain and crypto technologies”, a filing says. The ETF does not invest directly in any cryptocurrencies or cryptocurrency derivatives.
The other, the iShares Emergent Food and AgTech Multisector ETF (IVEG), tracks the Morningstar Global Food Innovation index, which is composed of companies that are expected to benefit from creating or using agricultural technologies or innovative food products or services.
Both ETFs have expense ratios of 47 basis points, making the AgTech ETF’s price the lowest of any agriculture technology ETF, according to Rachel Aguirre, head of US iShares product, speaking at a panel on last week.
The ETFs are BlackRock’s first retail products that offer exposure to blockchain and agriculture technologies, a company spokesperson confirmed.
BlackRock offers a traditional agriculture ETF, the $208mn iShares MSCI Global Agriculture Producers ETF (VEGI), which launched in January 2012, its website shows. That fund added $125mn in net inflows during the year ended March 31, according to Morningstar Direct.
BlackRock’s expansion of its thematic line-up is significant because advisers are “increasingly rotating from traditional sector strategies to cross-sector ones that can benefit from shifting demographics and innovation,” said Todd Rosenbluth, ETF Trends’ head of research.
“Blockchain and emergent food themes are good examples as companies in multiple sectors are positioned to be impacted by consumer trends,” Rosenbluth said. “While some thematic approaches are underperforming the broader market in 2022, the long-term trends remain intact.”
Both new ETFs invest in parts of the “industrial renaissance,” or permanent global changes that have taken place since the start of the pandemic, according to a BlackRock research paper. The researchers pointed to changes affecting automation, infrastructure, and self-driving and electric vehicles.
But they said the renaissance also included medical breakthroughs in mRNA vaccines, genomics, immunology and neuroscience. The paper also focuses on millennial and emerging-market consumers who are “revolutionising spending and consumption,” particularly in the fields of digital ecosystems and “the future of food”.
Thematic funds have ballooned in popularity in recent years. The 1,952 global thematic funds on the market at the end of 2021 added a combined $551bn in assets during the preceding three-year period, according to a March analysis from Morningstar. At the end of 2021, such funds had $806bn in assets, representing 2.7 per cent of all assets in equity funds globally, the report notes.
*Ignites is a news service published by FT Specialist for professionals working in the asset management industry. It covers everything from new product launches to regulations and industry trends. Trials and subscriptions are available at ignites.com.


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Pinkster has entered the spritz market with the launch of Pinkster Spritz, a lower-abv spirit drink.
Bottled at 24% ABV, Pinkster Spritz is made with gin-soaked raspberries left over from producing its Pinkster Gin and is available in two flavours, Raspberry and Hibiscus, Elderflower and Raspberry.
Pinkster’s managing director Stephen Marsh said: “With more and more people trying to lead healthier lifestyles and cutting back on alcohol, all consumer insight indicates that lower-abv and lower-calorie drinks are totally on trend.”
The launch is being backed by the ‘What’s your excuse to spritz?’ creative campaign that champions the everyday nature of spritz drinking occasions.
Pinkster Spritz is available in 70cl formats with RRP of £28


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Red HTC U11 to be available soon
The HTC U11 launched in the US less than a couple of weeks ago, and is currently available through the company’s official online store as well as some third-party retailers and carriers. Available color options include silver, black, and blue.
Now, it looks like a new color option – Red – will be available in the country soon.
We’ve heard you and your wait is almost over. #HTCU11 pic.twitter.com/jj7ATMcS9r— HTC USA (@HTCUSA) June 18, 2017
A quick look at HTC USA’s Twitter timeline reveals the company has been running a countdown since late last week, teasing the new model along…


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"We believe the prudent decision is to cancel our participation at Mobile World Congress. Thanks to the GSMA, the governments of China and Spain as well as Catalonia's Generalitat, and many others who have worked tirelessly to address the challenges resulting from the novel coronavirus".
A spokesperson for Facebook said, "Out of an abundance of caution, Facebook employees won't be attending this year's Mobile World Congress due to the evolving public health risks related to coronavirus".
It has been reported that the GSMA will make a decision this Friday to determine if this year's MWC will be canceled.
Over the past couple of weeks, companies have been cancelling their MWC or pre-MWC events amidst fears over the coronavirus.More news: FDA Now Allowing Treatment of Coronavirus Using Plasma From Recovered Patients
Sony's departure from MWC leaves a pretty big hole in the event's schedule.
Here's an excerpt from the Finnish company's official statement: "MWC Barcelona has always been a key event in our annual calendar and we were very excited to showcase our new products to our partners, customers, media and fans". Sony says its press conference will still be on, but that it will be a video-only event hosted on its Xperia YouTube channel.
The event, which is the telecom industry's biggest get-together, is scheduled to take place from February 24 to 27.
In a statement emailed to TechCrunch, an Amazon spokesperson said "due to the outbreak and continued concerns about novel coronavirus, Amazon will withdraw from exhibiting and participating in Mobile World Congress 2020, scheduled for February 24-27 in Barcelona, Spain". The organization overseeing the event may decide to go on but introduce extra measures to protect attendees. The organizer originally expected more than 100,000 visitors and more than 2800 exhibitors this year. The GSMA will not allow travelers from China's Hubei province to attend the event, and anyone traveling from China will need to provide proof that they've been out of the country for 14 days prior to MWC.More news: United Kingdom will have coronavirus testing kits ready in days, health official says
MWC's cancelation will surely affect the business that companies planned to conduct during the event.
Here's a list of who's dropped out or scaled back their presence at MWC 2020.
He concluded his statement by stating that canceling MWC 2020 will also reduce the risk of disease outbreak in the host city Barcelona.More news: Messi thanked by hospital for 1 million donation


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A potential blockbuster drug could potentially produce a blockbuster drug-delivery system, if the FDA follows a recommendation by its Endocrinologic and Metabolic Drugs Advisory Committee. The committee last month of the FDA gave its thumbs-up recommendation for the agency to approve Exubera, an inhaled form of insulin developed jointly by Pfizer (New York), Sanofi-Aventis (Le Plessis Robinson, France) and Nektar Therapeutics (San Carlos, California) for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes treatment. The FDA’s final approval will make both the drug and the inhaler system developed by Nektar to deliver it big winners, since it is the first such system on the market.
According to analysts Exubera could produce sales of up to $10 billion annually. And Nektar could reap 10% to 20% as its percentage of sales and royalties, according to Joyce Strand, director of corporate communications for Nektar. Pfizer was the lead organization in financing Exubera development and will be its lead marketer; Sanofi-Aventis was the actual developer of the drug; and Nektar then transformed the bulk form of the insulin into a powdered product, created the packaging and then developed a special inhaler for its delivery, Strand told The BBI Newsletter.
There were two obvious critical development points in this effort for Nektar, Strand said. One was the engineering of powdered particles to the correct size. “Too small, they will come back up, like cigarette smoke,” she said. “Too big, they will lodge at the back of the mouth.” Secondly, was the need for an inhaler that would get these particles “into the deep lung and bloodstream to provide enough drug,” Strand said. She noted that compared with the common asthma inhaler, “We had to do something different,” referencing the fact that inhaled asthma drugs often are “wasted” by being caught at the back of the throat but don’t really need to get into the deep lung.
She described the Nektar device as “like a thin soda pop can that extends like a telescope. The extended part is a clear chamber so you can see whether you’ve taken a dose or not in a simple manner.” Pulling a handle on the device “compresses the air, forces the air through the powder and makes it into a fine powder.” Then, over a period of about 20 seconds, the drug can be inhaled and this “firing” process doesn’t have to be coordinated with breath intake, Strand said, again in contrast to an asthma inhaler.
Nektar was founded in the early 1990s “on the premise,” she said, of transforming drugs, normally injected, into inhaleable powders, and it partnered with Pfizer for the effort in 1995. Pfizer and Sanofi-Aventis then built a facility in Frankfurt, Germany, to manufacture the powdered form of the drug.
The large market opportunity is seen in the broader use of an inhaleable form of insulin as compared to the current injectables. Those with the more severe Type 1 diabetes – about 5% of the diabetes population – would still have to use basal injections but could supplement these with the inhaled Exubera. The much larger market of those with Type 2 diabetes could use the drug as their main form of insulin and use it earlier and more often. “By making this into an inhaleable drug, more patients will take more insulin.” Those with diabetes “don’t start insulin soon, mainly to avoid the needle,” she added. “And both Type 1 and Type 2 don’t take enough insulin to manage their disease.”
Still to come is FDA consideration and further examination of side effects sometimes produced by the inhaler delivery system: respiratory tract infections, cough and an inflammation called pharyngitis. Overall, panelists expressed concern that the long-term effects on those with lung diseases had not been determined. Panelists also expressed reservations about the device itself, whether it was too difficult to train users for proper use and maintenance. Company response to these concerns was that the device did require some extra learning but was significantly less complex – and much more user friendly – than the current required regimen of needle injections.
Going forward, Strand noted that Nektar is developing other forms of inhaleable drug/delivery systems. These include a drug to treat lung infections and cystic fibrosis, ready for a Phase III by Chiron (Emeryville, California), and a drug to treat migraine headache, in a Phase II trial with Solvay (Brussels, Belgium).
ArthroCare, S&N settle, enter accords
After a long line of lawsuits and countersuits dating back to 2001, ArthroCare (Austin, Texas) and Smith & Nephew (S&N; London) last month finally given their lawyers a rest and settled all legal disputes and entering into product supply and license agreements. Most recently, ArthroCare was seeking damages from S&N after it sued the maker of products used to repair joints, skin, soft tissue and bone in 2001, charging it with patent infringement. Last year, a federal court in Delaware barred S&N from selling the disputed products in the U.S.
As part of the settlement, S&N will be allowed to re-introduce its Saphyre bipolar RF and Electroblade electromechanical resector products into the U.S. market. These products enable surgeons to stop tissue from bleeding and to remove and modify soft tissue during arthroscopic surgery. On its side, ArthoCare will make bipolar and monopolar arthroscopy products for sale by S&N. Under the licensing pact, ArthroCare will receive royalties for bipolar products sold domestically by Smith & Nephew, and for bipolar shaver products sold by S&N worldwide. The company also said it was granted a license for the global sale of spine products.
Michael Baker, president and CEO of ArthroCare, said during a conference call that the arrangement was not a simple one to complete, but he was pleased that the litigation issues are behind the company. “This was not an easy deal to structure or complete and it required a lot of creativity from both parties.” He said the deal turns “an adversarial situation” into “an opportunity to work with one of the largest and best-regarded competitors to more rapidly make coblation a standard of care in more procedures and thereby improve the outcomes for literally tens of thousands of patients.”
In addition to product sales from the supply agreement and royalties, ArthroCare will receive a one-time cash settlement payment at signing and a series of related milestone payments over the next 12 months. ArthroCare’s products employ coblation technology, which uses low-temperature radio frequency energy to dissolve rather than burn soft tissue – minimizing, it said, damage to healthy tissue. Used in more than 4 million surgeries worldwide, Coblation-based devices have been developed and marketed for sports medicine; spine/neurologic; ear, nose and throat; cosmetic; urologic and gynecologic procedures. Baker said that the new partnership “will further solidify our position as the market share leader in the application of this technology and extend our global reach by leveraging Smith & Nephew’s broad distribution channels.”
S&N also was happy with the new peace accord. Jim Taylor, president of Smith & Nephew Endoscopy (Andover, Massachusetts), said, “Access to these products will allow us to offer our customers the most comprehensive range of arthroscopy products in the market.”
Joanne Wuensch, a medical technology analyst with Harris Nesbitt (New York), wrote in a research note that her firm views this announcement “as a positive for ArthroCare, relieving the legal overhang between the two companies, expanding the use of its gross-margin favorable Costa Rica manufacturing, and increasing its earnings potential.”
Looking ahead, ArthroCare forecast third-quarter revenue fitting within analysts’ current expectations, and total fiscal 2005 revenue between $210 million and $215 million. Analysts surveyed by Thomson Financial have set the high end of their third-quarter revenue estimates at $54.5 million, the low end at $52.1 million, with the mean estimate coming in at $53.3 million. For FY06, the company projected earnings per share between $1.25 and $1.35, on estimated revenue from $255 million to $265 million. The 2006 outlook includes the impact from the S&N deals.
Breast implant maker claims No. 3 spot
MediCor (Las Vegas, Nevada) reported that it has agreed to acquire two UK firms, Biosil and Nagor, with a combination of cash and stock, the specific financial terms not disclosed. Privately owned Biosil and Nagor sell medical devices on a worldwide basis. And Biosil and MediCor’s subsidiary, MediCor Aesthetics, are party to a supply agreement for saline-filled breast implants manufactured by Biosil and imported into the U.S. MediCor said that, with the two purchases, it now controls about 30% of the worldwide breast implant market, “excluding the U.S.”
Theodore Maloney, CEO of MediCor, said, “The acquisition of these companies, combined with our existing Eurosilicone breast implant product line, will further strengthen the position of MediCor as the third-leading manufacturer and distributor of breast implants worldwide, with Inamed and Mentor [both Santa Barbara, California] in first and second position worldwide.” He added that the acquisitions continue MediCor’s strategy “of assembling the most experienced management team and acquiring and expanding businesses in the global aesthetic, plastic and reconstructive and dermatology markets, continuing the process started with our acquisition of Eurosilicone in France in July 2004.”
Biosil manufactures silicone implants for the aesthetic, plastic and reconstructive surgery markets, including silicone gel and saline-filled breast implants, with both round and anatomical shapes and smooth or unique micro-textured surfaces. The company also makes a range of other silicone devices, including tissue expanders, testicular implants, gluteal implants, calf implants, facial implants and scar management products. Biosil also has developed products within the anesthesia and colorectoral disciplines.
Nagor currently is a supplier of the breast implant products made by Biosil in about 60 countries throughout Europe, Asia, South America and Africa.
Biosil has about 90 employees in its two ISO-certified manufacturing facilities, both of which have added production capacity, thus, MediCor said, enhancing its ability to meet increased product demand and support new product introductions. MediCor said it intends to retain the current Biosil and Nagor employee base and expand operations in Scotland, England and the Isle of Man. John Alsop will continue in the posts of president and managing director of Nagor.
The company said it would grow by expanding its business lines, primarily in the aesthetic, plastic and reconstructive surgery and dermatology markets, and through acquisitions. MediCor was founded by chairman Donald McGhan. In a statement, the company termed McGhan “the pioneer of the modern-day breast implant industry.” Its products are sold worldwide to hospitals, surgery centers and physicians through various distributors and direct sales personnel.


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The owners of Walker’s Point restaurants La Merenda and Engine Company No. 3 have converted a home used as storage into a commercial kitchen where they plan on renting out space to other food operators and expanding their brand.
[caption id="attachment_325220" align="alignright" width="466"] The owners of La Merenda have turned this house into a commercial kitchen.[/caption]
Peter and Sonia Sandroni have recently upgraded their property, a 1,200-square-foot bungalow at 809 S. Barclay St. that will be used by the couple and Sweet Tooth, which shut down its bakery in Elm Grove this summer.
Sweet Tooth will be renting space to bake and take customer orders out of the newly-renovated commercial kitchen, said Sonia Sandroni, who has owned La Merenda for 10 years and Engine Co. for three.
Meanwhile, the Sandroni's will also be moving some of their operations from La Merenda and Engine Co. to the space.
“We had been looking for a way to expand our production for some time,” Sandroni said.
The catalyst for the kitchen was the Sandroni's desire to expand their line of homemade soda, which is served at both restaurants in soda form and in mixed drinks.
Made from fresh fruits and natural ingredients, the soda includes flavors such as citrus, cola, cola lite, lavender, ginger and various tropical fruit flavors depending on the season.
Sandroni wants to expand the line by selling to other restaurants, farmer's markets and possibly grocery stores.
La Merenda also has an in-house butcher and plans on transferring some of the production work to the Barclay building along with some of the catering business from Engine Co.
Eventually, Sandroni would like to set up a storefront at the Barclay building for Sweet Tooth to sell its cakes and La Merenda to sell its meats.
“That’s a little ways down the road,” she said.


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Blog: US regulator blocks Sysco, US Foods foodservice mega-deal
Dean Best | 23 February 2015
The US competition watchdog has shown its teeth and moved to block Sysco's takeover of fellow US foodservice distributor US Foods.
The deal, announced back in December 2013, sought to combine the two largest foodservice distributors in the US. At the time, Sysco said the transaction, if approved, would create a business generating annual sales of around US$65bn.
However, the Federal Trade Commission has decided to seek a court order temporarily preventing the two sides from completing the deal, arguing it would hit competition.
It has also brushed off Sysco's announcement earlier this month it would sell 11 US Foods distribution centres to distributor Performance Foods Group. It was a transaction Sysco believed would address the FTC's concerns. For its part, Sysco has said it would "contest" the FTC's decision to block its move for US Foods.
The FTC was withering in its assessment of the deal. "This proposed merger would eliminate significant competition in the marketplace and create a dominant national broadline foodservice distributor," Debbie Feinstein, director of the FTC’s bureau of competition, insisted. "Consumers across the country, and the businesses that serve them, benefit from the healthy competition between Sysco and US Foods, whether they eat at a restaurant, hotel, or a hospital."
Sysco's largest customers include quick service restaurant chains like McDonald's and Wendy's but it has around 425,000 clients across the US.
Both Sysco and US Foods serve a wide range of customers, including restaurants and hotels but also healthcare and educational establishments.
According to the FTC complaint, a combined Sysco/US Foods would account for 75% of the national market for broadline distribution services.
"Sysco and US Foods are the only broadline distributors with a truly national footprint, and compete vigorously with each other to meet the needs of customers with foodservice locations dispersed nationwide or across multiple regions of the country," the FTC said. "Sysco and US Foods are the only broadline distributors with numerous distribution centres spread throughout the country. Many hotel chains, foodservice management companies, and group purchasing organisations, for example, consider Sysco and US Foods to be each other’s closest competitor, and in some cases those customers’ only meaningful alternatives, for national broadline distribution services."
The FTC also argues the companies would also high shares in a number of local markets. "Sysco and US Foods also compete aggressively for the broadline business of independent restaurants and other local customers that operate in a local area or region. The merger is likely to harm competition in 32 local markets," the watchdog said.
Sysco's move to sell a clutch of centres to Performance Food Group would not sufficiently boost competition in the channel, the FTC added. "PFG would not approach the scale or competitiveness of US Foods today, and therefore would not restore the competition eliminated by this merger," it said.
Sysco believes that the FTC's decision is based on "an erroneous view of the competitive dynamics of the foodservice distribution industry".
"The facts are strongly in our favour and we look forward to making our case in court," Sysco president and CEO Bill DeLaney said. "Those of us who work in this industry every day know it is fiercely competitive. Customers of all types have access to food distribution services from a wide variety of companies and any number of channels. In fact, the overwhelming majority of restaurants and food operators choose their foodservice distributor locally, where they have choices among many excellent companies."
"For example, the FTC claims that Sysco and US Foods combined have a 75 percent market share in an ill-defined 'national broadline market,' ignoring the fact that the vast majority of 'national customers' use multiple regional or local distributors. Additionally, the FTC claims the merger would harm competition in 32 local markets, ignoring the existence of myriad local suppliers, including broadline companies, specialty companies, cash-and-carry, and club stores with whom Sysco and US Foods compete on a daily basis."
An administrative trial on Sysco's move for US Foods will take place in July.
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Only recently it was a cooperation between Schmidt Spiele and McDonalds that brought toys into the “Happy Meal” bags. Now the fast food giant is working together with Schleich and complaining to children about the little dinosaurs, sheep or horses that are contained in the surprise bags in addition to french fries, apple slices and mineral water. The highlight: The plastic animals are packaged plastic-free.
The current gifts in the “Happy Meal” from McDonald's Germany are exclusive animal figures from the toy manufacturer Schleich. The fast food giant recently announced this. In the meantime, the first surprise bags have already been distributed, because the campaign has been running since December 3rd.
As McDonald's also announced, the “Happy Meal” cooperation will now run until January 20th. The recently expired Promotion with the Berlin publishing house Schmidt Spiele, who had made various children's games available for well-known licenses for the surprise bags.
Sustainability offensive: toys packaged plastic-free
With the start of the promotion, the fast food company also announced that the toys in the “Happy Meal” are now increasingly being packaged in paper instead of plastic. This not only applies to the Schleich animals that are currently in the bags in the children's menu, but also to future toy contents.
McDonald's Germany says it is continuously working on reducing plastic packaging. A motto supports the campaign: With the message “Packaged plastic-free - full of fun”, the company is taking another step towards sustainability.
The current Schleich promotion is the starting signal for this sustainability offensive. Until January 20th, children at McDonald's will receive an exclusive Schleich figure as part of their “Happy Meal” order. There is a choice of various dinosaurs and farm animals such as donkeys, calves and foals. Instead of plastic as before, the Schleich figures are packed in paper boxes and they even have a playful use: The packaging is designed as an enclosure or meadow and can thus be integrated into the game.
“The switch to paper packaging in the Happy Meal is part of the numerous measures in the area of packaging reduction that the company has implemented in the last two years,” explains McDonald's Germany. "In 2019, the plastic balloon holders were replaced by a paper version and a paper bag for the '4 Chicken McNuggets' was introduced."
In 2020, the switch to almost plastic-free dessert packaging and the introduction of paper straws and wooden spoons will also take place. Also in the coming year, McDonald's says it wants to work continuously on optimizing its packaging.
|Schleich 42501 fun for cute cats, for children from 3 years... *||13,49 EUR||Buy|
Last updated on 26.09.2022/XNUMX/XNUMX / Affiliate Links / Images from the Amazon Product Advertising API. * = Affiliate links. Images from Amazon PA API


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Rumors that Apple is working on an iPhone Nano are spreading -- again. The latest batch of rumors began when an Apple patent was rediscovered.
A Chinese news Web site has posted pictures that it claims show the iPhone model being tested for release in China, adding to expectations that the phone will launch there soon.
Mobile printing has never been easier. For a busy office, reliable and easy-to-use tools are essential. Samsung's latest smart printers are equipped for wireless printing from mobile devices. Find out more about what is all about.
Apple released the iPhone 3.0.1 software update, patching the SMS vulnerability revealed Thursday at the Black Hat security conference in Las Vegas. The release notes of the 3.0.1 update were short and to the point: "Fixes SMS vulnerability" for the ...
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission has written to Apple, AT&T and Google questioning the rejection of Google Voice and related applications from the iPhone App Store.
The CEO of the company whose Google Voice-related application was recently yanked by Apple from the iPhone's App Store is hopping mad.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) took exception today to Apple's claims that "jailbroken" iPhones could cripple a mobile carrier network, calling the argument nothing but "a hill of beans."
Apple has just over a day left to patch a bug in it's iPhone software that could let hackers take over the iPhone, just by sending out and SMS (Short Message Service) message.
Apple has told the U.S. Copyright Office that modifying the iPhone's operating system could crash a mobile phone network's transmission towers or allow people to avoid paying for phone calls.
Apple may have rejected the Google Voice app from the App Store, but BlackBerry owners can tap into this call-management center right now, getting better organised with free features.
Nissan has developed a prototype iPhone application that would allow electric car owners to dial into their vehicles and check battery levels.
Dutch brewer Grolsch has recently launched its very own iPhone app to help drinkers determine just how inebriated they really are. The just for fun application, dubbed 'Walk the Line', was launched at the North Sea Jazz Festival in the Netherlands.
AT&T used Twitter last Friday evening to announce that a refurbished iPhone 3G -- specifically, the black 8GB model -- can now be picked up for just $US49, while supplies last. That's half the price of an unopened 8GB model. A refurbished 16GB iPhone...
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If you're the kind of person who walks down the street worrying about the depletion of IPv4 addresses, the iPhone can now tell you how long you have until that happens.
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First impression on unpacking the Q702 test unit was the solid feel and clean, minimalist styling.
For work use, Microsoft Word and Excel programs pre-installed on the device are adequate for preparing short documents.
The Fujitsu LifeBook UH574 allowed for great mobility without being obnoxiously heavy or clunky. Its twelve hours of battery life did not disappoint.
The screen was particularly good. It is bright and visible from most angles, however heat is an issue, particularly around the Windows button on the front, and on the back where the battery housing is located.
My first impression after unboxing the Q702 is that it is a nice looking unit. Styling is somewhat minimalist but very effective. The tablet part, once detached, has a nice weight, and no buttons or switches are located in awkward or intrusive positions.
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Almost a third of mums would give up regular haircuts in order to afford organic food for their babies, a new survey has discovered. A third of mums polled by baby food brand Plum, are so keen to give their baby an organic start that they’d even give up a regular haircut to afford the higher priced food.
[Related: Five tips for baby led weaning]
More than a third of the mums forgo organic food in their own diet so their baby can enjoy it and 17 per cent will make the effort to travel to up to four different shops to get their baby’s organic ingredients. A super committed five per cent even admitted spending two hours a day pureeing organic food for their baby’s tea.
But celebrity chef Rachel Allen thinks this is unnecessary. She believes that both mum and baby can enjoy the benefits of an organic diet without breaking the bank. In this video, she joins weaning expert Beverley Glock to explain how to make baby food out of organic ingredients that are suitable for the whole family.


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Mandarin Oriental Marrakech launches wellness programme and yoga retreat
The wellness programme is offered in partnership with Jennifer Thompson, a certified iridologist, detox expert and health practitioner
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech is launching an immune-system boosting Wellness Programme and a series of serenity-inducing Yoga Retreats.
The wellness programme has been part of the hotel’s offering since October 1, 2018 and the four day yoga retreat will be available every weekend during November.
For the wellness programme, guests will be served high-fibre, gluten-free vegan meals, as well as fresh juices formulated to stimulate detoxification and increase energy levels. The programme aims to reconnect guests with the “five pillar of optimal health”: Mindset, nutrition, hydration, activity, and rest. The wellness programme is offered in partnership with Jennifer Thompson, a certified iridologist, detox expert and health practitioner and starts at US $1,531.
The four-day yoga retreats will feature wellness experiences, such as speech and meditation circles. Nutritional dining includes detoxifying breakfasts and lunches, and an Ayurvedic dinner created by the resort’s executive chef. The yoga retreat package starts from $1,571.


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PULLMAN – Fruit consumers and growers will be delighted if Shaojin Wang, a WSU assistant research professor of biological systems engineering, can achieve his research goal. Wang is pursuing a method that could replace the chemical fumigation of apples and cherries grown in Washington with simple low-pressure treatments.
Low-pressure storage technology changes the normal composition of air, creating an environment inhospitable to pests that would otherwise attack the crop. While pests are controlled, fruit is kept fresh without over-ripening or senescing.
Wang is working on a technically effective and environmentally sound process to disinfest cherries and apples using low-pressure methods.
More … » More …


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Blockchain is as old as Bitcoin, but the ledger is aging more elegantly than the cryptocurrency. Over 10 years since “Bitcoin: A Peer to Peer Electronic Cash System” was released, the trailblazing cryptocoin still functions more like an investment vehicle, while blockchain is now its own industry, reports Fortunly. It is hard to tell whether […]
The post Blockchain and the Retail Industry: What the Future Holds appeared first on The Daily Hodl.
Source: Daily HODL
Original Post: Blockchain and the Retail Industry: What the Future Holds


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The Pitt Meadows based hemp company Naturally Splendid announced it is shipping 20 tonnes of hemp seed to South Korea.
It is the third sizable shipment to South Korea since March, and the company has now sent nearly 70 tonnes of seed there in 2020. The 20 tonnes is one 12-meter (40 foot) shipping container full.
“It’s great news for our company,” said CEO Craig Goodwin. “Even with the challenging COVID times, we continue to forge forward.”
Goodwin explained the hemp seed is used as a healthy food additive.
“In Korea, they use it as a super food,” he said.
Naturally splendid touts hemp as a digestible protein with a desirable omega profile.
Home shopping channels are popular in South Korea, and Goodwin appeared on a program in 2016 promoting his products. He said they had sold 40,000 pounds of hemp seed in less than an hour that year.
The company had been working to extract CBD oil at its location at the Golden Ears Business Park, but has now focused on plant and hemp-based food products.
“Our strength is in manufacturing food,” said Goodwin.
“In addition to exporting bulk hemp seed, we are investigating opportunities for distribution of other company products to South Korea,” he said. “With all the news and activity surrounding increased consumer demand for plant-based nutrition, its worthy to note that hemp has the most digestible protein of any plant on earth, so this is in fact, very much in line with our continued focus on products featuring plant-based nutrients.”
The company has its own line of products which include sport bars, pet food and equine food products and also provides product for global food companies.


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- Dec 17, 2013
I've missed Windows 10 Mobile since I left the platform last year, so I went back to see how it's holding up. Here's my experience using the HP Elite x3 during the last few weeks.
For the longest time, I was a Windows phone user. I used Windows Mobile devices, and I used Windows Phone devices. I flirted with iOS and Android devices through the years, but at the end of the day, I'd always return to a Windows-based phone. That was, until, Microsoft announced that it was no longer planning to continue work on its mobile platform.
Full story from the WindowsCentral blog...