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Alibaba shares have surged 18% since late December, but investors who missed the rally must not worry. The stock has seen some correction lately, giving another opportunity to enter the stock and be a part of the growth story, according to Barron’s.
What makes Alibaba stock important?
Alibaba offers a good opportunity, but the stock is not an exception to the market’s normal patterns. Investors have started booking profits in the stock, which is why some correction can be seen. The Chinese company posted extraordinary earnings last week, registering strong revenue growth based on its multi-prong strategy built on technology and data analysis.
The growth of China’s middle class, which is one of the largest phenomena, makes Alibaba stock important. The online retailer is benefiting from the virtuous cycle as there are more than 443 million active buyers, and the company attracts sellers looking for a large audience base.
Prescience Partners returned 6.75% for the second quarter, underperforming the S&P 500's 8.55% return but coming out ahead of the Barclay Equity Long/ Short Index's 2.62% return. However, for the first six months of the year, Prescience is up 30.66%, doubling the S&P's 15.25% return and smashing the Barclay Equity Long/ Short Index's 9.27% return. Read More
Alibaba’s selection of merchandise also encourages users to keep coming back to the platform. Mobile customers contributed 79% of its consolidated gross merchandise volume in the most recent full year, a sign that the firm continues to cater to the highest-growth customers at this stage.
How to trade the stock
Only recently, Barron’s suggested buying the upside out-of-the-money call option to benefit from the stock’s momentum, but now it suggests a change in strategy to take advantage of the stock’s weakness. Investors bullish on the stock should sell March Puts, says Barron’s. This strategy is deployed to buy the stock at a discount to the current market price.
“This is possible because selling a put obligates investors to buy the stock if the price drops below the put strike price,” says Barron’s.
Alibaba is trading at around $101, and investors can go short in Alibaba’s March $97.50 put for $1.94. This positions the investor to buy the stock at an effective price of $95.56.
“The risk is that the stock is far below the strike price at expiration,” says Barron’s.
If the stock is trading at $90 before the put expires in March, investors will have to cover that put at a higher price of $7.50 or buy the stock at the effective purchase price.
“The risk is real, but likely tempered by all of the sell-side analysts who are increasingly recommending Alibaba to their clients,” says Barron’s.
For instance, Goldman Sachs is expecting the stock to clock $131, whereas HSBC analysts have given a price target of $125.


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The Yamaha PES1 and PED1 electric motorcycles debuted at the 2013 Toyko Auto Show, and the Japanese motorcycle maker has greenlit both for production. This marks Yamaha’s entry into the growing electric motorcycle market, and could disrupt the domination of startups like Zero and Brammo.
In its annual report, Yamaha slyly announced that its two electric motorcycle concepts would enter production in 2016. While the PED1 is aimed at dirt bikers wanting a zero emissions motorcycle, the PES1 is designed with street and track racing in mind, even though both concepts use the same motor and transmission.
Yamaha hasn’t released any sort of performance specifications yet, but is promising both bikes will be quite light. The concept PES1 tipped the scales at just 221 pounds, and the PED1 comes in at an even-lighter 187 pounds. That’s a full 200 pounds lighter than the Zero ZF11.4 electric streetbike, and is due in large part to the minimalist styling of these Yamaha EVs.
Speaking of which, this isn’t Yamaha’s first foray into the world of electric motorsports, having signed on with Gordon Murray to produce an electric city car with a futuristic look. Yamaha also has some experience in the field of electric scooters. Add in pair of electric motorcycles to add to its lineup, and Yamaha could begin positioning itself as a 21st century leader in zero emissions mobility.
For a company best known for its motorcycles, it’s quite a leap that also shows a fair amount of foresight on Yamaha’s part. Will other motorcycle makers get the hint and join the EV bandwagon? Will we ever see an electric Harley? Don’t hold your breathe for that one.
Source: Visor Down

domain: news


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Sang-Hoon Lee is leaving the post of CFO of Samsung Electronics, one of Korea's iconic companies, to become the company's board chairman, as recommended by the company's outside board members. Lee will assume the top post in March next year.
"In this time of transition, I look forward to SH's insight as CFO to help guide the Board and its new executive members," said Byung-Ki Lee, an independent director and Chairman of the Governance Committee of the Board. “In addition to overseeing the Company’s finances, SH was also in charge of running its global operations and these experiences will be a tremendous asset to the Board.”
Samsung also announced the appointment of three new co-CEOs, Kinam Kim, Hyunsuk (HS) Kim, and Dongjin (DJ) Koh, effective immediately.


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Last week Tesla CEO and SpaceX founder Elon Musk purchased a 9.2% passive stake in Twitter.
According to the SEC filing, Musk owns 73,486,938 shares of common stock out of 800,641,166 Twitter shares. That means, Musk now owns nearly 10% of Twitter.
Not everyone is happy with this latest development.
A group of angry Twitter shareholders on Tuesday sued Elon Musk for waiting too long to disclose his 9.2 percent stake in the company.
India Today reported:
Elon Musk was sued on Tuesday by former Twitter shareholders who claim they missed out on the recent run-up in its stock price because he waited too long to disclose a 9.2 percent stake in the social media company.
In a proposed class action filed in Manhattan federal court, the shareholders said Musk, the chief executive of electric car company Tesla Inc, made “materially false and misleading statements and omissions” by failing to reveal he had invested in Twitter by March 24 as required under federal law.
Twitter shares rose 27 percent on April 4, to $49.97 (roughly Rs. 3,800) from $39.31 (roughly Rs. 2,990), after Musk disclosed his stake, which investors viewed as a vote of confidence from the world’s richest person in San Francisco-based Twitter.
Former shareholders led by Marc Rasella said the delayed disclosure let Musk buy more Twitter shares at lower prices, while defrauding them into selling at “artificially deflated” prices.


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NAIROBI, Oct 25 (Reuters) - PayPal, the payments servicesarm of eBay, has entered a partnership with one of eastAfrica's biggest lenders, Equity Bank, to tap into thefast-growing African economies.
African states, enjoying annual economic growth averaging 5percent, have lagged developed counterparts in the adoption ofelectronic commerce. But companies such as online retailerJumia, a would-be African Amazon, are eyeing the market.
Efi Dahan, Paypal's regional director for Africa and Israel,said the company was looking for triple-digit growth on thecontinent, without providing specific numbers.
"We understand the potential of this market and we willdefinitely extend the business in other countries," Dahan toldReuters at an event to sign the deal on Friday.
He said the California-based business entered South Africathree years ago and they were pleased by the growth there.
Showing the growth potential, James Mwangi, Equity Bank'schief executive, said Kenya's share of e-commerce transactionswas less than one percent of all trade transactions, whilee-commerce in South Africa was 4 percent of the total.
Mwangi, whose bank is the largest by customers in Kenya,said he hoped the bank would be allowed to offer the services tothe rest of east Africa, where Equity runs outlets in Tanzania,Rwanda, Uganda and South Sudan.
The service links PayPal online accounts with accounts atthe bank, allowing shoppers and merchants to buy and sell acrossthe globe through the Internet.
Mwangi said those who sign up for the service, like localtravel and leisure firms offering safaris online, will haveaccess to a market of 137 million PayPal users.
"By merely registering, one gets into a market that islarger than the east African population," he said referring tothe 120 million people who live in the region.
Firms offering electronic commerce services on the continentface obstacles like a lack of proper, precise addresses, whichhinder the delivery of goods bought and paid for online.
Still, a company like Jumia is betting that it can propel amiddle class out of the street markets and straight onto itswebsites, it said on Thursday.
Equity also expects the millions of Kenyans abroad to tapthe PayPal service, raising its share of the remittancesbusiness to 30 percent from 16 percent in a year, Mwangi added.
Remittances are the fourth-largest source of foreignexchange in east Africa's biggest economy after revenue fromtea, horticulture and tourism. A total of $1.17 billion was sentback to Kenya by its citizens abroad last year.
- east Africa
- South Africa
- electronic commerce


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By David Ljunggren
OTTAWA — Canadian retail sales cooled in June after three consecutive months of solid growth, but analysts said the economy’s overall tone was still strong enough to warrant another interest rate hike this year.
Sales edged up 0.1 per cent in June from May, Statistics Canada said on Tuesday, less than the 0.3 per cent advance predicted by analysts in a Reuters poll.
The strength of the economy this year helped spur the Bank of Canada last month to raise rates for the first time in nearly seven years. Traders expect another increase in October.
Analysts noted that retail trade in volume terms rose by 0.5 per cent in June and said the second quarter had ended strongly.
“We maintain a strong view that the Bank (of Canada) will hike in October,” said Fred Demers and Mark McCormick of TD Securities.
Retail sales rose in six of 11 subsectors, representing 38 per cent of total retail trade, to hit a record $48.99 billion.
The Canadian dollar strengthened to a session high of $1.2526 to the U.S. dollar, or 79.83 U.S. cents, up from $1.2580, or US79.49 cents, before the data were released.
Sales at general merchandise stores expanded by 2.9 per cent, while clothing and accessories retailers posted a 2.7 per cent gain. Sales at building material, garden equipment and supplies dealers rose 2.2 per cent.
Those increases though were almost wiped out by a 1.4 per cent drop in sales at motor vehicle and parts dealers and a 1.8 per cent decline in gas station sales. Excluding those two subsectors, retail sales grew by 1.1 per cent in June.
“Broader economic data … still suggest the economy is strong enough to absorb further modest interest rate hikes,” said Nathan Janzen of RBC economics.
© Thomson Reuters 2017


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Transport & Shipping
May 11, 2014
Etihad Rail signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Saudi Railway Company (SAR) that will enhance collaboration and coordination for the rail industry among GCC members.
Dubai-based Emirates Airline will lose Dhs1 billion (272 million USD) in revenues due to runway upgrade work at the Dubai International Airport in 2014, but the amount will be recovered within the year, the carrier’s chairman has said.
May 8, 2014
Turkish Airlines, Europe’s best airline, will highlight the ‘TourIstanbul’ service for international passengers, at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2014, the region’s foremost industry event.
Al-Futtaim Honda has introduced an exciting offer on its Honda Accord LX-B model all this month.
Qatar Airways had a significant presence at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) yesterday, thrilling visitors with its show-stopping US-themed entertainment at the airline’s brand new exhibition stand.
May 7, 2014
Turkish Airlines, the national carrier of Turkey and Europe’s best airline*, adds its 249th network destination with flights to Boston, one of America’s oldest cities, operating from May 12, 2014.
These announcements bring the total number of new destinations flydubai announced since the start of the year to nine.
May 6, 2014
Turkish Airlines, and Citibank UAE announced a new partnership whereby PremierMiles Credit Card customers will be able to transfer their Citi Miles directly to the Miles&Smiles frequent flyer programme of Turkish Airlines.
Emirates was the most awarded airline at this week’s Business Traveller (ME) awards 2014, taking home the coveted ‘Best Airline Worldwide’ title, and a further three awards.
Futuristic style podcars are set to be launched in Dubai by the end of 2015 to make transport in the city more relaxed and enjoyable.
Abu Dhabi Airports issued today one of the most revolutionised RFPs ever designed following a briefing to potential duty free operators at the eagerly awaited Midfield Terminal Building (MTB).
Air Arabia today marked the start of operations from Ras Al Khaimah, with an official ceremony.
Mahmoudia Motors - the sole and official dealer of the Jaguar and Land Rover brands in Jordan - has introduced the 2014 Long-Wheelbase Range Rover to the Jordanian market.
Lufthansa, the largest European airline group, is giving a positive outlook on the 2014/2015 travel season for its business in the Middle East at this year’s Arabian Travel Market in Dubai.
Etihad Airways publicly showcased the latest developments in air travel with its new innovative, premium cabins aboard the airline’s Airbus A380 and Boeing B787 Dreamliner aircraft.


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Dayton businessman starts tax preparation service
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John Paulsen was eyeing a tax preparation franchise, but when he saw the price tag — and couldn’t get as much territory as he wanted — he decided to start his own brand.
So, Paulsen launched SmashTax this month at 639 Watervliet Ave. in Dayton and hired five tax preparers.
He plans to keep the site, which had been vacant for several years, open year round (although it will have limited hours during the offseason).
“Typically we’re looking for folks with a household income of $100,000 or less, the kind of person that likes to shop at Walmart; they value their money, they look for deals and obviously they have to get their taxes done,” Paulsen said. “But we can do anyone’s taxes as well as business taxes in all 50 states.”
He also plans to bring in a financial planner one day a week.
Paulsen was originally looking buy a franchise, which he says came with a minimum $40,000 franchise fee, as well as other costs to set up an office. After learning the costs and not being able to negotiate more territory, he opted to strike out on his own.
It took about six months and an investment of roughly $20,000 to open SmashTax.
In addition to running SmashTax, Paulsen is currently a branch sales manager for Aunt Millie’s bakery. He has also worked as a manager in manufacturing and food service distribution and spent about eight years as a policeman and sergeant for city of Dayton.
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It’s time to run-run-run, jump-jump-jump, stab-stab-stab with Michael Fassbender. Variety announces that Fassbender will officially be coming on board as star and producer of the video game adaptation of Assassin’s Creed.
Fassbender will presumably play Desmond Miles, a seemingly regular guy captured by a shadowy organisation who uses a device to make Miles live out past lives as an assassin. In the first game, the assassin is running about in the Crusades.
“Michael Fassbender was our first choice,” said Jean-Julien Baronnet, CEO of Paris-based Ubisoft Motion Pictures. “Michael (Fassbender) is an extremely smart, talented, versatile and committed actor.”
The various games have sold over 30 million units to date. Given that the games have been very cinematic to date, they clearly lend themselves to the big screen. Of course, the story will have to be greatly expanded for it to be engaging for wider audiences.


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For years, Macom has viewed optical networking as its ticket into telecommunications infrastructure. To complement its wireless components, the company has increasingly targeted the data centers that backstop wireless networks.
That shift continued Monday when the chip maker said that it had signed a $770 million deal to acquire Applied Micro Circuits, an Austin, Texas-based company that designs chips for linking and switching messages inside data centers, as well as the computer chips that drive the warehouse-sized calculators.
Applied Micro has been in the spotlight recently for making server chips based on the ARM architecture widely used in smartphones, tablets, and other low-power electronics. But the company’s appeal to Macom comes from its networking technology, including chips that modulate electrical signals and share high-speed messages between servers.
John Croteau, Macom’s chief executive, said in a conference call with analysts that Applied Micro’s networking chips were the “gold nugget” of the acquisition. He added that they fit with Macom’s existing optical networking business, which sells analog chips and silicon photonics to telecommunications and aerospace firms.
The deal also gives Macom access to big customers like Cisco Systems, which accounts for around a quarter of Applied Micro’s business. Other buyers of Applied Micro’s products include cloud equipment makers like Arista, and wireless networking firms like Nokia and Ericsson.
“Macom will now be able to provide all the requisite semiconductor content for optical networks – analog, photonic, and PHY – from the switch to fiber for long haul, metro, access, backhaul, and data center,” said Croteau in a statement.
Applied Micro’s technology holds weight in the optical networking market. Its chips employ a technology known as PAM4, which modulates electrical signals and weaves them into worms of light that travel over cable. The Institute of Electrical Engineers recently announced that an industry standard for optical networking should have the same capabilities as Applied Micro’s chips, which can transmit 100 gigabits per second over a single wavelength.
Croteau said that internet companies like Google, whose monolithic servers are responsible for powering its search engine and cloud computing business, will spring for PAM4 upgrades to squeeze more bandwidth out of their data centers. The new technology is still expensive, which Croteau hopes will increase Macom’s profit margins.
Croteau indicated that the deal had some rough edges, though. Macom plans to divest Applied Micro’s server chip business, which doesn’t fit into the company’s overall strategy, within the first 100 days after the deal is finalized. Both companies expect it to close in the first quarter of 2017.
“The business does not strategically align with Macom’s long-term focus,” the company said in a statement. “AppliedMicro has been exploring strategic options for the compute business and there is known strategic interest among several potential buyers and investors.”
Macom’s $8.36 offer represents a 15% premium over Applied Micro’s closing stock price on Friday, a relatively low premium in a wave of semiconductor industry’s consolidation that has forced companies to pay up to 30% over stock prices. The boards of directors of both companies have approved the deal.


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Celcom kicks off Malay-language mobile web miniseries
By Digital News Asia March 16, 2016
- Escape’s original Malay production goes live on mobile devices
- Looking into crowdsourced and user-generated content too
CELCOM Axiata Bhd has launched a 13-episode miniseries Ceciter: Projek Cari Bini on its Escape personal entertainment platform, which users can watch directly on their mobile devices.
Ceciter: Projek Cari Bini features a prominent Malaysian cast of Wan Hanafi Su, Shafiq Kyle, Issey Titan, Ika Nabella, Ariff Sumbu and more, Celcom said in a statement.
The 13 episode mini-web series will run via Escape for two months, with its first and second episode having been released on March 11, and is complimentary for Escape customers.
Subsequently, the third episode will be released on March 18, followed with a new episode released every Monday and Wednesday, the company said.
“This is an experiment in trying out a new genre of short and simple clips, that will eventually evolve into collaborative efforts with other partners to include crowdsourcing and user-generated original content,” said Celcom Axiata chief of sales and marketing officer Zalman Aefendy Zainal Abidin.
“As Celcom continues its focus on enhancing greater customer experience, we are committed to provide more desirable content and superior products and services,” he added.
READ ALSO: iflix now in a deal with Celcom as well
The Ceciter: Projek Cari Bini series begins with war veteran Daud Bade (Wan Hanafi Su) dreaming of his late wife urging him to find a new and young wife. He embarks on a journey to find true love, encountering numerous trials and challenges which include his old nemesis.
To find out more or to watch the series, go to www.celcomESCAPE.com.
VOD space in Malaysia heats up with TM-Viu pact
Hooq and iflix gird themselves for Netflix invasion
What’s Next: We don’t represent Malaysia, says Media Prima exec
Chromecast support now, original content coming: Hooq CEO
For more technology news and the latest updates, follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn or Like us on Facebook.


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Endava plc DAVA is expected to report its financial results for the fourth quarter ended June 30, 2023, before the opening bell on Sept. 19, 2023.
Analysts expect the company to post quarterly earnings at 56 cents per share, down from year-ago earnings of 61 cents per share. The company’s revenue might come in at $233.43 million, compared to $217.44 million in the year-ago period.
Endava shares fell 2.3% to close at $51.00 on Monday.
Benzinga readers can access the latest analyst ratings on the Analyst Stock Ratings page. Readers can sort by stock ticker, company name, analyst firm, rating change or other variables.
Let’s have a look at how Benzinga’s most-accurate analysts have rated the company in the recent period.
- Morgan Stanley analyst James Faucette maintained Endava with an Overweight and raised the price target from $70 to $72 on Sept. 14, 2023. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 57%.
- Deutsche Bank analyst Bryan Keane maintained the stock with a Hold and lowered the price target from $78 to $53 on May 24, 2023. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 66%.
- Citigroup analyst Ashwin Shirvaikar maintained the stock with a Buy and slashed the price target from $95 to $85 on May 1, 2023. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 64%.
- Wedbush analyst Moshe Katri maintained the stock with an Outperform and cut the price target from $120 to $90 on Sept. 28, 2022. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 57%.


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Car show raises money in Pocono Township
TANNERSVILLE — Dozens of classic and high-performance cars were on display to raise money for a good cause on Sunday.
Proceeds from the car show at Best Auto Repair on Route 611 will go to help programs and services for the blind and visually impaired, said Tom Sforza, owner if the repair shop.
"It's been great so far," Sforza said. "We've had a lot of people come out to see the cars and it's been really great to help out such a good group."
Visual Impairment and Blindness Services of Monroe County provides local blindness prevention and treatment help to those who might not otherwise receive treatment. The group teamed up with the car show through the help of the Greater Pocono Chamber of Commerce, said chamber of commerce CEO Bob Phillips.
"Vision Services provides help to over 160 clients in Monroe County, so clearly there is a need for the service," Phillips said. "There is an eye clinic for people who can't afford treatment and this (car show) is a great help."
For a $15 entry fee, owners of classic, exotic or muscle cars could enter the show. Organizers used food sales, raffles and other fundraisers to raise money for the vision charity.
Local companies made the event possible, Sforza said. Donations from local companies like Corona Butchers, Mr. Z's, API Auto Parts, Uptown Shine Auto Detailing, Pocono Produce and the Kalch family of Infinity Racing helped produce the event.
Cars entered in the show ranged from Ferrari, Corvette and Cadillac to a 1934 Ford.
— Adam McNaughton


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Image via CrunchBaseYahoo! News report that popular microblogging website has been attacked
NEW YORK – A new way to cause mischief is spreading through short-messaging service Twitter as mysterious "tweets" of blocked-out text propagate themselves and cause popup windows to open.
It affects twits on tweeter.com. Well, thats for the time being. So if you are tweeting from your mobile, tweetdeck or other applications, you might be safe for the time being.
It is getting more mischievous. More and more websites has been attacked. I think many online newspaper readers has experience the message warning visitors not to visit such website because of Malware.
Pasta yang lazat semestinya Prego! - Pejam celik cuti sekolah pun dah start semula. I’m sure parents out there already have plans for your kids during this school holiday. Mesti ada yang per...
19 hours ago


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Whilst the successor of your OnePlus The initial one is officially lined-around launch next season, the organization is modernizing its A single mobile phone to correct present troubles.
The company on Tuesday has released the slow-moving roll-away from an OTA (over-the-atmosphere) update referred to CM 11S 38R to the One particular smart phone, which importantly repairs an important issue consumers ended up being complaining about – an unresponsive touchscreen that essential reboot to solve. It had only fixed the issue partially, even though in August, OnePlus had pushed the CM 11S 33R update for the touch unresponsiveness.
The CM 11S 38R upgrade for OnePlus One also brings some improvements along with bug repairs. The OnePlus A single digital camera benefits the capability to take pictures in Uncooked structure as well as the iphone app turns into a pause key in the course of online video taking. Another video camera connected problems such as camera coverage payment trapped in ‘auto’ and video camera not commencing when LED torch is already on, have also been set with all the CM 11S 38R revise.
For music playback, the OnePlus One discount particular mobile phone now supports playback for 24-little, 96/192khz flac/ alac/ wav documents without having resampling. Furthermore, it adds a new locking mechanism monitor, ANT support for connecting well being add-ons, and direct bug confirming potential.
Those who are interested in getting the update quickly can download the signed apk for manual installation from Android Police, as the OTA update is slowly rolling out to OnePlus One users. The group has additionally printed (see beneath) a relevant video from the enhanced touchscreen following the upgrade.You can get the oneplus one right now from one2more.


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Every day someone asks Citron, “So which Chinese RTO is the next to go?” As we properly called China Media Express, and have publically stated and stand by our opinion that China Biotics is a complete fraud, we can’t help but add that Deer Consumer Products (NASDAQ:DEER) might become the next casualty of the Chinese RTO markets. The similarities between CCME and DEER will be explained in this editorial piece.
Just like CCME — Growth too good to be true
DEER’s business is the manufacture and wholesale distribution of small electric kitchen appliances for household use. This business is highly competitive worldwide, and especially in China, where there are literally dozens of manufacturers of products such as juicers, blenders and rice cookers. The company sells both to domestic markets, and private labeled products for export. Deer is just another one of the smaller players in the Chinese low end kitchen appliance market.
Yet, DEER’s financial results would have us believe that the company’s domestic business has grown over 400% year over year, with increasing gross margins, accomplished with minimal to no expenditure on advertising, and no evidence of expenditure on representatives at the retail level to support sales.
Deer reports operating margins 46% higher than its strongest competitor, which is over 8x DEER’s size (Joyoung). Nonetheless, a recent article in Chinese business news shows the difficulty in turning profits in the China small appliance market.
So just like CCME, we see a company with stratospheric growth, reporting a return on equity that is not consistent with other publicly traded companies in its space. Furthermore, we see margins that are not consistent with the rest of the industry.
Must Give a “Little” Respect
Citron first read about DEER Consumer Products after reading the work of blogger Alfred Little. We have to give credit where credit is due, as Little has done a definitive piece of work on this company.
In response, the company attempted to distract investors from the business operations and instead focused on a questionable land purchase that was researched by Little. Citron does not even want to address this issue. We also will not address the hidden subsidiary / related party allegations by Little. Land purchase or not, we believe the company is not being honest about their underlying business.
Common Sense, People … Chilling Similarities to CCME
For those of you who remember Citron’s initial report on CCME, an initial red flag was the lack of internet presence for a company that was supposedly doing gangbuster business. We see the same thing with DEER. Alfred Little did a series of channel checks that you can believe or not believe (we tend to believe), but here is something that cannot be denied. Here’s a channel check anyone can do without visiting dozens of department stores in China: A simple check on the website Taobao, the consumer part of Alibaba, lists the rankings of small kitchen appliance makers in China.
If you notice…Deer is ranked #51 in their “Attention Index”. By comparison, BBK, the company that exited the business because of low margins and competition in the aforementioned article, ranked #17. To take it a step further, we can observe the number of transactions on DEER products.
For Deer, the top selling item only sold 9 and most items have sold 0. Does that sound like a company who is growing domestic sales by over 400% year over year? Compare this to Joyoung, who has sold thousands of their items per week.
The SEC is looking for, “Individuals with direct knowledge of the investigation say the SEC is focusing on stock promoters, investment bankers, auditors and law firms that have been active in recruiting Chinese companies to U.S. stock exchanges and raising capital for those companies by selling new shares”
Unlike any other of the recent RTO implosions, DEER actually gives us a group of people who work together as an actual “network”.
It is no secret that Benjamin Wey from New York Global Group is the “mastermind” behind this whole operation. So it appears to Citron that Wey stacked the deck by putting in his auditor and his Audit Committee Chairman.
Auditor Goldman Kurland & Mohidin, LLP (GKM) and Audit Committee Chairman Arnold Staloff serve several of the same New York Global clients. GKM audits include Bodisen Biotech (BBCZ, -95% from its high), Agfeed Industries (FEED, -90%), Smartheat (HEAT, -78%) and most recently Cleantech (CTEK.PK, already -52% from its high and delisted from NASDAQ on March 1, 2011 for a serious disclosure violation related to a December financing).
Arnold Staloff, DEER’s audit committee chairman, is also the audit committee chairman of FEED, HEAT, and CTEK.
And speaking of audits and the committee that is supposed to oversee them, …. what does a small audit shop in Encino, California know about auditing a kitchen appliance manufacturer in China?
In a world where legitimate Chinese RTO’s are the outliers, what is to make us think that DEER will not face the same destiny as Bosiden and Cleantech: DELISTED.
Flashbacks of CCME?
One of the telltale signs of China Media Express doing something “funky” is when the CFO bought $1 million worth of stock, the same day it was “sold” by an insider. We still do not know whether this transaction took place or was it something that just looked good on paper. Similarly, it was always odd that management was selling their stock at a significant discount to market, when their business seemingly looked strong. Citron labels these as “questionable transactions.” Just like CCME, here is a list of questionable transactions in DEER stock that we believe will eventually be a trail of bread crumbs for regulators. The following is a list of transactions that do not pass the smell test:
1. We are supposed to believe the Ben Wey’s sister, Tianyi Wei bought 2.2 million shares (over 6% of the company) in the open market and this transaction has nothing to do with Ben Wey. It is the belief of Citron that this transaction was not as it appeared to be and the truth will come out eventually (maybe in a CNBC episode of American Greed?)
2. The transactions of Chairman He Ying are troublesome and just not believable. We are supposed to believe that even though he owns 8 million shares of DEER, he actually purchased 250,000 shares in the open market, right after Little’s article was published? That transaction is as nonsensical as the 2010 transaction, when he bought over $10 million of stock on the same day that another officer sold $10 million worth of stock.
Citron believes that there are shady dealings in the stock of DEER which has been evidenced by the trading activity of the stock as well as the insider transactions. Citron’s opinion is that each of these transactions has an untold story, one which involves papered transactions, and “support” of the open-market stock price of DEER – which amounts to market manipulation.
Threats to Sue Shortsellers
Just a month before its stock was halted, China MediaExpress stated its board has authorized engagement of “outside counsel and other consultants” for advise on countermeasures against the two reports. (Citron and Muddy Waters) http://news.ichinastock.com/a/1297091345896.html. “THE COMPANY CATEGORICALLY DENIES THE ALLEGATIONS MADE IN THESE PUBLICATIONS.”
Similarly, DEER seems to be preoccupied with its threat to “shoot the messenger” – without even a detailed response to the numerous highly detailed concerns raised by published research, as they have already filed suit against Al Little. Well, DEER, I am a citizen of the United States, and if you choose to sue me, I welcome the opportunity to see you in court and defend my position.
/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/CitronLogo2017-350x65-1.png00Citron Research/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/CitronLogo2017-350x65-1.pngCitron Research2011-04-04 06:12:032017-05-30 04:00:18Why Citron Believes This DEER Has a Target on its Head


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Since 2007, Google’s Street View service has provided interactive panoramic photos that make it possible to virtually stroll down streets all over the globe. Within the next two days, Street View users will be able to click on the doorways of some restaurants and other businesses to take the experience indoors.
At the Social Loco conference in San Francisco last week, Google vice president Marissa Mayer, who leads the company’s location-based technologies, showed how the new indoor imagery will be integrated with Street View. A person can click on the doorway of a store or other location to “step inside.”
“This allows you to explore and discover new businesses,” she said. “It changes how much you can interact with a business online.” A Google spokesperson told Technology Review that thousands of interiors will become available early this week.
The panoramas are captured using the same kind of techniques used to capture street views from the roof of a moving car. A device containing multiple cameras collects many partially overlapping photographs that are later stitched together into a spherical panorama of everything visible from the point at which they were taken. Panoramas can be spun around and zoomed in on by clicking and dragging. It’s also possible to jump between different panoramas inside a space to, for example, see different rooms in a restaurant.
Google’s new feature brings it into competition with Boston startup Everyscape, which has been capturing interior panoramas since 2006. The company licenses its collection of tens of thousands of indoor “scapes” to partners such as AT&T, which uses them in its YP.com business directory (see an example), and Microsoft, which uses them for the “step inside” feature of Bing local search (see an example).
Jim Schoonmaker, Everyscape’s CEO, says indoor imagery addresses an important limitation of many local search services, including Google’s. People doing Web searches have little to lose by clicking a link, but they’re more cautious about searches for local businesses. “You don’t know if your search was successful until you put your kids in the minivan and show up at a place,” Schoonmaker says.
Indoor imagery changes that, he says, which makes it valuable to businesses as well as anyone—like Google—trying to make money by offering local search. “If you can feel like you’ve already been there, your confidence in choosing to visit a new place is higher,” Schoonmaker says. Data shows that hotels with “scapes” of their interiors sell more rooms on hotel search websites than those without.
To keep up technologically with competitors like Everyscape, Google will need to do more than just capture indoor panoramas from a wide range of places. Schoonmaker’s company is already working on adding content on top of panoramic interactive photos. “You can view it as a canvas, not an endgame,” he says. “It’s competing with a website, not a regular photo.”
Everyscape panoramas can have annotations that make it possible to call up a menu by clicking on it in the panorama, or to read reviews without exiting it.
So far, Google has given no indication that it plans to do the same. But if its indoor photography mission mirrors its outdoor one, a possible next step is to collect 3-D data using laser scanners alongside panoramic photos.
Capturing 3-D data indoors is an evolutionary step beyond simple panoramas, says Paul Smith of C3 Technologies, which is using its camera-based technology to create very detailed outdoor and indoor 3-D models. “Most panoramic images are locked to only one point of view,” he explains. “You’re locked inside a bubble spinning around based on where the photo was taken.” He says the accurate 3-D and full-color models collected by C3 let the viewer explore a place more realistically, and also opens up new possibilities for indoor navigation and mobile devices.
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P&O’s new ship, Arvia, will offer a Caribbean maiden season of fly/cruise holidays from home port Barbados and Antigua.
The vessel is expected to debut in December next year.
The new Caribbean itineraries, running from January to March 2023, will also feature La Romana in the Dominican Republic - a maiden port of call for P&O Cruises; Curaçao; Martinique; St Kitts; St Lucia and St Maarten.
Arvia’s seven and 14-night fly/cruises from the UK also all include an overnight call in Barbados.
A 22-night holiday departing from or returning to Southampton with UK flights are also available.
P&O Cruises president, Paul Ludlow, said: “Arvia holidays, alongside the rest of our winter 2022 season, will be on sale very shortly.
“We cannot wait to bring our newest ship to our glorious home port of Barbados and also to Antigua, which will be a first-time turnaround port for P&O Cruises.
“The Caribbean is the optimal maiden season destination for Arvia; a ship where every facet, including unique retractable roof SkyDome and Altitude Skywalk high ropes, is designed to provide exceptional views of the ocean, seashore and surrounding destinations.
“From the very initial concept Arvia has been created to be the epitome of a sunshine resort, developed to be an ideal way to enjoy the Caribbean’s turquoise waters and white sandy beaches like never before.”


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Apple Expected to Unveil iPhone 7 at September 7th Event
Posted on August 29, 2016
Apple has scheduled a press event for September 7th. It will be held at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium in San Francisco. Apple is expected to unveil its latest iPhone, the iPhone 7, at the event.We will finally get to see if the new iPhone design does not include a headphone jack as has been rumored. Another rumor is that the iPhone 7 could feature dual cameras. As with past new iPhones improvements in speed and processing power are also expected. It won't be a surprise if the new model is also thinner. CNBC says there are rumors that a model with a darker color may be offered.
Apple is also expected to launch an updated Apple Watch line according to blogs discussion the event on Techmeme. Bloomberg reports that Apple has also been working on refreshing its Mac hardware line up and developing a 5K standalone monitor with LG. However, this new hardware may not be ready to announce on September 7th.


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Twitter is set to enhance its ads options as a big eCommerce push. Recently, the platform rolled out click ID and a one-page checklist for ads. It also enabled a 15-second buying model for video ads and updated its Carousel ads format. Today, Twitter tests ads on tweet conversations.
Twitter’s Revenue Product Lead, Bruce Falck, announces the update via a tweet. Bruce notes that Twitter is currently testing ads on tweet conversations globally for Android and iOS users. Members of the Twitter nation who are part of the test will most likely see Twitter ads on the 1st, 3rd, or 8th reply under a tweet. Twitter will test different contextually relevant ads on various frequencies, insertion points, and layouts. As they figure out what works best, that is the time they will make the feature permanent.
Twitter tests ads on tweet conversations as of 13 October 2021.
Implications for Marketers:
Twitter ads on tweet conversations are a new placement option for marketers. Highlighting brand offering on a tweet conversation can boost reach and revenue. T can also open up new opportunities to reward authors and creators of a tweet.


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[WASHINGTON] US consumer sentiment improved in April following another round of fiscal stimulus and as job growth accelerated. At the same time, inflation expectations surged to the highest in nine years.
The University of Michigan's preliminary sentiment index rose to 86.5 from 84.9 in March, data released Friday showed. While the figure was softer than the 89 forecast in Bloomberg's survey of economists, it remains at a pandemic high.
Consumers are more upbeat as the economic recovery strengthens. A surge in pent-up consumer demand is expected to propel the US back to its pre-pandemic strength. At the same time, policy makers are watching closely to see how quickly prices increase as the economy takes off.
Consumers expect inflation to rise 3.7 per cent over the next year, the highest since March 2012. They expect prices over the next five years to increase 2.7 per cent, compared to 2.8 per cent last month.
The gauge of current conditions rose to 97.2, while a measure of expectations held at 79.7, according to the survey conducted March 24 to April 14.
"Many fewer consumers mentioned the appeal of low prices and many more justified buying based on improved job and income prospects," Richard Curtin, director of the survey, said in the report.
Respondents were more upbeat about their current financial situation and buying conditions remained solid.


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Chancellor Announces Further Winter Support for Businesses and Workers
The government announced today that it will increase the amounts and reach of its winter support schemes.
Acknowledging the challenging times ahead, the Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak said he would be increasing support. This will be through the existing Job Support and self-employed schemes, and also expanding business grants to support companies in high-alert level areas.
H M Treasury has stated that open businesses which are experiencing difficulty will be given extra help to keep staff on. The Government will increase contributions to wage costs under the Job Support Scheme, and business contributions will drop to 5%.
Business grants are going to be expanded to cover businesses in particularly affected sectors in high-alert level areas. Another announcement was that grants for the self-employed will be doubled – to 40% of their previous earnings.
Job Support Scheme (JSS) Changes
The JSS – due to start on 1 November, originally saw employers paying a third of their employees’ wages for hours not worked. It also required employees to be working 33% of their normal hours.
Today’s announcement reduces the employer contribution to those unworked hours to 5%. It also reduces the minimum hours requirements to 20%, so those working just one day a week will be eligible. It means that if someone was being paid £587 for their unworked hours, for example, the government would contribute £543 and their employer £44.
Self-Employed Grant Increases
Today’s announcement increases the amount of profits covered by the two forthcoming self-employed grants from 20 per cent to 40 per cent, meaning that the maximum grant will increase from £1,875 to £3,750.
The Chancellor has also announced that additional funding has been approved to support cash grants of up to £2,100 per month. These grants are primarily for businesses in the hospitality, accommodation and leisure sectors who may be adversely impacted by the restrictions in high-alert level areas.
These grants will be available retrospectively for areas who have already been subject to restrictions, and come on top of higher levels of additional business support for Local Authorities moving into Tier 3.
These grants could benefit around 150,000 businesses in England: including hotels, restaurants, B&Bs and many more who are not legally required to close but have been adversely affected by local restrictions.


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The world leader in business planning and management software has created an online, virtual role-playing environment for entrepreneurs to test-drive their business plans by buying and selling virtual goods, interacting as a community, and earning status badges.
Eugene, OR — Palo Alto Software is excited to announce the upcoming launch of the first interactive, virtual world populated wholly by entrepreneurs. EntrepreWorld, a LivePlan virtual role-playing environment, will allow LivePlan subscribers to put their business plans to the test in a virtual world of avatars, small and mid-size businesses, and community socialization spots.
Users are tasked with pitching to virtual investors within the world. Once funded with EntrepreBucks, they are then able to build their virtual business in line with their business plan. Other users may then patronize the small business in order to test its viability, purchasing virtual bagels from virtual bakeries, getting virtual tattoos, and having their virtual taxes done by virtual accounting firms. Users earn merit badges to display on the walls of their virtual establishments. For example, the “My First Dollar” merit badge is among the first earned and displayed.
“It’s all very scientific,” explains Palo Alto Software COO, Noah Parsons. “We’ve married the best parts of gaming and technology to create a virtual environment in which entrepreneurs can test-drive their business plan ideas and crowd-source feedback from among their peers. The ability to create custom avatars in their own likeness or pick from a library of pre-constructed avatars including Classic Businessman, Classic Businesswoman, Boy Hipster, Girl Hipster, Androgynous Hipster, and Angry Viking adds an element of whimsy, as do the merit badges.”
Palo Alto Software’s business development lead, Peter Thorsson, finds the virtual world a little too mundane. “I tried to convince them that users should be able to steal each other’s vehicles like in Grand Theft Auto or create virtual crime empires, but no one would listen to me,” he said. “I also feel that the ‘Angry Viking’ avatar presents an insensitive stereotype of my people,” he continued, “which is why I opted for the ‘Androgynous Hipster’ persona, but customized it with a vintage Lacoste sweater.”
Sabrina Parsons, Palo Alto Software’s CEO, weighed in on the launch of the virtual environment, “LivePlan has always been global but this takes our business planning and tracking tool into a whole new realm — like Tron, but with better graphics and significantly more vikings. We’re helping businesses impact the EntrepreWorld virtual economy; they can then take what they learn in virtual space and apply it to the real world. It’s unprecedented.”


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Land Rover broadens offsetting and unveils new green technologies
Land Rover today confirmed the extension of its industry leading CO2 offset initiative to the company's fast growing Middle East market. The programme, which started on 1 October, will balance emissions from the first 72,000 km of customer use on vehicles sold in the Gulf and Levant region and the CO2 generated by Land Rover's manufacturing operations in the UK.
The extension to the Middle East follows an announcement made only last week at the Paris Motor Show that France will implement the programme next year, bringing the number of participating markets to eight, with more to follow. Also unveiled at the show was the new Freelander 2 TD4_e, equipped with intelligent stop-start technology and Land Rover's most fuel efficient vehicle to date. Offsetting CO2 and the development of sustainable technologies are just two strands of Land Rover's integrated approach to tackling climate change. Land Rover is jointly investing £700m in sustainable technologies.
The Freelander 2 TD4_e is the first production vehicle to incorporate technologies from the company's programme of sustainable engineering initiatives, collectively named 'e_TERRAIN TECHNOLOGIES'. It delivers improved fuel consumption of 0.7 litres per 100km (3.8mpg) from 7.5 litres per 100km to 6.8* litres per 100km [37.7mpg to 41.5mpg*] and an 8%* reduction in CO2 emissions over standard EU4 drive cycle. The 8% improvement equates to a CO2 emissions reduction of 15g/km on the standard Freelander 2 TD4 manual (from 194g/km to 179g/km*).
Managed by Climate Care, Land Rover conducts the world's largest consumer offset programme. In addition to the French and Middle Eastern markets, the programme – launched in the UK – has already been taken up by The Netherlands, Belgium, Norway, Sweden and Austria and a number of other international markets are due to sign up later in the year.
The latest offset project, also revealed today under the programme, is designed to transform the domestic lighting market in Mauritius by ensuring energy efficient Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) become the preferred lighting product in over 330,000 Mauritian homes. The long lasting, energy efficient CFLs can be costly but with Land Rover's investment, the difference in cost is subsidised, enabling Mauritians to buy the lamps for the price of less efficient incandescents.
Phil Popham, Land Rover's Managing Director, said: "At Land Rover we are determined to ensure sustainability is integral to our business. Despite a tough economic climate it is important that Land Rover carries on showing strong leadership in this area to secure a sustainable future for our business. While we work to reduce our impacts through the development of new technologies we continue to be proud of our CO2 offset projects we run with Climate Care that positively and profoundly affect both infrastructure and behaviour in many countries around the world. In 2009 we shall bring more of our markets into the programme."


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COLUMBUS, Neb., Oct. 16, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Rejuvatek Medical, Inc. officially launches a Tatt2Away non laser tattoo removal system in the state of Nebraska. Matt Allsman of Eternal Tattoo and Body Piercing in Columbus has come on board with the company to offer to all its clientele certified tattoo removal as the first Tatt2Away […]
Tag Archives | Columbus
NEWS: Mulch Manufacturing Inc. Selects Katz Marketing Solutions as Marketing Agency-of-Record
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Aug. 24, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Mulch Manufacturing Inc., a leader in packaged mulch manufacturing and distribution, announced the selection of Katz Marketing Solutions to provide brand marketing strategy and brand expansion services.
NEWS: Oakwood Management Company Selects Katz Marketing Solutions for Brand Marketing Strategy
COLUMBUS, Ohio, March 17, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Oakwood Management Company, one of Columbus’ leading apartment community and commercial property management companies, announced the selection of Katz Marketing Solutions to provide brand marketing and strategic planning services.
NEWS: Just in Time for Valentine’s Day Certified Master Sex Expert Nikki Ransom-Alfred Releases New Book
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Feb. 2, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Valentine’s Day is the perfect time for all things sex and love. Certified master sex expert educator and sex and relationship coach, Nikki Ransom-Alfred, knows this all to too well and is releasing her new book ’30 Sex Positions and Tips For Getting Wild, Rough, and Kinky’ […]
Columbus NAACP and the MMCC are both outraged at Time Warner Cable’s refusal to provide local minority programming in Ohio
COLUMBUS, Ohio /CitizenWire/ — A major press conference held Nov. 28, 2012 revealed that the Columbus NAACP and the Minority Media Community Collaborative (MMCC) are both outraged at Time Warner Cable’s continuous refusal to provide local minority programming. Evidence of this blatant disregard is Time Warner Cable’s refusal to carry Bounce 23 TV and Azteca […]
Leader v. Facebook Federal Appeals Fight Begins: argues that Facebook failed their ‘clear and convincing’ burden of proof
COLUMBUS, Ohio /CitizenWire/ — On July 25th, Leader Technologies filed its opening brief in its patent infringement fight against Facebook at the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington, D.C. Leader is represented by King & Spalding LLP and lead counsels Paul Andre, Lisa Kobialka, Daryl Joseffer and Adam Conrad. The nine-day jury […]
Metal Pallets Improve Supply Chain, says Compliance Packaging International Ltd.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (CitizenWire) — Ohio based Compliance Packaging International Ltd. announced today that it now offers reusable metal pallets in warehouses where wood and plastic pallets are no longer suitable. Increasingly, companies are using steel pallets to earn a strong return on investment (improve the cost per trip) and promote sustainable corporate initiatives.
CEO of Katz Marketing Solutions to Present ‘How to Survive a Food Recall Media Crisis’ at Mid-America Food Processors Association Conference
COLUMBUS, Ohio (CitizenWire) — Tammy Katz, CEO of Katz Marketing Solutions, will present ‘Be Prepared: How to Survive and Thrive during a Media Crisis’ at the Mid-America Food Processors Association’s annual meeting on March 9, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Midwest food company leaders will attend the meeting to discuss emerging trends in food marketing.
Ohio’s Laserflex Inc. announces Adige LT8 Tube Laser Cutting System
COLUMBUS, Ohio (CitizenWire) — It practically works at the speed of light. Laserflex Inc. announced this week the release of its all new Adige LT8 tube laser cutting system – it’s fast, accurate and efficient and will add quality to the process and end-product.
Leader Phone Founder Michael McKibben announced today the launch of the Leader Phone iPhone Audio Conferencing App
COLUMBUS, Ohio (CitizenWire) — Leader Phone Chairman & Founder Michael McKibben announced today the launch of the Leader Phone iPhone Audio Conferencing App, which he calls ‘the only app that offers multiple, cutting-edge audio conferencing features that turn your iPhone into a mobile conference calling center.’
Katz Marketing Solutions selected by MBA Focus for expansion programs
COLUMBUS, Ohio (CitizenWire) — MBA Focus, the leading provider of business recruiting tools that help corporations source the world’s top MBA school student and alumni talent announced the selection of Katz Marketing Solutions to provide brand marketing and strategic planning services. The agreement will further strengthen MBA Focus’ market position with its partners and customers.
Leader Technologies announces split Jury Verdict in Leader v. Facebook Patent Infringement Trial
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Today Leader Technologies Incorporated announced the results of the Leader v. Facebook patent infringement trial, in which an eight-member jury in Wilmington, Delaware, returned a split verdict on Wednesday, July 28th.


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IC foundries, and PC and handset manufacturers continue to encounter rising costs of components and materials, and will see their gross margins come under downward pressure in 2018, according to industry sources.
Taiwan-based IC design houses have received requests from customers in the cryptocurrency mining sector to defer shipments of mining ASICs amid lackluster replacement...
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) has reported net profits of NT$89.79 billion (US$3.06 billion) for the first quarter of 2018, down 9.6% sequentially...
India is the world's third biggest solar power market and its solar industry has been growing at a tremendous pace. It has already achieved the target of 20GW...
TSMC cuts revenue outlook for 2018
Wiwynn to report robust 2018 sales
Taiwan government setting up air quality monitoring IoT
Synnex to recruit nearly 200 professionals for IoT, AI
Aaeon partners IoT solution startup InSynerger
EUV orders to drive ASML revenue growth in 2Q18
Ennoconn eyes brand business
SPIL Jinjiang plant to start generating revenues in 1Q19
Tencent leads in AI deployments, says HK expert
HKC ramping LCD panel capacity aggressively
Zoetek introduces smart wearables for medical care
HannStar Display to ramp up capex for 2018
Asustek announces Arez graphics card brand
ITRI releases smart e-bike battery management system
FCCL maker Taiflex 1Q18 net profits fall
Elan to downsize capital by 30%
HKC unveils plan for 11G LCD fab in China
Transcend buys office building for NT$2.37 billion
Nanya expects DRAM bit shipments to rise 48% in 2018
OSE likely to swing to profit in 1H18
MediaTek, Microsoft team up for IoT
Global server market – 4Q 2017
Worldwide server shipments reached 3.66 million units (based on motherboards shipped) in the fourth quarter of 2017, accounting...
Taiwan LCD monitors – 4Q 2017
Taiwan makers share of worldwide monitor shipments rose slightly in 2017, as their Korea-based competitors became less interested...
Taiwan handsets – 4Q 2017
Taiwan's handset shipments grew significantly in 2017 because of strong orders from HMD Global for Nokia-branded devices. HMD's...
Global AP market, 2017-2021
Digitimes Research estimates total shipments of smartphone application processors (AP) worldwide will grow 1.5% on year to 1.67...
Taiwan server shipment forecast and industry analysis, 2018
In 2018, global server shipments will grow 8.5% to reach 13.73 million units. Digitimes Research estimates server shipments...
China AMOLED panel capacity expansion forecast, 2016-2020
This Digitimes Research Special Report examines the China AMOLED industry, focusing on the expansion capacity of the makers,...


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Happy Holidays From IMG!
3:03 PM | Tuncer Deniz | Comment on this story
Inside Mac Games will be taking a short holiday break and will be returning on January 3rd, 2005. The crew at IMG would like to wish those who celebrate it a very merry Christmas. And to all our readers, whatever you celebrate, we wish you all the blessings of this season.
While the content on IMG will be on a holiday, our popular IMG store will continue to be open and we'll continue to ship those hot new games over the holiday season. We will also be launching the new IMG forum sometime next week so be sure to stay tuned for that.
We'll be back in 2005! Until then, have a wonderful and safe holiday.
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Murray Goulburn loses suppliers
Murray Goulburn Co-operative has recorded a first-half-year loss of about $31.9 million and has suffered a 20 per cent reduction in milk supply.
The big milk processor has also experienced a 14 per cent cut in revenue compared to the same period last year.
While the result looks disappointing on paper, new managing director Ari Mervis said the financial results were not unexpected in a particularly challenging year.
Mr Mervis said it was flagged in October last year that there would be a debt generated due to the attempt to maintain a competitive milk price.
So, he said, the financial result was broadly in line with last year.
‘‘Record rainfalls and high levels of competitor activity have reduced our milk intake, impacting revenue and our ability to fully recover fixed costs and overheads,’’ Mr Mervis said.
‘‘In addition, although the recent increases in the global prices of dairy commodities are welcome, they have not recovered in time to impact on MG’s first half sales volumes.’’
The company has blamed aggressive market competitiveness for milk supply and seasonal conditions for the big drop in milk supply.
Mr Mervis said there were about 350 suppliers who had left the co-operative since May but there were still about 2200 suppliers and his focus was on them and retaining them by obtaining the best he could for them.
He said the company was pursuing cost reductions and after last April more than 200 positions had been removed from the corporate office, generating savings about $10 million to $15 million in the current financial year.
When fully implemented it will create about $50-$60 million of savings annually.
A company asset review is under way which Mr Mervis said was being pursued with diligence and rigour.
Mr Mervis said he was aware of speculation about the future of the Rochester factory but he said no decisions had been made.
‘‘It would be premature to draw any conclusions.’’
The outlook was more favourable with on-farm conditions and global conditions.
‘‘While there is a lag on the benefit of those commodity prices if they are more favourable and optimistic, there is a general consensus that things are looking more positive.’’
Mr Mervis will be visiting suppliers in the region during the next few weeks.
He said he wanted to rebuild trust and confidence in the company.
Murray Goulburn is forecasting a full year milk price of $4.95/kg, with the current average about $4.92.


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Plans for CEO Mary Barra to deliver a keynote address have been scrapped, with the automaker sending a limited presence to the biggest tech event in the US. Most of it will revolve around the automaker's OnStar division.
The automaker told Roadshow in a statement, "There was a plan for GM to have a presence at CES 2020, but plans changed and while we will still support the event, our overall involvement has been reduced from our original plans." A representative would not speak directly to what Barra was scheduled to discuss.
Axios reported Friday that Barra was meant to show off one of GM's upcoming electric cars at the event in prototype form. This would be in line with past moves since GM used CES to unveil the years ago. The automaker placed a CES debut for its first mass-market EV even over the Detroit Auto Show that year.
As for why the plans were gutted, theis to blame. After the six-week-long work stoppage, there's supposedly not enough time to have the prototype electric vehicle ready.


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The latest issue of Music & Copyright is now available for subscribers to download. Here are some of the highlights.
Standing Committee publishes review of Canadian copyright law
The Canadian government’s Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology has published its review of the country’s Copyright Act. Depositions and testimony from numerous industry stakeholders went into the review and the subsequent report makes a number of recommendations and observations to the government as to how the seven-year-old copyright law should be amended. Rights holders were keen on several changes, such as the introduction of greater controls on user-generated content services and the creation of an administrative body to deal with site blocking. Music industry stakeholders also pushed for the removal of the radio royalty exemption. However, the committee took a more balanced view of the necessary changes. The report has been presented to the government as guidance and the recommendations are advisory only.
Hungarian royalty collections see third straight year of growth
Hungarian authors’ society ARTISJUS has reported a third consecutive year of growth in royalty collections, with the total for last year topping HUF20bn ($74.2m) for the first time. Private copying was again the dominant collection source. However, after two years of growth boosted by increased receipts from mobile handsets, collections in 2018 were only marginally up on the previous year. Total collections were also boosted by positive results from public performance, with ARTISJUS reporting higher receipts from the hospitality sector as well as ongoing improvements in payment discipline. Digital collections were down for the second year in a row. Furthermore, digital remains a minor revenue source for ARTISJUS members. The authors’ society said in its business report that the shift to streaming has presented collection challenges, not least from the higher collection and distribution costs.
Music lines up its gaming partnership plays
Esports – video games played competitively in front of spectators – is already a major entertainment sector and is set to become even more significant in the next few years. Millions of gamers around the world play leading interactive titles while listening to music, while the esports events themselves – often taking place in large arenas – usually feature live music performances to fill out the experience. Unsurprisingly, this is attracting serious attention from the music industry. Partnerships are the best way into this business for gaming ingénues, but those eager to grab a share of esports’ fast-growing revenue need to quickly firm up strategies if they are to cut through and be successful in professional gaming.
Germany country report
In addition to the usual set of music industry statistics and news briefs, the latest issue of Music & Copyright includes a detailed Germany music industry report. Retail sales of recorded music in Germany have plateaued in the last few years. Although subscription and streaming sales have registered healthy growth, the gains have fallen just short of fully offsetting the drop-off of physical formats and downloads. Notable in last year’s sales figures was that subscriptions and streaming overtook CDs to become the biggest single revenue source. While sales may have failed to increase year on year, the greater the share of spending on access services the better the chance Germany has of returning to growth. Authors’ society GEMA also suffered a decline last year with collections and distributions both unable to match the previous year’s record levels. However, the underlying performance was positive as collections in 2017 were inflated by one-off payments. Moreover, collections exceeded €1bn for the third consecutive year. Live music remains a stable sector. Ticket sales last year topped the previous year’s record, and live music event collections by GEMA have increased in four of the last five years.
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Starbucks Has Ties To Company That Sells This Horrible 'Delicacy'
It kills 73 million wild animals every YEAR.
Sharks are being killed at a staggering rate — it's estimated that 73 million sharks have their fins sliced off every year and get dropped back into the water to die — all because of a bowl of expensive soup.
Many people don't realize just how the shark fin trade is ravaging shark populations, which puts entire underwater ecosystems at risk. And until recently, most people had no idea that Starbucks — one of the most popular coffee chains in the world, which also promotes its commitment to ethical environmental standards — has a partnership with a company that still serves shark fin soup.
For the past 18 years, Starbucks has partnered with Hong Kong's Coffee Concepts Limited, which is owned by Maxim's Caterers Limited, a food service and restaurant company that has previously claimed it phased out the dish. But investigations revealed that the restaurant still sells shark fin entrees as part of its "secret menu."
People at WildAid, an organization aiming to save animals by cracking down on the illegal wildlife trade, have started a campaign to get Starbucks to take a stand for sharks by either ending its partnership with Maxim's or putting pressure on the company to stop serving the soup.
"We applaud Starbucks for its commitment to environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility ... However it pains us to highlight one aspect of your company's operations," WildAid wrote in a letter to Starbucks founder and executive chairman Howard Schultz and Starbucks president and CEO Kevin Johnson. "Despite our best efforts to convince their management otherwise, Maxim's continue to engage in [the] cruel, barbaric, unsustainable and often criminal shark fin trade ... Much of the shark fin entering the supply chain is from illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. In many countries, illegal wildlife trade is controlled by the same organized crime groups that traffic arms, narcotics, counterfeit goods and humans."
Starbucks replied to WildAid: “We sincerely appreciate your desire to provide feedback about our licensee agreement with Coffee Concepts Limited. While I cannot connect you with Mr. Schultz or Mr. Johnson, I will ensure that your feedback is documented and forwarded to the appropriate departments." WildAid took the response as a simple brush-off.
Thanks, Susie! Please read our letter to @Starbucks founder Howard Schultz and CEO Kevin Johnson which highlights our #CSR concerns about Maxim's #shark fin. We got the brush off from @Starbucks customer service about two weeks ago. Since then, nothing...https://t.co/1kIcq0agWe pic.twitter.com/QegYo6OmXB— WildAid Hong Kong (@WildAidHK) June 12, 2018
Starbucks is expected to continue to expand in Asia, and people concerned about stopping the shark fin trade are speaking out ahead of upcoming expansions so that more investors and customers are aware of the partnership.
"Starbucks customers deserve to be informed," Gary Stokes, Asia director for Sea Shepherd Global, said. "The shark fin industry is not limited to just the shark fin traders, but spans from the fisherman who killed the shark all the way to the restaurants that serve shark's fin soup. By licensing Starbucks' brand to Maxim's Caterers Limited, who openly sell shark's fin on their menus, Starbucks has partnered with the shark fin trade itself."
Starbucks has not yet replied to The Dodo's request for comment.


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- Health Needs for Bi Men
- Prostate Cancer Registry Helps Black Men
- Quick Start to Healthy Weight Loss
- ‘Really, Really Messed Up My Life’
- Black Men Can Beat Prostate Cancer
- Health Screenings for Older Black Men
- Healthy Man of the Month for July 2016
- HIV Testing is HIV Prevention
- Your ‘Mental’ Endurance
- Entertainment CEO DonJuan Clark
All posts tagged "diets"
Why A Plant Based Diet?
How plant based nutrition can save you from financial ruin.
- Posted December 11, 2015
Fiber Reduces Stroke Risk
Introduce more fiber into your diet, along with exercise and watch your stroke risk reduce.
- Posted April 28, 2013
Eat This, Live Longer?
Nutritionists recommend that people eat a couple of servings of fish per week.
- Posted April 4, 2013
Processed Food Linked to Cancer…And Your Kids IQ!
Adults know that processed foods are not the healthiest choice, right? I mean, credible research has tied processed food to higher rates of obesity, depression, and even cancer. Now British researchers say kids who have a diet...
- Posted February 13, 2011


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Apple has been ordered by a jury to pay damages to Mirror Worlds for infringing patents related to how documents are displayed on a computer screen, reports “Bloomberg” (http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-10-01/apple-loses-mirror-worlds-trial-over-document-display-patents.html). The federal jury in Tyler, Texas, awarded $208.5 million in damages for each of the patents infringed.
“Bloomberg” says the verdict form was unclear as to whether the amount applies to the three patents collectively or would be charged individually. Lawyers for closely held Mirror Worlds declined to discuss the verdict.
In 2008 Mirror Worlds Technologies, a Texas based company, accused Apple of violating four distinct but related patents that touch on creating “streams” of documents that are automatically sorted according to time stamps, including future dates assigned to calendars and other reminders. The company said that just about all of Apple’s product line infringes on a system for organizing data by time, “but draws its closest connection with the Time Machine backup feature in Mac OS X Leopard.”


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If you’re a fan of FX’s awesome Television show Sons of Anarchy then the Sons of Anarchy Android App is an app you’ll definitely want to check out. The app has been out for a while now, but recently received a new update last week. That coupled with the fact that the show has really amped things up lately (RIP – *****… I won’t spoil it) made me think it was time to do a review of the app so here we go with a quick jaunt around the Sons of Anarchy Clubhouse.
Tag: "android app"
Some people eat shrimp while others keep them as pets. I fall into the latter category, and recently stumbled across an Android app called The BorneoWild Guide. If you use BorneoWild’s range of food and supplements you’ll want to keep reading as this is one handy little app to have on hand.
Everyone’s favorite serial killer returned last week as Dexter aired it’s season premier. An update to Showtime’s Dexter Android app got an update a few days before season 7’s premier and it contains a nifty new feature that Dexter fans should enjoy.
HBO has pretty much set the standard for streaming Premium Channel apps, and last week Showtime entered the fray with the Showtime Anytime Android app. Nowadays all the premium channels are putting out their own apps, but some are better than others. The real question is how does the Showtime Anytime app stack up against the competition?
Over a million people have downloaded Office Jerk so it’s pretty safe to say it’s a popular time waster. Office Zombie is the newest title from the folks at Fluik, and as the title implies this time around you’ll get to chuck things at an Office Zombie.
Some people love the news while others hate it, and almost everyone’s wanted to chuck something (sports scores)at the TV during a news story they didn’t like. Breaking News! From Harebrained Schemes gives you the chance to chuck quite a few things during the news as it’s part flinging game and part news app.
While the majority of us undoubtedly love our Android smartphones, some of us may have a small pang of jealousy towards friends and family who have just picked up Apple’s latest iPhone, the iPhone 5.
As we mentioned yesterday, Google Play hit 25 Billion downloads and Google is throwing a little celebration to show their appreciation. Today is the second day of the 25 Billion .25 cent sale, and as promised Google changed things up by adding 25 new games to the sale.
The BBC’s iPlayer Android application required Adobe’s Flash player app to be installed before it could stream previously shown BBC programs to your Android device. However once Adobe discontinued the Flash Player, it meant anyone who didn’t already have Adobe Flash installed on their smartphone or tablet, couldn’t download and install it. Likewise any one on the latest version of Android – Android Jelly Bean 4.1, can not download the Flash Player app. The BBC have responded to this by releasing the BBC Media Player.
We’re back again with yet another edition of our Top Android Apps of the Week. This week’s list offers up something political, several social apps, photos with sound, and a handy little app for Borderlands 2 fans. Those are just a few of the apps that made our list so without further ado, we proudly present our picks for the Top 10 Android Apps of the Week September 23, 2012.
Opera Software ASA have updated their popular Opera Mini browser on Android to version 7.5. On the Google Play Store, Opera have both the long standing Opera Mini and Opera Mobile browser as Android apps but, for the meantime, only the Opera Mini browser has been updated. The latest update brings the Opera Mini Android app to version 7.5 and with it comes “Smart Page”.


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|Unemployment Is Set To Soar!|
The government has failed to keep its promise so now we should expect unemployment to soar as reality sets in. One of the largest problems facing small companies is they are often underfunded and have difficulty getting financing at reasonable rates. Banks find larger companies much more profitable. The sector of the economy most damaged by the covid-19 shutdown is small business. When this is over America will find many small businesses have been decimated and are not able to reopen. Others will never recover and be forced to close within months. Since small businesses employ over 54 million people in America and their importance in the economy should not be underestimated.
- Small businesses contribute 44 percent of all sales in the country.
- Small businesses employ 54.4 million people, about 57.3percent of the private workforce.
The government's answer to keeping people employed was to promise small businesses an easy to get, rapid maximum loan amount of two and a half times a company’s average monthly payroll expense over the past 12 months. This loan would turn into a grant and be forgiven if a company did not fire its employees. Sadly, legislators failed to take into consideration that not all small businesses are labor or payroll intense. Some businesses with large or expensive showrooms are getting hammered by rent, others by inventory, or things like taxes, utilities, or even by having to toss products due to spoilage.
The PPP also failed to address the issue of what these employees are going to do while the company has no customers and business barely trickling. In the past, these employees were expected to pursue activities that earned revenue and garnered profits for the business but with no costumers, this is difficult to do. The PPP also ignored the fact that by keeping these employees on the payroll a generous employer is left open to the harsh mandates laid out in the government's previous bill. The hastily drawn up 110-page federal covid-19 economic rescue package, which Trump fully supported dealt a hard blow to small business. For a small business this is a disaster, the bill requires;
- Employers with fewer than 500 employees and government employers offer two weeks of paid sick leave through 2020.
- Those same employers must now provide up to 3 months of paid family and medical leave for people forced to quarantine due to the virus or care for family because of the outbreak
|The Private Sector Is Shrinking (click to enlarge)|
Reality undercuts the idea of the “V-shaped recovery” theory and the idea after the economy has come to a dead stop it can quickly reboot and be back at full speed in a few months. The government has presented us with an extension of crony capitalism structured to throw just enough to the masses to silence their outrage but in the coming weeks, we will see it failed. Large businesses with access to cheap capital are the winners and the big losers are the middle-class, small businesses, and social mobility. All those people that want a higher minimum wage can forget that ever happening if we don't have jobs.
As for just how much small business owners make, according to figures from 2015 from the Small Business Administration the median income for self-employed individuals at an incorporated business was $49,804 and $22,424 for unincorporated firms. According to PayScale’s 2017 data, the average small business owner's income is $73,000 per year. But, total earnings can range from $30,000 – $182,000 per year. This means it varies greatly depending on where and just how big the business is, however, it is important to remember these people have "skin in the game" and most risk losing everything if their business fails.
It is important to recognize that starting your own business has always been about the opportunity to design and build your own future. It is a symbol of freedom not a guarantee of wealth. Many people choose this path proudly, not to make more money but as a way to express their individuality. For these competent and talented people, a job in government or at a large company often offers more security and benefits but far less freedom. Do not underestimate the value of small business and what it contributes to our society. Companies such as Amazon are the anti-thesis of small business making their workers a cog in a machine and stealing their soul.
Based on the government's promise to small businesses a great many held off on letting employees go but with each passing day in order to survive they are now in the process of letting hundreds of thousands of employees go. This is a ticking time-bomb. By telling these businesses to close and then through its failure to carry out its promise of helping them the government has created a situation with massive negative economic ramifications. To make matters worse, people going on unemployment look to get almost as much as those that do work. Why will anyone want to work, especially government workers when they can get paid to stay home? This is not about wanting more money for small business, it is about the reality that the firings are just beginning.


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iPad Is Outselling Android Tablets By A 2:1 Ratio [REPORT]
Apple’s iPad has dominated a market it is credited with creating back in 2010, when the very first iPad slate was unveiled to a very mixed response. Some lauded it as the next best thing, while the skeptics brushed it off as merely a large iPhone, but nobody can argue it has been a huge success, one most Android vendors have tried – and failed – to emulate.
According to a report from Electronista, despite achieving 7.3 million sales for Q2 2012, Android’s tablet market share stands at only 29.3, less than half of the iPad’s 17 million sold and 68.3 percent market share.
Up until recently, Apple’s rivals have attempted to topple the iPad by offering similar-looking products, and while most – if not all – have been a great deal cheaper than their Cupertino counterpart, the problem with releasing a similar device is that it will always feel inferior – instead of an alternative – to the real deal.
Analyst Neil Mawston gave his own take on why the iPad is still streets ahead of all others, citing "Unspectacular hardware designs, limited uptake of cellular models and a modest number of tablet-optimized services" as a couple of key areas Android slabs have fallen short.
Having said that, Google’s ASUS-manufactured Nexus 7 could well be the point where the tides begin to turn. No Android slab has created more of a stir aside from the Amazon Kindle Fire which, although cheap, didn’t offer a performance anywhere near that of the market-leader. The Nexus 7, with a quad-core Tegra 3, 1GB RAM and costing just $199, is a dream for anybody looking for a cheap tablet, and by being one of the first to offer Android Jelly Bean (4.1), it’s no wonder many stockists have already sold most of their units.
To quell the danger posed by the Nexus 7 and similar slates, Apple is said to be preparing a smaller iPad, oft referred to in the blogosphere as the iPad Mini. With the Microsoft Surface also said to be arriving this fall, the tablet market will be as fiercely contested as it has ever been, and the resolve of Apple’s tablet dominance will truly be put to the test.
Will Apple remain on top for the foreseeable future? Or do the rivals have what it takes to shake up the market?
You can follow us on Twitter, add us to your circle on Google+ or like our Facebook page to keep yourself updated on all the latest from Microsoft, Google, Apple and the web.


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New research from cosmetic brand Sanctuary Spa Wonder Oil Serum found that women feel pressure to look young and this is the reason why two-thirds of British women now use anti-ageing products, reports femalefirst.co.uk.
The survey says the biggest compliment one can still pay to a woman over 35 is to tell her that she looks young rather than slim with 60 percent of women admitting this gives them the biggest confidence boost.
The research also found that one in five women worry about how old they look every day with 10 percent admitting to thinking about it several times each day.
“In my job, I see far too many women lacking confidence in their appearance because of societal pressures,” said celebrity facialist and Sanctuary Spa skincare expert, Nichola Joss.
“As a mother it’s disheartening to learn that women think about how old they look several times a day, and worse still that under 24s believe they look older than they actually are. Age is something that should be celebrated and embraced,” added Joss.
Also the research says that women are their own harshest critics earlier on in life, with one in five under the age of 24 believing they look older than they actually are compared to just 7 percent who are over 55.
“Wrinkles will befall us all and there are products which provide a visible improvement in the skin’s appearance, but ultimately, the idea that growing older is bad has to stop,” said Joss.


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As rent continues to rise, some small businesses in the Phoenix area say they are concerned about their future, and wonder if they would be able to survive.
It's Father's Day and countless dads are opening gifts, like golf clubs and neckties. Others are getting first-class treatment during a day out on the town. FOX 10's Irene Snyder takes a look.
A family-owned market in Tempe, open for more than 60 years, is closing its door. Bill's Market is known for homemade chorizo and tortillas. FOX 10 Photojournalist Brian Kae stops by one last time.
Some small businesses are still struggling to hire qualified workers, even as the broader picture in the U.S. job market looks much brighter.
If you've been out to grab a bite to eat at a restaurant or have ordered a meal to go, you may have noticed the staffing shortage is still an issue for many businesses. Some restaurants are turning to an app called "Qwick" that aims to ease staffing problems for the food industry. FOX 10's Linda Williams is live with more.
Infinity Sweets Custom Treats is one of 220 businesses selected for the Super Bowl's Business Connect Program, which works to employ local companies for professional work across multiple fields.
A Phoenix-area brewing company had to spend an extra $12,000 to ship one item, and it was already delayed for months. Unfortunately, that’s the reality for many small businesses facing supply chain issues.
Suns fans and Phoenix area businesses are gearing up as the team is making another go at becoming the NBA Champs. The Suns ended this season with a record-breaking number of wins.
With “Open Call 2022,” Walmart says it aims to support and grow small businesses and U.S. manufacturing.
The U.S. House passed legislation, now it heads to the Senate where it's expected to face steep opposition. If it does pass, what would it mean for dispensaries in Arizona, since marijuana is already legal here? FOX 10's Irene Snyder has the details.
AZ Mobile Spaws says instead of increasing costs for animal grooming, it'll decrease its radius of customers. The owner says he hopes it'll offset gas prices and the increase of other business operations.
Phoenix area businesses grew concerned over the MLB lockout as the league and players worked to come to an agreement. Why? Because they weren't able to set up their food trucks and vendor tables at the spring training facilities. Now that the lockout is over, the businesses are busy stocking up on inventory, preparing for sales once again.
Mike Funk, owner of several Firecreek Coffee shops across Arizona, recently went on a 12 day trip to Mexico and Guatemala, to get coffee as they deal with supply chain issues. FOX 10's Irene Snyder has the story.
The brewing industry is often perceived as male-dominated, but that is all changing thanks to a sisterhood of brewers in Phoenix at Huss Brewing Co.
Roasted coffee prices experiencing biggest spike since 2012
Pork on a Fork BBQ was supposed to open near Alma School and Warner in Chandler in May 2021. Fast forward to February 2022, and they're still waiting for necessary supplies for their restaurant.
For the first time in two years for many people, the American workplace is transforming into something that resembles pre-pandemic days.
“So we are prepping now getting all the stuff ready for the big day our big day,” said Cactus Flower Florists owner, Eric Luoma on Feb. 13. He says they've had some supply chain issues, but other than that, things have been busy.
Valentine's Day and Super Bowl are just one day apart this year and many businesses and restaurants working to keep up with orders. Restaurants especially say they've seen a large increase in take-out orders.
The number of small businesses that raised prices in January amid high inflation rose to levels not seen since 1974, the National Federation of Independent Business said.


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The European Commission is working on a proposal to force smartphone vendors to use easily replaceable batteries with their devices.
Dutch news site Het Financieele Dagblad, which obtained a copy of the EU's plans, says EU officials plan to formally submit their proposal for public discussions next month, in March 2020.
The proposal's goal is to reduce e-waste across the EU by allowing users to replace worn out or malfunctioning phone batteries.
Currently, most phone manufacturers use closed phone cases that prevent users from replacing batteries without voiding their warranty or needing special tools to open the device.
Further, some vendors don't provide batteries as standalone parts to the general public, and replacement batteries are only provided through approved phone repair programs.
This particular practice has resulted in increased levels of e-waste, as companies tend to drive users toward replacing entire devices, rather than a malfunctioning battery.
Things didn't use to be this way, and almost a decade ago, users could easily purchase and replace the battery in almost all smartphones, without being afraid they'd void their warranty or need advanced tools or technical knowledge.
Things changed in recent years as smartphone makers realized they could accelerate smartphone replacement cycles (and indirectly profits) by restricting access to malfunctioning parts, with batteries being the most commonly worn out component.
How the EU plans to enforce its new battery replacement rules remains to be seen.
One way the proposal will not go is by imposing a common battery format. This is not technically possible because most battery models are built for specific phones and come with size restrictions, different connectors, and underlying patented technologies.
The EU's upcoming proposal for easily replaceable batteries comes after last month the EU started work on legislation that would force phone makers to use a common charger technology for all mobile phones.
Both last month's proposal and the one about batteries next month are part of the EU's general effort to reduce e-waste by encouraging better engineering decisions, raw material reuse, and longer-lived devices.


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Misconfigured enterprise printers can be abused by malicious actors to store malicious code and evade detection, a researcher has warned.
Chris Vickery, the researcher best known for uncovering publicly accessible databases that exposed the details of millions of users, including personal information belonging to hundreds of millions of U.S. voters, has been hired by MacKeeper to lead the company’s new Security Research Center. Vickery joined the company after identifying a misconfigured MacKeeper database containing details associated with 13 million accounts.
As part of his research at MacKeeper, Vickery analyzed printers, particularly how misconfigured devices can be abused by malicious actors for various purposes, including for hosting malicious code and evading detection by security products.
According to the expert, there are thousands of office printers, ones that have gigabytes of internal storage, exposed on the Internet. Vickery has focused his analysis on HP printers, which are accessible over port 9100 and basically provide malicious actors an anonymous FTP server.
Hackers can use free, open-source tools to upload files to HP printers and interact with them over port 9100. Once the files are uploaded, they can be accessed via a Web browser at http://<Printer_IP_Address>/ hp/device /<File_Name>.
“This opens up a world of possibilities. A hacker can host malicious web pages and scripts on your printer and link it to potential victims. Maybe he needs to host an executable somewhere so it can later be served through a wget request. These printers are wonderful repositories. It doesn’t take much creativity to realize that even highly illegal materials could be stored this way,” Vickery said in a blog post.
“After all, this kind of printer is usually powered up and online twenty-four hours a day. Even in sleep mode it will still host files. And who checks the contents of their printer’s hard drive? What are the odds of this hacker’s secret stash ever being discovered? Pretty low if you ask me,” he added.
The researcher has also pointed out that organizations leaving their printers exposed to the Internet likely don’t have any logging systems in place, which seriously decreases their chances of identifying an attack.
A Shodan search shows that more than 21,000 vulnerable HP printers are open on the Web via port 9100, Vickery told SecurityWeek. While port 9100 appears to be specific to HP printers, other brands are likely vulnerable as well.
“I don’t know of any big-name targeted attacks involving this kind of technique, but I have seen people brag about using it for various purposes,” the expert said in an email.
HP says it’s aware that its printers can be abused by hackers, which is why in September 2015 the company rolled out new enterprise-grade LaserJet printers with features designed to secure devices against malicious attacks, including HP Sure Start BIOS protection, Run-time Intrusion Detection and firmware whitelisting.
“The scenario involving Port 9100 identified by MacKeeper is one in which PJL or PostScript filesystem commands are used to store malicious software on a printer using Port 9100. This scenario can be prevented by disabling the PJL/PS filesystem commands, directions for which can be found in the document, HP Printing Security Best Practices for HP LaserJet Enterprise Printers and HP Web Jetadmin. In addition, customers have the option of using the more secure protocol IPPS (Internet Print Protocol over HTTPS) instead of Port 9100,” HP told SecurityWeek.
“Regardless of which printing protocols you use, managing printer configuration is an important step in protecting the print environment. The average printer has over 250 settings, including ports and protocols that could be a source of vulnerability,” the company added. “HP encourages customers to protect their printers by turning off any unused ports and protocols, providing tools to help with this including HP JetAdvantage Security Manager, which provides policy-based security management across a printer fleet, and WebJet Admin, a free tool that provides web based configuration for HP printers.”