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22nd July 1999 Archive
Browse by publication date, or search the site.
...and so it goes
Business 22 07:34
So they're all dumping? Quick, phone Micron...
Business 22 07:41
Did he want to sell Dresden fab?
Business 22 07:57
It was a set-up, you dummies...
Business 22 09:24
The US population may soon split into those searching, and those being sought
Business 22 09:26
Sixteen companies in Q's supplier chain
Business 22 10:25
Offers saving account where you get charged for not going online
Business 22 10:59
Will start ramping in 2001
Business 22 11:08
Free PC spells disaster for resellers according to networks distie
Business 22 11:23
Business 22 11:31
Announcement expected this weekend
Business 22 11:37
Q2 won't be good for Big Q
Business 22 11:57
Competition from free services slows growth
Business 22 12:13
Euro it makes sense
Business 22 12:20
Music may be the food of love but it will costalot
Business 22 12:34
But the rumours spin on...
Business 22 14:10
Calls from some pubs charged at a 200 per cent premium
Business 22 14:12
Perhaps they clicked on the wrong buttons...
Business 22 14:15
...it's almost a ritual, isn't it?
Business 22 14:37
Hardware company announces dedicated QNX machine, too
Business 22 14:47
Latest system builder to hop on bandwagon
Business 22 15:32
Live Web-chat tomorrow to celebrate forthcoming World Cup
Business 22 15:34
HDD deal sees distie push into system builder arena
Business 22 15:46
Compaq comes out with some cracking ideas, doesn't it
Business 22 16:53
BSA moves in to make another illegal software bust
Business 22 16:55
- Crawling from the Wreckage Want a more fuel efficient car? Then redesign it – here's how
- Review Xperia Z3: Crikey, Sony – ANOTHER flagship phondleslab?
- Human spaceships dodge ALIEN BODY skimming Mars
- Downrange Are you a gun owner? Let us in OR ELSE, say Blighty's top cops
- Ex-US Navy fighter pilot MIT prof: Drones beat humans - I should know


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|5,000 Year Old Beer
Professor Li Liu's team from Stanford Univ. recently
discovered a 5,000-year-old beer recipe that
students in her Archaeology of Food: Production,
Consumption and Ritual course used to make beer.
The recipe, found during research that presents
the earliest known evidence of beer production in
China, consists primarily of grains like millet and
barley, as well as Job's tears (a type of grass native
to southeast Asia) and traces of yam and lily root.
The concoction produced is thicker than modern
beers. and one student said it had "a Dr. Liu said
the beer had a pleasant fruity smell and a citrus
taste, similar to a cider. She was surprised to find
that barley was part of the recipe, since the earliest
evidence of barley seeds in China dates back to
about 4,000 years ago. This could mean that barley
was first brought to China for alcoholic uses, rather
than other food purposes.
Liu added. "Trying to imitate ancient behavior and
make things with the ancient method helps students
really put themselves into the past and understand
why people did what they did."
Brexit Brings Price Increases
Proponents of Brexit may be having buyer’s remorse as they face increased prices at the
pub in the wake of Britain’s exit from the European Union. Heineken, Carlsberg and MolsonCoors
have all had to raise their prices as labor costs increase and the value of the pound decreases.
Carlsberg increased prices by 2.6% and Heineken tacked on an additional 6 pence (about
$0.08) on the price of a pint. “Beer in the UK is made predominantly using domestic raw
materials,” said British Beer and Pubs Association head, Brigid Simmonds. “However, the
depreciation of sterling certainly means there will be some inflationary pressures through
increased costs such as raw materials, packaging, energy and transport costs as well as
employment and other cost pressures all businesses face.”
Beer Faces The Music
Older music acts are seeing beer as an opportunity to get back in the limelight.. AC/DC, Kiss,
Iron Maiden, Queen, Megadeth and even Rick Astley have slapped their intellectual property
on beer or plan to do so in the future. It’s not just the classic rock and pop folks, either: Chance
the Rapper produced a beer with Anheuser-Busch InBev’s BUD, -0.04% Goose Island,
Slim Thug is working on craft beer suitable for the club, and the Deftones, Killswitch Engage,
The Descendants and NOFX are making a whole lot of Ozzfest and Warped Tour attendees
eel old by brewing beers of their own.
Last year, an unsigned band even released its fourth album on a beer can. The Lights Out,
based out of Boston, collaborated with Somerville, Mass.-based brewery Aeronaut Brewing Co.
to release their album “T.R.I.P. (The Reckonings in Pandimensionality)” with help from an
“imperial session ale.” The 7.5% ABV India Pale Ale’s Galaxy came in a can marked with a
hashtag that buyers would post on Twitter to receive a link to the album files
the crossroads of the beer world
|Still The Champ
Beer is still the number one beverage of choice
for Americans over the age of 21, measurement
company Nielsen announced on 2/24/17. Four
out of 10 regular drinkers prefer our favorite
beverage over wine and liquor. Nielsen's Harris
poll found that beer was the preferred drink of
55 percent of men, 41 percent of younger
generations (ages 21-34) and people who live in
the south USA. Domestic non-craft beer was
preferred by 38 percent of beer drinkers, while
craft and imported beers were favored by 29
percent and 23 percent, respectively.
Wine came in second place overall, but was the
top drink of choice for 46 percent of American
women. The survey also said that 42 percent of
adults over the age of 65 preferred wine, as did
37 percent of high income households (over
$100,000 annually) Interestingly enough, many
of today's wine drinkers opted for beer or liquor
just a decade ago. While nearly 75 percent of
wine lovers (over the age of 31) preferred the
same drink two years ago, only four out of 10
people selected wine in 2007.

domain: news


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SAMSONITE has found a home for its bags after snapping up the airport retail chain Rolling Luggage yesterday from turnaround specialist Rcapital in a £15.75m deal.
The Hong Kong-listed luggage-maker said the deal would help to provide a platform for its brands while also giving it a foothold in the booming travel market as airports turn into shopping destinations in their own right.
Rolling Luggage has 36 outlets at airports in Europe and Asia-Pacific, including Heathrow, Frankfurt, Sydney and Hong Kong. It also sells brands including Tumo and Longchamp.
“Rolling Luggage is an exciting new addition to Samsonite and is unlike any of our previous acquisitions,” chief executive, Ramesh Tainwala, said. “It immediately allows us to expand our footprint in the travel retail sector, an area that we see great potential for further growth,” he added.
International tourist travel worldwide is expected to almost double to 1.8bn by 2030, with international tourism sales growing by more than 12 per cent a year since 2009.
In the UK, several retailers have moved into airports to target international shoppers including John Lewis and Ted Baker.
Rcapital bought Rolling Luggage in 2013 as part its acquisition of troubled parent company Tie Rack. It was turned into a separate business last year after a restructur. Sales at the retailer jumped 11.3 per cent to £26.7m sales in the year to 31 January.


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Gone are the days where you would be walking down Dame Street and then be blasted by the scent coming from the Abercrombie and Fitch store by College Green.
It seems those days are well and truly gone now as the outlet is permanently shutting its Dublin doors.
The decision was announced over the weekend that the brand will not be reopening on our shores once COVID restrictions allow but it’s not a personal attack on Irish shoppers.
It’s actually part of a global initiative that will see the retailer focus on online sales.
The brand has closed 137 shops worldwide over the last year including some of its flagship stores in London, Paris, Madrid, Munich, Dusseldorf, and Brussels.
Abercrombie and Fitch Chief Executive Fran Horowitz shared during an earnings call during the week that the closures are all part of the plan to transform A&F ‘from a store-led to a digitally-led business model.’
‘Our distribution centres remained operational, enabling us to fulfill digital customer demand globally, partially mitigating lost sales from temporary store closures.’
The company, and its sister brand Hollister, reported a sales slump of 14 per cent with a drop of €2.6billion in revenue in 2020.
Abercrombie and Fitch opened in Dublin to much furore in November 2012 which saw shirtless ‘lifeguard’ models posing up a storm in the cold Irish winter.
The store sits at numbers 34 and 35 College Green with the building itself being owned by Paddy McKillen’s Clarendon Properties.
A spokesperson has confirmed that the store’s lease is expiring in March with the fashion retailer opting not to renew it.
However, the space won’t be left empty for long as there are ‘a number of interested parties’ already.


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Posted: Wednesday, April 27, 2022. 5:06 pm CST.
By Aaron Humes: The knock-on effects of world events have led to prices rising 4.8 percent for all goods and services through the first three months of 2022 compared to 2021, according to the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB).
The rise is driven primarily by higher costs for fuel, food, LPG, and restaurant services. Transport prices rose nearly 17 percent, mostly for motor vehicle fuels and new vehicle costs, followed by food and non-alcoholic beverages at 4.1 percent, with increases for meats, cereal products, cooking oils, and seafood items.
Higher butane prices and prices for construction materials lifted the housing/utilities/other fuels category by 2.4 percent, while restaurant and accommodation prices rose five percent and furnishing/household equipment/household maintenance rose 2.7 percent, mainly reflecting higher prices for laundry products, soap, and detergent.
For March, the overall national inflation rate stood at 5.7 percent with most of the same categories – motor vehicle fuel, food, LPG, restaurant services, and household cleaning products – affected. Prices for women’s clothing are also up, the SIB says.
Despite government intervention, fuel prices are up nearly 28 percent over last year. The average price of diesel at $13.41 is $3.10 higher than last March; premium gasoline rose by $2.91 and regular gasoline rose $2.78. It’s also costing 8.1 percent more to buy a new motor vehicle.
Basic groceries such as pigtail, vegetable oil, rice, chicken wings, tomatoes, watermelon, and Irish potatoes have seen prices rise, though people are paying less for red kidney beans, black beans, onions, and cabbages.
LPG costs rose more than 34 percent per annum to a high of $149.40 before the announced decrease before Easter; construction materials also rose 14.2 percent, but rent is down half a point, and electricity tariffs 3.5 percent. Prices also increased for restaurants, laundry products, soap, detergent, and women’s clothing and footwear.
But this is probably a good time to get your technological gadget as prices are down for the internet, computers, laptops, tablets, and external storage devices.
Interestingly, Orange Walk Town suffered a nine percent rise in prices, above average according to the SIB, including 3.7 percent in rental costs. The rest of the nation ranged between 4.4 percent in Independence and Punta Gorda and nearly six percent in Belize City and Corozal Town.
Prices between February and March of 2022 rose 1.1 percent, with motor vehicle fuels accounting for nearly seven points more in that timespan and diesel rising 15.7 percent in cost while LPG rose 12.2 percent.
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Massachusetts has climbed to rank third among states with the most cases of the coronavirus as it ramps up testing and faces a surge of people sickened in the world-wide pandemic.
As of Saturday, Massachusetts reported 34,402 positive cases, behind New York and New Jersey but ahead of far-more-populous states including California, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University. The state was fourth in the U.S. among states in tests per capita as of Thursday, according to Johns Hopkins data.
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As the European Securities Markets Authority (ESMA) is preparing to launch its new regulatory framework for retail brokers, compliance pressure is set to move many offshore. Despite payment processing and bank account registration hardships, brokerage companies that have been previously regulated in the EU are preparing to make an offshore move.
A number of industry insiders have shared with Finance Magnates their plans in the wake of the publication of the ESMA final regulatory framework for retail brokers which is expected very shortly. After the official publication in the EU’s regulatory framework in the Official Journal of the European Union, forex and CFDs brokers have two months until the new regulations kick in.
While some companies have been working on products that are compliant with the new regulatory framework, others have chosen to go back to the old days of the industry and move offshore.
The supranational European financial regulator has gone very far when devising the new framework, and some traders are very unhappy with the limitation of their leverage options especially on CFDs outside of FX majors.
The ESMA has effectively put the market in a tough spot, where few brokerages would be surviving in the new market conditions. The part of the regulatory framework which was very likely overlooked by eurocrats is that clients of such brokers would continue to look for ways to trade with high leverage.
While binary options providers have been operating offshore for years, forex and CFDs brokers in Europe have chosen to set up shop in Europe and passport their regulation across the EU. The ESMA’s decision to limit leverage choices for consumers is only going to make things more difficult for traders.
Buying into the Dream
It was a little over 14 years ago when I became a retail forex trader. The main thing that motivated me to get hooked on the market was that I can change my life and get extra income thanks to the high leverage that was offered by brokers at the time. Mind you, that was about 1:100, not anything close to the 1:1000 and beyond what we see now.
ACY Boosts Brand Exposure on Everest Day as Official Trading Sponsor of ATCGo to article >>
While high leverage has proven to be an obstacle to my successful trading, the dream that I was going to be able to change my life was the trigger that made me continue losing money for years. Experienced traders are not likely to jump onto the high leverage train, but the negative balance protection offered by so many brokers nowadays and the offering of various leverage options make the market home to many traders.
After all, we are all allowed to chase a dream and if that dream is related to predicting moves on the financial market, retail and professional traders alike are in for a rough ride. While the regulators worldwide have been more protective of retail investors in recent years, the result to the end-client is not always positive.
EU traders that choose to continue looking for high leverage options for their careers will end up opening an account with an offshore brokerage. Those that manage to select a decent offshore brokerage that is providing quality service to retail traders will be a minority by a big margin.
As history has taught us numerous times, despite offshore destinations regulating certain activities, such jurisdictions are rarely adequately protecting the consumers within a framework which is typically designed to accommodate as many as possible companies.
Sure, Australia is still an option, but the likelihood that a coordinated approach on part of regulators doesn’t close this loophole seems remote to me. Regardless of whether a trader chooses to become a professional or is forced into looking at an offshore option, the levels of protection which EU residents currently enjoy is significant.
Hot Sales Reloaded
Remember those leads which binary options brokers have been selling to each other for years. Well, regardless of the new regulatory framework those and certainly some new ones are yet to hit the market once more. Hot sales tactics are going to get revived and EU citizens will have dealings with unregulated and unsanctioned entities once more.
Especially those who are liable to fall for the get rich quick mantra propagated by unregulated call center employees. Worst of all, customers that fall for this are likely to end up trading with a brokerage where they literally can not win. While the ESMA will force brokers to display what is the percentage of traders that are making money, there are zero traders that make money with unregulated brokers.


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China’s Blockchain-based Service Network, BSN is a public-private nationwide infrastructure project. It’s to bring mass adoption of blockchain technology. Additionally, The network is setting up more portals overseas, in order to move closer to international exposure.
BSN Expansion Details
Red Date Technology, the company China that’s to manage its BSN makes an announcement. Which of course, is regarding considering to launch its third and fourth international portals in Turkey and Uzbekistan. Notably, this will be in partnership with Turkish Chinese Business Matching Center.
More so, The New portals are to launch by the end of December, the company notes.
Furthermore, The BSN portals is set aside to provide a platform for the development of blockchain services in Turkey and Uzbekistan.
Meanwhile, the purpose is to offer a more cost-effective solutions in development of blockchain applications for interoperability environments.
This will integrates structures like Ethereum, Algorand, EOS, Polkadot, NEO, Tezos. Also, Oasis, Hyperledger Fabric, ConsenSys Quorum, and Corda.
More so, It has support from cloud services like Amazon Web Services, Google, and Microsoft Azure.
Which of course, Red Date’s latest moves imitating its previous announcements, sets up BSN portals in Hong Kong and South Korea.
“Turkey has long played a role as a bridge between Asia and Europe and…”
“So it is fitting that the first BSN portal outside of Asia will be launched there,”
Yifan He, CEO of Red Date Technology and executive director of the BSN Development Association, states.


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Chat bots that can automatically assist you with things like booking travel or ordering food at a restaurant are suddenly the new, hip thing in private messaging.
As a result, many people believe that Facebook Messenger will roll out some kind of bot store at its annual developer conference next week, the messaging equivalent of an app store where developers can market the bots they make to solve all your daily problems.
Kik, the messaging app popular among teens, also believes a bot store is coming to Messenger. How do we know? Because it rolled out its own bot store Tuesday, one week ahead of Facebook’s expected launch.
Kik already offered some bots to its users, but beginning Tuesday it’s offering technology so that any developer can build a bot within the app. Kik will still approve each bot before it appears in the “bot shop,” as it’s calling the store.
The launch gives us an idea of what bots might look like on other platforms (like Messenger). Kik is launching with bots from brands, like Sephora or The Weather Channel, but also with entertainment bots, like Twitter’s Vine.
CEO Ted Livingston believes that opening up the platform to everyone means there will be thousands of bots built before the end of the year. Kik is launching with just 16.
“Look at what’s happening in China. I walk up to a vending machine and I chat to get a coke or I walk up to a restaurant and I chat to order a burger. It’s such a natural experience that unlocks so many daily behaviors which are totally offline today,” Livingston said. “People are going to overestimate how quickly this will happen, but then underestimate the impact it will have once it does.”
This article originally appeared on Recode.net.


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Staff / A new website has been established to help address questions farmers in Canada and the U.S. have over the new grain-marketing environment.
The website, www.can ada-usgrainandseedtrade.info, provides a detailed frequently asked questions (FAQs) section and industry news. Visitors can also submit comments and additional questions through the website, which was formed by Grain Growers of Canada, U.S. Wheat Associates, Canada Grains Council and the North American Export Grain Association.
“The new grain-marketing environment is good news for wheat, durum, and barley producers on both sides of the border,” said Richard Phillips, executive director of the Grain Growers of Canada. “The site will help producers better understand how to navigate through these changes and market their grain across the border.”
Export licences will not be needed to deliver or market wheat, durum, or barley from Canada, but U.S. and Canadian grain crossing the border will still be subject to the respective and applicable customs and import regulations, such as phytosanitary requirements.
“People on both sides of the border have many questions on the new marketing changes and their implications,” said Dennis Stephens, executive secretary of the Canada Grains Council. “We focused on starting to answer those questions on grading, contracts, and pricing, among others, to provide transparency and facilitate cross-border trade.”
Pulse growers urged to consider residue regulations
Staff / Canadian pulse growers should consider international market regulations before using a desiccant, or harvest management product, says the organizations that represent pulse producers across the Prairie provinces.
Alberta Pulse Growers, Saskatchewan Pulse Growers, and Manitoba Pulse Growers are urging growers to review the international maximum residue limits (MRLs) set by regulatory agencies for the harvest management products they are using. With over 90 per cent of Canadian pulses being exported across the world, ensuring international acceptance of pulse crops is essential to a grower’s bottom line, according to Leanne Fischbuch, executive director for the Alberta Pulse Growers.
“Producers who don’t take MRLs into account when they desiccate their crops run the risk of reducing their marketing options later,” said Fischbuch.
The three grower groups have also prepared a chart that shows the market considerations when using common desiccants and harvest management tools on pulse crops for the 2012 season. While growers should still consult with their processors, this chart provides a basis for choosing the right desiccant or harvest management tool for acceptance into Canada’s main export markets.
In some markets, the MRLs are very low, but the provincial grower groups, alongside Pulse Canada and other industry partners, are working on harmonizing these limits internationally in an effort to ensure Canadian growers remain competitive in the global marketplace.


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A new farm shop packed with local food and drink is the latest stage in an ambitious £2m masterplan to relaunch a popular South Devon attraction.
The shop at Occombe Farm on the outskirts of Paignton opens to the public on Monday, and its general manager can’t wait to open the doors.
“We’re thrilled,” said Cath Cooke. “This is a fantastic new asset for Torbay.”
Read more:Paignton cafe's stylish urban makeover is turning heads
Around 6,000 products pack the shelves of the new shop, 75 per cent of them sourced from West Country firms.
Upstairs the refurbished Occombe Farm cafe has already opened, while outside the rest of the masterplan is taking shape.
A play barn for children will open in the winter, closely followed by an animal trail through the fields around the farm.
The trust, which manages some of Torbay’s best-loved open spaces including Cockington and Berry Head, aims to create a major all-year family visitor attraction.
“When people shop here they are doing something valuable for local conservation,” said Cath.
“Every penny we make goes back into the conservation of the bay, and people are really excited about that.”
The shop stocks fresh and wholefoods, wines, spirits, beers and ciders, bakery and deli, and lifestyle and gifts.
Fresh fruit and vegetables come from a firm in Newton Abbot, local meats from Powderham, ice cream and clotted cream from the South Hams, fresh cut flowers come from Combeinteignhead, honey from Torbay bees and chutney from Totnes.
In an effort to cut down on packaging waste, shoppers can buy Riverford Dairy milk and yogurt from dispensers, filling their own containers.
“The farm shop has loads more stories like these,” said retail manager Lily Shaw.
“We have looked at the ethos of every company we are working with, to make sure it matches our own.
“Before we have even tasted the products - which is very important - we are looking behind the company to see who they are and what they are about.”
Cath said staff had been overwhelmed by the number of people asking them when the shop was opening, and how it would look.
“The main feedback we have had so far is ‘wow’,” she said.
“Covid has really changed people’s shopping habits. They want to shop locally and they want to support local growers and producers.
“Shopping local is important to people, and so is looking after local green spaces.
“We can’t wait to get started.”
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HMD Global has announced that it will be selling the Nokia 3.1 in India starting July 21. Interestingly, the Android One device will be a Paytm Mall exclusive, instead of Flipkart or Amazon, which are popular ecommerce websites of choice for most mobile phone makers. The Nokia 3.1 will also be sold on Nokia.com and will be made available offline across top mobile retailers in the country. The phone will come in three colours: Blue/Copper, Black/Chrome and White/Iron.
As far as Nokia 3.1 specs are concerned, the device features a dual anodised diamond cut design and comes with a 5.2-inch HD+ IPS display with an 18:9 aspect ratio. The display also gets Corning Gorilla Glass protection. For performance, the Nokia 3.1 utilises a MediaTek 6750 Octa-core chipset, where four cores are clocked at 1.5GHz and the rest of the cores are set at lower speeds for saving power. Globally, the Nokia 3.1 also has a 3GB RAM version with 32GB internal storage, but only the 2GB/16GB variant will make it to India.
In the camera department, the Nokia 3.1 comes with a 13MP rear camera with f/2.0 aperture and LED flash. Upfront is an 8MP wide-angle camera. The device is backed by a 2990mAh battery and akin to its predecessor, it misses out on a fingerprint scanner.
Announcing the launch and availability of the phone, Ajey Mehta, Vice President and Country Head – India, HMD Global, said, “India is one of our top markets and Indian consumers, a top priority for us. Every single detail on a Nokia smartphone is designed with consumers in mind, which is why we are delighted to introduce a further refined Nokia 3.1 smartphone that delivers a dramatic step up on performance, continues to drive the most premium design elements and delivers the class-leading quality that you expect from us.”
Since the Nokia 3.1 is enrolled in Google’s Android One Programme, it will receive three years of monthly security patches and two years of OS updates, up until Android Q. Users also get access to free unlimited high-quality photo storage using Google Photos on the device.
HMD Global has set the Nokia 3.1 India Price at Rs 10,499, which is not too different from its global pricing of EUR 139. There are a bunch of offers bundled with the phone. Consumers buying Nokia 3.1 from a retail outlet by scanning the Paytm Mall QR code will get 10% cashback on recharges and bill payments on Paytm. Consumers will additionally get two Rs 250 movie cashback vouchers which can be redeemed against booking minimum two movie tickets via Paytm. Those using ICICI Bank Credit or Debit Card will get a 5% cashback. On a recharge of Rs 149, Idea and Vodafone consumers will get 1GB data/day, unlimited calls and 100 SMS/day for 28 days; additionally, consumers upgrading from 2G or 3G phone to the new Nokia 3.1 will get 1GB data/day for 28 days. On a recharge of INR 595, consumers will get unlimited calls, 100 SMS/day, 18GB data for 6 months.


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Posted on February 27, 2019
The newest Workout Anytime facility will open Friday in Ooltewah.
Scott Shepperd, a former collegiate soccer player and coach for his daughter’s varsity Lacrosse team at Ooltewah High; is the owner, along with his wife Tara, of the new 5,600-square-foot facility in the Apison Crossing shopping center.
“There are no 24/7 workout facilities in Ooltewah so we think there is a great opportunity here in one of the fastest growing parts of town,” Shepherd said.
The around-the-clock fitness center will be open for business from 8-10 a.m for the first few days, starting Friday, before being open 24 hours a day every day, starting next week. Shepherd is hosting a grand opening on Friday, March 15.
“I’ve wanted to open up my own business in the some sort of sports area pretty much since I was a kid,” Shepherd said.
The Atlanta-based Workout Anytime has more than 150 locations, including other local facilities in North Shore, Hixson, Cleveland, Dayton and Athens, Tennessee and in Lafayette, Georgia.
The centers stay open around the clock, providing key access during the overnight hours for members.
To learn more about franchising opportunities currently available, see our Franchise Website.
#gym #franchise #woatfranchise #workoutanytime #24hr gym #workoutanytime


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PC shipments have grown worldwide following a resumption in manufacturing combined with the global pandemic. Reports by IDC and Garner detail that sales of PCs comprising of desktops, notebooks, and workstations have seen a surge.
IDC says PC shipments have increased by 11.2 per cent year-over-year, while Gartner says it’s a mere 2.8 per cent. Most of the increase is attributed to businesses and students working or learning remotely amidst the shelter in place orders.
“The strong demand driven by work-from-home as well as e-learning needs has surpassed previous expectations and has once again put the PC at the center of consumers’ tech portfolio.
“What remains to be seen is if this demand and high level of usage continue during a recession and into the post-COVID world since budgets are shrinking while schools and workplaces reopen,” Jitesh Ubrani, research manager for IDC’s Mobile Device Trackers said.
– TECNO And Infinix Lead Nigeria’s Smartphone Market Sales Chart In April 2020
– April 2020 Was A Great Month For Gaming As Sales Top $1.5 Billion
– Tesla Resilient Despite Pandemic With More Than 90,000 Deliveries In Second Quarter
Both reports agree that HP and Lenovo were the clear leaders in the second quarter of 2020. Both manufacturers combining for almost half of the total market share to lead the pack. Dell is third while Apple and Asus complete the top five.
In total, There were more than 70,000 PC shipments worldwide. The numbers in both reports, however, vary with the difference being that the Gartner report does not include Chromebooks or iPads in its report. However, IDC highlights an “intense Chromebook demand from both consumers and institutions” in Canada. Its report also cites “record demand from stay-at-home orders” for PCs in general in the US.
The caveat though is that the numbers represent PC shipments to wholesalers and channels alone. This means that the actual sales figure might even be higher as there will be an addition of existing stock to the numbers that makes its way to the final consumers.
For your daily dose of tech, lifestyle, and trending content, make sure to follow Plat4om on Twitter @Plat4omLive, on Instagram @Plat4om, on LinkedIn at Plat4om, and on Facebook at Plat4om. You can also email us at email@example.com and join our channel on Telegram at Plat4om. Finally, don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel HERE.


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Six Chimneys in Wakefield, the Glass Blower and Winter Seam in Castleford and the Blue Bell in Pontefract will be three of JD Wetherspoon’s 394 pubs to be reopened on April 12.
Pubs and restaurants in England are allowed to serve their customers outdoors on the same date as part of the roadmap out of lockdown.
The chain, which has 875 pubs across the UK, including 750 in England, will offer varieties of food within a reduced menu seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. but some places will have more stringent restrictions for closing hours.
Customers can purchase and pay with Wetherspoon’s online app, but staff can still receive orders and payments on the table for customers without the app.
Chief executive John Hutson said, “We are looking forward to welcoming our customers and staff back to our pubs.”


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Shares of the energy drink maker plunged more than 12% in after-hours trading Wednesday, as the company reported quarterly results that missed analysts' expectations.
Monster's ( earnings came in at 47 cents a share, short of analysts' estimates of 55 cents. Sales hit $542 million, up 14% from last year but short of analysts' projected $578 million. )
Monster CEO Rodney Sacks acknowledged that sales growth had been "less robust" than in previous quarters, but said October sales were up 28% versus a year ago.
The news follows an announcement last month from the Food and Drug Administration that it had received "adverse incident reports" of five deaths involving Monster energy drinks, although the agency added that it had not established direct links in any case. Monster denied that its products had contributed to any fatalities, but shares sold off sharply following the announcement.
|Delinquent IRS employees paid bonuses by the agency|
|Students cry foul over athletes unionizing|
|Is capitalism driving itself out of business?|
|Premarkets: Waiting for big tech earnings|
|Sandy Hook victim's grandfather launches smart gun campaign|
|Overnight Avg Rate||Latest||Change||Last Week|
|30 yr fixed||4.28%||4.26%|
|15 yr fixed||3.30%||3.30%|
|30 yr refi||4.32%||4.25%|
|15 yr refi||3.35%||3.29%|
Today's featured rates:


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Dragon’s Prophet Gamescom 2013 Pre-Launch Trailer
Dragon’s Prophet released a new demo trailer as the September launch date fast approaches.
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Inpay, the Denmark-based international payments provider, has clinched an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) licence from the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority (FSA), marking a FinTech breakthrough in Scandinavia by integrating EMI, Payment Service Provider (PSP), and Third Party Provider (TPP) capabilities.
The newly obtained licence will empower Inpay to issue electronic money and facilitate digital payments and money disbursements, among other services, marking a significant milestone for the firm. This comes on the back of a strong financial performance, with the company boasting record revenues of £42.7m in 2022, a 26% uptick year on year, and an increase of 2 million in international payments routed through Inpay compared to the previous year.
Although now a significant employer with almost 200 staff members, Inpay holds true to its start-up roots, promoting a culture of creativity and innovation. The firm’s global network stretches across more than 100 countries, and it continues to expand its physical footprint, with its headquarters in Copenhagen, an expanding London city office, which hosts about 10% of its workforce, and a newly opened branch in Dubai.
“This licence represents a significant milestone in our growth and places us one step further on our mission to transform and democratise the international payments market,” Inpay CEO Thomas Jul stated. “Combined with our unique culture and amazing people, these accreditations further differentiate us from the competition and will allow us to continue our fast-paced growth trajectory, with the aim of solidifying our strong position in one of the fastest-growing subsectors for cross-border payments across the globe.”
With its custom-built software, Inpay is uniquely equipped to safely manage complex money transfers in regions poorly served by conventional banking networks. This capability allows Inpay to execute transfers more quickly and cost-effectively than its competitors, while maintaining stringent compliance with international financial regulations governing money transfers.
Currently, less than 3% of all global payments are processed outside of the traditional banking sector, leading to higher costs and longer timelines for individual transfers. With traditional banks often slow to embrace innovative approaches, there’s a significant market opportunity for more agile, non-traditional providers like Inpay.
Earlier this year, Inpay announced stellar annual results and sketched out ambitious growth plans for the UK, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. These include a pre-tax profit of £6.1m, up 369% annually from £1.3m, and an EBITDA of £8.3m, up from £2.7m in 2021.
Inpay provides secure, fast, and affordable cross-border payments, leveraging cutting-edge technology and a wide-reaching global network. Recognised as Denmark’s fastest-growing company and the sixth fastest-growing FinTech firm in Europe by the Financial Times in 2021, Inpay continues to push boundaries in the financial services sector.
Keep up with all the latest FinTech news here
Copyright © 2023 FinTech Global


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The Aquaris E4.5 and Aquaris E5 Ubuntu Edition handsets are set to launch in India through Snapdeal, India’s largest online marketplace. This follows on from two successful Aquaris Ubuntu Edition handsets launched in Europe earlier this year; the Aquaris E4.5 in February, and the Aquaris E5 in June. The devices will be available for purchase on Snapdeal by end of August at a price of Rs 11,999 for the Aquaris E4.5 and Rs 13,499 for the Aquaris E5.
There’s been palpable demand for Ubuntu Phones in India since the Aquaris E4.5 Ubuntu Edition was launched earlier this year. India has long been, and continues to be, a priority market for Ubuntu, having had a successful and established PC business in the region for many years.


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In a time of crisis, brands both big and small are doing everything they can to help stop the spread of the novel Coronavirus.
The rapid spread of the COVID-19 presents an unprecedented challenge to people across the globe. Along with its tragic human toll, the virus has provoked mass panic, sending the markets tumbling to historic lows and causing dramatic shortages in products even tangentially related to the outbreak.
But the virus has also prompted displays of heroism on an equally unprecedented scale, a small but crucial reminder that in times of true crisis, there is no more indefatigable force than the human spirit.
Over the last couple of months, corporations with the means to help have been rising to the occasion, pledging millions of dollars to assist in any way they can.
As the spread of the COVID-19 reaches pandemic-level proportions, key players in the fashion industry are getting involved to do their part, from funding efforts to fight the virus, to converting manufacturing facilities to better suit the needs of hospitals and healthcare workers around the world.
Below is a list of few reputable fashion brands and what they've done so far in helping the fight against COVID-19:
The iconic luxury label pledged 1.25 million Euros to a group of Italian hospitals and institutions, including the Luigi Sacco and San Raffaele hospitals and the Istituto di Tumori in Milan, along with the Istituto Lazzaro Spallanzani in Rome.
Earlier last month, Bulgari also made a donation of an unspecified sum to the research department of the Istituto Lazzaro Spallanzani in Rome, allowing the hospital to purchase a microscopic image acquisition system valued at around 100,000 euros.
The beauty manufacturer announced earlier this week that it intends to repurpose its manufacturing sites to provide hydroalcoholic gel to efforts fighting the spread of the virus.
After the New York Governor, Andrew Cuomo, tweeted asking for PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) supplies including face masks, the NY-based designer and his team got in touch with his office and now plan to produce modified surgical masks from fabric they already had on hand for healthcare workers not directly interacting with the virus.
Dolce & Gabbana
The Italian label announced a comprehensive plan to partner with Humanitas University to fund studies and further research dedicated to finding out more about the cause of the virus.
The French luxury-goods maker pledged 5 million yuan (or $711,278) to the China Soong China Ling Foundation.
The parent company behind fast-fashion brand Zara announced that it will be using its factories to make face masks for the Spanish government, with the company saying it expects to ship out 300,000 masks by the end of this week.
John Elliott might be a smaller brand than any of the other big names on this list, but through its Mainline for the Frontline initiative, the label is doing its best to make an impact.
The brand made a $10,000 donation to the UCLA Health Fund and has pledged to donate an additional 10% of proceeds from its sale section (which is full of fan favorites) to the same worthy cause, with a target goal of $100,000.
The French luxury conglomerate donated 7.5 million yuan (or $1 million) to the Red Cross Society of China, and Gucci CEO, Marco Bizzarri, personally donated more than $100,000 to hospitals in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy.
The group also announced that it will be donating millions of masks to the French health service and will be converting some of its factories to produce other PPE supplies.
Along with a donation of 1 million Euros to several partner organizations, L'Oreal has also used its facilities to start manufacturing hand sanitizer and hydro-alcoholic gel.
After donating 16 million renminbi (or $2.2 million) to The Red Cross Society of China, the Paris-based multinational corporation announced that it's converting the facilities formerly used to produce fragrances for its extensive roster of brands to make the hydro-alcoholic gel. The gel will be supplied free of charge to the French government and healthcare workers on the front lines of the pandemic. On Saturday, LVMH also announced it will donate 40 million masks to France.
The Swoosh's top executives, in tandem with the company itself, announced they're committing more than $15 million to COVID-19 response efforts, including donations to regional organizations in Oregon and global foundations fighting the virus around the world.
Prada's co-CEOs (husband-and-wife duo Patrizio Bertelli and Miuccia Prada) and Chairman Carlo Mazzi have donated two complete intensive care and resuscitation units each to the Vittore Buzzi, Sacco, and San Raffaele hospitals in Milan.
Today, Prada also announced its factory in Perugia will be producing 80,000 medical overalls and over 100,000 masks for healthcare workers in the region.
The Italian fashion house donated 1 million renminbi (or $143,748) to the Chinese Red Cross Foundation, and this past Saturday, Donatella Versace and her daughter also pledged a personal donation of 200,000 Euros to the ICU of Milan's San Raffaele hospital.


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Jalandhar’s renowned couple has gained widespread attention due to their distinctive culinary venture. Starting from a humble roadside food stall in Jalandhar, they have expanded their enterprise into a chain of eateries, establishing a reputation that extends far beyond the borders of Punjab. Nevertheless, their journey has been marred by numerous controversies, ranging from promoting firearms on social media to disputes concerning the quality of their food offerings. In this article titled “The Kulhad Pizza Viral Video: Unmasking the Kulhad Pizza Couple,” the couple’s private video has garnered significant attention, becoming a noteworthy topic of discussion within the online community. Let’s delve deeper into this viral incident on our website, “Trendbbq.com.”
Table of Contents,
- 1. Exploring the Culinary Innovations and Celebrity Roots of the Couple
- 2. Watch Kulhad Pizza Viral Video
- 3. The Couple’s Post-Marriage Odyssey: A Glimpse into Their Journey
- 4. Stirring the Pot: Revisiting the Past Controversies of the Kulhad Pizza Duo
- 5. Unpacking the Viral Kulhad Pizza Video: What’s Inside?
- 6. Online Community Buzz: Examining Concerns and Reactions
- 7. Wrapping Up: Concluding Thoughts and Insights
1. Exploring the Culinary Innovations and Celebrity Roots of the Couple
The renowned couple hailing in the Kulhad Pizza Viral Video has attracted significant attention due to their distinctive culinary concept. Originating from the vibrant city of Jalandhar, this dynamic pair embarked on a culinary journey that distinguished them from the rest. Their claim to fame revolves around their innovative approach to street food. After tying the knot, they ventured into the realm of roadside cuisine, infusing traditional recipes with a fresh twist.
Their enterprise quickly captured the interest of Vloggers and YouTubers, who were deeply impressed by their culinary creativity. Starting with selling street food in Jalandhar and expanding into a chain of eateries, this couple has carved out a unique niche for themselves within Punjab’s culinary landscape.
Their signature culinary style is defined by the fusion of local flavors and imaginative presentation. This innovative approach has not only delighted palates but has also garnered them a dedicated following. Their commitment to quality and culinary innovation has made them household names not only in Jalandhar but also beyond.
In addition to their culinary ventures, this couple’s influence has extended into other arenas, including a controversial venture into social media advertising for weaponry. This audacious move sparked discussions and debates, further cementing their reputation as trendsetters in various fields. With a talent for pushing boundaries and introducing fresh concepts, the famous couple from Jalandhar continues to leave an enduring mark on both the culinary and social landscapes.
2. Watch Kulhad Pizza Viral Video
3. The Couple’s Post-Marriage Odyssey: A Glimpse into Their Journey
After tying the knot, the couple embarked on a daring entrepreneurial journey that would ultimately redefine their lives. Their marriage not only deepened their personal connection but also ignited a shared passion for culinary innovation. It was this mutual drive that spurred them to dive into the realm of street food.
Starting on a small scale, they established a humble stall where they served mouthwatering, locally-inspired street delicacies amidst the bustling streets of Jalandhar. Their distinctive spin on traditional recipes quickly garnered the attention of both locals and food enthusiasts. Through word of mouth, their roadside venture soon cultivated a devoted customer base.
As Kulhad Pizza Viral Video popularity soared, so did their aspirations. They envisioned something grander than a single stall. With meticulous planning and a profound understanding of their customer base, they took a leap of faith and expanded their enterprise. This marked the inception of their first physical restaurant, symbolizing their transition from street vendors to well-established restaurateurs.
The triumph of their inaugural restaurant laid the groundwork for a thriving empire. Fueled by their innovative culinary approach, they continued to open more establishments, each offering a distinct gastronomic experience. Their chain of eateries became renowned not only for their mouthwatering offerings but also for their unwavering commitment to culinary quality and creativity. Today, their influence extends far beyond the streets of Jalandhar, making a lasting impact on the regional food scene.
4. Stirring the Pot: Revisiting the Past Controversies of the Kulhad Pizza Duo
The dynamic duo hailing from Jalandhar has not been immune to controversy and moments that grab headlines. One of the most memorable instances involved their controversial venture into social media advertising for weaponry. This Kulhad Pizza Viral Video ignited impassioned debates and raised eyebrows among their followers and critics alike.
While some lauded their audacity and entrepreneurial spirit, others voiced concerns about the ethical ramifications of promoting weapons on a public platform. This controversy not only brought the couple into the spotlight but also initiated a broader conversation about the responsibilities of influencers in shaping public opinions.
In addition to the weapon advertising debacle, the couple also found themselves embroiled in discussions regarding the quality of their culinary offerings. With their rising popularity came increased scrutiny from discerning customers and food critics. Some expressed worries about consistency, the taste of their kulhad pizzas, and the overall dining experience. This gave rise to a series of debates and discussions on online forums and social media platforms. The couple responded proactively by addressing these concerns, underscoring their dedication to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.
Despite these controversies, it is clear that the couple’s bold and innovative approach to both their culinary endeavors and marketing strategies has been a two-edged sword. While it has garnered them attention and a devoted following, it has also exposed them to heightened scrutiny and criticism. Throughout it all, the couple has exhibited resilience and a readiness to learn from their experiences, cementing their status as influential figures in both the culinary and social media spheres.
5. Unpacking the Viral Kulhad Pizza Video: What’s Inside?
The Kulhad Pizza Viral Video in question is a sensitive recording featuring the Jalandhar celebrity couple. This private footage was captured shortly after their wedding, offering a glimpse into their personal lives. Due to its explicit and mature content, the video has been classified as X-rated, indicating that it is not suitable for a general audience.
In the recording, the woman can be observed wearing a red wedding ring, suggesting that it was filmed shortly after their wedding ceremony. While the footage shows the couple engaged in conversation, the man’s face remains obscured, suggesting that he might have been the one behind the camera. The video prominently features his wife, who appears to be in an inebriated state.
In light of the explicit nature of the Kulhad Pizza Viral Video, True Scoop News has chosen, at its sole discretion, not to embed or share it. This decision acknowledges the potential discomfort it may cause some readers. As a result, specific details of the video remain undisclosed, and the identities of the couple are being kept confidential. It remains unclear whether the video was willingly shared by the couple or if it was leaked from an external source. This case underscores the increasing importance of respecting personal privacy boundaries in the era of social media and online sharing.
6. Online Community Buzz: Examining Concerns and Reactions
The leaking and sharing of a Kulhad Pizza Viral Video involving the prominent Jalandhar couple has sparked a substantial reaction within the online community. This incident has set off a wave of concern, discussions, and opinions across various social media platforms!!!
Numerous internet users have conveyed their unease and disapproval regarding the dissemination of this sensitive footage. They stress the significance of respecting individuals’ privacy, especially in intimate and personal matters. Many individuals have condemned the act of sharing or leaking such explicit content, emphasizing the ethical dilemmas and potential harm it could inflict on the individuals implicated.
Furthermore, certain members of the online community have raised queries about the responsibility of internet users when dealing with sensitive content. They underscore the necessity of a more conscientious approach when interacting with potentially invasive material. There is a prevailing sentiment that sharing or viewing such content without consent constitutes a breach of privacy and a violation of ethical norms.
Conversations have emerged concerning the broader impact of this incident on the couple’s reputation and public image. There is ongoing debate about whether this event will have enduring consequences for their businesses and personal lives. Some are advocating for a more empathetic and compassionate response from the community, urging individuals to consider the feelings and well-being of those affected, particularly in the context of the Kulhad Pizza Viral Video.
7. Wrapping Up: Concluding Thoughts and Insights
The incident revolving around the unauthorized release of the private video involving the Jalandhar couple serves as a poignant reminder of the paramount significance of upholding individuals’ privacy, especially in the digital era. This occurrence underscores the potential repercussions of distributing or publicizing confidential content without consent, emphasizing the necessity for responsible and compassionate online conduct.
It is imperative that we, as participants in the online community, exercise discretion and empathy when encountering or managing sensitive information. Prior to disseminating or discussing potentially intrusive material, we should take a moment to contemplate the ethical implications and the potential harm it might inflict on those affected. It is vital to keep in mind that behind each piece of content, such as the Kulhad Pizza Viral Video, there are real individuals with emotions, experiences, and a right to their own privacy.
In our online interactions, it is crucial to consistently secure explicit consent before sharing any private or sensitive materials. This principle applies not only to videos but also to any type of personal information. Respect for privacy stands as a fundamental component of ethical conduct and serves as a cornerstone in fostering trust and healthy relationships within both online and offline communities.
>>> See more: [HOT] Watch Shannon Beador Video Leaked


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Boats, RVs and more this weekend at the Ozark Empire Fairground
Nothing like cold weather to get the summer fantasies rolling. Indulge yours this weekend at the Springfield Boat, Sport and RV Show, at Ozark Empire Fairgrounds.
Here are a few reasons to check it out.
- Toys. Lots and lots and lots of summertime toys. Mike Roades, the show’s coordinator, says every corner of the E-Plex will be packed with campers of every size, boats of every kind and scads of personal watercraft. “This is the first time that we’ve ever had the big three: Yamaha, Sea-Doo and Kawasaki,” Roades says. With about 50 vendors, Roades says space is maxed out. “Dealers … are on a waiting list,” he says, later adding, “They should have built the building twice as big. This is as good as it’s going to get in the sport and RV shows south of I-70.”
- Boats for every sport. Whether you enjoy bass fishing, floating in a canoe or water skiing, Roades says there will be a boat to suit your needs. He says he’s particularly excited about the Moomba, a boat specifically designed for water sports enthusiasts. The Moomba line of boats is designed to shape wakes and waves, features a variety of comfort options (massive sound system, anyone?) and performance options. “It has all of the controls you need, the lift, it’s a fascinating thing that they’ve done to the Moomba professional ski boat. It’s probably top in the market and for the money — very, very affordable,” Roades says.
- Contests and giveaways. Enter the Flippin’ and Pitchin’ Contest for a chance to win a free canoe trip at Indian Springs Family Resort, in Steelville, from Branson West Marine. The contest is at noon Saturday, so get there plenty early to register. Individual dealers will have additional drawings and giveaways.
- Campers of every size. You don’t have to own a heavy-duty pickup to haul a camper anymore (although, if you do, there will be plenty of fifth-wheelers on display). Roades says there will be campers that can be hauled by everything from motorcycles on up. “They’ve taken the motorcycle trailers to a whole new level,” he says. Bonus: A number of campers on display are manufactured right here in Missouri.
- You can actually buy stuff. Whether you have an eye on a canoe or a bass boat, the dealers are there offer special event pricing and have a variety of financing options. But Roades says you needn’t fear pushy salespeople if you’re just there to look. He says the dealers he selects for the shows all have exemplary customer service records. “Our show is an old-fashioned run show. We treat our customers that come through that door with respect,” he says.
- Three days of entertainment for one admission price. The price at the door is $9, which is pretty cheap for a weekend of exploring summer play equipment. But those who arrive for VIP night — from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday — get in for $4.50. There also is a $1 off coupon available at rvmegashows.com. There also will be plenty of food and drink to keep you happy while you daydream.
Want to go?
• What: Springfield Boat, Sport and RV Show
• Where: Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, 3001 N. Grant Ave.
• When: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday
• Cost: $9; half-price 6-9 p.m. Friday, VIP night; passes good throughout weekend’ $1 off coupon available at rvmegashows.com
• Info: rvmegashows.com


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Want to pick up a quick double-digit boost in fuel economy?
Buy a new truck.
ACT Research President and Senior Analyst Kenny Vieth says about one-third of all active trucks in the U.S. got an average of at least 7.5 miles per gallon at the end of last year, while nearly half got between 6 and 6.3.
“If I buy a new truck today, it’s going to have about 14 percent better fuel economy than the average truck in the fleet,” he says. “Fuel economy should be something that incents people to want to buy new trucks.”
The fuel economy numbers of more than half the truck population are significantly lower than what today’s trucks are capable of, but low freight rates and taxes associated with buying new equipment make upgrading a far less enticing proposition.
The American Trucking Association Truck Loads Index showed growth of 1 percent in 2015 and only .1 percent last year.
“We went seven quarters with virtually no freight growth,” Vieth adds.
Freight growth was hindered by low rates, driven down by too many trucks fighting over too little cargo. By the end of 2015, Vieth says there were about 100,000 too many truck on the road – about 6 percent more trucks than were needed.
Fuel economy numbers and the truck population aren’t the only figures to swell. Truck prices have grown by about $30,000 since EPA 2004, which Vieth says means an additional $3,600 in federal excise taxes (FET) and another $2,000 in added state tax.
That’s not exactly an incentive to buy more efficient equipment. With diesel below $3 per gallon, there’s no sexy reason to pile on an extra 12 (+/-) percent of the purchase price in taxes when you’re actually saving money trudging along at 6 mpg.
If you can make a business case that buying a new truck can save you $12,000 annually in diesel, that’s attractive. But if you’re paying about that much in taxes alone, adding a full year of payments just to cover tax isn’t going to feel too great in your ROI calculator.
To encourage adoption of fuel efficient trucks, a Vieth says “carrot based approach is needed.” We kind of have a carrot-and-stick based approach now. Fleets are drawn to the carrot (fuel efficiency) and beaten with the stick (FET).
Vieth proposes rewarding new truck buyers by eliminating the FET as an offset to buying more efficient trucks that are better for the environment; using the carrot to encourage good behavior.
Lawmakers aren’t likely willing to give up such a chunk of money, so Vieth proposes replacing the FET with a boost – abut 12 cents – in diesel taxes.
More fuel efficient truck will use less fuel and pay less of the increased tax. The trucks most penalized will be the ones getting the fewest miles per gallon (the stick) and should be encouraged to upgrade (the carrot, again), which will drag that national MPG average up from around 6.
With the Department of Energy throwing hundreds of millions of dollars into its SuperTruck initiatives, it makes sense to have a consumer-based infrastructure that supports wide adaptation of those technologies.
EPA freight efficiency targets for new trucks are all well and good but given the average age of the truck population, it could be almost 2027 before the majority of trucks on the road are even EPA 2017 compliant.
If the goal is to get more fuel efficient trucks on the road, heaping taxes on them that are greater than the savings they may generate during their lifecycle isn’t the way to go about it.


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HTC Magic in UK on Vodafone in white come April
The Google Android HTC Magic smartphone will be released in the United Kingdom in April, Vodafone has announced, and Vodafone is to launch a new website for the HTC Magic which will reveal specs and details and offer registration for updates and price info.
Vodafone plans on shipping the HTC Magic in various colours across Europe, with the United Kingdom gaining a white HTC Magic along with Spain and France, while Germany will see a black version and Italy will see both black and white versions.
The HTC Magic is the 2nd mobile handset to offer the Android platform and includes a 3.2 inch QVGA touchscreen, HSDPA, GPRA, WiFi, GPS, 4 megapixel camera with auto-focus, Google Maps and Search and microSD.
Source — vnunet


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You can now text to switch your current mobile deal
There's now a much easier way to switch and quit your current smartphone contract.
From today, a new rule from Ofcom means that mobile customers can simply text their supplier and leave without ever having to pick up the phone.
Every UK network and provider, including EE, Three, Vodafone and O2, will now have to offer this service which is part of Ofcom’s plan to give consumers more control over their bills.
Speaking about the changes Lindsey Fussell, Ofcom’s Consumer Group Director, said: “Breaking up with your mobile provider has never been easier thanks to Ofcom’s new rules. You won’t need to have that awkward chat with your current provider to take advantage of the great deals available.”
So, if you want to leave your current deal, here's how the new system works.
HOW TO SWITCH WITH A TEXT:
Text 'PAC' to 65075 – and keep your mobile number
If a customer wants to switch and keep their existing phone number, they just text ‘PAC’ to 65075 to begin the process.
Their existing provider will respond by text within a minute.
They will be sent their switching code (PAC), which will be valid for 30 days.
The provider’s reply must also include important information about any early termination charges or pay-as-you-go credit balances.
The customer then gives the code to their new provider, and this company must arrange for the switch to complete within one working day.
The new process is designed to be quick and easy, so customers could request their code while looking for a new deal – for example, while on the phone to a new provider, or in store.
HOW TO GET A NEW NUMBER
Text ‘STAC’ to 75075 – and get a new mobile number
While most people want to keep their mobile number when they switch, around one in six do not.
These customers can text ‘STAC’ to 75075 to request a ‘service termination authorisation code’. The rest of the process is the same as above. This takes away the hassle of having to talk to your current provider if you simply want to leave them.
FIND OUT ABOUT YOUR CURRENT DEAL
Text ‘INFO’ to 85075 – and find out more
If someone is not sure whether they are still ‘in contract’, and would have to pay any early termination charges, they can simply text ‘INFO’ to 85075 to find this out without requesting a switching code.
Notice-period charges banned
The second biggest hurdle switchers face is trying to avoid paying their old and new mobile companies at the same time – with three in ten customers finding this difficult.
So, from today, Ofcom has banned mobile providers from charging for notice periods running after the switch date.
This will save UK mobile customers a combined £10m each year.
Customers need to give their new provider the PAC or STAC number, so their old and new mobile companies can make sure there is no double payment.


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China’s Stimulus Restores Confidence, Shows Recovery
By Eugene Tang
April 18 (Bloomberg) -- China’s 4 trillion yuan ($585 billion) stimulus plan has shown “better-than-expected” results in reviving growth in the world’s third-largest economy and helped restore market confidence, Premier Wen Jiabao said.
“China’s rapid reaction in rolling out the stimulus package has resolved some prominent problems in the economy, strengthened market confidence and stabilized people’s expectation,” Wen said today at the Boao Forum in southern China’s Hainan province.
The Chinese economy grew 6.1 percent in the first quarter, urban fixed-asset investment expanded, and loans rose amid record car sales in March, signaling a tentative recovery. Investors snapped up Chinese equities, boosting the Shanghai Composite Index by 38 percent this year, the second-best performer among 88 indexes tracked by Bloomberg.
“China’s economy has touched bottom and economic growth may recover this quarter to about 7 percent,” the Communist Party’s deputy research head Zheng Xinli said at Boao today. The government may need to beef up investments to offset the loss of exports to meet its 8 percent growth target for 2009, he said.
Read the whole story here...


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A surge in tissue demand in North America due to the coronavirus pandemic helped Kimberly-Clark (KMB 2.44%) overcome weaker sales in international markets and in its professional products business, allowing it to trounce Wall Street earnings estimates.
The company's second-quarter results, released Thursday, also gave Kimberly-Clark the confidence to reinstate guidance for the rest of the year and to resume its stock buyback program, both of which had been suspended in April due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
No paper tiger
Anyone who shopped during the early days of the pandemic knows that among the first things that disappeared from supermarket shelves were paper products like toilet paper and paper towels. Kimberly-Clark owns some of the biggest brands in those segments, including Scott, Kleenex, and Cottonelle.
Division sales jumped 12% for the period on a 14% rise in volume, with currency exchange rates swiping 3%. Operating profits, however, nearly doubled, rocketing 94% higher to $428 million.
That was more than enough to overcome the 8% drop in sales outside of North America, 9% decline in emerging market sales, and 12% decrease in the professional segment, which sells its products to businesses.
The overall results saw Kimberly-Clark easily surpass analyst expectations. Where Wall Street had forecast $1.80 per share in earnings on $4.46 billion in sales, the consumer products giant turned in $2.20 per share on $4.61 billion in revenue.
Kimberly-Clark also said while uncertainty remains because of the pandemic, it is issuing guidance again and believes net sales will grow 1% to 2% for the year with a 6% to 9% increase in operating profits.
It will also reboot its share repurchase program and expects to buy between $700 million and $900 million worth of stock by year's end.


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Within the framework of the seminar “The new revolution in production: the digital transformation” organized by the Ramón Areces Foundation and the OECD, Carlos López Blanco, Telefónica’s Director of Public Affairs and Regulation, presented the foundations of the new scenario for the digital economy and the production revolution.
In his presentation, in keeping with the declarations made by Álvaro Nadal, Minister of Energy, Tourism and Digital Agenda, and Ángel Gurría, Secretary-General of the OECD, he explained how the digital revolution affects all sectors, in a world in which digitization and globalization are intrinsically related.
It is difficult to make predictions in a rapidly evolving world, in which the changes are moving faster than our prophecies. In a hyper-connected world and a new data society, digital and analog technologies are merging, creating opportunities and setting challenges. The generation of digital trust, education and the inclusion of those excluded from this revolution (those who are less young) are aspects which cannot be ignored.
Spain is well-positioned to face up to this new revolution, but it must meet certain challenges:
- Spain lags behind in innovation, especially in the private sector.
- It is necessary to increase efforts to promote the business ecosystem.
- The technological sector, other key economic sectors and the Public Administrations can spearhead the digitization of the entire economy.
- Bolstering innovation and adopting digital technologies in SMEs encourage job creation and development.
- The venture capital market in Spain is still in an emerging phase and is highly concentrated.
- The development of digital skills is fundamental for performing the digital transformation.
In the 21st century, the rich countries will be those which are able to address the challenge of digitization!
Change overcomes all our forecasts, we are reinventing the way we solve problems. In the 1900’s they imagined the future like this:


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- Industrial software website used in watering hole attack
- North Korea using foreign bases to launch cyberattacks, says HP
- Namecheap says accounts compromised in hacking incident
- Why hackers may be stealing your credit card numbers for years
- After celeb hack, Apple patches password guessing weakness in iCloud
Vblock Becomes the Crédit Agricole Corporate Standard
This case study details how French bank Crédit Agricole have benefited from 25% cost savings by introducing new levels of IT agility, moving to a private cloud architecture in a risk-free manner, while convincing decision-makers of the merits of the new architecture.
Please supply your email address to access the content.
- MSPs are in an increasingly fragmented environment: GFI Max
- Dicker Data net profit down 43 per cent in full year results
- Don’t forget devices in unified communications sales: Jabra
- Australian bitcoin company launches first online exchange in United Arab Emirates
- Nutanix raises $US140 million in new funding


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Neiman Marcus: 'Large portion' of 14,000 employees to take furloughs, pay cuts
Neiman Marcus says it will introduce furloughs and temporary pay cuts, the latest retailer to deploy cost-saving measures during the coronavirus pandemic.
In a statement, Neiman Marcus Group CEO Geoffroy van Raemdonck said the company will extend the closures of its stores until April 30, and possibly longer, to help curb the spread of COVID-19.
Van Raemdonck also said he plans to waive all his salary, and other executives will waive a "significant amount" of their salaries.
"While these are the most difficult decisions to make, our focus is on ensuring our business is protected over the long-term so we can continue serving our associates and customers," said van Raemdonck in a statement.
Neiman Marcus has approximately 14,000 employees.
On Monday, Macy's said it planned to furlough a "majority" of its 125,000 employees as its stores remain closed due to the coronavirus crisis. Kohl's said it also plans to keep stores shut down and furlough employees.
Coronavirus impact:Kohl's keeping stores closed, furloughing employees
Macy's moves:Retailer to furlough 'majority' of workers starting this week
Follow Brett Molina on Twitter: @brettmolina23.


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USL said on Tuesday that it is exiting all non-core investments having sold 85 lakh shares, or 3.21%, for Rs 872 crore in a block trade.
Bengaluru-born Kingfisher, India's largest beer brand, recently launched its first luxury beer brand, Ultra Max, priced at Rs 150 for 650 ml.
Strong beer may be the poison of most Indians, but a clutch of foreign premium mild beer labels are seeking to get more competitive by manufacturing in the country.
Carlsberg, under pressure by poor performance in its key market of Russia, has cut its headquarters and regional offices staff by 20 per cent from around 900 employees, it said on Wednesday.
Heineken's Regal Seven beer is set to rival the Tuborg and Yoma brands by Carlsberg, which in May became the first foreign brewer to set up in Myanmar.
According to a report from Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Anheuser-Busch InBev, SABMiller, Heineken, and Carlsberg produce about half of the world's beer.
Brands are becoming like that one friend all of us have who wants to be the first to hit social media with a pithy observation. Are they trying too hard?
An Italian investment group owned by the Agnelli family has confirmed it is in talks with Pearson PLC to increase its stake in the Economist Group.


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At f8 2011, Facebook’s annual conference held last week for developers and entrepreneurs, founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced a series of changes to the social network’s platform. Most of the changes affect personal profiles, but some have to do with how Fan pages work.
I will outline these changes in a two-part series. Today’s “Part 1” installment focuses on changes made to personal profiles, addressing what those changes mean for ecommerce merchants. Next week I will address changes made to Fan pages.
1. The ‘New’ News Feed
In “Understanding EdgeRank, Facebook’s ‘Quality Score’ for Wall Posts,” I discussed Facebook’s ranking algorithm, which is designed to ensure that only the most relevant content is seen by users. Facebook has taken another step in that direction by changing the way “News Feed” works.
Previously, News Feed opted to show only what Facebook referred to as “top news.” Users could change that to show the most recent items instead. Now, both “top news” and “recent news” have been combined into a single stream.
Typically, users will see top news first, then recent news will be shown further down the page. However, users who visit Facebook more frequently will see recent news items first. The mechanism Facebook uses to denote what posts qualify as top news is a light-blue triangle that sits in the upper left-hand corner of the post.
Only the most interesting, engaging and relevant content — as determined by Facebook — make it into top news. Users have the option of removing an item from top news, hiding the item or even marking it as spam. Conversely, they can also mark an item included in recent news as a top story.
For Fan pages, users can mark items as top stories, hide a particular item, or hide all items from a page.
This has serious implications for merchants. Unless Facebook determines that the content posted to your Fan page Wall fits the above criteria, it will not be shown — not as top news, at least. The forces merchants to find ways to increase engagement activity around each of the posts. In my “EdgeRank” article, I outlined five steps merchants can take to improve their Edgerank and increase the likelihood content will receive favorable attention.
News feed items often have a time lag before appearing. With the introduction of its new “Ticker” component, Facebook has entered the era of real-time updates.
Ticker shows the same content users were already seeing, but displays updates instantaneously, in a similar manner to Twitter. “Now when a friend comments, asks a question or shares something like a check in, you’ll be able to join the conversation right away.” says Facebook.
Ticker is located in the right hand column of the user’s News Feed page, just above Facebook ads. If the “chat” window happens to be open, Ticker items appear at the top above the list of friends who are available to chat. Content from both Friends and Pages — that the user has Liked – appear in the stream.
This, too, has implications for merchants. To stay top-of-mind with the user, many merchants post frequently. That could backfire, however, as users may consider frequent updates a nuisance and un-Like the page as a result.
Unfortunately, there are no rules when it comes to posting. How much is too much is subjective. Consider asking Fans how often they want updates. And monitor Facebook Insights — the analytics component tied to Fan pages — to track the number of un-Likes relative to the number of posts.
3. Subscribe Button
One of the biggest changes announced at f8 is the addition of what Facebook refers to as the “Subscribe” button. This gives users greater control over what appears as top news and provides the option of subscribing to content from friends, as well as unsubscribing from content they no longer want included in the news feed.
Furthermore, users can choose whether they want to see all items, most items (the default) or only the most important, such as a job change or move to a new city, for example. Another interesting twist is that users can now subscribe to content from people who are not friends. This applies only to content that those people have marked as “Public,” however, so that privacy will not be compromised.
So far, the subscribe option only applies to individuals, not Fan pages. I wonder, however, when Facebook will apply it universally.
4. Navigation Menu
Facebook has replaced the navigation menu, which used to read “Home,” “Profile” and “Account,” located in the upper right-hand corner of the page with two new menu items:
Thumbnail image and name of user. This should make it easier to know when you are logged in as the Page rather than as an individual user.
Drop-down arrow. This replaces “Account” and, when clicked, opens a menu of items that includes account settings, privacy settings, use Facebook as Page and log out.
These are not all the changes Facebook made to its platform. But they constitute the more important ones that affect a merchant’s use of Facebook, not only from a personal perspective, but from a business use, as well.
In next week’s article, I will address changes made to Facebook Pages.


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All articles by BRAIN Staff
WASHINGTON (BRAIN) — The League of American Bicyclists has added 100 new and renewing Bicycle Friendly Businesses to its list, bringing the program to recognize more than 1,050 businesses and government agencies. They are being recognized for making a bike-friendly environment for employees and the public.
FRIEDRICHSHAFEN, Germany (BRAIN) — With a global release set for spring 2016, SRAM unveiled its long-awaited wireless electronic road groupset, SRAM Red eTAP, on the opening day of Eurobike on Wednesday.
CHICAGO (BRAIN) — SRAM is taking a swipe at the many companies offering "narrow-wide" chainrings for single-chainring mountain bike drivetrains. The company is now offering a steel X-Sync chainring that will retail for $19.95.
LAGUNA HILLS, Calif. (BRAIN) — Trek’s decision to begin online bike sales is covered in depth in the latest issue of Bicycle Retailer & Industry News.
The new issue, dated Sept. 1, is arriving in mailboxes now and is being distributed at this week’s Eurobike show in Germany.
MINNEAPOLIS (BRAIN) — Kinetic is introducing three new products at Eurobike: two trainers with built-in power sensors and a new app for mobile devices.
FRIEDRICHSHAFEN, Germany (BRAIN) — Shimano is releasing its 2016 road and mountain bike offerings through its PRO component brand this week at Eurobike.
FRIEDRICHSHAFEN, Germany (BRAIN) — POC plans to show two new mountain bike helmets at this week's Eurobike show: The Tectal and the Coron.
FRIEDRICHSHAFEN, Germany (BRAIN) — As dropper seatposts gain favor among a broader range of mountain bikers, Magura enters the market with a new — and electrified — twist on getting down and dirty for descents.
FRIEDRICHSHAFEN, Germany (BRAIN) — The German market had a strong start to bicycle sales in the first half of the year, which industry executives attributed to mild weather, increased interest in urban mobility and e-bike sales.


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Indian conglomerate Tata Group (www.tata.com) employs nearly 300,000 people in 85 countries and is India’s largest conglomerate company, with revenues in 2006–07 equivalent to US$28 …show more content…
Rather it set US$2,500 as the price that it thought customers could pay and then worked back, with the help of partners willing to take on a challenge, to build a US$2,500 car that would reward all involved with a small profit.
The Nano engineers and partners didn’t simply strip features out of an existing car – the tack Renault took with its Dacia Logan, which sells in India for roughly US$10,000. Instead, they looked at their target customers’ lives for cost-cutting ideas. So, for instance, the Nano has a smaller engine than other cars because more horsepower would be wasted in India’s jam-packed cities, where the average speed is 10 to 20 miles per hour.
The Nano aims to bring the joys of motoring to millions of Indians, doing for the subcontinent what the Volkswagen Beetle did for Germany and the Mini for Britain. But the plan has horrified environ- mentalists who fear that the demand from India’s aspirational and increasingly middle-class population – now numbering 50 million in a country with a total 1.1 billion people – for more cars will add to pollution and global warming.
The global automotive industry and the current crises
In 2007, a total of 71.9 million new automobiles were sold worldwide: 22.9 million in Europe, 21.4 million in Asia-Pacific, 19.4 million in USA and Canada, 4.4 million in Latin


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- The Alberta Government has decided to extend oil curtailments to December 2020 while increasing the exemption to apply for companies producing less than 20,000 barrels per day vs a 10,000 previously.
- This will reduce the number of affected Alberta producers from 29 to 16 (out of 300 total)
- Curtailments will stop production from exceeding capacity and increase the value received for Alberta resources
- Trans Mountain Corp. has issued a “notice to proceed” to construction sub-contractors to begin work for the pipeline.
- More than $30 billion has been divested from the Canadian oil industry over the last 3 years.
- The annual Congressional Budget deficit is projected to surpass $1 trillion as early as next fiscal year.
- The budget deficit will average roughly 4.7% of GDP per year over the next 10 years vs earlier estimates of 2.9% in 2018
- Federal Reserve meeting minutes show that policymakers were deeply divided over whether to cut interest rates by 0.25% last month; 2 members (out of 10) voted against the cut while a “couple” advocated for a deeper cut, compared to the normal unanimous vote.
- Federal Reserve chair Powell in Jackson Hole:
- U.S. economy is in a favorable place but faces “significant risks”
- “Trade policy uncertainty seems to be playing a role in the global slowdown”
- “We will act as appropriate to sustain the expansion, with a strong labor market and inflation near its symmetric 2% objective”
US – China Trade
- Trump announced in a tweet that “American companies are hereby ordered to immediately start looking for an alternative to China, including bringing your companies HOME and making your products in the USA.”
- China announced another round of retaliatory tariffs against the U.S., placing an additional 10% tariff on $75 billion worth of U.S. goods with some beginning Sept 1 and others Dec 15.
- China is also reinstituting a 25% duty on car and auto parts originating from the U.S. beginning in Dec
- Bloomberg survey estimates that China’s economic growth will slow below 6% due to the trade war, its lowest expansion since 1990.
- The number of Chinese tourists visiting the US dropped 5.7% in 2018 to 2.9 million visitors; the first drop since 2003.
- The US has extended Huawei’s sales permit to purchase US technology products for 90 days.
- Elections Canada has warned some environmental charities that discussing the dangers of climate change during the upcoming election could be deemed a partisan activity that could jeopardize a group’s charity status.
- Iran is prepared to work on France’s proposal to salvage the 2015 international nuclear deal that Trump pulled out of in May.
- Researchers say the 80% increase in fires in Brazil is likely due to cattle ranchers lighting fires to clear land for use.
- The EU will halt the import of Canadian cherries and other fresh fruits beginning Sept 1 as it reviews new pest mitigation measures.
- Giraffes won some protection from the unregulated trade of their body parts during the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. Populations have fallen 40% over the past 30 years.


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Digital India is a campaign launched by the Indian government to make sure that the services of the government are available to citizens electronically. For this the online infrastructure has been improved by boosting internet connectivity. Not only that the nation has been digitally empowered with respect to the technology industry.
Digital India Essay In English
As per the initiative, the government has new plans to connect village areas with internet networks. Digital India comprises of basic 3 things.
- Developing a stable and secured digital infrastructure.
- All-round digital literacy and.
- Delivering proper government services.
The Digital India campaign was introduced on the 1st of July, 2015 by Narendra Modi, the Indian Prime Minister. This is a beneficiary of other fundamental Indian Government schemes like Make in India, BharatNet, StandupIndia, Startup India, Bharatmala and Sagarmala.
According to the Census of 31st December, 2018, India is a country of 1.3 billion (130 crore people). Not only that, India has 123 crore Aadhaar biometric I-cards, 121 crore mobile phones, 45 crore smartphones and 56 crore internet users. The people enhance technology access through this program all over the nation.
The Indian government has started this program for enhancing internet connectivity among rural and remote areas of the country. One pivotal initiative is to link high-speed internet with the Indian villages. The ultimate motive is to increase the use of electronic services and products.
Digital India – When was it inaugurated?
Digital India was inaugurated amidst the few best industrialists like managing director, RIL chairman, Mukesh Ambani, Azim Premji, Wipro Chairman, Cyrus Mistry, Tata Group and many others.
This was held at the Gandhi Indoor Stadium located in Delhi. This was launched in a meeting that was conducted to share ideas and notions about the increased use of internet and digitization.
The Indian government has taken several steps to improve the country’s digital growth. There were several information technology firms that participated in this campaign that covered more than 600 districts.
One lakh crores is the amount that has been invested by the government in launching all these schemes. Few of them are e-health, national scholarship portal, e-education, digital locker and e-sign. All this is run by BBNL or Bharat Broadband Network Limited.
Digital India – Its objectives and goals
There are three main aspects of this campaign, Digital India. It works by following the objectives.
- A sturdy and safe digital infrastructure that connects each and every region of India
- Easy access to government services that are digitally delivered. This is e-Governance.
- Digital literacy of the citizens of India.
The governing community has to be responsible for delivering all sorts of digital services. They can only do this by utilizing trustworthy government apps like e-Pramaan. As per e-Pramaan, the rural public should access and use various online services.
Providing Digital Infrastructure
With the help of digital infrastructure, residents can seek access to government services by using their online identity. Under this initiative, majority of services are there.
Like for example, signing up various government portals and maintaining digital documents and many more are included in this scheme.
This project also offers access to high speed internet to all rural regions. By accessing the internet, they can gain benefits of most of the projects that are being run by the government. Let’s check them out:
Mygov.in: Through this online platform, you can share ideas that are linked to the administrative plan of the government. This project has been introduced mainly for the residents so that they could participate in it.
Digital Attendance: This is one more initiative by the Indian government whereby the attendance of the government employees can be tracked digitally. This project was introduced in Delhi and it leverages the biometric system to trace attendance.
UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New-Age Governance): This is a smartphone platform that works on any smartphone. You can use this app in several Indian languages. Through this app, people get the power to access an array of services. Services range from digital locker, education portals, tax, Aadhar and booking of railway tickets.
e-Sign: Through this application, the registered users and sign a document digitally. They can sign the document by using their Aadhar card as an authentication proof.
e-Hospital: Through this application, you can access all sorts of hospital and medical services. The list may include booking appointments, online lab reports, and payment gateways and so on.
Digi-Locker: Thanks to the digi-locker that you are allowed to keep all your government papers safe digitally. This is a cross-platform app that can work on several units of administration. As all the documents are verified by the Indian government, residents don’t have to carry any hard copy.
Digital Literacy: This is a huge step taken by the government of India to let the rural people of India use the internet for enhancing their quality of life. Until 2015, most rural people couldn’t access the internet. But now they can.
The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi has even thought of imparting literacy to all rural houses digitally. The Digital India campaign is a mammoth project of 2,351.38 crores and it covers more than 6 crore houses. It is executed by Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMG Disha).
The government of India also has a plan of introducing platforms for digital payment that are famous among business firms.
With this, several businesses will find it easier to start off their business on online platforms. Businessmen can run their business from different regions of the country when they take resort to digital platforms.
It can be safely concluded by saying that a digitally connected India will lead to the growth of the economic and social status of the country. With the development of non-agricultural economic activities, you can achieve this.
However, it is also true that the ICT can’t impact the overall development of the nation directly as it also needs a basic and fundamental infrastructure. This can also be achieved through literacy, a business environment, regulatory proceedings and literacy.
Benefits of Digital India
- Digital India makes health care and literacy more accessible since people may use a hospital service to receive online registration, a doctor’s appointment, payment of the charge, a blood test, a diagnostic test & among other things.
- It allows customers to submit their all paperwork and certifications online from anywhere, reducing the amount of physical work required.
- All Citizens can digitally sign their records online to sign the framework.
- Digital India benefits the beneficiaries of the National Scholarship Portal by allowing them to submit their applications, have them verified & then be paid or disbursed.
- BSNL’s next-generation network will replace 30-year-old telephone exchanges for improved administration of online services on mobile devices like data, voice, multimedia & etc.
- Flexible electronics will be promoted with support of the National Center for Flexible Electronics.
- As all transactions are completed through digital method, it also aids in the reduction of black marketing.


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TANZANIA – Marking of all imported goods which was scheduled to commence in 2014 now will be carried out this year, the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) has said.
UGANDA – A new study has revealed that populations living in Kampala and its surroundings are at a high risk of contracting liver diseases due to consuming foods contaminated with poisonous content.
AFRICA – With an improvement in the level of intra-African transactions and communication, African products would enjoy a boost at the global market coupled with the concomitant promotion of peace, integration and trans-border trade across the region, the African Organisation for Standardisation has said.
NIGERIA – With proper implementation, Nigeria will by the instrumentality of the National Quality Policy attain the goal of raising inter-African trade in non-oil from the current five per cent to 20 per cent by 2020.
KENYA – Kenya Revenue Authority is to introduce excise duty stamps through the Excise Goods Management System (EGMS) for beer, mineral water, juices and soft drinks.
RWANDA – Individuals and firms seeking services from the Rwanda Standards Board will no longer be required to make multiple trips to the agency’s offices, following the launch of an information portal that allows the public to access the services online.
UGANDA – Only four of 10 juice processors observe the basic recommended hygiene practices, Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) executive director has revealed.
NIGERIA – The Federal Ministry of Health has received support from the European Union (EU)-funded National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) project to kick-off the implementation of the national policy on food safety in Nigeria.
ZAMBIA – The Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZABS) has commissioned a US$20,000 packaging and testing equipment to meet regional standards
GHANA – A thirteen-member Board of Directors of the National Biosafety Authority has been inaugurated at a ceremony in Accra.


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The payments landscape is one of countless aspects of our lives that’s been impacted during the pandemic. While lockdowns and quarantines accelerated a rise in online shopping, e-commerce still represented about 14% of retail sales in the U.S. in 2020. This means that 86% were in-person, even as the pandemic intensified.
As one of the most widely used payment methods, cash plays a critical role in society. Millions of Americans use it and legislators want to protect it because it’s reliable, inclusive and private.
At Brink’s, we have a unique look inside the global cash supply chain. Read below for substantiation that cash usage is going strong.
Cash usage is strong.
1 St. Louis Federal Reserve (FRED). U.S. currency in circulation through 3/31/21. Weekly Average Currency in Circulation (Billions of Dollars, Weekly, Not Seasonally Adjusted)
2 Represents year-over-year increase in number of withdrawal transactions on “same terminal” basis
3 Represents year-over-year increase in value of cash processed in U.S.
Small businesses continue to accept cash
86% of retail transactions are in-person, where cash is preferred.1
E-commerce growth rate expected to moderate
Source: U.S Census Bureau (2019-2020), eMarketer (2021-2025)


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What you need to know
- Figures for Q1 of the smartwatch market have surfaced.
- They show the market as a whole grew 12% despite COVID-19.
- Apple's market share shrunk by 13% as competitors started to catch up.
Apple's market share of smartwatch shipments fell in Q1 of 2020, as Apple lost ground to its competitors.
According to research from Canalys:
Worldwide smartwatch shipments reached 14.3 million units in Q1 2020, up 12% year on year, despite COVID-19. Though Apple's shipments fell 13%, its smartwatch platform remains the world's largest and is growing steadily. WatchOS gained 4 million new active users during the quarter, bringing the total installed base to an estimated 70 million. In the next three months, lifetime Apple Watch shipments will reach 100 million units.
Apple reportedly shipped 5.2 million watches, down 13% on the same quarter last year. Conversely, its competitors enjoyed significant growth. Notably Huawei (113%), Samsung (46%), and Garmin (39%). The market as a whole grew by 12%.
The report notes that this is the first time that North America accounted for less than a third of global shipments, highlighting "strong overseas demand" which helped to offset poorer performance in North America and Europe.
As the report notes, despite the double-digit fall in shipments, Apple still remains the front runner in the market, adding 4 million new watchOS users in the quarter. The total stands at an estimated 70 million, and it is expected that Apple will ship its 100 millionth unit in the next three months.
There's a good chance that a least some of WWDC next week will be devoted to the next installation in watchOS, watchOS 7. Here's a rundown of Rene Ritchie's wishlist.


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Honda Subsidiary Acquires Startup Drivemode For Undisclosed Amount
Honda R&D Co., Ltd., a research and development subsidiary of Honda Motor Co Ltd , has acquired all of the outstanding shares of California-based Drivemode, Inc.
The acquisition was completed Sept. 26 when Drivemode became a wholly owned subsidiary of Honda R&D, the Japanese automaker said in a Monday press release.
Drivemode is a startup that develops and operates smartphone-based connected services.
Honda R&D and Drivemode have been collaborating and conducting joint development activities since 2015. The companies are aiming to strengthen value creation in the areas of digital and connected mobility products, according to Honda.
Reported by Benzinga