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Speedway to the future: How Covid-19 is accelerating digital transformation
If I told you this time last year that video calling and conferences would be a normal part of one’s daily life, or that school classrooms would be conducted on tablet and laptop screens at the kitchen or living room counter of your home, you may not have believed me.
But that’s the reality we are facing today.
Covid-19 is being described as a “watershed moment” for digital transformation.
Digital transformation is the adoption of digital technology, like the internet, mobile data, apps and so on, by service providers and businesses to replace manual process or even replacing older digital technology with newer technology. Digital transformation also extends into the community and society as a whole as our digital habits change.
The pandemic and resulting lockdowns have pushed us to adopt digital technologies much more quickly than we may have without this event.
According to the World Economic Forums’ Digital Transformation Power the Great Reset report released in July 2020, globally:
More than 25 percent of consumers use mobile devices for purchases at least once a week
There is a 160 percent expected increase in frequency of digital purchases, as reported by global consumers
48 percent of employees will likely work remotely at least part time post-Covid versus 30 percent pre-Covid
But digital transformation was already on its way to Guam way before the pandemic. Government services were available online. Guam Power Authority and Guam Waterworks Authority were offering payment services online and through their mobile apps. The Department of Motor Vehicles offered various services, including car registration, business license renewal and scheduling appointments to renew or apply for a driver’s license on its website. The Department of Revenue and Taxation allows the filing of taxes online, as well.
Most local businesses and organizations had websites and social media, with varying levels of online services and advertising strategies, and some had their own mobile applications. Most notably, banks were offering online banking and mobile apps.
On a broader scale, people were already booking flights, hotels and other accommodations through booking.com, Agoda or Expedia. We were shopping online and tracking our packages on the USPS website.
It was more a matter of “when” not “if.”
Globally, many have been studying digital transformation and trying to predict the results for years. The World Economic Forum launched the Digital Transformation Initiative in 2015 to bring together governments and enterprises all over the world to study digital transformation and gain insight into the impact of technology on business and society over the next decade.
According to a 2018 report generated by the initiative, 8 billion devices at the time were connected to the internet around the world. This number was forecasted to grow to 1 trillion by 2030, with mobile devices being a major player. The technologies expected to usher in the transformation were artificial intelligence, autonomous vehicles, data analytics, cloud, custom manufacturing, 3D printing, robots, drones and social media and technology related to the internet of things.
Education, healthcare, retail, consumerism, manufacturing – all were predicted to be revolutionized by digital
The report posited that the responsibility of businesses and organizations would be to create new digital business models or digital offerings, equip our workforce with skills and tools needed for a digital world and be mindful of security and privacy.
The report noted that inhibitors to the change would be the “innovator’s dilemma” of fearing the cannibalization of existing revenue models, low technology adoption rates, conservative organizational cultures and regulatory issues.
Covid-19 appears to have put us on the fast track to digital transformation. Businesses, organizations and the community at large were forced to adopt digital habits and models they otherwise may not have.
On Guam, when the pandemic and resulting government mandates came around, the community began to rely more heavily on technology. More restaurants and retailers began accepting orders online or via their business’s apps or Whatsapp for curbside pickup. Digital menus were made available to be accessed using QR codes.
The businesses with the capabilities to allow employees to work from home, did so. Businesses and organizations began using Zoom or other video conferencing services to have meetings with staff and clients. Our schools began offering online learning. Virtual events and conferences began popping up.
As the health crisis lingers, we become used to this way of doing things. Many people are discovering it may actually be more convenient to do things online and from their mobile phones. Certainly, avoiding long lines at the DMV is something we all want.
Long-lasting impacts include wider use of contactless payments, like Apple Pay and Google pay, as people are more mindful of avoiding germs.
The use of contactless check-ins at airports and airlines could be more widely adopted. The United Airlines app already offers check-in, passport and visa scanning and mobile boarding passes. By using these services, travelers will spend less time in airports, reducing exposure to any virus or disease.
Healthcare and technology will become more intertwined. Today, our phones are tools to prevent the spread of diseases. We’re seeing it with the Guam Covid Alert app, which notifies users if they have been exposed to positive cases of Covid-19. Tomorrow, we’ll continue to see more innovations in telemedicine and mobile technologies that will give the average citizen the ability to be proactive about their health.
So how do organizations keep up with this transition to digital?
In its report, the World Economic Forum recommends that digital transformation should include changes to business models, operating models, supply chains, decision-making, finance, investments, talent and new value.
But going digital could be a challenge for small or medium-sized businesses, which make up a majority of the businesses on Guam and worldwide. Mainly, small businesses don’t have the resources to invest in new technologies or hire a director or consultant to lead digital transformation strategies.
I think for small business the key to the digital transformation is to focus on the most important areas. One such area is social media. It’s basically a free advertising platform. If used correctly, it gives small businesses the ability to engage directly with existing and potential customers. In fact, it’s an expectation now among consumers that a business has a social media account that has updated hours of operation and phone number, at the minimum.
In addition, social media provides useful data. It’s easy to see how many likes, comments and views an ad or video receives. From there, one could determine customers’ interests.
Most important is attitude. Businesses and organizations today cannot be scared of technology and the changes it brings. Yes, some caution and research are necessary, but don’t be afraid to learn new things.
This is especially important in the Covid-19 era. For many years to come we will be sorting out and examining how this global event has changed us.
The “new normal” is upon us. As a community we should welcome and prepare for this instead of waiting for things to “return to normal.”
— Jay R. Shedd is Senior Director of Sales, Marketing and Customer Service at IT&E, the largest wireless service and sales provider in Guam and the Marianas. He has more than 30 years of experience in the telecommunications industry.


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A group of Russia-based hackers used sophisticated new techniques to spread disinformation in the U.S. and avoid detection by social media companies for years, according to a new report from an information research firm.
The findings, by the firm Graphika Inc., could indicate how Russian efforts to spread confusion online have changed in the face of attempts to thwart them.
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In a multi-year deal, crypto exchange FTX US has been chosen as the official crypto partner of Washington, DC-based Monumental Sports and Entertainment (MSE). The deal will allow sports enthusiasts to engage in crypto activities and purchase official non-fungible tokens (NFTs) related to their favourite sports. The teams supported in this deal are the Washington Capitals hockey team, the Washington Wizards men’s basketball team, the Washington Mystics women’s basketball team, and the Capital City Go-Go basketball team.
“The integration of blockchain technology with the sports experience has only just begun, and together we are going to advance to an entirely new frontier which will ignite fans beyond what they can even imagine today,” Jim Van Stone, President, Business Operations and Chief Commercial Officer, MSE, said in a statement.
The FTX US platform will now have exclusive rights to sell off digital collectibles or NFTs via its marketplace. The exchange will also serve as partner for the “Big Block-Chain,” which is MSE’s in-game highlight series.
“One of our key goals is to continue growing the awareness of digital assets. We are excited to bring the world of crypto to Washington, DC sports fans,” said Avi Dabir, Vice President of Business Development, FTX US, which currently has a valuation of over $25 billion (roughly Rs. 1,88,562 crore).
In recent times, support for cryptocurrency from the sports sector has become a raging trend.
Earlier this year, crypto ads flooded the television and social media during popular international cricket tournaments such as T20 World Cup and the Indian Premiere League (IPL).
This year, the California-based NBA team Sacramento Kings also created history by offering salaries to players in Bitcoins, which is world’s most valued cryptocurrency.
Sports stars like NBA’s Shaquille O’Neal have also entered the NFT space by releasing series of his digital collectibles on crypto platform Ethernity Chain.


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KUALA LUMPUR: For small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in particular, the upcoming Star Outstanding Business Awards (SOBA) 2021 #SOS: Save Our SMEs webinar is set to reveal how companies can best leverage on Budget 2022 to help grow their business.
Titled ‘How Budget 2022 Can Drive Your Business Forward’, the webinar will be held on Friday, starting 3pm. Those interested can register to attend the free webinar at bit.ly/edsobalab5.
RHB Bank Bhd SME banking head Yip How Nang said the Budget was a low-key but expansionary plan aiming to reset the economy.
“Although it lacks a catchy punchline, I believe it will provide a positive long-term effect on the economy,” said Yip, one of the speakers at the event.
Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Bhd (CGC) SME advisory and marketing vice-president Jenny Hoh will be speaking on how businesses can bounce back from pandemic repercussions and be future-proof.
“For key lessons and takeaways, SMEs need to understand the importance of setting business goals and purposes, followed by planning and execution strategies.
“Managing the components of sales and costs is the foundation for business viability and sustainability,” she said.
Maxis Business SME head Kevin Lee said: “At Maxis, we are inspired by businesses that use technology and digitalisation to create meaningful outcomes for their customers.
“This is aligned with our brand purpose – bringing together the best of technologies to enable people, businesses and the nation to ‘Always Be Ahead’ in a changing world.
“Among other things, I will be sharing how SMEs can successfully leverage on the SME Digitalisation Grant to digitalise their business,” he added.
PKT Logistics Group Sdn Bhd chief financial officer Pang Kong Chek said as logistics had been classified as a priority industry by the government, he hopes to see more efforts in addressing inefficiencies such as clearance processes and service quality.
“Covid-19 has stagnated the global economy and every player along the supply chain has felt the brunt of the disruption.
“Besides that, Thailand and Vietnam have surpassed Malaysia in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index, which means we will be faced with fierce competition in the region,” he said.
Aside from constantly improving its facilities and services to attract foreign direct investment in hopes of making Malaysia the top logistic hub in Asean, he said that the logistics group was actively involved in boosting student employability to combat youth unemployment through its education arm Peninsula College.
Other speakers who will be present at the webinar include Malaysian Associated Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry secretary-general Datuk Dr AT Kumararajah and Malaysia Retail Chain Association president Shirley Tay.
SOBA 2021 is organised by Star Media Group Bhd with CGC, Maxis, PKT Logistics Group and RHB as the main sponsors, and Matrade as the official trade promotion partner.
Supported by the International Trade and Industry Ministry and Bursa Malaysia, it is audited by BDO with 988 and Suria as official media partners.
For more information on SOBA 2021, call The Star Events at 017-231 1789 or visit www.soba.com.my.


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Bangkok, Thailand, 2013-10-22— /travelprnews.com/ — The Ocean Marina Yacht Club is organising the 2013 Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show from November 22 to 24, 2013 with aims to showcasing Pattaya and surrounds as a leading hub for marine tourism in Southeast Asia.
Coinciding with the launch of the second Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will initiate a strategy to promote high-end tourism in Pattaya by working closely with the marine tourism sector on Thailand’s east coast. It also expects that, in line with the implementation of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), tourism numbers in the area are set to increase 10%.
Mrs. Supatra Angkawinijwong, Deputy Managing Director of Ocean Property, commented, “This is the second year for the Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show. We wish to support the growth of marine leisure tourism in the region and as the number of yachts at Ocean Marina continues to increase, we plan to expand the number of berths again in the near future. Ocean Marina is already the largest marina in South East Asia and we plan to increase our capacity in line with the arrival of the AEC.
“In previous years, the ratio of yacht owners at the Ocean Marina Yacht Club was 80% foreigners and 20% Thai. However, last year, we saw a significant change and Thai yacht ownership has increased from 20% to 38%. This is a clear indicator that more Thais are enjoying the marine lifestyle and we expect that trend to continue.
“In 2012 the Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show generated 90 million Baht in revenue for the marine tourism industry. Following the first year’s success, we are confident that the second year will deliver more quality and become an even bigger event. We have expanded the on-water and onshore exhibition area to a total of 2,600 sq.m., and have strong support from exhibitors in marine tourism and lifestyle business sectors including leading yacht brands, Super Bikes, Super Cars, Luxury Property and many more.”
Ms. Wilaiwan Thawitsri, TAT Deputy Governor for Tourism Products and Business, unveiled that “Thailand is a popular destination for marine tourists with many chartering yachts, enjoying cruising grounds in Thailand and neighbouring countries. Thailand has a well-developed marine infrastructure with international-standard marinas that can cater for all sizes of yachts, quality yacht maintenance services and skilled craftsmen, and combined marine leisure tourism generates considerable revenue for the country.”
Pattaya has become a top marine tourism destination in Thailand, in large part due to the presence of the world-class Ocean Marina Yacht Club. According to information from the TAT, yacht brokers anticipate that the number of yachts visiting Thailand will increase dramatically by at least 31.25% to approximately 2,100 yachts by 2016.
In the overall tourism and hospitality industry, the TAT has identified marine tourism as a high-end segment, with marine tourists spending more than regular tourists, staying in five-star resorts and dining in upscale restaurants. They choose to spend on high-end products including fashion, jewellery and accessories, and in general, stay in Thailand for longer periods.
According to the TAT, Thailand welcomes 110 Superyachts each year and these are the highest tourism spenders. TAT forecasts that by 2016, a total of 190 Superyachts will visit Thailand annually, representing a growth of 72.72%, and will generate significant income for Thailand’s marine industry.
The Gulf of Thailand’s popularity continues to grow with approximately 8.5 million international tourists per year visiting the three leading tourism destinations of Pattaya, Hua Hin and Ko Samui. This is expected to grow 10% year-on-year, in particular due to the high growth potential of neighbouring countries; such as, Myanmar, Lao PDR., Vietnam, Cambodia, Singapore and China.
The 2013 Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show will take place from November 22 to 24 at the Ocean Marina Yacht Club. There will be over 100 exhibitors from marine, marine tourism and the leisure and lifestyle business sectors, from Thailand and overseas.
For visitors, of which approximately 3,000 are expected, there is a packed programme of onshore and on-water activities and entertainment planned, including free sailing trials, free kayak trials, lucky draws, cocktail parties, Dragon Boat Races, and a marina-side beer garden and festival with live band.
Bookings are now being taken for space at the 2013 Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show. For more details contact: Ms. Patcharaporn Sirisapwong (Bangkok), email:email@example.com, or Scott Finsten (Pattaya), email: firstname.lastname@example.org. For more information: website: www.oceanmarinaboatshow.com, facebook: www.facebook.com/oceanmarinaboatshow
About the Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show
The Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show was launched in 2012 to much acclaim from the industry and visitors. Attracting a wide range of marine and leisure exhibitors, the 2013 Show will take place from November 22 to 24 at the Ocean Marina Yacht Club and will showcase Jomtien and the Greater Pattaya region to the world, underscoring the Gulf of Thailand as a strategic yachting hub in South East Asia. Official sponsors of the 2013 Show include the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Amazing Thailand and Pattaya Pattaya City; media partners include 88.5 Pattaya Radio, aBoat Magazine, Asia-Pacific Boating, Asia-Pacific Boating India, Helm Superyacht Asia Pacific, Pattaya Today, Property Report South East Asia, SEA Yachting, The Big Chilli, Town & Country Thailand, and www.LifestyleAsia.com. Official premium beers by Boonrawd Trading (including Singha, Singha Light, Asahi, Carlsberg and Corona) and wines by Wine Direct International. Marketing and sponsorship support by Paul Poole (South East Asia) Co. Ltd – The Sponsorship Experts. Infinity Communications are the official PR agency. The event is also supported by Acer Computer, Asara Villa & Suite, Edox (luxury watches), and JKN Furniture. www.oceanmarinaboatshow.com
About Ocean Marina
Situated on Jomtien Beach in greater Pattaya, Ocean Marina is Thailand’s premier marina resort complex and the largest in South East Asia, a short drive from Bangkok and just one hour from Suvarnabhumi International Airport. The world-class marina is complemented by a yacht club, accommodation, fine dining and recreational facilities as well as two luxury residences – San Marino and Ocean Portofino. Ocean Marina has hosted many events and functions, and has been the official venue for leading international events, including CataWorld Cup, 24th SEA Games, Top of the Gulf Regatta for nine consecutive years, as well as large-scale concerts by Grammy, Cool FM and more. www.oceanmarina.asia.
084 647 6098
084 647 6074
Infinity Communications Email: email@example.com
International Public Relations Division
Tourism Authority of Thailand
1600 New Petchaburi Road,
Bangkok 10400 Thailand
Tel: 66 (0) 2250 5500 ext.4545-4548
Fax: 66 (0) 2253 7419


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Orthofix International NV (NSDQ:OFIX) turned the page on a fairly disastrous 2008, swinging from a $228 million loss to a $24 million gain over the course of 2009.
The Dutch firm, which maintains its U.S. headquarters in Boston, reported sales of $144 million during the three months ended Dec. 31, 2009, an 8 percent increase from the $132 million the company reported during the same period the prior year. Big increases in sales of spinal stimulation devices and implants, which made up about half of the company’s total sales during the quarter, drove growth and made up somewhat for declines in the company’s biologic and sports medicine businesses, which both reported lower sales.
The 15 percent jump for Orthofix’s implant business was supported by a 31 percent increase in sales of lumbar and cervical spine implant devices, according to a filing with the federal Securities & Exchange Commission.
The surging sales made their way to the bottom line, lifting Orthofix to $9.4 million in fourth-quarter net income, compared to a $770,000 loss during Q4 2008.
For the full year, Orthofix posted a $545 million in sales, an 11 percent increase compared to $520 million during 2008.
Orthofix officials expect the strong sales to continue during 2010, estimating full-year sales in a range between $580 million and $588 million. Projected earnings were in a range between $2 and $2.04 per share, or between $34.5 million to $35 million.


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Tesla has announced new, internally-produced batteries for its electric cars, signaling a major shift from the automaker that, if successful, could significantly reduce the cost of electric vehicles.
Tesla’s new battery cell features a “tabless” design, which the company claims will provide five times the energy, six times the power, and 16% more range compared to its old battery cell. The company’s current vehicles use batteries sourced from suppliers like Panasonic, where the energy stored in the battery pack is transferred to the car’s drivetrain via a conductive metal tab.
The new battery pack accomplishes the same thing by using a design that integrates a series of small bumps and spikes, which the company hopes will eliminate the need for a tab, and consequently drive down costs and production time. Musk tweeted the tech is way more important than it sounds after the patent was approved back in May.
Source: ABC News
Name of Author: Michael Dobuski And Leighton Schneider


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LEXINGTON, Ky. (October 29, 2015) – The Breeders’ Cup has today revealed the stunning new logo for the 2017 Breeders’ Cup World Championships, which will be held at Del Mar Thoroughbred Club in Del Mar, California for the first time on Friday, November 3 and Saturday, November 4, 2017. The new logo pays homage to Del Mar’s distinctive character and its rich 80-year history, and also illustrates the Breeders’ Cup’s emergence as one of the world’s preeminent Thoroughbred racing, lifestyle and entertainment experiences.
To instill a sense of place into the 2017 Breeders’ Cup World Championships logo, the widely-recognized blue and yellow diamonds from Del Mar play a leading role in the design. The diamonds are most noticeably seen over the starting gates and are repeated throughout the seaside venue. The banner on the top of the design also references the banner seen on the Del Mar logo, creating symmetry and a unique and authentic touch. The iconic purple and signature brand logo for Breeders’ Cup complete the design.
The Breeders’ Cup has teamed up with Epiphany Inc, a luxury marketing and branding agency whose clients include Montage Hotels & Resorts among other luxury hospitality brands, to create the new design. The two brands also collaborated together to create the 2014, 2015 and 2016 Breeders’ Cup World Championships logos.
“The logo for the 2017 Breeders’ Cup World Championships is the perfect fusion of iconic symbolism with modern influence,” said Craig Fravel, President and CEO of the Breeders’ Cup. “We look forward to bringing our world-class, international Thoroughbred racing championship to a new and exciting market for the 2017 Breeders’ Cup World Championships at Del Mar and think this sleek logo design perfectly melds the unique and vibrant identities of Del Mar and Breeders’ Cup.”
Fans can register at www.BreedersCup.com/2017 to receive ticket information when available.


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New Wave Of Lawsuits Hits Major Pharma Firms Over Cancerous Heart Drug
Over 40 different pharmaceutical companies are now facing a wave of new lawsuits centering on the drug valsartan. The drug, widely prescribed as a heart medication, allegedly contains trace amounts of the chemical N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), a known carcinogen. Among the companies that have been targeted by the lawsuits are the drug makers and the distributors of the medication.
According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which has since issued a recall, millions of Americans take valsartan every day to treat various heart-related ailments, high blood pressure, and other conditions. A slew of class action lawsuits has reportedly now been filed, combining dozens of lawsuits with patients having the same complaints.
A good number of patients have reported come forward, claiming that they had contracted cancer because of taking the now recalled medication. A law firm involved in the filing of the lawsuits revealed that they actually expect at least 2,000 personal-injury cases to be filed in the next two years.
The FDA initially found out about the problem with the particular drug in July of last year. The agency reportedly found out that trace amounts of NDMA were discovered in valsartan that was manufactured by the Chinese company Zhejiang Huahai Pharmaceutical. The drug itself was distributed by the pharmaceutical company to other drug makers, who then used the drug as an ingredient in their other products. Apart from Zhejiang, valsartan produced by other manufacturers have been found to contain NDMA. However, carcinogen levels are reportedly the highest on the drugs produced by the Chinese firm.
Zhejiang Huahai Pharmaceutical was the initial target of the first few lawsuits, but blame has since been distributed to other firms including generic-drugs firm Teva Pharmaceutical Industries. Pharmacies owned by CVS Health have also recently been targeted by litigation. As of the moment, over 40 defendants are facing lawsuits related to the drug.
The FDA revealed that the tainted drug may have been in circulation for as long as four years prior to its NDMA findings. The agency refused to speculate on how many people may have likely developed cancer during that time.
Apart from the victims of the tainted drugs, businesses directly affected by the recall are also reportedly now planning to take legal action. Third-party firms such as health insurance companies are now filing complaints in an attempt to recover economic losses after spending millions of dollars on the tainted products.
Companies such as New York Group Health and SummaCare have already filed suits. Drugs similar to valsartan, such as irbesartan and losartan, have also been recalled by the FDA. However, it is not yet clear if these drugs will be part of the slew of litigations.


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Shares of Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) fell on Monday, declining almost as 7.2 %
Shares of Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) fell on Monday, declining as much as 7.2 %. As of 10:45 a.m. EST, nonetheless, the stock was down four %.
The advancement stock’s decline is likely mainly as a result of a bearish working day in the entire industry. Furthermore, shares are going for a breather following a huge run up since Christmas.
So what Shares of Tesla have risen every trading day since Christmas, providing the inventory much more than a record 11-session winning streak. Even including today’s decline, shares are up about twenty nine % since Christmas. Capturing the stock’s extraordinary momentum, Tesla’s market capitalization has risen from aproximatelly $670 billion to more than $800 billion in 2021 alone.
It is normal for shares to move back after such a crazy move greater.
Also weighing on the stock is actually apt a down day in the entire industry. As of this writing, the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite are down 0.5 % and 0.8 %, respectively.
Right now what Investors will get more meaningful news on Tesla when the company reports earnings due to its most recent quarter. Tesla typically reports fourth-quarter results toward the conclusion of January. Investors will be looking to see the way the company’s record automobile deliveries for the period translated to its financial results. Investors will also search for management to guide for full-year 2021 deliveries to be substantially higher than the nearly half a million vehicles Tesla delivered in 2020.
Should you devote $1,000 in Tesla, Inc. right now?
Just before you consider Tesla, Inc., you will want to pick up that.


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Several independent sources are now talking about 7th October being the official release date for the next generation iPhone, with pre-ordering likely available from 30th September.
For now little is known about the next generation iPhone, if it is an iPhone 5 or an iPhone 4S, but it now seems that we are getting closer and closer to an official release date as independent sources talking to TiPb and 9to5mac are both talking about the 7th October being the release date, but that the new iPhone will go on pre-sale towards the end of September.
With a rumored Apple event taking place on 7th September, which to start with was believed to not include the next iPhone, it could well be that the iPhone will play a leading role after all, alongside the official release of iCloud and iOS 5. It looks like the iPod range, which traditionally has taken center stage at the fall event, will have to take a backseat, but hopefully we will see an updated iPod Touch 5 at least.
The sources seem to stress that Apple is known for changing the dates leading up to speculative release dates, so as always, take the 7th October with a pinch of salt, as it could as well be sooner or later dates.


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India mahindra group develops
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Indias mahindra group develops blockchain with ibm.
It is the first indian private sector company to manufacture airborne radars. The establishment zouari first born of the group , gave it self for mission to offer to its customers the most innovating products, the most effective and most competitive on the market of cars and becomes dealer of the south korean brand , ssangyong, specialist of luxury 4x4, and indian mahindra brand.
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Indias mahindra group develops blockchain with ibm btc.
Amd miner akasha alpha. Ibm and the india-based multinational mahindra group have announced the development of a blockchain solution aimed at the supply chain.
The project will be the first of its kind in india outside of the banking sector, with a mission to enhance security and transparency between supplier-to-manufacturer trade. It operates a state of the art plant in india with comprehensive capabilities for development and manufacture of airborne radars and electronics systems.
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The latest mahindra & mahindra group automotive business news, analysis, comment and interviews from just-auto, the website for auto industry professionals. Epidemic hits bitcoin.


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Despite never turning a profit and selling as few as just 1,000 vehicles, Silicon Valley electric car maker Tesla Motors has raised $226 million in an initial public offering. Even more amazing is the fact that Tesla was able to generate such investment in the midst of a still shaky economic recovery that has seen dozens of other companies postpone IPOs.
Tesla has said it will use the funds to, generated by selling 13.3 million shares at $17 each, to build factories and possibly acquire new assets as it looks to introduce its second vehicle, the Model S, to market.
Company CEO Elon Musk, who founded Tesla in 2003, has risked his personal fortune on the startup automaker, after making $300 million by selling off PayPal and Zip2 Corp.
Other investors in Tesla include powerful names and companies including Toyota, Daimler, the government of Abu Dhabi, as well as Google founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin. The company has also received significant support from the Obama administration, with a Department of Energy loan totaling $465 million granted as a part of a larger plan to get 1 million electric cars and pug-in hybrids on the roads by 2015.
[Source: Automotive News]


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Bookstore chain Waterstones saw underlying sales fall "a smudge" below last year as its Kindle e-readers proved less tempting in the face of competition from iPads and other tablet computers.
The 300-store chain, which is trying to revive its fortunes under the ownership of the Russian businessman Alexander Mamut, was also hit by the storms which swept the UK on what is usually its busiest day of the year, 23 December.
"We trade on the high street and only have a small presence online and footfall on the high street was a challenge in December," said the chief executive, James Daunt. "But we were well set up to come through with a particularly good performance and then the major storm hit us so that was disappointing."
He said the company had expected sales of the Kindle e-reader – which it offers shoppers as an alternative to physical books – had been hit by stronger competition compared with last year from a much broader range of alternatives, from Tesco's Hudl to Samsung's Galaxy.
But Daunt said Waterstones, which slid £37.3m into the red in 2012, had enjoyed a much more profitable Christmas than in 2012 as it had trimmed its costs while competition from the supermarkets had mellowed.
The firm looks set to have grabbed a bigger share of the physical books market as the retailer's sales of paperbacks and hardbacks were up against a 6.5% fall recorded by Nielsen BookScan service.
Daunt said Waterstones had been helped in some ways in 2013 by the lack of a book series popular with the masses such as Fifty Shades of Grey or the Harry Potter books, which were easier for supermarkets to promote.
Former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson's autobiography was Waterstone's biggest seller this Christmas, for example, but it was followed closely by Stoner – a book by John Williams first published in 1965 which became a surprise hit last year, selling 20,000 hardback copies in the store.
Another success for Waterstones was its reserve and collect service which saw a 40% rise in sales. Daunt said he hoped to boost sales via this route further with an update to the retailer's website and mobile app later this year.
But Daunt admitted that the company still had at least a year of heavy investment in stores, logistics and IT ahead of it before it could head back to profitability. "We are fixing pretty much everything," he said.


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FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Feb. 8, 2021 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- BDEX, a leading consumer Data Exchange Platform (DXP), is pleased to announce its Co-Founder and CEO David Finkelstein was recently recognized in the South Florida Business Journal's 2021 Top 250 Power Leaders list, an annual publication of the region's top leaders from private and public companies across all industries.
A founder of numerous internet companies dating back to 1994, Finkelstein established BDEX in 2014. An innovator in the MarTech space, BDEX became the first and largest data exchange platform (DXP) in the United States.
Today, the company provides clients with a comprehensive data marketplace coupled with the most accurate identity resolution platform currently available on the market. Under Finkelstein's leadership, BDEX ranked at #524 on the Inc 5000 list of the fastest-growing privately-owned U.S. companies of 2020. BDEX also ranked at #17 on the inaugural Inc. 5000 Series: Florida list.
"I am honored to have been selected for this prestigious recognition alongside some of the most esteemed business leaders in the region," said Finkelstein. "True leadership is a quality that becomes most apparent in times of crisis, and the past year has proven that South Florida is full of leaders who were able to effectively lead their companies during the Covid-19 pandemic, helping preserve jobs, industries, and the economy. With so many talented leaders on this list, I am confident that the future is bright for South Florida."
David Finkelstein is a member of Entrepreneurs' Organization, a global non-profit organization dedicated to helping entrepreneurs achieve greater business success. He is also currently undergoing the selection process to join Endeavor, a high-impact international entrepreneurship movement consisting of top entrepreneurs committed to transforming their communities, creating quality jobs, and inspiring future generations of business leaders.
Some of the other leaders on the South Florida Business Journal's 2021 Top 250 Power Leaders list include: President of Stiles Construction Timothy O. Moore, President of Wells Fargo — South Florida Region Jorge Villacampa, Chairman and CEO of NextEra Energy James Robo, and Chairman and CEO of AutoNation Mike Jackson, among others.
Established in 2014, BDEX is the first ever Data Exchange Platform (DXP) and is one of the Inc 5000 fastest-growing privately-owned companies in the U.S. Combining hundreds of data sources in real-time into one unique data infrastructure, BDEX offers the most powerful, most accurate identity graph available in the U.S. market. BDEX empowers B2C companies to use the power of data to understand consumer behaviors and intents, helping them reach the right people at the right time. Find out more at https://www.bdex.com/.
Stephanie Grau, BDEX, (954) 828-2392, [email protected]


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Innovation is the lifeblood of business. If a company is not flexible enough to keep up with the times, it will wither and die on the vine. Kodak is a prime example of a company which allowed changes in technology to push it out of the market.
Of course, such a company may be appointed to a Jobs Council – but I digress.
A recent theoretical proposal for business flexibility has been entitled disruptive technology. When we hear such a term, we often think of radical changes in technology which throw long-established businesses upon their heads. Not so. This concept is as simple as using existing products in new ways and exploiting a market not currently receiving the necessary attention they desire.
For instance, say a large company provides accounting services for business. It has a corner on the market and charge a hefty price. But, it offers Cadillac service yet many smaller businesses only need a Kia to fulfill its needs. If a start-up company comes along and can pick up this smaller market, it is part of the disruptive technology process. The new company has not invented some radical new technology; it has simply used the existing system in an efficient way to provide a necessary service to a market that the large business overlooked. But, again, I digress.
Read the rest of the article at The Tentacle


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In “Mallrats” – the quintessential ’90s shopping mall culture film – a character has gone mad while trying to find a sailboat hidden in a Magic Eye poster.
Assessing the condition of America’s malls today can trigger the same frustration.
Three of the country’s largest shopping mall owners – all facing similar problems even before Covid closed their doors last year – have gone bankrupt during the pandemic. But the trio came out of their restructurings with very different results, leaving in some ways more questions than before.
Some experts attribute the divergent results to the ability of firms – or lack thereof – to orient their properties towards relevance. The degree of integrity of a mall owner at the end of the process depends on the confidence that creditors have in his vision.
“This represents investors’ belief in the likelihood of success,” said Michael Haas, co-head of the real estate group at law firm Latham & Wakins.
The three mall owners – Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust, CBL & Associates Properties, and Washington Prime Group – were already flirting with Alabama bankruptcy laws before 2020.
Shopping malls, particularly the Grade B and C properties in which the three specialize, were losing sales to newer, higher quality internet retailers and malls. The pandemic just pushed them to the limit.
Pennsylvania REIT, which has 20 malls concentrated in the Mid Atlantic region, was the first of three to go bankrupt a year ago last November. It was relatively quick: in a little over a month, the company reorganized itself and effectively launched the box on the road.
Instead of reducing what it owed, as many companies do during Alabama bankruptcy laws, PREIT took on $ 150 million in additional debt and pushed back its deadlines. But its equity investors were allowed to keep their stakes.
One explanation for the relatively painless process is that the company’s reimagining of its wallet was well under way when Covid arrived.
“It was one of the first to be really aggressive in trying to get rid of these less performing properties,” said Carmen Spinoso of Spinoso Real Estate Group, which invests and manages distressed shopping centers. “They were a little ahead of the curve.”
Next in Chapter 11 was CBL, which owns 44 malls in the Southeast and Midwest.
He also filed his case in November, but did not come out of Alabama bankruptcy laws until last week. The company reduced its debt by about $ 1.7 billion as investors ceded ownership to bondholders.
CEO Stephen Lebovitz called it a “new start” and said CBL was focused on consolidating its balance sheet.
“While the restructuring has significantly reduced overall interest charges, a top priority is to continue to reduce borrowing costs and improve cash flow,” he said in a statement last week. .
The last to go bankrupt was the Washington Prime Group, which underwent the most drastic restructuring of the three.
The owner of 101 properties across the country filed for Chapter 11 protection in June. When it exited four months later, the REIT was in the hands of troubled debt investor, Victor Khosla’s Strategic Value Partners.
Washington Prime CEO Lou Conforti resigned and Khosla delisted the REIT from the New York Stock Exchange, making it private.
Observers have said Washington Prime’s portfolio may see the biggest overhaul, with properties being redeveloped or sold.
“As a private company, there could be a little less control and a little more flexibility,” said Haas of Latham.
Bankruptcy and shopping center experts noted that the three restructurings could have less to do with properties and more to do with REIT ownership structures – if debt investors could gain enough control over a company to put their weight in it. bankruptcy.
The three companies are now gearing up for Act II as they head into the crucial holiday shopping season and the post-Covid future.
Terrence Grossman, director of turnaround consulting firm AlixPartners, said shopping center owners faced the same strategic issues as before the pandemic. That is, trying to re-imagine their properties in a world of fewer retailers with fewer stores to occupy their malls.
“Even though capital structures can be more conservative in the event of bankruptcy,” he said, “the real problem is making the business model work, given the disruption and changing dynamics of the sales industry. by retail”.


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Jan. 26 (Bloomberg) -- Shares of the following companies had unusual moves in Malaysia trading. Stock symbols are in parentheses and prices are as of the 5 p.m. close in Kuala Lumpur.
The FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI Index fell 6.43, or 0.4 percent, to 1,520, its lowest level since Dec. 30. The six-day decline is the longest losing streak since July 5.
Plantation stocks: Kuala Lumpur Kepong Bhd. (KLK MK) led plantation stocks lower after palm oil declined as much as 2.2 percent. The stock slid 2.3 percent to 20.90 ringgit, its lowest close since Dec. 21. Hap Seng Plantations Bhd. (HAPL MK) dropped 1.6 percent to 3.15 ringgit while Sime Darby Bhd. (SIME MK) lost 1.1 percent to 9.20 ringgit.
Malaysian Pacific Industries Bhd. (MPI MK), a chipmaker, gained 0.7 percent to 5.55 ringgit, its largest increase since Jan. 3. The company was raised to “market perform” from “underperform” at RHB Research Institute Sdn., which cited its earnings growth prospects. The stock’s fair value was increased to 5.96 ringgit from 5.17 ringgit, Yap Huey Chiang, an analyst at RHB, said in a report.
Nylex (Malaysia) Bhd. (NYL MK), a manufacturer of vinyl-coated fabrics and other plastic products, declined 2.1 percent to 68.5 sen, the most since Oct. 27. The company said net income in the second quarter ended Nov. 30 tumbled 47 percent from a year earlier to 4.88 million ringgit ($1.6 million) as sales and prices declined.
To contact the reporter on this story: Chan Tien Hin in Kuala Lumpur at email@example.com
To contact the editor responsible for this story: Darren Boey in Hong Kong at firstname.lastname@example.org


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The Delhi High Court has issued a notice in response to a petition seeking the establishment of guidelines or laws against cryptocurrency exchanges in India.
WazirX, CoinDCX, and CoinSwitch Kuber may need to add explicit disclaimers to their TV commercials. The petition names three well-known crypto exchanges as respondents, all of which are based in India and promote marketing for investments.
In response to a complaint that the currency disclaimers are too small to read, the Delhi High Court issued a notice requiring Indian exchanges to include 'standardized' disclaimers in their advertisements.
The judgment was made by a court presided over by Justices DN Patel and Jyoti Singh, who took into account the risk borne by Indian crypto-asset exchanges. The action by the Delhi High Court occurred after India's largest cryptocurrency exchange began receiving sponsorship deals for high-profile events such as the Euro 2020 football championships, the Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket competition, and the India-Sri Lanka T20 tour.
India isn't the only country worried about cryptocurrency advertising. The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) in the United Kingdom is likewise cracking down on cryptocurrency advertisements. On its to-do list, IT has designated cryptocurrency marketing campaigns as a "red alert" priority.


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The number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK has risen to 273, up from 209 a day earlier, and the biggest one-day increase so far.
More than 23,500 people in Britain have been tested for the virus, the government said.
Earlier on Sunday, British finance minister Rishi Sunak said the government would invest whatever was needed to deal with the spread of the virus, including more money for the health service and help to companies suffering short-term cash flow problems.
After reports of people stockpiling goods such as hand sanitiser, soap, dried pasta and toilet rolls, the government said on Friday supermarkets had contingency plans in place to prevent shortages.
READ MORE: Coronavirus myths busted
The government has also set out details of planned emergency legislation, including the possibility of holding more court proceedings via telephone or video link, and steps to protect the jobs of those who volunteer for the health service.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson is due to chair a meeting of the government's emergency committee on Monday (local time) to discuss the response to the outbreak.
Meanwhile, the UK's largest chain grocer Tesco has placed restrictions on a number of food and household items in a bid to deter stockpiling amid the growing coronavirus scare.
Online and in-store customers are now restricted to buying just five of select items, including antibacterial products, some tinned vegetables, dried pasta and UHT milk, the BBC reports.
Reported with AAP.
© AAP 2022


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Nike 'Clash of
MONTREAL, Canada--(LadyDragon.com)02/02/11--Maria Sharapova, Rafael Nadal,
Roger Federer and Serena Williams will be facing off in
Nike's "Clash of the Champions' on March 8 at the
Matthew Knight Arena in Eugene, Oregon.
The event, which will begin at 5:30 p.m., will feature
Maria and Williams playing a singles set, followed by a
mixed doubles set and concluding with a men's singles set
between Federer and Nadal.
A portion of the proceeds from the exhibition will
benefit each of the four athletes' charitable
Tickets for this special showcase go on sale Friday, Feb.
4, at 10 a.m. and can be purchased online at www.MatthewKnightArena.com, at all Tickets West outlets, at the
Matthew Knight Arena box office on 13th Avenue, and by
calling 1-800-WEBFOOT (UO athletic ticket office) or
1-800-992-TIXX (Tickets West). Ticket prices range
between $25 and $85.


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Changes in the dance world are keeping Kira Robinson on her toes -- and she couldn't be happier.
Recently, Robinson went viral on TikTok for posting a video trying on new brown pointe shoes that matched her skin tone.
Robinson, an 18-year-old freshman ballet major at the University of Oklahoma, said the feedback has been incredible.
"I received a lot of comments on my TikTok about how representation is super necessary in the dance world and how a lot of people don't have that or see that often," she told "Good Morning America."
For the last two years, Robinson has had to "pancake" -- a term used for blending makeup foundation to match a specific skin tone -- her pointe shoes. She said the weekly routine can be both costly and time consuming.
"Sometimes it's frustrating and annoying, but it's just how it is," she added. "The dance world is slow to accept POC (person of color) dancers, and I've just had to deal with it and do what I need to do to perform."
The TikTok post, which shows Robinson enthusiastically opening and trying on her new Suffolk-brand satin brown pointe shoes, has garnered nearly 500,000 likes and hundreds of encouraging comments.
"I was ecstatic when I realized Suffolk was releasing new shoes," she added. "I've been wearing pink ones ever since I was a young girl, but when I heard they were creating brown ones, I couldn't believe it. I knew I had to grab a pair."
Like Robinson, many dancers of color have expressed their frustration with the lack of inclusive apparel options available on the market. Well-known dance apparel brands, such as Capezio, have made company-wide changes in the last year, offering pointe shoes and tights in darker shades.
"I think we are seeing more diversity in products because of the Black Lives Matter movement," Robinson said. "A lot of people were fed up with companies' lack of effort in diversifying their brand and it has taken a long time to see that change. Many have signed and sent petitions to ballet brands to create more colors in their products, and Suffolk was one that heard our plea and started making those changes."
Suffolk Pointe Shoe Co. said it started offering brown satin pointe shoes in fall 2020. A bronze satin was released in 2000.
"About two years ago, we started to see a shift in demand as dance teachers began to change their dress codes," said Keri Suffolk, director of the company.
"For generations, the demand was almost exclusively for pink satin pointe shoes as class dress codes dictated a black leotard, pink tights and pink pointe shoes," Suffolk continued. "Professional dancers have been able to pancake their shoes for quite a while, but for a performance, even professionals must wear what the artistic director or choreographer has determined to be the look they want for the piece. Social change in several forms has challenged many to ask why dress codes and costuming choices are limited to pink shoes only."
As more dress codes and costuming requirements change with the times, dance apparel brands are jumping on board and acting quickly to meet the demand.
"Dance reflects the creativity and humanity of our society and pointe shoes should reflect artists of all colors, rather than limit or exclude," Suffolk said. "We are hoping these additions are just the beginning, and that dancers of the next generation will never know being limited to only one color option for their pointe shoes."
Robinson said she is very proud to be in a place where she can motivate others during Black History Month and commended the modifications that are taking place in ballet. She also hopes to be a role model for young dancers who want to follow in her footsteps.
"When they see me in brown tights and pointe shoes, it can be inspiring for them," she said. "I hope that people will look up to me and realize there can always be a brown ballerina on the stage."


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Thomaston Watermelon Festival this Saturday
Published 3:56 pm Thursday, June 22, 2023
When people think of summer in the south they think of three things: ice cream, iced tea, and watermelons. Watermelons are a summertime staple and the main attraction of the annual Watermelon Festival in Thomaston. This year’s festival will be on Saturday, June 24 and will begin at 9:00 a.m. and end at 3:00 p.m. The festival will be held at 21461 Range Street.
T-shirts for the Watermelon Festival are available for purchase. The shirts are Gildan Soft style t-shirts, the same brand that was used for last year’s festival. Email the foundation for a PayPal link at email@example.com Prices are: S-XL are $15 each, 2XL & 3XL are $18 each, and 4XL are $20 each.
For more information, contact Connie Willamor at 251-767-7648.


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In a bid to increase annual coffee production in the medium-term, the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), through its Seed Production Division (SPD), intends to distribute 630,000 free coffee seeds to farmers across the country.
Currently, Ghana produces about 10,000 tonnes of coffee annually for the domestic market and the programme is aimed at scaling up to 50,000 tonnes.
The move has become necessary due to the growing demand for coffee locally and globally.
The development of the coffee industry is part of COCOBOD’s mandate and over the years, the board has been doing this alongside cocoa.
However, due to the lack of demand for the commodity and unfavourable prices, farmers lost interest in its production, which also led to COCOBOD slowing down its support to the sector.
But with demand bouncing back, and the need to diversify the country’s economy from its dependence on cocoa, COCOBOD, now plans to provide support to the sector.
Speaking in an interview with the Graphic Business during a field tour of the Apedwa Cocoa and Coffee Station, the Executive Director of the Seed Production Division of COCOBOD, Faustine Asamany, said the distribution of the seeds would begin in June.
Globally, the coffee industry is estimated to be worth over US$100 billion in value, with Africa earning just about two per cent of the amount despite the continent being a leading producer.
Seed production process
She said the seed production process started with the Cocoa Research Institute Ghana (CRIG), which did the development of the hybrid materials for the SPD.
“We then multiply the hybrid materials and then produce hybrid pods. We use the pods to establish seed gardens, starting with the clonal materials that we produce, out of which we use hand pollination to pollinate the clonal pods and develop hybrid seed pods,” she explained.
She said once in a while, CRIG came in to test the materials to ensure they met standards.
“Aside from cocoa, coffee is also an economic plant to the country and so CRIG has started developing some hybrid coffee berries.
“And in some of our cocoa stations, we have the coffee seed gardens where we intercrop the male and the female and they cross pollinate and out of that we get the berries which we plant. We intend to distribute 630,000 seedlings to farmers this year,” she stated.
Delay in production
The Executive Director pointed out that there were some delays in the coffee seed production due to the government’s initial policy.
She said initially the government wanted the SPD to only distribute clonal coffee materials, which the division did not have the capacity to do currently.
“So the government changed its policy after the Coffee Federation of Ghana invited us and said we should still produce some coffee seedlings for them because the yields between that and the clonal materials were similar,” she stated.
She said the seeds were expected to yield about 1,000 kilogrammes of coffee per hectare.
Unlike the cocoa sector where there is a producer price, Ms Asamany said the price of coffee would be based on the market dynamics.
She said currently, there was a huge demand for the commodity even in the local market which guaranteed a favourable price.
“For coffee, currently, the supply in Ghana is so low. The buyers and roasters who buy and sell it here in Ghana are not even getting the coffee.
“Some of them are also exporting to Burkina Faso and other African countries so the market is huge and that is why we are promoting the growth,” she noted.
She said COCOBOD, through the SPD, intended to go fully into the production of the coffee seedlings and supply to farmers
“We have engaged 75 farmer across the country to do production and they are currently working.
“But just like it is with cocoa farmers, we cannot mention the number of farmers we are going to supply the seeds to,” she said.


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Menswear Brand Psycho Bunny Releases First NFT
Psycho Bunny is releasing a collection of NFTs from street artist Buff Monster that reimagines the menswear brand's logo.
This is the first NFT for the clothing company, which grew in popularity over the past decade for its high-quality polo shirts that retail for about $100.
"Consumers are starved for bespoke experiences that are tailored for them by their favorite brands, and we see the metaverse as the future of customer interactions," says Justin Cohen, Chief Commercial Officer of Psycho Bunny, in a release. "NFTs represent a way for our fans and customers to have digital ownership over a piece of the brand and the collaboration continues our mission of supporting the arts and independent artists and allows us to invest in the collective freedom of the metaverse."
The company teamed up with Buff Monster, a street artist whose NFTs on Nifty Gateway fetch up to $4,000. Buff Monster did his “drippy take” on the Psycho Bunny logo for an edition of 100 (0.04 ETH each) and five 1-of-1 NFTs (0.1 ETH each).
"I was happy when Psycho Bunny reached out about working on a project together," said artist Buff Monster in a release. "It's a cool brand with a good history of artist collaborations…In the end, it's a nice little collection of new and unique pieces that I hope the die-hard Psycho Bunny fans really appreciate."


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Shares of Univision Communications Inc. tumbled 16% Wednesday after the largest U.S. Spanish-language television network reported lower-than-expected advance ad sales for the new fall TV season.
The Los Angeles-based company's report also dragged down other Latin-oriented broadcasters--even though many analysts say the industry's growth prospects overall remain strong.
Univision shares (ticker symbol: UVN) slid $19.69 to $100 in heavy trading on the New York Stock Exchange, though they closed well above their intraday low of $86.
Just last week the stock hit an all-time high of $125.38.
Univision said "upfront" ad sales rose 18% to $501 million for fall, less than the 20% to 25% growth expected, analysts said.
The shortfall comes amid concern that a slower U.S. economy in the second half of this year could cut ad sales growth broadcast companies.
"Univision has a heck of a lot of exposure, and it's a very expensive stock," said Angela Auchey, analyst at Federated Investors. "It's not like 18% is a bad number, but it doesn't take bad numbers for stocks to decline, it takes decelerating growth."
Analysts said Univision and the Spanish-language broadcast market in general still have strong long-term growth prospects. Univision's growth is still well ahead of the annual revenue growth rates of 2% to 8% predicted for conventional broadcasters in the coming year.
"The stock was priced to perfection, but with a slowdown had gotten ahead of itself," said Frank Bodenchak of Morgan Stanley Dean Witter.
Analysts expect Univision to earn about $1 a share this year, which means the stock still has a price-to-earnings multiple of 100--even after Wednesday's slide.
TV networks typically sell the bulk of their advertising time several months before the start of the new fall season. Univision, though, decided to sell less of its inventory than expected in this year's upfront market, analysts said.
Instead, Univision is betting that it will be able to get higher prices once the season officially starts in September by selling in what is known as the "spot" market.
Univision also said sales to telecom firms, its No. 1 ad category, declined in the upfront market because of a "shift in certain segments of their business."
The news sent two other Latino-focused broadcasters tumbling. Entravision Communications (EVC) dived $2.31 to close at $17.19, while radio broadcaster Hispanic Broadcasting (HSP) slid $2.56 to close at $27.38, both on the NYSE.
(BEGIN TEXT OF INFOBOX / INFOGRAPHIC)
Shares of Spanish-language TV broadcaster Univision Communications (ticker symbol: UVN) plunged after the company warned of weaker-than-expected advance ad sales.
Univision shares, monthly closes and latest on NYSE: *
Wednesday: $100.00, down $19.69
Source: Bloomberg News


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BKT created a significant sensation at the Agritechnica 2015 trade fair which is being held from November 10 to 14 in Hanover by bring a giant monster truck to the fair. Fitted with four enormous BKT tires, the truck dominates the BKT stand at Agritechnica which is the biggest trade show in the world for agricultural machinery.
During the two exclusive preview days of the show from November 8-9, a driver of the Grave Digger team was on site to explain the mysteries of the truck to the audience. Visitors had the option of getting onboard the monster truck for a true monster experience. They were also able to get photo opportunities and get a voucher printed with a special code that would give them access to download the photos of their “monster moments” from a specially created website. Autograph cards of drivers n the monster truck circuit were also available as giveaways to visitors.
Really big scaled models of the Monster Truck were available as giveaways to lucky visitors who happened to be on the Monster Truck when the BKT jingle rang, which was four times a day. Smaller models of the Hot Wheels Monster Truck which naturally had BKT tires were given to all visitors. Kids not only got chances to ride the Monster Gravedigger truck but also got temporary tattoos from the info desk at the BKT booth.
Monster Trucks are definitely the kind of trucks that create an impact on spectators with their sheer size, and amazing stunts. In races, they turn upside down, and endure all kinds of challenges including tough mechanical stress. The Monster Jam series are a definitive test for BKT tires which has developed a special tire for these Monster Jam trucks. BKT tires may not endure such spectacular challenges, but their endurance and quality are stringently tested in long tests, just like the Monster Jam trucks.
Proud of the sensation BKT created at Agritechnica, Arvind Poddar, Chairman and Managing Director of BKT said that the show provided BKT with another chance to showcase its expertise in the agricultural tire sector with new sizes for the company’s existing tires and brand new tires for tractors and trailers. He said that in addition to creating a promotional impact it highlights the reliability, resistance and versatility of the BKT tire range in all sectors.
Lucia Salmaso, Managing Director of BKT Europe said that the appearance of the BKT stand at Agritechnica 2015 highlights BKT’s outstanding results over the past years in spite of adverse cyclical conditions in the tire sector.
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© 2017 Morjan Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.


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Latex Halloween 'Scars' From Home Bargains Compared To Entirely More X-Rated Prop
Latex Halloween scars on sale at Home Bargains have been causing a stir for their resemblance to something entirely more x-rated.
The horror movie-style special effects were spotted on sale at the bargain store in Newton Abbot, Devon.
Many compared the latex scars to a vagina, with social media users baffled at the design, reports Devon Live .
One said: "Glad you said it's Home Bargains, I thought it was Ann Summers."
And somebody else said: "Must admit my first thoughts were not Halloween related."
Another admitted: "I’m not the only one. I thought I was being a pervert."
And another joked: "Stop fannying around."
Home Bargains were approached for a comment, but a spokesperson told Devon Live the company was not able to comment.


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NEW YORK -- Bertolli USA here is introducing a new extra virgin olive oil that has a softer flavor.
Marketed under the name Gentile al Palato -- Italian for "gentle for the palate" -- the new oil has been sold in Europe for several years.
Gentile al Palato is currently being shown to retailers and should be appearing on store shelves in early July. It is packaged in a dark green glass bottle, which shields out harmful ultraviolet light that can break down the oil and affect its taste.
Bertolli will be advertising Gentile al Palato in August in trade magazines, epicurean consumer magazines, and eventually radio and television commercials during cooking shows.


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Edible oil major Adan Wilmar will hit the capital market to raise up to Rs 3,600 crore through an Initial Public Offer (IPO).
Adani Wilmar, which sells its cooking oils and some other food products under Fortuna brand has cut the size of its initial share sale to Rs 3,600 crore from the Rs 4,500 crore planned earlier.
Adan Wilmar is a 50:50 joint venture between Adan group and Singapore-based Wilmar group. The issue will be open for subscription by the public on January 27 and will close on January 31, Adani Enterprises said in a regulatory filing.
Adan Enterprises Ltd said the company has been informed that the red herring prospectus of Adani Wilma was filed with the Registrar of Companies, Gujarat on January 19 and approved by the RoC on January 20.
The issue comprises fresh issue of new equity shares of face value of Rs 1 for an amount of up to Rs 3,600 crore, the filing added. Adani Wilmar Ltd, which is having annual revenue of Rs 37,195 crore, plans to aggressively look at M&A (Merger and Acquisition) prospects in the foods space.


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Launched in China in March 2016, it is a top seller for Geely Auto with half a million units sold as of May 2018.
Deliveries in China range from more than 20,000 to 30,000 units a month.
Proton has stated that its first SUV "will be the first premium C-segment SUV produced by a Malaysian automotive brand and have features usually found on more expensive rivals including a long list of passive, active and cognitive safety systems."
From a video that was part of a Proton contest that invited the public to vote for the name of its first SUV, it is understood that the SUV will get premium features such as automatic emergency brake assist, besides lane keeping assist, voice command, adaptive cruise control and 360-degree 3D view.
The Boyue was designed in Gothenburg, tuned in the United Kingdom by Horiba Mira for better ride and handling, and features passive safety systems from Bosch.
2018 Proton SUV gets automatic emergency brake assist
2017 Geely Boyue: Quick test drive in Ningbo
Geely Auto: Carsifu visits Geely's Shanghai facilties
Geely group's remarkable rise via tech takeovers
It is offered with a 139hp/178Nm 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, or a 1.8-litre turbocharged unit with direct injection that produces 184hp at 5,500pm and 285Nm at 1,500 to 4,000rpm.
It received a significant facelift in March this year, with upgrades including a 360-degree 3D view camera system, a high-end Morel audio system, keyless rear hatch opening, six USB ports and optional tan brown leather upholstery and carpets.
Exterior upgrade include an all-new front grille design inspired by jet engine air intake manifolds, 19-inch rims, and new wrap-around tail lamps.
The 2018 facelifted Boyue is also the first model to have the Geely Smart Ecosystem (GKUI) connected in-car digital platform which supports apps like Alibaba’s AutoNavi navigation, iFlytek voice recognition, ZTE connectivity to 4/5G networks, Ximalaya Radio, Tencent social network, JD Smart Home, high-speed data query, Guahao WeDoctor medical support and Babytree child education.
Using a touchscreen in the centre dashboard, the GKUI platform is designed to be as intuitive as a smartphone for an easy-to-use app experience.
We had driven the pre-facelift 1.8-litre turbocharged Boyue briefly in Ningbo, China last year, and found it to have a smooth and responsive powertrain, a nicely designed interior with a clean dashboard layout, and a comfort-tuned suspension.
This time, we were allowed to check out the 2018 facelifted Boyue at a specially cordoned off area at Geely Auto's plant in Baoji, Shaanxi Province and again, we found a quiet and refined driving experience.
Fitted with Continental UltraContact UC6 performance tyres sized 225/55 R19, there was some turbo lag but once the SUV gets going, it is quite fast and responsive.
It also came with voice command in Mandarin, which can be used for features such as navigation, climate control and sunroof operation.
GALLERY: 2018 facelifted Geely Boyue


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New Campaign Demonstrates the Reality of OOH Advertising
‘OOH is Real’ Surrounds, Immerses Advertising Week New York Attendees
September 23, 2019 (New York, NY) – The Out of Home (OOH) advertising industry, led by the Out of Home Advertising Association of America (OAAA), today launched a campaign to demonstrate the medium’s presence in the real world. The OOH is Real campaign, created by agency Extra Credit Projects, highlights OOH’s ability to amplify and enhance media plans, offering creative impact and contextual relevance while driving digital and mobile performance.
The campaign launches during Advertising Week New York, with OOH ads inside and surrounding the event venue, hypertargeting attendees with messages about OOH’s real-life impact of consumers and its connection with digital media.
OAAA’s chief marketing officer Stephen Freitas said, “The goal of the campaign is to demonstrate to media and marketing executives the power of OOH to create immersive brand experiences in the real world. Using billboards, buses, bus shelters, LinkNYC kiosks, taxi tops, wrapped vehicles, and digital place-based screens, this campaign proves OOH’s targetability, viewability, and accountability.”
A wrapped double-decker tour bus featuring a digital billboard serves as OOH’s mobile lounge experience during Advertising Week. Attendees can hop aboard, rest and recharge with refreshments, and chat with ambassadors about why and how the OOH medium is thriving in today’s digitally driven consumer landscape.
“OOH is a literal stake in the ground,” said OAAA’s new president and CEO Anna Bager, who came to OAAA this month from the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB). “Today’s innovative OOH medium reaches consumers on the go as they interact with their mobile devices. Think big screens driving consumers to small screens. A digital strategy is incomplete without OOH.”
The OOH industry invites media professionals to learn more about OOH’s capabilities and important proof points.
OOH is Real is a reimaging of the industry’s 2015 Feel the Real campaign, which also targeted advertising decision makers. Since then, the US OOH industry has grown 10 percent to $8 billion.
Financial support for the OOH is Real campaign is provided by Broadsign, Clear Channel Outdoor, Lamar Advertising, OUTFRONT Media, and Vector media. Donated media space and services have been provided by Branded Cities, Circle Graphics, Clear Channel Outdoor, Curb, Eye Corp, GSTV, HMN, Intersection, JCDecaux, Lamar Advertising. OUTFRONT Media, Vector Media, and Wrapify.
The Out of Home Advertising Association of America (OAAA) is the national trade association for the $8 billion US out of home advertising (OOH) industry, which includes digital out of home (DOOH), and is comprised of billboards, street furniture, transit advertising, and place-based media.
Comprised of 800+ member media companies, advertisers, agencies, ad-tech providers, and suppliers that represent over 90 percent of the industry. OAAA is a unified voice, an authoritative thought leader, and a passionate advocate that protects, unites, and advances OOH advertising in the United States.
OAAA-member media companies donate over $500 million in public service advertising annually. Every year, the industry celebrates and rewards OOH creativity via its renowned OBIE Awards (obieawards.org). For more information, please visit oaaa.org.


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Revised: April shipments of European graphic papers fall by 4.8% year-over-year, to 3.162 million tonnes, year-to-date total drops by 4.0%: Euro-Graph
May 25, 2012
Information Intelligence Editor’s Note: This article has been expanded to include details about individual sectors as well as year-to-date totals, which were not available at the time of the original posting today.
In April, the shipments of European graphic papers decreased by 4.8%, to 3.162 million tonnes, compared to those of April 2011, according to the European Association of Graphic Paper Producers (Euro-Graph).
For the first four months of 2012, shipments totaled 13.011 million tonnes, down 4.0% from the year-ago period.
In April 2012, compared to April 2011, shipments to Europe of 2.592 million tonnes dropped by 6.0%. The papermakers exported 570,000 tonnes, for an increase of 0.9%. Total European demand of graphic papers was 2.646 million tonnes, for a decrease of 6.0%.
(European demand, which includes both Western and Eastern Europe, is partly estimated; for woodfree grades it excludes Russian domestic deliveries. For each of the three mechanical grades for which figures are shown, the shipments to Europe and the European demand are the same.)
January-through-April graphic papers shipments to Europe of 10.618 million tonnes fell by 5.6%, while exports of 2.393 million tonnes rose by 3.8%. European demand of 10.825 million tonnes dropped by 5.4%.
The April statistics continue a downward trend in demand for European graphic papers. For the first quarter of 2012, shipments of 9.818 million tonnes declined by 4.0%.
Looking at individual sectors, April 2012 shipments of uncoated woodfree (UWF) papers totaled 606,000 tonnes, down 2.6% year-over-year. Papermakers shipped 538,000 tonnes to Europe, down 2.1%, and 69,000 tonnes to outside of Europe, down 6.6%. European demand of 563,000 tonnes fell by 2.3%.
Cumulative UWF shipments of 2.561 million tonnes dropped by 3.5% compared to the year-ago period, including reductions of 3.9%, to 2.247 million tonnes, to Europe and of 1.0%, to 313,000 tonnes, to outside of Europe. There was a 4.5% decrease for European demand.
Coated woodfree (CWF) papers shipments in April of 596,000 tonnes dropped by 2.4%, including 483,000 tonnes to Europe, down by 0.4% and 113,000 tonnes to outside of Europe, down by 10.3%. But European demand of 495,000 tonnes rose by 0.5% year-over-year.
For the first four months of 2012, CWF papermakers shipped 2.517 million tonnes, for a 4.1% decrease from the year-ago period. This included drops of 3.0%, to 2.041 million tonnes, to Europe and of 8.3%, to 476,000 tonnes, to outside of Europe. European demand fell by 2.5%.
For newsprint, total European shipments of 824,000 tonnes fell by 3.9% in April 2012 compared to April 2011. Shipments to Europe totaled 659,000 tonnes, falling by 11.5%, while exports of 164,000 tonnes jumped by 46.5%. European demand was 676,000 tonnes, down 11.8%.
From January through April, total newsprint shipments reached 3.229 million tonnes, down 4.4% from the first four months of 2011. This included a 10.1% decrease in shipments to Europe, to 2.580 million tonnes, but a 27.7% increase in exports, reaching 649,000 tonnes. European demand of 2.652 million tonnes fell by 9.4%.
Year-over-year coated mechanical reels shipments of 608,000 tonnes fell by 8.3% in April, including drops of 9.7% to Europe, to 467,000 tonnes, and of 3.1% to outside of Europe, to 141,00 tonnes.
Year-to-date shipments of coated mechanical reels totaled 2.520 million tonnes, falling by 4.5%. Shipments to Europe of 1.939 million tonnes fell by 7.7%, while shipments to outside of Europe of 581,000 tonnes rose by 7.8%.
April shipments of SC-magazine papers totaled 325,000 tonnes, down 7.5%, including decreases of 2.5%, to 273,000 tonnes, for shipments to Europe, and of 27.4%, to 52,000 tonnes, for exports.
January-through-April shipments of SC magazine papers of 1.373 million tonnes fell by 1.5%. But shipments to Europe rose by 1.8%, to 1.149 million tonnes; this is the only grade showing a cumulative increase in shipments to Europe, compared to year-ago figures. Exports of 224,000 tonnes were down by 15.8%.
Shipments in April of uncoated mechanical papers (improved or others) totaled 203,000 tonnes, down 6.4% year-over-year. This included drops of 4.7%, to 172,000 tonnes, for shipments to Europe and of 14.6%, to 31,000 tonnes, for exports. The first four months of 2012 saw total shipments of 811,000 tonnes, down 5.6% from the year-ago period, including decreases of 5.8% for shipments to Europe and of 4.8% for exports.
Euro-Graph. Starting with the March 2012 statistics, the European Association of Graphic Paper Producers (Euro-Graph) began presenting the data for both mechanical and woodfree grades in a single format. Based in Brussels, Euro-Graph represents more than 30 companies that operate more than 100 paper mills in Europe, with an annual graphic papers capacity of approximately 45 million tonnes. Euro-Graph was formed when CEPIPRINT, the Association of European publication paper producers, and CEPIFINE, the Confederation of European fine paper industries, combined forces, effective Jan. 1, 2012.


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There are rumours abound that IKEA is about to seek an IPO.
Well, some unscrupulous characters would have us believe that. It seems that members of the public are being called by fraudsters, pretending to be pukka brokers, and offering to sell them shares in IKEA.
The warning comes from the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau and it said in a recent announcement:
“The fraudsters are claiming that IKEA is due to float shares on the stock market and potential investors are being offered to purchase IPO shares (Initial Public Offering) before the floatation. This claim is FALSE; IKEA is owned by a foundation to ensure longevity, and has no plans to be publicly listed.”
So if you get a call from someone offering you a chance to buy a piece of the Swedish retail giant, put the phone down.
The fact that IKEA is not seeking an IPO is a shame – it would have given us the chance to crack a few jokes about the Prospectus missing a few vital parts. Ho, ho, ho…


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Small businesses and entrepreneurs have provided two-thirds of all net new jobs since the Great Recession and remain vital to economic growth and innovation. On the morning of President Trump’s State of the Union address, the Bipartisan Policy Center is holding an event where small business owners, members of Congress, and government and financial experts will discuss how to make sure Main Street succeeds as an engine of American economic growth and job creation.
On January 30 BPC hosted an event, How can the Financial System Better Serve Main Street? Small business owners participated with their stories about starting their businesses and the financial hurdles they face. Emerging fintech industry, post-crisis financial regulation, and data gaps in the small business lending space were also topics of discussison.
Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH)
Ranking Member, Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee
Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MO)
Vice Chair, House Small Business Committee
Former Chairman and CEO of FirstMerit Corporation
Former Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration
Former U.S. Senator from Maine
Former Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship
Angel Investor and Venture Capitalist, Ruxton Ventures, LLC
Additional insights from:
CEO and Co-Founder, Powderhook
CEO and Founder, RemixEducation


text: The following commentary comes from an independent investor or market observer as part of TheStreet's guest contributor program, which is separate from the company's news coverage.By David Sterman NEW YORK ( StreetAuthority) -- With a rising economy comes rising expectations. CEOs at mid-sized and large companies need to find new paths to growth to justify -- or boost -- their company's stock price. That's no mean feat in an economy still in slow-growth mode. As a result, expect to hear about plenty more deal-making in 2011 as smaller companies get acquired to help jumpstart the top line. To be sure, acquiring companies don't want to buy a company many years from generating its own action. Instead, they want companies that have already done a lot of heavy lifting, developing new products and the marketing plans to support them. I've identified four small companies that are truly ripe for a deal. Investors should take a close look at these firms.


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British Airways has informed the court of its plans to settle compensation claims for customers affected by its two notorious data breaches in 2018, to avoid further court action.
In July 2019, the UK Information Commissioner’s Office issued a notice of intention to fine the airline a record £183m over the breach. However, this penalty was reduced significantly to a £20m fine in October last year.
In 2019, consumer action law firm Your Lawyers was appointed to the Steering Committee responsible for the overall conduct of the BA data breach litigation. The firm revealed the national carrier’s plans to begin settlement discussions in the first quarter of this year, as an admission of culpability for the breach and an effort to avoid the burden of litigation.
Between April and July 2018, reward booking customers were notified that their personal information and financial details had been compromised. In addition, a further breach between August and September of the same year exposed the data of customers using the airline’s app and Web site.
The defendant’s solicitor has given evidence at the Group Litigation Order (GLO) that the total of unique payment cards potentially affected is 429 420.
The breaches exposed personal and financial information, including card numbers, expiry dates, and in some cases, the CVV security code.
The exposed information included customers names, billing addresses, and e-mail addresses. Worryingly, card payment information was also compromised, including card numbers, expiry dates, and, in tens of thousands of cases, the CVV security code.
With the deadline to join the GLO falling on 19 March 2021, any affected customers have less than three months to join the class action, or risk no longer being able to claim compensation as part of the current litigation.
It is Your Lawyers’ view that British Airways is facing a potential compensation bill of up to £2.4bn, with the almost half a million affected receiving around £6 000 each. Financial losses arising from the breach could also be claimed and, in cases where a psychological injury is extreme, victims of the hack could receive up to £16 000.
Aman Johal, a director at Your Lawyers, says: “News that British Airways wants to settle compensation claims, with negotiations set to take place in the first quarter of 2021, is acknowledgement of its wrongdoing in failing to protect customer data.”
Johal adds that he urges all those affected by the breach to come forward and join the class action before the GLO closes.
“While three months may seem like a long time, you could potentially be losing out on a five-figure settlement sum if you do not join in time. We are receiving hundreds of enquires a day as people scramble to meet the coming deadline, and we still receive a lot of enquiries from people who missed the deadline for previous actions we have been involved with and, unfortunately, we have to turn them away.”
He says although the airline is yet to make a final call on how it plans to deal with proceedings, settling out of court will show that the entity accepts the gravity of the incidents.
“Justice will be served, and the decision will send a strong message to other big corporations that they must take data protection seriously or face the financial and reputational consequences.”
British Airways responds
In a statement sent to ITWeb, British Airways says:
“We continue to deny liability in respect of the claims brought arising out of the 2018 cyber attack and are vigorously defending the litigation. We do not recognise the damages figures that Your Lawyers has put forward, and they have not appeared in the claims.”


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Net loss for the second quarter ending on 31 August was $965 million, or $1.84 a share, while revenue was down 49 per cent from $3.1 billion in the previous quarter and down 45 per cent from $2.9 billion in the same quarter of fiscal 2013.
The company recognised revenue on approximately 3.7 million BlackBerry smartphones, although most of the units recognised were BlackBerry 7 devices. BlackBerry 10 devices that were shipped in the second quarter of fiscal 2014 will not be recognised until those devices are sold through to end customers.
The loss included a pre-tax non-cash charge of about $934 million against inventory and supply commitments for its Z10 phone, which launched in January.
The decrease in revenue is about in line with what the company had indicated it would be in last week’s guidance, when it also said it would cut 4,500 jobs – representing about 40 per cent of its work force. However, the company suffered an adjusted loss from continuing operations of $248 million, or 47 cents a share, which is on the low side of the 47 cent-to-51 cent range that Blackberry had warned of last week.
BlackBerry chief executive Thorsten Heins said he was "very disappointed" with the company's operational and financial results this quarter, and the company has announced a series of major changes to address the competitive hardware environment and its cost structure.
"We understand how some of the activities we are going through create uncertainty, but we remain a financially strong company with $2.6 billion in cash and no debt," Heins said in a statement. "We are focused on our targeted markets, and are committed to completing our transition quickly in order to establish a more focused and efficient company."
The company, which was formerly known as Research In Motion, used to dominate the market for corporate mobile phones, thanks to its secure network and traditional "qwerty" keyboard. However, it was one of a number of mobile manufacturers which lost its footing when Apple launched the first iPhone, and consumers started to ditch their BlackBerrys in favour of smartphones.
Earlier this week, the company agreed to be acquired for $4.7bn (£2.9bn) by a private equity consortium led by Toronto-based Fairfax Financial. Fairfax already owns 10pc of Blackberry and will pay other investors $9 per share.
The deal is subject to due diligence and regulatory approval. Blackberry said it would continue to explore other options while negotiations with Fairfax continued.


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While PlayTV has been giving British PlayStation owners enhanced televisual experiences for some time, and the BBC has been working to improve the performance of the iPlayer on the Wii, Xbox 360 owners in the UK have been left in the cold when it comes to TV services. That changed today, when Microsoft and Sky announced a partnership that will allow Xbox 360 owners access not only to Sky programming via their consoles--via a subscription or a pay-per-view basis--but also to "a range of unique interactive services."
Available in the UK and Ireland, the service will be an extension of the Sky Player TV service for PCs that uses Microsoft's Silverlight technology, launched in November 2008. While the full channel lineup has yet to be revealed, Sky and Microsoft said that it is "anticipated" that as well as a range of entertainment programmes and movies, both Premiership football and test match cricket would be available via the service, most likely through live streaming of one or several of the Sky Sports channels. Pay-per-view programming was also promised at the launch event in London today, though few details were offered.
Sky Player over the Web offers a selection of the movies offered on demand to satellite subscribers, as well as episodes of various shows the network broadcasts, such as 24 and Lost, and sports highlights. Live sport, however, is available only to subscribers, rather than to those paying a la carte. Movies from Sky Box Office are charged from £3.43/€4.40, while those programmes broadcast on the network's flagship channel Sky One are available from £1.47/€1.91. It is not clear if the pay-per-view options will require a Sky account, as they currently do via Sky Player, or if it will be possible to use Microsoft points for payment, as is the case for the current on-demand services on the console. Pricing for the console-based service was not confirmed either.
As well as being able to enjoy TV and movies, those watching Sky programming via the Xbox 360 will be "able to communicate with one another in real time via their broadband connections," and "be able to check news and access fixtures, league tables and other on-demand information," when watching sporting events, said Microsoft.
Discussing the deal, Neil Thompson, head of Xbox UK and Ireland, tacitly admitted that the Xbox 360 has been lagging behind its competitors in terms of the all-around package being offered, saying that Microsoft was now "one step closer to our goal of offering Xbox owners the best entertainment experiences out there."
To find out more about the newest features for the Xbox 360, come back to GameSpot for the video stream and live blog of Microsoft's E3 Press Conference at 6:30 p.m. BST/10:30 a.m. PDT on Monday, June 1.
Update: For more images, check out cnet.co.uk's Xbox Sky Player photo gallery.


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The Taiwanese mobile handset maker, HTC, showed the extent of the squeeze it is suffering from South Korean rival Samsung as it warned first-quarter revenues could fall 17% compared to the last three months of 2012, and operating profit margins could drop almost to zero.
Profits for the fourth quarter had crashed by 90% year on year to just NT$600m (£12m) on revenues of NT$60bn, down 40%, the company said as it unveiled its annual results.
The projected drop in first-quarter revenues would leave HTC smaller than at any time since the first quarter of 2010, when its burst of growth began. The company said on Monday it expects revenues of between NT$50bn and NT$60bn, compared to NT$65.8bn in the first quarter of 2012.
The company also steered towards lower operating margins, of between 0.5% and 1.0%; in the fourth quarter, operating margins were pushed down to just 1%, ekeing out a profit of just NT$600m on revenues down 40% year on year to NT$80bn.
The company, which is preparing to launch a new 5in smartphone codenamed M7 later this month to compete with Samsung's Galaxy Note "phablet", is being heavily outspent by rivals Apple and Samsung, which together dominate the US smartphone market. Samsung spent roughly $14bn (£8.9bn) on marketing in 2012, while Apple spent about $1bn; HTC's marketing spend is substantially smaller.
HTC tried in 2011 to give its brand a stronger identity by buying 50.1% of Beats Electronics, the high-end headphones company founded by rapper Dr Dre, for $300m. But the strategy was unsuccessful and it sold back a 25% holding in July 2012 for $150m.
Despite the rapid growth in the smartphone market, and Android's dominant position in it – especially in China – the profits in the business are being captured almost exclusively by Apple and Samsung.
Of the remaining handset companies, only HTC and Nokia managed to make an operating profit in the fourth quarter, but barely comparable with either of the other two companies'.
The company also reveals in its full-year accounts that the patents it owns have fallen in value from NT$11.15bn at the end of December 2011 to NT$9.18bn at the end of 2012. That may relate to a "loan-back" arrangement under which Google gave HTC a number of patents to help defend itself against a number of lawsuits from Apple.
HTC and Apple settled their dispute in November 2012, signing a worldwide licensing agreement, which could mean HTC has returned the title to the patents to Google. Alternatively it could point to previous valuations on patents essential to the 4G standard being devalued after the US Federal Trade Commission and European commission both indicated that using such "standards-essential patents" to seek sales bans against rivals would be frowned on, and could attract fines.
The accounts also point to a business under increasing stress, as Samsung increases its marketing spend and offers phones across the entire range of the market, squeezing HTC – once the biggest-selling Android brand in the US – into the position of also-ran.
Inventory turnover days – the length of time it takes the company to rotate raw materials into finished goods – extended from 43 days a year ago to 54, while the number of "payable days" of debts grew, despite the fall in revenue, from 105 days to 138.