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T-Mobile recently announced its intentions to cut its employer discount program. The company said that it no longer needed to offer the discount because it argues it has the best rates already. Of course, folks who did have a solid discount in place were infuriated to see it taken away. Now, T-Mobile CEO John Legere is backpedaling a bit and says he hears his customers loud and clear.
“Over the past couple days, I’ve been doing a lot of listening to our customers,” Legere said in a blog post on Wednesday. “Everyone enrolled in the Advantage Program or who applied to enroll before April 1st will be able to keep a rate plan discount as long as they work at a participating employer and remain on a qualifying plan. All of our Simple Choice plans currently qualify. We will be asking that customers participate in a simple annual online employer verification.”
So, if you’ve had discounts in the past from an employer who had a deal with T-Mobile, then you’re good to go, so long as you’re still actually working for that company. Moving forward, though, T-Mobile won’t be offering any new employer discounts.


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The FINANCIAL — One month after debuting Georgian Fashion Week in Tbilisi, Georgian Event presented the most fashionable event of 2010, inviting famous Georgian designers and representatives of the fashion industry from Armenia and Azerbaijan.
Tbilisi Fashion Week which is being held in Tbilisi at the Radisson Blu Iveria hotel, from May 6-11, 2010, was attended by famous Italian Designer Roberto Cavalli who left Tbilisi on 7 May, the second day of Fashion week.
Leading Georgian designers and Fashion houses have demonstrated their Autumn-Winter 2010-11 women’s collections.
Organizers of the event told The FINANCIAL that Tbilisi Fashion Week will take place twice a year – in Spring and Autumn and will be one of the most stylish and quality events in Georgia and the whole Caucasus region.
The Italian designer hailed the President for his respectable suit and presented him with a lid. The President said he would hang it on the wall and watch it because he in fact did not have time to sleep.
“The Mission of Tbilisi Fashion Week is to create a Pret-a-Porter platform of regional importance. Tbilisi Fashion Week aims to sustain a regional niche in a global fashion industry and is positioning itself as the best meeting point of western and eastern industry players: designers, buyers, media representatives, entrepreneurs and so on,” Tbilisi Fashion Week officials noted.
“The idea of holding Tbilisi Fashion week has existed for quite a long time already. Only in the last two years did we start working and holding negotiations about it. The problems existing in the country interrupted us in arranging the event. Last year the two day Runway Shows were held in the Radisson Blu Iveria hotel and Abanot Ubani,” said Maka Kubusidze, one of the organizers and Partner of TFW.
“As our partner is Radisson Blu Iveria, we decided to arrange Fashion Week in this hotel again. The event has quite a few functions and does not only include runway shows,” Kubusidze said.
“In the framework of Tbilisi Fashion Week, an exhibition of accessories will be organized. Georgian artists will exhibit traditional handicraft, hand-made jewellery, leather and textile works. In terms of Fashion Week, Runway Shows, Brand Podiums, After Party Events, Trade Fair / Showroom, Fashion Education Seminars / Master classes, Newcomers Day and a Photo Exhibition will be held,” Kubusidze said.
According to Kubusidze, Tbilisi Fashion Week before all else will be a platform to position talented Georgian designers.
“The majority of selected designers for the main runway shows are originally Georgian, however a number of these talented people work or study abroad. Nino Chubinishvili, Simon Machabeli, Djaba Diassamidze, Goga Nikabadze, Tamuna Ingorokva, Atelie 10a, Giorgi Shaghashvili, Nino Kacharava, Salome Amanatishvili, Datuna Sulikashvili, Bicholla, NOMA Studio and I studio will participate in Tbilisi Fashion Week,” Kubusidze said.
“A Newcomer Designers Day is also arranged which is dedicated to provide unique opportunity for young designers to present their collections and have their first exposure at an international event. The Newcomers Runway Show will be held as a side event to Tbilisi Fashion Week. TFW will support young Georgian designers and will create motivations and incentives for exploring their talents and opening access to international education,” Kubusidze said.
Aka Nanitashvili, Ana Changiani, Eka Chanchibadze & Irakli Rusadze, Golla Zumbulidze, Lubov Rekhviashvili, Nini Mania, Nino Kheidze, Nino Makharoblidze, Salome Tsivtsivadze, Shako Nikva, Tamara Kopaliani, Keti Gagnidze, represent the young Georgian designers taking part in TFW.
“World known Italian fashion designer Roberto Cavalli visited Georgia specially for our Fashion Week. There will be articles written about Tbilisi Fashion Week in Vogue magazine. Fashion TV was also our guest. Armenian, Azeri and Kazakh fashion business representatives visited us as well,” Kubusidze said.
The sponsors of Tbilisi Fashion Week are Kor Standard Bank, Caucasus Online, Beeline, GMC group. Supporters of TFW are Voulez Vouz, the Ministry of Culture, Monuments Protection and Sports of Georgia, Promo Gifts, Vart Beauty, Evita Peroni, Bagrationi, Tbilvino, Goodwill, Abashidze 31, and MON group.
“There will be a brand podium arranged as well for 11 May. Goodwill will present a chocolate art brand podium. Voulez Vouz will have a presentation of several perfumes every day. Beauty salons are helping models back stage like Abashidze 31 and Vart beauty.
“The models are from different agencies. One of our partners is Geomodels. We haven’t invited any foreign models to Tbilisi Fashion Week, because we don’t see any special need for it. Georgian girls are very interested and have better chances to represent themselves on stage without added competition from abroad,” Kubusidze said.
“There was a Georgian fashion week held one month ago. I think that the society should evaluate the difference between us. Our fashion week is exclusively arranged for Georgian designers, it’s multi functional with two Runway Shows. We welcome any events held in the country connected to the sphere of fashion which benefits designers as well as models,” Kubusidze said.
“Tbilisi might become one of the centres of fashion. Of course it’s hard to achieve such status and needs years and many attempts but anyway I do think that we will manage it in the future,” Kubusidze said.

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GT to replace obsolete equipment by 2005
Takoradi, Nov. 3, GNA - Mr. Oystein Bjorge, Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Telecom (GT) on Monday said all obsolete equipment and facilities of the company would be replaced by 2005.
He said the new management of GT had contracted a total of 110 million dollars to facilitate the smooth and early replacement of all the outdated equipments and to enhance an improved telecommunication service.
Mr. Bjorge who announced this during a day's working visit to the Takoradi and Sekondi stations of the GT stressed that some of the equipment were beyond repairs and needed outright replacement.
He noted that though the present billing system was not the best, efforts were being made to enhance it and make it readily available to consumers adding that the existing tariff structure was old fashioned and not in conformity with international standard.
The CEO urged workers of the company to improve their relationship with customers increase revenue collection and exhibit a high sense of professionalism.
Mr. Bjorge said the management would not hesitate to discipline any staff found to be undermining the efforts of the company.
Ghana Telecom to embark on expansion and modernization programmeTakoradi, Nov 3, GNA- Mr Oystein Bjorge, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Telecom (GT), on Monday said the company will soon embark on an expansion and modernization programme soon.
He said this at a meeting with the staff of the company in Takoradi as part of a day's visit to installations and facilities of the company in the Western Region.
Mr Bjorge said the company has signed a contract with Acatel of China to supply equipment for the expansion and modernization programme. He said the programme would create additional 400,000 fixed telephone lines and 750,000 mobile phone lines throughout the country.
Mr Bjorge said Telenor of Norway, management partners of Ghana Telecom, would do everything in its power to fulfil its contractual obligations to the government before the agreement is renewed in 2005.
He said Telenor would turn Ghana Telecom into a modern organisation and assist in organisational development of Ghana Telecom.
Mr Bjorge said the company is aware of black marketing of its phone cards and is doing its best to put a stop to it.
He called for cordial staff-customer relationship and said the company is taking steps to ensure that their staffs are customer friendly.


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After her 75-year-old mother suffered a severe health problem last fall that required surgery, Colleen Sturvidant needed a way to better keep an eye on her.
Because Sturdivant lives in Oakland and her mom lives by herself in Sacramento, it wasn’t easy for Sturdivant to check on her and there was little chance she could respond quickly in an emergency. So when a friend of her husband suggested she try out a new device his company had designed for just such situations, Sturdivant, 45, decided to give it a try.
The product, from a San Francisco startup called Lively, is built around a system of network-connected sensors that can tell Sturdivant when her mom gets something out of the fridge, when she opens her front or back door, when she takes her medicine and even when she leaves the house.
It may sound creepy to those concerned about privacy, but Lively’s system has been reassuring to both Sturdivant and her mom. The system can’t directly notify Sturdivant when there’s an emergency, but by keeping track of her mom’s regular patterns, it can indicate when something might be wrong.
‘I talk to my mom often, practically daily,’ said Sturdivant, who works in the information technology department of a local retailer. ‘But I want that conversation to be about what’s going on in her life and not about, ‘Are you OK?’ ‘
That kind of peace of mind is precisely what Lively’s founders wanted to offer customers, said David Glickman, the company’s co-founder and chief operating officer, who is a college friend of Sturdivant’s husband. When Glickman and his colleagues founded the company two years ago, they set out to create a product that would help seniors live independently for as long as possible while helping their families keep an eye on them.
Lively is just one of a growing number of companies offering senior monitoring devices and systems. Among its competitors are startups such as BeClose and GrandCare Systems as well as Care Innovations, a joint venture formed by Intel and General Electric.
Their products are meant to address some of the implications of the aging of the American population. The U.S. government’s Administration on Aging forecasts that the number of Americans age 65 or older will grow from 40 million, or 13 percent of the population, in 2010 to 72 million, or 19 percent of the population, in 2030. People are living longer, and are contending for longer periods with chronic illness.
The number of seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s disease alone is expected to grow from about 5 million today to more than 7 million in 2025. At the same time, there’s a dearth of assisted-living facilities and lack of trained health givers, noted BeClose CEO Liddy Manson.
‘We’re definitely going to have a human resources crunch,’ said Manson. ‘So technology is going to have to bridge the gap.’
While the potential demand for products such as those offered by BeClose and Lively is huge, the market is still nascent, industry analysts say. Greg Caressi, an analyst who focuses on health care technology for research firm Frost & Sullivan, estimates that only about $15 million worth of senior monitoring products were sold in the United States last year. He forecasts the market will grow to about $25 million in 2017.
Many consumers simply aren’t aware that such products are available, Caressi and other analysts say. In many cases, the costs have been prohibitive to consumers and health insurers often don’t pick up the costs.
Glickman and his colleagues hope they can expand the market by addressing some of the flaws they saw in earlier senior monitoring systems. They were expensive; complicated, sometimes requiring professional installations; or invasive, some including video cameras or requiring seniors to wear something around their neck at all times.
By contrast, Lively’s service is designed to be simple. The kit comes with six sensors and a hub device that are already paired when users open the box. The hub includes a built-in cellular data connection, so users don’t have to worry about connecting it to their home network or to the Internet. Basically all they have to do to set it up is attach the sensors to refrigerator doors or medicine cabinets and plug in the hub.
Glickman and his colleagues intentionally left out a camera and designed the system so that it doesn’t provide fine-grained details of seniors’ activities. It can’t tell what they’re eating or what pills they’re taking, and it doesn’t keep track of their movements outside the home.
Perhaps most importantly, Glickman and his colleagues priced the service relatively cheaply. The system costs $149 plus a $20 monthly subscription fee. By contrast, similar systems can cost $400 or more with monthly charges starting at $50.
For Sturdivant, the system has been well worth its cost.
‘The monthly service price is fine for the peace of mind that it gives me,’ she said.
MONITORING ELDERLY PARENTS
San Francisco startup Lively offers a device that helps consumers keep track of their older parents. Here’s a look at the company and its product.
Founders: Iggy Fanlo, CEO; David Glickman, chief operating officer; Keith Dutton, chief technology officer
Employees: 12 full time, 25 total including consultants
Funding: $7.3 million
Backers: Cambia Health Solutions, Maveron
Product: $149 Lively monitoring system, which includes six motion-detecting sensors and a wireless Internet-connected hub
Contact Troy Wolverton at 408-840-4285. Follow him at Twitter.com/troywolv.


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WION to launch on UK’s DTT platform Freeview on 22nd March 2023
Viewers in the UK will have access to India’s only international news brand on channel #287
WION, World Is One, India’s first and only international news channel, will launch on the UK’s leading platform – Freeview via IP and using the most innovative FAST SSAI on 22nd March 2023. The channel expanded its global footprint and increased its reach by ~15 mn Freeview Connect households in the UK. Viewers in the UK can tune in to India’s award-winning international news brand on Channel #287 via Freeview, starting March 22, 2023.
WION, India’s first and only international news channel, brings India’s voice to the world, and provides an unbiased platform to the stories that otherwise miss the headlines. WION’s catalogue compromises of a wholesome mix of news and feature shows catering to a global audience across geographies and age groups. Highly acclaimed show Gravitas, WION Pulse, This World, The India Story, The West Asia Post, Inside South Asia, WION Wideangle, WION Fineprint, World Of Africa, are some of the WION’s most popular shows. WION has 30 international bureaus and accomplished news network globally which caters to the huge demand of the viewers.
Emphasising the global partnership and outreach, Madhu Soman, Chief Business Officer of WION, said, “WION has always been open to exploring new platforms. Taking into consideration the fact that Freeview replaced the old analogue TV service accessibility to a widespread audience in the UK, it is a great opportunity for the channel to present global stories from an Indian perspective. This global move also encourages us to further boost timely and fast-paced news reportage with gripping visuals and strong content, backed by research and investigation.”
Anindya Khare, Marketing Head of Zee Media Corporation Limited, further added, “The United Kingdom television viewing market is expected to flourish because of some major factors like emerging economies' rapid economic development, demand for smart televisions, the growing over-the-top platform market etc. We strongly believe that the UK market has a lot of potential for the channel to introduce new customised programme packaging to the audience, engage stakeholders through strategised communication and build on a high preference ratio.
Through a strategised approach, we also look forward to being consistent in launching interesting programmes on WION in markets like US, India, UK etc. This allows our glocalised viewers and readers to understand the impact of major global events from a uniquely Indian perspective.”
“We are thrilled to launch WION via Freeview Connect and expand Freeview news offering with the leading news channel from India and also being able to monetise it using the Synapse FAST SSAI”, said Tanya Kronfli, Managing Director of Global Distribution Services, specialising on delivery and digital Monetisation of TV content via Freeview Connect.
WION is accessible via Freeview TVs which are connected to the internet. Channel number 287.
Available in over 190+ countries, WION is India’s global voice, its YouTube channel boasts of over 7 million subscribers. Wion is also available in the UK on Sky platform Channel #519 and available on almost digital platforms such Apple TV, Smart TVs, Amazon, Roku, Samsung Etc.
Zee Media onboards Mona Jain as the new Chief Revenue Officer
This is Mona Jain’s second stint with the ZEE group
Mona Jain will be involved in strategic investment planning and head revenue for all 14 news channels of ZEE media
Zee Media Corporation Ltd, has roped in Mona Jain- a veteran media professional, as the new Chief Revenue Officer for all of its 14 news channel properties. She is all set to head the revenue generation, stakeholder engagement, and strategic investments across different channels of Zee Media.
With 30-years of expertise in media marketing and promotions, Zee Media will also involve Mona Jain in business growth and partnerships through strategic decisions, and steer leadership on behalf of the sales team of all TV channels of Zee Media.
Mona Jain started her career journey way back in 1989 as a Media Manager at Hindustan Thompson Associates and held the positions of Executive Director and Media director at Cheil Communications and Mudra Communications. Prior to her ABP Network stint in November 2019, Jain had spent 6 years in Zee Entertainment Enterprise Ltd. (ZEEL), serving as Executive Vice President, AD Sales. This is her second stint with the Zee group.
Speaking of joining the team, Mona Jain, the Chief Revenue Officer at ZMCL, said, “I am extremely happy to join back the Zee family and this time round in the news genre. It’s an exciting space and the news network has some very strong and credible content and channels with ample opportunity to innovate and create differentiated revenue opportunities by providing some groundbreaking solutions and be a part of our advertising partners' growth stories. Zee Media is present across significant geographies with the highest reach and an extensive loyal viewer base. I look forward to being part of this strong legacy and working with a highly talented and experienced team.”
Speaking on the new appointment, Abhay Ojha, CBO of ZMCL, said “We have immense faith in the expertise that Mona Jain brings to the table. The appointment of Mona Jain as the new Chief Revenue Officer will surely accelerate 5X growth and revenue for the brand and take it to greater heights with each passing day.”
Zee News-DNA show encourages citizens to take informed decisions; rolls out a special episode on ‘Right to Repair’
Farming equipment, mobile phones & tablets, consumer durables, automobiles & automobile equipment will be the initial focus of the ‘Right to Repair’ framework
DNA, one of the leading shows well-known for its inclusive reporting, investigative journalism, and 360-degree coverage, rolled out a special episode on a step-by-step guide on ‘Right to Repair’, a framework introduced by The Ministry of Consumer Affairs. This special episode empowered citizens by explaining the need for the launch of https://righttorepairindia.gov.in. It is an eye-opener to citizens, acknowledging the fact that no company/ manufacturer can deny repairing their electronics or demand for extra charges for repairing.
The Zee News-DNA show also emphasized on the research study findings by a German sustainability research group, Öko-Institut', highlighting the fact that electronics and consumer durables manufactured in 2004 were found in working conditions for up to five years. However, the lifespan of products manufactured in 2012 decreased and shortened to less than five years. This has been a marketing gimmick by several companies, to influence consumers to buy upgraded products within a short period. However, the ‘Right to Repair’ framework is significant as it will give consumers a chance to repair their products at an optimal cost instead of buying new products altogether.
At present, Farming equipment, Mobiles/ electronics, Automobiles and Consumer Durables sectors are covered under the Right to Repair framework. All details related to their products service, warranty, terms and conditions, etc. are aggregated on the ‘Right to Repair’ portal.
Commenting on the relevance of the right to repair, Nidhi Khare Additional Secretary, the Department of Consumer Affairs, said, “Consumers are promised a 10-year product warranty at the time of purchase. However, when the consumer faces some technical issues and approaches the dealer for a solution, he/she receives a standard response – ‘This product model isn’t being manufactured anymore’ or ‘The spare parts of this model aren’t available anymore’. This further results in consumers forcibly giving up on the product, adding to the unplanned expense of purchasing a new/upgraded product.”
Commenting on the success of the impactful campaign reportage, Rajnish Ahuja, Editor, Zee News said, “Zee News's Flagship show DNA has a dedicated team of reporters and researchers continues to be consistent in their research and analysis. We look forward to educating citizens on their rights and initiatives taken up by the Government of India to make informed decisions.”
Manoj Bajpayee Narrates India’s Covid-19 Vaccine Journey in History TV18’s Upcoming Documentary ‘The Vial’
The film featuring PM Narendra Modi, Bill Gates, Adar Poonawalla and Dr Krishna Ella among others explains how India conducted the world’s largest vaccination drive ‘The Vial’ is a History TV18 original, produced by Colosceum Media.
It premieres on History TV18 on March 24, 2023 at 8PM
India’s Covid-19 vaccination programme has proven to be the largest vaccination program in the world. To shed light on this remarkable journey, History TV18 is set to launch a documentary titled, ‘The Vial – India’s Vaccine Story’ on March 24, 2023 at 8 PM.
‘The Vial’ brings to life the inside story of what went into producing the Covid-19 vaccine vial. It unfolds the story behind India’s success in developing, manufacturing and delivering the Covid-19 vaccine in unprecedented timelines.
The 60-minute documentary narrated by renowned actor Manoj Bajpayee features Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi; Adar Poonawalla (CEO, Serum Institute of India); Bill Gates (co-founder of Microsoft and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation); Dr. Sumit Agarwal (Scientist, ICMR); Dr. Shamika Ravi (public policy expert); Dr Devi Shetty (Founder of Narayana Hrudayalaya); and Dr Krishna Ella (Chairman, Bharat Biotech) among others.
This is also the first documentary where Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks in detail about India’s victory over Covid-19 pandemic.
‘The Vial’ chronicles the development of the vaccine, from the isolation of the strain in Pune’s National Institute of Virology to manufacturing of two of the world’s most effective vaccine candidates in record time to cater to the country’s massive population.
It also takes a closer look at some of the case studies that spotlight the determination of the Indian government and health workers in making the vaccines accessible to people until the very last mile, despite challenging terrains and landscapes.
Commenting on the documentary, Manoj Bajpayee said, “India’s Covid-19 vaccine story is a remarkable accomplishment for the country, and as Indians, we all should be aware and proud of it. This film is a tribute to our healthcare professionals and frontline workers who produced the vaccines in unprecedented timelines and executed the vaccination drive, despite several challenges. They are the reason why we are stepping out of our homes confidentially today. I am honoured to be part of this documentary.”
Today, the majority of 1.3 billion people in India have received at least one round of the vaccine. The vaccination drive owes its success to a strong surveillance network, public- private partnership, dedication of India’s healthcare professionals, frontline workers, and citizens, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The country also set an example for the world through the Vaccine Maitri initiative through which 232.43 million doses of the Covid-19 vaccine were provided across 100 countries.
‘The Vial’ is a History TV18 original, produced by Colosceum Media. It premieres on History TV18 on March 24, 2023 at 8PM.
Tata Play Binge partners with Travelxp to bring exciting lifestyle and travel content for the viewers
Tata Play Binge is now home to 25 national, regional and international OTT apps
The new addition to the Binge content bouquet will give viewers a flavour of travel and lifestyle content
Along with Travelxp, Tata Play Binge is now home to 23 other popular OTT apps like Disney+ Hotstar, ZEE5, Voot Select, SonyLIV, MX Player, Lionsgate Play, Sun NXT, ShortsTV, ReelDrama, hoichoi, Chaupal, Namma Flix, Planet Marathi, manoramaMAX, Koode, Tarang Plus, Hungama Play, Eros Now, ShemarooMe, Voot Kids, Curiosity Stream, EPIC ON and DocuBay, along with Gaming,
Netflix and Amazon Prime Video are available as add-ons for Tata Play DTH subscribers.
Tata Play Binge welcomes Travelxp as the latest addition to its entertainment portfolio and expands its OTT family to 25+ apps. Binge viewers will now be able to access premium travel and lifestyle content through Travelxp.
Travelxp is an exclusive OTT platform with premium quality shows dedicated to viewers who love the luxuries and intricacies of the travel and lifestyle, served at the comfort of their homes. With access to best-in-class content around the world, Travelxp shows are dubbed in languages like English, Hindi, Tamil and Bengali, and also feature subtitles in numerous other regional languages. The platform hosts more than 600 travel stories from over 90 destinations in the world, including popular shows like The Gypsies, Backpack, Xplore India, World Heritage, Strictly Street and more.
Commenting on the addition of the new partner app, Tata Play’s Chief Commercial and Content Officer, Pallavi Puri, said, “With every new partnership our endeavour is to provide Tata Play Binge viewers a seamless and comprehensive streaming experience, giving them choicest entertainment under one roof. Travelxp is home to exceptional travel stories from around the world that will broaden the horizon of any travel enthusiast. We are delighted to have them onboard.”
Further adding to this, Mr. Tanay Chothani, CEO of travelxp.com "I am thrilled to announce our partnership with Tata Play Binge, one of the leading players in the Indian OTT market. Our mission has always been to provide our viewers with the best travel and lifestyle content from around the world, and this collaboration will enable us to reach even more audiences across India. With this partnership, we are excited to offer our premium quality shows to Tata Play Binge's existing subscriber base, and together, we look forward to delivering an unparalleled viewing experience to our audiences."
Tata Play was the first DTH service provider to bring Travelxp 4K HDR channel for Indian viewers via Tata Play Binge+ Android Set top box. Travelxp is world’s first 4K HDR channel that uses Dynamic Range Technology to display crisp and clear images on TV.


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Apple is thought to work on an augmented reality headset and launch it in 2020. The headset, which is expected to begin mass production in the fourth quarter of 2019, is expected to be launched in the first half of 2020.
What can be done with this headset is not yet finalized. It is one of the alleged claims that it will have a similar working principle with Apple Watch. Therefore, you may not be able to use the AR headset without an iPhone.
In this case, the headset will serve as a restricted screen to give you information in front of your eyes, while your iPhone can undertake tasks such as Internet connection, location services, and programming. Likewise, it is possible for the AR headset to communicate by connecting Bluetooth.
So far, the news does not contain any information about what features the headset will possess. However, it is also possible for Apple to use screens and sensors to an AR headset detect what is around you.
One of the features that make the AR devices meaningful is that it has sensors that will detect the objects around you. Apple has long been working on augmented reality to develop the ARkit framework on IOS, allowing for a long time to developers to produce applications that bring digital elements and real-world together over the phone camera.
While many applications have AR features, it is rare that these features gain value to the application. Likewise, the high level of AR-native applications is not yet involved. However, the use of AR features on maps attracts users ‘ attention because of the benefit of the feature.
One of the best examples of this is the augmented reality mode that Google recently launched for Google Maps. In this mode, you can view the arrows that guide you by keeping your phone right in front of your face.
Also, Apple has been rearranging Apple Maps data for a while now. The company that collects real-time data using LiDAR sensors can also include enhancements to the focus of Apple Maps in the new AR headset.
For Consulting: I have helped dozens of companies. I have helped activate hundreds. I have done it for numerous clients. And I can do it for you. Get contacted me by clicking this link


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Published on : Tuesday, December 10, 2019
The annual travel trend and forecast survey of the association’s active tour operator members by the United States Tour Operators Association predicts a positive outlook for the industry in the year ahead.
It is anticipated by almost 82% of the USTOA tour operator members that the growth in sales for the year ending in 2020 is about 45% optimistic and a ‘boom year’ has been forecasted. There will be growth anywhere from seven to 10% or higher.
More than two thirds of the responding members said that there was an increase in sales for 2019 and half of them cited an increase of 10% or more.
As per the survey more than a survey attributed the growth in sales to ‘better and improved marketing’.
Another third (37%) listed “other” as the top attributor with added capacity through expanded portfolio of products, while two thirds (67%) of membership cited a growth in the number of passengers for 2019, with half (52%) reporting passenger growth 10% or higher.
Terry Dale, president and CEO for USTOA said that member confidence levels for the year ahead are high with roughly three quarters of our tour operator members ‘confident’ or ‘highly confident’ that revenues will increase in the coming year.This is particularly encouraging, especially as they approach an election year, where historically consumer spending is more conservative.
The potential threats to traveller confidence in the year ahead was the presidential election that topped the list and recession was named the second global risk that could impact potential growth in 2020 which was followed by global financial instability.


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Frida Escobedo to firm Serpentine Pavilion 2018
Architect Frida Escobedo, celebrated for dynamic projects that reactivate urban space, has been commissioned to design the Serpentine Pavilion 2018, opened from 15 Jun 2018 to 7 Oct 2018.
International Bathroom Exhibition: towards digital and green
Furniture, ceramic fixtures, shower stalls and radiators are some of the products exhibited by the most famous international brands.
The XXV Architecture and Interior Design International Exhibition of Porcelanosa has just started
The event, already a consolidated annual tradition, has been chosen by the well-known Spanish group to present the 2018 new product ranges of the 8 brands for surfaces.
Maticad has released DomuS3D 2018: the smarter version of the professional interior design software
A series of important updates will allow users to design in an increasingly faster and easier way, by exploiting the wide library of ceramic tiles and furnishing elements
The new multisensory exhibition center Kaldewei Iconic World has been inaugurated
The innovative four-storey structure for a multisensory immersion in the world of the German company, expert in enamelled steel, stands out in Ahlen (Germany).
Kora bathtub by Kreoo for an award-winning NYC Loft
DJDS, an American design studio led by Dorothee Junkin, has chosen the sculptural Kora bathtub by Kreoo for the master bathroom of its latest NYC Loft project.
Cersaie 2018: "Scacco bagno" is the poster image for the 36th Edition
The poster image created by White Stuff team is the institutional image for the 36th edition of the International Exhibition Of Ceramic Tile And Bathroom Furnishings which will be held in Bologna from 24 to 28 September.
The first Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest) for social housing signed by Stefano Boeri Architetti will be in Eindhoven
Within its 19 floors and a total height of 75 meters, the skyscraper will include 125 housing units that will benefit from the presence of about 5,200 trees and plants.
Record numbers for The 15th Pure Talents Contest at imm cologne 2018
Objects that seem to be alive, surfaces that shimmer like a beetle, fabrics draped in waves and carpets made of thick skeins of wool woven into a honeycomb structure
The first phase of the EMERGENCY building site in Uganda has been completed
Mapei made one of the main intervention: after three years of research, they developed an innovative system for the construction of the hospital with the rammed earth technique.
Sports surfaces: an agreement between Gerflor Italia and FIGH has been signed
The agreement with the Italian Federation, signed during last weeks, marks important innovations for the coming seasons for the French multinational PVC flooring manufacturer.
Novacolor sustainability arrives at the Triennale with "999 questions about contemporary living"
The company specializing in low emission coatings will be a partner of the exhibition curated by the designer Stefano Mirti and set up by the architect Petra Tikulin.


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The third edition of the annual report, which was released on Wednesday, puts the size of digital advertising in the country at Rs 10,819 crore in 2018 and forecast a 31.96% CAGR to reach Rs 24,920 crore by 2021.
Ashish Bhasin, Chairman and CEO, South Asia, Dentsu Aegis Network, said, “Today, you no longer have to sell ‘digital’ to a client. This is the only medium which gives you a very measurable ROI, and almost an immediate impact. We have about 500 million people on the internet today and in the next three to four years, another 300-400 million people will join in. Concurrently, the next phase of internet users will speak regional languages and as a result, you will probably see a lot more advertising in regional languages on digital in the years to come.”
“As leaders in digital, we recognise the need for an industry level research report which not only covers the market size but also gives a direction towards which this industry is moving,” Bhasin added.
As per the report, BFSI is the biggest spender on digital media with a contribution of 38% of all their marketing budgets. This is followed by consumer durables (36%), e-commerce (34%) and telecom (31%).
However, bigger news is that FMCG sector has doubled its digital spend in the last year. So far FMCG companies preferred traditional media for marketing and promotions.
Interestingly, advertising expenditure on the digital advertising formats is led by social media (29%), and is followed by search (25%), display (21%) and video (20%).
The report points out that going ahead, video, voice and vernacular will be the biggest driver for digital media. Spending on mobile videos has seen the highest growth, followed by display and social media.
Other drivers of digital media growth will be engaging mobile experiences based on augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), the report noted.
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text:
and Lyle Moran
LOWELL — John Sullivan went to the Market Basket on Wood Street Saturday night seeking two items: tomatoes and corn on the cob.
The 47-year-old Chelmsford resident left empty-handed because both items were out of stock.
They weren’t the only groceries customers could not find at the Wood Street store.
Displays typically containing fresh garlic and two different types of avocados were cleaned out.
The fresh blueberries and green grapes were also all but gone, and a store employee said the next delivery of stock might not be until Wednesday.
For the first time, the discord between Market Basket employees and the chain’s two new top executives appears to be having an impact on customers.
Some workers had predicted the chain’s 71 stores would start seeing the effects on their shelves within a day or two after warehouse workers and others walked out on the job Friday to protest the board’s ouster of longtime CEO Arthur T. Demoulas.
The reaction from customers to the ongoing battle was varied.
Sullivan of Chelmsford said he was on the employees’ side of the issue.
“It seems like Arthur T. was steamrolled by the board,” said Sullivan. “I hope the employees are successful in their efforts to get him brought back.”
Cindy Obika, 51, of Lowell, said she also supports the employees, among them some members of her extended family. She said employee morale in the Wood Street store seemed low.
“I feel like it is all for personal gain,” Obika said of the board’s firing of Arthur T. Demoulas. Obika worries that prices will rise under the new leadership of the company to support “their greed.”
Obika also said she could not find red apples in the store and that it looked “pretty bare.”
At the Market Basket at the intersection of Broadway and Fletcher streets, there were no noticeable items missing inside. Most customers did not have strong opinions about the dispute between employees and upper management.
Jose Goncalves of Dracut said he did not notice anything different in the store. He said he felt bad the employees were upset about the firing of the CEO, but said he did not know what the decision was based on.
“I don’t know what is going on with the numbers,” said Goncalves, 39.
Tom and Margaret Black of Merrimack, N.H., said the store looked well-stocked to them.
They said a family member who works for Market Basket had just started to tell them about the concerns about Arthur T.’s firing earlier Saturday, but they wanted to learn more about the situation before deciding how it might impact their shopping habits, if at all.
Others outside the store said they did not want to be quoted because they did not know enough or anything about the conflict between employees and top executives.
A board outside the entrance to the store with the words “Arthur T Demoulas” at the top states he is the “leader of our company, pillar of our community, head of our family!”
Both the employees and the two new top executives are asking for understanding about recent events.
“We do not enter this decision lightly and it comes after much deliberation,” read a post Thursday on the website wearemarketbasket.com, which has become a message board for supporters of the ousted CEO. The statement was also distributed to customers at the Market Basket in Hudson, N.H., on Saturday.
“We are each risking much personally in order to save something so much bigger than any one of us,” the employees’ message continued. “While we take action at headquarters, your store will inevitably feel the consequences of these as you shop. Please understand that this consequence weighs most heavily on us and we will make it up to you when we get back on track.”
A message sent out by new co-CEOs Jim Gooch and Felicia Thornton, which was in an ad in Saturday’s Boston Globe, also mentioned effects on customers. It included an apology.
“We sincerely apologize if your Market Basket experience has been affected and is not in keeping with the standards you expect from everyone here,” said Gooch and Thornton, who were appointed by the company’s board of directors last month.
“Our jobs are to deliver on the Market Basket commitment to customers each and every day,” they said. “We are working hard to make sure that continues.”
The executives acknowledged the transition for the company “has been an emotional time for many associates.”
“Unfortunately, in response to the recent management changes, some have lost sight of the top priority — taking care of you — and instead have engaged in actions that harm Market Basket’s reputation and prevent us from meeting our obligations to you,” they said.
An employee association for Demoulas Super Markets took out a full-page ad in Sunday’s Sun to respond to the accusations.
“It is not Market Basket Associates who don’t care about the customers,” the ad states. “It is the new Board and its handpicked executive team.
“Unlike these new executives, we have been serving the people of our communities for many decades and look to do the same for decades to come. We live and raise our families here.”
The executives made clear on Thursday that they could fire anyone who walked out on the job.
“If you choose to abandon your job or refuse to perform your job requirements, you will leave us no choice but to permanently replace you,” they said.
As of Saturday, no employees appeared to have lost their jobs.
The decision on whether to reinstate Demoulas to CEO, as employees demand, rests with the seven-member board of directors, with which Demoulas hasn’t always had the best relationship.
Demoulas was accused of having a “dictatorial” management philosophy and being “openly defiant” of the board, among other complaints.
Of the board’s seven members, two are appointed by Arthur T. Demoulas’ side of the chain’s founding family. Another two are appointed by the competing side of the family associated with Demoulas’ cousin, Arthur S. Demoulas. Three others are independently appointed.
According to the executives, a board meeting will be held Monday to take up employees’ demand for Demoulas’ reinstatement.
Follow Grant Welker on Twitter and Tout @SunGrantWelker. Follow Lyle Moran on Twitter and Tout @lylemoran.


text:
Microsoft SPOT watches to see light in January
- 17 December, 2003 09:17
Microsoft will use January's Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas to announce wrist watches and wireless services based on its Smart Personal Objects Technology (SPOT), a Microsoft spokeswoman confirmed Tuesday.
The software maker also plans to launch MSN Premium and MSN Plus at the show, which are updates to its MSN Internet Software for broadband Internet users, and is expected to outline planned improvements to the Media Center Edition of Windows XP.
SPOT uses a portion of the FM broadcast radio networks to deliver snippets of information about weather, news, stock prices and sports scores to wrist watches equipped with the technology.
It was first announced at CES in January 2003, and SPOT watches were originally supposed to go on sale from Fossil and other watchmakers in time for the holiday shopping season. Last minute tweaks to a radio chip in the watches delayed their introduction, according to a source familiar with the effort.
The problem has now been fixed and Fossil has manufactured ''many thousands'' of SPOT watches that hit US stores next month, the source said. Microsoft's MSN Direct Service, which will deliver information to the watches, will also be available at that time. Plans are priced at US$9.95 per month or $59 per year while watches start at US$129, Microsoft has said.
The service will be available initially only in U.S. metropolitan areas and parts of southern Canada, but testing has already begun in Europe, the source said.
''Europe presents some interesting challenges. In Italy, for example, radio broadcasting is like the Wild West, it's almost unregulated. You get stations jammed on top of each other,'' the source said. Still, the service should be available in Europe ''very soon'' the source said.
Whether anyone besides computer geeks will embrace the technology remains to be seen. Past attempts at Dick Tracy-type watches, such as Seiko's MessageWatch, which sold in the mid-to-late nineties, have floundered. Microsoft is betting that consumers are more ready nowadays to embrace such devices, and that technologies have evolved sufficiently to make them attractive.
CES will also be the launchpad for Microsoft's MSN Premium software for broadband Internet users, which offers firewall, antispam, antivirus and enhanced e-mail and instant messaging options. It will be priced on a subscription basis at $9.95 per month, Microsoft officials said.
MSN Premium is meant for the multi-user broadband household with features such as parental controls and multiple e-mail accounts. Microsoft will also introduce a dressed-down version called MSN Plus that will be targeted at the single-user broadband customer. Pricing for MSN Plus will be between $4 and $6 a month, Microsoft has said.
The MSN products succeed MSN 8 Internet Software sold today and will be the first to be offered worldwide by Microsoft, a spokeswoman said. However, at CES Microsoft will only launch English language versions targeted at the U.S. market, she said.
Furthermore, Microsoft at the show will also talk about an incremental update to its Windows XP Media Center Edition that is expected out later this year and show off Windows Automotive products for in-car entertainment and navigation. The company is also expected to talk about enhancements it is making to its Tablet PC software.


text:
Greenbelt festival has launched a ‘pay-what-you-can’ pricing structure in a bid to battle the cost-of-living crisis.
The independent festival in Northamptonshire, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, has replaced its usual tiered ticketing system with three price points for adults.
Tickets now start from £150 for adults in need of a subsidised ticket (Supported), £190 for a regular ticket (Standard) and £230 for a Supporter ticket that helps to pay it forward.
The new pay-what-you-can model has seen a drop in the standard ticket price from last year. Customers are now able to decide which option best suits them and can also spread the cost in interest-free instalments.
The festival has also launched the Open Festival free ticket scheme which will invite customers to nominate people who cannot afford a ticket but would like to attend the festival.
The event returns to Northamptonshire’s Boughton House from 24–27 August. The lineup includes Laura Mvula, Ezra Furman, Indigo Girls, Balaklava Blues, Grace Petrie and Duke Special.


text:
updated 03:40 pm EDT, Mon March 30, 2009
Macworld gets new schedule
IDG World Expo has announced that the upcoming Macworld Expo 2010 is scheduled to take place February 9th through the 13th at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, marking a shift from the historical early-January timing. The company also chose to adjust the schedule to include Saturday, a move that could remove scheduling conflicts for the group of potential attendees that are busy working Monday through Friday.
"As we began the planning process, attendees and exhibitors made it clear that February in San Francisco was the time and location that worked best, so we listened," said IDG CEO Mary Dolaher.
The adjustments could also serve to eliminate overlap with other industry events, including CES. For 2009, IDG held the Macworld Expo from January 5th through the 9th, while CES ran from January 8th to the 11th. If an exhibitor sells a product that fits into both segments, simultaneous presence at both events requires two groups of staff members and support equipment.
Many companies have decided to either reduce their presence at trade shows, or omit the events altogether. Even Apple will not attend the 2010 Macworld Expo, although rumors suggested the company was considering attending CES instead. The CEA outlined plans for an Apple-centric area that will be part of the 2010 CES, while the iLounge area for iPod- and iPhone-related companies was booked in just three days. The organizers have dedicated more floorspace to avoid a waiting list.
"Moving Macworld Expo from the awkward post-New Year dates makes tons of sense," said Adam Engst of TidBITS. "Travel and lodging costs will likely be lower for developers and attendees alike, and developers will not have to push as hard during the holiday season to finalize code and prepare booths."


text:
Charlie Key has one question for software developers: “How do you want to spend your time?”
A developer himself, he discovered there wasn’t a good place to gather information about apps that he built while creating a Facebook game with his college roommate and co-founder Brandon Cannaday. Key’s brother, Richard Key, is the business’ third partner.
This trio of techies is trying to help software developers spend less time messing with servers and more time building applications. They built their company, Modulus
, on Amazon’s cloud to offer scalable, reliable hosting for developers.
While the company’s services are almost business-to-business – developer to developer, if you will -- they nonetheless attracted the attention of The Brandery
, an Over-the-Rhine start-up accelerator.
“We’re different from the other companies at The Brandery," Key says. "We’re very technically heavy, and I think they were interested in looking at companies like us because they’re getting so many consumer products companies coming in – people who make iPhone apps, for example. Modulus presented a different challenge for them.”
The company helps developers follow time-consuming best practices they might otherwise skip, such as tracking analytics for usage and information requests and alerting developers if a site starts to misbehave.
For developers who make living writing code, having a fast, functional way to track this transfer of information (and what happens when it’s not transferring) is critical to keeping clients happy.
But with such a technical product, where do clients come from? “Grassroots marketing,” says Key, who attends conferences about cloud computing and Node.js, and even launched a Node.js Meetup group. “We found that actively getting out there and helping people learn is the best way to find new customers.”
By Robin Donovan


text:
Coca-Cola is scheduled to unveil a new line of drinks based on traditional Chinese herbal ingredients and recipes in the first quarter of 2008.
"This collaboration will ultimately help us bring the insights and benefits of traditional Chinese medicine to consumers all over the world," said Rhona Applebaum, VP of Coca-Cola said. "As the world's largest beverage company, we can add global reach and world-class marketing skills to help promote Chinese wisdom in preventive holistic health through new and innovative beverages."
As more and more consumers demand healthier beverage choices, Coke is answering their calls by adding alternatives such as tea, water and energy drinks to its range of carbonated drinks.
Soda & Chinese Herbology Fusion
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- By: Mitchell FanningOct 20, 2007


text:
Once the king of business smartphones, the BlackBerry has seen better days. The company making the handset, Research in Motion (RIM), is struggling to compete with devices powered by Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android operating system. The fight for the enterprise market is now between those two platforms – and for the moment, Apple is winning.
A report from Good Technology in April stated that 97.3 percent of tablet activations by its enterprise customers in the first quarter of 2012 were for iPads. Smartphone activations in the same report showed the same preference for Apple products, though not the same dominance: iPhones comprised 73.9 percent of all smartphone activations, while Android smartphones accounted for 26.1 percent.
Those numbers don’t provide a complete picture of market share, since they only include Good Technology’s customers and don’t even count BlackBerry and Windows Phone devices. What they do show is a clear preference for iOS, which has a closed ecosystem that makes it generally less vulnerable to malware, over Android.
Samsung, the top vendor of Android smartphones, is trying to reverse that trend by introducing a designation called SAFE, or Samsung Approved For Enterprise. It’s meant to assure IT managers that the phone is secure and will fit into a company’s IT infrastructure harmoniously. Samsung said in a press release that a SAFE phone includes “support for 338 IT Policies,” including Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync and 256-bit AES encryption.
SAFE also attempts to address Android fragmentation, the phenomenon of multiple different versions of Android running on different devices. With SAFE branding, IT managers can look at a single specification and determine if a phone meets its requirements.
It’s not the first attempt to place a layer of standardization between fragmented Android phones and the uniformity-loving enterprise world. In December 2010, RSA introduced the RSA SecurID Software Token for Android, which enabled authentication of Android devices for enterprise applications and resources.
The Samsung Galaxy S III will be the first phone to bear the SAFE label. Do you think it will make significant inroads into the enterprise market?
Zco Corporation is a custom software company with headquarters in Nashua, New Hampshire, USA specializing in mobile app development, enterprise software, and 3D animation.
NEW HAMPSHIRE, HQ
58 Technology Way, Suite 2W10,
Nashua, NH 03060, USA
Phone: (603) 881-9200
745 Atlantic Ave,
Phone: (855) 926-2777


text:
WASHINGTON: The US government on Monday (May 20) eased some restrictions imposed last week on China's Huawei, a sign of how the prohibitions on the telecommunications company may have far-reaching and unintended consequences.
The US Commerce Department will allow Huawei Technologies to purchase American-made goods in order to maintain existing networks and provide software updates to existing Huawei handsets.
The company is still prohibited from buying American parts and components to manufacture new products without licence approvals that likely will be denied.
The roll back, which is in effect for 90 days, suggests changes to Huawei's supply chain may have immediate, far-reaching and unexpected consequences.
"It appears the intention is to limit unintended impacts on third parties who use Huawei equipment or systems," said Washington lawyer Kevin Wolf, a former Commerce Department official. "It seems they're trying to prevent network blackouts."
Huawei did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
On Thursday, the US Commerce Department added Huawei and 68 entities to an export blacklist that makes it nearly impossible for the Chinese company to purchase goods made in the United States. Huawei is now on a list of entities that are banned from doing business with US companies without licences that will be extremely difficult to obtain.
Reuters reported on Friday that the department was considering the temporary move to allow time for companies and people who have Huawei equipment to maintain the reliability of their communications networks and equipment, citing a government spokeswoman.
Monday's posting said the reprieve was created as a temporary general licence, in effect until Aug 19, that allows Huawei to purchase goods to maintain existing networks and equipment and provide software updates to existing Huawei handsets.
The entities list identifies companies believed to be involved in activities contrary to the national security or foreign policy interests of the United States.
Reuters reported on Sunday that Google suspended business with Huawei that requires the transfer of hardware, software and technical services except those publicly available via open source licensing, citing a source familiar with the matter.


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The parent company that owns retailers T.J. Maxx, Marshalls and HomeGoods announced on Wednesday a plan to raise their workers’ wages to $9 an hour in June, with an eventual rise to $10 an hour by 2016. The move makes TJX Cos. the latest mega-retailer to jump on the competitive wages trend, following an announcement from Wal-Mart just last week.
In its glory days, SkyMall was “the sole in-flight option for potential purchasers of products to review while traveling,” Continue reading
2014 has been a banner year for corporate mergers, with more than $3 trillion in deals announced worldwide. What kind of impact do these deals have on the companies, employees and the economy? Hari Sreenivasan learns more from Andrew Ross Sorkin of The New York Times. Continue reading
Since 9/11, businesses have been able to insure themselves against terrorist attacks through the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act. But for the first time in 13 years, Congress ended a session without renewing its funding, due to opposition from Sen. Tom Coburn. Judy Woodruff sits down with Leigh Ann Pusey of the American Insurance Association for how the move will affect businesses nationwide. Continue reading
WASHINGTON — A lawyer representing Sony Pictures Entertainment is warning news organizations not to publish details of company files leaked by hackers in one of the largest digital breaches ever against an American company.
Cases that make it to the Supreme Court are often argued by a relatively tight circle of lawyers who are well-known to the justices, and more likely to share educational backgrounds and private firm pedigrees. Reuters examined 17,000 filed petitions, uncovering an unusually insular world at the nation’s top court. Reuters legal editor Joan Biskupic joins Gwen Ifill to discuss the findings. Continue reading
Silicon Valley, the epicenter of the tech industry, is one of the wealthiest and fastest-growing regions in the country. But the rapid development and influx of tech workers has revved up competition for housing and a growing income divide. Special correspondent Scott Shafer of KQED reports on the demolition of a notorious homeless encampment in San Jose. Continue reading


text:
Despite the fact that rumors about the iPhone 5 are growing even stronger and more ferocious as the launch draws near, iPhone 4 sales still continue to best the competition at both AT&T and Verizon.
According to a note from Cannacord Genuity analyst T. Michael Walkley, checks with the iPhone 4’s US carries are showing that sales of the iPhone 4 continue to remain strong at both AT&T and Verizon.
Despite the fact that the iPhone 4 is more than a year old, which makes this news impressive in its own regard, the thought that iPhone 4 sales continue to remain strong even with the iPhone 5 due out within a month or so stands as a real testament to how impressive the iPhone 4 still is among its competitors.
Walkley went on to suggest that he expects iPhone 5 sales to be extremely strong as well, especially if the handset has a global launch and support for Sprint as a US carrier. He also notes that the iPad 2 3G remains the strongest-selling tablet on both AT&T and Verizon’s mobile networks.


text:
Normal Motors Chairwoman and Main Govt Officer Mary Barra speaks throughout a conference hosted by U.S. President Joe Biden with personal sector CEOs to focus on the Create Back Improved agenda at the White Property in Washington, U.S., January 26, 2022.
Kevin Lamarque | Reuters
DETROIT – Basic Motors will commence tying a “major element” of its lengthy-phrase executive compensation with the firm’s electric car or truck plans, CEO Mary Barra mentioned Tuesday.
Starting this year, Barra stated the payment targets will involve volumes of EVs in North The united states as nicely as start timing and top quality for such motor vehicles.
GM ideas to maximize its generation of electric motor vehicles to 2 million in North America and China by 2025, as it moves to solely promote EVs by 2035. The enterprise has also reported it designs to come to be the prime-advertising automaker of EVs, surpassing Tesla, by mid-ten years. By then, Barra on Tuesday said GM expects to deliver $50 billion from EVs in North The us.
“At GM, our compensation has generally been driven by the company’s accomplishment. And no a single should question our determination to guide in EVs or the passion our staff has for that mission,” Barra explained for the duration of the company’s very first-quarter earnings call.
The Detroit automaker has faced increased stress from Wall Street to transition to electrical autos in the wake of marketplace chief Tesla’s increase to grow to be the best-valued automaker at a industry cap of more than $900 billion.
Barra stated the new compensation benchmarks are intended to underscore the company’s dedication to EVs. More facts about the EV payment targets are expected in the company’s impending proxy filing, which Barra reported will be filed Friday.
In 2020, Barra’s payment deal was $23.7 million, such as a base income of about $2 million and inventory awards of $13 million.


text:
Samsung’s latest financial results underscored slowing growth in the smartphone business and its increased rivalry with Apple, which seems to be closing the gap, at least in the U.S.
Samsung reported its first decline in quarterly profit in two years for the December quarter. Fourth quarter net income was 7.22 trillion won ($6.7 billion), lower than what the analysts had expected. Operating income for Samsung’s mobile business during October to December period remained flat at 5.47 trillion won.
While consumers in both India and China are expected to buy over half a billion smartphones this year, they are going to look for cheaper versions, triggering a pricing battle. This basically means lower profit margins for Samsung’s Galaxy range of phones — the company’s biggest and most profitable business division.
With Apple iPhone at the higher end of the market (and even pushing lower-priced iPhones in markets like India), and aggressive rivals such as Lenovo and Micromax selling much cheaper versions of Android phones, this year is going to be tough for Samsung.
Investor concerns on Samsung’s ability to keep growing its mobile phone business became visible early this year, when the company lost $8 billion of the market value. According to a Bloomberg report, Samsung shipped only 9 million units of Galaxy S4 during the fourth quarter ending December, much lower than the 13 million units it had expected.
Samsung chairman Lee Kun Hee even warned employees last January to watch its back and continue to innovate in new business, as competition increases and the global economy continues to drag.
Earlier this year, Apple finally managed to strike a deal with China Mobile for selling iPhones in the country. Tim Cook also said that Apple sold more iPhones in China than ever before during the quarter. Moreover, Apple now seems to be working on bigger-sized iPhones to address the opportunity in markets like China where many consumers still prefer the 5.7-inch Galaxy Note over iPhones that offer 4-inch screen.
Among new launches planned for this year, Samsung said it will release Galaxy S5 by April and at least one other wearable device during 2014.
The company attributed lower growth to currency fluctuations and one-time bonus payments to workers to celebrate the 20th anniversary of chairman Lee’s new management strategy.
To be sure, Samsung is still the world’s biggest smartphone maker, accounting for nearly half of all the sales, but the challenge is more in terms of protecting its turf — both in terms of volumes and profitability.
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text:
Woolworths directors to be scrutinised by Deloitte
The actions of Woolworths' directors will be reviewed by its administrator Deloitte after creditors questioned whether the retailer should have stopped trading earlier.
At a creditors' meeting on Tuesday, administrator Neville Kahn was asked to look at whether the senior management – including chairman Richard North and chief executive Steve Johnson – should have begun winding up the chain earlier to safeguard more money for creditors.
Kahn said it is "not unusual" for creditors to ask for management to be scrutinised.
Deloitte said it would recover enough money to pay the full £333.5m owed to senior creditors, including one of its main lenders Burdale, although unsecured creditors were "highly unlikely" to receive any of the £1.1bn they are owed.
Around 200 of Woolworths' leases have been sold, and the administrator expects to sell up to 300 in total, before they revert back to their landlords.
Kahn said he expects creditors further down the list – who are owed £100.4m – to get at least part of their money back.
Last weekend Deloitte sold the Woolworths and childrenswear Ladybird brands to Shop Direct for an undisclosed sum. The toy brand Chad Valley was sold to Home Retail Group last month for £5m.
Какие офлайн-магазины будут востребованы?
С начала года прослеживается тенденция по выходу из бизнеса региональных сетей под давлением федеральных ритейлеров, причем как в продуктовом сегменте, так и в DIY, и в сегменте детских товаров. ...
Новые модели взаимодействия с покупателями


text:
Don't worry, you can still keep your cannabis apparel and wear it publicly.
The actors from the Trailer Park Boys are using their characters to highlight the pros of...
Another win for New Jersey.
It looks like things worked out quite well for the former Anchorage reporter.
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The largest player in high-value transportation wants a piece of the action.
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There are a few financial moves to consider if the New York Health Department were to...
Russia claims legalizing recreational marijuana in Canada would be a breach of international laws.
Will indigenous people mutually benefit from partnerships with cannabis companies?
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The upcoming rules for cannabis consumers and businesses in Nova Scotia.


text:
Looking on the brighter side of Bay Area recession
With staff contribution from Peter Sinton
Always look on the bright side of life, Monty Python said.
With that in mind, Money Talks gives you the 10 best things about the Bay Area's growing recession.
10. Fewer 24-year-old punks on CNBC telling us about back-end solutions.
9. Shorter lines at the bar.
8. Driving 70 mph on the Bay Bridge.
7. Finding parking in North Beach now only takes an hour and 20 minutes.
6. Fewer 24-year-old punks cutting you off in their Lexus SUVs while looking for parking in North Beach.
5. One-bedroom closets cost a mere $550,000.
LATEST SFGATE VIDEOS
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- Dolores Hill Bomb 2018: Skateboarders descend on San Francisco's Mission District Derek John Dudek / derekdudekdesign.com
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4. Shorter lines at the bathroom in the bar.
3. Plenty of room to play whiffle ball on the United shuttle to Seattle.
2. Larry Ellison loses a yacht's-worth of money every day.
1. Fewer 24-year-old punks.
WALKING ADVERTISEMENT: Kudos to Frank Chiu, 41-year-old Oaklander, who's managed to weather the downturn by walking around the Financial District with a wacky sign in hand.
On one side of the sign, Chiu espouses his serious, political message. It reads: "12 Galaxies to be conquered for Bionic Warcrimes. Hextrological Theoretical Analysis."
Translation: Frank's convinced that former U.S. presidents have committed slander in 12 galaxies. And if that weren't bad enough, said slander may lead to intergalactic warfare.
But if that's too serious a topic, Frank's got ya covered. For $50, he sold the backside of his sign to Quizno's Subs, 643 Clay St.
"Every donation helps," said Chiu.
OPTIMIST AWARD: Market crash? What market crash?
E-Trade Inc., the popular online trading site that made day trading part of our dot-com vernacular, is ramping up to open a stock-trading outlet at 532 Market St., the circular, glass building that formerly housed Sharper Image.
Earlier this month, E-Trade bought Web Street Inc., parent company of Web Street Securities, an online brokerage firm with four physical locations in the United States. (Other than the Market Street digs, Web Street had outlets in Boston, Beverly Hills and Denver.)
The outlets "will give consumers value-added financial services and educational content in a high-tech, high-touch experience," according to the press release announcing the deal.
A peek inside the premises reveals a room full of computer terminals, at which eager traders will swap stock while E-Trade helpers will offer some of that "high-touch" service.
Maybe they can tell us where we can put that Webvan stock?
VROOM, VROOM: The stock market and economy are running out of gas, but that didn't stop the monied set from gathering on the Monterey Peninsula last weekend for a trio of vintage car auctions.
The auctions, which bracket vintage car races at Laguna Seca race track and the ever-so-fancy Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, featured some of the world's top cars, along with many collectors' similarly tuned-up trophy wives and girlfriends.
Alas, bidding for collector cars was less frenzied and prices were generally lower at the Christie's, Bonham & Brooks and RM Auctions events this year.
"It's a softer market and a harder sell than a year ago," said Ian Kelleher, vice president of RM Auctions, which auctioned close to 180 race cars during two nights at the DoubleTree Hotel on Monterey's wharf.
Nearly a third of the 167 cars put up for sale this year failed to meet the reserve price, compared with only about 10 percent last year. Total sales dipped to $14.8 million from $18 million last year.
Nevertheless, Kelleher noted, "The money is there for the correct and rarest cars."
Top price of the weekend was $3,822,500 (including a 10 percent buyer's commission) paid by an unidentified U.S. investment tycoon for a 1956 Ferrari 410 Sport Spider. Only two of these cars were built and, during their heyday, the 400-horsepower V-12s were nearly unbeatable. Another Ferrari, a 1958 250 GT Tour de France, sold for $1.2 million.
At the Christie's auction of 84 vintage cars Sunday night, a similar 1959 Ferrari 250 GT sold for $831,000. But the highest price of the evening was $1,051,000 paid for a 1937 Mercedes Benz 540K Supercharged Sport Cabriolet.
About 2,000 people packed the Pebble Beach Equestrian Center for the auction, but Miles Morris, head of Christie's collector cars department, conceded, "Great cars are a luxury and I'd be foolish to say the economic climate has not changed considerably in a year."
This year, 27 of the 84 cars did not sell, including three Indy 500- winning racers. A 1966 Lola T90 driven by Graham Hill, a 1974 McLaren M-1 driven by Johnny Rutherford and a March 86-C Cosworth driven by Bobby Rahal failed to finish.
The market for race cars that can't be driven on the street is rarified and may be one reason Christie's auction proceeds this year dipped to $11.1 million from $26 million a year ago. Morris also noted that last summer, Christie's auctioned off half again as many cars, including some rarer classics.
At Bonham & Brooks' auction of 70 rare touring and racing cars at Quail Lodge in Carmel Valley, results were similar.
Only 40 cars sold, compared with more than 50 a year ago, and sales totaled $6.3 million vs. $12 million. The top seller was a 1937 Bugatti type 57S, which fetched $1.7 million.


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Panasonic has Samsung and LG in its sights as the company releases 22 televisions this year, of which none are plasma.The new range of televisions eschew plasma panels for those of the LED-backlit LCD variety, but representatives claim they benefit f...
Now that we’ve had a chance to look at both the Panasonic VT30 and the Samsung Series 8 D8000 -- the two best plasma televisions that you can buy today -- we’ve put together a quick comparison for anyone trying to choose between them. Don’t take this...
Samsung has beefed up its connected TV platform considerably as it faces threats from Google, Roku and its fellow television vendors.
Microsoft will reportedly announce a new Windows-based US$200 set-top box using Windows Media Center as its primary interface, according to the Seattle Times.
Google TV's planned fall launch is not news, but given that Google hasn't said much about its television plans since May, it's time for a refresher. Here's a quick rundown of everything to know about Google TV as anticipation grows for the imminent l...
Let's pause for a moment of silence to remember Google Wave, a service that has gone off to greener pastures. Google confirmed the news late yesterday, saying the service hadn't seen the type of user adoption it had been hoping for.
That little Android mascot must be struggling to catch his breath.
After years of anticipation, the 2010 FIFA World Cup is finally set to kick off on 11 June in South Africa. This time around, the tournament is being followed by not only football fans around the world, but also by the global tech community.
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The Ctrack Transport and Freight Index (Ctrack TFI), previously known as the Ctrack Logistics Barometer, indicates a slower growth trend in transport volumes during September 2019. It also reveals that the slowing world economy is impacting both South Africa’s international transport volumes, as well as local rail and pipeline volumes.
That being said, road freight volumes grew 2,5% while rail freight volumes edged up 0,2% between July and September 2019 compared to the same three-month period in 2018. Considering both a slower domestic economy and a far weaker international trade environment, land freight is still in a relatively stable position.
But, the unpredictable trade war between the US and China that last year provided a welcome boost to American trade to China has this year had the reverse effect, while EU economies continue to slow.
Dutch Economic Bureau, CPB, indicates that world trade volumes declined -1,5% between July and September 2019 compared to the same period a year ago. On this basis, the decline in world trade is the steepest since November 2009.
In terms of South Africa’s logistics volumes, the CTFI shows a decline of -0,7% for the period July to September 2019 compared to the same period a year ago. The Ctrack TFI also reflects a far weaker South African economy than was the case between April and June, when all indications were that growth was back in full swing.
This downturn, while not unexpected, is not good news for the South African economy and its ability to create work and income for its citizens. Weak business confidence levels need to be addressed as soon as possible, since capital investment only takes place when businesses are confident and certain about the future.
Transport operators will have to monitor their costs and performance closely. Risks must be contained as much as possible too, while opportunities remain hard to come by.
Road freight is a highly competitive business, and transport prices have barely increased in the last year. But, some market share gains have been realised through price increases in both the rail and pipeline sectors.
Fuel products that are usually piped inland and then distributed for Gauteng users and to other provinces, are now being transported by road to places like Harrismith and Mbombela.
Furthermore, coal is being transported to local power stations by road instead of rail and conveyor belts. Other products that used to travel by rail are sometimes now also being loaded onto trucks.
Sea freight and air freight volumes continue to feel the effects of the US-Sino trade war and Brexit, and may do so for many months to come. Container shipping prices are lower in many markets, while about 3,5% of container capacity is not being used, up from 2% or so a year ago, according to Drewry shipping consultants.
Air traffic volumes between Africa and the rest of the world is growing at about 8%, albeit from a very low base. South Africa’s domestic air freight volumes, however, are in decline and not growing other than to certain African and Middle Eastern destinations. Both air and sea freight volumes have been relatively weak performers for the best part of two years now.
We have updated the storage and warehousing data to include separate indices for international trade and manufacturing, as well as domestic trade (retail as well as wholesale).
One cannot fail to notice that inventory levels are being lowered. Many retailers are storing fewer goods to save on both stock costs and floor space.
In manufacturing, the same savings are taking place as factory owners are being squeezed by slow domestic demand and export volume uncertainty. The decline of nearly 10% between July and September compared to the same three months a year ago is worrisome.
In short, the Ctrack Transport and Freight Index for October shows that in an uncertain world, the transport sector can’t escape feeling the pinch.


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Gener8 is launching to enable people to have more control over the online ads they see, and to profit from their own data, a transaction that has until now remained behind closed doors. Our browsing experience is inundated with adverts that are targeted using our personal data, whether it’s the trainers you once clicked on, the theatre you visited, or the holiday insurance you didn’t buy.
These seemingly innocuous ads you see are part of an industry whose numbers are jaw-dropping. Every day, billions of adverts are circulated to users online and the global spend on digital advertising this year alone will exceed $230bn. This makes digital advertising an extremely lucrative business for all involved, except the user.
Users have become tired with endless and irrelevant advertising, leading to a surge in ad blockers. Right now, more than 650m people are blocking ads, and this is increasing by up to 27%yoy. The use of these tools cost the industry over $40bn in lost revenue last year alone. This is where founder Sam Jones saw an opportunity to create a different business model, one that places the consumer at its heart, enabling them to take a share of the advertising revenue and have more control over what they see.
Gener8 is a browser add-on that can be installed in one click, allowing users to select the type of ads they want to see. Each ad that is seen will reward the user with tokens that they can convert into currency and that they can then donate to a charity of their choosing or withdraw into their own accounts. This money has always been exchanging hands between media buyers, advertising agencies and the publishers. Gener8 are simply bringing consumers into the fold.
Sam Jones, CEO and founder of Gener8 said, “Our mission is to be amongst the world’s first brands that enable people to control and monetise their data. We believe we will shake up the advertising industry by putting the consumer first.”
Jones, who previously served as global brand manager for Red Bull added, “New data scandals are emerging every week, this is increasing people’s awareness about the value of their data. We believe we can educate people to value their data and reward them and their causes in the process.”
Jones acknowledges that his business model might alarm publishers, “With 89% of Gener8’s users having previously used ad blockers, Gener8 is, in fact, bringing people back into the advertising eco-system and, as such, benefitting the industry in the long-term.
“We are already engaging in conversations about how we intend to work with publishers keen to move to a more user-approved model: when your consumer values your approach and doesn’t feel exploited, you’re more likely to secure their loyalty.”


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Valve: The future of Virtual Reality is just one year away
J Thoendell stashed this in Oculus
Valve VR lead Michael Abrash detailed that notion in a recent talk.
"Not only could VR rapidly evolve into a major platform, but it could actually tip the balance of the entire industry from traditional media toward computer entertainment."
Abrash believes that VR headsets so vastly outperform other interaction methods (TV, theaters, etc.) that how folks absorb media in general may be impacted by the coming wave of head-mounted displays. His concept of our potential future may be distant-sounding, but the beginning of consumer-grade, extremely polished VR headsets isn't far off: 2015. At least that's what Abrash and Valve are targeting as primetime for VR, and they're laying the groundwork right now.
Stashed in: Virtual Reality!


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As we prepare to kick off another National Consumer Protection Week on Monday, Congress once again balked at protecting the nation's consumers.
Budget wrangling has left consumers unsure from moment to moment whether federal agencies will have the funding they need to investigate scams, police dangerous products and ensure we're not eating horse meat.
Overshadowed by that drama is the small-screen soap opera performed by Senate Republicans, who have again vowed to block the confirmation of Rich Cordray as director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
Without a director, the bureau cannot set rules for "non-bank" financial institutions that run roughshod over consumers, including:
• Debt collectors, which year in and year out have the dubious distinction of being the single most complained-about industry in the country.
• Credit reporting bureaus, which, according to a recent study by the Federal Trade Commission, make errors in compiling one in four consumer credit reports and often bungle consumers' demands for corrections.
• Payday lenders, which not only continue to lend at triple-digit interest rates in defiance of state law but are expanding into the even more predatory business of auto title lending.
The confirmation battle, as the senators acknowledge, has nothing to do with Cordray's qualifications or performance.
Nor is it about burdens on taxpayers or unfettered power, the feeble and flawed arguments Republicans give for blocking a confirmation vote.
Remember, the bureau is funded through the Federal Reserve's investment income, not through taxpayer dollars. And unlike any other financial regulator, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's decisions can be overruled by a board made up of other financial regulators. Beyond that, like all federal agencies, the bureau answers to Congress itself.
No, the refusal to vote stems from a continued sulk by Senate Republicans over the creation of a federal agency dedicated to protecting consumers from financial fraud.
Many of you contacted Ohio Sen. Rob Portman in 2011 to express your outrage that he had joined colleagues in a pledge to block a vote last time around.
It's worth noting that, last month, when 40-odd Senate Republicans renewed their vow to block Cordray's nomination, Portman's signature was not among them.
Portman certainly hasn't become a fan of the bureau. In a letter to Cordray in February, Portman voiced the same concerns as his Republican colleagues and, cheekily, invited Cordray to participate in efforts to weaken the bureau.
Still, Portman's subtle shift in position shows your calls and emails and letters mattered.
Keep the pressure on.
Now that a court ruling has created doubts about the validity Cordray's recess appointment, a confirmation vote is more vital than ever.
Until the Senate finds 60 votes to confirm Cordray, financial companies get a bankers holiday from regulation.
Meanwhile we get cheated out of the meaningful financial reforms we were promised.
National Consumer Protection Week is supposed to about be consumers.
Let's make sure it is.
Follow Sheryl on Twitter: @consumerwriter
On Facebook: PDConsumerAffairs


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Renk Agribusiness Institute Director, Paul Mitchell, weighed in on how a shortage of propane in Wisconsin affects Farmers and crop yields.
“It’s been a really bad year. There’s a lot of farmers that would like to get 2019 over with and move on,” says Paul Mitchell. “We have a high moisture grain out there this year in corn. And traditionally we dry it. But with the LP shortage, it’s hard for them to get their corn dried. We had this big demand for LP when it snowed and got cold all the sudden, so demand is up on the consumer end. Farmers are going to need it more than they anticipated, so it’s just another group out there demanding LP. It’s going to put upward pressure on the prices for consumers.”
Watch the video and read the full news story on NBC15’s website: https://www.nbc15.com/content/news/Propane-shortage-raising-concerns-for-Wisconsin-farmers–565312492.html


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Earlier this month VRFocus reported on Niantic Labs announcing several new events as part of the Pokémon GO Summer Tour 2018, one of which was the Pokémon GO Safari Zone at Dortmund. Today, further details about the event have been released.
The Pokémon GO Summer Tour 2018 will begin in Dortmund, Germany, at Westfalenpark, offering Pokémon trainers the chance to catch a wide variety of Pokémon, including some that do not often appear in Europe.
As one of the largest inner-city parks in Europe, Westfalenpark is ideally suited to Pokémon hunting, with elaborate water features, a Japanese garden, and large playgrounds for kids and families. To keep the creature count high Lure Modules will be activated all day on the PokéStops throughout the park, and special 2 km Eggs will be available when you spin their Photo Discs.
The activities aren’t just focused on the park, as Dortmund’s entire city district will be involved. Whilst there won’t be any raids or Gyms inside Westfalenpark, nearby areas will feature special locations for those keen to battle powerful Raid Bosses.
John Hanke, founder and CEO of Niantic, Inc. said in a statement: “We’re looking forward to celebrating the two year anniversary of Pokémon GO with fans and Trainers worldwide during the Pokémon GO Summer Tour 2018. The city of Dortmund has been an incredible partner in creating a one-of-a-kind experience for Trainers across Europe to play Pokémon GO together while experiencing the beauty of Westfalenpark and the city’s countless cultural highlights.”
There will also be a bunch of other stuff going on for when trainers want a break, with team-themed lounges, mobile phone charging stations, snacks and drinks, plus Pokémon GO giveaways.
“We are very happy to be part of such a special event. The City of Dortmund is used to host thousands of people from all over the world, and as one of the largest urban parks in Europe, the Westfalenpark is tailor-made for this occasion. Additionally, the residual city area of Dortmund offers way more than the in-game highlights. To everyone who is about to visit our historical city: have fun!,” added Thomas Westphal, CEO of Dortmund’s economy funding.
The event is free to enter and begins at 9am CET on Saturday, 30th June and Sunday, 1st July. At 12pm CET on both days, a special one-of-a-kind group photo will be taken of all Trainers in attendance. For any further Pokémon GO updates, keep reading VRFocus.


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Illegal Ivory Still Egyptian Problem
February 7, 2012 by UPI - United Press International, Inc.
CAIRO, Feb. 6 (UPI) — Egypt is home to ongoing illegal trading in ivory with products sold in local tourist areas by traders who are seldom prosecuted, a wildlife group says.
The animal conservation group Traffic says while the volume of trading in elephant ivory has declined slightly over the last 10 years, Egypt is still a major hub and distribution point in the global ivory trade.
“Egypt is one of the largest illegal markets for elephant ivory in Africa,” the study published in Traffic’s journal reported. “Tusks are smuggled in, mostly through Sudan, and sold to ivory workshops in Cairo … [where they are] openly carved and displayed without any prosecution ensuing.”
Trade in ivory was banned in 1990, and it is illegal to import, export or possess ivory products, or to offer them for sale in Egypt.
“The trade in ivory [in Egypt] is completely illegal without a permit, which has never been given,” endangered wildlife consultant Esmond Martin, the lead author of the report, told Inter Press Service. “Unfortunately, there is absolutely no law enforcement.”
“Traders, usually Sudanese, bring their ivory directly to workshops and retail outlets, and sell according to the weight and quality of the tusks,” the report said, noting large tusks could bring more than $160 a pound.
A decade ago, the study said, the biggest buyers of ivory in Egypt were Europeans, but that has changed. Now there’s a new consumer with money to spend and a desire for carved ivory — the Chinese.
“In 2005, the Chinese were hardly buying any ivory. Now they account for over half of all sales,” Martin said.


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After nearly two years of fears about a recession, growing optimism about the economy is beginning to seep into Wall Street’s forecasts for quarterly results for individual companies, with analysts growing increasingly optimistic about corporate earnings in the coming months.
While expectations for these quarterly results are normally tipped lower as earnings season arrives, over the past two months analysts have already pushed their earnings forecasts higher for the first time in two years, according to a FactSet report released Friday.
It is not difficult to find opponents of this optimism, the report said, but during July and August, Wall Street analysts increased their estimates of third-quarter earnings per share for the 500 companies in the S&P 500 SPX index.
“In fact, this quarter marks the first bottom-up increase in earnings per share estimates for the first two months of the quarter since the third quarter of 2021,” John Butters, chief earnings analyst at FactSet, said in the report.
He said that estimates of earnings per share for the third quarter rose 0.4% from June 30 to August 31. Fourth-quarter estimates also rose 0.6% over that period.
These corporate estimates tend to decline as their earnings dates approach, as optimistic expectations fade and financial realities emerge, but the Fed recently said it now expects a “significant slowdown” rather than a recession. Some analysts said the August jobs report is exactly what the Fed needs to end its rounds of rate hikes, which it has relied on to dampen consumer borrowing and purchasing power and lower inflation.
The FactSet report also found that executives talk less frequently about recession, based on analysis of earnings call transcripts. From 15 June
As of August 31, this analysis found that “the number of S&P 500 companies that indicate ‘stagnation’ in earnings calls has fallen for four consecutive quarters.”
However, JPMorgan analysts recently said that the collective corporate earnings forecast for 2024 was “extremely optimistic.” More pessimistic analysts have postponed their recession forecasts to next year.
This week in earnings
Only two S&P 500 companies are scheduled to report quarterly results next week, according to FactSet. Companies reporting results this week include electronic signature platform Docusign Inc.
Smith & Wesson Brands Company
and GitLab Inc.
Call to put it on your calendar
Questions for Krueger about “low inflation” and consolidation: Grocery store chain Kroger Co reports results on Friday. The results will, as they have been the case over the past year, highlight the ebbs and flows of inflation. Price increases have put pressure on consumers, while helping food producers and grocery stores to make profits. Kruger
In June, it said it had made “targeted” price cuts to help customers hit hardest by inflation – helping it compete against other shops while jeopardizing its bottom line. While the executives said inflation had begun to ease, they said they believed the spending backdrop “will continue to be challenging for our clients as they deal with higher interest rates and an uncertain economic outlook.” At the same time, Kroger signed a merger deal with Albertsons Co. Inc.
It still raises concerns about rising prices, competition and consumer access.
The number to watch
GameStop results: GameStop Corp. did not hold a conference call after its quarterly results in June. But the drama surrounding video game retail stores and the meme stock played out in other ways. In June, GameStop fired its CEO, and activist investor Ryan Cohen became CEO. In July, it announced the resignation of its chief financial officer, who left last month. Ahead of the company’s second-quarter results, due for release on Wednesday, Wedbush analyst Michael Pachter cited hardware growth for Nintendo and Sony, and a “compelling” software slate, and pointed to the company’s net cash of about $1.3 billion. But he said that GameStop “seems to have lost market share in recent quarters”.


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Right now, WebOS is the exclusive realm of former Palm and current HP devices. However, the mobile operating system might see something of a career shift into a bona-fide competitor to Windows Phone 7 and Android in the future. That's because, as CNet News reports, HP CEO Leo Apotheker stated plainly that he's open to licensing WebOS to third-party hardware vendors.
Apotheker made the surprising revelation at the AllThingsD D9 conference earlier today. Here's part of his statement, as quoted by CNet News:
It's not correct to believe that [WebOS] should only be on HP devices. There are all kinds of other people who want to make whatever kind of hardware they make and would like to connect them to the Internet. We'll make it available to enterprises and to SMBs (small- and medium-size businesses). It will run on lots of HP devices.
Later, when asked whether HP would consider licensing WebOS to HTC, Apotheker said the possibility was "certainly something we would entertain." HTC has a rather expansive lineup of smart phones based on Android and Windows Phone 7, and it recently added a 7" Android tablet to that product portfolio.
Since WebOS is already scheduled to appear in HP's TouchPad tablet, and is also being groomed for applications in PCs and printers, HP's apparent openness to licensing could have wide-ranging implications.
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