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With a simple glance, Face ID securely unlocks your iPhone X. You can use it to authorize purchases from the iTunes Store, App Store, iBooks Store, and payments with Apple Pay. Or are there other features you want in your next iPad?
Apple's next iPad will see a complete redesign, according to a report from Bloomberg, that will make it look and feel more like an iPhone X, including slim bezels and Face ID.
Microsoft Integrates Word and LinkedIn with 'Resume Assistant'
What's interesting with this latest development is that it taps into pre-existing strategies for both Microsoft and LinkedIn. This integration is created to make it easier for people to search for others inside their organizations.
The report states that that this new iPad will have a similar sized display to the current 10.5-inch iPad Pro but will get rid of the current Home button with Touch ID in favor of the new Face ID technology introduced with the iPhone X.
The new iPad is expected to go on sale next year around the same time as this year's iPad Pro launch.
First Openly Transgender Black Woman Elected to Public Office in the US
Transgender people, Jenkins said, aren't asking for special rights - just the "human rights" allotted to all American citizens. Advocates say Jenkins will be the first openly transgender black woman elected to public office in the United States.
Other suppliers, including LG Electronics Inc., Japan Display Inc., Sharp Corp., and smaller China-based firms like BOE Display and Tianma Microelectronics are also unlikely to have the ability to supply tablet-sized OLED screens to Apple next year, other people familiar with the supply chain said. However, the report says that the new iPads will also drop the Home button/Touch ID, something that KGI's recent report didn't mention.
Tablet sales have taken a 17 percent decline globally over the last three years and Apple certainly felt it. Knowing that the iPhone 8 and iPhone X have a processing unit that is quite impressive, having access to more power in a tablet may offer even greater capabilities for graphics and computing.
Five naked people in vehicle crash: The story gets weirder
Global News Canada reports that at the time of the crash Monday, Nov. 6 that it was about 17.6 degrees. Police arriving on the scene arrested the naked people, three adults and two youths.
Apple allegedly still sees the iPad as the future of mainstream computing and continues investment in the series.


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After a deflated 2020, Uber and Lyft are both poised to see US ride-sharing sales grow for years to come, but the former’s will rise faster and from a higher base. By the end of 2023, Uber will surpass $35 billion in ride-sharing sales, up from $14.15 billion last year. By comparison, Lyft brought in $7.56 billion last year and won’t arrive at the $14 billion mark until 2023.
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CREVE COEUR, MO (KTVI)-- A hockey mom makes the save on stolen hockey gear taken from her own garage. Kathy Wunderlich says thieves took an estimated $4,000 worth of hockey gear belonging to her three sons.
The thieves didn`t count on Wunderlich going to resale stores in the area, asking them to be on the lookout for the stolen gear. Creve Coeur police say Wunderlich provided a detailed description of the equipment.
"We knew the sizes of the goalie leg pads, the size of the skates, the helmets and my sons had stickers on the sides of the helmets," said Wunderlich.
She is praising workers at the Play It Again Sports store in Kirkwood. They are the ones who spotted the stolen goods, and stalled the suspects long enough for police to make the arrests. She is also thanking police for connecting the dots.
"I just couldn`t believe it," said Wunderlich. "I didn`t think we`d get any of it back."
Wunderlich lives in the Ladue Oaks neighborhood. She says the theft has neighbors keeping a closer eye on each other.
"We are much more vigilant than we`ve ever been," said Wunderlich. "I`m even locking my cars inside the garage."


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It’s been almost two months since San Francisco Mercantile opened its doors on the corner of Haight and Cole streets, gracing the Upper Haight with California-themed gifts designed by California-based artists. Checking in with owner Robert Emmons, it seems like things are going well so far for the new retailer on the block.
When asked how he’s enjoying his new neighborhood, Emmons responded, “I have loved it. Everyone has been great and supportive. We’ve received lots of nice feedback from neighbors welcoming us. I’m very grateful to the local community for the support.”
As we last reported, San Francisco Mercantile isn’t your typical gift shop with generic tchotchkes designed by companies with no Bay Area ties. Emmons has his own product line, all designed by local artists, and also stocks collections by other California designers, with an emphasis on Bay Area-focused merchandise. Taking his goods hyperlocal, Emmons carries products from Upper Haight designer Jamai Lowell of Animal Instincts.
The new store, which marks Emmons’s first-ever brick-and-mortar location (his product line has been featured in Bay Area and Santa Barbara gift shops since 2008), has seen some quality foot traffic since the opening. “A big portion of why I wanted the Haight was that it was important to find a location that had both locals and tourists,” said Emmons, who was originally targeting the Castro for this store.
Once he dug into the Upper Haight, though, he realized that the area lacked a store like his. “There is nothing in Upper Haight that is similar to what we wanted to do,” Emmons continues. “Our store doesn’t compete with any of our retailers, and we offer something new [to the neighborhood].”
With a clientele that he estimates at 50 percent tourists and 50 percent locals, Emmons sought to create a store “where locals could find local products that they’re proud of.”
Emmons wants to help locals in other ways, too. San Francisco Mercantile has previously partnered with a number of Bay Area organizations, including The Harvey Milk Civil Rights Academy, and currently supports the Creative Arts Charter School.
When asked if he will be seeking to assist any Upper Haight-specific nonprofits, Emmons said that at the moment, there is nothing solidified yet. But, “I think as we’re here and as we become more of a member of the neighborhood, there will be an opportunity for us to see where we can partner with other organizations.”
At this point, Emmons is still getting to know the Upper Haight. Lately, there have been increased residential concerns, specifically at the Haight and Cole Streets intersection, over growing encampments and drug deals. When asked about his interactions with the transient community, Emmons said everyone has been “very respectful.”
He also commented that police have been “incredibly supportive” of the new shop, “constantly walking through and checking in” with the employees.
So, is there another San Francisco Mercantile store opening in the future? “If [this store] puts me in the grave, no,” Emmons jokes. “We’ll see how this one goes. So far, it’s been really fun.”
Right now, Emmons is focusing on holiday retail preparations. “We’re pulling together displays showing gift set ideas and making the space more gift-friendly.”
He’ll also be adding new local items specifically for the holidays, such as Charles Chocolates.
Have you had a chance to visit San Francisco Mercantile yet? What do you think?


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Comcast Expands Xfinity Home Business: Enables August, Lutron, Nest, Others To Integrate Devices Into Platform
Planned SDK and certification program will give even more options to personalize and control smart home experience.
Comcast today announced that it will expand its Xfinity Home business by integrating new partner devices from August, Automatic, Cuff, Leeo, Lutron, Rachio, SkyBell and Whistle starting this summer, giving customers a single experience that connects and manages their home security and automation needs. Later this year, Comcast will release a Software Development Kit (SDK) and a certification program that will make it easier for partners to work with Xfinity Home and provide customers more options to further personalize their smart homes.
About 16 percent of U.S. homes own at least one smart home device and that number will increase to 50 percent by 2020. However, consumers remain challenged to find one platform that ties these devices together into one experience. Comcast customers will soon be able to manage each new partner device through the Xfinity Home touchscreen or mobile app, the Xfinity Remote with voice control and the X1 Entertainment Operating System, giving users a unique and diverse range of control options.
"We want to help people unlock the potential of their smart home," said Dan Herscovici, SVP and General Manager, Xfinity Home. "Whether it’s through the television, an app or a voice command, we’re giving customers one easy-to-use experience to control all their favorite devices, seamlessly on the same platform. We’re proud to work with some of the most innovative technology companies in this space and look forward to adding even more devices and functionality to Xfinity Home in the future."
Xfinity Home customers will soon be able to add the following devices to their home automation system: August Smart Locks; Automatic car adapters; Cuff smart jewelry; Leeo Smart Alert Nightlight; Lutron Caseta® Wireless dimmers, remote controls, and battery powered shades; Rachio smart sprinkler controllers; SkyBell video doorbells and; the Whistle pet monitor.
During 2015, Comcast will release an SDK that will make it even easier for more entrepreneurs and device makers to integrate their products with the Xfinity Home platform and also will launch a "Works with Xfinity Home" certification program that will ensure each device is compatible. Comcast has established a website and email address — firstname.lastname@example.org — for prospective partners to get more information.
Comcast’s Xfinity Home mobile apps will control each of the new partner devices as well as Comcast’s fully monitored Home Security Service that includes a certified emergency central station monitoring system that is staffed 24 hours a day. The Home Security Service also includes battery back-up in the event of a power failure and cellular back-up in the event of a network interruption.
Separately, Comcast is developing an integration with Nest® Labs through the Works with Nest program.
Here’s what Comcast’s new partners are saying about today’s announcement:
August Smart Lock CEO and Co-Founder Jason Johnson: "At August, our mission is to deliver a home access experience that makes life simpler and more secure, starting with our Smart Lock. The smart home has become a reality and it’s now a matter of providing users with integrated options that will make their experience completely seamless. Comcast is at the forefront of innovation and August is honored to be a part of a program that will open up even more possibilities, driving this technology further mainstream."
Automatic car adapter CEO and Co-Founder Thejo Kote: "We believe the car should be a vital part of the connected home. That’s why we're so excited to help make that a reality for Comcast customers who upgrade their cars with Automatic."
Cuff smart jewelry CEO, Founder & Designer Deepa Sood: "We are so excited to be a part of this initiative and make our smart jewelry even smarter by enabling it to interact with the vast ecosystem of Xfinity Home products."
Leeo Smart Alert Nightlight CEO and Co-Founder Adam Gettings: "The goal of Leeo is to open up communications between people and their homes with beautifully designed, easy-to-use devices. Our Smart Alert Nightlight is our first step in making that vision a reality and we're excited to take the next step by expanding our offering to Xfinity Home customers and providing them even more options for smart, simple and accessible home automation."
Lutron Electronics Director of New Business Alliances Mark Jenner: "Backed by Lutron’s trusted reliability, Caséta Wireless gives homeowners the opportunity to transform their homes quickly, easily and affordably as part of Xfinity Home. With Caséta, turn on lights when arriving home to feel secure and never enter a dark home again, lower the lights and shades when watching a favorite movie, and save energy – all as part of the singular Xfinity experience."
Rachio sprinkler controller Director of Business Development Ric Miles: "Homeowners should be able to manage their water consumption as easily as they control their television. Xfinity Home’s platform enables this new reality and has the potential to impact water conservation on a grand scale."
SkyBell doorbell Co-Founder Andrew Thomas: "By connecting the best smart home devices in a single, cohesive user experience, Xfinity Home will empower SkyBell to be smarter and more responsive. This will provide Comcast subscribers with new levels of security and control at their front door."
Whistle pet monitor CEO and Co-Founder Ben Jacobs: "At Whistle we’re focused on using technology to help individuals take better care of their pets by creating smart products that fit into daily life. Working with Xfinity Home we can provide a central information hub for the more than 60 percent of U.S. households with pets by serving up helpful information to the right screens, at the right time. The connected home presents one more way of removing the guesswork and worry that was once associated with caring for a pet."


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Bombardier Inc. announced today that it has reached an agreement in principle for the sale of its recreational products business for an aggregate purchase price of $1.225 billion Cdn.
According to a statement, this transaction all but completes Bombardier’s action plan presented on April 3, 2003, which was designed to restore the Corporation’s balance sheet as well as direct focus on Bombardier’s aerospace and transportation businesses.
‘Earlier this year, we completed a successful equity issue and announced the divestures of our Defence Services unit, Belfast City Airport and Bombardier Capital’s business aircraft portfolio,’ said Paul M. Tellier, President and Chief Executive Officer. ‘Once fully completed, this plan will have generated in excess of $2.5 billion Cdn, well over the initial target of $2 billion Cdn.’
Completion of this transaction is subject to certain purchase price adjustments, execution of definitive acquisition and financing documentation and the approval of all required governmental authorities. It is expected that the transaction will be closed by mid autumn 2003.
Bombardier Recreational Products designs, develops, builds, distributes and markets a range of products including sport boats snowmobiles, outboard engines and utility vehicles.


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If you believe Ford CEO Mark Fields, the blue oval is transitioning from a pure car company to that of an auto and mobility company.
In addition to building and selling cars, Ford is moving into ride sharing, autonomous driving and other forms new mobility.
It’s easy to see why: Ford controls about
6% of the $2.3 trillion a year automotive industry, but generates virtually no revenue from the $5.4 trillion a year transportation-services industry.
The latter includes mass transit, ride sharing, and taxis.
Ford wants to change this and the man tasked with making this transition happen is Ford CTO Raj Nair.
Nair, who has been with Ford for nearly 30 years, has helped develop some of the company’s most successful and visible products, including the F-Series truck, Explorer SUV as well as two generations of the Ford GT supercar.
The long-time Ford executive sat down with Business Insider at the company’s sizable stand at the 2016 Consumer Electronics Show. Here are the main takeaways from our talk.
On balancing Ford’s expanding mobility business with its core car business:
“We certainly still have a strong focus on our core business of designing, building, selling and services cars, trucks and sport utilities,” Nair said. “And so we don’t view [the growth of our mobility business] at the expense of our core business.”
“Many of the aspects of mobility are either complementary or actually critical to keep our core business healthy,” he added.
Nair keyed in on aspects of new mobility such as connectivity, big data, analytics, user experience, and even autonomous vehicles as developments that are important to keeping Ford’s core car business at the forefront of the industry.
On how Ford’s R&D is changing due to technology:
“The vehicle is becoming the largest piece of consumer electronics a person will own,” Nair said. “Electronics is embedded into everything we do these days.”
To reflect that, the company has drastically increased the number of electronics and hardware engineers in recent years relative to mechanical or powertrain engineers.
On the Ford and Google’s relationship:
Ford announced this week that its new SYNC 3 infotainment system will feature Google’s Android auto functionality.
“Google has been a great partner on the development of Android Auto and its integration into the SYNC system.”
However, Nair declined to elaborate on Google’s involvement with Ford’s autonomous drive program.
“We are working with a lot of people on autonomous driving, such as Velodyne,” Nair said, “Obviously a lot of those discussions are private and I’m not able to comment of who we are talking to.”
On Ford’s future propulsion:
“Offering choice is going to be key,” Nair said. Although the solutions will be different based on the taste, location and needs of the customers, but electrification will certainly one of those choices, Nair added.
Ford’s powertrain offering will continue to feature a combination of gasoline, diesel, electric, and hybrid models, but electrification will be an increasing percentage of that mix. To reflect this growing segment, Ford has invested $4.5 billion in electric powertrains.
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How did the TV division go?
The movies&tv licenses stuff?
"Revenue at Sony Pictures Entertainment in the fiscal year through the end of March was up 12 percent to $9.25 billion (￥1.011 trillion)."
"Overall sales at Sony Corp. were up 12 percent to $77 billion (￥8.54 trillion)"
Operating income was like ~$7 billion.
So sony are profitable atm.
Necro-bump this 2020: http://gamrconnect.vgchartz.com/thread.php?id=229249
Bumb in 2021: http://gamrconnect.vgchartz.com/post.php?id=9047071


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The news follows the iPhone-maker’s reveal of the service’s launch date and US pricing during an event at its Cupertino campus.
The indian price point is even cheaper than Netflix’s mobile-only plan that was recently unveiled in the region. This plan costs RS199 (€2.59) per month, is restricted to a single mobile device and limited to 480p.
By contrast, Apple is offering the complete version of the premium platform that will launch with nine original series. The company is also offering a year’s free membership to the platform for anyone who purchases a new Apple device.
Amazon Prime Video is available in India for RS129 (€1.63) per month, as a part of Amazon’s Prime package that offers a variety of benefits including free shipping on select purchases.
While all of these prices are much cheaper than their Western equivalent, they still are significantly more expensive than many native Indian streamers. A report from Bloomberg points out that some Bollywood and broadcaster-backed platforms are offering their services at as little as RS29 (€0.36) per month.
Apple TV+ will launch worldwide on November 1.
DTVE: the week in view – Should streamers help to fund Europe’s network expansion? digitaltveurope.com/comment/should… https://t.co/x6aSHT8EvH
05 December 2021 @ 19:34:00 UTC
ICYMI: Vodafone TV arrives on LG TVs in Spain digitaltveurope.com/2021/12/03/vod… https://t.co/dpCVTHxPFr
05 December 2021 @ 19:30:00 UTC
ICYMI: Vizio ads AVOD content to WatchFree+ streamer digitaltveurope.com/2021/12/03/viz… https://t.co/i6syMw9Eli
04 December 2021 @ 19:30:00 UTC


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Government together with the Bermuda Environmental and Sustainability Taskforce are looking into whether a ban on neonicotinoid pesticides could help preserve the insect. Farmers are also being consulted as part of the major initiative to help restore the number of bees on the Island.
Bees play a vital role in the food chain through pollination, and experts believe that one third of the food consumers eat would not be available but for bees.
A spokeswoman for the Department of Environmental Protection told The Royal Gazette a comprehensive review of pesticides needed to be done before a chance of policy could be implemented.
“The Department, in consultation with farmers, continues in its efforts to achieve a comprehensive picture of the array of pesticides being used on imported seed as it develops a strategy for dealing with any possible risks posed by neonicotinoid pesticides,” the spokeswoman said
“Upon receipt of this information, decisions can be made relative to the importation of neonicotinoid pesticides into Bermuda as seed treatments, foliar and granular applications. A comprehensive review must be completed prior to any changes in policy.”
Bermuda’s bees have been in a state of decline for many years. In 2008 there were 350 beehives on the Island, now there are around 125.
“Most people don’t give it much thought, but bees are the pollinators for up to one-third of the foods humans consume,” Stuart Hayward, chairman of BEST, said.
“Recent occurrences of the collapse of bee hive populations has caused concern among beekeepers and farmers globally and locally.
“One culprit in bee die-offs is a class of pesticides known as neonicotinoids, now the world’s most widely used type of insecticide.
“In follow-up to the Bee Fair held in April this year, a BEST team is working with the Department of Environmental Protection to determine if a ban on neonicotinoids, and/or other steps, will be most effective in assuring sustainability in bee populations and in the honey and food pollination they provide us.”
See original article here: http://www.royalgazette.com/article/20140923/NEWS/140929911


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It’s common knowledge that a pregnant woman should avoid alcohol and smoking to ensure that the unborn fetus is healthy and develops properly. But now, experts are including rice and soda into the mix. So, if you’re planning on getting pregnant soon, you’re probably want to know why soda and rice are foods to avoid.
Soda is being scrutinized for several reasons. According to a 2010 study that followed nearly 60,000 Danish women, it was found that there’s an association between drinking “artificially sweetened soft drinks and preterm delivery.”
What’s more, due to the studies examining the relationship between soda and asthma and overweight children, Harvard Medical School professor and researcher, Emily Oken, suggests that it certainly can’t harm women (And unborn fetuses) if they drink less soda.
Along with soda, researchers are suggesting that women avoid rice, too. This recommendation may seem strange, considering that rice is an ancient grain and staple in the modern kitchen.
However, the problem doesn’t seem to be the rice itself. The problem lies in the soil and water which rice crops absorb. Due to toxic run off, rice can now contain arsenic, which can harm fetuses and their development.
Therefore, even if the mother can eat this rice safely, the small amount of arsenic present in the grain can cause complications for babies as they’re more susceptible to these pollutants.
Does this mean you have to boycott rice while you’re pregnant? Not necessarily, but do look for high quality rice, and only choose to consume small amounts of it.


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American Companies Announce at the Suez Canal: "This Is the Time to Invest In Egypt"
Source: www.export-egypt.com 10/30/2018
Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority, Mr. Mohab Mamish: "We have made great strides in the development of the Economic Zone and are close to completing all its infrastructural requirements".
Dr. Sahar Nasr: "There are 100 investment opportunities in the Suez Canal Corridor… We are looking forward to turning it into a regional center for investment and a gateway to a huge market serving 100 million Egyptian consumers, 1.2 billion Africans, and 400 million Arabs".
Dr. Sahar Nasr, the Minister of Investment and International Cooperation ("MIIC Minister"), and Vice Admiral Mohab Mamish, the Chairman of both the Suez Canal Authority ("SCA") and the Suez Canal Economic Zone (the "SCZone"), together with a US delegation consisting of many leading American companies that would like to invest in Egypt paid a visit to the SCZone and the Canal new tunnels. They discussed prospect investment opportunities in the area. This visit came as an acceptance to President El-Sisi's invitation to representatives of American companies to visit national mega projects that are currently being executed and to see realized achievements, potential developments and available investment opportunities in the Egyptian market.
The visit was attended by Mr. Khush Choksy, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Senior Vice President for the Middle East & Turkey Affairs, and Mr. Thomas Goldberger, Chargé d'Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Cairo, Egypt. From among the major companies that attended the visit were Abbott, Bechtel Corporation, Sanofi Pasteur, Orascom/Watts Constructors, FedEX, MetLife, Vitas Group, and NxtVn.
The U.S. companies expressed their interest in the major investment opportunities in the SCZone and confirmed that they intend to inject new investments into this area stating that it is time to invest in Egypt.
Mr. Choksy confirmed that the visit to the SCZone was an acceptance to the invitation made by H.E. President Al-Sisi's during his latest meeting with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
He also explained that the United States is the third largest investor in Egypt. Many US companies carry on business in sectors such as gas, insurance, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, financial services, and information technology, and play a vital role in advancing economic relations between Egypt and the U.S, Mr. Chosky added.
Mr. Chosky also pointed out that investment in Egypt is currently very positive, and US companies would like to inject new investments in the Suez Canal Corridor. The U.S. companies delegation includes more than 40 companies that received a good impression of investment in Egypt. Finally, Mr. Chosky thanked the government leadership for the recent legislative reforms.
"We would like to increase investment in Egypt and are looking for the right place, whether in the Suez Canal or the 1.5 Million Feddan Project," said Mr. Klaus Baumann, a consultant to the American company, EgyCo. He also explained that his company is using a new agricultural technology, which they would apply to their investment in Egypt. He added that the company utilizes agricultural fertilizers and train personnel on how to use the new machinery.
Mohammad Shaheen, managing director of FedEx Express, said that the investment environment in Egypt is very suitable for injecting more investments. He added that his company would like to invest in the SCZone in the field of logistics.
Dr. Sahar Nasr said that the Suez Canal Corridor includes more than 100 investment opportunities, pointing out that Egypt is seeking to make the Suez Canal Corridor a regional center for trade and investment and a gateway to a huge regional market serving 100 million Egyptian consumers, 1 billion and 200 million African consumers and 400 million Arab consumers.
Dr. Nasr asserted benefiting from the investment and trade partnership agreements signed by Egypt with the Arab and African countries, in addition to the bilateral partnership agreements with major markets, especially the United States of America and the European Union.
Mohab Mamish stated that Egypt has made great strides in the development of the SCZone by attracting many local and foreign investments through contracts worth billions of dollars, reflecting the local and foreign investors' trust in the Egyptian economy
He pointed out that the SCZone BoD is on its way to accomplish the implementation of all the SCZone infrastructure needs, whether power plants, desalination plants or the connection of utilities to all sites of projects in the Zone. In addition, he asserted that the SCZone BoD is developing the transport and logistics network in the SCZone ports, and he assured the importance of activating and applying the smart transport system and increasing the capacity of the ports to make Egypt a global center for the transport and logistics industry and a main link in the global value-added chain, contributing to the realization of the requirements of the economic development plans in Egypt.
In parallel, Mamish also stated that the SCZone BoD is working a comprehensive and continuous development of the Suez Canal's navigational course.
Such development has begun to bear fruit with the recovery of the global trade movement, which is reflected on integration with the SCZone, making a leap in investment in the Zone and the national economy.
“The Suez Canal has become the lifeblood of all countries of the world, where the trade has now shifted from east to west.
The Canal has contributed to the delivery of medicines and all needs faster. The Suez Canal has been deepened to a depth of 24 meters to benefit the future generations, thus contributing to making the Suez Canal the first canal in the world, where investors are now striving to reserve places in it. We currently diversify investments in coordination with the MIIC, set the best investment incentives, provide more facilities and remove any obstacles to the development of the Zone”, Mamish said.
He added that the New Ismailia City is the first city in the SCZone, which will contribute to providing job opportunities for youth in Egypt.
Subsequently, Mamish accompanied Dr. Nasr and the US companies in a cruise visit to the new Suez Canal and another cruise to one of the Suez Canal tunnels. He pointed out that the four tunnels will shorten crossing the two banks of the Canal in 4 minutes instead of hours, as is happening now, explaining that these tunnels are considered a new epic by the Egyptians in digging tunnels and crossing to Sinai, and they completely eliminate terrorism by linking the east of the Canal to its west.


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Software glitches or bug menace, Google Pixel 3 XL has a new problem to solve. It was reported that quite a number of Pixel 3 XL devices began displaying a second virtual notch on the device screen, annoying the users completely.
The worst part is that the new notch that has appeared is completely unrelated to the real and physical notch at the top of the screen. Technically, the notch is where the device’s sensors, cameras units at the front and back, etc are placed. The newly arrived notch seems to have nothing in it!
The reason behind this is again security-related and is the work of a bug. However, you needn’t worry too much about the new notch as Google has been notified. Google has promised to address the issue with an upcoming software update.
But till the software update is released, you can try restarting your mobile device to remove the second notch, as it has worked for many users. Apparently, simply restarting the phone reverts it back! But the fact remains and who knows, new notches may appear in the future. The Pixel 3 XL software glitch problem could be a minor one, as there are other problems like photos not being saved and more.


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Shares of the El Segundo, Calif., foods company at last check were down 2.7% to $137.40.
Analyst Wendy Nicholson, who set a $123 price target on the shares, said in a note to clients that "Beyond Meat is a leader in the plant-based-meat market, benefiting from a well-known brand that has been developed in both the refrigerated-meat section of the grocery store and, more recently, in food-service locations."
The company has grown sales almost tenfold over the past two years, Nicholson said, and she expects 2020 to be another strong year of growth for Beyond Meat, despite headwinds in the food-service business related to the coronavirus pandemic.
"However," she added, "given that we expect the company to face both (i) near-term pressure as a result of its exposure to the food-service segment and (ii) longer-term pressure as the category becomes more competitive, we are initiating coverage with a sell rating and a $123 target price," about 15% down from the current price.
Nicholson said Beyond Meat, which tends to be slightly more expensive than other plant-based offerings, recently launched its first value-focused multipack option on June 22 in retailers like Walmart (WMT) - Get Report and Target (TGT) - Get Report.
"Though we do view this positively as an important step forward to achieving price parity with at least one protein source by 2024, we also see it as evidence of the category’s competitive nature," the analyst said.
"As large players get more competitive in the category, Beyond will have to step up its game to retain its first-mover advantage and remain relevant with consumers."
Last month, Barclays analyst Benjamin Theurer downgraded the plant-based meat seller to underweight from overweight.


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Huge news for the parish.
This week brings with it news donut loving Rebels have longed to hear – Original Glaze overlords Krispy Kreme have announced the opening of their first official store in Cork.
While the Irish donut obsession has ebbed and flowed over the past few years, it’s safe to say we as a nation remain as enamoured with Krispy Kreme as we were the first fateful night it stopped traffic in Blanchardstown back in 2018.
Over the past few months, Krispy have announced the opening of 18 new locations across Ireland – including several in Galway and the West of Ireland – but the news of a Cork store is a welcome bonus for ringed-dessert enthusiasts ahead of the weekend.
View this post on Instagram
Krispy Kreme expect to lift the shutters on their Cork store on Patrick Street in the city this April, and will be sending street teams out to hand out free samples ahead of the official opening.
Speaking about the upcoming expansion for the American franchise, Country Manager for Krispy Kreme Ireland Declan Foley said:
Since our first Irish shop opening nearly 5 years ago in September 2018, we have loved every moment of spreading the joy of our made fresh daily doughnuts to the people of Ireland. We are delighted to now bring the Krispy Kreme experience to the people of Galway and Cork this Spring.”
“The Galway and Cork shops will serve the full range of hand-crafted Krispy Kreme doughnuts, including the much loved melt in the mouth Original Glazed and firm Irish favourites Cookies and Kreme, Lotus Biscoff, and Nutty Chocolatta.”
Will you be first in the queue at the grand opening?
Header image via Instagram/krispykremeirl


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ICI earnings hit by computer fault
A COMPUTER serving four ICI factories in Holland failed to live up to expectations, sending production of its specialist flavours division plummeting. Customers were unable to receive products that are essential ingredients for their sweet and dairy beverages.
The Naarden complex in Holland, part of ICI's Quest division, worked seven days a week to overcome the production problems. Some of the manufacturing was relocated to other sites but it still lost earnings of £4m in the three months ending June.
There will be a further trading profit impact of £10m in the second half, the chemical giant revealed today.
These problems helped keep pre-tax profits before exceptional items and goodwill at an unchanged £125m in the second quarter compared with the same quarter last year. ICI shares ended the day 20 1/2p lower at 280p.
The group said, despite its problems with the Quest division, 'the improved trading conditions seen in the second quarter, and ICI's robust overall performance in challenging circumstances, have sustained our belief that prospects for the year are satisfactory'.
Interest cover has improved to 5.2 times for the quarter from 4.0 last time as the interim dividend is cut to 3p against 5.19p last time.
Some $160m (£106m) of the proceeds of $430m from the sale of its investments in Huntsman International were received during the quarter. The remainder is expected before the end of May 2003.
The disposal Synetix, which also has a 'for sale' sign over it, is continuing 'satisfactorily'.
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A full remake of classic Mega Drive platform adventure game Monster World IV was announced back in August of 2020 as Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World, and now we have a release window to look forward to. In Japan it’s set to launch on PS4, Switch, and PC via Steam on April 22, with a western release to follow in Q2 2021.
The Monster World IV remake is in the hands of publisher G Choice and developer Studio Artdink, and there will also be physical editions available for the console versions. New features include character voices, remastered 2.5D graphics, new animated cutscenes, remastered game sounds and music, and an additional easy mode.
Development is being led by original Wonder Boy series creator Ryuichi Nishizawa, who is working on the remake along with members of the classic team that include composer Shinichi Sakamoto, character designer Maki Ozora, and creative manager Takanori Kurihara.
Check out English and Japanese versions of the new trailer:
For those who prefer the classic style, all physical editions will include the original Monster World IV on the Switch cartridge and as an exclusive download with the PS4 disc version.
Latest in Anime News by Crunchyroll!


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tech2 News StaffMar 02, 2021 16:18:17 IST
Realme has introduced its 108 MP camera technology globally today. The new 108 MP camera uses Samsung’s ISOCELL HM2 sensor, which is 1.52-inch in size and offers 12,000 x 9,000 effective resolution. Realme says that this technology also brings 9-in-1 pixel binning tech that produces better quality images. The sensor also comes with a Smart ISO feature that automatically selects the most suitable ISO according to the setting for optimising picture quality and reducing noise simultaneously.
It’s time to take the Leap to Infinity!
Presenting the all-new 108MP Primary Camera with the latest generation of HM2 Sensor in the #realme8Pro.
— realme (@realmemobiles) March 2, 2021
Realme confirmed that the new 108 MP camera technology will come in the upcoming Realme 8 Pro smartphone. The new camera tech also includes in-sensor zoom technology that focuses on capturing sharp and clear images. According to the company, “In Realme 8 Pro’s camera, 3x mode activates a new In-sensor Zoom, which will only use the 12 MP mapped with the zoomed part to generate an image. The imaging process is faster because of the smaller size on the 12 MP photo, enabling Realme 8 Pro to take eight 12 MP photos in a row and then input them into the clarity enhancement algorithm to further increase the image clarity.”
Get ready to take the image clarity to a whole new level with the In-sensor Zoom of the #realme8Pro. It uses 12 megapixels mapped with the zoom part to generate a higher quality image. Watch the #realmeCameraInnovationEvent here: https://t.co/MhgaMiPIWJ pic.twitter.com/LuCNaA6aD3 — realme (@realmemobiles) March 2, 2021
In addition to this, the 108 MP camera will now “starry time-lapse” on a smartphone. According to the company, “It just takes 480 seconds to shoot 30 photos and then to generate a 1-second time-lapse video.”
The new tilt-shift photography feature allows users to capture a miniature landscape image where the algorithm will focus on one part of the image blurring the background. This is a kind of bokeh effect for landscape images. This feature can also capture time-lapse videos.
For portrait shots, Realme has introduced three different features. The Neon portrait feature will add a “dream-like” filter by emphasising the bokeh spots in the backdrop. Dynamic Bokeh portrait feature will put a hazy background giving a “sense of speed”. The AI Colour portrait feature retains the colours of the human body in the image while making the soundings black and white.
Give a new look to your Portrait shots with these new filters of the #realme8Pro: 👉Neon Portrait 👉Dynamic Bokeh Portrait 👉AI Color Portrait Watch the #realmeCameraInnovationEvent here: https://t.co/MhgaMiPIWJ pic.twitter.com/mHlNZZ0Yen — realme (@realmemobiles) March 2, 2021


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The supply chain provides the framework for the modern transfer of goods. Logistics play a pivotal role from the acquisition of raw materials to the delivery of a final product to the end user. Generally, the raw materials are transported to a supplier, who then transports the materials to a manufacturer. The manufacture creates a finished product that is then distributed to either a retailer or warehouse where the product is either sent to or carried out by the consumer. Pictured below is a
Logistics and freight forwarding giant Expeditors International announced a cyber-attack on 20 February that crippled some of their operating systems and continues to slow their operations around the globe. The Seattle-based freight company, which brought in $10.1 billion in revenue last year, said they shut down most of their operating systems globally after discovering the cyber-attack. "The situation is evolving, and we are working with global cybersecurity experts to manage the situation.
Merchant tanker and barge shipments in and out of Europe’s biggest oil hub have been delayed by up to a week as four storage companies work to resume operations after cyber-attacks. Since the end of last week, storage company Oiltanking and oil trading firm Mabanaft, both owned by Germany’s Marquard & Bahls, have been hit by hackers. Belgium’s SEA-TANK and Dutch fuel storage firm Evos have also been affected.
The companies have had to suspend some operations, affecting oil flows in the Netherl
Cyber security investigators have reported that replicable attacks and a low barrier to entry will ensure the rate of supply chain attacks increases in 2022. The supply chain is a consistent attack vector for threat actors today. By compromising a centralized service, platform, or software, attackers can then either conduct widespread infiltration of the customers and clients of the original singular victim or may choose to cherry-pick from the most valuable potential targets. This can save cy
US Department of Agriculture (USDA) analysts have reported that China, with less than 20% of the world's population has managed to stockpile more than half of the globe's corn and other grains, leading to steep price increases across the planet and dropping more countries into famine. COFCO Group, a major Chinese state-owned food processor, runs one of China's largest food stockpiling bases, at the port of Dalian, in the northeastern part of the country. It stores beans and grains gathered fr
Unless you have been living in a cave, everyone knows that supply chain issues and delays are widespread and affect many industries. For small businesses, it is even worse. Large companies, including major retailers, are using their own shipping to get needed supplies and inventory in time. Whether you have a retail outlet or an e-commerce store, it can be a challenge to keep popular items stocked and deal with impatient customers. Here are some ways you can prepare for these challenges and
Microsoft has teamed up with Intel and Goldman Sachs to push for hardware security improvements that could help to mitigate supply chain risks. Working under the auspices of the non-profit Trusted Computing Group (TCG), the companies have created a new Supply Chain Security workgroup that will aim to bring in experts from across the tech sphere.
The TCG argued that malicious and counterfeit hardware is particularly difficult to detect as most organizations don’t have the tools or in-house knowl
Supply chain networks have for some time been driven by technology over the years and have evolved accordingly. The same technologies that make supply chains faster and more effective also threaten their cybersecurity. Supply chains have vulnerabilities along touchpoints with manufacturers, suppliers, and other service providers.
With constant global cyber threats, it is vital that companies involved in the supply chain understand risks and how to respond to them. So, what is the best way to p
A recent cyber security blog by researcher Maahnoor Siddiqui, he provides a clear picture of the threats and vulnerabilities in the Transportation supply chain. A concern shared by Red Sky Alliance. Our 40-minute commute to work in the morning can feel like an insular event. Whether it is by bus, train, ferry, or car; it can be hard to place this single event within the vast network of transit that occurs every day. These small personal journeys make up a highly interconnected transportation
- Red Sky Alliance observed 78 unique email accounts compromised with Keyloggers
- Analysts identified 23,596 connections from new unique IP Addresses
- 1,802 new IP addresses are participating in various Botnets
- COVID-19 Lures Continue
- Lemon Duck
- Colonial Pipeline and DarkSide
- US – Oil Supply Chain Repercussions
- Belnet hit in Belgium
- Rubin Design Bureau, Russian DIB
- BoA upping Cyber Security Budgets
- The “new” Normal, is it?
Link to full report:
The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the National Institute of Standards and Technology have released a report providing insights on how to enhance supply chain security in the wake of the SolarWinds attack.
The guidance released 28 April 2021, "Defending Against Software Supply Chain Attacks," offers recommendations on how to implement the NIST Cyber Supply Chain Risk Management Framework and the Secure Software Development Framework. "This resource provides in-depth re
The US government is working to draw attention to supply chain vulnerabilities, an issue that received particular attention late last year after suspected Russian hackers gained access to federal agencies and private corporations by sneaking malicious code into widely used software.
The US National Counterintelligence and Security Center (NCSC) recently warned that foreign hackers are increasingly targeting vendors and suppliers that work with the government to compromise their products in an e
As the Covid virus marches on, many are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. Each day brings us a little closer to the approval and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines in the US, UK and close in many other countries. According to the US Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex M. Azar II, officials with Operation Warp Speed (OWS) report that 20 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine could be distributed this month. ”We are planning to be ready when [an emergency-use authorization by
The current US administration is signaling it will be updating the US government’s approach to its maritime cybersecurity strategy. Cyber security priorities are being discussed to enhance and secure the US’ ability to ‘project power at sea and defend against adversarial cyberattacks.’ The plan involves a re-examination of the national approach to information sharing and better emphasizing the use of operational technologies in ports.
Hackers at all tier levels have long targeted shipping fir
Close to 90 percent of all commerce is shipped via maritime transportation. Lloyd’s of London report combined container throughput figures regarding the top 100 international ports grew by 2.5 percent in 2019. Splash247 has posted an interesting article explaining that the Chinese government may be toying with supply chain data systems, creating concerns in maritime transportation.
“There has been progress within the maritime and shipping sector in creating a digital maritime ecosystem that i
There is a Russian saying that rings true in protecting entities against cyber threats, “I am not concerned about all of the wolves in Siberia, I am only concerned about the wolves that are now chasing my sleigh.” The world is full of cyber threats, hackers and state sponsored cyber terrorists who are targeting governments, businesses, and organizations. The way Red Sky Alliance can help the maritime industry and its supply chain is to focus on the cyber threats directly targeting a specific o
Nanyang Technological University in Singapore has just released a report examining the economic losses expected if Asian port systems, including several in China, were subjected to a major cyber-attack. This report did not assess the cyber vulnerabilities of Asian ports but rather postulated a major attack in order to calculate economic impact, with a focus on losses in the insurance industry. The report concluded tha
The Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) has releases free “Blockchain for Supply Chain” tools for supply chain professionals to learn about and use the power of block chain technology. AFIT recently published a live blockchain application that can be accessed from any computer or smart phone, along with a complementary series of tutorial videos that presents blockchain simulation. These videos can be used as a stand-alone classroom module, or the video and the blockchain website can be
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OnePlus 10T 5G receiving Android 13-Based OxygenOS 13 update: Details
OnePlus 10T is finally getting the Android 13-based OxygenOS 13 update in India. Check out all the new phone features here.
OnePlus has finally rolled out the Android 13-based OxygenOS 13 update to the OnePlus 10T. The Chinese smartphone maker is rolling out the OxygenOS 13 update to older smartphones for the first time.
The OnePlus 10T 5G was launched with OxygenOS 12 based on Android 12 on August 3 and went on sale in India on August 6. Now, four months after its launch, OnePlus has finally started rolling out the build. update for its flagship smartphone.
The OxygenOS 13 update for the OnePlus 10T 5G comes in at 4.4GB. That’s why customers should free up at least 5.5 GB of storage space for installation. The stable update will first go to users who have signed up for the Open Beta versions and then gradually roll out to more users.
That means non-beta OnePlus 10T 5G users will receive the following OTA notification.
Users who can’t wait can also download the update specific to their region and perform a manual installation following the instructions on the forum post.
OnePlus 10T 5G OxygenOS 13 Update: What’s New?
OnePlus 10T has all the features of Android 13 along with many OnePlus-specific customizations such as the new ‘Aquamorphic’ design language, providing visual comfort to users. The update has also brought in a new glossy reflective clock and the Shelves feature has also been optimized. The update will bring improvements and performance optimizations to both the widget design, fonts, and system icons.
The update also includes a new always-on display that will show live information received from apps including music, ride hailing or food delivery. However, this feature only supports some third-party apps. It also has a new sidebar toolbox that opens a floating window inside applications.
Other updates include optimizations for Screencast and headphone connections. There are also more optimizations added to the Insight and Portrait Silhouette always-on displays for even more personalization. There’s also a handy auto-pixelizing feature that will automatically pixelate the profile picture and display the name in the chat screenshot, according to OnePlus.


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Category: Care Homes
There has been some big developments in the care homes consumer protection investigation that’s being conducted by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).
This is an important case that has been ongoing since 2017, and there have been several key steps taken to improve the sector on the whole. Consumer law is hugely important when it comes to the care for our elderly and vulnerable and matters in the case have further developed.
As a result of failures to adhere to important changes brought about by the CMA, court action has been launched.
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is taking action in the Barchester consumer protection case under the pretence that consumer laws may have been broken.
Now, the CMA has sent a letter before action to Barchester Healthcare Limited, Barchester Healthcare Homes Limited, Grove Limited and Barchester Holdco (Jersey) Limited; known altogether as ‘Barchester’. It’s alleged that certain fees that have been charged contravene consumer protection laws.
There’s been a huge development in the care homes consumer protection case. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has initiated court action against Care UK.
We recently blogged about the developments in the care homes consumer protection case where pre-action letters had been sent. Now, they have proceeded with court action against Care UK.
The reason for the court action is because the CMA isn’t satisfied with the response from care UK following the investigations. Although they’ve stopped charging administration fees that the CMA had deemed to be breaking consumer protection laws, they haven’t agreed to refunds. The CMA has taken issue with their stance.
The latest update in the care homes consumer protection case is a big one. Letters before action have been issued against Care UK.
According to the latest from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), a letter before action has been sent to Social Care Holdings Limited and Care UK Community Partnerships Limited. Together, they make up ‘Care UK’.
The reasons for the latest action comes are a period of consultation and a lack of undertakings being provided.
The care home Competition and Markets Authority investigation now has a key update. A consultation has been opened for drafting consumer law advice for UK providers.
The care home Competition and Markets Authority investigation has been going on since June 2017. It has been looking into a number of care home providers as a result of concerns over the contract terms and practices they engage in. The CMA have been concerned that some of the practises are breaches of consumer law.
A market study is also underway in addition to the specific care home investigations.


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The Winklevoss Twins, founders of the Gemini exchange, have received approval to launch their own cryptocurrency. Launching on the Ethereum blockchain, the “Gemini Dollar” is available right now, reports Forbes.
The Next Big Stablecoin
Described as a stablecoin, the Gemini Trust Company’s request was validated by the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS.) Tokens will be backed by the U.S. dollar to provide stability while maintaining the unique aspects of a decentralized digital asset.
However, unlike other tokens like Bitcoin and Ethereum, the Gemini Dollar exists as a form of exchange rather than a store of value, similar to Ripple’s XRP. Ideally, each Gemini Dollar will be around the same value as a single U.S. dollar.
Stablecoins are used to combat the volatility of traditional cryptocurrencies. Whereas regular tokens are mined through verification or pre-mined during development, this other form of token represents the value of fiat currency deposited into an account. Transactions, of course, are made via smart contracts.
That said, the Gemini Dollar differs from traditional stablecoins. Here, token-backing dollars are held in an FDIC-insured account via the State Street investment firm, while monthly, third-party audits by BMP Audit will occur to account for all the money. Tyler Winklevoss calls this collaboration of companies a “network” of trust:
“It’s not just Gemini Trust, but you have to build a network of important players that are also trusted to solve for the trust problem of a stablecoin.”
The Gemini team of 150 employees has been working closely with State Street to secure the deposit account. “There’s a lot of enhanced due diligence and on-boarding and kicking the tires that goes into that,” states Winklevoss.
The NYDFS superintendent, Maria T. Vullo, backs the idea of multiple managers, stating that the additional regulation prevents market manipulation or money laundering:
“These approvals demonstrate that companies can create change and strong standards of compliance within a strong state regulatory framework.”
Suggested Reading : Learn how Gemini compares to another popular exchange—Coinbase
To ensure price stability, Gemini Dollars are created or destroyed at the time of deposit, while also adhering to ERC-20 standards, according to the Gemini white paper Forbes saw. This technology enables the Gemini Dollar to be compatible with other tokens on the Ethereum network. The current overall Ethereum network is worth around $11 billion.
While they sound like the next significant innovation in cryptocurrencies, stablecoins are really quite similar to traditional coins, only less volatile.
However, these types of coin are still superior to fiat currencies in a variety of ways, as they link “the 24-7/365 nature of cryptocurrency and blockchain with the fiat world,” says Tyler Winklevoss. “If there’s a price dislocation in a certain market and it’s a Friday night, traders can’t move fiat currency until Monday,” he continues in defense of the Gemini Dollar.
Aiming for a stable launch, Gemini worked with audit firm Trail of Bits to check for network issues. The full report isn’t available yet, but Trail of Bits CEO and Co-founder Dan Guido reported finding four low-security issues, two medium-security issues, and two high-security issues to Forbes. Yet, all of the bugs were resolved immediately by the Gemini team.
“At the end of the engagement, every issue we had identified was sufficiently resolved,” said Guido.
Gemini is currently the 54th largest exchange, trading around $12 million in volume every day. Yet, another exchange, itBit, also recently received approval for a similar ERC-20 stablecoin. To invigorate interest, Tyler Winklevoss validates Gemini Dollars even more:
“You don’t generally spend gold to buy something. You don’t generally spend a share of Apple to buy something. You convert them into a fiat currency. So we want to bring a fiat currency onto the blockchain that can be used as an effective medium of exchange for payments.”
Hopefully, the launch of the Gemini Dollar will help push cryptocurrencies into the mainstream market. While companies like Microsoft have accepted Bitcoin for a while now, digital assets still struggle to replace fiat for daily purchases, mostly due to volatility and scalability issues.
There is still hope, however, as we’re seeing more big tech names getting involved in cryptocurrency.
The post New York Regulators Authorize Winklevoss Twins’ ‘Gemini Dollar’ appeared first on UNHASHED.


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British high-street fashion retailer, Ted Baker, has reportedly begun a formal sale process after receiving an improved takeover proposal from Sycamore as well as new bid interest.
The company has reported that the American private equity firm has raised its proposal for the third time, but has not revealed by what amount.
Last week, it rejected Sycamore’s second offer, which would have valued the retailer at £253.8 million ($333 million), claiming that it was significantly undervaluing the brand.
Meanwhile, the retailer has not identified the other party which has shown interest in the takeover.
In a statement, Ted Baker stated that its board has decided on conducting an orderly process to determine whether there is a bidder that can offer a value that not only appeals to the board but is also on par with its standalone prospects as a listed company.
Interested parties will be invited for submitting non-binding offers to Ted Baker’s financial advisers, Blackdown Partners and Evercore.
The retailer added that it does not know whether Sycamore would participate in the process or not.
With the news about the firm’s third proposal, shares of Ted Baker have jumped by over 12%, valuing the company at around £265 million ($347 million) with shares trading at 143.6p a piece. Four years ago, Ted Baker’s shares were trading at their highest at 2,500p a piece.
Ted Baker, which employs thousands of staff, trades from several hundred concessions and standalone shops across the globe but has been struggling since its founder, Ray Kelvin’s, departure over claims of inappropriate behavior towards female employees in 2019.
A sale of the business would mean a jackpot for Kelvin as he still holds an 11.48% stake in the company.
Following Kelvin’s exit, the retailer was hit by accounting mishaps and profit warnings, with the Covid-19 pandemic further weakening its financial position. The company had cut down on hundreds of workers in 2020 and raised over £100 million ($131 million) to prop up its balance sheet.


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Latest techuk publications
UK tech trade body techUK has released a second Covid-19 survey investigating the effects of the pandemic on the nation’s technology sector, building on an initial survey published last month that indicated the sector might be insulated from much of the impact.
Over 100 technology organisations responded to the updated urvey – half of them small businesses with less than 50 employees. techUK counts 850 companies as members that collectively employ almost half of UK tech sector employees.
Overall, the sector still seems cautiously optimistic that the most extreme economic effects of the outbreak can be avoided, with only 6 percent fearing a halt to trading in the short-term. Longer term, businesses are more uncertain, with 30 percent concerned about their ability to trade if restrictions are extended.


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After Oppo and Vivo, now Xiaomi has also filed its India revenue details for the last financial year 2017-18. The company according to the details filed with Registrar of Companies (RoC) made Rs 230.6 billion (Rs 23,000 crores) in total, which is a jump of 175 percent in year-on-year revenue. Recently, BBK Electronics’ Oppo and Vivo had also filed their India revenue details which combined for the FY18 was Rs 23,173 crores. Also Read - Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 India launch on July 20: Expected specifications and priceAlso Read - Redmi Note 9 Pro next sale on July 14: Price in India, offers, specifications
The Chinese consumer electronics major, Xiaomi, forayed into Indian market with smartphones in 2014. The company has since then introduced products in various electronics categories such as wearables, home entertainment and more. According to the latest report from analytics firm Counterpoint Research, Xiaomi has dominance in smartphone segment in the country with a market share of 27 percent. Samsung comes in second with 23 percent, while Vivo, Micromax and Oppo make up the rest of the top five. Also Read - Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 price in India changed once again: Check specs and other details
Last financial year (2016-17) sales for Xiaomi India were of Rs 83.8 billion (Rs 8,300 crores) and it had a net profit of Rs 1.64 billion (Rs 164 crores). Now according to new figures of the FY18 (via Business Standard), Xiaomi’s India unit profit has jumped to Rs 2.93 billion (Rs 293 crores).
Watch Video: Xiaomi Factory Visit (Noida)
As for the other Chinese players in Indian market, BBK Electronics Corporation is the second largest company to have a bigger chunk of sales revenue in the Indian market in FY18. BBK owns Oppo, Vivo and OnePlus, but only the combined India revenue of Oppo and Vivo puts the company on to the second position. Last year FY 17 sales of BBK-owned brands devices had added up to Rs 14,343 crores.


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A new free trade agreement between federal, provincial and territorial governments will ultimately have a net benefit and be advantageous, said Reg Warkentin, Red Deer Chamber of Commerce policy and advocacy manager.
But at this point, the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA) seems more like an agreement to discuss making future mini-agreements on specific issues, he said.
“In no way did they completely liberalize trade and get rid of the myriad of issues that affect business and slow trade down. They just are saying if there is an issue, you guys have to talk to each other, and you have to figure it out.”
The trade agreement was signed last week, and has had mixed reviews. It will come into effect on July 1. It is aimed at providing clear trade rules and resolution processes in the Canadian domestic marketplace. It also will eventually have a single-access web portal for government tenders.
Domestic trade is no small factor in the Canadian economy. According to the provincial government, Alberta exported $63 billion to the rest of Canada in 2015. Overall, internal trade is about 40 per cent of provincial/territorial exports, or $385 billion, which is one-fifth of the country’s annual GDP.
Warkentin said for certain industries it can be be very difficult to do business in other provinces. For example there are certain loads that can only be driven at night in British Columbia, but only during the day in Alberta. “It’s just one example where it doesn’t really make sense.”
The relatively new Alberta small brewers tax credit has been a boon to Central Alberta, and he wonders if the CFTA would have a detrimental affect eventually. The validity or permissibility of that program could be affected. It could result in other provinces pursuing their grievances about the tax credit.
However, overall there will no doubt be a new benefit to Canadians and Central Albertans, as there always are in free trade agreements, he said.
The single-access web portal for all provincial, territorial and federal government tenders may help eliminate biases, and should improve the odds of getting contracts in Saskatchewan, for example.
He thinks that the regulatory councils involved will mean that it will take a long time to resolve issues but “they’ll slowly chip away at the trade barriers and make it better.”
The issue of domestic trade has come up with the chamber in the past, and in a lot of ways it’s easier to do business in the United States and overseas than with other provinces, Warkentin said.
The new agreement replaces an internal trade agreement that has been in force since 1995.


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- Financieel Administratief medewerk(st)er
- Territory Manager - Brazil/South America
- Senior Product Coordinator Beans
- Sales manager
- Head of Sales
- Medewerker Productmanagement
- Sales Manager - Germany
- Associate Director International Procurement: Produce - Berlin
- International Procurement Manager - Berlin
- Sales specialist Vertical Farming North America / Europe
Top 5 -yesterday
Top 5 -last week
- "The container is essential to determine the quality of the plant"
- Investor Victus Participations passes the baton to Atrium Agri
- "Our strategy is focused on tackling the biggest social and environmental challenges"
- "Setting up this dragon fruit greenhouse was a dream come true"
- “Since we can see the whole life cycle of the greenhouse, we can think about it holistically"
Top 5 -last month
- "The container is essential to determine the quality of the plant"
- Finland: 11.000m2 hybrid vertical farm constructed near Helsinki
- Here are last year's best read articles: vertical farming, strawberries and sustainable initiatives
- “I have to throw away my crops because of energy prices”
- "Retractable roof greenhouse ideal for tropical climates"
Profit increase in Q3 by Swedish retailer ICA
900 store milestone in UK for Iceland Group
Spar has opened its first premium store in China, with a focus on green, environmentally friendly and health conscious produce. Spar Fuxiang launched the new store in the central business district of Zhangjiakou, in the northern Chinese province of Hebei. The city of 4.3mln people boasts convenient transportation routes and will host the 2020 Winter Olympics. Spar Fuxiang plans to open 12 new stores in the near future. (esmmagazine.com)
UK: Sainsbury's introduces 'dementia-friendly' toilets in national first
Sainsbury’s has become the first supermarket to introduce “dementia-friendly” lavatories thanks to a campaigning pensioner who was routinely forced to rescue her Alzheimer’s sufferer husband. The national chain has promised to install large, colourful “way out” signs in all of its stores to prevent customers with the degenerative condition becoming confused. It follows growing awareness that traditional signs and lighting schemes can be disorientating for people with the disease. (telegraph.co.uk)
Swedish retailer ICA posts profit increase in Q3
Sweden’s ICA has posted a third quarter profit of SEK 1.1bln (€112mln) a marginal increase on the same period last year (SEK 1.07bln), boosted by capital gains on sales of non-current assets. The group said that its consolidated net sales for the period were SEK 26.4bln (€2.71bln), an increase of 2.6% on the same period last year (SEK 25.8bln). The period saw the completion of a deal that will see ICA acquire the Lithuanian grocery chain IKI, with the condition that 17 stores be sold. (esmmagazine.com)
Holland: Jumbo may be planning to expand operations into Belgium
Dutch retailer Jumbo is reportedly planning to extend its operations internationally, with up to 30 new stores in Belgium, according to Retail Detail. The publication reports that real estate agents have been asked to source suitable store locations for the retailer in Belgium, starting with thirty locations within the next two years. Earlier this week, Jumbo's chief financial offer, Ton van Veen, told Belgian publication Gondola that the retail group is interested in establishing itself in the Belgian market, but such a move would take "a lot of preparation and the right strategy". Jumbo reported that sales rose 4.7% to €3.76bln in the first half of its financial year, with the business now holding a 19% share of the Dutch retail market. (esmmagazine.com)
Iceland Group reaches 900 store milestone in UK
Iceland Group has reached a new milestone of 900 UK stores this week, following the opening of its 53rd outlet under its new banner, The Food Warehouse. The new store, located in south Bristol, brings the retail group's total count to 847 Iceland stores, and 53 The Food Warehouse outlets. Larger than standard Iceland stores, The Food Warehouse offers the full Iceland range, as well as luxury and speciality frozen food products, chilled meat, fresh produce, wines, beers, and bulk grocery products. The retailer says that three major extensions to existing Iceland stores are due to open before Christmas, and sites for a number of new Iceland stores are being sought throughout the UK, with four already in the pipeline. (esmmagazine.com)
Amazon pop-up stores opening at Whole Foods Market
Amazon pop-up stores have been set up at over 100 Whole Foods Market stores, offering a range of Amazon devices. The pop-up stores have opened at stores across the US. The timing enables the retailer to capitalise on the holiday season, a time when traffic at the Whole Foods Market stores is at its strongest. This is the first major in-store initiative between Amazon and Whole Foods Market since the latter was acquired in August. One of the key developments to watch will be the introduction of Amazon Prime as Whole Foods Market’s customer rewards program. This is expected to provide Prime members with special savings and other in-instore benefits once both retailers’ systems have been fully integrated. This will make the Prime program even more compelling, particularly as Amazon optimises its data and analytical capabilities through linking shoppers’ online and offline behaviours. (igd)
US Report: Kroger will withstand price wars better than any other grocer
Kroger will withstand price wars in the grocery industry better than any other retailer, mainly due to its scale, according to investors service Moody’s. The firm estimates Kroger accounts for $118bln of the $1tln U.S. food market. Moody’s also cited Kroger’s sophisticated data usage, its geographically diverse presence, and a private label selection that accounts for 26% of company sales and growing as advantages. After a weak year that saw its stock price plummet, Kroger should see stronger results over the next 12 to 18 months, according to Moody’s. The firm believes Kroger’s recently announced Restock plan will improve sales, and that the potential sale of its convenience store unit could significantly reduce the company’s debt. (fooddive.com)
CA: Loblaw takes step toward zero-carbon deliveries
In an effort to reduce its carbon footprint, the grocery giant Loblaw has taken the first step toward moving its entire corporate-owned trucking fleet to electric vehicles. At a ceremony in Vancouver on Nov. 3, the grocery giant officially unveiled its first fully electric Class 8 commercial delivery truck, a 53-foot vehicle that’s able to make commercial grocery deliveries with zero carbon emissions. (canadiangrocer.com)
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Other news in this sector:
- 2022-01-20 Lidl gives green light to LEAF Marque on UK fresh produce
- 2021-11-05 "Greenhouse ginger has a stronger flavor than imported ginger"
- 2021-10-01 Tesco applies strict measures for UK growers
- 2021-09-14 Australian industry faces largest rise in food prices in more than a decade
- 2021-08-30 More visibility for regionality and the strengthening of Austrian producers
- 2021-08-30 Co-op chief says current food shortages are worst he’s ever seen
- 2021-08-27 New look for Lidl store in Lustenau
- 2021-08-24 Chain two days shorter in winter with local cucumbers all year-round at Albert Heijn
- 2021-08-13 Retailers try to address UK lorry driver shortage
- 2021-08-09 Driscoll’s transitions to include online sales
- 2021-07-15 ”Alternative to single-use plastic bags for fresh produce”
- 2021-05-28 "My wholesale clients prefer Shanghai and white pak choi"
- 2021-05-27 Seedless lemons go on sale at Tesco
- 2021-05-26 Scottish grown AVA strawberries now available in supermarkets across the UK
- 2021-02-10 Made in Israel agricultural produce, now also in Bahrain
- 2020-12-14 "New strawberry F1 ‘Soraya’ now in retailers"
- 2020-11-24 "We're selling 25 to 35% more greenhouse-grown produce than five years ago"
- 2020-11-13 CAN: Growers welcome grocery industry call for grocer code of conduct
- 2020-11-10 Grab a rosemary or basil plant from a vending machine as if it were a can of coke
- 2020-10-16 Is this the drive-through supermarket of the future?


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Almost everyone expects Apple to jump into the wearable device market but Cupertino itself hasn’t even dropped so much of a hint about its future plans. For over a year we have been hearing rumors about the iWatch, a smartwatch that Apple is supposedly working on. Multiple news outlets are now reporting that the first wearable device from Apple might be unveiled this October. Apparently the company is going to conduct a special event that month.
You might be one of the many people who might have wondered once when iWatch is going to be released. Apple has no answer for us. Re/code hears from people familiar with the company’s plans that Apple hopes to schedule an event in October to show off its first wearable device. The Nikkei published a similar report, adding that Apple is so confident about this device that it expects to product three to five million units every month.
Recent reports suggest that the iWatch will play nicely with Healthkit, a fitness information gathering application that Apple showed off at WWDC 2014 last week. iWatch itself is rumored to come with multiple sensors that would aid users in collecting vital information about their health and fitness.
As far as the smartwatch is concerned, some believe that it might have a curved OLED display and will be offered in different sizes for men and women. Some of the rumors we have heard might be a bit far-fetched but that hasn’t stopped Apple fans from being hopeful about its first wearable device.
Can the company’s plans change between now and October 2014? Absolutely. Nothing is written in stone at this point in time.


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After a six month trial period the City of Bisbee decided this past week to continue its plastic bag reduction program.
In December of 2011 CAW wrote a blog about the city of 6000 people and their voluntary bag program, the first in Arizona aimed at single-use bag waste.
Lying right along the southern border of Arizona, Bisbee enacted the program when it felt that plastic bag pollution was blighting its otherwise picturesque community.
With the advice of the City Manager, the Bisbee City Council has decided to continue the existing program into January of 2013 in lieu of a mandatory plastic bag fee. If the trial period does not produce the desired results, the city may implement a three phase ban of single-use plastic bags.
The ban would first add a 5 cent charge for bags sold in retailers making more than $1 million annually and gradually the ban would include businesses making more than $250,000 and eventually all retailers.
The voluntary reductions were enacted as a joint effort between retailers and the city to educate children, supermarket staff, and the community as a whole about how to cut back on their plastic bag use.
Headed by Arizona Food Marketing Alliance (AFMA), reductions were encouraged by putting up educational signs in parking lots and grocery stores and also with a plastic bag collecting competition at Greenway Elementary School.
Learn about CAW's Campaign to End Single-Use Bags here in California.


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Tokens Built on Bitcoin Cash Are Cheaper to Send Than Those of Rival Networks
Satoshi Nakamoto’s Bitcoin technology has inspired a lot of innovation spawning a myriad of tokens representing digitized assets. There are now token creation systems on blockchain networks like Omni Layer, Counterparty, and Ethereum. Each framework comes with the cost of sending tokens and right now the Simple Ledger Protocol is one of the cheapest most […]
The post Tokens Built on Bitcoin Cash Are Cheaper to Send Than Those of Rival Networks appeared first on Bitcoin News.


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1)Gasoline prices continue to drop to the lowest in two months with the average gallon at $4.58 according to AAA.
2)With the response to inflation being a now aggressive Fed, NY Fed consumer expectations for 3 yr inflation fell to 3.6% from 3.9%.
3)Core June retail sales, stated in nominal terms, rose .8% m/o/m, 5 tenths better than expected but mostly offset by a 3 tenths downward revision to May to a 3 tenths decline. The negative is that this is basically due to higher prices rather than an increase in volumes.
4)After negative prints seen in 3 out of the prior 4 months, the July NY manufacturing index rebounded to +11.1 and that was well better than the estimate of -2.0. Price pressures eased.
5)The Bank of Canada, the Monetary Authority of Singapore, the Bank of Korea, the central bank in Chile, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand and the central bank in the Philippines all further tightened monetary policy.
6)With the reopenings again in June, Chinese retail sales that month did lift by 3.1% y/o/y but assume part of that was stocking up on things in case there is another set of lockdowns. Industrial production rose 3.9% y/o/y about as expected and fixed asset investment was up by 6.1% ytd y/o/y.
7)As Chinese factories further opened up as did the Shanghai ports, they reported that exports rose 17.9% y/o/y in June, above the estimate of up 12.5%.
8)Some sanity shines through in response to this energy problem as Japanese PM Kishida said he wants 9 more nuclear plants to be reopened by winter.
9)The UK economy grew by .5% m/o/m in May which was better than the estimate of up .1%. The Office for National Statistics interestingly said “a large rise in GP (Dr) appointments” was a major driver as well as travel. Spending on other retail saw weakness. Industrial production bounced helped by energy.
1)Initial jobless claims rose again to 244k from 235k last week and 9k above the estimate. As the July 4th holiday might have impacted the data, smoothing this out puts the 4 week average to 236k from 233k and that is the highest since December. Continuing claims fell by 41k but after rising by 48k in the week prior.
2)Headline CPI rose 1.3% m/o/m while the core rate was higher by .7% m/o/m and both were 2 tenths higher than expected. On a y/o/y basis headline inflation was up by 9.1% and the core rate by 5.9%. Services inflation ex energy was up by .7% m/o/m and 5.5% y/o/y with rents STILL undercounting reality but making progress on catching up. Core goods prices rose .8% m/o/m and 7.2% y/o/y but this is where the rate of change is slowing as it’s the 4th straight month of moderation. The rate of change peaked at 12.4% in February.
3)Headline PPI in June was higher than expected with a 1.1% m/o/m increase vs the estimate of up .8% and May was revised up by one tenth to a 9 tenths gain. The core rate was as forecasted when we include a May upward revision here too. The headline y/o/y increase was 11.3% and by 8.2% ex food and energy. Goods prices ex food and energy rose by .5% m/o/m and 9.1% y/o/y. Services prices were up .4% m/o/m and 7.7% y/o/y.
4)Thanks to a skyrocketing dollar and also some relief on the commodity side, June import prices rose .2% m/o/m, 5 tenths below the estimate. Ex petro they declined by 4 tenths vs the forecast of up .2%. Versus last year, import prices were up by 10.7% y/o/y and 5.4% ex petro and 4.4% ex food and energy. Import prices from China declined by 2 tenths, helping also to cool the data.
5)The NY Fed said its median one year inflation expectations survey saw an increase to 6.8% in June vs 6.6% in May and that is a new cycle and series high.
6)While the headline NY mfr’g number was an upside surprise, the disappointment was the 6 month outlook falling to -6.2 from +14 and that is the worst print since September 2001 after you know what. Capital spending plans fell notably.
7)The first look at the July UoM consumer confidence index wasn’t much changed from the record low seen in June. The index was 51.1 vs 50 last month, a hair above the forecast of no change. Current conditions rebounded to 57.1 from 53.8 but Expectations fell again, by a modest .2 pts. One year inflation expectations fell by one tenth m/o/m off a 40 yr high to 5.2%. For the 5-10 yr inflation expectations question, it fell to 2.8% from 3.1%. There was clear disappointment in the labor market answers. Employment expectations fell 13 pts and by 32 pts over the past 3 months. At 77, it’s the lowest since September 2011. Net income growth expectations fell another 2 pts to the least since January 2021. With respect to spending intentions, there was a pick up from June for auto’s, homes and major appliances but only after dropping last month. Interestingly, those that said it’s a good time to SELL a home fell 18 pts to the lowest since March 2021. On the impact of inflation to consumer psyche, “The share of consumers blaming inflation for eroding their living standards continued its rise to 49%, matching the all time high reached during the Great Recession. Consumers under the age of 45, lower income consumers, and less educated consumers – groups that tend to have less wealth to buffer against shocks – all reported substantial worsening of personal finances.”
8)The June NFIB small business optimism index fell to 89.5 from 93.1 and that is the weakest since January 2013. Expectations for a Better Economy continued to fall to a fresh all time low dating back to the 1970’s at -61% from -54% in May. Specifically on inflation, it again was the “top problem for small businesses with 34% of owners reporting it was their single most important problem in operating their business, an increase of 6 pts from May and the highest level since quarter four in 1980.”
9)Cass Freight reported its June data and shipments fell 2.3% y/o/y after declining by 2.7% y/o/y in May. They said “Inventory has shifted from a major tailwind for freight demand to more of a neutral factor currently, with potential to become a considerable headwind if goods demand continues to decline.” The inferred freight rate which they calculate “still rose 28% y/o/y in June, decelerated from 31% y/o/y in May.”
10)The average 30 yr mortgage rate was unchanged w/o/w at 5.74%. Purchases fell 3.6% w/o/w and by 18% y/o/y. Refi’s rose by 2.2% but after last week’s nearly 8% drop. They remain down by 80% y/o/y.
11)US industrial production in June fell .2% m/o/m vs the estimate of up .1% and May was revised down by 2 tenths. Manufacturing was the main culprit for the weakness with its .5% drop for the 2nd month.
12)Taking the data out of China with a big grain of salt, they reported that Q2 GDP rose .4% y/o/y, below the estimate of up 1.2% and activity declined by 2.6% q/o/q with distress in residential real estate and the stop-start fight against covid.
13)China’s residential real estate market continued with its stream of bad news as buyers hold back mortgage payments and home prices continue to drop.
14)China’s June imports, where many end up in eventual exports, rose just 1% vs the forecast of up 4%.
15)China reported its June loan data where aggregate financing totaled 5.17 Trillion yuan, above the estimate of 4.2 Trillion. Of this, bank loans made up 2.81 Trillion. Until they fully reopen and get off the stop-start, this is like trying to capture water using a sieve. Also out of China over the weekend was their PPI and CPI figures that were both one tenth higher than expected
16)Japan said its June PPI rose 9.2% y/o/y, above the estimate of up 8.9% and vs an upwardly revised 9.3% in May.
17)The Swedish Riksbank a few weeks ago hiked rates to .75% and today they reported a June CPI of up 8.5% and by 6.1% ex energy.
18)While Mario Draghi’s resignation should not have been a surprise in terms of the typical short tenure of the Prime Minister, fragmentation worries are back.
19)With the inflation and energy squeeze, the July German ZEW investor confidence in their economy fell to -53.8 from -28. The estimate was for a drop to -40.5. That matches the lowest since October 2008 right after Lehman blew up. Current Conditions dropped to -45.8 from -27.6. Not surprisingly, the ZEW said “Expectations for energy intensive and export oriented sectors of the economy have fallen particularly sharply, and private consumption is also assessed as significantly weaker.”


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SAP AG has announced a new rapid-deployment solution that simplifies access to analytics on mobile devices.
The new solution will enable enterprise customers to put real-time insight in the hands of their workers for better, more informed decisions on the go.
The company rapid-deployment solution offers preconfigured software, implementation services, content and end-user enablement. It puts both a fixed scope and price for creating a mobile channel into existing SAP HANA platform and SAP Business Objects business intelligence (BI) solutions or populating pre-existing mobile apps with data analytics. SAP can have mobilized data analytics up and running for enterprise customers in as little as three weeks or less.
"An important element to unlocking the value of big data through business analytics is being able to push real-time insight to all levels of enterprise employees," said Dan Vesset, program vice president, Business Analytics at IDC.
He further added, "Close to 40 percent of enterprises are planning to increase the number of users with mobile access to their BI and analytics solutions. Once an analytics platform is in place, these organizations can benefit significantly from a faster and lower risk solution, like the SAP Mobile Analytics rapid-deployment solution, for extending that platform with mobile capabilities to drive real-time decision-making."
SAP mobile analytics offers comprehensive, real-time access on the performance and metrics of a company through popular mobile devices. Workers no longer need to go through a chain of processes to get the information they need. The data is presented through a user-friendly mobile app that can produce reports, charts and graphs.
A sync option with SAP HANA significantly bolsters the quality and speed in analytics mobile apps, enabling workers to pull down analytics in a fraction of the time. All the end users and generated content are managed on a single platform, cutting down on complexity. As part of an end-to-end solution, customers can achieve broader capabilities by layering additional rapid-deployment solutions along with SAP Mobile Analytics in an "assemble-to-order" approach.
"SAP is extending the power of SAP HANA and BI to mobile devices in the enterprise," said Bernd Welz, senior vice president and global head, Solution & Knowledge Packaging, SAP.
We are bringing workers closer to analytics all within a framework that any enterprise customer can deploy with lower costs and fewer risks along the way added Welz.


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Meet one of Warren Buffett's top deputies, who isn't even 30 yet: Tracy Britt Cool. "She thinks like I would," Buffett says.
- Mall REITs are facing challenges in 2014 as some retail chains announce store closings and weak holiday sales. Also, shopper traffic is down as more consumers buy products online rather than heading to the local mall.
- Argentina has rolled out restrictions on shopping online as the emerging market tries to stem falling currency reserves.
- Investors are reaching for yield in troubled European countries but could be taking on more risk than they realize.
-0.56%COO Sheryl Sandberg is a newly minted billionaire as shares of the social-networking giant continue to climb.
IBM shares slip after the company
-0.68%reports lower-than-expected revenue.
- Coach US:COH shares also down as investors were disappointed with earnings and North American sales, in particular.
- Priceline US:PCLN continues to dazzle investors; shares top $1,200.
-0.07%rallies as quarterly results come in ahead of forecasts.
More from MarketWatch:


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Wal-Mart Thinks Big With Smaller Stores
Future Wal-Mart locations will be about 8 percent smaller and cost 16 percent less to build, as the retail giant seeks to reduce waste throughout its operations.
The store sizing effort is part of Wal-Mart’s Project Impact, which will see through a remodeling and repositioning of many locations, reports Triple Pundit.
Wal-Mart calls its Project Impact a means of “accelerating growth of new store designs capable of generating greater returns from current assets.”
Wal-Mart already has remodeled about 30 percent of U.S. stores and plans to have remodeled or built out 70 percent of its stores to the new standard by 2012.
Wal-Mart is extending the new store philosophy to other operating units.
Brian Cornell, president and CEO of Sam’s Club, said, “Sam’s also is increasing its investment in remodeling to improve operating productivity and efficiency, based on a new club layout.”
Energy Manager News
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- Duke Energy, USF Launch Solar Battery Research Initiative
- Energy Storage Helps Hotel Reduce Demand Charges by 10%
- EU Smart Campus Pilot Achieves 30% Energy Savings
- Uline to Operate 130 GenDrive Fuel Cell Units from Plug Power
- Los Angeles Shopping Center Installs 504 kW Solar
- SustainCo Wins $575,000 Contract for Energy Management Controls


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The UK has a thriving entrepreneurial culture; more than 1,100 new businesses start each day in the UK, according to government statistics.
However, too few UK entrepreneurs turn their start-up into a mid-sized business.
We need to challenge this short-sighted culture and instead encourage more UK entrepreneurs to grow their businesses over the long-term, says Dominic Buch, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Caple.
What’s the issue?
While the UK is a great place to start a business, its entrepreneurs may not be thinking about building a business for the long term.
The start-up environment is heavily disposed to favour starting and selling a business.
Just look at funding and access to capital.
Smaller businesses are able to access both bank funding and finance from new entrants such as peer-to-peer platforms. Larger businesses, or those with an asset base, are well served by banks and specialist debt funds.
The real problem is for more sophisticated SMEs and owner-managed businesses, without assets to use as security.
The middle missing struggle because while banks can fund an amount that reflects the assets in a business, they can’t help if a business has no further assets to borrow against.
Without access to secured lending, until now business owners have had to consider selling a stake in their business to raise funds or agree to personal guarantees.
What’s the impact?
For these slightly larger and more complex SMEs, the lack of genuinely unsecured lending is therefore a significant barrier to growth.
This lack of lending contributes to the broader issue of why the UK fails to generate more mid-sized firms and new global behemoths.
Without access to suitable finance, the best outlook for a small but growing business might be to sell to a larger, often foreign, counterpart.
So, what’s the solution?
First, financing terms of traditional bank or peer-to-peer loans are only a few years at most. But short-term loans encourage short-term thinking.
Second, we know that the slightly larger SMEs need unsecured credit of between £500,000 and £5m. But it is exactly this amount that is usually too big for peer-to-peer platforms but too small for banks and debt funds.
Caple is the first in the UK to offer long-term unsecured lending between £500,000 and £5m based on the future cash flows of the SME. We do not require collateral or personal guarantees as security.
For small but growing businesses wanted to seek such lending, they should seek professional help from an accountant or business advisor. These experts play a central role in helping these firms access the right funding.
While the UK has a thriving start-up scene, we need to do more to encourage business growth over the long-term. That means providing the funding to match.