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NEW DELHI: Gold prices have breached Rs 80,000 per 10 grams levels in major Indian cities, recovering from the impact of Donald Trump's expected high tariff trade policy and a firm US dollar, analysts said. A flare-up in geopolitical tensions due to the Russia-Ukraine war is bolstering the precious metal, which crossed the USD 2,700 an ounce level in global markets, they added. The uncertainty surrounding the US economy and volatile stock markets are also driving inflows into the safe-haven, however, the US Federal Reserve's (Fed) cautious attitude towards policy interest rate and strong US dollar are acting as headwinds for the bullion, analysts stated. On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), gold prices tanked Rs 6,775, or 8.5 per cent, to hit Rs 73,000 per 10 grams after Donald Trump's victory raised expectations of a restricted trade policy by the US. "Gold prices had fallen 8 per cent after the US election results. "The strengthening US dollar index which rose from USD 101 to 107.5 pressured gold immensely, while Trump's pro-cryptocurrency stance during his campaign diverted investor funds seeking higher returns," Jateen Trivedi, VP Research Analyst, Commodity and Currency at LKP Securities, said. Further, Trump's pledge to impose a 10 per cent tariff on all US imports further limits the Federal Reserve's ability to ease aggressively, adding to the downward pressure on gold, he said. However, recent missile attacks by Russia at the Ukrainian city of Dnipro heightened geopolitical tensions, bolstering the gold's appeal as safe haven investment. "Gold prices surged significantly as geopolitical tensions fuelled safe-haven demand, driven by renewed fears of nuclear risks in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict," Trivedi added. Rising global unease pushed gold higher by USD 38 on Comex, closing at USD 2,707 per ounce, and by Rs 900 on MCX, reaching Rs 77,600 on Friday. "This sharp recovery highlights gold's resilience and its role in balancing portfolios during uncertain times," he said. In spot markets, the precious metal of 99.9 per cent purity surged Rs 1,100 to hit a two-week high of Rs 80,400 per 10 grams, while the price of gold of 99.5 per cent purity soared Rs 1,100, to reclaim the Rs 80,000-mark again on Friday. Meanwhile, in futures trade on the MCX on Friday, gold contracts for December delivery rose Rs 69, or 0.09 per cent, to close at Rs 77,685 per 10 grams. Gold regained lost ground, and a bullish sentiment remains intact and the precious metal is likely to trade in a range of Rs 77,000-78,300 on the MCX, analysts said. The ongoing wedding season in India is also pushing gold buying interest by jewellers and retailers, they added. "Wedding season is pivotal for our business, with bridal or wedding jewellery constituting a significant share of our sales. During the ongoing wedding season this year, we are witnessing healthy demand for bridal jewellery across all our stores in India," M P Ahammed, Chairman at Malabar Group, said. Key macroeconomic data, such as the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting minutes, and the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index, the Fed's preferred inflation gauge, to be released next week, which will play a critical role in investor sentiment towards the bullion, traders said. Market participants will also await the US Q3 GDP data that will provide further direction for the yellow metal, they added.Central Okanagan politicians tour local aerospace, tech industryDoordarshan Lucknow, which began its journey on November 27, 1975, celebrated 50 years of rich programming and cultural contributions through a grand programme at Lohia Park on Sunday. Chairman of Prasar Bharati, Navneet Sehgal, was the chief guest, and Kanchan Prasad, MD of Doordarshan, was the special guest of the programme. In the Akhil Bhartiya Kavyamaya Prastuti programme, poets such as Buddhinath Mishra, Sarvesh Asthana, Hasan Kazmi, Chandra Shekhar Varma, Balram Srivastava, Dr Suman Dubey, Azm Shakiri, and Shabaz Talib captivated the audience with their poetry. The event continued with honours being presented to achievers associated with Doordarshan. Noted actor Anil Rastogi was given a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to drama and theatre. This was followed by a Musical Evening, where Nitish and his band delivered enchanting Sufi music. The evening’s charm was further enhanced by another band performance led by Sachin. From its modest origins at 22 Ashok Marg in an interim studio, Doordarshan has grown into a beacon of television excellence in the region, consistently producing iconic shows such as Namaste UP, Once More, and Krishi Darshan, said Chairman of Prasar Bharati, Navneet Sehgal. AP Mishra, the executive programme director of Doordarshan Lucknow, proudly reflected on the institution’s journey: “We can confidently say that several programmes produced by Lucknow Doordarshan have been considered among the best in the country,” Mishra stated. Programmes like Neem Ka Ped, Bibi Natiyon Wali, Bandhuji, Akkad Bakkad, and Hatimtai not only earned national awards but also gained international recognition, with Bibi Natiyon Wali receiving global acclaim and being telecast by NHK Japan. While the rise of private channels did impact Doordarshan’s viewership, it remains a prominent presence in the media landscape. Today, Doordarshan Lucknow is known for broadcasting some of the best live programmes, including coverage of the Kumbh Mela, live sessions from the Vidhan Sabha and Vidhan Bhavan, and its live telecasts from Ayodhya during the temple consecration ceremony. The station has been home to some of the finest talents in the field. Renowned news anchors like Shobhna Jagdish and Nirmala Kumari, who were also trained classical musicians, were part of Lucknow Doordarshan. In the 1980s, the voices of Mohammed Noor Baksh and Naresh Srivastava achieved fame akin to that of film stars, and though they are no longer with us, their legacy endures. From its early days in black and white to the advent of color broadcasts on August 15, 1982, during the Asian Games, Doordarshan Lucknow has embraced technological advancements. In 1987, during the Reliance Cup, the station introduced its first color OB Van, equipped with four cameras, marking another milestone in its evolution. Despite fierce competition from private channels, Doordarshan Lucknow has managed to preserve its unique identity by producing shows that promote cultural heritage, literature, and knowledge. Namaste UP and Once More continue to dominate ratings, and programmes like Vigyan Se Dhyan have recorded an overwhelming number of hits on YouTube.
Monday, December 30, 2024 UK citizens heading to the European Union will face new travel regulations in 2025, including the implementation of biometric border checks under the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the introduction of visa-waiver requirements. These changes are part of the EU’s effort to modernize and secure its borders. EES Biometric Border Checks The long-anticipated EES system is expected to go live in 2025 after several delays. This digital border control system will replace the traditional passport stamp process with biometric data collection, such as fingerprints and facial scans, to record travelers’ entries and exits from EU countries. First-Time Registration: When the system launches, UK travelers will need to scan their passport, provide fingerprints, have a facial photograph taken, and answer four questions about their trip. Subsequent Travel: For future trips over the next three years—or until their passport expires—travelers will only need to provide one biometric detail, either a fingerprint or a facial scan. Process at Ports and Airports At airports, biometric checks will occur upon landing. For Eurostar, Eurotunnel, or ferry travelers, the checks will be conducted on UK soil before departure. Drivers crossing via ferry ports will be required to exit their vehicles for biometric processing, raising concerns about potential delays and longer queues. To streamline the process, travelers will be able to pre-register their details via an app or self-service kiosks at select locations. However, the rollout is expected to be phased, with some teething issues anticipated during the initial implementation. Exemptions for Children Children under 12 will only need to have their photo taken and will not be required to provide fingerprints. Visa Waiver Requirements Alongside the EES, UK citizens traveling to the EU will also need to obtain a visa waiver under the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which is set to be introduced in 2025. This electronic authorization will cost €7 and will be valid for three years or until the traveler’s passport expires. Impact on Travelers The new rules aim to enhance border security and streamline data collection, but they are likely to alter the travel experience for British citizens. Critics have expressed concerns about potential delays, particularly at ferry ports where drivers must leave their vehicles for checks. To minimize inconvenience, officials recommend pre-registering biometric details and ensuring all travel documentation is up to date. The UK government advises travelers to familiarize themselves with the new requirements before their first trip to the EU in 2025. Conclusion These new measures mark a significant change for UK travelers to the EU, with the introduction of advanced biometric technology and visa-waiver systems. While the updates aim to improve border security and efficiency, travelers are advised to prepare for potential initial delays as the systems are rolled out across member states.
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Alvopetro Energy Ltd. ( OTCMKTS:ALVOF – Get Free Report ) declared a quarterly dividend on Tuesday, December 17th, NASDAQ Dividends reports. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, December 31st will be given a dividend of 0.09 per share on Wednesday, January 15th. This represents a $0.36 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 10.00%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, December 31st. Alvopetro Energy Stock Performance OTCMKTS ALVOF opened at $3.60 on Friday. Alvopetro Energy has a 52-week low of $2.85 and a 52-week high of $5.09. The company has a fifty day moving average of $3.45 and a 200-day moving average of $3.55. The company has a market capitalization of $131.43 million, a P/E ratio of 9.23 and a beta of 0.14. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.08, a quick ratio of 2.10 and a current ratio of 2.10. About Alvopetro Energy ( Get Free Report ) Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Alvopetro Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Alvopetro Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .
Published 2:11 pm Tuesday, December 24, 2024 by Staff Reports Because no one logs more travel miles on Christmas Eve than Santa Claus, the Big Guy simply insists on being well prepared. That’s why earlier this month, at Santa’s request, the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) cleared St. Nick and his reindeer for all modes of travel in the state on Christmas Eve and awarded him an official Certificate of Travel Clearance. MDOT staff thoroughly inspected Santa’s extra wide sleigh load, ensuring it met all safety requirements. Permits were issued for his sack of toys surpassing posted weight limits, and Rudolph’s nose so bright met, but did not exceed, the illumination threshold. All takeoffs and landings to and from the homes of good children have been approved, and exceptions were granted for any last-minute “Nice List” additions. Email newsletter signup While at MDOT, Santa received reports on Mississippi drivers’ conduct from elves Darryl and Cheryl. Sadly, elven intel suggests some of the state’s motorists may receive a lump of coal this year. However, St. Nick insisted that with a few behavior adjustments and a sprinkle of Christmas spirit, even the most egregious drivers may be able to change their fate. Darryl and Cheryl also gifted Santa a reflective vest for extra safety and visibility along state highways. Currently, conditions appear favorable for sleigh flight on Christmas Eve. Motorists are advised to drive slow and be alert for sleighs, reindeer and their white-tailed cousins after dark on Christmas Eve. Blitzened driving is strictly prohibited. Meridian state Rep. Young dies at 62 Mississippi expects only a small growth in state budget Mississippi woman pleads guilty to stealing Social Security funds 2 credit unions in Mississippi and Louisiana are planning to mergeGlobe AT HOME unveiled its affordable 5G WiFi, delivering high-speed internet using wireless technology for those who sought fast, reliable, and plug-and-play connectivity. Equipped with a best-in-class router featuring one-click support plus a money-back guarantee, this pioneering service ensured hassle-free internet access tailored to the evolving demands of modern users. The tech innovation was initially available in three prime condominium developments located in key business hubs: Bonifacio Global City, Makati City and Ortigas Center. For the holiday season, customers enjoyed up to 250GB of data for 30 days for only P899. "Our Globe AT HOME 5G WiFi service reflects our drive for tech innovation and customer-centric solutions. For renters, transients, and those living in temporary homes like dorms or weekday apartments, it offers the flexibility of high-speed internet and the convenience of plug and play, with no need for wiring at home,” Abigail Cardino said, vice president and head of brand management for Globe AT HOME. “It is so easy to use: Just plug it in and you had 5G WiFi connectivity! It also provided a viable alternative for our wireless 4G and xDSL subscribers seeking better connectivity in areas where fiber wasn’t available,” she added.