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Digicel’s chief executive officer Jabbor Kayumov does not believe he needs to use flowery language to convince you that his company provides the best mobile service in this country
Instead, he wants you to do your own comparison.
So take out your mobile phone, download the Speedtest by Ookla, and check for yourself.
“When you do the Speedtest you will see that Digicel is far better. The App is absolutely independent. When you compare coverage and speed, the App will transparently tell you which network is faster and which network is bigger. Forget the noise, do the test,” Kayumov said.
“A good product does not need marketing,” Kayumov said as he stood beside two Speedtest awards Digicel received in 2018 and 2019 for the Fastest Mobile Network in T&T.
“It’s not that we don’t have money for marketing, we have the best product. People talking about Digicel is more than enough marketing, word of mouth is more than enough for us,” he said.
Kayumov believes his closest mobile competitor utilised creative marketing to promote its recent launch of 5G in T&T.
Last week, TSTT in partnership with Huawei announced that the fifth generation of fixed wireless technology had arrived.
Unfortunately, it’s not available on mobile devices as yet. It is only available at homes and business places for the time being.
Kayumov said it was an exciting moment for the industry in T&T to hear that one of the operators was on its way to launch 5G.
However, Kayumov said he was eventually left disappointed.
Kayumov said the recently launched 5G is twice as slow as the current capabilities being offered by Digicel.
“With the current fibre products Digicel is giving up to 2GB (gigabytes) per second speed and what was again presented to us last week based on the information we got was 1GB per second,” he said.
“So, to me, it was a bit of confusion and disappointment. It looks like fixed 5G which is twice slower than the current product which we are offering the market. To me it sounded more like marketing than the practical solution addressing customer needs,” he said.
Kayumov said Digicel’s customers can get as much as 10GB per second if needed.
“If among our corporate customers or consumer segments somebody wished to get 10GB per second I can give it to them, fibre can accelerate the speed based on the customer’s needs I just need to put end to end proper equipment to accelerate the speed,” he said.
“But definitely the cost will be different because you are asking for the bigger pipe for the fastest speed which means that my network currently can do 10 times faster than fixed 5G,” he said.
“So the 5G fixed launch last week is kind of a bit of a disappointment for me not from a competitor perspective but from a customer perspective,” Kayumov said.
He added that Digicel will launch 5G when the time is right.
“Definitely we are going to launch 5G but it is going to be mobile and it is going to be a proper one to address customer needs. There are few conditions we are going to have before that happens.
“Definitely one of those is having the right spectrum, and I think TATT (the Telecommunications Authority of T&T) who is regulating this industry is actually doing a great job. We are getting rational, very objective, very professional support and guidance from the regulator so no complaints there,” he said.
Affordability will be the next condition that need to be met, he said.
The third is the demand for 5G, he said.
“A few weeks ago when we launched advanced LTE and I made that statement that T&T is not ready for 5G yet it was not about technology.
“Technology wise have the widest network or biggest network in Trinidad, we can launch 5G, proper mobile 5G, now I have to specify that to avoid any misunderstanding, not the fixed one because we are not going to launch a fixed one for sure but proper mobile 5G we can do it really, really soon in a matter of months if not weeks,” he said.
Kayumov said 5G is not a toy.
“5G has a purpose, it is not just a toy. 5G technology was developed to address the future which will be built on machine to machine IOT world where every single device you would have around you maybe even your sofa will be connected to the internet, will be talking to each other,” he said.
“When everything around us is connected then you will have a high demand for constant connection through air, mobile and wireless to some data centre which will be processing so then you will have the demand from hundreds of thousands machines requiring to connect per square kilometre which is currently not even close and this is what I mean by the market being ready, this is what I mean by demand,” he said.
Kayumov said Digicel is currently meeting the demands of its customers.
“I have my network which is addressing the current needs of my customer base consumer and corporate not many operators in Trinidad can offer that speed and that’s why for us our strategy is based on customer needs,” he said.
“We are not claiming that we are perfect by all means. We still have a lot of areas we have to improve, it is a work in progress but continuous improvement.”
Kayumov said Digicel has a “customer obsession culture.”
As a result Kayumov has invited people to follow him on Instagram at digicelttceo where they can air their concerns.
Apart from their external customers, Kayumov said Digicel also wants to serve its internal customers.
“We have the happiest employees in the country. If we are not there yet, if some of my staff members are not seeing that we are fully committed to make it happen,” he said.
Kayumov said this has also been reflected in the company’s balance sheet.
“I think we are doing great. This year is going to be the best year from a revenue perspective and profitability perspective that Digicel has ever had in T&T.
So it is not only about the soft things but we can also see the numbers and the numbers are actually supporting the entire story.”
Kayumov said Digicel sees all challenges as an opportunity.
One of the recent issues Digicel is trying to deal with is the current demonetisation of the $100 bill.
“For us we have to adjust our operations within the next two weeks because we are dealing with a lot of cash from the community and we are talking about a large amount of cash going throughout the corporation that is a challenge,” Kayumov said.
“They are still valid until the end of the year so we are still operating business as usual but we are definitely coming up with a plan, our operational plan which is going to address this situation in accordance with the local regulations and decisions which the government is taking around this topic.”


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NEW YORK (MarketWatch) -- Hershey
reported second-quarter profit of $168.2 million, or 75 cents a share, up from $159.5 million, or 70 cents a share in the same period a year ago. Excluding non-recurring items, earnings were 76 cents a share, matching the average analyst estimate compiled by FactSet. Sales for the quarter ending June 29 rose 4.6% from a year ago to $1.58 billion, also inline with the FactSet estimate. For 2014, the chocolate company expects adjusted earnings and sales growth to be at the low end its long-term targets of 9% to 11% and 5% to 7%, respectively. The company also raised its quarterly dividend 10% to 53.5 cents a share. "In the second quarter, macroeconomic headwinds in the U.S. continued to be an issue for many retailers and consumers," said Chief Executive John P. Bilbrey. "We continue to do well, although our U.S. second quarter net sales growth of 4.4 percent was less than expectations." The stock, which closed Wednesday with a 3.3% decline for the year, was still inactive in Thursday's premarket.

domain: news


text: Bob Coen, director of forecasting for Universal McCann, said he expects U.S. ad spending to rise 5 percent in 2003 versus an increase of 2.6 percent in 2002. Coen said the outlook for the ad market is stronger than last year amid an overall recovery in the U.S. economy. Internet advertising is expected to continue to decrease but not drastically, he said. Advertising is expected to be 2.28 percent of GDP in 2002 versus 2.29 percent in 2001. Coen told about 1,000 fund managers and analysts at the UBS media week conference that he is more optimistic now about the ad market than a year ago.


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Murdoch's News Corporation, which paid $580 million (£370 million) for MySpace in 2005, is replacing van Natta by promoting the website's co-presidents Mike Jones and Jason Hirschhorn to run it jointly.
As recently as 2008, California-based MySpace was the world's most popular social networking site and was credited with helping British rock stars such as Lily Allen and the Arctic Monkeys break into mainstream.
But Facebook rapidly overtook it and has 400 million users, roughly four times the size of MySpace.
Van Natta was appointed last April, when News Corp trumpeted his previous experience as Facebook's chief revenue officer and vice-president of operations, but he failed to replicate that success.
According to comScore, MySpace suffered a 33% fall in British monthly users in the year to December while Facebook rose 54%. Twitter experienced faster growth from a low base, with British users up almost 1,800%.
Van Natta said: "MySpace is an incredibly unique place and we've made real gains in terms of product focus and user experience."Reuse content


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If you have purchased a can of shrimp from Walmart, Albertson’s, or Safeway recently, you are certainly going to want to read on and learn more.
As it turns out, these stores have had to recall these cans of shrimp over health concerns. The finished product may not have been processed enough.
Now, the stores are working to address the issue, as each can may have a certain amount of harmful bacteria trapped inside. Kawasho Foods USA Inc. is responsible for the recall that was issued by the FDA, as they are working to find out more about the locations where one lot of the potentially contaminated GEISHA Medium Shrimp were sold. The four ounce cans were starting to swell, burst, and leak.
“There is a possibility that the product has been under processed, which could lead to the potential for spoilage organisms or pathogens,” the recall notice reads.
The cans may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum. This is a form of bacteria that can produce very dangerous toxins when it is subjected to low oxygen conditions. The World Health Organization is also issuing warnings on the topic.
“Foodborne botulism, caused by consumption of improperly processed food, is a rare but potentially fatal disease if not diagnosed rapidly and treated with antitoxin,” WHO states. Health officials have also spoken out about the potential dangers that are associated with foodstuffs that have been canned, preserved or fermented. They may require additional preparation since they commonly serve as a source of botulism.
We are happy to report that no adverse reactions have been reported at the present moment. The company is still urging customers to get rid of their cans, even if they are not experiencing any current issues. According to the company, “consumers should not use this product, even if it does not look or smell spoiled.” If you would like to find out whether you have a can that needs to be tossed, just check for the following markers.
Each four ounce metal can comes with the lot code LGC12W12E22 and has a best by date of May 12, 2026. The cans were also distributed to Walmart, Associated Food Stores, Stater Bros Markets, Safeway, and Albertsons stores.
The recall notice states that customers in the states of California, Utah, Arizona and Colorado are the ones who are affected.SKM: below-content placeholder


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DIG INTO SPRING
1 Pick up starter plants including organic lettuces, broccoli, greens, herbs and more, plus fruit trees and berry shrubs during the Rodale Institute's Cold Crop Plant Sale. It runs 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday at 611 Siegfriedale Road, Kutztown. 610-683-6009.
15th ANNIVERSARY ALE
2 Celebrate the 15th anniversary of Bethlehem Brew Works on Monday April 15 for a day of festivities and a taste of a specially brewed 15th Anniversary Ale. Expected to sell out within a few days, the double wit created by brewer Leis Thomas is described as their "Steelgarden Wit up a notch." Besides being unfiltered, with citrus and spicy flavors, it delivers a "special kick." You can get it corked and caged in 750 ml bottles, as well as on draft. Bethlehem Brew Works chef Jill Oman also has created a throw-back menu of 1998 favorites that will be available Monday through April 20. http://www.thebrewworks.com.


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PHILADELPHIA — Since arriving on the scene with its first Sunscape Resorts & Spa property in 2001 – hardly an auspicious year to launch any venture in the travel business – AMResorts has added five more brands and expanded to 60 resorts and more than 20,000 rooms. It’s a new milestone the company and it’s two years ahead of schedule.
AMResorts signed multiple hotels over the past seven months and the new deals represent 10% portfolio growth. One of the most recent was the signing of Zoëtry Chamela Costalegre Mexico, a 120-room new-build about 140 kilometres south of Puerto Vallarta, in the high-end vacation destination of Chamela Bay.
By the end of 2016 AMResorts will open 10 new resorts across its six brands: Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts, Secrets, Breathless, Dreams, Now and Sunscape Resorts & Spas.
“Our dynamic business model combined with our ability to find the right deal in the right place at the right time has enabled us to grow at an industry-leading pace,” said Javier Coll, Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer of parent company Apple Leisure Group. “In addition to continued expansion in Mexico and the Caribbean, we are introducing AMResorts’ innovative Endless Privileges, Unlimited-Luxury and Unlimited-Fun resort concepts to new markets like Costa Rica and Panama.”
AMResorts President Gonzalo del Peon said the company’s tailored approach to the traditional all-inclusive resort model through six resort brands “has allowed us to deliver exceptional products and services to a wide variety of travellers”. Reaching the 60-resort goal as AMResorts hits the 15-year mark “highlights AMResorts’ proven track record of bringing high-end resort brands to beachfront destinations that are easily accessible from numerous gateways across North America,” he added.


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Opera, among the significant crypto-friendly web web browsers, revealed the combination of 8 blockchains in an ongoing effort to present Web3 to more than 380 million mobile and desktop users worldwide.
In Jan. 2022, Opera introduced the Crypto Browser job, a Web3-focused effort for helping with navigation throughout decentralized applications (DApp), video games and metaverse platforms. As part of this effort, the internet browser business included assistance for 8 significant blockchain communities, consisting of Bitcoin (BTC), Solana (SOL), Polygon (MATIC), StarkEx, Ronin, Celo, Nervos DAO and IXO.
Opera stated in the statement that its users now have access to the Polygon and Solana DApp communities, in addition to “the benefits of Layer 2 DeFi via StarkWare-powered DiversiFi.”
The most current combinations make it possible for Opera users to gain access to Polygon proof-of-stake (POS) blockchain and Ethereum L2 environment by means of StarkEx.
According to the business, the intent behind incorporating several blockchains was to guarantee chain agnosticism and Web3 participation in an eco-friendly way. Jorgen Arnesen, EVP Mobile at Opera specified:
“Ultimately, Web3 is on its way to becoming a mainstream web technology and users won’t need to know they’re interacting with it. They need to get a superior user experience and a true benefit.”
The statement even more highlighted the requirement for carbon-neutral options with low gas charges, which stands as one of the primary factors for selecting Polygon over the Ethereum blockchain.
Related: Brave to incorporate with Solana blockchain on its privacy-enabled internet browser
Back in Nov. 2021, Opera rival Brave internet browser incorporated Solana blockchain to enhance its DApps ability.
We’ve partnered with @solana to incorporate it into the internet browser and make it the default for DApp assistance. We will quickly bring best-in-class wallet functions for the Solana blockchain into our desktop & mobile web browsers. #BreakpointLisbon https://t.co/tTB7NXKWjI
— Brave Software (@brave) November 8, 2021
Citing the collaboration, Brendan Eich, CEO and co-founder of Brave stated that:
“With more and more users and creators requiring tools for fast and affordable access to the decentralized Web, this integration will seamlessly pave the way for the next billion crypto users to harness applications and tokens.”
Brave is yet to reveal the addition of multi-chain assistance to match its growing competitors.


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Prepaid ticket counter facility inaugurated at Doodhpathri
Post by on Sunday, June 19, 2022
Budgam, June 18: The Director Tourism Kashmir, GN Itoo and Deputy Commissioner BudgamShahbaz Ahmed Mirza Saturday jointly inaugurated a prepaid ticket counter facility at ParhezMaidan in Doodhpathri.
On the occasion, Director Tourism and DC Budgam also distributed licenses among the registered pony wallas.
Speaking on the occasion, the Director said that the facility shall regulate the operation of pony wallas and tourists can avail the facility of pony ride at an ease without facing any inconvenience.
He said that the Tourism department is promoting these tourist destinations and is ensuring that better facilities are available to the tourists at Doodhpathri and Yusmarg.
DC Budgam who also spoke on the occasion said that all efforts are on to promote this destination at par with other famous destinations and create all required infrastructure at this destination.
CEO DDA, SDM Khansahab, Deputy Director Tourism, AD Tourism were also present on the occasion.


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In 2016, Mindray (300760.SZ) delisted from the US and completed capital increase and share enlargement. At that time, its P/E was over 30 times, deterring many institutions. When Mindray’s founder Xu ...READ
The 16th China PE Investment Annual Forum, co-hosted by Zero2IPO Group and PE Daily, opened in Beijing from December 6th to 8th in 2016. Over 3000 professionals participated in this Forum. The Forum was ended by the highly expected “Zero2IPO 2016 China PE Investment Annual Lists”: CoStone ranked the 8th on the 2016 Zero2IPO Top 100 China PEVC Institutional Investors; Zhang Wei, the CEO of CoStone was among the “2016 Top 10 Chinese PEVC Investors”.READ
“We blazed a trail in TMT industries. We brought in professionals of telecom, chemical engineering, electronics and other emerging industries since 2012. Our effort finally paid off. CoStone was able to penetrate into the whole industrial chain and make arrangement for every stage within four years, instead of only touching upon the late-phased projects. The projects we invested in the last couple years fully embodied our style in TMT industry. These arrangements are different from what we do in the racing tracks. We have our own way. We will invest those projects that are promising and are related to capital markets and our core capabilities.”READ
As Howard Marks stated in The Most Important Thing Illuminated: Uncommon Sense for the Thoughtful Investor, "first-level thinking is coming to a simple obvious conclusion and making a bet on it, while second-level thinking is deep, complex and convoluted and involves many factors." To obtain excellent investment results, one has to take an extraordinary but correct view towards value.READ
TMT has become the latest darling of investors over the past five years. It is helped by the fast-developed smartphone and mobile internet industries and the inclusion of O2O. The digitalization of traditional Chinese manufacturers and their new business models are also part of the reason.READ
In the 2016 Chinese Venture Culture & Industry Capital Conference, two investment portfolios of CoStone won big prizes. MeWe Media was awarded as the best portfolio and acquisition of China’s M&E industry of the year 2015 to 2016 and Joyme was awarded as one of the ten most valuable new OTC market listed companies.READ
CoStone Qomolangma Fund, an excellent PE investment fund since August 2011, has gained a complete victory in 19 projects across 3 fields with 1.4bn investment. Over 50% of its projects will go public, earning CoStone 5 times more than 75% of its original capital of investment.READ
Lin Ling indicates that IP, originally referring to intellectual property, is now entitled to a sort of glory. IP may be another universe with another set of values. People in that universe live a different life which has well-designed plots. These plots incentivize the demands of consumers and fans. The loyalty of fans and consumers to IP makes it go viral. This mania can reduce the risk of investing similar projects.READ
Long-term and continuous contacts will tell you the story about entrepreneurship which is featured by workaholism, persistence, and extraordinary business sense.READ
“We will stay away from those who go against the trend. Never hold a piece of ice on your hands in a hot summer.” said Chen Yanli.READ
The year 2019 marks the fortieth anniversary of China’s Reform &Opening-Up, once again, we meet at the turning point of history. What’s the next step for the game, is there any clear guidance? The answer is affirmative.
Our country is enjoying a good momentum of development, which does not come from the Washington Consensus nor the Beijing Consensus. China’s experience has proved that both the visible hand and the invisible hand are crucial: the visible hand, stands for the government-led reform, and would yield benefits for reform and opening up; the invisible hand, stands for the Marginal Power represented by the private sector, and would improve economic efficiency and tax collection, create jobs and employment opportunities.
Provided that we want to protect and expand the benefits form reform, three simple but mandatory agreements are to be made and followed: No.1 Private ownership must be recognized, protected and treated equally with public ownership constitutionally, both ownerships are scared and inviolable;No.2 Make further clarification of the principal position of market economy, “deepen economic system reform by centering on the decisive role of the market in allocating resources”, as President Xi addressed in the third Plenary Session of the 18th CPC Central Committee;No.3 Implement the guiding principles of “comprehensively promoting law-based governance” of the fourth plenum. The rule of law is essential for economic growth, irreplaceable to protect private ownership, and necessary to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship.
Above are three rules for us to avoid falling into the Middle-income Trap. Assuming that we are breaking systematic barriers to private enterprises’ participation in market economy, and boosting innovation and entrepreneurship of our society, then we are heading towards a promoting direction. We are marching in the path of light, regardless of the ups and downs of Sino-US relationship, the drop in GDP growth rate, or the monetary policy.
These principals also apply on knowing how better to run a business: don’t be hedged by rules and regulations at the beginning, pay more attention to your survival, and you’ll learn more when you start your second business.
For many years, Huawei has been the only Chinese company on the list of the Top 50 R&D Spenders. Regardless of the economy and its income, what Huawei has been doing is investing in its future, dedicated to R&D, continuously and resolutely. This provisional work underscores Huawei’s accomplishments, making Huawei anindustry leader.
So, there are standard answers on how to run a company,which could be summarized as concentration and professional dedication, continuous investment on innovation and trying harder in R&D. Entrepreneurship is also important, every single company needs entrepreneurs to push aside all obstacles and difficulties, to implement strategies and ideas. We, as investors, are destined to look for such outstanding entrepreneurs and their companies, invest in them and partner with them.
At this key point of history, a country, a company, or asingle individual, will all need to find the right path. Four decades after the Reform and Opening-up, it’s time to learn from our experience and stop “wadding across


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Update: Eternals has eventually landed on Disney Plus. Go and take a look at it out!
Eternals is ready to sign up for Disney Plus’ Marvel film back catalog. That’s right, nicely over months since the superhero flick launched in theaters, it’s subsequently set to land on Disney’s streaming platform on Wednesday, January 12.
The 26th MCU movie turned into first of all launched on November five, 2021, but the combined to bad vital reception it obtained meant that many movie aficionados opted to look ahead to Eternals’ launch on Disney Plus as a substitute. Well, that and the fact that there may be a worldwide pandemic raging, that’s enough to position some film fanatics off from seeing the trendy releases in cinemas.
Eternals, even though, is due to land on Disney Plus later this week, so those Marvel fans will in the end get the threat to peer whether it merits the lacklustre essential reception that it acquired. Not handiest that, but viewers will be able to move Eternals in Disney Plus’ IMAX Enhanced mode as well, because of this that there’ll be greater movement, drama and comedy at the screen because of the larger issue ratio screen size that it helps.
Below, we’ll provide an explanation for why it’s taken see you later for one of the greater current Marvel Phase four flicks to launch on Disney Plus. We also cowl whether or not Eternals is a Premier Access name like Black Widow became, or if modern Disney Plus subscribers will have to stump up more cash for the privilege of viewing it.Eternals Disney Plus release dateWhat is the discharge date for Eternals on Disney Plus?(Image credit: Marvel Studios)
As we discovered above, Eternals will launch on Disney Plus on January 12, 2022. Funnily enough, there had been reports approximately while it can land on Disney Plus via Dutch internet site Streamwijzer.nl (in keeping with Streaming Guider), which claimed Eternals might be launched on that date. So it seems that they have been proper.
Like Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings before it, Eternals was given a 45-day unique theatrical run, as found out on The Walt Disney Company’s internet site in late 2021. Given that the MCU flick changed into released on November 5, that meant that it would not arrive at the streaming platform before December 20, 2021.
However, Shang-Chi didn’t come to Disney Plus precisely 45 days after its theatrical release. It didn’t release at the streamer till 70 days after its preliminary release, with Shang-Chi debuting in cinemas on September 3 and on Disney Plus on November 12. As Eternals is scheduled to release on Disney Plus on January 12, it will be 68 days in view that its authentic launch.
Some fanatics had speculated that Eternals would release on Disney Plus after Hawkeye’s series finale. Given that Hawkeye’s remaining episode launched on December 22, and that Eternals’ special theatrical period ends on December 20, a few human beings thought that Eternals would be launched in time for Christmas. That, although, became absolutely wrong.Eternals Disney Plus Premier Access titleWill Eternals be a Disney Plus Premier Access title?
(Image credit: Marvel Studios/Disney)
No, Eternals isn’t a Disney Plus Premier Access title. Shang-Chi wasn’t while it came to Disney Plus, and nor is Eternals. We reached out to Disney for affirmation in this, and they found out that it will be free to all Disney Plus subscribers. As lengthy as you’re a current Disney Plus subscriber, then, Eternals will be loose to observe while it’s launched.Eternals runtimeHow long is Eternals’ runtime?
Eternals is two and a half of hours long. That’s together with its mid-credits and publish-credits scenes, as well as its prolonged end credits. Hey, a number of people work on Marvel films in recent times, so make sure you take a seat via them, o.k.?
Thankfully, whilst it does land on Disney Plus, you may be capable of pause Eternals if you need to take a toilet ruin. Or to stand up and discover the ones all-crucial snacks. Nobody likes to head hungry while looking an captivating Marvel film, in the end.
- Doctor Strange within the Multiverse of Madness: the entirety we understand so far
As TechRadar’s entertainment reporter, Tom covers all the trendy movies, TV shows, and streaming provider information that you need to recognize about. You’ll frequently locate him writing about the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Star Wars, Netflix, Prime Video, Disney Plus, and many other subjects of hobby.
An NCTJ-approved journalist, Tom additionally writes opinions, analytical articles, opinion portions, and interview-led capabilities on the most important franchises, actors, directors and different industry leaders. You can also see his charges pop up inside the odd authentic Marvel Studios video, too, which includes this Moon Knight TV spot.
Away from paintings, Tom may be determined checking out the contemporary video games, immersing himself in his favorite carrying hobby of soccer, reading the numerous unread books on his shelf, staying in shape at the gymnasium, and petting every dog he comes across.
Got a scoop, exciting story, or an intriguing perspective at the contemporary news in enjoyment? Feel unfastened to drop him a line.


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India, which has lengthy been skeptical about cryptocurrencies, has but to determine between outright banning them or regulating the buying and selling of digital currencies.
The cloud of regulatory uncertainty might lastly be about to elevate. Finance Ministry officers instructed Enterprise At present that India’s crypto regulation could also be introduced throughout the subsequent price range dialogue in February 2022.
India’s crypto group has been saved in suspense as the federal government took its time to determine whether or not to permit or forbid cryptocurrencies. The specter of an entire ban first emerged in 2019 when an inter-ministerial committee arrange in 2017 submitted draft laws.
The committee really helpful that cryptocurrencies be prohibited within the nation and in addition proposed jail-time for violations. The Reserve Financial institution of India, the nation’s central financial institution, already had folks on edge because it imposed a de-facto ban on cryptocurrencies in 2018.
Nonetheless, a ray of hope emerged when the Supreme Courtroom struck down the RBI round in early 2020. However the lack of regulation nonetheless had buyers fearful, and rumors of a ban continued.
One other inter-ministerial committee was arrange earlier this 12 months whose suggestions echoed these of the earlier committee. However finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman often reiterated that the federal government will not utterly shut out crypto.
In August, Sitharaman stated a crypto invoice is prepared and it’s awaiting a nod from the union cupboard earlier than it may be tabled for dialogue within the parliament.
In line with the most recent replace, the federal government is trying to classify crypto as a commodity within the asset class and has additionally arrange a panel to research how crypto revenue may be taxed. These developments point out the federal government is trying to regulate the sector as an alternative of quashing it, and business consultants stay optimistic.
Nonetheless, no draft of the crypto invoice has but been made public. It was anticipated the invoice could be up for dialogue within the winter session of parliament if the cupboard approval got here by means of by November. However it has now been pushed to February.
Within the meantime, India’s cryptocurrency adoption is hovering. India ranked second in Chainalysis’ International Crypto Adoption Index for 2021. The nation presently has 15 million retail crypto buyers — though that could be a small portion of the inhabitants, it’s near the variety of revenue taxpayers within the nation.
Crypto adoption has additionally been thriving on the grassroots degree within the nation with folks, particularly girls, from small cities and cities more and more exploring cryptocurrencies. India’s crypto market measurement has elevated 39% from US$53.1 million in FY2020 to US$74.2 million in FY2021, based on a latest analysis report. The analysis additionally expects the market to develop over 200% to achieve US$241 million by 2030.
However the rising adoption of crypto has include its personal challenges amid a regulatory void. Banks have been pulling away from crypto companies, reportedly amid casual stress from the RBI to take action. The RBI has been constant in its stance that every one cryptocurrencies ought to be banned.
Rather than cryptocurrencies, the RBI is exploring a state-backed central financial institution digital foreign money (CBDC). In August, RBI governor Shaktikanta Das stated India might be able to launch its first CBDC trial challenge by December. The central financial institution is presently engaged on a phased CBDC implementation technique and is being “extraordinarily cautious” in regards to the challenge, Das stated. This has, nevertheless, didn’t dampen the nation’s crypto urge for food as buyers discover methods to work across the restrictions with peer-to-peer trades. And as increasingly Indians delve into the crypto world, they discover themselves going through life-changing alternatives, particularly youngsters.


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Ronald Reagan once joked that one way to make sure crime doesn't pay would be to let the government run it. If only the latest ideas moving through Congress in the name of fighting public corruption were jokes.
Since the Supreme Court limited the definition of "honest services" fraud in last year's landmark Skilling v. U.S., the Obama Administration has been looking for a way to restore essentially unlimited prosecutorial discretion to bring white-collar cases. Last fall Assistant Attorney General Lanny Breuer told a Senate committee that Congress should act to "remedy" the Court's decision. Three bills moving through the House and Senate would try to do so, expanding the reach of prosecutors to go after unpopular politicians or businesses whom they can't pin with a real crime.
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In a move to provide some relief to the pay TV industry’s expensive password-sharing headache, Buffalo, New York-based technology group Synacor has officially unveiled Forever Login. The new feature on the company’s Cloud ID authentication platform lets operators balance easy subscriber access to TV Everywhere content with control over the number of concurrent devices allowed and length of time required between logins, the company said.
Forever Login automatically registers a user’s device the first time they log into a TV Everywhere app and continues to authorize video on the device—in compliance with operator policies. All other existing authentication solutions require consumers to reenter passwords after a set period of time, Synacor said, but Forever Login simply prompts them to “continue” to access the app or site they’re using to watch pay TV.
“Operators want to give subscribers the anytime, anywhere TV Everywhere access they crave but there are complex rights and meaningful business issues that have stood in the way,” Synacor CEO Himesh Bhise said in a statement. “Forever Login lets TV Everywhere subscribers say goodbye to passwords, while giving operators the tools they need to tackle what analysts are calling a $10 billion password abuse problem facing the pay TV industry,” he said.
That figure comes from a study by industry consultancy Parks Associates.
It’s become a big issue. Charter Communications and ESPN have been particularly vocal about the need to limit password sharing of multiscreen services.
When paired with Synacor’s mobile Single Sign-On technology that keeps users logged in across multiple apps, Forever Login clears the way for increased TV Everywhere usage in and out of home, the company said.
Scott Young, director of marketing at cable operator Service Electric Cablevision called Forever Login “the first tool that enables us to easily enforce fraud prevention rules while improving the consumer experience.“
Synacor said its systems help operators address password abuse by setting an operator-determined maximum number of concurrent streams and failed login attempts; reduce trouble calls by eliminating the need to re-enter passwords; offer easy access by letting subscribers login from anywhere; and empowers subscribers by allowing them to monitor all devices and log out remotely if a device is lost or password stolen.


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It falsely describes the deadly disease as something that will make children stronger. Cases of kids dying from measles in Australia are quite rare, because the country discovered science in the last hundred years.
Bookworld CEO James Webber originally said it would allow controversial content unless it was actually illegal, but in the wake of a vehement response from customers the company has changed its mind. Not pulling a book over controversy is certainly a legitimate ethical and business stance to take. Being responsible for harm to kids is probably not worth the risk.
Controversial anti-vaccination book removed from sale - News.com.au


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American Paxos Trust Company has introduced its first client — international mobile bank success story Revolut, on its new Paxos Crypto Brokerage (PCB). The PCB enables companies to integrate cryptocurrency buying, selling, holding and sending capabilities into their own applications. Paxos is the first USA-regulated trust company for digital assets.
PCB is a turnkey, easy-to-integrate API-based solution that provides access to the $200 billion cryptocurrency market while managing the underlying regulatory and technological complexity.
Charles Cascarilla, CEO and Co-Founder of Paxos, commented:
“The digital asset revolution has started and more and more companies like Revolut see it coming. With Paxos Crypto Brokerage, companies can leverage our expertise and regulatory compliance to easily and securely integrate crypto into their applications. We’re proud to offer financial market infrastructure that supports an open, digital financial future.”
Nik Storonsky, Founder & CEO of Revolut said:
“In order to expand our crypto offering to US customers, we had to find a trusted partner. We chose Paxos Crypto Brokerage because their turn key solution is fully compliant and easy to integrate. The Paxos platform offers the security and liquidity we need to offer our users the best crypto experience.”
Paxos Crypto Brokerage is a solution for payments, wealth management, banking or other technology company interested in entering the high-growth cryptocurrency markets to build new business line opportunities.
Paxos is a New York-regulated financial institution on a mission to create a global, frictionless economy. By building infrastructure to enable the movement between physical and digital assets, Paxos is creating a future where all assets—from money to commodities to securities—are digitized and can move instantaneously 24/7. Paxos is the largest issuer of regulated stablecoins including Binance USD (BUSD), a white-label stablecoin offered through Paxos Stablecoin as a Service. Paxos products also include Post-Trade Confirmation Service, which has been used to confirm over $2 trillion commodities and FX trades, and Paxos Settlement Service, a settlement platform for US-listed equity securities. With offices in New York, London and Singapore, Paxos is a global player in the crypto arena.


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It’s been quite some time now since we started hearing rumors about Microsoft working on their breakthrough device, which is none other than their premium Surface Phone smartphone. Microsoft’s Surface team has been playing along with the great idea of building this premium smartphone for months now.
According to the latest rumors, this device was expected to arrive in the second half of 2016, but the new info says that this timeframe has been further pushed to early 2017.
After Lumia 950 and 950 XL’s failed effort to boost Windows 10 Mobile presence in the market, Redmond’s response to that is killing off the Lumia series and supplanting it with the Surface line-up, which currently offers laptop and hybrid devices — and evidently smartphones too shortly.
Microsoft To Unveil Three Models Of The Surface Phone
According to sources, Panos Panay and his Surface team are working on the Microsoft Surface Phone. This is the same team that is behind the Surface tablets. Consumers are expected to get three different versions out of the Surface Phone, which is going to be targeted at business and prosumer enthusiasts.
Surface Phone: Here’s Everything We Know So Far
The Surface phone has been surrounded by many rumors, so here is everything we know so far about this premium smartphone’s design, specs, price and release date.
Design and Build
Initially, we heard that Microsoft was working on an all metal Surface Phone. The release date might change further, but according to the latest reports, the metal build idea won’t be going anywhere.
We have seen the Surface Tablet range, strong and very solid build and this device has worked very well for Microsoft. Since the same team is working on the Surface Phone, we can expect a similarly solid build in the particular device as well.
Moreover, the Surface Phone is highly expected to carry a Kickstand, which could essentially allow the phone to stand independently. This kickstand is also available on the Surface Tablet, and if this turns out to be true, we can expect a stylus to join in too.
As aforementioned, the Surface Phone should come in three variants, which we estimate will differ in terms of screen size. We can expect a 5.5-inch display for the consumer edition, while the pro models will most likely come with a full 6-inch screen.
Since the display is going to be quite large, it will allow for easier access to multitasking and view data more clearly and conveniently.
Processor and Power Specs
According to reports, Microsoft is working with Intel on its premium Surface Phone. We can expect the phone to feature the best of Intel when it comes to mobile chipsets. There is no official report further cementing a specific Intel project to power the Surface Phone. Users are also hoping for a long-lasting battery as well, which can be delivered by a power-efficient CPU.
Lumia’s heritage might act as an influential point for Microsoft to develop a much more sophisticated camera system. They are expected to play with the strengths of Lumia in this area. A notable front-facing camera is going to be an obvious addition.
The Surface Phone is set to be a medium for Microsoft to help them push the huge investment they made in the Windows 10 OS. Without any doubt, the Surface Phone will come with Windows 10 for Mobile straight out of the box. We also assume that the pro instalment might come with additional software to help users be more productive and efficient.
Initially, Microsoft was apparently aiming to launch the Surface Phone in May 2016. But this date has been delayed following the Lumia 950 failure. According to fresh rumors, we can now expect the Surface Phone in early 2017. As per reports in the Windows Central, Redstone 2 update with new hardware in April 2017 would be launched by Microsoft.
In addition to CPU power, Surface Phone release date could have been delayed duly to Microsoft waiting for Intel’s Kaby Lake processor to get in production. The new CPU series is scheduled to commence production in early 2017. This reason, in particular, may be behind Surface Book 2 postponed circulation as well.
Since the Surface Phone will offer phenomenal quality in both the performance and building regards, pricing will surely cost you accordingly.
We can confidently presume that all the three purported variants will follow in the footsteps of the Surface tablet line. According to a report on Windows Central, Microsoft’s additional attention to security software will classify the Surface Phone as the most secure mobile device currently in the market.


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In today’s society, consumers are flooded with a wide array of products promising convenience and ease in our daily lives. From kitchen gadgets to automotive accessories, it seems that we are never too far away from a popular product that promises to make our lives better. However, what happens when a seemingly harmless item turns out to be a hidden danger? This is a question that several victims are grappling with as they seek justice through a lawsuit that exposes the hidden dangers in a popular product.
The product in question, which shall remain unnamed due to ongoing legal proceedings, is a staple in many households worldwide. At first glance, it appears harmless, with a vibrant design and promises of innovative functionality. However, beneath the glossy exterior lies a truly dangerous secret that has caused harm to numerous individuals.
Victims of this product have come forward, sharing their harrowing experiences and seeking justice for the harm they have endured. It has become abundantly clear that the dangers are not mere isolated incidents but rather a widespread issue affecting unsuspecting consumers. These individuals have suffered various injuries, ranging from severe burns to life-threatening situations due to product malfunctions.
What is particularly concerning about this case is the alleged knowledge that the company behind the product had about these hidden dangers. In an attempt to cut corners or increase profit margins, it appears that necessary safety measures were either neglected or intentionally ignored. This revelation has left victims and concerned consumers questioning the ethical practices of this company, demanding accountability and change.
The lawsuit, spearheaded by a group of courageous victims, aims to shed light on these hidden dangers and hold the responsible parties accountable for the harm caused. With a meticulously compiled body of evidence, including expert testimonies and product analysis, their case is gaining momentum and drawing attention from both the public and regulatory bodies.
Beyond the immediate goal of obtaining justice for the victims, this lawsuit is serving as a wakeup call for consumers worldwide. It highlights the importance of scrutinizing popular products and ensuring that safety standards are met before incorporating them into our daily lives. It is a reminder that not everything that glitters is gold and that even seemingly innocuous items can pose serious dangers.
Additionally, this case is shedding light on the need for stronger regulations and oversight in the manufacturing and distribution of consumer products. It raises questions about the adequacy of current safety regulations and the ability of regulatory bodies to effectively monitor and enforce those standards. The potential cascade of consequences resulting from this single product’s hidden dangers reveals a systemic issue that must be addressed promptly.
As the lawsuit progresses and more victims come forward, the hope for justice and awareness continues to grow. This situation serves as a stark reminder that consumer safety should never be compromised for convenience or profit. It is a call to action for individuals to inform themselves, demand transparency from companies, and support regulatory measures that prioritize public safety.
In the face of this lawsuit, we must remember that it is the responsibility of both individuals and organizations alike to prioritize safety and to expose hidden dangers in popular products. Only then can we seek justice for the victims, usher in a safer marketplace, and ensure that such incidents do not recur in the future.


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Twitter is back to making an app for the Mac. The company released a new Twitter for Mac app last night, but it’s only available to those running macOS Catalina. And yes — there’s a catch.
This new app is built using Apple’s new Catalyst technology in macOS that allows iOS app developers to bring their apps to the Mac. The idea is no different than Microsoft’s original UWP idea which allowed app developers to make one app that works across all types of Windows 10 devices. Apple’s new system is just getting started, and the company expects to unify the iOS and Mac App Stores by 2021.
But just like Microsoft’s UWP, Apple’s Catalyst is off to a bad start. Twitter for Mac is the first major iOS app to arrive on the Mac via this tech, and although the app does work pretty well, the experience is still very unfinished. Because the app is primarily made for touch input, some parts of the app don’t work just as well on a Mac. When you are entering the password in the login screen, for example, you can’t just press enter to login to your account — instead, you have to tap the “Login” button. So yes, the app does work, but parts of the app look and act really weird when using a mouse and a keyboard. Oh and, the whole app looks very weird when you try to use it in full-screen.
Say hi to the Twitter Catalyst app for macOS Catalina.
"and it just works" pic.twitter.com/2wTp7Yjkbs
— Mehedi Hassan (@mehedih_) October 11, 2019
Twitter’s new Mac app can be downloaded here if you are running macOS Catalina.


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CSA Group announces new HazLoc/ATEX-cooperation in India
New cooperation with ELCA India / Hazardous Location testing / CSA Group offers ATEX certification and Certifications for North America in India
CSA Group and ELCA Laboratories have joined forces to provide seamless end-to-end Hazardous Location testing solutions to customers who design and manufacture their products in India and require local support for their certification needs.
Frankfurt am Main/Bangalore, July 22, 2020
Since the “Make in India” initiative was launched by the Indian Government in September 2014 as part of a wider set of nation-building initiatives, many manufacturers in various industry sectors have invested in their production plants in India.
Efficient local customer support
In 2000, CSA Group opened its Bangalore office. Now CSA Group, the global number one issuer of Hazardous Locations certificates, has cooperated with ELCA Laboratories, an established, Mumbai-based lab, specialising in testing products for explosive atmospheres. “This cooperation provides a best and most efficient way for customers who design and manufacture their products in India and want a local support for their certification needs to obtain Hazardous Location certification and testing,” says Adam Garner, CSA Group Industrial Commercial Director.
Seamless project management
“CSA Group’s cooperation with ELCA Laboratories means that India and South Asia-based manufacturers of equipment destined for hazardous locations in North America and Europe can contact our Bangalore office where our team will be able to support their certification and testing needs in one seamless project, using our qualified certifiers and ELCA Lab’s newly built test facilities. We can test to a wide scope and the test data can be used to support a North American entry, by affixing the CSA mark to product, as well as ATEX approval for Europe.”, explains Saibal Mukhopadhaya, CSA Group Country Manager India.
ELCA Laboratories an associated test facility for CSA Group
CSA Group has also applied to IECEx (International Electrotechnical Commission for certification of Equipment used in Explosive Atmospheres) for ELCA Laboratories to become an associated test facility of CSA Group, which can be expected in place later this year. “We are looking forward to a strong cooperation with CSA Group and to further strengthen our position in the Indian market. With the current coronavirus pandemic disrupting supply chains now more than ever is the time to ensure local testing solution,” Kartik Iyer, Chief Executive Officer added.
About CSA Group
CSA Group is a global organization dedicated to safety, social good and sustainability. We are a leader in Standards Development and in Testing, Inspection and Certification around the world including Canada, the U.S., Europe and Asia. Our mandate is to hold the future to a higher standard. For more information about CSA Group, please visit www.csagroup.org.
Established in 1974, ELCA stands tall as one of the foremost material testing laboratories’ in India. In an increasingly competitive playground, the brand is a key player and has carved a distinguished niche for itself in the industry for consistency in quality, reliability, individualised service and quick turnaround time. From a tiny operation with three employees, to a company with labs in three cities in India – Navi Mumbai, Pune and Kolhapur, and a sum of 200 employees, the company has grown in leaps. However, the cornerstone of ELCA’s vision has always been integrity of process and solution, married to cutting edge innovation. This dedication to vision has been at the core of the brand always staying ahead in a nation and economy that has changed 360˚ since then.
Today, the brand offers a wide array of services in the field of Mechanical, Chemical, Metallurgical and Corrosion testing of Metals and Welds, testing of Ores and Minerals, Polymers, Electrical testing, HazLoc testing, Environmental testing, Asbestos Identification, Failure analysis, Paints and Painted Panels, Building material testing and more. For more information, visit www.elcalabs.com.
Bringing in new age business learnings and technology, ELCA introduced HazLoc Testing in 2010. This infused a modern approach that only added to the core vision and values of the company and made it Future Ready.


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Volkswagen is close to reaching a final deal with US regulators over its 2015 diesel emissions scandals, reports Reuters. The German automaker said it expects to plead guilty to criminal charges and pay the government some $4.3 billion as a settlement. In September last year, the company admitted installing secret software in more than half a million vehicles sold in the US that it used to fool exhaust emissions tests. Investment firm Evercore ISI said in a research note it expects the settlement would “draw a line under all remaining US-related legal risk.”
According to The New York Times, the company is expected to plead guilty to a number of charges including conspiracy to violate the Clean Air Act and the obstruction of justice. The $4.3 billion fine would cover criminal and civil charges from the federal government (including environmental penalties) but is separate to the billions the company has set aside for civil suits with individual car owners. Including these, the cost of settling various claims is expected to exceed $20 billion in the US, making it one of the most expensive corporate scandals in history.
News of the impending settlement comes as prosecutors move to tie up charges against the German automaker. This weekend, VW executive Oliver Schmidt (who ran the company’s regulatory compliance office) was accused of conspiracy to defraud the United States and taken into custody by the FBI at Miami International Airport. Schmidt is charged with defrauding the government and violating the Clean Air Act, and is the second individual to receive criminal charges in the case. The first was Volkswagen engineer James Liang, who pleaded guilty last September to similar charges.
Despite the scandal, the Volkswagen Group achieved record sales last year. Including its Audi, Porsche, and Skoda brands, the company sold some 10.3 million vehicles worldwide in 2016, an increase of 3.8 percent year-on-year. It’s possible that the VW Group will overtake rival firm Toyota as the world’s largest carmaker by volume, with the Japanese company expected to announce its own sales figures next month.


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The Council today endorsed a new chemicals strategy setting a long-term vision for the EU chemicals policy. The strategy aims to achieve a toxic-free environment with a higher level of protection of human health and the environment, while strengthening the competitiveness of the EU’s chemicals industry. In its conclusions, the Council asks the Commission to implement the actions laid down in the strategy, including targeted amendments to streamline EU chemicals legislation, substituting and minimising substances of concern, and phasing out the most harmful chemicals for non-essential societal uses.
The strategy specifically sets out to ban the most harmful chemicals in consumer products such as cosmetics, toys, detergents, childcare items, furniture, textiles or materials that come in contact with food, unless they are deemed essential for health, safety or the functioning of society, or if no alternative is available. The Council also highlights the importance of limiting exposure to endocrine disruptors (hazardous for the hormone system) and to reducing the harmful effects of chemical mixtures.
The strategy aims to phase-out hazardous chemicals that affect vulnerable groups. Overall, all chemicals should be used more sustainably and safely.
A key novelty in the strategy is the shift of focus onto a» safe and sustainable-by-design» approach. Member states support this life-cycle approach that takes into account the toxicity of chemicals at all stages of their existence – from manufacture to use, recycling and disposal. The purpose is to prevent hazardous chemicals from entering products already at the design phase. This approach also aims to boost innovation and sustainability in the chemicals sector.
The Council endorses the EU taking a leading role at the global stage, by promoting its rules on chemicals as the golden standard, as well as ensuring that the EU has secured access to chemicals that are critical for health and the functioning of society.
On 14 October 2020, the European Commission presented the «EU Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability – Towards a toxic-free Environment». The chemicals strategy is an essential part of the Green Deal and its zero-pollution ambition. It is also a key component in the recovery plan from the COVID 19 crisis.
With more than 40 pieces of legislation, the EU has a solid set of chemicals legislation in place. This includes an overarching framework on the registration, evaluation and assessment of chemicals and the labelling and classification of chemicals, but also sectoral legislation on, biocides, toys, cosmetics, paints, pesticides, etc.
Fuente: Council of European Union


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Boulder Media, the Dublin-based animation firm behind the BBC's reboot of Danger Mouse, has announced plans to take on additional staff as part of a move to a larger studio space.
The company, which was acquired by US toymaker Hasbro for an undisclosed sum last year, currently employs 160 people in Ireland. The deal came a year after another award-winning Dublin animation studio, Brown Bag Films, was acquired by 9 Story Media Group, one of North America's largest animation studios.
Boulder, founded in 2000 by Emmy-nominated director Robert Cullen, has produced several award-winning series for Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, Disney and the BBC. Other shows made by the company include The Amazing World of Gumball, Go Jetters and Wander Over Yonder.
The studio said it is now recruiting for positions in conceptual design, 2D and 3D animation, as well as animated CG feature film.
The planned expansion will support a growing slate of entertainment around Hasbro brands, including Transformers, Littlest Pet Shop and Micronauts, as well as animated series on behalf of third-party clients.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled about the opportunities we can offer our crew,” said Mr Cullen. “We’re bringing to life some of the world’s most famous and popular brands here in Dublin. It’s unique and very special both for our studio and the local industry.”


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ANTI-GM LOBBY GROUPS ARE WITHHOLDING crucial facts from the public, said Dr Willy de Greef , agro biotechnology research specialist from Brussels, who is an internationally recognised authority and consultant on genetically modified crops.
Speaking at AfricaBio’s African Regional Biotechnology Communicators Press Conference in Centurion, Dr de Greef said anti-GMO activists claim that the EU is opposed to GM crops, that consumers in the EU do not eat GM food, and that GM crops grown in African countries would be denied export markets in the EU because the EU is opposed to them. “What they are not telling you is that six EU countries are currently planting GM crops, with several more anticipating. Spain is the leading country with 60 000ha. The other five countries – France, Czech Republic, Portugal, Germany and Slovakia – increased their plantings five-fold in 2006, from 1 500ha in 2005 to 8 500ha in 2006. This information is documented in the ISAAA Report 2006. “What the activists are not telling you is that Margaret Beckett, Britain’s environment secretary, approved the cultivation of GM herbicide-tolerant maize for cattle feed in 2004. Humans consume that meat. “They keep quiet about the fact that the EU commission approved the importation of GM sweetcorn for human consumption in 2002. “They do not mention the EU approval of the import, for human and animal consumption, of GM maize resistant to rootworm. Nor do they say anything about European Commission authorisation, in March 2006, of the marketing of GM maize 1507, resistant to stalk borer, for food and food ingredients. “They fail to mention that MON810, resistant to stalk borer, was approved for planting in the EU. Seventeen varieties were approved. “What the activists are not telling you is that maize, soya, cotton and possibly cassava, at some future stage, are the most likely GM crops to be produced in Africa. With the exception of cotton (Egypt and Sudan), none of these crops (with the exception of South Africa, a net exporter of food) are currently being exported to the EU. Should Africa one day become self-sufficient in maize and soya, surplus exports of approved GM products to the EU will never be in jeopardy,” Dr de Greef said. – Chris Nel


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Given our prevalent preoccupation with the iPhone, it was obvious to get caught up in the iPhone hoopla. However, all the interesting apps, hoaxes and news that surfaced since the launch of iPhone 4, made little relevance to people living outside US, until the dudes at the iPhoneDevTeam ‘officially’ freed it from the clutches of AT&T’s cellular network allowing to take it to another carrier or use it on any GSM network in the world. Known for bringing the “ultrasn0w” tool for previous iPhone models, the iPhoneDevTeam had to rewrite the entire ultrasn0w software owing to the new baseband that Apple installed in the iPhone 4. However, for those who anticipate unlocking the iPhone 4, you got to wait for that unlocking video, but even then this isn’t going to be permanent unlocking solution.
Via: Slash Gear/Geek


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When presenting its otherwise excellent financial results for 2021, Tesla already warned its shareholders of a disrupted production in 2022. The shortage of semiconductors is causing supply problems, as a result of which the set deadlines are not met. And then the American manufacturer of electric cars refers in the first place to the Tesla Cybertruck, which has been postponed until 2023.
Roadster also postponed
According to CEO Elon Musk, it would be illogical to launch new models this year, since it would not be possible to build them (sufficiently). The Roadster is also being postponed again, which was originally supposed to be released in 2020 and was introduced more than 4 years ago.
Full Self Driving, Semi
Now Elon Musk and his followers still know what to do, because development work on the production version of the Tesla Semi continues unabated. And in the field of artificial intelligence, the engineers also hope to take steps soon, so that they will have a fully autonomous driving car by 2022. Tesla is also working on the Optimus, which we only know for the time being that it is a robot. The American car maker has not yet started on the compact Tesla Model 2.
#Tesla #Cybertruck #postponed


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Agreement on Sustainable Garments and Textile: Openness about risks in sector 'the new normal'
Companies are opening up about malpractices that they have encountered in garments and textile manufacturing – and what they are doing in response. Some fifty brands that have participated in the Dutch Agreement on Sustainable Garments and Textile since the very start will be making their findings public no later than today. Their disclosure marks an important step towards meeting their obligations under the Agreement. Transparency in communication must become the new standard so that stakeholders can see how companies are taking responsibility for their operations. Transparency also helps consumers make informed choices.
Pierre Hupperts, independent chairman of the Steering Committee: ‘This is an important step towards greater transparency in the global textile supply chain, and a huge step for some of the participating brands. We can't expect reporting on risks to be perfect across the board in the very first year. This is a joint learning process that will help companies to move forward. We invite civil society organisations to share their findings with us and the brands.’
Openness about risks
All of the companies participating in the Agreement perform due diligence: they examine their production chain, identify potential and actual malpractices, and then prioritise and tackle them. By signing the Agreement, companies commit to communicating publicly about these risks in the third year after joining. More than fifty high-profile brands have now published such information on their website.
More production locations and easier to find
Almost 6,000 production locations have been listed this year, considerably more than last year. The increase has come about because companies have examined their supply chain in greater depth. This year, for the first time, the production locations of all the companies participating in the Agreement are being disclosed on the Open Apparel Registry website. As a result, it is easier for international parties such as trade unions and NGOs to gain access to the production location list.
More use of sustainable materials
Companies that also reported in the previous year recorded an increase in the use of sustainable materials from 29% in that year to 37% in the past year. Use of more sustainable cotton increased from 44% to 57%. Companies have been providing information about the materials that they use in garment manufacturing since last year. Now that such use has been made transparent in their second year of reporting, they are clearly making more conscious choices. See also this fact sheet and explanation.
Market share grows slightly but is concerning
The total share of the Dutch market accounted for by the Agreement signatories grew slightly to approximately 50%, despite participants dropping out due to insolvencies and closures. Under the terms of the Agreement, 80% of the Dutch market must have signed up by 2020. International cooperation must be sought to ensure that large international companies join. Cooperation with other initiatives, such as the German Partnership for Sustainable Textiles, is one possible solution.
About the Agreement
Since 2016, a broad coalition of companies and other organisations have joined forces under the Dutch Agreement on Sustainable Garments and Textile to prevent malpractices such as worker exploitation, animal cruelty and environmental pollution. The Agreement is facilitated by the Social and Economic Council of the Netherlands (SER).
The provisions of the Agreement are based on existing objectives and standards set out in the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGP’s) and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises. A total of 89 garment and textile brands, their representative organisations INretail, VGT and Modint, the national government of the Netherlands, trade union confederations FNV and CNV, NGOs Solidaridad, UNICEF, Arisa, the Stop Child Labour Coalition, Four Paws Netherlands, and a large number of supporting parties are participating in the Agreement.
Publication date 04 07 2019


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Shopify’s commitment to reversing climate change centres on removing carbon from the atmosphere, as the company believes that ecommerce can only continue if the world around us is flourishing. This makes sense, as ecommerce success for a business relies heavily on being able to ship products worldwide, which instantly becomes more difficult if climate change starts to restrict this.
There is no ‘quick fix’ or ‘one size fits all’ solution to reversing climate change, so Shopify has decided to try a wide range of options, hoping to find one that works whilst boosting new technologies. This is all being done to eliminate carbon, which is what Shopify’s climate commitment centres on.
Shopify’s pledge is by no means a short-term plan, and the company is looking to the future. As well as working on solutions to make a difference instantly, the company is embracing new and innovative technologies which could have an impact on a long-term basis. Much of this is done via the Shopify Sustainability Fund, which we have explained more about below.


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While Google Glass certainly offers a real world advantage in some areas - for example, in the customer service sector - one can argue that in other uses it's just plain annoying and intrusive. Take the United States for example; a country where your social media updates can get you fired on the spot, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to understand why some people have a problem with a "glasshole" filming them in a bar or restaurant without permission or knowledge of it happening.
The issue has been widely discussed, and with good reason. With that said, Jason Jones, an investigator for The Daily Show, looked into an emerging form of 'discrimination' that Google Glass "Explorers" in San Francisco must face.
Of course, the above video isn't a serious tackle of the issue, and is skewed in favor of those being 'victimized' on the street - "since when can't a grown man walk into a kids playground with a secret camera on his head" (I'm paraphrasing) - but you begin to see the problem here.
It appears there's still a long way to go for the acceptance of this sort of wearable device in public places - if you aren't being abused for filming complete strangers boozing it up, or being arrested for supposedly filming a movie in a theater, you might even find yourself banned from entering the premises of some businesses.
So, how do you feel about this technology? We've added a poll and are interested to hear your comments on this controversial issue.
Google Glass currently sells for $1500 in staggered availability, but is expected to launch to retail later in 2014 for around $600.
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“Japan is a key element of our business – but if we can properly develop the market, Japan could be one of the most important parts.”
Michael Morton, founder and acting managing director of MD Golf
MD Golf first entered the Japanese market in 2008, but is looking to dramatically increase its presence in the world’s No. 2 market for the sport.
And it has another iconic British name as its secret weapon after signing an exclusive licensing deal with Aston Martin Sport to produce a range of golf products for a brand that was in 2008 named as the coolest in the world.
Michael Morton, who founded the company in 1996 and presently serves as acting managing director, first visited the Professional Golfers’ Association of Japan show in 2003 and says he immediately realised how huge the sport is here.
“The real difficulty is finding people to work with in such a different culture and also having a brand that is attractive enough to work there,” he said. “That aside, we identified it as the No. 2 golf market in the world and felt we must find a way to get started there.”
MD Golf signed a global licensing deal with Seve Ballesteros in 2008, with the late Spanish star of the sport still hugely popular in Japan, where he designed a number of courses.
But working with Japanese partners was not always easy, Morton admits.
“You have to be immensely patient doing business in Japan and my impression is that people really, really like to know who they are dealing with,” he said.
Undeterred, MD Golf now has an exclusive deal with World Golf and presently does around $1 million worth of business with the Japanese company every year.
The next aim is to introduce Japanese players to the Aston Martin range of golfing equipment.
“We already sell to all the Aston Martin car dealers in Japan, but recognise we need a distribution hub there to properly develop this business,” Morton said. “Aston Martin as a luxury brand will very much appeal to the Japanese consumer, who is interested in prestige as well as performance.
And the potential is huge, Morton believes.
“I believe we can multiply our business 20-fold in the Japanese market if we can get into the right retailers,” he said.
And that is where the knowledge and know-how of the UK Trade & Industry team at the British Embassy in Tokyo comes into play.
“Up until now we have done this on our own, but we hope that now the link has been made we will get the UKTI behind us,” Morton said. “Knowledge of the market is vital and it is not easy to make the right contacts with the right people.
“Japan is a key element of our business – but if we can properly develop the market, Japan could be one of the most important parts,” he added. “Hopefully UKTI can help us realise this potential.”


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Topic: People on the Move
Astral Health & Beauty has appointed Jennifer Thompson as a company leader of its professional skincare brand.
The spa and hotel manufacturer Monarch Cypress appointed Hillary Georges as the president of the hotel division.
Well & Being Spa has announced Grant Lessard as the spa's new director.
La Valencia Hotel (La Jolla, CA) is opening a new spa this coming spring, and Dana Stallings has been appointed spa director. Learn more about the new property and industry vet here.
Sue Harmsworth, founder of ESPA International spa and skincare brand, has announced her departure after 25 years with the company. Here's what's next for the successful brand.
Miraval has named Mark Stebbings and Robert Berrey Jr. general manager of Miraval Arizona and Miraval Austin. Learn more about the two new team members here.
Industry veteran Patrick Huey, formerly group director of spa – Asia for MSPA International, has accepted a new position as corporate spa director at luxury hospitality group Montage International.
Get to know the eight executives Miraval appointed for growth and brand development.
The International Spa Association (ISPA) has announced the election of Garrett Mersberger, director of wellness and Kohler Waters Spas at Kohler Co., as chairman of the ISPA Board of Directors, effective immediately.
The Adolphus has announced Cassondra Rogers-Royael will be joining Spa Adolphus as the property's new spa director. Learn more about the industry vet here.


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He didn't stop there. Juechter went on to accuse the automotive publication industry as a whole of producing fake design sketches and lying about their origins in order to drum up magazine sales.
"They hire somebody to do some design sketches and say 'Here it is! We stole that out of the design staff and it's the next-generation Corvette,'" Juechter said.
Juechter also accused the automotive publication industry of misattributing information.
"It can even be attributed to me and be totally wrong," Juechter said. "It can even be attributed to Bob Lutz and be totally wrong."
In all, Juechter painted a picture of the automotive publication industry as desperate, sensationalist and dying due to online competition and a lack of advertising.
"There's one industry that's maybe in worse shape than the auto industry and that's the automotive publication industry," Juechter said.
Understandably irked by Juechter's accusations, Automobile Deputy Editor Joe DeMatio added a note to the online version of the C7 Corvette story in question standing by the reporting and refuting Juechter's claims, which reads as follows:
CorvetteBlogger.com recently posted a video of Corvette chief engineer Tadge Juechter lambasting Automobile Magazine for our story on the next-generation Corvette. Juechter implies that our article was sensationalist and misattributed information to him. Automobile Magazine stands by its story.
It is clear that, in his appearance before the Corvette faithful in Bowling Green on May 1st, Corvette Chief Engineer Tadge Juechter regretted speaking as freely as he did to our reporter, industry veteran and Corvette owner Don Sherman. Mr. Juechter can spin his comments all he wishes, but a careful reading of our story, which is reprinted here, reveals that 75% of the story consists of verbatim quotes from Mr. Juechter himself. At the end of our piece, Don Sherman prognosticates about the future Corvette; it is crystal clear to the reader that at this point in the story, it's Don Sherman making educated guesses, not Tadge Juechter speaking. At no point did Don quote Mr. Juechter as definitively stating that a V-6 is in the works for C7, but he did indeed predict that a V-6 is a POSSIBILITY, based partly on Mr. Juechter's comments that most certainly implied that this is the case. Don also makes it clear that, in his opinion, a V-8 is a certainty for the next Vette, but speculates that it might not be standard equipment.
It is a bit rich that, at this juncture, Mr. Juechter stands in front of a Corvette crowd and says about Automobile Magazine, and about print automotive enthusiast magazines in general: "Don't believe any of what you read. Most of it will be wrong. They may guess on some things luckily, but most of the time it will be wrong. It can [even] be attributed to me and be totally wrong." Well, when 75% of the article is verbatim quote from you, Mr. Juechter, is the article 75% wrong?
Mr. Juechter wishes to dismiss the entire category of automotive enthusiast print magazines out of hand. This is a strange approach, given that Automobile Magazine and its competitors play a major role in promoting Corvette enthusiasm, even now when, as Mr. Juechter readily admits, the next-generation Corvette is still years away.
Following DeMatio's note, CorvetteBlogger.com issued an update noting the response. In it, the blog speculates that both sides may have overstepped themselves and calls for peace, noting that at the very same event where Juechter was filmed, Corvette Product Marketing Manager Harlan Charles used coverage from several major automotive magazines to illustrate the success of the 2010 Corvette. The blog advises Juechter to remain "above the fray."
In all the banter, some actual information about the C7 Corvette found its way into the noise. Juechter promises that the C7 will not be "watered-down" version of the C6 and notes that while new realities exist, included CAFE standards that he calls an "unfunded mandate" from the government, no new modifications are planned for the car that weren't already in the works. Juechter notes that making the car lighter and more aerodynamic, as well as increasing the efficiency of the engine, is as good for performance as it is for fuel economy.
What do you think? Was Automobile's story overreaching, or was Juechter out of line? Share your impressions in the comments below.
The video of Juechter can be seen HERE.
Automobile's story, with the note from the editor, can be found HERE.


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The number of imported vehicles on the road in South Korea last month passed 600,000 for the first time, reflecting growing demand for foreign cars.
Around 9,000 imported cars were registered in January, according to the Korea Automobile Importers and Distributors Association.
In 2011, the number of imported cars registered was 105,037, up 16% year on year and over 100,000 for the first time, according to separate data from the agency.
Aurora, Ontario-based global supplier and contract assembler Magna International on Friday (10 August) said second quarter 2012 operating income rose from $108m last year to $470m, with net income up$...
BMW South Africa plans to add China to the export destinations for its locally-built 3 series models later this year....
The recently expanded BMW-Brilliance car making joint venture will expand engine manufacturing in Shenyang, Liaoning province....
After announcing record sales for the first half of 2012 a month ago, BMW Group on Tuesday (7 August) said it had achieved a record sales result for July 2012 as sales worldwide rose 5% year on year t...
- THE WEEK THAT WAS - Diesel developments
- Federal-Mogul on trends in the plug market - Q&A
- Comment - emissions 'failures' hardly a surprise
- ANALYSIS - supercharged Jaguar XF
- ANALYSIS - 2016 Subaru Legacy/Liberty 3.6
- BMW launches 'big battery' i3 EV
- BMW Q1 operating profit down 2.5%
- Volvo Cars swings to profit in Q1
- Ford claims factory fit first for F-150 strobes
- Autonomous cars to shake up car insurance


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BARRIE, ONT. — Ontario Premier Doug Ford visited Simcoe Muskoka on Monday with stops in Orillia, just days before the province enters Step 2 of its economic reopening.
While in the Sunshine City, the premier touched on possible further provincial support for struggling businesses that have been closed for months amid lockdown restrictions.
During the pandemic, the province created a grant for small businesses with one-time payments to help support those who lost revenue due to COVID-19.
“The first round, we gave $20,000. The second round, we gave another $20,000. So a total of $3.4 billion of tax relief just on that. Plus, we paid for all the electricity, all their business taxes, all their hydro, pretty well took care of everything,” Ford said.
“Do you know what people need? As sure as the minister and the mayor will say, they need to open up. And we need to get Ontario open fully, we’re probably, what 90 per cent there, but we need to open things up and let people thrive and grow and prosper right now,” the premier added.
Business owners across Simcoe Muskoka have voiced their frustration over having to close for months.
The province enters Step 2 on Wednesday, allowing hair salons, barbershops, tattooing and nail salons to reopen after having their doors closed for most of 2021.
Additionally, capacity limits for essential and non-essential retailers jump to 50 and 25 per cent.


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MUMBAI, (GNI): Burger King India announces its association with the upcoming T20 League cricketing carnival, as it signs an exclusive category partnership with Mumbai Indians for the second year in a row. As part of the collaboration Mumbai Indians, will proudly sport Burger King logo on their outfit.
Celebrating this season with a delectable twist, Burger King has curated a special whopper named after the partner team which is available on the menu through this season of Mumbai Indians. The Mumbai Indians Masala Whopper is inspired by the flavourful spices of Indian gravies. This unique offering, starting at Rs 179 will be available in restaurants located across Mumbai, Pune & Gujarat in western region.
Further setting the tone for this cricket season, and taking forward their partnership towards a noble cause, Burger King in continuation with its campaign ‘Sixes for Kings’, shall have an additional exciting element this year. Throughout the season, on every six hit and on each wicket taken by Mumbai Indians player, the brand shall give away Whopper meals to the girls of Avasara Foundation. The partner NGO provides the highest quality education to underprivileged girls in Pune.
Commenting on the partnership, Rajeev Varman, CEO – Burger King India Private Limited said, “I am delighted to announce our partnership with Mumbai Indians for the second consecutive year. Cricket has always proven to be the most impactful medium to connect with our guests and strengthen our brand visibility. This season we have pushed the boundaries to engage our fans in an exciting in-restaurant experience. With numerous engagement activities and special menu dedicated to cricket fans, we are sure that our guests will have a Whopper of a time with this association.”
Mumbai Indians spokeseperson, said, “Mumbai Indians is excited to partner with Burger King India for second year in a row. Mumbai Indians endeavor to create meaningful partnership for our fans who can experience the cricket fever through the Burger King.
The Founder of Avasara Leadership Foundation, Mrs. Roopa Purushothaman said, “We are grateful to BURGER KING for taking forward the ‘Sixes for Kings’ initiative this year as well. Our students are truly grateful for these Whopper Meals and the ongoing support to our organization. The ‘Sixes for Kings’ pledge means a lot to all of us”, stated in the press release.
ABOUT the Burger King India Private Limited is the master franchisee for BURGER KING® in India, operating BURGER KING® restaurants nationwide. Burger King India opened its first restaurant in India in 2014 and operates 186 restaurants across India, in Delhi NCR, Punjab, Rajasthan, Mumbai, Nashik, Pune, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kerala, Gujarat, Dehradun, UP, Bhopal, Gwalior & Bhubaneswar.
For more information, please visit www.burgerkingindia.in
ABOUT THE BURGER KING® brand worldwide: Founded in 1954, the BURGER KING® brand is the second largest fast food hamburger chain in the world. The original HOME OF THE WHOPPER®, the BURGER KING® system operates more than 15,000 locations in approximately 100 countries and U.S. territories. Almost 100 percent of BURGER KING® restaurants are owned and operated by independent franchisees, many of them family-owned operations that have been in business for decades. The BURGER KING® brand is owned by Restaurant Brands International Inc. (TSX,NYSE:QSR), one of the world’s largest quick service restaurant companies with more than $23 billion in system sales and over 19,000 restaurants. To learn more about the BURGER KING® brand, please visit the BURGER KING® brand website at www.bk.com or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.ends


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Sep 7 2012, 4:07am CDT | by Luigi Lugmayr
Nokia unveiled this week the Lumia 920 and Lumia 820 Windows Phone 8 devices and they look very promising. The event lacked pricing and release dates. According to Arstechnica the reason for this is that Windows Phone 8 is not ready.
At the Nokia event the phones have not been available for the press to play around. Windows Phone developers still do not have a developer SDK for WP8. Rumors saw the release of the Windows Phone 8 devices at the end of October. This seems under this circumstances not likely.
The reasons for the delay are likely the change to the NT Kernel and APIs.
Luigi Lugmayr (Google) is the founding chief Editor of I4U News and brings over 15 years experience in the technology field to the ever evolving and exciting world of gadgets. He started I4U News back in 2000 and evolved it into vibrant technology magazine.
Luigi can be contacted directly at firstname.lastname@example.org.
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Andreessen Horowitz Nootrobox
If you weren't aware of how popular Nootropics are becoming, listen to this headline: Andreessen Horowitz Invests $2 Million in Nootropic Startup — Nootrobox
In case you needed additional proof that nootropics are getting big, Silicon Valley venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz just invested $2 million in local startup Nootrobox.
Who Is Andreessen Horowitz?
Why is this such a big deal? Previously, Andreessen Horowitz has invested in a few online services you may have heard of – like Twitter, Skype, AirBnB, and Buzzfeed.
Nootrobox is a San Francisco-based startup that promises to enhance your mental state and upgrade your brain using nootropic ingredients. So far, it has focused on bringing two main products to market: Rise and Sprint.
A third product, Yawn, just recently hit the market. The full stack is priced at $67.50 USD for a monthly supply of each of the three supplements.
Andreessen Horowitz was just one of several investors who participated in this round of funding. Other named investors included Dr. Connie Chen, co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of Vida Health; Kevin Chou, founder and CEO of Kabam; Hiten Shah, founder of Kissmetrics; and Jeff Weiser, SVP of Beachbody.
To date, Nootrobox has raised a total of $2.57 million in financing.
How Will the Money Be Used?
Nootrobox released a blog post announcing the $2 million in financing. In that statement, they announced the following:
“The new capital will allow us to accelerate clinical research and development on nootropics, to double down on our manufacturing and supply chain innovation, and to continue building a world class team across all disciplines of medicine, software, and product manufacturing.”
The company continued by stating that new Nootrobox products are coming in the future:
“We’ve been working relentlessly on the definitive set of biohacking products and tools, and we can’t wait to delight you all with them.”
The new financing will also allow the company to hire a broader range of employees. Currently, the Nootrobox team consists of “some of the leading operators, thinkers, and academics in the space.”
Nootrobox also encouraged those who are interested in the field to reach out because they might be able to get a job with the company:
“If the notion of human enhancement, cognition modulation, and biohacking is exciting to you, reach out. We may have a place for you at Nootrobox.”
Nootrobox currently sells three nootropic supplements called Rise, Sprint, and Yawn. Those three supplements are all “stacks” of multiple nootropic ingredients. Each is designed to fulfill a different purpose throughout the day.
— Rise: is used daily to enhance your cognitive performance.
— Sprint: is used for times when you need to give yourself a burst of intense mental focus.
— Yawn: is a sleep aid that acts as a “primer for deep sleep optimization.”
When you order “The Full Stack” from Nootrobox, you get all three supplements for $67.50 (60 capsules of Rise, 10 capsules of Sprint, and 10 capsules of Yawn).
There’s also the option to get The Powerhouse Stack, which is the same as The Full Stack but comes with 30 capsules each of Sprint and Yawn – so if you want to take the intense burst nootropic daily and the intense sleep aid nootropic nightly for a month, then The Powerhouse Stack will help you do that.
Nootrobox is also preparing to release a product called Go Cubes which deliver one cup of coffee in two convenient, chewable cubes.
Thanks to the new investment from Andreessen Horowitz, Nootrobox should be releasing more nootropic products in the near future.
About Andreessen Horowitz
Andreessen Horowitz is a Silicon Valley venture capital firm that has been well-known in the past for investing in Facebook, Skype, and Airbnb.
The investment in Nootrobox was led by Chris Dixon, a partner at Andreessen Horowitz. Dixon has previously led investments in Soylent, which is a meal replacement that has been garnering huge media attention in recent months.
Dixon chose to invest in Nootrobox because, according to a NY Times interview, he believes that the company advocates a more scientific approach to nootropics – as seen in the fact that it brings on board advisors with Ph.D.s and focuses on publishing its research. All ingredients used in the Nootrobox nootropics have also been cleared by the FDA.
Dixon continued by saying that “We invest in technologists” and that most of the other nootropic companies he’s seen “have been more infomercial-driven.”
Andreessen Horowitz currently has $4.2 billion under management. According to the company’s “About Us” page, “the firm invests in entrepreneurs building companies at every stage – from seed to growth.”
The investment firm is based in Menlo Park, California. You can contact Andreessen Horowitz here: a16z.com


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(photo courtesy of weather.com)
Four things you can
do to weather the storm
1. CREATE A PLAN:
Designate specific meeting locations, emergency contacts,
and procedures and make sure everyone in your household is aware of those plans.
- American Red Cross Hurricane Safety Checklist
- NOAA Hurricane Preparedness Tips
- FAQs about preparing for a hurricane
2. MAKE A KIT:
Organize a supply kit that includes essentials like food,
clothing, water, a flashlight, and a radio. Be sure to include items specific
to your family like medications and copies of important documents. Keep your
kit updated and located somewhere where you can easily access it.
3. PROTECT YOUR HOME:
Consider which parts of your home are most susceptible to storm
damage. Secure any items that cannot sustain high winds and reinforce fragile
components like windows.
4. STAY INFORMED:
Be aware of current storm systems. Listen closely to local
officials and weather services for updated news and instructions on evacuation
We’re thinking about all of our beach friends on the East Coast
as they weather Hurricane Earl!
– Amy Stillwagon, photo intern


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By YOURI KEMP
Tribune Business Reporter
The Prime Minister’s spokesperson says the Government is still trying to find a formula that brings the relief demanded by gas station operators but without inflicting more financial pain on already-struggling consumers.
Clint Watson said described negotiations with the Bahamas Petroleum Retailers Association as “a balancing act”, given that the 50 percent per gallon of gas margin increase sought by dealers would further increase already-high costs for consumers.
“We have to find a way to ensure that everybody is able to survive,” he explained. “It’s a balancing act, and so those are the questions we continue to find. What can you do for the retailers and petroleum dealers that you may be able to bring some level of relief to them, without them having to raise costs, so they can still do business in the country and be successful at it? But yet consumers can still be able to afford to go to the pumps and fill up their cars.”
Petroleum dealers have been seeking a revamp of their price-controlled, fixed-margin model which makes the industry purely a volume-driven business. With higher oil prices increasing the sums they have to pay the three major oil companies for their fuel inventory, gas station operators say their gross margins are now to low to cover rents, employee payroll, and rising bank (overdraft and credit card) charges. As a result, some may be forced out of business.
However, Senator Michael Halkitis, minister of economic affairs, has rejected the idea of a margin increase due to fears about the impact higher prices will have on consumers. While global oil prices have fallen slightly, they remain relatively high, standing at $95.08 per barrel on the West Texas Intermediate indice and at $103.8 for Brent crude.
Some have argued that the Government is merely trying to prolong talks with the retailers, and is effectively using the negotiations as a stalling tactic, in the hope that global oil price volatility will ease sufficiently - and the war between Russia and Ukraine end - so that the pressure on Bahamian gas retailers eases.
Mr Watson rejected this, and said: “You can talk to the petroleum dealers yourself and they would tell you that the meetings were productive. The Government is working on their behalf. People will say anything, but at the end of the day the proof to what people say will be the results that we deliver on.
“So it’s still negotiating, and while I’m happy they are negotiating, you’re seeing at some locations certain relief and I encourage the consumers look out when you hear some dealers and distributors who are giving relief on gas and taking a bite.
“It depends. Different stations are doing it for different shipments. Shop around and get those deals that are going around, and what you are seeing happening is people are trying to find ways to make it work without saying: ‘Too bad, let’s just increase it.’ And those discussions continue. While they’re continuing talks are also happening to find relief.”