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Euroconsumers launch a collective action against Facebook
MEMBERS NEWS - 04.06.2018
Euroconsumers (Test-Achats/Test-Ankoop, OCU, Altroconsumo, DECO) launched a collective action against Facebook for not respecting the data protection law and the EU Unfair Commercial Practices Directive. They will represent all Facebook users (and not just the Cambridge Analytica victims) and they will claim a compensation that should be no less than 200 euro per user. They want consumers to become masters of their data and be compensated when misused. Read more.


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The owners of Denuvo, the controversial anti-tampering system designed to prevent PC game piracy, has claimed that AAA games not using their technology are incurring huge losses due to piracy.
Referencing an unnamed AAA sports game that was not protected by Denuvo, the owners of Denuvo, Irdeto, said that the game was not only cracked on the day of release, that it was also downloaded hundreds of thousands of times during the first two weeks.
"During the first two weeks, Irdeto detected 355,664 torrent downloads of the illegal copy of the title. Given the retail price of the game, this puts the total potential loss of revenue from P2P downloads at $21,336,283," Irdeto claimed.
Denuvo protection, once thought uncrackable, has not been as impenetrable in recent times. While the tech is constantly being updated to thwart game crackers, recent versions of Denuvo have been cracked in short order, suggesting that the system can no longer protect games for months on end like previously.
Irdeto, however, claims that even a single day's worth of protection is valuable especially if it is the first day of the game's release.
"The research also found that the first day of release alone is crucial for the protection of a AAA title, as 12% of the illegal P2P downloads occurred within the first day of the cracked copy appearing on the P2P networks (and a substantial number of these in the first hour)," noted Irdeto.
Critics, including irate gamers who do not want DRM in their legally purchased games, however, have noted that Irdeto's claims may not stack up. Irdeto's claim of $21,336,283 in lost sales for the unnamed AAA game would only occur if every downloaded copy translates to a sold copy. In many cases, gamers download pirated games because they can't afford to buy the legal version, or they only wish to sample the game without any serious intentions to buy it if the pirated version had not existed.
There are also real data that may prove games without DRM can also do well at retail, including 'The Witcher' series of games, all of which were released DRM-free. The series is now one of the best selling game franchises in history.
Critics also note that even some games protected by Denuvo are cracked on launch day, for example, 'Naruto to Boruto: Shinobi Striker'.
Furthermore, some have noticed performance issues with games that use Denuvo's engine, claiming that the engine uses a large amount of computing resources that otherwise could be used by the game. A recent comparison for the game 'Mass Effect Andromeda' with and without Denuvo protection (the publishers of the game removed Denuvo protection in a recent patch) showed as much as a 12% improvement in average framerate for the game post Denuvo removal.
Despite these criticisms, Irdeto is still urging all publishers to consider their anti-tampering, anti-piracy tech, in order to protect their works.
" ... it is crucial for publishers to implement security strategies that make their games as difficult as possible to crack and reverse engineer. This way they will be able to better protect the revenues that allow them to continue to create such compelling games," the company concluded.

domain: news


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According to the most recent analysis, the Ethereum blockchain has more distribution of BTCs than Bitcoin’s own special Lightning Network. Recently DeFi Pulse, the decentralized finance analytics site, published a report indicating that more than $11.4 million worth of Wrapped Bitcoin tokens are locked inside the Ethereum ecosystem.
WBTC is an ERC20 token pegged by bitcoin at a 1:1 ratio. The token is designed to induce more liquidity into the network, however, because WBTC is an ERC20 token, it executes the transfer of tokens quicker than regular BTC. WBTC can easily integrate into the Ethereum network through ETH wallets, DApps, and smart contracts. Right now, the contract’s locked bitcoins have soared significantly. There are almost 1,300 Wrapped Bitcoin in circulation.
Startups Looking to Push the Lightning Network
Lightning Network is layer 2 technology for bitcoin that employs small payment channels to enhance the blockchain ability to manage direct transactions. LN separates transactions from the main blockchain allowing the platform to achieve its goal to decongest bitcoin and minimize transaction fees.
Various startups have recently focused on the Lightning Network to attempt to expand it. Lightning Labs, Bolt Labs, and ACINQ have raised funds of more than $20 million for this cause.
However, compared to the Lightning Network’s extension, the Wrapped Bitcoin has grown very quickly. According to the Bitcoin Visuals report, there’s only around $8 million worth of bitcoin on the Lightning Network.


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Enter Unplugged Performance, a Model S tuner that has transformed the luxurious liftback into a heavily stylized tuner car for the street. To do so, Unplugged sculpted a new front fascia for the car, fitted new 21-inch wheels, and modified the plush, high-tech interior for improved comfort and flair.
The differences to the front bumper are apparent right off the bat, as the modified stern is much more angular and aggressive than before. The familiar oval nosecone is significantly sharper and more diamond-like now, and the foglight surrounds wouldn’t look out of place on a Mercedes S63 AMG.
Unlike AMG, however, Unplugged Performance hasn’t added any significant performance enhancements to its donor car. In fairness, it’s not exactly as easy as bolting on a new exhaust with an electric, and worthwhile performance enhancements (additional motors, modified transmissions) are extremely costly and complicated.
The company claims the aerodynamics have been improved though, as a ram air ducting system has been integrated into the bumper for increased cooling.
According to the company, the interior was completely gutted and reimagined, however the steering wheel and dual monitor infotainment system look to be carryovers. Unplugged has added a slick carbon fiber finish to the wheel, and the Alcantara leather, suede dashboard, and prototype sports seats look top-notch.
There’s no cost information yet, but you can bet the Model S’ price tag won’t go anywhere but up underneath Unplugged Performance’s banner. The tweaked Tesla is currently being displayed at the 2014 SEMA Show.
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- Tesla fly-through video shows off new Giga Berlin factory


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According to new research commissioned by Luxperience, Australia is the number one destination of choice for high-end Chinese travellers, as was found in a recent survey conducted by Hong Kong-based market research specialists, Cimigo.
The report found that 97-million Chinese tourists travelled abroad in 2013 and that number is expected to surpass 100 million this year. They spend more on international travel than any other country, spending an estimated US$129 billion in 2014.
“We commissioned Cimigo to find out where high-end Chinese travellers want to go, what they want to do, how much they plan to spend and how their travel plans are formulated,” said Luxperience CEO Lindy Andrews.
“China is clearly a very important market for Luxperience delegates and we hope by commissioning this report we have added value for our buyers and exhibitors.”
The results of the research, revealed last week at the Luxperience Thought Leaders Forum, were enlightening and in some aspects, somewhat surprising.
The results indicate that Chinese travellers are not afraid to travel long distances, with 61 per cent naming Australia as their preferred destination. France ranked second, with 53 per cent naming France as a desired destination, followed closely by the USA and Canada.
The Chinese also have a taste for fine dining and luxury wine experiences with 80 per cent favouring French wine tourism and 34 per cent hoping their next holiday will be a gastronomic delight.
Tourism Australia Managing Director John O’Sullivan said China had emerged as Australia’s most valuable tourism market in recent years.
For further information on the Cimigo Report on Chinese Luxury Travel, contact Deborah Dickson-Smith at firstname.lastname@example.org.


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TheTU3 from Mikros Technologies has been named the 2022 Product of the Year by the NH Tech Alliance. Mikros Technologies is based in Claremont, NH
Five New Hampshire companies competed in the live streamed event on October 12th to an audience of nearly 850. Judges and the audience voted and the TU3 was crowned the 2022 Product of the Year winner!
The TU3 is a computer chip thermal tester. Computer chips, or semiconductors, deeply impact our daily lives through their use in our phones, vehicles, data centers and more. All chips are thermally tested, which means they are heated to high temperatures and then run through a stress test computer program to ensure their reliability. With chips getting hotter and more powerful, current test equipment is failing. The TU3 combines Mikros’ patented, high efficiency liquid cooling with advanced heating and fluid controls to provide a turbo charger for chip testing equipment. The TU3 controls the temperature of the next gen chips with tight precision and is helping to unlock the global supply for next-generation semiconductors.
Other finalists were:
- Pavescan MDM from Geophysical Survey Systems (Nashua, NH)
- Solar OA Knee Brace from Corflex (Manchester, NH)
- DriverCloud from Driver Technologies (Newmarket, NH)
- Skyhawk Hub, Sensor, Minisensor from Skyhawk (Derry, NH)
“The momentum and interest in this event has continued to grow with more audience members tuning in year after year. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to provide a global stage to share the innovation happening in the granite state” said Julie Demers, executive director of the NH Tech Alliance.
Past award winners include the Breast Cancer Locator by CairnSurgical, SpotOn Virtual Smart Fence by OnPoint Systems, Measured Air Performance, iCAD, Inc., Wilcox Industries, Plexxi, Prosenex, Single Digits, Nanocomp Technologies, UltraVision, InsightTech Gear, Holase Incorporated, Sky-Skan, Foss Manufacturing and Therma-HEXX.
Major sponsors of this year’s POY event are:
Big Network, Cook Little, Dartmouth Health, Cross Insurance, M&T Bank, Hypertherm, Alexander Technologies, ARMI, Wipfli, Orbit Group, Sheehan Phinney, The Hanover Insurance Group, Sunrise Labs, Union Leader, Berry Dunn, Cirtronics, CGI Business Solutions, Paragon Digital Marketing and Primary Bank


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A jury in Delaware Tuesday (Aug. 18) concluded that mega e-tailer Amazon didn’t infringe two online-shopping patents and found that a third had been invalid. The case involved a company called Cordance suing Amazon for patent infringement. Cordance argued that they had described the one-click method back in 1993, some four years before Amazon launched its version.
" After 14 hours of deliberations, following a 10-day trial, the federal jury of four men and four women in Wilmington, Delaware, today rejected Cordance’s claims that Amazon infringed the patents. Cordance sought more than $84 million in damages," said a Bloomberg report. "During the trial, Amazon lawyer Lynn H. Pasahow told jurors that one of the patents wasn’t infringed because Amazon uses one-click ordering, while the patent is for a system involving two clicks."


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Health-conscious consumers are aware of the dangers of ingesting tran fats. In 2006, the FDA mandated that all food manufacturers list the amount of trans fats on the Nutrition Facts label. Due to increased awareness, many companies have tried to eliminate the use of trans fats in their products over the last few years. However, many popular products, like frosting, microwave popcorn, pizza, and margarine, still contain trans fats.
Trans fats are a type of fat that is created artificially in order to increase the shelf life of foods while also enhacing the flavor and texture of the products. Unfortunately, trans fats have been shown to increase the risk of coronary heart disease by increasing LDL levels (bad cholesterol) and decreasing HDL levels (good cholesterol) in the blood. The FDA claims that trans fats are responsible for 20,000 heart attacks per year and 7000 deaths from heart disease.
As a result, last week the FDA proposed that partially hydrogenated oils (trans fats) no longer be “generally recognized as safe,” which would eliminate them from the food supply. This would drastically reduce the consumption of trans fats and decrease health risks. Consumers still need to watch their intake of saturated fat but this is a good first step.


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FP is optimistic about MyFitnessPal’s future development potential throughout the fitness app marketplace. Peloton announced a recall of its treadmills on Wednesday, reversing course simply weeks after saying there was “no reason” to cease using the exercise machines regardless of reports of multiple accidents and the death of a kid in an accident. Chief Executive Officer John Foley additionally apologized for the company’s preliminary reaction to a report from the U.S.
The latter element has especially been a spotlight for ICON and its brands as of late. iFit, ICON’s subsidiary model and streaming platform that additionally raised $200 million final Health 12 months, provides individualized virtual exercises and live lessons to subscribers.
Mehcad Brooks On Eating 12,000 Calories A Day For Mortal Kombat Transformation
Health and fitness gear revenue more than doubled, to $2.3 billion, from March to October, in accordance with NPD retail data. Sales of treadmills soared one … Read More


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Fashion based social media mobile application LookAtMe has raised an undisclosed amount in Seed funding round from Eros Labs.
The startup plans to infuse raised funds in the team, technology, and growth.
CEO of Eros Labs, Karan Bedi said, “The team has achieved tremendous results in a quick time and we are happy to support them as investors.”
Founded by an ex-Paytm executive, Nakul Kapur in June 2016, LookAtMe is a virtual stylist that helps users to shop better. Users can get professional stylists and community members to rate their looks, get advice on what to wear, and even shop for looks directly from the app.
One can post a ‘look’ on the app and can get instant ratings. Also, a user earns points for every look uploaded and every rating look received from others. The user is awarded with badges, as he climbs the ‘Look At Me’ ladder.
The founder cIaims the app to have crossed over 50K+ downloads across Android and iOS platforms.
“We are ‘bottom up’ or personalised. Clothes look very different on different people. What looks good on celebrities, may not look good on a vast majority of normal people. Our platform allows users to get advice on what will look good on them. We intend to leverage the infrastructure built by the big ecommerce players and run as an affiliate to them,” said founder Nakul Kapoor.
By 2020, India is expected to generate a $100 Bn online retail revenue, of which $35 Bn will come from fashion ecommerce. Every third query on Google is related to fashion and this trend is increasing at 65% annually.
Earlier, fashion discovery social commerce app Shopwati raised Seed funding from Sanjiv Rai of SRKK Advisors. Wooplr raised an undisclosed amount of funding from the co-founders of InMobi, and WithMe raised $250K funding from angel investors.
Other similar startups in this space are LimeRoad, Styledotme, Mydressing, The Women Store and more.


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Pushed to the limit: Barclaycard’s sweeping credit cuts may cost it dearly, says BEN WILKINSON
Surely credit card firms want us to spend? You’d think they would be licking their lips in anticipation after economists predicted a multi-billion-pound spending spree when the country fully emerges from lockdown.
This is just one of the reasons why Barclaycard’s decision to slash spending limits for more than 100,000 customers is so bewildering.
It says it has reduced limits owing to the economic impact of the pandemic, and that this is part of being a responsible lender.
Cuts: Barclaycard says it has reduced limits due to the economic impact of the pandemic, and says it is all to do with its role as a responsible lender
However, we have heard from customers who have not lost their jobs, who have kept on using their cards and who have even had pay rises — and yet their credit limits have still been slashed.
We’ve spoken to spenders who have been with Barclaycard for decades, but now, for some reason unknown to them, their credit limit has been reduced to £250.
It simply doesn’t add up. This heavy-handed, and seemingly arbitrary, attack on spending is already causing Barclaycard problems.
Its phone lines are overrun, while some long-term customers are applying for a new card with a different organisation willing to offer more credit.
And this comes just months after Barclaycard apologised for setting some credit card limits too high. It insists the two events are not related, but can it really be a coincidence?
The scale and severity of the cuts does suggest that the provider has perhaps awarded customers with extremely generous spending powers in the past.
After all, if the credit limits were all appropriate, why have so many been so drastically changed? Aren’t credit card limits supposed to take into account the possibility of recession or job loss?
But it is not only about spending power. Credit cards afford us vital consumer protections when things go wrong. Without one, spenders can be vulnerable.
This saga also raises questions about how transparent providers are when it comes to the reasons behind our spending limits.
Customers say they have not been given a good reason for the credit cuts — but Barclaycard should be justifying this draconian move to every single card-holder.
No one wants to see a person tempted to spend more than they can afford, but we also don’t want sensible spenders being punished for no good reason.
Barclaycard’s sweeping credit cuts have frustrated and angered many who were just getting ready to spend again. It may have cost the company dearly.
One of the biggest challenges for the pensions industry has been getting people thinking about their retirement when it is still decades away.
For most young adults, scraping together a house deposit is far more pressing.
But with tax relief and the power of compound interest, pensions offer fantastic value, and it’s a crying shame that most of us aren’t utilising them from the day we start working.
The rapid rise of PensionBee, which will float on the stock market next week, is testament to the demand for a simple fix to the pensions problem.
This handy app has empowered people to think about their retirement and start saving smart.
The Government’s plan for a Pensions Dashboard (showing all your pensions under one roof) was supposed to do just this, but has been dogged by delays.
PensionBee has to be applauded for engaging so many people with their savings. It’s something the industry and Government has failed to do for so long.
As many commuters could be returning to the office this summer, all eyes are on proposals for flexible seasonal train tickets.
Many of us have seen our savings soar without the extortionate cost of rail travel in our monthly budgets.
But without reasonably priced train tickets, commuters will be reluctant to step out of the home office and help bring our economy back to life.


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The Mercedes-Benz C36 AMG arrived wearing a price tag of $154,900. It was driven by 3.6-litre straight-six engine that developed 206kW and 385Nm. It was mated to a four-speed auto driving the rear wheels and was good for a 0-100km/h sprint in 6.5 seconds. Top speed was electronically limited to 250km/h.
Fast forward 20 years to the international launch of the latest-generation Mercedes-AMG C63 S, which is powered by a 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 developing 375kW and 700Nm and is capable of going from 0-100km/h in 4.0 seconds flat.
But it’s not just about the car’s outright speed, this latest iteration is equipped the kind of technology that was unheard of two decades ago.
Standard features on the Mercedes-AMG C63 S – the model that will be sold in Australia – includes complex performance systems such as AMG Ride Control sports suspension with adjustable shock absorbers, an electronic rear locking differential and the AMG Dynamic Select drive programs.
Another feature unique to the segment is the dynamic engine mounts – borrowed from the Mercedes AMG-GT sports car – which claims to provide the best balance between ride and handling by adapting their stiffness to the prevailing driving conditions.
The decision by Mercedes-Benz Australia not to take the entry-level C63 and go exclusively with the C63 S was driven by the fact that sales of AMG Performance Pack option during 2011 (the first year it was offered) made up around 80 per cent of all C63 models orders.
Another major influence in the decision by Australia to also take the C450 AMG 4Matic (all-wheel drive) – a car that packs a serious punch thanks to a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine that is tuned to deliver 270kW and 520Nm of torque.
Power is delivered to all four wheels via a seven-speed auto, allowing the C450 to sprint from 0-100km/h in 4.9seconds.
The C450 AMG 4Matic is also the first of a new breed of second-tier performance cars from the luxury German carmaker that Benz hopes will attract both a wider customer base, and allow it to compete with the likes of Audi’s ‘S’ models BMW’s M-Performance variants.
“With the new C450 4Matic, we are extending our C-Class family and addressing an even wider customer base”, said Tobias Moers, chairman of management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
“Both of the new C-Class models from Mercedes-AMG will support the growth strategy of our brand on a sustained basis”, Moers added.
The Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4Matic is scheduled to arrive in Australia in mid-2016 with pricing expected to be in the low $100,000s before on-road costs.


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Amazon to Test Service Requiring Drivers to Assemble Furniture Upon Delivery.
Amazon is potentially creating a slew of new responsibilities for its drivers.
'Bloomberg' reports that Amazon is trying out a new service that would see their drivers tasked with unpacking and assembling items they’re delivering.
Similar service options are currently offered by competitors like Wayfair, Best Buy, Home Depot and Lowe’s.
Amazon’s wide range of products means that its drivers would have to know how to assemble a vast number of furniture items and appliances of all sizes.
They would also reportedly have to take on some degree of customer service.
If customers aren’t satisfied with their final product, the drivers would be tasked with taking back the delivered and assembled items on the spot.
Amazon will reportedly be testing the service in Virginia and two other unnamed markets


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Scottish Borders revised school dress code agreed
Revised guidelines on the clothing which is acceptable at schools in the Borders have been agreed.
The current dress code policy was adopted by Scottish Borders Council more than 10 years ago.
A number of changes and clarifications have been made following consultation with staff, pupils and parents.
The items deemed unacceptable include high-heeled shoes, clothes that are "too revealing" and those carrying offensive or indecent images.
The council also discussed how the policy can be enforced.
A report to the authority said it was unlikely excluding a student for failure to wear a uniform would be deemed acceptable by the courts.
Instead parents and students will be reminded of the dress code.
During the consultation process, parents expressed a desire for flexibility regarding where school clothing could be bought and what was allowed.
It has been agreed that schools should encourage adherence to the dress code but that any sanctions should not involve the pupil missing lessons unless there is a safety issue.


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There is no doubt that our lives have been completely changed after the introduction of mobile phones. In a modern world in which we’re constantly seeking to deepen our connectivity to the internet, we’ve reached a point where life is impossible without smartphones. Everyone has a least a few apps downloaded on their smartphone, and lives seem to come to complete standstill without the internet. In 2015 we witnessed amazing leaps forward in mCommerce app development. There was, however, more room for development and 2016 has proven to be even more exciting with further advances unlike anything ever seen before
Research shows that there are 2.6 billion smartphone users in the world, and this number is forecasted to increase to a whopping 6.1 billion by 2020. Furthermore, 90 percent of all users enjoy 24/7 access to their mobile phones, and as a result, to the Internet. The need for more mobile phones has intensified, and 2016 saw demand grow exponentially. In 2015 many business realized the potential and began switching their priorities to mobiles. This trend continued in 2016 and many experts believe there it will carry through to 2017 and beyond.


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US-based PrintSure Digital Packaging has installed Xeikon's digital color press in a bid to support its growing digital printing business.
PrintSure president Phil Edwards said that the company selected Xeikon digital color press because of its better format flexibility and color capabilities, and the ability to print on both sides of a material in one pass.
"Xeikon has also demonstrated a real commitment to customer service — and to the packaging sector in general," Edwards added.
Besides, the company stated that its food packaging projects would get major advantage with Xeikon’s dry toner technology as it meets all the applicable FDA guidelines for direct and indirect food contact.
Xeikon designs, develops and provides web-based digital color presses for labels and packaging applications, document printing and commercial printing.
PrintSure is engaged in producing short-run printed packaging prototypes, samples and displays.


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Officials at Coyle Chevrolet, located at 1801 Broadway St., off Veterans Parkway in Clarksville, has started on a 12,000-square-foot addition.
The current Chevrolet dealership has 25,000 square feet and originally was built in 2000, according to a news release. The new addition will add 3,500 square feet of space to the sales floor and showroom, and an additional 8,500 square feet to the dealership’s service department.
The company expects to employ 10 to 12 additional full-time staff members once the new addition opens in December, the release said. It has about 70 employees today.
Floyds Knobs, Ind.-based AML Inc. is the contractor.
The dealership’s exterior front façade will have a new look, with signage consistent with the GM current branding program. That program is being implemented by GM at dealerships across the country, according to the release.
Other facility changes at Coyle Chevrolet that customers will see include a brighter, modern showroom and service entrance area. A remodeled customer and business lounge area with free Wi-Fi and a children’s play area are also a part of the plan. The dealership also will expand the service bay area to service additional vehicles, and it will add an automated car wash.
“Our business has been outgrowing our facility for some time, so the timing is right for the GM remodel, in addition to adding to our overall square footage,” Mike Coyle, president and dealer principal of Coyle Chevrolet, said in the release. “As we approach our 70th year in business, we are looking forward to making this investment that will better serve our customers long into the future.”
The release did not specify how much the company was investing in the project.
Coyle Chevrolet was founded in 1945 in New Albany. The company recently acquired a Nissan dealership, now called Coyle Nissan. The family of dealerships also owns a 16,500-square-foot collision center in Clarksville.
David A. Mann covers these beats: Restaurants, beverage industry, manufacturing, distribution/logistics, unions.


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Samsung recently affirmed that it will bring a mid-range cell phone to the US, the Galaxy A51. All the more significantly, the cell phone will be gotten by every single significant transporter in the nation with the goal that everybody can experience Samsung’s new mid-end lineup.
Presently we’ve discovered that the Galaxy A51 probably won’t be the only mid-range gadget to be propelled in the US in the coming months. SamMobile reports the Galaxy A01, one of Samsung’s less expensive cell phones, has quite recently been ensured by FCC (Federal Communications Commission).
Two explicit models appeared at FCC recently: SM-A015V and SM-A015T1. The previous assigns a phone made for Verizon, while the last is relied upon to land at T-Mobile by means of MetroPCS, most likely as a prepaid phone. Everyone doesn’t know whether different carriers will add the Galaxy A01 to their contributions, so don’t get your expectations excessively high.
To the extent the specs go, the Galaxy A01 is an OK cell phone on paper. It sports a huge 5.7-inch HD+ Infinity-V display, a double camera with 13-megapixel and 2-megapixel sensors, a 3,000 mAh battery, and an octa-core processor, combined with 2GB RAM and 16GB expandable storage.
Samsung Galaxy A01 isn’t accessible to buy anyplace in the world yet, so everyone doesn’t have any insights regarding its cost. Nonetheless, they do realize that it will deliver with Android 10 right out of the box.


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ITC Stock Investment: Experts believe that the quarterly numbers are good but not very encouraging from the point of view of FMCG business. The company will get more benefits as there is no new tax on cigarettes in the budget. Share valuation is cheap
What is the opinion of experts?
Market expert Barinder Bhansal says ITC’s quarterly numbers were good. But not very encouraging. FMCG did not do well. The company has done well in the cigarette and agri segment. Cigarettes have benefits. Cheap stock. That’s very good. Bonsal says there is a revival in FMCG. The amount of cigarettes increased by 12%. Input pressure is increasing in FMCG. The margins of this segment have come down.
Santosh Meena, head of research at Swastika Investmart Limited, said that profit booking was seen in the share price of ITC today. However, the stock has started trading in a positive mode. Speaking of the company’s earnings, it was better than expected in many parameters. However, the stock is in the range bound range of 235-240. The budget did not increase taxes on cigarettes. This is positive for the company.
Meena said that technically the 240-245 level is an important supply area for the stock, while the 100-DMA at the 228 level is an immediate support. Below this, support is visible at 221 levels. The 210-200 level is a strong foundation for long-term stocks. If the stock breaks below this level, it may weaken. At the same time, the 245 rupees level is important. If this break occurs, the 265/300 level stock may show further.
Watch G Business dgmartpro.com Live TV here
What is the opinion of brokers
Following the ITC’s December quarterly results, global brokerage firm CLSA has maintained its buying opinion on the stock. 285 purchase targets have been given. Morgan Stanley has set a target of Rs 251 with an overweight rating. At the same time, Jefferies gave a purchase opinion and increased the target price from Rs 300 to Rs 305. JP Morgan has a neutral rating with a target price of Rs 238. CITI stock also maintained a neutral position and set a target of Rs 245.
Domestic brokerage firm Motilal Oswal has a neutral rating on ITC. The target price of the stock has been kept at Rs 245. The brokerage said the company’s EBITDA was up in the December quarter. The amount of cigarettes has been better than expected. ICICI Securities has given ADD rate on the stock. The target of the stock is 260 rupees.
ITC: What was the quarterly result like?
FMCG company ITC released its quarterly results on Thursday. The company’s net profit rose 12.69 per cent to Rs 4,156.20 crore. The company had posted a net profit of Rs 3,687.88 crore in the same quarter a year ago. The company’s revenue from sales of goods rose 31.25 per cent to Rs 16,633.86 crore. 12,673.31 crore in the December quarter a year ago. The company has declared an interim dividend of Rs 5.25 per share.
(Disclaimer: The investment advice here is provided by the brokerage house. This is not a G-Business opinion. Please consult your advisor before investing.)


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The new 2020 Chevy Bolt EV gets a battery pack upgraded which will increase the overall capacity to 66 kWh, thus increasing the EPA range to 259 miles per charge. That equates to a 21 mile increase over the previous 60 kWh battery pack. The additional good news is that the price will remain the same, starting at an MSRP of $37,495.
According to Chevrolet, the change is related to the chemistry makeup of the battery.
Chevrolet’s battery engineering team improved the energy of the cell electrodes by making small but impactful changes to the cell chemistry. This innovative thinking allowed the team to implement the range increase without needing to change the physical battery pack and the way it is integrated into the vehicle structure.
In addition to the battery pack change, Chevrolet lists other minor changes. 2 colors have been removed, and 2 have been added – the new Oasis Blue exterior color (no extra charge) and the new Cayenne Orange Metallic exterior color that is available for an extra charge.
Here are the other 5, barely significant, changes for the 2020 Bolt EV model year:
- Keyless Open on front doors replaces (ATH) Keyless Open on all 4 doors
- HD Rear Vision Camera replaces (UVC) Rear Vision Camera
- HD Surround Vision replaces (UVH) Surround Vision
- High gloss Black grille replaces (TUR) Dark Silver grille and (TUS) Black grille
- Low-Speed Forward Automatic Braking is now called Automatic Emergency Braking
Some of the Bolt EV changes that would’ve been accepted with cheers from the EV community would’ve been higher power DC fast charging, more over-the-air updates to the software, and a better grade interior (ie: the seats).
All of these updates could be called mid-cycle changes as Chevrolet has said in the past that the next generation Bolt EV is coming in 2025.


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|By Marketwired .||
|May 15, 2014 03:01 AM EDT||
SANTA BARBARA, CA -- (Marketwired) -- 05/15/14 -- Warp 9, Inc. (OTCQB: WNYN), the premier provider of mobile and e-commerce solutions for midsize online sellers, today announced the launch of the Mangelsen.com mobile e-commerce website in addition to signing an agreement to build the Trumpette.com mobile e-commerce website. Both mobile sites are designed to increase sales and boost social media followings and engagement.
Mangelsen.com, operated by legendary nature photographer Thomas D. Mangelsen, has been in business for over 40 years, with eight locations in six different states. Internationally known for high-quality photographs of wildlife in its natural habitat, Mangelsen's work has appeared in multiple books, television programs including The Today Show and Good Morning America.
In its 25th year of doing business, Trumpette is an international provider of luxury children's apparel including shirts, socks, tights, shoes, seasonal wear, and more. In addition to retail locations, the brand is also available in popular department and specialty stores such as Barney's, Bloomingdale's, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, FAO Schwartz, and several others.
"As online retailers expand their customer-base and continue to grow their social footprint, the need for a scalable and cost-efficient mobile shopping platform is paramount," said Andrew Van Noy, CEO of Warp 9. "Warp 9 has seen a sharp increase in requests from online retailers and wholesalers seeking mobile solutions that streamline the sales process while providing a very user-friendly experience. Our team has launched numerous mobile e-commerce websites in the past two years. We understand what it takes to design and build successful mobile strategies that yield insight into user behavior and spending habits, which provide companies like Trumpette and Mangelsen with a better understanding of their business, and significantly increase revenues moving forward. The launch of the Mangelsen.com mobile site and the signing of Trumpette.com to build their mobile site, continue to confirm to the industry of our mobile expertise."
About Warp 9
Since 1998, Warp 9, Inc. is the premier provider of eCommerce solutions for midsize online sellers. Offering fully managed Software-as-a-Service web and mobile eCommerce technology, Warp 9 allows customers to focus on their core online businesses, rather than on technical implementations. To learn more about Warp 9, please visit www.warp9inc.com or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/warp9inc, or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/warp9inc
Safe Harbor Statement
Matters discussed in this press release contain statements that look forward within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this press release, the words "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "may," "intend," "expect" and similar expressions identify such statements that look forward. Actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those contemplated, expressed or implied by the statements that look forward contained herein, and while expected, there is no guarantee that we will attain the aforementioned anticipated developmental milestones. These statements that look forward are based largely on the expectations of the Company and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. These include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties associated with: the impact of economic, competitive and other factors affecting the Company and its operations, markets, product, and distributor performance, the impact on the national and local economies resulting from terrorist actions, and U.S. actions subsequently; and other factors detailed in reports filed by the Company.
What happens when the different parts of a vehicle become smarter than the vehicle itself? As we move toward the era of smart everything, hundreds of entities in a vehicle that communicate with each other, the vehicle and external systems create a need for identity orchestration so that all entities work as a conglomerate. Much like an orchestra without a conductor, without the ability to secure, control, and connect the link between a vehicle’s head unit, devices, and systems and to manage the ...
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"Once customers get a year into their IoT deployments, they start to realize that they may have been shortsighted in the ways they built out their deployment and the key thing I see a lot of people looking at is - how can I take equipment data, pull it back in an IoT solution and show it in a dashboard," stated Dave McCarthy, Director of Products at Bsquare Corporation, in this SYS-CON.tv interview at @ThingsExpo, held November 1-3, 2016, at the Santa Clara Convention Center in Santa Clara, CA.
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In his session at Cloud Expo, Robert Cohen, an economist and senior fellow at the Economic Strategy Institute, provideed economic scenarios that describe how the rapid adoption of software-defined everything including cloud services, SDDC and open networking will change GDP, industry growth, productivity and jobs. This session also included a drill down for several industries such as finance, social media, cloud service providers and pharmaceuticals.
Dec. 7, 2016 09:15 PM EST Reads: 334
In IT, we sometimes coin terms for things before we know exactly what they are and how they’ll be used. The resulting terms may capture a common set of aspirations and goals – as “cloud” did broadly for on-demand, self-service, and flexible computing. But such a term can also lump together diverse and even competing practices, technologies, and priorities to the point where important distinctions are glossed over and lost.
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Data is the fuel that drives the machine learning algorithmic engines and ultimately provides the business value. In his session at Cloud Expo, Ed Featherston, a director and senior enterprise architect at Collaborative Consulting, discussed the key considerations around quality, volume, timeliness, and pedigree that must be dealt with in order to properly fuel that engine.
Dec. 7, 2016 08:15 PM EST Reads: 2,207
All clouds are not equal. To succeed in a DevOps context, organizations should plan to develop/deploy apps across a choice of on-premise and public clouds simultaneously depending on the business needs. This is where the concept of the Lean Cloud comes in - resting on the idea that you often need to relocate your app modules over their life cycles for both innovation and operational efficiency in the cloud. In his session at @DevOpsSummit at19th Cloud Expo, Valentin (Val) Bercovici, CTO of Soli...
Dec. 7, 2016 07:15 PM EST Reads: 1,796
Enterprise IT has been in the era of Hybrid Cloud for some time now. But it seems most conversations about Hybrid are focused on integrating AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google ECM into existing on-premises systems. Where is all the Private Cloud? What do technology providers need to do to make their offerings more compelling? How should enterprise IT executives and buyers define their focus, needs, and roadmap, and communicate that clearly to the providers?
Dec. 7, 2016 07:15 PM EST Reads: 382
SYS-CON Events announced today that Dataloop.IO, an innovator in cloud IT-monitoring whose products help organizations save time and money, has been named “Bronze Sponsor” of SYS-CON's 20th International Cloud Expo®, which will take place on June 6-8, 2017, at the Javits Center in New York City, NY. Dataloop.IO is an emerging software company on the cutting edge of major IT-infrastructure trends including cloud computing and microservices. The company, founded in the UK but now based in San Fran...
Dec. 7, 2016 07:00 PM EST Reads: 471
In his session at 19th Cloud Expo, Claude Remillard, Principal Program Manager in Developer Division at Microsoft, contrasted how his team used config as code and immutable patterns for continuous delivery of microservices and apps to the cloud. He showed how the immutable patterns helps developers do away with most of the complexity of config as code-enabling scenarios such as rollback, zero downtime upgrades with far greater simplicity. He also demoed building immutable pipelines in the cloud ...
Dec. 7, 2016 06:00 PM EST Reads: 1,872
Join Impiger for their featured webinar: ‘Cloud Computing: A Roadmap to Modern Software Delivery’ on November 10, 2016, at 12:00 pm CST. Very few companies have not experienced some impact to their IT delivery due to the evolution of cloud computing. This webinar is not about deciding whether you should entertain moving some or all of your IT to the cloud, but rather, a detailed look under the hood to help IT professionals understand how cloud adoption has evolved and what trends will impact th...
Dec. 7, 2016 06:00 PM EST Reads: 2,664
"We are the public cloud providers. We are currently providing 50% of the resources they need for doing e-commerce business in China and we are hosting about 60% of mobile gaming in China," explained Yi Zheng, CPO and VP of Engineering at CDS Global Cloud, in this SYS-CON.tv interview at 19th Cloud Expo, held November 1-3, 2016, at the Santa Clara Convention Center in Santa Clara, CA.
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"We are a custom software development, engineering firm. We specialize in cloud applications from helping customers that have on-premise applications migrating to the cloud, to helping customers design brand new apps in the cloud. And we specialize in mobile apps," explained Peter Di Stefano, Vice President of Marketing at Impiger Technologies, in this SYS-CON.tv interview at 19th Cloud Expo, held November 1-3, 2016, at the Santa Clara Convention Center in Santa Clara, CA.
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IoT solutions exploit operational data generated by Internet-connected smart “things” for the purpose of gaining operational insight and producing “better outcomes” (for example, create new business models, eliminate unscheduled maintenance, etc.). The explosive proliferation of IoT solutions will result in an exponential growth in the volume of IoT data, precipitating significant Information Governance issues: who owns the IoT data, what are the rights/duties of IoT solutions adopters towards t...
Dec. 7, 2016 05:15 PM EST Reads: 271
As data explodes in quantity, importance and from new sources, the need for managing and protecting data residing across physical, virtual, and cloud environments grow with it. Managing data includes protecting it, indexing and classifying it for true, long-term management, compliance and E-Discovery. Commvault can ensure this with a single pane of glass solution – whether in a private cloud, a Service Provider delivered public cloud or a hybrid cloud environment – across the heterogeneous enter...
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Businesses and business units of all sizes can benefit from cloud computing, but many don't want the cost, performance and security concerns of public cloud nor the complexity of building their own private clouds. Today, some cloud vendors are using artificial intelligence (AI) to simplify cloud deployment and management. In his session at 20th Cloud Expo, Ajay Gulati, Co-founder and CEO of ZeroStack, will discuss how AI can simplify cloud operations. He will cover the following topics: why clou...
Dec. 7, 2016 05:15 PM EST Reads: 930


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Known for its abundance of emotional ads, such as Colin Kaepernick’s Dream Crazy campaign video and the recent Dream Crazier ad helping to empower women, this time around
The pair, who have been friends since childhood, were recently reunited after a blockbuster trade saw Odell Beckham Jr. moving to the Cleveland Browns, ending his time with the New York Giants. Both OBJ and Landry played in collage from 2011 to 2013 at LSU.
In the ad above, Nike hones in on the similarities between the two players, how they both accomplished the same feats, and what makes them so special. Running in a one-minute, the ad finishes off with a sentimental photo of the two players before they made it into the NFL. Watch it above.
In more sports-related news, Kylian Mbappé’s signed 2018 World Cup jersey is up for auction.


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DigiTour CEO Meridith Valiando Rojas talks to FOXBusiness.com’s Katie Roof about the business behind the rising digital video stars. DigiTour puts on big events with popular YouTube and Vine content creators and is gaining significant traction with teens.
Daimler Chairman Dieter Zetsche gives FBN’s Liz Claman an inside look into the company’s car of the future.
FBN’s Ashley Webster, Nicole Petallides and Liz MacDonald and Jones Trading Chief Market Strategist Mike O’Rourke and Veracruz LLC Founder Steve Cortes discuss the possible impact of Greece dropping out of the eurozone.
WSJ celebrity business reporter Lee Hawkins on the fallout from Sony’s hacking.
FBN’s Adam Shapiro on the latest Sony hack that leaked multiple movies to the public.
SurveyMonkey CEO David Goldberg weighs in on disrupters in the music industry .
Keep.com CEO Scott Kurnit discusses what net neutrality means to tech and media, and gives his outlook for the music industry .
SurveyMonkey CEO David Goldberg discusses how the music industry is evolving.
Billboard Editor-at-Large Joe Levy argues YouTube’s Music Key service is a risk for the industry.
The Wall Street Journal’s Veronica Dagher and FBN’s Liz MacDonald and Tracy Byrnes on the potential impact on consumers of another cold winter and the money Taylor Swift lost from taking her music off Spotify.
Record industry executive Clive Davis on his career, Aretha Franklin’s new album, Whitney Houston and the music industry .
Kurt ‘the Cyber Guy’ Knutsson explains how Apple’s mobile payment system ‘Apple Pay’ works.
REVOLT CEO Keith Clinkscales on the company and cable consumers.
Chris Lucas and Preston Brust of ‘LoCash’ on country music, writing and the business behind the music.
Grammy Award-Winning Producer Matt Serletic gives his predictions for the big winners at this year’s Grammy Awards and the state of the music industry .
FBN’s John Stossel discusses ideas, innovation and intellectual property laws.
FNC’s James Rosen discusses Tom Petty’s lawsuit against Sam Smith’s ‘Stay With Me’ and other lawsuits over music similarities.
Musician Will.i.am discusses his foundation which focuses on educating America.
Claman on Call: FBN’s David Asman with an after-hours web exclusive on the markets, the decline in oil prices and FOX Business’ big interviews at the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show.
Wu-Tang Clan’s Chief Producer RZA on the Boombot Rex Wu-Tang Edition speakers.


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The situation took an unexpected turn when all thee major US stock indexes plunged. Just when GM, Ford and Chrysler find themselves in the middle of renegotiating a labor contract for 112,000 workers which expires on September 14.“It’s at least as big of a deal as the profitability of the Detroit Three. It basically determines the whole environment.”Sean McAlinden Senior Economist of Center for Automotive Research, was quoted as saying by Detroit Free Press.
Also expectations among workers for gains in this round of talks with GM, Ford and Chrysler have increased as a response to the car manufacturer’s reported profits. This year, GM and Ford managed to add about 10,000 US jobs this year, the first time new workers had been added since 2008.
“If the market continues to recover, we are confident that GM will hire new workers to meet the strong demand for the products our UAW members build.”UAW Vice President Joe Ashton said in a statement in May, he was quoted as saying by the aforementioned source.


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Diba Tejarat Khavarmianeh Company
Attendance at the World Biggest Event of Cosmetics and Personal Care
According to ILNA economy reporter, a press conference was called to discuss the first Iranian company attendance at the Cosmoprof 2017 Bologna, Italy. Arash Montazer Saheb said: Cosmoprof is the oldest and most valid exhibition entire the world which Diba Tejarat is participating in it as the first Iranian company after 50 years. This exhibition normally has more than 250 thousand visitors, 3 thousand exhibitors and a thousand press reporters cover the event. This member of Iran- Italy Chamber of Commerce continued: Any company who wants to take a part in this event has to meet all European Standard requirements to ensure that its products are properly qualified. We, as the first Iranian company in 50 years, are attending at this exhibition while our neighboring countries: Pakistan, Emirates and Turkey have dedicated pavilions.


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Culvert washout affects stretch of West Nike Road
RAPID CITY, S.D. — A two-block stretch of West Nike Road is closed to traffic after a culvert washout Tuesday evening.
The washout occurred on West Nike Road, two blocks east of the West Nike Road and Cobalt Drive intersection. The washout impacts both the westbound and eastbound lanes.
Residents in the affected area can gain access to their homes off Dyess Avenue. All other traffic should take alternate routes.
City officials estimate repairs to take at least three days depending on weather.


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Central Michigan University Sends Out CMU Keyboard Stickers, Instantly Regrets It
Marketing in 2022 is increasingly difficult. Between traditional media and emerging ones like social and streaming platforms, there's never been more competition for attention spans.
That kind of advertising bind isn't only felt by big retailers. Large public colleges face the same challenges. Central Michigan University is a good example.
And CMU quite literally can't afford to lose any more marketing efficacy.
In 2010, CMU's enrollment stood at 28,389. In 2021, that number had declined to 15,465 — a 45 percent downturn. CMU went from Michigan's fourth-largest public university in 2012 to seventh-largest last year. The school has hemorrhaged students, putting heightened priority on its recruiting efforts.
Perhaps that's why Central Michigan's marketing team came up with the idea of sending out keyboard stickers for students to place over the letters C,M, and U on their computers and laptops.
Seems like a simple but effective marketing idea, right? And one that would expose the CMU brand to a ton of eyeballs, and maybe even a few young people who are trying to figure out where they'll go to college.
There's just one problem — the letters C, M, and U don't appear in that same order on keyboards.
Unfortunately, CMU's attempt at recruiting new students resulted in the recruitment of a bunch of roasters.
That's obviously not the kind of attention the folks at CMU were trying to earn. But all publicity is good publicity, right?
And hey, if there's one surefire way to reach today's youth it's through memes.


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Sengled is partnering with leading AI company, Baidu, to introduce the Sengled Smart Lamp Speaker, a new voice-enabled lighting concept. Both companies will showcase Sengled Smart Lamp Speaker at the annual CES in Las Vegas, NV, January 9-12, 2018, with the official reveal commencing at the Baidu World @ Las Vegas on January 8, 2018.
The combination of Baidu’s DuerOS interactive AI operating system and Sengled’s proficiency in LED lighting yields China’s first voice-activated lamp speaker, a fusion of sound and light in one device. With 16 million colors of light and advanced acoustics, users will easily be able to set the mood for any occasion like entertaining, working or relaxing. The Baidu DuerOS interactive engine provides full data capabilities that can be unlocked with the sound of one’s voice. Equipped with noise reduction technology and six near and far field microphones, one’s voice commands will be easily recognized by the Sengled Smart Lamp Speaker to deliver information and assistance such as news reports and scheduling.
“Baidu DuerOS has been looking for partners in all fields of smart home to launch a series of smart products with voice control capabilities,” Said Kun Jing, General Manager of Baidu Duer Business Unit.“We know the era of voice-activated smart home is upon us, and with Sengled as our premium smart lighting partner, we believe the Sengled Smart Lamp Speaker will give consumers an enjoyable and convenient smart home experience.”
Sengled Founder and Chairman, Jinxiang Shen is equally as encouraged by the partnership, noting that, “Since 2011, Sengled has been exploring AI with focus on image recognition and smart system integration, resulting in hundreds of patents focused on IoT technologies. Our cooperation with Baidu leverages Sengled’s strengths in smart lighting, audio control and AI system integration, and with the capabilities of the Baidu DuerOS in AI technology and big data, we can now successfully deliver a voice activated smart lamp speaker to consumers.”
Sengled Smart Lamp Speaker will be on display at CES 2018, January 9-12, at the Baidu booth (LVCC #25308, South Hall 2, CES Tech East) and Sengled booth (Sands Expo #41337). Sengled will also feature its full portfolio of smart lighting products including the latest Element Color Plus, Solo Color Plus and Snap 2.


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What to Watch in SodaStream International Ltd.'s Earnings Release Aug. 5
With the stock down 45% in a year -- and 16% this past month -- expectations are about as low as they can get for SodaStream's second-quarter report. Wall Street is bracing for a 25% sales drop and 19% lower profits from the at-home soda machine maker when it posts earnings results on Wednesday, Aug 5.
*2015 Q2 is the average target of the nine Wall Street analysts who cover the stock. Source: Yahoo! Finance and SodaStream financial filings.
Running the business in reverseThose expected brutal drops are mostly self-imposed because SodaStream is running its business in reverse right now. Management has slashed advertising spending, reduced its store footprint, and delivered fewer soda machines, carbon dioxide canisters, and flavors to the remaining retailers that still sell its products.
That's all in preparation for a massive strategic shift slated to roll out over the next few quarters. If all goes according to plan, the SodaStream brand will be shifted away from shrinking soda demand and toward a sparkling water product line that will reinvigorate sales growth. "We've made good progress preparing for the launch of a completely new portfolio of great tasting, better for you sparkling water flavors later this year that we believe will resonate strongly with our consumer audience," CEO Daniel Birnbaum told investors in May.
But this is about much more than product branding. SodaStream is also revamping its manufacturing base, replacing key management positions, and targeting big changes to the customer experience including home pickup of used carbon dioxide canisters. In short, the company isn't so much repositioning a product line as it is attempting to reinvent itself.
The huge scope of changes raises the stakes in terms of the level at which management will have to execute around an entirely new marketing, distribution, and product focus in the next few months. Investors won't know whether the company succeeded in this shift until it is underway. All we have to go on is management's belief, which it summed up like this in last quarter's conference call:
Two numbers to watchWhile they wait for evidence that this relaunch succeeding -- or failing -- shareholders can focus on two metrics in this week's results. First, keep an eye on carbon dioxide refill sales. They actually improved last quarter, rising by 4% despite a 41% nosedive in flavor sales. SodaStream counts a record 6 million customers who regularly purchase refills. And as long as that figure keeps marching higher, it shows that the company has a big, loyal user base to build on.
Second, watch profitability. Gross profit margin should improve to over 50% due to manufacturing changes and the fact that carbon dioxide canisters are taking up a larger portion of sales. Lower marketing expenses should also push operating margin higher. These cuts helped SodaStream return to profitability in the critical U.S. market last quarter despite a 14% drop in soda machine sales. Investors can expect plenty of talk on Wednesday about management's rebound plans, but cost controls are one of the few improvements that we can see proof of in the second-quarter report.
The article What to Watch in SodaStream International Ltd.'s Earnings Release Aug. 5 originally appeared on Fool.com.
Demitrios Kalogeropoulos owns shares of SodaStream. The Motley Fool owns shares of SodaStream. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
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There will be a “polar bear sighting” in Thetford/Norcold’s Booth No. 230 at next week’s National RV Trade Show in Louisville, Ky.
According to a press release, the promotion will usher in Norcold’s new Polar Series of gas absorption RV refrigerators that will debut at the show.
Booth visitors can also view Tank Blaster, Thetford’s new holding tank cleaner. Cooking appliances, other Thetford and Norcold products, and the company’s point-of-sale plans for 2018 will also be on display.
“We’re excited about our booth and presenting new products to attendees,” said Andy Bialorucki, director of marketing. “We’re also excited about the new things that RVIA is offering this year and we’re taking advantage of their new programs to help promote our brand.”
Bialorucki added that in appreciation of the company’s dealer and manufacturer partners, visitors also can enter to win special prizes: three $500 Visa Gift Cards and several stuffed polar bears. There will also be giveaways and, to help honor Aqua-Kem’s 50th anniversary, light refreshments will be provided.


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Negative news stories about Nike’s negative corporate culture have been plaguing the sporting goods company recently. This includes allegations of widespread sexism and suggests a culture that needs repair and a brand that requires damage control.
The situation at the athletic shoe and apparel giant should serve as a wake-up call regarding workplace behavior – specifically, how individual incidents can add up to a toxic environment.
But the Nike story also raises questions about who is responsible for company culture.
Women at Nike
The New York Times reports how a group of women at Nike became fed up with a culture of inappropriate behavior and unequal treatment and, after complaining to human resources with no result, decided to take matters into their own hands.
They quietly surveyed other women in the company, in order to find out whether sexual harassment and gender discrimination were widespread.
The anonymous survey, which took the form of a packet of completed questionnaires, was then submitted to the CEO, according to the Times. Findings resulted in six top male executives leaving the company.
CEO Takes Ownership
But the story doesn’t end there. The Wall Street Journal reports that Nike CEO Mark Parker held a meeting with the entire staff, at which he apologized for allowing a corporate culture that excluded some staff and failed to take seriously complaints about workplace issues.
Two women were also recently promoted to senior leadership positions, one to chief of diversity and inclusion, according to the Journal.
As Nike moves forward, it’s worth looking more closely at the issue of company culture, including why the problems weren’t addressed sooner.
The women leading the change at Nike indicate that human resources had failed to respond to complaints – and The New York Times reports that it viewed copies of three complaints to human resources.
The Times article about Nike generated hundreds of reader comments, including a number that address the responsibility of human resources. One reader had this to say:
“Human resources or the personnel division is not your friend.
Reporting corporate misdeeds to HR is a short cut to not just ruining your chances for advancement, but your life.
HR exists to protect management. Their ‘work’ in providing confidentiality, impartiality, and enforcement of what few written guidelines against harassment, discrimination, or even physical assault, and even the law, is to discredit the victims and to protect the abusers.”
The comment received nine replies and 468 recommendations.
There is no question that HR plays an important role when it comes to culture.
However, the talent acquisition function also has an impact. The employees an organization hires have the ability to favorably influence – or infect – company culture.


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NRA's Women on Target Goes Pink for October
The National Rifle Association, through its Women on Target program, is proud to “Go Pink” for the first time as it joins the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, now celebrating its 35th anniversary.
Through this endeavor, NRA women—and men—will raise awareness about the importance of early detection, education and support services. If breast cancer is detected and treated early, chances of survival are high. Although great strides have been made in awareness and treatment, there is much to be accomplished.
This October, spread the word to your fellow NRA Women and men by “Going Pink” at your range, training event, seminar, or participate in events to raise awareness. Spread the word about mammograms, and encourage those who haven’t been screened to do so.
Simple ways you can show your support on the range include purchasing and using products that go directly to support BCA. Federal's Top Gun Pink Target Load shotshells, with their distinctive pink hulls, is a reminder that more than 300,000 women each year will be diagnosed with the disease. (Load the clay thrower with bright pink clay pigeons from any number of companies and there will be no doubt what your day on the field is all about). Industry support is not limited to the trap and skeet fields, however. Hornady offers its pink-tipped Critical Defense Lite 9 mm and .38 Spl. center-fire ammo, which also sports the ubiquitous pink ribbon on the box.
And call a cease fire (at least for the month of October) on the debate whether pink firearms and outdoor gear condescend to women who shoot and hunt, as plenty of industry giants and smaller companies alike throw their full weight behind Breast Cancer Awareness month, proudly promoting products with the color that has become synonymous with finding a cure.
The NRA has always been in the fight to preserve our Second Amendment and the shooting sports, so fighting for breast cancer awareness is nothing new to us. Let’s get our “Women on Target” to help raise awareness of early detection to end breast cancer for future generations.
Armscor offers a magnum rimfire chambering in a mid-sized, double-action revolver with the Czechoslovakian Alfa Proj AL22M chambered in .22 Magnum.


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The technology behind cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin is getting a boost from Quebec’s largest accounting firm.
Raymond Chabot Grant Thornton announced on Wednesday that it has made a multimillion-dollar investment in a new consulting firm, Catallaxy, which aims to help companies navigate, and leverage, that technology, called blockchain.
tap here to see other videos from our team.
“Having a major firm, like RCGT, investing in this technology is, to us, a legitimization,” said Jonathan Hamel, the CEO of Montreal-based Catallaxy.
First used to power Bitcoin, blockchain technology is an attempt to solve one of the most fundamental problems that comes with storing valuable data on computers: digital files are very easy to copy. A digital currency that could be copied and pasted would quickly be worthless.
To get around this problem, financial institutions have relied on centralized networks – the information that allows you to pay a bill online, for example, isn’t on your computer. Instead it’s tightly controlled by your bank and by trusted third parties like Interac and credit card companies.


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UN AMBASSADOR EDWARD NORTON CALLS FOR PEOPLE POWER TO PROTECT BIODIVERSITY
Individuals can use their wallets, their Internet skills and their lawmakers to press corporations and governments to take meaningful measures to preserve biodiversity, the United Nations Goodwill Ambassador and acclaimed actor Edward Norton said today, urging the public to play a bigger role in stopping the decline in the number of plant and animal species worldwide.
Mr. Norton – who was appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for Biodiversity in July – told the UN News Centre that it is not only world leaders and policy-makers who can play a part in protecting the planet.
Consumers can vote with their dollars and only buy products that are environmentally friendly, he said, noting that many companies had started to introduce “greener” brand lines to meet demand.
“Growth in the environmentally friendly sector of consumer products is really high – not just in organics, but also in cleaner products,” he said. “I think that companies that ignore these trends are probably ignoring them at the peril of their bottom line.”
Mr. Norton noted that many green products are no longer substantially more expensive than their standard rivals.
“In some cases, there still is that cost premium, but in many cases the products that don't carry a downstream environmental burden are becoming price competitive.”
The Goodwill Ambassador noted that the public can also pressure their legislators to ensure their country signs the Convention on Biodiversity or pass appropriate laws on the issue, such as better regulating environmentally destructive industry.
“I think it is being persuasively demonstrated all over the world in various scenarios of all different scales that you can achieve economic development that does not rely on the destruction of ecosystems.”
Mr. Norton and several partners have recently developed Crowdrise, a website that allows the public to use a social networking platform to help raise funds for charitable causes.
“We implemented Crowdrise with the idea that people are looking for tools of empowerment so that they can get around what feel like the over-large edifices surrounding an issue and get directly to some of the people in small groups that are taking the initiative and support them.”
The world is more interconnected than ever, Mr. Norton stressed.
“It's not that hard to surf around [the Internet] any more and find examples of groups that are doing things at a scale where your small contribution or your small ability to do a little bit of fund-raising can really make a difference.”
He added that he was optimistic that policy-makers were becoming more aware of the importance of protecting biodiversity, its impact of human health, and on the fact that taking a green stand does not necessarily have to mean a large economic cost to industry or the public.
“Unsustainable development is no longer an option, and environmental preservation that doesn't deal with human needs is no longer an option either.”


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HOUSTON, Texas, (December 16, 2015) – MarineMax Houston announced today that they will be showing, the all-new for 2016, Sea Ray 400 Sundancer along with the latest SPX and SLX models at the Houston Boat Show January 11 – 17, 2016. This will be the first opportunity to see the 400 Sundancer and many of the other Sea Ray models being shown.
“We are excited to being able to have such an incredible lineup for this show,” exclaimed Edward Bartoszewski MarineMax Houston Store Manager. “Along with some awesome Sea Rays, we will also have some new Supreme wake and surf models that are gaining a lot of attention from the pros to the weekend warriors.”
For over 60 years the Houston Boat, Sport and Travel Show has become a mid-winter tradition. Held at the NRG Center located at N Stadium Drive, Houston, Texas. Show hours are, Friday, January 8, 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Saturday, January 9, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., Sunday, January 10, 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., Monday – Wednesday, January 11 – 13, 1:00 p.m. – 8 p.m., Thursday – Friday, January 14 – 15, 1:00 p.m. – 9 p.m., Saturday, January 16, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., Sunday, January 17, 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Tickets are $12.00 for adults, $5.00 for children 6 – 12. Children 5 and under are free. There is a coupon on the Houston Boat, Sport and Travel Show site that is good for $2.00 off the adult admission Monday – Thursaday.
“This is a very popular boat show. If you would like to avoid the crowds and receive the personal attention you deserve, schedule an appointment with your MarineMax sales consultant,” continued Bartoszewski. “We look forward to seeing you at the show.”
For more information or to make a reservation, contact Chill Pillsbury at 281-326-4224 or email firstname.lastname@example.org.


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Norwegian consumers spent 87.5% less in Sweden last year, as COVID-19 restrictions led to cross-border trade being decimated, new data has shown.
According to a report by HUI Research in association with retail representative group Svensk Handel, cross-border trade between Norway and Sweden increased by SEK 2.3 billion (€220 million) between 2017 and 2019, to be valued at SEK 27.9 billion (€2.72 billion), before the pandemic struck.
The report also states that some 7,200 jobs were created in Sweden as a result of this cross-border trade.
The slump in cross-border trade impacted some parts of Sweden more than others – in Värmland, cross-border trade was valued at SEK 6.1 billion before the pandemic, while in the town of Eda, where the popular Charlottenburg shopping centre is located, a quarter of the workforce are employed in the retail sector.
Some businesses have seen turnover drop by as much as 95% as a result of the drop in cross-border trade, Svensk Handel said.
"The coronavirus pandemic has painfully reminded us of the importance of cross-border trade, not only for trade but for entire local communities," commented Stina Höök, chairman of the regional development committee in Värmland.
"Great economic and social values are at stake. Cross-border trade disappeared overnight, and the situation is serious."
Elsewhere, in Västra Götaland, where cross-border trade was worth SEK 9.4 billion in 2019, some 2,000 people are employed in the retail sector, while cross-border business is also of key importance to the hotel and restaurant sector.
"Border trade is a decisive factor for growth and jobs throughout Sweden," said Kristina Jonäng, chair of the regional development committee in the Västra Götaland region.
"Companies need urgent help to survive the crisis, but we must also work long-term with skills development, infrastructure and sustainability to take full advantage of the income generated by cooperation at the border."
Svensk Handel said that the pandemic has illustrated that 'Nordic cooperation has not worked' when it comes to maintaining good business relations between Norway and Sweden, and the current crisis should serve as a 'lesson for the future'.
In 2019, cross-border trade generated SEK 6.5 billion in tax revenue, it added.
In January, the Norwegian government's trade and industry committee announced plans to issue a permanent border trade barometer by 1 July, which will seek to reduce border trade to strengthen competitiveness in Norwegian businesses and industries.
© 2021 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Stephen Wynne-Jones. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine.


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Skye Bank Plc has introduced a new credit card denominated in naira,
into the banking industry for customers. The primary objective is to
offer a differentiated card payment value propositions to the discerning
target market that would address the specific needs of each market
taking into cognizance its peculiarities. The scheme developed by
e-Channels Group of the bank is targeted at customers and non-customers
of the bank who have verifiable and regular sources of income.
The new product has two variants of Classic and Premium. The Skyecard
credit Classic is targeted at the low income earners who form a sizable
number of the bank’s current customer base, it renders benefits
derivable from carrying a debit card while Premium is targeted at a wide
market, differentiated by income bracket and credit profile such as
income, employment structure, credit history and so on. It provides both
secured and unsecured finance for customers and non-customers of the
bank. Mr. Adesola Akinfemiwa, Managing Director, Skye Bank who expressed
delight at the acceptance rate and transaction volume of debit cards,
which the bank has been a leading promoter in the banking industry, said
the new credit card would be very useful to customers as it would save
them stress of carrying cash around at the risk of armed robbery attack.
He said the intention of the bank is to put the cards in the hands of
people who want cash before their next pay day.
General Manager, Retail Banking, Skye Bank, Mr. Dotun Adeniyi, explained
that the new credit card introduction is in furtherance of the bank’s
marke leadership in card business. “As we launch these two credit cards,
those who buy into it will enjoy the good things that are happening here
and we will continue to maintain market leadership,” he said.
Mr. Chuma Ezirim, Assistant General Manager, e-Channels Group, Skye Bank
said the card process comprising issuance, operations and management is
fully automated and runs on a robust credit card management system and
that credit scoring and assessment module makes it possible for
applications to be processed on-the-spot while there are no restrictions
He said the size of the market is very large but very challenging and
this i formed the bank’s reason taking its time to offer to the market a
credit card scheme that runs on a well tested, best in class and robust
credit card management system. He said the scheme is expected to receive
the required support from the government and Central Bank as it will
complement various federal government initiatives towards the promotion
of customer credit policy as incorporated in the National Economic
Empowerment Development Strategy (NEEDS).
Ezirim who explained the features of the credit card said it is an
electronic local card payment scheme which will be used to avail credit
lines to individuals that has interest fee period of up to 30 days,
interest rate of 18 per cent per annum on utilized credit only, flexible
limit-based on income of cardholder; free internet and mobile banking
services; SMS alerts on all transactions and two years validity period
for the card, among others.
“A large proportion of Nigerians need extra cash outside monthly income
to meet personal financial commitments, which they cannot easily obtain
from friends and family members, and would like to pay back inn a
convenient manner. “Skyecard credit avails the average Nigerian this
opportunity,” he added.


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UPDATED: October 24, 2017 1:30 PM — Toronto-based Slate Retail REIT paid $23.8 million on Friday for its third grocery-anchored neighborhood shopping plaza in Greater Orlando, with the Miami-based seller nearly doubling their investment in four years.
Located at 8805-8995 W. Colonial Dr. in Ocoee at the intersection with Good Homes Road, the 16.82-acre "Good Homes Plaza" is a 165,741-square-foot retail center anchored by Publix that was built in 1989, and near 90 percent occupancy at time of sale.
The transaction was recorded Tuesday morning in Orange County. Officials with Slate declined to comment.
The seller was Good Homes Orlando LLC, an affiliate of the president behind Miami-based investor IMC Equity Group, previously paid $13.5 million in October 2013 for the property.
Steve Tanner and Ray Hayhurst of Avison Young served as listing agents for the recent sale. Marketing started in May unpriced, with a call for offers set in mid-June.
Slate Retail REIT owns nine properties in Florida, three of which are now in the Greater Orlando market and together total 394,818 square feet. The other two local retail centers are in Apopka and Eustis.
Slate focuses on acquiring grocery-anchored retail plazas in the United States and adding value through its management experience. The company entered this sector after the financial crisis, and now owns more than 80 properties with more than 10.9 million square feet, per its website.


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A new EU law imposing stricter online regulation comes into effect on Wednesday and the biggest platforms like Facebook and Google will have until February 17 to reveal their user numbers.
The Digital Services Act (DSA) rules will be fully applied 12 months later from February 17, 2024, but officials will need time next year to decide which tech giants are big enough to need close observation.
The DSA was designed to combat online hate speech, disinformation and piracy, in Europe at a time when much of the internet content seen by EU citizens is controlled by US-based companies.
Under the new law, all social media platforms, online market places and search engines will be obliged to react more quickly to remove content deemed in breach of EU regulations.
This will include measures to limit the use of sensitive private data in targeting ads at European users and will insist on more transparency for the algorithms that suggest content.
But the new rules will come into effect earlier for what Brussels calls Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs) and Very Large Online Search Engines (VLOSEs) — those with more than 45 million active users in the EU. Khaleej Times


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NEW YORK (MarketWatch) -- Cooper Industries
on Thursday said third-quarter net income rose 20% to $205.8 million, or $1.17 a share, from $171.9 million, or 93 cents a share in the year-ago period. Earnings from continuing operations increased to $1.08 a share from 93 cents a share. Adjusted earnings were 97 cents a share. Revenue rose 15% to $1.73 billion. Cooper Industries was expected to earn 95 cents a share on revenue of $1.7 billion, according to a survey by FactSet Research. Looking ahead, the Houston-based electrical products manufacturer said it'll cut 1,000 jobs and take a charge of $22 million in severance expenses in the fourth quarter. Excluding the charge, it expects fourth-quarter earnings of 83-92 cents a share, compared to the target of 93 cents a share.


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China’s imports of aluminum are about to hit their highest levels in a decade, traders and analysts said, as an arbitrage opportunity created by demand recovery after its coronavirus outbreak makes it cheaper to buy metal from outside the country.
China, the world’s top producer of the metal used in everything from cars to cans, normally has little need to import primary aluminum, made from alumina rather than scrap. Imports for all of 2019 totalled just over 75,000 tonnes versus output of 35 million tonnes.
This year, though, as demand in the rest of the world collapses and metals consumption in China recovers from coronavirus-induced shock, its aluminum imports are set to top 100,000 tonnes in May alone.
The draw is that Shanghai aluminum prices above 13,000 yuan ($1,800) a tonne far exceed London Metal Exchange prices of $1,500, opening an arbitrage that has Chinese buyers looking overseas for bargains.
“The last time we saw anything like this was in 2009, but that was an artificial government stimulus to the industry, not natural market forces,” said Paul Adkins, managing director of consultancy AZ China Ltd.
China’s monthly record for aluminum imports – including primary metal – was 440,000 tonnes in April 2009.
China could import 120,000 tonnes or more of primary aluminum in May and the same in June, if the arbitrage persists at least in part due to post-outbreak economic stimulus, said Roman Andryushin, head of sales and marketing at Russian aluminum giant United Company Rusal.
Around a third of this might be of Russian origin, he said.
Others put the inflows higher. One trading source said more than 500,000 tonnes is on its way to China, and another analyst, who declined to be named, thinks more than 700,000 tonnes could enter over May-July.
“We observe a situation now similar to (2009) when both benchmarks fell due to economic reasons but the pendulum swung in the favor of China first,” Andryushin said.
As Chinese prices recovered, the spread between Shanghai and London cash aluminum contracts hit a six-year high of around $250 a tonne on May 20.
Aluminum was the top performer among Shanghai base metals in April and May. An open arbitrage also lifted imports of copper and tin in April, although China is typically a big importer of most other metals.
“The domestic price is too high,” said a Chinese aluminum buyer, who said she approached Rusal for metal and was offered it for LME June aluminum plus $100 a tonne.
Rusal had lots of enquiries from China over the past month, Andryushin said, with metal being shipped by both producers and traders, mostly from storage housing Russian, Indian and Middle Eastern aluminum. The LME has approved warehouses in South Korea and Malaysia, although it was not immediately clear metal is moving from those sites.
Sources at trader and miner Glencore, a key offtaker of Rusal aluminum, and commodity trader Trafigura said their firms were involved in the imports. Both companies declined to comment..
Sellers need to be able to act quickly, though, to book a profit.
“The key point was near-term availability. Our customers needed to lock in the arbitrage,” said a source at a trading house that received enquiries from Chinese buyers but did not have enough metal to do any deals.
As aluminum flows in, Chinese stocks may rise and the rally in Shanghai prices “may peter out,” closing the arbitrage, Argonaut Securities analyst Helen Lau said in a note, without providing a time frame.


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Gov. Nathan Deal on Thursday signed into law major changes to the state's tax code, revisions that could affect nearly every Georgian.
Car buyers, married couples, manufacturers, farmers, Internet shoppers and retirees -- all will feel the new law's impact.
“This tax reform package makes Georgia a better place to run and grow a business, and makes it an even better place to raise a family,” Deal said. "These reforms could not have been made without the leadership of the General Assembly, and these significant changes will serve Georgians well.”
The governor signed the bill during a manufacturers conference in College Park.
Key pieces of the new law include:
● Eliminating the state sales tax on energy used in manufacturing. The tax will be phased out beginning Jan. 1 and will be fully eliminated Jan. 1., 2016. The governor has said this provision helped the state land Baxter International and Caterpillar, two recent economic development triumphs. Eliminating the tax could eventually cost the state about $95 million, and estimates show local governments losing up to $100 million.
● Increasing the income tax exemption for married couples filing jointly from $5,400 to $7,400. This takes effect Jan. 1.
● Eliminating the annual property tax on motor vehicles that owners must pay by their birthdays. Car buyers beginning March 1 will no longer have to pay the tax to their county. Instead, they will pay a one-time fee when they buy a car.
● Reinstating sales tax holidays for shoppers seeking back-to-school products Aug. 10-11 and energy-efficient appliances Oct. 5-7. The former covers a wide range of items, including clothing, computers, books and paper. The latter covers federally approved energy-efficient appliances and goods for personal use, including dishwashers and windows.
● Eliminating a sales tax on certain products used in agricultural industries. The exemption takes effect Jan. 1.
● Requiring many online retailers to collect state sales taxes. Beginning Oct. 1, retailers who have a physical presence in the state, including online affiliates, will have to collect sales taxes from consumers.
● Capping the retirement income exemption for seniors at $65,000 ($130,000 per couple) beginning Jan. 1.
● Creating a permanent 1 percent sales tax exemption on commercial aviation fuel beginning July 1.
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COLUMN: Business briefs
CLINTON - Citing the poor economy, the 97-year-old Wachusett Chamber of Commerce abruptly announced its closing yesterday. Wachusett memberships are to be transferred to the Devens-based Nashoba Valley Chamber of Commerce.
In an email yesterday to chamber members, director of membership Beth Burns said the "current economy has had too harsh an impact on us." Earlier this week, she said, the chamber was informed that a major sponsor would not be renewing its contribution, which was crucial to its finances.
"Though we currently have a strong, vibrant membership, we are simply unable to get out from under past debts," she said in the email. "We have been able to effectively manage our debt over the last few years, and were in the midst of implementing a long-term financial plan to ensure that the chamber's finances would grow stronger."
Telephone calls and emails to Ms. Burns, and co-director Jenny Delorey were not immediately returned yesterday.
- Karen Nugent
PORTLAND, Ore. - Precision Castparts Corp. posted $1.2 billion in profit last fiscal year as sales of its metal components and products grew.
The company's forged products business, which includes Wyman-Gordon in...


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Shares of sports camera maker GoPro jump nearly 30 per cent in stock market debut
NEW YORK, N.Y. - Wall Street has a taste for adventure.
Investors sent shares of GoPro Inc. up more than 30 per cent in their stock market debut Thursday, following an initial public offering that valued the sports camera maker at about $3 billion.
The company makes wearable sports cameras that are used by skydivers, surfers and other extreme sports fans to film themselves as they create first-person videos that capture the experience as they saw it. The cameras, which are light and waterproof, cost between $200 and $400. It also sells accessories such as cases, battery packs and mounts that help users attach their cameras to surfboards, helmets or their wrists. Users can download a free app or computer software to edit, store and publish their videos to their social media accounts, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.
GoPro had the bestselling camcorder last year, according to government paperwork filed by the company. Its revenue jumped to $985.7 million in 2013, nearly double what it was a year earlier. However, in the first three months of 2014, revenue fell 7.6 per cent to $235.7 million from a year ago.
With its IPO, GoPro and selling shareholders raised $427 million after selling 17.8 million shares at $24 each. The San Mateo, California, company plans to use its share of the money raised to pay down debt.
GoPro shares rose $7.73, or 32 per cent, to $31.73 in afternoon trading Thursday after rising as high as $33 earlier.
GoPro shares are trading on the Nasdaq stock exchange under the symbol "GPRO."
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A free game mode and the paid Metal Ox Pack for Ghostrunner were released today.
Today’s new content for the first-person cyberpunk parkour action Ghostrunner includes the free update Kill Run Mode.
In Kill Run Mode, players slay enemies to add seconds to the timer, dash through sections in Dharma Tower as quickly as possible, and hit new heights on the leaderboards. Players can also capture photos with Photo Mode.
Paid content consists of the Metal Ox Pack, which celebrates the Year of the Ox with four new swords and gloves modeled after the Confucian principles and virtues of benevolence, justice, rite, and integrity. The Metal Ox Pack is out now for $4.99/€4.99/£3.99 when purchased standalone. For a limited time, grab the Keymaster Bundle on Steam, including Ghostrunner, the Winter Pack, and the Metal Ox Pack, at a 10% discount.
Ongoing support will continue with free quality-of-life updates. On console, the developers have added aim assist for the grappling hook, an adjustable field-of-view (FOV) slider, and the newly added framerate-boosting Performance Mode on PS4 Pro.
On PC, Nvidia Reflex support has been added, which reduces system latency with supported graphics cards.
The teams behind the game also unveiled a physical edition of Ghostrunner is in development for Nintendo Switch and will launch on June 25 in Europe and June 29 in the US. This physical edition will include every update since last year’s digital launch, including performance and stability improvements, control refinements, and upgraded graphics.
Developed by One More Level, 3D Realms, and Slipgate Ironworks, Ghostrunner is available now on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Amazon Luna, and PC via Steam, the Epic Games Store, and GOG. The game will come to PS5 and Xbox Series X/S later this year, with a free upgrade available for owners of the PS4 or Xbox One versions.


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Thu, Oct 09, 2008 | 08:40 BST
PSP Plus will allow PS3 controllers to connect to PSP, says Sony
According to this Joystiq story Sony announced PSP Plus at TGS today, a feature that allows a DualShock to wirelessly connect to PSP.
The system will only be supported by the upcoming Resistance Retribution for now – allowing players to use dual analog control with the third-person action game – but more titles will “potentially” use it in the future, according to that piece.
More through the link.


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Telecommunications companies top list for most complaints
The Washington State Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division (CPD) received 1,581 complaints about telecommunications companies in the state in 2011, making it the top industry that consumers felt were wronging them.
Collection agencies, which held the top spot in 2010, came in second with 1,577 complaints filed, while broadband service providers rounded out the top three with 1,363 complaints.
"The fact that collection agencies and mortgage lenders (#7, 893 complaints) continue to generate so many complaints is a reminder that too many people are struggling during these tough times," said Washington State Attorney General Rob McKenna. "That's one of the big reasons we're proud to have saved consumers more than $4 million in 2011, through free mediation. That extra money makes a difference in peoples' lives."
According to the Attorney General's office, the CPD is aimed at fostering "a fair, competitive and non-deceptive marketplace." The state's consumer watchdog group handles an average of 40,000 calls a year, deals with nearly 450 walk-in consumers annually, and processes more than 23,000 written complaints yearly.
Rounding out the top 10 complaint generators were retail (#4, 1,116), auto sales (#5, 985), commercial banking (#6, 914), the aforementioned mortgage lenders, books/magazines and directories (#8, 759), electronic shopping (#9, 623) and health care (#10, 500).
Tracking these numbers lets the CPD get an idea of which industries seem to be having issues. According to the CPD, successive years of hundreds of complaints about DISH Network led to a $6 million settlement in 2009. The CPD notes that complaints regarding mortgage lenders and foreclosure practices are being particularly scrutinized right now.
"Complaints coming into our CRCs (consumer resource centers) can be an early warning system, focusing us on areas that demand attention," said CPD chief Doug Walsh. "Other times, complaints help bolster current cases targeted at stopping the greatest harm to the marketplace."
Consumers can files complaints at www.atg.wa.gov.


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Mere days after Motorola launched its Razr foldable phone that represents a nostalgic throwback to the Razr flip phone from the early 2000s, a patent from Xiaomi surfaced that seemed to indicate the Chinese-based company is prepping a foldable similar to the Razr that would seemingly also try to give Motorola a run for its money.
The patent depicts a foldable phone with a clamshell design that you flip open and which also has a display on the outside. Meanwhile, WindowsUnited has prepared some imagery showing what Xiaomi’s foldable might look like, and you can check out the imagery in the video above which draws inspiration from the various rumors and patent details about this device.
Among the differences that stand out so far when comparing the Razr with Xiaomi’s still-conceptual handset, the latter is envisioned as sporting four cameras instead of the Razr’s two. Xiaomi would also go with a smaller display on the front of the device that would be useful for when it’s closed and in a folded state, while the camera arrangement would include two front-facing sensors for when the device is open and another two on the back.
Pretty much all of the major smartphone makers, from Apple to Samsung as well as Chinese brands like Xiaomi and Huawei, have experimented with foldability at this point, so while Xiaomi’s patent in and of itself isn’t conclusive that such a device will materialize there’s no doubt the interest is certainly there within the company. And it’s certainly been one of the key smartphone design trends of 2019.
WindowsUnited notes that there’s definitely an opportunity for a device like this one from Xiaomi to try and rival Motorola. That’s partly because the latter’s Razr comes with a $1,500 price tag that’s making some people flip out (ba-dum-tss), which could leave an opening for a phone from Xiaomi to best the Razr’s specs, which include a Snapdragon 710 and 2510mAh battery. And if Xiaomi could keep the price below four figures, all the better.