Algoma Steel Group to Participate in the Inaugural B. Riley Securities Energy Convergence ConferencePHOENIX – Sports gambling operators are using artificial intelligence to track and limit problem gambling exposure for their users, but the introduction of this technology and the use of personal data also raises questions about whether it could be used for the wrong reasons. The sports gambling world is still largely unregulated, relying mostly on self-governance, which raises the possibility of a conflict of interest when it comes to responsible gambling. Access to bettors’ data, behavior and habits opens the door to the potential for predatory behavior by sports-gambling operators. Timothy Fong, co-director of the UCLA Gambling Studies Program, believes that AI could spell trouble for gamblers susceptible to addiction, who could be easier targets for sportsbooks. “It’s really the use of AI that creates predatory scenarios, where people who are already vulnerable because of mental health issues or a gambling addiction could be manipulated or targeted without their knowledge,” Fong said. Sportsbooks are looking for ways to utilize AI, and among them is to personalize the betting experience for users through incentives or by providing specific information based on that person’s gaming habits. Shane Kraus, a clinical psychologist and associate professor at UNLV, is skeptical about the use of AI to promote safe gambling and added that he is unaware of this practice. “AI in the gambling space tailors incentives and better understands a player’s interest, so they’re ensuring the options that they are feeding to a player are going to resonate with them,” Kraus said. “It’s going to want to, A, make them engage and, B, stay on longer again.” In fact, AI can be used to essentially attract new bettors. Emerging AI technologies like SharpLink’s C4 Sports Betting Conversion engine, for instance, are used to convert sports fans into bettors, which is done by determining the best personalized betting offers and experience for the user based on their behaviors, past and present. For example, a user might receive wagering offers that are based on their favorite team, sport or player. In a guest column published on Sportico by SharpLink CEO Robert Phythian, he said that SharpLink, a company previously partnered with the now-defunct SaharaBets and currently with BetMGM, utilizes AI in their C4 engine to keep users engaged longer. Phythian said that in a sports betting category such as “Bets for You,” the technology might suggest “Because you bet on X,” to prompt a similar wager. Or, “Those who bet on X, also bet on Y,’ to suggest another bet. “Fans will be presented with a personalized experience based on the preferences they either explicitly state in their profile or implicitly demonstrate by their behavior and consumption patterns,” he said. Studies have shown that personalizing user experiences is beneficial for organizations that are trying to drive revenue. Research from European sports data organization LSports shows that 72% of sportsbooks surveyed listed a “personalized player experience” as the biggest factor in retention rates. Cost of problem gambling Fong sees a pitfall with keeping players engaged longer on platforms. While longer engagement translates to a bigger profit for the sportsbooks, the longer gamblers place bets, the more likely it could be that they develop a gambling habit, which can lead to gambling disorders. “The real story, of course, is what percentage of profits generated by the casino industry is on the backs of people with this disease?” Fong said. “I’ve seen ranges anywhere from 10% up to 80% of the bottom line profits are on the backs of people with (a) gambling disorder.” A 2018 survey report conducted by the Minnesota Department of Human Services claimed that gambling revenue generated by individuals with gambling problems seemed to rest anywhere between 15% and 33%, based on outside data. It is hard to accurately quantify the scope of the issue because it is not a tracked metric, but a significant increase in calls to national problem gambling lines have been tracked, and that trend is also reflected in Arizona. Based on data obtained from the Arizona Department of Gaming, there were 280 problem gambling calls in 2021 between March and December. In 2023, the first full year of legal sports gambling in Arizona, there were 512 problem gambling calls between January and September, which is an increase of more than 82% over the 2021 sample – and in one less month. Further data provided by Telus and LifeWorks shows 185 helpline-specific calls between July 2020 and June 2021 to the Arizona Office of Problem Gambling, which increased to 619 calls from July 2022 to June 2023 – a 234% spike. The number of calls jumped to 687 in 2024. Research released in 2023 and conducted by Dr. Lia Nower of Rutgers University found that sports gamblers in New Jersey were more likely to develop anxiety, depression, substance abuse issues and problem gambling compared to non-sports gamblers. It also found that a small percentage of bettors, around 5%, were placing 70% of the bets, which Nower concludes “means the people losing the most money are the most essential to operator profits.” Nower found 14% of sports bettors from this study to have suicidal thoughts, while 10% acted on those thoughts. Coupled with the psychology of being a sports fan, personalization for sports gamblers can be troubling. Brianne-Doura Schawohl, a leading policy consultant on problem gambling issues, finds sports gambling is distinguished from other forms of wagering because sports is in its own realm. “What separates sports betting from so many other forms of gambling out there is it entices a consumer based on this concept of skill, based on ego and arrogance,” Schawohl said. “Then when you incentivize that with things like free play and bonus offers and attractive promotions that make it seem like there’s little to no risk – when gambling always has risks – it can become a dangerous scenario for people.” A 2013 study published in Science Daily found that betting experience or knowledge of a particular sport does not improve betting outcomes. “Their identity is tied to sports but that becomes a risk factor for people taking risks,” Kraus said of sports fans. “The emotional connection and their knowledge often comes back to bite them.” Sports betting regulation FanDuel CEO Amy Howe has been an advocate for using artificial intelligence, saying the company is making “huge investments” in the technology to detect problematic gambling. Critics are skeptical. “The reality is, more often than not, there is a lot of chatter or empty promises where operators will highlight things that they are capable of, but in the absence of mandatory regulations, they don’t do it,” Schawohl said. The Responsible Online Gaming Association, a coalition formed in early 2024 by most of the major sportsbook operators in the U.S., looks to support independent research and educational tools to prevent problem gambling. Each operator has pledged $20 million toward these efforts, which will help to develop a database of problem gamblers and to promote programs that address the issues. Questions remain about how independent this research will truly be, as self-regulation presents an opportunity for non-action, and how it will be used. Many sportsbooks have developed and integrated “responsible gaming” tools but there is evidence that those tools are rarely utilized by gamblers. Data from DraftKings and PSI on online bettors in Massachusetts in 2023 revealed that less than 3% of users utilize any type of responsible gaming tools, which corresponds with national data showing similar numbers. Nower claims less than 1% of bettors ages 21-24, a rapidly rising betting population, uses responsible gambling tools available on sites. States are also seemingly lagging behind when it comes to setting the tone for responsible gambling. A report released by the NCPG on state adherence to the Internet Responsible Gaming Standards found that, on average, only 32 out of 82 player-protection measures were fulfilled through state law and regulation across the United States. The IRGS is a comprehensive set of standards and guidelines for states to follow to promote safe gambling practices and protection for users from sportsbooks. The data indicates that states could be passing more laws to protect users from sportsbooks. Right now, the United States federal government does not recognize, fund or support anything to research, prevent or treat problem gambling. The NCPG estimates that around 9 million Americans suffer from gambling addiction and the “annual social cost” is about $14 billion. “The trends I’m seeing in the U.S. market are utilizing machine learning and AI solely for customer acquisition and retention, and I think that’s really caused the political climate to percolate to the surface,” Schawohl said. U.S. Rep. Paul Tonko, a Democrat from New York, recently initiated a comprehensive bill called the SAFE Bet Act that would set federal sports gambling standards for advertising, the use of AI and financial efficacy. If passed, sportsbooks would not be able to advertise during games or use “bonus” bets and “no sweat” bets as a way to engage users. It would also ban the use of AI to track behavior, provide microbets or individualize promotions. Another pending bill called the GRIT Act, proposed by Democratic U.S. Rep. Andrea Salinas of Oregon and Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat from Connecticut, would set aside 50% of the federal excise tax that comes from all sports gambling activity to spend toward problem-gambling research. This would be the first time the federal government would create a source of funding to research and treat issues related to gambling. But just like Tonko’s bill, the GRIT Act may not pass and is publicly opposed by the American Gaming Association. Sports betting regulation is also murky since states make money from sportsbook operations. Last year, states made a combined $2.5 billion from sports gambling tax revenue, which is an increase from $1.8 billion the previous year. In 2023, Arizona brought in around $34 million in sports gambling tax revenue, which is up from $28.5 million in 2022. This tax revenue is generally allocated to a state’s general fund that helps operate health services, human services, education, law enforcement and public safety, and other major day-to-day governmental operations. If the money from sports gambling does not go into the general fund, it can be used for specific purposes like problem gambling services and resources. Legalization of sports betting theoretically minimizes the harm done by off-market sportsbooks, allowing the government to control, or at least benefit from, the flow of money – which continues to grow each year. Fong believes the government would rather have a person lose money to “an above board gambling operator,” where it can at least recoup money through taxes that benefit the state, rather than allow the money to go straight to unlawful sportsbooks. Respond: Write a letter to the editor | Write a guest opinion Subscribe to stay connected to Tucson. 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MIAMI — Jonnu Smith had been so involved in the Miami Dolphins’ offense in recent weeks. But over the first 60 minutes of Sunday’s game against the New York Jets at Hard Rock Stadium, Smith appeared to be missing. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings. Get the latest sports news delivered right to your inbox six days a week.
The Telecommunications Authority of Fiji (TAF) made history at Tanoa Plaza, Suva, with the launch of its first-ever five-Year Strategic Plan (2025-2029). The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Communications Manoa Kamikamica officiated the event as chief guest, as the STRATEGIC PLAN outlined four core pillars: Regulatory Effectiveness, Service Delivery, Advocacy and Financial Sustainability. It was supported by strategic enablers focusing on People and Governance, Processes, and Technology. It aims to bridge the digital divide, stimulate innovation, and enhance Fiji’s position as the ICT hub of the Pacific. In launching the strategic plan, Mr Kamikamica said this milestone reflected TAF’s dedication to strengthening the telecommunications sector. He also said the strategic plan embodied a vision of a digitally connected Fiji, where every citizen has equitable access to technology and opportunities. “The plan’s emphasis on regulatory excellence, enhanced service delivery, advocacy for community needs, and financial sustainability is a testament to TAF’s alignment with the government’s vision of a digitally inclusive and empowered Fiji,” he said. “I am confident that TAF will collaborate effectively with key stakeholders to ensure the seamless implementation of this plan.” TAF’s chairman, David Eyre, said TAF charted a bold course towards a digitally inclusive future. “We look forward to executing this plan and being part of the transformative change, it will bring to Fiji and the Pacific. With the support of our stakeholders, TAF will turn these aspirations into measurable impacts for the people of Fiji.” TAF’s chief executive officer, Prit Chand, said they now had a clear and actionable roadmap to transform Fiji’s telecommunications sector. “This plan not only outlines our vision for a digitally connected Fiji but also ensures that every decision we make aligns with our long-term objectives. It enables us to manage resources effectively, embrace innovation, and address emerging challenges, ensuring we remain responsive and forward-thinking.” SOURCE: Telecommunications Authority of FijiCoolIT Systems Continues to Expand Manufacturing Capabilities
Themis Qi With US president-elect Donald Trump gearing to launch a fresh trade war, the mainland and Hong Kong should make changes more proactively and seek new opportunities in a multipolar world, Hong Kong leaders, scholars and economists say. The suggestions for growth were made at the 2024 China Macro Economy and Integration with the Greater Bay Area Forum organized by Sing Tao News Corporation (1105) in the city last Friday, which was attended by 500 government officials, business leaders and academics. Delivering a keynote speech, Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po said Hong Kong needs to transform itself by developing emerging industries including technology and healthcare while further strengthening its prowess in sectors such as financial services. Chan also said that the Northern Metropolis, which the government will work with the private sector to develop, will be the city's new collaboration base for technology and innovation with other cities from the Greater Bay Area. Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Christopher Hui Ching-yu highlighted the demand of emerging markets in a multipolar world, saying that Hong Kong can be an integrated service center to help global enterprises in financing, accounting and legal disputes, as the world's economy keeps growing. Commenting on Trump 2.0, Hui said: "As long as we do our best in Hong Kong 2.0, we are not afraid of any 2.0 or 3.0 form the outside." Sing Tao executive director and co-chief executive Cai Jin said Hong Kong, as the most international city in the GBA, needs to grasp the opportunities in the face of the ever-changing internal and external environment, and hoped the forum would help provide valuable insights to this end. Peking University vice president Wang Bo said careful thought must be given to ethics when accelerating the development and use of artificial intelligence. PKU Guanghua School of Management dean Liu Qiao pointed out that Sino-US rivalry is all about productivity, which is driven by the technology development, system reform and management improvements. He expects Trump's trade measures to be focused, but said China should still strengthen itself and should roll out more supportive policies in technology and innovation. As Beijing is set to make its 15th Five-Year Plan ending in 2030, Liu called on policymakers to think out of the box, pointing out that China is not a follower any more but an influencer, which means the country's industrial policy could impact the global economy. Moving on to the embattled property market, Liu proposed accelerating the conversion of commercial flats into subsidized homes which would free up about 30 percent more consumption power from people who would no longer be burdened by down payments and mortgages. Morgan Stanley chief China economist Robin Xing Ziqiang also forecast that more emphasis will be placed on consumption in the Central Economic Work Conference expected to kick off this Wednesday. He expects two major measures to be unveiled, including expanding the trade-in scheme to include more consumer goods such as smartphones, and more generous subsidies to childbearing families in a bid to stem the declining birth rate. Xing also called on China to roll out of more stimuli promptly instead of waiting for the National People's Congress in March, to maintain market confidence. If China wants to emerge out of deflation, Beijing may need to act more boldly with measures such as a 10 trillion yuan (HK$10.7 trillion) stimulus for social security and consumption, to help reduce living costs and boost prices, Xing told The Standard. China Construction Bank International managing director and head of macro research Cui Li said she is not too pessimistic about Trump's tariff threats, as any hikes in duties would impact US inflation while China's supply chain is flexible and cost-competitive. But in terms of technology, Cui said China has only one way to go: self-development. Within the GBA, Under Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Clement Woo Kin-man said the cities in the region must exploit the One Country Two Systems principle to make the market bigger, instead of worrying about internal competition. Ge Jun, the chief executive and co-chair of mainland enterprise resource-sharing platform operator Tojoy Holding, said Hong Kong holds the edge in its talent pool, which he thinks is vital in the high-quality development phase of the Belt and Road Initiative. The Airport Authority Hong Kong's commercial executive director Cissy Chan Ching-sze said Hong Kong aims to build an airport city to include shopping malls, an art ecosystem and a yacht bay to enrich the surroundings of the airport. Invest Hong Kong's global head of financial services, fintech and sustainability King Leung Hong-king highlighted that fund tokenization has been a huge market with the gains estimated to reach US$400 billion (HK$2.8 trillion) and he believed that associated innovation will help elevate Hong Kong's position as a top global market. Financial Services Development Council's director and head of policy research Rocky Tung Yat-ngok said Trump 2.0 will have an impact not only on Hong Kong but also other regions and nations, adding that the city should be well-prepared for the future to cement its role in global markets and grasp new opportunities.S&P/TSX composite down nearly 250 points, U.S. stock markets also fall8 marketing strategies that drive successful M&A
Kharar School of Eminence gets additional 6cr fundsNone
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EAGLE ELECTRONICS ANNOUNCES FORMATION OF STATE-OF-THE-ART ELECTRONICS MANUFACTURING FACILITY, $14MM OF FUNDING, AND CUSTOMER COMMITMENTSInvestment banks eye 2025 income boom as Trump drives deal rebound
CrossFit Market Overview and Leading Players: NOBULL, Born Primitive, CrossFit Fenix, MindBody, Under Armour, CrossFit LA, Reebok, Rogue Fitness 12-08-2024 09:37 PM CET | Sports Press release from: STATS N DATA CrossFit Market The CrossFit Market is a dynamic and rapidly evolving segment of the fitness industry, characterized by its emphasis on high-intensity functional training and community-driven workouts. This market encompasses a wide range of applications, including training programs, gyms, specialized equipment, apparel, supplements, and events. As of December 2024, the CrossFit Market continues to gain traction globally, driven by increasing health consciousness and the demand for innovative fitness solutions. Recent developments have significantly contributed to the growth of the CrossFit Market. Notably, technological advancements have led to the integration of digital platforms and applications that enhance the training experience for users. The rise of virtual training and fitness apps has made it easier for individuals to access CrossFit workouts from the comfort of their homes, further expanding the market's reach. Additionally, strategic collaborations between fitness brands and technology companies have resulted in the development of smart equipment and personalized training programs that cater to diverse fitness levels. You can access a sample PDF report here: https://www.statsndata.org/download-sample.php?id=376872 Key Growth Drivers and Trends Several critical factors are influencing the demand for CrossFit-related products and services. Chief among these is the increasing focus on sustainability, as consumers are becoming more aware of the environmental impact of their purchases. Brands that prioritize eco-friendly materials and practices are gaining favor among fitness enthusiasts, driving demand for sustainable apparel and equipment. Digitization is another vital driver of growth in the CrossFit Market. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into training programs is allowing for more personalized fitness experiences. AI-driven apps can analyze user performance and tailor workouts to individual needs, making fitness more accessible and effective. Additionally, product customization is becoming increasingly popular, with consumers seeking personalized gear and supplements that cater to their unique fitness goals. Emerging technologies are also shaping the future of the CrossFit Market. The adoption of wearable fitness technology, such as heart rate monitors and smartwatches, is enabling athletes to track their performance in real time. This data-driven approach is enhancing training efficiency and encouraging greater participation in CrossFit activities. Market Segmentation The CrossFit Market can be segmented into several categories, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of its dynamics: - By Type: - Training Programs - Gyms - Equipment - Apparel and Accessories - Supplements - Events and Competitions - By Application: - Individual Fitness - Group Fitness - Professional Athletes - Corporate Wellness Programs - Military and Law Enforcement Training - By Age Group: - 18-30 years - 31-45 years - 46-60 years - 60+ years - By Gender: - Male - Female - By Distribution Channel: - Online Platforms - Offline Retail - Direct Sales - Fitness Centers and Gyms Each segment presents unique opportunities and challenges, influencing the strategies adopted by market players. Get 30% Discount On Full Report: https://www.statsndata.org/ask-for-discount.php?id=376872 Competitive Landscape The CrossFit Market is characterized by robust competition, with several leading companies shaping its landscape. These companies are instrumental in driving innovation and setting trends: - NOBULL: Known for its high-quality footwear and apparel, NOBULL emphasizes performance and durability, catering to serious athletes. - Born Primitive: This brand combines functionality with style, offering a range of athletic wear designed for CrossFit enthusiasts. - CrossFit Fenix: A leader in training programs, CrossFit Fenix focuses on creating community-driven experiences that foster camaraderie and motivation. - MindBody: An innovative technology platform, MindBody connects fitness professionals with clients, streamlining the booking and payment process for CrossFit classes. - Under Armour: This global sports brand has made significant inroads in the CrossFit Market, offering a wide range of performance apparel and gear. - CrossFit LA: A pioneering gym that has set a standard for CrossFit training, CrossFit LA is known for its expert coaching and community engagement. - Reebok: As a long-time partner of CrossFit, Reebok develops specialized footwear and apparel tailored for CrossFit athletes. - Rogue Fitness: A leading supplier of CrossFit equipment, Rogue Fitness is renowned for its high-quality products and commitment to supporting the CrossFit community. - Life Fitness: This company offers a range of fitness equipment designed for both individual and group training, enhancing the CrossFit experience. - Strava: Known primarily as a fitness tracking app, Strava has become a crucial tool for CrossFit athletes to track their workouts and connect with others. - CrossFit Mayhem: Founded by renowned athlete Rich Froning, CrossFit Mayhem offers training programs and competitions that attract participants globally. - Fitstar: This app provides personalized workout plans, making it easier for individuals to engage with CrossFit training. - Wodify: A software platform designed for CrossFit gyms, Wodify helps manage memberships, workouts, and performance tracking. - SugarWOD: An app focused on community engagement, SugarWOD allows CrossFit athletes to log their workouts and share progress with friends. - EcoFit: This emerging brand emphasizes sustainability in fitness products, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. - CrossFit: The organization itself continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the market through its events, training certifications, and community-building efforts. - Katrin Davidsdottir: A two-time CrossFit Games champion, Katrin inspires many through her training programs and partnerships with fitness brands. - Nike: A global leader in sports apparel, Nike has expanded its offerings to include gear tailored for CrossFit athletes, enhancing its market presence. Each of these companies is contributing to the evolution of the CrossFit Market through product innovations, market expansions, and strategic partnerships. Opportunities and Challenges The CrossFit Market presents numerous opportunities for growth. Untapped regions, particularly in emerging markets, hold significant potential for expansion. As fitness awareness grows globally, companies have the chance to introduce CrossFit training and products to new demographics. Evolving consumer preferences are also creating opportunities for product development. There is a rising demand for fitness solutions that cater to diverse audiences, including older adults and those seeking low-impact workouts. Companies that can adapt to these changing needs are well-positioned for success. However, challenges persist within the market. Regulatory constraints related to health and safety in fitness facilities can hinder growth. Companies must navigate these regulations effectively to ensure compliance while delivering quality services. Operational inefficiencies, particularly in supply chain management, can also pose challenges. Companies need to streamline their operations to meet consumer demand promptly. Additionally, talent shortages in the fitness industry can affect the quality of training and customer service. Investing in training programs for fitness professionals can help mitigate this issue. Technological Advancements The CrossFit Market is witnessing a wave of technological advancements that are reshaping the way people engage with fitness. Artificial intelligence is at the forefront, driving innovations in personalized training programs and performance tracking. Fitness apps that utilize AI can analyze user data and provide tailored recommendations, enhancing the training experience for individuals at all levels. Virtual tools are also becoming increasingly popular, offering remote access to CrossFit workouts and coaching. This trend has gained momentum, especially in the wake of the pandemic, as people seek flexible and convenient fitness solutions. Virtual classes allow participants to engage with trainers and peers from anywhere, fostering a sense of community. The Internet of Things (IoT) is another transformative technology impacting the CrossFit Market. IoT-driven fitness equipment can track performance metrics and provide real-time feedback to users. This level of interactivity is revolutionizing the way individuals approach their fitness goals, making training more engaging and effective. Research Methodology and Insights STATS N DATA employs a comprehensive research methodology to provide accurate and actionable insights into the CrossFit Market. Utilizing both top-down and bottom-up approaches, we gather data from various sources, including industry reports, market surveys, and expert interviews. This dual methodology ensures a thorough understanding of market dynamics. Our primary research involves direct engagement with industry stakeholders, including fitness professionals, gym owners, and consumers. This qualitative data is complemented by secondary research, which includes analysis of existing market reports and trends. To validate our findings, we employ triangulation techniques, cross-referencing data from multiple sources to ensure accuracy. In conclusion, the CrossFit Market is poised for continued growth, driven by technological advancements, evolving consumer preferences, and a strong community focus. As companies navigate opportunities and challenges, they must remain adaptable and innovative to thrive in this competitive landscape. STATS N DATA remains committed to providing valuable insights and analysis, positioning itself as a trusted authority in the fitness industry. For customization requests, please visit: https://www.statsndata.org/request-customization.php?id=376872 https://www.statsndata.org/report/crossfit-market-376872 Get more information about recently published reports by STATS N DATA below: You can then follow this with links or a list of the specific reports Global Fitness Apps Market: Pioneering the Future of Health and Wellness Through Technology : https://www.statsndata.org/blog/224/global-fitness-apps-market-pioneering-the-future-of-health-and-wellness-through-technology Discovering Russia's Luxury Lifestyle: Trends, Insights, and Opportunities: https://www.statsndata.org/blog/177/title-discovering-russias-luxury-lifestyle-trends-insights-and-opportunities Designing the Future: The Rise of Fashion Design and Production Software : https://www.statsndata.org/blog/208/designing-the-future-the-rise-of-fashion-design-and-production-software Global Doll Ningyo Market: Reviving Heritage and Craftsmanship Through Modern Innovation : https://www.statsndata.org/blog/223/global-doll-ningyo-market-reviving-heritage-and-craftsmanship-through-modern-innovation John Jones Sales & Marketing Head | Stats N Data Phone: +1 (315) 642-4324 Email: sales@statsndata.org Website: www.statsndata.org STATS N DATA is a trusted provider of industry intelligence and market research, delivering actionable insights to businesses across diverse sectors. We specialize in helping organizations navigate complex markets with advanced analytics, detailed market segmentation, and strategic guidance. Our expertise spans industries including technology, healthcare, telecommunications, energy, food & beverages, and more. Committed to accuracy and innovation, we provide tailored reports that empower clients to make informed decisions, identify emerging opportunities, and achieve sustainable growth. Our team of skilled analysts leverages cutting-edge methodologies to ensure every report addresses the unique challenges of our clients. At STATS N DATA, we transform data into knowledge and insights into success. Partner with us to gain a competitive edge in today's fast-paced business environment. For more information, visit https://www.statsndata.org or contact us today at sales@statsndata.org This release was published on openPR.Sunday's inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff bracket reveal officially set the stage for the most anticipated postseason the sport has ever seen. Eight more spots in the playoff field have created two extra rounds to determine a national champion, which could come from the Big Ten, the Southeastern Conference or even the Mountain West! Now that the initial matchups are set, it's time to examine the FanDuel odds for the first-round games and, of course, the latest national championship odds. CFP Bracket: Odds for First-Round Games Oregon's win over Penn State in the Big Ten championship locked the Ducks into the No. 1 seed, while Georgia's overtime triumph over Texas for the SEC crown moved the Bulldogs up to No. 2. Boise State slotted in at No. 9 in the final CFP rankings but is the No. 3 seed thanks to its win over UNLV in the Mountain West championship. With SMU losing to Clemson in the Atlantic Coast Conference title game, No. 12-ranked Arizona State is the four seed after it throttled Iowa State to win the Big 12. The top four teams get a bye, with the 5-12 seeds meeting in the first round. 12-seed Clemson (+330) vs. 5-seed Texas (-11.5) Texas was favored to win the SEC and lock down a top-four seed, but Clemson was not expected to beat SMU for the ACC title. The Longhorns will therefore hunt redemption, while Dabo Swinney's team is essentially playing with house money. The winner will face Arizona State in the Peach Bowl. 9-seed Tennessee (+215) vs. 8-seed Ohio State (-7.5) The third-highest-ranked team from the SEC (No. 7 Tennessee) will face off with the third-highest-ranked squad from the Big Ten (No. 6 Ohio State). This game brings the Buckeyes a chance at redemption for their embarrassing loss to Michigan to end the regular season. The winner will travel to the Rose Bowl to play Oregon. 11-seed SMU (+240) vs. 6-seed Penn State (-7.5) Concerns over strength of schedule dog both teams. Both have 11-2 records and were runners-up in their respective conferences. Penn State's only win over a ranked opponent was against then-No. 19 Illinois in Week 4, while SMU has knocked off then-No. 22 Louisville and then-No. 18 Pittsburgh. The winner will meet Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl. 10-seed Indiana (+230) vs. 7-seed Notre Dame (-7.5) The Hoosiers may be the biggest surprise in college football this season, although their inclusion came with a few concerns over the strength of their schedule. After falling flat in a potential statement game against then-No. 2 Ohio State on Nov. 23, Indiana can prove its might against a Fighting Irish squad that won its last 10 games. The winner will take on Georgia in the Sugar Bowl. National Championship Odds and Picks Oregon was the betting favorite (odds via FanDuel) prior to the final rankings reveal at +230. Post-reveal, Texas and Georgia are co-favorites at +360, followed by Oregon at +380, Ohio State at +500 and Penn State at +600. Boise State is the biggest long shot at +7500 despite having a first-round bye. Like Boise State, Arizona State saw its odds go from +3500 to +6000 even though it doesn't play until the quarterfinals. The Picks are In... First-Round Best Bet: Indiana-Notre Dame UNDER 51.5-both teams have solid offenses but will find it difficult to move the ball against the other's defense. Upset Special: Clemson (+340) over Texas-Cade Klubnik will have his hands full against the Texas secondary, but the Clemson defense could be up for the challenge against Quinn Ewers and the Longhorns offense. National Championship Winner: Favorite-Oregon +380; Dark Horse-Notre Dame +1200; Long Shot-Arizona State +6000 --Field Level Media
NoneBrazil's Supreme Court on Wednesday started examining four cases that turn on how far social media should be regulated, and what responsibilities platforms have in cracking down on illegal content. The judicial review comes a month after the same court forced Elon Musk's X platform to obey rulings aimed at battling online disinformation. That issue has taken on heat in recent days in Brazil, with federal police accusing far-right ex-president Jair Bolsonaro and allied officials of using social media disinformation as part of a 2022 "coup" plot against Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, then the country's president-elect. The alleged plot involved using online posts to undermine public trust in the electoral system to justify Bolsonaro holding onto the presidency after Lula defeated him at the polls. Bolsonaro says he is innocent. The Supreme Court's deliberations in the cases are not expected to be concluded until sometime next year. One key point it is looking at is whether social media platforms can be fined for illegal content posted by users. Another is whether the platforms should themselves be required to monitor and remove any illegal content without a prior court order to do so. The court's rulings will become precedents that will have to be applied generally to all social media platforms operating in Brazil. Brazil -- many of whose 216 million inhabitants are heavy users of WhatsApp and Facebook -- does not have legislation in that area. Global social media networks, however, already have to abide by laws in the EU against illegal online content, under the bloc's Digital Services Act (DSA), which could guide them in terms of Brazilian compliance. One of the Brazilian Supreme Court's judges, Alexandre de Moraes, in August ordered Musk's X be blocked across the country for failing to comply with a series of court orders against online disinformation. On October 9, the platform was allowed to resume activities after paying around $5 million in fines and deactivating the accounts of several Bolsonaro supporters accused of spreading disinformation and online hate speech. The court's presiding judge, Luis Roberto Barroso, told AFP that "digital platforms... open paths to disinformation, hate, deliberate lies and conspiracy theories." He added: "In the whole democratic world there are debates about protecting free speech without permitting everyone to fall into a pit of incivility." He pointed to the European Union's DSA as a form of regulation "that seeks a point of ideal equilibrium". Brazil, in his opinion, should carve out its own regulation "with a minimum of government intervention where it comes to freedom of thought, while preventing increased criminality and inciting violence." ffb/rmb/st