Bavarian Loan Works: Paul Wanner struggles against Bayern Munich
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles Lakers have traded guard D'Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets for forward Dorian Finney-Smith and guard Shake Milton. The Lakers also sent forward Maxwell Lewis and three second-round draft picks to Brooklyn on Sunday. Russell averaged a career-low 12.4 points for the Lakers this season in a diminished role under new coach JJ Redick, who had vowed to unlock the point guard's formidable offensive game. Instead, Russell was removed from the starting lineup in early November, and he struggled to make a consistent impact as a reserve, with his shooting percentages declining significantly from his previous two seasons back in Los Angeles. The 6-foot-7 Finney-Smith isn't a top scorer, but he is a steady 3-and-D wing who fills an obvious need for the Lakers. Los Angeles has had inconsistent wing play and has lacked an effective defender at the key position during the long-term injury absence of Jarred Vanderbilt , who hasn't played since Feb. 1. Finney-Smith averaged 10.4 points and 4.6 rebounds while hitting a career-best 43.5% of his 3-point attempts this season for the Nets, who acquired him from Dallas in the February 2023 in the trade of Kyrie Irving . Finney-Smith has been limited to five games this month by a sprained ankle and a bruised calf, but the 31-year-old played 27 minutes against San Antonio on Friday. “We want to thank D’Angelo for his second stint with us, where we celebrated some great moments and accomplishments on the court together," Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka said in a statement. "We are thrilled to add the physicality, toughness and elite shooting that Dorian Finney-Smith will bring to our core. We also greatly value the playmaking of Shake Milton. We are excited for our fans to get both of these players out on the court.” Redick and Finney-Smith were teammates with the Mavericks during the 2020-21 season, and Redick has expressed admiration for Finney-Smith's hard-nosed game. Milton is joining his sixth NBA team in less than two years, including his third trade in 11 months. He is averaging 7.4 points and 2.4 assists this season as a Nets reserve. Russell is being traded by the Lakers to the Nets for the second time in his career. He also made the move in 2017 after spending his first two NBA seasons with Los Angeles, which drafted him in 2015. Russell earned the only All-Star selection of his career during his two seasons in Brooklyn. Russell has been traded five times in the past 7 1/2 years. The 10-year pro excelled for the Lakers during their run to the 2023 Western Conference finals after returning to the team in February of that season, although he got benched during that final playoff series against Denver. Russell remained a fairly consistent scorer last year while setting a new franchise record for 3-pointers made in a season, but his career-long problems with offensive inconsistency and defensive ability kept him out of Redick's plans this year. With Russell's departure, Gabe Vincent is the only true point guard left in the Lakers' rotation, although LeBron James often fills the role of initiating their offense. The Lakers (18-13) have won five of six heading into their visit from Cleveland on New Year's Eve. The trade continues a roster restructuring by the Nets, who traded former Lakers point guard Dennis Schröder to Golden State two weeks ago. Schröder was Brooklyn's third-leading scorer, while Finney-Smith was its fourth-leading scorer. The Nets have been one of the NBA's lowest-scoring teams this season, so Russell should have plenty of chances to make an offensive impact. Brooklyn has lost three of four heading into its road game against Orlando on Sunday. Russell's $18.7 million contract expires this summer, while Finney-Smith has a $15.4 million player option for the 2025-26 season. Lewis was the Lakers' second-round pick in 2023, but he played in just 41 games over the past two seasons while shuttling to the G League. AP NBA: https://apnews.com/NBA
Share Tweet Share Share Email In an era where technology drives innovation and progress, ensuring that our advancements align with environmental sustainability is crucial. The rapid growth of technology has introduced significant benefits, but it has also posed challenges, particularly concerning energy consumption, e-waste, and carbon emissions. At IT Digital Media , we believe that sustainable tech practices are not only necessary but also achievable. This guide explores practical strategies and innovative solutions for creating a greener tech ecosystem. Understanding Sustainable Technology Sustainable technology refers to the use of technology in ways that minimize negative environmental impacts. This includes designing, producing, and using tech products and services that are energy-efficient, recyclable, and responsible. By adopting sustainable practices, businesses and individuals can contribute to a healthier planet while reaping economic and social benefits. The Importance of Sustainable Tech Practices Reducing Carbon Footprint : Technology-related industries are significant contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable practices help reduce this impact. Minimizing E-Waste : Millions of tons of electronic waste end up in landfills annually. Sustainable solutions encourage recycling and reuse. Cost Efficiency : Energy-efficient technologies often result in reduced operational costs for businesses. Corporate Responsibility : Companies adopting green practices enhance their brand reputation and meet increasing consumer demands for eco-friendly solutions. Key Sustainable Tech Practices Here are actionable strategies to adopt sustainable technology practices: 1. Energy-Efficient Data Centers Data centers consume vast amounts of energy to power and cool servers. Transitioning to energy-efficient models is a critical step in sustainability: Green Energy Sources : Utilize renewable energy, such as solar or wind, to power data centers. Virtualization : Consolidate workloads onto fewer servers to reduce energy consumption. Cooling Optimization : Implement advanced cooling systems like liquid cooling or free-air cooling to enhance efficiency. 2. Eco-Friendly Hardware Design Manufacturers and businesses can prioritize environmentally friendly hardware design by: Using Recyclable Materials : Opt for materials that can be recycled or biodegraded. Designing for Durability : Create devices with longer lifespans to reduce frequent replacements. Modular Components : Enable easy upgrades and repairs to minimize electronic waste. 3. Circular Economy in Tech A circular economy focuses on extending the lifecycle of products through repair, reuse, and recycling: E-Waste Recycling Programs : Participate in or establish e-waste collection and recycling initiatives. Refurbished Devices : Encourage the use of refurbished tech products to reduce demand for new manufacturing. Sharing Platforms : Promote tech-sharing platforms where users can borrow rather than buy devices. 4. Sustainable Software Development Software development also has a role to play in sustainability: Energy-Efficient Code : Write optimized code that requires less computational power. Cloud Optimization : Use cloud services that are powered by renewable energy. Green Software Metrics : Measure and reduce the environmental impact of software applications. 5. Smart Technology Integration Smart technologies can significantly improve energy management and resource utilization: Smart Grids : Integrate IoT and AI to optimize energy distribution and consumption. Energy Monitoring Systems : Use sensors and software to track and reduce energy use in offices and homes. Smart Appliances : Invest in appliances that are energy-efficient and IoT-enabled. Real-World Examples of Sustainable Tech Practices Google : Achieved carbon neutrality in 2007 and is committed to running on carbon-free energy by 2030. Apple : Uses 100% renewable energy in its facilities and prioritizes recycled materials in its products. Dell : Offers take-back and recycling programs for used devices. These companies set benchmarks for others to follow, proving that sustainable tech practices are not only feasible but also profitable. The Role of IT Digital Media At IT Digital Media , we’re dedicated to promoting and supporting sustainable tech practices. Through our platform, we: Educate : Provide insights and resources on the latest green technologies and strategies. Inspire : Share success stories of businesses adopting sustainable practices. Connect : Highlight tools and platforms that help organizations and individuals make eco-friendly choices. Explore our resources at https://www.itdigitalmedia.com to stay updated on sustainable innovations in technology. How Individuals Can Contribute Adopting sustainable tech practices isn’t just for businesses; individuals can make a significant impact too: Extend Device Lifespan : Repair and upgrade devices instead of replacing them frequently. Recycle Responsibly : Dispose of electronics at designated e-waste recycling centers. Energy Conservation : Use energy-saving settings on devices and unplug chargers when not in use. Support Green Brands : Choose products from companies committed to sustainability. Challenges in Implementing Sustainable Tech Practices While the benefits of sustainable technology are clear, challenges remain: Initial Costs : Transitioning to green technologies often requires upfront investments. Awareness : Many businesses and individuals lack awareness of sustainable options. Scalability : Implementing large-scale sustainable solutions can be complex. Despite these challenges, the long-term advantages make sustainability an essential pursuit for the tech industry. The Future of Sustainable Technology The future of sustainable technology is promising, driven by innovation and global awareness. Key trends include: Renewable Energy Integration : Greater reliance on solar, wind, and other renewable sources. Advanced Recycling Techniques : Innovations in material recovery and reuse. AI for Sustainability : Using AI to predict and optimize resource utilization. At IT Digital Media, we’re excited to witness and report on these advancements, ensuring our readers are well-equipped to participate in the journey toward a greener future. Sustainability in technology is no longer optional—it’s imperative. By adopting energy-efficient practices, embracing a circular economy, and leveraging smart technologies, we can build a tech ecosystem that supports both innovation and the environment. Whether you’re a business leader or a tech enthusiast, there’s a role for everyone in this movement Related Items: Eco-friendly , Sustainability , Sustainable technology Share Tweet Share Share Email Recommended for you Sustainable Tech: How Can Businesses Contribute to a Greener Future? Eco-Friendly Excellence: 2024 Green Cleaning Solutions for Commercial Spaces Leveraging Weather Data to Improve Emergency Response Comments
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Jimmy Carter’s ascent to the White House was something few people could have predicted when he was governor of the US state of Georgia. It was no different for Jimmy Carter in the early 1970s. It took meeting several presidential candidates and then encouragement from an esteemed elder statesman before the young governor, who had never met a president himself, saw himself as something bigger. He announced his White House bid on December 12 1974, amid fallout from the Vietnam War and the resignation of Richard Nixon. Then he leveraged his unknown, and politically untainted, status to become the 39th president. That whirlwind path has been a model, explicit and otherwise, for would-be contenders ever since. “Jimmy Carter’s example absolutely created a 50-year window of people saying, ‘Why not me?’” said Steve Schale, who worked on President Barack Obama’s campaigns and is a long-time supporter of President Joe Biden. Mr Carter’s journey to high office began in Plains, Georgia where he received end-of-life care decades after serving as president. David Axelrod, who helped to engineer Mr Obama’s four-year ascent from state senator to the Oval Office, said Mr Carter’s model is about more than how his grassroots strategy turned the Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary into his springboard. “There was a moral stain on the country, and this was a guy of deep faith,” Mr Axelrod said. “He seemed like a fresh start, and I think he understood that he could offer something different that might be able to meet the moment.” Donna Brazile, who managed Democrat Al Gore’s 2000 presidential campaign, got her start on Mr Carter’s two national campaigns. “In 1976, it was just Jimmy Carter’s time,” she said. Of course, the seeds of his presidential run sprouted even before Mr Nixon won a second term and certainly before his resignation in August 1974. In Mr Carter’s telling, he did not run for governor in 1966, he lost, or in 1970 thinking about Washington. Even when he announced his presidential bid, neither he nor those closest to him were completely confident. “President of what?” his mother, Lillian, replied when he told her his plans. But soon after he became governor in 1971, Mr Carter’s team envisioned him as a national player. They were encouraged in part by the May 31 Time magazine cover depicting Mr Carter alongside the headline “Dixie Whistles a Different Tune”. Inside, a flattering profile framed Mr Carter as a model “New South” governor. In October 1971, Carter ally Dr Peter Bourne, an Atlanta physician who would become US drug tsar, sent his politician friend an unsolicited memo outlining how he could be elected president. On October 17, a wider circle of advisers sat with Mr Carter at the Governor’s Mansion to discuss it. Mr Carter, then 47, wore blue jeans and a T-shirt, according to biographer Jonathan Alter. The team, including Mr Carter’s wife Rosalynn, who died aged 96 in November 2023, began considering the idea seriously. “We never used the word ‘president’,” Mr Carter recalled upon his 90th birthday, “but just referred to national office”. Mr Carter invited high-profile Democrats and Washington players who were running or considering running in 1972, to one-on-one meetings at the mansion. He jumped at the chance to lead the Democratic National Committee’s national campaign that year. The position allowed him to travel the country helping candidates up and down the ballot. Along the way, he was among the Southern governors who angled to be George McGovern’s running mate. Mr Alter said Mr Carter was never seriously considered. Still, Mr Carter got to know, among others, former vice president Hubert Humphrey and senators Henry Jackson of Washington, Eugene McCarthy of Maine and Mr McGovern of South Dakota, the eventual nominee who lost a landslide to Mr Nixon. Mr Carter later explained he had previously defined the nation’s highest office by its occupants immortalised by monuments. “For the first time,” Mr Carter told The New York Times, “I started comparing my own experiences and knowledge of government with the candidates, not against ‘the presidency’ and not against Thomas Jefferson and George Washington. It made it a whole lot easier”. Adviser Hamilton Jordan crafted a detailed campaign plan calling for matching Mr Carter’s outsider, good-government credentials to voters’ general disillusionment, even before Watergate. But the team still spoke and wrote in code, as if the “higher office” were not obvious. It was reported during his campaign that Mr Carter told family members around Christmas 1972 that he would run in 1976. Mr Carter later wrote in a memoir that a visit from former secretary of state Dean Rusk in early 1973 affirmed his leanings. During another private confab in Atlanta, Mr Rusk told Mr Carter plainly: “Governor, I think you should run for president in 1976.” That, Mr Carter wrote, “removed our remaining doubts.” Mr Schale said the process is not always so involved. “These are intensely competitive people already,” he said of governors, senators and others in high office. “If you’re wired in that capacity, it’s hard to step away from it.” “Jimmy Carter showed us that you can go from a no-name to president in the span of 18 or 24 months,” said Jared Leopold, a top aide in Washington governor Jay Inslee’s unsuccessful bid for Democrats’ 2020 nomination. “For people deciding whether to get in, it’s a real inspiration,” Mr Leopold continued, “and that’s a real success of American democracy”.Texas and Georgia are battling for recruiting supremacy before duking it out for a Southeastern Conference title. Alabama, which also appears to be headed to the playoffs, is right behind them. The two Atlanta-bound and presumably playoff-bound SEC powers are leading the way in recruiting league-wide and nationally during the early signing period that started Wednesday. They'll meet Saturday in the SEC championship game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium. They're currently No. 1 (Texas) and No. 2 (Georgia) nationally, but the SEC holds a sweep of the top three with the Crimson Tide ranked third in Kalen DeBoer's first full recruiting cycle. The league holds eight of the top 11 spots. The final rankings are pending the decision of the nation's top uncommitted prospect, defensive tackle Justus Terry, who is expected to choose among three SEC schools: Georgia, Texas and Auburn. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.BUFFALO — The University at Buffalo’s WNY Sophomore Externship Experience (SEE) program is set to return in 2025, offering paid opportunities for undergraduate sophomores from UB and across the region to gain hands-on experience with some of Western New York’s top companies. Designed to help students develop their skills, expand their networks, and deepen their understanding of professional opportunities in the region, the program aims to foster a new generation of talented individuals who can make a lasting impact on the local economy. The program is run by the Division of Student Life’s Startup and Innovation Collaboratory Powered by Blackstone LaunchPad (UB CoLab) at UB. Through the SEE program, participating students are matched with leading Western New York companies and organizations, where they can apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings, explore career paths, and enhance their professional readiness. Each extern will receive a $4,000 stipend for the nine-week program, which will run from June 2 to July 31, 2025. Additionally, externs will earn one course credit through UB (pass/fail) and a micro-credential they can showcase on their LinkedIn profiles and resumes. The SEE program is supported by The Prentice Family Foundation and administered by UB CoLab, powered by Blackstone LaunchPad, with collaboration from a wide range of campus and community partners. “We were thrilled by the success of last year’s inaugural SEE program, which exceeded our expectations in terms of student engagement and employer participation,” said Hadar Borden, director of UB CoLab. “With more than 200 applicants and 47 students placed in externships across 25 host companies, the program demonstrated the immense value of exposing students to real-world opportunities in Western New York.” Borden adds: “This year, we are looking forward to expanding the program to include even more students, businesses and industries. It is an exciting time to grow this initiative and help connect our students with the workforce of the future while also showing them the incredible professional possibilities right here in our region.” The SEE program is open to all undergraduate sophomores who have completed their fourth semester by the spring of 2025. This includes students from UB, other Western New York colleges and universities, and those who graduated from a local high school. The externship is designed to be a part-time, immersive experience, with approximately 25 hours per week working with the host company and engaging in professional development activities. Externs will have the opportunity to engage in various professional development activities, including weekly meetups with fellow students, community-building events like Food Truck Tuesdays, and cultural experiences such as Shakespeare in the Park and an Explore Buffalo tour of Silo City. Last year’s program saw participation from students across a variety of majors, including arts and sciences, engineering, business, and health fields. The host companies and organizations in 2024 included ACV Auctions, Buffalo Zoo, Chautauqua Institution, M&T Bank, Kaleida Health, NOCO Energy Corp., People Inc., and many others across industries like technology, health care, finance and manufacturing. “UB SEE offers the opportunity to companies and organizations to apply and join this program as leaders in workforce development in Western New York,” said Borden. “Not only are we providing an opportunity for students at UB, and beyond, to get meaningful experience early in their college careers, we are working with reputable employers in our region to help bolster the workforce in the years ahead.” By participating as host sites, companies gain access to emerging talent and fresh perspectives, all while contributing to the growth of Western New York’s future workforce. Interested companies can apply online via this application form. 2024 program outcomes and impact: • 47 students from 20+ colleges and universities participated. • 25 host companies offered students exposure to over 140 hours of professional experience. • 98% of students reported expanding their professional network, while 93% felt more confident in their problem-solving abilities. • Host companies reported a 96% satisfaction rate, with more than 80% indicating interest in returning as host sites in 2025. How to apply The 2025 WNY Sophomore Externship Experience application deadline for externs is Jan. 31. For companies and organizations interested in hosting externs, priority will be given to those that apply by Jan. 24. Prospective applicants can learn more about the program and how to apply by attending one of the upcoming informational sessions, available both virtually and in person. Interested companies and organizations will be accepted on a rolling basis. Interested students and companies can visit UB’s SEE program website or contact the Startup and Innovation Collaboratory at UB. About UB Startup and Innovation Collaboratory (CoLab) Startup and Innovation CoLab powered by Blackstone LaunchPad opened its doors in March 2016. Located in the Student Union on UB’s North Campus, CoLab provides students with experiential learning, individualized mentorship and ideation support, and seminars and training sessions related to starting and growing a business. The CoLab is one of over 60 campus programs part of the Blackstone Charitable Foundation’s LaunchPad program. Blackstone LaunchPad seeks to close the opportunity gap by equipping primarily first generation and underrepresented college students with key entrepreneurial skills and career exposure, such as paid internships, to build lasting careers.
Long a cultural phenomenon, anime boasts vivid storytelling and artistically appealing artwork. Its impact has gone beyond conventional television and movies during the previous 10 years and is now rather noticeable in the gaming sector. Anime-themed games from casino games to role-playing adventures are igniting players all around’s imaginations. This tendency reflects the rising cross-appealing nature of anime as a cultural and entertainment tool, therefore changing the gaming scene in amazing ways. Are you interested in exploring this trend a bit further? If yes, keep reading. Originally the home of anime, Japan has always been associated with gaming. Anime aesthetics have been deftly combined with engrossing gameplay in titles including Pokémon, Final Fantasy, and Dragon Ball Z. Developers are using this rich visual and narrative legacy more and more as anime fandoms expand to create games appealing to a variety of consumers. Demand for interactive experiences anchored in this cherished art form has also been driven by the emergence of streaming sites like Crunchyroll and Netflix, which deliver anime to millions of fans. Playing an anime-themed game blurring the boundaries between spectator and participant gives fans a closer connection to the characters and settings they love. Unexpected but fascinatingly interesting development: the casino gaming industry has embraced anime style. Slots, card games, and even roulette with anime-inspired themes abound on online sites, so fusing the excitement of gambling with the attraction of anime images. This mix has drawn a fresh set of players, especially younger viewers conversant with anime culture. For example, 1 hour payout casinos online have also used this tendency to appeal more attractingly. These systems guarantee gamers will have a flawless experience by providing lightning-fast withdrawal times. Combining fast payouts with the captivating graphics of anime-themed casino games produces a special entertainment value that closes the distance between conventional gaming senses and current ones. Games with an anime theme go beyond adventure and role-playing genres now. From fighting games and puzzle adventures to simulation titles, developers are using anime themes with everything. Popular games like Genshin Impact and Ni no Kuni highlight the adaptability of anime-inspired design by providing amazing visuals and complex narratives meant for a worldwide audience. Mobile gaming has also embraced this trend; gacha games like Fate/Grand Order and Azur Lane enthrall millions with their anime-inspired characters and narratives. These books not only show the industry’s capacity for innovation and diversification but also represent the rising desire for experiences with anime themes. Anime-themed games have come to life in great part because of technological developments. Motion capture, high-definition visuals, and AI-driven character growth let creators design games that seem to be interactive anime episodes. Offering players immersive experiences previously the stuff of science fiction, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are also helping to shape anime-themed gaming. For example, VR games modeled by anime series let users enter magical realms and interact with cherished characters as though they were part of the narrative. This degree of involvement improves gaming as well as the emotional connection players have with their preferred anime stories. The enormous acceptance of anime-themed games is much influenced by the worldwide passion for the medium. Anime and gaming aficionados meet in a vibrant ecology built by conventions, fan art, and social media networks. Aware of this chance, game creators have been interacting with their players to customize their works to fit their tastes. Additionally enabling fans to help the creation of anime-themed games are crowdsourcing sites like Kickstarter. This cooperative method guarantees that the last product really appeals to its intended market, therefore enhancing the link between producers and customers. Anime aesthetics’ inclusion into games marks a more general change in the way the business views design and narrative than merely a fad. As games with anime appeal keep becoming popular, they open the path for creative crossovers and joint ventures. Nowadays, big-name programmers are working with anime companies to produce games with challenging visual and narrative limits. Titles that combine the finest aspects of gaming and anime not only provide entertainment value but also motivate the next generations of creators to venture into interactive narrative. The growth of games with anime themes emphasizes the dynamic and always-changing character of the gaming business. Developers are creating experiences that appeal to a broad spectrum of players by combining the intriguing artistry of anime with several gameplay techniques. Unquestionably, anime influences gaming whether via casual mobile games, classic role-playing adventures, or even casino games with one-hour payouts. Future promises even more creative and engaging anime-themed experiences as technology and fandom develop, therefore confirming this trend as a permanent presence in the gaming environment.
Saints hail PM Modi as a champion of Sanatan Dharma ahead of ‘Mahakumbh’Floreat suburb profile: What are its unique selling points and is it a good place to live?
Krungthai Card (KTC), a subsidiary of Krungthai Bank (KTB), is set to launch a new core system next year and restructure its IT unit to support sustainable long-term growth. According to chief executive Pittaya Vorapanyakul, KTC has been using its current core system for around 12 years and improvements are needed to strengthen both operational efficiency and security measures. DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION KTC plans to launch its new core system in September, postponed from the original schedule in February, because of ongoing IT unit restructuring. The new system will leverage cloud and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, she said. As part of its digital transformation programme, the company will gradually enhance its core system to accommodate a larger data lake, aligning with the growth of its customer base and financial transactions, said Ms Pittaya. KTC's financial services focus on three core products: credit cards, personal loans and car title loans. Credit cards represent the company's largest client portfolio, with around 2.2 million cardholders and a total of 2.7 million cards issued, followed by 700,000 personal loan customers. She said the digital transformation would enhance the company's security systems to protect against financial fraud amid rising global security risks. Data protection remains a key focus for the company. "Technological and financial risks continue to rise globally. We need to enhance our core system to keep pace with the business landscape, ensuring we can respond effectively and safeguard our customers," said Ms Pittaya. OPTIMISTIC OUTLOOK Despite slow economic growth this year, KTC anticipates improved GDP growth in 2025, partially driven by government stimulus measures. As a consequence, the company set ambitious growth targets for next year. KTC aims for a 12-15% increase in credit card spending in 2025 and plans to issue 250,000 new credit cards, primarily targeting individuals with monthly incomes exceeding 50,000 baht. "The country's high household debt poses a significant challenge to business growth," she said. "However, we continue to offer credit cards to the middle class, meaning those earning at least 15,000 baht per month, in compliance with central bank regulations." Ms Pittaya said first-time workers and small business owners are other target markets, though the company will selectively offer credit cards to these segments. She said KTC aims to achieve moderate 3% growth in its loan portfolio next year, adopting a cautious approach amid rising household debt. The company also wants to increase its new card-based title loans by 3 billion baht next year. ASSET QUALITY CONTROL KTC predicts growth for 2024 to be lower than originally anticipated, in line with current economic conditions. Credit card spending is expected to grow by 10% this year, below the 12-15% target, while personal loan growth is projected at 2%. "Although our growth may fall short of targets, we are confident about achieving positive results amid loan contractions in the banking sector," Ms Pittaya said. The company has managed non-performing loans (NPLs) across its business segments, keeping them below industry averages. For the credit card business, its NPL rate is 1.93%, compared with the industry average of around 3%. Similarly, its NPL rate for personal loans is 2.8%, compared with the industry average of 3.3%.
Pilgrims Flock to Rome for the 2025 Holy YearEQB reports record annual earnings, dividend increase and growth guidanceTALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — A state attorney in Florida told his staff he can't legally help take over his seat because Gov. Ron the Democrat from the office, according to an internal email obtained by The Associated Press. An executive order issued by DeSantis in 2023 suspending then-State Attorney Monique Worrell from office is still in effect, argued state attorney Andrew Bain in a message sent to staff on Monday. The governor appointed Bain to the 9th Judicial Circuit to replace Worrell, who beat him in last month's election to retake the Orlando metro area's top prosecutor's office. “While I accept the results of the election and wish to do everything I can to ensure the Office is successful going forward, I do not yet feel I can assist her in that transition,” Bain wrote. Worrell's new term is slated to begin Jan. 7, 2025. She is one of two elected state attorneys, both Democrats, who DeSantis has removed from office. Worrell failed to prosecute minors and didn’t seek mandatory minimum sentences for gun crimes, putting her central Florida district in danger. She disputed his criticism as false and . across the U.S. have called Democratic prosecutors' decisions into question. Bain said in the email shared with the AP that Worrell's suspension must be resolved by either another executive order by DeSantis or a decision by the Florida Senate, which reviews the cases of elected officials suspended from office. “Without one of these things, I do not feel I can lawfully assist in a transition to an individual whose lawful suspension was ,” Bain wrote. “We are living through an unprecedented legal event without clear answers.” Representatives for Bain did not respond to phone and email inquiries from the AP. A statement posted to the state attorney's website Monday appeared to contradict Bain's message to staff. “The state attorney is ready and willing to ensure a smooth transition,” reads a message released by the agency's public information office. “The state attorney’s term ends Jan. 6, 2025, and he will no longer be in office. Ms. Worrell’s term will begin Jan. 7, 2025. It is the intent of the state attorney to enforce the will of the people.” Worrell criticized Bain's statements as a “betrayal of democratic principles” and argued that the executive order suspending her expired with the 2024 election. “No executive order, no political maneuver, and certainly no personal grievance can override the will of the people,” Worrell said in a statement. “Any delay in the transition process is a direct affront to the very people this office serves.” A spokesperson for DeSantis pointed to the statement released by the state attorney's public information office and didn't respond to other questions from the AP. ___ Kate Payne is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Kate Payne, The Associated Press
ablokhin/iStock Editorial via Getty Images UK-based Ocado Group ( OTCPK:OCDGF ), founded and run by CEO Tim Steiner, has come a long way in its quest to revolutionize online grocery retail. Today, Ocado operates via three business segments. The largest revenue generator remains Ocado Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article. Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
The former prime minister called instead for better end-of-life care. Former prime minister Gordon Brown has declared his opposition to legalising assisted dying, which will soon be debated by MPs. The former Labour PM said the death of his newborn daughter in 2002 did “not convince me of the case for assisted dying; it convinced me of the value and imperative of good end-of-life care”. In a rare intervention ahead of the Commons debate on the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill on Friday, November 29, Mr Brown shared a glimpse of the time he and his wife Sarah spent with their baby, Jennifer, who died when she was only 11 days old. Writing in the Guardian newspaper, Mr Brown said: “We could only sit with her, hold her tiny hand and be there for her as life ebbed away. She died in our arms. “But those days we spent with her remain among the most precious days of my and Sarah’s lives.” While he acknowledged that at the heart of the assisted dying debate is a “desire to prevent suffering”, the former Labour MP called for a commission on end-of-life care to be set up, instead of the law change which MPs will consider. This commission, he said, should work to create a “fully-funded, 10-year strategy for improved and comprehensive palliative care”. “When only a small fraction of the population are expected to choose assisted dying, would it not be better to focus all our energies on improving all-round hospice care to reach everyone in need of end of life support?” he said. Mr Brown added: “Medical advances that can transform end-of-life care and the horror of people dying alone, as with Covid, have taught us a great deal. “This generation have it in our power to ensure no-one should have to face death alone, uncared for, or subject to avoidable pain.” Kim Leadbeater, the Labour MP sponsoring the assisted dying Bill through the Commons, said she was “deeply touched” by Mr Brown’s decision to share his story. The Spen Valley MP said she agreed completely with his calls for better end-of-life care. But Ms Leadbeater added: “He and I agree on very many things but we don’t agree on this. “Only legislation by Parliament can put right what Sir Keir Starmer calls the ‘injustice that we have trapped within our current arrangement’. “The need to address the inability of the current law to provide people with safeguards against coercion and the choice of a better death, and to protect their loved ones from possible prosecution, cannot wait. “So for me it isn’t a case of one or the other. My Bill already includes the need for the Government to report back to Parliament on the availability and quality of palliative care, and I strongly support further detailed examination of its provision. We need to do both.” Though Ms Leadbeater made reference to the Prime Minister as she set out her difference from Mr Brown’s position, Sir Keir has opted not to say whether he will support the Bill. MPs will be given a free vote on the legislation, meaning their political parties will not require them to vote for or against it, and it will be a matter for their personal consideration. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is the latest senior minister to disclose her position on assisted dying, signalling to broadcasters on Friday that she may support the Bill. “I continue to support the principle of needing change but also to ensure that we’ve got the proper safeguards and systems in place,” she told ITV’s Good Morning Britain. Asked if that meant a “yes” when the Bill comes to the Commons, she replied: “I think I last voted on this about 20 years ago and so I have supported the principle in the past and continue to believe that change is needed but we do need to have that debate on the detail and I’ll continue to follow that debate next Friday.”Jimmy Carter, the 39th US president, has died at 100LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles Lakers have traded guard D'Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets for forward Dorian Finney-Smith and guard Shake Milton. The Lakers also sent forward Maxwell Lewis and three second-round draft picks to Brooklyn on Sunday. Russell averaged a career-low 12.4 points for the Lakers this season in a diminished role under new coach JJ Redick, who had vowed to unlock the point guard's formidable offensive game. Instead, Russell was removed from the starting lineup in early November, and he struggled to make a consistent impact as a reserve, with his shooting percentages declining significantly from his previous two seasons back in Los Angeles. The 6-foot-7 Finney-Smith isn't a top scorer, but he is a steady 3-and-D wing who fills an obvious need for the Lakers. Los Angeles has had inconsistent wing play and has lacked an effective defender at the key position during the long-term injury absence of Jarred Vanderbilt , who hasn't played since Feb. 1. Finney-Smith averaged 10.4 points and 4.6 rebounds while hitting a career-best 43.5% of his 3-point attempts this season for the Nets, who acquired him from Dallas in the February 2023 in the trade of Kyrie Irving . Finney-Smith has been limited to five games this month by a sprained ankle and a bruised calf, but the 31-year-old played 27 minutes against San Antonio on Friday. “We want to thank D’Angelo for his second stint with us, where we celebrated some great moments and accomplishments on the court together," Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka said in a statement. "We are thrilled to add the physicality, toughness and elite shooting that Dorian Finney-Smith will bring to our core. We also greatly value the playmaking of Shake Milton. We are excited for our fans to get both of these players out on the court.” Redick and Finney-Smith were teammates with the Mavericks during the 2020-21 season, and Redick has expressed admiration for Finney-Smith's hard-nosed game. Milton is joining his sixth NBA team in less than two years, including his third trade in 11 months. He is averaging 7.4 points and 2.4 assists this season as a Nets reserve. Russell is being traded by the Lakers to the Nets for the second time in his career. He also made the move in 2017 after spending his first two NBA seasons with Los Angeles, which drafted him in 2015. Russell earned the only All-Star selection of his career during his two seasons in Brooklyn. Russell has been traded five times in the past 7 1/2 years. The 10-year pro excelled for the Lakers during their run to the 2023 Western Conference finals after returning to the team in February of that season, although he got benched during that final playoff series against Denver. Russell remained a fairly consistent scorer last year while setting a new franchise record for 3-pointers made in a season, but his career-long problems with offensive inconsistency and defensive ability kept him out of Redick's plans this year. With Russell's departure, Gabe Vincent is the only true point guard left in the Lakers' rotation, although LeBron James often fills the role of initiating their offense. The Lakers (18-13) have won five of six heading into their visit from Cleveland on New Year's Eve. The trade continues a roster restructuring by the Nets, who traded former Lakers point guard Dennis Schröder to Golden State two weeks ago. Schröder was Brooklyn's third-leading scorer, while Finney-Smith was its fourth-leading scorer. The Nets have been one of the NBA's lowest-scoring teams this season, so Russell should have plenty of chances to make an offensive impact. Brooklyn has lost three of four heading into its road game against Orlando on Sunday. Russell's $18.7 million contract expires this summer, while Finney-Smith has a $15.4 million player option for the 2025-26 season. Lewis was the Lakers' second-round pick in 2023, but he played in just 41 games over the past two seasons while shuttling to the G League. AP NBA: https://apnews.com/NBA