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Scandinavia has become the first country to introduce a cryptocurrency tax law. The new legislation will come into effect on January 1, 2020. This is one more step in an effort of the Finnish government to make sure that cryptocurrency is used responsibly without any negative impacts on the economy. Finnish government said that this law was made with the intention of bringing Scandinavia’s regulation of digital currency closer to international standards, reduce risks for investors and provide better protection for consumers. The new tax will be 19% on all profits generated from cryptocurrency transactions and 24% for earnings generated from cryptocurrencies transactions made in cryptocurrencies or foreign currency that has been converted into digital currencies. Scandinavia has introduced a new digital currency tax. The following are some of the consequences of the new legislation: It will be difficult for Scandinavia based startups to compete with their international counterparts. Entrepreneurs will have to pay taxes on their digital currency transactions and profits, even if they do not turn a profit. Scandinavia will no longer be an attractive country for starting cryptocurrency businesses.
Scandinavia’s decision is just shortsighted, longterm it is going to affect innovation in the country and potentially cause people to lose money because they can’t sell their cryptocurrencies before paying taxes due on them this would also lead to higher prices for things like rent and so on. The Finnish government has introduced a new tax for cryptocurrency transactions and profits. It is set at 0.50% and will be paid by the company who issues the digital currency. Some countries like Estonia and Switzerland have already shown an interest in introducing similar taxes to combat money laundering or tax evasion using digital currencies, but other countries still seem to be hesitant to do so. Scandinavia crypto has introduced new tax rules for cryptocurrencies, which many governments are considering to follow. Starting from January 1st, 2019, Scandinavia will impose a capital gains tax on all digital currency transactions and profits.
This new cryptocurrency tax law is the first of its kind in the world it recognizes digital currencies as an asset class subject to taxation. And it also follows the G20’s recommendations for regulating digital assets. The G20 requested its member countries to enact legislation to regulate digital assets by July 2020 since they pose risks including money laundering, terrorism financing and tax evasion risks, among others. Around 40 countries have already announced their own cryptocurrency regulation policies; this number is expected to grow as other governments respond to G20’s request.


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You may have heard in recent news that Sainsbury’s are teaming up with Oxford University scientists to help fight climate change by possibly offering incentives to customers who buy vegetarian food.
Plant based food, vegan lifestyle, news, competition & giveaways, events, campaigns, animal rights, health, nutrition, fitness and fun website
Vegan Food UK - FB PageWednesday, April 26th, 2017 at 5:09am
Here's why our supermarkets and stomachs have been deprived of hummus in the last few weeks 😮😮😮
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domain: news


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Agriculturalists demand pathway to get through labour shortage
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, along with other top ministers, met sector leaders in Hawke's Bay today at a food and fibre leaders' forum. Horticulture New Zealand president and chairman Barry O'Neil, a kiwifruit grower from Bay of Plenty, had one question for the government. "What is the pathway forward to ensure that come our next peak period for labour, that we don't have the same limitations that we've had over this season, especially in the apple and to some extent in the cherry industry so far?"
More than 100,000 sign up for free vocational training courses
More than 100,000 people have signed up for free vocational training, launched as part of the Covid-19 recovery plan. The most popular courses are in construction, while almost a quarter of students are aged 40 and over.
Focus on getting school kids keen on farming at Palmerston North's Rural Games
With the borders closed the rural sector is having to work harder to attract workers. This weekend 40,000 people flocked to the Rural Games in Palmerston North, where there's a big focus on getting school kids keen on farming.
Covid-19 exposes global biosecurity systems as 'fractured'
The Covid-19 pandemic has exposed a fractured global biosecurity system and a new approach is needed, a biosecurity expert says.
‘Crazy’ Holidays Act decision helps rich get richer
Top-end-of-town executives on big salaries and generous bonuses could be getting a windfall payment - courtesy of the Holidays Act
Labour shortage predicted as grape harvest nears
Some wineries are worried they may not have enough staff when pruning begins. Their focus so far has been scraping together enough workers for the harvest which is about to start.


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Regeneca Worldwide, a California dietary supplement distributor, has been ordered to stop selling their products, FDA officials announced today.
Regeneca Worldwide, a California dietary supplement distributor, has been ordered to stop selling their products, FDA officials announced today. The company had been distributing products that were found to contain harmful ingredients such as 1, 3-dimethylamylamylamine (DMAA).
According to the press release, a federal court judge in California approved a consent decree of permanent injunction between the United States and Regeneca Worldwide and its owner, Matthew Nicosia, that was filed by the US Department of Justice and the FDA. The complaint contended that Regeneca Worldwide had been unlawfully distributing unapproved new drugs, and adulterated and misbranded their products.
“Consumers have a right to expect safe dietary supplements,” Melinda Plaisier, the FDA’s associate commissioner for regulatory affairs, said in the press release.
The approved consent decree prohibits Regeneca from continuing to market DMAA-containing and unapproved drugs. Regeneca must also adhere to several safety practices such as hiring good manufacturing practice and labeling experts, implementing procedures to comply with manufacturing practices and labeling requirements, and receiving FDA permission to resume selling products. Additionally, the company has been ordered to destroy all remaining products.
The FDA sent the company a warning letter in 2012 for marketing a dietary supplement containing DMAA, and Regeneca agreed to correct the violations. However, the company continued to distribute supplements containing the unsafe ingredients.
Federal judge approves consent decree with California dietary supplement distributor, Regeneca Worldwide [news release]. FDA’s website. http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm540858.htm. Accessed Feb. 9, 2017.


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China's top technology, e-commerce and consumer electronic firms are set to report a sharp slowdown in revenue growth for the June quarter, as a bruising trade war with the United States hurt consumer spending.
BlackRock's new private equity fund Long Term Private Capital has completed its maiden investment, taking up an $875 million stake in Authentic Brands Group, making it the largest investor in the U.S.-based company.
Italian luxury label Versace apologised on Sunday after one of the company's t-shirts was widely criticised on social media in China for identifying the autonomous territories of Hong Kong and Macau as countries.
Pepkor Holdings on Wednesday said third-quarter revenue rose 12% thanks to Easter sales falling within the quarter this year, but warned the outlook was still volatile as consumer spending remained under pressure.
Struggling British department store group Debenhams on Thursday named turnaround specialist Stefaan Vansteenkiste as its new chief executive, promoting him from the chief restructuring officer role he took on in April.
Jonathan Litt on Thursday urged for the removal of Hudson’s Bay Co Chairman Richard Baker from the board, saying the executive’s recent buyout offer showed that his interests were not aligned with minority shareholders.
A boycott on Japanese goods in South Korea has had an impact on casual clothing chain Uniqlo’s sales in the country, highlighting the widening economic hit from a diplomatic row over Tokyo’s wartime role.
The South African designer Palesa Mokubung, who launched her own brand Mantsho in 2004, has designed a line of womenswear for H&M featuring fluid tailoring and vibrant prints that will be on sale from August 15.


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Another Strong Year for IPOs on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange
Celltick Technologies Ltd. joins Uzi manufacturer SK Group among the companies that have already made preparations for a 2018 stock market listing in Israel
For daily updates, subscribe to our newsletter by clicking here.
With 20 companies having filed for initial public offerings in the past year, the stock exchange has attracted more companies looking to raise funds in 2017 than in the past five years combined.
The trend appears to be continuing into 2018 as several more companies have made plans to be listed on the exchange, the latest being Celltick Technologies Ltd., an Israel-headquartered developer of mobile marketing software.
Celltick is aiming to raise nearly $30 million a company valuation of about $145 million, according to several people familiar who spoke to Calcalist on condition of anonymity. Founded in 2000, the company is still considering other sources of funding but it has been meeting with underwriters and making preparations for an IPO.
Over the past several months, Calcalist has reported on a slew of companies planning a 2018 IPO, based on multiple interviews with anonymous sources.
Israel-based defense contractor SK Group wants to list on TASE in the middle next year at a $560-million valuation. SK Group’s portfolio of properties includes iconic gun brands like the Uzi submachine gun and the state-the-art Tavor assault rifle. The company hopes to use the funding to expand in India.
Solaer Israel Ltd., which builds and runs solar and conventional power installations, is aiming for an IPO in April.
Tokyo-headquartered Internet Research Institute Inc., a technology-focused holding company, is listed as a candidate for listing by the TASE after the company registered in Israel in August. Internet Research Institute is aiming to raise $20 million to $30 million.


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BEIJING (Reuters) - The United States has launched a probe to determine whether imports of Chinese aluminum foil should be subject to anti-dumping and anti-subsidy duties, the Commerce Department said on Tuesday, just weeks after the U.S. foil industry accused the world’s top producer of dumping.
Earlier this month, U.S. producers lodged a petition calling for an investigation and accusing 230 Chinese companies selling almost $400 million worth of foil last year in the United States at discount prices and damaging the sector.
Estimated dumping margins range from 38.40 percent to 140.21 percent, the U.S. Commerce Department said on Tuesday. (t.cn/R6omrab)
Responding to the move, China’s commerce ministry on Wednesday urged the United States to conduct a fair investigation and follow guidelines set by the World Trade Organization.
“Inappropriate use of trade remedy measures will not only harm the export interests of Chinese aluminum foil firms, but also will weaken the competitiveness of the U.S. downstream industries,” according to the statement posted on the Chinese commerce ministry’s website.
The U.S. International Trade Commission will make preliminary determinations on or before April 24, the Commerce Department said.
If the ITC issues affirmative preliminary injury decisions, the investigations will continue and Commerce will make its preliminary determinations on anti-subsidy, or ‘countervailing’ duties and anti-dumping duties on June 2 and Aug. 16, respectively.
Reporting by Beijing Monitoring Desk and Josephine Mason; Editing by Christian Schmollinger and Kenneth Maxwell
Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.


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E3 is imminent. Attentions are about to turn to gaming's annual LA trade show, where players around the world will learn more about the games they'll be sinking serious time into over the next year, and often beyond.
EA, Microsoft, Bethesda, Ubisoft, Sony and Nintendo will present (in that order) the best of what they're working on, starting on Saturday night and concluding Tuesday evening. It's going to be a week of big news, but what will be the biggest?
Here are five games, developers and a certain piece of hardware, that could steal the show at E3 2017.
It's been over a year since Dark Souls 3's release and we don't yet know what's next for FromSoftware.
Whenever the studio is ready to announce its current project, there is sure to be an immense amount of interest in the direction the developer decides to take.
Will we see a Bloodborne sequel on PS4, a new 'Souls-like' game entirely or something that moves the company past its immensely popular series - now a genre unto itself - and offer something different.
Whatever it is, it has the capacity to be one of the most talked-about games of E3.
Starfield is the most likely entry on this list to take home the mantle of E3's most talked about news story... if it's real, and if it's announced. Multiple reports have suggested it is, and that it will be the star of Bethesda's press conference in the early hours of Monday morning (12 June).
Starfield is believed to be a space-faring sci-fi RPG, made in a similar mould to Fallout and Elder Scrolls. If it is to sit alongside those towering series, its announcement will be a huge moment whenever that may be.
Super Mario Odyssey
The only game on our list that we know with certainty will be one of the stars of E3. Nintendo's big Christmas game for its new Switch console will be the focus of its Tuesday afternoon showcase and the livestream set to follow it.
Odyssey will return Mario to the large, open levels of Super Mario 64 and Super Mario Sunshine, and four years on from the plumber's last big outing hopes could not be higher for the new game.
Essentially, and perhaps unfairly, anything other than a genuine game of the year contender will be a disappointment. Likewise, anything other than an E3 showing that blows gamers away will also be a letdown. No pressure.
We know Project Scorpio is very powerful and games running on it will look incredible, but we only know what a few of those games will be. Crackdown 3, Sea of Thieves, State of Decay 2 and a new Forza will be on show, but that's not the most inspiring line-up.
Microsoft's Xbox division needs to reveal games that get people interested in the brand ahead of Scorpio's release, and set up a tantilising late 2017 and 2018 that gives people a reason to purchase the new console.
If Xbox can deliver at E3, and that is a very big ask, Scorpio could well steal the show.
Ubisoft always has a surprise up its sleeve. Sometimes this means attention-grabbing announcements like Watch Dogs and The Division, sometimes it means something smaller-scale and unexpected, like Steep.
Ubisoft's surprises have become a staple of E3, and Ubisoft will be expected to deliver something unexpected once again on Monday evening. Should that happen, and should they have a major new IP to show off, it will surely generate a lot of interest.


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Canadians are paying less for an iPhone than the average American customer, but they aren’t getting as sweet of a deal as those in Japan or Finland, among others, according to a new study.
A survey released Tuesday from Linio, the largest online retailer in Latin America, ranked the cheapest and most expensive countries in the world to purchase an iPhone.
Canada finished just inside the top 15 – 14th overall – at an average of US$555.25.
One analyst pins the advantage Canadians enjoy on a combination of currency valuation, taxes, and price discrimination on Apple’s part.
“The HST might add a few per cent to a cheaper country's price, the dropping Canadian dollar surely plays a role, and Apple probably sets a wholesale cost in Canada that hedges for any risk of the loonie dropping further,” Derek Kerton, Managing Director of The Kerton Group told BNN.ca.
“Of course, if the Canadian dollar doesn't drop more, the coffers in Cupertino are more than happy to scrape off a little more profit, compliments of their friends up North.”
Countries without taxes on consumer products were the most affordable for purchasing iPhones. Angola is the world’s cheapest destination to purchase the Apple devices with an average price of US$401.94. Japan and China finished second and third, at average costs of US$413.58 and US$470.74, respectively.
Due to hyperinflation, the world’s most expensive iPhone can be found in Venezuela, at a whopping cost of US$97,813.82.
Countries were also ranked by their affordability for other in-demand devices. Canada ranked in the top five in the world for two key gaming consoles, boasting the third-cheapest PlayStation 4 (US$246.89) and the fourth-cheapest Xbox One (US$222.55). And when all products are lumped together, Canada ranked fourth most affordable.
Price points like these can open the door for a Northern retail migration, according to Kerton.
“Occasionally, the pendulum swings the other way, and U.S. consumers come shopping in Canada,” Kerton said. “You can always find out which way the wind is blowing by talking to Canadians in Vancouver, Sarnia, Niagara Falls, or the Soo [Sault Ste. Marie], or Americans in Bellingham, Detroit, Buffalo, or, the Soo.”
The survey landed on its numbers by pricing out various iPhone models without the cost of phone service in all of the country’s online retailers, as well as at least four of the biggest retailers in the country's five largest cities.


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Fresh off the back of the launch of it's brand new 2020 road bike range, Vitus has unveiled the bikes the racers of the Vitus Pro Cycling P/B Brother UK will be running for 2020.
To add a little colour to the story, Vitus has worked with YouTube bike builder extraordinaire Gee Milner, he of Dream Builds fame, and asked him to bring team racer Mikey Mottram's race bikes to life.
Bike Build Specification
The team will be riding the Vitus Vitesse Evo Disc frameset, a bike that offers semi-compact geometry with plenty of flexibility in set up. It's a machine which has been repeatedly applauded for its handling, though the frame stiffness has been a bit of a Marmite experience between reviewers.
Here's the full spec:
- Frame and fork: Vitus Vitesse Evo Disc
- Headset: Brand-X Integrated – Carbon Cap
- Groupset: SRAM Red eTap AXS 12 speed
- Brakes: SRAM Red eTap AXS Hydraulic disc
- BB-set: SRAM DUB Bottom Bracket
- Crankset: SRAM Red eTap AXS DUB Power Meter
- Seatpost: Prime Primavera Carbon Seatpost
- Seat: Selle San Marco Mantra
- Bar: Prime Primavera Carbon
- Stem: Prime Primavera Carbon
- Wheelset: Prime BlackEdition 50 Carbon Disc Wheelset
- Chain: SRAM Red AXS 12 speed
- Cassette: SRAM Red AXS 12 speed
- Tyres: Schwalbe Pro One TT TLE – 25c
- Pedals: Shimano Ultegra Carbon
- Weight: 7.5kg inc pedals
Vitus' team manager Chris McGlinchey said: “We’re so excited to introduce the 2020 Vitus Pro Cycling P/B Brother UK Race Bike. For the 2020 Season they will be racing on our Vitesse Evo Disc platform. The team will be racing on the top end SRAM Red eTap AXS 12 speed groupset, finished with Prime Bike Components carbon wheels, bar, stem and seatposts.
"The candy red paintwork is as stunning in real life and will certainly stand out in the bunch. Time to get racing!"
The team are racing on SRAM eTap AXS groupsets for the 2020 season. Featuring industry-leading technology and features, SRAM Red eTap AXS sits at the top of the SRAM performance tree. It gives you every possible benefit from a wireless electronic groupset- modern gearing, advanced chain management, and easy personalisation.
The team are utilising high performance carbon components from Prime Bike Components. Using their top flight Black Edition Carbon Tubeless Disc wheelsets and Carbon Primavera handlebar, stem and seatpost. The team will continue to roll on Schwalbe tyres for another year, having recently launched an updated Pro One TLE tyre and new Pro One TT TLE, the team are fully behind the performance of tubeless tyres in the professional peloton.
Sit back, grab a cup of tea and enjoy.
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Earlier this week, the UK government launched a new export strategy aiming to increase British exports. With Brexit looming however, could this strategy improve trade?
The tactical strategy, set out by International Trade Secretary, Liam Fox, aims to make Britain an exporting “superpower”.
Brexit is fast approaching and British trade hangs in a tentative state prior to the departure of the UK from the European Union.
Trade stability will be essential to UK manufacturers financially, as they look now to secure and strengthen relationships with markets outside of the EU, such as Asia, North and South America and Australasia.
The government’s latest strategy focuses on exports, and aligns to the industrial strategy, it looks to improve and support manufacturers and businesses. But could this strategy improve UK trade and even manufacturers’ financial stability at such a crucial stage?
Response from industry
Tony Hague, chief executive of PP Control & Automation, said to The Manufacturer: “Industry needs a long term strategy – not party specific – that offers genuine executional support for SMEs to either start exporting or increasing their export geographies.”
Hague explained that not enough is being done to support SMEs in realising their trade potential, and that as a country, manufacturers need to be competitive globally, he said: “We need to remove barriers, such as material and energy costs, creating a level playing field so that we can compete with the rest of the world.”
The strategy needs to support manufacturing businesses and remove these obstacles, but as it stands, it is a plan and therefore needs to be executed without flaws.
Hague concluded: “Brexit will almost certainly have a short term (at best) impact on European trade, but hopefully all of this will get resolved swiftly and with intelligence.”
John Nollett, CEO of Pressmark Pressings, a metal forming specialist based in the West Midlands said to The Manufacturer: “Exporting comes in many guises and from a manufacturing point of view we can export goods. To be competitive with goods, we need to have no tariffs and incentives to invest in the UK.”
Nollett explained that it is no secret, businesses can be more productive if they can be globally more successful through exporting, he said: “In effect this is what they [government] have said and are saying, but this is just common sense to business owners, not a strategy.”
Whether the strategy will just be another plan is up for debate, but the UK needs leaders to provide financial support and backing if it is to realise the potential of SMEs, and continue to enable larger companies to export globally without issues post-Brexit.
Case study: Taiwanese export success for UK manufacturer
Grey Technology, known as Gtech, a UK manufacturer of vacuum cleaners and garden tools, achieved global sales of more than £17m last year after taking the Taiwanese market by storm.
Revenue more than doubled last year, with over half of its international growth in 2017 coming from the country, according to Gtech.
Owner and founder of Gtech, Nick Grey, said to The Manufacturer that their now Taiwanese distributor, Kevin Quo, gave the Gtech Multi product to a well-known Taiwanese vlogger and subsequently “interest sort of exploded!”
In total, the business has sold 40,000 products in Taiwan, with most of these being its handheld ‘Gtech Multis.’


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The disease is one of the most common skin cancers, affecting around 3% of the UK population, and the first time that the condition has been reported to the NHS in the UK, the Daily Mail reports.
The diagnosis is rare, as the condition is often missed due to the fact that many people don’t have symptoms until they become old or sicker, or if they have more than one cancer of the same kind.
A study published in the journal Cancer Causes & Control, found that people with eczemas (skin cancers) had a higher risk of the condition being caught in the first place.
They also had a greater likelihood of dying within the first two years of the diagnosis.
It’s important to note that while the condition isn’t always fatal, it’s still a very serious one and should be treated with caution, as it’s a precursor to other skin cancers.
Dr Caroline Pemberton, from the Department of Clinical Oncology at the University of Bristol, told the Daily Post that while eczems are rare, the condition still presents a major threat to those living with it.
“People living with eczeas are at higher risk than people with melanoma, but we have been doing very well in preventing and treating eczemic skin cancers,” she said.
“So when we see an increase in these types of skin cancers we know that we have a serious problem.”
What are the symptoms?
In people with skin cancer, the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, which may include:Skin tags on the skin or around the eyes, nose, mouth, throat, chest, arms or leg have been removedIt’s possible to have a very dry, brittle skin and this can lead to irritation of the skin and hair and itchy skin, particularly around the mouth and eyesDr Pemberon said that eczams can be treated through:Laser treatments, using a special type of skin-sensing device called a “skin prick” to stimulate the cancer in the areaThe skin-scrubbing method is similar to a scrubbing with a vacuum cleaner, but involves scraping on a fine, soft brush to remove the cancer and any remaining skin tags that remain in the surrounding areaIt can take between five to 10 weeks for the cancer to disappear from the skinIt’s also important to remember that eczoas are more common in people with certain types of eczemia, as a person with a type of eczoema will have more skin cancers of the right size.
For the most part, people who develop eczimas are likely to be women and people with darker skin, such as those who have been diagnosed with skin disorders like psoriasis or eczymatic skin.
Dr Paberton said that in addition to the obvious risk of having eczemi, there are also other health issues that people might face:”It’s the risk of scarring the skin, the risk that people who have eczemed will become more aggressive, they may develop a skin infection, which is very serious and very serious,” she explained.
“They also have higher rates of depression and anxiety and higher rates and higher levels of depression.”
The more eczumatically affected you are, the more likely you are to have these issues.
“It’s not just people with cancer who have to worry about having ecziema, though.
It can affect people who live with other skin conditions as well, as skin cancer is known to spread to the bones, joints and muscles of people with these conditions, including:Acne: People with eczoa can have acne, as well as other skin issues such as:Skin problems: Some people with psorias, eczas or eczoems have difficulty sleeping, as they’re prone to sleep apnea.
Dr Meeghan Boulton, a dermatologist and dermatology consultant from Leeds, told Al Jazeera that ecziems are particularly common in women, with a higher incidence in women and older women.”
It is more common with people who are older, but there is a significant increase in people under 30,” she told Aljazeera.”
There are different skin conditions that are more likely to get it.
They can be very common and very, very dangerous.
“Dr Boulmont explained that eczedema can be particularly damaging to the skin’s protective layer of connective tissue, the epidermis.”
You can actually cause more inflammation, more scarring, more damage to the epiding,” she added.”
And that can lead not only to more eczedemia but to more problems.
“Some people with this condition might develop ulcers or they might get acne and scarring on their skin.”
There are other common skin conditions such as psoroid arthritis, and eczymes, which cause a skin condition that is more serious than eczeme.
“I think it’s important that we are


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News tagged guidance
Last update: Wednesday 27 May 2015 [233 news items]
TSMC posts revenue drop for September 2009
Oct 9, 16:11
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) has announced revenues of NT$28.02 billion (US$870 million) for September 2009, down 3% on month and 0.8% on year.
MediaTek 3Q09 revenues beat guidance
Oct 7, 11:50
MediaTek saw its third-quarter revenues increase 22% sequentially to NT$34.34 billion (US$1.07 billion), better than its earlier expectation of 15-20% growth.
HTC 3Q09 revenues barely meet low-end guidance
Newswatch - Oct 6, 15:46
HTC (High Tech Computer) has reported that its revenues topped NT$34.01 billion (US$1.05 billion) in the third quarter of 2009, barely meeting the company's low-end revenue target...
ChipMOS raises 3Q09 revenue estimates
Oct 5, 15:25
Packaging and testing house ChipMOS Technologies has announced it now expects revenues for the third quarter of 2009 to grow 13-15% sequentially, compared to its previous estimate...
Macronix raises guidance for 3Q09
Sep 8, 17:09
Taiwan-based mask ROM and NOR flash chipmaker Macronix International (MXIC) has raised the company's guidance for the third quarter of 2009 while acknowledging better-than-expected...
Specialty IC foundry VIS upbeat about 3Q09
Aug 5, 14:51
Vanguard International Semiconductor (VIS), which specializes in analog/mixed-signal and logic ICs, has estimated shipments for third-quarter 2009 are likely to increase 25% sequentially...
HTC revenues up 10% on year in 2Q09
Jul 31, 16:37
HTC (High Tech Computer) has reported revenues of NT$38.2 billion (US$1.16 billion) for the second quarter of 2009, in line with its mid-point guidance range of NT$37.5-38.5 billion...
UMC gearing up for 40nm
Jul 24, 15:02
United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC) has been working closely with customers, including FPGA specialist Xilinx, to volume produce 45/40nm products at its 300mm (12-inch) fabs,...
SMIC raises 2Q09 guidance on China demand
Jun 30, 10:17
Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC) has announced an upward revision of its revenue guidance for the second quarter of 2009 thanks to robust demand in the...
MediaTek gearing up new WCDMA and DSC chips
Jun 17, 14:36
MediaTek is expected to introduce a lineup of new chip solutions for WCDMA handsets and digital still cameras (DSCs) soon, with volume production slated for the latter half of 2009,...
MediaTek says guidance for 2Q09 unchanged
Newswatch - Jun 10, 11:49
MediaTek said it currently has no plan to revise its revenue guidance for the second quarter, despite a positive outlook given by market watchers. The handset chipmaker earlier projected...
Realtek, Ralink expected to raise 2Q09 guidance
May 27, 16:48
Networking IC design houses Realtek Semiconductor and Ralink Technology are expected to upward adjust their second-quarter guidance due to strong demand for WLAN chips, according...
ASE and SPIL sales recovery continue in April
May 7, 10:35
Packaging and testing houses Advanced Semiconductor Engineering (ASE) and Siliconware Precision Industries (SPIL) saw sales continue improving in April, with narrower revenue drops...
Faraday expects 50% revenue growth in 2Q09
Apr 28, 17:09
Fabless ASIC and IP company Faraday Technology has estimated it will enjoy a revenue increase of 50% sequentially in the second quarter of 2009, with digital camera chips likely to...
ASE and SPIL 2Q09 revenues to grow over 30%
Apr 27, 16:25
Advanced Semiconductor Engineering (ASE) and Siliconware Precision Industries (SPIL) will likely enjoy revenue growth of more than 30% sequentially in the second quarter of 2009,...
ASE 1Q09 revenues beat guidance
Newswatch - Apr 8, 15:24
Packaging and testing house Advanced Semiconductor Engineering (ASE) has announced revenues of NT$5.5 billion (US$163 million) for March, up 28.2% on month. The company's first-quarter...
TSMC and UMC March sales expected to rebound
Apr 7, 12:25
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC) are expected to discontinue revenue drops sequentially in March, signaling the pure-play...
Amkor narrows 1Q guidance
Mar 26, 12:27
Amkor Technology, a US-based IC packaging and testing firm, has revised upward gross margins for the first quarter of 2009 (ending March 31, 2009) but still held its previous revenues...
Second-tier foundry VIS lifts guidance for 1Q09
Mar 13, 11:27
Vanguard International Semiconductor (VIS), an affiliate of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), has revised its first-quarter guidance thanks to rush orders, according...


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iOS & Android Apps provide new ways for fans to engage with the upstart streaming service. Dive in with the ASL PRIME League Final tomorrow on Saturday, May 2nd.
D!INGIT – the new videogame streaming & eSports platform – is pleased to announced that it iss bringing its service to the mobile market. DingIt’s iOS & Android Apps will provide new ways for fans to engage with the platform, and capitalise on its superior streaming technology.
To coincide with the launch of the app, the ASL PRIME League Finals will be showing on Saturday May 2nd, which will conclude the second successive season that DingIt has sponsored for the popular StarCraft league.
The company has also continued in its commitment to not only improve how viewers watch DingIt content, but how broadcaster’s stream as well. The native broadcast app has been given a complete overhaul, and a new Chrome extension replaces the original plugin so that new users can get in on the action quicker.
“The mobile apps were a no-brainer,” said Mark Hain, CEO of DingIt. “Our steaming technology provides better quality and more consistent streams with little to no buffering at a much higher resolution. This enables our users to watch their favourite eSport events and broadcasters on any device, at any time, in the highest quality possible.”
The App is called ‘D!ngIt Mobile’ and is free to download. Users can browse streams by games, channels or broadcaster, and there is a fully-featured chat system. Optional video-quality options and a full screen/horizontal mode are also included, and fans can directly follow their favourite channels and eSports events. There are also share widgets to spread the word on various social media platforms.
This follows on from the company receiving $1.5 Million USD in a recent funding round from Black Green Capital, ensuring the company can meet user expectations and provide the best service possible.
For more information on D!NGIT Mobile, including links to the app stores, please visit: http://www.dingit.tv/mobile
For more information about DINGIT, please visit: http://www.dingit.tv


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Plentiful potholes a boon for some LI businesses
Potholes have been popping up on roadways across Long Island, and while drivers do their best to avoid them, they bring big business for some Long Island auto shops.
Thomas Mumolo, of the Tire Discount Center in Levittown, says all the divets and holes have his shop busier than ever. Customers have been coming in with bent rims and blown tires. The shop has amassed a wall of dozens of busted tires that fell victim to the roads.
At the Meineke Car Care Center down the road, mechanics have been busy fixing other damage that potholes cause to cars. Stabilizer links and ball joints are at risk when cars bang into the craters.
Repair crews were spotted filling potholes on Saturday on the Wantagh State Parkway, the Northern State and the Meadowbrook Parkway. State highway officials say they expect most potholes to be filled by Tuesday.


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ePHOTOzine brings you a daily round up of all the latest photography news including camera news, exhibitions, events, special offers, industry news, digital photography news, announcements and launches.
A joint venture between Rolleiflex and Horseman today announced one of the widest angle, digital compatible medium format cameras on the market.
Canon introduces the ultra-stylish IXUS 210.
Canon has announced the new Canon Powershot S100, an update to the Canon Powershot S95 it increases the zoom to 5x and uses a new Canon CMOS sensor.
Three of Lomography's cameras have had a shiny make-over.
From today, you can save up to £180 on some of Nikon's FX lenses.
The SB-200 close up system should not be used with certain lenses as the weight of this Speedlight when attached to the front of the lens will cause excess strain on the lens barrel and helicoid, affecting lens performance.
DxO announce availability of Optics Pro v5.2 with new RAW converter to improve noise reduction in high ISO images and support for three new camera models.
Double honours for Nikon at the European Imaging and Sound Association awards.
NASA orders D3S digital SLR cameras and interchangeable lenses from Nikon.
HTC has announced a new smartphone with a camera designed for optimum image quality with an UltraPixel sensor.
Nikon today introduces Nikon 1, a revolutionary digital camera system built from scratch to offer still image and movie recording without compromise.
Following Jessops' plans to axe 81 of its shops as announced last Thursday, the photographic retail giant have unveiled exactly which stores it plans to close down.
Sony introduce a series of small cameras which they say will give a 'big performance'.
Corel add 75 new features to the latest version of their PaintShop Pro software.
Lee Filters holder for Nikon's 14-24mm f/2.8 wide-angle lens
Red Digital Cinema turn their attentions to the photography market.
Hasselblad's 35mm XPan panoramic camera falls foul of new laws set out by the European Community
Hahnel have launched the first two in a range of stylish battery power grips for power hungry digital SLR cameras
Meeting the increasing need for digital camera image storage, the new xD-Picture Card offers fast read/write speeds, low power consumption and potential for up to 8GB capacity. xD-Picture Card will co-exist alongside SmartMedia.
Syngenta have announced the winners of the 2013 Photography Award.
Rhubarb-Rhubarb, Europe’s premier portfolio review festival always generates excitement amongst the photographic community, but an exclusive giveaway at this year’s show promises to give the event an added gloss.
Hasselblad has announced a new 0% finance plan for its UK customers.
Cameras Underwater introduce new Sealife SL980 light to its ever expanding specialist product range.
Nikon adds to its range of super zoom cameras with two new compacts.
Pre-order the new Moleskine Classic Landscape Photo Book to get a free Moleskine notebook.
Phase One Capture One 5.1 - Powerful new image editing tools and a value-packed basic version.
Nikon has launched a new Nikkor super telephoto single focal length lens.
Week 2's winner of the Santa Vanguard competition has been announced.
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Predicting the 2009 Fusion
By Igor Holas
When Nissan released their 2001 Altima, it took the market by storm. An even bigger storm ensued when the new 2007 Altima was released. Ford hoped the 2006 Fusion would do the same, but after that did not perform to expectations, Ford is stepping up the effort with a redesigned 2009 Fusion that will go on sale early next year. And let me tell you: Ford is aiming high; very high.
Let’s start with the basics – the Fusion was released in 2005 as a 2006 model and has been largely positively received by the press. The sales, however, have not been satisfactory with most months clocking in at a mere twelve to fifteen thousand units sold; while at the same time the Toyota Camry sells most than twice as many units. The core criticisms of the Fusion circled around mediocre engines and interiors – the engines were on par at release, but were quickly outclassed with the 2007 Toyota Camry and 2007 Nissan Altima, and later releases offered more power and better fuel economy. The interior, while handsome to look at, and made of good materials, looks cheap in the base models, and was not always put together properly. Ford is addressing both of these issues, and adding a new exterior and a set of powertrains that will surely surprise many.
On the surface, the 2009 Fusion will sport a new look with a more aggressive front fascia. The three bar grille will be more pronounced and the headlamps will look a little more dynamic. Also new, the headlights will sport projectors – a new trend in the class providing more sophisticated looks and better lighting of the road. The tail end will also sport a new look eliminating the chromed lamps and the blocky design for a more fluid, interesting look. By the way, the picture above is not speculation, but an official sketch leaked from inside Ford a couple months back.
On the inside the Fusion will have an all new interior, eschewing the “brick” stereo and other switchgear vices of current Fords. Instead, the 2009 Fusion will sport an elegant center console with “poke through” switchgear showcased by recent Fords such as the 2008 Focus or 2009 Flex. Overall, the materials, craftsmanship and amenities will all be upgraded, especially in the base models. Of course, the Sync wireless will be added and most likely so will the new generation of Navigation system showcased by the Ford Flex. Additionally, with chassis and suspension tuning and better sound isolation, the new Fusion will be much quieter and more composed in all sorts of driving situations.
Finally, under the hood, Ford will offer five all-new powertrains; two of which are quite exotic. On the bottom, the new Fusion will sport an all new 2.5 liter four-cylinder that will improve power and mileage over the current four-cylinder engine. The second engine will be the much coveted and much-clamored-for 3.5l V6 used in the Taurus and Edge – this engine is both more powerful and more economical than the current V6 offered in the Fusion. The third system offered will be a standard parallel full hybrid with a continuously variable transmission. This will be a brand new system dubbed “Gen II” – which is modeled after the Escape hybrid, but offers more US-sourced technology, better packaging flexibility, and better fuel efficiency. This system will debut with the Fusion and then spread across Ford’s lineup in the US and abroad.
The final two engines are the reason for excitement, however. Ford will offer two Twin Force engines, positioned as alternatives to both the four and the six cylinder engines while delivering excellent mileage. The smaller of the duo will deliver between 170-200 horsepower, and in preliminary testing, is approaching a fuel efficiency rating of 30 miles-per-gallon in the city and 40 miles-per-gallon on the highway. And while the final rating will likely be a bit shy of the nice numbers above, the Fusion with this engine will still deliver mileage in the compact-car territory. The displacement of this smaller Twin Force engine has not been revealed yet, but most likely will be a 1.6 or 1.8 liter. The larger of the Twin Force duo will be a version of the 2.5l four cylinder delivering over 260hp, and over 30 miles per gallon highway.
This far ahead of the November release at the Los Angeles Auto Show, plenty of information about the 2009 Fusion is still unknown or only speculated. However the information known points to a new more modern and sophisticated exterior look, a new better appointed interior and an excellent lineup of engines. And in light of this information, the new Fusion sure looks promising; hopefully consumers will notice this time.
COPYRIGHT Autosavant.net – All Rights Reserved


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Weekly News Roundup (5 October 2014)
Welcome to another WNR. Another fairly short one this week, as the news was thinner than the too-thin aluminium that Apple used for the iPhone 6 Plus, apparently. This WNR doesn’t bend though (might fold, break, snap, but definitely doesn’t bend).
Let’s get going!
The developers behind DRM-free gaming platform GoG and The Witcher series have once again reiterated their hatred of all things DRM related. If this wasn’t the 28th time they’ve mentioned this, and if I hadn’t already written the same news story eight times, it might have been an interesting news story to write. But at this point I think it’s almost a lie to call this “news” (“olds”?). Slightly less repetitive was the developer’s views on downloadable content. They’re not 100% against it per se, but they do believe that gamers shouldn’t be forced to pay for a DLC that is only “one-thousandth of the whole game”. Take note EA!
New research shows that nearly half of U.S. broadband households are using their game console as their main connected CE device, with many consuming more than 10 hours of non-gaming content each week on these devices. I guess I would fall into the more atypical household where I *only* use my game console for non gaming related tasks (more than 20 hours per week), since after a hard day’s work, I just don’t have the energy to even think about playing games (watching Netflix in a semi-vegetative state, however …).
Interestingly (or not), the survey of 10,000 U.S. households found that the Xbox platform was still more popular than PlayStation – 35% compared to 27%. The Wii was up there too with 35%. Blu-ray players, on the other hand, are not being used as much as game consoles, with only 9% of households using these as their primary device. Smart TV lags behind game consoles as well. I think the poor responsiveness, lack of app updates on Smart TVs and Blu-ray player for app such as Netflix is why these devices aren’t being used more – a missed opportunity by the CE manufacturers, if there ever was one. Smart TVs, in particular, have been largely a disappointment, considering how much easier it should be to just turn on the TV, press a button to access Netflix, as opposed to using a game console that often doesn’t even have a dedicated remote control. A lack of a common app platform on TVs and Blu-ray players, which makes making/updating apps for each and every device a time consuming exercise, is probably why the equivalent apps on these devices are so poor in quality, performance and features compared to say the PS3’s Netflix app (that and the low capability processors found in these devices, compared to the powerhouse that is a game console).
Coincidentally, another study was released this week suggesting that game console Netflix usage is actually down, compared to standalone media players and smart TVs. The survey says that 28% of users now use devices like the Roku and Chromecast for their Netflix streaming needs in the living room, which is double what is was in 2013. Smart TVs usage is at 28% as well (up from 20%), leaving video console usage, while still top, at the reduced usage of 43%.
No matter which device you watch it on, one movie that many of these households will definitely be watching via Netflix next year will be the sequel to the Oscar winning ‘Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon’, which will air exclusively on Netflix at the same time as the movie’s theatrical/IMAX debut. The reason for the Netflix exclusivity is because Netflix are one of the producers of the film – a Netflix original movie, if you will. This might just be the highest profile movie to have SVOD release window coincide with its theatrical run, and it hasn’t gone unnoticed by U.S. cinema chains, most of which (Regal, Cinemark and AMC) have vowed to not screen the film in their theaters.
The chains have simply dismissed the movie as a “made for video” one, and they have cited this as the main reason why they won’t air it. But based on history, we know cinemas are notoriously sensitive to their exclusivity window, and are willing to do everything to protect it, including boycotting a potentially popular film. Even when all powerful Hollywood studios attempted to shorten the exclusivity window by a couple of weeks in order to bring forward the digital/disc release window and to fight piracy, the chains retaliated quite swiftly (even though the last few week bring in very few cinema patrons) and Hollywood eventually backed down. So Netflix’s recent move, which also includes signing up Adam Sandler on a four film deal, is sure to keep theater execs up at night, even if they don’t want to admit it.
Personally, I’m looking forward to Crouching Tiger Part II. Not so much the Adam Sandler films. Let’s hope they’re more ‘The Wedding Singer’ and ‘Punch-Drunk Love’ than almost every other film (although I liked ‘Click’ and ’50 First Dates’).
Chances are, the films that Netflix will be producing will also be made available in 4K to help Netflix promotes its nascent 4K service. So it’s good news that the licensing terms for Netflix’s choice of 4K codec, HEVC, has been announced and it’s actually better than the one for the current industry standard H.264. The MPEG LA has decided against charging any fees for the codec’s use on videos streamed over the Internet or sold on Blu-ray disc, which will surely help HEVC gain further industry acceptance. Products that can encode or decode HEVC will be charged at a rate of 20 cents per product, with the first 100,000 units per year free of charge. Yeah, you know it’s a slow news week when licensing terms and fees become a subject of discourse.
Not that much happening in gaming (or anything else, really), except the somewhat surprising announcement of Windows 10 (skipping Windows 9 entirely … perhaps it was considered too confusing due to existence of Windows 95/98 (hopefully not on any actual in-use computers) and what it will mean for gaming on the Xbox platform. The unified approach, which didn’t really work with Windows 8 (okay for tablets, horrible for desktops), will be kicked up a notch by trying to unify not only desktops and laptops with smartphones and tablets, but also the Xbox One game console as well. Games made for Windows 10 could be made to be compatible across every Windows device, from 4″ phones all the way to 80″ TVs connected to the Xbox One.
I seriously doubt we’ll see “proper” Xbox One games also being playable on Windows PCs, due to the huge differences in architecture and differences in optimisation techniques between Xbox One and Windows games. So it will be more things like apps or perhaps even MMOs, that will have universal Windows support. At the very least, it’s something Microsoft can say they have that Sony cannot really compete, since Sony don’t make their own smartphone/tablet and computing OS. Sony can adopt Android as their own though, and port support for certain Android apps to the PS4.
And that’s all we have this week. See you next time!


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Fri, Apr 14, 2023
As per the order, the exemption in the stamp duty would be 100 per cent in eastern UP and Bundelkhand region, 75 per cent in central and east UP, 50 per cent in Gautam Buddha Nagar and 100 per cent for women entrepreneurs.
Sat, Nov 19, 2022
Women’s Entrepreneurship Day 2022: Today, women are working dedicatedly and establishing their businesses in a variety of industries including publishing, beauty, lifestyle, technology, fashion, and manufacturing.
This Women Entrepreneur’s Day, we spoke to a few such women entrepreneurs who might end up being the next big entrepreneur.
Women's Entrepreneurship Day 2022: Today women entrepreneurs are not limited to any sector. From fashion, food, clothing, women health to technology, manufacturing, deep tech, women have made their presence felt in all sectors.
Mon, Nov 29, 2021
State Bank of India (SBI) has signed an agreement with Usha International Limited (UIL) for empowering women entrepreneurs by providing financial assistance.
Fri, Nov 19, 2021
Amazon India on Friday said it has joined hands with four organisations as part of its Amazon Saheli programme to accelerate the growth of women entrepreneurs across the country.
Mon, Mar 09, 2020
Whatsapp and Women Entrepreneurship Platform has announced "StepUp to ScaleUp: A WEP-WhatsApp Programme" to empower aspiring women entrepreneurs.
Sun, Jan 01, 2017
The government sanctioned over Rs 70,000 crore loans to over 2 crore borrowers including women entrepreneurs under its Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) scheme in the fiscal year 2016-17 (FY17).
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Carvel's New Crunchies Cereal Is What Childhood Dreams (and Ice Cream Cakes) Are Made Of
But there’s a catch.
Get ready to wax nostalgic, courtesy of Carvel’s latest creation. The ice cream brand announced today, April 1, that it is releasing its adored chocolate Crunchies as a limited-edition breakfast cereal for the first time ever.
If you’ve ever had the pleasure of going to town on a Carvel ice cream cake (shoutout to Fudgie the Whale!), you’re already familiar with these delicious chocolate Crunchies — they are the same tasty morsels that you’ll find layered in any of the brand’s popular ice cream cakes, and they’re also available as an ice cream topping. Basically, Crunchies are a “special blend of decadent chocolate cookie pieces, coated with a rich chocolate bonnet shell.”
According to a press release from Carvel, Crunchies Cereal represents a new way to enjoy the classic treat that has been around for years. Carvel is also slated to release a slew of new limited-edition treats, like Crunchies To-Go, a Crunchies Shake and a Crunchies Dasher — vanilla soft ice cream with layers of Crunchies and bittersweet fudge topped with whipped cream and a chocolate medallion — that will let customers get their fill of Crunchies in new and exciting ways.
“Crunchies have been an important part of celebrations and special moments, big and small, for generations,” Nicolle DuBose, Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Carvel, said in a statement. “More and more, fans are telling us they want to experience Crunchies in new ways – and we listened to them.”
She added: “With the introduction of Crunchies Cereal and our lineup of limited-time Crunchies-filled ice cream treats, we're kicking off ice cream season in a big way and providing fans new opportunities to create Crunchies-filled memories.”
And while Crunchies Cereal won’t exactly be available on supermarket shelves anytime soon (it is April Fool’s Day after all!) the breakfast food does exist and you still have a good shot at getting your hands on a box of chocolatey goodness.
From April 16 through April 18, Carvel will be giving the first 150 in-person and food delivery platform customers at each Carvel location a limited-edition box of the cereal with the purchase of a Crunchies Dasher. However, this offer is only available while supplies last, so if you simply must have your very own box of Crunchies Cereal, prepare accordingly.


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An emerging trend for hoteliers, including some of the major U.S. brands, is to mirror the well-established cruise ship model where “you get on the ship at one price, then they upsell you.”
REPORT FROM THE U.S.—As hoteliers wrestle operating margins and scrutinize promising market niches in a quest for incremental growth in a recovering tourism economy, the all-inclusive business model that has long proven successful in destinations such as the Caribbean and Mexico is suddenly a hot topic in the U.S.
"I can't name names, but I can report that multiple—emphasize plural—major hotel companies have hired us to explore all-inclusive strategies, including currently," said Scott Berman, principal and industry leader for hospitality and leisure at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Miami. "The topic has been on people's radar for a decade, but the momentum has been more recent. And that interest is a response to the market and the companies that are already there."
Club Med, for one, has announced plans to develop or acquire several U.S. properties over the next five to 10 years; Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, has considered conversion to the all-inclusive model; and Hilton Hotels & Resorts is currently exploring the all-inclusive opportunity in the U.S. market.
The reason for the interest is obvious, said Tom Carr, founder and president of online travel agency All-Inclusive Outlet, which exclusively sells all-inclusive properties.
"Based on our analysis of the rapid growth in organic searches for all-inclusive properties, there is no doubt demand for the model is surging, including in the U.S.," Carr said. "And it is value-based, as a result of the recession."
In addition to its lure for consumers, the all-inclusive model also offers distinct advantages to hotel operators, Carr said. "It's easier to accurately predict revenues and food-and-beverage costs," he said.
Berman agreed that is an important and proven advantage of the model. "Hoteliers can access a lot of data to make good forecasting decisions," he said.
But there is also a key disadvantage. "The downside is an inability to upsell and generate additional revenues," Carr said.
To address that challenge, the trend is now toward the well-established cruise ship model. "You get on the ship at one price, then they upsell you," Carr said. "And that is what we're seeing now among the most sophisticated of the all-inclusive hotel operators."
Although the business model has been limited to a narrow range of destinations so far, there is little doubt it has delivered strong bottom-line results, Berman said. "There is indisputable data that shows that the all-inclusive model, on an operating margin basis, is more profitable than a traditional hotel," he said. "That's because at an 80% occupancy rate, they know exactly what they need to buy and exactly how much labor will be required. So they have far less guesswork in their forecasting than a traditional hotel."
Pixley Tyler Hill, a third-generation owner of Tyler Place Family Resort in Highgate Springs, Vermont, agreed with Berman that accurate prediction of costs and revenues is a fundamental advantage of the all-inclusive model, which her 70-unit, seasonal family resort has practiced since the 1940s.
In fact, Hill said, there are a number of long-established all-inclusive hotels in the U.S., but they tend to be independent New England resorts such as Tyler Place or dude ranches located from upstate New York to Colorado and Wyoming.
|Owners of the 70-unit, seasonal Tyler Place Family Resort in Highgate Springs, Vermont, said accurate prediction of costs and revenues is a fundamental advantage of the all-inclusive model.|
Xavier Mufraggi, the Miami-based president and CEO of Club Med North America, said 80% of all guests at all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico originate from the U.S. That is the key indicator of the domestic market potential of the business model, he said.
Based on that potential, Club Med renovated its only U.S. property, the 25-year-old, 307-room Club Med Sandpiper Bay in Port St. Lucie, Florida, and repositioned it as an upscale family resort that uses an updated, upsell-oriented all-inclusive model that has been highly successful over the past year.
As a result, Mufraggi said, Club Med will develop or acquire several additional U.S. properties over the next five to 10 years and deploy the model engineered at Sandpiper Bay.
"The most important business factor is that the all-inclusive model meets a need of the customer," Mufraggi said. "What we have seen over the years in the evolution of it is that it has always been seen as a value proposition. And now that perception has moved into the upscale segment. But more recently, convenience has become the No. 1 consideration. And we have found that to be true among upscale and wealthy clients from all over the U.S."
At the same time, he said, the all-inclusive model delivers a very different customer mix from a traditional hotel. "Eighty percent of the business is leisure business, and they typically come for a week instead of the two or three days they spend at a traditional hotel," he said.
And a healthy majority of Club Med's business comes from its own website, as opposed to OTAs or other third parties, which enhances profitability because no commissions are paid.
Location, location, location
Although site selection is always a critical consideration, its importance is multiplied exponentially when it comes to the question of the viability of all-inclusive hotels in the U.S., Carr said. "Could you do Florida or Hawaii or California?" he said. "Yes. But all-inclusive properties tend to be located in tropical environments with a beach. You don't see them in cities."
Based on the growing number of inquiries she gets from clients and prospective customers, Ellen Sisser, manager of leisure sales and development at brick-and-mortar travel agency Omega World Travel in Fairfax, Virginia, believes the all-inclusive model is viable in the U.S. market.
"There is a certain segment of the family market that would prefer to have an all-inclusive model and be able to know exactly what their vacation is going to cost," she said. "I get questions quite often about whether an all-inclusive resort is available in Hawaii. And I also think it would be feasible in places like ski resorts in Colorado or Utah."
However, Sisser said, the appeal would not be the same in New York. "That's because the draw of New York is the fact there are so many things to do," she said. "I don't think there are many people who would go to New York but stay within a hotel property for a week without going out."
Meanwhile, Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods, a family resort opened in 1902, has considered conversion to the all-inclusive model after having success with several all-inclusive packages, said director of sales and marketing Craig Clemmer.
Hilton Hotels & Resorts debuted its first all-inclusive property, the Hilton Puerto Vallarta Resort in Mexico, in October. Executives are now exploring the all-inclusive opportunity in the U.S. market. "Our latest (research) focused on family resort travel and found that more than 90% of families are interested in all-inclusive vacations," said Bonnie Campagnuolo, Hilton's senior director of resorts and product marketing.


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Mark Zuckerberg just lost $3 billion from his personal fortune
His net worth has dropped by 4.4%.
On Thursday, Mark Zuckerberg announced that Facebook is planning to make changes to the algorithm that determines the order of content on users' news feeds.
The changes will mean that our timelines will be less saturated by posts from media organisations and celebrities.
However, following the public statement, the social media site's shares plummeted and Zuckerberg lost $3.3bn of his personal fortune. He is now worth a measly $72.4bn (£52.7bn). Poor him.
Zuckerberg, 33, started Facebook in 2004 and still owns 17% of the company.
Explaining the coming changes in a Facebook post, he wrote:
“We built Facebook to help people stay connected and bring us closer together with the people that matter to us,” he said. “But recently we've gotten feedback that public content – posts from businesses, brands and media – is crowding out the personal moments that lead us to connect more with each other.”
It has been suggested that the changes were influenced by worries about "context collapse" - the phenomenon of people sharing less and less about their personal lives online. Facebook are affected by this as it means they have less useful data for advertisers.
While Mark Zuckerberg has taken a personal financial hit as a result of the plans, it is thought that the changes will increase Facebook's commercial value in the long run.
Mark Mahaney, an analyst at RBC, told Bloomberg: “Making the feed more relevant should boost user and engagement growth over time."


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Following the launch of the Oppo Reno series in China, the company now targeting the global audience. In this move, Oppo is hosting a launch event for Oppo Reno series on April 24 in the UK. Talking about the India launch Reno, there is no official confirmation tight now.
However, reports are surfacing that the Chinese company might bring the Reno and Reno 10X Zoom Edition to the Indian market by the end of June.
Unfortunately, no information on device pricing has been revealed. The Reno series is a sub-brand from Oppo, just as the Redmi is for Xiaomi. The Reno and Reno 10X Zoom is already being sold in China and will land in Europe on April 24.
The European launch of the Reno series will be held in Zurich, Switzerland, and will bring the Reno Standard Edition, and Reno 10x Zoom. The possibility for the announcement for the Reno 5G is also possible.
The Oppo Reno 5G comes with the Snapdragon X55 5G modem. It’s the same modem we’ve seen in smartphones such as Galaxy S10 5G, Xiaomi Mi Mix 3 5G, and Nubia Mini 5G. We are not expecting to see the 5G variant hitting the Indian market as of now.
Let’s wait to see if the other Reno variants to arrive in June.


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Industry sales flat in September
Home improvement sales figures released by the U.S. Commerce Department showed little movement across the home channel in September, where retailers sold an estimated $29.54 billion of construction, repair and remodeling, and gardening supplies. This compares to $29.51 billion in August, a 0.1 percent rise.
Year to year, retail sales in the home channel were up 0.8 percent, from $29.32 billion in September 2006.
The U.S. Commerce Department will release October home improvement sales figures on Nov. 14.


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Ofcom, the telecoms regulator, has announced that the auction of 4G mobile spectrum has raised £2.34bn, well below the £3.5bn pencilled in by the Treasury and the Office of Budget Responsibility who had expected it to raise upwards of £3.5bn. The auction netted far less than the £22bn that was raised thirteen years ago when 3G licenses were auctioned.
While the government may be disappointed smartphone and tablet computer users can expect to see the roll out of super fast download speeds.
The winning bidders are: Everything Everywhere; Hutchison 3G UK; Niche Spectrum Ventures, a BT subsidiary; Telefonica (O2); and Vodafone. Vodafone bid £791m, the most of all the bidders, for fives chunks of spectrum.
Speaking to the BBC Ed Richards, Ofcom’s chief executive, said that the figure was lower because “we are in very, very different times”.
A Treasury spokesperson said that the £3.5bn number, which had been announced by the Chancellor in his Autumn Statement last year, had been certified by the independent OBR and based on external expert independent analysis based on similar auctions.
Both the Chancellor and the OBR have come in for criticism as a result with critics, both inside and outside the government, suggesting they had been overly optimistic in terms of the revenues they thought the auction would bring. It would appear that bidders held off making much higher bids for spectrum because of the experience of EE which launched its 4G service last year. EE, the T-Mobile and Orange joint venture, was the first to launch a 4G service in late 2012, but has struggled to attract users, leading it to cut its prices in January.
Commenting on the auction Victor Basta, managing director of Magister Advisors an M&A advisory firm to the technology industry said, “The disappointing revenues from the 4G auction, well below Government forecasts, are a reflection of the challenges that mobile operators face in growing revenues from their users in the social media age. Data-heavy social media services are causing huge growth in data traffic across mobile networks. Mobile operators increasingly find themselves in a role that is about supporting end users’ social networking habits, with little, if any, commercial benefit.”
Ofcom auctioned the spectrum in two bands, 800MHz and 2.6GHz, equivalent to two-thirds of the radio frequencies currently used by tablet computers, smartphones and laptops and believes that 4G will provide £20bn of benefits for UK consumers over the next 10 years.
The impact on the wireless services market will be considerable, according to Andrew Green, VP of Marketing for Mobile Computing at Sierra Wireless. He said that, “The widespread adoption of 4G in the UK will inevitably change the wireless services market. 4G is a game changer, particularly for operators, who will be able to provide much better service consistently across their networks at a lower cost. For the average user, it means being truly mobile, able to do the same things online on-the-go that you can do at home on your wired connection.
“In addition to improved broadband performance across the network, it opens up all kinds of applications that were previously not practical with earlier generations of wireless technology, and expands on those that were available. For example, connected cars will be able to provide richer information and entertainment applications in real time. Moreover, there are many devices and applications being rolled out around the world that really do benefit from 4G performance. In markets where we have launched 4G devices, end users have been prompted to drop their wired connection in favour of a better (and portable) 4G connection.”


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Some vintage Tupperware may be worth money and now people are reaching for both the old and new versions. When the coronavirus pandemic hit, people had no choice but to cook for themselves at home. In response, cookbook sales boomed and then people were looking for ways to store their leftovers. What is better than classic Tupperware?
Tupperware used to be very popular and many people even remember Tupperware parties, where you got to see new versions for sale. The parties started in 1948 and were one of the first ways that women could start a business. In the last decade, Tupperware sales were low and it seems that people didn’t need these plastic containers anymore.
Tupperware is now reporting a huge increase in sales this year
The company reported that it made $34.4 million in its last quarter. In the past six years or so, their sales were continuing to go down, so this was a big deal! The sales have been increasing since April when almost everything was shut down.
It is interesting to see the nostalgic products and companies that are actually thriving during the pandemic. For example, Hasbro has said that there has been a big increase in sales of board games, as many more people look for ways to have fun at home.
Do you have some vintage Tupperware in your home? Let’s take a look back at Tupperware in the ‘60s:
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Copart Announces New Location in Lumberton, North Carolina
DALLAS, Nov. 11, 2020 -- Copart, Inc. , a global online vehicle auction company opened its sixth location in Lumberton, North Carolina, consisting of 89 acres.
"We're happy to offer a new location in North Carolina for our buyers and sellers," said Copart President Jeff Liaw. "We are delighted to continue the expansion of our global network of facilities to better serve our customers. We thank the Copart team members whose hard work enable our growth."
Eligible buyers can register and join auctions to bid on inventory through the Copart website or via the Copart Mobile App for iOS and Android devices.
"Copart Lumberton is a large state-of-the art facility, located just three miles from Interstate 95 in southern North Carolina," said Copart Lumberton General Manager Dave Morris. "We look forward to serving the wonderful community of Lumberton."
Visit the Copart Lumberton page on Copart.com to view the location's contact information, sale lists and inventory. To see all of Copart's locations, please visit Copart.com/Locations.
Copart, Inc., founded in 1982, is a global leader in online vehicle auctions. Copart's innovative technology and online auction platform links sellers to more than 750,000 Members in over 170 countries. The company offers services to process and sell salvage and clean title vehicles to dealers, dismantlers, rebuilders, exporters and, in some cases, to end users. Copart sells vehicles on behalf of insurance companies, banks, finance companies, charities, fleet operators, dealers, and individual owners. With operations at over 200 locations in 11 countries, Copart has more than 170,000 vehicles available online every day. Copart currently operates in the United States (Copart.com), Canada (Copart.ca), the United Kingdom (Copart.co.uk), the Republic of Ireland (Copart.ie), Brazil (Copart.com.br), Germany (Copart.de), Finland (Copart.fi), the United Arab Emirates, Oman and Bahrain (Copartmea.com), and Spain (Copart.es). For more information, or to become a Member, visit Copart.com/Register.
Fatima Ali, Communications Manager, Copart
[email protected] | (972)-391-5206
SOURCE Copart, Inc.


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Wal-Mart involved in immigrant sting
Friday, October 24, 2003
WASHINGTON -- Federal officials arrested more than 300 illegal workers at 60 Wal-Mart stores across the country early Thursday morning and searched the office of one of the retail chain's corporate executives, a federal official said.
Several law enforcement sources who spoke on condition of anonymity said the investigation grew out of earlier probes of Wal-Mart cleaning crew contractors in 1998 and 2001. Based on recordings of meetings and conversations among Wal-Mart executives, managers and contractors, the law enforcement officials said "various immigration violations had continued to occur with direct knowledge by the Wal-Mart corporation."
The workers, members of cleaning crews that the company hired through contractors, were arrested as they finished their night shifts at stores in 21 states. All were in the country illegally, according to Garrison Courtney, a spokesman with Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Wal-Mart Stores Inc., based in Bentonville, Ark., is the world's largest retailer.
Wal-Mart spokeswoman Mona Williams said the company got wind of the raids when store managers started calling headquarters Thursday morning.
"They arrested a number of members of the floor cleaning crews. They are employed by outside contractors; they're not Wal-Mart associates," Williams said.
She said the company uses more than 100 third-party contractors for cleaning services in more than 700 stores in the United States. "We require each of these contractors to use only legal workers," she said.
Many of the workers said they were Eastern European and a few were of other ethnicities, Courtney said.
The arrests stem from a November 1998 investigation done in conjunction with the Pennsylvania attorney general's office. That investigation also targeted contractors and subcontractors used by Wal-Mart to clean stores.
Employers are required to check forms known as I-9's, filled out by every new employee, and keep the forms for a specified period of time. An employer can face civil and criminal penalties for knowingly hiring illegal immigrants or failing to comply with the I-9 regulations.
Courtney also said officials searched the office of one of Wal-Mart's executives. Williams could not say whether agents conducted a search at the headquarters and said she did not know of any other Wal-Mart administrative offices where searches may have occurred.
"We are currently trying to understand the scope and detail of the investigation. We are committed to cooperating," Williams said. She was unsure how many contractors might be involved.
The workers arrested were detained at local immigration offices, Courtney said. If they had no previous criminal record, they were released with notices to appear before immigration judges.
The states where arrests were made are Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Connecticut, Delaware, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia.
Wal-Mart has 1,494 discount stores, 1,386 Supercenters, 532 Sam's Clubs and 56 Neighborhood Markets in the United States. The company has about 1.1 million employees in the United States and 300,000 in other countries. Wal-Mart had sales last year of $244.5 billion.


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BCBS Stockpiled Billions, Consumers Group Says
Over the past decade, nonprofit Blue Cross and Blue Shield (BCBS) health insurers across the country stockpiled billions of dollars in surplus--while raising premiums for consumers by as high as 20% annually, according to a report from Consumers Union released Thursday.
Surplus funds, which are built primarily with consumers' premium dollars, can be used to moderate premium increases. However, Consumers Union said in its report, How Much is Too Much, that some of the financially strong BCBS plans with large surpluses have continued to seek large rate increases.
Nonprofit BCBS plans, including community owned charitable plans and subscriber owned mutual plans, held more than $32 billion in surplus by the end of 2008, according to A.M. Best.
In particular, a Consumers Union sampling of 10 diverse non-profit Blues plans found that seven of the 10 plans held more than three times the amount of surplus that regulators considered to be the minimal amount needed for solvency protection.
"These Blue plans hit consumers with big premium hikes while they've built up enormous surpluses," said Sondra Roberto, Staff Attorney for Consumers Union, in a statement. "These rate hikes could have been reduced or avoided if companies applied just a portion of their surplus to rate stability, while leaving sufficient funds for solvency protection."


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Victoria’s Secret, riding healthy comp-store growth, is making its global move.
Limited Brands Inc. will advance its international strategy by testing two to three Victoria’s Secret mall stores in the London area next summer, the Columbus, Ohio-based company said on Thursday during its second-quarter earnings Webcast. The first Victoria’s Secret flagship in the U.K., a 16,000-square-foot unit, will open on New Bond Street next summer.
"You start one way as a baby, but why shouldn't you be able to choose your own path as opposed to culturally people telling you which way to go?" - Thom Browne at his men's spring 2018 show, where he celebrated gender fluidity. #pfw #wwdmens (📷: @delphineachard)
"I think that all anyone really wants in life is to have people understand us for who we actually are, despite everything," says Ruth Negga. The actress talks "Preachers" season 2 and more on WWD.com. #wwdeye (📷: Dan Doperalski)


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Michael Bezjian/Getty Images
Earlier this week, Khloé Kardashian published a blog post titled “My Skin Cancer Scare.” The typically lighthearted Kardashian sister opened up and shared her story in hopes that it would encourage readers to undergo regular screenings and know what to look for when checking skin for irregularities.
“I have moles everywhere, and a couple years ago, I noticed one growing under my breast,” she wrote. “I immediately looked it up online and found out that if a mole is growing and changing shape, you should go to the doctor—so I did.” Doctors biopsied her mole and “thankfully; it was benign,” she says. Khloé remained vigilant and made sure to have regular screenings—and it’s a good thing she did, because in one instance, cancer was detected.
“There was one mole I had on my back that was skin cancer. I had 8 inches of skin removed. It was definitely painful because it was a lot of skin, but most of the time, the removals haven’t been that bad,” she said of the frightening experience. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, and Khloé hopes her story helps others. She writes, “I haven’t had a problem in years, but wanted to share my experience with you so that if you notice something doesn’t look right, you will take action and take care of your health!”
Have you ever had your skin screened for cancer? Tell us about the process and shop Consumer Reports’ top-rated sunscreen.


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Amazon has announced that it will lift character creation limits on lost ark servers to allow new players to join servers they may not have been able to access before.
Speaking in a forum post (thanks massively), it was said that server populations and wait times are being closely monitored so that character creation limits can come back as queues are starting to grow.
It was noted, however, that the list of servers with account limits “may change frequently” and that you will need to restart your client in order to access a server with a newly lifted limit.
It was said that the goal was always to reduce wait times and hopefully that would help some players join their friends on more servers.
When the doors to the servers finally opened to free players after “deployment issues” caused a delay, the servers were bombarded with an influx of players. This caused huge wait times for those hoping to jump into the MMO.
And speaking of influxes, at press time there are 1,140,598 players in the game, which is an all-time high for the game. waiting will be resolved.
If you’re just getting started, be sure to check out our guides on which class to choose in Lost Ark, and our in-depth guide to the card system and why it matters.


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Friday, May 6, 2011
Not content to rely only based on size 7-inch tablet, Research in Motion (RIM) is reportedly working on a BlackBerry Playbook tablet that much greater.
The company is rumored to be developing 10-inch version, as a complement 7-inch model that has already begun sold last month.
Although during this Playbook is still not really resonate, because of the sales are not too good and a handful of positive reviews, although there is also a large amount of criticism of the lack of proprietary applications and devices from over-dependence on the need to connect to the Blackberry.
However, it's one of RIM's best efforts so far to try to re-strengthen the brand in the world of Blackberry domination Android and iPhone. So that was reported by TG Daily, Friday (6/5/2011).


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Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, is rapidly becoming the dominant technology for communications services in Minnesota, replacing antiquated landline telephone service. Communications over an internet connection lower rates for consumer and provide consumers viable alternatives to traditional phone services. According to the Federal Communications Commission, nearly 200 VoIP providers serve more than 1 million consumer and business lines in Minnesota-representing about half of all lines in the state.
VoIP's successful adoption stems from the light regulation by the Federal Communications Commission. Beginning in 2005, the FCC surgically applied important public safety and consumer protection obligations on VoIP, but not the more burdensome regulations that were developed for a monopoly phone system 85 years ago.
The FCC also preempted states from regulating VoIP, allowing providers to expand service and innovate without having to manage 50 different sets of regulations. As a result, at least 37 states have passed legislation prohibiting additional state regulation. In Minnesota, I've authored similar legislation in past sessions to bring Minnesota's telecommunications policy into the 21st Century and out of rotary-dial telephone regulation. The biggest obstacle to moving Minnesota forward has been the State of Minnesota itself.
For 16 years, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission has attempted to regulate VoIP providers. In 2003, it was Vonage; in 2015, it was Charter. Each of these attempts has failed as both the FCC and the federal courts have found the PUC lacks jurisdiction to regulate. Most recently, in September 2018, the US Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit rejected the PUC's justification for regulating VoIP services and ruled-once again-that VoIP is an information service and state regulation of information services is preempted by the FCC.
The PUC is now considering requesting the United States Supreme Court review the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals decision. While it's unlikely the Supreme Court will hear the case, because no appellate court has decided otherwise, this uncertainty will not benefit taxpayers, consumers or VoIP providers in Minnesota.
The state of Minnesota has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal fees to unsuccessfully impose its regulatory authority over VoIP - only to lose on five different occasions in federal court (twice in district court, twice at the U.S Court of Appeals and most recently an en banc decision of the entire 8th Circuit). It is time for the PUC to lay down the gloves and give up this fight once and for all. It is time for the PUC to embrace innovation and progress.
Kresha, R-Little Falls, represents District 9B in the Minnesota House of Representatives


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August 13, 2017
Exports recorded the second consecutive decline in July and decreased 13.4% compared to the same month last year, according to the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS). July’s reading is the lowest since October 2016 and compounded last month’s 6.6% year-on-year decrease. Exports totaled USD 3.7 billion in July, below July 2016’s USD 4.2 billion. The result came on the back of noteworthy declines in manufacturing, mining and quarrying exports excluding diamonds. These goods make up the lion’s share of Israeli exports.
On the other hand, imports expanded 6.0% in July in annual terms, coming in above the previous month’s 1.9% yoy expansion. The result was primarily driven by greater imports of consumer goods, with growth in imports of both durable and non-durable goods. Imports totaled USD 5.9 billion in July, which was above the USD 5.5 billion recorded in the same month last year.
The trade deficit widened again from minus USD 1.3 billion in June to minus USD 2.3 billion in July. Additionally, the 12-month moving trade balance deteriorated from a USD 12.4 billion deficit in June to a USD 13.3 billion deficit in July.
Author: Jan Lammersen, Economist


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The following ratings changes were generated on Wednesday, Dec. 24.
, which manufactures and markets electronicinstruments and electromechanical devices, from buy to hold. Strengths include its robust revenue growth, impressive record of earnings per share growth and compelling growth in net income. However, we also find weaknesses including a decline in the stock price during the past year and poor profit margins.
Return on equity has improved slightly since the same quarter a year ago, outperforming the
but underperforming the electrical equipment industry. Ametek's gross profit margin of 33.1% is low, though it has increased since the same period last year. Its net profit margin of 11% trails the industry average.
Revenue rose by 22.4% since the same quarter a year ago, exceeding the industry average growth of 10.1% and helping boost earnings per share, which improved 24.5% in the most recent quarter compared with the same quarter a year ago. The company has demonstrated a pattern of positive EPS growth over the past two years, which we feel should continue, suggesting improving business performance. During the past fiscal year, it earned $2.12 vs. $1.71 in the prior year, and this year, the market expects further improvement to $2.55.
Shares are down 38.8% on the year. Naturally, the overallmarket trend is bound to be a significant factor, and in one sense, the stock's sharp decline last year isa positive for future investors, making it cheaper (in proportion to its earnings over the past year) than most other stocks in its industry. But due to other concerns, we feel the stock is still not a good buy right now.
, which provides commercial and retail banking andrelated financial services, from hold to buy, driven by its impressive record of earnings per share growth, compelling growth in net income, revenue growth, expanding profit margins and good cash flow from operations. We feel these strengths outweigh the fact that the company is trading at a premium valuation based on our review of its current price compared to such things as earnings and book value.
EPS improved by 15.2% in the most recent quarter compared with the same quarter a year ago, and during the past fiscal year, Home Bancshares increased its bottom line by earning $1.08 vs. 70 cents in the prior year. This year, the market expects an improvement in earnings to $1.22. Net income growth of 25.6% outperformed the S&P 500 and the commercial banks industry, though revenue increased by only 2.8%, compared with the industry average of 8.5%. A gross profit margin of 64.3% is high, having increased significantly from the same period last year. The 15% net profit margin is above the industry average. Net operating cash flow has increased to $8.50 million, or 36.13% when compared with the same quarter last year, but Home Bancshares is still growing at a significantlylower rate than the industry average of 169.1%.
We've downgraded energy and energy services provider
from buy to hold. Strengths include its increase in net income, robust revenue growth and attractive valuationlevels. However, we also find weaknesses including poor profit margins and generally poor debt management.
Net income growth of 10% since the same quarter a year ago significantly outperformed the S&P 500 and the multi-utilities industry, though revenue growth of 20.% significantly trails the 42.8% industry average. EPS improved by 9.5% in the most recent quarter compared with the same quarter a year ago. The company has demonstrated a pattern of positive EPS growth over the past two years, but we anticipate underperformance relative to this pattern in the coming year. During the past fiscal year, OGE increased its bottom line by earning $2.64 vs. $2.45 in the prior year. For the next year, the market is expecting a contraction of 3.6% in earnings to $2.55.
Even though the current debt-to-equity ratio is 1.44, it is still below the industry average, suggesting that this level of debt is acceptable within the multi-utilities industry. The company's quick ratio of 0.5 is very low and demonstrates very weak liquidity. OGE's gross profit margin for OGE is rather low at 22.70%, having decreased from the same quarter the previous year, but the net profit margin of 11.1% is above the industry average.
, which provides commercial banking services primarily for retail customers, from hold to buy, driven by its expanding profit margins, good cash flow from operations and solid stock price performance. We feel these strengths outweigh the fact that the company has had somewhat weak growth in earnings per share.
TriCo's 73.2% gross profit margin is very high, and its 17% net profit margin outperforms the industry average. Net operating cash flow has significantly increased by 57.83% to $12.32 million when compared with the same quarter last year, though TriCo is still growing at a significantly lower rate than the industry average of 169.13%. Revenue dropped slighty by 6.4%, underperforming the industry average of 8.5%. Net income has decreased by 8.2%, dropping from $6.79 million to $6.24 million.
Not only is the stock trading higher than it was a year ago, its rise has outperformed that of the S&P 500 over the same period, despite its weak earnings results. The stock's price rise over the last year has driven it to a level that is somewhat expensive compared with the rest of its industry, but we feel that other strengths this company displays justify these higher price levels.
, which manufactures circulatory support products for use by patients with heart failure, from hold to buy, driven by its robust revenue growth, largely solid financial position with reasonable debt levels by most measures, compelling growth in net income, good cash flow from operations and expanding profit margins. We feel these strengths outweighthe fact that the company is trading at a premium valuation based on our review of its current price compared to such things as earnings and book value.
Revenue rose by 44.2% since the same quarter last year, outperforming the industry average of 15.4% growth and helping boost EPS. The current debt-to-equity ratio, 0.3, is low and is below the industry average, implying successful management of debt levels. The company also maintains a quick ratio of 5.99, which clearly demonstrates the ability to cover short-term cash needs. Net income increased by 610% since the same quarter a year ago, significantly outperforming the S&P 500and the health care equipment and supplies industry. Net operating cash flow has significantly increased by 111% to $11.9 million when compared with the same quarter last year, vastly surpassing the industry average cash flow growth rate of 21.35%. The company's gross profit margin of 64.8% is rather high, having increased from the same quarter the previous year, though its net profit marginof 8.9% significantly trails the industry average.
Other ratings changes include
, upgraded from sell to hold, and
, downgraded from hold to sell.
All ratings changes generated on Dec. 24 are listed below.
Each business day, TheStreet.com Ratings updates its ratings on the stocks it covers. The proprietary ratings model projects a stock's total return potential over a 12-month period, including both price appreciation and dividends. Buy, hold or sell ratings designate how the Ratings group expects these stocks to perform against a general benchmark of the equities market and interest rates. While the ratings model is quantitative, it uses both subjective and objective elements. For instance, subjective elements include expected equities market returns, future interest rates, implied industry outlook and company earnings forecasts. Objective elements include volatility of past operating revenue, financial strength and company cash flows. However, the rating does not incorporate all of the factors that can alter a stock's performance. For example, it doesn't always factor in recent corporate or industry events that could affect the stock price, nor does it include recent technology developments and competitive dynamics that may affect the company. For those reasons, we believe a rating alone cannot tell the whole story, and that it should be part of an investor's overall research.


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Longtime Canton jeweler closing its doors
Canton jeweler Linda Robin is closing her Showroom of Elegance store after a 16-year run, a bittersweet decision that her supporters say is a big loss for the local business community.
"Right now, I'm a little bit nervous," Robin said Thursday, just before her going-out-of-business sale started. "I'm a little sad because of all the relationships I have built. I will not be in touch with people as much as before."
Robin said her actual closing date depends on how quickly her remaining merchandise sells as Showroom of Elegance approaches its last holiday shopping season.
Robin decided to retire to spend more time with family. She not only ran a successful business, but became deeply involved with the Canton, Plymouth and Belleville chambers of commerce by helping as a financial sponsor of their events. She also worked with charities such as Canton Goodfellows, Chicks 4 Charity and the Canton Community Foundation's Giving Hope Women's Giving Circle.
"She has been very involved," Canton chamber President Thomas Paden said. "Showroom of Elegance has been just an integral part of our chamber organization. Linda has been a huge community supporter. She will definitely be missed by all of us in the Canton chamber.
"She's just an outstanding person, too," he added. "She is one of the nicest people that I've ever met."
Robin said she felt a duty to become involved in the communities where her customers live.
"I've always believed that if the communities were kind enough to support me, it was my duty to give back to the communities," she said.
She plans to sell the Showroom of Elegance building, 6018 N. Canton Center, north of Ford Road. She said she is grateful for her seven employees and is trying to help them find new positions.
Robin said her store still has "a huge amount" of merchandise to sell before she closes up shop. By Christmas, however, she hopes to have the gift of retirement.
"My goal is to be done by Christmas," she said.


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General Motors posted record profits of $6.3 billion for the fourth quarter and $9.7 billion for 2015 but its stock continued to slide amid concerns that it may be heading toward a cyclical downturn.
The latest quarter included a $3.9 billion noncash gain reflecting improved results in Europe, as accounting rules allowed GM to carry forward previous losses to offset future taxes in some countries. The automaker’s full-year profit more than tripled from $2.8 billion a year earlier.
But Detroit has not been able to shake off Wall Street bears who fear U.S. auto sales will peak this year. GM shares fell as much as 5% after the earnings announcement Wednesday before closing at $28.92, down 2.5% for the day and almost 13% for the year.
As the Wall Street Journal reports, the auto industry tends to be cyclical and the financial crisis drove GM and others to seek protection from creditors in 2009.
“We believe investors should pay closer attention to deteriorating [transaction price] trends, which we expect to accelerate,” Joseph Amaturo, a Buckingham Research Group analyst, wrote in a note.
GM’s fourth-quarter revenue was flat compared with a year ago at $39.6 billion. “There are red flags on GM’s home turf, where gasoline prices falling below $2 a gallon, low interest rates. and employment gains fueled record auto sales in 2015,” the WSJ said.
GM executives contend Wall Street is ignoring fundamental improvements in the U.S. economy and auto industry and that U.S. car sales have plateaued, rather than peaked.
“The bears argue the industry in the U.S. has peaked and is ready to roll over. We don’t subscribe to that view,” CFO Chuck Stevens said in an earnings call. “We believe that the industry fundamentals and the economic fundamentals are such that we would expect to see a strong U.S. industry for the next number of years.”
GM cut losses in Europe in 2015 to $813 million from $1.4 billion in 2014. It plans to break even in Europe this year for the first time in years.