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THIS WEEK IN DWTC
- Annual Investment Meeting – AIM
The Annual Investment Meeting is back to gather the world’s leading foreign direct investment (FDI) experts, investors, business professionals and practitioners to discuss how the FDI landscape has changed in recent years as well as the new sources of FDI. It will tackle the importance of new forms of investment and discuss the policies that promote and facilitate such investments and best practices therein. The theme for this event is, ”The new world of FDI, key features, and best practices”.
The 6th Annual Investment Meeting is taking place at the Dubai World Trade Center from 11-13 April 2016.
- International Property Show – IPS 2016
The International Property Show is an innovative event held annually in Dubai for international and local companies involved in sales and promotion of real estate to individual and institutional investors. It is the perfect platform for both International and local real estate markets to showcase their residential, commercial and mixed-use real estate products and to conduct serious transactional business.
The 11th International Property Show is taking place at the Dubai World Trade Center from 11 – 13 April 2016.
Tank World Expo is the largest tank storage event for the Middle East and African markets and is held at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The two day exhibition and conference attracts industry professionals from all over the world, including technicians, terminal managers and engineers looking to source the latest products and innovations in the tank storage industry. Tank World Expo welcomes primary suppliers, professional services providers and distributors in Tank, Design, Construction, Automation and Flow Control fields.
Tank World Expo is taking place at the Dubai World Trade Center from 12 – 13 April 2016.
- The Dubai World Dermatology and Laser Conference and Exhibition – Dubai Derma 2016
The Dubai World Dermatology and Laser Conference and Exhibition is the leading dermatological event in the Middle East and North Africa, dedicated to skin care and aesthetic laser. Dubai Derma is a unique event that showcases best practices in dermatology and the latest technology in skin care, covering sections like Dermatology, Skin Health, Anti-aging Medicine, Anti-aging, Medical and Health Care.
The 16th Dubai Derma is taking place at the Dubai World Trade Center from 12 – 14 April 2016
- Gulf Education & Training Exhibition – GETEX 2016
Gulf Education & Training Exhibition is counted amongst the leading education show where the representatives from various educational branches will give informative expert advices. There will be representatives coming from leading universities and colleges who will offers admission information and fees structure of the respective colleges. This show aims in bringing a new horizon to the educational sector and improve the methods of teaching and learning.
Gulf Education & Training Exhibition is taking place at the Dubai World Trade Center, from 13 – 15 April 2016
- Vicenzaoro Dubai – VOD 2016
Vicenzaoro Dubai leverage the emirates growing importance as a world-renowned sourcing and trading hub for gold, diamonds and jewelry as well as its strong consumption of luxury goods.
This event showcases global brands, precious stones and diamonds as well as the latest technologies in packaging and supply. Vicenzaoro Dubai aims to support the future of the jewelry industry through social and networking opportunities, conferences, seminars, one-on-one meetings, and workshops.
Vicenzaoro Dubai is taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre, from 14 – 17 April 2016.
Emirates Foundation‘s Think Science 2016 is an event that brings together 550 UAE youth to showcase their inventions for the national Think Science Competition. Combining science and fun, it encourages cooperation and interaction between young scientists and the science and technology business sector. It also includes motivational sessions, scientific entertainment with a focus on physics and chemistry and discussion panels. Companies from the oil and gas, technology, aviation, environment and academic sectors present hands-on scientific activities aimed at improving the public’s knowledge.
Think Science 2016 is taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre, from 17 – 19, April 2016.
THIS WEEK IN ADNEC
Cityscape Abu Dhabi is the region’s leading real estate and development event where financiers, developers, architects and urban planners, consultants from all sectors come together to further business partnerships. The event also enhances networking opportunities and ensures professional growth of business etc. in the Real Estate Agents industry.
The 10th Cityscape Abu Dhabi is taking place at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre in Abu Dhabi from 12 -14 April 2016.
LuxLive Middle East 2016 is set to be the most talked about lighting event ever staged in the region. A show for anyone involved in the specification, installation and maintenance of lighting systems throughout the region.
LuxLive Middle East 2016 is taking place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre in Abu Dhabi from 13-14 April 2016.
- BRIDE Show-Abu Dhabi 2016
The BRIDE Show-Abu Dhabi is a wonderful platform for showcasing latest trends in bridal wear and fashion industry and also throws light on latest lifestyle trends.
The shows offers a fun, interactive, dynamic and exciting day with its massive display of wedding gowns, wedding accessories, wedding jewelries, evening gowns, beauty and skin care products, hair products, hair styling kits, fashion accessories, honeymoon services and all associated with the wedding. The event also marks the presence of leading hair stylists, makeup artist and other professionals from the glamour industry.
The Bride Show 2016 is taking place at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre in Abu Dhabi from 13 – 16, April 2016.
- The International Textile Fair 2016
The International Textile Fair is an international trade fair for the clothing and textile industry. The exhibition focuses on clothing, fabrics and materials for fashion, home and industrial materials. It convinces with innovative structures, mixing of materials and a variety of color palettes. In addition, the exhibition gives visitors and exhibitors a flood of new trends and the ability to handle all materials and feel, making this event a special experience.
The International Textile Fair taking place at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center in Abu Dhabi, from 16 – 17, April 2016.
If you are considering exhibitions or events as part of your marketing strategy this year, our team at RED INTERNATIONAL- Exhibition stand design and contractor – can help you to develop a bespoke solution for your business. Take a look at our website www.redexdubai.com or call us now at +971 43403741 or email us at firstname.lastname@example.org


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Bite-Sized Books Limited, the UK publishing house founded by Dr Paul Davies, has been acquired by entrepreneur Julian Costley.
Julian Costley takes up the role of CEO, and Dr Paul Davies becomes chairman, continuing to play an active role in author relations and new book commissioning. He remains on the board and has retained a minority shareholding.
Bite-Sized Books, now in its 7th year, has built a well-regarded reputation for publishing shorter (10-12,000 words) books that fit our modern reading habits and lifestyles. People are demanding condensed but still comprehensive books that go to the essence of their subject matter. The genre has inspired new authors previously daunted by the prospect of writing full-size typescripts and facilitated a radically shorter journey from ‘concept to bookshop’.
Bite-Sized Books, whilst smaller than its big industry rivals, has an enviable roster of authors and contributors. They include politicians such as Vince Cable, Sir John Redwood, Lord Heseltine and Ed Vaisey, and high-profile media leaders, broadcasters and journalists such as Mark Thompson, Clive Myrie, John Mair, David Elstein and Jon Snow. Academics and economists are also in the mix with publications by Vicki Pryce, Patrick Minford, Dr David Bailey, Victor Hill, Alex de Ruyter and Professor Graham Gudgin.
CEO, Julian Costley said, “The asset value of Paul’s Bite-Size Books catalogue and the trusted relationship he has engendered with such an impressive list of authors is the near-perfect platform on which to build a sizeable media company. From today we’re open to new authors, new readers, and new partnerships.”
Chairman Dr Davies said, “Book sales in the UK have grown over 8% (see data) in 2020, fuelled partly, of course, by the pandemic. But there’s definitely a sustainably attractive market for books and derivative media such as audiobooks, podcasts, and video. Webinars are back in fashion too, and a consumer willingness to pay for attending off-line events.” He added, “Julian is the perfect addition to Bite-Sized books as he comes with an incredible track record of brand development and fast growth in the content markets.”
Data – With all major categories posting increases, unit sales of print books rose 8.2% in 2020 over 2019 at outlets that report to NPD BookScan. For the year ended Jan. 2, 2021, units hit 750.9 million, up from 693.7 million the year before. Publishers Weekly 7th January 2021
Need more information? If you are looking for further details on this, then you are in luck because more information can be found on the Bite-Sized Books website right here!
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@TechmashUK @Biz_Nooz #Biz_Nooz #TechmashUK #BiteSizedBooks #Publishing #BiteSize #Books #JulianCostley #Authors #Contributors

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SUGARCREEK, Ohio – nuCamp, a leading manufacturer of high-quality teardrop trailers and truck campers, is excited to announce that the first production run of the highly anticipated Cirrus 920 Truck Camper has completely sold out. The Cirrus 920, which made its official debut at the Hershey RV Show in September, has seen an overwhelmingly positive response from both dealerships and customers alike.
In just over 10 weeks since the start of production, all units of the Cirrus 920 have been spoken for, with 100% of the units allocated to dealerships and 30% already sold to retail customers. This unprecedented demand underscores the excitement and anticipation surrounding nuCamp’s latest offering in the truck camper market.
“The customer response to the all-new Cirrus 920 has been nothing short of phenomenal,” said Scott Hubble, CEO of nuCamp. “We are thrilled with the overwhelming demand and the positive feedback we’ve received from both dealers and consumers. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team in creating a product that truly resonates with the RV community.”
The Cirrus 920 sets a new standard in the truck camper industry, boasting a range of innovative features and amenities designed to enhance the camping experience. From its spacious interior and premium cabinetry to its off-grid capabilities powered by lithium batteries and solar reserves, the Cirrus 920 offers unmatched comfort, convenience, and freedom for adventure seekers.
nuCamp will be celebrating the official product launch of the Cirrus 920 at select dealerships nationwide on March 16th. This event will provide RV enthusiasts with the opportunity to see the Cirrus 920 up close and learn more about its cutting-edge features and design.
For more information about the Cirrus 920 Truck Camper and to find a dealer near you, please visit nucamprv.com
nuCamp manufactures the highest quality teardrop trailers, teardrop campers and truck campers available on the American market. Our recreational vehicle and trailer products are the result of extensive research and development, customer feedback, and the fusion of technology and old-world craftsmanship. The dedicated craftsmen and women who work at the nuCamp facility in Sugarcreek, Ohio, are committed to the principles of simplistic design, high-quality fabrication, and fanatical customer support. nuCamp is the world’s largest manufacturer of teardrop trailers.


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Small business owner in Romulus shifts to sneeze guards to keep staff working
One man is scrambling to save his tools retail and manufacturing business from ruin during the coronavirus crisis by switching production to countertop sneeze guards for stopping the virus's spread.
“If these sneeze guards are not successful, after 16 years, I will likely lose it all," said Dan Martin, 53, owner of Romulus-based MagnumTools. “If I don’t save my company, I’ve got nothing. I’ll be hiding in bankruptcy.”
Even though MagnumTools is considered an "essential" business that can remain open under Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's "Stay Home, Stay Safe" executive order, the company's sales have plummeted during the pandemic, he said.
The company ordinarily makes aluminum scaffolding and is an online retailer for specialized construction tools. To restore lost revenue and avoid having to lay off his six employees, Martin recently decided to reorient the company's production to acrylic sneeze guards, those plexiglass barriers often found at salad bars and in Chipotle order lines.
Kroger, Sam's Club and Walmart stores recently began installing sneeze guards at registers and checkout lines nationwide in response to the coronavirus outbreak.
Martin said he has yet to succeed at selling his sneeze guards to major retailers, but he's having better luck with small stores such as gas stations.
MagnumTool's sneeze guards come in widths of 36 inches and 48 inches, with prices of $229 and $299, respectively.
More:Kroger, Sam's Club, Walmart adding sneeze guard at checkout lines to prevent coronavirus spread
Martin said he got the idea to manufacture sneeze guards when he witnessed someone coughing heavily inside a 7-Eleven in Wyandotte several days ago. That experience triggered his concerns for the health of retail clerks during the pandemic.
"So I am going to roll up my sleeves and do something," he said.
ContactJC Reindl at313-222-6631 or firstname.lastname@example.org. Follow him on Twitter @jcreindl. Read more on business and sign up for our business newsletter.


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Royal Mail testing Eco-Friendly Electric Mail Delivery Vans!
Without the mail system, society will probably grind to a screeching halt in a few days. Mail delivery trucks are at the forefront of delivering mail in a timely fashion so business and legal documents get to where they need to be on time. Due to the large number of mail delivery trucks in a city and the time spent on the road, the impact of these fossil fuel burning vehicles on the environment is extremely significant. That’s why Royal Mail one of the largest mail delivery services in the world is testing fully electric mail delivery vans from Oxfordshire based automaker Arrival to replace its large fleet of delivery vans.
Arrival’s new electric vans are among the first vehicles rolling off the production line at the company’s new Banbury manufacturing facility which has the capacity to manufacture up to 50,000 electric vans per year using robotic technology and artificial intelligence. Royal mail will begin testing nine commercial vans of different sizes 3.5-tonne, 6-tonne and 7.5-tonne with ranges up to 100 miles from their central London depot carrying parcels and other packages to various parts of the city and surrounding areas. The ultimate goal, if test deliveries are successful is to replace the entire fleet of Royal Mail delivery vans with their new eco-friendly greener alternatives.
Royal Mail’s testing of electric vans from Arrival follows successful testing of similar electric vans in February from the French automaker Peugeot from which the company has already committed to purchasing 100 all-electric vans that will go into service in December 2017 after the installation of charging points at delivery offices across the United Kingdom. Royal Mail’s adoption of electric mail delivery vehicles hopes to set a precedent for mail delivery services in cities across the world to adopt more environmentally friendly greener alternatives for delivering the mail.


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2/24/2009 10:15:00 AM
Vodafone announces 500 UK job cuts - February 2009
Vodafone is to make 500 job cuts in the UK, as part of plans to save £1bn across the business. The losses were announced today (24 February 2009).
The cuts will be made across all levels at Vodafone headquarters and at its call centres across the country, but no stores will be affected and the store roll-out will continue.
In a statement, Vodafone said: ‘As customers look for best value in their mobile services, Vodafone intends to reduce its cost base whilst continuing to invest in new products and services to meet changing customer needs. The majority of savings will be achieved by taking operating costs out of the business; however, there will also be a reduction of approximately 500 jobs across the business.'
Vodafone said new roles were also being created and that ‘the retail estate and online services will be the focus for ongoing investment.’
The redundancies come as part of the £1 billion cutbacks announced by the group’s head, Vittorio Colao, last November, to be achieved by 2011.


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The company is testing a new way of navigating through posts in your feed, reports TechCrunch. A small number of users are taking part in a test where they tap a post to move on to the next one in the Explore feed instead of scrolling down the screen with their thumb. This “tap to advance” method of navigation has a few benefits:
- It would eliminate thumb scrolling fatigue.
- It would also mean that users always see the full photo in the post in its entirety on the screen.
But while Instagram did confirm it was testing the new navigation feature, the company made it sound like it won’t be rolling out the new navigation to users anytime soon. Instagram told TechCrunch that a wide rollout of the new navigation isn’t something the company is thinking about right now.


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Longtime Payday Lending Executive Donald Gayhardt Believes That High-Interest Payday Advances Are A вЂњвЂBargainвЂ™вЂќ For Borrowers.
Donald Gayhardt Is The elected President And CEO Of CURO, Which Operates Payday Lending Companies Fast Money And Fast Money.
Donald Gayhardt Is The President And Ceo Of CURO.
- Donald Gayhardt Once Was The elected President Of Dollar Financial Group From 1993 To 2008. [LinkedIn Profile for Don Gayhardt, accessed 03/27/19]
CURO Group Is вЂњOne Of AmericaвЂ™s Biggest Payday Lenders,вЂќ Which вЂњLends OnlineвЂќ And вЂњOperates 405 Outlets in the usa And Canada,вЂќ вЂњOne of AmericaвЂ™s biggest payday lenders has floated in the stock exchange with a $620m valuation, cashing in on mounting hopes that the Trump management and Republicans in Congress will relieve regulatory limitations from the sector. Curo Group, which targets вЂunderbankedвЂ™ consumers and it is behind WageDayAdvance in the united kingdom along with Speedy Cash in america, started exchanging in the ny Stock Exchange on Thursday. [вЂ¦] Based in Wichita, Kansas, the company charges customers up to $25 for almost any $100 they borrow. It lends online and additionally operates 405 outlets in the usa and Canada, even though it is shutting its 13 British branches. Curo, supported by the equity that is private Friedman Fleischer & Lowe, raised $93m by attempting to sell a 15 % stake when you look at the float. The stocks had been coming in at the base of a range that is targeted of $14 and $16 a share. The company ended up being created by Doug Rippel, that is chairman that is executive along side Mike McKnight and Chad Faulkner. It really is run by Don Gayhardt, leader, whom received a $2m pay package this past year.вЂќ [Alistair Gray, вЂњPayday loan provider https://guaranteedinstallmentloans.com/payday-loans-ky/corbin/ Curo floats with $ valuation that is 620mвЂќ Financial days, 12/07/17]
- CURO Owns Payday Lending Organizations Fast Money And Rapid Money. вЂњCURO Group has the fast money franchise, which includes three shops when you look at the Kansas City area. It has the Rapid money brand name when you look at the U.S., the Wage Advance and Juo Loans brands in the U.K., and also the money cash and LendDirect brands in Canada. timeвЂќ [James Dornbrook, вЂњShareholders look for course action against payday lender,вЂќ Kansas City company Journal, 12/07/18]
Don Gayhardt Claimed That Pay Day Loans Are A вЂњвЂBargainвЂ™вЂќ And вЂњвЂEnhance The Commercial Well-Being Of People.вЂ™вЂќ
Don Gayhardt Claimed That вЂњвЂ™Payday Loans Are Not PredatoryвЂ™вЂќ And That They вЂњвЂ™Enhance The Economic Well-Being Of People.вЂ™вЂќ вЂњIndustry executives [вЂ¦] argue that payday advances will be the more affordable route for those who are in hopeless need of cash. вЂIf it only are priced at $10 to jump a check, IвЂ™m perhaps not sure we might have nearly as big a quick payday loan industry,вЂ™ claims Don Gayhardt, president of Dollar Financial, a payday lender. вЂPayday loans are perhaps perhaps not predatory. We improve the financial wellbeing of people.вЂ™вЂќ [Michelle Singletary, вЂњPayday Loans: Costly money [Column],вЂќ The Washington Post, 02/25/07]
- Gayhardt Said That Pay Day Loans had been A вЂњвЂBargain.вЂ™вЂќвЂњSimply last thirty days 15 million individuals took away payday advances, Gayhardt stated. вЂI think customers comprehend the deal they have by having a loan that is paydayвЂ™ he said.вЂќ [Michelle Singletary, вЂњPayday Loans: Expensive Cash [Column],вЂќ The Washington Post, 02/25/07]
Don GayhardtвЂ™s Business Ended Up Being Sued By Investors For Allegedly Creating False And Misleading Statements After He Admitted So It Made A вЂњMistakeвЂќ In Portraying Its Earnings To Shareholders.
In 2018, Investors Sued CURO For Presumably вЂњArtificially Inflating Its Stock By Simply Making False And Misleading Statements,вЂќ Costing Shareholders вЂњMillions Of Dollars. decemberвЂќ
In December 2018, Investors Sued CURO Group Holdings For Allegedly вЂњArtificially Inflating Its Inventory By Simply Making False And Misleading Statements, Which Caused Shareholders To Reduce Millions Of Dollars.вЂќ вЂњInvestors in Wichita-based lender that is payday Group Holdings accused business handling of artificially inflating its stock by simply making false and deceptive statements, which caused shareholders to get rid of huge amount of money. CURO Group owns the fast money franchise, that has three shops when you look at the Kansas City area. In addition it has the Rapid money brand name into the U.S., the Wage Advance and Juo Loans brands in the U.K., and the Cash Money and LendDirect brands in Canada day. A good investment team located in Seal Beach, Calif., called Yellowdog Partners LP, that was exchanging CURO stock on a short-term foundation, filed a lawsuit in Kansas federal court against CURO Group. Yellowdog hired Ryan Hudson and Larkin Walsh of Rex A. Sharp PA in Prairie Village, in addition to lawyers from Keller Lenkner LLC in Chicago and ny. The plaintiff seeks class-action status on behalf of most investors into the business.вЂќ [James Dornbrook, вЂњShareholders look for class action against payday lender,вЂќ Kansas City company Journal, 12/07/18]
Don Gayhardt Admitted The Business Made aвЂќ that isвЂњвЂMistake Earnings To Investors: вЂњвЂWe Did A Not As Much As Stellar Job.вЂ™вЂќ
In October 2018, Don Gayhardt Admitted the organization Made A вЂњвЂMistakeвЂ™вЂќ Communicating Earnings To Investors: вЂњвЂWe Did a lower than Stellar Job.вЂ™вЂќ вЂњDuring an Oct. 25 seminar call with analysts, CURO Group CEO Donald Gayhardt apologized when it comes to huge difference in profits guidance, calling the possible lack of transparency an error. вЂI think it is a really reasonable critique that we did a not as much as stellar task of describing in most likely our July call, as well as back in our April call that which was going вЂ“ the impact with this on kind of when you look at the near term,вЂ™ Gayhardt stated throughout the seminar call. вЂвЂ¦ (We) most likely didnвЂ™t lay it away for everyone because clearly as we most likely needs. And weвЂ™ll take to not to ever make that error again.вЂ™вЂќ [James Dornbrook, вЂњShareholders look for course action against payday lender,вЂќ Kansas City company Journal, 12/07/18]


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ATLANTA - Beer in Georgia is about to get more kick.
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The raising of the maximum beer-alcohol content from 6 percent to 14 percent means a new wave of microbrews and international beers will soon be for sale in the state, giving Georgians options beyond their usual lightweight brews.
''Beer has gotten a bad rap because of what we've been forced to drink the last 40 to 50 years,'' said Glen Sprouse, brewmaster at Five Seasons Brewing in Atlanta. ''Maybe you haven't had a good beer before.''
In a move supporters billed as a way to promote tourism, lawmakers passed a measure taking effect July 1 to make Georgia the nation's 42nd state to allow a higher beer-alcohol content. Of the holdouts that still limit beer strength, half are in the South: Alabama, Arkansas, North Carolina and South Carolina.
Georgia's beer lovers are delighted.
''The beers we really liked weren't available because of this law,'' said Ted Hull, a founding member of a group called Georgians for World Class Beer, which has pushed for reform since 1997. ''We're very excited about it. It's been kind of a long road to get to this point.''
Breweries are anticipating the influx of beers by holding tastings and parties. Beers that will become available include those brewed by Trappist monks in Belgium, homemade concoctions and Indian pale ales.
The proposal to raise the beer-alcohol limit met resistance each of the last few years in the state Legislature. Some politicians were concerned teenagers would seek out beers with higher alcohol limits, and that people would get drunk faster and endanger roadways.
''The biggest concerns were adding to the number of DUIs and accidents related to alcohol that may kill somebody,'' said Rep. Craig Brock, R-Chatsworth, who voted against the bill. ''It's been a hot issue.''
But gourmet beer supporters say people don't drink these kinds of beverages to get drunk. They said these beers are more like sipping a fine wine or enjoying a piece of premium chocolate.
No one put up significant opposition to the legislation this year, not even Mothers Against Drunk Driving. At the same time, beer drinkers enlisted a few state representatives to help them and hired a lobbyist to persuade others.
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Realme is quite serious about 5G. This year, The company is targeting at introducing many 5G smartphones across India as well as globally. With the same mindset, the company launched the cheapest Realme V11 5G smartphone in its home market, China on Friday. Earlier, The company launched the Realme X7 series in India last week with a price starting at Rs 19,999.
The Realme V11 5G smartphone is a MediaTek Dimensity 700 chipset device. The device comes with 4GB RAM/128GB of internal storage. The smart phone comes with a huge battery of 5000mAh and a 18 W fast charging out of the box. Basic features including a 3.5mm audio jack, Bluetooth 5.1 USB-C port are also present. This is currently the cheapest 5G smartphone in the world.
Realme V11 5G: Specifications
The latest Realme V11 comes with a 6.5-inch screen with 20:9 aspect ratio. The display offers a 60Hz refresh rate. Realme V11 comes with 88.7% screen-to-body ratio. Most Realme budget phones comes with same screen size. The smart phone comes with HD+ resolution. The device has a 5,000mAh large battery with 18W fast charging support.
Under the hood, The device includes a processor MediaTek Dimensity 700 backed by Mali G57 GPU. It is available in single 4GB RAM and 128GB storage option. Also, The storage is expandable, and can be expanded by using a microSD card of up to 1TB.
The Realme V11 comes with dual rear cameras including a main sensor of 13MP and a depth sensor of 2MP. The handset also has an AI logo and an LED flash on the rear side. For selfies, the device comes with a 8MP front camera.
Other specifications of the Realme V11 5G includes a LCD display with a waterdrop notch. For security, a side-mounted fingerprint scanner is provided, which also turns out to be a power key. Also, The bezel on the sides is slim and the chin is moderately thick. Also Read: Realme CEO Madhav Sheth tweets the image of transparent Realme X7 Pro
Realme V11 5G: Pricing
Realme V11 5G smart phone is priced at CNY 1,199, which is roughly Rs 13,500 in India. The company is selling 4GB RAM/128GB storage variant for this price. Another variant of 6GB RAM/128GB storage comes at CNY 1,399 which is roughly Rs 15,750. Hence, This handset is currently the cheapest 5G phone in the world. However, There is no specific information on the India launch yet.
As per speculations, the company is planning to bring this phone under Rs 15,000 price segment to the Indian market. Currently, The device is exclusively available in two color options, including Vibrant Blue and Quiet Grey.
To know more about the offers and details interested customers can visit company’s official website. Also Read: Realme X7, X7 Pro sets to launch on Flipkart on 4th February


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Karnataka permits bars, restaurants to clear liquor stock
Bengaluru, May 08: The Karnataka government on Friday allowed clubs, bars and restaurants to sell liquor as takeaway at the maximum retail price till May 17 to clear their existing stock that has accumulated during the COVID-19 lockdown.
Similar permissions have been given to Metro Cash and Carry to sell liquor till May 17.
Also, wine boutiques can sell their stock, but there is no last date set for them. According to an order from the state Excise department, the permission is applicable to standalone CL-4 (clubs), CL-7 (hotels and lodges) and CL-9 (bar) licence- holders, only till their stocks last; also takeaway of food has been permitted.
Conditions that have been laid down by the government include only sale of sealed bottles, maintaining social distancing during the sale and wearing of masks. Transporting liquor stocks to CL-2 (MRP) outlets is allowed, the order said adding that permission is not applicable to outlets in containment zones.
The order also clarifies that procurement of fresh liquor stocks from the Karnataka State Beverage Corporation Ltd (KSBCL) depots by clubs, bars and restaurants during the period is not allowed.
The permission for the sale between 9 am and 7 pm was given following petitions by certain associations of bars and hotels raising concerns that their stock would have to be destroyed if drinks such as beer which has a shelf life of six months are not sold.
In a separate order, the department allowed Metro Cash and Carry to sell liquor till May 17, with similar conditions of timing, social distancing, wearing of masks among others. They too can't operate in containment zones announced by the government.
A similar order has been issued permitting standalone wine boutiques to sell wines, with similar conditions, but no last date has been set.
The government had earlier allowed CL-2 (retail shops) and CL-11C (state-run retail shops such as MSIL) to sell liquor between 9 am and 7 pm only in areas that are outside COVID-19 containment zones from May 4.


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- Danielle Wightman-Stone |
Supermarket Sainsbury’s has launched a weather-responsive outdoor advertising campaign for its Tu clothing brand that will showcase different looks from its spring 2017 collection depending on the weather outside.
Running on Clear Channel Adshel Live screens until March 26, the campaign evolves and changes based on Met Office weather data to provide new style updates depending on whether it is sunny, dry, wet or windy, in what is thought to be a fashion industry-first.
The live updates are managed through OpenLoop which analyses Met Office data and automates the geo-targeted playout to each individual screen, which are situated on outdoor marketing locations including bus shelters.
Devised by Omnicom Media Group’s PHD, the campaign has been executed through a collaboration between client agencies PHD, Talon, Seven, and AMVBBDO, and production outfit Grand Visual.
The idea arose to address the challenge of seasonal collection launches, said a press release from the agencies involved, by making the campaign reactive it allows it to “stay relevant for our audience regardless of the turbulent British weather”.
Georgina Wilson, media manager, PHD, said: “This is a great example of a large-scale national campaign that delivers contextual relevance at an individual screen level. This reactive approach ensures that we are always delivering an appropriate message whatever the weather.”
Kirsty Collier, client manager, Talon, added: “This campaign showcases the creative opportunities and flexibility that Digital Out of Home offers advertisers and demonstrates the benefits to a campaign when the two are merged. By combining handpicked sites with smart data input, the contextual relevance of the copy is maximised, ensuring audiences see the right items from the Tu range, at the most relevant time.”
The outdoor advertising campaign is part of a broader activity that spans across digital, social, print, YouTube and native channels.
Image: courtesy of Talon/Grand Visual


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Solana, Cardano, Avalanche, Matic, Litecoin, Bitgert & Centcex – Which Crypto Might Explode In 2022?
by Analytics Insight
January 18, 2022
Here are the cryptocurrencies that might explode in 2022 and the factors that might lead to an explosion
The most explosive cryptocurrency in 2022 will be the most rewarding for investors who invest today. With so many cryptocurrencies in the crypto market, it is not easy to tell which will explode this year. This is because every crypto project is promising to be the next big thing in 2022.
But there are cryptocurrencies and teams with a proven record to deliver. These are the projects to look at. Here are the cryptocurrencies that might explode in 2022 and the factors that might lead to an explosion:
In the list of the cryptocurrency that might explodein 2022, Bitgert must be among them. Bitgertis a young DeFi project that has been doing very well since it launched 5 months ago. There are several reasons making Bitgert might explodein 2022. One of them is the fast delivery of the products by theBitgert team. Bitgert is the only DeFi project that has managed to launch a wallet, swap, audit program, staking program, and list in over 5 tier-2 in 120 days of the launch.
The products in the 2022 Bitgertroadmap are going to make the cryptocurrency explode in 2022. The centralized BRISE exchange is one of the exciting products launching in Q1 2022. The centralized exchange development is already going on with components like database structure complete.
But the Bitgert zero gas fee blockchain will be a game-changer because there is none like it. The gasless blockchain will attract millions of users looking for cheaper transaction costs. Read more about the Bitgert project on itsofficial website.
Centcex is another cryptocurrencyprojected to explode in 2022. The coin has everything to become the next big thing in the crypto industry based on the project’s design. First, Centcex is a project that addresses two big blockchain problems – user experience and security. So the Centcex team is developing a range of cryptocurrency products or application that offers unmatched user experience and ultra-security features.
TheCentcex project will have one of the best token utilitiesdue to the huge number of products running on the ecosystem. The Centcex lab, which is responsible for developing dApps itreceives 3% of every transaction to fund an unlimited number of products.
With staked $CENX receiving 100% APY of the Centcex products’ revenue, this is indeed a project that rewards investors. Read more about this crypto project at the Centcex website
The popularity of the Solanaprojects is mainly because of the fast transaction speed the blockchain offers. It is currently the fastest blockchain in the industry, with an estimated 65,000 transactions per second. Last year, the cryptocurrency recorded an all-time high price because more people bought into the project, and the number of users increased.
But the Solana team is upgrading the mainnet to make it faster. The objective is to address the huge 400,000 tps demand on the network. This means Solana will be faster in 2022. The number of projects on the Solana network is growing fast. All these are factors that might make Solana explode in 2022.
Cardano might be the biggest thing in the crypto market in 2022. Hoskinson and his team have an ambitious project to upgrade the Cardano network scaling protocol. The team is working on Hydra, a layer-2 scaling program that will address the network scaling issue.
The Cardano team says the upgrade will enable the network to reach 1 million transactions per second. This is a mind-blowing speed that will make Cardano blockchain the fastest. It will be the most sought after by users, and that’s $ADA cryptocurrency will explode.
There are two major things about Avalanche that make the perfect candidate for the next cryptocurrency. One of them is being the fastest blockchain in the industry by the TTF, and the second is the compatibility with the Ethereum smart contracts. These are factors that will increase the number of Avalanche users.
With the increasing number of projects on the Avalanche network, the value of the Avalanche token will also increase. These two factors will make this cryptocurrency blow in 2022. This is how Avalanche will be one of the biggest gainers.
The Matic charts show a cryptocurrency doing very well in the market. The price of Matic coin has been growing fast since the crypto market started coming out of the first week of January dip. But we can expect Matic to continue with its bullish growth because of the performance of the Polygon smart contract.
Polygon is the platform that uses Matic as the native coin, and it is the layer-2 scaling solution for the Ethereum network. Recently, Polygon acquired scaling protocols and will continue to get more to make the Ethereum network more scalable. This meansMatic might explode in 2022.
With the latest moves that Litecoin has been making, there are all signs that it might be the next biggest thing in 2022. As one of the established payment platforms, Litecoin has been experiencing increasing adoption in the real world. The number of businesses accepting Litecointo payfor goods and services is growing.
The Litecoin team is also working on the mainnet to make the payment system fast, secure, and cheaper. With more products coming to the Litecoin ecosystem, like the Litecoin Gaming, this cryptocurrency is headed for a bullish 2022. More collaborations and products are coming up in 2022.
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Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp are on the verge of changing current shopping methods. Around the last year, Instagram launched an innovative shopping feature in the US allowing a purchase to be made by just clicking on the desired item.
With its US launch dated back to March 19, it gives the opportunity to purchase products from a vast assortment of brands, comprising luxury labels.
From the beginning of May, Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram will foresee the same feature buzzing its own bell. While on Instagram users will be able to buy a “dream look” from an adored fashionista, the e-crowd (bloggers and influencers) will be able to tag not just the brand in question, but also the products they’re wearing.
British costumers will be taken directly to the brand’s website to carry out the transaction, whilst American shoppers will be able to complete the payment via Instagram.
On the other hand, WhatsApp will be able to browse product catalogues and undertake a payment – method tested recently with Indian shoppers.
Could this approach serve as catalyst for an e-commerce radical revolution, hunting digital retailers once and for all?
Credit for images is: Abdiwali Samatar


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To understand what was on the agenda for the UK’s small and medium-sized businesses, it was important to go out and ask them
While the UK has its fair share of global corporate giants, the vast bulk of our businesses are far smaller – under 1,000 staff and often less than half that – and certainly not turning over many millions in revenue each year. But together, these businesses aren’t to be underestimated: at the start of 2015 the UK’s SMEs had a combined turnover of £1.75tn.
They are a bulwark of the UK economy, and their continued success will be crucial to the continued improvement of the economy and the employment market.
Working alongside YouGov, and supported by easyJet, the Telegraph surveyed leaders in more than 1,000 businesses to understand how they would be tackling the year ahead – the challenges they faced and how they would be approaching the growth challenges posed by political and economic uncertainty in Europe, access to skills and finance, and more.
The online study surveyed 1,063 senior business people, working in private sector organisations with less than 750 employees. Sample sources include the YouGov panel (872); Telegraph business panel (120); and external panel providers (71), with fieldwork undertaken between 2-22 October 2015.


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Speculative investment in Bitcoin (BTC) has emerged as a viable hedge against global uncertainty and the weakening of fiat currencies. As in traditional foreign currency, the value of one bitcoin is tied to the value of one dollar (forex). Because it lacks a physical object on which to base the price, unlike gold, After the high-profile hack on the Japanese exchange Mt. Gox and the widespread use of Bitcoin in payment processing at major U.S. merchants, the argument over whether it should be deemed legal money has increased. Check between bitcoin trading and forex trading
Every market participant, including authorities and governments, doesn’t recognize bitcoin as a currency, unlike the US dollar, China’s yuan, or the euro. A multibillion-dollar business has sprung up around bitcoin trading, allowing consumers to purchase and sell the cryptocurrency on various exchanges. Several forex firms claim to allow customers to trade bitcoins. There are a few fundamental truths that investors need to be aware of when it comes to FX and bitcoin trading.
Forex trading with Bitcoin
Individuals may deposit, withdraw, and trade on a bitcoin-based account with several FX brokers. Although forex brokers have indicated they can incorporate bitcoin trading into their platforms, it is unclear whether they are doing much more than allowing consumers to buy and sell bitcoin on current exchanges. A typical bitcoin exchange is used by most international brokers rather than a spot desk dealer for bitcoin on currencies. That’s not how it works. Spot currency trading isn’t the same as bitcoin trading.
Investors are better off using bitcoin-based exchanges that trade in their national currencies until FX platforms become more solid in their bitcoin offers. As a result of their familiarity with the trading market and its accompanying security needs, these companies are more likely to be able to make purchases with lower transactional costs. Considering Mt. Gox’s demise, several exchanges claim to have upgraded their models with greater security procedures in place. There are more than 100 nations where Coinbase, the San Francisco-based Bitcoin exchange, has operations.
To this day, many people use Coinbase as their primary means of purchasing bitcoins for investment. It’s easy to see how Coinbase fits under the notion of a wallet. In addition to Expedia Inc. (EXPE) and Overstock.com Inc., this well-known platform facilitates purchasing products and services from various vendors (OSTK).
Whenever you wish to buy a bitcoin, you must first open a bitcoin account and deposit funds into it. Because Coinbase doesn’t have any money on hand, you must take extra security precautions every time you “trade” dollars for bitcoin. An exchange-like process such as buying bitcoin can take three to five business days. Although you can buy at a fixed price, you can still do so before sending the bitcoins to your account. A fee of 4% is applied to each dollar-to-bitcoin or vice versa transfer. You can also trade bitcoin with an automated trading platform like bitcoin code.
Bitcoin trading vs. forex trading
Trading in forex and bitcoin differ in several ways. In both cases, paper and digital currency values are determined by global supply and demand measures. The price of bitcoin rises in response to an increase in demand. Demand decreases when there is less of it. However, unlike central banks, bitcoin is not affected by supply uncertainty. When the Swiss National Bank decided to revalue its currency from the euro in 2015, it triggered a dramatic movement in currency markets. Bitcoins are mined at a predictable rate. A currency’s value is determined by its economic policies and conditions, but the value of Bitcoin is determined by its fundamentals.
On an exchange, trading bitcoin is much like trading any other commodity. Forex allows you to convert dollars to euros and bitcoins to dollars. Similar in concept, but because it’s traded on a real currency,
Currency trading by individuals is also a problem. Additional leverage is available for currency traders through derivatives and other paper contracts designed to enhance profits on their investments. Bitcoin sector leverage contracts are still in their infancy, although certain brokers are steadily underwriting them in the present situation. Owning a stake in a company listed on the New York Stock Exchange is more like trading bitcoins.
Over-the-counter (OTC) contracts in the currency market are much more prevalent than in the Bitcoin market. It is developing. Investors can buy bitcoin on margin, or new contracts are being created. In contrast, at this moment in time, trade-in bitcoin is mostly based on speculation about the currency’s future value. It is projected that more financial engineering will be used in the future.
The most significant distinction between Bitcoin and Forex is liquidity. Compared to the billions of dollars in Bitcoin’s value, the global currency trading industry is a 6 trillion dollar business. As a result of the limited size of the bitcoin market, it is more probable that the trading environment will be more volatile and that large price fluctuations will result from minor macroeconomic events.
The spot market in currencies is uncontrolled. Several regulatory bodies regulate currency-based options, such as Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), NFA, etc. Apart from its status as an asset, the CFTC has yet to release a formal judgment on how it defines bitcoin. Several government authorities have issued investor cautions about bitcoin investment hazards, including the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).
Forex brokers see the rise of bitcoin as an alternative investment because of its rising popularity. Others consider bitcoins a conventional currency, even though they are not tied to any one country’s macroeconomics but rather to the underlying platform and a larger response to global economic developments.
If costs are greater, using a forex broker is not essential and may even be more expensive than using a typical bitcoin platform like Coinbase. Investors should weigh the dangers of investing in bitcoin and other alternative currencies before making a final decision.


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New GST/HST on Cross-border Digital Products and Services
03 December, 2020 -
By Luisa Almazan
This post is also available in:
New GST/HST on Cross-border Digital Products and Services (Effective: July 1, 2020)
On December 2, the Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, introduced Bill C-14, an Act to implement certain provisions of the economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 30, 2020, and other measures.
Proposed Sales Tax Measures:
- Temporary GST/HST zero-rating of certain face masks and face shields. This applies to articles manufactured after 6 December 2020.
- Various new GST / HST measures to ensure that foreign suppliers supplying digital products and services (including traditional services) to consumers in Canada or goods through fulfillment warehouses in Canada are subject to the GST / HST.
- A new GST / HST measure to ensure short-term accommodation in Canada, facilitated by a digital platform, is subject to GST / HST (e.g. Airbnb rental).
- The government proposes to introduce a tax on companies that provide digital services in Canada from 1 January 2022, which would remain in place until an acceptable common approach is developed (not yet implemented) by the OECD. (Effective July 1, 2020)
For more information click here.


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According to a recent statement issued by the Mega Millions Consortium, the lottery officials that oversee the multi-state Mega Millions game, the game’s starting jackpot prize and the minimum jackpot increase will be cut. Under the new game rules, Mega Millions game jackpots will now be calculated on a drawing by drawing basis. That will be based on game ticket sales and current interest rates. So, no more fixed minimum roll increments.
Traditionally, in the drawing following a hit, Mega Millions would default to a starting jackpot worth $40 million. The jackpot would continue to grow by at least $5 million-plus ticket sales in every roll.
To me, cutting the Mega Millions starting jackpot by half is a necessary evil. It’s the best way to guarantee there is enough cash to cover both the jackpot and lower-level game prize winnings.
This especially amidst low ticket sales projections and a lengthy global recession forecast. All of which are caused by the current global pandemic, known as COVID-19.
The advertised Mega Millions jackpot for Wednesday, April 8, 2020, is a guaranteed annuitized $127 million with a cash opinion worth $103.0 million. So, if there is no jackpot winner come Wednesday evening, the jackpot will roll as usual.
But if the jackpot is hit on Wednesday, the new rules will take effect. Thus resetting to the new guaranteed annuitized $20 million for Friday’s drawing. And all subsequent jackpot increases will be established based on game sales and interest rates.
“The value of the Mega Millions jackpot is based on projected sales, and typical sales patterns have been altered because the current health crisis has required people to stay home,” said Gordon Medenica, Lead Director of the Mega Millions Consortium and Director of Maryland Lottery and Gaming.
“We are concerned, first and foremost, with everyone’s health and well-being. Meanwhile, these adjustments will allow the states and jurisdictions that sell Mega Millions tickets to continue generating much-needed revenue to support state budgets.”
Mega Millions drawings take place at the WSB-TV in Atlanta, Georgia every Tuesday and Friday at 11:00 p.m. Players may purchase Mega Millions tickets online at MichiganLottery.com or in-store from any one of Mi_Lottery’s 10,500 retailers statewide until 10:45 p.m. on the day of the drawing.
Mega Millions play still costs $2 and for an additional $1 per play, players can add a “Megaplier”, a feature which can multiply non-jackpot prizes by up to five times.


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Published on January 2nd, 2018 | by Daniel Sherman Fernandez0
Diesel’s slow demise in Europe. 2 years ago it was the top seller
How quickly things have changed in the European motoring landscape. Just 2 years ago, diesel was the ‘darling’ of the industry and today it is the evil relative. European car manufacturers say they are taking steps to clean up their diesels. Daimler’s Mercedes-Benz spent 3 billion euros to develop a new family of 4 and 6-cylinder diesels capable of drastically cutting on-road NO2 emissions. By the end of 2019, roughly 80% of all new diesels sold in Germany will be equipped with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) converters, which is the most expensive exhaust after-treatment system on the market. Acting now, however, may be too little, too late as town councils and legislators are moving fast to remove diesel vehicles from urban areas.
During the first 6-months 2017, the penetration rate for diesels in Europe’s car fleet dropped to 45.3% from 49.4% during the same period last year. It was the lowest share and the fastest drop for diesel since 2009. By end of this year the figure is said to be even lower as more European car buyers opt more for petrol, electric and hybrid vehicles.
Adjusted for that effect, the 2017 numbers for diesels look historically bad, especially in Germany where new manufacturer incentives to purchase new Euro 6 diesels have so far fallen flat.
The sales situation worsened when the German city of Stuttgart decided ban diesel cars in the city center in coming years. Customer demand for diesels fell once more in August, with the share dropping to 37.7% in August as sales slipped 14%. That was their lowest last year and down sharply from 45% in the previous one.


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Nanda Bergstein, director for corporate responsibility at German clothing chain Tchibo, has urged other apparel brands to help Cambodia and other countries achieve a living wage for garment workers and commit to the Action, Collaboration and Transformation (ACT) foundation, which aims for a sustainable industry based on living wages.
Bergstein’s call came at a high-level dialogue on living wages in Cambodia with German Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development Joschka Fischer in early April.
For the full story, see the May 2019 edition of Textiles South East Asia. Not a subscriber? Sign up HERE


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China inflation worries hang over store owners already struggling with weak consumer demand
- Store owners at Beijing’s Sanyuanli market have been dealing with weak consumer demand since last year due to the coronavirus
- But now amid rising global commodity prices, they are so far resisting passing on increased costs to customers as consumer ‘demand is just not strong’
Faced with global commodity prices that show no signs of retreating, store owners at Beijing’s Sanyuanli market are facing the possibility that inflation may add pressure onto China’s already weak consumer demand.
With the coronavirus having weakened local demand since last year, the prices of some products such as seafood and meat have risen recently, partly due to seasonal factors, and owners are unable — or in some cases unwilling – to pass on the increased costs to customers.
“Usually around this time, wild caught products are more expensive because of a lower supply. But these days even prices of freshwater fish from inland fish farmers are up quite a bit. I have no idea why,” said a store owner who has been selling seafood for over 20 years in the market, but asked not be named.
“We’ve tried not to raise prices too much. Many stores here are the same, so business is just so-so.”
A lamb and beef butcher at Sanyuanli market said the wholesale price of domestically produced meat has risen by a small amount, but he has chosen not to pass on the cost to his customers.
“We didn’t lift prices. They are pretty much the same since the start of the year,” said the store owner, who also asked not to be named.
“These days we rely on our old customers. You can buy imported meat everywhere now, which can be cheaper at times compared to ours.”
“[Consumer] demand is just not strong,” said Larry Hu, chief China economist at Macquarie Group.
In April, China’s factory gate prices rose at the fastest rate in more than three years, raising concerns that inflation could further deter consumption.
Analysts said while there is a record high divergence between PPI and CPI, the rise in consumer prices may catch up in the coming months if global commodities continue to rally.
Zhang Rui, director of Chinese Association of Market Development, said that the rise in CPI was lower than PPI because it is inflected more by the price of pork, which has declined substantially in the past few months.
“Food, clothing, and general daily necessities are the overlapping components of CPI and PPI. The increase in the price of these items in the PPI will inevitably be directly reflected in the CPI,” Zhang wrote in the state-owned International Finance News at the end of last month.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) said last week that global food prices rose in May at their fastest monthly rate in more than a decade.
In particularly, the FAO Meat Price Index increased by 2.2 per cent from April, with the organisation attributing the increase in the price of all meat types to a “faster pace of import purchases by China” and “rising internal demand for poultry and pig meats in the leading producing regions”.
Besides iron ore, China is now the world’s biggest food importer as well. In April, its imports of corn rose 301.2 per cent year on year, while pork rose by 18.1 per cent, wheat jumped by 134.7 per cent, and barley by 147.5 per cent, according to data from Chinese customs.
Last month, China also bought 9.61 million tonnes of soybeans, which is often crushed to feed livestock, up 29 per cent from 7.45 million tonnes in April. Total meat imports, including pork, however dropped 14.4 per cent to 789,000 tonnes.
“If the rally of global commodities goes on for a long time, it is not impossible to transmit it to the CPI. However, considering that the current regulators have noticed the overshooting of commodity prices, they have recently begun to strengthen supervision to suppress them,” Zhang Qidi, a visiting researcher at the International Finance Research Centre at the Central University of Finance and Economics said in a Jiemian News op-ed last month.
Louis Kuijis, head of Asia economics at Oxford Economics, said there is a “second order” effect weighing on consumption when the manufacturing sector begins to see job losses as a result of persistent high commodity prices.
“Meanwhile, employees’ real income is supported by the relatively low CPI inflation. If the pressure from high commodity prices is temporary, then I would expect the impact on consumption not to be a major problem,” Kuijis said. “Indeed, consumption is a key downside risk to the growth outlook at the moment.”
China’s CPI and PPI in May will be released on Wednesday, with factory-gate prices set to hit a 13-year high.
CPI, meanwhile, is predicted to rise to 1.6 per cent in May from 0.9 per cent in April
Beijing has set a 2021 CPI growth target of around 3 per cent per cent, compared with around 3.5 per cent last year.


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Introducing the Midtype Developer Plan
Based on customer feedback, Midtype is launching a budget-friendly $5/month Developer plan.
After launching Midtype broadly last week, we have learned that developers on a smaller budget would also like to try out Midtype. As such, inspired by the $5 Droplet from Digital Ocean, we are introducing the $5/month Midtype Developer plan.
All of Midtype’s plans, including the new Developer plan, come with an unconditional 30-day money back guarantee.


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ECONOMYNEXT – Sri Lanka can benefit from supply chain disruptions that current global trade tensions generate by becoming attractive for investors through bold reforms and a focussed approach to draw companies looking to shift production bases, an economist said.
“China is seeing foreign manufacturing shifting out,” said Anushka Wijesinha. “We’re seeing what’s likely the largest upheaval of supply chains in a while, especially in products like electronics and apparel.”
Current trade tensions such as that between the United States and China are not just a flash in the pan that their leaders will resolve at their next summit but a secular trend that’s not going to go away, he said.
“I believe Sri Lanka can gain from these shifts,” Wijesinha told a conference held by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, Sri Lanka (CILT).
Trade tensions provide Sri Lanka an opportunity to be a viable alternative manufacturing base with studies and surveys showing that some corporate leaders consider the island attractive, with industrial wage costs in some technical categories still lower than in China.
Tariffs and free trade agreements (FTAs) with India and China would play an important part in their decision making, Wijesinha said, noting that Sri Lanka must boosts its “competitiveness muscles”.
Wijesinha suggested a four-pronged agenda, starting with meaningful and bold tariff and para tariff reforms and forging strategic FTAs, noting that the recently announced government five-year plan to phase out para-tariffs was too long.
A proactive and focused approach could draw investment from companies looking at new locations.
“They are not going to come after us – we need to go after them and have a very focused look on sectors and specific companies wanting new locations. The private sector also has role to start finding these partners.
Faster improvements in ease of doing business and trade reforms, such as being more efficient at the border using digital methods, could also help Sri Lanka stand out, along with building world class, technology-driven logistics infrastructure, Wijesinha said.
Global manufacturing companies were drawing up contingency plans and looking at supply chain diversity and shifting production to other locations.
“So the concentration of supply chains will change. Some of these shifts are being pushed by the desire to diversify locations and looking at risk mitigation across the supply chain,” Wijesinha said.
Manufacturers are looking at multiple locations with several countries like Vietnam and India trying to attract those shifting their factories in what is a fundamental redrawing of supply chains.
Although Vietnam was “getting a big piece of the action and winning from the trade war”, it was not easy as the Vietnam model was different from China’s and “not as super disciplined and regimented as China,” Wijesinha said.
Access to inputs was also why China became a manufacturing power house, which was not easy for other countries to replicate, which is again why manufacturers are looking at multiple locations.
“Now is the time to change, push forward crucial reforms to make ourselves attractive to these industries that want to redraw their supply chains,” Wijesinha said. “We can’t afford to back track on industrial reforms or trade facilitation.
(COLOMBO, 29 October 2019)


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We dive into what the virus means for Singaporeans, necessary precautions to take, travel advisories and how to keep yourself stress-free.
Real talk: The coronavirus outbreak has caused quite a frenzy this year, putting Singapore, along with every country, on high alert. So what’s this virus all about? What are some preventive measures we can take? Since the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared Covid-19 a pandemic and Singapore’s Disease Outbreak Response System Condition (Dorscon) is at orange, how worried should you be? We’ve got all the deets.
According to WHO, Coronaviruses (CoV) are “a large family of viruses” that cause illnesses ranging from your common cold to more severe cases such as pneumonia. In 2019, a new coronavirus strain was identified in Wuhan, China. There is no proven specific treatment or anti-viral drug for Covid-19 as of now.
The symptoms: More common than you think
The symptoms are similar to regular pneumonia and other respiratory illness. They include a runny nose, sore throat, cough, fever and even shortness of breath for severe cases.
How does one get infected and why is it spreading so rapidly?
Much like the flu, the virus can transfer via close contact (about six feet) with an infected person when they cough or sneeze. It can also spread when you touch your mouth, nose or eyes after touching infected surfaces or objects.
What’s the sitch in Singapore?
As of 5 April, the Ministry of Health Singapore (MOH), has reported 1,309 active cases, 25 of which are critical. MOH has since heightened precautionary measures and introduced circuit breakers to minimise the spread of the virus.
Things are going to get real quiet in Singapore from 7 April to 4 May. Food and beverage outlets including hawker centres, food courts and cafes will be available for take-away and delivery only. All workplaces except for essential services such as food establishments, markets, supermarkets, clinics, utilities, transport and key banking services will be closed. Schools and institutes of higher learning will shift to home-based learning from 8 April and all preschools and student care centres will be closed.
Most attractions, hotels, museums, gyms, retail outlets, public libraries, places of worship, beauty salons, massage parlours and nail salons will also be closed. Hair salons and barbers are only allowed to provide basic haircuts.
In his second national address on 12 March, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong mentioned that the “outbreak will continue for some time – a year, and maybe longer”.
Cancelled gigs, restaurant deliveries and virtual events
Events such as the Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar, the Olympics, Pink Dot, multiple concerts and our very own Live Better have been cancelled or postponed till further notice. It’s not all gloom and doom though! Local establishments are doing all they can to stay atop the current climate. Your favourite restaurants are now delivering (some islandwide) and events like Asia’s 50 Best Bars are going virtual.
Ongoing measures and travel advisories
On 27 March, Singaporeans were advised to limit gatherings outside of work and school to 10 people or less and maintain at least one metre of physical distancing. All bars and entertainment venues where there’s a high risk of transmission were closed. That includes night clubs, discos, cinemas, theatres, and karaoke outlets. And of course, we already know that all ticketed social or mass gatherings with 250 people or more will have to be postponed or cancelled. Temperature and health screenings will also be conducted at malls, museums, attractions and other public venues.
Singaporeans are advised to defer all travel abroad. Previous advisories urged travellers to postpone or cancel non-essential travel to Hubei province and mainland China, Iran, Japan, South Korea, Italy, France, Spain and Germany.
All Singaporeans PRs, Long Term Pass holders and short term visitors entering Singapore will be issued a 14-day Stay-Home Notice. Currently, visitors who’ve travelled to China, France, Germany, Iran, Italy, Republic of Korea and Spain will be denied entry or transit through Singapore.
Small measures make all the difference
It’s easy to feel anxious during this trying time, but life has to go on. What we can do, however, is to remain vigilant and take preventive measures. We’ve gathered a list with the help of MOH:
- It’s now mandatory to wear a mask whenever you head outside. Residents can collect one reusable face mask at designated CCs and RCs from 5 to 12 April.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers and under your nails. Scrub for 20 seconds or hum the “Happy Birthday” song twice. Dry your hands with a clean towel. Use a hand sanitizer if you can’t wash your hands immediately.
- Avoid crowded places and contact with people who are unwell.
- Try to minimise going out to malls, parks or crowded places unless for essential goods and services. If you really need to head out, plan around SpaceOut.Gov.Sg, a portal that shows the crowd levels in malls.
- We’re all for living a healthy lifestyle but it’s wise to plan your outdoor workouts during off-peak hours. Use Safe Distance @ Parks to gauge the crowd levels at your nearest park.
- Down with a fever, cough or the flu? Wear a mask and seek medical attention right away. Go to one of the Public Health Preparedness Clinics (PHPCs) nearby if you’re experiencing respiratory illnesses such as a common cold. Use this Covid-19 Symptom Checker if you have any doubts.
- Cover your mouth with a tissue paper when coughing or sneezing and dispose of the tissue in a rubbish bin immediately.
- We suggest putting any travel plans on hold until you get the green light from official reports.
- Avoid contact with live animals, poultry and birds.
- Sushi and sashimi can wait. Avoid consuming raw and undercooked meat.
Life goes on…
No use panicking over what you can’t control, but what you can do is be good to your gut and boost your immune system by consuming adequate fruits and veggies, slurping up on juices, clocking in enough exercise at home, getting ample sleep and ensuring a stress-free lifestyle.
Please, please stay home as much as you can – even if you aren’t running a temperature. We’ve got plenty of suggestions for you to keep busy at home. Start by ordering your meal and favourite tipples, then catch up on a TV show or listen to a podcast, spruce up your space, lift your mood with aromatherapy, say yes to at-home facials, bake that recipe you bookmarked eons ago and treat yourself to some online shopping.
Working from home? We’ve culled a few productivity hacks and virtual online career and self-development resources to boost your career goals.
Honestly, it’s pretty straightforward. Outbreak or not, observing basic personal hygiene is key and being socially responsible is pretty obvious. Singapore is not on Dorscon Red alert and let’s keep it that way! With a little initiative, awareness and social distancing, we can kick Covid-19 in the butt, fosho! Let’s do this, people!


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For more than a year now, Donald Trump has claimed that his economy-dinging trade war is a great development for the country because of all the money “China” is paying the U.S. Treasury. “I am a Tariff Man,” he tweeted last December. “We are right now taking in $billions in Tariffs. MAKE AMERICA RICH AGAIN.” In May, after escalating the dispute with Beijing by raising tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese imports from 10% to 25%, he insisted , “Tariffs are NOW being paid to the United States by China of 25% on 250 Billion Dollars worth of goods & products. These massive payments go directly to the Treasury of the U.S.” In July he screeched , “We are receiving Billions of Dollars in Tariffs from China, with possibly much more to come. These Tariffs are paid for by China devaluing & pumping, not by the U.S. taxpayer!” A month later it was : “Massive amounts of money from China and other parts of the world is pouring into the United States for reasons of safety, investment, and interest rates! We are in a very strong position.… A beautiful thing to watch!”
Of course, as everyone outside of the Oval Office and his most blindly loyal followers know, tariffs are not paid for by China but by U.S. companies. If those companies manage to stay in business at all, the costs are then passed on to American consumers, a giant point of clarification that’s been noted by economists, analysts, and the media, and which was conceded by National Economic Council director Larry Kudlow in May. And on Tuesday the president himself admitted it!
Speaking to reporters before leaving his New Jersey golf course, Trump explained the reason the administration decided to wait until December 15 to impose new tariffs on goods like cell phones, laptops, video game consoles, shoes, and other consumer products. “We’re doing this for Christmas season, just in case some of the tariffs would have an impact on U.S. customers,” he said , adding that “so far they’ve had virtually none.” Indeed, the new tariffs would have had a big impact on consumers, with Webush Securities estimating the cost of an iPhone would have increased by between $75 and $100. “I think the president wanted to avoid being the Grinch who stole Christmas,” said Mark Zandi, chief economist of Moody’s Analytics. “These delayed tariff hikes would have landed squarely on American consumers.”
Of course, despite literally coming right out and saying the tariffs would hurt the U.S., Trump will obviously never admit such a thing, nor will he admit that his ongoing trade war has pushed the manufacturing industry to the brink of recession, or that farmers have been royally fucked, or that stocks had their worst day of the year earlier this month because of him . That’s why despite the temporary delay, the tariffs will most likely go into effect on December 15, barring some sort of come-to-Jesus moment. Better get your shopping done now!
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Speaking of which…
The financial-services industry sees the chances of a Trump-induced recession rising :
Wall Street is getting seriously gloomy about the economy, with recession warnings mounting and stock market volatility rising just as President Donald Trump prepares to fire up his re-election campaign machine.… The collective wisdom now spreading across Wall Street is that no trade deal will be struck with China before the 2020 election; business investment will continue to sag; and a series of interest-rate cuts from the Federal Reserve won’t be enough to juice more growth out of an economy now in its 10th year of expansion—the longest stretch in American history.
Advertisement “It makes sense for everyone to be downgrading, because everyone assumed we’d have some kind of trade deal with China by now and we don’t,” said Megan Greene, an economist and senior fellow at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government.
“And now we have the risk of the trade war turning into a currency war,” she said. “The consumer is still pretty strong, but business investment looks really bad and if it was going to pick up again it would have by now.”
In a note sent to clients over the weekend, Goldman Sachs economists wrote, “Fears that the trade war will trigger a recession are growing. We expect tariffs targeting the remaining $300 billion of U.S. imports from China to go into effect and no longer expect a trade deal before the 2020 election.”
So Facebook’s been transcribing users’ conversations
But it stopped over a week ago, so no need to make a fuss about it :
Facebook Inc. has been paying hundreds of outside contractors to transcribe clips of audio from users of its services, according to people with knowledge of the work. The work has rattled the contract employees, who are not told where the audio was recorded or how it was obtained—only to transcribe it, said the people, who requested anonymity for fear of losing their jobs. They’re hearing Facebook users’ conversations, sometimes with vulgar content, but do not know why Facebook needs them transcribed, the people said.
Facebook confirmed that it had been transcribing users’ audio and said it will no longer do so, following scrutiny into other companies. “Much like Apple and Google, we paused human review of audio more than a week ago,” the company said Tuesday. The company said the users who were affected chose the option in Facebook’s Messenger app to have their voice chats transcribed. The contractors were checking whether Facebook’s artificial intelligence correctly interpreted the messages, which were anonymized.
Advertisement Last year Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg snippily told Congress, of reports that it collected audio from users, “You’re talking about this conspiracy theory that gets passed around that we listen to what’s going on on your microphone and use that for ads. We don’t do that.” Later, in follow-up answers, the company told lawmakers it “only accesses users’ microphone if the user has given our app permission and if they are actively using a specific feature that requires audio (like voice-messaging features).”
Jeffrey Epstein had an interesting take on asset managers
Which he relayed to Fox Business’s Charlie Gasparino in an off-the-record interview that took place before his most recent arrest and subsequent suicide, and which Gasparino shared today :
“I just want you to know I’m not a pedophile,” he said, adding, “Maybe the only thing worse than being called a pedophile is being called a hedge fund manager.”
Trump “jokingly” encourages energy workers to help spread the word that he’d refuse to leave office after two terms
CBS, Viacom Officially Reunite With Merger After Years of Squabbling ( HWD )
AOC goes after Barstool Sports head Dave Portnoy over anti-union tweet ( NYP )
Jeffrey Epstein Asset Forfeitures Wouldn’t Guarantee Payout for Accusers ( Bloomberg )
The #MeToo case that’s dividing Wall Street ( the Cut )
White House foreign aid cuts to spare Ivanka, Pence favorite programs ( Roll Call )
Danish bank launches world’s first negative interest rate mortgage ( Guardian )
Baby raccoon rolls towards recovery with new wheelchair ( PIX11 )


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Downtown post office closed pending move
Austin’s downtown post office locked up shop for the last time Thursday night at its West Sixth and Guadalupe street location.
The office is moving to a smaller spot at 823 Congress Ave. and should be open by Wednesday, Postal Service spokesman Sam Bolen said. In the intervening few days there will be no downtown office or PO boxes, though Bolen said the agency is working with downtown businesses and other customers to ensure important mail gets to the proper place. (Customers wishing to make such an arrangement can call 342-1576.)
The downtown location serves many of the banks, lawyers and other businesses, as well as a growing downtown population. It is being closed primarily for real-estate considerations.
Developers and city officials have viewed the office as a waste of prime real estate since not long after its 1996 opening, prompting then-Mayor Will Wynn to declare in 2006 that “the staggering underutilization of the land is sinful.”
Atlanta-based Novare Group and its Austin partners, Andrews Urban and Endeavor Real Estate Group, were chosen in 2006 from among six offers to buy and redevelop the Post Office site. Jamil Alam, Endeavor’s managing principal, said the group has “no plans and no schedule for the Post Office block at this time,” though condos, office buildings and retail have been mentioned as possibilities.
The Travis Central Appraisal District listed the old post office property as worth $17.1 million, though neither the Postal Service nor the developers have said what it sold for.
The downtown post office had 33 employees in the recent past, but many of them were transferred when the mail carriers delivering to downtown and some support staff were relocated to the agency’s 3909 South Congress station near Ben White Boulevard. Mail delivery services for homes and businesses in downtown’s 78701 ZIP code were also moved to the South Congress location.
Still, “Our customers said they want us to maintain a downtown office, and we decided to do the best we could based on that desire,” Bolen said. “We’re planning to be in the new location at least a few years.”
The new downtown location is smaller than the old one and will have 10 employees. It will issue passports, sell stamps and boxes, ship packages and generally “have traditional window service,” Bolen said.


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The Moto X could well break cover as early as next week as fresh rumours surrounding the handset point towards a possible July 10/11 launch date.
As of earlier this week we now know that the Moto X exists, it's a real phone, and is likely to be the most significant device to come out of Motorola since it was acquired by Google.
According to the folks over at PhoneArena, US broadcaster and tech pundit Leo Laporte has already been invited to an event on July 10 and July 11 by new Motorola adviser Guy Kawasaki.
XI = 11
The July 11 date has been suggested before as some noted that the picture of the couple jumping into the lake on the official Moto X reveal ad look to be making X and I shapes - the Roman numerals for 11.
Of course this could just be a big coincidence, because as you know there's only one way to jump into a pool and that's with your arms and legs spread as wide as possible.
We already know Nokia has something big planned on July 11 in New York, probably in the form of the much rumoured Lumia 1020/909, and Motorola would really be stealing its thunder if it were to launch on the same day.
Are you excited about the Moto X? Find out what Team TechRadar thinks in the vid below:


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Bitcoin News: Coincheck Becomes the First Licensed Japanese Bitcoin Exchange.Last but not least, GMO-Z will not charge trading fees for Bitcoin transactions.
Gox is due to appear in Tokyo District Court on Tuesday to face embezzlement charges.
Japanese bitcoin exchange bitFlyer sets foot on US soilAfter bitcoin was legalized as a form of payment on April 1, 2017, all domestic exchanges in Japan must receive authorization from the treasury department and Financial Services Agency (FSA) to operate a virtual currency exchange business.Japanese bitcoin exchange bitFlyer is heading to the U.S., and already has approval to operate in 34 countries.Thirteen bitcoin exchange operators in Japan said they will.Buy, sell and margin trade Bitcoin (BTC) and Etherum (ETH) in exchange with EUR, USD, CAD, GBP, and JPY.Bitcoin News: Japanese Crypto Exchange, Triple Dice Exchange, Set to Launch on June 16.
Top 4 Japanese Cryptocurrency Exchanges – The MerkleHead of Mt Gox bitcoin exchange on trial for embezzlement and loss of millions. bitcoin exchange on trial for embezzlement. exchanges.
Japanese Exchange Debuts Bitcoin Corporate Bond | 247 BTCThe amended Payment Services Act has long been discussed in Japan, but the date which it would enter into force was not previously set.
Japanese bitcoin exchange faces unexpected shutdownOver 5,000 retail stores and restaurants across Japan together with thirteen bitcoin exchanges may suspend bitcoin use on August 1.Mt. Gox was a bitcoin exchange based in Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan.This guide will help you discover how to buy Bitcoin in Japan and lists all available global and local bitcoin exchanges for customers in Japan.
How To Buy Bitcoin in Japan - CoinGeckoThirteen Bitcoin exchanges operators from Japan confirmed that they shall cease all forms of cryptocurrency trading from midnight on August 1.Customers now have to answer a list of questions not previously asked at Japanese bitcoin exchanges,.
Australia joins China and Japan in trying to regulate bitcoin and digital currency exchange providers with new crackdown on money laundering.
Bitcoin exchanges may suspend Bitcoin services on August 1.Mark Karpeles (C), chief executive of defunct bitcoin exchange Mt Gox, attends a news conference after a trial on charges of embezzlement in Tokyo, Japan July 11, 2017.
Electronics chain Bic Camera is teaming up with Tokyo-based bitFlyer, which runs the largest Japanese bitcoin exchange.Launched in July 2010, by 2013 and into 2014 it was handling over 70% of all bitcoin transactions.The members of BitOcean Japan are all creditors of MT.Gox. We believe Bitcoin represents the greatest innovation of the Internet Era since the founding of the.
Japan’s FSA: 50 Bitcoin Exchange Registration ApplicationsGox, a prominent Japanese bitcoin exchange, ceased transactions and shuttered its website Monday.
Japan’s FSA Approves Coincheck’s Bitcoin Exchange License
Japan to Receive Its First Interest-Paying Bitcoin Deposit
Japanese Exchange Debuts Bitcoin Corporate Bond - BlogJapan Debates Bitcoin Sales Tax, Stricter Rules. impose new requirements on Bitcoin exchanges and. then the largest Bitcoin exchange in the world, Japan built.It will help to make cryptocurrency exchanges in Japan tighter, more secure, have scrupulous control.Free shpping YUNHUI AntMiner S9 13.5T Bitcoin Miner with power supply Asic.Further back in May the firm announced the creation of interest-bearing bitcoin savings accounts, if the FSA would allow the concept.
Top 4 Japanese Cryptocurrency Exchanges. Among the supported currencies on the Zaif exchange are Bitcoin and Monacoin,.Coincheck Expands as Japanese Bitcoin Enthusiasm Continues to Grow.
Bitcoin getting interest-paying accounts in Japan- Nikkei
Tokyo bitcoin exchange files for bankruptcy - Yahoo
Japanese Bitcoin Exchanges Implement Stricter KYC
Bitcoin is the currency of the Internet: a distributed, worldwide, decentralized digital money.
bitcoin - The Japan Times
Another country joins China and Japan in cracking down on
Japanese Internet Conglomerate to Launch Bitcoin ExchangeTriple Dice Exchange, a digital currency exchange which supports various cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Litecoin, Dogecoin, Ripple, StartCOIN and King Dice Coin...
Worlds Largest Japanese Bitcoin Exchange To Open U.S
Home mining btc Coincheck Becomes the First Licensed Japanese Bitcoin Exchange.Gox bitcoin exchange is spilling into U.S. bankruptcy court as the company scrambles for legal cover after losing digital currency valued.Unlike traditional currencies such as dollars, bitcoins are issued and.


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The Bank of Queensland has agreed to expand the scope of a review into its compliance procedure, after a number of cases of overcharging customers were brought to ASIC’s attention.
Responding to a request from the corporate regulator, the bank has agreed to extend the scope of the independent review, which followed a $12 million customer error related to a system issue reported to ASIC last year.
In August 2013, BoQ self-reported a number of additional errors dating back to 2004 which resulted in customers being either over-charged or underpaid interest.
As well as extending the scope of the review to help rectify the losses, BoQ has also agreed to refund an additional $34.5 million and pay another $11.5 million to fix these additional errors.
It is estimated that approximately 46,000 customers have been affected by the errors.
“We want to make sure the expert’s review leaves no stone unturned and all customers are appropriately compensated,” said ASIC deputy chairman Peter Kell.
“The review will also ensure that any necessary compliance system improvements are made to minimise the occurrence of similar errors in future.”
Stimulate new ideas. Stimulate new thinking. Top up your CPD points and hear from industry experts with ifa’s Knowledge Centre. Keep up to date with the latest trends and reforms, all while adding to your CPD hours. Explore the Knowledge Centre now.
IOOF has completed the first phase migration of its legacy platforms and products on new proprietary super and investments platform, Evolve. ...
The Administrative Appeals Tribunal has rejected an adviser’s appeal for review of an ASIC banning order after he failed to show in court. ...
ROAR Software and Fin365 have partnered up for a new integrated solution. ...


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Shoppers snap up deals as they say goodbye to Sears
Marion Henderson, 88, of Madison Heights has been shopping at the Sears in Oakland Mall for decades and said she's sad to see it close.
Until it does, she'll be busy snapping up great deals, like a $5 garage door opener and a gray, Queen-sized comforter for $42 that she was able to swap the next day for a different color.
Also on Freep.com:
"I didn't think they would exchange it," she said Tuesday, when bedding was marked 50% off. "They said, 'No problem, get a new one.'"
Steep discounts abound at the Oakland Mall store in Troy, which is set to close at the end of September, and other soon-to-be gone Sears locations in Michigan.
The stores in the Genesee Valley Center in Flint, Fairlaine Town Center in Dearborn and Lakeside Mall in Sterling Heights are expected to close within the next few days.
In Troy Tuesday, some of the hot deals included a floor sample Beautyrest Silver Hybrid Majestic Sound Ultra Plush mattress set, marked down from $4,099 to $1,066; a Craftsman 3000 Series, 46-inch riding lawn mower marked down from $2149.99 to $1,612.49; and 50% off many treadmills and ovens.
Washers, dryers and many refrigerators were 20% off. Most men's, women's and children's apparel was discounted by 60%.
Sears Holdings, the struggling the parent company of Sears and Kmart, has announced several waves of store closures in recent years. Just last week, the company said it would close about 5% of its remaining stores, all of which it said were losing money. The Sears at Jackson Crossing Mall in Jackson was the latest Michigan store to be added to the closure list.
Local Sears fans aren't totally out of luck, however. The auto center at the Troy store is remaining open. And Michigan still has more than 50 Sears locations, a combination of Sears stores, Hometown stores, Sears Auto Centers, hardware stores and outlets.
At the Fairlane Town Center store, red and yellow signs reading "NOTHING HELD BACK!" and "STORE CLOSING Sale!" greeted shoppers this week.
A 30-inch KitchenAid wall oven that normally sold for $2,299.99 was priced at $690. In another part of the store, a bin contained a hodgepodge of "loose mens underwear," selling for $1.50 each.
Back on March 2, 1976, the store kicked off its grand opening celebration. Balloons were handed out to shoppers.
The Troy Sears store opened in the summer of 1965, about three years before Oakland Mall itself opened. At the time, it was the largest Sears store ever built, according to an Aug. 8, 1965 article in the Detroit Free Press.
The store appears to still have at least one of its original elevators, a Westinghouse that elevator fans have captured in YouTube videos.
Elizabeth Ferraro, 51, who grew up in Troy and now lives in Colorado, took a charm school class at the store in the early 1970s.
"They taught us just about how to act like a lady, and stuff like that. They taught us about hygiene," she said. "At the end, we were allowed to go pick out an outfit from the store, and we had a fashion show afterward."
A steady stream of shoppers visited the store this week to say farewell. All merchandise was 20% to 60% off.
"I think it's sad it's closing," said Lisa DePaul, 43, of Berkley, who hoped to pick up decorative items for the new spiritual healing business she's planning to open in Royal Oak.
Kathy Story, 79, of Madison Heights has shopped at the store since her children were infants. She said she feels sick about it closing.
"It was dependable," she said. "You could return stuff if it didn't fit."
USA Today contributed to this report.
Contact staff writer Ann Zaniewski at 313-222-6594 or email@example.com. Follow her on Twitter: @AnnZaniewski.


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Japan’s Travel & Tourism sector grew at more than twice the rate of the wider economy in 2017, according to major new research released today by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
The total contribution of Travel & Tourism to the Japanese economy in 2017 was JPY37,136 billion, once all the direct, indirect and induced benefits were taken into account. This represented an annual rise of 3.4% against growth of 1.6% for the wider economy.
Gloria Guevara, President & CEO, WTTC, said “This is a strong performance by the Japanese Travel & Tourism sector which reinforces the role of our sector as major contributor to economic growth and job creation. International arrivals have been very strong in recent years as Japan looks to its target of 40 million international visitors by the time of the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.”
Other highlights of the report released today show:
Travel & Tourism supported 4.2 million jobs in 2017 (6.4% of total Japanese employment)
By 2028 over 4.5 million jobs in Japan are forecast to be dependent on Travel & Tourism
Japan is the 4th largest travel economy in the world
Ms Guevara continued: “Travel & Tourism creates jobs, drives economic growth and helps build better societies. This is particularly the case in Japan where the tourism economy is growing at more than double the rate of the wider economy. This makes Travel & Tourism the perfect partner for the creation of quality long-term jobs and economic growth. We commend the Japanese Government for their commitment to creating a thriving tourism sector and managing long-term growth in a sustainable way which protects both natural resources and destination integrity.
“Globally, 2017 was one of the strongest years of GDP growth in a decade. Our sector now supports one in ten jobs on the planet and contributes 10% of global GDP. Over the past ten years, one in five of all jobs created across the world has been in the sector and, with the right support from Governments, nearly 100 million new jobs could be created over the decade ahead.”


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News - Mazda - CX-9
Aussie input helped shape Mazda CX-9
Mazda Australia execs were involved in the CX-9 project from the beginning
13 Jul 2016
MAZDA has revealed that Australian input in the new-generation CX-9 was extensive, with members of the local team present from the first product meeting more than three years ago.
Speaking at the launch of the second-generation CX-9 in Melbourne this week, Mazda North America vice-president of research and development Masashi Otsuka said that the Australian product planning team were consulted on design, packaging, performance and dynamic parameters.
“Australia was involved from the beginning,” he explained. “Australia is a very important market.”
Highlighting Australia’s influence in the project is the fact that the local outfit requested to have Mazda’s i-Eloop energy recuperation and i-Stop idle-stop systems integrated into the CX-9, even though neither the United States nor the Canadian markets wanted it. “The i-Eloop and i-Stop systems were developed exclusively for Australia,” according to Mazda Australia marketing director Alastair Doak.
“No other market in the world had requested them. We asked for them and they made it happen.”
Currently ranked third for overall CX-9 volume behind the US and Canada, Australia is the biggest right-hand-drive country for the seven-seat SUV.
Since its launch in December 2007, about 33,000 of the first-gen CX-9s have been registered in Australia. The newcomer is expected to eclipse that total over time, with the forecast calling for about 6000 sales annually.
With development starting in 2012, the TC CX-9 is the first Mazda passenger vehicle to be completely designed and engineered outside of Japan, at Mazda’s North American headquarters in Irvine, California.
The Road to Recovery podcast series
12th of July 2016
Mazda CX-9 shapes next-gen CX-5
Reduced noise measures and likely 2.5L turbo in pipeline for next-gen Mazda CX-5
11th of July 2016
Mazda CX-9 engineers ‘stalked’ SUV owners
With permission of course, as Mazda gained data observing real-world usage patterns
11th of July 2016
Mazda CX-9 designed from the inside out
Owners of the current Mazda CX-9 studied and interviewed to improve the breed
8th of July 2016
Driven: Mazda CX-9 sales set to double
Higher spec, lower pricing, slashed thirst to drive Mazda CX-9 demand
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Motor industry news


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Brick or Treat
Legoland Discovery Center will host Brick or Treat Oct. 21-22 and Oct. 28-29. Regular admission includes all activities associated with Brick or Treat. Ghouls can visit four stations stocked with prizes for “brick-or-treating.” Legoland opens at 10 a.m. Get the details.
Trick or Treat at SCHEELS
SCHEELS will offer games, candy and more from 6-7 p.m. Oct. 31. Registration is required. Get the details.
Night at the BOO!seum
Museum at Prairiefire is transforming into outer space with mad science, tricks and treats for all who attend from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Oct. 25. Get the details.
Great Pumpkin Celebration
Visit Bass Pro Shop weekends Oct. 21 through Oct. 31 for a Halloween celebration. The store will offer trick-or-treating 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31. Get the details.
Oak Park Mall Trick-or-Treat
Halloween night, Oct. 31, at 5 p.m. participating retailers inside the mall will hand out candy to trick-or-treaters 12 years old and younger. Get the details.
Trick or Treat Village
The Tony Aguirre Community Center is opening to provide a safe and fun indoor trick-or-treating experience from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28. Get the details.
Editorial Assistant Tyne Benesek contributed to this article.


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Porsche has announced that dealers the world over have begun taking orders for the company's 918 Spyder. The plug-in hybrid will boast a 500-horsepower, 4.0-liter V8 engine and two electric motors capable of a combined 218 horsepower. Porsche says the hybrid powertrain will consume a mere 3.0 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers – or around 78 mpg. The German automaker hasn't released any fuel economy estimates based on U.S. testing standards, though EPA figures are said to be on the way. Look for the gas-electric Porsche supercar to touch down on U.S. soil by late 2013.
If you want one, you better drop what you're doing and get in line right now. The automaker says that it's only planning to build 918 examples of the vehicle and that each of them will carry a lofty price tag of $845,000 plus destination and handling.
That's a lot of coin, but with an electric motor at each axle, the 918 Spyder is projected to be able to launch to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds. Top speed is said to be 199 mph, and Porsche believes that under the right conditions, the 918 will be able to drive on pure-electric power at speeds of up to 94 mph.


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According to a report in The China Times (Translated by computing.co.uk), sources in the Apple supply chain claim that, "Apple intends to switch to alternative touch technology for its next generation of mobile phones, stating that a 'Touch On Display' panel is being developed by Taiwanese Apple supplier Innolux."
In November, game developers at CMA Megacorp in London identified a glitch with rapid diagonal scrolling on the iPhone 5. They tweeted that if you "slide [your] finger back and forth diagonally on screen, input events drop out or stop altogether." The video above demonstrates the glitch by testing this kind of action on two iPhone 4 units, one running iOS 5 and the other iOS 6 against two iPhone 5 units with the same two versions of iOS. In both of the iPhone 5s, the screen froze up after a bunch of touch events piled up, but not on the iPhone 4s.
User comments I have read suggest that not all of the new iPhones are equally sensitive, and then only for users, like Fruit Ninja or Infinity Blade players, who routinely make this kind of diagonal swiping action on their phones.
Cult of Mac reported in September that the iPhone 5s thin "in cell" combination of touch screen and LCD display in one, was "causing 'significant production constraints' that mean Apple cannot produce the device fast enough." It may be that quality control has been a significant issue.
iPhone 6 could include new touch technology (Computing)
Explore: 10 additional articles.