Fed's Powell: US economy is envy of the world, I'm going to do everything to keep it there US November ISM services 52.1 vs 55.5 expected US November ADP employment +146K vs +150K expected ECB's Lagarde: Inflation expected to temporarily rise in Q4 and decline next year Beige Book: Fed districts deport slight growth, rising business optimism for 2025 US October factory orders +0.2% vs +0.2% expected Fed's Musalem: Time may be approaching to slow or pause rate cuts Fed's Barkin: I'm encouraged by where inflation is headed French government loses no-confidence vote French President Macron aims to name new Prime Minister swiftly if government falls ECB's Nagel: I favor a gradual, cautious approach to rate cuts ECB's Makhlouf: Asked about 50 bps cut, says he prefers to move cautiously EIA weekly crude oil inventories -5073K vs -671K expected US November S&P Global final services PMI 56.1 vs 57.0 prelim Canada November S&P Global Services PMI 51.2 vs 50.4 prior Canada Q3 labour productivity -0.4% vs -0.2% prior OPEC+ might extend cuts to six months but cuts won't be deeper - report Markets: Gold up $6 to $2649 US 10-year yields down 4 bps to 4.18% WTI crude down $1.05 to $68.88 GBP leads, AUD lags S&P 500 up 0.6% to fresh record There were a series of crosscurrents in markets today and it was a busy day of news. In terms of data, the ISM services number was softer and it weighed on the US dollar broadly. That helped to boost the euro to a session high of 1.0544 and the pound to 1.2721. Those gains faded in part because Powell struck a more-hawkish tone, while the French political news had little effect. However the dollar bounce ran against the mode in other markets as Treasury yields started the day high and sagged, with 10s falling 10 bps intraday. US stocks were also bid but that didn't lend much support for AUD, which as beaten up in Asian trading. Eyes are on OPEC+ ahead of tomorrow's meeting but the market is clearly worried as crude fell $1 in US trading. Crack spreads have weakened and that was one factor that was cited. USD/JPY rebounded after six days of declines and climbed as high as 151.22 but was mostly tracking down in US trade and fell to 150.00 before bouncing from the big figure to 150.64. Powell may have helped firm up that intraday bottom and the Beige Book was slightly better than the prior edition and highlighted post-election optimism. The crypto market was choppy with some large outperformance in the alt-coins that was later joined by bitcoin as it has another look at $100,000. The nominated SEC commissioner is friendly towards the industry and that likely helped late-day BTC bids.
( MENAFN - Robotics & automation News) Revolutionizing precision and flexibility in automated container labelingGREIF-VELOX , the specialist in packaging machinery, proudly presents the VeloFlexLabeler, an innovative and fully automated labeling solution. Developed in collaboration with Moin Robotics, a robotics and automation expert and Bluhm Systeme, a leader in printing and labeling technologies – both based in Germany, the labeler offers precise and flexible labeling for all types of containers, making it particularly suited for full-line systems. The VeloFlexLabeler enables seamless labeling for a wide variety of containers, regardless of their shape or surface cleanliness. It combines standardized label application with customizable options, such as product details or batch information, and ensures consistent, reliable, and secure labeling. High precision, flexibility, and automation This compact robotic labeling system is capable of serving multiple production lines simultaneously. Labels are applied independently, with the placement and orientation customizable to specific requirements. Its flexible robotic arm ensures precise labeling of containers in various sizes and shapes, including jerrycans, drums, and IBCs. With its high degree of automation, the VeloFlexLabeler significantly reduces the manual workload, saves valuable employee resources, increases efficiency, and minimizes errors. Redundancy-enabled printing systems further enhance operational reliability by ensuring no label is missed. Versatile application in the chemical, food, and logistics industries The VeloFlexLabeler is particularly well-suited for the chemical, food, and logistics industries. Its compact design allows seamless integration into existing systems. In addition to standard labelers, the system can also apply tamper-proof seals or static instructions. Its adaptability to various label sizes and positions makes it an extremely versatile solution. The VeloFlexLabeler by GREIF-VELOX offers a state-of-the-art solution that boosts production efficiency, enhances flexibility, and ensures greater safety, all while empowering companies to optimize production costs more effectively and dependably. MENAFN19122024005532012229ID1109014798 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.Salah says he is ‘more out than in’ at Liverpool as he enters final months of contract
Jimmy Carter, the 39th US president, has died at 100 ATLANTA (AP) — Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter has died. He was 100 years old and had spent roughly 22 months in hospice care. The Georgia peanut farmer served one turbulent term in the White House before building a reputation as a global humanitarian and champion of democracy. He defeated President Gerald Ford in 1976 promising to restore trust in government but lost to Ronald Reagan four years later amid soaring inflation, gas station lines and the Iran hostage crisis. He and his wife Rosalynn then formed The Carter Center, and he earned a Nobel Peace Prize while making himself the most internationally engaged of former presidents. The Carter Center said he died peacefully Sunday afternoon in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by his family. Jimmy Carter: Many evolutions for a centenarian ‘citizen of the world’ PLAINS, Ga. (AP) — The 39th and longest-lived U.S. president, James Earl Carter Jr., died Sunday at the age of 100. His life ended where it began, in Plains, Georgia. He left and returned to the tiny town many times as he climbed to the nation’s highest office and lost it after four tumultuous years. Carter spent the next 40 years setting new standards for what a former president can do. Carter wrote nearly a decade ago that he found all the phases of his life challenging but also successful and enjoyable. The Democrat's principled but pragmatic approach defied American political labels, especially the idea that one-term presidents are failures. The Latest: Former President Jimmy Carter is dead at age 100 Former President Jimmy Carter has died at the age of 100. The 39th president of the United States was a Georgia peanut farmer who sought to restore trust in government when he assumed the presidency in 1977 and then built a reputation for tireless work as a humanitarian. He earned a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. He died Sunday, more than a year after entering hospice care, at his home in Plains, Georgia. Carter was sworn in as president on Jan. 20, 1977, after defeating President Gerald R. Ford in the 1976 general election. He left office on Jan. 20, 1981, following his 1980 general election loss to Ronald Reagan. Jimmy Carter: A brief bio Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter has died at his home in Plains, Georgia. His death comes more than a year after the former president entered hospice care. He was 100 years old. Jetliner skids off runway and bursts into flames while landing in South Korea, killing 179 SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — A jetliner skidded off a runway, slammed into a concrete fence and burst into flames in South Korea after its landing gear apparently failed to deploy. Officials said all but two of the 181 people on board were killed Sunday in one of the country’s worst aviation disasters. The 737-800 operated by Jeju Air plane arrived from Bangkok and crashed while attempting to land in the town of Muan, about 290 kilometers (180 miles) south of Seoul. Footage of the crash aired by South Korean television channels showed the plane skidding across the airstrip at high speed, evidently with its landing gear still closed. Tornadoes in Texas and Mississippi kill 2 and injure 6 as severe weather system moves east HOUSTON (AP) — A strong storm system is threatening to whip up tornadoes in parts of the U.S. Southeast, a day after severe weather claimed at least two lives as twisters touched down in Texas and Mississippi. Strong storms moving eastward Sunday are expected to continue producing gusty, damaging winds, hail and tornadoes through Sunday. That is according to National Weather Service meteorologist Frank Pereira. So far, the line of severe weather has led to about 40 tornado reports from southeastern Texas to Alabama, Pereira said, but those reports remain unconfirmed until surveys of damage are completed. Israeli hospital says Netanyahu has undergone successful prostate surgery TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — An Israeli hospital says Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has undergone successful prostate surgery. Jerusalem’s Hadassah Medical Center said his prostate was removed late Sunday and that he was recovering. Netanyahu’s office had said Justice Minister Yariv Levin, a close ally, would serve as acting prime minister during the procedure. Doctors ordered the operation after detecting an infection last week. Netanyahu is expected to remain hospitalized for several days. With so much at stake, Netanyahu’s health in wartime is a concern for both Israelis and the wider world. Syria's de facto leader says it could take up to 4 years to hold elections BEIRUT (AP) — Syria’s de facto leader has said it could take up to four years to hold elections in Syria, and that he plans on dissolving his Islamist group that led the country’s insurgency at an anticipated national dialogue summit for the country. Ahmad al-Sharaa, who leads Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the group leading the new authority in Syria, made the remarks in an interview Sunday. That's according to the Saudi television network Al-Arabiyya. It comes almost a month after a lightning insurgency led by HTS overthrew President Bashar Assad’s decades-long rule, ending the country’s uprising-turned civil war that started back in 2011. A fourth infant dies of the winter cold in Gaza as families share blankets in seaside tents DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — A fourth infant has died of hypothermia in Gaza, where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians displaced by nearly 15 months of war are huddled in tents along the rainy, windswept coast as winter arrives. The baby's father says the 20-day-old child was found with his head as “cold as ice” Sunday morning in their tent. The baby’s twin brother was moved to the intensive care unit of Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital. Their father says the twins were born one month premature and spent just a day in hospital, which like other Gaza health centers has been overwhelmed and only partially functions. Musk causes uproar for backing Germany's far-right party ahead of key elections BERLIN (AP) — Tech entrepreneur Elon Musk has caused uproar after backing Germany’s far-right party in a major newspaper ahead of key parliamentary elections in the Western European country, leading to the resignation of the paper’s opinion editor in protest. Germany is to vote in an early election on Feb. 23 after Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s three-party governing coalition collapsed last month in a dispute over how to revitalize the country’s stagnant economy. Musk’s guest opinion piece for Welt am Sonntag, published in German over the weekend, was the second time this month he supported the Alternative for Germany, or AfD.he have placed quarterback on injured reserve following a concussion he sustained during their Week 13 loss to the . The injury occurred in the first half of Sunday's game when Lawrence, while scrambling to his left and attempting to slide, . The hit, which involved Al-Shaair extending his forearm into Lawrence's head, was deemed illegal. Lawrence displayed immediate signs of a concussion, including entering the fencing position, and had to be taken off the field on a golf cart. The incident led to significant repercussions on the field. Al-Shaair was . However, the situation escalated when multiple Jaguars players came to Lawrence's defense, resulting in an on-field altercation. Jaguars cornerback Jarrian Jones In the aftermath, Al-Shaair has been . Jon Runyan, the NFL's vice president of football operations, called the hit " ," highlighting the league's commitment to player safety. Lawrence's injury raises questions about Jaguars' future Lawrence's placement on injured reserve means . With only five games remaining in the season and the Jaguars struggling at 2-10, it appears unlikely that Lawrence will return this year. The team has little incentive to rush him back, . This marks another setback in what has been a challenging season for Lawrence, who also missed two games earlier in the year due to a left shoulder injury. Over 10 games, he completed 60.6% of his passes for In Lawrence's absence, former first-round pick during Sunday's game. Jones performed admirably under the circumstances, completing 20 of 32 passes for 235 yards and two touchdowns, though the Jaguars ultimately fell short. Moving forward, for the remainder of the season. The Jaguars will now have to navigate the rest of their schedule without their franchise quarterback, while Lawrence focuses on his recovery. As the team looks ahead, they will likely lean heavily on Jones and other key players to finish out what has been a difficult season.The arrival of the early signing period Wednesday offered a stark reminder for college football fans. If recruiting rankings offer any accurate gauge in the era of the transfer portal, those teams competing for College Football Playoff berths now should keep contending for years to come. Texas, Georgia, Alabama, Oregon and Ohio State are all on track to earn playoff invitations, and those five schools also are atop the team recruiting standings. It represents one more example of how the Southeastern Conference and Big Ten have separated themselves from all the other leagues. Steve Wiltfong, vice president of recruiting and the transfer portal for On3, said it’s apparent why those programs continue recruiting so well. “First and foremost, those are the programs with the most resources,” Wiltfong said. “They’re the programs that are having the most success on the field and in the NFL draft.” The order of those top classes remains in flux. The identity of the No. 1 class according to composite rankings of recruiting sites compiled by 247Sports may not be determined until Friday because of the uncertainty surrounding a couple of top-10 prospects. Manchester (Georgia) defensive tackle Justus Terry, the nation’s No. 10 overall recruit according to the 247Sports Composite, isn't expected to announce his college choice until Friday. Terry is considering Georgia, Texas and Auburn. David Sanders of Providence Day School in Charlotte, North Carolina, is the nation's No. 1 offensive tackle and No. 5 overall recruit in his class. Sanders is committed to Tennessee, but he wasn't expected to sign on Wednesday as Ohio State continues to pursue him. Terry was the rare prospect delaying his decision. Most top recruits already committed to a school well before the signing period, continuing a trend that took effect from the time a December signing date was added in 2017 to the traditional February signing period. This year, that early signing period was moved up a few weeks so that it would take place before the transfer window opens Monday. This signing period also comes in the era of collectives and name, image and likeness opportunities allowing prospects to profit off their brand. LSU coach Brian Kelly called it “unlike any recruiting period that I've ever been involved in” and opened his news conference Wednesday by saying it “feels more like Tax Day than it does signing day.” “It's not just about finding the right fit academically,” said Kelly, whose class ranked ninth as of Wednesday afternoon. “It's not just about finding the right fit where you can develop holistically and graduate and play for a championship. It's about what's the most money I can get. That's unfortunate, but it's the world we live in. You have to be able to adapt, and you have to be able to realign and be prepared.” While most prospects committed to schools months ago, some of them changed their minds down the stretch. Oregon arguably had the best day of anyone in flipping prospects. The Ducks landed the 247Sports Composite’s No. 11 overall prospect when cornerback Na’eem Offord made a switch from Ohio State. Oregon also added one of the nation's top 10 quarterback recruits in Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele, who initially committed to California. Oregon's class now includes three of the nation's top six cornerback prospects in Offord, Brandon Finney and Dorian Brew. Perhaps the most notable development in the weeks leading up to the signing period was quarterback Bryce Underwood’s decision last month to stay in his home state and play for Michigan after initially planning to play at LSU. “It’s huge,” Michigan coach Sherrone Moore said. “He’s an excellent player, obviously.” Underwood’s switch brought late momentum for the defending national champions . Michigan will end up with a top-10 class this year after finishing outside the top 15 each of the last two recruiting cycles. Michigan’s recruiting emergence wasn’t the only surprise. Auburn was sixth in the 247Sports Composite team rankings as of Wednesday afternoon after posting a fourth consecutive losing season. “I’ve been very clear since my arrival that I thought it would take three top-10 classes to overhaul our roster, to get it to where it’s apples to apples with the elite in the country,” Auburn coach Hugh Freeze said. “And man, today’s one of those days where the first emotion you probably feel is relief and excitement is the next one.” Florida was the fastest-rising team in the recruiting rankings after coach Billy Napier earned a vote of confidence and freshman quarterback DJ Lagway helped the Gators win three straight games to close the regular season. “I’m calling it the DJ Lagway effect,” said Andrew Ivins, director of scouting for 247Sports. “They went from outside the top 50 to knocking on the door for a top-10 recruiting class. We haven’t really seen that type of push ever.” While Georgia awaits Terry’s decision, the Bulldogs signed two other home-state prospects who were rated among the nation’s top nine recruits in the 247Sports Composite. Defensive lineman Elijah Griffin of Savannah Christian Prep is ranked third overall. Edge rusher Isaiah Gibson of Warner Robins is ninth. Alabama's class is headlined by quarterback Keelon Russell, the nation's No. 2 overall prospect, according to the 247Sports Composite. Ohio State has two top-10 overall recruits in cornerback Devin Sanchez (6th) and quarterback Tavien St. Clair (7th). “There’s a swagger about him, there’s a confidence about him,” Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer said. “He’s been a major part of bringing and keeping this class together, which is what you want out of any leader, but especially out of your quarterback.” Texas added three top-25 prospects by getting safety Jonah Williams (8th), wide receiver Kaliq Lockett (22nd) and defensive lineman Lance Jackson (25th) to stay in their home state. AP Sports Writers John Zenor and Larry Lage contributed to this report. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football
Do you have space in your income portfolio for some more ASX dividend shares after the Christmas break? If you do, then it could be worth looking at the three listed below. That's because analysts rate them as buys and believe they will offer attractive . Here's what you need to know about these dividend shares: ( ) The first ASX dividend share that could be a buy for income investors is retail giant Harvey Norman. Bell Potter believes it is a buy due to its exposure to the artificial intelligence (AI) boom. The broker expects Harvey Norman to benefit greatly from an AI driven major upgrade/replacement cycle of devices purchased during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is expecting this to underpin fully franked dividends of 25.9 cents per share in FY 2025 and then 28.5 cents per share in FY 2026. Based on the current Harvey Norman share price of $4.71, this equates to attractive 5.5% and 6% dividend yields, respectively. Bell Potter has a buy rating and $5.80 price target on its shares. ( ) Another ASX dividend share that could be a buy after Christmas is HomeCo Daily Needs. It is a property company with a focus on neighbourhood retail, large format retail, and health and services. The team at Morgans remains positive on the company. Particularly given its shift in focus from large format retail to daily needs. It appears to believe this leaves it well-postioned for growth in the coming years. In respect to income, Morgans is forecasting dividends per share of 8.5 cents in FY 2025 and then 8.7 cents in FY 2026. Based on the current HomeCo Daily Needs share price of $1.16, this will mean dividend yields of 7.3% and 7.5%, respectively. The broker currently has an add rating and $1.36 price target on its shares. ( ) A third ASX dividend share for income investors to look at is specialist alternative investment manager Regal Partners. At the last count, it had approximately $17.2 billion in funds under management. But Bell Potter believes that this number will grow in the future. Particularly given its strong performance, which it doesn't believe is reflected in its share price at present. It expects this strong performance to underpin fully franked dividends per share of 16.3 cents in FY 2024 and then 18.1 cents in FY 2025. Based on its current share price of $3.57, this represents dividend yields of 4.55% and 5.1%, respectively. Bell Potter has a buy rating and $4.85 price target on its shares.
‘This is a privacy breach’: Woman says AT&T kept accidentally sending her client’s private information. She can’t believe customer service’s responseJefferson keeps seeing double as Vikings aim to stay focused on overall offensive productionOpinions expressed by Digital Journal contributors are their own Launching and running a business is not for the faint of heart, and the knowledge needed to be successful ranges from data analysis, financial accounting, negotiation, marketing, and sales to much more. Yet, like other knowledge needed, sourcing should not require buyers and entrepreneurs to be experts in the supply chain in order to access quality products. For those wondering how to find suppliers or where competitors are sourcing, an ideal sourcing tool would make the process straightforward, unbiased, and data-driven. Positioning itself to empower every brand, from startups to industry leaders, with access to the right supplies, SourceReady is a supplier discovery tool that democratizes access to high-quality global resources and makes sourcing an easier process for all companies. SourceReady ’s founder is Ricky Ho, who grew up in a third-generation family textile business that helped introduce him to the intricacies of the supply chain industry. It was his experiences growing up, seeing firsthand the complexities of global sourcing, that prompted Ricky to start his first business, a supply chain ERP, where he learned even more about the challenges of sourcing. During Ricky’s first business, he encountered a significant gap in the service industry: many high-quality suppliers and factories often operate under the radar. This gap makes it difficult for emerging and established companies to connect with these suppliers, leading to Ricky’s idea for SourceReady, a platform designed to simplify global sourcing by leveraging big data and AI technology to provide a comprehensive supplier directory . With shifts in the legal and global landscape and with reliance on China posing increasing risks, the need for diversification has become crucial. For brands researching how to find suppliers in Mexico, Vietnam, or other emerging markets, SourceReady is addressing this growing need for supply chain diversification. Moving beyond China, sourcing trends are shifting toward emerging markets like Mexico and Vietnam, and current platforms like Alibaba and Global Sources lack the global flexibility to support these changes. For companies looking for an Alibaba alternative, SourceReady fills this gap by offering an adaptable, global supplier search engine that meets the complex needs of sourcing. Supporting buyers and entrepreneurs with sourcing needs that range from different products and volumes to varied quality requirements, SourceReady connects you with reliable suppliers across the world without the influence of paid listings that compromise search quality. Unlike traditional marketplaces that prioritize paid listings, SourceReady sets itself apart from competitors, like Alibaba and Global Sources, by delivering unbiased, high-quality supplier matches that are tailored to the needs of each buyer and are entirely ad-free. Driven by AI, this supplier discovery tool ensures accurate, relevant supplier recommendations that buyers can trust. As AI technology continues to change many aspects of life, SourceReady is using this technology to advance sourcing and supplier management tools that provide personalized, data-backed supplier rankings based on each buyer’s needs. SourceReady aims to empower companies to diversify and adapt while also streamlining traditionally complex workflows and enhancing supply chain resilience, making global sourcing a more simple and strategic process rather than a daunting challenge. Jon Stojan is a professional writer based in Wisconsin. He guides editorial teams consisting of writers across the US to help them become more skilled and diverse writers. In his free time he enjoys spending time with his wife and children.
Biden Says Carter to Receive a State Funeral in WashingtonShare Tweet Share Share Email Over the recent years, two of the biggest game-changing technologies, blockchain and virtual reality (VR), have been introduced that are affecting the industry significantly. VR places users in a realistic interactive environment, and blockchain ensures safe, transparent and decentralized mode of transaction. Together, they can completely change immersive experiences in gaming, real estate, entertainment and much more. In this post, we will see how this fusion is revolutionizing the digital landscape, and what this means for the future. The Growing Synergy Between Blockchain and VR Blockchains are, at their core, time-stamped, tamper-proof ledgers. This is critical for applications in VR, where ownership, transactions, and data integrity are crucial. Using blockchain, developers will solve fundamental problems such as which virtual assets are owned, how they can be monetized, and how they can make those interactions peer-to-peer safe. Blockchain creates non-fungible tokens (NFTs) representing unique digital assets. Virtual Realities (VRs) added to the mix enable users to buy, sell, or trade virtual items, like virtual land, avatars, and accessories, with verifiable ownership and scarcity. We see the most synergy in blockchain-powered metaverses such as Decentraland and The Sandbox, where users can own and monetize virtual properties within immersive worlds. Gaming and Entertainment Revolution Gaming and entertainment are some of the most significant applications of blockchain and VR. In the in-game economy and asset control, game developers traditionally remain in control. But with blockchain, real people own their digital assets. It extends beyond individual games, allowing true cross-platform compatibility and real-world value. VR games that give you tokens backed by blockchain, for example. Rewards, trading of virtual items and decentralized governance are some ways players can earn cryptocurrency. This model is about increasing user engagement and building a thriving creator economy. Within a transparent, equity ecosystem, developers, artists and gamers can work together. Furthermore, VR concerts and events are on the rise. Using blockchain, ticketing systems can tackle counterfeiting and scalping. Fair pricing and automatic royalty distribution of in for both organizers and attendees, and smart contracts make doing this much easier. Real Estate to Virtual Commerce Integrating blockchain and VR is ‘big’ in the real estate industry. With virtual reality, potential buyers can tour properties without having to go there in person. Blockchain allows transactions to be secure and ownership to be recorded on an immutable ledger. It’s even more powerful in the virtual world. Cryptovoxels and Somnium Space offer users the chance to buy parcels of virtual land as NFTs. Like real estate, these digital properties can be built, rented, or sold as applications of digital real estate dynamics. Blockchain makes ownership transparent and unpunishable, which forms the base for a powerful virtual economy. Also, VR shopping experiences for E-commerce are becoming more and more complex and indexed. For blockchain, platform confirms product authenticity, categorizes and tracks supply chains, and supports dependable bitcoin payments. Such integration puts all possible efforts for both online shopping to be immersive and, hopefully, secure and efficient in the future forward. Ensuring Privacy and Security With immersive technologies like VR collecting huge amounts of user data, privacy and security become huge issues as well. By providing users control over data, blockchain’s decentralization provides a solution. Personal information can be stored in encrypted, distributed ledgers, which eliminates the possibility of a breach. What’s more, blockchain based identity systems allow secure authentication without disclosing sensitive information. For VR platforms, this also ensures that interactions stay trustworthy so that users can’t be attacked by fraud or identity theft. Future Prospects & Challenges It may be potent, but it won’t be easy to combine blockchain and VR. There are significant hurdles, including scaling issues and high energy consumption, which require widespread adoption. However, Ethereum’s Layer 2 solutions and energy-efficient consensus mechanisms have overcome this barrier, and advancements are being made in this frontier. However, because these technologies are maturing, we will ultimately unlock new possibilities through their integration. What if decentralized VR marketplaces, virtual offices with blockchain-verified credentials, or educational platforms where achievements are immutably blockchain records? These innovations will change the way that we interact, learn, and transact in digital spaces. Conclusion The innovation of using blockchain and VR together is more than simply a gadget; it will be a paradigm shift in redefining immersive consumerism in every industry. From gaming and real estate to entertainment and commerce, these technologies are building out a decentralized, user-centered digital future. Stay updated with Blockchain News for the latest developments in this exciting space. The convergence of blockchain and VR is just beginning, and its impact promises to shape the future in ways we are only starting to imagine. Related Items: Blockchain , technology Share Tweet Share Share Email Recommended for you Qubetics’ 3-Day Window for 10% Discount, Cardano’s Bitcoin Integration, and Arbitrum’s Layer-2 Strength, Define the Best Cryptos to Watch This Week Top 4 Crypto Coins For 2025: BlockDAG, Chainlink, Arbitrum & Bitcoin Cash—Who Will Spearhead the Next Bull Run? Solana’s Comeback, Celestia’s Vision, and Qubetics’ 10% Discount Deadline Lead the Best Cryptos to Invest in Today CommentsThe official start of winter is just days away so if you’re readying yourself for three or more months of hibernation, then Amazon has a deal you won’t want to let go . Bedsure’s Heated Blanket Electric Throw is on sale for 20% off, which means you’ll only have to pay $30, instead of $39, to keep yourself warm and cozy through the cold season — at least that’s the hope! This luxurious and durable blanket is made from ultra-soft 220 GSM flannel on one side and 200 GSM premium sherpa on the other — which are total winter comfort staples. It features advanced heating wire technology that offers six heating levels and four time-settings so you can tailor the perfect temperature and warmth duration for your precise level of chill . And with 74 safety tests conducted in a quality-control-observant Intertek-recognized Satellite Lab, the blanket surpasses UL standards for safety. It’s also ETL and FCC-certified so all the important quality and compliance requisites are met. Beyond industry safety and performance benchmarks, though, the Bedsure throw has a 3-hour auto shut-off feature for peace of mind. According to the brand, the plush blanket is machine washable, fade-resistant, and energy-efficient , consuming only one-thirtieth the power of traditional heaters. Whether you’d like to add an extra layer of insulation to your bed at night or just want something warm to snuggle under on the couch while Netflix streams in the background, this Bedsure electric blanket brings the heat. Shop the Bedsure Heated Blanket Electric Throw at Amazon for $30, but not for long. More deals to stay warm this season GiveBest Portable Electric Space Heater with Thermostat for $23, instead of $29 Bedsure Heated Mattress Pad for $55, instead of $69 Nextmug Temperature-Controlled, Self-Heating Coffee Mug for $100, instead of $130 The Best Deals in December Longchamp has a surprise winter sale happening now, and everything is going super fast The Ninja CREAMi Deluxe is a great Christmas gift. It’s on sale at Amazon and will arrive ahead of the holiday Amazon has the Apple iPad 10 on sale for the lowest price ever in a secret holiday deal that won’t last long Amazon has this Shiatsu foot massager on sale for $35 off, just in time to work out those tired shopping feet Target, Amazon and Kohl’s still have DASH’s mini Christmas waffle makers — and they’ll arrive just in time for a festive breakfast Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com . Danielle Halibey can be reached at dhalibey@njadvancemedia.com . Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips .
The perfect time to fight corruption is now
Prince Harry Has No Plans to Leave U.S., Says Murdoch Lawsuit Is About “Truth and Accountability”
BOSTON – Before media approached Julius Randle following Timberwolves practice Saturday, Randle shouted out an icebreaker, sensing the line of questioning that was to come. “I didn’t pass him the ... ball,” Randle said in a joking manner. “What else you got to ask?” Randle was referencing the moment that has marked the current nadir of this 8-7 season. It was a sequence that came in the fourth quarter of their 110-105 loss in Toronto on Thursday , when Randle didn’t throw Rudy Gobert the ball in the post after Gobert had posted up Scottie Barnes. Gobert, upset Randle didn’t throw him the ball, took his time getting out of the lane and drew a three-second violation as a result. The next trip down the floor, Gobert committed a silly foul on Barnes, Anthony Edwards started yelling at Gobert and Toronto took control of a close game as the Wolves lost control of their emotions. This prompted a frank discussion among the team after the game, and those discussions carried into the pre-practice talks Saturday. “I feel like we had a great practice. We had a great couple discussions,” Randle said, laughing. “I feel like today we came out with an attention to detail, the right mindset, and I think we’re gonna come out and perform great [Sunday].” Both Randle and Gobert addressed what happened in their interviews Saturday, with Gobert taking responsibility and apologizing for escalating his frustration. It’s not the first time that has happened with Gobert in his Wolves tenure. On the last day of the regular season in 2023, Gobert took a swing at Kyle Anderson during a timeout, and the team suspended him for its subsequent play-in game against the Lakers. Gobert and Anderson were fine moving forward. ”Like I told the guys, as someone who really is big on leading by example, my reaction was a bad example,” Gobert said. “I let my emotions, my frustration get the best of me and that’s not who I am. I was sorry for that. I know these guys know me, know who I am, they know everything I do is for my teammates, everything I do is to win, so when I have one of those moments, we know that it’s just a moment.” For his part, Randle said there was no “beef” between him and Gobert. “Rudy’s been great. I’ve had no problem with Rudy,” Randle said. “He’s been great communicating. I feel like Rudy is a great teammate and he brings a lot to our team and we need Rudy. I’ve been to Rudy’s house, there is no beef or any animosity. It’s basketball. Things happen. “Name a perfect family. I have never seen one. There’s always gonna be something. Things happen. You move forward with it. Me and Rudy are great. I’ve got no issue with him.” Edwards, who didn’t speak to the media Saturday, played a big part in the discussion after Thursday’s game, with Randle saying Edwards isn’t afraid to “speak his mind.” But he has the weight to do that because he is a positive presence in so many other moments. “He’s super unselfish and he lifts everybody up,” Randle said. “He really genuinely wants the best for everybody. You notice like after I hit the game-winning shot [against Phoenix], he was the first person to run up to me. When you lead with that type of pure heartedness, you have that right to be honest and call guys out, hold people accountable because you’re backing it up with your actions.” Coach Chris Finch said the team needed to regain its “spirit,” and Saturday’s was a good start at doing that. He said he has noticed multiple players on the team, not just Gobert, letting their individual performances affect their overall attitude. “I don’t think it’s a selfish thing in that regard,” Finch said. “... I think it’s more they’ve been a little disappointed and had a hard time hiding their emotions, and there’s a maturity and a toughness that comes with that.” He then added: “Mistakes are going to be made, people are going to miss you, coverages are going to be blown, shots are not going to go in, decisions might be right, might be wrong, it’s the reaction to all that stuff that you can control and we have to be better at.” Gobert was the most glaring example of that Thursday. He and Randle expressed confidence they will be able to move on from what happened, that this sort of thing pops up in the course of a long season. They’ll have a chance to move on from it Sunday against the defending champion Celtics. “People think great teams are the teams where the sky is always blue, everything is pretty and everyone is happy all the time,” Gobert said. “No, great teams, they know each other, care about one another and when somebody makes a mistake, mistakes happen, but when somebody drifts out a little bit, we talk and we get back on track.” Wolves at Celtics 2:30 p.m. Sunday, FanDuel Sports Network, iHeart app. Wolves update: Mike Conley is listed as out for the second game in a row after also sitting out Thursday’s game because of a left great toe sprain. Nickeil Alexander-Walker has started in his place twice this season when he has sat. Naz Reid, who appeared to get hurt late in Thursday’s game against Toronto, was not listed on the injury report. The Wolves will be seeking their first victory in Boston since 2005. That road losing streak is topped only by their streak in Toronto, which extends to 2004. Celtics update: Defending NBA champion Boston has made waves across the league this season for averaging 50.2 three-point attempts per game. The Celtics are hitting 37% of those and have the third-best offensive efficiency in the league. Jayson Tatum is averaging 29.1 points, 8.2 rebounds and a career high 6.1 assists per game. Derrick White is averaging a career-high 18.4 points per game while shooting 40% from three-point range.Philippine Vice President Openly Threatens to Assassinate President
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Editorial: Still waters run deepWashington: Former US President Jimmy Carter, who served as the 39th president and earned a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, passed away peacefully on Sunday at his Plains, Georgia, home. He was 100 years old, having entered hospice care nearly two years ago. Carter, a peanut farmer turned politician, assumed office in 1977 with a commitment to restoring trust in government. Though his presidency ended in 1981 after a defeat by Ronald Reagan, Carter redefined the post-presidency, dedicating decades to humanitarian work, promoting democracy, and combating global diseases. His work on the Egypt-Israel peace agreement, known as the Camp David Accords, remains a cornerstone of his legacy. Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi praised Carter’s role in achieving the landmark treaty, calling it “etched in the annals of history.” Carter’s post-presidency work extended through The Carter Center, which he co-founded with his wife Rosalynn. Their initiatives included election monitoring, advancing human rights, and global health projects. Jason Carter, their grandson, noted the couple’s enduring values and grassroots approach. Former Vice President Al Gore and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer lauded Carter’s commitment to social justice, peace, and environmental advocacy. Starmer highlighted Carter’s leadership in redefining the role of former presidents. US President Joe Biden called Carter an “extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian,” and announced plans for a state funeral in Washington. Former President Bill Clinton and former First Lady Hillary Clinton remembered Carter as a man driven by faith and service. The Empire State Building was lit in red, white, and blue to commemorate Carter’s life and legacy. Tributes also poured in from former President Barack Obama, Nancy Pelosi, and other global figures. Carter and Rosalynn shared a remarkable 77-year marriage, characterised by their deep bond and shared mission. Rosalynn passed away in November 2023. The pair’s love story began in Plains, Georgia, where they were both born and raised. Carter’s reflections on life, as detailed in his book Why Not The Best?, encapsulate his diverse pursuits—from engineering to canoeing to his love for Bob Dylan’s songs and Dylan Thomas’s poetry. With AP inputs