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Lastly, for fans of epic historical dramas, "The Legend of the Dragon Empress" offers an immersive journey into ancient China filled with grandeur, intrigue, and political maneuvering. Set against the backdrop of a legendary empress's rise to power, this sweeping epic promises to captivate audiences with its intricate storytelling, lavish production design, and stellar performances by a talented ensemble cast. "The Legend of the Dragon Empress" is a cinematic masterpiece that transports viewers to a bygone era of power, passion, and betrayal.FBC GlanceFor a tech-driven Pakistan Pakistan remains mired in what can only be described as a ‘Baby Boomer Syndrome’ As the modern world accelerates towards a future purely dominated by technology, digitisation, and innovation, Pakistan finds itself at a major crossroads. The US recently elected JD Vance as its vice-president, marking the arrival of millennial leadership in the White House. D D Eisenhower took the same step in 1952, bringing young and energetic Richard Nixon to the White House as VP – which ultimately brought John F Kennedy into the limelight in 1960. The progressive, innovative era of the US started with the ‘We will go to the moon’’ speech by JFK at Rice University. The current transition in the White House symbolises a shift away from Baby Boomer-dominated leadership, with even the Democratic Party expected to follow suit with younger candidates soon for the 2028 run. Pakistan, however, remains mired in what can only be described as a ‘Baby Boomer Syndrome’, with leadership from the same generation persisting since 1985. For nearly four decades, Pakistan has been governed by individuals disconnected from the demands of a rapidly changing world. The time has come for a fresh, energetic, dynamic and versatile approach that embraces younger leaders with modern education and a forward-looking mindset – someone like Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, who represents the millennial generation. Pakistan’s economic struggles are well documented. The solutions lie not in traditional remedies but in bold, innovative action. Globally, the tech sector has emerged as the most transformative force of the 21st century. India boasts over 100 unicorns, startups valued at over $1 billion, making it a hub of innovation. The UAE, with Dubai at the forefront, has established itself as a regional leader in blockchain, fintech, and artificial intelligence. Pakistan, on the other hand, has significant IT talent but has so far lagged in capitalising on its potential. Despite producing world-class engineers and programmers, Pakistan’s IT exports remain a modest $2.6 billion annually, far below what its talent pool could achieve. A balanced approach focusing on digital tax reforms, technology, and export diversification could provide sustainable solutions. Tax reform remains a critical priority. With an informal economy comprising over 35 per cent of GDP, Pakistan’s tax base is narrow and inefficient. Digitising tax collection, broadening the tax base, and addressing chronic evasion and corruption could significantly boost state revenues. This, in turn, could fund investments in critical sectors like technology and infrastructure. Similarly, Pakistan’s energy sector is a significant drag on the economy, costing billions annually due to inefficiencies and theft. Investing in renewable energy and privatising loss-making state-owned enterprises would create fiscal space for more productive ventures. Pakistan’s most significant opportunities lie in the digital economy. The global IT sector is booming, and Pakistan has the potential to emerge as a major player. The country already ranks among the top five in the world for freelance services, with young entrepreneurs leveraging platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. However, these efforts are fragmented and lack the government support needed to scale up. Establishing tech hubs modelled on Dubai’s success could transform Pakistan into a regional leader in technology and innovation. Tech innovation is not just a choice but a necessity. A genius like Warren Buffet, known for his financial acumen, initially overlooked technology. However, he later recognised its importance and invested in Apple, now one of the world’s most valuable companies. Giants like Nvidia, Microsoft, and Amazon – members of the ‘Magnificent Seven’ – were once small startups but have grown into trillion-dollar entities, shaping the global economy. Pakistan must foster an environment that allows its tech startups to grow similarly, moving beyond survival to becoming global leaders. Dubai’s rise as a tech hub offers a blueprint for Pakistan. Over the last two decades, Dubai has invested heavily in creating a startup-friendly ecosystem, attracting global talent, and fostering public-private partnerships. Pakistan could replicate this model by developing Special Economic Zones (SEZs) focused on technology. These zones could offer tax incentives, simplified regulations, and access to venture capital, creating an environment where startups can thrive. Collaboration with the UAE could further accelerate this process, establishing a regional tech corridor. Leadership will be key to this transformation. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, with his broader political acumen at a young age, and being Western-educated, is uniquely positioned to lead Pakistan into the technological future. Unlike Baby Boomer leaders who rely on outdated methods, Bilawal’s understanding of technology and global trends could drive investments in the tech sector and encourage innovation. He could champion initiatives like a national startup fund, tech education programmes, and policies that attract international investors. Pakistan’s reliance on traditional industries like agriculture and textiles has limited its growth potential. While these sectors remain important, they cannot drive the kind of economic expansion needed to compete globally. Moving beyond textiles, which account for over 60 per cent of exports, Pakistan must focus on sectors like IT services, engineering, and pharmaceuticals. Startups like Airlift and Bykea have already demonstrated the potential of the local market. However, they face significant challenges, including limited access to venture capital and inadequate infrastructure. Addressing these issues could pave the way for a thriving startup ecosystem, turning Pakistan into a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. India’s success provides valuable lessons. The country’s robust tech ecosystem was built on policies that encouraged entrepreneurship, offered tax breaks for startups, and simplified regulations. By replicating these strategies and tailoring them to local needs, Pakistan could foster a similar environment. Pakistan’s young, digitally savvy population – over 60 per cent of the population is under 30 – represents a demographic dividend waiting to be tapped. However, this requires investment in digital literacy, infrastructure, and skills training. Tourism and cultural exports also offer significant revenue potential. Pakistan’s rich heritage and natural beauty remain underutilised assets. Simplifying visa processes and promoting eco-tourism could attract millions of international visitors. Similarly, exporting Pakistani films, dramas, and music could generate revenue while enhancing the country’s global image. Our trade policy also requires a strategic overhaul. Pakistan must actively negotiate trade agreements with ASEAN, the EU, and African markets to diversify its export destinations. Import substitution policies, focusing on local production of high-demand items like electronics and pharmaceuticals, could reduce reliance on imports and strengthen the domestic economy. Green bonds to fund renewable energy projects and the promotion of cultural exports can also generate revenue while positioning Pakistan as a forward-thinking nation. Pakistan’s economic recovery demands more than incremental changes; it requires bold, innovative action. Younger leaders with modern perspectives, like Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, have the vision needed to embrace technology, foster entrepreneurship, and create a dynamic, future-ready economy. The world is rapidly moving toward a new era defined by quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and blockchain. Pakistan cannot afford to be left behind. The time has come to pass the torch to a new generation of leaders who can guide the country into this new era, ensuring prosperity and growth for decades to come. The writer serves as a senior analyst at e& money, a leading global technology and telecommunications company headquartered in Dubai, UAE. He can be reached at: Sufghan@hotmail.com
In the end, the downfall of the Assad family in Syria serves as a powerful reminder that true power ultimately lies in the hands of the people. As long as rulers fail to govern with the consent and support of their citizens, their days in power are inevitably numbered. The legacy of the Assad regime's collapse will forever stand as a testament to the enduring power of the people and the fragility of even the most entrenched authoritarian regimes.
Trump names Andrew Ferguson as head of Federal Trade Commission to replace Lina Khan
In the dynamic and competitive landscape of football, where fortunes can change in an instant, Valverde and Van de Beek serve as a reminder of the resilience, perseverance, and camaraderie that define the sport. As they continue to chase their dreams and strive for greatness, they embody the spirit of brotherhood that transcends borders, rivalries, and expectations.
SAN DIEGO , Dec. 10, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Robbins LLP reminds investors that a class action was filed on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired Xerox Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: XRX ) securities between January 25, 2024 and October 28, 2024 . Xerox and its subsidiaries offer workplace technology that integrates hardware, services, and software for enterprises in the Americas, and internationally. For more information, submit a form , email attorney Aaron Dumas, Jr. , or give us a call at (800) 350-6003. The Allegations: Robbins LLP is Investigating Allegations that Xerox Holdings Corporation (XRX) Misled Investors Regarding its Business Prospects According to the complaint, during the class period, defendants failed to disclose to investors that: (1) after a large workforce reduction, the Company's salesforce was reorganized with new territory assignments and account coverage; (2) as a result, the Company's salesforce productivity was disrupted; (3) as a result, the Company had a lower rate of sell-through of older products; (4) the difficulties in flushing out older product would delay the launch of key products; and (5) therefore, Xerox was likely to experience lower sales and revenue. Plaintiff alleges that on October 29, 2024 , Xerox revealed "lower-than-expected improvements in sales force productivity" and "delays in the global launch of two new products" had led to "sales underperformance." The Company disclosed that for third quarter 2024, quarterly revenue was down 7.5% year-over-year to $1.53 billion , net loss fell to - $1.2 billion (down $1.3 billion year-over-year), and equipment sales declined 12.2% year over year to $339 million . In a corresponding earnings call, the Company's COO revealed the product delay was in fact a "forecasting issue" where the Company "had higher expectations that we were going to flush through the older product" which it needed to "sell through" in order to "make those transitions." On this news, the Company's share price fell $1.79 , or 17.41%, to close at $8.49 per share on October 29, 2024 . What Now : You may be eligible to participate in the class action against Xerox Holdings Corporation. Shareholders who want to serve as lead plaintiff for the class must submit their application to the court by January 21, 2025 . A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. You do not have to participate in the case to be eligible for a recovery. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member. For more information, click here . All representation is on a contingency fee basis. Shareholders pay no fees or expenses. About Robbins LLP : Some law firms issuing releases about this matter do not actually litigate securities class actions; Robbins LLP does. A recognized leader in shareholder rights litigation, the attorneys and staff of Robbins LLP have been dedicated to helping shareholders recover losses, improve corporate governance structures, and hold company executives accountable for their wrongdoing since 2002. Since our inception, we have obtained over $1 billion for shareholders. To be notified if a class action against Xerox Holdings Corporation settles or to receive free alerts when corporate executives engage in wrongdoing, sign up for Stock Watch today. Attorney Advertising. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. SOURCE Robbins LLPKey Trend In The 3D NAND Flash Memory Market In 2024: Innovative Memory Architectures Reshaping The Landscape
Gus Malzahn is leaving UCF to become Florida State’s offensive coordinator, AP source says
Title: Breaking Free from the Snow Boot Stereotype: Sanpo Village Embarks on a New Era of Design, Production, and SalesAs we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of online content creation, it is crucial to promote positivity, authenticity, and integrity. Sensationalism and vulgarity may yield short-term gains, but in the long run, it is those creators who uphold a sense of dignity and professionalism who will truly stand the test of time.
This from Citi comes via a Dow Jones / Market Watch piece (may be gated ) - in brief: Citigroup forecasts modest gains for the S&P 500 with a base case of 6,500, a bull case of 6,900, and a bear case of 5,100. High trailing price-to-earnings (P/E) ratios, at their loftiest levels in 40 years, pose a risk to returns and increase volatility. Positive fundamentals, artificial intelligence advancements, and productivity gains are expected to support the market. Confidence in long-term growth remains, but "elevated and unattainable" growth expectations temper optimism. While big tech valuations are high, the remaining 493 S&P stocks also trade at their highest 20-year forward P/E levels. Citi’s Levkovich Index (formerly the panic/euphoria index) indicates a euphoric investor phase, akin to the Tech Bubble and post-pandemic rally. History suggests that starting from such high valuations often leads to lower median returns and higher downside risks.