Horoscope Today, December 29, 2024: Some individuals, like Gemini, can look forward to a satisfying day filled with accomplishments. In contrast, others, such as Aquarius, may face challenges that disrupt their plans. While some people will experience a smooth and successful day, others will encounter obstacles that require patience and perseverance. It's essential to stay flexible and adapt to the ups and downs that come with each day. Find out what will happen in your life today by reading astrologer Harshit Sharma's horoscope predictions. Aries Horoscope Today - A new work opportunity may require embarking on a long journey, so prioritize self-care during travel. Your health will remain stable. However, you might need financial assistance for business purposes, leading you to seek help from relatives. This could lead to some family conflicts, particularly with your spouse, over certain issues. Be prepared to navigate these challenges and maintain open communication to resolve any disagreements. Taurus Horoscope Today - A fresh wave of enthusiasm will spark new ideas, prompting you to discuss innovative plans with colleagues. Business prospects look promising, making it an ideal time to invest in property. You may feel inclined to perform an auspicious ceremony at home, bringing good fortune to your family. A trip with your spouse and children is also on the cards, promising quality time and cherished memories with your loved ones. Gemini Horoscope Today - A remarkable day ahead promises significant improvements in health, potentially overcoming major ailments. A chance encounter with a special individual will unlock new opportunities. Business transformations made now will yield future benefits. Favorable conditions make it an ideal time to invest in the stock market. A family religious gathering is on the horizon, welcoming new guests. Quality time with your spouse and children ensures a delightful day filled with love and connection. Cancer Horoscope Today - A highly promising day awaits, bringing improved health and harmony to personal relationships. Long-standing differences with your spouse will be resolved, strengthening your bond. Business ventures will yield profits, and a chance meeting with a key individual may lead to significant new opportunities. Family respect and reputation will increase, accompanied by uplifting news that will delight your loved ones, filling your home with joy and positivity. Leo Horoscope Today - Physical exhaustion may leave you feeling lethargic and unenthusiastic about work. Be cautious, as opportunities may slip away due to your lack of motivation. Business partnerships may also be tested, with the risk of deception by your associate. Practice restraint in your communication to avoid unnecessary conflicts. Additionally, exercise extra caution while driving or operating vehicles to ensure your safety. Virgo Horoscope Today - Exercise extreme caution while driving to avoid accidents. A restless mind may cloud your judgment, so it's essential to make informed decisions at work, avoiding impulsive choices that may backfire. Lending large sums of money to others is also discouraged, as it may create financial strain and spark disagreements with your spouse and children, potentially damaging relationships. Libra Horoscope Today - Negative thoughts will dominate your mind, making it challenging to perceive things positively. Even well-intentioned comments may seem critical, and you may inadvertently create new conflicts. To avoid controversy, exercise restraint in your communication. Refrain from making significant business transactions, and steer clear of ongoing family disputes over ancestral property to avoid substantial losses. Caution and self-control are essential to navigate this sensitive period. Scorpio Horoscope Today - Embarking on new ventures will yield positive results, but beware of trusting strangers, as they may test your patience. When sealing business deals, scrutinize documents meticulously before making a decision. Exercise caution and reserve your emotions, avoiding discussions with your spouse that may lead to unnecessary conflicts. By being vigilant and discreet, you'll navigate this period successfully and make informed choices. Sagittarius Horoscope Today - A spiritual journey will rejuvenate your mind, filling it with positivity and peace. You'll be empowered to make important life decisions and receive support from loved ones. Business prospects look promising, with potential profits and reimbursement of pending payments. A new addition to the family may bring joy, and you'll have the opportunity to set aside savings for your spouse and children, securing their future and well-being. Capricorn Horoscope Today - A promising day ahead brings joy and accomplishment. The morning will usher in delightful news, setting a positive tone. Pending tasks will be completed in the afternoon, freeing up time for more fulfilling activities. A family visit to a sacred site can boost well-being, but remember to prioritise health and take necessary precautions to avoid seasonal illnesses. Stay vigilant and make the most of this beneficial day. Pisces Horoscope Today - A significant day lies ahead, marked by the resolution of a long-standing, major dispute. A substantial sum of money can be secured, guaranteeing a stable future. However, caution is advised against lending large amounts to others. Family harmony may be disrupted, leading to conflicts. Additionally, criticizing your in-laws to your spouse is strongly discouraged, as it may have severe consequences and damage relationships.
MedPage Today story. Some doctors had a sleepless night when the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology's (ABPN) online certification program locked them out earlier than the expected deadline -- leading some to believe they would lose their board certification. Physicians were working on their quizzes to maintain board certification late on the evening of Saturday, Dec. 14, when the online tool shut down -- ahead of the expected deadline of 11:59 p.m. Central Time on Sunday, Dec. 15. "I almost had a heart attack thinking that I would no longer be board certified," one physician told MedPage Today . "I was laying in bed at 4 a.m. with chest pain. I thought I was either going to have a heart attack or a panic attack." By the morning of Dec. 15, some physicians had taken to social media channels, posting that they had been locked out of the test early, according to messages shared with MedPage Today . ABPN posted a message on its website on Sunday noting that there was "an issue with our article exam software platform that prevented access to the exam overnight Saturday through the early morning of Sunday, December 15th. Access was restored at 9:30 am CT on December 15th." "Due to the unforeseen and unexpected downtime, we will extend the article exam testing deadline by one full day," said the posted statement, a screenshot of which was shared with MedPage Today . "Article exams may be accessed now through the end of the day (11:59 pm) on Monday, December 16th. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience." Jeffrey Lyness, MD, president and CEO of ABPN, told MedPage Today in an email that the organization has "nothing to add to what we have communicated more directly with our diplomates." Like other medical specialty boards, ABPN gives physicians a route to certification other than a single big exam every 10 years. The alternate certification option includes reading a series of journal articles and completing a five-question quiz on each every 3 years. Physicians must pass 30 quizzes once every 3 years; they are allowed to take a total of 40 quizzes. Once physicians began talking with each other about the error on Sunday morning, it brought some relief, one told MedPage Today . Certification is required by many insurance companies; without certification, doctors could be kicked out of insurer networks -- which could potentially put their practice on the line. "ABPN eventually opened it back up on Sunday saying it was an error," one doctor told MedPage Today . "But it wasn't clear initially, and it led to a lot of heartache in the middle of the night for a lot of people."
Couple saves $10K renovating their kitchen using TikTok videosNEW YORK , Nov. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Report on how AI is driving market transformation - The global home and office paper shredders market size is estimated to grow by USD 1.42 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9.06% during the forecast period. Growing online sales of paper shredders is driving market growth, with a trend towards growing environmental regulations on paper manufacturing. However, increasing use of digital platforms across the world poses a challenge.Key market players include ACCO Brands Corp., Aditya Systems, Arihant Maxsell Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Aurora Corp. Of America, AVANTI Business Machines Ltd., Bonsen Electronics Ltd., Dahle North America Inc., Elcoman Srl, Fellowes Inc., Fornnax Technology Pvt Ltd., HSM GmbH plus Co. KG, intimus International GmbH, Jiangsu Golden Hi-tech Digital Co. Ltd., Krug and Priester GmbH and Co. KG, Martin Yale Industries, Mitsui Matsushima Holdings Co., Ltd., Raj Electricals, Royal Consumer Information Products, SHREDDERS and SHREDDING CO., and Staples Inc.. Key insights into market evolution with AI-powered analysis. Explore trends, segmentation, and growth drivers- View Free Sample PDF Market Driver The Home and Office Paper Shredders market is witnessing significant trends with the increasing emphasis on data security and environmental protection. With the rise in the consumption of electronic equipment, the demand for shredders to dispose of confidential documents, personnel records, and sensitive data is surging. Government agencies, small enterprises, private groups, and individuals are investing in shredding machines to reduce their carbon footprint and ensure data security. Industrial-grade shredders with smart and automation features, such as sensor systems and volume information, are popular in commercial usage sectors like banks, financial organizations, healthcare institutions, retailers, and the customer service industry. Portable shredders with strip cut, cross cut, and micro cut techniques cater to home use, while larger organizations prefer industrial-grade machines for handling high volumes of paper waste. The market also includes the shredding of CDs, DVDs, loyalty cards, credit cards, and magnetic tapes. With the growing preference for softcopy documents, the market for paper shredders is expected to experience a reduction in commerce as industries shift towards digital platforms. However, the working population's need for secure waste disposal and data security will continue to drive the market. The Home and Office Paper Shredders market is witnessing a significant trend towards eco-friendly products. Both residential and commercial consumers prioritize sustainability and view paper shredding as a responsible method for disposing of waste. Major players in the office supplies industry are responding to this demand by manufacturing energy-efficient paper shredders. For instance, Intimus EcoLogic reduces energy consumption by 92%, and Kobra's Energy Smart management system saves 65 kilograms of carbon dioxide per year. These innovations cater to environmentally conscious customers while minimizing the industry's carbon footprint. Request Sample of our comprehensive report now to stay ahead in the AI-driven market evolution! Market Challenges The Home and Office Paper Shredders market faces several challenges. With the increasing volume of confidential documents and sensitive data, there is a growing demand for paper shredders. Bin capacity is a key consideration for businesses, especially those handling large amounts of paperwork. As electronic equipment becomes more prevalent, the carbon footprint of paper shredders is under scrutiny, making environmental protection a priority. Government agencies, small enterprises, private groups, individuals, and various industries generate vast amounts of confidential papers, personnel records, and data. Data security is paramount, and paper shredders play a crucial role in reducing the risk of data breaches. However, the shutdown of offices and reduction of commerce due to the pandemic has impacted consumption volumes. Industrial-grade shredders with smart and automation features, sensor systems, and portable options cater to diverse needs. Techniques like Strip Cut, Cross Cut, and Micro Cut are used based on the level of security required. CDs, DVDs, loyalty cards, credit cards, magnetic tapes, and financial records are common items shredded in commercial usage sectors, including banks, financial organizations, healthcare institutions, educational institutions, retailers, and the customer service industry. The shift towards softcopy preferences and the working population's increasing reliance on online platforms necessitates a balance between paper shredding and digital data security. The global home and office paper shredder market is currently facing a significant challenge due to the ongoing digitization trend. With the widespread adoption of digital communication devices such as computers, laptops, smartphones, and cloud services, the demand for traditional paper and printing supplies, including paper shredders, has decreased. The shift towards digital documents has adversely impacted the market, reducing the need for physical paper and the subsequent requirement for paper shredders. Despite this challenge, advancements in shredder technology continue to offer improved security features and efficiency, making them an essential office accessory for businesses handling sensitive documents. However, the market growth is expected to be moderate due to the ongoing digitization trend. Discover how AI is revolutionizing market trends- Get your access now! Segment Overview This home and office paper shredders market report extensively covers market segmentation by 1.1 Commercial 1.2 Residential 2.1 Cross-cut 2.2 Micro-cut 2.3 Strip-cut 3.1 North America 3.2 APAC 3.3 Europe 3.4 South America 3.5 Middle East and Africa 1.1 Commercial- The commercial sector's reliance on paper shredders for document security is significant. Factors such as high shredding volume and frequency, nature of confidential data, and regulatory compliance drive this demand. Paper shredders are essential equipment in offices, providing document security, workspace cleanliness, and waste disposal. Despite the increasing digitization trend, the paper shredder market is witnessing steady growth due to the importance of physical document security in the face of cyber threats. In regions like North America and Europe , where electronic products are prevalent, the paper shredder market continues to expand, ensuring the safe disposal of sensitive documents remains a priority. Download a Sample of our comprehensive report today to discover how AI-driven innovations are reshaping competitive dynamics Research Analysis The Home and Office Paper Shredders market refers to the demand for electronic equipment designed to shred confidential documents into tiny pieces for secure disposal. With the increasing awareness of data security and environmental protection, the market for these shredding machines has seen significant growth. Bin capacity varies from small portable shredders to industrial-grade models. The shredding process helps protect sensitive data and confidential papers, including personnel records and financial information, from falling into the wrong hands. The carbon footprint of paper shredders is a concern, but advancements in technology are leading to more energy-efficient models. Consumption volumes are high among government agencies, small enterprises, private groups, and individuals. The shutdown of offices and reduction of commerce due to the pandemic have led to an increase in the demand for paper shredders. Smart features and automation, such as sensor systems and volume information, are becoming increasingly popular. The market offers a range of shredding techniques, including strip cut, which ensures thorough destruction of documents. Market Research Overview The Home and Office Paper Shredders market refers to the demand for electronic equipment designed to shred confidential documents, sensitive data, and other paper waste. With the increasing concern for data security and environmental protection, the market for paper shredders has seen significant growth. Bin capacity varies from small portable shredders for home use to industrial-grade machines for commercial usage sectors. Paper shredders use different techniques such as Strip Cut, Cross Cut, and Micro Cut to ensure thorough destruction of documents. Consumption volumes are driven by various sectors including government agencies, small enterprises, private groups, and individuals. The market caters to various industries such as banks, financial organizations, healthcare institutions, educational institutions, retailers, customer service industry, and more. The market also includes shredders for CDs, DVDs, loyalty cards, credit cards, and magnetic tapes. With advancements in technology, smart features and automation are becoming increasingly popular, including sensor systems and volume information. The reduction of commerce due to shutdowns and the shift towards soft copy preferences have also influenced the market. The working population and retail networks, as well as online platforms, are significant consumers of paper shredders. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation End-user Commercial Residential Product Cross-cut Micro-cut Strip-cut Geography North America APAC Europe South America Middle East And Africa 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio
Though it looked like their upset bid was going to come up short after some heroics from Solo Ball at the end of regulation, Tyrese Hunter and Memphis picked up a huge win to kick off the Maui Invitational on Monday morning. Hunter and the Tigers stunned No. 2 UConn 99-97 on Monday at the Lahaina Civic Center in Maui to open the iconic Feast Week tournament — which returned to Maui this week for the first time since deadly fires erupted on the island in 2023. That pushed the Tigers to a perfect 5-0 on the season and moved them into the semifinals, where they’ll take on either Colorado or Michigan State on Tuesday. The Huskies, who are coming off back-to-back national championship runs, have now lost their first game since Feb. 20. That ended a 17-game win streak. Memphis looked like it was going to pull off the win in regulation after jumping up by 13 points late in the second half. The Tigers had all the momentum, and UConn — despite entering halftime tied up 40-40 — appeared to be dead in the water. But suddenly, the Huskies rattled off an 18-5 run to end the second half. Ball capped that tear with a perfect 3-pointer from the wing with just more than a second left, which sent the game into overtime. Solo. Ball. — UConn Men's Basketball (@UConnMBB) UConn used that momentum and took the early jump in the extra period. Memphis, however, didn’t go away — and the Tigers took full advantage of a mistake from coach Dan Hurley. Memphis tied the game back up after a 3-pointer from Colby Rogers, and then Tigers guard P.J. Carter hit four straight free throws just a few seconds later after Liam McNeeley was called for an over-the-back foul on the other end. That foul set Hurley off and earned him a technical foul, which resulted in a seven-point swing. That was enough to keep Memphis ahead the rest of the way. Carter had all nine of his points in overtime, thanks to a 3-pointer before the technical and two free throws after, to keep the Tigers in the lead and eventually give them the win. UConn had one final look at the buzzer but couldn’t get it to fall a second time. While Hurley's technical foul didn't directly cause the loss, it undoubtedly opened the door for the Tigers at the worst possible time. Hurley doesn't think his technical cost the Huskies the game. Instead, he thought "it was the sh***y calls." Dan Hurley's thoughts on today's officiating: "I had a lot of issues with what went on. That over-the-back call... there was a Memphis player that made a half-ass effort, Liam McNeeley high-pointed the rebound, and for that call to be made... was a complete joke. I may have lost... — The Field of 68 (@TheFieldOf68) "I might have lost my balance by the absurdity of the call, or maybe I tripped," Hurley said. "But if I made that call at that point, I would've ignored the fact that I was on my back. If I made that call, I would've ignored that ... How you could call that while that game was going on the way that game was going on is just beyond me." Hunter finished with 26 points on seven 3-pointers for the Tigers in the win. P.J. Haggerty added 22 points and five assists, and Colby Rogers finished with 19 points. They shot nearly 55% from both the field and behind the arc as a team. Tarris Reed led UConn with 22 points and 11 rebounds off the bench in the loss. Alex Karaban finished with 19 points, and McNeeley had 10 points and four rebounds. The Huskies, who entered the week as the favorite in the event, will now take on the loser of Colorado-Michigan State on Wednesday on the consolation side of the bracket. UConn was by far the favorite on its half of the bracket, which now clears a path for Hardaway and the Tigers to reach the title game on Wednesday. No. 4 Auburn, No. 5 Iowa State and No. 12 North Carolina are all on the other side of the bracket, however, so a championship in Hawaii before Thanksgiving won't be easy by any means. But regardless of what happens in the coming days, Memphis now has a marquee win under its belt. For a team that lost eight of its last 15 games and missed the NCAA tournament completely last season, a win over a top-5 team in the early days of the season is a huge accomplishment.After rough start under coach Mike Macdonald, the Seahawks' defense has become a strength
Starmer to visit troops serving on Russian border in push for Ukraine supportNone
"Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum." Section 1.10.32 of "de Finibus Bonorum et Malorum", written by Cicero in 45 BC "Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo. Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur magni dolores eos qui ratione voluptatem sequi nesciunt. Neque porro quisquam est, qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit, sed quia non numquam eius modi tempora incidunt ut labore et dolore magnam aliquam quaerat voluptatem. Ut enim ad minima veniam, quis nostrum exercitationem ullam corporis suscipit laboriosam, nisi ut aliquid ex ea commodi consequatur? Quis autem vel eum iure reprehenderit qui in ea voluptate velit esse quam nihil molestiae consequatur, vel illum qui dolorem eum fugiat quo voluptas nulla pariatur?" 1914 translation by H. Rackham "But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?" 1914 translation by H. Rackham "But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?" Thanks for your interest in Kalkine Media's content! To continue reading, please log in to your account or create your free account with us.It's about to be one of the most active dealmaking years for media and entertainment companies in recent memory. 2024 saw crimped deal volumes as interest rates remained elevated and an unfavorable regulatory environment dampened sentiment. But 2025 has "the recipe for all the stars to be aligned," according to Bart Spiegel, partner of global entertainment and media deals at PwC. "I really do expect it to be a perfect storm for M&A to accelerate in 2025 from a deal value and a deal volume perspective," Speigel said in an interview with Yahoo Finance. He listed several catalysts for next year, including "significant dry powder on the sidelines," the expectation that interest rates will continue to move lower , and a looser regulatory environment from the incoming Trump administration. Plus, "this is not a steady state industry," he said, referencing the "constantly changing" media landscape. "You've got market players that really do want to make moves." Those moves have already begun to materialize. Last month, Comcast ( CMCSA ) said it would spin off most of its cable properties into a new company after teasing the possibility just a few weeks prior. At the time, Comcast said it wanted to "play offense" in order to combat increased cord-cutting. Wall Street analysts have said Comcast's spun-off company could acquire other beaten-down cable properties, describing it as a positive development for competitors exposed to traditional networks, like Warner Bros. Discovery ( WBD ). To that point, shortly after Comcast's announcement, WBD also said it would undergo a corporate restructuring to separate its legacy networks, including CNN, TBS, TNT, HGTV, and the Food Network, from growth drivers like studios and its streaming platform Max. "It appears we are closer to the tipping point given the combination of secular and cyclical challenges," Bank of America analyst Jessica Reif Ehrlich wrote in a note to clients on Dec. 19. Most streaming platforms are finally profitable or, at the very least, close to break-even. But the demise of the cable bundle is still a complicated mess for legacy players looking to survive in a new digital-first era. For years, linear advertising and affiliate fees, or the fees pay-TV providers pay to network owners to carry their channels, had consistently boosted revenues for legacy media. But the shift to streaming saw cable subscribers decline, hurting affiliate revenue. The pressure from deteriorating linear networks, coupled with heavy debt loads, has forced legacy media giants to cut costs wherever possible, resulting in mass layoffs and restructuring efforts. Earlier this summer, Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount Global ( PARA ) took a collective $15 billion hit on the values of their respective cable businesses. "Given this backdrop, it is clear further consolidation is needed," MoffettNathanson analyst Craig Moffett wrote in a report published Dec. 3. "There has been endless chatter for years in the press and from media executives around extricating the overhang of linear networks on overall company performance." Outside of Comcast and WBD, Disney ( DIS ) has also explored cleaving off its traditional TV assets , which include broadcast network ABC and cable channels like FX, Freeform, and National Geographic. Disney CEO Bob Iger has since walked back those comments , but it's still possible a spin-off or asset sale could be revisited, according to analysts. And with Paramount's deal with Skydance Media set to close in the second half of 2025 , it remains unclear what will happen to Paramount's cable and TV properties after the merger. "There are a lot of efficiencies to be had by combining many of these companies," Reif Ehrlich recently told Yahoo Finance in a separate interview. "Can these companies survive as part of a bigger entity? Yes, of course they can." One entity that might be a buyer of depressed linear assets is cable and streaming company Starz, which will complete its long-awaited separation from Lionsgate Studios ( LION ) early next year. Starz, which is expected to make its public debut on the Nasdaq around mid-January, plans to expand margins from 15% to 20%, with CEO Jeff Hirsch noting M&A can help fuel revenue growth. “If you look at the disruption going on in the business today, there’s a lot of linear networks, or ad-supported networks that serve the demos that we serve today," Hirsch said at a UBS media conference earlier this month. “I do think there’s an opportunity once we separate, once we have our own balance sheet and a currency, to go out and acquire some of those linear assets," he continued, adding he believes companies "will shed assets first before they consolidate." Regulatory easing will be the most important M&A tailwind, according to experts, even if the Federal Reserve commits to a higher-for-longer policy stance . "There's an appetite for people to go out and do deals in a much more friendly environment," PwC's Spiegel said. Total deal volumes and values in the media and telecommunications sector over the past year saw a slight uptick compared to a downbeat 2023 , according to PwC's biannual US deals outlook. Over the past 12 months ending in November, there have been 2,088 deals — a 4% year-over-year increase — with announced deal value totaling $135.5 billion, a 26% rise versus 2023. Telecom giants led the charge, with Verizon's $20 billion acquisition of Frontier Communications one of the largest deals of the year. "I think telecom deals will continue to increase," Spiegel said. "But we're also going to see much more media and entertainment M&A." President-elect Donald Trump, generally viewed as more friendly toward dealmaking than President Biden, has already signaled a looser policy stance with his Cabinet picks, like Brendan Carr as the new chair of the Federal Communications Commission. Carr, who has frequently advocated for deregulation and an intent to revisit ownership limits, could spur more consolidation within local and broadcast television at a time when companies are desperate to compete in a digital-first world. Nexstar Media Group ( NXST ) CFO Lee Ann Gliha told Yahoo Finance earlier this month that Carr's nomination served as "the first signal" of future disruption. Nexstar, which controls the CW Network, along with Fox Television Stations, Sinclair Broadcast Group, Gray Media, and others have been desperate to gobble up more TV stations in order to better compete with Big Tech in the race for viewers and ad dollars. But there's a cap on how many TV stations a single media entity can own. The current rule is that a station cannot collectively reach more than 39% of all TV households in the US. Of course, no one knows exactly what will happen once Trump takes control of the White House. Or what deregulation policies will be put into place once he does. But one thing is clear: The future of media and entertainment M&A looks a lot brighter compared to years past — and it's happening at a time when Hollywood is finally ready to shake things up. Alexandra Canal is a Senior Reporter at Yahoo Finance. Follow her on X @allie_canal , LinkedIn, and email her at alexandra.canal@yahoofinance.com. Click here for the latest stock market news and in-depth analysis, including events that move stocks Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance
The Future of Memecoins: 5 Fresh Opportunities Poised for Explosive 2025 GrowthUS PRESIDENT-ELECT Donald Trump on Monday praised Japan’s SoftBank for its decision to invest US$100 billion in the United States and create 100,000 new jobs, a big win for his incoming administration. “This historic investment is a monumental demonstration of confidence in America’s future,” Trump said during a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida, flanked by SoftBank chief executive Masayoshi Son. “It will help ensure that artificial intelligence, emerging technologies and other industries of tomorrow are built, created and grown right here in the USA,” added Trump, who takes office from US President Joe Biden next month. Speaking alongside Trump, Son confirmed the investment company’s financial commitment, adding that Trump’s victory had “tremendously increased” his confidence in the US economy. “I am truly excited to make this happen,” added Son, 67. Second commitment Son’s announcement is around double the amount he committed SoftBank to in December 2016, shortly before Trump began his first term as president. The Japanese investment holding company ultimately parted with around US$100 billion through its Vision Fund, with much of the money supplied by sovereign wealth funds in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. “President Trump is a double-down president,” Son said on Monday, adding: “I’m going to have to double down.” Son made his name with successful early investments in Chinese e-commerce titan Alibaba and internet pioneer Yahoo, but has also bet on catastrophic failures such as WeWork. He has repeatedly said that “artificial superintelligence” will arrive in a decade, bringing new inventions, new medicine, new knowledge and new ways to invest. The SoftBank Group posted a bumper second-quarter net profit last month, returning to the black after net losses in the first quarter and the previous financial year. The company indicated back in March that it had US$26 billion ready to be deployed for new investments. Tariff worries Stephen Moore, an economic advisor to Donald Trump, said the announcement marked a “great day.” “The importation of capital into the US is a huge leading indicator for jobs and prosperity to come,” Moore, an economist at the conservative Heritage Foundation, told AFP in a message. On the campaign trail, Trump pledged to boost the US economy by cutting red tape and fast-tracking investments, including into the oil and gas sector. US financial markets surged following his victory on November 5, with the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite index and the broad-based S&P 500 both hitting fresh records. Despite the enthusiasm in the markets, some analysts have voiced concern that Trump’s proposals to implement new tariffs on US imports and deport millions of undocumented workers could end up hurting growth, and causing a spike in inflation. “The increased likelihood of substantial new tariffs on US imports would have the most consequential effect on economic growth,” economists at Wells Fargo wrote in a recent note to clients, adding they had “bumped up” their inflation outlook and slightly cut their GDP forecast following Trump’s win. Other analysts say the impact of Trump’s tariff plans will largely depend on how they are actually implemented. “The impact on inflation need not be particularly significant for monetary policy,” economists at Goldman Sachs wrote in a recent investor note. But, they added “this could change if the White House imposes a 10 per cent universal tariff,” referring to one of Trump’s proposals on the campaign trail. Speaking in Mar-a-Lago on Monday, Trump insisted that, “properly used,” tariffs would be positive for the US economy. “Our country right now loses to everybody,” he said. “Almost nobody do we have a surplus with.” “Tariffs will make our country rich,” he added. AFP
ABUJA – The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has said that the South East region is facing a severe humanitarian crisis, with over 268,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) spread across 158 camps and affected communities. Kalu made the revelation while speaking at a Roundtable Discussion with International non-governmental organizations (INGOs) in a programme titled “Through Their Eyes: A Call To Action, Addressing Humanitarian Challenges In The South East” in Abuja on Monday. He said that the States of Enugu, Imo, Abia, Anambra, and Ebonyi are the most affected, with many people lacking access to clean water, adequate shelter, healthcare, and education. Organized by the Office of the Deputy Speaker in conjunction with Peace In South East Project (PISE-P), the purpose of the roundtable discussion is to essentially explore avenues for deeper partnerships, to engender resilience, and to deliver sustainable solutions to some of the nation’s most pressing ecological issues. The Deputy Speaker said that the crisis in the South East region is characterized by displacement, violence, and ecological challenges, including natural disasters like gully erosion that have destroyed homes and left many without shelter. Kalu who emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to provide immediate humanitarian relief and sustainable development solutions therefore called for support from international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) and government agencies to address the crisis. He said: “A special welcome to you to this roundtable with INGOs, a convening that underscores the pivotal role of collaboration in addressing Nigeria’s humanitarian, ecological, and systemic challenges. “Southeast geopolitical zone of Nigeria is grappling with a severe humanitarian crisis, characterized by displacement, violence, and ecological challenges. “Report presented today underscores the grim realities: over 268,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) are spread across 158 camps and affected communities. The states of Enugu, Imo, Abia, Anambra, and Ebonyi bear the brunt of this crisis, with precarious living conditions leaving many without access to clean water, adequate shelter, healthcare, and education. “Shelter, in particular, remains a pressing concern. Families live in makeshift camps or overcrowded host communities, exposed to health risks, insecurity, and a loss of dignity. “Natural disasters like gully erosion have destroyed homes, leaving little to return to. This crisis demands not only immediate intervention but also sustainable strategies to restore stability and hope.” Recognizing INGOs’ contributions, Kalu said that their work has been instrumental in addressing the challenges. He said that his office was committed to championing legislative inputs that can be of paramount importance to the issues. “From food distribution to improving healthcare access, your interventions have touched the lives of millions. Additionally, your advocacy for marginalized groups, funding for local projects, and systemic support have provided critical relief and long-term opportunities. “As a representative of the National Assembly, I am deeply committed to championing legislative and policy frameworks that address these issues comprehensively”. Identifing key thematic areas to include education, healthcare and nutrition, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), mental health support, gender-based violence and shelter, Kalu said that they required urgent attention. “The Southeast crisis is not just a regional issue it is a national challenge that requires a collective response. We, in government, pledge to facilitate an enabling environment for your work. This includes removing systemic barriers, enhancing security in affected regions, and providing a robust policy framework to guide interventions. Together, we can bridge the gap between immediate humanitarian relief and sustainable development. I urge us all to remain steadfast in our shared mission. Let us align our resources, strategies, and resolve to build a Nigeria where no one is left behind, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive. Your insights and recommendations from today’s discussions will guide the formulation of evidence-based interventions”, Kalu said. In their separate remarks, the head of INGOs in Nigeria, Camilla Higgins; the Director-General of Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, Umar Ibrahim Mohammed; the national coordinator of National Social Investment Programme Agency; Dr. Badamasi Lawal; the Director-General of National Refugees Commission and Migrants, Alhaji Aliyu Ahmed; representatives of the Directors-General of National Directorate of Employment ( NDE) and National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) who were obviously overwhelmed by the degree of ecological challenges and human crisis in the South East region arising from a video documentary pledged their respective commitments to collaborate with the Office of the Deputy Speaker to address the menace. They however appealed for increase in their budgetary allocation in 2025 to enable them to function optimally in their constitutional mandates.
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MEMPHIS 99, NO. 2 UCONN 97, OTSundar Pichai told employees that the new year will be critical for Google. Published: December 28, 2024 10:06 PM IST By Edited by Tech giant google seems to be working towards a new strategy to further improve its services and also explore new avenues in the new year 2025. In this regard, Google CEO Sundar Pichai and other top company executives held a strategy meeting and shared their thoughts with the company employees. Sundar Pichai told employees that the new year will be critical for Google. “I think 2025 will be critical. I think it’s really important we internalize the urgency of this moment, and need to move faster as a company,” said Pichai according to a report by CNBC. “These are disruptive moments. In 2025, we need to be relentlessly focused on unlocking the benefits of this technology and solve real user problems,” said the CEO as he stressed that that the stakes are high. Pichai told Google employees that building big and new business is a top priority. Google sees the Gemini app as its next one to reach half a billion users. “With the Gemini app, there is strong momentum, particularly over the last few months. But we have some work to do in 2025 to close the gap and establish a leadership position there as well,” said Pichai adding that “scaling Gemini on the consumer side will be our biggest focus next year.” Google is facing a host of antitrust cases across the world, with the biggest one in the US. Recently Japan also said that it would probe Google while the United Kingdom has also raised some objections. “It comes with our size and success. It’s part of a broader trend where tech is now impacting society at scale. So more than ever, through this moment, we have to make sure we don’t get distracted,” said Pichai while addressing Google employees as he asserted that it’s not lost on him the kind of scrutiny Google is facing. The meeting was attended by employees in person as well as virtually, said the report. For breaking news and live news updates, like us on or follow us on and . Read more on Latest on . TopicsThe government has blocked 128 prisoners trapped under cruel from moving to open conditions in the past 12 months, can reveal. Figures show the justice secretary has refused to allow scores of inmates serving abolished jail terms to progress to an open prison despite the Parole Board recommending their transfer. Politicians and campaigners have hit out at the “scandalous” number of prisoners being stopped from progressing to a lower category prison where they may be eligible for day release, warning it reinforces the sense that is the sentence of “no hope”. More than 2,600 are languishing under the with no release date 12 years after the indefinite terms were abolished amid human rights concerns. These include shocking injustices highlighted by such as , who is still in prison 18 years after he was handed an eight-month jail term; , who set himself alight in his cell after serving 12 years for stealing a phone; and , who is still inside 19 years after he was jailed for a laptop robbery. At least 90 IPP prisoners have taken their own lives as they lose hope of ever being freed. The government has come under fire for refusing to , with prisons minister James Timpson last month telling the House of Lords it was “right” that release decisions are made by the independent Parole Board. Instead, he said IPP inmates must focus on progressing towards being approved for release by the Parole Board despite more than 700 having served at least 10 years longer than their minimum term. However, in answer to a parliamentary question from Labour MP Kim Johnson, justice minister Sir Nicholas Dakin said that the secretary of state is free to accept or reject the Parole Board’s recommendations to move someone to an open prison. And figures reveal that the government has refused to follow Parole Board recommendations to progress IPP prisoners in 61 per cent of cases in the past year. In the first four months of 2024, under the previous Tory government, every single IPP prisoner recommended for progression was denied a move to open prison. The numbers allowed to transfer have increased since the Labour government was elected in July, although 45 per cent were still blocked from transferring in the last six months of 2024. The figures come as a former justice secretary called for thousands of prisoners to be moved to open prisons to tackle overcrowding and help prepare inmates for release, David Gauke, who has been commissioned by the government to lead a review of sentencing policy, believes the move would save money and help reduce reoffending. Urging ministers to look to Spain where one in four prisoners are allowed to leave prison walls during the day, he told : “We don’t make as much use of open prisons as we might do.” Lord Woodley, who has tabled a private member’s bill for IPP prisoners to be resentenced, said the figures of those blocked from moving to open prisons were “scandalous”. “Without wishing to sound cynical, some might say the government seem happy to hide behind the Parole Board when it suits them, but to ignore their advice when it doesn’t,” he said. Reformed IPP prisoner Marc Conway, who was one of the heroes of the Fishmongers’ Hall terror attack, said the shocking figures only serve to reinforce the feeling that IPP is the sentence of no hope. “It is concerning that people have done everything that the Parole Board has asked and they have said they are in a good position to move to open conditions, then the government stepped in to override it,” he said. “Rulings like this actually reinforce that IPP is the sentence of no hope. It will enforce their feeling that no one cares about them. “It’s the people at the top who have got the power. When you feel like you are fighting a whole establishment rather than an individual process you start to feel dehumanised. You start to feel like you are not worthy. These are all factors as to why people attempt suicide and self-harm.” Last year , 36, became the first IPP prisoner to have his parole hearing held in public. He described himself as a political prisoner after he was recommended for transfer to open conditions in 2021, but this was blocked by Dominic Raab, the home secretary. He remains in maximum security HMP Long Lartin. A family member said the refusal to move him, despite the panel of parole board experts advising he was ready, was “devastating”. “His words to us afterwards were literally, ‘I don’t want to wake up, I don’t want to be here,’” they told . “He said, ‘I am not coming home, I’m going to die here.’ That’s how he has felt since that happened.” Bernadette Emerson, co-founder of IPP Committee in Action, has been fighting for her husband Abdullahi Suleman, who is still inside 19 years after he was jailed for a laptop robbery. She said the figures show why IPPs feel like they have “no chance whatsoever”. “They are trapping IPPs either way,” she said. “Without resentencing going ahead what’s going to happen for IPPs if the government is doing these blocks all the time? “They need to drastically improve the situation for IPPs and give them the chance to progress to release and be given their life back.” A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: “It is right that IPP sentences were abolished. We recently terminated the lifetime licences of more than 1,700 rehabilitated offenders, and are improving the rehabilitation and mental health support for those still in prison. “The Lord Chancellor considers the recommendations from the independent Parole Board as to whether to place IPP prisoners in the open estate and public safety is at the heart of any decision.”
Drake seems to think there's some shadiness behind Kendrick Lamar 's monster hit, "Not Like Us" ... and he's filed a lawsuit to investigate how it got so big. Of course, "Not Like Us" is the song that effectively ended the Kendrick and Drake beef ... because its popularity buried Drake -- but now, he's alleging Universal Music Group used bots and a payola scheme to pump up the song. According to the docs, obtained by TMZ Hip Hop, Drake says an "inside source" told him UMG made "covert payments" to multiple platforms, including radio stations, to play and promote the hell outta "Not Like Us." Legally, that's known as payola, and it's prohibited by the FCC. Drake points out UMG has paid settlements in the past for this kinda thing ... like in 2006, when the label paid $12 million to the NY Attorney General's Office for a "pay for play" scheme. In the docs, he also claims a whistleblower has accused UMG management of spending thousands in May 2024 on "bots" in order to get the song to 30 million streams on Spotify -- and it also paid social media influencers to promote the song. He alleges the label dropped all copyright restrictions so the influencers could repeatedly post the song ... helping it spread like wildfire. Drake has some huge legal goals here -- he says he's filing this suit just to get a full understanding of how UMG funneled payments to iHeartRadio and its network of stations. Once he has that info, according to the docs, he's gearing up to file a civil fraud and racketeering case against UMG and any co-conspirators. Remember, "Not Like Us" famously includes the lyric where Kendrick calls Drake a "certified pedophile" ... and Drake says he already has grounds to sue UMG for defamation among other things. It's also worth noting, UMG also distributes Drake's music, but that's clearly not stopping him from going to war ... again.