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Despite rising interest rates, trade policy uncertainty, and various other potential headwinds, expectations for economic growth in America continue to improve. For example, economists surveyed this month by the Wall Street Journal on average see U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) expanding by 3.0 percent in 2018. That is an increase from 2.9 percent in July and up markedly from 2.4 percent in the August 2017 poll. Surveyed economists also forecast the unemployment rate ending the year at 3.6 percent, which if turns out to be true would be the lowest rate of joblessness seen in the country in nearly half a century. Looking beyond 2018, expectations for economic growth start to cool slightly, but some of the concerns are related to completely avoidable risks. Diane Swonk, chief economist of Grant Thornton, for instance, told the Wall Street Journal that “If we avoid a trade war, and remove the threats of a trade war, we could see more much-needed business investment in the economy.” Business leaders in general appear to share such sentiment, as evidenced by the Business Roundtable’s CEO economic outlook index ending the second quarter of 2018 at 111.1.
That is the 2nd-highest reading since 2011 but also the first quarterly decline in roughly two years. The somewhat less optimistic outlook was largely due to “increased uncertainty surrounding government policies, particularly the direction of U.S. trade policy,” according to the report. Around nine in ten surveyed business leaders who commented on this specific issue said that worsening trade relations pose a “moderate or serious risk” of lower exports, higher import prices for consumers, higher input costs for businesses, and lower economic growth. Most CEOs in this survey, though, run giant multinational companies that generate a lot of revenue overseas. Smaller firms on the other hand typically derive the bulk of their profits domestically and therefore have significantly less direct exposure to a trade war. Unsurprisingly, recent surveys of small business owners in America continue to reflect rising levels of confidence. Just look at the latest sentiment gauge from Wells Fargo and Gallup, which jumped to an all-time high this quarter. More than three-quarters (78 percent) of surveyed small business owners rated their company’s financial situation as “very good or somewhat good,” and 37 percent cited plans to increase capital spending.
A record 35 percent of owners also said that they intend to add staff during the coming year, but that could prove to be difficult because a side-effect of a strong economy is a tight labor market. Indeed, the report’s authors found that “attracting and retaining the workers businesses need to provide quality service or to grow their operations remains by far the greatest challenge for small business owners.” That is supported by recent NFIB small business owner surveys, but competing for talent is starting to become a problem for companies of all sizes. In such an environment, businesses must not only keep up with industry wage growth trends but also provide the benefits that quality workers are increasingly demanding. This includes 401(k) retirement plans, the tax-advantaged savings vehicles that a Transamerica poll showed are highly-valued by Americans searching for a job, as well as those considering switching employers. Fortunately, many businesses appear aware of the evolving labor market, as evidenced by the two-thirds of senior executives surveyed by Prudential and CFO Research who said that they expect to boost worker compensation this year. To further improve the acquisition and retention of talent, more than half (57 percent) of respondents also said that they expect to increase the matching contributions for employees’ 401(k) plans.
Sources: Wall Street Journal, Business Roundtable, Wells Fargo, Gallup, National Federation of Independent Business, Transamerica, Benefits Pro, Prudential, CFO Research
Post author: Charles Couch


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- Vows To Continue With Emergency Intervention Despite Flooded Kogi Road
The federal government on Friday announced the delivery of the second batch of food and other items to victims of the flood disaster in Bayelsa State.
The government through the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development also disclosed that airlifting of relief materials by the Nigerian Air force is ongoing.
The latest update by the Ministry showed that the operation undertaken by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in collaboration with the Air force began on Tuesday 25th October 2022.
A statement by the Ministry explained that NEMA, through the South-South zonal office, delivered assorted relief materials comprising food and non-food items for immediate distribution in the Otegwe and Ibelebiri communities of Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa.
It also said that “Following heavy flooding of the East-West Road linking to the state, the Nigerian Airforce intervened in airlifting operations of relief items from Benin Airport to Port Harcourt International Airport and the subsequent use of helicopters to move the items to the Helipad in Yenagoa, the state capital.”
It equally indicated that the government is committed to defying all odds such as heavily flooded routes along Kogi State and other locations on the way to Bayelsa State, to continue delivery of the third consignment of relief items to the South-south state.
According to the statement, NEMA has further been mandated to collaborate with the State Emergency Management Agency, the Nigerian Navy in Bayelsa State, NNS Pathfinder in Rivers State, Nigerian Red Cross and Local Volunteers to carry out an in-depth assessment of the damage by the flood, for further assistance by the federal government.
The emergency agency, the statement added, has in less than a month procured more relief items for a third intervention to be delivered to the state.
The items include 1,000 pieces of mosquito nets, 600 cartons of bath soaps, 2,500 pieces of guinea brocades and 1,000 pieces of children’s wear.
Others are 1,000 pieces of women’s wear, 1,000 pieces of men’s wear, 8,000 pieces of nylon mats, among others.
The food items procured by the agency are 1,000 bags (10kg) of rice, 1,000 bags (10kg) of beans, 1,000 bags (10kg) of maize and 75 bags (20kg) of iodized salt, and more.

domain: news


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With plans to be bigger and better for 2018, Retro Classic Stuttgart will feature 40th anniversary celebration for the BMW M1
Retro Classics 2018 is scheduled to take place on 22-25 March, and will once again fill the halls of the recently expanded Messe Stuttgart in Germany. The new hall 10 will add around 15,000 square meters of exhibition space, which will be home to the Mercedes-Benz exhibition.
Visitors entering the show through the East entrance will be the first to see a special exhibit from the Museum Art & Cars. Located in the Hohentwiel mountain in Singen, this museum explores the relationship between art and automobiles, and will be showing an ‘unusual concept’ at this year’s Retro Classics.
40 years of the BMW M1
BMW’s mid-engined supercar celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2018, and Retro Classics will host a significant display to mark the occasion in hall 4. As well as road cars, there will be various racing cars, as well as a rarely-seen Schnitzer BMW M1 Turbo.
50 years of Irmscher
From its earliest days helping names like Walter Röhrl and Johnny Cecotto make a mark of the motorsport world, Irmscher has become an icon of the tuning world. Today, the company is a vehicle manufacturer in its own right too, with the Caterham-rivalling Irmscher Roadster.
Giants of the field
Being put together by Bulldog- und Schlepperfreunde Württemberg, this unique feature will explore some of the early days of agricultural motorisation right through to some of the more modern equipment that has transformed farming in recent years.
While the Youngtimer movement is very much alive in Germany, Retro Classics will look even further to the future with a special display of neo classics. These are special cars from the last 20 years, that have become classic long before they are old.
After the theme of Passione Italiana proved exceptionally popular in 2017, the Italian hall this year will be increased in size. As well as cars and motorcycles, the hall will feature automobilia, art, wine, food and fashion.
Retro Classics runs two further German events – Cologne in November and Bavaria in December – but the Stuttgart show remains the biggest and most internationally-focused.
Last year Retro Classics hosted more than 90,000 visitors, looking around the 1600 exhibitors and 3500 vehicles. It’s expected that 2018 will be even bigger, and there will of course be a number of cars for sale, both from dealers and private sellers.


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A 4-hour workweek? Yes!
Saturday, February 23, 2013 6:36 AM
I'm tired of working. Time magazine, "60 Minutes" and the Associated Press are doing stories about how we're going through another seismic industrial revolution, and I can only imagine that the end of the spirit-killing 40-hour workweek is imminent.
I'm all for that, but first, we need to figure out how this new economy is going to work.
Somehow we're going to have to figure out how we can work fewer hours and still get paid the same ... or maybe robots will make products so inexpensive to produce that we'll require fewer dollars to afford everything we need in our lives.
The AP story we ran about the future of work asked the question, Are we prepared for an economy in which we have a 50 percent unemployment rate?
I don't think we're at all ready, but the story pointed out that every time we've gone through major innovation throughout history, businesses would disappear and workers would lose jobs -- then new businesses would emerge and people would be hired again.
I imagine it's going to be a rocky road, but I'm looking forward to the rethinking of our whole economic structure.
New Economics Foundation says there is nothing inevitable about what's considered a "normal" 40-hour workweek today. It proposes a 21-hour week to redistribute paid work (right now too many are overworked or underemployed). This would give us time for those things we truly value but rarely have time to do well -- spend more time with family, travel, read or continue learning.
Whole sectors of our job markets are transforming and some even disappearing, taken over by the ever-efficient, never-sick, never-complaining robots.
They're filling orders, printing address labels, answering phones, driving cars, subways and trains. They're building products, taking pictures, vacuuming floors and performing surgery.
So how is this going to work, again?
Entrepreneurialism might become an important factor.
Best-selling author Timothy Ferris teaches people how to trade a long-haul career for short work bursts and frequent "mini-retirements," among many other skills in his highly acclaimed book "The 4-Hour Workweek." His philosophy is one of lifelong learning and creativity -- living life now, not during some far-off retirement when you're too old to enjoy it.
Futurist Ray Kurzweil is, as always, abundantly optimistic about the future.
"There will be an economic incentive for the haves to share the abundance and prosperity being created because they will need markets," Kurzweil said in a recent interview.
"The answer is not more leisure time but more time to learn and to be creative," Kurzweil says.
Learning and creativity keep coming up in the conversation.
In my mind, we need everybody's brains working on the current and coming crises of our world.
Rachel Botman, author of "What's Mine is Yours: The Rise of Collaborative Consumption," says the currency of the new economy is trust. She says today's level of technology is empowering people to make connections far and wide.
Botman talked about a consortium called Task Rabbit, in which people outsource the tasks they want to have done, name the price they're willing to pay, and then vetted Rabbits bid to run the errand. It's like eBay for tasks.
There's a four-stage, rigorous interview process designed to find the people who are skilled and trustworthy and weed out those who wouldn't be so capable. There are more than 4,000 Rabbits in the United States and 5,000 more on the waiting list.
For example, say I want my backyard gate replaced. I could go online and see in real time who is available for hire and what his or her rates might be. Rabbits who had done several jobs in town and who were rated as highly reliable, skilled and pleasant by previous clients could charge more if they wanted to.
I could send an email through the system or call the Rabbit I've found. The money would be paid through the system and a small fee would apply to pay for the online service. My gate builder would show up at the agreed-upon time, and all would be well with the world.
It actually takes us back to an old-fashioned system of trading and bartering, lending and sharing, matching wants with haves.
I'm building my trust account: I've got a 100 percent positive rating based on 237 lifetime transactions on eBay and excellent references on couchsurfing.com, a site where you can arrange to stay with other Couch Surfing members for free.
Unless you're active on eBay or Couch Surfing or some other online business, you might not think this kind of economy has legs. But consider that 5 million nights were booked over just six months in 2012 on Air BnB, an online bed-and-breakfast reservation site on which people in more than 34,000 cities and 192 countries rent out rooms in their houses. And 30 million rides were shared on carpooling.com in the same time frame.
These ideas are taking shape and changing our work world now.
Having universal health insurance is going to prove important to this new economy, as are high-speed Internet access and a well-maintained infrastructure.
Most important will be your reputation capital. Are you building yours?
-- Roshana Ariel is an assistant editor for the Journal.


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The Senate in Paris has ratified an amendment to the Evin Law, allowing use of the internet for alcohol advertising.
The decision means that the internet will now be listed alongside television, radio and other established media within the Evin Law that governs how alcohol is advertised in France.
Until now, the Evin law, which dates back to 1991 but was revised in 2005, made no mention of the internet – so by omission any mention of wine online could be seen as illegal.
This resulted in decisions such as the removal of all advertising from Heineken’s French website in February 2008, which effectively meant closing it down.
The main beneficiaries of this will be wine producers, and online wine merchants who were threatened with having to close down their sites.
Marie Christine Tarby of lobbying group Vins et Societe told decanter.com, ‘Although the decision had already been voted by the National Assembly a few months ago, nothing is ever sure until the Senate gives its approval, so this is very good news.’
The Senate has now ended this anomaly, except on websites that are aimed at young people, or centre on sport and other physical activities.
Written by Jane Anson in Bordeaux


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In a fun little advertisement campaign, Microsoft is flaunting Disney+ on Windows 11 and Surface Pro 8.
What you really want to be aware
Microsoft’s new web and TV advertisement advances the She-Hulk: Attorney at Law series alongside Windows 11.
The video replaces a portion of the gadgets in the show with a Surface Pro 8.
The promotion features the Disney+ application on Windows 11 and the capacity to stream the show.
It’s dependably a touch of enjoyable to get Microsoft advancing Windows 11. The most recent advertisement, which should be visible on Twitter (and reasonable TV), accomplices up with Marvel and Disney to advance the new She-Hulk: Attorney at Law series, which recently debuted.
The short 30-second promotion shows the Surface Pro 8 utilized by Jennifer Walters (otherwise known as She-Hulk, also known as Tatiana Maslany) as she utilizes Windows Hello to sign into Windows 11. She then performs multiple tasks (Windows Snap) different reports and PowerPoint slides (remembering one for the impacts of gamma radiation, natch) and taps and zooms with contact.
The brief video tells individuals they can download Disney+ on Windows 11 to stream the new show.
It’s a curious yet powerful promotion. Likewise one of a handful of the expressly features the Microsoft Store on Windows 11, which has had a reestablished push since its send off the year before.
Going by past quarterly outcome financial backer calls, Microsoft is likewise seeing a lot higher commitment with the new store. That impact is possible because of the more loosened up prerequisites and less spotlight on local UWP applications, which are limited for moderate web applications (PWAs), exemplary Win32, and fresher cross-stage innovations.
Also read this : Steam Deck shipments are speeding up, and fast


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Target, Giant Eagle, Meijer Join Major Retailers Saying No to GE Salmon
Today, the Campaign for GE-Free Seafood—a coalition of more than 30 consumer, health, food safety and fishing groups led by Friends of the Earth—announced that Target and other large mainstream grocery retailers across the U.S. have committed to not sell genetically engineered (GE) salmon if it is approved.
Stores that will not sell GE salmon include Target, a national retailer that sells seafood in 1,394 stores; the H-E-B chain with 315 stores in Texas; Giant Eagle with 387 stores in Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia and Maryland; and Meijer, with 200 stores in Michigan, Indiana and other states in the Rust Belt. These stores join 55 other food retailers that made similar commitments earlier this year, including Trader Joe’s, Aldi, Whole Foods, Marsh and Hy-Vee.
The total number of companies committed to not sell GE seafood now stands at 59 retailers representing 4,662 grocery stores across the country.
“There’s no room on our plates for genetically engineered seafood. Consumers don’t want it and price-competitive stores across middle America are refusing to sell it,” said Eric Hoffman, food and technology policy campaigner with Friends of the Earth. “We applaud Target and all these retailers for listening to the vast majority of their customers who want sustainable seafood for their families,” Hoffman said. "We need to see more big retailers take this kind of initiative. We're hoping that Safeway, which has become a real leader in seafood sustainability in other ways, and other major grocery stores turn the corner here and pledge to stay away from genetically engineered salmon."
The market rejection of genetically engineered fish comes as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducts its final review of GE salmon. More than 1.8 million people submitted comments to the FDA opposing what would be the first-ever GE animal approved by regulators for the human food supply.
In related news, a new peer-reviewed study published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society, provides evidence that GE salmon can breed with wild trout and create offspring that grow even faster and can outcompete wild fish—increasing concerns about environmental damage.
The majority of Americans say they won’t eat genetically engineered seafood and 91 percent of Americans say the FDA should not allow it into the market. Eighty percent of Americans who regularly eat fish say that sustainable practices are "important" or "very important" to them.
“Simply put, this genetically engineered fish is a problem masquerading as a solution,” said Heather Whitehead, online campaigns director at Center for Food Safety. “It’s bad for the consumer, bad for the environment and bad for our native salmon. Since these fish will likely not be labeled, consumers have to rely on retailers like these to reject unwanted and unnecessary GE fish. We will continue to pressure other retailers to side with consumers.”
The FDA said it will likely not label GE salmon, providing consumers no way of knowing if the fish they are feeding their families is genetically engineered. At least 35 other species of GE fish are currently under development, and the FDA’s decision on this GE salmon application will set a precedent for other GE fish and animals (including cows, chickens and pigs) to enter the global food market.
To avoid confusion in the marketplace and ensure sustainable seafood, a coalition of more than 30 groups led by Friends of the Earth are asking grocery stores, seafood restaurants, chefs and seafood companies to join the Pledge for GE-Free Seafood and publicly commit to not knowingly purchase or sell GE salmon or other GE seafood.
Visit EcoWatch’s GENETICALLY ENGINEERED FOOD page for more related news on this topic.
EcoWatch Daily Newsletter
By David R. Montgomery
Would it sound too good to be true if I was to say that there was a simple, profitable and underused agricultural method to help feed everybody, cool the planet, and revitalize rural America? I used to think so, until I started visiting farmers who are restoring fertility to their land, stashing a lot of carbon in their soil, and returning healthy profitability to family farms. Now I've come to see how restoring soil health would prove as good for farmers and rural economies as it would for the environment.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) released new numbers that show vaping-related lung illnesses are continuing to grow across the country, as the number of fatalities has climbed to 33 and hospitalizations have reached 1,479 cases, according to a CDC update.
Many claim that a whole-food, plant-based diet easily meets all the daily nutrient requirements.
A new multiyear study found that people living or working within 2,000 feet, or nearly half a mile, of a hydraulic fracturing (fracking) drill site may be at a heightened risk of exposure to benzene and other toxic chemicals, according to research released Thursday by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE)


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Another game has joined the ranks of Mantle-enabled titles. Earlier today, Rebellion Entertainment announced plans to use AMD's new graphics API in Sniper Elite 3, the latest instalment in its shooter series. The game is due out next year.
Rebellion is actually building Mantle support into its homebrewed Asura engine, which powers all of the studio's games—"from advanced PC titles, to mobile and next-generation console games." (Mantle itself is PC-only for now, though.) Rebellion CEO and Creative Director Jason Kingsley said Mantle support will be a "crucial part of [Rebellion's] plans for the next year," so I expect Sniper Elite 3 won't be the last of the studio's titles to harness the API.
Last week, we learned that 15 of EA's upcoming games will also support Mantle. That's in addition to Battlefield 4, which will get a Mantle patch next month, as well as Thief and Star Citizen, which hail from other studios and publishers.
|A first look at Gigabyte's next-gen Intel motherboards||25|
|OCZ unveils new PCIe SSD for gaming, workstations||23|
|Case listings suggest imminent Surface Mini launch||22|
|Evolve trailer highlights unique, asymmetrical gameplay||20|
|Single-core Bay Trail SoC powers fanless NUC||26|
|Winners drawn in $1500 spring cleaning contest||24|
|Apple earnings rise; iPad shipments fall||39|
|Tiny USB 3.0 enclosure houses mSATA drives||29|
|Custom-cooled Radeon R9 290X cards from Asus and XFX reviewed||66|


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Bitcoin Press Release: INFOCASH is a hotel – restaurant management system and global payment platform that is on mission to bring era of digitalization to business and real life.
Infocash Ecosystem has maximized functions with the launch of ICC – a secure, borderless, and decentralized cryptocurrency. Infocash aims to build a digital ecosystem for the future. ICC would lay a foundation and ecosystem, where we foresee massive growth and potential not just for 1 or 2 years from now, but for decades into the future. Infocash is leading the way in innovation and will be changing the economic social landscape of digital media and communications worldwide.
InfoLending is an investment channel which pays daily profit to investors with interest changing related to trading bot and volatility software.
InfoExchange is a place for trading and coins converting. The platform is protected from hackers and upgraded regularly to provide the best experience for its users.
InfoWallet is the best secure e-wallet where investors can store their ICC and other coins, send and receive cryptocurrencies instantly and reward annual interest as respecting for your trust in our project.
InfoNews is a channel where updates there are latest news related to cryptocurrency market, blockchain, Fintech, etc.
InfoBooking includes hotel – restaurant management system and global online booking market where users can connect with traditional booking channels and has integrated Blockchain in data storing and AI technology in voting evaluation.
InfoPay is an international payment service that applies the essence of online payment model and integrates advanced technology. With InfoPay, there will be no border and distance, no middleman nor cash.
ICO AND TOKEN
ICC is presentative coin of Infocash project which will be used as a payment unit among the infrastructures. ICC is also a potential coin which is planning to be listed on many exchanges following the project’s road map.
Company name: Infocash Company site: https://infocash.co
Company contacts: firstname.lastname@example.org


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Camelot to sue UK Gambling Commission over lottery operator selection process
Current National Lottery operator claims they were duped in scoring system
By Kate Northrop
Camelot Group, who currently holds the license to operate the UK National Lottery, has announced that it is filing suit against the Gambling Commission for allegedly botching the final scoring during the selection process for the Lottery's next license holder.
This week, Camelot will launch a legal battle against the UK Gambling Commission following claims that it broke the law in choosing t ...
Mar 29, 2022, 6:26 am - Lottery News forum
Camelot set to lose license as operator for UK National Lottery
Gambling Commission announces new preferred candidate
By Kate Northrop
Today the United Kingdom's Gambling Commission announced their intentions to drop Camelot as the operator of the National Lottery, to be replaced by Czech company Allwyn Entertainment.
Camelot will not have its licensed renewed to run the National Lottery after 28 years. Instead, a new operator is set to take the helm.
Since the Lottery's inception in 1994, Camelot has held three licenses, with its current a ...
Mar 15, 2022, 4:37 pm - Lottery News forum
Local retailers worry about future of UK National Lottery in stores
Convenience stores worry about the Lottery moving closer to digital sales channels
By Kate Northrop
Lottery retailers in the United Kingdom are expressing concerns about the future of the lottery in brick-and-mortar stores now that the contract for operating the lottery is up for grabs.
Camelot Group has run the National Lottery for nearly three decades. Now that the contract is up for renewal, local retailers worry that a new operator would mainly prioritize online sales and push out s ...
Jun 7, 2021, 11:44 am - Lottery News forum
Amazon held talks on bid to takeover the UK National Lottery
Amazon held talks about bidding to run the United Kingdom National Lottery, The Mail on Sunday revealed.
The discussions fizzled out, but the US tech giant's interest raises the prospect of it entering Britain's gambling market at some stage.
Amazon, owned by the world's richest man, Jeff Bezos, has more than 300 million active customer accounts.
It may have seen the Lottery as a chance to take the competition online and widen its reach.
City sources told The Mail that only prelimin ...
Mar 16, 2020, 10:59 am - Lottery News forum
From the lottery to Nobel prize: meet workers who make life-changing phone calls
For 12 years now, Anita Pires has been working at the call center for Camelot, the company that runs the UK's national lottery. She is one of a staff of 30 who answer calls from potential lottery winners, checking their numbers for prizes that range from 5 to the multi-millions. In 2009, I had one of my biggest winners, who won 45m, she says. Even I couldn't believe it. We only get an automated prompt just before they're put through; it's always very exciting. The claimants are in shock and don' ...
Aug 28, 2019, 9:41 am - Lottery News forum
Illinois Lottery sells tickets for instant games after top prizes are gone
At $30 a ticket, the Illinois Lottery's World Class Millions instant game was not only one of its priciest offerings it was also potentially one of the most lucrative for players.
WIN UP TO $15,000,000! THE HIGHEST INSTANT PAYOUT IN ILLINOIS LOTTERY HISTORY, shouted a banner across the magenta and silver ticket.
But for the last five weeks the game was on sale this year, none of the three $15 million prizes remained. Yet players purchased an estimated 26,000 tickets during that time, spen ...
Apr 23, 2018, 7:34 am - Lottery News forum
Did new Illinois Lottery private manager get too good of a deal?
Hoping for better luck the second time around, state officials unveiled a deal Friday to put the fate of the Illinois Lottery in the hands of a British firm that pledges bigger returns than those generated under the manager the state fired.
In a do-over of the nation's first, controversial attempt at state lottery privatization six years ago, Illinois agreed to a contract with the only firm to bid for the potentially lucrative job: the Camelot Group. It comes as the state and Camelot pledge t ...
Oct 21, 2017, 9:55 am - Lottery News forum
Details of new Illinois Lottery manager deal kept secret
As the Illinois Lottery edges closer to finalizing a massive deal with a new private manager, the state and the firm have chosen to keep many of the details secret despite past pledges of transparency.
The deal includes a tiered incentive system in which the new firm, Camelot Illinois, would be paid bonuses for exceeding various profit levels, documents show. But the proposed dollar amounts are not included.
That was among the few bits of information in the heavily redacted records the sta ...
Oct 4, 2017, 9:01 am - Lottery News forum
Illinois Lottery awards management contract to Camelot
By Todd Northrop
Ending a years-long process of replacing its current management company, the Illinois Lottery today awarded its private management contract to Camelot Illinois, LLC essentially the same company that operates the United Kingdom's lottery.
The Lottery's Notice of Award was posted to the Illinois Procurement Bulletin after the State of Illinois Chief Procurement Office of General Services certified the procurement rules for selecting the private manager were correctly followe ...
Sep 22, 2017, 7:51 pm - Lottery News forum
Consultant lays out 'ambitious' vision for Arkansas Lottery
A consultant for the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery envisions ticket sales steadily increasing from $450 million in the current fiscal year to $615 million by fiscal 2021 and net proceeds for scholarships rising from $85 million to $109 million in the same period.
Camelot Global Services' self-described ambitious five-year business plan proposes many changes, including overhauling the portfolio of scratch-off and draw-game tickets, increasing the lottery's $5 million marketing budget to $7.5 mi ...
Mar 13, 2016, 11:33 am - Lottery News forum


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SINGAPORE: Money talks, even in virtual worlds. If you don't have time to invest in playing or learning to develop items, you'll need virtual currency to upgrade your character in games like MapleStory or to get your Second Life avatar a new outfit.
Local startup First Meta is aiming to take virtual currency to the next level by allowing you to pay for your vanilla latte or to withdraw cash from an ATM using the money you've acquired on your last monster raid online. The two-year-old company is working on a debit card and an online payment gateway that can convert your virtual currency into cold, hard cash. To make transactions between virtual and real currencies possible, it first has to develop a virtual currency exchange to track the fluctuation of rates. In Second Life, for example, the rate for its virtual Linden dollar (L$) has hovered at L$250 to US$1.
"We're in the final development stages of a virtual currency exchange where rates fluctuate in real-time based on supply and demand," said Ms Aileen Sim, one of the two co-founders of First Meta. First Meta plans to work with legitimate virtual currencies only, like Gold from World of Warcraft and Globals from virtual world Twinity. "We also make sure transactions are secure and encrypted," Ms Sim, 25, added. First Meta is no stranger to providing financial services in virtual worlds. In July last year, it became the first company to provide a credit facility to denizens of Second Life with the MetaCard, a credit card denominated in Linden dollars. It has already issued 1,500 cards worldwide.
According to research firm Frost & Sullivan, the local games sector was valued at more than $285 million last year, compared to $87 million three years ago. With gaming set to make it big here, using virtual currencies in the real world could be a boon. In September, Second Life denizens worldwide transacted almost L$24 million (US$96,000, or $145,000). "We don't need to sign up merchants or vendors, because it would be a real debit card that can be used at any store. We're in discussions with banks, payment companies and other financial institutions," Ms Sim told Today. First Meta's project is one of 15 that have been awarded funding by the Interactive Digital Media Research and Development Programme Office hosted by the Media Development Authority. About $12 million in funding has been awarded to these projects, selected from the inaugural Co-Space industry call for proposals that closed in June.


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Market confidence dips but bigger groups are more optimistic about survival: Fewer than 10% of business leaders in the out-of-home sector are confident about market prospects over the next 12 months, the latest Business Confidence Survey from CGA and Fourth reveals – but restaurant and pub group bosses are less pessimistic than independent operators. The survey, conducted over the first three weeks of September, shows that the number of leaders feeling confident about the general market has dipped to just 9% – half the level in June (16%), and a fraction of the four-year high of 60% at the start of this year. But the proportion of multi-site businesses feeling confident about the next 12 months for their own business has climbed five percentage points to 37% since June. This contrasts with a recent survey of members of UKHospitality, BBPA and BII, which found that only 19% of operators with one or two sites felt optimistic about their prospects. However, group leaders’ optimism levels remain way below pre-pandemic levels of 83% in the February edition of the Business Confidence Survey. The gulf in confidence follows news from CGA’s Market Recovery Monitor with AlixPartners that 89% of group managed licensed premises were back trading by the end of August, compared to just 68% of independently run sites. Confidence has been lifted by the popularity of the Eat Out to Help Out scheme, which led to better than forecast trading for many multi-site groups in August. Two thirds of leaders said their trading had been above expectations since they reopened, with only 18% reporting worse than expected sales. Staycations and warm weather also boosted many operators over August. But optimism levels will have been dented by new measures on group sizes, curfews and table service since the survey was conducted. Nine in ten leaders think fragile consumer confidence will have a negative impact on the market, and nearly as many (79%) are concerned about a squeeze on disposable incomes. The Business Confidence Survey also shows how leaders are responding to market dynamics and consumers’ changing habits. More than four in five leaders (83%) say they will be avoiding city centre locations in their growth plans following a collapse in footfall in big cities including London, while three quarters (73%) plan to adapt to the widespread switch to working from home. CGA’s research and insight director Charlie Mitchell said: “The last six months have been the most challenging that the out-of-home eating and drinking sector has ever known, and the government’s latest restrictions mean conditions are likely to remain very tough for the rest of 2020. The Eat Out to Help scheme has been a springboard to recovery for some multi-site groups, and the green shoots of confidence among leaders are very welcome, but it is clear that many independents face a battle for survival. In the face of so many headwinds, the fresh backing that was announced this week on jobs, loans and VAT is welcome, though whether it goes far enough remains to be seen. This is a resilient and adaptable sector, but it deserves extended support from government if it is to sustain businesses and protect jobs in the coming months.”
Burger King UK working with advisers on future of subsidiary; plans 40 new openings: Burger King UK (BK UK), the Bridgepoint-backed fast food chain, is working with advisers to review options for one of its subsidiary businesses, the 33-strong Kout Food Group BK estate it acquired last December. As first reported by Sky News, the Alasdair Murdoch-led business is working with advisers from AlixPartners to review options for the subsidiary, which could include a company voluntary arrangement (CVA) or, more likely, a pre-pack administration. This could include the closure of up to ten of sites. Burger King UK acquired KFG Quickserve Limited in December 2019. The acquisition included 33 of its Burger King restaurants, 16 of which were situated on high streets or within shopping centres. The company told Propel: “Due to the current pandemic and economic pressures, 2020 has seen a shift in footfall from traditional high street and in-centre locations, to out of town restaurants, which has impacted some of the locations acquired. As a result, we have worked directly with landlords to try and agree a realistic level of rent of which we believe is reflective of the current climate, but unfortunately this has not been achieved and as such, we are considering the difficult decision to close up to ten locations but have not concluded at this time. Burger King UK is committed to save as many jobs as possible and where individuals can be, they will be offered transfers to locations open or within new restaurants set to open.” The company, which operates circa 530 sites, including 118 company-owned, said that despite “some changes and closures across our network, we also have ambitious growth plans for new openings”. In 2021, it plans to open up to 40 new restaurants, which will create around 1,400 new jobs and by 2023, it forecasts it will have opened over 100 new restaurants. A spokesperson told Propel: “Despite having to make the painful decision to close a small number of restaurants in light of the current pandemic, Burger King UK has demonstrated a resilient approach to the hurdles that have been placed in its path in recent months. We hope that our commitment to open many new sites over the coming three years, bears testament to this ethos.” Bridgepoint took on the role in 2017, when it acquired the exclusive rights to the Burger King brand. The main franchisee directly owns about 118 of the 530 sites. BK UK was formed after a joint-venture deal was agreed between Restaurant Brands International and Bridgepoint in November 2017. On its creation, BK UK Group acquired Caspian UK Group, one of the UK’s largest Burger King franchisees with 74 restaurants. Sky News reported that insiders indicated that a broader restructuring of the business was a possibility, depending upon further spikes in covid-19 cases and ensuing lockdowns and enforced closures of restaurants. Bridgepoint is understood to have been discussing a refinancing of the Burger King business to enable funds to be invested in opening more drive-thru restaurants.
City Pub Company reports trade at 80% of previous levels since re-opening: The City Pub Group, the owner and operator of 52 predominantly freehold pubs, has reported sales of £12.1m in the 26 weeks to 28 June compared to £27.1m last year. It made a loss of £3.5m compared to a profit of £1.9m the year before. The company said that since reopening, revenues are at around 80% of previous levels for pubs re-opened, generating positive cashflow. It has 37 of its 48 site now open. The company has also paid £1.2m for a 14% stake in certain companies within Mosaic Pub and Dining Group – it has nine pubs within the portfolio companies. Clive Watson, executive chairman of The City Pub Group, said: “Trading since reopening, given that there have been no sporting events or large bookings and given reduced opening hours, has been encouraging. This excellent performance has delivered profitable, positive cashflows allowing us to maintain our strong financial position. A large part of this is down to the passion and dedication of our staff who have hospitality at their very core. The business has undergone significant change since the outbreak of covid-19. The work and actions implemented have made us an even better business, positioned us well to endure these challenging times and emerge strongly once the pandemic passes.“ On covid-19, Watson stated: “The covid-19 pandemic has been the biggest challenge to business that we have all had to face in all our lifetimes. The recession of the early 1980 and 1990s, and the credit crunch in 2008/2009 are comparably insignificant when assessing the impact of covid-19. As a management team, we have had to adopt new measures to help stabilise the business. The group raised £22m from a Placing and Open Offer in April. These funds have helped to strengthen the balance sheet and have been utilised in helping to reduce the group’s bank borrowings. This in turn has helped the group to modify its arrangements with its bank, Barclays, meaning there will be no covenant testing until mid-2021. We continue to benefit from good liquidity and levels of liquidity are significantly greater than at the same time last year. The group has been able to enter into arrangements with some of its landlords, where some rent is paid in return for rent concessions going forward. The group will consider whether it should permanently surrender its liabilities on certain leases. The group is prepared to work with landlords so that an equitable arrangement for both parties can be found.” On the future he added: “The next six months will throw up more challenges, but I remain confident we can face up to them. During this period, it is important that we continue to develop the group and continue to establish ourselves as a premium collection of pubs, with its own brand and culture. It is in times like these that it is important to challenge your business model and make enhancements where necessary.” The Mosaic fundraise, which involved The Galaxy, Pioneer and Sovereign City Pub Companies netted subscriptions after costs of over £2.5m. The nine-strong estate established in 2015, which includes amongst its sites The Garrison in Bermondsey Street and The Button Factory in Birmingham, has reduced its net debt to under £2m following the offer. Joint chief executive James Watson said: “Our recent fundraise was a strategic decision to strengthen our collective balance sheet and increase liquidity, in order to protect our shareholders’ interests while current trading conditions and the government’s decision-making remains in flux. We are very pleased that existing shareholders and new investors have shown such support to the fundraise, and with a predominantly freehold estate and modest gearing, this additional cash means we can move forward with confidence and continue to pursue our longer-term goal of restoring shareholder value over the next three years.”
Time Out Group updates on plan for food market openings: Time Out Group has updated its plans to open and re-open its food markets. Of the six months to 30 June, it stated: “The period started with performance in line with our expectations. Lisbon continued to grow footfall and average spend despite its relative maturity and the five newly opened Markets were gaining further traction with locals and receiving growing plaudits. By 16 March however, in response to the global efforts to contain the spread of covid-19, all markets were temporarily closed as we focussed on the wellbeing and safety of our employees, guests, concessionaires and their teams. As outlined above, in response to closures, immediate cost saving initiatives were introduced to help mitigate the revenue lost. We engaged in productive discussions with our landlords and are appreciative of their on-going support through partial deferrals of rent. While this still results in an accounting rent charge within Market adjusted Ebitda, the agreements afford some cash preservation as the markets re-open and revert to a normal level of operation. Covid-19 has proven to be a catalyst for the acceleration of initiatives already in the pipeline, most notably the development and launch of the Market app that facilities contactless transactions, order and payment at tables, collection and home delivery via third party fulfilment. Chefs and consumers alike have been keen to return to the Time Out Markets since reopening, demonstrating that the scale and layout of well-ventilated venues is well suited to allow social distancing in an enjoyable environment. The markets have been adapted to include distanced seating plans, table partitioning, cashier shields and sanitisation teams. As a result of these measures and government restrictions being lifted, Lisbon and Montreal Markets reopened in July followed by New York, Boston and Chicago in August. We currently expect the Miami market to reopen in Q4. There are five previously announced and contracted sites, where progress is being made towards opening. Although they may be subject to further covid-19 related delays, the current scheduled timings are: London Waterloo (owned and operated) – currently expected to open in H1 2022; Porto (owned and operated) – currently expected to open in Q4 2021; London Spitalfields (owned and operated) – Listed Building consent application has been submitted and the group awaits the outcome; Dubai (management agreement) – construction has now re-started following a covid related pause and is currently expected to open in Q1 2022; Prague (management agreement) – expected opening date in 2023. Time Out’s unique curated markets show-casing the best of each city, hold particular appeal for retail real estate owners, as they seek solutions to generating high and consistent footfall. As a result, we are actively reviewing a growing pipeline of proposals from landlords around the world. Following the success of Montreal, management agreements are an increased strategic focus, especially given that these projects require no capital outlay and provide long-term visibility over guaranteed revenue and Ebitda.” The company saw sales drop 24% to £20.3m in the period – it made a group adjusted Ebitda loss of £8.8m.
Independent Family Brewers call on PM to re-think 10pm curfew: The Independent Family Brewers of Britain, which run collectively around 4,000 UK pubs, has written an open letter to PM Boris Johnson calling for a re-think of the 10pm curfew and other regulations hurting the pub sector. Chairman Richard Bailey, who is also chairman of Thwaites, states: “Our longest established member started their business in 1698; many of our companies are more than 100 years old. Our breweries and pubs have been an integral part of the United Kingdom’s communities for hundreds of years. The current government policy to escalate rapidly draconian new rules on pubs is the wrong tool for the wrong job. Since the start of July there have been approximately 500 million visits to pubs in the UK. In this time there has been absolutely no indication or evidence that the opening of pubs on July 4th has contributed to a noticeable increase in covid-19 infection and pubs have built their customers confidence. There is very little, if any, evidence that pubs are even now a major problem in the transmission of covid-19, yet nationwide pubs (and restaurants) are having their businesses dismantled by blanket legislation, both last week and over the past few days. This threatens their very survival, not to mention their role in their communities and the destruction of the employment that they provide. The problems around community transmission and a rise in the R-rate lie in other sectors suchascare homes and education. Targeting pubs will do almost nothing to dampen transmission, but will certainly destroy people’s livelihoods, employment, hope and sanity. Pubs are one of the last places that people can now socialise, and playa fundamental role in social cohesion and mental well-being. The measures introduced over the last days will destroy their ability to play that invaluable role over the winter months, and many millions of people will suffer as a result. Pubs have already taken enormous steps to mobilise themselves to be able to provide their social role in a covid-secure and regulated setting. The new measures to wear masks, introduce a curfew and prevent people from meeting friends and family are now actively pushing people away from pubs, either into social isolation or into a less secure domestic environment – neither of these are desirable. Pubs need to be part of the solution to the current challenges, not a scapegoat to demonstrate action; particularly when the measures being introduced are illogical, have no basis in the statistical evidence and have unintended consequences, such as encouraging late night house parties with alcohol purchased from off-licenses. There is time yet to avoid an act of catastrophic self-harm, both to our pubs and our communities, the shadow of which will be cast onto our social infrastructure far into the future. I call for you and your government to act now to get behind pubs and assist them to play the role that they are so finely evolved for. Please rethink the national pub curfew, masks and restrictions on gathering multiple households in a pub. After all of the work that had been done to build confidence over the past three months, these harmful rules are doing untold damage now, which will be compounded in the coming weeks and over the winter months.”
Everyman reports cinema admissions around 40% of last year since re-opening: Cinema group Everyman Media Group has reported cinema admissions at 40% of last year since it re-opened its cinemas. The company stated: “The release of Tenet in August demonstrated continued demand for great content in a cinema setting, with Everyman achieving a 10% market share, and UK Box Office for the film in line with other similar releases pre- covid-19.” The company reported sales of £15m in the 26 weeks to 2 July compared to £28.9m in he same period the year before. It made an operating loss of £12m compared to a £1.6m profit in the same period the year before. Paul Wise, executive chairman of Everyman Media Group, said: “We had a very strong start to the year with good revenue growth, illustrating that our model was gaining further traction. Covid-19 has halted that growth abruptly. Our sole subsequent challenge was to make swift, prudent adjustments to prepare for the current environment. Our amazing teams have been loyal, understanding, and supportive. Our dialogue with customers has reinforced our faith that we have exceptional brand loyalty and goodwill. Despite of the challenging current environment, we retain our confidence in people’s appetite to be entertained. And that film accounts for a large proportion of that appetite. People are fundamentally sociable, and we remain confident that, when it is appropriate, people worldwide will return to cinema, and specifically to Everyman. We are confident in the Everyman brand, and importantly our ability to navigate whatever challenges the next twelve months may pose.”
Sharrow Bay Country House Hotel to go into liquidation: The Sharrow Bay Country House Hotel, on the shores of Ullswater, is set to be placed into liquidation. A resolution to consider the winding up of the iconic hotel is due to be considered on 2 October. Papers sent out to creditors by email on Wednesday reveal that the administrators were first contacted by the director of Sharrow Bay Hotel Ltd, Andrew Davis, on 3rd July. A statement of finance shows that the estimated total assets available for preferential creditors is £83,898. The estimated deficiency to creditors is more than £2.3 million. The hotel was opened in 1948 by the late Francis Coulson, who created the first ever country house hotel along with his partner Brian Sack, who joined him in 1952. In December, 2003, the hotel was sold to the Von Essen hotel chain for £5 million. The chain later went into administration with debts of nearly £300 million. The Sharrow Bay was snapped up by a private equity company, London-based Hamilton Bradshaw, run by entrepreneur and former Dragons’ Den investor James Caan, for a knock down £1.5 million in 2012. In 2013 Andrew Davis, the founder of the Von Essen group, took it on again and invested heavily in the hotel.


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Pan and Parapan American Games hires Endeavour, Trajectory
By Adnews Staff
The Toronto 2015 Pan and Parapan American Games has hired Endeavour Marketing and Trajectory to handle branding for the event. The two firms, which pitched for the account together, won the assignment in a competition involving 19 contenders. "The brand identity will help make these Games come alive," said Ian Troop, CEO of the Toronto 2015 Games. "We'll develop a unique, compelling brand that captures the vision of our Games and makes it a 'can't miss' event for sport, for tourists and for our communities."


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Denver, Colorado — Muntons Malted Ingredients, an International leader in the manufacture and supply of British malt, malted ingredients and home brewing kits, has announced plans to open a new distribution center in Denver, Colorado. Slated to open in April of this year, the facility joins three other existing Muntons’ distribution centers located in Boston, MA; Barton, VT; and, San Francisco, CA.
The new Denver location will provide Muntons with a broad platform from which to service Brewers in the Rocky Mountain and Midwestern region of the U.S. “We can now supply our Customers with the great British Malt products they demand in a cost effective manner,” noted Fred Johnson, Executive Vice President of Muntons Malted Ingredients, Inc. “The growing demand for premium quality malt products directed our decision to open this facility in Colorado and we are delighted to become a member of the community,” Johnson added.
The Colorado facility will afford Customers with greater product accessibility, while reducing order lead times and ensuring supply chain continuity. “Dealing directly with the Maltster results in lower product costs for our Brewing Customers with no minimum order requirements,” noted Johnson.
Muntons has been marketing and selling its products into the United States for over 40 years. “The Colorado facility will support and strengthen our market positioning, as we continue to provide the best of British malts to Craft Beer and Brewing enthusiasts throughout the U.S.,” said Johnson.
Muntons Malt Ingredients … BEST QUALITY = BETTER BREWING®


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Each month, more than 100,000 hotel industry professionals use HotelTechReport.com to make informed purchasing decisions. The HotelTechAwards determine the best hotel software products across every category based primarily on customer feedback as well askey data points, such as integration compatibility, organizational health, partner network strength, and customer support quality.
Reviews from verified users of Asksuite highlight features like the omni-channel messaging platform, seamless direct booking process, and user experience. Customers also widely praised Asksuite for its customer-centric culture and innovative spirit.
“Helps our Front Desk team answer guest questions prior to booking – Easy to configure bot and teach new queries as needed – Excellent Account Managers and customer service whom are easy to reach and reply/assist promptly” says Marketing Manager from Boutique in Fernandina Beach (United States)
“Each month Hotel Tech Report helps more than 100,000 hoteliers research and vet technology partners for their properties. Winning a HotelTechAward is the highest achievement in the industry because it’s based on real data. Hoteliers trust this award when making purchase decisions because scoring is transparent and participation is ubiquitous amongst the most reputable vendors in the industry,” says Jordan Hollander, CEO of Hotel Tech Report.
“When we started with the first hotel customer in 2017, I never imagined that in a few years we would be the youngest company to be a two-time winner of the most prestigious global hotel award. I’m really proud! For 2021, we will continue to be focused on delivering a cutting edge Reservation Messaging Platform and AI Chatbot, to help Revenue, Marketing, and Sales teams deliver an amazing digital service experience. That way we can keep assisting in increased direct bookings and reduced operational tasks for the reservation department”, says Rodrigo Teixeira, CEO of Asksuite Hotel Chatbot.
What’s more, in January 2021, Asksuite reached 15 million travelers assisted by text messaging, helping hundreds of hotels on all continents.
“Travelers are connecting with hotels on multiple channels, such as Social Media (Facebook, Instagram), Text Messaging Applications (WhatsApp, Wechat, SMS), and Website Chats. We are providing the possibility of an instant reply about the property and quotes directly through these channels. Our mission is to continue delivering the top omnichannel direct booking experience, which is why I believe we’ve been considered the world’s leading solution for hotels for two consecutive years.” says Rodrigo Teixeira.
The HotelTechAwards are often referred to as “the Grammys of Hotel Tech” and winners have been selected from more than 200 of the top technology products around the world. The HotelTechAwards are the industry’s only data-driven awards platform with winners determined not by a handful of judges or popularity votes but by product reviews from a global community comprised of thousands of verified hotel technology users across more than 120 countries.
Besides the award for best hotel solutions, Hotel Tech Report also surveys thousands of industry insiders to find the best hospitality jobs and employers globally. Asksuite is honored to announce that, again, for the second year in a row, we are listed as one of the 10 Best Places to Work in the world by Hotel Tech Awards, that features companies who foster wonderful work environments for employees.
“I’m really proud of our entire team! They did an amazing job during this crazy 2020 helping each other while working from home, and assisting our customers to overcome the pandemic.” concludesRodrigo Teixeira, CEO of Asksuite Hotel Chatbot.


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In addition to launching its own foldable phones, Samsung is reportedly going to manufacture flexible OLED displays for several companies in the mobile world, including Google, Xiaomi and Oppo. According to sources on the website The Elec, the South Korean giant will supply panels of different sizes for companies, which are expected to launch smartphones using the technology later this year.
Oppo would have ordered a screen that can be used on a competitor of the Galaxy Z Flip. The Chinese manufacturer reportedly bought a 7.7-inch display that folds vertically, as well as an external panel with up to 2 inches.
Xiaomi would also have requested a display that folds internally, but it appears to be working on a foldable that will fight with the Galaxy Z Fold 2 and Huawei Mate X2. The company ordered an 8.03-inch panel, in addition to an external 6.38-inch screen.
Google has already contacted Samsung to buy flexible 7.6-inch OLED screens. There are no further details about the company’s project, but rumors from last year pointed out that the company may launch in 2021 the first foldable Pixel smartphone.
The companies involved in the news have not yet commented on the matter. Still, the trend is that several manufacturers are betting on foldable smartphones in 2021 and Samsung, the leader in the segment, continues to increase its catalog of products with flexible screen.
According to market research firm Omdia, the sale of flexible OLED panels is expected to grow by 203% in 2021, bringing in an annual value of US $ 2.1 billion. Samsung is the company with the most experience in manufacturing these components, which should guarantee the company a large part of the money handled by the sector.
In addition to selling panels to competitors, the South Korean brand should continue to invest in foldable products for the Galaxy line. The company has already hinted that it is preparing a new smartphone with a cheaper flexible screen for 2021.


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The car, InnerSpace, is part of its Cadillac Halo Concept Portfolio.
The luxury vehicle seats two passengers ...
... and drives autonomously.
Cadillac said that, like the two other concept cars in the Halo portfolio, the InnerSpace's full autonomy means passengers can rethink how they use their travel time. The vehicles in the portfolio provide "a space for solace and respite," Cadillac says.
Cadillac says the car has a low-profile floor, too, which makes the seating position similar to that of a sports car.
Cadillac says that even the InnerSpace's tires were carefully designed to add to the peace of the driving experience. It designed technology to help mitigate soundwave resonance within the tire, making the journey quieter.
The InnerSpace joins the two other cars in Cadillac's Halo Concept Portfolio – the PersonalSpace, a single-seat car that can take off and land vertically, and the SocialSpace, a six-person vehicle. Both of which were unveiled at CES 2021. Bryan Nesbitt, an executive director at General Motors, said in a press release that the three vehicles in Cadillac's Halo concept portfolio are "visions for the next decade and beyond."
"Electrification and autonomous driving will fundamentally change the role of vehicles and the experiences customers have with them," Nesbitt added. "We're exploring where that will go with these innovative concepts, envisioning mobility as an ally of wellness, giving customers the ultimate luxury, more personal time rather than taking it."
Get the latest tech news & scoops — delivered daily to your inbox.


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It is time for "a nation shrimp intervention" to help shrimp lovers embrace local Gulf of Mexico shrimp instead of its cheaper and easier to find Asian brethren, according to a recent New York Times article.
"We do a lot of mindless shrimp eating in this country, and I am here to stop the madness," Kim Severson, the Atlanta bureau chief for the Times, says in a video accompanying her article. That video explains how to shop for fresh shrimp, and how to cook it.
Since shrimp imports this year have been questioned because of diseases in some of the crop, the article states that it "may be a perfect moment" to change consumers' habits.
As NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune has noted, the farmed Asian shrimp market has been struggling this year due to diseases such as early mortality and white feces syndromes, along with overly hot weather and heavy rainfall. Also, reports of human trafficking in some Asian fishing industries seem to have affected demand, as well as potentially leading to less foreign lending that could affect those markets.
Also, the Southern Shrimp Alliance has contested that imports gradually are becoming less competitive due to tariffs and improved enforcement efforts.
But in terms of changing consumer taste, Severson writes that it won't be easy.
It likely would require them embracing Gulf shrimp's "more pronounced flavor, seasonality and higher price," she writes. And, "a shift in culinary perspective -- one that puts shrimp on par with food that is best in season and worth paying more for -- is a change that most of us can only take slowly."
To read the full The New York Times article and watch Severson's accompanying video, click here.
To read a NOLA.com | Times-Picayune article from the Louisiana Fisheries Summit earlier this year, in which fishers say promoting Louisiana's seafood quality is vital to face off Asian imports' influence, click here.


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INTRO: At its Q4 earnings call earlier this week, The Walt Disney Company announced that its streaming service, Disney+, had garnered 73.7 million subscribers globally as of October 3rd.
It is a rise of over 16.2 million from the previous quarter when the service was said to possess had 57.5 million subscribers. Overall, the company’s streaming portfolio, which incorporates the likes of Hulu and ESPN+, now has quite 120 million premium users, the corporate said.A large chunk of the aforesaid growth came from Disney+ Hotstar, which launched as a combined entity in April in India, followed by a September launch in Indonesia as well.
According to company executives quoted by Protocol, India alone accounts for 25 percent of all Disney+ subscribers. The company, however, also acknowledged that the typical monthly revenue per paid subscriber for Disney+ Hotstar in India and Indonesia is significantly less than the subscription charges in North America and Europe.
Speaking about the expansion of Disney+ within the US and round the world, CEO Bob Chapek said that the recognition of the service has exceeded even the company’s own expectations. “(It has been) a real bright spot amidst the pandemic,” he added. Before its launch earlier last year, the company, then headed by CEO Bob Iger, predicted that Disney+ would have 60-90 million subscribers by 2024. Going forward, the company expects to get a significant number of new subscribers from its Latin America launch, which is slated for next Tuesday.
In terms of the financials, the corporate earned $14.7 billion in revenues during the quarter, an enormous chunk of which came from Disney+. The number is significantly below the $19.1 million the corporate earned during an equivalent quarter last year, largely on account of the pandemic and therefore the associated slowdown in its theater and theme park businesses.


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Cinema management software and data analytics brand CIELO has announced the launch of its new website: www.cielocinema.com.
This new design aims to offer better navigation and a modern web experience, showcasing in-depth solution information and bringing together the modular approach of their CIELO Cinema and CIELO Command platforms. The company has been working on a new communication strategy, and this new website is one of the first steps to achieving brand objectives. The site will also be updated regularly with news about partnerships, product launches, and corporate milestones.
“We are proud to debut our new company website to our existing clients and partners, this launch allows them to finally tap into our solutions portfolio easier and also allows new exhibitors and NOCs around the world who are interested in cinema solutions to learn about CIELO,” said Guillermo Younger, the chief executive officer of CIELO.


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MAG released almost a year ago, but according to Zipper Interactive's community boss, Jeremy Dunham, the game is still going strong and is surpassing SOCOM Confrontation.
Responding to a post on the official MAG forums, which stated that MAG was struggling to post figures similar to SOCOM Confrontation, Dunham said "This is incorrect - MAG has more concurrent players than SOCOM Confrontation worldwide on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. This has been true for every month since MAG's release on January 26."
He went on to say "Obviously we don't hit the same numbers we had in our first few months in terms of concurrent and daily users, but we're still amongst the most played online PS3 games out there."
Zipper are working on a new SOCOM game at the moment, but they haven't stopped supporting MAG and recently released some new DLC and the MAG 2.0 patch.
Source: MAG Forums


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Boosted sales thanks to London 2012 and the UEFA.
Sales at the John Lewis department store chain surged 32.4% in the week ending 28 April, boosted by sales of televisions in the run up to London 2012 and the UEFA football finals.
Year-on-year comparisons for the seven days ending April 28th 2012 were helped by the later date of Easter & the Royal Wedding which both negatively affected trading in 2011, however even when these factors are taken into account trading remained impressive.
Ed Connolly, Buying Director for Electricals & Home Technology (EHT) at John Lewis, said: “All three directorates were in good form. There was a really pleasing set of results from retail, with all shops in positive figures and with strength in both regions, complemented by a great performance from at home and our online business at +69.4 per cent versus last year. So overall a positive week.”
Sales of large electricals were the best they have been at the retailer outside of January clearance, helping the EHT division produce standout trading growth of 62.6 per cent year-on-year.
Fashion sales were more subdued with sandals and sunglasses both seeing declines of 60 per cent thanks to the rain seen across most of the country, and the wider division posted a slightly disappointing, considering the comparatives, growth of just 18.6 per cent.
In home products big-ticket items received a welcome trading boost with beds, bedroom furniture, floor coverings and upholstery all enjoying double-digit increases.
At supermarket chain Waitrose, the sister retailer to John Lewis, sales for the week rose 10.7 per cent while quarterly trading was up by 6.8 per cent year-on-year.


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Mayberry’s comes to Brevard
Published: Saturday, June 5, 2010 at 4:30 a.m.
Last Modified: Friday, June 4, 2010 at 8:00 p.m.
BREVARD — Good food is meant to be shared — that’s the philosophy behind Mayberry’s, a new restaurant in downtown Brevard.
Jonathan and Kelli McLeod opened the business in April after friends told them the sandwiches and homemade peanut butter the couple made were too good not to be shared. The venture is nothing new for Jonathan, 46, an experienced restaurateur, although the food business is new to Kelli, 40, who owns McLeod Appraisals, a real estate appraisal business.
The restaurant is truly a family affair, with two of the couple’s five children among the 12 employees, Jonathan said.
“We started having friends over, and they loved the sandwiches and would tell us we needed to take this somewhere, so the idea kind of grew from that,” he said as he prepared for the lunch rush Wednesday. “We did some research before opening it and we started playing around with making sandwiches because we both love sandwiches and that’s the kind of place we wanted to have — a casual atmosphere where you can get good food at very reasonable prices.”
A welcoming place
Walking into Mayberry’s is like stepping back in time. The restaurant, a few doors down from the White Squirrel Shop on Main Street in downtown Brevard, features the original copper-tiled ceiling and hardwood floors. Old timey ceiling fans with Victorian-style lights create a light breeze as patrons sit at wood tables or at the long hardwood counter while they wait for their food.
The dining area seats 50 people. Gingham cafe curtains adorn the windows and a vintage metal sign that reads “Helen’s Beauty Shop” hangs above the entrance to the kitchen. The building is the site of a former electrical lighting supply company, Kelli said.
The business gets its name from the fictional town of Mayberry, made famous in the television series “The Andy Griffith Show.”
The couple used to joke that Brevard was like the sleepy little Southern town of Mayberry and they decided it would be a good name for a restaurant.
“Mayberry is a wonderful town, just like Brevard is, and when we were trying to find a name for the business, the choice was obvious,” Jonathan said.
“Mayberry is a place where nothing is fancy, a place where warmth and people are important.”
Mayberry’s is the type of place he has always wanted to open, he said.
He’s been in the restaurant business since age 11, when he bused tables at Clifton’s Cafeteria (now the Chariot) in Hendersonville.
He has worked in a variety of places from restaurants to country clubs, doing everything from the cooking to handling management responsibilities. He owned and operated the Quarter House on Asheville Highway, a business he had from 1999-2002.
Mayberry’s offers a variety of soups, salads, side dishes and, of course, sandwiches.
Sandwiches are available on Portuguese rolls, wraps, white or wheat bread. All sandwiches are served with chips and pickle.
Among the classic sandwiches served are grilled cheese ($3.50), Mayberry’s PB&J ($2.99) or a club sandwich featuring freshly sliced oven-roasted turkey and ham with bacon topped with cheese, tomatoes and lettuce for $6.50.
Specialty sandwiches include a cheesesteak sandwich served Philadelphia-style with roast beef topped with a choice of peppers, onions and cheese ($7.95); a sausage hero, which is grilled Italian sausage split down the middle and loaded with peppers and onions ($5.99); or a turkey sandwich with cranberry walnut relish for $6.50.
Mayberry’s signature dish is the Ginger Pork or Chicken sandwich featuring meat that has been marinated in fresh homemade ginger sauce for $6.50.
Kelli came up with the winning recipe for the ginger sauce that makes the sandwich such a treat, her husband said proudly.
“It is hands-down one of our best-selling, if not the best-selling, item on the menu,” Jonathan said. “We also have a homemade peanut butter/banana sandwich that is grilled and sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. That one is to die for.”
Desserts include premium ice cream and fresh-baked cookies. The restaurant’s chocolate chunk cookies are a favorite with customers, Jonathan said.
The restaurant serves a variety of beverages including soda, coffee and iced tea. Alcoholic offerings are limited to wine and domestic and imported beers.
Jonathan said he and his wife take pride in having an establishment that caters not only to tourists but to local people as well.
“We wanted everyone to be able to afford to come into our place,” he said. “During the winter, the local businesses and city employees and contractors, they are the backbone of our business, so we wanted to make it affordable for them.”
Business has been good since the restaurant opened, Jonathan added. There’s nothing better than doing what you enjoy.
“Life’s too short not to enjoy your work,” he said. “It’s fun. We have a great time with it.”


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Tablet sales may already be booming, but one research group says that Google's getting into the arena just when things are starting to get really good. The analysts at NPD DisplaySearch have gazed into their crystal balls -- while crunching some numbers, of course -- to compile the company's latest quarterly mobile PC forecast, and they predict that in 2016, tablet shipments will exceed traditional notebook shipments for the first time ever.
You can't quite call it cannibalization; notebooks shipments will increase in the same time frame, just not as dramatically as tablet shipments. Mature markets such as the U.S. and Western Europe are expected to be the biggest drivers for tablet adoption, accounting for over 60 percent of shipments all the way through 2017, when total tablet shipments are expected to hit 416 million.
For some comparison, the research firm Canalys says that a total of 239 million netbooks and notebooks shipped globally in 2011, along with 63.2 million tablets. NPD DisplaySearch expects 347 million mobile PCs -- a term that encompasses all three form factors -- to ship this year.
We won't just be seeing more tablets as time goes on; NPD DisplaySearch says we'll be seeing better tablets, too. The firm expects improvements in multi-core capabilities, operating system stability and app libraries as well as changes to the tablet form factor to better suit the technology's stand-out properties, such its long battery life and portability. Of course, we're already seeing those strides being made in today's tablet market, so it's hard to disagree there.
What do you think: will 2016 be the year we make the switch to Tablet Magazine?
Image credit: DisplaySearch


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"123456" and "password" still the top worst passwords, according to SplashData annual report
Showing results 1 to 20 of 151
Dashlane and Lastpass now let users change passwords automatically. This closes up one of the gaps in password management.
Windows 10 will build in standards-based two-factor authentication to every device, effectively neutering most phishing attacks and password database breaches. The company also announced new features aimed at securing corporate machines from malware attacks and data leaks.
If you don't know your passwords, they can't be phished. The domain of the site may be obscure to you, but the password manager knows.
Security company Netcraft discovered two EA Games phishing operations, netting Apple ID and EA Origin passwords and payment information. EA has patched the vuln allowing Apple ID password phishing.
The popular crowdfunded site Kickstarter has been hacked and the breach included usernames and passwords. Change your password now to prevent further damage.
The company has issued a warning that a malicious email campaign is underway using Adobe software licenses as a lure. Adobe calls it a phishing attack, but other reports say it contains a malware attachment.
If you think just because you use different passwords for different services you're safe, think again
Adding numbers, reversing or using 'l33t speak' to differentiate passwords on different accounts does avoid password re-use, but it's an ineffective way of adding security to online accounts.
Password hacks and new cracker tools surfaced this week to reinforce passwords are indeed sitting ducks. Will anything be done about it?
ManageEngine, which develops a broad range of automation and monitoring tools, adds extensive cloud services and apps support to password service software.
SANS Institute's list of the top 7 human risks in computing includes phishing, passwords, and devices.
Google isn't just beginning to attack the password, in fact, it has been working since before 2010 on eliminating passwords and standardizing authentication on the Web.
The online leak of login credentials for Connectusers.com has led Adobe to suspend the forum while it resets users' passwords. The hacker claims to have released the data to demonstrate the software maker's security shortcomings.
Security researchers have confirmed a vulnerability in now Apple-owned fingerprint software that exposes passwords on Windows PCs.
7,500 Black Hat USA 2012 attendees may have been surprised to get a fake password reset e-mail sent to accounts they used to register for the conference. Black Hat has apologized and explained the lame phishing spam attempt.
A researcher calls Yahoo’s loss of 400,000 passwords a “total password failure” for lack of policies and storage in plain text. In addition, the hack included accounts from other domains including the U.S. Congress
Following this week's LinkedIn password disaster, Mac users are naturally worried about their passwords and not just for their LinkedIn accounts. What if you used a password in another place? It could happen! There are ways to investigate your passwords in Mac OS X's Keychain Access utility and with popular third-party password management tools. However, some of this investigating can be difficult.
The MD5 password hash algorithm is "no longer considered safe" by the original software developer, a day after the leak of more than 6.4 million hashed LinkedIn passwords.
Bad news: LinkedIn suffered a data breach of 6.46 million passwords. The good news is you can quickly (and securely) check to see if your password leaked online.
In my quest for Ultimate Freelancer Flexibility, I have purchased a MacBook, so that I can run Linux, Windows and Mac and be able to walk in to any development environment and start work instantly. No more installing software or waiting for passwords!
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In an effort to advertise job openings last year, Klaussner Home Furnishings started renting billboard space close to its Asheboro, North Carolina, headquarters.
The intense competition for workers increased wages for workers on the production floor of the furniture manufacturer by 12 to 20 percent. To sweeten the deal, the company started giving $1,000 signing bonuses.
Consumer demand was "through the roof," according to David Cybulski, president and CEO of Klaussner. We simply couldn't find enough workers quickly enough. But Mr. Cybulski has noticed that the frenzy has subsided recently.
He claimed that hiring for open positions has become simpler and that fewer Klaussner employees are leaving for other positions.
Instead of rushing to raise wages, the company, which employs about 1,100 people, is testing performance rewards to keep workers happy. In the spring, the $1,000 signing bonus expired.
Even as recession fears grow, the labor market is still incredibly strong by many standards. The unemployment rate, which was 3.7% in August, is still very low compared to the previous five decades.
There are twice as many open positions as there are unemployed people who can fill them. Despite some prominent announcements in recent weeks, the number of layoffs is almost at a record low.
However, there are hints that the scorching labor market may be cooling off. Major employers like Walmart and Amazon have announced hiring slowdowns; other companies like FedEx have completely stopped hiring.
In July, Americans left their employment at the lowest pace in more than a year, suggesting that the Great Resignation—a period of frequent job switching—may be coming to an end.
In particular, wage growth has slowed in sectors like dining and travel where the job market was very hot last year. Wage growth, which skyrocketed as businesses battled for workers, has also decreased.


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An organization representing about 20 businesses is calling on the provincial government to reconsider the revamped beer mark-up structure implemented during the recent budget.
“Without immediate action, our businesses will not survive,” the Alberta Small Import Agencies said in a letter to Finance Minister Joe Ceci and all provincial MLAs.
tap here to see other videos from our team.
The group said 110 agents now bring 3,455 beer products into the Alberta market and 77 per cent of these beer products have increased in cost because of the mark-up increase.
“More importantly, 1,350 products, nearly 40 per cent, received mark-up increases of $0.74 or more per litre. We represent the agencies, small Alberta businesses, which import the vast bulk of this most impacted category,” it said.
“The beers we import are from artisan, small craft breweries just like the ones we have here in Alberta. The new beer mark-up will assist the 18 Alberta Small Brewers Association members, but, unfortunately it will impact our agencies negatively, and the majority of these small businesses will not be able to survive.”


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Iulian Bondari - Empowering Users with Privacy and Simplified Access in SourceLess Blockchain
Iulian Bondari, the visionary technologist and co-founder of SourceLess, envisions a digital world where individuals have control over their personal information while enjoying seamless access to digital resources.
By: Crypto Navigator
In line with his vision, Bondari emphasizes the importance of separating personal and financial information from public visibility. He acknowledges that individuals should have the freedom to share their creative works while maintaining the utmost privacy regarding their bank account details and social media accounts. This perspective highlights his dedication to providing users with the ability to choose who has access to their personal information.
One of the key technologies driving SourceLess' privacy-centric approach is zk-Snark. Bondari explains that this technology allows the SourceLess Blockchain node to occupy a mere 1Mb of space, resulting in exceptionally low energy consumption. In contrast, traditional blockchains consume a minimum of 2.5 GB per node. The efficiency of SourceLess enables the installation of nodes on various devices, including devices with limited storage capacity like smart bulbs. This scalability ensures that users can participate in the SourceLess ecosystem without significant hardware constraints.
Bondari emphasizes that SourceLess is designed to be user-friendly, eliminating the complexities typically associated with Web 3.0 technologies. The platform aims to provide users with straightforward access to digital resources without the need to delve into the technical intricacies. By prioritizing simplicity, SourceLess empowers users of all backgrounds to navigate the platform effortlessly.
Another key feature of the SourceLess platform is the STR.domain system, a novel digital address system. This system offers each user a unique virtual address for life, eliminating the control of third parties such as other users, private companies, or public institutions. This ownership and autonomy over one's digital identity further exemplify Bondari's commitment to privacy and user empowerment.
Through his unwavering dedication to privacy, simplified access, and innovative technologies, Iulian Bondari is reshaping the digital landscape. His visionary leadership within SourceLess is enabling individuals to protect their personal information while seamlessly interacting with the digital world. As Bondari continues to drive the advancement of SourceLess, his efforts will undoubtedly shape the future of blockchain technology and redefine user experiences in the digital era.


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Is your business ready for the Big Freeze?
Experts say 15 per cent of firms in the South West have no continuity plans in place. For those struggling because of the economic downturn, it could be the final straw...
Fifteen per cent of businesses in the South West have no continuity plan in place to cope with staff absenteeism and power failures if another Big Freeze grips the region.
With a cold snap on the way, a worrying number of companies admit to being ill-prepared for the inevitable disruption it will bring.
The Close Business Barometer, a quarterly survey of small and medium-sized businesses across the UK, has found that, while more than half (52 per cent) of businesses in the South West are worried about the effects of more arctic weather this winter, 15 per cent don’t have a business continuity plan in place to deal with unfortunate, but common, consequences.
Rob Harris, of Close Invoice Finance, which independently commissioned the survey, said: “All too often people think about massive disasters when they talk about business continuity but, in reality, it’s the more mundane factors – like bad weather – that can impact uher s most of all.
“If businesses aren’t prepared for the worst, it can have a serious effect on cash flow which everyone knows is the lifeblood of all business.
“Prevention really is better than cure and I would urge SME owners, who aren’t already prepared to act now, checking that premises are winter-proof, insurance is up to date and flexible working plans are in place in case staff can’t make it to work.”
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The British Chambers of Commerce estimated that last year the economy lost �1.2bn a day due to the cold snap.
Small and medium-sized businesses are most vulnerable and those that are already struggling because of the economic conditions may find that several days out of business due to extreme weather is the final straw.
For certain sectors of the economy, such as transport and logistics, there is of course no escaping the financial impact of the harsh weather, but Mr Harris explains that with careful planning any disruption can be kept to a minimum.
“Our study revealed that eight in ten businesses operating in the transport and logistics industry are worried about the effects of another big freeze, substantially higher than the 58 per cent average across all business sectors,” he said. “Transport grinding to a halt is probably the single biggest economic blow when heavy snow hits the UK. For owners of logistics and haulage companies the cost of late deliveries, extra fuel charges, and honouring strict contracts with clients can put a devastating strain on financial resources.”
He added; “The key for getting through one of the worst winters we’ve seen for years is preparation. Failing to plan could have a serious impact on your business and result in it being unable to trade.
“My advice to businesses would be to have in place suitable funding arrangements to ride out any potential cash flow problems associated with the weather. Invoice finance is one option. It enables businesses to access cash immediately, easing any financial pressure and allowing companies to get on with what they do best - running their business.”


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James Marsden, Shanina Shaik and Suki Waterhouse lead global celebrations for second annual International Scotch Day
EDINBURGH, FEBRUARY 6th 2018: Scotch, the world’s favourite whisky, will be celebrated across the globe on Thursday February 8th with a series of red carpet, star-studded events to mark International Scotch Day.
International Scotch Day is a celebration of everything that gives the world’s favourite dram its unique character, flavour and personality - and invites adults everywhere to raise a glass of Scotch in celebration on the day. International Scotch Day is held during the week of the birthday of one of the world’s most influential Master Blenders - Alexander Walker the son of John ‘Johnnie’ Walker who brought Scotch to the world.
This year’s celebrations will be bigger than ever, taking place in over 70 countries worldwide, almost doubling the volume of last year’s inaugural celebrations and truly getting the world talking, thinking and enjoying Scotch. Large-scale marquee events will take place in India, Mexico, The Philippines and South Africa involving consumer and media engagements throughout the day and red-carpet star-studded parties by evening. Events, PR, social media, broadcast, e-commerce, sampling, in-store and in-bar activity are planned, and all designed to drive excitement about Scotch.
People can participate by visiting their favourite bar and enjoying a Scotch with friends, or posting on social media using #LoveScotch. For those Scotland-bound, Diageo’s 12 distillery visitor centres will open their doors free of charge on 8th, 10th and 11th February to explore behind the scenes of some of the world’s most iconic Scotch whisky brands such as Johnnie Walker Blended Scotch and Glenkinchie, Talisker, Oban, Dalwhinnie and Cardhu Single Malts. To sign up for a free standard tour, visit www.diageo.com.
Scotch is a drink that’s been cool since forever, with a timeless style & swagger that’s unmistakable and it was in this spirit that actor James Marsden, supermodel Shanina Shaik and actress Suki Waterhouse were invited to lead a series of special celebrations to celebrate 2018 International Scotch Day.
Shaik will celebrate International Scotch Day in Johannesburg, Marsden will travel to Manila and Delhi & Waterhouse will be in Mexico City to celebrate the day.
"I can''t think of a better place to be than in Mexico City for International Scotch Day”, said Waterhouse. “Scotch has always been my go to drink and I have such an appreciation for its history and complexities"
Marsden said, “I’ll be celebrating twice, in two exciting locations, Manila on Feb 6th and Delhi on Feb 8th.. Scotch has always been one of my favourite drinks and I’m excited to travel to these two incredible cities to experience International Scotch Day with my fellow Scotch enthusiasts”.
When asked to describe her favourite thing about Scotch, Shanina Shaik said, “I love that it''s a drink that''s withstood time. It''s gone from a classic drink to one that mixologists can modernize with delicious ingredients”.
Ronan Beirne, Global Brand Marketing Director at Diageo said: “Last year’s International Scotch Day was a huge success and this year we wanted to turn up the volume and make it even more of a celebration with our three global ambassadors and events in many more markets.
Beirne continued, “We chose to shoot the campaign creative at the iconic Cambus Cooperage against a backdrop of casks representing a tradition of craftsmanship that dates back centuries, alongside these three stylish personalities enjoying a Scotch together. A perfect way to show that Scotch is cool, and made to be enjoyed whenever and wherever.”
The LoveScotch campaign encourages those who choose to drink, to do so responsibly.
#LoveScotch and #InternationalScotchDay.


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We have been talking a great deal about the OnePlus 8 series phones from the various leaks and speculations in the last couple of days. However, OnePlus has now itself come ahead and has given out the launch date of its 2020 flagship phones. The OnePlus 8 series is launching on April 14 and you can watch the launch event in India at 8:30pm via the livestream from OnePlus.
OnePlus has floated a new microsite that shares most of the details OnePlus is willing to share with the world prior to the launch of these phones. The OnePlus 8 and OnePlus 8 Pro are expected to launch at this event but OnePlus ahs given out the names yet. All OnePlus is saying right now is the 120Hz display and the 5G connectivity -- both of which have been previously shared by the company’s CEO Pete Lau.
A short teaser video has also been floated on Twitter and it seems to be confirming all the design leaks we saw earlier in the day. One of the phones will indeed have a ridge on the top of the frame. The Alert Slider, power buttons are present where they usually are on a OnePlus device. Moreover, the curved edges are also visible from the leaked teasers.
OnePlus is focusing all on speed again and the new tagline suggests it aims to be the fastest phone. OnePlus will rely on the Snapdragon 865 chipset, which is the fastest chipset one can find in an Android phone. Pete Lau, the CEO of OnePlus, has also said that these phones will come with support for 5G out fo the box. The Pro model is said to be upgraded to 120Hz refresh rate.
Based on the teaser, it seems that OnePlus will launch the phones initially in Europe and will only unveil the phone in India for the time being. The Indian prices could be announced later as India is currently observing a mega lockdown due to the ongoing COVID-19 epidemic.
That said, speculations suggest that the OnePlus 8 series will be more expensive than last year’s phones. The OnePlus 8 is expected to start upwards of Rs 40,000 in India due to the more expensive Snapdragon 865 chip whereas the OnePlus 8 Pro will now compete with the likes of Samsung’s Galaxy S20 and Apple iPhone 11.


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Assassins Creed Origins new DLC The Hidden Ones has a few days left for the release. Recently Ubisoft has released a Patch 1.2.0 that adds support for this DLC. Things, however did not go as planned and Ubisoft accidentally released the DLC a week earlier. A few players who were able to get access to the new zone have shared images on the web, the mistake was later rectified. The developer of the game has confirmed that they had released the DLC The Hidden Ones on Xbox One just a week ahead of official Jan 23 release.
The Hidden Ones will let players explore a new territory ruled by the Roman forces, players will have a new target to hunt down followed by fresh challenges. Those who had downloaded the DLC will still have an access to play it. And those who had not, will have to wait for the launch. So there are chances we will see a lot of play through videos from the players who are able to access it first.
Hidden Ones is first of the two major DLC that will be coming for Origins. A new region Sinai is unlocked that requires Cap 45 for progressing. The DLC also adds new items like outfits, mounts and weapons. Players who had able to download it before are lucky enough to get the fresh content first, otherwise Jan 23 is not far.
Later Ubisoft also announced that they will not remove the access for those players who had downloaded the DLC. If the developers take any step to fix this, it can mess up with players save game file. Instead Ubisoft has asked players to keep the discussion under spoiler-designed section of sub-forum.