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Ə$E?ߗRr myR{?C{*1#YMy檸@ +%uw Rg}ɛ.rS 珌}dO`aѤe3UDecember 20, 2024 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlightedthe following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: fact-checked trusted source proofread by Enna Bartlett, University of Manchester Scientists at The University of Manchester have achieved a significant breakthrough in using cyanobacteria—commonly known as "blue-green algae"—to convert carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) into valuable bio-based materials. Their work, published in Biotechnology for Biofuels and Bioproducts , could accelerate the development of sustainable alternatives to fossil fuel-derived products like plastics, helping pave the way for a carbon-neutral circular bioeconomy. The research, led by Dr. Matthew Faulkner, working alongside Dr. Fraser Andrews, and Professor Nigel Scrutton, focused on improving the production of citramalate, a compound that serves as a precursor for renewable plastics such as Perspex or Plexiglas. Using an innovative approach called "design of experiment," the team achieved a remarkable 23-fold increase in citramalate production by optimizing key process parameters. Why cyanobacteria? Cyanobacteria are microscopic organisms capable of photosynthesis, converting sunlight and CO 2 into organic compounds. They are a promising candidate for industrial applications because they can transform CO 2 —a major greenhouse gas—into valuable products without relying on traditional agricultural resources like sugar or corn. However, until now, the slow growth and limited efficiency of these organisms have posed challenges for large-scale industrial use. "Our research addresses one of the key bottlenecks in using cyanobacteria for sustainable manufacturing," explains Matthew. "By optimizing how these organisms convert carbon into useful products, we've taken an important step toward making this technology commercially viable." The science behind the breakthrough The team's research centered on Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803, a well-studied strain of cyanobacteria. Citramalate, the focus of their study, is produced in a single enzymatic step using two key metabolites: pyruvate and acetyl-CoA. By fine-tuning process parameters such as light intensity , CO 2 concentration, and nutrient availability , the researchers were able to significantly boost citramalate production. Initial experiments yielded only small amounts of citramalate, but the design of the experimental approach allowed the team to systematically explore the interplay between multiple factors. As a result, they increased citramalate production to 6.35 grams per liter (g/L) in 2-liter photobioreactors, with a productivity rate of 1.59 g/L/day. While productivity slightly decreased when scaling up to 5-liter reactors due to light delivery challenges, the study demonstrates that such adjustments are manageable in biotechnology scale-up processes. A circular bioeconomy vision The implications of this research extend beyond plastics. Pyruvate and acetyl-CoA, the key metabolites involved in citramalate production, are also precursors to many other biotechnologically significant compounds. The optimization techniques demonstrated in this study could therefore be applied to produce a variety of materials, from biofuels to pharmaceuticals. By enhancing the efficiency of carbon capture and utilization, the research contributes to global efforts to mitigate climate change and reduce dependence on non-renewable resources. "This work underscores the importance of a circular bioeconomy," adds Matthew. "By turning CO 2 into something valuable, we're not just reducing emissions—we're creating a sustainable cycle where carbon becomes the building block for the products we use every day." What's next? The team plans to further refine their methods and explore ways to scale up production while maintaining efficiency. They are also investigating how their approach can be adapted to optimize other metabolic pathways in cyanobacteria, with the aim of expanding the range of bio-based products that can be sustainably manufactured. More information: Matthew Faulkner et al, Improving productivity of citramalate from CO 2 by Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 through design of experiment, Biotechnology for Biofuels and Bioproducts (2024). DOI: 10.1186/s13068-024-02589-z Provided by University of ManchesterGap Inc. Reports Third Quarter Fiscal 2024 Results, Raises Full Year Outlook
QNA DOHA: Hamad Medical Corporation's Human Resources Department has been honoured with the prestigious Best Wellbeing Program Award at the CIPD Middle East People Awards 2024, held recently in Dubai. This achievement marks a historic milestone, as HMC becomes the first organization from Qatar to receive this distinguished recognition, underscoring its commitment to creating a healthy and empowering workplace environment for its employees. The award acknowledges HMC's innovative and holistic Employee Wellbeing and Wellness Framework, which integrates mental and physical health support, financial wellbeing initiatives, employee support programs, and social health initiatives. This comprehensive approach has played a pivotal role in transforming workplace wellness across Qatar's largest healthcare provider and beyond. Speaking about this achievement, Mona Al Homaiddi, Acting Chief Human Resources Officer, said: "Winning this award reflects the dedication and collaborative efforts of our wellbeing team, who have worked tirelessly to build programs that support and empower our employees. This recognition is not just a milestone for HMC but also a testament to our leadership in workplace wellness across the region." Husameldin Ali Rudwan, Acting Executive Director of Employee Wellbeing, Engagement and Performance Management, added: "This award is a stepping stone for our continued journey to enhance employee wellness. Through our programs, we aim to create a healthier workplace environment that impacts not only our staff but also the broader healthcare community. We are proud to lead the way in shaping the future of workplace wellbeing in Qatar." HMC's award-winning wellbeing programs have also expanded beyond the corporation, supporting over 42,000 employees across HMC the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) and Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC). These programs have become a model of excellence, addressing diverse aspects of employee wellbeing through structured initiatives such as health education, mental health support, and employee engagement programs. As part of its vision, HMC aims to further enhance its wellbeing initiatives by incorporating advanced technologies, evidence-based interventions, and global collaborations. These efforts align with HMC's Healthcare Strategy 2024-2030, National Health Strategy 2024-2030, and Qatar's National Vision 2030 and reinforce HMC's role as a leader in workplace health and wellness. This award is not only a recognition of HMC's relentless efforts but also an inspiration to continue striving for excellence, ensuring a healthier, happier, and more productive environment for healthcare professionals across Qatar. Copy 24/12/2024 10
Significant milestones in life and career of Jimmy Carter
In the dynamic world of cryptocurrency, Solana has recently made headlines with its daily fees and revenue reaching unprecedented heights. This surge is closely tied to the latest memecoin trading frenzy, a phenomenon that has gripped the crypto community and driven significant traffic and transactions on the Solana blockchain. Solana’s ecosystem has become a fertile ground for decentralized applications (DApps), which have been raking in record fees. The blockchain’s efficiency and speed have made it an attractive platform for developers and users alike, fostering an environment where innovation thrives. The recent memecoin craze has only amplified this growth, with several Solana-based DApps generating their highest daily fees and revenues to date. The memecoin frenzy has returned with a vengeance, propelling Solana-based protocols like Raydium and Jito to new financial heights. These protocols have seen a massive surge in activity, driven by the booming trade of memecoins such as Dogwifhat (WIF) and Peanut (PNUT). The latter experienced a staggering 2,700% rally over a fortnight, reaching a peak market cap of $2.4 billion. Tekedia Mini-MBA edition 16 (Feb 10 – May 3, 2025 ) opens registrations; register today for early bird discounts. Tekedia AI in Business Masterclass opens registrations here. Join Tekedia Capital Syndicate and i nvest in Africa’s finest startups here . The latest entrant to capture the imagination of the digital currency space is CHILLGUY , a memecoin that has taken TikTok by storm. With an astonishing 500% surge in value on its launch day, CHILLGUY has achieved a market capitalization of $250 million, reflecting the power of social media in influencing the crypto market. The CHILLGUY phenomenon is rooted in the popular ‘ I’m Just A Chill Guy’ meme , which features a laid-back anthropomorphic dog character. This meme has evolved into a viral sensation on TikTok, with users creatively integrating the Chill Guy into various scenarios, embodying the spirit of being effortlessly cool and collected. The transition from a meme to a market sensation is a testament to the influence of internet culture on financial markets. The creators of CHILLGUY have capitalized on this virality, branding the token as the embodiment of a relaxed and unbothered attitude, resonating with a wide audience seeking a sense of community and shared identity within the crypto world. The rapid rise of CHILLGUY’s value is indicative of the speculative nature of memecoins, where market sentiment can dramatically shift based on trends and social media buzz. The native Solana token (SOL) has also witnessed a major price move, pushing to its highest value since November 2021. This increase is not just a reflection of the memecoin mania but also indicative of the growing confidence in Solana’s long-term potential. The blockchain’s ability to handle increased transaction volume with lower fees has positioned it as a strong contender in the crypto space. High-profile endorsements have played a significant role in the memecoin rally. Public figures and influencers have the power to sway market dynamics, as seen with Elon Musk’s multiple promotions of the Peanut memecoin. Such endorsements can lead to rapid price increases and heightened interest in related cryptocurrencies and platforms. As Solana continues to break records and capture the attention of the crypto community, it stands as a testament to the blockchain’s robustness and adaptability. The memecoin trading frenzy may be a transient phase, but it highlights the potential for significant revenue generation within the Solana ecosystem. With its scalable infrastructure and growing popularity, Solana is well-positioned to maintain its momentum and remain a key player in the evolving landscape of digital currencies. The recent events surrounding Solana’s daily fees and revenue serve as a reminder of the volatile yet opportunistic nature of the cryptocurrency market. As the blockchain continues to evolve and adapt, it will undoubtedly present new challenges and opportunities for investors, developers, and enthusiasts alike.None
US President-elect Donald Trump has moved the stake he owns in Trump Media & Technology to a revocable trust, Reuters reported. Trump transferred 114.75 million shares, or 53 per cent of Trump Media & Technology's outstanding stock, to the revocable trust of which he is the sole beneficiary, according to securities filings. His stake in the company was valued at more than $4 billion based on the stock's last closing price of $35.41. Trump said in November that he had no intention of selling his shares in the company, which owns the Truth Social media platform, as per a Reuters report. Also Read : The Brutalist: Is is available on streaming? When and where to watch online Trump's eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., is the sole trustee of the trust and has sole voting and investment power over securities held by it, according to the securities filings. 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Also Read : iPhone 17 Pro Design Takes Unexpected Turn: What’s New in Latest Report? The company's shares were down 4 per cent at $33.86 on Friday. FAQs Q1. What is designation of Donald Trump? A1. The designation of Donald Trump is US President-elect. Q2. When is Donald Trump's swearing-in ceremony taking place? A2. Donald Trump's swearing-in ceremony is taking place on January 20. (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )Governor Fubara expressed confidence in his leadership, citing the unwavering support of Rivers citizens as a source of strength Fubara credited divine intervention for guiding him through the political crisis, emphasizing that his strength comes from the encouragement and support of the people of Rivers State Former Governor Peter Odili and Justice Mary Odili offered strong support for Fubara, praising his leadership CHECK OUT: Education is Your Right! Don’t Let Social Norms Hold You Back. Learn Online with LEGIT. Enroll Now! Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed confidence in his leadership amid the ongoing political tension with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike . Speaking at the Christmas Ballad hosted by former Governor Sir Peter Odili, Fubara emphasized his growing strength, drawing inspiration from the unwavering support of the people of Rivers State. Fubara says support from Rivers people fuels his resolve In his remarks, Governor Fubara stated that the support he continues to receive from Rivers citizens helps him face the challenges of the political crisis head-on. Read also “Because of Fubara”: Why I kicked out Secondus as PDP chairman, Wike speaks PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Instagram - get the most important news directly in your favourite app! "I get stronger every day when I look at the support I am getting from the true Rivers people," Fubara declared. He added that the backing from the public is what keeps him motivated in his leadership role. "It's not me being strong. My strength is drawn from everyone of you that is here. You gave me the encouragement; you do the work for me; you make the calls for me. So, why won’t I stand up for you?" Fubara said. The governor also credited God for guiding him through the political challenges, claiming that divine intervention was key in overcoming the crisis, Vanguard reported. "God has proved Himself worthy as the Ultimate Liberator of the State and its people," Fubara said. Odili, Justice Mary Odili show support Former Governor Peter Odili spoke highly of Fubara’s leadership, praising his ability to face down political pressures and protect the people of Rivers from attempts to "capture the state as a private estate." Read also Ibadan stampede: CAC prophet begs Makinde as court remands Agidigbo FM owner, Ooni’s ex-wife Odili also noted that Fubara’s leadership had brought stability and joy to Rivers residents, particularly civil servants, The Punch reported. Justice Mary Odili, in her remarks, referred to Governor Fubara as an "emancipator," acknowledging that he had fulfilled a significant role in Rivers State. She pledged her family’s continuous support for his administration, reaffirming their commitment to his success. APC warns Fubara against blackmailing Tinubu, Wike In another development, Legit.ng reported that the APC reacted to the recent judgment stopping allocation to Rivers state. APC said it would stand by the court's judgment according to “Sections 120, 121, and 122" of the constitution . The APC chairman in Rivers state, Sir Tony Okocha, said the political crisis rocking the state was between Governor Sim Fubara and Nyesom Wike. PAY ATTENTION: Сheck out news that is picked exactly for YOU ➡️ find the “Recommended for you” block on the home page and enjoy! Source: Legit.ng
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov 22, 2024-- Today, the BlackRock closed-end funds listed below (each a “Fund,” and collectively the “Funds”) have announced changes to their monthly distribution amounts per share under their managed distribution plans (each, a “Plan”), as applicable, and declared their December distributions early. Each Fund has adopted a Plan to support a level monthly distribution of income, capital gains and/or return of capital. The Funds’ monthly distribution rates for December can be found below: Key Dates: Declaration- 11/22/2024 Ex- 12/16/2024 Record- 12/16/2024 Payable- 12/23/2024 Fund * Ticker Distribution Change From Prior Distribution ($) Change From Prior Distribution (%) BlackRock Enhanced Capital and Income Fund, Inc. CII $0.141000 $0.041500 42% BlackRock Enhanced Equity Dividend Trust BDJ $0.061900 $0.005700 10% BlackRock Enhanced Global Dividend Trust BOE $0.082700 $0.019700 31% BlackRock Enhanced International Dividend Trust BGY $0.042600 $0.008800 26% BlackRock Health Sciences Trust BME $0.262100 $0.049100 23% BlackRock Energy and Resources Trust BGR $0.097300 $0.021900 29% BlackRock Resources & Commodities Strategy Trust BCX $0.069700 $0.017900 35% BlackRock Utilities, Infrastructure & Power Opportunities Trust BUI $0.136000 $0.015000 12% BlackRock Science and Technology Trust BST $0.250000 - - * In order to comply with the requirements of Section 19 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), each of the Funds above posted to the DTC bulletin board and sent to its shareholders of record as of the applicable record date a Section 19 notice with the previous distribution payment. The Section 19 notice was provided for informational purposes only and not for tax reporting purposes. This information can be found in the “Closed-End Funds” section of www.blackrock.com . As applicable, the final determination of the source and tax characteristics of all distributions in 2024 will be made after the end of the year. The fixed amounts distributed per share are subject to change at the discretion of each Fund’s Board of Directors/Trustees. Under its Plan, each Fund will distribute all available investment income to its shareholders, consistent with its investment objectives and as required by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). If sufficient income (inclusive of net investment income and short-term capital gains) is not available on a monthly basis, a Fund will distribute long-term capital gains and/or return capital to its shareholders in order to maintain a level distribution. The Funds’ estimated sources of the distributions paid as of October 31, 2024 and for their current fiscal year are as follows: Estimated Allocations as of October 31, 2024 Fund Distribution Net Income Net Realized Short-Term Gains Net Realized Long-Term Gains Return of Capital CII $0.099500 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.099500 (100%) $0 (0%) BDJ $0.056200 $0.017422 (31%) $0 (0%) $0.038778 (69%) $0 (0%) BOE 1 $0.063000 $0.014884 (24%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.048116 (76%) BGY 1 $0.033800 $0.003015 (9%) $0 (0%) $0.030785 (91%) $0 (0%) BME 1 $0.213000 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.213000 (100%) $0 (0%) BGR 1 $0.075400 $0.015903 (21%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.059497 (79%) BCX 1 $0.051800 $0.011095 (21%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.040705 (79%) BUI 1 $0.121000 $0.001188 (1%) $0 (0%) $0.060793 (50%) $0.059019 (49%) BST $0.250000 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.250000 (100%) $0 (0%) Estimated Allocations for the Fiscal Year through October 31, 2024 Fund Distribution Net Income Net Realized Short-Term Gains Net Realized Long-Term Gains Return of Capital CII $0.995000 $0.059966 (6%) $0 (0%) $0.935034 (94%) $0 (0%) BDJ $0.562000 $0.329298 (59%) $0 (0%) $0.232702 (41%) $0 (0%) BOE 1 $0.630000 $0.170921 (27%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.459079 (73%) BGY 1 $0.338000 $0.085258 (25%) $0.023488 (7%) $0.207532 (62%) $0.021722 (6%) BME 1 $2.130000 $0.077558 (4%) $0 (0%) $0.890031 (42%) $1.162411 (54%) BGR 1 $0.666700 $0.263985 (40%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.402715 (60%) BCX 1 $0.518000 $0.199609 (39%) $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $0.318391 (61%) BUI 1 $1.210000 $0.253187 (21%) $0 (0%) $0.627127 (52%) $0.329686 (27%) BST $2.500000 $0 (0%) $0 (0%) $2.500000 (100%) $0 (0%) 1 The Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its income and net-realized capital gains in the current fiscal year; therefore, a portion of your distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the shareholder’s investment is paid back to the shareholder. A return of capital distribution does not necessarily reflect the Fund's investment performance and should not be confused with ‘yield’ or ‘income’. When distributions exceed total return performance, the difference will reduce the Fund’s net asset value per share. The amounts and sources of distributions reported are only estimates and are being provided to you pursuant to regulatory requirements and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon each Fund’s investment experience during the remainder of its fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. The Fund will send you a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year that will tell you how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes. Fund Performance and Distribution Rate Information: Fund Average annual total return (in relation to NAV) for the 5-year period ending on 9/30/2024 Annualized current distribution rate expressed as a percentage of NAV as of 9/30/2024 Cumulative total return (in relation to NAV) for the fiscal year through 9/30/2024 Cumulative fiscal year distributions as a percentage of NAV as of 9/30/2024 CII 12.91% 5.54% 13.90% 4.16% BDJ 9.41% 7.14% 13.76% 5.36% BOE 9.36% 5.93% 13.91% 4.45% BGY 9.07% 6.21% 11.08% 4.66% BME 10.37% 5.65% 12.22% 4.24% BGR 10.01% 6.34% 5.69% 4.14% BCX 11.53% 5.81% 6.53% 4.36% BUI 9.80% 5.94% 13.80% 4.46% BST 13.30% 7.94% 15.86% 5.96% Shareholders should not draw any conclusions about a Fund’s investment performance from the amount of the Fund’s current distributions or from the terms of the Fund’s Plan. The amount distributed per share under a Plan is subject to change at the discretion each Fund’s Board. Each Plan will be subject to ongoing review by the Board to determine whether the Plan should be continued, modified or terminated. The Board may amend the terms of a Plan or suspend or terminate a Plan at any time without prior notice to the Fund’s shareholders if it deems such actions to be in the best interest of the Fund or its shareholders. The amendment or termination of a Plan could have an adverse effect on the market price of the Fund's shares. About BlackRock BlackRock’s purpose is to help more and more people experience financial well-being. As a fiduciary to investors and a leading provider of financial technology, we help millions of people build savings that serve them throughout their lives by making investing easier and more affordable. For additional information on BlackRock, please visit www.blackrock.com/corporate Availability of Fund Updates BlackRock will update performance and certain other data for the Funds on a monthly basis on its website in the “Closed-end Funds” section of www.blackrock.com as well as certain other material information as necessary from time to time. Investors and others are advised to check the website for updated performance information and the release of other material information about the Funds. This reference to BlackRock’s website is intended to allow investors public access to information regarding the Funds and does not, and is not intended to, incorporate BlackRock’s website in this release. Forward-Looking Statements This press release, and other statements that BlackRock or a Fund may make, may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act, with respect to a Fund’s or BlackRock’s future financial or business performance, strategies or expectations. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words or phrases such as “trend,” “potential,” “opportunity,” “pipeline,” “believe,” “comfortable,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “current,” “intention,” “estimate,” “position,” “assume,” “outlook,” “continue,” “remain,” “maintain,” “sustain,” “seek,” “achieve,” and similar expressions, or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “may” or similar expressions. BlackRock cautions that forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties, which change over time. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and BlackRock assumes no duty to and does not undertake to update forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in forward-looking statements and future results could differ materially from historical performance. With respect to the Funds, the following factors, among others, could cause actual events to differ materially from forward-looking statements or historical performance: (1) changes and volatility in political, economic or industry conditions, the interest rate environment, foreign exchange rates or financial and capital markets, which could result in changes in demand for the Funds or in a Fund’s net asset value; (2) the relative and absolute investment performance of a Fund and its investments; (3) the impact of increased competition; (4) the unfavorable resolution of any legal proceedings; (5) the extent and timing of any distributions or share repurchases; (6) the impact, extent and timing of technological changes; (7) the impact of legislative and regulatory actions and reforms, and regulatory, supervisory or enforcement actions of government agencies relating to a Fund or BlackRock, as applicable; (8) terrorist activities, international hostilities, health epidemics and/or pandemics and natural disasters, which may adversely affect the general economy, domestic and local financial and capital markets, specific industries or BlackRock; (9) BlackRock’s ability to attract and retain highly talented professionals; (10) the impact of BlackRock electing to provide support to its products from time to time; and (11) the impact of problems at other financial institutions or the failure or negative performance of products at other financial institutions. Annual and Semi-Annual Reports and other regulatory filings of the Funds with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) are accessible on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov and on BlackRock’s website at www.blackrock.com , and may discuss these or other factors that affect the Funds. The information contained on BlackRock’s website is not a part of this press release. View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241122587141/en/ 1-800-882-0052 KEYWORD: NEW YORK UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: BANKING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FINANCE SOURCE: BlackRock Closed-End Funds Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 11/22/2024 05:23 PM/DISC: 11/22/2024 05:23 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241122587141/enFifty-seven percent of U.S. workers say they’re behind on their retirement savings, according to Bankrate’s 2024 Retirement Savings Survey . But no group says they’re behind more than Gen X. A whopping 68 percent of Gen X workers say they’re lagging when it comes to retirement savings. The first edge of Gen X, which ranges in age from 44 to 59, is on the cusp of retirement, and they still have time and a handful of strategies to significantly improve their savings and retirement. Here’s how Gen X — and plenty of other Americans — can turbocharge their savings. 7 ways Gen X can accelerate their retirement savings Gen X — and all Americans — can turbocharge their retirement savings, but basically all strategies focus on three major action categories: •Save and invest more •Invest in higher-return assets •Give yourself more time Those strategies are your tried-and-true ways to set up your retirement, and unfortunately, retirement savers have no silver bullets short of winning the lottery. Working with a financial advisor can help you make the smartest decisions for your retirement savings. 1. Set up that 401(k) plan If you haven’t done so, the fastest way to get started on saving for retirement is to set up your employer-sponsored 401(k) or 403(b) plan . These plans allow you to invest in high-return assets, and they defer or eliminate taxes, so you can compound your gains faster without the tax drag. The money is pulled straight from your paycheck and deposited directly into your account, meaning you set it up once and then your 401(k) plan takes care of all future withdrawals. The 401(k) plan comes in two varieties: the traditional 401(k) and the Roth 401(k) . The big difference is that the traditional plan allows your contributions to go in tax-free and you’ll pay taxes only when the money comes out of the account. In contrast, with the Roth 401(k), your contributions go in after-tax, but you won’t pay taxes again on any gains or withdrawals. 2. Max it out – then max out the catch-up contributions The 401(k) plan has a maximum annual contribution , and you should try to hit that level. For 2024, the maximum contribution is $23,000, but the amount rises to $23,500 in 2025. Those age 50 and over can add in an additional $7,500 catch-up contribution each year, too, so you can really sock away cash in your tax-advantaged account. That leading edge of Gen X will also soon be able to save even more each year in a 401(k), too. In 2025, the catch-up contribution for workers age 60 to 63 will rise to $11,250. 3. Get your full 401(k) employer match Most employers offer a matching contribution if you make a contribution to your 401(k). So if you make a deposit, they make a deposit. Employees can often get 3 to 5 percent of their salary as a match. This money is the easiest, safest return you’ll ever make, and experts advise workers to take full advantage, even if they can’t max out their annual contribution. The 401(k) matching funds can go into high-return investments , just like your regular contribution. 4. Invest more in stocks, less in bonds Beyond getting more savings into your investment accounts, you can invest in high-return assets such as stock funds, allowing you to compound your money faster. A diversified portfolio of stocks has outpaced bonds and other investments over time. So, it can make sense to invest more of your nest egg in these high-return assets, multiplying your greater savings even faster. For example, the S&P 500 stock index — a collection of hundreds of America’s top companies — has returned an average of about 10 percent annually over time, much more than you could typically earn from bonds. You can purchase the whole collection of stocks by buying an S&P index fund — most 401(k) plans offer them — and your returns will mirror whatever the index returns. The downside of investing more in stocks, however, is that they’re more volatile in the short term, so the returns can be lumpy, even though stocks are arguably the best long-term investment . 5. Give yourself more time before retirement Time is your biggest ally when it comes to investing. The more time you give yourself to invest in high-return assets, the greater your wealth is likely to be. If you can delay tapping your retirement account for longer, you’ll be able to compound your gains even more. The younger cohort of Gen X has an advantage here, and the extra years before retirement can really accelerate the total amount of money they’re able to accumulate. Even five years can make an enormous difference if you’re really dedicated to saving more. The leading edge of Gen X has less time to compound money but can make a serious effort, even if they don’t have the luxury of time. For most, that means working longer. But this avenue offers two advantages: the ability to save more and not tap limited savings, giving your money more chance to compound. Every year you can delay, the greater the potential savings. 6. Full retirement plan? Consider other account types So you’ve maxed out your 401(k) retirement plan. There’s no need to stop there. Any American with earned income can contribute to an IRA (although your income level will affect tax deductibility), whether they have a 401(k) account or not. And you can always open a taxable brokerage account, where you can also invest in high-return stock funds. An IRA is similar to a 401(k) in several ways. With a traditional IRA, you can invest on a pre-tax basis, meaning you’ll pay no tax on contributions. Taxes come out only when you withdraw funds later. In contrast, a Roth IRA allows you to contribute with after-tax money, but the money can compound with no taxes, and withdrawals in retirement are tax-free. The best brokers for stocks can help you find strong stock funds that can multiply your money. 7. Skip prepaying the mortgage and other non-retirement savings If you’re serious about building your retirement savings, other savings and expenses have to take a back seat. Prepaying a mortgage, for example, may not be a great decision, since it ties up cash in your house and you’re unable to invest it in higher-return investments. Similarly, if you’re saving money for a child’s education through a 529 plan, it’s important to focus on retirement. A financial advisor can help you prioritize your savings and make the smartest decisions for your retirement. Bottom line With some serious concerns about the long-term solvency of Social Security , Gen X cannot take it for granted that they’ll have the same level of income that previous generations have had. Therefore, it’s vital that Gen X take advantage of their remaining working years to get their finances in order. ____ Editorial Disclaimer: All investors are advised to conduct their own independent research into investment strategies before making an investment decision. In addition, investors are advised that past investment product performance is no guarantee of future price appreciation. ©2024 Bankrate.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Sault native Ken Warmington is living his professional dream in the food industry as the co-owner/operator of Maple Leaf Meats. However, he’s living the dream far away from Canada — the Land of the Maple Leaf — operating a popular food truck and selling his original barbecue sauce in Australia. He sells burgers, ribs and chicken wings from his food truck with wife Angela in Yarraville, seven miles from Melbourne. “They’re the best chicken wings in Melbourne," Warmington said in an interview with SooToday, while visiting relatives and friends in the Sault for Christmas. "We do about 1.7 tonnes of chicken wings a year. We can do 105 burgers in an hour at our top speed." The Warmingtons also make, bottle and sell their Maple Leaf Meats sauces in three flavours — Tomato Sauce, Backyard BBQ Sauce and Maple BBQ Sauce — from a factory in the Melbourne area. The maple syrup is imported from Canada. “We make our sauces from scratch," Warmington said. "We’ve gotten a bit of a cult following. The sauce is all natural. It’s very flavourful, done the right way with no nasties. It’s just a great product. It’s not sweet, it’s savoury. It’s not spicy, it’s peppery." Production of the sauces is done in an environmentally-conscious way, he emphasized. “We make a point of using glass bottles instead of plastic bottles and we want to use solar panels for our factory,” Warmington said. Sales of Maple Leaf Meats sauces have been good. Warmington envisions moving away from the food truck side of the food industry and concentrating on getting his sauces sold through Australian supermarket chains as well as Amazon. “I have a passion for the quality we put out and it’s about the good feedback that we get. That’s what drives me every day. I have a lot of interests but cooks are a different bunch and I'm one of them. I’m passionate about food and it drives me,” Warmington said. Though now a success in the food industry, Warmington has had an interesting life story with several career changes. A Korah Collegiate graduate, he moved away from the Sault at the age of 19 to attend Montreal’s Dawson Institute of Photography. As a photographer he produced portraits of clients and took shots of live bands. His introduction to the food industry came when he began working as a waiter at Montreal's Dundees Bar and Grill to supplement his income. Moving away from photography, Warmington worked hard and became manager of both Dundees locations in Montreal within months. “I got really passionate about food. There were some great guys who worked there and taught me what I needed to know about steak. I loved watching the cooks in that kitchen. I loved the excitement of the kitchen.” While involved in restaurant management, Warmington also developed an interest in aviation. “A friend of mine took me up on a flight and from there my passion shifted to flying planes. I got my pilot’s license and then I worked as an apprentice aircraft mechanic working on planes.” Working in two careers — the restaurant industry and aviation — took a toll on his health. “I burnt myself out and in the process developed Type 1 diabetes," he recalled. "I was down to 44 kilos (97 pounds). It was a devastating blow. I had to stop everything. I came back to the Sault for a period and recovered for a few weeks. I began using insulin. It was a very challenging time." Not content to stay still for long, Warmington found yet another interest and began working for Optimal Robotics, an information technology firm that produces self-checkout systems for retailers. “I was training engineers how to repair and maintain them. I travelled to every state in the U.S. and it was fantastic," Warmington said. As an Optimal Robotics employee, Warmington attended a trade show in Australia in 2003. “They signed us up for a three-month contract to work with Coles, the second largest supermarket chain in Australia," Warmington said. "I worked in Melbourne and Sydney. I got really excited about Melbourne. When I landed in Melbourne I knew I was never going back to Montreal.” He soon traded white Canadian snow for white Australian beach sand. “Australians are very, very similar to Canadians. The accent may be considerably different but they’re very patient, accepting and supportive. You feel it the second you get there,” Warmington said. His return to the food industry came when he met his wife Angela. Interestingly, Angela wanted to get into the restaurant business. “We searched and searched for a restaurant to buy but the market at the time was exceptional in terms of cost. People wanted a million dollars for a cafe. But this little food truck, a 1976 Volkswagen, came around Melbourne. I had a conversation with the owner and I was sold on it,” Warmington said. He purchased the food truck and Maple Leaf Meats was born in 2016. “It’s been wonderful,” Warmington said, stating he loves the coziness of serving regular customers from his truck. “It’s like a bartender who has that engagement with customers. They like their regular customers. It becomes a community. It’s remarkably gratifying to serve them food and talk with them.” Warmington’s business survived exceptionally severe COVID-19 lockdown conditions enforced by Australia’s government. “Melbourne had probably the worst lockdowns in the world. You couldn’t move five kilometres from your house. People would dob you if you left your house. But we were considered an essential service and we left the house to operate the food truck. We were very successful during COVID, trading about two kilometres from our house. We had the food delivered to our houses. We prepared it at home and we still operated the food truck.” Warmington is now in his early 50s and has lived in Australia for 20 years. But will the Sault always be home? “Yes, always," he said. "Funny enough I miss the cold in winter. The other day it was minus 18 and it was sunny. It was brilliant. To me it was a perfect winter day. I don’t like the slushy days but I do miss the cold. I’m nostalgic about it. When you come back to Sault Ste. Marie it’s still the same. I love it and I enjoy visiting the Sault.” More information on Maple Leaf Meats and its sauces can be found on the company’s website .CHICAGO, Nov. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A plaintiff representing nationwide consumers has filed a class-action complaint against Set Forth Inc., an administrative services provider and processor of debt relief programs. The complaint alleges the company failed to properly notify consumers after cybercriminals breached Set Forth’s databases and purloined credit reports, loan applications, bank statements, and other highly sensitive information from more than 1.5 million consumers. According to the complaint filed in the U.S. District Court in Chicago, Set Forth and its business partner, Centrex, learned of the massive breach as early as May 21, 2024, but for unexplained reasons, opted to withhold the information from consumers for more than five months. “We are speaking with consumers who are absolutely livid with Forth’s decision to keep news of the breach from them,” said Elizabeth Fegan, managing partner of FeganScott and one of the attorneys representing the plaintiffs. “Considering it takes just a few seconds and a few keystrokes for a cybercriminal to empty a bank account once armed with account numbers and social security numbers, we are eager to learn why Forth opted to sit mute after learning of the breach.” The complaint also alleges that once Forth decided to alert consumers, the company intentionally downplayed the severity of the breach, failing to provide details, including whether the breach was part of a ransom attack or whether consumers’ data was available for sale on the dark web. According to Fegan, companies are responsible for safeguarding consumer data, but failing in that, those companies have a moral imperative to warn. “Forth had an iron-clad obligation to raise its hand, admit the breach, and give its customers a chance to get ahead of the bad actors, and they failed,” Fegan added. Set Forth operates its principal place of business in Schaumburg, Illinois. FeganScott is joined by Cotchett Pitre & McCarthy LLP, Clapp & Lauinger LLP, and Wynne Law Firm to represent affected consumers. Consumers who are Forth or Centrex customers or those who received notice that their data was compromised are urged to contact FeganScott to learn more about their rights. About FeganScott FeganScott is a national class action law firm dedicated to helping victims of consumer fraud, sexual abuse, and discrimination. The firm is championed by acclaimed veteran class action attorneys who have successfully recovered $1 billion for victims nationwide. FeganScott is committed to pursuing successful outcomes with integrity and excellence while holding the responsible parties accountable. Case no. 1:24-cv-11974 Media Contact: Mark Firmani Feganscottpr@firmani.com
World juniors: Former Ottawa 67 scores in OT as Finland upsets U.S.A. at a packed CTCPrince Louis Receives Unique Gift From Young Admirer On Christmas Day
NEW YORK — Nebraska football writer Luke Mullin offers his extra points from the Husker football team's 20-15 bowl game win over Boston College on Saturday. Play of the game: Rahmir Johnson's fourth-down conversion late in the fourth quarter. On a play where Nebraska needed to gain 1 yard to ice the game, Johnson came up with 11 instead and gained a first down that the Huskers simply needed to have. Had he been stopped short, Boston College could've gotten a chance to come all the way back for a win, but Johnson ensured that didn't happen. Turning point: Boston College's missed field goal in the first quarter. Having intercepted a Dylan Raiola pass, the Eagles drove into Nebraska territory and had a chance to take a 3-0 lead. When the drive stalled out and BC's long field goal try missed, momentum was back on NU's side, where it remained for much of the game. Quotable: "I don't think you should say 6-7 (record), that's such a miserable thought right now. Let's be positive, guys, we just won a bowl game!" Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule on what it meant to end the season with a win. Game ball: Rahmir Johnson. The MVP of the bowl game certainly deserves a game ball, and Johnson earned it as the hometown hero playing in front of family and friends. The sixth-year senior played one of his best games as a Husker in his final game with the team. Game ball: The entire Nebraska defense. The final score shows that it was a close game, and it's only that way because of Nebraska's ability to stop Boston College inside its own territory. A below-average game from the Husker defense could've led to a BC win instead, but Nebraska played at a high level and won the game because of it. Hat tip: To Dylan Raiola, who made big passes and gained key yardage with his legs when the situation required it. An early interception didn't do much to detract from Raiola's performance as the true freshman led Nebraska to a win. Questionable: There wasn't much to complain about, but Nebraska's decision to attempt a fake field goal might just warrant it. Given that the Huskers had already converted a fake punt, Boston College was bound to be alert for the chance of a fake and indeed it was. There was no issue with going for the try, but Nebraska would've been better served by keeping its offense on the field rather than trying some trickery once again. Tone-setter: Jahmal Banks' one-handed catch. While it didn't lead to any points, Banks' grab showed that Nebraska was going to go after the one-on-one matchup that BC afforded it. The Huskers made great use of those situations to move the ball all game long. 10: Different Huskers who caught a pass on Saturday, including defensive back Isaac Gifford. 7: Consecutive Boston College drives which ended without points to begin the game. 2-for-2: Punter Brian Buschini's passing statistics this season, having thrown for 38 yards on his two tries. 7: Tackles for a loss recorded by the Nebraska defense, three of which being quarterback sacks. 3,290: Days since Nebraska's last bowl game win during the 2015 season. Get local news delivered to your inbox!USA News Group Commentary Issued on behalf of Oncolytics Biotech Inc. VANCOUVER, BC , Dec. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- USA News Group News Commentary – The American Cancer Society has published its Advances in Oncology – 2024 Research Highlights , underscoring major strides in cancer research and ongoing innovation. However, the optimism is tempered by a troubling finding: a significant global rise in early-onset colorectal cancer cases . This unsettling trend comes as the medical community grapples with the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. A recent Nature article revealed how disruptions in cancer care—particularly delays in screenings, diagnoses, and treatments—have likely exacerbated the progression of advanced disease, diminished survival rates, and complicated long-term data analysis. Still, the oncology field continues to push forward with promising developments emerging from key innovators like O ncolytics Biotech Inc. (NASDAQ: ONCY) (TSX: ONC), Cardiff Oncology, Inc. (NASDAQ: CRDF), Personalis, Inc. (NASDAQ: PSNL), Tempus AI, Inc. (NASDAQ: TEM), and Checkpoint Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: CKPT). The article continued: Additionally, the American Cancer Society has spotlighted an alarming rise in cancer incidence and mortality among younger age groups. Analysts at Exactitude Consultancy anticipate that the global Cancer Immunotherapy Market will expand at a robust 12.84% CAGR, reaching $258.22 billion by 2031 —a clear indicator of oncology's rapid growth and critical importance. Oncolytics Biotech® to Present Promising Pelareorep Data in Pancreatic and Anal Cancers at ASCO GI Symposium Oncolytics Biotech Inc. (NASDAQ: ONCY) (TSX: ONC), a leading clinical-stage company specializing in immunotherapy for oncology, today announced the presentation of two data sets through two abstracts showcasing pelareorep's potential in difficult-to-treat gastrointestinal cancers, which were accepted and will be presented at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium in San Francisco January 23-25, 2025 . "We are enthusiastic about pelareorep's applicability across multiple gastrointestinal cancer indications, including pancreatic and anal cancer," said Tom Heineman , M.D., Ph.D., Chief Medical Officer of Oncolytics . "Pelareorep engages patients' immune systems to help make commonly used chemotherapies and checkpoint inhibitors, such as atezolizumab, more effective in fighting cancer. This offers the promise of delaying disease progression and improving survival in patients with these devasting diseases. Given the versatility of pelareorep, we see multiple clinical and regulatory options for bringing this promising medicine to patients." Oncolytics will present two key data sets from the GOBLET study, with preliminary safety and tumor response results for the relapsed anal carcinoma cohort treated with pelareorep and atezolizumab presented in Poster Session C on January 25, 2025 , from 7:00 to 7:55 a.m. PT . Additionally, results from the safety run-in phase for first-line metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma patients treated with pelareorep, modified FOLFIRINOX, with and without atezolizumab will be presented in Poster Session B on January 24, 2025 , from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. PT . Both abstracts will be available on the ASCO Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium website at 5:00 p.m. ET on January 21, 2025 . CONTINUED... Read this and more news for Oncolytics Biotech at: https://usanewsgroup.com/2023/10/02/the-most-undervalued-oncolytics-company-on-the-nasdaq/ In other recent industry developments and happenings in the market include: Cardiff Oncology, Inc. (NASDAQ: CRDF), a clinical-stage biotechnology company leveraging PLK1 inhibition to develop novel therapies across a range of cancers, recently announced positive initial data from CRDF-004, a randomized, Phase 2 clinical trial evaluating onvansertib in combination with standard-of-care (SoC) in patients with first-line RAS-mutated metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Efficacy and safety data are for all evaluable patients as of a November 26, 2024 , data cut-off date, and all efficacy data are determined by a blinded, independent central review (BICR) of each patient's tumor scan. "We are highly encouraged by the robust efficacy signal and favorable safety profile observed with onvansertib plus standard-of-care from the first 30 evaluable patients in our randomized first-line RAS-mutated mCRC CRDF-004 trial," said Fairooz Kabbinavar, MD, FACP, Chief Medical Officer of Cardiff Oncology . "Our data shows an objective response rate of 64% in patients receiving the 30 mg dose of onvansertib in combination with standard of care, significantly higher than the 33% objective response rate observed in the control arms of standard of care alone. In addition, as can be seen in the spider plots, we are observing deeper tumor response in patients receiving the 30mg dose of onvansertib compared to those receiving the 20mg dose with similar safety profiles for both doses." Personalis, Inc. (NASDAQ: PSNL), a developer of advanced cancer genomic tests and analytics, and Tempus AI, Inc. (NASDAQ: TEM), an AI-powered healthcare technology company, recently announced they've expanded their commercial relationship. Both companies agreed in November 2023 to collaborate and bring ultra-sensitive MRD testing to market and launched their efforts at the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting. Tempus is serving as the exclusive commercial diagnostic partner for Personalis' ultra-sensitive tumor-informed MRD product, NeXT Personal® Dx, for broad patient adoption in breast and lung cancers, and for immunotherapy monitoring across all solid tumors. "While we already offer NeXT Personal through our own biopharma channel, we are pleased to leverage Tempus' integrated platform as well for these biopharma customers who desire to combine NeXT Personal with other Tempus products," said Chris Hall , CEO of Personalis . "We believe the expansion of the relationship with Tempus will accelerate market penetration of our leading ultra-sensitive MRD platform and allow us to better capitalize on the opportunity." Under this expanded relationship, Tempus will be enabled to offer Personalis' NeXT Personal MRD product to pharmaceutical and biotech customers who wish to bundle MRD testing with other Tempus offerings in a given study. Checkpoint Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: CKPT), a commercial-stage immunotherapy and targeted oncology company focused on novel treatments for patients with solid tumor cancers, recently announced that the FDA approved its UNLOXCYTTM (cosibelimab-ipdl) for the treatment of adults with metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) or locally advanced cSCC who are not candidates for curative surgery or curative radiation. UNLOXCYT is the first and only programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) blocking antibody to receive FDA marketing approval for this indication. "[This] FDA approval of UNLOXCYT – the first marketing approval for our company – is a significant milestone both for Checkpoint and for patients with advanced cSCC," said James Oliviero , President and CEO of Checkpoin t. "This approval marks Checkpoint's transformation to a commercial-stage company, with the opportunity to compete in a U.S. market estimated to exceed $1 billion annually, where we believe UNLOXCYT offers a differentiated treatment option versus available therapies by binding to PD-L1, rather than programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1), to release the inhibitory effects of PD-L1 on the anti-tumor immune response. Additionally, UNLOXCYT has demonstrated the ability to induce antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), another potential differentiating feature of the drug compared to existing marketed therapies for patients with cSCC." Source: https://usanewsgroup.com/2024/09/21/is-oncolytics-biotech-the-markets-most-undervalued-cancer-opportunity/ CONTACT: USA NEWS GROUP info@usanewsgroup.com (604) 265-2873 DISCLAIMER: Nothing in this publication should be considered as personalized financial advice. We are not licensed under securities laws to address your particular financial situation. No communication by our employees to you should be deemed as personalized financial advice. Please consult a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decision. This is a paid advertisement and is neither an offer nor recommendation to buy or sell any security. We hold no investment licenses and are thus neither licensed nor qualified to provide investment advice. The content in this report or email is not provided to any individual with a view toward their individual circumstances. USA News Group is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Market IQ Media Group, Inc. ("MIQ"). MIQ has been paid a fee for Oncolytics Biotech Inc. advertising and digital media from the company directly. There may be 3rd parties who may have shares of Oncolytics Biotech Inc., and may liquidate their shares which could have a negative effect on the price of the stock. This compensation constitutes a conflict of interest as to our ability to remain objective in our communication regarding the profiled company. Because of this conflict, individuals are strongly encouraged to not use this publication as the basis for any investment decision. The owner/operator of MIQ own shares of Oncolytics Biotech Inc. which were purchased in the open market, and reserve the right to buy and sell, and will buy and sell shares of Oncolytics Biotech Inc. at any time without any further notice commencing immediately and ongoing. We also expect further compensation as an ongoing digital media effort to increase visibility for the company, no further notice will be given, but let this disclaimer serve as notice that all material, including this article, which is disseminated by MIQ has been approved by Oncolytics Biotech Inc.; this is a paid advertisement, we currently own shares of Oncolytics Biotech Inc. and will buy and sell shares of the company in the open market, or through private placements, and/or other investment vehicles. While all information is believed to be reliable, it is not guaranteed by us to be accurate. Individuals should assume that all information contained in our newsletter is not trustworthy unless verified by their own independent research. Also, because events and circumstances frequently do not occur as expected, there will likely be differences between the any predictions and actual results. Always consult a licensed investment professional before making any investment decision. Be extremely careful, investing in securities carries a high degree of risk; you may likely lose some or all of the investment.
The 2025 CES in the United States is about to unveil a brand-new chapter in the future intelligent home gardening LAS VEGAS , Dec. 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- UBHOME, a sub-brand of UBTECH Robotics, announced an intelligent service robot in collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. The Robotic Mower M10 is a revolutionary smart lawn mower announced at the 2025 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in the United States . This product is powered by the Qualcomm® RB1 Robotics Platform, showcases UBHOME's rich experience in robot research and development, and focuses on solving the pain points of traditional lawn-mowing equipment, providing users with a worry-free and labor-saving smart gardening experience, and creates a new model of gardening intelligence. User-Oriented: The All-New Convenience Brought by the Smart Lawn Mower to Life The Robotic Mower M10 is not only a high performance tool but also an upgrade of the smart lifestyle. In response to the pain points of users when using traditional lawn-mowing equipment, this product offers a series of practical functions, bringing brand-new convenience to home gardening: Wireless and Borderless Mowing : There is no need for cumbersome boundary wire installation anymore. The device relies on accurate environmental perception and navigation technology to independently plan the work area, allowing users to use it right out of the box, saving installation time and energy. Automatic Mowing, Saving Time and Effort : The device can automatically complete the lawn mowing work according to the preset schedule or real-time instructions, enabling users to manage the lawn care through delegation to the mower. Wide Coverage and Stable Signal : It supports a large-scale signal connection of up to 130,000 square meters. Even for extremely large courtyards , stable operation can be ensured, and there is no need to worry about signal loss. Real-time Online, in-control Anytime : Through APP remote control and real-time monitoring, users can adjust the mowing plan or check the device status at any time, managing the courtyard work as they like. The combination of these functions not only greatly simplifies the complexity of mowing work but also liberates users from repetitive physical labor, allowing them to focus on enjoying the wonderful moments of life. UBHOME: In-depth Layout in Smart Home UBHOME is a brand under UBTECH Robotics that focuses on providing smart solutions for families. As a world-leading robot enterprise, UBTECH, with its strong R&D strength and technological accumulation, has successfully launched Walker, China's first commercial bipedal human-sized humanoid robot. The launch of the Robotic Mower M10 by UBHOME this time is an important step in its layout in the smart home field. Relying on UBTECH's technological accumulation in robots and its in-depth understanding of user needs, the Robotic Mower M10 achieves the best mowing effect through environmental recognition and dynamic adjustment. Whether it is complex terrain, steep slopes, or high requirements for fine mowing, it can perform perfectly, demonstrating its excellent technical capabilities and brand commitment. Powered by Qualcomm Technologies, Facilitating Intelligent Upgrading As a global leader in wireless technology and edge intelligence, Qualcomm Technologies provides cutting-edge technical support for the Robotic Mower M10, including intelligent edge computing platforms, dynamic path planning, and environmental perception technologies. These technologies ensure that the device can operate efficiently in various environments, providing users with a precise and efficient smart experience. The Robotic Mower M10 utilizes the Qualcomm RB1 Robotics Platform to ensure the superior operation of the Robotic Mower M10 in large-scale courtyards, laying a solid foundation for realizing smart life. Industry Significance and Trend: Promoting the Development of Gardening Intelligence With the continuous increase in the demand for home intelligence, the market for smart gardening equipment is in a period of rapid development. As a typical representative of this trend, the smart lawn mower not only meets consumers' pursuit of a convenient lifestyle but also provides a direction for the transformation of the gardening industry from tool manufacturing to smart services. The product released by UBHOME not only fills the gap in the high-performance lawn-mowing equipment market but also sets a new industry benchmark. Through the multiple advantages of wireless , real-time connection, and fully automated operation, it endows home gardening with new value, making users no longer regard mowing as a burden but feel the convenience and fun brought by technology. Innovation Hand in Hand, Co-creating Smart Life The collaboration between UBHOME and Qualcomm Technologies showcases a strong collaboration of technology and innovation. Both parties are committed to bringing more convenient and efficient life experiences to consumers through technological innovation. At the 2025 CES, UBHOME and Qualcomm Technologies will showcase the innovative functions and application scenarios of this Robotic Mower M10. About UBHOME UBHOME is a brand under UBTECH Robotics, focusing on providing smart solutions for families. UBTECH is a world-leading robot enterprise dedicated to the research and development and application of artificial intelligence and robot technology and has successfully served more than 900 enterprise-level customers in more than 50 countries around the world. Media Contact Information For more information, please contact: UBHOME Brand Team: mbu-sales@ubtrobot.com Qualcomm is a trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated. Qualcomm branded products are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ubhome-collaborates-with-qualcomm-to-release-the-smart-lawn-mower-co-creating-a-new-era-of-smart-life-302339211.html SOURCE UBTECH ROBOTICS CORP LTD
KUWAIT: Zain Group, a leading provider of innovative technologies and digital lifestyle and ICT solutions operating in eight markets across the Middle East and Africa, announces the end of another successful year for Zain Esports, the e-gaming arm of the Group. During 2024, Zain Esports undertook 50 tournaments and activations across Zain operations in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, and Iraq. Since first launching in 2021, Zain Esports has attracted around 70,000 participants and garnered over 160 million social media impressions regionally. Moreover, Zain Esports currently has 210,000 social media followers and during 2024, over 820,000 unique viewers watched Zain Esports tournaments streamed live on Twitch and YouTube. Zain has invested heavily in network upgrades in recent years, with gaming being one of the most significant business use cases for 5G and fiber-to-the-home (FTTH). Zain was able to identify this opportunity early on, working to cultivate the e-gaming community across the Middle East in general, and within its markets of operation in particular. This investment in network and resources has resulted in the development of a vibrant e-gaming ecosystem across regional markets, with Zain Esports leading and involved in multiple gaming activities centered around the main esports titles, namely Fortnite, Counter Strike, Call of Duty, PUBG Mobile, League of Legends, FC 24 (previously FIFA), Valorant, etc: Region wide: Notably during 2024, Zain Esports partnered with Riot games in more than 15 venues across eight countries to launch the League of Legend MENA servers that saw more than five-thousand gamers participate and received more than 45 million impressions. Kuwait: Zain Esports conducted multiple offline FC (football) tournaments in Kuwait throughout 2024 with hundreds of gamers competing in the 62 matches that were played. Saudi Arabia- Zain Esports local arm PLAYHERA continued to support the Saudi gaming system Bahrain - Zain Esports partnered with universities to launch the Zain University League within the Kingdom, seeing more than 300 up and coming gamers participate in various tournaments and workshops held in the recently established Zain Esports Lab within the Zain HQ offices. Jordan - Zain partnered with the First Jordan Gaming and Esports Summit, as well as being the main sponsor of the Jordanian Esports Federation- collaborating in multiple tournaments across the year. Zain Esports in Jordan holds regular activations at its new state-of-the-art venue, the Dome, in partnership with gamerg.gg, a Jordanian esports company specializing in tournament organization. Iraq - Zain Esports participated in the Esports World Cup 2024 Tekken 8 held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Additionally, Zain Esports in Iraq was a strategic partner of the Iraq International Information & Telecommunication Technology Expo (ITEX), supporting its monthly events of esports tournaments. Malek Hammoud, Zain Group Chief Investment and Digital Officer said, “Gamers around the world are a passionate community, and in the Middle East this is no different. Zain remains committed to supporting the growth and development of this exciting, often youth-oriented activity, and we are extremely grateful to our partners and collaborators with whom we organize events, which capture the imagination and translate into successful opportunities for Zain Esports. All our stakeholders are impressed in how Zain Esports has evolved to become an integral part of the Zain’s data services across our footprint, with its popularity and reach having a positive impact on brand recognition and customer acquisition.” Beyond the brand and financial benefits accruing from participating in online gaming for the players, Zain’s activities in this area support operating companies to connect with the gaming community and provide data and similar high-value services. Spectators are also able watch the gaming and content live over Zain Esports social media channels, predominantly Twitch and YouTube, as well as over regular posts on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. With the continual investments in 5G and FTTH network upgrades across its markets, Zain Esports will be empowered to offer more appealing activities and competitions in gaming during 2025 and beyond.