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Seaway7 signs vessel reservation agreement for UK offshore wind farmTehran, Dec 25 (AP) Iran's government on Tuesday said it had lifted a ban on access to WhatsApp and Google Play after more than two years, the official IRNA news agency reported. The report said the country's Supreme Council of Cyber Space made the decision in a meeting led by reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian, who has vowed to remove restrictions on social media. Also Read | Bill Clinton Health Update: Former US President Is out of MedStar Georgetown University Hospital After Being Treated for Flu. Iran's telecommunication minister Sattar Heshemi in a post on X called the decision a “first step” in removing restrictions and said “the path will continue" — indicating the possibility of unblocking other services. Many people reached by The Associated Press across the capital, Tehran, and other cities said they had access to the services on computers but not yet on mobile phones. Also Read | American Airlines Operations Up and Running Again After Brief Grounding Due to Systemwide Technical Issues on Christmas Eve. WhatsApp has been the third most popular messaging platform in Iran after Instagram and Telegram. The ban on WhatsApp and Google Play was put in place in 2022 during mass protests against the government over the death of a woman held by the country's morality police for allegedly violating the strictly enforced dress code. The protests calmed in 2023 after a crackdown by police and security forces that led to the death of hundreds of people and the imprisonment of thousands. Iran has blocked access to various social media platforms over the years but many people in the country use proxies and VPNs to access them. (AP) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Five vehicles stolen while idling in Gatineau, Que. in recent weeksEthereum (ETH) has long been the blockchain of choice for decentralized applications (dApps) and smart contracts. New on the scene is Lightchain AI (LCAI), combining AI with blockchain technology to make a wave.LCAI presale started at just $0.003, but some experts are predicting a 500x increase by 2025, so it might be worth exploring in case you tend to compare it to what Ethereum was. Why Lightchain AI (LCAI) Might Just 500x Your Wow Factor Here are the reasons why Lightchain AI (LCAI) is positioned to deliver exponential growth and redefine the blockchain and AI landscape: Lightchain AI’s integration of artificial intelligence and blockchain goes beyond speculation, focusing on real-world applications. The LCAI token powers decentralized AI services, governance, and privacy-preserving data processing, ensuring consistent demand and long-term relevance. By introducing advanced scalability solutions and decentralized frameworks, LCAI addresses critical gaps in the market. Its emphasis on AI-specific capabilities positions it as a unique player in the blockchain space, driving adoption across industries. With over $4.16 million raised in Stage 8 at a token price of $0.00375, the presale showcases investor confidence. Early adoption indicates significant growth potential as the project moves closer to mainnet launch. The LCAIs roadmap stresses ecosystem development, global adoption, and partnership with the industry. This innovative strategy together with its disruptive capabilities could make Lightchain AI stand out among the investments providing the maximum of 500x gains. The Future of Lightchain AI Could It Surpass Ethereum? Lightchain AI (LCAI) is getting speed as a change-making blockchain plan, mixing smart machines to build a shared system with real-life use. Even if Ethereum leads as a main blockchain, LCAI's special focus on AI apps, privacy features and growth gives odd benefits that might compete with Ethereum's role. Due to its strong pre-sale push, new plans, and focus on clear dealings and shared control, LCAI is set for fast rise. If many people use it and the site keeps its word on easy AI mixing, it might compete or even beat Ethe͏reum in some areas by changing the blockchain world. Why Lightchain AI Could Be the Next Ethereum Lightchain AI (LCAI) has the potential to rival Ethereum by offering unique innovations tailored for the next generation of blockchain applications. Its integration of artificial intelligence with blockchain enables real-world utility, addressing challenges like scalability, transparency, and privacy. Unlike Ethereum’s broader focus, LCAI targets AI-driven decentralized applications (dApps), setting itself apart with advanced technology. With a strong roadmap emphasizing global adoption, developer engagement, and cross-industry collaboration, LCAI is poised for exponential growth. If it continues to gain traction through its presale and delivers on its promise of scalable AI integration, Lightchain AI could become the Ethereum of AI-focused blockchain solutions How To Snag Your $LCAI Still here? Awesome, because the Lightchain AI Presale is LIVE and moving faster than your Wi-Fi on a good day. Stage 6 is creeping up, which means prices are about to jump—act now, and your dollar gets you more tokens. Here’s how ridiculously easy it is to get your hands on $LCAI. Cruise over to the Lightchain AI website . Connect your wallet (we’re talking ETH or USDT—super flexible). Swap for the amount of $LCAI tokens you want. That’s it! You’re officially in on something massive. Want to nerd out on the details? Dive into the Lightchain AI whitepaper —it’s like a love letter to anyone obsessed with blockchain and AI. https://lightchain.ai https://lightchain.ai/lightchain-whitepaper.pdf https://x.com/LightchainAI https://t.me/LightchainProtocol Join our WhatsApp Channel to get the latest news, exclusives and videos on WhatsApp _____________ Disclaimer: Analytics Insight does not provide financial advice or guidance. Also note that the cryptocurrencies mentioned/listed on the website could potentially be scams, i.e. designed to induce you to invest financial resources that may be lost forever and not be recoverable once investments are made. You are responsible for conducting your own research (DYOR) before making any investments. Read more here.
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After a far-right pro-Russia candidate secured a surprise lead in Romania's presidential election Monday, the eastern European NATO member is bracing for a high-stakes parliamentary vote on Sunday, amid fears it could bring about a strategic shift in the country. Calin Georgescu was in pole position with almost 23 percent after the first round of voting, a political earthquake in the country of 19 million people that has so far resisted nationalist appeals that have gained traction in Hungary and Slovakia. His victory ahead of centre-right mayor Elena Lasconi -- who scored 19.18 percent -- ended the hopes of Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu to compete for the presidency in the December runoff. After coming third at 19.15, Ciolacu said his Social Democratic Party (PSD) won't challenge the narrow result, and announced his resignation as party leader. Experts say the far right's surprise success could affect the parliamentary elections later this week, and even influence the chances of forming a future government. In the runoff ballot on December 8, Lasconi will face Georgescu, a NATO critic who in the past expressed his admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin. Georgescu's popularity surged ahead of the vote with a viral TikTok campaign calling for an end to aid for Ukraine, which shares a 650-kilometre (400-mile) border with Romania. In a first reaction on his YouTube channel, the 62-year-old independent candidate insisted "there is no East or West", stressing that neutrality was "absolutely necessary". "I am not an extremist, I am not a fascist -- I am a Romanian who loves his country," he said in reference to media reports that "tried to portray" him in a wrongful way. For his rival Lasconi, the upcoming runoff represents "an existential battle", "a historic confrontation" between those who wish to "preserve Romania's young democracy" and those who want to "return to the Russian sphere of influence". "We must not allow anger to throw us back into the past," she said to thunderous applause from her supporters, vowing to stand up for Europe and NATO. The political earthquake comes amid soaring inflation and mounting fears of Romania being potentially dragged into Russia's war in neighbouring Ukraine, as the country has emerged as a key player on the alliance's eastern flank. Sign up to get our free daily email of the biggest stories! In Sunday's vote, another far-right contender, AUR party leader George Simion, secured nearly 14 percent. Already pounding the campaign trail for this week's parliamentary elections, Simion said Romania now has "the chance to have a sovereign government and a sovereign president". Overall, the far right won more than a third of all votes in Sunday's presidential ballot. "The far right is by far the big winner of this election," political scientist Cristian Pirvulescu told AFP, predicting a possible "contagion effect" in the parliamentary vote. Extremist forces and Lasconi's centre-right party now have "wind in their sails", sociologist Gelu Duminica said, though "it remains to be seen if they know how to capitalise" on it. The PSD, which has shaped the country's politics for more than three decades, has never before been eliminated in the first round of a presidential election. The National Liberal Party (PNL) party, with whom the PSD currently governs, also suffered a defeat. While many expressed their disbelief over the poll in the streets of the capital Bucharest, others were enthused. Maria Chis, 70, said she was surprised by Georgescu's lead in the first round but had been impressed after watching his TikTok videos. "He seems a man of integrity, serious and patriotic. He inspires seriousness. I think only someone like him can bring change," said the pensioner, who was planning to vote for him in the second round. Alex Tudose, the owner of a construction company, was gloomy. "There is sorrow, disappointment, that after so many years in Euro-Atlantic structures we voted for a pro-Russian by over 20 percent," the 42-year-old said. "There is clearly a strong fragmentation both in society and in the political class, and I think we saw that yesterday," he said. ani-anb-kym/sbkSAN DIEGO , Dec. 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- BSD Builders, Inc., a general contractor specializing in healthcare construction, has announced a strategic partnership with 2G Energy Inc., a pioneer in energy systems, including cogeneration. The collaboration will focus on designing and deploying cutting-edge microgrid solutions to enhance energy resilience, sustainability, and efficiency for commercial building clients. The partnership was formed in response to the challenges faced by skilled nursing facilities during the California wildfires of 2018 and 2020. Utility companies initiated Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) during dangerous weather conditions, forcing facilities to evacuate patients. "After several of our skilled nursing clients were impacted by California wildfires, we worked on a solution to provide an alternative source of power so the lives of their vulnerable residents would not be at risk," explained Jeff Blair , CEO of BSD Builders, Inc. "We reached out to several energy infrastructure companies to support this initiative and were surprised that there was little interest. When we connected with the team at 2G Energy, Inc., they were not only amenable but enthusiastic to help find a way to help protect patients' health and safety." In 2022, California Governor Gavin Newsom passed legislation requiring skilled nursing facilities to maintain at least 96 hours of backup power. The BSD SSC Microgrid solution was developed not only to help skilled nursing facilities meet this new mandate but also to provide any building with a reliable and efficient source of power during outages. It was designed to withstand hurricane wind loads up to 150 mph and has been seismically certified (California OSHPD/HCAi OSP-0826). "Partnering with BSD Builders allows us to bring microgrid technology to people who need it most," said Darren Jamison , Managing Director of 2G Energy North America. "Microgrids are crucial for both enhancing energy security and reducing carbon footprints, and we are thrilled to collaborate on projects that not only drive innovation but also promote a more sustainable energy future." The first projects under the partnership are expected to be deployed in California , with plans to expand to additional markets in the coming months. The partnership underscores both companies' commitment to sustainability and their shared vision of reshaping the future of energy. For more information on BSD Builders, Inc. and 2G Energy Inc., or to inquire about the microgrid solutions, please visit bsdbuilders.com . About BSD Builders, Inc. - BSD Builders, Inc. is a leading general contractor specializing in the healthcare industry. Focusing on exceeding industry standards and delivering exceptional value to clients, BSD Builders, Inc. continues to set the benchmark for excellence in the construction and energy sectors. About 2G Energy Inc. - 2G Energy is a globally recognized leader in the development and production of combined heat and power (CHP) systems. With a commitment to sustainability and innovation, 2G Energy provides cutting-edge solutions that optimize energy efficiency and environmental performance. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bsd-builders-inc-partners-with-2g-energy-inc-to-develop-advanced-microgrid-solutions-302329485.html SOURCE BSD Builders, Inc.
India News | Haryana Govt Approves 30 Agendas at Cabinet Meeting Including Support for Security Forces' Families, Recruitment ReformsOneDigital Investment Advisors LLC grew its position in shares of CMS Energy Co. ( NYSE:CMS – Free Report ) by 5.4% in the third quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The fund owned 3,625 shares of the utilities provider’s stock after buying an additional 187 shares during the quarter. OneDigital Investment Advisors LLC’s holdings in CMS Energy were worth $256,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of CMS. TruNorth Capital Management LLC increased its stake in CMS Energy by 431.3% during the second quarter. TruNorth Capital Management LLC now owns 712 shares of the utilities provider’s stock worth $42,000 after acquiring an additional 578 shares during the last quarter. Innealta Capital LLC bought a new position in shares of CMS Energy during the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $43,000. Covestor Ltd raised its holdings in CMS Energy by 206.1% during the 3rd quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 701 shares of the utilities provider’s stock valued at $50,000 after buying an additional 472 shares during the period. Values First Advisors Inc. bought a new stake in CMS Energy in the third quarter worth $56,000. Finally, Voisard Asset Management Group Inc. lifted its position in CMS Energy by 25.7% in the third quarter. Voisard Asset Management Group Inc. now owns 798 shares of the utilities provider’s stock worth $56,000 after buying an additional 163 shares during the last quarter. 93.57% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. CMS Energy Trading Up 0.4 % NYSE CMS opened at $69.52 on Friday. The company’s 50-day simple moving average is $69.72 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $65.48. CMS Energy Co. has a one year low of $55.10 and a one year high of $72.40. The company has a market capitalization of $20.77 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.86, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.73 and a beta of 0.41. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.86, a quick ratio of 0.83 and a current ratio of 1.23. CMS Energy Increases Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, November 27th. Investors of record on Wednesday, November 13th will be given a dividend of $0.515 per share. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, November 13th. This represents a $2.06 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.96%. This is an increase from CMS Energy’s previous quarterly dividend of $0.51. CMS Energy’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 58.86%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades CMS has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. KeyCorp increased their target price on shares of CMS Energy from $73.00 to $76.00 and gave the company an “overweight” rating in a research note on Monday, September 30th. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price objective on shares of CMS Energy from $70.00 to $77.00 and gave the stock an “overweight” rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 16th. StockNews.com lowered CMS Energy from a “hold” rating to a “sell” rating in a research report on Wednesday. Scotiabank increased their price target on CMS Energy from $66.00 to $75.00 and gave the stock a “sector outperform” rating in a report on Tuesday, August 20th. Finally, Bank of America boosted their price objective on CMS Energy from $69.00 to $73.00 and gave the company a “buy” rating in a report on Thursday, August 29th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have issued a hold rating and ten have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, CMS Energy currently has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus target price of $70.21. Get Our Latest Stock Report on CMS Energy Insider Buying and Selling at CMS Energy In other CMS Energy news, SVP Brandon J. Hofmeister sold 2,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $68.17, for a total transaction of $136,340.00. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 64,771 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $4,415,439.07. This represents a 3.00 % decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink . 0.40% of the stock is owned by insiders. CMS Energy Company Profile ( Free Report ) CMS Energy Corporation operates as an energy company primarily in Michigan. The company operates through three segments: Electric Utility; Gas Utility; and Enterprises. The Electric Utility segment is involved in the generation, purchase, transmission, distribution, and sale of electricity. This segment generates electricity through coal, wind, gas, renewable energy, oil, and nuclear sources. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CMS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for CMS Energy Co. ( NYSE:CMS – Free Report ). Receive News & Ratings for CMS Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for CMS Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .
Now that he’s stepped back into the role of being a starter, Dalton Risner is working tirelessly to make sure he’s at his best for the Vikings. ADVERTISEMENT That could be easier said than done in the short term. After starting exclusively at left guard since entering the NFL, Risner got the start at right guard for the first time last weekend with the Vikings playing the Tennessee Titans. Though he said he was extremely grateful for the opportunity, Risner also admitted there’s a learning curve now playing a new position. Not that he’s complaining about his place on the offensive line. “It was awesome,” Risner said. “I’m really happy with how I played. A few things to clean up. I think I’ll only continue to get better.” ADVERTISEMENT After rewatching the game, head coach Kevin O’Connell praised Risner for the way he competed in the trenches. “He showed some of that veteran moxie to win some downs that were some hard downs,” O’Connell said. “There are some things he’ll continue to improve with the speed and physicality of it as he finds his groove.” The biggest hurdle for Risner is getting his mind to think in reverse. He has spent so much time at left guard throughout his career that switching over to right guard has forced him out of his comfort zone. “All of it is flip-flopped,” Risner said. “It’s not an easy process.” ADVERTISEMENT It was made even more difficult last weekend with Risner going up against the combination of star defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons and rookie defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat. “That’s about as good of a pair as we’re going to find in the NFL,” offensive coordinator Wes Phillips said. “We knew it was going to be a challenge up front with those guys. There are some things we could’ve done better from a technique perspective. We expect these guys to respond.” That includes Risner as the Vikings prepare for the Chicago Bears on Sunday afternoon at Soldier Field. As he gains more experience at his new position, his hope is that it becomes second nature to him at some point soon. ADVERTISEMENT “I don’t know how many reps it’ll be or how many games it’ll be,” Risner said. I know I’ll consistently get more and more comfortable there.” The only player listed as a non-participant on the injury report was tight end Josh Oliver (wrist/ankle). He hasn’t practiced at all this week, so his availability for this weekend is very much up in the air. ______________________________________________________ This story was written by one of our partner news agencies. Forum Communications Company uses content from agencies such as Reuters, Kaiser Health News, Tribune News Service and others to provide a wider range of news to our readers. Learn more about the news services FCC uses here .
Jharkhand’s tallest leader coasts home as jail time consolidates support baseNEW YORK — New York Yankees star Aaron Judge did it again — and made more history. Judge earned his second American League MVP award, this one unanimously, on Thursday night, claiming it after posting an astounding 218 wRC+, the highest ever recorded by a right-handed hitter in either league. Judge received all 30 first-place votes from the Baseball Writers’ Association of America to finish with 420 points, well ahead of second-place Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. (270 points). Judge’s teammate Juan Soto (229 points) finished third. Advertisement Judge also won the honor in 2022, when he hit an AL-record 62 home runs. Judge became the seventh player in Yankees history to win multiple MVPs, joining Alex Rodriguez, Mickey Mantle (three times), Roger Maris, Yogi Berra (three times), Joe DiMaggio (three times) and Lou Gehrig. Judge finished the 2024 season with a majors-leading 58 home runs and 144 RBIs, and a slash line of .322/.458/.701. His 11.2 fWAR ranked as the 10th-best single-season performance in franchise history and the 19th-best of all time. The 6-foot-7 center fielder was so dominant that his .701 slugging percentage was higher than the OPS of 11 teams. “It’s greatness right in front of us,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said in September while describing Judge. GO DEEPER The best Aaron Judge trading cards to collect Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora in September called Judge’s performance “the best version” of his nine-year career. Judge led MLB in home runs, RBIs, walk rate, ISO, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, wOBA, wRC+, and fWAR. The campaign was statistically better overall than his 2022. He did it while hitting behind Soto, who put up a career year with 41 home runs and is poised to land one of the biggest contracts in free-agent history this winter. Judge also led MLB in Statcast’s run value metric against four-seam fastballs, sinkers and sweepers. Despite facing the highest volume of sweepers among all hitters, he slugged an incredible .816 against the pitch. Over the past two seasons, pitchers have frequently attacked Judge with sliders, hoping he would chase pitches off the plate. In 2024, Judge also faced the most sliders of his career. He responded with a remarkable .984 OPS against all types of sliders. Judge is a perfectionist, constantly seeking ways to refine even the smallest aspects of his game as evidenced by the tweaks he made to his swing this season . Topping his 2024 output will be no easy feat, but if he does, another MVP trophy could bear his name. (Photo: Jason Miller / Getty Images)
Voters not sure Keir Starmer will even last another year as Prime Minister
In a strategic outreach, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath met Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday. Adityanath extended an invitation to Shah for the upcoming Maha Kumbh set to take place in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2024. Details of their encounter remain confidential, but insiders suggest discussions on pressing matters concerning Uttar Pradesh were at the forefront. This meeting marks a significant step in strengthening political alliances ahead of the Maha Kumbh preparations. Furthermore, Adityanath engaged with former president Ram Nath Kovind, BJP President J P Nadda, and newly appointed Mizoram Governor V K Singh, presenting each dignitary with a commemorative plaque of the Maha Kumbh, reinforcing the event's cultural and spiritual significance. (With inputs from agencies.)
An Amsterdam District Court on Tuesday sentenced five men to up to six months in prison for violence that erupted around a UEFA Europa League football match between the Dutch club Ajax and Israel’s Maccabi Tel Aviv in November. The riots, which caused an international outcry and accusations of deliberate antisemitic attacks, left 5 people in hospital and 20 others with minor injuries. More than 60 people were detained. The court on Tuesday sentenced one man to 6 months in prison, another to 2 1/2 months and two to 1 month in jail. A fifth defendant received 100 hours of community service. A series of violent incidents took place between pro-Palestinian demonstrators and Israeli soccer fans around the soccer match. Some of the violence was condemned as antisemitic, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu offering to evacuate Maccabi supporters. The violence, which garnered headlines worldwide, damaged Amsterdam’s reputation as a beacon of tolerance and a haven for persecuted religions, including Jews. “It seems that the violence arose from strong pro-Palestine sentiments and dissatisfaction with the situation in Gaza, and related anger against the Israelis present,” the prosecutors’ office said in a statement at the conclusion of hearings two weeks ago. The five defendants, who are all Dutch residents and aged between 19 and 32, were accused of public violence, theft and assault. The Nov. 8 game was allowed to go ahead after the Netherlands’ counterterror watchdog found there was no “concrete threat” to Israeli fans, and the match wasn’t considered a high risk. Even so, Amsterdam authorities banned a pro-Palestinian demonstration outside the Johan Cruyff Arena. According to an investigation, the day before the game the authorities reported several incidents, including Israeli fans tearing a Palestinian flag from an Amsterdam building and attacking a taxi. Six more suspects will have their trials at a later date, including three minors. Under Dutch rules, proceedings for juveniles are held behind closed doors. Police are continuing to investigate the violence and have released images of several suspects they want to identify.Thousands of protesters marched through Barcelona on Saturday demanding lower rents in Spain's second city. Barcelona, which has already taken action to stop the spread of holiday rental apartments, is the latest Spanish city to see protests for cheaper housing. Backed by left-wing parties and unions, the demonstrators gathered in central Barcelona behind a giant banner declaring "Lower the rents". "Today a new political cycle starts concerning housing," Carme Arcarazo, spokesperson for the Catalan Tenants Union, the main organiser, told reporters. "Investors must not be allowed to come to our cities and play with the apartments like a game of Monopoly," she added. The union would target "profiteers" who are taking "half of our salaries", Arcarazo said. The demonstrators demanded a 50 percent cut in rents, leases with an unlimited term and a ban on "speculative" sales of buildings. They threatened to start a rent strike. An estimated 22,000 people took part in a similar demonstration in Madrid on October 13. Campaigns have been launched in other cities. According to the Idealista specialised website, rental prices per square metre have risen 82 percent across Spain over the past decade. The average salary has gone up by 17 percent in that time, according to the national statistics institute. Facing pressure over a housing crisis, the government in 2023 passed legislation calling for more social housing, greater restrictions on rents in high demand areas and penalties for owners who do not occupy properties. But rents have continued to rise while the government has battled city and regional authorities to get some parts of the law applied. vid-vab/tw/jmLautaro Martinez ends goal drought as Inter keep pressure on Serie A leaders
Pound on course to return to pre-Brexit levels after hitting two-and-a-half year high against the euro By HUGO DUNCAN and JOHN-PAUL FORD ROJAS Updated: 22:00, 11 December 2024 e-mail 4 View comments The pound has been tipped to return to levels last seen before the Brexit vote after reaching its strongest point against the euro for nearly three years. As sterling rose to €1.2157 against the single currency – its highest since March 2022 – a senior foreign exchange trader in the City said it could reach €1.30 next year. The pound was last at those levels before Britain voted to leave the European Union in June 2016. The prediction came as the European Central Bank (ECB) looks set to cut interest rates in the eurozone to 3 per cent today in a bid to kick-start the moribund economy, which has been dragged down by crises in Germany and France. And the Federal Reserve is also on course to cut rates in the US next week after official figures showed that inflation ticked up only marginally from 2.6 per cent in October – to 2.7 per cent in November. By contrast, the Bank of England is expected to leave interest rates in the UK unchanged at 4.75 per cent next week, to the disappointment of millions of borrowers. Rally: Sterling has risen to €1.2157 against the single currency – its highest level since March 2022 Lower interest rates tend to weaken a currency, so the prospect of a rate cut in the eurozone – but not the UK – has pushed the euro down against the pound. Neil Jones, managing director at foreign exchange specialist TJM, said he expects interest rates in the eurozone to fall to 1.5 per cent next year from 3.25 per cent before today’s expected reduction to 3 per cent. ‘The ECB is very much on the trajectory of almost collapsing interest rates, perhaps to emergency levels,’ he told the BBC. ‘We know that the political and economic disarray in Germany and France will push the ECB lower. ‘Meanwhile, the Bank of England is likely to remain on hold, certainly for December. But you can see how interest rates in the UK and the pound are destined to remain higher. I’m looking for €1.30-plus, so a revisit to pre-Brexit levels.’ RELATED ARTICLES Previous 1 Next UK in slow lane to rate cuts: Bank of England's caution is... Sir Clive Cowdery set for bumper windfall on £8.3bn sale of... Share this article Share HOW THIS IS MONEY CAN HELP How to choose the best (and cheapest) stocks and shares Isa and the right DIY investing account Jones conceded that he was in ‘a minority’ in his forecast but he claimed that the ‘vast majority’ of people will agree with him within months. Chris Turner, global head of markets at ING, said that should the pound rise above €1.22 there will be ‘many reports of sterling returning to pre-Brexit levels’. He added: ‘We think sterling can continue to perform well over the coming months.’ Joe Tuckey, head of currency analysis at Argentex, said: ‘Reaching the €1.30 levels last seen pre-Brexit is feasible but would probably represent a best-case scenario. ‘Achieving such levels would probably rely on eurozone fundamentals becoming considerably worse than they are right now.’ DIY INVESTING PLATFORMS AJ Bell AJ Bell Easy investing and ready-made portfolios Learn More Learn More Hargreaves Lansdown Hargreaves Lansdown Free fund dealing and investment ideas Learn More Learn More interactive investor interactive investor Flat-fee investing from £4.99 per month Learn More Learn More Saxo Saxo Get £200 back in trading fees Learn More Learn More Trading 212 Trading 212 Free dealing and no account fee Learn More Learn More Affiliate links: If you take out a product This is Money may earn a commission. These deals are chosen by our editorial team, as we think they are worth highlighting. This does not affect our editorial independence. Compare the best investing account for you Share or comment on this article: Pound on course to return to pre-Brexit levels after hitting two-and-a-half year high against the euro e-mail Add comment Some links in this article may be affiliate links. If you click on them we may earn a small commission. That helps us fund This Is Money, and keep it free to use. We do not write articles to promote products. We do not allow any commercial relationship to affect our editorial independence. More top stories