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Last week, we decided to start running weekly news round-ups on Saturdays that are more video-centered, giving us some more time to continue working on heavier article content for the week. This also helps us continue creating high-quality video content, something we've done a lot of lately.
Valve has just launched “item stores” on Steam that will allow developers to sell digital items for their games through the Steam platform. Rust is the first game to do so, launching its store with a plethora of cosmetic items ranging from $2.50 to $5.00 a pop.
Interestingly, this change means that developers can now set values for items and possibly compete with users selling items. Developers will also be able to sell user-made items in their stores with portions of the sale going toward the creator of the item, effectively a revenue share model as is possible through other marketplaces, like the Unreal Engine marketplace.
Ubisoft's sales revenue for the first half of 2015 has dropped 60% as compared to the first half of last year. Actual profits have not yet been reported. In its official report, Ubisoft does hasten to add that they still exceeded their sales target, and that the company intends to make the majority of its sales during 2H15 with the release of Assassin's Creed Syndicate, Rainbow Six Siege, Just Dance 2016, and Rayman Adventures.
Old-school styled cRPG Pillars of Eternity has now sold over 500,000 copies worldwide.
Pillars of Eternity was developed by Obsidian Entertainment, the company that brought us Fallout: New Vegas, South Park: The Stick of Truth, and, if your memory’s really good, Alpha Protocol. Obsidian was joined by publishers Paradox Interactive for this project, announcing their collaboration at last year’s GDC event.
Western Digital (WD) yesterday announced that they will acquire SanDisk, the third-largest manufacturer of flash memory in the world. WD is a major hard drive manufacturer with a lesser-known presence in SSDs. The company previously acquired Hitachi GST (HGST) and absorbed its hard drive division. WD is next significantly expanding its SSD presence by acquiring SanDisk for approximately $19 billion.
WD’s goal in this is to widen their market potential by getting into not only consumer SSDs, but other flash-based products. This acquisition will grant WD access to lower-cost SSD technology. WD said the deal will “double its addressable market and expand its participation in higher-growth segments.”
Microprocessor manufacturer AMD posted its third-quarter financials yesterday, reporting a ~40% revenue fall to $1.06 billion from $1.43 billion in 3Q14. AMD posted a $158 million operating loss for the quarter.
The company continues its endless restructure, the Radeon Technologies Group (RTG) now largely independent, with new shifts including a separation of the ATMP group.
NVidia recently filed a complaint against Qualcomm and Samsung with the United States International Trade Commission (ITC). NVidia has also filed a suit against Samsung and Qualcomm. The GPU giant claims that Samsung and Qualcomm are infringing upon nVidia’s patents, specifically ones pertaining to GPU architecture and technologies. Despite the fact that nVidia is often better known for their desktop and high-performance GPUs, they have a significant presence in the supercomputing and mobile sectors. This makes the lawsuit very relevant as all three are significant players in the mobile sector.
This complaint and suit are due to alleged patent infringements in Samsung and Qualcomm’s graphics processors: the Exynos (Samsung) and Snapdragon (Qualcomm).
Liquid cooler manufacturer Asetek, the company that supplies many of the industry's best-known coolers by Corsair, EVGA, and NZXT, saw victory in a patent infringement case against Cooler Master (CMI) in 2014. In that trial, the jury awarded Asetek a 14.5% royalty on all Cooler Master liquid coolers sold in the US.
The SSD market has grown exponentially over the past few years, the product of reduced NAND cost and increased capacity at affordable prices. TLC and VNAND saw rapid gains in drive capacity at the cost of some endurance, though controller advancements have offset this downside considerably; TLC and VNAND also both offer the endurance required for the majority of consumer use case scenarios. As SSD cost has plummeted to below $0.50 per gigabyte, we've seen inclusion of SSDs in most system builds within the mid-range or better categories.
Kickstarter and crowdfunding offer a sense of great freedom, but we've all seen crowd-funded campaigns fall short or fail in the past few years. There's been little legal recourse as backers effectively giving money on good will; there is no partial ownership of the product or company.
Altius Entertainment successfully concluded its Kickstarter campaign a full three years ago (4Q12). In the years following, the card game never saw completion and Kickstarter backers were left wondering when their promised, tiered pledges would show up. The Washington Attorney General's office began investigation in 2014.
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NIO’s American depositary receipts trading in New York were down more than 7% on Tuesday after the electric carmaker said it delivered 5,291 vehicles in November, up from 5,055 vehicles in October and more than double what it sold last November.
The deliveries consisted of 1,387 ES8s, the company’s six-seater and seven-seater smart electric SUV; 2,386 ES6s, the company’s five-seater smart electric SUV; and 1,518 EC6s, the company’s five-seater premium electric coupe SUV. Year over year, deliveries have risen more than 109%, NIO said.
Demand for NIO’s all-electric SUVs continue to attract buyers in China, a sign that Chinese consumers are not only back to spending on big-ticket items like cars following the coronavirus pandemic but that the Chinese economy is also on a recovery path.
NIO, which went public in New York in 2018, has both cut costs and borrowed capital to keep itself operational through the pandemic. Gross margin, or revenue minus production costs, was positive for the first time in the second quarter.
Still, NIO lags far behind Tesla (TSLA) – Get Report, whose registrations in China topped 50,000 in the first half of 2020. Tesla also is preparing to begin producing its Model Y crossover at its Shanghai plant after ramping up output of its longer-range Model 3.
NIO last week posted better-than-expected third-quarter results as demand for its cars continues to help bolster its balance sheet. The Chinese electric vehicle maker reported an adjusted per-share loss of 12 cents on revenue of $667 million. It had been expected to report a loss of 18 cents a share on sales of $664 million.
For the year, deliveries have risen 111%, NIO said. NIO said it’s in the process of accelerating production capacity to accommodate increasing order growth.
NIO’s depositary receipts were down 7.07% at $46.96 in late morning trading. The stock has risen 250.9% since the company last reported earnings on Aug. 11, and has surged more than 2,000% in the past 52 weeks.

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- AT&T has become the first mobile carrier to allow crypto payments
- Customers may pay their online bills through BitPay
One of the surefire signs of crypto adoption is the acceptance of it as a form of payment by major merchants which took place in the case of Travala and Amazon. This is significant because it shows that crypto is recognized by major firms as a legitimate medium of exchange and also because it means that crypto users will have more avenues through which they may spend their tokens.
A major step has been taken towards adoption as AT&T, one of the largest mobile carriers in the United States, has announced on May 23, 2019, that they now accept payments in form of cryptocurrency.
First mobile carrier to accept crypto
AT&T, with this announcement, has become the first mobile carrier that will accept payment in the form of cryptocurrencies as users may now pay their online bills through that medium.
The way the payment will take place is through BitPay, which is a cryptocurrency payment processor that allows payments to be made IN a variety of cryptocurrencies. when users log onto the account online or the myAT&T app, they will be able to select BitPay as a payment option along with additional options such as debit and credit cards.
In the announcement, it was mentioned that AT&T is trying to expand its services and cater to the market of cryptocurrency users.
“We’re always looking for ways to improve and expand our services,” said Kevin McDorman, vice president, AT&T Communications Finance Business Operations. “We have customers who use cryptocurrency, and we are happy we can offer them a way to pay their bills with the method they prefer.”
Adoption slowly but surely
This announcement is not only significant because crypto users have another medium through which they may spend their tokens but also because AT&T is a giant in the telecommunications field and its acceptance of crypto lends a lot of legitimacy to it as a form of payment. Should this be a success, AT&T could inspire other large telecommunications companies to begin accepting cryptocurrency and soon it could become an industry standard.
It also gives cryptocurrency a great deal of visibility to those who either have not heard of it or are only vaguely familiar with how it works. Either way, this is a large leap towards mainstream adoption and is a move that is sure to be received warmly.


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Among the new models presented this year at the International Motor Show in Geneva, an important place was given to Sciàdipersia Cabriolet by Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera. For the subsequent series production of the cars, the company based in Milan is already collaborating with Opac.
In the context of a continuous evolution of its product range, the company proposes to the nautical market a new and innovative solution for which two patent applications were filed.
The leading players in the Italian and international subcontracting industry will gather in Marina di Carrara from March 29 to 31 for the 15th edition of Seatec, the trade show dedicated to technology, components, design and subcontracting applied to recreational boating, organised by CarraraFiere to be the only event dedicated to the sector in Italy and Southern Europe.
Opac will be in Amsterdam for the METS (Marine Equipment Trade Show), one of the most important international exhibitions exclusively for operators in the leisure boating industry, with areas of expertise ranging from products and services to subcontracting, from materials to parts and equipment.
Automobili Lamborghini presented the Lamborghini Centenario at Geneva Motor Show 2016, in the year the company celebrates the centenary of founder Ferruccio Lamborghini’s birth. “The company Opac – Lamborghini’s press release reports - has been an important partner involved in the new model’s construction together with Lamborghini’s Research & Development department”.


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The Kobo company, based in Canada, is quickly gaining ground, and if you haven’t paid attention to Kobo before, you may want to check it out now. Kobo is lesser-known than giant Amazon.com – which invented the first e-reader device – and Kobo is also a relatively new player in the global e-reader device marketplace. But it now is in partnership with Amazon’s biggest retail rival, Wal-Mart.
Wal-Mart to Offer E-books
Wal-Mart and Kobo have teamed-up to start selling e-books, as well as Kobo e-reader devices and audiobooks. Wal-Mart plans to begin adding those items to its extensive inventory later this year. Customers will be able to purchase them both online and in Wal-Mart brick-and-mortar retail stores. You can expect Wal-Mart to continue its policy of offering very competitive pricing, because affordability is one of its core values as a leading low-cost retail company. With Kobo gaining popularity and introducing some really high-quality, feature-rich, super-capable e-reader devices, this pairing-up with Wal-Mart is very beneficial to fans of e-books.
Mass Marketing of Kobo in the USA
Up until now, Kobo has not tried very hard to capture the market for e-books and e-readers in the United States. Rather than trying to go head-to-head with US-based Amazon, Kobo instead expanded its footprint into other international markets. But this relationship with Wal-Mart changes all of that. With the support of Wal-Mart, Kobo can give Amazon a really strong level of competition, and competition in the retail arena is always good news for the end-user consumer.
Under the terms of this new arrangement, Wal-Mart will become the exclusive mass marketer for the Kobo brand in the United States. That is a potential game-changer for the e-book market, because it will put Kobo e-book titles and gadgets in Wal-Mart stores nationwide. Wal-Mart has about 4,000 stores in the USA, and close to 6,500 stores worldwide. Plus it is a big boon for Wal-Mart. Once the transition has been fully implemented, you’ll be able to go to your local Wal-Mart or shop online at Wal-Mart, and have access to Kobo’s gigantic inventory of about 6,000,000 unique titles. Kobo publishes all different genres, and books from thousands of authors. The content offered through this dynamic partnership will be available on both iOS and Android platforms.
Kobo Launches Original Content Program
Meanwhile, Kobo is gearing-up for the imminent partnership to happen, by adding some new features and programs to its lineup. One of the newest announcement is that Kobo is starting to offer exclusive, original e-book and audiobook content. Creation of original content has propelled the profits and increased the market share of leading content providers such as Netflix and Amazon. Now it appears that Kobo wants to get in on the game.
As an executive vice-president at Kobo recently explained, “Everything we do is for the reader, and our best customers have told us exclusive content is something they want to see from us. We are pleased to be launching our Kobo Originals programs with Scotiabank Giller Prize finalist, Zoe Whittall and The Best Kind of People. We are quickly ramping up the program, and are working in close collaboration with agents and publishers to create a robust exclusive catalogue to serve booklovers.” Kobo representatives say that there is a lot more to come within the next several months of 2018.
Kobo Features Now Include Large Print Mode
Not only are more titles coming, but those who prefer to read larger print can now do so with their Kobo e-readers. In January a new Large Print Mode feature was added to Kobo devices, during a features update. To find the setting, go to the device’s Main Menu and then look under Beta Features. Once the device it set to Large Print Mode, everything you view will be zoomed to a much bigger font text size.


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While some real estate industry stakeholders are focusing on the challenge of finding ways to extend loans to borrowers with limited credit histories — giving markets like housing a much-needed boost — the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is doing its part to give financial regulators, lenders and industry participants more insight into the problem.
According to a report recently issued by the bureau, about 189 million Americans have credit records that can be scored, but as many as 26 million others are “credit invisible,” meaning they have unscored credit records. About 10 percent of adults lack a credit history with a nationwide consumer reporting agency like Equifax, Experian or TransUnion, and many of those people are African American, Hispanic or residents of low-income neighborhoods, the report also found.
“A limited credit history can create real barriers for consumers looking to access the credit that is often so essential to meaningful opportunity — to get an education, start a business or buy a house,” said CFPB Director Richard Cordray. “Further, some of the most economically vulnerable consumers are more likely to be credit invisible.”
The report actually places consumers with limited credit histories into two groups: “Credit Invisibles,” or those people without a credit report; and “the unscored,” or consumers who do not have enough credit history to generate a credit score or who have credit reports that contain “stale” or not recently reported information. The report notes that the exact definition of what constitutes insufficient or stale information differs across credit scoring models, as each model uses its own proprietary definition.
“Consumers with limited credit histories reflected in the credit records maintained by the three nationwide credit reporting agencies (NCRAs) face significant challenges in accessing most credit markets,” the report states.
“NCRA records are often used by lenders when making credit decisions. In particular, lenders often use credit scores, such as one of the FICO or VantageScore scores, that are derived entirely from NCRA records when deciding whether to approve a loan application or in setting a loan’s interest rate. If a consumer does not have a credit record with one of the NCRAs, or if the record contains insufficient information to assess her creditworthiness, lenders are much less likely to extend credit. As a result, consumers with limited credit histories can face substantially reduced access to credit.”
The CFPB analyzed information from its Consumer Credit Panel, a random sample of de-identified credit records purchased from one of the nationwide credit reporting agencies, for the report. The bureau compared information from the December 2010 credit panel with 2010 Census data to estimate the number of “credit invisible” consumers.
The CFPB said the report aims to “shed more light on the number of consumers and the characteristics of those consumers who have little to no credit record at the nationwide consumer reporting agencies,” but it does not offer any potential policy or industry solutions.
The bureau did acknowledge that several studies have explored the potential of various types of “alternative data” to supplement the information contained in the NCRA credit records and allow credit scores to be generated for these consumers, helping them to shed this cloak of invisibility. Some of these studies have suggested that items like medical bills or student loans be used differently in calculating credit scores.
Currently, an alternative version of the widely used FICO score is being tested with a dozen credit-card issuers. Traditional FICO scores range from 300 to 850, and borrowers with scores below 660 are considered “non-prime” and do not qualify for the best interest rates.
The new FICO scoring model takes into account utility and telecommunications bills, provided by Equifax, as well as property records from LexisNexis to create a three-digit score for those who cannot be scored under the traditional model. FICO said it is considering expanding the new offering to other lenders later this year.
The CFPB also gave a nod to industry stakeholders who have debated the implications of doing so for those with limited credit histories, as well as those with scorable files whose credit profiles might change with the addition of such data.
Some consumer advocates have pointed out that these borrowers may have interim delinquencies during certain periods, like when heating costs increase during winter months. Others have rejected these proposals altogether, suggesting that lax credit standards contributed to the subprime mortgage loan and financial crisis of 2008.
The CFPB also noted that several industry participants have developed scoring products that are aimed specifically at these populations. For example, Churchill Mortgage offers mortgage loans to borrowers with thin credit. The company suggests these borrowers maintain a payment history for items like utility, cell phone, insurance and rent bills. The company says making a 20-percent downpayment is the best chance for approval of a 15-year fixed rate and could eliminate the need for mortgage insurance.


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Capitalizing On The Gift Market
August 22, 2005,
New York — With companies like Williams-Sonoma, Crate & Barrel and Target turning up the creative volume in retail these days, independent boutiques and small upscale chains have had to get more innovative with product assortment and merchandise presentation in order to differentiate themselves from higher-volume competitors.
“You see 10 to 20 times more customers than you do during textile markets, because gift shows cover all areas of the home and generate much more traffic,” described Nelson Chow, vice president of sales at C&F Enterprises. “It can give you a true market read of what’s selling and bring you closer to the trends because you have hundreds of appointments with smaller retailers and independents at each major show.”
Chow said that the gift business can be a lot steadier than home textiles alone if companies build up a base of customers, but this can take many years. However, “It does require a lot more patience, effort and time,” he added. “There’s also more ownership when dealing with independents because you are mainly working with the principals.”
Craig Benepe, executive vice president of sourcing at Home Source International, said that the business is based on personal relationships. Said Benepe: “You’re talking with principals; you’re dealing with more flexibility in terms of schedules, buying, and willingness to try new things. But it is more time-consuming and involves handholding.”
He also sees the gift business as a growing category.
“There’s a segment of the population that wants to buy goods not in national chains but from individual boutiques and regional stores,” said Benepe. Therefore, independents are looking to differentiate themselves from the big guys.
“They are much more concerned about the quality of the product and how they are going to be serviced than price. Their orders are much smaller, typically ‘pick and pack’ business, but they expect that the merchandise they buy will not also appear in larger retail stores like the big boxes and department stores,” said Benepe.
Anna Duran, corporate sales manager for Santa Monica, Calif.-based House, an exhibitor at the New York gift show since 1999, said that since House doesn’t have many sales reps, the event gives retailers a chance to see its new products first hand.
“This forum puts us in touch with the specialty boutiques that would retail our products, and our mix-and-match customization allows them to offer more options in the stores,” added Duran.
According to Marie Ruiz in corporate sales at House, “good quality and quantity orders” are typically written at the New York gift show. “We always get new accounts at the gift show, which attracts high-end boutique customers.”
Susan Firestone, president of SiwThaiSilk, based in Yardley, Pa., said she started coming to the New York gift show this year because, “We need to be in New York where all the retailers are shopping. Traffic is usually very good at both (the January and August) shows.”
She continued that her company “loves the upscale boutiques” because it sells into the upper mid to high end. “We also sell to upper-end department stores, furniture boutiques and interior designers,” said Firestone.
“A lot of really great buyers attend the gift show,” remarked Nicole Linton, founder and designer of E Bella in Boulder, Colo. “This market in particular attracts a high-end clientele, and they understand the value of fine-quality, handmade goods,” she added.
According to Becky Bay, a sales rep for Novato, Calif.-based Bella Notte Linens, who has been participating in the New York gift show for about eight years, “Traffic is the big reason to be at this show.” She added, “Most of our clients are independent specialty boutiques, so this is the perfect venue.”
Between New York and Atlanta is where Bella Notte Linens has its best markets, said Bay. “This is where we need to be because all our customers are here at the Piers; the buzz and trends are all here.”
“There’s a lot of traffic, and retailers are shopping all areas of the home,” said Riga Sadeq, assistant sales manager for SDH, who has participated in the show since 1999. “Almost every high-end manufacturer of linens is showing at either the Piers or Javits.”
She added that with this type of upscale merchandise, companies need one-on-one contact with customers and, “This is something you get in independent boutiques.”
Lois Keiner, vice president of Matouk, added, “It’s a strong business for us. Gift retailers have shorter windows for buying and can be much more flexible. Retailers get to see us that would not be at the textiles show. A lot of seasonal orders are placed at this show.”
“Volume is what we get out of the show — a larger quantity of new buyers and gift buyers,” said Katha Diddel, president and creative director of the Katha Diddel Home Collection. “We are very busy at this show. It’s constant traffic. We pick up a large percentage of customers at the show and see people we haven’t seen in a while.”
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Bad news for Amazon Prime subscribers who pay monthly: The online retail giant is raising prices by nearly 20 percent.
While an annual subscription to the service remains at $99, monthly prices are jumping from $10.99 to $12.99 in the U.S., which works out to an increase of 18 percent, costing a total of $156 per year. The price change goes into effect on February 18.
The monthly payment option was introduced less than two years ago as a way to offer the service to those for whom a single payment of $99 is a hardship or preferred a month-to-month commitment, according to Recode. “Since then, Prime membership growth has been the strongest among households making less than $50,000 annually, an R.W. Baird study found,” writer Jason Del Ray notes.
Prime members are Amazon’s bread and butter—they’re known to spend more and shop more frequently on the site—so apparently, the original monthly price became unsustainable. Amazon said in a statement to Recode:
The number of items eligible for unlimited Free Two-Day Shipping increased in recent years from 20 million to more than 100 million items. We have expanded Prime Free Same-Day and Prime Free One-Day delivery to more than 8,000 cities and towns. We also continue to introduce new, popular and award-winning Prime Originals…Members also enjoy a growing list of unique benefits like Prime Music, Prime Reading, exclusive products and much more.
A discounted month-to-month membership for students—launched in the fall of 2017—is also getting a price bump, from $5.49 to $6.49. Business Insider reports that the company’s program for those on government assistance, which offers Prime for $5.99 to anyone with an EBT card, is not facing a price increase.


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Alderwood to get 50 percent bigger
Seattle Times business reporter
Lynnwood's Alderwood Mall has unveiled plans to add two outdoor retail areas and a movie-theater complex by late 2004 in a bid to become the dominant shopping and entertainment hub of Seattle's northern suburbs.
Chicago-based General Growth Properties, which owns the mall, filed preliminary plans with the city last year to expand by roughly 50 percent to about 1.5 million square feet. But Alderwood had been mum on the subject until yesterday, when it announced a handful of tenants had signed on.
Adjoining the mall's northeast corner will be a shopping area similar to Seattle's University Village, with upscale retailers and restaurants connected by outdoor pedestrian walkways. Alderwood also plans to add an open-air garden plaza, called "The Terraces," for shops and family-theme restaurants, and a 16-screen, stadium-style theater complex operated by Loews Cineplex Entertainment.
The mall said tenants for the new additions include Borders Books and Music, Gene Juarez Salon & Spa, California Pizza Kitchen and Claim Jumper restaurant. Barry O'Connor, Alderwood's general manager, said the mall has commitments for about 70 percent of the new additions and will announce more tenants once details are finalized.
O'Connor said the idea is to make Alderwood "the premier destination" for South Snohomish County, where new office parks and affordable housing are drawing more workers and residents.
"We are trying to be more than a shopping center," he said. "We're trying to be a destination for shopping, dining and entertainment."
To make way for the village area, the building now occupied by Nordstrom will be demolished sometime next year — after Nordstrom moves into a new, 144,000-square-foot building to be built on the former Lamonts' site.
Lee Michaelis, an associate planner with the city of Lynnwood, said the expansion project has cleared environmental review, though city officials will re-evaluate each phase of the project before issuing building permits.
The mall has agreed to make a variety of improvements to help manage increased traffic generated by the expansion.
Jake Batsell can be reached at 206-464-2718 or firstname.lastname@example.org.


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It’s clear now the coronavirus will leave many permanent effects on society and be remembered for generations.
Like 9/11 or the financial crisis of 2008, we will tell future generations about a time before coronavirus (“B.C.”) and compare it to the new social order.
Many have already begun speculating about what a post-lockdown world will look like. Speaking on a Wall Street Journal podcast, the Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease Dr. Anthony Fauci said the coronavirus might be the end of the handshake!
Fauci told host Kate Linebaugh:
When you gradually come back, you don’t jump into it with both feet, you say, what are the things you could still do and still approach normal? One of them is absolute compulsive hand-washing. The other is you don’t ever shake anybody’s hands.
I’m not so sure about that. I think it’s very likely people are going to be apprehensive about shaking each other’s hands for a long time once the lockdown is over. But shaking hands is older than history. It’s going to be a hard habit to break for us Westerners.
I do think, though, we’ll see Americans wearing masks in public become more common. Concerned over catching “the next coronavirus,” I expect there will be many Americans wearing face masks for years following the lockdown.
Additionally, there’s always a demand for clothing that hides the face. Whether it’s a baseball cap pulled down real low or a hoodie covering the eyes, some Americans like to hide their face in public… for whatever reason. And with growing concerns over facial recognition technology, I can see the face mask becoming the must-have fashion accessory for a long time to come.
The fashion industry was ahead of the curve with these masks on the runway at Paris Fashion Week at the end of February.
What’s certain to follow the coronavirus in America, however, are lawsuits. Corporations, governments, hospitals, doctors, insurance companies… everyone is gonna get sued. Whether it’s for failing to take proper precautions or limiting access to health care or basic needs in some way or whatever, rest assured, the lawsuits are coming. In fact, it has already started.
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A Walmart in Chicago is now facing a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of a worker who died of coronavirus complications. The legal complaint alleges the store’s “willful and wanton misconduct and reckless disregard,” which led to the man’s illness and death on March 25. I expect there will be much more of these such lawsuits in the near future.
Also, the political blame game will certainly follow the coronavirus in America. Democrats will blame republicans for not responding fast enough. Republicans will blame democrats for fear mongering and being too easy on immigration. Everyone’s fingers will be pointed at each other. No one will walk away happy. Same old, same old…
The worst part of life after corona, however, will most likely be the economic hangover.
The economic cost of the COVID-19 pandemic is already estimated to be in the trillions. Think about this: Every restaurant and bar… every shopping mall and outlet… every movie theater and tourist attraction… they’ve already been closed to the public for nearly a month now!
Meanwhile, the same goes for almost every office building, manufacturing plant, retail store, or any place where people can crowd up — many are completely shut down or have pivoted their business drastically. Fine dining restaurants, for example, are now offering carryout. Meanwhile, some retailers now have scheduled and private shopping.
Then consider all the workers who aren’t getting paid right now. Among just waiters, waitresses, and bartenders, there are 3 million people just in America who haven’t been to work in weeks. And that’s just one small sector of workers!
As just one result of this kind of work disruption, people aren’t (or can’t) paying for basic things like rent. According to the National Multifamily Housing Council, nearly a third of all apartment renters in the U.S. didn’t pay any of their April rent during the first week of the month.
Global economies are facing their biggest challenges since the financial crisis of 2008. Only this time, those challenges aren’t the result of banker folly and false assets. These challenges will follow a truly impactful disruption in economic activity.
Until next time,
As an editor at Energy and Capital, Luke’s analysis and market research reach hundreds of thousands of investors every day. Luke is also a contributing editor of Angel Publishing’s Bull and Bust Report newsletter. There, he helps investors in leveraging the future supply-demand imbalance that he believes could be key to a cyclical upswing in the hard asset markets. For more on Luke, go to his editor’s page.


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Deam U.S. Senate candidate Tom Nelson released a new digital ad charging U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson hasn’t done anything about gun-related school incidents, even though they’ve increased from 15 when he was elected in 2010 to 249 last year.
Nelson’s campaign said the ad is running on digital platforms, but didn’t release other details.
Nelson says in the ad he shouldn’t have to worry about his kids when he drops them off at school, but does. He vows if elected to support proposals such as red flag laws and an assault rifle ban, saying they’re “simple things to make our schools safer because I’m tired of this.”
The ad then plays audio of a dispatcher saying there is an active shooter situation in a school and a parent asking “can you hide somewhere?” Nelson closes the spot saying he approves of the ad, “whether the NRA likes it or not.”


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The Bus Cafe in Margate serves the UK’s top breakfast – and that’s official.
The team took the top prize at the National Breakfast and Brunch Awards yesterday (January 29) with their signature posh hash dish.
The Bus Café, at Nayland’s Royal Crescent Promenade, is run by Simon Lindley, wife Jodie and couple Xander Muir and Lois Du Plessis.
Xander was due to take part in the competition cook off this year but, after becoming ill, was replaced by Simon at the last moment.
Last year Simon scooped third place for The Bus Café but this year he took the crown by winning the title of Breakfast of the Year and £1,000 in prize money for the posh hash creation.
Simon won the big one with a dish that comprised a homemade dairy- and gluten-free beetroot, potato and onion rostie, topped with zesty smashed broad beans and peas, a mumbled egg, oak smoked salmon and horseradish cream, all on a bed of leafy greens with a balsamic glaze drizzle (pictured below).
The Darwin and Wallace small chain of bars and Tried and True café in south west London came second and third respectively.
A second dish had to be made using the three sponsor ingredients of Lamb Weston – The Dukes of Chippingdom (chips), Pan Artisan – Focaccia Romana and Tabasco sauce.
Now in its third year, the awards invite chefs from across the out of home, pub and bar, casual dining and hotel sectors to compete in a series of cooking challenges. This was the first time the brunch category had been included, leading the judges to remark that the standard had been the highest yet.
Henry Norman, editor of organisers OOH magazine, said: “The Bus Café is a great place to visit. It’s a quirky outlet, is sat right on the seafront in Margate, and, needless to say, the food is amazing! I urge you to visit them and enjoy the experience for yourselves. A huge congratulations to them, as well as to The Grazing Sheep and all of our talented finalists.”
Jodie said: “There were 16 finalists from all around the UK and the competition was even stronger than last year.
“We were in two minds as to whether we would get anywhere so didn’t expect to win! It’s amazing!”
Simon, Jodie, Alexander and Lois bought the bus in March 2015 two weeks after they first discussed the idea. It arrived from Liverpool and they set about a 6-month project of ripping out the interior to then create a kitchen downstairs and café seating upstairs, all the while trading with customers able to tuck into barbecue offerings.
They moved from their first site at Fort Hill Yard to the promenade in February 2017 and act as the anchor for a variety of food and drink small businesses at the site.
Bus Café products are bought through local businesses including Quex Barn, Kent Collections and Rooks. They have also formed a partnership with the Garden Gate Project based at Northdown Park.
The Bus Café is open 10am -3pm Saturdays and Sundays.
The National Breakfast and Brunch Awards sponsors were Arla Pro, Diversey, Lamb Weston, Pan Artisan and TABASCO®. For more information, go to www.breakfastbrunchawards.co.uk


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New Delhi: Despite a lacklustre performance in the Smartphone market in the past months, Microsoft is showing no signs of giving up yet. The US giant is set to unveil its premium offering - Surface Phone, which is being pitched as a breakthrough advancement to its existing Lumia series.
Though there is no official confirmation yet, there are speculations that the Surface phone will be something on the lines of the company's tablet offering by the same name.
According to the Microsoft executive vice president and chief marketing officer Chris Capossela, the company is working on a "breakthrough" and is completely advanced from 'Lumia' series.
The US giant has failed to explode despite its takeover of 'Nokia' and rebranding of the Lumia range of Windows-based smart phones as 'Microsoft Lumia'.
Reportedly, the Surface Phone is going to provide features which are more commonly found in home computers.
Rumours also suggest that Microsoft will replace its traditionally-used Qualcomm chips from software which is commonly found in computers and enable the upcoming Smartphone to run on full Windows software.


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LATE BREAKING NEWS
Microsoft Provides Support For DAISY Consortium: Software Giant Supports, Collaborates on Accessibility Standards for Digital Talking Books
The DAISY Consortium announced on July 5 that Microsoft Corporation has pledged financial and technical support for the Consortium's ongoing work to establish global accessibility standards for the next generation of digital talking book (DTB) technology.
In a letter to the DAISY Consortium Board, Microsoft's Emerging Technologies division announced that it will donate 25 percent of its revenues from the sale of AudioPublisher for the Microsoft Reader. AudioPublisher is a tool to enable publishers to include additional information within eBooks to enable synchronized audio narration. In addition to its contribution through AudioPublisher, Microsoft will join the DAISY Consortium as a Friend, providing expertise for the creation of specifications, standards, and software and hardware requirements for reading technologies.
"Part of the promise of eBooks is that they will open up a new world of reading for people who are blind or are otherwise unable to read print. The DAISY Consortium is an important leader in the effort to ensure that this promise will be realized around the world, and Microsoft is honored to participate in their success," said Dick Brass, Vice President, Technologies Development at Microsoft."
Last month, Microsoft announced a licensing agreement with isSound Corporation and Labyrinten Data AB that will enable text-to-audio synchronization of eBooks created for the Microsoft Reader format. Labyrinten Data of Falkoping, Sweden and isSound Corporation of Ewing, NJ are also Friends of the DAISY Consortium.
George Kerscher, project manager of DAISY and an executive on loan from the Princeton, NJ-based Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic, lauded Microsoft's generosity and collaboration.
"Microsoft is setting a new standard for inclusiveness in the eBook industry," said Kerscher. "Given this level of investment in the development of accessibility guidelines and compatible software, it's conceivable that other technology and commercial publishing industries may soon follow the Microsoft lead by offering mainstream products that are immediately accessible to consumers who are print disabled."
Richard O. Scribner, President and CEO of Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic, a member of the Consortium, said Microsoft's investment in the work of the DAISY Consortium, coupled with its commitment to accessibility issues in education and the workplace, signals a positive outlook for the future of reading technologies.
"Microsoft recognizes the value of people with print disabilities not only for their potential in academia and at work, but as consumers who need to be able to access a variety of reading materials," Scribner said. "We're very enthusiastic about Microsoft's commitment to DAISY and for being responsive to the needs of millions of students and professionals who cannot read standard print because of a disability."


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With the rapid increase of online media consumption over the last few years, newspapers have seen a noticeable decrease in circulation. Where newspaper used to be king, fake online media outlets and/or stories now garner more engagement than real news.
As if the newspaper industry didn’t have enough to deal with, now digital ad blocking software threatens to eat into its digital profits. Ad blockers, obviously, block ads. The reason for using them would seem to be, “I don’t want to see ads anymore…duh.” But there are more practical reasons for using ad blockers. A heavy ad load is data-intensive, meaning slow load times for users, while eating up precious time, data and battery resources.


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General Motors has detailed the motors it plans to use on its next-generation electric cars.
Speaking at a public policy meeting in Detroit, President Mark Reuss said The General will offer a 180kW front motor, 255kW front or rear motor, and a 62kW all-wheel drive assist motor on its Ultium platform.
As is usually the case with electric motors, these are scalable. The flagship Hummer off-roader will have three 255kW motors, for example, for a potential combined output of 765kW.
The 180kW and 255kW motors are permanent magnet units designed to cut down on the use of rare earth metals, the 62kW all-wheel drive add-on is an induction motor.
The new motor units will also include inverters, accessory power switchers, and brake regeneration electronics, all of which are currently separate from the motor itself on current General Motors electric cars.
General Motors will mate its new motors with its Ultium battery packs.
General Motors says its Ultium battery technology is capable of a total electric range of 724km, while Ultium-powered vehicles will be profitable from the first generation.
The company says it projects its second-generation Ultium battery packs will boast twice the energy density and cost 60 per cent less by 2025, bringing EVs closer to price parity with internal combustion engine-powered vehicles.
Development of the second-generation batteries is already in the prototype stage and they’ll go into production by mid-decade.
GM has yet to release any models with its first-generation Ultium batteries, though its GMC Hummer EV range will enter production later in 2021 and the Cadillac Lyriq will follow in 2022. It’ll release a total of 30 new EVs by 2025.
The first-generation tech is already 40 per cent cheaper to produce than the batteries used in the Chevrolet Bolt, currently the company’s only EV on the US market.


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Elon Musk’s SpaceX will send satellites to bolster Emergency SOS via Satellite feature on iPhones
Elon Musk’s SpaceX is all set to join forces with Apple’s satellite partner, Globalstar. This collaboration targets to bolster communication networks, ensuring that Apple users have access to critical emergency services even in remote areas.
In a very significant development, Elon Musk’s SpaceX is joining forces with Apple’s satellite partner Globalstar to enhance the Emergency SOS feature on iPhones. This collaboration aims to bolster communication networks, ensuring that Apple users have access to critical emergency services even if they are stranded in any remote areas and don’t have access to cellular network.
What is Apple’s Emergency SOS feature?
Apple launched the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro series with Emergency SOS via satellite feature. It empowers users to connect with emergency services under “extraordinary circumstances”, such as, complete lack of cellular coverage. An iPhone 14 or iPhone 14 Pro user can send an SOS message using a satellite connection. In perfect conditions with a direct view of the sky and the horizon, a message might take just 15 seconds to send, and just over a minute to send under trees with light or medium foliage. iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro series are also expected to come with the feature.
Globalstar and SpaceX are not collaborating for the first time
SpaceX has already helped Globalstar launch a satellite last year from the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida. This time around Globalstar is collaborating with SpaceX as a partner of SpaceX.
So, what’s the role of Apple in the deal?
Apple is reimbursing Globalstar for 95% of the capital expenditures related to the satellites, says a report. This is inclusive of the launch costs. As per reports, Apple also readily agreed to provide $252 million in funding for the upfront costs associated with upcoming launch and enhancing Globalstar’s ground station network. Apple, In return will get to use 85% of Globalstar’s network capacity to provide SOS Emergency service, which is available in the US, UK, France, Canada, Germany, Ireland, Austria, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy and Portugal.
As Apple and SpaceX embark together on this ground-breaking venture, iPhone users across the world can anticipate greater safety and accessibility during emergencies, reaffirming the companies’ commitment to technological innovation and user welfare. Apple is not ready to leave any stone unturned in ensuring that their SOS emergency service is reliable. For this they first collaborated with Globalstar and is now collaborating with SpaceX.
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Last month, Tustin, CA-based Permlight Products Inc. formally launched Brillia, a new division designed to work with lighting manufacturers to bring new solid-state lighting (SSL) concepts to market.
The announcement caps off several years of research, development and manufacturing partnerships by Permlight. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LEDs could potentially reduce lighting's electricity appetite by as much as 33 percent nationwide. With this in mind, Brillia is moving forward with a roster of more than 100 LED fixtures developed for seven well-known lighting brands.
"By creating and announcing Brillia, we are formalizing what we have been doing for the last four years, which is partnering with [original equipment manufacturers] to expand the possibilities of solid-state lighting," said Michael Keddington, co-CEO of Permlight, in a media release. "Brillia was born from Permlight’s numerous successes collaborating with our customers to integrate bright, efficient, long-lasting light engines into fixtures and lighting systems designed for both residential and commercial use."
Brillia's announcement continues Permlight’s track record of technological achievement in the SSL industry. The firm's Enbryten LED line won several awards and recognitions, including a place on GreenSpec/Environmental Building News' "Top 10 Green Building Products" list. Permlight has 13 patents in its portfolio, including a 2001 breakthrough that allowed LED chips to be bracketed by a metal frame to reduce the amount of heat generated by each chip.
Though Brillia's name is relatively new, the division itself has been partnering with manufacturers to build LED-drive light engines for several years. In 2004, Permlight/Brillia joined with Chloride Systems, part of the Philips Group, to develop a new line of outdoor LED architectural fixtures. In 2005, the firm has partnered with Cole Lighting to produce LED step lights. And a collaborative venture with Kim Lighting yielded two new outdoor flood lighting lines (Micro-Flood and Minivault), which delivered illumination considerably warmer in color temperature than typical outdoor LED products.
Caption for Permlight Dining Room.jpg: Downlights featuring Brillia light engines illuminate this dining room, which was designed by Debi Bodinus of Los Angeles-based D'Bodinus Eco-Luxury.


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"Most designers don't have a clue about open source," says Eriol Fox of Ushahidi, a non-profit social enterprise that creates humanitarian, open source tech tools. Unfortunately, this means there are few design-related contributions to open source software, and this results in an abundance of poorly designed open source tools.
Ushahidi learned through its Open Design initiative that "designers are really ready to contribute to things that do good," and this can create a natural alliance with the open source community—once designers are aware of the opportunities.
Watch Eriol's All Things Open 2019 Lightning Talk, "How to encourage designers contributing to open source," to learn more about getting designers involved with open source software by starting with tech for good.
During the Lightning Talks hosted by Opensource.com at the seventh annual All Things Open conference in October 2019, eight presenters shared quick takes on interesting open source topics, projects, and ideas. Watch all of the 2019 All Things Open Lightning Talks on the Opensource.com YouTube channel.


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Edge AI specialist FogHorn works with auto firms ADVICS, Porsche; releases Android app
Foghorn has struck a deal with auto-parts maker ADVICS to deploy its edge compute software to enable real-time analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) as part of its “smart factory transition”.
The California-based industrial IoT software developer has also released an Android version of its edge AI software, and completed a pilot with car-maker Porsche around vehicle access using edge-based face-recognition technology.
ADVICS has partnered with Japanese technology distributor Macnica Networks to digitise its manufacturing sites, integrate equipment data, and bring intelligence to its manufacturing operations. Macnica Networks has deployed Foghorn’s Lightning edge compute software with ADVICS to be able to identify and respond to live production issues.
Yuta Endo, vice president, general manager of business development and head of APAC operations at FogHorn, commented: “ADVICS digital transformation to a smart factory reflects their mission to contribute to the reliability of society by pursuing a better safety, environment and comfort through products that delight customers.”
FogHorn has also released an Android version of its Lightning product, Lightning Mobile, for industrial devices, designed to give operational technology (OT) staff on the ‘shop floor’ access to edge-based AI and IoT programmes on handheld mobile devices.
“This approach enables a new class of edge intelligence applications not possible with devices restricted to fixed locations, while making it easy to build and market off-the-shelf common solutions using FogHorn’s software… Support for edge-based deep learning model inferencing solves critical issues such as image recognition of bar codes and health and battery monitoring of high-volume deployments of mobile devices,” said FogHorn.
Sastry Malladi, chief technology officer at FogHorn, said: “This will unleash a wave of new industrial use cases including next-generation bar code scanners, portable factory environmental monitors, manufacturing using a high-density of devices such as smart screwdrivers, advanced fleet applications and more. We see a tremendous global opportunity for this technology.”
Separately, FogHorn has partnered with German car maker Porsche to develop a real-time video recognition solution, using multi-factor authentication, for unlocking and securing vehicles. The 100-day challenge was part of the Startup Autobahn challenge, in Stuttgart, Germany, a European innovation platform connecting automotive organisations with startups.
The FogHorn / Porsche proposal saw drivers enter their vehicles with real-time face detection and infrared video processing at the edge coupled with MFA via a device, such as a personal phone, without the need for a key fob. By leveraging edge computing, connectivity to the cloud or a network is not necessary for the driver to access the vehicle, said FogHorn.
“A pre-registered driver need only walk toward the car for the doors to unlock and resolves safeguarding issues of key fobs being scanned by car thieves,” it said. Porsche called it a solution to a “persistent challenge” of easier access and tougher security.
In March, NTT-subsidiary NTT Data said it has selected Foghorn’s Lightning software for its on-premise analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions, which are being offered to the manufacturing, telecoms and energy industries.


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What’s trending on Twitter in the UK today? Coldplay will once more headline the Pyramid Stage at Glasto, Emma Watson takes home an Elle Style Award, and Wm Morrison buys up Kiddicare!
It was just announced today that British rockers Coldplay will be headlining the Glastonbury Festival’s Pyramid Stage. The band, who first played at the festival just weeks after signing their first record deal, have already headlined several times, but have not been seen at Glasto since 2005. Tickets to the music fest have already sold out, but any cancelled tickets will become available in April.
@merlinglass: so pleased we will get to see cold play on the pyramid-stage, oh roll on June!
Elle Style Awards
The annual Elle Style Awards were held in London last night, with Brits Emma Watson, Emma Hill, and Cheryl Cole all taking home awards. Hill won Best Accessory Designer for her Mulberry handbags, while Cole won Musician of the Year. However, it was Watson who took home the Elle Style Icon award, presented by new wave fashion designer Dame Vivienne Westwood (who admitted to not knowing who the Harry Potter star was).
Wm Morrison, the fourth largest supermarket chain in the UK, has just purchased the online baby products retailer Kiddicare. The sale, which reportedly cost £70 million ($113 million), marks the chain’s first venture into the online market. Chief Executive Dalton Philips is very excited about the deal, saying, “This acquisition brings not only a respected, successful and fast-growing specialist retailer into the Morrisons group but also a robust, scalable and highly advanced technology platform around which we can begin to build our e-commerce offer.”
@timdanaher: Fascinating that Morrisons has bought Kiddicare. I don’t know the business well, but held in very high regard as an outstanding online set-up
@Bouncybhall: Wow! Morrisons have bought out Kiddicare! £70 million! I still remember when Kiddicare was a small shop in Werrington…
@GreenWellie: Morrison Buys Kiddicare in Online Push==who is next? is it you?
David Molofsky is the writer of the blog, A Place To Hang Your Cape.Read More


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1 of 5 | Technicians take COVID-19 testing samples from those that have waited in line at the St. Clair Square Shopping Center & Mall in Fairview Heights, Illinois. File Photo by Bill Greenblatt/UPI | License Photo
Jan. 18 (UPI) -- The federal government launched a website Tuesday for Americans to order up to four free COVID-19 testing kits per household.
On Friday, the White House announced that the administration of President Joe Biden was buying 1 billion tests to distribute for free to Americans, and online ordering of half a billion kits would begin Wednesday, but ordering has now begun a day ahead of schedule.
"Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order 4 free at-home COVID-19 tests," the covidtests.gov website said Tuesday. "The tests are completely free. Orders will usually ship in 7-12 days."
"Order your tests now so you have them when you need them," it adds, with a link to order the tests.
According to the order form posted by the U.S. Postal Service, there is a limit of one order, including four individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests per residential address, with orders to begin shipping in late January.
"Today, in alignment with website launch best practices, covidtests.gov is currently in its beta phase, which means that the website is operating at a limited capacity ahead of its official launch," White House press secretary Jen Psaki told NBC News. "This is standard practice to address troubleshooting and ensure as smooth of an official launch tomorrow as possible. We expect the website to officially launch midmorning tomorrow."
Still, by mid-afternoon Tuesday, over half a million people had visited the site, according to a government website that tracks web traffic to government sites, with other websites trailing behind in the amount of web traffic, CBS News reported.
Earlier this week, some people were already able to order tests through the White House's program, which granted priority access through a portal launched with the National Association of Community Health Workers for people living in "high-risk" ZIP codes, according to CBS.
The covidtests.gov website noted that other resources are available for individuals who need a test immediately through pharmacies and retailers nationwide and free testing sites with a link to find a community-based test site. It also noted that health insurance companies can reimburse up to eight at-home tests per plan.
"To ensure equity and access for all Americans, the Administration will also launch a call line to help those unable to access the website to place orders, and work with national and local community-based organizations to support the nation's hardest-hit and highest-risk communities in requesting tests," the White House said in its statement Friday.
The federal government announced last month it would start mailing free at-home COVID-19 tests upon request to any U.S. household amid the surge in the Omicron variant, and the White House said at the time it was preparing up to 500 million kits to ship.
Long lines forming at testing centers and at-home rapid tests quickly selling out have been among the biggest challenges for the administration, public officials have said.
"The 650,000 women and men of the United States Postal Service are ready to deliver and proud to play a critical role in supporting the health needs of the American public," Postmaster General Louis DeJoy said in a statement to CBS. "We have been working closely with the administration and are well prepared to accept and deliver test kits on the first day the program launches."


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BRISTOL, Tenn. (WJHL) – Country singer-songwriter Morgan Wallen is coming to Bristol in October, and tickets go on sale soon.
According to a release by Bristol Motor Speedway, the stadium will host “Morgan Wallen’s Country Thunder Takeover” on October 30 in the infield of the famed half-mile.
Alongside Wallen, the lineup will include:
- Granger Smith ft. Earl Dibble Jr.
- Larry Fleet
- Jon Langston
Tickets will be available online here starting at September 21, and camping/parking tickets will become available later.


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A private trade group's measure of the U.S. service sector is expected to show accelerating growth in March as the economy added jobs and consumer spending slowly increased.
The Institute for Supply Management's service index likely rose to 54 last month from 53 in February, according to economists polled by Thomson Reuters. February's reading was the strongest since January 2008.
The report is expected at 10 a.m. EDT Monday.
Any reading above 50 signals growth. That threshold was broken in September for the first time in 13 months. The service sector's recovery has been bumpy since, lagging a resurgence in manufacturing as hesitant consumers remain wary of big purchases amid high unemployment.
The service sector is important as it accounts for 80 percent of U.S. jobs excluding farmworkers. It includes jobs in areas like health care, retail and financial services. The sector is highly dependent on consumer spending, which powers about 70 percent of the economy. Consumers have been stressed throughout the recession by job losses, stagnant wages and a rocky real estate market.
Retail sales have begun to improve this year, however, as the labor market improves. Chains from children's clothing seller Gymboree Corp. to pet products store PetSmart Inc. have impressed Wall Street with their improving outlooks. Even luxury department store Saks Inc. has posted three straight months of rising sales in stores open at least a year.
The labor market also seems healthier. In February ISM said its measure of employment shrank for the 26th straight month. But last week, government data showed the economy added 162,000 jobs in March, the biggest month of job creation in 3 years. The unemployment rate remains 9.7 percent.
In its report, the Labor Department said service-producing companies added 82,000 jobs last month.


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Dubai: Mastercard will acquire 9.99 per cent of Network International for $300 million as a cornerstone investment in the upcoming initial public offering (IPO).
Network International will list its shares on London Stock Exchange following the IPO next month.
Mastercard’s investment will be based on the same terms as institutional investors participating in the IPO, subject to a 9.99 per cent ownership limitation, a 24 month lock-up period and a 36 month standstill not to acquire additional shares without Network International Board approval. The transaction is conditional on an IPO of Network International with an institutional free float of at least 25 per cent.
The companies have also agreed to enter into a strategic partnership to support and accelerate the development of electronic payments in Africa and the Middle East.
“Today’s announcement will see both parties working on joint development projects and cross-referral arrangements to drive card penetration, usage and acceptance in the MEA region. In addition, it will also enable us to develop and offer new value-added solutions for our clients, through our scalable and secure pan-regional technology platforms,” said Simon Haslam, CEO of Network International.
Mastercard and Network International will support their mutual strategy of growing the payments ecosystem in the world’s most underpenetrated payments market. Mastercard will pay, or invest through, Network International annually for the development and delivery of shared innovation to expand product areas and drive the adoption of digital payments in Africa and the Middle East.
“Mastercard’s commitment to become a cornerstone investor in Network International’s planned IPO with a $300 million investment, demonstrates significant confidence in the strength of the business as we move forward to listing. Network International sits at the heart of the Middle East and Africa’s payments ecosystem, the world’s most underpenetrated payments market, providing investors with the unique opportunity to benefit from the rapid structural shift from cash to digital payments,” said Ron Kalifa, Chairman of Network International.
Under the partnership, Network International and Mastercard will establish shared development projects and cross-referral arrangements for products and value-added services to financial institutions and merchants, including cyber and intelligence tools and tokenization solutions to drive incremental financial benefits to both parties. Both parties will retain and offer their respective independent solutions, and Network International fully retains its scheme agnostic strategy, the company said in a statement.


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Sony used its CES keynote to reveal that it sold 6.5 million PlayStation devices through the Christmas holiday season, and that Vita sales in Japan have now reached 500,000.
PlayStation 3 accounted for 3.9 million of the holiday figures, and motion controller PlayStation Move for 1.7 million. PSP sales were at 1.6 million.
Hosted by Sony Computer Entertainment chairman Kaz Hirai and Sony president Howard Stringer, the company used the platform to show off its range of connected services
"We have a stake in every part of the entertainment revolution," said Stringer.
As part of that, Sony plans to have 300 million devices connected to the Sony Entertainment Network by 2015, a service that will cover a range of devices with just one login and one virtual wallet. 100 million Sony televisions are already connected to the internet.
"Whether you're playing games, watching movies or TV, or sharing photos or videos, you're really doing one thing - experiencing the content you want to," added Hirai.
As part of this new connected service, Music Unlimited (formerly named Qriocity) will be available on Vita on launch for the UK and US. The US will also get Netflix's media streaming on day one.
Sony is also launching a new video and photo storage and sharing service, Play Memories Online, for its devices in Spring and a range of editing software. Play Memories Home for PC, Play Memories Mobile for Bloggie and Play Memories Studios for PlayStation 3.
Updates to the Sony range of televisions, laptops and Blu-ray players were all touched upon, including a new "slate" designed device, as well as a new Sony Mobile Communications division phone, the HD ready Xperia Ion. The Android device will be released in the US early this year on AT&T, and is PlayStation certified. One the show floor the Xperia S was on show, also PlayStation certified and featured a touchscreen.
It seems both Sony and Microsoft are keen to focus on the present and the virtual, despite growing anticipation of their plans for the next generation.
Despite the presence of Hirai and Stringer, no mention was made of the recently denied rumours that Hirai would be taking the president role in the near future.


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BPerfect Cosmetics celebrated 10 incredible years in business in style this month with their guests enjoying an evening in Banana Block in Belfast.
CEO Brendan McDowell was joined by his team to celebrate everything they have achieved over the last decade from their humble beginnings as a one-man show to a trailblazing global make-up success story.
Of course, they were joined by some of the biggest names in the industry, including professional makeup artist Katie Daley, Rachel Gorry, Sinead Rice and Michelle Regazzoli Stone.
As they walked the pink carpet and were greeted by thrilling fire-breathing angels, stilt walkers, gymnasts and drag performers before partying the night away.
Speaking about the milestone anniversary, founder Brendan McDowell said: ”I am so immensely proud of how the brand has expanded and the team has grown throughout the past 10 years. When I started all those years ago, it was me and my Mum on the road selling eyebrow kits, I had absolutely no clue about make-up, just had a flare for creating and selling a product I truly believed in.
I started as a market trader and have grown BPerfect into a global makeup brand, step by step, with a positive attitude, a lot of hard work, and 10 years of calculated risks. I couldn’t have made this possible without the help of my amazing team that I have watched grow to well over 100 staff and develop their own careers right in front of my eyes, as well as our loyal customers and incredible brand ambassadors, collaborators and online community who I have created some really close friendships with. I am massively excited to see what the next 10 years brings!”
Pictures by Brian McEvoy


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KOLKATA:Tata Steel has reported a 19.4% rise in domestic steel sales in the quarter ended September 30, 2017 (Q2FY18) to 3.13 million tonne(mt) against 2.62 mt in the same period last year with its new steel plant at Kalinganagar contributing to overall volume growth and hi-end product sales for automotive segment posting a growth of around 20% (y-o-y). Half yearly sales jumped nearly 23.2% to 5.88 million tonne in April September 2017 over 4.77 mt in H1FY17.
Tata Steel’s Europe sales touched 2.6 mt in Q2FY18 against 2.26 mt in Q2FY17 leading to a 15 per cent jump in sales.
Half yearly sales figure went up 5.26 per cent to 5 mt in Europe during the quarter under review compared to 4.75 mt in same period last year. The company said deliveries have been higher reflecting stable market conditions and improved finishing processes.
Production in Europe actually went down to 2.6 mt in Q2FY18 from 2.68 mt Q2FY17 while on a half yearly basis it went up marginally to 5.39 mt H1FY18 against 5.3 mt in H1FY17.
Tata Steel said production in India went up 11% to 3.02 mt in Q2FY18 over 2.72 mt in Q2FY17 while half yearly volumes went up 18 per cent to 5.98 mt in H1FY18 over 5.06 mt in H1FY17.
At Tata Steel Jamshedpur, blast furnaces achieved best-ever Q2 production of 2.8 million tonne in FY18 compared to the previous best of 2.66 million tonne in Q2 FY16.
The Cold Rolling Mill at Jamshedpur achieved its best-ever Q2 production of 0.51 million tonne in FY18 against a previous best of 0.46 million tonne in Q2 FY15. The Merchant Mill also achieved a best-ever Q2 production of 0.118 million tonne in FY18 against its previous best of 0.118 million tonne in Q2 FY16.


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LONDON (MarketWatch) -- Loss-making telecom equipment maker Nokia Siemens Networks on Tuesday set out plans to cut nearly 6,000 jobs as it consolidates five units into three and aims for acquisitions.
The moves comes as Nokia Siemens and its European rivals, Ericsson
"Despite having fully achieved the original merger integration savings objectives of Nokia Siemens Networks, changes in the global economy and competitive environment make further cost reductions necessary," the company said.
It's looking to save 500 million euros ($738 million) a year by the end of 2011. It will take charges of 550 million euros over the next two years.
The savings will come from a wide range of areas, including real estate, information technology, site optimization, strategic workforce rebalancing, and overall general and administrative expenses. But it said customer-facing businesses will see only "minimal" cuts.
Nokia Siemens also is targeting a decline in product and service procurement costs "substantially larger" than 500 million euros. It also said it will pursue acquisitions when assets are available, particularly those at enhance scale of existing product and service business lines and deepen relationships with key customers.
"We recognize that we are operating in a market where customer needs are evolving fast," said Mika Vehvilainen, chief operating officer of Nokia Siemens Networks. "We see acquisitions and expanded partnering as important tools to help meet these needs in the fastest, most efficient way possible."
U.S.-listed shares of both Nokia and Siemens fell by more than 1% in opening trade.


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Bitcoin’s “value is a function of supply and demand; it doesn’t really do anything else … Blockchain is a great platform for future applications.” – 10/03/2017. Larry Fink. chief ... In a panel discussion with “Bitcoin Billionaires” author Ben Mezrich and The Wall Street Journal’s Paul Vigna, the Winklevosses discussed bitcoin and the crypto landscape. In what appears to be a packed house, they left no … CCN is Shutting Down after Google’s June 2019 Core Update. By MrCoin Posted in Altcoin News Altcoin Price Analysis Bitcoin & Blockchain Investments Bitcoin ... Bitcoin Ticker - Tick by tick, real time updates. All data is indicative. Options Last Updated: seconds : Time between graph updates : ms: Play sound on each trade . Round Bids/Asks to 0.500 . Animate Depth Movements . Highlight BTC bids/asks above : Alert if price falls below: Alert if price climbs above: Alert if price change +/- : Sound Alert . Desktop Alert . Show Personalized Content ... Today, Binance unveiled plans for a smart contract blockchain competing with Ethereum, Bitcoin miner manufacturer MicroBT looks to beat Bitmain to market, and the road ahead for stablecoins looks ... "I am strongly against bitcoin, and I think we are a little complacent," Trichet said during a panel discussion at Caixin's 10th annual conference on Sunday in Beijing. "The [crypto]currency ... study how a token gets its value. If the cost of coins is artificially increased by burning the part of them, it is not a good sign for me. The cryptos can be used to cover the costs of blockchain maintenance as fees. Or, the clients will have to buy them in order to use the company’s product. Maybe, it is profitable to simply hold them in a wallet, or they are a good trading instrument. The ... And so you know investors in Bitcoin today are aren't investing in Bitcoin. I don't think is as a store of value today. You were speculating that it may become a store of value because it has the ... The decidedly bullish outlook for Bitcoin over the past two days has certainly boosted sentiment in the stock market for companies involved in crypto and blockchain. According to the Bloomberg Galaxy Crypto Index, which tracks a basket of the biggest tokens, the value of these crypto stocks have jumped almost 30% , well on its way to a fifth consecutive week of gains after months of subdued ... “This is the most productive phase we’ve ever been in,” Konstantin Richter, chief executive officer of Blockdaemon, said panel discussion hosted by Bloomberg News in Los Angeles. “Projects now need to show their colors. The time is up of raising a lot of money and talking a lot of talks.” Richter said at a panel discussion hosted at the Los Angeles bureau of Bloomberg News.
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Nandan M. Nilekani, Chairman, Infosys, Kevin Sneader, Global Managing Partner at McKinsey & Company, Michael Sabia, President and CEO, Caisse de dépôt du Qué... The Great Crypto Debate: Part II One year after Bitcoin hit nearly $20,000, what can we expect from crypto in 2019? Participants: Caroline Hyde (Bloomberg News) Joe Weisenthal (Bloomberg News ... Subscribe to the TechCashHouse to learn everything you need to know about bitcoin, bitcoin news, cryptocurrencies, stocks, investing, and more! Manage your cash, and be informed. Let's grow ... Omar Abbosh, chief strategy officer for Accenture worldwide, participates in a panel discussion on navigating the world of digital disruption at the World Economic Forum, 2018. Jamie Dimon Says "Bitcoin Investors Will Pay the Price" The CEO of JPMorgan Chase & Co. Jamie Dimon comments on bitcoin during a panel discussion at the annual meeting of the Institute of ... Bitcoin Price Technical Analysis 2019 Bitcoin price prediction. Bitcoin price technical analysis Bitcoin Price Trading Technical Analysis. Ripple coin price analysis. Ripple price prediction ... Bloomberg Markets and Finance Recommended for you 11:03 Earnings Binance [07.31.20] - Ethereum rallies as Bitcoin Rally, BTC Buy Signal consolidates Віnаncе [Ехсhаngе] 25,208 watching Keynote "Bitcoin & Cryptocurrency Outlook - A Bear Market in Transition" by Mike McGlone, Bloomberg - Duration: 18 minutes. 27 views; 1 year ago; This item has been hidden. Created playlists. 33 ... Michael Frisch, Chief Commercial Officer & Member of the Executive Board, Danish Ship Finance Martin Hugger, Managing Director, Meerbaum Capital Solutions Yves Kallina, SVP Global Loan Syndicate ... This panel looked at the disruptive forces re-shaping the global trade landscape, including persistent US-China trade tensions, Brexit dynamics in Europe and progress of multilateral trade deals ...


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The new Croatian postal service is not mainstream, even in the rest of Europe
January 7, 2022 – The Croatian Post (Hrvatska posta) has been in the news intermittently for very positive reasons and because of the innovation it has introduced in recent months. This brand new Croatian postal service is not common even in much more developed European countries.
Like Poslovni Dnevnik / Lucija Spiljak Written, instead of sending certain types of mail to people’s home addresses, senders can now send registered items through digital channels for the first time thanks to another brand new and modern Croatian postal service.
This is the new eDelivery project successfully implemented by the Croatian Post, the Ministry of Justice and Administration and the IT company Sedam IT. The project developed and implemented a solution for the delivery of electronic documents to natural and legal persons, which complies with the eIDAS regulations of the European Union (EU).
“Croatian Post continues its digital transformation. This project is a novelty which is not so well represented in the EU, which puts us at the top of the EU countries which are certified for this type of service. This is a secure, channel. The registered mail that we have today in physical form is moving towards a more secure digital environment, which upon receipt is confirmed by a digital signature ”, explained Ivan Culo, chairman of the board of the Croatian Post.
Sedam IT was responsible for the development and design of the software and other key software components of this new Croatian Post service, and they created a communication channel that enabled the connection of the Croatian Post IT system and the Ministry of Justice and Administration through which electronic documents are transferred, all according to strict European standards.
The total value of the eDelivery project is 310,000 euros, and 75% of the amount has been co-financed by various grants from the Interconnection Mechanism in Europe.
To find out more, see our section dedicated to lifestyle.


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Bitcoin News Trader Review – Is it Scam? – Online Broker
Bitcoin, the first decentralized digital currency, has revolutionized the financial world since its introduction in 2009. With its decentralized nature and secure transactions, Bitcoin has gained popularity as an alternative to traditional fiat currencies. As the popularity of Bitcoin grew, so did the demand for trading platforms that allow individuals to buy and sell Bitcoin.
Online brokers play a crucial role in facilitating Bitcoin trading by providing a platform for users to execute trades and manage their cryptocurrency portfolios. These online brokers offer a range of features and tools to help traders make informed decisions and maximize their profits.
One such online broker is Bitcoin News Trader, an automated trading software that claims to use advanced algorithms to analyze market trends and make profitable trading decisions. In this review, we will explore the legitimacy of Bitcoin News Trader and its effectiveness as an online broker.
II. What is Bitcoin News Trader?
Bitcoin News Trader is an automated trading software that claims to use sophisticated algorithms to analyze market data and make profitable trading decisions. The software is designed to execute trades on behalf of the user, eliminating the need for manual trading. Bitcoin News Trader also claims to have a high success rate, with some users reporting significant profits.
The software offers a range of features and functionalities to enhance the trading experience. These include real-time market analysis, customizable trading settings, and a user-friendly interface. Bitcoin News Trader is compatible with both desktop and mobile devices, allowing users to trade on the go.
III. Is Bitcoin News Trader Legit or a Scam?
Bitcoin News Trader has faced skepticism and concerns from some users and experts in the cryptocurrency community. Some skeptics argue that the software's claims of high profitability may be exaggerated and unrealistic. Additionally, there have been reports of users losing money while using Bitcoin News Trader.
To investigate the legitimacy of Bitcoin News Trader, we analyzed user reviews and testimonials. While some users reported positive experiences and significant profits, others expressed frustration and disappointment with the software's performance. It is important to note that trading cryptocurrencies involves inherent risks, and no trading software can guarantee profits.
To further investigate the legitimacy of Bitcoin News Trader, we analyzed the trading algorithm used by the software. While the algorithm is claimed to be advanced and accurate, we found that it is not unique to Bitcoin News Trader. Similar trading algorithms are used by other popular trading platforms in the market. This raises questions about the software's claims of exclusivity and superior performance.
IV. Understanding Online Brokers
Online brokers play a crucial role in cryptocurrency trading by providing a platform for users to execute trades and manage their portfolios. These platforms offer a range of features and tools to help traders make informed decisions and maximize their profits.
When choosing an online broker for Bitcoin trading, it is important to consider several factors. These include the reputation and reliability of the broker, the range of cryptocurrencies available for trading, the fees and commissions charged, and the security measures implemented by the platform.
Different online brokers offer different trading features and tools. Some brokers provide advanced charting and technical analysis tools, while others focus on user-friendly interfaces and ease of use. It is important to choose a broker that aligns with your trading preferences and goals.
V. Bitcoin News Trader's Trading Algorithm
Bitcoin News Trader claims to use a sophisticated trading algorithm to analyze market trends and make profitable trading decisions. The algorithm is designed to identify patterns and trends in the market data and execute trades accordingly.
While the trading algorithm used by Bitcoin News Trader is claimed to be accurate and effective, it is not unique to the software. Similar trading algorithms are used by other popular trading platforms in the market. This raises questions about the software's claims of exclusivity and superior performance.
To assess the accuracy and effectiveness of Bitcoin News Trader's trading algorithm, we compared its performance with other popular trading algorithms in the market. While the software's algorithm performed reasonably well, it did not outperform other algorithms significantly. This suggests that the software's claims of high profitability may be exaggerated.
VI. Benefits of Using Bitcoin News Trader
Despite the concerns and skepticism surrounding Bitcoin News Trader, there are some potential benefits to using the software for cryptocurrency trading.
One of the main advantages of Bitcoin News Trader is its potential profitability. While trading cryptocurrencies involves inherent risks, the software's advanced algorithm may help users make more informed trading decisions and potentially increase their profits.
Another benefit of Bitcoin News Trader is its user experience and ease of use. The software is designed to be user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive interface. This makes it suitable for both experienced traders and beginners.
VII. Risks and Limitations of Bitcoin News Trader
While Bitcoin News Trader may offer potential benefits, it is important to consider the risks and limitations associated with using the software.
One of the main risks of using Bitcoin News Trader is market volatility. Cryptocurrency markets are highly volatile, and trading decisions can be influenced by various factors such as market news and investor sentiment. This volatility can lead to unpredictable trading outcomes and potential losses.
Another risk of using Bitcoin News Trader is potential technical issues and vulnerabilities. While the software is designed to be secure, no system is completely immune to hacking or technical glitches. Users should be aware of these risks and take appropriate measures to protect their funds and personal information.
VIII. How to Get Started with Bitcoin News Trader
If you decide to use Bitcoin News Trader for cryptocurrency trading, here is a step-by-step guide on how to get started:
- Visit the Bitcoin News Trader website and sign up for an account.
- Complete the registration process by providing the required personal information.
- Deposit funds into your Bitcoin News Trader account. The minimum deposit required may vary depending on the broker.
- Set your trading preferences and customize the trading settings according to your preferences.
- Start the automated trading process and monitor the performance of your trades.
- Withdraw your funds from your Bitcoin News Trader account when desired.
IX. Alternatives to Bitcoin News Trader
While Bitcoin News Trader may be one option for automated cryptocurrency trading, there are other popular alternatives in the market. These include:
- Bitcoin Revolution: Bitcoin Revolution is an automated trading software that claims to have a high success rate and generate significant profits for its users.
- Crypto Trader: Crypto Trader is another popular automated trading software that uses advanced algorithms to analyze market data and make profitable trading decisions.
- Bitcoin Code: Bitcoin Code is a trading software that claims to have a high accuracy rate and can generate consistent profits for its users.
When considering alternatives to Bitcoin News Trader, it is important to compare the features and functionalities of each software, as well as user reviews and testimonials.
In conclusion, Bitcoin News Trader is an automated trading software that claims to use advanced algorithms to analyze market trends and make profitable trading decisions. While the software offers some potential benefits, there are concerns and skepticism surrounding its legitimacy and effectiveness.
The trading algorithm used by Bitcoin News Trader is not unique to the software, and its performance is comparable to other popular trading algorithms in the market. Additionally, there have been reports of users losing money while using Bitcoin News Trader.
Before using Bitcoin News Trader or any other automated trading software, it is important to understand the risks involved in cryptocurrency trading and to conduct thorough research. It is also advisable to start with a small investment and to only trade with funds that you can afford to lose.
Ultimately, the decision to use Bitcoin News Trader or any other trading software should be based on your individual trading preferences and risk tolerance.


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New investors like Ontario Teachers’ Pension Fund, Luxor Capital and Sumeru Ventures, and its existing backers such as Sofina Group, Baillie Gifford and others have also participated in this round.
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CPPIB has invested $425 million, contributing almost half the total capital mopped up by the company, which began life with the Newshunt portal in 2007.
VerSe Innovation was valued at around $3 billion, after a $450 million funding in August last year and prior to an investment by Google and Microsoft. The company has raised $1.5 billion in the past one year, underscoring the capital-intensive nature of the industry.
While VerSe's core business of DailyHunt clocked $127 million in revenue in FY22, the intensely competitive and cash-guzzling short-video segment saw a significant consolidation with ShareChat's Moj and Times Internet's MX TakaTak merging in February. These players came into prominence after India banned a slew of Chinese apps including the popular short-video app TikTok, owned by Bytedance in 2020. Moj, MX TakaTak, Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts are among the apps which compete with Josh. Times Internet is part of The Times of India Group which publishes The Economic Times.
The company said Josh boasts of 150 million monthly active users with 49% of them being daily active users. DailyHunt serves more than 350 million users every month, it says.
Besides DailyHunt and Josh, VerSe Innovation also houses PublicVibe, which is a hyper-local video platform.
Cofounder Virendra Gupta, and Umang Bedi, former Facebook India managing director who is also designated as a cofounder at the Bengaluru company, told ET in an interaction that they would continue to invest in the short-video business and go behind commerce through various models.
“This is one of the largest investments by CPPIB in an Indian internet company and what makes it interesting is the timing, when companies in India and globally are finding it hard to raise money and down rounds are happening,” Bedi said.
Where will the funds go?
Gupta and Bedi said they would deploy parts of the new capital to “deepen and broaden” its artificial intelligence, machine learning and data science capabilities for better user engagement, retention and monetisation.
VerSe is also looking at offering web3.0 experiences across languages on its platform, besides trying social commerce, live commerce and influencer-led commerce. It plans to partner with leading ecommerce companies and go big with the creator community.
Bedi said they are also aiming to build monetisation models for short videos. “This includes shoppable commerce experience, influencer commerce, live commerce and extending to influencers a brand new Web3.0 platform experience which will help them monetise from audiences, not just here but we would be glad to take it global,” he added.
The company is expected to announce its entry formally into commerce in the coming weeks. “User experience has to be nice. When we do things, it has to scale beyond announcing a pilot. That’s why the new mediums of monetisation – via influencer led commerce – of short videos are being built in a very integrated way,” Gupta said.
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Goods and services tax (GST) tax notices to online gaming companies are in accordance with legal provisions, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) chairman Sanjay Kumar Agarwal said on Thursday, ruling out any immediate review.Abu Dhabi’s IHC Set to Exit Two Adani Cos, Signs Definitive Pact
Abu Dhabi-based International Holding Company PJSC (IHC) said on Thursday it is selling its stake in Adani Green Energy and Adani Energy Solutions, less than 18 months after the strategic investment company invested ₹15,400 crore in three Adani group companies.Festive Fever may Light Up Ecomm Sales by 16%
Online sellers, major brands and ecommerce platforms are gearing up for robust sales through the festive season, as the online shopping ecosystem shakes off a relatively muted first half of the year, industry executives said.
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Apple recently launched a new advertising campaign to promote its Apple Pay service, the campaign uses the “Apple-style payment” (Pay the Apple Way) slogan, in billboards, social networks and other platforms show.
The “Pay the Apple Way” campaign is designed to demonstrate the convenience of making purchases with an iPhone or Apple Watch without having to take a card out of your wallet, with Apple emphasizing the simplicity, speed and security of Apple Pay. Apple has installed billboards in the U.S. and the U.K., which are the main areas where it is promoting Apple Pay. Apple plans to showcase a dynamic and immersive experience on street billboards and mall booths, which users can see in cities such as London, Birmingham, Manchester, Dallas and Atlanta.
The campaign is accompanied by four videos demonstrating the ease of using Apple Pay, which Apple plans to air on social networks such as TikTok, Twitter, Instagram and more. For TikTok, Apple has also partnered with TikTok creators, each answering the question “What can I do with Apple Pay?” question to spark discussion about the uses of contactless payments.
The campaign has already launched, with ads appearing in cities and on social media networks. Apple Pay is one of the most widely used contactless payment methods, and Apple says it is accepted by more than 85% of retailers in the United States.


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With the flotation of Wyndham Hotel Group now just weeks away, the company gathered 6,000 hotel owners, franchisees and employees in Las Vegas to celebrate its achievements and look to a bright future. Here Breaking Travel News editor Chris O’Toole takes a closer look at what the change might mean.
Wyndham Hotel Group-owned Dolce Hotels & Resorts has opened its doors in Greece for the first time, with Dolce Attica Riviera, a new hotel set in the tranquil Attica Riviera, just outside Athens.
Millions of local Y members and their families across the United States are set to benefit following a deal between Howard Johnson and the YMCA.
Raising the sought-after Trademark Hotel Collection flag at nine new destinations in the United States, hospitality giant Wyndham Hotel Group is ushering in more of its soft brand’s unique hospitality flair coast to coast.
Wyndham Hotel Group has confirmed it will flag all of its properties with the “…by Wyndham” designation, with the process beginning next week. The decision is largely designed to drive online engagement.
Wyndham Hotel Group and Novum Hospitality, one of the largest hospitality businesses in Germany, today announced the signing of a long-term development agreement.
Wyndham Hotel Group has announced the appointment of Dimitris Manikis to the role of president and managing director for Europe, Middle East, Eurasia and Africa. He will be based at the company’s London offices.
Following a deal to acquire La Quinta for nearly US$2 billion in the United States and launch of the Trademark Collection, it is an exciting time for Wyndham Hotel Group. Here Breaking Travel News talks to Patrick Divall, vice president for Western Europe with the company, about his plans for the region and his brief to raise the profile of this predominately US-focused hospitality organisation on the continent.
Wyndham Hotel Group’s growth continues with the strategic expansion of its upscale Wyndham Hotels & Resorts brand into Indonesia’s spectacular Lombok Island, scheduled for opening in mid-2018.
Wyndham Hotel Group continues to strengthen the presence of its upscale Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and upper-upscale Wyndham Grand brands across south-east Asia with five new hotel signings in Indonesia and Vietnam.
Wyndham Hotel Group has announced plans to acquire the Minnesota-based AmericInn hotel brand and its management company, Three Rivers Hospitality, from Northcott Hospitality. The deal is worth a reported $170 million.
Hospitality giant Wyndham Hotel Group is strengthening its presence in Western Australia with the announcement of its third Perth hotel, set to open in late 2018. It will be the first property in the city under the company’s upscale Wyndham brand.