WASHINGTON (AP) — A ninth U.S. telecoms firm has been confirmed to have been hacked as part of a sprawling Chinese espionage campaign that gave officials in Beijing access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans, a top White House official said Friday. Biden administration officials said this month that at least eight telecommunications companies , as well as dozens of nations, had been affected by the Chinese hacking blitz known as Salt Typhoon. But Anne Neuberger, the deputy national security adviser for cyber and emerging technologies, told reporters Friday that a ninth victim had been identified after the administration released guidance to companies about how to hunt for Chinese culprits in their networks. The update from Neuberger is the latest development in a massive hacking operation that has alarmed national security officials, exposed cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the private sector and laid bare China's hacking sophistication. The hackers compromised the networks of telecommunications companies to obtain customer call records and gain access to the private communications of “a limited number of individuals." Though the FBI has not publicly identified any of the victims, officials believe senior U.S. government officials and prominent political figures are among those whose whose communications were accessed. Neuberger said officials did not yet have a precise sense how many Americans overall were affected by Salt Typhoon, in part because the Chinese were careful about their techniques, but a “large number" were in the Washington-Virginia area. Officials believe the goal of the hackers was to identify who owned the phones and, if they were “government targets of interest,” spy on their texts and phone calls, she said. The FBI said most of the people targeted by the hackers are "primarily involved in government or political activity.” Neuberger said the episode highlighted the need for required cybersecurity practices in the telecommunications industry, something the Federal Communications Commission is to take up at a meeting next month. “We know that voluntary cyber security practices are inadequate to protect against China, Russia and Iran hacking of our critical infrastructure,” she said. The Chinese government has denied responsibility for the hacking.
Military Drone Market to Grow by USD 8.51 Billion (2024-2028), Advancements in Drone Technology Driving Revenue, Report on AI-Powered Market Evolution - TechnavioScotiabank Raises Fortinet, Inc. (FTNT) Price Target to $110, Highlighting AI-Driven Growth and Hardware Refresh Cycle
Retired DOJ prosecutor Steve Mellin shares his thoughts on President Biden’s commutations of federal death sentences on ‘America Reports.’ Following President Biden's move to commute the sentences of 37 prisoners on federal death row, Sen. Joe Manchin , I-W.Va., called the clemency granted to two of the individuals "horribly misguided and insulting." In the 37 cases, Biden commuted the sentences to life sentences without the potential for parole. Manchin — a Democrat-turned-independent senator who will soon leave office — said he felt a responsibility to speak out on behalf of the parents of Samantha Burns, who was slain in 2002 at the age of 19, according to reports. TRUMP PLEDGES TO BRING BACK FEDERAL EXECUTIONS AFTER BIDEN COMMUTES DEATH SENTENCES FOR 37 INMATES Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., speaks during the Senate Appropriations Committee hearing on the Special Diabetes Program on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., on July 11, 2023. (Jemal Countess/Getty Images for JDRF) "After speaking to Samantha Burns’ parents, I believe it is my duty to speak on their behalf and say President Biden’s decision to commute the death sentences for the two men convicted in her brutal murder is horribly misguided and insulting," the lawmaker declared in a statement posted on X. "Particularly since Samantha’s family wrote letters to President Biden & the Department of Justice, pleading for them not to do this, but their concerns were unheard. I can’t imagine the grief that Kandi and John Burns are reliving and dealing with during the holiday season," Manchin continued. "As their U.S. Senator and a father, I want to express my deepest sympathy for their continued suffering. Please know that Samantha will forever be in our prayers." Brandon Basham is pictured after escaping from the Hopkins County Jail in Madisonville, Kentucky, on Nov. 4, 2002. He went on an interstate crime spree with fellow escapee Chadrick Fulks that included the murders of two women. (Ashland Police Department/Getty Images) The two men connected with the young woman's death escaped lockup and went on a crime spree in 2002, according to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit . "On November 4, 2002, cellmates Chadrick Fulks and Brandon Basham escaped from a county detention facility in Kentucky" and "unleashed a criminal rampage that lasted seventeen days and zigzagged across several states," according to the court, which noted that the men "admitted to killing Burns and pleaded guilty to carjacking resulting in death in the Southern District of West Virginia." TRUMP HAS CHRISTMAS MESSAGE TO ‘RADICAL LEFT LUNATICS,’ TELLS INMATES BIDEN GRANTED CLEMENCY TO ‘GO TO HELL!’ Chadrick Fulks is escorted by U.S. Marshals out of the federal courthouse in Huntington, West Virginia, on April 12, 2005, following an arraignment on charges of carjacking resulting in the death of Marshall University student Samantha Burns, use of a firearm to commit a crime and interstate transportation of a stolen motor vehicle. (AP Photo/The Herald-Dispatch, Randy Snyder) In a fiery Christmas Day post on Truth Social, President-elect Trump told the 37 individuals who escaped capital punishment to "GO TO HELL!" In a statement about the commutations, President Biden said, "I condemn these murderers, grieve for the victims of their despicable acts, and ache for all the families who have suffered unimaginable and irreparable loss." OUTGOING SEN. JOE MANCHIN PUSHES CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT FOR SUPREME COURT TERM LIMITS President Biden speaks at the Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., on Dec. 16. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images) CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP But he also said that he was "more convinced than ever that we must stop the use of the death penalty at the federal level." "These commutations are consistent with the moratorium my Administration has imposed on federal executions, in cases other than terrorism and hate-motivated mass murder," Biden said. Alex Nitzberg is a writer for Fox News Digital.NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks rose to records Tuesday after Donald Trump’s latest talk about tariffs created only some ripples on Wall Street, even if they could roil the global economy were they to take effect. The S&P 500 climbed 0.6% to top the all-time high it set a couple weeks ago. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 123 points, or 0.3%, to its own record set the day before, while the Nasdaq composite gained 0.6% as Microsoft and Big Tech led the way. Stock markets abroad mostly fell after President-elect Trump said he plans to impose sweeping new tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China once he takes office. But the movements were mostly modest. Stock indexes were down 0.1% in Shanghai and nearly flat in Hong Kong, while Canada’s main index edged down by less than 0.1%. Trump has often praised the use of tariffs , but investors are weighing whether his latest threat will actually become policy or is just an opening point for negotiations. For now, the market seems to be taking it more as the latter. The consequences otherwise for markets and the global economy could be painful. Unless the United States can prepare alternatives for the autos, energy products and other goods that come from Mexico, Canada and China, such tariffs would raise the price of imported items all at once and make households poorer, according to Carl Weinberg and Rubeela Farooqi, economists at High Frequency Economics. They would also hurt profit margins for U.S. companies, while raising the threat of retaliatory tariffs by other countries. And unlike tariffs in Trump’s first term, his latest proposal would affect products across the board. General Motors sank 9%, and Ford Motor fell 2.6% because both import automobiles from Mexico. Constellation Brands, which sells Modelo and other Mexican beer brands in the United States, dropped 3.3%. The value of the Mexican peso fell 1.8% against the U.S. dollar. Beyond the pain such tariffs would cause U.S. households and businesses, they could also push the Federal Reserve to slow or even halt its cuts to interest rates. The Fed had just begun easing its main interest rate from a two-decade high a couple months ago to offer support for the job market . While lower interest rates can boost the economy, they can also offer more fuel for inflation. “Many” officials at the Fed’s last meeting earlier this month said they should lower rates gradually, according to minutes of the meeting released Tuesday afternoon. The talk about tariffs overshadowed another mixed set of profit reports from U.S. retailers that answered few questions about how much more shoppers can keep spending. They’ll need to stay resilient after helping the economy avoid a recession, despite the high interest rates imposed by the Fed to get inflation under control. A report on Tuesday from the Conference Board said confidence among U.S. consumers improved in November, but not by as much as economists expected. Kohl’s tumbled 17% after its results for the latest quarter fell short of analysts’ expectations. CEO Tom Kingsbury said sales remain soft for apparel and footwear. A day earlier, Kingsbury said he plans to step down as CEO in January. Ashley Buchanan, CEO of Michaels and a retail veteran, will replace him. Best Buy fell 4.9% after likewise falling short of analysts’ expectations. Dick’s Sporting Goods topped forecasts for the latest quarter thanks to a strong back-to-school season, but its stock lost an early gain to fall 1.4%. Still, more stocks rose in the S&P 500 than fell. J.M. Smucker had one of the biggest gains and climbed 5.7% after topping analysts’ expectations for the latest quarter. CEO Mark Smucker credited strength for its Uncrustables, Meow Mix, Café Bustelo and Jif brands. Big Tech stocks also helped prop up U.S. indexes. Gains of 3.2% for Amazon and 2.2% for Microsoft were the two strongest forces lifting the S&P 500. All told, the S&P 500 rose 34.26 points to 6,021.63. The Dow gained 123.74 to 44,860.31, and the Nasdaq composite climbed 119.46 to 19,174.30. In the bond market, Treasury yields held relatively steady following their big drop from a day before driven by relief following Trump’s pick for Treasury secretary. The yield on the 10-year Treasury inched up to 4.29% from 4.28% late Monday, but it’s still well below the 4.41% level where it ended last week. In the crypto market, bitcoin continued to pull back after topping $99,000 for the first time late last week. It’s since dipped back toward $91,000, according to CoinDesk. It’s a sharp turnaround from the bonanza that initially took over the crypto market following Trump’s election. That boom had also appeared to have spilled into some corners of the stock market. Strategists at Barclays Capital pointed to stocks of unprofitable companies, along with other areas that can be caught up in bursts of optimism by smaller-pocketed “retail” investors. AP Business Writer Elaine Kurtenbach contributed. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.
Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa, WR Jaylen Waddle out vs. Browns
LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- L.A. Rams star Puka Nacua used his free time to give back. The wide receiver hosted a pizza party with HomeLight Family Living as part of the Rams' "Season of Giving." If you're a kid growing up in Inglewood, there are plenty of sports figures serving as role models, and perhaps few more popular than Rams star receiver Puka Nacua. "They're my favorite team... because I love how they score. I love how they celebrate," said Rashad Neal. As part of the Rams' "Season of Giving," Nacua visited HomeLight Family Living for a holiday pizza party. "Everybody deserves a pizza party. Everybody deserves a night together to share a slice and to have good memories and have fun," Nacua said. At HomeLight Family Living, many single mothers and their children receive services, including women who are working to break the cycle of abuse and poverty... it's hits close to home for Nacua, after being raised by a single mom most of his life following his father's death. "I come from a big family so I see all these kids with their brothers and siblings and these moms and even the single fathers out there who are sacrificing for their kids, and it brings me joy because I know that's what my mom did for me," said Nacua. "Families come to us from domestic violence shelters, from emergency shelters, human trafficking, a lot of different reasons why families are here - we provide free housing coupled with services for families to get back on their feet," said Ricardo Rosales, HomeLight Family Living director. "We all have busy lives and it's nice to come together and be a part of a family together. It's a really good community and fun," said Inglewood resident Nakia Neal. From photos and autographs, meeting Puka is a memory these kids won't forget.
NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks rose to records Tuesday after Donald Trump’s latest talk about tariffs created only some ripples on Wall Street, even if they could roil the global economy were they to take effect. The S&P 500 climbed 0.6% to top the all-time high it set a couple weeks ago. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 123 points, or 0.3%, to its own record set the day before, while the Nasdaq composite gained 0.6% as Microsoft and Big Tech led the way. Stock markets abroad mostly fell after President-elect Trump said he plans to impose sweeping new tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China once he takes office. But the movements were mostly modest. Stock indexes were down 0.1% in Shanghai and nearly flat in Hong Kong, while Canada’s main index edged down by less than 0.1%. Trump has often praised the use of tariffs , but investors are weighing whether his latest threat will actually become policy or is just an opening point for negotiations. For now, the market seems to be taking it more as the latter. The consequences otherwise for markets and the global economy could be painful. Unless the United States can prepare alternatives for the autos, energy products and other goods that come from Mexico, Canada and China, such tariffs would raise the price of imported items all at once and make households poorer, according to Carl Weinberg and Rubeela Farooqi, economists at High Frequency Economics. They would also hurt profit margins for U.S. companies, while raising the threat of retaliatory tariffs by other countries. And unlike tariffs in Trump’s first term, his latest proposal would affect products across the board. General Motors sank 9%, and Ford Motor fell 2.6% because both import automobiles from Mexico. Constellation Brands, which sells Modelo and other Mexican beer brands in the United States, dropped 3.3%. The value of the Mexican peso fell 1.8% against the U.S. dollar. Beyond the pain such tariffs would cause U.S. households and businesses, they could also push the Federal Reserve to slow or even halt its cuts to interest rates. The Fed had just begun easing its main interest rate from a two-decade high a couple months ago to offer support for the job market . While lower interest rates can boost the economy, they can also offer more fuel for inflation. “Many” officials at the Fed’s last meeting earlier this month said they should lower rates gradually, according to minutes of the meeting released Tuesday afternoon. The talk about tariffs overshadowed another mixed set of profit reports from U.S. retailers that answered few questions about how much more shoppers can keep spending. They’ll need to stay resilient after helping the economy avoid a recession, despite the high interest rates imposed by the Fed to get inflation under control. A report on Tuesday from the Conference Board said confidence among U.S. consumers improved in November, but not by as much as economists expected. Kohl’s tumbled 17% after its results for the latest quarter fell short of analysts’ expectations. CEO Tom Kingsbury said sales remain soft for apparel and footwear. A day earlier, Kingsbury said he plans to step down as CEO in January. Ashley Buchanan, CEO of Michaels and a retail veteran, will replace him. Best Buy fell 4.9% after likewise falling short of analysts’ expectations. Dick’s Sporting Goods topped forecasts for the latest quarter thanks to a strong back-to-school season, but its stock lost an early gain to fall 1.4%. Still, more stocks rose in the S&P 500 than fell. J.M. Smucker had one of the biggest gains and climbed 5.7% after topping analysts’ expectations for the latest quarter. CEO Mark Smucker credited strength for its Uncrustables, Meow Mix, Café Bustelo and Jif brands. Big Tech stocks also helped prop up U.S. indexes. Gains of 3.2% for Amazon and 2.2% for Microsoft were the two strongest forces lifting the S&P 500. All told, the S&P 500 rose 34.26 points to 6,021.63. The Dow gained 123.74 to 44,860.31, and the Nasdaq composite climbed 119.46 to 19,174.30. In the bond market, Treasury yields held relatively steady following their big drop from a day before driven by relief following Trump’s pick for Treasury secretary. The yield on the 10-year Treasury inched up to 4.29% from 4.28% late Monday, but it’s still well below the 4.41% level where it ended last week. In the crypto market, bitcoin continued to pull back after topping $99,000 for the first time late last week. It’s since dipped back toward $91,000, according to CoinDesk. It’s a sharp turnaround from the bonanza that initially took over the crypto market following Trump’s election. That boom had also appeared to have spilled into some corners of the stock market. Strategists at Barclays Capital pointed to stocks of unprofitable companies, along with other areas that can be caught up in bursts of optimism by smaller-pocketed “retail” investors. AP Business Writer Elaine Kurtenbach contributed. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.Global Classroom Scheduling Software Market Size, Share and Forecast By Key Players-EMS Software, Skedda, Lantiv, Appointy, Prime Timetable
DALLAS — More than 60 years after President John F. Kennedy was assassinated, conspiracy theories still swirl and any new glimpse into the fateful day of Nov. 22, 1963, in Dallas continues to fascinate. President-elect Donald Trump promised during his reelection campaign that he would declassify all of the remaining government records surrounding the assassination if he returned to office. He made a similar pledge during his first term, but ultimately bended to appeals from the CIA and FBI to keep some documents withheld. At this point, only a few thousand of the millions of governmental records related to the assassination have yet to be fully released, and those who have studied the records released so far say that even if the remaining files are declassified, the public shouldn't anticipate any earth-shattering revelations. "Anybody waiting for a smoking gun that's going to turn this case upside down will be sorely disappointed," said Gerald Posner, author of "Case Closed," which concludes that assassin Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. Friday's 61st anniversary is expected to be marked with a moment of silence at 12:30 p.m. in Dealey Plaza, where Kennedy's motorcade was passing through when he was fatally shot. And throughout this week there have been events marking the anniversary. Nov. 22, 1963 When Air Force One carrying Kennedy and first lady Jacqueline Kennedy touched down in Dallas , they were greeted by a clear sky and enthusiastic crowds. With a reelection campaign on the horizon the next year, they had gone to Texas on political fence-mending trip. But as the motorcade was finishing its parade route downtown, shots rang out from the Texas School Book Depository building. Police arrested 24-year-old Oswald and, two days later, nightclub owner Jack Ruby fatally shot Oswald during a jail transfer. A year after the assassination, the Warren Commission, which President Lyndon B. Johnson established to investigate the assassination, concluded that Oswald acted alone and there was no evidence of a conspiracy. But that hasn't quelled a web of alternative theories over the decades. The collection In the early 1990s, the federal government mandated that all assassination-related documents be housed in a single collection in the National Archives and Records Administration. The collection of over 5 million records was required to be opened by 2017, barring any exemptions designated by the president. Trump, who took office for his first term in 2017, had boasted that he'd allow the release of all of the remaining records but ended up holding some back because of what he called the potential harm to national security. And while files have continued to be released during President Joe Biden's administration, some still remain unseen. The documents released over the last few years offer details on the way intelligence services operated at the time, and include CIA cables and memos discussing visits by Oswald to the Soviet and Cuban embassies during a trip to Mexico City just weeks before the assassination. The former Marine had previously defected to the Soviet Union before returning home to Texas. Mark S. Zaid, a national security attorney in Washington, said what's been released so far has contributed to the understanding of the time period, giving “a great picture” of what was happening during the Cold War and the activities of the CIA. Withheld files Posner estimates that there are still about 3,000 to 4,000 documents in the collection that haven’t yet been fully released. Of those documents, some are still completely redacted while others just have small redactions, like someone's Social Security number. “If you have been following it, as I have and others have, you sort of are zeroed in on the pages you think might provide some additional information for history,” Posner said. There are about 500 documents that have been completely withheld, Posner said, and those include Oswald’s and Ruby’s tax returns. Those files, the National Archives says on its website, weren't subject to the 2017 disclosure requirement. Trump's transition team hasn’t responded to questions this week about his plans when he takes office. A continued fascination From the start, there were those who believed there had to be more to the story than just Oswald acting alone, said Stephen Fagin, curator of the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which tells the story of the assassination from the building where Oswald made his sniper's perch. “People want to make sense of this and they want to find the solution that fits the crime," said Fagin, who said that while there are lingering questions, law enforcement made “a pretty compelling case” against Oswald. Larry J. Sabato, director of the University of Virginia Center for Politics, said his interest in the assassination dates back to the event itself, when he was a child. “It just seemed so fantastical that one very disturbed individual could end up pulling off the crime of the century," Sabato said. “But the more I studied it, the more I realized that is a very possible, maybe even probable in my view, hypothesis.”Notable quotes by Jimmy CarterTravel: Colorado’s winter huts blend adventure, luxury, and scenic beauty
WASHINGTON, Nov. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ASP Isotopes Inc. NASDAQ: ASPI ("ASP Isotopes" or the "Company"), an advanced materials company dedicated to the development of technology and processes for the production of isotopes for use in multiple industries, today issued the following statement in response to a short seller report published on November 26, 2024 by Fuzzy Panda Research ("Fuzzy Panda"). Fuzzy Panda is a self-proclaimed short seller who stands to realize significant gains if the price of ASP Isotopes's stock declines. Based upon ASP Isotopes's and its legal counsel's preliminary review and evaluation of the report, the Company believes the report includes speculative conjecture and claims that are inaccurate or filled with innuendo in an attempt to mislead investors about ASP Isotopes's technology, leadership and future growth. Investors are encouraged to review the Company's public filings made with the SEC. ASP Isotopes is in the process of commissioning three isotope enrichment facilities in South Africa and has hosted commercial partners and investors at these facilities. The first facility is scheduled to enrich Carbon-14 for use in healthcare and agrochemicals. The second facility is scheduled to enrich Silicon-28, which the Company believes will enable faster, more efficient semiconductors for use in artificial intelligence and quantum computing. The third facility is scheduled to enrich Ytterbium-176, a critically important raw material used in the production of radio-oncology therapies. ASP Isotopes values transparency and open communication. Canaccord Genuity's analyst, George Gianarikas, will host a fire side chat with ASP Isotopes's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Paul Mann, at 10am EST on November 27, 2024. Please contact your Canaccord Genuity sales representative for dial in details. About ASP Isotopes Inc. ASP Isotopes Inc. is a development stage advanced materials company dedicated to the development of technology and processes to produce isotopes for use in multiple industries. The Company employs proprietary technology, the Aerodynamic Separation Process ("ASP technology"). The Company's initial focus is on producing and commercializing highly enriched isotopes for the healthcare and technology industries. The Company also plans to enrich isotopes for the nuclear energy sector using Quantum Enrichment technology that the Company is developing. The Company has isotope enrichment facilities in Pretoria, South Africa, dedicated to the enrichment of isotopes of elements with a low atomic mass (light isotopes). There is a growing demand for isotopes such as Silicon-28 for enabling quantum computing; Molybdenum-100, Molybdenum-98, Zinc-68, Ytterbium-176, and Nickel-64 for new, emerging healthcare applications, as well as Chlorine-37, Lithium-6, Lithium-7 and Uranium-235 for green energy applications. The ASP Technology (Aerodynamic Separation Process) is ideal for enriching low and heavy atomic mass molecules. For more information, please visit www.aspisotopes.com . Forward Looking Statements This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, without limitation, statements relating to the future of the Company's enrichment technologies, the market demand for enriched isotopes, and the commencement of supply of enriched isotopes to customers. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations, and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy, and other future conditions. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as "believes," "plans," "anticipates," "expects," "estimates," "projects," "will," "may," "might," and words of a similar nature. Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others but are not limited to, statements we make regarding expected operating results, such as future revenues and prospects from the potential commercialization of isotopes, future performance under contracts, and our strategies for product development, engaging with potential customers, market position, and financial results. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks, and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict, many of which are outside our control. Our actual results, financial condition, and events may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements based upon a number of factors. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance or developments. You are strongly cautioned that reliance on any forward-looking statements involves known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. There are many important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements, including the outcomes of various strategies and projects undertaken by the Company; the potential impact of laws or government regulations or policies in South Africa, the United Kingdom or elsewhere; our reliance on the efforts of third parties; our ability to complete the construction and commissioning of our enrichment plants or to commercialize isotopes using the ASP technology or the Quantum Enrichment Process; our ability to obtain regulatory approvals for the production and distribution of isotopes; the financial terms of any current and future commercial arrangements; our ability to complete certain transactions and realize anticipated benefits from acquisitions; contracts, dependence on our Intellectual Property (IP) rights, certain IP rights of third parties; and the competitive nature of our industry. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this press release is based only on information currently available to us and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise. This press release includes market and industry data and forecasts that we obtained from internal research, publicly available information and industry publications and surveys. Industry publications and surveys generally state that the information contained therein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. Unless otherwise noted, statements as to our potential market position relative to other companies are approximated and based on third-party data and internal analysis and estimates as of the date of this press release. We have not independently verified this information, and it could prove inaccurate. Industry and market data could be wrong because of the method by which sources obtained their data and because information cannot always be verified with certainty due to the limits on the availability and reliability of raw data, the voluntary nature of the data-gathering process and other limitations and uncertainties. In addition, we do not know all of the assumptions regarding general economic conditions or growth that were used in preparing the information and forecasts from sources cited herein. No information in this press release should be interpreted as an indication of future success, revenues, results of operation, or stock price. All forward-looking statements herein are qualified by reference to the cautionary statements set forth herein and should not be relied upon. Contacts Jason Assad– Investor relations Email: Jassad@aspisotopes.com Telephone: 561-709-3043 © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
AP News Summary at 2:49 p.m. EST
Former US president Jimmy Carter dies aged 100
Donald Trump says he urged Gretzky to run for prime minister in Christmas visitMINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota: In Hong Kong, the topic of subdivided flats - or “ shoebox homes ” - always raises heated discussion. In his latest policy address , Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee announced new regulations aimed at phasing out subdivided flats from the city. Subdivided flats are a major source of housing for low-income households. The flats are usually rented out to unrelated individuals , who may be crammed into spaces that barely fit one bed . Many subdivided flats are in core residential areas in Hong Kong, featuring convenient access to wet markets, train stations, schools and business areas. According to a survey by Hong Kong’s Census Department in 2021, there are around 108,000 subdivided units accommodating over 200,000 persons. The median floor area of each unit is 11 sq m , while the median per capita floor area is 6 sq m . For the first time, the government will impose minimum living standards on subdivided units, including the provision of windows, an individual toilet, and a floor area of no less than 8 sq m - the size of two king-sized beds. Landlords will be given a grace period to comply with new rules, and subdivided units will henceforth be redesignated as Basic Housing Units. Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong Wai-lun said that 70 per cent of existing subdivided units already meet the requirements, while the rest would require minor fixes. In Mr Wong’s estimation, subdivided units will gradually phase out with the provision of public rental housing. LONG WAITING LIST FOR PUBLIC RENTAL HOUSING In his policy address, Mr Lee said that 30,000 new public housing units will be completed by 2028. Hong Kong’s public rental housing system has an income ceiling for applicants, depending on their household size and type. The waiting list for public rental housing is still long. There are a total of 123,100 applications from families and the elderly, and 91,500 applications from non-elderly singles. For family applications, the current waiting time is 5.5 years. Mr Lee said that this would be shortened to 4.5 years by 2027 when more public housing units are available. Not all those who live in subdivided units are eligible for public rental housing. Michael Wong estimates that 60 per cent of tenants are eligible, but he did not comment on the remaining 40 per cent. Without the affordable option of renting public housing or subdivided flats, these tenants must seek more expensive accommodation in the private home rental market. Moreover, the Census Department’s 2021 survey indicates that 21.2 per cent of households have at least one member residing in Hong Kong for less than seven years, which disqualifies them from most of Hong Kong’s social benefits. Such households who fall in the low-income category may find themselves in a precarious situation when tighter regulations for subdivided units kick in. AFFORDABLE HOUSING REMAINS AN ISSUE Tenants living in non-compliant subdivided units may have to pay more to continue living in a Basic Housing Unit. Landlords would have to reduce the number of subdivided units within a property, which will drive rental prices up . It is unclear whether the government can provide transitional and affordable housing for those who are forced to leave. Those who are neither eligible for public housing nor able to find an affordable home might have to resort to the illegal rental market. Advocacy groups expressed concern over finding new accommodation for tenants. ComHome Social Realty is a social real estate agency aimed at matching low-income households with affordable housing. Since the group’s founding in 2023, among some 300 participants, only 17 managed to find their match. This low success rate is a result of the sheer discrepancy between participants’ financial ability and home rental prices. In July, the median rent for subdivided units in Hong Kong Island was HK$7,000 (US$900) per month, while that in Kowloon reached HK$5,300 per month. Statistics in 2021 indicate that the median monthly household income of tenants of subdivided units is HK$15,310. Assuming their incomes rose alongside average wage growth from 2021 to 2024, this figure is currently HK$16,160. That means that a sizeable one-third to half of their income goes into the rent for a subdivided unit. The 2024 policy address shows the government’s resolution to solve Hong Kong’s housing issues. The introduction of the Basic Housing Units is a fresh start, and Hong Kong is on its way to build more houses. But with the extreme imbalance between the demand for housing in central areas and the chronic shortage of affordable options , housing for Hong Kong’s most vulnerable individuals will continue to be an issue in the foreseeable future. John Hanzhang Ye is a PhD candidate in the History of Science, Technology and Medicine programme at the University of Minnesota.
NEW YORK , Nov. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Report on how AI is redefining market landscape - The global industrial robotics market size is estimated to grow by USD 16.71 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 13.26% during the forecast period. Demand for industrial robots is driving market growth, with a trend towards integration of IoT with robotics. However, lack of skilled workers to operate industrial robots poses a challenge.Key market players include ABB Ltd., b m surface systems GmbH, Comau Spa, DENSO Corp., Durr AG, FANUC Corp., Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd., MIDEA Group Co. Ltd., Mitsubishi Electric Corp., NACHI FUJIKOSHI Corp., OMRON Corp., Relay Robotics Inc., Rethink Robotics GmbH, Robert Bosch GmbH, Rockwell Automation Inc., Seiko Epson Corp., Shenyang Xinsong Robot Automation Co. Ltd., Staubli International AG, Teradyne Inc., and Yaskawa Electric Corp.. Key insights into market evolution with AI-powered analysis. Explore trends, segmentation, and growth drivers- View Free Sample PDF Market Driver Industrial robotics market is witnessing significant trends in automation, with robots taking over repetitive tasks in various sectors. France , India , South Africa , and the Middle East are key regions driving this development. Companies like Yaskawa Electric and Denso are at the forefront of this industry, providing productivity-enhancing technologies for material handling, welding, and SCARA robots. Automation solutions are essential for industries dealing with manufacturing processes that require precision, consistency, and flexibility. Robots are being integrated into production lines for tasks such as painting, soldering, and assembly, addressing the labor shortage. Industry 4.0 is pushing the role of robotics technology to new heights, with advancements in artificial intelligence, sensors, and integration capabilities. The robot market is forecasted to grow, with China and India being major players. Cobots and machines with multiple axes are becoming increasingly popular due to their flexibility and cost-effectiveness. Production lines in the U.S., Brazil , and Singapore are adopting automation solutions to enhance efficiency and product quality. Deployment of automation solutions in supply chains and assembly lines is a trend, with competition driving down costs and improving delivery times. Robots are being used to monitor and program operations, ensuring consistency and safety in manufacturing processes. The future of industrial robotics lies in the integration of robotics technology with artificial intelligence, allowing machines to learn and adapt to their environment. This will lead to more advanced automation solutions, meeting the needs of industries and enhancing the role of robots in manufacturing processes. The Industrial Robotics Market is experiencing significant growth due to the integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) in manufacturing processes. IoT allows for seamless data transfer between devices, leading to increased automation in industries. Smart and wireless devices, along with cloud technology, are driving the future of industrial robots, such as articulated robots. These robots offer real-time performance data, enhancing efficiency and productivity. Vendors are responding to market competition by offering IoT-enabled articulated robots, providing valuable insights for optimizing industrial operations. Request Sample of our comprehensive report now to stay ahead in the AI-driven market evolution! Market Challenges The Industrial Robotics Market is experiencing significant growth as automation becomes a necessity for businesses to increase productivity and efficiency in various sectors. In France , for instance, the manufacturing industry is at the forefront of this development, with sectors like material handling, welding, and painting adopting robots for tasks that require precision and consistency. Companies like Yaskawa Electric and Denso are major players in this market, providing automation solutions that integrate sensors and artificial intelligence for flexibility and product quality. The market for industrial robots is diverse, with types ranging from SCARA and Cartesian robots to cobots and robots for tasks like soldering and welding. The robot market in China and India is forecasted to grow due to the need for automation and the shortage of labor. In South Africa and the Middle East , industries are deploying robots to improve capacity and reduce labor costs. Manufacturing processes in the U.S., Brazil , and Singapore are also adopting robotics technology to enhance production lines and improve delivery consistency. Robots are being used in assembly lines, material handling, and even in vehicle manufacturing. The role of robotics technology in Industry 4.0 is becoming increasingly important as machines become more interconnected and require monitoring and programming for optimal efficiency. Despite the benefits, challenges remain, including the initial costs of deployment and maintenance. The competition in the market is fierce, with companies striving to offer the most advanced technologies and capabilities. The future of industrial robotics lies in the integration of artificial intelligence and advancements in safety features, making robots an essential tool for businesses looking to stay competitive in today's manufacturing landscape. Industrial robots offer numerous advantages in manufacturing processes, including enhanced accuracy and productivity. However, the market growth is hindered by the challenge of acquiring a skilled workforce. End-users face difficulties in finding workers with the necessary qualifications to operate and maintain robotic technology. Industrial robots require a high level of technical expertise, making it essential for operators to have a solid understanding of data exchange between the robots and the assembly line. Unfortunately, not all workers possess the required skills, limiting the adoption of robots in industrial settings. Consequently, there is a pressing need for training programs to upskill the workforce and prepare them for the integration of advanced robotics in manufacturing facilities. Discover how AI is revolutionizing market trends- Get your access now! Segment Overview This industrial robotics market report extensively covers market segmentation by 1.1 Articulated 1.2 SCARA 1.3 Cylindrical 1.4 Others 2.1 Electrical and electronics 2.2 Automotive 2.3 Metal and machinery 2.4 Pharmaceuticals 2.5 Others 3.1 APAC 3.2 Europe 3.3 North America 3.4 South America 3.5 Middle East and Africa 1.1 Articulated- Articulated robots are a prominent segment in the industrial robotics market, providing adaptability and flexibility across numerous industries, including automotive, metals and machinery, and pharmaceuticals. These robots, which mimic human arm movements through multiple rotary joints, enable them to navigate confined spaces and execute intricate tasks with precision. The 6-axis robot, offering six degrees of freedom, is the most widely used configuration for articulated robots. Renowned for their high accuracy and dexterity, these robots are employed for applications such as material handling, welding, painting, and assembly. In the automotive sector, they are frequently utilized for tasks like spot welding, which necessitates precise placement at various locations on a car body. The size and configuration of the robot determine its payload capacity, ranging from entire car bodies to tiny electronic components. The expanding capabilities and performance of robotics technology are expected to drive the growth of the global industrial robotics market's articulated segment throughout the forecast period. Download a Sample of our comprehensive report today to discover how AI-driven innovations are reshaping competitive dynamics Research Analysis Industrial robotics is revolutionizing manufacturing processes by automating repetitive tasks, enhancing productivity, and improving product quality. Technologies such as SCARA robots, cobots, and industrial vehicles are transforming material handling, welding, soldering, painting, and other sectors. The role of industrial robots extends beyond factories, with applications in manufacturing processes for various industries. Development in robotics is at the forefront of Industry 4.0, integrating sensors, artificial intelligence, and machine learning for greater flexibility and consistency in production lines. Capacity and precision are key benefits, reducing labor costs and increasing efficiency. Maintenance and integration with supply chains are crucial considerations, with forecasts predicting continued growth in the robot market. Production lines and assembly lines are becoming smarter and more automated, leading to cost savings and improved client satisfaction. Market Research Overview Industrial robotics is a dynamic and evolving market that focuses on automating various tasks in manufacturing processes. This sector encompasses technologies such as SCARA, welding, material handling, and painting robots, among others. The market is witnessing significant growth in sectors like automotive, electronics, and food and beverage, driven by the need for increased productivity and consistency. France , India , South Africa , and the Middle East are among the regions experiencing rapid development in industrial robotics. Technologies like Industry 4.0, artificial intelligence, and sensors are at the forefront of this growth, enabling machines to learn and adapt, and providing flexibility in production lines. The role of robotics in manufacturing processes is becoming increasingly important as labor costs rise and the need for precision, efficiency, and flexibility grows. Robots are being deployed in a variety of industries, from material handling and welding to soldering and painting. The market for industrial robots is expected to continue growing, with forecasts indicating a significant increase in sales over the next few years. The robot market in China and India is expected to see particularly strong growth, driven by the scale of their manufacturing industries and the need for automation solutions. The deployment of industrial robots is not without challenges, however. Maintenance and integration into existing production lines can be complex, and there is a shortage of skilled labor to program and operate the machines. Despite these challenges, the benefits of industrial robotics, including increased capacity, improved product quality, and reduced labor costs, make it a vital part of modern manufacturing processes. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation Type Articulated SCARA Cylindrical Others End-user Electrical And Electronics Automotive Metal And Machinery Pharmaceuticals Others Geography APAC Europe North America 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
Digital Workplace Boom: USD 33.3B in 2022 to USD 188.1B by 2031, growing at 21.2%. 11-26-2024 08:57 PM CET | IT, New Media & Software Press release from: SkyQuest Technology Group Digital Workplace Market Scope: Key Insights : Digital Workplace Market size was valued at around USD 33.3 billion in 2022 and is expected to rise from USD 40.4 billion in 2023 to reach a value of USD 188.1 billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 21.2% over the forecast period (2024-2031). Discover Your Competitive Edge with a Free Sample Report : https://www.skyquestt.com/sample-request/digital-workplace-market Access the full 2024 Market report for a comprehensive understanding @ https://www.skyquestt.com/report/digital-workplace-market In-Depth Exploration of the global Digital Workplace Market: This report offers a thorough exploration of the global Digital Workplace market, presenting a wealth of data that has been meticulously researched and analyzed. It identifies and examines the crucial market drivers, including pricing strategies, competitive landscapes, market dynamics, and regional growth trends. By outlining how these factors impact overall market performance, the report provides invaluable insights for stakeholders looking to navigate this complex terrain. Additionally, it features comprehensive profiles of leading market players, detailing essential metrics such as production capabilities, revenue streams, market value, volume, market share, and anticipated growth rates. This report serves as a vital resource for businesses seeking to make informed decisions in a rapidly evolving market. Trends and Insights Leading to Growth Opportunities The best insights for investment decisions stem from understanding major market trends, which simplify the decision-making process for potential investors. The research strives to discover multiple growth opportunities that readers can evaluate and potentially capitalize on, armed with all relevant data. Through a comprehensive assessment of important growth factors, including pricing, production, profit margins, and the value chain, market growth can be more accurately forecast for the upcoming years. Top Firms Evaluated in the Global Digital Workplace Market Research Report: Atos Cognizant IBM Zensar Wipro Infosys DXC Technology Fujitsu HCL Technology Capgemini Key Aspects of the Report: Market Summary: The report includes an overview of products/services, emphasizing the global Digital Workplace market's overall size. It provides a summary of the segmentation analysis, focusing on product/service types, applications, and regional categories, along with revenue and sales forecasts. Competitive Analysis: This segment presents information on market trends and conditions, analyzing various manufacturers. It includes data regarding average prices, as well as revenue and sales distributions for individual players in the market. Business Profiles: This chapter provides a thorough examination of the financial and strategic data for leading players in the global Digital Workplace market, covering product/service descriptions, portfolios, geographic reach, and revenue divisions. Sales Analysis by Region: This section provides data on market performance, detailing revenue, sales, and market share across regions. It also includes projections for sales growth rates and pricing strategies for each regional market, such as: North America: United States, Canada, and Mexico Europe: Germany, France, UK, Russia, and Italy Asia-Pacific: China, Japan, Korea, India, and Southeast Asia South America: Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, etc. Middle East and Africa: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, and South Africa This in-depth research study has the capability to tackle a range of significant questions that are pivotal for understanding the market dynamics, and it specifically aims to answer the following key inquiries: How big could the global Digital Workplace market become by the end of the forecast period? Let's explore the exciting possibilities! Will the current market leader in the global Digital Workplace segment continue to hold its ground, or is change on the horizon? Which regions are poised to experience the most explosive growth in the Digital Workplace market? Discover where the future opportunities lie! Is there a particular player that stands out as the dominant force in the global Digital Workplace market? Let's find out who's leading the charge! What are the key factors driving growth and the challenges holding back the global Digital Workplace market? Join us as we uncover the forces at play! To establish the important thing traits, Ask Our Experts @ https://www.skyquestt.com/speak-with-analyst/digital-workplace-market Table of Contents Chapter 1 Industry Overview 1.1 Definition 1.2 Assumptions 1.3 Research Scope 1.4 Market Analysis by Regions 1.5 Market Size Analysis from 2023 to 2030 11.6 COVID-19 Outbreak: Medical Computer Cart Industry Impact Chapter 2 Competition by Types, Applications, and Top Regions and Countries 2.1 Market (Volume and Value) by Type 2.3 Market (Volume and Value) by Regions Chapter 3 Production Market Analysis 3.1 Worldwide Production Market Analysis 3.2 Regional Production Market Analysis Chapter 4 Medical Computer Cart Sales, Consumption, Export, Import by Regions (2023-2023) Chapter 5 North America Market Analysis Chapter 6 East Asia Market Analysis Chapter 7 Europe Market Analysis Chapter 8 South Asia Market Analysis Chapter 9 Southeast Asia Market Analysis Chapter 10 Middle East Market Analysis Chapter 11 Africa Market Analysis Chapter 12 Oceania Market Analysis Chapter 13 Latin America Market Analysis Chapter 14 Company Profiles and Key Figures in Medical Computer Cart Business Chapter 15 Market Forecast (2023-2030) Chapter 16 Conclusions Address: 1 Apache Way, Westford, Massachusetts 01886 Phone: USA (+1) 351-333-4748 Email: sales@skyquestt.com About Us: SkyQuest Technology is leading growth consulting firm providing market intelligence, commercialization and technology services. It has 450+ happy clients globally. This release was published on openPR.NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks rose to records Tuesday after Donald Trump’s latest talk about tariffs created only some ripples on Wall Street, even if they could roil the global economy were they to take effect. The S&P 500 climbed 0.6% to top the all-time high it set a couple weeks ago. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 123 points, or 0.3%, to its own record set the day before, while the Nasdaq composite gained 0.6% as Microsoft and Big Tech led the way. Stock markets abroad mostly fell after President-elect Trump said he plans to impose sweeping new tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China once he takes office. But the movements were mostly modest. Stock indexes were down 0.1% in Shanghai and nearly flat in Hong Kong, while Canada’s main index edged down by less than 0.1%. Trump has often praised the use of tariffs , but investors are weighing whether his latest threat will actually become policy or is just an opening point for negotiations. For now, the market seems to be taking it more as the latter. The consequences otherwise for markets and the global economy could be painful. Unless the United States can prepare alternatives for the autos, energy products and other goods that come from Mexico, Canada and China, such tariffs would raise the price of imported items all at once and make households poorer, according to Carl Weinberg and Rubeela Farooqi, economists at High Frequency Economics. They would also hurt profit margins for U.S. companies, while raising the threat of retaliatory tariffs by other countries. And unlike tariffs in Trump’s first term, his latest proposal would affect products across the board. General Motors sank 9%, and Ford Motor fell 2.6% because both import automobiles from Mexico. Constellation Brands, which sells Modelo and other Mexican beer brands in the United States, dropped 3.3%. The value of the Mexican peso fell 1.8% against the U.S. dollar. Beyond the pain such tariffs would cause U.S. households and businesses, they could also push the Federal Reserve to slow or even halt its cuts to interest rates. The Fed had just begun easing its main interest rate from a two-decade high a couple months ago to offer support for the job market . While lower interest rates can boost the economy, they can also offer more fuel for inflation. “Many” officials at the Fed’s last meeting earlier this month said they should lower rates gradually, according to minutes of the meeting released Tuesday afternoon. The talk about tariffs overshadowed another mixed set of profit reports from U.S. retailers that answered few questions about how much more shoppers can keep spending. They’ll need to stay resilient after helping the economy avoid a recession, despite the high interest rates imposed by the Fed to get inflation under control. A report on Tuesday from the Conference Board said confidence among U.S. consumers improved in November, but not by as much as economists expected. Kohl’s tumbled 17% after its results for the latest quarter fell short of analysts’ expectations. CEO Tom Kingsbury said sales remain soft for apparel and footwear. A day earlier, Kingsbury said he plans to step down as CEO in January. Ashley Buchanan, CEO of Michaels and a retail veteran, will replace him. Best Buy fell 4.9% after likewise falling short of analysts’ expectations. Dick’s Sporting Goods topped forecasts for the latest quarter thanks to a strong back-to-school season, but its stock lost an early gain to fall 1.4%. Still, more stocks rose in the S&P 500 than fell. J.M. Smucker had one of the biggest gains and climbed 5.7% after topping analysts’ expectations for the latest quarter. CEO Mark Smucker credited strength for its Uncrustables, Meow Mix, Café Bustelo and Jif brands. Big Tech stocks also helped prop up U.S. indexes. Gains of 3.2% for Amazon and 2.2% for Microsoft were the two strongest forces lifting the S&P 500. All told, the S&P 500 rose 34.26 points to 6,021.63. The Dow gained 123.74 to 44,860.31, and the Nasdaq composite climbed 119.46 to 19,174.30. In the bond market, Treasury yields held relatively steady following their big drop from a day before driven by relief following Trump’s pick for Treasury secretary. The yield on the 10-year Treasury inched up to 4.29% from 4.28% late Monday, but it’s still well below the 4.41% level where it ended last week. In the crypto market, bitcoin continued to pull back after topping $99,000 for the first time late last week. It’s since dipped back toward $91,000, according to CoinDesk. It’s a sharp turnaround from the bonanza that initially took over the crypto market following Trump’s election. That boom had also appeared to have spilled into some corners of the stock market. Strategists at Barclays Capital pointed to stocks of unprofitable companies, along with other areas that can be caught up in bursts of optimism by smaller-pocketed “retail” investors. AP Business Writer Elaine Kurtenbach contributed. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly.From revisiting the political scandal that sparked a cultural reckoning in Canberra to a rich-lister’s unravelling, there were no shortage of court battles being waged — or defended — by the top end of town in 2024. We revisit some of the cases that dominated headlines and left us shocked, perplexed, and — at times — even entertained. Brittany Higgins defended a defamation action launched by Senator Linda Reynolds. Credit: Composite image/Holly Thompson Villain or victim? Reynolds v Higgins It was a story of an alleged rape in the halls of Parliament House and a covert political cover-up, and like all “fairytales”, it needed a villain. That was how WA Senator Linda Reynolds’ lawyer Martin Bennett began the five-week-long trial in her defamation suit against former staffer Brittany Higgins and her husband David Sharaz, the most high-profile case to go before WA’s civil courts in 2024. The former defence minister sued Higgins over social media posts accusing her of mishandling the former staffer’s alleged rape by Bruce Lehrmann in March 2019 — a claim that was later aired by the media and created a storm that led to Reynolds’ political demise. Loading Higgins fiercely defended the action on the basis her posts were true, but opted against taking the stand at the eleventh hour amid concerns for her health. The trial, which the pair mortgaged and sold their homes to pursue, pored over the events of 2019 in excruciating detail, dragged in high-profile figures — from former prime minister Scott Morrison to broadcaster Peta Credlin — and threw private texts into the public arena we imagine the parties would have preferred to remain private. It also spawned fresh evidence Reynolds now wants to use as a weapon in her bid to have Higgins’ $2.4 million compensation claim probed by the corruption watchdog. Lehrmann has maintained his innocence since his 2022 criminal trial was aborted due to juror misconduct, but a Federal Court judgment found, on the balance of probabilities, that he did rape Higgins. Lehrmann is now appealing that ruling. Justice Paul Tottle is expected to hand down a judgment in the court row in the New Year, but we suspect there won’t be any winners in this saga. Western Australia’s mining dynasty, of which the nation’s richest person Gina Rinehart is the most famous member, was embroiled in a court fight over the rights to the Hope Downs projects in the state’s iron-rich Pilbara region. Credit: Marija Ercegovac Gina Rinehart: 1, Bianca and John: 0 The high-stakes clash over the Hope Downs iron ore project , which pitted Australia’s richest person Gina Rinehart against two mining dynasties and her eldest children, occupied two floors of the Supreme Court for more than six months in 2023. And yet still, there was unfinished business in the battle for the multibillion-dollar asset. The case made headlines again in April, when Rinehart’s eldest children lost an eleventh-hour bid for 82 top secret documents their billionaire mother claimed were protected by legal privilege. The pair, who have been locked in a bitter battle with their mother over mining assets left behind by their pioneer grandfather Lang Hancock, believed the files might aid their pursuit for ownership of Rinehart-led Hancock Prospecting’s sprawling mining tenements in the state’s north-west. But Justice Natalie Whitby ruled the pair had insufficient evidence, lashing the handling of the case and its burden on the public justice system after revealing the court book spanned 6000 pages. “To say that the resources dedicated to these privilege claims was grossly disproportionate to the issues in the dispute is an understatement,” she wrote. Ouch... We’re still awaiting a judgment from Justice Jennifer Smith on the broader row. We hope Justice Smith is not spending the whole festive season “in the area of or contiguous to” her desk and what we imagine is a very lengthy draft judgment. Beleaguered Mineral Resources boss takes on media to keep court row quiet He gained a reputation as the uninhibited billionaire mining boss behind Mineral Resources’ meteoric rise, but it would be what Chris Ellison kept hidden that would be his downfall. Depressed lithium prices, sweeping cost cuts and a debt-laden balance sheet saw Ellison declare it the “shittiest time” to be a managing director in one newspaper interview. Loading Just a few months later, he would announce plans to vacate the top job, undone by an exposé in the Australian Financial Review detailing his involvement in an alleged decade-long tax evasion scheme. But as shareholders were demanding answers and the corporate regulator was beginning its own probe, Ellison’s lawyers were busy fighting to keep the media from undoing sweeping gag orders over documents filed in his now-settled row with a former contracts boss. The documents were central to the two-year court row MinRes, Ellison and self-proclaimed whistleblower Steven Pigozzo had been fighting on several fronts until inking a peace deal in July — which featured explosive allegations of misconduct. While a string of Pigozzo’s claims had been republished by the media, much of the case had been covered by suppression orders which were broadened when both parties asked that more than 16 legal documents be permanently removed from the case file. “The non-publication orders are sought to fortify matters raised previously about allegations that were not just irrelevant but scandalous,” Ellison’s lawyer told the court. WA Health, scientist ink top-secret stem cell patent peace deal She was the face of Royal Perth Hospital’s state-of-the-art cellular therapy facility, the Perth scientist behind a medical invention that saw her wheeled out by the health department’s publicity team to showcase its life-changing research. That was until the day of Dr Marian Sturm’s retirement in 2021, when the health service dragged her to court demanding compensation and that the licence agreement for the invention be torn up. The three-year medicine ownership battle came to an abrupt end in March after the East Metropolitan Health Service and Sturm’s company Isopogen inked a top-secret peace deal. The lawsuit centred around intellectual property rights to an improved method of manufacturing mesenchymal stromal cells used to treat inflammatory illnesses, which Sturm developed in 2007 and registered in her name and that of her capital-raising vehicle Isopogen. Sturm’s relationship with the EMHS soured amid claims she had breached her contract by asserting ownership over the medicine, which saw Isopogen, two former employees, the state’s own patents attorneys and its insurer embroiled in a bitter legal pursuit with the health service. The parties claimed they had reached a mutually acceptable, confidential settlement which provided a comprehensive framework for “an ongoing relationship”. A spokesperson for the health service told this masthead that gag order extended to how much this three-year sparring match cost the taxpayer. How convenient. Loading Vegan activist Tash Peterson, partner cop $280k bill in defamation row She’s not quite the “top end of town”, but we couldn’t take a look back at the biggest civil cases of 2024 without referencing the whopping damages bill handed to Perth’s most prominent animal rights activist. In November, Tash Peterson and her partner were ordered to pay $280,000 in damages to the owners of a Perth veterinary clinic for defamation after a bizarre dispute in 2021. The dispute, which was later circulated on social media, was sparked after Peterson and Jack Higgs spotted two cockatiels in a large cage at the front of Dr Kay McIntosh and Andrew McIntosh’s Bicton Veterinary Clinic. What unfolded was a bizarre tirade in which Peterson accused the clinic of “advertising animal slavery” — despite neither of the birds being able to survive in the wild — and of eating their own patients. Peterson and Higgs had claimed their tirade was justified as honest opinion, defending the content on the basis it was substantially true and a matter of public interest. But the part of the trial that managed to capture the most attention were revelations about just how deep Peterson’s pockets were, with the V-Gan Booty Pty Ltd entity behind her burgeoning OnlyFans account generating more than $380,000 in earnings in 2022 alone. We suspect this won’t be the last we see of Peterson. Get alerts on breaking news as happens. Sign up for our Breaking News Alert . Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. License this article Courts Perth Jesinta Burton – is a journalist with WAtoday, specialising in civil courts, business and urban development. Connect via Twitter or email . Most Viewed in National LoadingPerfect at home, Cavaliers invite Hawks into pick-your-poison test
NEW YORK (AP) — More shoppers than ever are on track to use ‘buy now, pay later’ plans this holiday season, as the ability to spread out payments looks attractive at a time when Americans still feel the lingering effect of inflation and already have record-high credit card debt. The data firm Adobe Analytics predicts shoppers will spend 11.4% more this holiday season using buy now, pay later than they did a year ago. The company forecasts shoppers will purchase $18.5 billion worth of goods using the third-party services for the period Nov. 1 to Dec. 31, with $993 million worth of purchases on Cyber Monday alone. Buy now, pay later can be particularly appealing to consumers who have low credit scores or no credit history, such as younger shoppers, because most of the companies providing the service run only soft credit checks and don’t report the loans and payment histories to the credit bureaus, unlike credit card companies. This holiday season, buy now, pay later users can also feel more confident if a transaction goes awry. In May, the CFPB said buy now, pay later company must adhere to other regulations that govern traditional credit, such as providing ways to demand refunds and dispute transactions. To use a buy now, pay later plan, consumers typically sign up with bank account information or a debit or credit card, and agree to pay for purchases in monthly installments, typically over eight weeks or more. The loans are marketed as requiring no or low interest, or only conditional fees, such as for late payment. Klarna, Afterpay and Affirm are three of the biggest buy now, pay later companies. But consumer advocates warn that shoppers who sign up for the payment plans using a credit card can be hit with more interest and fees. That's because individuals open themselves up to interest on the credit card payment, if it's carried month to month, on top of any late fees, interest, or penalties from the buy now, pay later loan itself. Experts advise against using a credit card to pay for these plans for this reason. Consumer watchdogs also say the plans lead consumers to overextend themselves because, for example, not paying full price up front leaves, in the shopper’s mind at least, more money for smaller purchases . They also caution consumers to keep careful track of using multiple buy now, pay later services, as the automatic payments can add up, and there is no central reporting, such as with a credit card statement. “Buy now, pay later can be an innovative tool for purchases you’re going to make anyway,” said Mark Elliott, chief customer officer at financial services company LendingClub. “The challenge is that it does fuel overspending.” For merchants, that’s part of the appeal. Retailers have found that customers are more likely to have bigger cart sizes or to convert from browsing to checking out when buy now, pay later is offered. One report from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York cited research that found customers spend 20% more when buy now, pay later is available. “The reality is that the increased cost-of-living and inflation have put more people in a situation where they’re already relying on revolving credit,” Elliott said. “The psychographics of ‘buy now, pay later’ may be different — people don’t think of it as debt — but it is.” If a consumer misses a payment, they can face fees, interest, or the possibility of being locked out of using the services in the future. Emily Childers, consumer financial expert for personal-finance technology company Credit Karma, said that internal data shows member credit card balances are up more than 50% for Gen Z and millennial members since March 2022, when the Fed started raising interest rates. “Young people are entering this holiday season already in the red,” she said. “And, based on what we’re seeing in the data, they’re continuing to bury their heads in the sand and spend.” The Associated Press receives support from Charles Schwab Foundation for educational and explanatory reporting to improve financial literacy. The independent foundation is separate from Charles Schwab and Co. Inc. The AP is solely responsible for its journalism.President-elect Donald Trump nominated Monica Crowley to serve as the Ambassador, Assistant Secretary of State and Chief of Protocol of the United States of America on Wednesday. "Monica will be the Administration Representative for major US hosted events, including America's 250th Birthday in 2026, the FIFA World Cup in 2026, and the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028," Trump said in a statement released Wednesday. "She will be an extraordinary Representative of our Country. Congratulations Monica!" Who Is Monica Elizabeth Crowley? The New York Times bestselling author was born in Arizona. Crowley earned a dual Masters' degrees from Colgate University. She also earned a Doctorate in International Relations from Columbia University. In her doctorate, she was accused of plagiarism as traces of similar content was found in her PHD dissertation. A Columbia University investigation stated that Crowley had committed "localised instances of plagiarism," but the plagiarism did not amount to "research misconduct." Crowley became a part-time consultant at Douglas Schoen in March 2017 and worked as a "outreach services" consultant for Ukrainian political figure and businessman Victor Pinchuk. The Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938 mandated that Crowley register as a foreign agent. Crowley served under former President Richard Nixon from 1990 until his passing in 1994 as an editor and research assistant. She flourished in media, as a National Public Radio commentator. She also anchored for Fox News Channel and Fox Business Network. Crowley, 56, then served as the Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Public Affairs for the first Trump Administration from July 2019 to January 2021. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from US News, World and around the world.
Scottish ResultsU.S. stocks climbed after market superstar Nvidia and another round of companies said they’re making even fatter profits than expected. The S&P 500 pulled 0.5 percent higher Thursday after flipping between modest gains and losses several times in the morning. The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 1.1 percent, and the Nasdaq composite edged up less than 0.1 percent. Banks, smaller companies and other areas of the stock market that tend to do best when the economy is strong helped lead the way, while bitcoin briefly broke above $99,000. Crude oil, meanwhile, continued to rise. Treasury yields edged higher in the bond market. On Thursday: The S&P 500 rose 31.60 points, or 0.5 percent, to 5,948.71. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 461.88 points, or 1.1 percent, to 43,870.35. The Nasdaq composite rose 6.28 points, or less than 0.1 percent, to 18,972.42. The Russell 2000 index of smaller companies rose 38.48 points, or 1.7 percent, to 2,364.02. For the week: The S&P 500 is up 78.09 points, or 1.3 percent. The Dow is up 425.36 points, or 1 percent. The Nasdaq is up 292.30 points, or 1.6 percent. The Russell 2000 is up 60.18 points, or 2.6 percent. For the year: The S&P 500 is up 1,178.88 points, or 24.7 percent. The Dow is up 6,180.81 points, or 16.4 percent. The Nasdaq is up 3,961.07 points, or 26.4 percent. The Russell 2000 is up 336.94 points, or 16.6 percent. The Epoch Times copyright © 2024. The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors. They are meant for general informational purposes only and should not be construed or interpreted as a recommendation or solicitation. The Epoch Times does not provide investment, tax, legal, financial planning, estate planning, or any other personal finance advice. The Epoch Times holds no liability for the accuracy or timeliness of the information provided.