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December 28, 2018
By Jeffrey Schwartz
As Microsoft partners await the preview of the new Windows Virtual Desktop (WVD), 2019 will begin with attention focused on how its latest attempt at offering a cloud-based VDI service will affect the fortunes of Citrix.
The annual Citrix Partner Summit will take place during the second week of January on Orlando, Florida, where the company is expected to share how Microsoft’s forthcoming Azure-based desktop as a service (DaaS) will impact its own new Workspace Cloud.
Microsoft introduced WVD in late September at its annual Ignite conference. Observers see the planned DaaS offering as a move by Microsoft to swoop into the virtual cloud desktop-services market offered by its alliance partner Citrix, as well as VMware and others. Those taking a more optimistic view see Microsoft’s WVD as an opportunity to boost demand for various DaaS offerings that have enhanced features.
“It’s too early to say because we still don’t know what WVD will ultimately look like, but Citrix has to realize Microsoft is creeping into their market,” said Nicholas McQuire, director of enterprise research at CCS Insight. “That’s the nature of the beast in today’s world. You know you’ve got to accept that some of your partners are going to be entering in big markets and possibly take a chunk of your piece of the pie.”
Citrix officials say that the pie is only going to get bigger. The company is among several Microsoft alliance partners that will provide connectors from WVD to their respective offerings. Citrix plans to launch its own DaaS offering that includes WVD with Windows 10. It will include secure remote access from any device using multifactor authentication.
The Citrix DaaS tied to WVD will also include a high-definition user experience with Citrix’s HDX virtual desktop optimization technology, using Azure compute and storage. Citrix also plans to resell Microsoft 365 licenses but will also let customers and partners bring their own licenses and desktop images. Back in September, Citrix became a Microsoft Cloud Service Provider (CSP), allowing it to bundle WVD with its workspace services.
Citrix’s Steve Blacklock
“Microsoft’s doing cool things around virtual desktops; our joint solutions are used by thousands of customers, millions of users,” said Steve Blacklock, Citrix VP of global strategic alliances. “Citrix is focused on what we like to call the ‘intelligent workspace.’ So, it’s different than just virtual desktops or virtual apps. Microsoft is talking about virtual desktops, but we’re focusing on the complete secure digital workspace, not just virtualization.”
Citrix was among several WVD launch alliance partners at Ignite along with CloudJumper, FSLogix, Lakeside Software, Liquidware, People Tech Group and ThinPrint. Microsoft has since acquired FSLogix, whose User Profile Disk (UPD) promises to boost performance of WVD.
But Blacklock underscored the fact that Citrix and Microsoft have had various partnerships for several decades. Among other things, the company uses Microsoft Azure as the control plane for the Citrix Workspace Cloud. Also, the two companies have provided integration between …
… Microsoft’s Enterprise Mobility and Security (EMS) and Citrix Xen Mobile.
However, various industry observers have privately wondered if customers will bypass Citrix when WVD becomes available. Others say that Microsoft is really taking another stab at offering a DaaS to go after Amazon Web Services (AWS).
Pete Downing, chief marketing and technology officer at XenTegra, a digital-workspace consultancy and Citrix and Microsoft partner, believes it’s the latter.
“Citrix will become a pseudo systems integrator to fill the gaps that the Windows Virtual Desktop service can fill,” Downing said. “Amazon seems to have a lead in the space, but in reality, [its] offering has always been limited because of the cost per desktop.”
Microsoft also has an edge over AWS because its Amazon WorkSpaces renders a Windows desktop and user experience from Windows Server, while Microsoft WVD is an actual Windows 10 desktop, Downing added.
“In either case, Citrix can fill the gaps that Microsoft and Amazon cannot,” he said. “Enter Citrix Workspace. At the end of day, an end-user only cares about their identity, their data and their apps. You ensure they can log in with a single password, have access to their data, and have access to their apps; the desktop is irrelevant. Citrix will be a huge asset to Windows Virtual Desktop service.”
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Apple has forced its suppliers to end a form of "bonded labor" that saddled assembly line workers with unnecessary hiring fees, and put them in debt to third-party recruiters.
Foxconn Technology Group, a key Apple supplier, is setting a bad example for industry by overworking its staff, according to a Chinese trade union.
If you want to see where your old electronics go to die, take a trip to Guiyu. For two decades, PCs, phones and other electronics have been shipped to this town on the southeast coast of China, where locals in thousands of small workshops pull them a...
Guiyu is the town in China where your old electronics go to die. For years, it's been one of the main locations in the world where PCs, phone and other discarded products are shipped in to be pulled apart and recycled. The work is dirty and even haza...
The EU is investing in IT to help it and its citizens protect themselves from floods.
A labor protection group is accusing one of Samsung's suppliers in China of hiring over 10 underage workers to build company components. But the Korean electronics giant was quick to dismiss the allegations, and said it had no "child workers" at the ...
Chinese authorities have so far found no underage workers at a local Samsung Electronics supplier accused of using "child labor," but have started a campaign to crack down on the illegal activity.
Samsung Electronics has temporarily suspended business with one of its Chinese suppliers, after a labor watchdog group accused the factory of hiring five underage workers.
Dozens of China-based suppliers to Samsung Electronics violated various labor regulations last year, including failing to pay overtime wages and provide proper safety equipment for workers, according to recent audits.
An iPhone factory in China that's been the site of several worker deaths in recent months has been under-reporting the long hours employees endure, according to an investigator from a labor protection group.
Foxconn Technology Group has come up short in trying to limit the overtime hours of its workers in China, but still made progress in improving the working conditions at three of its factories that make products for Apple, a labor group said Thursday.
A workers' rights group is demanding Apple investigate the recent deaths of several workers at an iPhone factory in China, one of whom was a 15-year-old who died of pneumonia after working at the facility for a month.
A factory in China that builds phone casings for Samsung is facing accusations that it treats its workers poorly, prompting the electronics giant to investigate.
A manufacturer of glass coverings for Apple is drawing accusations of worker exploitation from Hong Kong labor groups concerned with several employee suicides at its factory in China.
Workers at four Dell suppliers in China are allegedly enduring long overtime hours and facing exposure to toxic fumes, according to new reports from watchdog groups.
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Star Wars Battlefront II
has seen some major changes since its initial release. Electronic Arts dropped a bombshell last week
as the in-game progression system has been revamped. This time around, DICE released a subtle update for the title to correct minor errors in the initial patch.
If you’re already a fan of Star Wars Battlefront II
's multiplayer, don’t worry because "Update 2.01” doesn’t drastically alter gameplay. It mainly fixes known issues and various bug fixes. Check out the full patch notes below.
Update 2.01 Patch Notes
Heroes and Special Units
- Blaster-wielding Heroes and Special Units are now moving at their correct speed again
- Fixed an issue where some Interceptor Class Star Cards had their rarity levels swapped
General Improvements and Bugfixes
- Fixed an issue with Locked / Unlocked Star Cards showing the incorrect state
- Fixed a stuttering issue with DX11/12 for AMD GPU players during gameplay
- Fixed an issue with players getting a black screen when deploying
- Various crash fixes
- Darth Maul’s SABER THROW ability does not always hit its target
- Sometimes, upon completing the Rodian appearance challenge the awarded crate does not display any contents. The Rodian appearance is still awarded as intended.
"Update 2.01" is out now for Star Wars Battlefront II
We've got the full list of Star Wars Battlefront II achievements
- check the list for guides to unlocking them.This game was featured in our Best Xbox First Person Shooters Available in 2018 article. Why not check it out to see what else made the cut?


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The Newton Abbot-based firm, which runs the biggest foodservice event in the West Country, concluded deals worth more than £650,000 at the event at Newton Abbot Racecourse.
More than 800 foodservice professionals, made up of leading independent food manufacturers from across Devon, Cornwall, Bristol and Somerset, and some of the UK’s leading suppliers, attended the show, which broke the £600,000 sales mark set in 2016.
And the free event was kicked off with the visit of Exeter Chiefs’ Thomas Waldrom and Don Armand. The players were on hand to help MJ Baker Foodservice cut the cake as part of its 18th birthday celebrations.
MJ Baker Foodservice, which is part of buying group Fairway Foodservice, sponsors the professional rugby union side.
The trade show featured 150 exhibitors who displayed their best products in addition to offering unique deals to attendees on the day.
MJ Baker Foodservice sales director Giles Thomas said: “I think the key to success was in the support provided by our suppliers.
“There was a fantastic mix of suppliers taking part – from big household names to fabulous locally-based companies.
“Comments we had from our customers included ‘it gave us the opportunity to introduce new or more competitive products and services’ and ‘there were good deals on the day’.
“We’ve a fantastic range of food producers and manufacturers across the West Country, and it’s wonderful to showcase their products at our event.
“The show was very popular, and we’re looking to further its success next year by increasing our number of exhibitors to 200.”
Neil Folland, director of Devon-based bottled water firm Tarka Springs, said: “The trade show was a brilliant event allowing lots of local businesses in the industry to get together.
“There was a really positive atmosphere throughout the day and we’re looking forward to the forth coming season.”
M.J. Baker Foodservice is the West Country's leading independent foodservice supplier.
Launched in 1999, the wholesaler supplies businesses and organisations across the West Country, including Somerset County Cricket Club and Exeter Chiefs rugby club.
M.J. Baker Foodservice is a member of Fairway Foodservice, a buying group made up of 19 independent wholesalers from across the UK, Ireland, Jersey, Spanish Costas and Balearic Islands.
"Weve a fantastic range of food producers and manufacturers across the West Country, and its wonderful to showcase their products at our event."
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Washington Post follows a pretty common narrative of parents, kids turned loose with technology, and sticker shock when a bill for that comes in. News of outrageous phone bills from texting charges have been commonplace. But the latest furor is over in-app purchases, virtual goods that kids are buying from within iPhone, iPod, and iPad games.A story in yesterday's
The opening anecdote: 8-year-old Madison who spent $1,400 to decorate her mushroom home in the iPhone game Smurf's Village.
She didn't realize the Smurfberries she was buying were real purchases. "After all," writes reporter Cecilia Kang, "lots of children's games require virtual payments of pretend coins, treasure chests and gold to advance to levels."
Madison's mother says she thinks "the app preyed on children," pointing out that the Smurf game says it's for those age 4 and up.
Madison's story isn't the first, and her family's problems aren't unique. Indeed, these sorts of purchases have made kids' games like Smurfs' Village incredibly popular - and profitable. But parents (anyone, really, Smurf fans or not) balk at the $99 charge for a wagon of Smurfberries.
The New Economy of In-App Purchases
In-app purchases have been available in Apple's apps, and Google just introduced these for its Android phones and tablets as well. The Washington Post calls these purchases part of a "new economy." In October of last year, ReadWriteWeb's Sarah Perez reported that these purchases generate more revenue than do mobile ads.
But is this sort of thing coming at the cost of unsuspecting parents and children?
Smurf Village and other similar games have added warnings to their apps, reminding users that the virtual goods cost real money. And for its part, Apple says it tries to prevent episodes like Madison's by requiring a password when making in-app purchases. Parents can change the settings to restrict downloads and transactions as well.
Cult of Mac reports today that The Washington Post story has prompted U.S. Congressman Edward J. Markey to write a letter to the FTC, urging the commission to investigate in-app purchases.
In the meantime, parents who hand over their iTunes passwords to their kids would be wise to set the restrictions on their devices. For the iPhone, you can do so by going to General Settings, then to Restrictions, and click the "In-App Purchases" to "off," which will prevent that content from being purchased and downloaded.


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News from The Business Journals
Jun 26, 2014, 7:33 am EDT
Enterprise Holdings' car rental brands are reporting that reservations are up 11 percent at airports across the country for the July 4 weekend.
May 27, 2014, 7:37 am EDT
Executives from St. Louis city and county, joined by representatives from Edward Jones and Enterprise Holdings, plan to announce Tuesday morning the first joint strategic plan for economic development.
Apr 23, 2014, 5:04 pm EDT
The parent of Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent-A-Car is looking to fill 110 positions in the greater Houston area through the summer.
Mar 28, 2014, 7:46 am EDT
The rental car giant plans on a hiring spree in Philadelphia.
Feb 6, 2014, 1:33 pm EST
Bromley Communications will provide international advertising and marketing support for car-rental companies National and Alamo.
Nov 15, 2013, 6:00 am EST
Bilbao covers tourism, hospitality and sports business. He’d like to see a line of carnival-style basketball games giving out stuffed Stuffs for every ...
Nov 11, 2013, 12:45 pm EST
Enterprise Holdings is getting revved up to make some hires this coming year.
Nov 6, 2013, 3:49 pm EST
Car rental giant Enterprise Holdings posted revenue of $16.4 billion in fiscal 2013, up 6.5 percent from last fiscal year as the car rental giant expa ...
Oct 10, 2013, 11:26 am EDT
Enterprise Holdings’ President and CEO Pam Nicholson again ranks among the most powerful women in business in the country, according to Fortune magazi ...
Oct 9, 2013, 6:23 pm EDT
Enterprise Holdings has filed a lawsuit against a former employee it alleges downloaded confidential documents before taking a job with rival Hertz Re ...
Oct 2, 2013, 1:26 pm EDT
Clayton-based Enterprise Holdings, the nation’s largest rental car company, will hire 11,000 new full-time workers by mid 2014, including about 500 in ...
Sep 23, 2013, 12:19 pm EDT
The Alamo Rent A Car brand is expanding in the Caribbean, as it plans to open a franchise on the island of Providenciales, home to the main internatio ...
Sep 6, 2013, 6:00 am EDT
When Enterprise Rent-A-Car bought Vanguard Car Rental Group, the parent of the Alamo Rent A Car and National Car Rental brands, for $3 billion in 2007 ...
Sep 4, 2013, 12:43 pm EDT
Enterprise CarShare officials announced Wednesday that they plan to launch in a fifth major market: Washington, D.C.
Aug 29, 2013, 11:33 am EDT
Enterprise Rent-A-Car’s Carolyn Eiseman has been named a winner of this year’s Glassdoor Talent Warrior Awards, which recognizes the 10 most innovativ ...


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For some time there has been an uneasy feeling that Web 2.0 companies were having trouble making money. A number of the companies are private and not much is said about how their financials work. Digg.com does not issue quarterly statements.
But some of the new age companies like MySpace, which was bought by News Corp (NYSE: NWS) and YouTube, which was bought by Google (NASDAQ: GOOG), have enough of their financials available for Wall Street to get an idea of what is going on.
Based on comments from Google and News Corp, their huge Web 2.0 sites are not big money-makers. MySpace does well under $1 billion in annual revenue. Its smaller rival, Facebook, was recently valued at $15 billion. That number now looks very high.
According to the FT, "The shortage of revenue among social networks, blogs and other "social media" sites that put user-generated content and communications at their core has persisted despite more than four years of experimentation aimed at turning such sites into money-makers."
Facebook, YouTube and MySpace may draw tens of millions of visitors each month, but they can't make a dime. Marketers are not interested in amateur video and postings from people who spend 20 hours a day on PCs and are afraid to leave their homes.
Douglas A. McIntyre is an editor at 247wallst.com and author of the Ten Stocks Under $10 newsletter.


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By Ben Garcia
KUWAIT: Volvo yesterday unveiled the facelift of its S90 and V90 series at Khalijia Studio in Sharq. The new S90 series (2021 model facelift) is Volvo’s premium 4-door, 5-seat flagship, built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA), Volvo’s advanced modular vehicle platform that underpins all Volvo cars in the 90 and 60 Series launched in recent years.
“We are proud to unveil our new facelift in Kuwait. Even though we all have had a challenging year with the global pandemic, we have decided that it is crucial to go ahead with the launch that coincides with BNK Automotive’s first anniversary in Kuwait as the official Volvo partner in Kuwait. In just a year and despite the pandemic, the team has worked hard to reposition the Volvo Car brand in the Kuwaiti market. Today we are proud to announce that we have increased sales by 250 percent YTD, a fantastic milestone to celebrate,” Cherif El Sayed, General Manager, BNK Automotive-Volvo Car Kuwait said.
“We continue to grow month by month and are on our way to build a robust organization ready to excel and embark on a continued growth journey starting from 2021. We are also extremely thankful to our clients for helping us regain the unprecedented trust and confidence in Volvo as a brand. BNK Automotive treasures this trust and we promise to continue shaping the future of the automotive industry to enhance customer service and the consumer journey in Kuwait during the years to come,” Sayed added.
With the S90 and V90 series MY21, customers can enjoy additional safety features, wireless charging technology, added sensors and robotic features. “The iPad like screen in the center console of the car helps you control all the features of our cars. The main differences in our MY21 are the elegant facelifts notable in both the front and back of the car, hidden exhaust pipes in preparation for the electrification strategy, a wireless charging pad, a highly sensitive air filter with particle sensor so that people can enjoy the finest cabin air quality,” Sayed said.
Volvo’s electrification strategy is that by 2025, all cars will be electrified – meaning all cars will be offered in both hybrid and fully electric, he said. “In Kuwait, we are proud to be the only brand that has sold 30+ hybrids in the market. The T8 engine combines a premium electric driving experience while giving you the power you need on the road with an output of 410 HP,” he noted.
In the face of the coronavirus pandemic, Volvo’s strategy is clear, according to Sayed. “With or without the pandemic, we are going digital to enhance the customer experience and address the pain points of our clients. Soon, Volvo owners will be able to buy, sell, test-drive, speak to a sales consultant and service their cars from the comfort of their homes. The buying experience is slowly moving online in this industry, and we are happy to serve our clients in the most modern and efficient way possible,” Sayed said.
Sayed said technology in Volvo cars will be continuously evolving, “where we anticipate Google Assist and machine learning in the new platforms, starting with the XC40 fully electric next year”. “The car will be able to interact with the driver. The car will be able to detect and learn the way you talk and the way you pronounce words.
It will be learned by the car and it will give you honest feedback when you are driving. We will have technology in the car that will protect drivers – the car will know through the pattern of your eyelids if you are intoxicated. The car will automatically stop and will not move at all if you are intoxicated. The car will reduce speed while on roads and highways based on the speed limit set by the government,” he said.
“We are competing with premium brands like BMW, Audi and Mercedes,” Sayed mentioned. After repositioning the Volvo brand in Kuwait, Volvo’s market share increased from a mere 2 percent to 5 percent, and it is very optimistic for a larger share in the coming years.


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Industry sources shared with DigiTimes that global supply of NAND flash memory chips is likely to remain tight until early 2013, as demand is anticipated to rise ahead of the holiday season.
Supply in the spot market is tighter as major NAND-chip suppliers including Samsung Electronics, Toshiba, SanDisk, Micron Technology and SK Hynix intend to focus on orders placed by their system clients, the sources indicated. The five leading NAND flash companies have been enjoying brisk demand coming from the smartphone and tablet sectors, the sources said.
Suppliers to Apple, for instance, have provided a very limited amount to their other customers particularly those without long-term contracts, the sources noted. Toshiba, Hynix and SanDisk reportedly supply NAND flash chips for the recently-launched iPhone 5.
Due to insufficient supplies from chipmakers, distributors and module makers have quoted their NAND flash products at higher prices, the sources pointed out.


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BMW’s M division has started development of an M version of the 1-series coupé, set to be equipped with a twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine producing 350bhp.
The new two-door, details of which were first uncovered by Autocar back in November, has now been added to BMW’s stable of future production models, with right-hand-drive UK sales set to begin in mid-2011.
The decision to put the car into production has been attributed to an “overwhelmingly positive reaction” to recent customer clinics, according to at least one high-ranking BMW official. Aimed at attracting younger customers to BMW’s performance cars, the new coupé is set to become the M division’s most affordable model.
It will slot into the range beneath the M3 coupé, and should cost around £38,000, £8000 more than the 135i Coupé M Sport. That means it will compete directly with Audi’s forthcoming RS3.
Revealing the plans for the new 1-series-based model, M division boss Kay Segler said, “I want to set a clear signal that our products are financially accessible.
“With the modular production processes in place at BMW, it is possible to create performance cars that customers can not only dream about owning but also realistically afford.”
BMW is still deciding whether or not to call the car M1, a name originally used on the firm’s legendary road racer supercar in 1978. Inspiration for the new car comes from BMW’s tii concept, a sporting version of the 1-series coupé that was revealed at the 2007 Tokyo motor show.
While the powerplant in that car was never revealed, the new M car will use a revised version of BMW’s latest turbocharged straight six. In standard guise the 3.0-litre unit, recently unveiled in the 535i GT, uses a twin-scroll turbo aimed at providing a more linear delivery of power and better fuel economy than the earlier twin-turbocharged unit used in the 135i.


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In further efforts to keep employees and customers safe, Walmart stores have implemented more safety measures. Those include designated sanitation associates, and social distancing guides.
According to Walmart’s website, designated associates are cleaning high-traffic, high-touch areas, like checkouts and shopping carts every day. Stores have also installed sneeze guards in the pharmacy and register lanes, and floor decals at both the entrances and checkouts.
“We’re using a single, clearly designated entrance and another clearly designated exit at each store to help maintain social distancing and lessen the instances of people closely passing each other,” stated Dacona Smith, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Walmart U.S. “We’re also limiting the number of people in a store at once to allow no more than five customers for each 1,000 square feet at a given time, roughly 20 percent of a store’s capacity.”
The retail giant has reportedly expanded paid leave policies, implemented employee temperature checks and made gloves and masks available to their associates. All of this coupled with altered hours of operation in order to clean and restock items.
“While many of our customers have been following the advice of the medical community regarding social distancing and safety, we have been concerned to still see some behaviors in our stores that put undue risk on our people,” Smith added. “We want to encourage customers to bring the fewest number of people per family necessary to shop, allow for space with other customers while shopping, and practice social distancing while waiting in lines. We’re also seeing states and municipalities set varying policies regarding crowd control – which has created some confusion regarding shopping.”
Earlier in the month, Walmart stores began limiting the number of customers in the store at one time. With this policy, there can be no more than five customers for each 1,000 square feet at a given time, roughly 20 percent of a store’s capacity. To manage this restriction, the store has a marked queue at a single-entry door, where shoppers are admitted one-by-one and counted. Associates and signage remind customers of the importance of social distancing while they’re waiting to enter a store – especially before it opens in the morning. Once the store reaches its capacity, customers are admitted inside on a “1-out-1-in” basis.
Lastly, one-way movement through the aisles has also been instituted in most stores. “We expect this to help more customers avoid coming into close contact with others as they shop,” Smith added. “As the COVID-19 situation continues to develop, our leaders and operations teams will continue to listen to advice from medical experts, associates and customers, and consider how we can best serve people while helping slow the spread of the virus. The health and safety of our associates and customers is what matters the most.”


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Tech Today gathers all the biggest technology news of the morning’s Wall Street Journal into one place for your reading pleasure.
Google Decides to Find Its Creative Side: As it searches for new growth, Google has in recent months focused more on creating custom ad campaigns spanning multiple Google services for big spenders like H-P and Ford.
Samsung Foresees Rise in Its Results: Samsung Electronics, the world’s biggest memory chip maker by revenue, said it expects third-quarter sales to rise 19% from a year earlier and median operating profit to rise.
Microsoft Predicts Slow Rebound: The economic slump has bottomed out and optimism is returning, but it will take some time for business to return to more normal levels, Microsoft International President Jean-Philippe Courtois said.
Verizon Merges Wireline Units: Verizon said it will eliminate the position of chief operating officer, part of a broader restructuring that combines two landline business units and shuffles executives.
High Court Rejects Nacchio Appeal: Ex-Qwest CEO Nacchio’s appeal of his insider-trading conviction was denied by the Supreme Court.


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FRANKFURT — German automaker Volkswagen saw profit slip in the first quarter as the company set aside 1 billion euros for legal issues but the company saw stronger profit margins and better results from its ore brand.
After-tax profit fell to 3.05 billion euros ($3.41 billion) from 3.30 billion euros in the same quarter a year ago. Group sales revenue rose 3.1% to 60 billion euros.
The Volkswagen brand, one of the company’s 12, saw operating profit rise 5% to 921 million euros as cost control and a more profitable model mix compensated for lower volumes.
Earnings fell however at two of the company’s chief money makers, its luxury Audi and Porsche divisions. Audi saw profits fall to 1.1 billion euros from 1.3 billion euros because of model changes and higher spending on new products and technologies. Porsche’s operating profit fell 12% to 829 million euros.
Volkswagen still faces legal issues from its 2015 scandal over cars rigged to cheat on diesel emissions test, including pending suits from investors who say the company didn’t inform them of the emissions issue in time. The company says it met its disclosure requirements.
The company increased its sales revenues despite selling 2.8% fewer vehicles, at 2.6 billion, thanks to better pricing and more-profitable models taking a larger portion of the company’s sales.
The Wolfsburg-based automaker said it was holding to its forecasts for sales and profits this year, predicting that sales revenue could increase by as much as 5% over the prior year and that returns on sales would be between 6.5% and 7.5%.


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Two gigantic oil and gas producers from the energy sector top our list showcasing 10 of China’s top 10 major export-oriented companies. Based on company asset values as of December 2018, also making the list were a pair of companies from the iron and steel industry plus a duo of heavy equipment manufacturers.
However, the leader in both sales and asset growth among these world-class Chinese businesses was iconic ecommerce portal Alibaba.
To give some context from an international trade perspective, the value of China’s exported goods appreciated by 6.5% from US$2.343 trillion in 2014 to $2.494 trillion reported for 2018. From 2017 to 2018, sales of Chinese exported products appreciated by 10.2%.
In the analysis below, we compare 10 of China’s major exports-related businesses based on asset values, sales and profitability. Also specified is the Chinese city where multinational has its headquarters. Excluded are Chinese financial institutions or multinationals headquartered in China’s Special Administrative Region, Hong Kong.
China’s Top 10 Major Export Companies
Below are China’s biggest export companies organized by asset value. Shown within parentheses is the primary industry in which each company operates. Also shown is the change in asset value as of December 2018 compared to 2017.
- PetroChina (oil, gas): US$381.1 billion, up 10.5% from 2017
- China Petroleum & Chemical/Sinopec (oil, gas): $249.9 billion, up 15.3%
- SAIC Motor (car/truck makers): $118.4 billion, up 39.3%
- Alibaba (global commerce): $114 billion, up 61.3%
- China Shenhua Energy (diversified metals): $91.2 billion, up 10.8%
- Fosun International (iron, steel): $82 billion, up 17.1%
- CRRC (heavy equipment): $59.2 billion, up 21.6%
- Baoshan Iron & Steel (iron, steel): $56.2 billion, up 40.5%
- China National Building (construction materials): $53.3 billion, up 0.1%
- China Shipbuilding Industry (heavy equipment): $32 billion, up 11.8%
The leading Chinese multinationals in terms of asset growth were global commerce leader Alibaba via its 61.3% advance from 2017 to December 2018. In second place was iron and steel producer Baoshan (up 40.5%) ahead of automobile maker SAIC Motor (up 39.3%) and heavy equipment firm CRRC (up 21.6%).
In terms of overall sales, behemoths from the oil and gas sectors placed number one and number two for greatest overall revenues at December 2018.
- China Petroleum & Chemical/Sinopec: US$326.6 billion, up 27.7% from 2017
- PetroChina: $282.4 billion, up 31.5%
- SAIC Motor: $136.6 billion, up 21.2%
- Baoshan Iron & Steel: $40.7 billion, up 52.1%
- Alibaba: $37.9 billion, up 76.4%
- China Shenhua Energy: $36.4 billion, up 37.4%
- CRRC: $31.3 billion, down -8.4%
- China National Building: $19 billion, up 1.1%
- Fosun International: $13.1 billion, up 17.8%
- China Shipbuilding Industry: $5.1 billion, down -37.7%
However, expanding their annual sales at the fastest rate were e-commerce giant Alibaba (up 76.4%), Baoshan Iron & Steel (up 51.1%) then coal miner and electricity seller China Shenhua Energy (up 37.4%).
Facing year-over-year sales declines were heavy equipment players China Shipbuilding Industry (down -37.7%) and CRRC (down -8.4%).
All 10 of China’s exports-related major businesses were profitable at December 2018. Yet heavy equipment company CRRC experienced a -5.3% shrinkage in its most recent profit amount compared to one year earlier.
- Alibaba: US$9.6 billion, up 68.1% from 2017
- China Petroleum & Chemical/Sinopec: $8 billion, up 14.3%
- China Shenhua Energy: $6.7 billion, up 97.1%
- SAIC Motor: $5.4 billion, up 12.5%
- PetroChina: $4.1 billion, up 241.7%
- Baoshan Iron & Steel: $3.1 billion, up 365%
- Fosun International: $2 billion, up 29.9%
- CRRC: $1.6 billion, down -5.3%
- China National Building: $482 million, up 0.4%
- China Shipbuilding Industry: $126 million, reversing a -$204 million loss
Growing their profits by triple-digit percentage increases were Baoshan Iron & Steel via its 365% gain and PetroChina’s with its 241.7% advance. Also posting robust profit improvements were China Shenhua Energy (up 97.1%), Alibaba (up 68.1%) plus iron and steel producer Fosun International (up 29.9%).
China Shipbuilding Industry furnished more good news by transitioning from -$204 million in red ink for 2017 to a $126 million profit at December 2018.
Six of the 10 largest Chinese export companies are based in Beijing, the capital city for the People’s Republic of China. Three other conglomerates have their headquarters in one of China’s other major cities, namely Shanghai.
- Alibaba: Hangzhou
- Baoshan Iron & Steel: Shanghai
- China National Building: Beijing
- China Petroleum & Chemical/Sinopec: Beijing
- China Shenhua Energy: Beijing
- China Shipbuilding Industry: Beijing
- CRRC: Beijing
- Fosun International: Shanghai
- PetroChina: Beijing
- SAIC Motor: Shanghai
Note: Some of the above company offerings may include products beyond the principal category shown within parenthesis under the Assets tab.
For example, PetroChina is well-known for supplying crude oil and natural gas but also refines petroleum products, creates chemical goods and transports natural gas, crude oil and refined petroleum. As well, the energy giant offers business services such as research and development, cash management and financing related to its principal businesses.
See also China’s Top 10 Exports, China’s Top 10 Imports, Largest Oil and Gas Export Companies and Top Chinese Trade Balances
Forbes Global 2000 individual company profiles, Example of largest China-based export company compiled for this study: PetroChina. Accessed on October 2, 2019
Forbes Global 2000 rankings list for China, The World’s Biggest Public Companies. Accessed on October 2, 2019
Forbes 2017 Global 2000, The Largest Companies in China in 2017. Accessed on October 2, 2019
International Trade Centre, Trade Map. Accessed on October 2, 2019
MarketWatch, China National Building Material Co. Ltd, Annual Financials. Accessed on October 2, 2019
Wikipedia, List of largest Chinese companies. Accessed on October 2, 2019


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Packaging That Inactivates Viruses
Anti-viral packaging is needed to protect employees in the distribution system and consumers from contact with COVID-19 and other harmful viruses (e.g., norovirus).
Packaging Technology and Research has hosted an open discussion on April 21 on Antiviral Packaging, during which solutions available today were discussed. The discussion included antiviral packaging options, such as systems solutions, edible coatings on food, compounds in and bonded to the outer packaging surface, as well as an adaptation of medical packaging procedures to the food industry.
If you were unable to attend the AntiViral Packaging Open Discussion, you can watch it HERE
Follow along with the slideshow accessible HERE
With this bit of information, Dr. Claire Sand and the Packaging Technology and Research team hope that we can move this critical topic forward to protect employees and consumers from the transfer of different viruses (and other substances) via packaging.


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Two major international ports fell victim to cyber-attacks within the span of a week.
The Port of Barcelona and the Port of San Diego both suffered the attacks, leaving some to worry that the shipping industry will continue to be threatened by cyber-attacks. Luckily, no major issues have arose from these two recent cyber-attacks, but next time, ports may not be so lucky. Both ports reported that these attacks did not affect ship movements and have had very minimal disruptions in land shipments.
Despite minimal effects from the cyber-attacks, they have forced these ports to take a step back and wonder just how vulnerable they are, and how to address these issues in advance. Cyber-attacks are undoubtedly a question of public safety, as well as the safety of the hundreds of businesses that use these ports daily in one way or another. In these recent attacks, hackers requested a ransom payment in the form of bitcoin. However, not all cybercrimes are created equal. Some hackers just want information, while some threaten to shut everything down. Either way, cyber-attacks are likely have to negative effects on the business affected.
Back in July, one of the world’s largest shipping firms, China Ocean Shipping Company (COSCO), was the target of a cyber-attack.
Initially, the incident was reported to have affected the entire Port of Long Beach. However, it later became clear that the cyber-attack was isolated to COSCO’s internal network. The company faced ransomware that threatened their communications, and a shutdown of their overall systems. Although the ransomware used disrupted the company’s internal network, the company was able to manage the situation with very little damage to their network. Some companies aren’t so lucky. Some companies do too little, too late, but can provide clues to help prevent companies from future cyber-attacks in any form.
In June 2017, Maersk faced serious setbacks as a result of a cyber-attack that spiraled into losses of around $250-$300 million.
The attack was a real game-changer, since these high-volume losses and their effects on the lives of those affected prompted the shipping industry to realize change was needed. Nevertheless, change is a slow process, so further damage is definitely possible.
This time around, the damage done in Barcelona and San Diego was very minimal in comparison to the losses felt by Maersk last year. It’s possible that the Maersk cyber-attack prompted lessons to be learned by the shipping industry. For example, in April 2018, the Port of Barcelona posted an article to their website wondering aloud as to the vulnerability of their digital infrastructure, and others around the world in major port cities, to cyber-attacks.
So far, all potential cyber-attack scenarios mentioned in the port’s article were quick and straight to the point – a fast attack that leaves lasting damage in its path. But, some cyber-attacks happen over time. Starting in June 2011 and continuing for nearly two years, The Port of Antwerp fell victim to a very sophisticated cyber-attack. An organized group based out of Belgium were said to have infiltrated computer networks within the Port of Antwerp. They hacked into them in order to know the locations of shipments, seeking to smuggle illegal goods into the country. Not all cyber-attacks are as overtly disruptive, but they have helped raise awareness of the importance of giving ports functional and innovative ways to prevent future cyber-attacks and their ultimate negative impact.
Government and law enforcement agencies, along with ports and companies, are looking to the future of the ever-changing cyber world.
We all have to explore a future that is more dependent than ever on digitalization and digital systems. Governments specifically are looking for ways to keep points of entry safe, and secure a country’s ports, to allow companies and cities to operate as efficiently as possible.
Finally, companies are spending more on preventive measures in the case of a cyber-attack. They are taking the possibilities of attacks much more seriously. If they don’t, they are liable to find themselves in a digital rainstorm with no shelter in sight.


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Kerala online monitoring system of medicines
Amid allegations of shortage of medicines in government hospitals in Kerala, the government will soon launch an online monitoring facility to track the availability and distribution of medicines in government medical institutions in the southern state. The facility comes after reports of shortage of medicines, even basic medicines, emerged in some government hospitals.
- Kerala Health Minister Veena George has announced the launch of this surveillance system to ensure the availability and distribution of medicines in hospitals.
- This process is basically developed to balance the demand for medicines keeping in mind the need and potential growth in each hospital along with storage and distribution of medicines.
- When all the hospitals update the data regarding the distribution of medicines on daily basis it would be possible to know the medicine stock in a hospital and the drugs can be distributed according to their shortage.
- After that if there is deficiency of any drug by a certain percentage, it should be communicated to KMSCL so that medicines can be procured without any delay.
Category: India Nation & States Current Affairs


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- Zacks•2 hours ago
Pitney Bowes (PBI) has witnessed a significant price decline in the past four weeks, and it has lately seen negative earnings estimate revisions as well.
- PR Newswire•yesterdayCanon to Deliver World's First Nanoimprint Replica Mask Manufacturing Equipment for Mass-Production to Leading Mask Supplier
MELVILLE, N.Y., Feb. 27, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader of digital imaging solutions, has announced that its parent company, Canon Inc., will commence sales of the FPA-1100NR2, the world's first mass-production replica mask manufacturing equipment. Canon Inc. has announced that FPA-1100NR2 equipment will be sold to Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd, a leading supplier of masks for nanoimprinting. Facing the difficult challenge of circuit scaling or miniaturization, the key to the advancement of semiconductor devices, nanoimprint lithography (NIL) has garnered a lot of attention as a new technology that achieves even more detailed circuit patterns of 10nm (1 nanometer = 1 billionth of a meter) at an even lower cost, compared with photolithography.1 Since 2004, Canon has been carrying out R&D in the field of semiconductor manufacturing equipment that utilizes nanoimprint technology.
- Associated Press•6 days ago
TOKYO (AP) — Embattled Japanese electronics maker Toshiba Corp. is selling its stake in a medical equipment leasing company to Canon Inc. for 3.14 billion yen ($28 million).
CAJ : Summary for Canon, Inc. American Depositary - Yahoo Finance
Canon Inc. (CAJ)
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|52 Week Range||27.18 - 30.93|
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|Dividend & Yield||1.32 (4.48%)|
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ORS activates brand in Uyo, Enugu, others
The eastern region activation rounded off at Amity Hotels, Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital recently, which also saw the inauguration of newly elected executive committee members of the National Association of Hairdressers Barbers and Cosmetologists (NASHCO), Akwa Ibom chapter.
Addressing the hairstylists in Uyo, Mrs. Rosemary Ogundele, Senior Hair Educator for ORS, said the brand was not just here to sell its products but it was part of its corporate social responsibility CSR, tagged ‘Get Noticed, Get Confident”.
According to Ogundele, “our aim is to help women build confidence through their looks and particularly their hair. When a woman is noticed, she becomes more confident in her looks. This is also our corporate social responsibility to society by training these hairstylists across the nation.”
On why the brand has changed from Organic Roots Stimulator, she said, “We found out that there was a lot of imitation in the market with different types of olive oil.”
The ORS brand, which is fit for any type of hair, is considered best by hairstylists across Nigeria.
Addressing the participants, the National President of NASHCO, Dr. (Mrs.) Betty Ishoka admonished NASHCO members to take advantage of the training and make good use of it.
According to her, “we rarely get this kind of opportunity from hair brands but ORS has continued to show that it is not just interested in selling and creating awareness but supports us with extensive training on product use.”
Ishoka also inaugurated the newly elected state excos, who are: Inemesit Nyong Eyoh- President, Flora Akpan- Vice President, Mercy Okon- secretary, Caroline Edet-treasurer, Ime Ekpo- PRO 1 and Ubong Solomon- Social secretary.
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The members of Cal Heights United Methodist Church said they are asking residents to make this year’s holiday shopping a global affair.
The church is hosting its annual Alternative Christmas Market this Sunday – an event that includes a number of different global charities and craft makers.
“This has been going on for years at Cal Heights,” Pastor Amy Aitken said. “We sort of bill it as the event for people who have everything – and their purchases can make a difference in the world.”
Organizations being represented will include Red Bird Mission, Church World Service, Empowering Live International, Africa Team Ministries, Guatemala Project, Habitat for Humanity, Hands of Hope, Haiti Project, Grace Children’s Hospital (Haiti) and Heifer Project.
“I don’t know what prompted (the church to start the event), but they’ve been doing it for so long and it’s just a great way to help these organizations,” Aitken said. “Some of the items are for Christmas, but a lot of them can be used year-round. They have a variety of pieces that come from all over the world”
Globally-sources items include handcrafted clothing, home decor, ornament cards, handbags, toys and various pieces of jewelry.
The nonprofits selling products come from all around the world, including Africa, Haiti and Guatemala.
The organizations that are not selling crafts and products will be showing donation opportunities.
“Many of them are already organizations that we partner with as a church, and many are church-related through United Methodist Church or our many partners,” Aitken said.
Something like the Heifer Project might allow for donations where people can by a flock of chickens for a family.
Another nonprofit might afford the opportunity to donate school supplies and medical supplies to children who are in need.
“In the past, the response has been quite good,” Aitken said.
“Some people come for just this time of year because they like the products and giving to these organizations.”
WHAT: Alternative Christmas Market
WHEN: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 13
WHERE: Cal Heights United Methodist Church, located at 3759 Orange Ave.
COST: Free to enter


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H.E. Minister of Youth and Sports Mr. Faisal Karami announced the launch of Outdoor Lebanon 2012 with the start of summer activities and sports in Lebanon. Organized by IFP Group, the event will be held from June 20 to 24, 2012, at the Beirut International Exhibition & Leisure Center (BIEL).
Outdoor Lebanon is the largest, most comprehensive event for the outdoor and sports industry in Lebanon. This unique event gathers exhibitors and major retailers and outfitters specialized in products and outdoor accessories for water, land, and air sports. Amateurs and professionals alike will find all the products and accessories they need for hunting, fishing, camping, diving, and biking in addition to other outdoor and sports activities.
Outdoor Lebanon will be held concurrently with the first-ever Beirut Motorcycle Show, a highly anticipated exhibition that responds to the aspirations of a large public of professional and amateur motorcycle drivers in Lebanon. This event is the fruit of a joint effort between the Lebanese Association of Motorcycle manufacturers exclusive Agents (LAMA) and IFP Group.
Visitors will also enjoy and benefit from the extensive exhibits of leading international brands in the motorcycle industry and a wealth of products and services, ranging from motorcycle spare parts, accessories, and apparel to clothing, gear, wheels, lubricants, safety equipment, tailored bank loans, insurance programs, and much more.
MP Karami delivered a speech following the launch. He said, “At present, this event brings to mind Lebanon’s unique nature as well as its commercial capacities and large youth base. In addition to other key elements, these capacities are a source of wealth for the country and the region.”
He noted the event’s strength in uniting business, leisure, and culture under one banner.
Mr. Fady Jreissati, Vice-President of IFP Group, noted in his speech that the company launched Outdoor Lebanon in 2011 as an initiative to encourage the Lebanese to embrace outdoor sports, promote domestic eco-tourism, and introduce young Lebanese amateurs to the various outdoors activities. He added that this event is unique given that it builds on Lebanon’s natural resources and its geographical location as a favored destination for outdoor sports and activities.
He also added, “The event will include the top-ten companies in each category such as hunting, fishing, water sports, adventure sports, mountaineering, and other sports and outdoor activities in general”.
For his part, Mr. Richa, President of LAMA in Lebanon, said, “The launch of this highly anticipated motorcycle show responds to the aspirations of a large public of professional and amateur motorcycle drivers in Lebanon.”
He added, “This event is a unique opportunity for agents, retailers, and distributors to showcase their products to a large audience that, until yesterday, did not have a specific address to find everything they needed under one roof. This platform showcases a large selection of motorcycles and motorcycle accessories. For this reason, the exhibition “Beirut Motorcycle Show” is a unique and exceptional opportunity for both Lebanese and Arab motorcycle amateur and riders to enjoy the best and the most beautiful motorcycle designs, discover the latest technical features, and chose from a wide range of accessories.”
In parallel to this event, a series of special activities and shows will take place on a daily basis in the outside area of BIEL. These activities include “parkour”, wall climbing, motorcycle shows and parades, fitness courses, and skateboard shows executed by members of the Lebanese Skateboarding Association. Young men and women will present fascinating shows in sliding and jumping in addition to performing various acrobatic stunts.


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Govt's sharp eye on overpricing of bottled water, packaged food
Tue, Jul 02, 2019
The government is seriously looking into complaints of bottled water and packaged foods and drinks being sold at prices higher than the maximum retail price, Consumer Affairs Minister Ram Vilas Paswan said on Tuesday.
Govt allows revised MRP declaration for pre-packaged goods
Sat, Feb 03, 2018
On account of implementation of GST, there might be instances where the retail sale price printed on a pre-packaged commodity is required to be revised
Restaurants, malls, shopping outlets to be directed to include taxes in MRP by GST Council
Tue, Oct 31, 2017
The issue is now expected to be taken up by the GST Council in its next meeting on November 10, which will be headed by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley.
Products with old MRP can be sold up to December 31
Sat, Sep 30, 2017
Government has extended the deadline for selling products with old MRP by 3 months. The government has given this 3-month window keeping festive season in mind. Watch to know more. About Zee Business --------------------------
RAI writes to FM Jaitley on retailer woes, consumer confusion over GST
Thu, Jul 20, 2017
With the confusions around the newly implemented GST retailers have raised concern over billing and other problems.
Now you won't have to pay different price for water, snacks; read how
Fri, Jun 30, 2017
Ministry of Consumer's new Legal Metrology rules comes with certain mandatory labeling requirements for pre-packaged commodities.


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Japanese tourists continue to stay away
By Kelly Yamanouchi
Advertiser Staff Writer
For months now, the number of passengers flying to the Islands from Japan has been down as much as 40 percent, and there is little certainty of when high-spending Japanese, once a stalwart of the visitor industry, will become a dependable source of business once again.
Advertiser library photo May 6, 2002
Exploring Hawai'i still has allure for Japanese planning their vacations, but fear of SARS abroad has led many to cancel trips.
Advertiser library photo May 6, 2002
At the minimum, travel from Japan is not expected to be anywhere near as strong as it was before 2001.
A clear sign of the sluggishness is a series of flight cuts based on a slowdown in bookings by Japan Airlines, the major carrier between Japan and Hawai'i.
SARS severe acute respiratory syndrome is the major factor keeping Japanese from traveling.
"I think we'll have to wait until the SARS problem is solved," said Eiji Miyamoto, general manager in Hawai'i of ANA Hallo Tours, where group bookings have been weak. "We have to prevent SARS problems from coming into Hawai'i. That's the most important thing."
Miyamoto hopes business will recover to year-ago levels by August, though that would require a 40 percent improvement in business.
The Japanese remain among the most skittish of international travelers. Until they are assured it is safe and comfortable to travel, they are likely to remain reluctant travelers. It's because of their cautiousness that the end of the Iraq War brought no discernable rebound in Japanese travel.
The SARS effect is layered on top of a weak Japanese economy that has depressed travel to Hawai'i for years.
In 1996, for example, 2.1 million Japanese came to Hawai'i, spending $3.5 billion here, according to the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. This year, the Hawai'i Tourism Authority hopes 1.5 million will come and spend $2.1 billion. That amounts to 600,000 fewer people and $1.4 billion dollars less flowing into the state's economy.
Visitors from the Mainland have helped to make up for some of the losses in Japanese tourists, but their numbers have not fully offset the decline in Japanese visitors. And Mainlanders tend to spend less.
For businesses that are structured to cater to Japanese, Mainland visitors are of little help.
This summer and the first months of fall will be key periods for Japanese tourism as they will signal how businesses will end up for the year. So far the signs are mixed: summer bookings appear anemic, with some strengthening in the fall.
Steve Kawagishi, chief executive of the Japan Hawai'i Travel Association, a group representing Japanese tour operators, has written off the summer and said he is hoping for a recovery after July.
But any recovery is expected to be a challenge because worries about the risks of SARS are keeping people away.
"The Japanese people don't even want to go to the airport," said Ryokichi Tamaki, vice president of Japanese tour wholesaler Jalpak International. He said the company is starting to sell packages for the summer and formed promotional partnerships with hotels and other tourism businesses to get through this rough patch. "We are all in the same boat," Tamaki said.
JTB, another major Japanese tour wholesaler, is also feeling the impact of SARS-related concerns and is developing advertising alliances to boost bookings for the summer.
The slowdown in Japanese travel has hit hardest on O'ahu, where Japanese visitors made up about 34 percent of all visitors last year.
Noelani Wheeler, director of marketing for the O'ahu Visitors Bureau, said geopolitical events and health issues in the first quarter clearly slowed travel in Japan. "We do know that Japan is soft, and we anticipate that it will continue to be relatively soft," she said.
Many in the tourism industry say there's no immediate sign that Hawai'i will ever again see Japanese visitors achieving levels of 2 million and more.
For international travel, "9-11 has this sort of general risk that doesn't go away," said Duty Free Shoppers' Sharon Weiner. And now, "everyone's hopeful that there will be a quick and speedy control of the SARS epidemic, but who knows?"
The Japanese who are coming are younger and more adventurous. Families and seniors are less willing to risk travel, Weiner said.
Weiner is hoping that after the SARS crisis settles down, Hawai'i will have a competitive advantage in attracting Japanese over other areas in Asia.
"The good news for us is that even if the SARS epidemic is contained there will be an inherent reluctance to go to China by the Japanese. There will be a hangover," Weiner said. "They'll want a place that is clean and safe and wholesome. ... We have every piece in place."
Reach Kelly Yamanouchi at 535-2470, or at firstname.lastname@example.org.


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Government has announced a price moratorium on basic goods after prices skyrocketed following the start of the COVID-19 lockdown at the beginning of April.
The moratorium was announced by Vice President Kembo Mohadi who blamed the increases on speculative practices.
“There was a general agreement amongst multi-sectoral partners that the price increase, particularly during the lockdown was speculative and unjustified. The multi-sectoral stakeholders committed to a price moratorium to operate based on the prices which were applicable on the 25th of March,” Mohadi said.
The moratorium will apply to all value chain players and will take effect immediately.
Mohadi said that the agreement was reached after the Ministry of Industry and Commerce held a multi-sectoral meeting with various stakeholders which included Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe, Consumer Council of Zimbabwe, Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers, National Bakers Association of Zimbabwe, Oil Expressors Association of Zimbabwe, National Foods and Zimbabwe Sugar Sales among others.
In a survey done by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the value of the consumer basket as at 7 February 2020 was $4, 656 but by 11 April 2020 the same amounted to $6,660.84.
Consumer Council of Zimbabwe chairperson Phillip Bvumbe described the price freeze between the government and the private sector as a gentlemen’s agreement which was not legally binding.
“The agreement between the parties in terms of the moratorium is currently a gentlemen’s agreement but should, I think, the parties not be forthcoming then Government might be forced to come up with a statutory instrument. But at this stage I think because of the previous experiences we have had where you enforce something legally then we are bound to have shortages.
“But since it is a gentlemen’s agreement, where are there are problems there is need then for a subcommittee to be formed because there will be challenges in terms of the supply side. Those challenges must be addressed in an objective and holistic manner taking into account the cost drivers in the particular sector,” Bvumbe told The Anchor.
He said they would monitor the impact of the price freeze on both prices and availability of goods.
“Let’s monitor the reaction but my fears are that there will be some who might resist but lest see what happens,” Bvumbe said.
Industry and Commerce Minister Sekai Nzenza, said that Government was currently working on a possible stimulus package for industry but could not divulge more details about the package.


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Believe the Hype: Here’s the Actual Next Big Thing in Tech
There ought to be a restraining order preventing the word “revolutionary” from getting too close to the word “technology.” The overwhelming number of apps, algorithms, and other inventions of code that emerge from week to week do not, in fact, transform society or even upend an industry, despite the marketing hype that often accompanies them. Nor do most wizardly machines, from Fitbits to VR helmets to Google Glass, truly alter everyday life or business practices—at least not right away. For all the heady talk of “disruption”—and we in the media are big on that—technological advancement tends to be accretive, even slow.
But in this issue, a formidable trio of Fortune writers—Robert Hackett, Jen Wieczner, and Jeff John Roberts—dive into a technology that may well change everyday business in scores of industries: It’s called blockchain.
Blockchain is the sophisticated accounting architecture that underpins Bitcoin, the cryptocurrency at the center of an investing mania of late. (As the Sept. 1, 2017 issue was going to press, the price of a single Bitcoin was around $4,200, up sevenfold from a year ago.) But as Chris Dixon, a general partner at venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz, tells our own Mr. Hackett, the “money stuff … overshadows the more important technology story.”
Indeed, the same distributed code-based ledger that drives Bitcoin has the potential to move any kind of data swiftly and securely—and, at the same time, make a record of that change, movement, or transaction available instantly and permanently to anyone. That’s a critical (and maybe even business-saving) advantage for companies in a host of industries, from finance to shipping to health care, as our reporting team shows.
Danish shipping giant Maersk is testing a blockchain that enables its customers to keep tabs on their cargo as it moves from port to port, while simultaneously letting Dutch customs officials and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security do the same. Walmart is testing its own tracker—potentially allowing it to identify every stop a product makes on its journey to a store shelf, which could be a game-changer in the event of, say, an outbreak of foodborne illness. (It could take mere seconds to identify whether a given package of mangoes or lettuce was at risk.)
Financial companies are testing blockchains as platforms for stock trades and interbank money transfers; diamond dealers are investigating a version to verify the provenance of precious stones; aircraft makers are exploring how a blockchain might track disparate parts of their jets as they make their way from machinist shop to tarmac. Even the state of Delaware, where the majority of Fortune 500 companies are incorporated, is experimenting with a system that may soon allow companies to register shares, undertake proxy votes, and do virtually all of their public filings via a blockchain.
The tech is hardly glitch-free, as Wieczner relates in her gripping tale of high-tech cryptocurrency heists (see “The 21st-Century Bank Robbery,”). But “having witnessed what the advent of digital, cloud, and mobile did to laggard companies,” writes Hackett, “no one wants to be the sucker left behind.” There isn’t a sector of the economy today, after all, where customers aren’t demanding faster transactions and lower costs.
Given the promise of this tech in so many industries today, it’s no surprise that it’s a magnet for brilliant young innovators. You’ll find three on our 2017 40 Under 40 list, which highlights the most influential global leaders under that witching age. This year’s roster includes everyone from statesmen to stand-ups to startup idols.
It’s a generation filled with revolutionaries—some of them, even the technological kind.
A version of this article appears in the Sept. 1, 2017 issue of Fortune with the headline “New Kids on the Blockchain.”


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U.K. Tells Drug Makers to Stockpile 6-Week Supply for Brexit
Recovering from the pandemic has been at the forefront of things for supply chain professionals recently and for that reason, in some cases Brexit preparations have been put on the backburner. However, with the 31st December deadline drawing nearer, the U.K. government urged pharmaceutical companies to stockpile a six-week supply of medicines to avoid a shortage of drugs when the country eventually leaves the European Union (EU).
“Holding additional stock in the U.K. provides a further buffer against some disruption,” according to Steve Oldfield, chief commercial officer at the health department. “We encourage companies to make stockpiling a key part of contingency plans.”
Britain is preparing for potential disruption after the Brexit transition period ends and goods traded with the EU will be subject to new regulations even if a new free-trade agreement is agreed. If firms are not prepared for the extra burden, cross-channel trade risks being delayed and could threaten vital supply lines.
To read more about how the UK is preparing for Brexit click here.
U.K. Sanctions Guidance Adds to Warnings for Maritime Sector
The U.K.’s Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation, which is part of the country’s Treasury Department, is urging the maritime industry to be on the lookout for illicit practices that could be used to evade sanctions. Guidance from the Government Department indicates that companies are susceptible to suspicious shipping practices for example, the intentional disabling of vessel-tracking systems to conduct illegal trade and the falsifying of documentation for maritime transactions.
The guidance adds to an increasing list of guidelines aimed at the maritime industry and put emphasis on compliance complexities facing those operating in the U.S., the U.K., and the European Union, according to sanctions experts. The new guidance from the UK comes after tree U.S. agencies issued guidance for the maritime sector in May.
Click here, if you would like to read more about this story.
Fashion Industry Says Purchase Order Cancellations Will Endure in Q3 and Beyond
The coronavirus pandemic has caused concerns for the fashion industry to add to the list of challenges that existed pre-pandemic. According to a new survey conducted by the United States Fashion Industry Association, 100% of fashion industry executives surveyed reported having to postpone or cancel apparel sourcing orders this year as a direct result of the pandemic. This is going to cause long term effects for the industry with nearly 50% of those asked saying that the order cancellations and postponements go beyond the second quarter of 2020 and another 40% believe they could remain in effect longer term.
Beyond the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, increased sourcing costs, supply chain risks and compliance, and diversification still remain key challenges for the fashion industry. For the third year in a row, fashion leaders have listed U.S. “protectionist trade policies” as a top business concern. This has led to sourcing diversification being a key strategy for resilience with 29% of leaders, who took part in the survey, saying that they now source more from Vietnam than they do from China, up from 25% in 2019.
However, despite reduced optimism about the industry’s future due to the pandemic, 90% of respondents plan to increase hiring over the next five years, particularly in production and supply chain roles, the report found.
For more on this click here.
Have a nice and safe weekend!


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It was a subdued day for London markets, with the FTSE 100 closing up 18 points at 6,050 and the FTSE 250 rising 102 points to 17,724.
BUSINESS CLOSE: One in three firms expects to cut jobs
10/08/2020 11:52 AM
The insurer also said it paid out £8.5million to the families of more than 1,200 customers who lost their lives as a result of Covid-19 and set aside another £10million for potential future claims.
Royal London slumps to a £181m loss
10/08/2020 10:41 AM
Holiday-home manufacturers are giving their high-end lodges exotic names and packing them with the latest tech to entice buyers. Pictured is the Retallack Resort and Spa in Cornwall.
Home cinemas and hot tubs: Park resorts entice buyers with posh lodges
10/08/2020 10:36 AM


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Google has launched a spatial audio SDK for a host of virtual reality platforms and development tools, called Resonance Audio.
In memory of the world's first ever artificial satellite, we've put together a list of space-themed VR apps to celebrate the 6th anniversary of Sputnik.
The team behind the revolutionary diversity training experience tell WEARVR their story.
Virtual reality gaming is already a saturated marketplace. But there are lots of other sectors crying out for content.


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UW Foster School of Business alumni, faculty, students and staff gathered in Founders Hall on Wednesday, Oct. 12 to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the Master of Science in Entrepreneurship program.
Connie Bourassa-Shaw, who was instrumental in founding the degree program, addressed the gathering. She shared memories of the origin of the program and emphasized the value it brings to students today. “This is a dream come true. We worked really hard to get this going,” Bourassa-Shaw said. “And you guys are living proof that it works.”
The informal gathering was attended by many of the program’s notable graduates, including Aleyssa Visnjic of the inaugural program cohort in 2018. Visnjic is the co-founder and CEO of WhyLabs, a start-up focused on minimizing risk in artificial intelligence implementations. She was joined at the event by her classmate Justin Gough, who launched Ridwell, a start-up enabling recycling of items that would otherwise be thrown away. Also in attendance was Keisha Credit, who after launching a number of successful ventures is now a coach for others working to do so themselves.
The event also included a demonstration of entrepreneurial spirit from Riya Gupta (MSE 2020), who brought samples of two flavors of her latest product, okra water. Gupta is exploring the health benefits of the beverage, including potentially providing a natural means of lowering blood pressure.
Students currently enrolled in the program had the opportunity to network and discuss their ideas with faculty, staff and one another. Aditi Gudi (MSE 2023) is working on a project converting recycled plastic into clothing. Gudi says that while she is motivated by the environmental benefit of the product, the team is committed to delivering a fashion option that is competitive in the marketplace on its own merits. “For the consumer, it will be just as stylish and affordable as what is currently available.”
The event was catered by the Portofino Restaurant, which was started by Satnam Penaich (MSE 2019). Penaich credits his time at Foster with helping him successfully pivot during the pandemic, during which time his restaurant expanded their retail and take-out options. Today, his business is stronger than ever. “This program was very fitting for a small business owner. I was able to scale my business with what I learned, opening a second location,” Penaich said.
Visit the Master of Science in Entrepreneurship page to learn more about the program, including curriculum, student services and mentorship opportunities.


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ATE - the latest
ECE R90 – 90 percent of ATE brake discs sold already comply with the quality standard
- Regulation enters into force in November – inspection of ATE products started early
- Legislation will stipulate safety quality standards for replacement brake discs
- ATE brake discs have always been manufactured with OE-comparable quality
Frankfurt, September 2016. Disc brakes of the ATE product brand from the Continental technology group already meet the technical requirements of ECE R90, even before the regulation is introduced. Before the European quality standard for brake discs comes into force in November 2016, around 90 percent of all discs sold by ATE will have the demanding ECE seal of approval – and this percentage will again rise significantly by early 2017. This makes Continental one of the first companies to offer the industry a comprehensive, ECE-certified portfolio of disc brakes.
Most ATE products from Continental have already received the ECE seal of approval – from November 2016, the seal will be compulsory for brake discs.
Extensive tests confirm product safety
Looking to the future success of its products, ATE began carrying out the necessary tests early. In stringent tests, independent experts so far intensively examined and tested more than 1000 item numbers, subsequently confirming that they are functional, safe, and ECE-conform. The tests included 150 brake applications to bring the speed of the vehicle from maximum down to 20 km/h. The discs’ crack resistance was then examined on an inertia dynamometer.
As a premium supplier, Continental was well prepared for the legal regulations. Extensive performance testing has always been an integral part of the company’s standards. “We are an OEM for the major automotive brands, so we only use advanced OE materials and manufacture our products in comparable OE quality – and the same goes for our ATE brake discs in the aftermarket,” says Peter Wagner, Vice President Independent Aftermarket and Managing Director of Continental Aftermarket. “The ECE seal of approval officially confirms our high quality standards.”
The ECE regulation will ensure consistent standards in the aftermarket, since spare parts for brakes must then offer the same features as OE products. ECE R90 has applied to brake pads in the aftermarket since 1999, but from November 2016, it will also come into force for brake discs for newly registered vehicle models – and the regulation extension will have even stricter minimum requirements. Buyers of brake products in the independent aftermarket can then be sure that they are getting products manufactured to OE quality standards. Yet another advantage of the ECE seal of approval is that it will largely replace the previously required General Operating Permit for vehicle spare parts, so automobile drivers will no longer have to keep a copy of the permit in the car.
Continental is fully committed to this innovation from the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe, because, as Wagner says, “The extension of the regulation will be yet another hurdle for fake and shoddy products in the markets of the ECE countries. We are convinced that the quality standards set by the Commission will sustainably ensure greater driving safety.”
Head of External Communications
Business Area Vehicle Networking and Information
Business Unit Commercial Vehicles & Services
Sodener Straße 9
Phone: +49 6196 87 1605


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A Huobi Research Institute shows that the number of crypto wallet users rose from 80 million in 2021 to 85 million by the close of 2022.
Crypto wallet growth index in 2022
During this period, the number of users across the globe rose 6.3 percent from 80 million in 2021 to 85 million by close of 2022. However, the increase was slower on a year-on-year basis because of the prevailing market conditions which have seen crypto assets slump to record lows.
The increase in crypto wallet use saw the accrued assets owned by users rise to $1.4 billion. According to the study, revenue will likely grow to about $3.372 billion in the next 10 years, growing at a 9.2 percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR).
The report showed that North America is currently dominating the wallet market by 30%, with the likes of Coinbase, BitGo, and other exchanges leading the rally in the region. Additionally, Asia Pacific follows in the hierarchical order of wallet users domination due to its high population density and vast financial technology awareness, especially in areas like Hong Kong and China.
Challenges in the wallet sector
The study discovered that many wallet brands lack good customer service and interaction. Citing examples, it added that when users face difficulties while using most of this offline waste, there is no customer service to aid them in resolving the issues.
Furthermore, the report stated that the decentralized nature of wallets prevents law enforcement bodies from solving disputes and theft cases that plagued the sector. Specifically, some wallets, including MetaMask, seemed to be deviating from decentralization principles and were collecting user information. These irregularities, the report concluded, could be due to the industry’s laws being developed.
The report stated that decentralized wallets are free from third-party manipulation or mismanagement by custodians, unlike centralized wallets. However, it pointed out that offline wallets are more prone to password loss, viruses, and social engineering attacks.


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A PAIR of flagship Staffordshire businesses’ expanding global empires will give a serious boost to the regions economy and employment prospects for local people.
Alstom, a world leader in the power industry, and digger giants JCB were both celebrating this week after securing international multi-million pound deals and expanding their global presence.
Ben Adams, Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for economic growth and enterprise said the increase in UK exports created by the two deals would be a significant boost for residents and other local businesses.
"Alstom is one of Staffordshire's flagship companies and a significant employer, so its continued success is important to this county,” he said. “The company's successful Regional Growth Fund bid last year will help it advance its leading industry research facility, bringing more jobs and investment.” He said the JCB deal followed the announcement of record profits in 2011 and showed the company was going from strength to strength on a world scale.
"An upturn in orders for businesses based in our county is good for the UKeconomy and good for Staffordshire,” said Mr Adams. "I am sure we will see continued successes from our internationally acclaimed businesses in addition to growth in our small business sector."
JCB has already announced 350 new jobs to meet the rising global demand, including a variety of positions Rugeley, Rocester, Cheadle and Uttoxeter branches.
The jobs, which are available with immediate effect through recruitment agency Blue Arrow, include welders, machinists, paint sprayers, fabricators, assemblers and forklift truck drivers.
And Alstom’s profile was further boosted when Stafford MP Jeremy Lefroy mentioned the firm during Prime Minister’s Question Time last week.
“Today, Alstom is opening in my constituency a new facility for the engineering, manufacturing and export of power electronics, in which Stafford is a world leader,” said Mr Lefroy. “Following the news of the first trade surplus in motor vehicles for more than 30 years, what measures does my right honourable friend consider to be essential to continue and to increase investment in manufacturing?”
Prime Minister, David Cameron, said: “I very much remember visiting GEC Alstom when I contested my honourable friend’s constituency rather unsuccessfully in 1997.
“What is absolutely essential for such manufacturing, engineering and technology- based businesses are the support that we are giving to apprenticeships.”


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TRAWNA (GOSH Wine News Services) The Foxy Wine News Network has just learned that the newly-formed International and Canadian Blends Moguls (ICBMs), an alliance devoted to the reformed CellaredInCanada program, will be launching two new series of wines.
The first series will be a critter series. "We did the due diligence thing," said a spokesperson the ICBM, "but found to our dismay that all of the best critter names were taken. Nevertheless, we are forging ahead with new red and white wines from off-shore and in-shore content, reflecting the character of the original countries, whether
When asked what we can expect from the new names, the ICBM said, "We can still use critter names such as Scapegoat, Polecat, Cougar, Snake in the Grass, and Nag. All of these are under consideration."
The other series of wines, expected to appeal to a younger crowd by virtue of their low-alcohol content of some ten percent, will embrace the names of social media. There'll be a red wine label headed
The social media wines will be heavily advertised on Facebook, Twitter, My Space, LinkedIn, Blogger, Blogspot, and other sites for social writings. There will be no print or broadcast advertising, except for the critter wines.
At one time the ICBM was seriously interested in buying Freggie the all-fruit, all-vegetable wine, but research showed that the wine was 100% domestic and hence ineligible for funding as an ICB by
All wines will be sold at the Liberal Control of Beverages for
More on this story as it develops
Posted By Dean Tudor to FauxVoix VinCuisine at 5/23/2011 04:07:00 PM


text: According to Reuters, Hummer owners, frustrated with the vehicle's excessive fuel consumption, ranked the SUV last in the latest JD Power initial quality survey.Reuters said in the survey of consumers during the first 90 days of ownership, General Motors’ highly profitable Hummer brand had 225 complaints per 100 vehicles. By comparison, the top-ranked Toyota-built Lexus had 76 complaints per 100 vehicles, Reuters said.GM North America president Gary Cowger told Reuters the H2's fuel consumption was the No. 1 complaint among owners, outpacing the No. 2 gripe -- that the SUV's headlights were aimed too high -- by a 2-1 margin. GM has fixed the headlight problem, Cowger added.According to Reuters, at 6,400 pounds (2,903 kg), the Hummer H2 is so heavy it falls outside US regulations on fuel economy. Unlike other passenger cars and trucks, GM does not have to display the fuel consumption figures on the window sales sticker of the H2 at dealerships. Hummer estimates the military-inspired SUV gets 11 to 13 miles (18 to 21 km) per gallon.Reuters said that JD Power conducted its survey of 52,000 US owners and lessees earlier this year when the price of gasoline climbed higher."There's a very close correlation between the price of gasoline at the pump and the incidence of excessive fuel consumption problems," Brian Walters, director of product research with JD Power, told Reuters.


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The California vehicle market has long been dominated by import brands. But the Detroit Three automakers have started to make inroads on that dominance. Rising pickup sales are the driving force behind those gains....More
FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne believes the agreement resolves some key issues, including the inequitable nature of the 2-tier wage system where new workers receive less than more senior employees doing the same job....More
“If one were sentenced to eternal damnation,” one WardsAuto editor concluded, “there’s no finer way to get there than in the Hellcat, running into the abyss at wide-open throttle while the helpless soul hangs on for dear life.”...More
No new ads found their way onto the Most Engaging list for the week, allowing Mazda, Lexus, Chevy, Fiat and Dodge to hold their ground. Spending rose on some 210 automotive spots aired nationally....More
Without 2-step variable valve lift, the ’15 version of the Pentastar always operated in high-lift mode, consuming more fuel. FCA says the new system results in less overall pumping work, singlehandedly accounting for a fuel-economy gain of up to 2.7%....More
Some officials express concern the union is more focused on maintaining its strike fund than using it to push for real economic gains, and they are putting the executive board on notice. “We have expectations,” notes one activist member....More
The 2015 Woodward Dream Cruise in Metro Detroit doesn't happen officially until this Saturday, but crowds have been gathering for several days in Royal Oak to see classic sheet metal. With mild weather, Tuesday night was perfect for car enthusiasts to see and be seen.
Through June, FCA says the diesel makes up 18% of the Ram 1500s shipped from the plant but only 12% of the retail mix. The automaker says a 20% retail mix remains in sight. But it should have been achieved by now....More
President Dennis Williams says the UAW will stick to its tradition of pattern bargaining, in which a contract negotiated with one automaker is adopted by the others. That company typically also is named a strike target if the talks falter....More
General Motors has questioned Fiat Chrysler’s claimed 20% take-rate for the Ram EcoDiesel, and FCA says the rampup continues. An FCA executive says production bottlenecks at the plant in Cento, Italy, have been fixed to free up additional volume for the engine....More
Highlights from the Ward’s 10 Best Interiors Ceremony held during the WardsAuto Interiors Conference on May 13, 2015 in Detroit, MI. WardsAuto World Editor-in-Chief Drew Winter announces the winners and calls auto maker representatives to the stage to accept their honors....More
We call out vehicles with problematic fit-and-finish, materials, ergonomics or unfortunate design choices. Each of these items resulted in points deducted as WardsAuto editors selected the 2016 Wards 10 Best Interiors.


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It's official, the earth has created a rock that is prettier than all of us. And with a lot more net worth. The world's biggest rough diamond, dubbed "Lesedi La Rona," was found in 2013 and is about to go up for auction at Sotheby's in London on June 29. See y'all there? Click through to learn more about the stone, because in the end, it's probably more interesting than all of us as well.
[Photo via Twitter, Getty]


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Assemblyman Steve McLaughlin (R,C,I-Schaghticoke) joined members of the Assembly Minority Conference at a press conference in Albany Wednesday morning calling for the shut down of START-UP NY, Gov. Cuomo’s initiative to provide exclusive tax-free zones for certain businesses that relocate within New York State. Members also pushed the Small Business Full Employment Act, Assembly Bill 5898, which would enact several tax and regulatory relief measures for small businesses across the state.
“START-UP NY is an economic development policy which only rewards businesses if they are connected or selected by the Cuomo Administration,” McLaughlin said. “The strategy picks winners and losers and its underlying goal is to promote Gov. Cuomo’s political image. We continue to see people and businesses leave New York and move to states like Texas where the tax burden is substantially lower. We should take the hundreds of million of dollars used for START-UP NY and reinvest it into businesses by cutting taxes and regulations. Until then, New York will continue to be the least business friendly state in the nation.”
Assemblyman McLaughlin represents the 107th district, which consists of parts of Rensselaer, Columbia and Washington counties. For more information,
please visit Assemblyman McLaughlin’s Official Website


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Apple on Tuesday revamped its attempts to colonise American living rooms, announcing the launch of online movie rentals in standard and high-definition formats and a revamped "Apple TV" to play them on which does not require a separate computer.
Steve Jobs, giving the keynote speech at the Macworld event in San Francisco, also unveiled a new ultra-thin notebook, the £1,200 "MacBook Air", claiming the crown from Sony of the world's thinnest computer, and an integrated network hard drive and wireless access point called "Time Capsule" which offers the capability to effortlessly back up files. The facility had been expected, but not was implemented, in the release of the Leopard operating system last October. A £13 paid-for software upgrade for the touchscreen iPod Touch will give it email, mapping, shares, weather and notes applications.
Jobs also announced that the iPhone, launched a year ago but only on sale since June, had already sold a total of 4m units. In its first quarter it garnered a 19.5% share of the US smartphone market, second only to RIM's BlackBerry, and dwarfing Palm's 9.8%. "When the December quarter numbers come out, we think we'll have done even better," Jobs said.
The arrival of film rentals had been widely trailed, with leaks appearing in the media last month. Until now, Apple had only offered films for purchase via its iTunes Store, and Jobs said that while 7m films had been sold since the service was introduced in September 2006, "it didn't meet our expectations, I have to tell you".
He said: "We think there's a better way to deliver movie content through iTunes. So today, we're introducing iTunes Movie Rentals."
All six major film studios in the US have signed up to the service, which Apple is clearly aiming at rivals such as Netflix and Amazon's Unbox service in the US. On Monday, Netflix, which has 7m subscribers, announced a $9 per month scheme which would let people stream unlimited amounts of films to their TV or PC. The price for renting new films from Apple and Amazon is the same, at $3.99.In the UK, 20th Century Fox and Apple announced a new offering, "iTunes Digital Copy", in which buying a DVD also gives you a digital version in iTunes. However, the rental service for films does not appear to be available in the UK at present.
Michael Gartenberg of Jupiter Research said that the introduction was "a really good move ... video rental is a business model that we know works". He added: "It isn't that Apple has invented something new here, it's how they've done it. Existing efforts have met a lukewarm response. We're likely to see something different in terms of consumer response to this."
Key to that, he said, was that the Apple TV integrates the flow of TV and film content to homes. "The ability to flow content to all the screens that are important to consumers is strategically important to Apple and no doubt, Apple TV is going to go from 'hobby' [as Jobs called it last year] to strategic product in 2008".
Jobs also showed off new versions of the Apple TV, which with a free software update can play back the rented films without a separate computer. It now has 40GB or 120GB hard drives, and Apple dropped the price, which now starts at £199.
But the announcement that left Apple fans salivating was of the MacBook Air, an ultra-thin laptop which dispenses with an optical drive and Ethernet port in favour of wireless connectivity. It has a single USB port, for which an Ethernet adaptor can be purchased.
Jobs said that Apple had not compromised in stripping down the machine: it has a full-sized keyboard and 13in display. "It's the world's thinnest notebook," he said, putting it into an envelope to demonstrate its dimensions. Even at its thickest, it is thinner than Sony's Vaio TZ, previously the thinnest machine, Jobs said. The MacBook Air uses a 1.8in 60GB hard drive, the same as an iPod, but also offers an option for a 64GB Flash memory drive: that version, with a slightly faster processor, costs £2,030. "They are a little pricey," Jobs admitted, "but they are fast."
Key to the development of the MacBook Air is a reduced-size version of Intel's Core 2 Duo chip, which made the battery life - claimed to be five hours - possible.
Gartenberg commented: "After some hands-on time with the device, I know I want one ... this is going to win them some more customer sales. I expect demand for this machine to be strong, really strong."
Jobs also unveiled Time Capsule, a network storage drive in either 500GB or 1 terabyte (1,000GB) sizes, which can be used as a wireless backup in conjunction with Time Machine, the automatic backup facility introduced with the latest version of Mac OS X, "Leopard", last October.
Jobs also said that sales of Leopard had been "unprecedented", with 5m shipped so far: "We're really thrilled by this."
Notably missing from the speech was any mention of upgrades to the Mac Mini, Apple's "headless" computer, or to its .Mac online service. Many observers think that the Mac Mini's days are numbered. Instead, it is the Apple TV that is now aimed squarely at the space beneath the living-room TV.
Apple success stories
4bn: Number of songs sold through the iTunes Store since its April 2003 launch.
4m: Number of iPhones sold since the launch of the device in June last year.
7m: Number of movies sold through iTunes Store: "didn't meet our expectations".