wild casino $300
Corps of Engineers will look to save 150-year-old lighthouse from crumbling into the Hudson River
On the eve of its 14th season, the Seven Network’s Big Bash League (BBL) commentary team is primed to bring fans an epic six-week long tournament of the world’s most exciting cricket competition. BBL 14 will start with a bang on Sunday straight after Day Two of the Brisbane Test, with a blockbuster week of cricket featuring four nights of prime-time BBL coverage immediately after stumps at the Gabba, led by cricket’s most astute commentator, Ricky Ponting, live and free on Seven and 7plus Sport . On 12 days of the season, live and free BBL matches will follow stumps in Australia’s Test series, including two mega days featuring back-to-back BBL clashes on top of a full day’s play on Day One of the Boxing Day and Sydney Tests. Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today The home and away fixture concludes on Sunday, 19 January with a huge match at the MCG between the Melbourne Stars and Hobart Hurricanes. The four-match finals series begins on Tuesday, 21 January, all in prime time, with the all-important Final scheduled for Monday, 27 January. Melbourne Renegades legend and Seven cricket commentator Aaron Finch said: “Summer isn’t summer without the Big Bash, and this year’s competition will be huge. “The BBL is in a league of its own. Nowhere else do you see such high energy from the players and fans alike, paired with world-class talent from all over the globe. It’s a unique spectacle and we absolutely love it.” “The best thing about BBL is the unpredictability of the season. Will the Heat go again and claim the victory two years in a row, or will we see the Sixers fight back after their disappointing loss in last year’s Final?” “Only time will tell, and we will have all the biggest and best moments live and free all summer long on Seven and 7plus Sport.” Throughout the BBL 14, cricket fans will once again be treated to Seven’s The Spin , hosted by Lisa Sthalekar, Jason Richardson and Brad Hodge and some very special guests, every Thursday on Channel 7, 7mate and 7plus Sport. Seven Network head of cricket Joel Starcevic said this season’s coverage will be bigger and better than ever with a host of fresh initiatives, including for the first time ever alternate commentary from The Grade Cricketer, exclusive to 7plus Sport on select games. “Fans are in for a treat this summer, with Seven bringing back the Toyota Player Mic, to bring viewers closer to the action on the field and showcase the personalities of the league’s biggest stars,” he said. “Seven will also introduce a brand-new BBL graphics package with a dynamic video game-inspired design that we know will resonate with viewers of all ages. Plus, the Power Surge has been a game-changer for the BBL, and this year it’s going up a notch, with crowds playing a pivotal role in amplifying the excitement during the in-stadium activations.” With wall-to-wall coverage, 7plus Sport is the ultimate destination for BBL fans. With match replays on-demand, highlights from every BBL game, 20-minute minis, player interviews, exclusive content and more, viewers can tune into the 7plus Cricket Hub for 24/7 cricket content all summer long. 7news.com.au’s cricket match centres will also have you covered for live ball-by-ball commentary, scorecards, player stats and more. BBL fixture highlights Opening Match : Sunday, 15 December Perth Scorchers v Melbourne Stars at Perth Stadium, 7.00pm AEDT live and free Channel 7, 7mate and 7plus Sport Super Mega Day: Boxing Day, Thursday, 26 December Sydney Sixers v Melbourne Stars at SCG, 6.00pm AEDT live and free on Channel 7, 7mate and 7plus Sport Perth Scorchers v Brisbane Heat at Perth Stadium, 9.10pm AEDT live and free on Channel 7, 7mate and 7plus Sport Super Mega Day: Friday, 3 January Sydney Sixers v Brisbane Heat at Coffs Harbour, 6.00pm AEDT live and free on Channel 7, 7mate and 7plus Sport Perth Scorchers v Sydney Thunder at Perth Stadium, 9.10pm AEDT live and free on Channel 7, 7mate and 7plus Sport The Qualifier: Tuesday, 21 January, 7.00pm AEDT live and free on Channel 7, 7mate and 7plus Sport The Knockout: Wednesday, 22 January, 7.00pm AEDT live and free on Channel 7, 7mate and 7plus Sport The Challenger: Friday, 24 January, 7.00pm AEDT live and free on Channel 7, 7mate and 7plus Sport The Final: Monday, 27 January 7.00pm AEDT, live and free on Channel 7, 7mate and 7plus SportNo. 22 Texas A&M beats Texas Tech 72-67 in 1st meeting of former conference rivals since 2012Subscribe Search Search Sort by Relevance Title Date Subscribe ALBAWABA - Google and Samsung are making their most significant venture into the mixed-reality market with the release of Android XR, a new operating system intended to power AR/VR devices. Also Read Google makes quantum computing history, turns 10 septillion years into 5 minutes The project has been developed in partnership with Samsung with the goal of improving user engagement by using motion controls, speech, and eye-tracking capabilities, AFP reports. Samsung's next Project Moohan, a mixed-reality headset that incorporates features from Apple's Vision Pro and Meta's Quest 3, will run Android XR. It will also support devices from other manufacturers, such as XREAL and Sony. Introducing Android XR, our new platform for headsets and glasses built for the Gemini era pic.twitter.com/CBLaFGUwez — Google (@Google) December 12, 2024 After previous products like Google Daydream and Samsung's Gear VR failed to find momentum, Google and Samsung are making a fresh attempt with the aim to mainstream AR/VR headgear, according to Yahoo. By providing features like Google's Circle to Search, which enables users to gesture over items to access extensive details, Gemini AI improves Android XR. For example, by circling a picture and receiving real-time data, users may virtually try on attire and examine a product in 3D, as reported by AFP. The interface of Project Moohan is similar to that of rival AR/VR systems in that it lets users place app windows in virtual environments while still being able to see their surroundings. Support for keyboards and mice also makes it possible to utilize large virtual screens for productive tasks. Google’s President of Android Ecosystem, Sameer Samat, stated “We are at an inflection point for XR, where breakthroughs in multimodal AI enable natural and intuitive ways to use technology in everyday life.” AR/VR headgear is still a limited market despite such developments. The industry predicts that 6.7 million devices will be shipped in 2024 and 22.9 million by 2028, which is far less than the pace at which smartphones are being adopted. A passionate about the Gaming Industry with a career of over 5 years in the field, I write about current trends and news in the Game Development business and how it impact the industry and players. Laith has recently started a new position at Al Bawaba as a freelance business writer. Subscribe Sign up to our newsletter for exclusive updates and enhanced content Subscribe Now Subscribe Sign up to get Al Bawaba's exclusive celeb scoops and entertainment news Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive updates and enhanced content SubscribeCAPE COD, Mass., Dec. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- When it comes to modern healthcare, technology is transforming the field of general dentistry, and Harris Dental is leading the charge in delivering innovative, patient-focused care. Known for providing comprehensive services, including preventive dentistry , Harris Dental is revolutionizing routine procedures with cutting-edge technology designed to enhance patient comfort, improve diagnostic accuracy, and streamline treatments. As dental technology advances, Harris Dental has embraced a range of modern tools and techniques that ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for every patient. From routine checkups to advanced gum disease treatment , the practice is committed to delivering the highest quality care for Cape Cod residents. Digital Diagnostics Streamline Preventive Care At Harris Dental, the future of general dentistry starts with advanced diagnostic tools that make routine checkups more effective. Traditional X-rays have given way to digital radiography, offering clearer images while exposing patients to significantly less radiation. This allows the team to identify cavities, bone loss, and other potential issues early, helping to prevent more serious dental problems down the road. In addition to routine adult care, Harris Dental specializes in pediatric dentistry , ensuring that young patients receive compassionate and thorough care tailored to their needs. With the latest technology and a welcoming environment, the practice helps children develop positive dental habits from an early age. Enhanced Comfort Through Cutting-Edge Treatment Methods For patients seeking general dental care, comfort is key. Harris Dental employs laser dentistry to provide minimally invasive treatments for common issues such as gum disease and cavities. Lasers reduce discomfort, shorten recovery times, and often eliminate the need for anesthesia, making even routine procedures more convenient and less stressful for patients. The practice also offers emergency dentistry services , providing immediate care for patients dealing with dental emergencies such as severe pain, injuries, or infections. With a focus on rapid, effective solutions, Harris Dental ensures that patients get relief when they need it most. Personalized Dental Care Through Digital Integration Beyond diagnostics and treatments, digital records and advanced software allow Harris Dental to offer a more personalized approach to general dentistry. Each patient's dental history, preferences, and specific needs are easily accessible to the team, allowing for more effective and streamlined care during routine visits. Intraoral cameras give patients the chance to see exactly what the dentist sees during an examination, creating a collaborative approach to oral health. Patients are empowered to take an active role in their dental care, understanding their diagnosis and treatment options in real-time. Sustainability Meets High-Quality Dental Care Harris Dental is also making strides in sustainability within general dentistry. The practice has transitioned to digital records and imaging, reducing paper waste and the need for disposable materials. This commitment to environmentally friendly practices aligns with their mission to provide top-notch care while minimizing their ecological footprint. Moreover, the practice's use of energy-efficient equipment and materials further supports the goal of running an eco-conscious dental office, making Harris Dental a leader in sustainable healthcare practices. The Future of General Dentistry at Harris Dental As general dentistry continues to evolve, Harris Dental remains at the forefront, integrating the latest technology to improve patient outcomes and comfort. Whether it's preventive dentistry, restorative treatments, or cosmetic procedures, Harris Dental is committed to offering the best in modern dental care to Cape Cod residents. CONTACT: For more information, contact Harris Dental at [email protected] .
Stock market today: Nasdaq hits a record as Wall Street drifts ahead of Federal Reserve's meetingThis hospital in Venezuela restores discarded toys for another round of loveHIGHLY EXPERIENCED MINING EXECUTIVE JOINS LUCA TEAMThe signs at Nippon Steel read: “The world through steel,” underlining why Japan’s top steelmaker is pursuing its $15 billion bid to acquire U.S. Steel. “We can’t expect demand in Japan to grow as the population is declining. We need to invest in production that leads to growth,” a company official, Masato Suzuki, said while giving reporters a look at a Nippon Steel plant in Ibaraki Prefecture, north of Tokyo. Nippon Steel Corp. has its eyes on India, Southeast Asia and the U.S., Suzuki said. About 70% of the plant's output is exported. The Tokyo-based company remains optimistic, although the deal is opposed by President-elect Donald Trump, President Joe Biden and American steelworkers. During the tour, slabs of steel, glowing hot-orange at more than 1,000 degrees Celsius, rolled through the cavernous plant to become giant spools of super-thin steel. Nippon Steel officials didn’t disclose details of the fine technology they said the planned acquisition would offer U.S. Steel. Under the proposed deal, first announced in 2023, U.S. Steel would keep its name and its headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, becoming a subsidiary of Nippon Steel. Nippon Steel already has manufacturing operations in the U.S. and Mexico, China and Southeast Asia. It supplies the world’s top automakers, including Toyota Motor Corp., and makes steel for railways, pipes, appliances and skyscrapers. The American steel industry has waned as Chinese steelmakers have grown to dominate the market. Japan wants to leverage the decades-old U.S.-Japan security and political alliance to seal the acquisition, but the outlook is uncertain. In September, an arbitration board jointly chosen by U.S. Steel and United Steelworkers decided the proposed acquisition could proceed. But United Steelworkers union, which has 1.2 million members, have objected, citing worries about job losses and contract terms. The union has questioned Nippon Steel’s plans to transfer production locations and concerns about national security and domestic supply chains. When asked for comment, it referred to a recent letter to its members. “As a union, our primary concern is the future of our jobs and the communities we live and work in — not just this year, but also for the foreseeable future. We’ve seen job losses in the past, and we must do everything we can to avoid it in the future,” said the letter, co-signed by Mike Millsap, chairman of the negotiating committee, and its international president, David McCall. “While Japan is a political ally, it is also an economic competitor, one that has proven time and again that it is willing to promote its steel industry at our expense,” the union said. Nippon Steel is promising to “preserve the legacy” of U.S. Steel and protect jobs, pensions and benefits, pledging that there will be no layoffs or plant closures. The deal is expected to produce an economic boost for the region equivalent to nearly $1 billion in the first two years, create up to 5,000 construction jobs and generate almost $40 million in state and local taxes, according to Nippon Steel. William W. Grimes, professor of international relations and political science at Boston University, said Nippon Steel's commitment to keeping the U.S. Steel factories running would help preserve U.S.-based production of specialty steels. Nippon Steel also has also promised investments to make the factories more competitive. There is no militarily sensitive technology Nippon Steel would be able to take from the U.S., and the U.S. relies on steel produced in allied countries, including Japan, Grimes said. “If Japanese companies do draw a lesson, it should be to engage unions and local politicians early in the process,” he said.
OPP charge 45 with impaired driving in first two weeks of RIDE campaign
Giles had five rebounds for the Spartans (5-4). Donovan Atwell scored 15 points and added five rebounds. Jalen Breath shot 1 of 6 from the field and 8 for 8 from the line to finish with 10 points, while adding 10 rebounds. The Aggies (3-6) were led by Ryan Forrest, who posted 18 points and eight rebounds. Camian Shell added 15 points for N.C. A&T. Jahnathan Lamothe finished with 13 points and two steals. Atwell scored 11 points in the first half and UNC Greensboro went into the break trailing 36-35. Giles scored 15 points in the second half to help lead UNC Greensboro to a 12-point victory. NEXT UP UNC Greensboro's next game is Saturday against North Florida on the road, and N.C. A&T visits Virginia Tech on Thursday. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .https://arab.news/9xygk BASSETERRE, Saint Kitts and Nevis: A superb maiden hundred from Sherfane Rutherford led the West Indies to a five-wicket win over Bangladesh in the first one-day international at Warner Park on Sunday. Rutherford, playing in his 10th ODI, slammed seven fours and eight sixes in his 80-ball innings of 113 which ended with West Indies just seven runs short of completing the highest ever run chase on the ground. The 26-year-old, who was named player of the match, came to the crease with West Indies 94-3 chasing the 294-6 that Bangladesh posted in their 50 overs. He added 99 for the fourth wicket with captain Shai Hope who made 86 from 88 balls, before drilling off-spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz down the throat of Jaker Ali at midwicket. Rutherford then partnered up with Justin Greaves (41 not out) to add 95 for the sixth wicket, taking West Indies to the brink of victory. “I think he’s really improved his batting,” said Hope of his match-winner. “We ask for consistency, we always speak about it, and he’s showing that. He strikes the ball really well and the hard work is paying off in the middle. He was disappointed not to finish the game.” After winning the toss and choosing to bat first, Bangladesh made a solid start through opener Tanzid Hasan (60) and skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz (74). Mahmudullah, with 50 not out, and Jaker Ali (48) added 96 for the sixth wicket but it was not enough to see off Rutherford. Brief scores Bangladesh 294-6 in 50 overs (Mehidy Hasan Miraz 74, Tanzid Hasan 60, Mahmudullah 50 not out, Jaker Ali 48; Romario Shepherd 3-51) West Indies 295-5 in 47.4 overs (S.Rutherford 113, S.Hope 86, J.Greaves 41 not out) Result: West Indies won by 5 wickets Series: West Indies lead the three-match series 1-0 Toss: BangladeshAlthough Donald Trump's re-election win all but assured that all of his federal criminal trials will go away , he still faces an onslaught of civil trials related to his actions before, during and after the Jan. 6 insurrection . With the courts already ruling civil actions may proceed against Trump , Politico's Josh Gerstein and Kyle Cheney noted the once and future president is " not off the hook " when it comes to court dates. According to the report, "Trump is likely to be fighting eight civil lawsuits — from members of Congress and injured police officers — deep into his second term. They may be the last form of legal redress Trump faces for his role in spurring the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021." ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Senate Dems consider whether Biden should ‘clear the slate’ and pardon Trump Joseph Sellers, an attorney representing multiple clients from both sides of the political aisle, explained, "These cases, unlike the criminal case, will not be affected by the election. Our clients suffered real injuries that entitle them to relief, but also I think are seeking some measure of accountability given President Trump’s role in the Jan. 6 events and the events leading up to it.” Noting the Trump and his army of lawyers are still awaiting a ruling on whether his presidential immunity will extend to civil suits, the report states an adverse ruling could leave him facing "tens of millions of dollars" to be paid out to the victims of the violence he allegedly incited. According to Sellers, "This is something that should be brought to trial during the second administration of President Trump," adding, "We’re not suggesting that the president be treated like any other defendant, but that should not stop the cases from proceeding to trial.” You can read more here.
Q&A: Former Gov. Jerry Brown weighs in on Kamala Harris’ loss, top issues facing CaliforniaSocial Club grab valuable three points
5 Phones Under Rs 20,000 For Gamers: Motorola, Samsung, iQOO, Nothing, And Redmi
Ambient Scientific unveils first ever AI module powered by a coin cell batteryCHARLOTTE, N.C. — Front Row Motorsports, one of two teams suing NASCAR in federal court, accused the stock car series Thursday of rejecting the planned purchase of a valuable charter unless the lawsuit was dropped. Front Row made the claim in a court filing and said it involved its proposed purchase of the charter from Stewart-Haas Racing. Front Row said the series would only approve it if Front Row and 23XI Racing dropped their court case. "Specifically, NASCAR informed us that it would not approve the (charter) transfer unless we agreed to drop our current antitrust lawsuit against them," Jerry Freeze, general manager of Front Row, said in an affidavit filed in the U.S. District Court of Western North Carolina. The two teams in September refused to sign NASCAR's "take-it-or-leave-it" final offer on a new revenue sharing agreement. All other 13 teams signed the deal. Front Row and 23XI balked and are now in court. 23XI co-owner Michael Jordan has said he took the fight to court on behalf of all teams competing in the top motorsports series in the United States. NASCAR has argued that the two teams simply do not like the terms of the final charter agreement and asked for the lawsuit be dismissed. Earlier this week, the suit was transferred to a different judge than the one who heard the first round of arguments and ruled against the two teams in their request for a temporary injunction to be recognized in 2025 as chartered teams as the case proceeds. The latest filing is heavily redacted as it lays out alleged retaliatory actions by NASCAR the teams say have caused irreparable harm. Both Front Row and 23XI want to expand from two full-time cars to three, and have agreements with SHR to purchase one charter each as SHR goes from four cars to one for 2025. The teams can still compete next season but would have to do so as "open" teams that don't have the same protections or financial gains that come from holding a charter. Freeze claimed in the affidavit that Front Row signed a purchase agreement with SHR in April and NASCAR President Steve Phelps told Freeze in September the deal had been approved. But when Front Row submitted the paperwork last month, NASCAR began asking for additional information. A Dec. 4 request from NASCAR was "primarily related to our ongoing lawsuit with NASCAR," Freeze said. "NASCAR informed us on December 5, 2024, that it objected to the transfer and would not approve it, in contrast to the previous oral approval for the transfer confirmed by Phelps before we filed the lawsuit," Freeze said. "NASCAR made it clear that the reason it was now changing course and objecting to the transfer is because NASCAR is insisting that we drop the lawsuit and antitrust claims against it as a condition of being approved." A second affidavit from Steve Lauletta, the president of 23XI Racing, claims NASCAR accused 23XI and Front Row of manufacturing "new circumstances" in a renewed motion for an injunction and of a "coordinated effort behind the scenes." "This is completely false," Lauletta said. Front Row is owned by businessman Bob Jenkins, while 23XI is owned by retired NBA Hall of Famer Jordan, three-time Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin and longtime Jordan adviser Curtis Polk. NASCAR had been operating with 36 chartered teams and four open spots since the charter agreement began in 2016. NASCAR now says it will move forward in 2025 with 32 chartered teams and eight open spots, with offers on charters for Front Row and 23XI rescinded and the SHR charters in limbo. The teams contend they must be chartered under some of their contractual agreements with current sponsors and drivers, and competing next year as open teams will cause significant losses. "23XI exists to compete at the highest level of stock car racing, striving to become the best team it can be. But that ambition can only be pursued within NASCAR, which has monopolized the market as the sole top-tier circuit for stock car racing," Lauletta said. "Our efforts to expand – purchasing more cars and increasing our presence on the track – are integral to achieving this goal. "It is not hypocritical to operate within the only system available while striving for excellence and contending for championships," he continued. "It is a necessity because NASCAR's monopoly leaves 23XI no alternative circuit, no different terms, and no other viable avenue to compete at this level." Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Joe Biden says the US believes journalist Austin Tice is alive after disappearing in Syria in 2012The final rule (Rule) establishes the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB)’s supervisory authority (i.e., examination authority) over nonbank covered persons that are “larger participants” in the “general-use digital consumer payment applications” market. A nonbank covered person qualifies as a “larger participant” in the “general-use digital consumer payment applications market” if it facilitates an annual covered consumer payment transaction volume of at least 50 million transactions denominated in U.S. dollars and is not a “small business concern” as defined by section 3(a) of the Small Business Act. Covered entities will be subject to CFPB supervision and examination for compliance with Federal consumer financial laws such as, the Consumer Financial Protection Act, Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act and Regulation P, and the Electronic Funds Transfer Act and Regulation E. The Rule is effective Jan. 9, 2025. On Nov. 21, 2024, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) issued a final rule (Rule), pursuant to 12 U.S.C. § 5514(a)(1)(B), to establish supervisory authority over nonbank entities identified as larger participants in the general-use digital consumer payment applications market. While the CFPB already has enforcement power over digital funds transfer and payment wallet app providers, the Rule subjects “larger participants” of this market to CFPB supervisory examinations, similar to banks and credit unions. The Rule will apply to companies that facilitate at least 50 million “consumer payment transactions” per year, higher than the five million threshold contemplated in the CFPB’s initial proposal , and its scope extends only to U.S.-dollar transactions (digital asset transactions are excluded). According to the CFPB, the Rule intends to protect consumer privacy, reduce fraud, and curtail what the bureau deems unlawful “debanking” practices. “Digital payments have gone from novelty to necessity and our oversight must reflect this realty,” current CFPB Director Rohit Chopra said in the announcement . Background In November 2023, the CFPB requested comments to its proposal to supervise larger nonbank entities offering digital wallet and payment apps. This proposed rulemaking followed a 2022 inquiry the CFPB conducted on digital payment practices, wherein the agency ordered large technology and peer-to-peer platforms to provide information on data and consumer protection practices, among other categories of consumer-facing information. That same year, the CFPB warned firms that provide financial technologies about their obligations under consumer protection laws, and issued an advisory on the potential risks of using and relying on digital payment apps. The Rule is the sixth CFPB rulemaking to define larger participants of markets for consumer financial products and services. The first five rules defined larger participants in markets for consumer reporting, 77 Fed. Reg. 42874 (July 20, 2012), consumer debt collection, 77 Fed. Reg. 65775 (Oct. 31, 2012), student loan servicing, 78 Fed. Reg. 73383 (Dec. 6, 2013), international money transfers, 79 Fed. Reg. 56631 (Sept. 23, 2014), and automobile financing, 80 Fed. Reg. 37496 (June 30, 2015). The Final Rule Under the Rule, nonbank covered persons that are “larger participants” in the “general-use digital consumer payment applications” market are subject to CFPB supervisory examination authority. The Rule sets forth a two-pronged test to determine whether a nonbank covered person is a larger participant of the general-use digital consumer payment applications market. 1 Nonbank covered persons wishing to claim they are not “larger participants” after the CFPB notifies them of its intent to undertake supervisory activity can submit evidence and arguments to the CFPB to support their claim. Under the Rule, “general-use digital consumer payment application” means providing a [1] covered payment functionality through a [2] digital application for consumers’ [3] general use in making [4] consumer payment transaction(s). The Rule covers two types of payment functionalities: (a) a funds transfer functionality; and (b) a payment wallet functionality. “Funds transfer functionality” means (1) receiving funds to transmit them (e.g., a nonbank transferring funds it holds for the consumer, such as in a stored value product/wallet, to another person); or (2) accepting and transmitting payment instructions from a consumer (i.e., transmitting consumer payment instructions to the entity that holds or receives the funds to be transferred). “Payment wallet functionality” refers to a product or service that (1) stores account or payment credentials, including in encrypted or tokenized form; and (2) transmits, routes, or otherwise processes such stored account or payment credentials to facilitate a consumer payment transaction. Generally, “digital payment applications” include software programs that consumers may access through a personal computing device, including, but not limited to, a mobile phone, laptop computer, or other common means, such as a personal identifier (e.g., a passkey, password, or PIN). The Rule does not include market payment transactions that do not rely upon the use of digital applications (e.g., presenting a debit or credit card at the point of sale). The Rule defines “general use” as being “usable for a consumer to transfer funds in a consumer payment transaction to multiple, unaffiliated persons.” The Rule borrowed from Regulation E by adopting the phrase “multiple, unaffiliated persons” to define the universe of potential funds transfer recipients that would cause a payment functionality to have “general use.” Accordingly, unless an exclusion applies, a covered payment functionality that facilitates consumer payment transactions to multiple unaffiliated entities or persons would qualify as having “general use” under the Rule. By contrast, payment functionalities that facilitate consumer payment transactions to a single entity/person or to a group of affiliated entities/persons (e.g., flexible spending arrangements, gift certificates, payment functionalities used to pay a specific debt or type of debt or that facilitate purchases from a single merchant) are not considered “general use” under the Rule. “Consumer payment transactions” generally include payments to other persons for personal, household, or family purposes. The term covers transactions made by or on behalf of a consumer “who resides in” a U.S. state or territory (narrowing the scope of covered transactions from the proposed rule, which purported to cover transactions facilitated for consumers “physically located” in a U.S. state or territory). 2 The term excludes from its definition certain transactions such as: (a) international money transfers; (b) foreign currency exchange transactions; (c) credit extensions through a digital application provided by the person who is extending, brokering or purchasing the credit; (d) payments for donations to a fundraiser selected from the provider’s platform; and (e) payments for the sale or lease of goods or services purchased from merchants and marketplaces. One of the most significant changes in the Rule is the exclusion of digital assets, such as cryptocurrencies, from the scope of “consumer payment transactions.” This is a notable shift from the proposed rule, which initially interpreted “funds” to include digital assets. By excluding digital assets, the CFPB limited its scope of expanded oversight to payment transactions conducted in U.S. fiat currency only. Nonetheless, the Rule notes that the “CFPB intends to continue to gather data and information regarding the nature of such transactions and the impact of digital transactions on consumers, and to take further action as appropriate[,]” leaving open the possibility of future oversight over digital asset transactions. Other Relevant Exclusions: BNPL and Earned Wage Access Products The CFPB has also declined to include “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) transactions in the scope of “consumer payment transactions.” The CFPB reasoned that exempting BNPL transactions would be consistent with the exemption for nonbank persons that provide digital applications to initiate consumer credit transactions and also engage in activities directed at originating consumer credit extensions, regardless of who is extending the credit (and even if a third-party financial institution such as a bank or credit union is extending the credit). The CFPB also has opted to exclude earned wage access products insofar as they transfer wages belonging to or advanced on behalf of a consumer to that same consumer. As the CFPB explains in the Rule, a “consumer payment transaction” does not include “transfers between a consumer’s own deposit accounts [or] transfers between a consumer deposit account and the same consumer’s stored value account held at another financial institution, such as loading or redemptions[.]” Similarly, the Rule notes that the CFPB does not interpret the market definition to include payments by or on behalf of a consumer to other accounts the consumer owns or controls in which another person, such as a spouse co-owner or minor child, also holds an interest. Takeaways The digital payment market has grown rapidly, with consumers broadly relying on general-use digital consumer payment applications. However, the Rule has generated mixed reactions. At least one industry group has urged the CFPB to withdraw the Rule, while at least one consumer advocate group stated the Rule would ensure people are treated fairly when they use a payment app, taking “payment apps out of a regulatory blind spot.” The timing of the Rule is noteworthy, with the Trump administration set to take over in January 2025, and Director Chopra unlikely to remain agency head. What priority this Rule has for the new president, who is expected to generally ease regulations, and a newly appointed director, is yet to be seen. Nonetheless, impacted companies should review their products, services, consumer-facing documents, and compliance management systems, including all relevant policies and procedures, and consider establishing a strategy for managing a CFPB exam.