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Riot Games offers a lot of merchandising products inspired by the League of Legends universe. There's something for everyone and the famous poros have become real stars. Valorant is still recent, but the game has its official merchandise too. It's only the beginning, but the company has opened its pre-order shop.
Pre-orders are open until August 17 and products won't be sent immediately. While the cap will take three to four weeks to arrive, the windbreaker won't be sent until February 21, 2021 . No need to ask for it for your birthday this year or even for Christmas. Riot Games refers to the COVID-19 pandemic to explain this important delay.
- Windbreaker: $120 for a waterproof jacket with adjustable drawstrings. On the back is the slogan "defy the limits" and the launch agents roster are printed across lower inner hem. Last little detail, the red rubber zipper has the Valorant logo.
- Cap: sober, it will still cost $30. Uniform black color, it's made of 80% acrylic and 20% wool. You can see the inscription Valorant on the front and it's one size fits most.
There are only two products in the official shop at the moment. The prices are rather consequent, like the packs of skins which can cost up to $80-90.
Valorant players would like to see improvements to ranked games. It's in particular the case of Mixwell who would like to see the implementation of an ELO system for the Radiant rank.


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Brianne’s episode of LIFE airs tonight.
LIFE – Season 2, Episode 8 “Black Friday”
On the busiest shopping day in the USA – the Friday after Thanksgiving – Charlie and Dani investigate the death of man in America’s largest shopping mall. Before they can remove the body however, it disappears. While searching the mall, they find two teenage siblings who, it turns out, have been living there for over a year. Their discovery ties directly to the murder and a lucrative scam some of the mall employees have going on. Meanwhile, Capt.

domain: news


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The Portland City Council is considering spending $4,300,000 to remodel warehouses into a Portland Police Bureau training center.
Portland online gift card startup Giftango was sold last year, and now till take the name of its new owner, InComm Digital Solutions.
Oregon's blueberry harvest has done well for the first six weeks of the two-month season.
Oregon's agricultural production was worth $5.4 billion in 2012, a new record.
Half of Oregon residents are concerned about their ability to save for retirement, a new survey found.
An audit found significant overlap with 120 state programs that help low-income Oregonians get affordable housing.
The U.S. Bureau of Land Management postponed three Oregon timber sales. It needs more time to consider a federal court decision ordering it to see more timber.


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Under the new rules, the livestock markets will become hubs for live trade. Animals for slaughter will have to be bought from producers at source.
The regulation covers bulls, bullocks, cows, buffalos, steers, heifers, calves, and camels and is likely to cripple the Indian cattle market, which employs more than 2,2 million people.
The Madras High Court in the southern state of Tamil Nadu has suspended the ban for four weeks and has asked the central government to explain why it should not be vetoed permanently.
Kerala, West Bengal, Meghalaya and Puducherry states have also opposed the ban. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said it was an anti-federal, anti-democratic and anti-secular move.
“This is nothing but an attempt to usurp power from the state governments. We will oppose it completely,” he said.
But the High Court in the northern state of Rajasthan wants the cow to be declared the national animal of India. It suggests the sentence for cow slaughter be raised from three years’ imprisonment to life.
A government statement said the rules are to ensure the animals’ welfare and protect them from cruelty.
“The basic purpose of the rule is to ensure welfare of the animals in the cattle market and ensure adequate facilities for housing, feeding, feed storage areas, water supply, water troughs, ramps, enclosures for sick animals, veterinary care and proper drainage,” the statement read.
The government has initiated two committees: the District Animal Market Monitoring Committee to register animal markets; and the Animal Market Committee at the local authority level to manage the markets.
“The prime focus of the regulation is to protect the animals from cruelty and not to regulate the existing trade in cattle for slaughter houses,” the government said.
“It is envisaged that welfare of cattle dealt in the market will be ensured and that only healthy animals are traded for agriculture purposes for the benefit of the farmers.”
The government said the new rules would also stop a major concern; illegal cattle sales and smuggling.
Analysts said the ban will likely destroy India’s huge beef export business. Indian beef shipments account for 20% of beef on the international market, and if the ban is upheld, there will be a significant drop in supply.
Matt Dalgleish, livestock market analyst at Mecardo, an Australian agricultural analysis company, said the ban will affect the global beef supply chain.
“The Indian global presence is much more relevant when taking into account global beef export volumes …”.
“Despite the fact that our key export markets are different to India and the comparison between beef and buffalo needs to be taken into account, there is no denying that current Indian beef customers such as Vietnam – and by proxy, China – will need to source this protein from somewhere else,” he added.
Most Indian beef comes from water buffalo rather than cows, considered sacred by Hindus, who comprise some 80% of India’s population.


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Australian table grape exporters continue to turn to existing relationships to meet the ongoing demand for their product in Asia, but new promotional efforts will help them explore further opportunities this season.
According to a report from Austrade, demand and prices for Australian table grapes in China remain high.
Asia’s largest market accounts for the majority of Australia’s table grape exports and growers such as Rocky Mammone and Tim Milner have said China continues to be important.
“We are still shipping every day to China,” said Mammone. “We have developed really good long-term relationships and friendships with our customers over more than ten years and they remain solid.”
He has a positive and beneficial relationship with his Chinese buyer. He met his buyer during a visit to Sunraysia by a Chinese delegation in 2015.
Milner, who has worked with his Chinese buyer since they visited the Sunraysia growing region in 2015, said he has learned immeasurable lessons during his time exporting to the world’s largest market.
“We have spent a lot of time learning and understanding what buyers and consumers in China want. We have worked closely with our buyer to refine our presentation and taste,” Milner said.
“It has given us a better understanding of the needs and wants of such an important market. In turn, it has improved the quality of our fruit and our ways of growing and exporting.”
Mammone said the size and relative stability of the China market has also allowed growers to grow, invest and diversify to new markets.
Besides China, Mammone exports to Korea, Japan, Indonesia, Singapore and the Middle East. Mammone is part of a new Austrade campaign that promotes and connects international buyers to Australian producers.
Videos featuring Mammone and his operations will be rolled out in priority markets across ASEAN through April 2022.


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WHERE: The West Seattle Junction
WHAT: Tax season got you down? Well, the Junction in West Seattle wants to pay you back (literally) for all of your tough and taxing work for Uncle Sam. On its celebrated Tax Free Day, Junction customers enjoy taxless shopping at many of the neighborhood’s boutiques and restaurants.
Bunches of red balloons will mark participating shops, including Click! Design that Fits, Vain, Carmilia’s, Fleurt, and many more local faves. Fuel up (also tax free) at restaurants like Bakery Nouveau, the Beer Junction, and Great Harvest Bread Co.
WHEN: The one-day sale runs during store opening hours on Saturday, April 18.


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SMM 2018 is gearing up to host around 2,200 exhibitors for this year’s event in September. To help visitors find exactly what they are looking for, there will be five “theme routes” covering key areas of the maritime industry. One of these is the Cruise & Ferry Route, where ship technology providers will showcase products and solutions that cover everything from the engine room to the bridge.
Passenger ships cleaning up the industry
The shift towards more environmentally friendly technology has been a key focus in shipping for years now. One of the key drivers in this transformation is the passenger shipping industry. With a growing environmental awareness among the general public, cruise lines and ferry operators are starting to clean up their act. This has given rise to green innovations, such as sulfur scrubbers that reduce harmful emissions.
But the biggest trend in the cruise and ferry sector is LNG propulsion. AIDAnova, the world’s first LNG-powered cruise ship, is scheduled to set sail in December 2018. And there are an additional 25 LNG-powered cruise ships and 22 LNG-powered ferries on order, demonstrating the industry-wide intent to reduce environmental impact. At SMM 2018, there will be a panel discussion on the topic of passenger shipping as an environmental pioneer, as part of the Global Maritime Environmental Congress (gmec).
On course for a cleaner industry
With a record high of around 27.2 million passengers expected to take a cruise before the end of 2018, the outlook is very positive for passenger shipping. Combined with cutting-edge environmental technology, the cruise and ferry sector is one of the most exciting areas of the maritime industry at present. Don’t miss your chance to see these innovations in person at SMM, September 4–7, 2018 in Hamburg.
SKF is exhibiting at SMM 2018, showcasing a selection of products and solutions for cruise liners and ferries. These include the SKF Dynamic Stabilizer Cover and SKF EcoMode stabilizer software—two solutions that help operators of passenger vessels to reduce environmental impact and increase efficiency. Visit stand 210 in Hall A1 to learn more.


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(NaturalHealth365) Is the COVID-19 pandemic paving the way toward a surveillance state? And, more specifically, what is Uber doing with its customers private data? We’re not resigning ourselves to this bleak future quite yet. But, we do believe the American public should be made well aware of potential threats to their personal and private data, all in the name of “public safety” during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Incredibly, something as innocent as hopping into an Uber could put your private data at jeopardy. →
Read more via NaturalHealth365
Derrick Broze, The Mind Unleashed
The Conscious Resistance Network Presents: The 5G Trojan Horse (Documentary)
This 96 minute documentary exposes the truth behind the global “Race to 5G.”
Table of Contents:
Chapter 1: The Electromagnetic Spectrum and 5g
Chapter 2: The Concerns Around EMF’s and 5g
Chapter 3: The Big Wireless-5g Takeover
Chapter 4: Solutions
Video (1:36:26) & transcript via — Waking Times
By Mac Slavo
(Activist Post) Amnesty International has said that the “surveillance-based” business models of tech giants like Google and Facebook threaten human rights. Big tech has been known to collect private data, censor speech on behalf of the government, and financially punish dissenters by disallowing advertising. →
Read more via Amnesty International: Google & Facebook’s “Surveillance-Based” Model Threatens Human Rights — Activist Post.com
(NaturalHealth365) Ahhhh – there’s nothing like the smell of propaganda early in the morning. At least this must be what the higher-ups at the Bayer company think as they start their days trying to figure out how to spin pesticide data and influence the public.
Read more via Bayer says Monsanto likely had a dossier on influential people, hoped to influence their position on pesticide safety — NaturalHealth365
By Dagny Taggart
Google is very interested in your shopping habits – so much that the tech giant is collecting and saving your purchase history.
The company has been quietly keeping track of your online (and sometimes, offline) purchases for years, according to a recent report from CNBC.
In that report, writer Todd Haselton explains that he was looking around in his Google account and found something alarming:
Read more via Google Has a Creepy Secret Page That Tracks Your (Online and Offline) Shopping History —
Facebook shares tumbled into the red after Bloomberg reported that user data is still showing up in places it shouldn’t.
As Bloomberg reports, researchers at UpGuard, a cybersecurity firm, found troves of user information hiding in plain sight, inadvertently posted publicly on Amazon.com’s cloud computing servers.
The discovery shows that a year after the Cambridge Analytica scandal exposed how unsecure and widely disseminated Facebook users’ information is online, companies that control that information at every step still haven’t done enough to seal up private data.
Read more via Millions Of Facebook Records Found On Amazon Cloud Servers — Era of Light


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BtoBet is set to continue its expansion in the Latin American market by signing an agreement with PlutonBet. The Malta-based company also plans to attend upcoming Latin American gaming exhibitions with these new offerings.
The partnership will work together to distribute BtoBet’s white label solution across Peru, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, and Brazil thereafter.
Erik Tosca, PlutonBet’s Operation Director says: “We are very proud to be partnering with such a reputable and leading company as BtoBet. We will allow them to speed up the launching process and save funds on incorporation fees and licensing costs.
“Thanks to BtoBet’s white label solution and its high technology performances, we can perfectly support LatAm industry with totally turnkey fully-functional gaming and sportsbook software, saving also time on paperwork and legal procedures.”
Alessandro Fried, Founder and Chairman of BtoBet, adds: “PlutonBet knows all the aspects and challenges of the iGaming and sportsbook industries which are involved in each LatAm country and its deep knowledge of the territory, combined with our white label technology solution, will be the key to success for many companies in South America.
“Each white label will be completely customisable in terms of content, design and independent CMS. Additionally, they can be easily adapted for multi-language and multicurrency purposes and can be personalised with any marketing strategy for each different geo-localised target.”
The companies will soon present their partnership at FADJA 2017 on the 26-27 April.


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From CNET: Amazon on Thursday said it's aiming to hire 75,000 warehouse workers and delivery drivers across the US and Canada. The retail giant, which last month prevailed in a fight against labor organizing at one of its warehouses in Alabama, said average starting pay for the open roles is $17 an hour. It's also offering a bonus to new workers that show proof of their COVID-19 vaccination. The hiring comes as the company is gearing up for its annual Prime Day event next month.
"We look forward to hiring 75,000 associates across our fulfillment and transportation network," said Alicia Boler Davis, Amazon's vice president of Global Customer Fulfillment, in a release. "In addition to the great pay and robust benefits available to new hires starting on their first day, we're offering a $100 benefit to new hires who come to Amazon already vaccinated for COVID-19."
Amazon's labor practices have come under increased scrutiny during the coronavirus pandemic, with employees publicly pushing back against the company's policies. Amazon, as well as other tech companies like Apple and Facebook, have seen massive profits as consumers embraced online shopping as way of life in the midst of the pandemic. This also means Amazon's thousands of workers, called essential during the pandemic, have had to risk infection to process orders.
On Thursday, Amazon touted the COVID-19 safety measures at facilities and said its expanded its on-site vaccination program.
View: Full Article


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Google Assistant is now available in Polish, Google announced on January 16, 2019. Not only can the Google Assistant perform all its normal tasks in Polish, like giving weather reports, sending messages, and setting reminders, but the Assistant is also programmed with Polish culture. Users can ask the Assistant for information related to Polish songs, Polish history, and Polish pop culture.
Google’s blog post about the Assistant’s Polish updates also opened the door for Polish companies to create customized voice commands. So far, the Polish company PLAY OK, a gaming website, and eSky, a travel services website, have created actions. All the user has to do is say “Ok Google, talk to eSky” to be connected with Ewa, eSky’s voice assistant. From there, the user can search for hotels, car rentals, and flights. For example, the user could ask for the most affordable flights to Spain, adding on what they’re looking for in a flight. Ewa will produce a customized response based on the user’s wishes.
Previously, Google has added Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Japanese to the Google Assistant, announced at the 2018 IFA conference. Users can switch between languages, a “multi-year effort” according to Google. Language switching is made possible by LangID, a program that analyzes speech and speaker recognition along with voice detection. In the future, Google hopes to allow the Assistant to switch between three languages at once.
To launch Google Assistant on an Android, the user must press the home button. From there, they will see examples of actions the Assistant can perform. The user can either hold the home button to start interacting with Google Assistant, say “OK Google,” or text the Assistant. For iPhone users, Google Assistant is available on the app store. Users can ask about everything from movie times to directions to daily schedules.


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Agriculture Risk Advisor
Taking the time to winterize your equipment during the offseason could save you from costly repairs and delays come springtime. Extend the life of your farming equipment in five easy and affordable steps:
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released its quarterly agricultural export forecast on Nov. 30, 2017. According to the forecast, the 2017 fiscal year had the third-highest export total on record. U.S. agricultural exports are expected to continue to be strong in the 2018 fiscal year with a forecast of $140 billion, which would be the fourth-best year in history. Another positive takeaway is that agriculture’s trade surplus is expected to jump from $21.3 billion to $23 billion.
Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue attributed the positive forecast to robust sales to trading partners in East Asia and North America. China, Canada and Mexico will be the largest U.S. customers, accounting for nearly 45 percent of exports in 2018. Exports continue to be a major influence to the rural economy, as they generate 20 percent of U.S. farm income and support more than 1 million U.S. jobs.
The USDA’s 2017 Census of Agriculture was mailed to U.S. farmers in phases throughout December. Respondents may notice revisions that were made to the census in an attempt to document emerging trends and changes in the industry.
The census is sent to the nation’s producers every five years and is the only source of uniform, comprehensive and impartial data for every county in the nation.
Respondents have until Feb. 5, 2018, to respond to the census, either by mail or by using the updated online questionnaire. Responses are required by law.


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Lafourche sheriff: 34 computers stolen from department store
1 arrested, another sought in theft
One man was arrested and another is being sought after a theft occurred at a department store in Lafourche Parish, authorities said Friday.
According to a news release from the Sheriff's Office, a reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of the man accused of stealing a bundle of computers from a Raceland department store last month with the help of a security worker assigned to the store.
The total value of the 34 stolen computers was around $12,000.
The theft happened on Aug. 8 at the Walmart Supercenter Store located at 4858 Highway 1 in Raceland.
Deputies said that 27-year-old Anthony Hardnett, a worker for a private security service company, was at the store installing new security cameras on Aug. 7 and allegedly disconnected a camera without authorization during the early-morning hours.
The next morning, police said a man entered the store and stole 23 Apple iPads, nine other tablet-style computers, a laptop computer, and a desktop computer from the back warehouse area.
Detectives believe Hardnett was helping the thief take the computers by disconnecting the camera, and video shows Hardnett appeared to be acting as a lookout during the theft.
Hardnett was arrested on charges of felony theft on Aug. 27. He was released on bond the next day.
Investigators are looking for the person seen in surveillance video stealing the computers.
Anyone who can identify the man is asked to contact Bayou Region Crime Stoppers at 800-743-7433


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China savored decidedly of the delights of capitalism. The day of singles is a testament to that. And on this day of ” 1 ” (11/11) was a winner : Alibaba. In 24 hours, and after an initially obnoxious, the e-commerce site has earned $ 16.4 billion euros. The competitor of Amazon has managed to transform this small festival national day the most commercial in the world, ahead of the Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The Tribune has even dared the comparative : this craze business is more important than the GDP of Jamaica or Senegal.
120 000 transactions to the second
Six million products are offered. 50 000 traders are present on the site. One billion transactions have been made, of which 82 % on smartphone. On 11 November, almost a billion euros have been spent in the first five minutes. The figures give the disease and place China as a stronghold of the consumption of ” occasional “. Thus, in five days last year, Americans had spent “only” $ 11.1 billion for Thanksgiving.
Alibaba, had organized a grand show by inviting celebrities such as the Beckhams. And demonstrated that the future of retail is in China. In addition to a wide range of products, the site wants to be at the cutting edge of technology, as noted by The new yorker , to ensure the delivery of 52 million packages per day, and 120 000 banking transactions per second. The company is already preparing the day of the singles 2017. Alibaba intends to pick up the sesame-commerce site the most powerful in the world !


text: The Commercial Bank of Ceylon has become the first bank in Sri Lanka to enable its credit card holders to conveniently and instantly settle their credit card outstanding by scanning a QR code appearing on their monthly credit card statements. The Bank has announced it is now printing a unique QR code on each statement, which can be scanned through the ComBank Q+ App, Sri Lanka’s first QR based payment app under LANKAQR, the ComBank Flash app, any other QR payment app that supports LANKAQR standards, or any application that supports the Mastercard QR or Visa QR apps. This development eliminates the need for cardholders to enter their credit card details during the payment process, making it more convenient, the Bank said. Customers are only required to cross check whether the six-digit credit card account number that appears once they scan the QR code on the statement is accurate. While any amount equal to or greater than the minimum payment amount can be entered and settled, customers can also pay their total outstanding bill in this manner, the Bank said. This feature enables customers to pay their dues from the safety of wherever they are without having to visit a Bank branch. Credit card holders can avail of this facility at no extra cost and will be notified of their payments instantly via SMS or email. The Bank said this initiative supports the Central Bank’s ‘Ratapuraama LANKAQR’ program launched to introduce LANKAQR as the way forward for mobile phone and digital payments countrywide. Notably, Commercial Bank was also the first Bank in the country to enable QR code payments to settle Credit Card dues by scanning a QR code appearing on the Commercial Bank website.


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Textron Aviation recently celebrated the first delivery of its Beechcraft King Air 360 turboprop aircraft. The event was commemorated in a special delivery to its launch customer – Stamoules Produce Company, Inc. The California-based business selected the flagship King Air 360 as its first-ever aircraft purchase due to its combination of outstanding performance capabilities, ease of operation and the enhanced passenger experience, all of which will help expand the company’s growing operations.
This marks another major milestone for the legendary King Air turboprop lineup, which has been flying customers throughout the world for more than 50 years. The King Air 360 builds on a reputation of versatility and reliability, offering the latest technological advancements in the cockpit, a redesigned cabin and enhancements to passenger comfort.
“This is a special day for Beechcraft King Air turboprops as we begin a new era for such a beloved aircraft,” said Rob Scholl, senior vice president of Sales and Flight Operations for Textron Aviation. “We are privileged to welcome Stamoules Produce Company to the Beechcraft family. This upgraded aircraft features innovative technology and next-generation capabilities, and it will allow this launch customer an opportunity to transform the way they do business.”
Stamoules Produce Company is a family-owned business based in the San Joaquin Valley of central California, often referred to as the cantaloupe centre of the world. Specializing in growing and harvesting fruits, vegetables and nuts on its 17,000 acre farm, Stamoules Produce Company has steadily expanded its business since it began in 1927.
“We’re very proud to be the launch customer of the new Beechcraft King Air 360,” said Katie Stefanopoulos, a family member, who will also serve as a corporate pilot for the new aircraft. “When selecting our first aircraft, we looked for a product that would not only give us the performance and flexibility we need to grow our business but also by a company with a trusted name and expertise in the industry – and we found that in the King Air 360 and Textron Aviation. We were excited to learn of the new upgrades and features to an already exceptional aircraft, and I am even more excited to fly.”
The King Air 360 cockpit features the addition of the Innovative Solutions & Support (IS&S) ThrustSense Autothrottle. The autothrottle supports pilots in their critical mission of delivering people or cargo by automatically managing engine power from the takeoff roll through the climb, cruise, descent, and go-around phases of flight. Another key update in the cockpit is the new digital pressurization controller, which automatically schedules cabin pressurization during both climb and descent, reducing pilot workload and increasing overall passenger comfort. Other upgrades include a lower cabin altitude at the aircraft’s certified ceiling of 35,000 feet – more than 10% lower when compared to the King Air 350i. The improved cabin altitude level provides greater comfort for passengers, especially during longer flights.
The redesigned cabin, meanwhile, features a stunning new look with craftsman-built cabinetry, partitions and side ledges, upgraded materials and finishes, along with all new interior schemes. Other amenities that come standard on the entire King Air lineup include pull-out work tables, power outlets, USB charging stations and a private aft lavatory.
Nearly 7,600 Beechcraft King Air turboprops have been delivered to customers around the world since 1964, making it the best-selling business turboprop family in the world. The worldwide fleet has surpassed 62 million flight hours in its 56 years, serving roles in all branches of the U.S. military and flying both commercial and special mission roles around the world.


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Walgreens boosts home infusion biz
DEERFIELD, Ill. - Walgreens-OptionCare has picked up the home infusion business of Air Products Healthcare for an undisclosed sum, it was announced last week. The transaction includes 15 locations with 550 employees and about 25,000 patients.
"To find a business of this scale, with this much infusion--it's a great deal for Walgreens-OptionCare," said Michael Patton, a managing director with Boston-based Provident Healthcare Partners, a mergers and acquisitions firm.
Air Products announced in July 2008 that it was selling its U.S. healthcare business. Since then, it has sold its A&J Care locations in New York and its COPD Services locations in New Jersey to Landauer
Metropolitan, and Air Products Seating and Mobility to ATG Rehab.
But, mainly, Air Products has held out for one buyer. Last week's deal represents about 50% of the remaining healthcare business.
"Air Products will still try to sell the rest of them," said Rick Glass, president of Tarpon Springs, Fla.-based Steven Richards & Associates. "They've waited nearly a year (to sell this much), and in the end, they just sold the infusion anyway."
Home infusion has remained a relatively bright spot in an otherwise lackluster market, analysts say. The reason: It's a growing market reimbursed primarily by private insurers.
"Walgreens is viewing this deal as part of a bigger strategy," said Alan Brochstein, president of Houston-based AB Analytical Services. "There's some Medicare reimbursement risks in this, but overall, (home infusion) is a small part of Walgreens."
Walgreens made a splash in the home infusion market in 2007 with its $850 million acquisition of OptionCare. Since then, it has carefully added several smaller regional companies, most recently in February, when it picked up Tampa, Fla.-based CareMax Medical Resources.
Last week's deal expands the company's home infusion presence in Georgia, western Pennsylvania and the Chicago area. Walgreens also picked up a couple of respiratory/DME businesses in the deal.
"Walgreens-OptionCare is not looking to buy a core RT/DME business," said Patton. "That's not their model, but they will take it when it's connected to a strong infusion business."


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Posted on: April 8, 2019, 3:21 p.m.
Daniel Loeb’s hedge fund Third Point is building a stake in Sony Corp to push for changes, the second time in six years it has targeted the Japanese electronics maker, people familiar with the matter said on Monday. Once a market leader in consumer electronics, Sony is now in the midst of a turnaround effort... Full investment news articleRelevent to this post: Daniel Loeb,


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Business models in home building industry
As healthcare systems begin to pay for outcomes rather than products, smart patient-centric services will play a key role in the race to capture value.
The pharmaceutical and medical technology industries survived the recent financial crisis relatively unscathed, but they are being transformed nonetheless as healthcare systems switch their reimbursement model from paying for products or services to rewarding clinical and health-economics outcomes. The task the industries face—demonstrating value based on a product focus—is far from simple.
For one thing, there are inherent limitations to the value a single drug can bring to the management of complex, chronic diseases, where therapeutic success is determined not only by the molecule but by a combination of drugs, physician intervention, home assistance, and lifestyle changes.
Moreover, providing better health outcomes in exchange for fewer resources means that medications and interventions must be targeted to the right patients. However, personalized medicine has yet to significantly permeate the operating models of the pharmaceutical and medical technology industries.
But perhaps most importantly, recent value-based price negotiations have revealed a dramatic lack of trust on both sides of the table. The pharmaceutical industry has often been accused of using its marketing machinery to churn out pills that deliver high margins no matter what value they bring to patients. And the industry perceives healthcare payers' restrictions as short-sighted penny-pinching that inhibits access to medicines and curbs innovation. In this climate, agreeing on the definition of value, let alone on the standards of evidence for value, is difficult. And indeed, even as healthcare payers push providers to show evidence of outcome, they continue to steer their spending via strict cost control. As a result, arbitrary price pressures (including forced rebates) are exerted on products in the current portfolio, and it is increasingly difficult to get new products approved for reimbursement.
The outlook may be muddled, but one thing is clear: Players will need to radically adapt. Medical technology companies will struggle to command a price premium for new technology and will need to develop user-friendly, affordable solutions. And pharmaceutical companies, traditionally product-focused organizations, will need to readjust their processes, all the way from development through marketing, to collect and promote evidence of the value their products provide to the healthcare system.


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UK Defence Secretary Michael Fallon has revealed a new National Shipbuilding Strategy that includes plans for the procurement of the Royal Navy's Type 31e general purpose frigates.
The government intends to procure five new Type 31e frigates as part of the first batch and will cap the price at a maximum of £250m each.
The National Shipbuilding Strategy is in line with the recommendations proposed by Sir John Parker in November.
It seeks to transform the UK maritime industry and bolster the economy of regions, shipyards and maritime supply chains across the nation.
The vessels are expected to be constructed in sections by different shipyards across the country and will be finally assembled at a central hub.
The first Type 31e ships are slated to be in service by 2023 and will be specifically built to meet the requirements of the British Royal Navy.
Participating companies will also be encouraged to work with global partners to ensure the frigates are competitive on the export market.
Fallon said: “This new approach will lead to more cutting-edge ships for the growing Royal Navy that will be designed to maximise exports and be attractive to navies around the world.
“Backed up by a commitment to spend billions on new ships, our plan will help boost jobs, skills, and growth in shipyards and the supply chain across the UK.”
The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) intends to procure new vessels for the Royal Navy through its increasing budget and £178bn equipment plan.


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Domestic airline SpiceJet announced its “Mega Monsoons Sale” on Friday, which allows domestic flight tickets to be booked from an all-inclusive rate of Rs 999.
The sale takes place from June 25th to 30th, while the travel period is from August 1st, 2021 to March 31st, 2022.
The company also has other offers, including a free flight voucher of up to 1,000 rupees. According to the airline’s website, flight vouchers are valid from August 1, 2021 to March 31, 2022.
SpiceJet also used Twitter to announce its monsoon sale.
The SpiceJet Mega Monsoon Sale is here. And it’s raining offers. Enjoy domestic fares from ₹ 999 all-inclusive! What’s more; Get a FREE flight voucher up to 1000 and other exciting offers. Travel period: August 1, 2021 – March 31, 2022. Sale ends on June 30th. Terms and conditions apply. pic.twitter.com/nFqBbVv5WG
– SpiceJet (@flyspicejet) June 25, 2021
Also read: COVID-19: Union Minister Dhotre launches rapid antigen test kit developed by IIT Delhi
In addition to cheap fares, the company also offers preferred seating and priority services for Rs 149, while customers can book extra legroom and other services under SpiceMAX for Rs 799, it said.
“That’s not all, book directly on the SpiceJet website and get special offers from your favorite brands like Grofers, Mfine, Medibuddy, MobiKwik & The PARK Hotels,” it says.
The aviation industry has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. At a time when the sector was recovering from the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown imposed last year and the first wave of pandemics, it was hit by the second wave.
While domestic air traffic in the country touched around 3 lakh passengers per day until the end of February, it was around 70,000 passengers in the first week of June.
Scheduled domestic air traffic in India was suspended from March 25th to May 24th last year due to the lockdown. Domestic flights were resumed on May 25, 2020, but restricted.
In addition, international scheduled flights have been suspended in India since March 23 of last year. However, special international passenger flights have been carried out in India since May 2020 as part of the “Vande Bharat Mission” and since July 2020 as part of bilateral bubble agreements between India and other countries.
Also read: “The Delhi Oxygen Review Committee Report Does Not Exist, BJP Lies”: Manish Sisodia


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US Mid-session Report 8 Dec 17: A calmer market overnight in the US but gold lower1:54
US stocks higher at the beginning of trade as investors await the outlook for a final US tax bill and debt talks. gold under pressure yet again off US$16 an ounce. Credit: CommSec
THE Australian share market looks set to open higher with positive sentiment carrying over from the previous session and following gains on Wall Street. At 0700 AEDT on Friday, the share price futures index was up 17 points, or 0.28 per cent, at 5,998.
Meanwhile, a weaker Australian dollar is flirting with the 75 US cent mark. The local currency was trading at 75.08 US cents at 0700 AEDT on Friday, from 75.44 on Thursday.
WORLD FINANCE UPDATE:
LONDON — Bitcoin’s relentless rise is continuing with the cryptocurrency shooting past the $US16,000 ($A21,000) mark, adding to fears of a dangerous market bubble.
COPENHAGEN — Lego has won a landmark case in China against two companies that manufactured and sold toys almost identical to its LEGO Friends range but branded Bela.
LONDON — Uber’s licence to operate in the northern English city of Sheffield was suspended last Friday after it failed to respond to requests about the management of the taxi app, the local authority said.
WELLINGTON — Air New Zealand is now the latest airline to suffer from problems with Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines, saying"two recent events” has prompted it to cancel or delay some flights over the coming weeks.
TRADE — Australia’s trade surplus has shrunk to its lowest level in six months following a drop in mining exports, but economists are hopeful it will not dent economic growth in the December quarter.
FOXTEL ACCC — The proposed merger between Foxtel and Fox Sports Australia won’t be opposed by the consumer watchdog because it believes the deal will not reduce competition.
NUFARM — Nufarm shares have fallen after the agricultural chemicals supplier warned its half-year earnings would suffer from weak November trade and the shutdown of manufacturing facilities outside Melbourne.
YOWIE — Australian chocolate maker Yowie is stepping up its expansion in the US, quadrupling the number of Target stores stocking its character-themed treats and moving into more than 8,000 convenience stores.
CONSTRUCTION AI — Growth in engineering construction has hit a fresh high in November, helping to bolster overall construction activity despite a continuing decline in apartment building.
AUSCANN — Shares in medicinal marijuana group AusCann have soared after it said it now has all licences required to grow cannabis and make medicines in Australia.
ASX — The company that operates the Australian stock market plans to update its shareholder recording systems using similar technology to that which underpins bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
CATCH GROUP — Australian e-commerce companies Catch and Lux have formed a partnership to expand their reach, and giving them each a combined 2.5 million active customers.


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July Real Estate Report for Seattle Neighborhoods
While housing prices continue to slowly decline and inventories build, the Seattle real estate market is not cooling off as quickly as it had been during the spring. Home buyers are starting to look outside the city limits and even into Tacoma for more affordable prices.
Back in June, the median home price in Seattle dropped 3.9% over the same month in 2018, and in King County, the drop was 2.3% from the same period last year. With the cooling off of the market comes the corresponding drop in interest rates likely leading some home owners to consider refinance over purchasing new.
While there was just one more single family home sold in July 2019 compared with seven listings sold in July 2018, the average and top sale prices have dropped by half. The average price of the homes sold in July last year was $1,147,707, while the average last month was just $619,881. And the most expensive home sold in July 2018 for $2,020,000, more than double the top sale price of $885,000 last month.
Condominium sales were also down in July 2019 compared with the same month last year, but less drastically than single family home sales. There were seven listings sold in July 2018, with five sold last month. The average sale price for homes sold in July last year was $584,850, not much more than the average sale price last month of $507,780. However, the most expensive home sold last month for $795,000 – almost $500,000 less than the priciest home sold in July 2018: $1,250,000.
There are a total of 873 active listings in Seattle right now, in addition to 446 homes and/or condos that are pending sale.
When you’re ready to list your home for sale or begin searching for your next dream home, professional expertise is key. Ewing and Clark’s team of knowledgeable and experienced brokers and leasing agents are just the partner you need to navigate Seattle’s busy real estate market. Contact us to get started!


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Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has revealed that the company’s next VR headset is scheduled to launch in October. Zuckerberg revealed this while speaking with comedian Joe Rogan on the Joe Rogan Experience Podcast.
While the features for Meta’s next VR headset are currently unknown, Zuckerberg has stated that the new hardware will focus quite a bit on social features, with features like the ability to track facial expressions and simulate eye contact with users.
It is still unclear whether the new headset Zuckerberg is talking about will be a follow up to the Meta Quest 2, or if it will be a different product entirely.
This reveal follows a price increase for Meta’s current-gen VR headset—and also the most popular VR headset currently available—the Meta Quest 2. Meta raised the price of the headset by $100 recently.
According to the company, the price hike came out of a desire for Meta to invest in VR the way it plans to. “By adjusting the price of Quest 2, we can continue to grow our investment in groundbreaking research and new product development that pushes the VR industry to new heights,” said the company in a statement.


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Icicle Seafoods has announced the appointment of former chief executive officer Amy Humphreys as chairman of the board, effective May 1, saying she will help lead the company’s strategic direction and governance.
Also announced were the appointments of Chris Ruettgers, Icicle’s executive vice president of strategy and corporate development, as the company’s new chief executive officer, and LaDon Johnson as president.
Johnson will retain his responsibilities as Icicle’s chief financial officer, and will now also oversee the company’s accounting and finance, legal and human resource activities, said Dexter Paine, chairman and chief executive officer of Paine & Partners, the New York based firm invested in the food and agribusiness sectors.
Icicle Seafoods was founded as Petersburg Fisheries in Petersburg, Alaska, nearly half a century ago. Now a major diversified provider of seafood, the company’s products include wild Alaska salmon, Atlantic salmon, Alaska crab, Alaska halibut, Pacific cod, black cod/sablefish, Alaska pollock and fish roe.
Icicle is one of a number of worldwide acquisitions of Paine & Partners, whose acquisitions in more than 20 countries represent over $8.7 billion in enterprise value, according to the company’s website.
With her knowledge of Icicle’s day-to-day operations, Humphreys will bring significant experience to the board, help lead Icicle’s strategic direction and governance, and facilitate the transition to Ruettgers and Johnson in their new roles, Paine said.
Ruettgers joined the company in 2011 and has been a member of its board of directors since 2007. He has been instrumental in the growth and development of Icicle’s operating platform and the strategic transactions he has led have grown and diversified Icicle’s operations, Paine said.
Prior to joining Icicle, Johnson was the chief financial officer of Cibus Global, a global plant biotechnology company, and also served as president of international operations for Cibus. He brings to Icicle significant administrative and financial expertise, and is well suited to take on the additional responsibilities of president, Ruettgers said.


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Business News›the Drug Controller General of India
THE DRUG CONTROLLER GENERAL OF INDIA
Licences of 18 pharma companies cancelled for manufacturing spurious drugs
"Licences of 18 pharma companies have been cancelled for manufacturing spurious and adulterated drugs and for violating GMP (good manufacturing practice).... Besides, 26 firms have been given show-cause notices," an official source said.
Essential medicines including painkillers, antibiotics to get costlier by 12% from Saturday
India’s drug pricing authority on Monday allowed a price hike of 12.1218% from April 1 for scheduled drugs that are under price control. This will cover more than 800 drugs on the National List of Essential Medicines. Last year, the NPPA allowed a 10.7% increase in drug prices, citing a similar change in the WPI.
Drug licences of 18 pharma firms cancelled for manufacturing spurious medicines: DCGI
Licences of as many as 18 pharma companies were cancelled on Tuesday for manufacturing spurious medicines after an inspection by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI).Drug licences of 18 pharma firms cancelled for manufacturing spurious medicines: DCGI
'No evidence to link Covid vax to heart attacks', says ICMR ex-director general Balram Bhargava
As Covid-19 vaccines emerged a lot of countries suspended the Oxford-AstraZeneca jab due to adverse health impact. The US never approved it. However Bhargava said that India doesnt need to follow the US and due regulatory process was followed before approval of the vaccine.
Sanofi launches new long-acting insulin drug in India
Soliqua is indicated as treatment to improve glycemic control as an adjunct to diet and exercise, in adults with obesity and type 2 diabetes who are insufficiently controlled on oral or injectable therapies.It comes in once daily dosing of pre-filled pens in fixed-ratio combination of 10-40 and 30-60 of insulin glargine and lixisenatide.
DCGI says medicines should be sold only under direct supervision of pharmacists in retail medical stores
"Ensure that pharmacists are physically present in the retail pharmacies/medical stores, and that medicines are sold/dispensed under their direct supervision. Ensure that no prescription medicine is sold/dispensed from the retail medicines shop without a proper and valid prescription," the DCGI said in the letter sent on March 9.
Eli Lilly forays into dermatological space with launch of psoriasis drugEli Lilly has launched a new drug to treat moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in India. The drug, Copellor, is designed to specifically target a protein that plays a role in triggering and maintaining inflammation in psoriasis. Copellor is a prescription medicine that is only to be used on the advice of a dermatologist or rheumatologist and under medical supervision.
Centre mulls regulations, stringent action against e-pharmacies amid concerns over data privacy, malpracticesThe New Drugs, Medical Devices and Cosmetics Bill, 2023, seeks to replace the existing Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940. The draft bill which was put on the public domain in July last year seeking feedback from stakeholders contained a provision for taking permission to operate an e-pharmacy.
Cough syrup deaths: DCGI directs drug manufacturers not to use propylene glycol supplied by Delhi firmThree employees of Marion Biotech were arrested on charges of manufacture and sale of adulterated drugs.
MHA Nod for MoU between Indian & Nigerian drug control agenciesThe move comes after a meeting between the heads of the NCB and NDLEA following the 'No Money for Terror Conference' in Delhi in November last year.
SS Dubey takes charge as new Controller General Of AccountsDubey has served as Chief Controller of Accounts in Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion among others apart from government nominee Director on board of Public Sector Undertakings like Engineering Projects India ltd., NBCC, HUDCO and Metro Rail Corporations of several states.
FY23 fiscal deficit: FinMin monitoring daily receipts, expenses in MarchAlthough the government is expected to meet the revised tax revenue estimates, meeting the Rs 50,000 crore target from disinvestment receipts could be a challenge. According to officials, the daily monitoring of tax and non-tax revenue collections will help the government in taking timely corrective actions, wherever needed.
India-made cough syrups caused disease in Gambia kids: US CDCIndian cough syrups exported to Gambia contaminated with diethylene glycol (DEG) and ethylene glycol (EG) led to acute kidney injury (AKI) cluster among children, according to an investigation led by the United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Gambian scientists.
World Wildlife Day: Why is it celebrated on March 3? Know the significance of CITES agreement on its 50th anniversaryDiscover the reason behind the Annual observance of UN World Wildlife Day and the landmark CITES for protecting flora and fauna.
Court orders jail for two Maiden Pharma execs for exporting substandard drugs to VietnamIndia suspended production at Maiden Pharmaceuticals in October last year for violations of manufacturing standards after the World Health Organization said four of its cough syrups may have killed dozens of children in Gambia. The company has denied its drugs were at fault for the deaths in Gambia and tests by an Indian government laboratory found there were no toxins in them.
Rajeev Raghuvanshi appointed as new Drug Controller General of IndiaOn November 11, last year, Dr VG Somani's term as DCGI was extended for three months, for the second time, coming into effect on November 16, 2022.
Unruly air passenger behaviour incidents under control; current rules 'sufficient' at this point of time: DGCA chiefAviation regulator DGCA's chief Arun Kumar has said that incidents of unruly passenger behaviour onboard flights are under control and rules are now being strictly enforced unlike earlier, when the enforcement was not up to the desired level that led to some embarrassing
AstraZeneca gets CDSCO nod for drug to treat biliary tract cancerDrug firm AstraZeneca India on Friday said it has received approval from the domestic drug regulator to market a drug to treat biliary tract cancer (BTC) in the country. The company has received approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) for Durvalumab, the drug firm said in a statement.
Amazon, Flipkart among 20 e-tailors given notices for selling drugs without licenceThe notice stated that the DCGI had forwarded the order to all state and Union Territories in May and November 2019 and again on February 3 for necessary action and compliance.
DCGI sends notices to e-pharmacies for selling drugs without licenceIn the notices, issued on Wednesday, the regulator said the online platforms were doing the business in contravention of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. They were told to file their response within two days. It wasn't clear whether the e-pharmacies have responded to the notices, a copy of which ET has seen.
Bharat Biotech's Krishna Ella suggests merging state drugs regulators with central body to ensure 'one quality one standard'His comments came on Sunday in the backdrop of questions being raised about the quality of Indian drugs over the past few months. The latest instance was on Friday, when the Tamil Nadu-based Global Pharma Healthcare recalled its entire lot of eye drop linked allegedly to vision loss in the US.
CDSCO suspends manufacturing of eye drops linked to 55 adverse events in United StatesAccording to the people aware of the matter, the US-based Food and Drug Administration has warned the consumers "not to purchase or use EzriCare Artificial Tears due to potential contamination", and the Union Health Ministry's CDSCO and Tamil Nadu's State Drug Controller have initiated a probe into the matter.
Central, state teams on way to Global Pharma Healthcare plant after firm recalls eye drop linked to vision loss in USThe US Food and Drug Administration has said in a statement that the Chennai-based company is recalling all lots of Artificial Tears lubricant eye drops distributed by EzriCare, LLC and Delsam Pharma to the consumer level due to possible contamination. To date, there are 55 reports of adverse events including eye infections, permanent loss of vision and a death with a bloodstream infection, it added.
Bharat Biotech founder bats for incentives, tax breaks for patented products, innovationSpeaking at the 72nd IPC in Nagpur earlier in the day, Drugs Controller General of India Dr V G Somani had said the Centre was all set to introduce a research linked incentive programme shaped on the lines of the production linked incentive (PLI) scheme to boost research and development of biotech products in the country.
Govt to introduce incentive scheme to boost R&D by pharma industry: DCGI SomaniPLI scheme aims to give companies incentives on incremental sales from products manufactured in domestic units. Somani was speaking on the first day of the 72nd Indian Pharmaceutical Congress in Nagpur. The three-day event will cover various issues related to the pharmaceutical industry, academia and community pharmacy and will be attended by delegates from India and abroad.
DGCI approves Covid-19 vaccine Covovax as heterologous booster dose"The Subject Expert Committee of the CDSCO on Wednesday deliberated on the issue and had recommended for market authorisation of Covid jab Covovax as a heterologous booster dose for adults who have been administered two doses of Covishield or Covaxin," an official source said.
Govt may not procure Bharat Biotech's intranasal Covid vaccine iNNOVACCBharat Biotech has made its intranasal Covid-19 vaccine iNNOVACC available on CoWin, priced at ₹800 per dose for private markets and ₹325 for the central and state governments. The intranasal vaccine will be rolled out as a booster dose in the fourth week of January for those above 18 years of age.Load More
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Stocks kicked off the week with sharp losses, with all three major averages posting their worst one-day performance this year, amid renewed worries over Europe and as investors took a breather after the Dow topped 14,000 for the first time since October 2007 last week.
Yay, 14,000! Now what? Traders are looking for what's out there that could disrupt the bull run to new highs.
After spending millions on Super Bowl ads, some companies are breaking the longstanding tradition of keeping the commercials under wraps until the big game and leaking them online.
McDonald's popular $1 McDouble cheeseburger, which has lured customers to the Golden Arches since 2008, is getting hard to sustain as rising beef prices threaten the company's profit margin.
McDonald's warned that it expects global sales to be lower this month — a prediction that one analyst said investors should be eye.
Rising food prices look manageable this year and Wendy's doesn't expect have to raise menu prices substantially, CEO Emil Brolick told CNBC on Wednesday.
Find out what Wall Street analysts had to say about Boeing, Apple, Yum Brands and Tiffany in this CNBC.com Stock Blog Roundup.
Stocks finished largely unchanged in lackluster trading Friday as investors remained on the sidelines ahead of next week's flurry of earnings reports, but still pulled off their second-straight weekly gain.
U.S. stock index futures signaled a marginally lower open on the last trading day of the week, with Asian and European shares trading flat after a new stimulus package was unveiled in Japan.
KFC parent Yum Brands said it had stopped using chicken from suppliers in China that are now under a government investigation before the review was even announced, and analysts said they expect the company to recover from the business hit in its biggest market.
Stocks finished lower for the second session Tuesday, as investors remained on the sidelines ahead of what is expected to be a weak fourth-quarter earnings season.
Which fast food giant is a better buy? McDonald's or Yum! Brands? Abigail Doolittle, The Seaport Group and Steve Cortes, Veracruz founder, discuss.
Following Yum Brands' warning of lower China sales, one analyst questioned to what extent this could be tied to weakening demand.
Rachael Rothman, Susquehanna Financial Group analyst, discusses whether food safety concerns in China will impact shares of Yum! Brands.
U.S. stock index futures indicated a lower open on Tuesday on Wall Street, as investors await the start of fourth quarter earnings season.
Some of the names on the move ahead of the open.
Earnings season unofficially kicks off Tuesday. From Sandy to the "fiscal cliff" get ready to here every excuse in the book for weak profits and revenue!
KFC parent Yum Brands on Monday warned that sales in its key China division shrank more than expected in the fourth quarter, and it reiterated an earnings forecast that was below what Wall Street expected.
Check out which companies are making headlines after the bell Monday:


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Heading to Pacific Marine Expo every year is like starting the holidays early. This year, there are even more gifts to unwrap on a show floor packed with new features.
The all-new Alaska Hall is an expansion of the overflowing Alaska Pavilion into the East Hall of Century Link Field. Conveniently located next to the Main Stage, the Fisherman’s Lounge and the Beer Garden, you’ll find a whole hall of Alaska-based products, gear and groups.
The Fisherman’s Lounge is sponsored by the Alaska Fisheries Development Foundation and will feature a Symphony of Seafood Hall of Fame. This year also marks the first time the Symphony of Seafood winners will be announced at Expo. Come to the New Products: Your Bottom Line is on the Line session at the Main State on Friday at 3 p.m. to hear the announcement. (Check out the full conference schedule here.)
Come visit National Fisherman in booth 755 in the West Hall (along Occidental). Ask us about our show special — 16 issues plus digital access — and take home a copy of our special Highliner issue and the latest quarterly.
Make sure you get your copy of Expo News, brought to you by the editors of National Fisherman. You’ll find a show map, full exhibitor and event listings, industry news, product info and much more.
Get into gear at the all-new product demo booth in the 1600 aisle. And don’t forget to grab a beer on us in Expo’s ZF Marine Beer Garden every day one hour before the show closes.
See you there!
Special thanks to our partners. Click through for information on product specials at Expo:


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Twinkly lights, red nosed reindeer, snow frosted trees and intricate flakes have started appearing in store windows all over Ohio, an indication that the holiday season is just around the corner. With the holiday season comes holiday sales. Beginning with Black Friday, the annual day after Thanksgiving sale, November and December are two of the busiest shopping months of the year.
Officials with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration have asked for retail owners’ assistance this season in making stores a safe place for their employees in the hopes to prevent workplace injuries. OSHA drafted a fact sheet on “Crowd Management Safety Tips for Retailers” and sent it accompanied by a letter to 14 major retailers.
The heightened awareness for crowd management was in part prompted by a 2008 workplace accident in which a mob of consumers eager for holiday sales, trampling down a retail worker. The retail worker died as a result of the injuries he sustained in the “stampede.”
Assistant Secretary of OSHA, Dr. David Michaels reported an increase in the number of injuries related to sizeable crowds at retail locations during large sales and promotional events. “Many of these incidents can be prevented by adopting a crowd management plan, and this fact sheet provides employers with guidelines for avoiding injuries during the holiday shopping season,” he said about the letter and guide sent out to the retailers.
Some safety precautions include restricting customer access when maximum occupancy levels have been met, employing extra security, creating defined lines and barricades and preparing for emergency situations.
Source: United States Department of Labor “US Labor Department’s OSHA encourages major retailers to provide crowd management measures to protect workers during Black Friday, other sales events” Diana Petterson and Jason Surbey 11/3/10


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In the midst of the coronavirus health crisis and while the shortage of hydro-alcoholic solutions is felt throughout the country, the luxury group French LVMH has just announced that it will launch mass production of gel in its perfume factories.
Bernard Arnault puts the LVMH factories to good use
LVMH launches hydro-alcoholic gel production for AP-HP hospitals
Bernard Arnault, Chairman of the world-renowned LVMH group, has therefore just asked its perfume and cosmetic production units, normally responsible for manufacturing products stamped Christian Dior, Guerlain or even Givenchy, to start manufacturing hydroalcoholic products. for health purposes.
Currently out of stock and therefore cruelly lacking in the current context, the disinfectant solutions manufactured by LVMH will then be distributed free of charge to APHP establishments, as well as to the country’s authorities..
Mass production for an indefinite period
LVMH, Benetton, industrialists at the bedside of the States
“With this initiative, Mr Arnault intends to help prevent the spread of the virus and thus help a large number of people protect themselves from the disease. “” LVMH will maintain its commitment as long as necessary, in agreement with the French health authorities “can be read on the official press release of the French luxury group. A welcome initiative for the management of the Parisian hospitals of the AP-HP, who welcomed the action and thanked the company on Twitter.
A public interest initiative
Announced this Sunday, the measure was put in place immediately, leading to the first productions of hydroalcoholic gels in the wake, whose deliveries began on Monday. In view of the priority nature of the action, the group estimates that it can manufacture a total of 12 tonnes of product per week.
Faced with the now almost uncontrollable spread of the covid-19 virus, public authorities in many countries are starting to show their first major signs of weakness. The shortage of approved masks and hydro-alcoholic solutions, the first bulwarks against mass propagation, has certainly played a decisive role in the current situation. Faced with this, certain large industrial groups have started to offer their services, financial or logistics. For example, the Italian group Benetton announced last week an aid of 3 million euros for hospitals on the peninsula, while the Miroglio group launched the manufacture of masks. LVMH is now joining the international effort with the manufacture of hydroalcoholic products.
We cannot stress enough the importance of the right actions to adopt


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Paranaguá Container Terminal is suffering from increased vessel omissionsMay, 09, 2022 Posted by Gabriel Malheiros
The Container Terminal of Paranaguá, the most important container terminal in Paraná, recorded 131 vessel omissions in 2021, nearly one every three days. The number is almost ten times higher than the average of omissions between 2017 and 2019 and four times higher than the previous year.
These data were revealed by the CEO of Portos do Paraná, Luiz Fernando Garcia, to iINFRA, indicating that most of the omissions on the record book were from companies that lead the long-haul container transportation market in Brazil, Maersk, and MSC, with more a share of more than 60% of this market.
He also said that part of the vessels that stopped calling at the Paraná-based port either were loaded or discharged cargo at the so-called vertical terminals, which these shipowners control in Santa Catarina and São Paulo. TCP belongs to the China Merchant Ports group, with no shipowners in control.
Problems for the local industry
What is deemed cause for concern is the terminal’s future productivity loss and, more importantly, the state’s industries having to use more expensive land logistics, possibly leading to the abandonment of new businesses or shutdowns of existing plants.
The iNFRA Agency spoke with a partner from a state industry that uses a large number of containers per year, who requested anonymity for fear of retaliation. He claims that receiving proposals for lower container freight costs when using vertical terminals is “routine.”
However, he explains that he would have to cover increased distances by truck to deliver the containers filled with his products to other ports than it would have been in Paranaguá, which is closer to his production plant.
The industrialist also noticed an increase in omissions, which he claims resulted in operational losses (need to pay higher costs for the containers on hold). However, the most significant harm is the inability to deliver the promised goods to their customers.
Shipowner points out that omissions also occur at the group’s terminals
“Since the beginning of the pandemic, the supply chain around the world has been suffering from operational restrictions,” Maersk explained. “This has had a strong impact on the itineraries of all vessels, which have been stuck for days in long lines in congested ports, arriving in Brazil with delayed programming.”
The company justifies that “vessel omissions were made to pick up on service itineraries and reduce the impact of delays on customers. As a result, even ports where the Maersk Group owns a stake ”, says the text.
The director of ANTAQ, Flávia Takafashi, who coordinates the working group created in October last year to evaluate container handling issues in Brazilian ports, stated that the figures received by the agency indicate that the verticalized port terminals had fewer omissions compared to white flag terminals until last year.
According to Flávia, the goal is to force shipowners to provide more operational predictability. For example, according to her, ships are frequently delayed far from their destination, but they prefer to report the omission once close to the port.
Another measure taken by Antaq was to change the agency’s system so that, from January 2022 onwards, any omission must be reported in advance, increasing Antaq’s control over it.
Source: Agência Infra
To read the full original article, please go to:
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text: NEW YORK (AP) ¿ Shares of Brocade Communications Systems Inc. jumped in premarket trading Monday after a report the network gear and data storage company is up for sale. The stock rose $1.05, or 13.7 percent, to $8.70 in premarket trading. The stock has ranged from $2.05 to $9.02 over the past year. Citing unnamed people with knowledge of the matter, The Wall Street Journal reported Monday that Brocade is looking for a buyer, with Hewlett-Packard Co. and Oracle Corp. considering bids. The Journal reported that a deal is not imminent and that Brocade could still decide to remain an independent company. Calls to Brocade, HP and Oracle seeking comment were not immediately returned Monday morning. If such a deal is struck it would follow a similar pattern emerging in the technology industry. Companies have been putting up large sums to broaden their offerings of equipment and services, stepping up competition with rivals for corporate contracts. In the most recent example, Xerox Corp. said last week it will pay $6.4 billion for Affiliated Computer Services Inc., a company that does outsourcing work for businesses. A week earlier, Dell Inc. said it would buy Perot Systems Corp. for $3.9 billion, giving the company a sizeable technology services unit. Brocade, based in San Jose, Calif., makes equipment and software for connecting corporate servers and data centers, selling its products through distribution deals with partners including IBM Corp., EMC Corp. and HP.


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Stylerunner has today unveiled its Robina Town Centre store in the Gold Coast.
The Gold Coast store is the second bricks-and-mortar site Stylerunner has opened since it was acquired by Accent Group, following the opening of its flagship Armadale store in October last year.
While being the second store in Stylerunner's portfolio, the Robina Town Centre site is the brand's first store in a shopping centre, representing a significant milestone for the brand.
The store opened on the ground floor of the centre near Mecca, a strategy which positions the brand as part of the fashion offering, rather than just the sports offering.
Speaking on the opening, Stylerunner GM Ryan Edelmuth welcomed the opportunity to bring the Stylerunner offering to Queenslanders.
"After seeing the overwhelming response from the community in Armadale [Victoria] last October, we are extremely excited to welcome Queenslanders to our first centre store at Robina Town Centre.
"We know Gold Coast locals love their activewear and sneakers and we look forward to sharing the best there is," he said.
The store houses the brand's mix of local and international labels including the newly-launched Stylerunner The Label, P.E Nation, The Upside, Nike, Adidas and emerging labels La Detresse and Exie.
To celebrate the launch, Stylerunner called on local DJ Shimmy Disco to get customers hyped for the opening, while team members are also handing out complimentary beverages and COYO (coconut yogurt).
Continuing the celebrations into the weekend, customers who spend over $300 in-store will receive an exclusive, reusable water bottle gift with purchase.
Robina Town Centre GM Kathleen Hart added that the opening demonstrates the centre's commitment to elevating its offering.
"Excitement levels are exceptionally high in line with the opening of this Australian shopping centre first - we’re delighted to welcome Stylerunner to our fashion family.
"We are expecting a strong turn out from Queenslanders wanting to shop this internationally-recognised and multi-brand activewear retailer as it makes its Queensland retail debut right here at Robina Town Centre.
"This opening signals our ongoing commitment to expanding our retail offer with coveted brands that resonate with our local shopper," she said.
The Stylerunner Robina Town Centre store opened today at 9.30am.


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Two East Liberty-made crossovers helped Honda Motor Co. (NYSE:HMC) notch an April sales boost.
American Honda Motor Co., the automaker’s sales arm, said Wednesday total sales in April were up 7.4 percent to 130,999 vehicles, driven by record results for the East Liberty-made CR-V, the Acura RDX, which comes off the same Ohio production line, and the Acura SUV segment as a whole.
CR-V set its April sales record with 26,519 sold, up 12.2 percent from April 2012. The RDX capped its first year of a new redesign with its 12th-straight month of record sales. The 4,088 RDXs sold in April were up 106 percent from April 2012, the last month with the old RDX design.
The Acura SUV segment, including RDX and the MDX, moved a record 7,017 units in the month.
The Marysville-made Honda Accord once again was the company’s top seller with 33,500 cars sold. That is down 5.2 percent from April 2012, but the year-to-date sales for the model are up 26.4 percent.


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London, UK (PRWEB) November 20, 2011
WNS (Holdings) Limited (WNS) (NYSE: WNS), a leading provider of global Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) services, will exhibit at the conference on ‘The Future of Retail Banking’ to be held at the Hilton Tower Bridge, London, UK, during November 23-24, 2011, as an event sponsor. On day one of the conference, Mark Wiggins, Senior Vice President, WNS, will be speaking on the topic - ‘Supporting the development of a successful banking proposition’. The session will cover key areas such as: how banks could better identify different financial requirements of customers; ensuring an agile and flexible operation; and creating an innovative proposition through improving the speed-to-market and cost efficiency of new product launches.
‘The Future of Retail Banking’ is the 14th Annual Conference conducted by Marketforce and the IEA. Global leaders from top retail banking companies along with other industries will participate in the conference to discuss and strategize on creating the bank of the future by driving customer engagement and innovation. This year’s conference agenda will discuss the best approach to adding value to customer relationships and engaging with today’s consumers.
WNS will be exhibiting at Booth #8 at the conference.
WNS (Holdings) Limited (NYSE: WNS), is a leading global business process outsourcing company. WNS offers business value to 200+ global clients by combining operational excellence with deep domain expertise in key industry verticals including Travel, Insurance, Banking and Financial Services, Manufacturing, Retail and Consumer Packaged Goods, Shipping and Logistics and Healthcare and Utilities. WNS delivers an entire spectrum of business process outsourcing services such as finance and accounting, customer care, technology solutions, research and analytics and industry specific back office and front office processes. WNS has over 21,000 professionals across 23 delivery centers worldwide including Costa Rica, India, Philippines, Romania, Sri Lanka and United Kingdom. For more information, visit http://www.wns.com
Safe Harbor Statement under the provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995
This document includes information which may constitute forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, the accuracy of which are necessarily subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions as to future events. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied are discussed in our most recent Form 20-F and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. WNS undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.


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updated 12:59 pm EST, Wed November 21, 2012
Claim by 3D Systems alleges patent infringement
A manufacturer of 3D printers is suing Formlabs and crowdfunding site Kickstarter for an alleged patent infringement. The suit claims that the Form 1 3D printer infringes on a US patent owned by 3D Systems relating to stereolithography, and comes less than a month after the printer finished its highly-successful Kickstarter funding drive.
Seeking injunctive relief and damages for infringement, 3D systems is adamant that Formlabs is using their intellectual property. "3D Systems invented and pioneered the 3D printing technology of stereolithography and has many active patents covering various aspects of the stereolithography process," said general counsel for 3D Systems, Andrew Johnson. While the company acknowledges that Formlabs may have been right in publicly saying certain patents it uses have expired, it believes that at least one is still in force today, and it intends to "enforce our patent rights."
Formlabs has yet to respond to the lawsuit.


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TOKYO (April 20, 2012)—Yokohama Rubber Co. Ltd. said it has been accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 for four types of tire testing—all related to the EU tire labeling requirements.
This accreditation means that Yokohama's test data within the accredited scope are internationally recognized as being based on proper testing techniques, and allows the company to use a logo signifying accreditation on its published test reports.
The accreditation was carried out by Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation Inc.
The four specific procedures now accredited are:
— Marking requirements, dimensional requirements, and load/speed performance tests of tires for passenger cars (maximum speed more than 270 km/h);
— Rolling resistance testing of tires for passenger cars and light-trucks (load index of 104 or less) using force method;
— Adhesion performance testing on wet surfaces of tires for passenger cars using a special vehicle; and
—Coast-by testing for measuring tire-rolling sound emission of tires for passenger cars and commercial vehicles of load index of 121 or less.


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PRESENTING: How entrepreneurs use apps like Poshmark to turn side hustles selling clothes into full-time gigs earning 6 figures or more
Recycling and reselling clothes allows shoppers to wear new-to-them outfits instead of repeating pieces they've already posted on social media. People are keeping their clothes for half as long as they used to, according to a report by Business of Fashion.
Shopping apps like Poshmark, Vinted, TheRealReal, and ThredUp are making resale an approachable market to start a side hustle or a full-fledged business. To get started, you only need to download the app on your phone and find some clothes in your closet that you're willing to get rid of.
Business Insider spoke with two Poshmark sellers who turned their side hustles into businesses making up to six figures. Subscribe to learn how they scaled their shops based on sales and followers.
Subscribe here to read our feature: How entrepreneurs use apps like Poshmark to turn side hustles selling clothes into full-time gigs earning 6 figures or more
If you've created a successful side hustle or six-figure business on Poshmark and would like to share your story, please reach out via email at email@example.com.
- A Google employee of 11 years says he and his wife stared at each other in 'disbelief' when they realized they'd both been laid off by the company
- A Google engineer of 8 years says his 'spidey-senses' detected incoming layoffs — and felt 'isolated' when his 'faceless' severance email arrived
- 6 signs that you're in a one-sided relationship and how to find balance
- Rajinikanth issues public notice on infringement of rights, warns legal action
- Govt likely to float global tender for HPV vaccine in April; Merck, Serum Institute may participate
- Finance Ministry to stick to privatisation of already announced CPSEs next fiscal
- 70-plus Indian startups show exit door to 21K techies, more pink slips coming
- Steps taken in subsidence-hit Joshimath inadequate, declare Himalayas eco-sensitive zone, say experts


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Hacker Ruins Cars and Garages in One Device
Scandalous security specialist Sammy Kamkar a week ago showed a contraption that can capture remote signs to open cars and garages. Kamkar flaunted the gadget, which cost him only US$32 to make, at the DefCon gathering in Las Vegas.
At the point when the thingamabob detects a sign from a key coxcomb used to open a vehicle or carport entryway, it keeps the sign from coming to the entryway, while in the meantime catching and putting away the open code transmitted by the dandy.
To the individual attempting to open the entryway, it creates the impression that the coxcomb has fizzled. Regularly, that will provoke the individual to press the coxcomb once more. RollJam hinders that transmission, as well, however in the meantime sends the initially caught code to the entryway.
To the individual opening the entryway, it shows up as though the second dandy press opened the entryway. The individual stays unknowing that a programmer has caught the second code and can later utilize it to open the vehicle or carport.
RollJam lives up to expectations with a wide exhibit of engine vehicles - Nissan, Cadillac, Ford, Toyota, Lotus, Volkswagen and Chrysler - and also Cobra and Viper caution frameworks and Genie and Liftmaster carport entryway openers, as indicated by Kamkar.
Truth be told, the gadget can bargain any equipment that uses the KeeLoq access control framework from Microchip Technology, the High Security Rolling Code generator made by National Semiconductor, and Hisec chips sold by Texas Instruments.
On the other hand, more up to date frameworks -, for example, the Dual Keeloq framework - will thwart RollJam, Kamkar has recognized. That is on account of their codes terminate after a brief while, so stolen codes get to be stale before they can be utilized by an assailant.
Kamkar has assembled very much a notoriety for being an auto programmer. He's likewise made a $100 gadget called "OwnStar" that can "find, open and remote-begin any vehicle with OnStar RemoteLink."
Kamkar likewise created OpenSesame by reconstructing a tyke's pink toy to open a settled code carport entryway inside of seconds.
Since most vehicles don't have the fresher innovation, auto proprietors worried about RollJam likely will depend on retro tech to secure their vehicles.
"I'm certain those individuals most concerned - individuals with something worth taking - will take fundamental insurances, such as utilizing a physical lock," said Roger C. Lanctot, partner chief of the worldwide car hone for Strategy Analytics.
"I would prefer not to overlook the earnestness of the security suggestions for high-movement and high-security puts that utilization this sort of innovation, yet I don't believe that the normal individual needs to oddity out and redesign their carport entryways," said Adam Wosotowsky, an informing information engineer with Intel Security.
"With autos, most criminal components are simply going to break your window, open the entryway, and take your stuff," he told TechNewsWorld. "In case you're willing to take from somebody's auto, then you're presumably not the sort of criminal that does a considerable measure of preplanning for your objective."
As autos turn out to be more associated, they additionally turn out to be more defenseless, noted Adam Kujawa, a malware knowledge expert with Malwarebytes.
"There are currently more assaults accessible, and way more research being done to find new ones, on account of locally available PCs and having autos that associate with the Internet," he told TechNewsWorld.
"Whenever data is being sent starting with one framework then onto the next, there is a risk," Kujawa said. "You can twofold that for remote correspondences."
Then again, those remote interchanges additionally can be a methods for automobile creators to thrashing programmers.
"Humorously, we will require integration to effectively keeping so as to thrash hacking of autos hacking resistances up and coming," Strategy Analytics' Lanctot told TechNewsWorld.
"The automobile business has hitherto neglected to grasp integration with the same center and power that it has pointed at wellbeing frameworks," he said.
"Truth be told, it is the wellbeing frameworks - which exploit on-board processing - that have opened the way to hacking," Lanctot pointed out.
"Basic steps have yet to be taken, partially on account of the cost included and the sort of observing obliged," he included. "Auto organizations basically need to screen vehicles in the same way that Symantec and McAfee screen PC systems." Stealing the codes for opening engine vehicles and computerized carport entryways got to be simpler a week ago.


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EIZO today announced the DuraVision FDF2382WT-A – a 23-inch multitouch monitor featuring projected capacitive (PCAP) touch technology for seamless operation in industrial, medical, and public access environments. The DuraVision FDF2382WT-A monitor accepts..
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Today, EIZO announced seven new CuratOR Surgical Panel standard models with 4K UHD resolution, new LUT switching, and touchscreen options, as well as an optional intuitive video management function. The EIZO Surgical..
Sony today announced the first Alpha series interchangeable lens vlog camera, the new ZV-E10. Designed from the ground up for vlogging and vloggers, the new camera combines Sony’s advanced imaging technology with..
Sony today announced the XAV-9500ES – the Mobile ES lineup’s first in-car media receiver with high-res audio capabilities. With a sleek, high definition 10.1-inch Gapless Anti-glare Capacitive Touchscreen display, the 9500ES offers..
Sony Mobile today re-affirmed its position as a leading communications innovator and visionary, by unveiling Xperia Touch that break new ground in consumer technology. Xperia Touch is an interactive projector that turns..
Samsung unveils European edition of Family Hub refrigerator with a 21.5-inch touchscreen at IFA 2016
Samsung’s European edition of its highly acclaimed Family Hub refrigerator will be unveiled at IFA 2016 in Berlin. The new 2-door refrigerator places the fridge on top and the freezer at the..
Samsung today launched a revolutionary new 4-Door Flex refrigerator in South Korea featuring Internet-of-Things (IoT) technologies. The 850-liter Family Hub refrigerator features a Wi-Fi-enabled 21.5-inch Full HD touch screen. With the touch..
Canon today announced the EOS M10 interchangeable lens digital camera. The EOS M10 camera is fitted with a new retractable EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens, that shortens and locks into a..


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October 28, 2014, Bellevue, Washington – “PACCAR reported higher revenues and net income for the third quarter of 2014,” said Ron Armstrong, chief executive officer. “PACCAR’s third quarter results reflect the benefits of strong truck sales in the U.S. and Canada, and excellent aftermarket parts revenues and financial services results worldwide. I am very proud of our 23,400 employees who have delivered outstanding results to our shareholders and customers.”
PACCAR earned $371.4 million ($1.04 per diluted share) for the third quarter of 2014, an increase of 20 percent compared to $309.4 million ($.87 per diluted share) earned in the third quarter of 2013. Third quarter net sales and financial services revenues were a quarterly record of $4.93 billion, a 15 percent increase compared to $4.30 billion in the third quarter of 2013. For the first nine months of 2014, PACCAR reported net income of $964.5 million ($2.71 per diluted share) compared to $837.1 million ($2.36 per diluted share) in 2013. Net sales and financial services revenues for the first nine months of 2014 were $13.88 billion compared to $12.52 billion last year.
“Our North American customers are benefiting from good economic growth, record freight tonnage, improving freight rates and the excellent operating efficiency of our new Kenworth and Peterbilt models in the on-highway and construction markets,” noted Armstrong. “PACCAR’s North American truck factories have increased build rates to meet strong demand for our industry-leading Kenworth and Peterbilt Class 8 vehicles.”
Peterbilt Model 567 Construction Trucks
PACCAR Increases Stock Repurchases
PACCAR repurchased 581,355 of its common shares for $34.1 million during the third quarter. The Board of Directors authorized $300 million of stock repurchases, of which PACCAR has repurchased 5.6 million shares for $226.1 million. “PACCAR’s excellent net profits and strong cash flow make the company’s shares an attractive long-term investment. The stock repurchase program reflects the Board’s confidence in PACCAR’s successful global business growth,” said Bob Christensen, PACCAR president and chief financial officer.
Financial Highlights – Third Quarter 2014
Highlights of PACCAR’s financial results for the third quarter of 2014 include:
Financial Highlights – Nine Months 2014
Highlights of PACCAR’s financial results for the first nine months of 2014 include:
Global Truck Markets
“The U.S. and Canada truck industry Class 8 retail sales are 17 percent higher year-to-date than last year. Our customers are benefiting from good economic growth, improving freight rates and lower fuel prices,” said Dan Sobic, PACCAR executive vice president. “Many of our customers are expanding their fleets, in addition to replacing older vehicles, which is excellent news for the industry.” Class 8 industry retail sales for the U.S. and Canada in 2014 are estimated to be in the range of 245,000-255,000 vehicles. Estimates for U.S. and Canada truck industry Class 8 retail sales in 2015 are in the range of 240,000-270,000 units.
“Customers recognize DAF’s product quality leadership, low operating costs and excellent resale value,” said Harrie Schippers, DAF president. “Waberer’s International, one of Europe’s largest transport companies, ordered 1,000 new DAF Euro 6 XF and CF trucks at the IAA Commercial Vehicles exhibition in Hanover, Germany in September.” Freight traffic in Germany has improved by three percent, as measured by the Maut toll system. It is estimated that industry sales in the above 16-tonne truck market in Europe will be in the range of 210,000-220,000 units this year. The 2015 industry sales in the above 16-tonne truck market in Europe are projected to be in the range of 200,000-240,000 units.
Heavy-duty truck industry sales for South America in 2014 are projected to be in the range of 140,000-150,000 vehicles. The 2015 heavy-duty truck industry sales for South America are estimated to be in the range of 130,000-160,000 units. “The production of DAF trucks in Brasil is enhancing PACCAR’s vehicle sales in South America. DAF dealers are investing in the most modern distribution network in Brasil to support our customers,” said Sam Means, PACCAR vice president.
PACCAR Parts Achieves Record Quarterly Revenues
PACCAR Parts generated record quarterly revenues of $784.2 million for the third quarter of 2014, a 10 percent increase compared to the $715.3 million achieved in the third quarter of 2013. Third quarter 2014 pretax income was $127.9 million, an increase of 20 percent compared to the $106.5 million earned in the third quarter last year. PACCAR Parts’ nine months revenues were up 10 percent to $2.29 billion compared to $2.09 billion for the same period last year. Pretax profit increased 18 percent to $366.7 million in the first nine months of 2014 compared to $311.2 million in the same period of 2013.
“PACCAR Parts’ innovative marketing programs and improving fleet utilization are contributing to excellent parts and service business,” said David Danforth, PACCAR Parts general manager. “We are pleased to announce the opening of a new parts distribution center in Montreal, Canada. PACCAR Parts has 17 parts distribution centers supporting over 2,000 DAF, Kenworth and Peterbilt dealer locations that deliver industry-leading customer service.”
Capital Investments and Product Development
PACCAR’s excellent long-term profits, strong balance sheet and intense focus on quality have enabled the company to invest $5.8 billion in new PACCAR assembly facilities, innovative products and new technologies during the past decade. Capital investments of $225-$250 million and R&D expenses of $205-$215 million in 2014 are delivering enhanced powertrains and increased operating efficiency of PACCAR assembly facilities. Capital expenditures for 2015 are projected to be $325-$375 million and research and development expenses are estimated to be $200-$250 million, as PACCAR enhances its aftermarket support, manufacturing facilities and product ranges.
PACCAR MX-11 Engine
Ireland Fleet Transport Innovation Award Winner
PACCAR Enhances Environmental Leadership
PACCAR is an environmental leader with its energy-efficient vehicles and manufacturing facilities. PACCAR joined the CDP (formerly known as the Carbon Disclosure Project) this year. The CDP’s climate change program provides annual reports on companies’ progress in the development of energy-efficient operations and environmentally friendly products and services that protect and preserve the environment. “PACCAR earned a score of 94 (out of 100). This is an excellent result and reflects PACCAR’s commitment to environmental leadership,” commented George West, PACCAR vice president.
PACCAR’s commitment to the environment is reflected in the industry-leading fuel-efficiency of its trucks. The new Kenworth T680 Advantage is Kenworth's most fuel-efficient truck. The Kenworth T680 Advantage has a factory-installed aerodynamic package and an optimized powertrain including the fuel-efficient PACCAR MX-13 engine. “The Kenworth T680 Advantage improves fuel economy up to five percent. Customers appreciate the positive impact on their profits and the environment,” said Gary Moore, Kenworth general manager and PACCAR vice president.
The Kenworth T680 Advantage Achieves Five Percent Fuel Economy Improvement
Financial Services Companies Achieve Record Quarterly Results
PACCAR Financial Services (PFS) has a portfolio of 163,000 trucks and trailers, with total assets of $11.77 billion. PacLease, a major full-service truck leasing company in North America and Europe with a fleet of over 37,000 vehicles, is included in this segment.
PFS profit increased due to higher asset balances and excellent portfolio performance during the third quarter and first nine months of 2014. PFS third quarter pretax income achieved a record $96.9 million compared to $88.2 million earned in the third quarter of 2013. Third quarter 2014 revenues were $305.9 million compared to $293.5 million in the same quarter of 2013. For the nine-month period, Financial Services pretax income was $274.1 million compared to $249.8 million last year. Nine-month revenues were $902.2 million compared with $875.4 million for the same period a year ago. “Dealers and customers appreciate PFS providing leading-edge technology solutions, excellent customer service and dedicated support to the transportation industry,” said Bob Bengston, PACCAR senior vice president.
“PACCAR’s strong balance sheet, complemented by its A+/A1 credit ratings, enables PFS to offer competitive retail financing to Kenworth, Peterbilt and DAF dealers and customers,” said Todd Hubbard, PACCAR Financial president. “A growing asset base and robust portfolio performance are generating strong earnings. We have excellent access to the commercial paper and medium-term note markets, allowing PFS to profitably support the sale of PACCAR trucks in 23 countries on four continents.”
PACCAR is a global technology leader in the design, manufacture and customer support of high-quality light-, medium- and heavy-duty trucks under the Kenworth, Peterbilt and DAF nameplates. PACCAR also designs and manufactures advanced diesel engines, provides financial services and information technology, and distributes truck parts related to its principal business.
PACCAR will hold a conference call with securities analysts to discuss third quarter earnings on October 28, 2014, at 9:00 a.m. Pacific time. Interested parties may listen to the call by selecting “Q3 Webcast” at PACCAR’s homepage. The Webcast will be available on a recorded basis through November 4, 2014. PACCAR shares are listed on NASDAQ Global Select Market, symbol PCAR, and its homepage can be found at www.paccar.com.
This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and are subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Actual results may differ materially from those included in these statements due to a variety of factors. More information about these factors is contained in PACCAR’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.