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Former prime minister Paul Keating’s huge payday as Telstra buys Boost MobileA small but perfectly formed Cornwall museum dedicated to the history of communications has been honoured with a prestigious award. PK Porthcurno, Museum of Global Communications in West Cornwall, won the gold award in the 'Small Visitor Attraction of the Year' category at the Cornwall Tourism Awards 2024. The museum tells the story of worldwide communications - located in the place where it all began - and the unsung heroes who have played a crucial role in connecting people over the years. The village of Porthcurno played a historic role in establishing Britain's first successful underwater telegraph lines. Exhibits take visitors from early days of the electrical signal and Morse code to the cutting-edge technologies of today, including optical fibres, satellites, and multiplexing. It also has a "top-secret" World War Two bunker, escape stairs, and a cable hut situated above the a short walk away. The museum has teamed up with GCHQ and the Mobile Phone Museum for exhibitions on code-breaking, cybersecurity, and . It has also established mc7, a consortium of seven Cornish museums, each representing a unique aspect of Cornwall’s heritage. Its latest addition is Poppy PK - a 1950s mobile telegraph unit, which is taken to local schools to spark conversations about the evolution of communication - and the mobile phones we take for granted today. Museum bosses said winning gold at Cornwall Tourism Awards "fills us with immense pride and recognition". They hailed it as a "significant milestone" in its history. And it was a double award win for Porthcurno, with the Minack Theatre picking up the award for best large visitor attraction. Julia Twomlow, creative director and CEO of PK Porthcurno said: "We are absolutely delighted to have received this prestigious award. It is such a wonderful achievement for our museum and a validation of the incredible work that our team do across all areas. "Congratulations also to our lovely neighbours at the Minack Theatre for winning Large Visitor Attraction - making it a double gold for Porthcurno!" Find out more about the museum .Syracuse hosts Georgetown for milestone battle in longtime rivalry
Article content Even after how long electric cars have been on the market, some still who turn up their noses because there’s no way they’re a match for performance gasoline vehicles. And so, I give you the 2025 Audi A6 e-tron and S6 e-tron. In this world of sport-utilities, there is still room for a sedan – actually a Sportback, as Audi calls it, because the trunk lid is hinged above the rear window; and in this case, there’s room for this handsome sedan that drives as good as it looks, even if there’s no chance of pumping in some gas. First, its name. As Audi increasingly moves forward into electrification, “A” still means a car and “Q” an SUV, but now even numbers indicate electric, while odd numbers are gasoline. While both the A6 e-tron and the current petrol-powered A6 will initially be available, the plan is for that A6 to eventually wear an A7 badge. What powers the 2025 Audi A6 e-tron? As with all of Audi’s all-new models, the A6 e-tron rides the automaker’s equally-new Premium Platform Electric (PPE). It uses a newly-developed lithium-ion battery with 100-kWh gross capacity and 94.9-kWh net; and with 800-volt architecture and DC fast-charging capacity of up to 270 kW. Globally, the A6 e-tron will be offered in four versions. Two will be rear-wheel-drive only, including a smaller-battery entry model, but we won’t be seeing either of those in Canada. There’s also an Avant wagon, which we won’t get either. Instead, we’ll get the two models with standard all-wheel drive (AWD), which Audi calls Quattro . Our A6 e-tron uses two electric motors, making a combined 422 horsepower and up to 455 horses during launch control. Top speed is 210 km/h, and acceleration from stop to 100 km/h takes 4.5 seconds. The performance S6 e-tron’s two electric motors bump the output to 496 horsepower, with 543 hp available in launch control. Top speed is governed to 240 km/h, and reaching 1o0 km/h should take 3.9 seconds. Neither has been rated by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) for range, but in European testing – which isn’t necessarily the same as ours, but for reference – the A6 e-tron is rated for 716 km on a charge, and the S6 e-tron at 675 km. What’s the Audi S6 e-tron like to drive? This was a global first-drive event, and the only model there destined for Canada was the S6 e-tron, so I got in it first. The roads ahead were mostly hairpin-turn up a volcano, which gave this car an opportunity to shine. The S6 e-tron is deliciously fun to drive; it’s exceptionally fast but never feels so overpowered that it’s a chore to pilot it. The Quattro system favours the rear wheels – the front motor produces 202 lb-ft of torque, while the rear unit churns out 427 lb-ft. An air suspension is standard on the S6, optional on the A6, and the ride is luxury-car smooth and composed. Audi’s engineers worked to really differentiate the drive modes, and they succeeded, if perhaps to a fault. The progressive steering is beautifully weighted and with great feedback in Dynamic mode, and exactly right for the mountain curves. The switch over to Comfort mode was not; the steering became too light and vague. For everyday commuting, the Balanced mode isn’t quite as quick as the sportiest setting but with great connection to the road. The car uses regenerative braking, capturing and storing otherwise wasted energy during deceleration. To keep everything composed and balanced, the two braking systems work progressively on each end of the car. When you take your foot off the accelerator, the regenerative system first slows the rear wheels, and then the front ones. If you then press the brake pedal, the hydraulic brakes first slow the front discs, and then squeeze the rear ones. The regenerative level can be increased to the point of one-pedal driving, where it brings the car to a stop without using the hydraulic brakes. The no-brake braking added extra fun to the mountain switchbacks: take your foot off the accelerator, let the regeneration scrub off enough speed for the next curve, and then put your foot back into it. I could gladly have done that all day. What’s the A6 e-tron like on the road? The only A6 e-tron available was the rear-wheel-drive Performance, a step up from the 281-horsepower entry model. The Performance’s single electric motor makes 362 horsepower, while our two-motor Quattro version will make 422 horsepower. Even so, the Performance is no slouch. The general impression is of a very smooth gasoline-powered Audi that happens to be electric; it’s quick and nimble, and a good daily driver that can also tackle the twisties on weekends as desired. The Quattro driveline should only make it better. Both the A6 and S6 produce artificial gas-engine sounds in the sportier driving modes – they’re silent in the Comfort setting – and while it’s a gimmick, it’s a pretty good one. It’s louder in the S6, but never so noisy that it’s annoying. Should you think otherwise, it can be turned off. What’s the Audi A6 e-tron like on the outside? The A6 e-tron’s styling of an “inverted” grille and thin headlights will be a signature look for all of Audi’s future battery-powered models. The door handles are flush-mounted, but you put your hand under them to open. They don’t electrically pop out as some do, which always seems kinda-iffy to me in a climate where it’s not uncommon for cars to be covered in ice. An available panoramic sunroof contains a liquid crystal technology that turns the glass dark or light as preferred. It does that in sections, similar to moving a sunshade forward – those in one set of seats can have darker glass overhead, while those in the other can enjoy the sunshine. The rear hatch is hands-free, and if you walk up to the car with the key, it shines an arrow on the ground indicating where to kick your foot to activate it. There’s also a 27-litre front trunk, and the hood pops open for access if you move your hand sideways in front of the car’s nose. What’s the Audi A6 e-tron like inside? Audi’s cabin redesign is working its way across all its new models, including what it calls a “digital stage.” A single piece of curved glass contains the 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen. A 10.9-inch screen can be added in front of the passenger, which can display some of the centre screen’s information such as navigation, or handle its own entertainment content through phones or apps, which can’t be viewed by the driver. The seats are comfortable in typical German fashion, supportive rather than cushy, and I like that the S6 e-tron’s bolsters are effective but not so large that they make it tough to get in and out. While buttons are less distracting than screen icons, the climate controls on the bottom of the centre screen are at least easy to figure out. But there’s a lot happening on the driver’s door, where the control pad there not only handles locks, windows and mirrors, but also the headlights. Final thoughts Canadian pricing and an on-sale data are still to come. The 2025 Audi A6 e-tron Quattro will come in two trims, and having driven one with rear-wheel, I’m looking forward to piloting our all-wheel version. As for the S6 e-tron, well, if you don’t think electric can’t be electrifying, you really need to get behind the wheel and see for yourself. Sign up for our newsletter Blind-Spot Monitor and follow our social channels on X , Tiktok and LinkedIn to stay up to date on the latest automotive news, reviews, car culture, and vehicle shopping advice.
After weeks of anticipation, Black Friday is over for another year but there’s still time to bag a bargain, as Cyber Monday is officially here. The good news is Amazon has kept many of its top offers rolling into the new week, meaning now is the perfect time to restock your beauty products, invest in a new TV , or add a high-spec laptop to your basket. However, you’ll need to be quick, as the deals will cease to exist once the clock strikes midnight. The online retailer goes all out for the annual sale, with big discounts on big-name brands, from Nintendo Switch consoles , air fryers and Apple gadgets to Shark vacuums and Ninja appliances . Whatever you’re in the market for, it’s a great time to snap up a saving from brands that have been tried and tested by The Independent . Read more: Follow Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals live As you’d expect, Amazon has also slashed the price of its own smart home devices, from 40 per cent off Amazon Fire TV sticks (was £59.99, now £34.99, Amazon.co.uk ), to 20 per cent off Kindles (was £159.99, now £124.99, Amazon.co.uk ), plus, deals on the retailer’s Echo dot smart speakers , Ring doorbells and tablets . Owing to the sheer number of deals that have landed in the Black Friday bonanza, it can be tricky to know where to start but fear not, as the rest of the IndyBest team and I have put together this guide to the best deals in Amazon’s Cyber Monday sale. Within this Amazon Cyber Monday guide, we only recommend deals on products we’ve either tried and tested or that come from brands we trust – and we keep an eye out for Amazon inflating prices, by using price tracking tools. That means we bring you genuine savings on products we think you’ll love as much as we do. With a discount of nearly 50 per cent, now’s the time to upgrade your home entertainment system for less. The nifty gadget allows you to watch all your favourite shows from various streaming platforms at a higher resolution than the standard version. Serving up a crisp picture, it plugs into the HDMI port on any TV, meaning you don’t have to buy a smart TV – I’m adding it straight to my basket. Bookworms, you can get the Kindle at its cheapest-ever price right now. Considered the best ereader in our review, The Independent ’s tech critic David Phelan praised the device for being “really exceptional (gaining the top spot in this round-up)”. He added: “The front light has also been improved recently, to make it subtler and adjustable in terms of warmth as well as brightness. Like the oasis, the paperwhite is waterproof – it’s able to withstand submersion in 2m of water for up to an hour.” Reduced by a huge 58 per cent, Amazon’s Echo dot is perfect for those on a budget. Tech critic Alex said, “the fifth generation smart speaker has even better sound than all the Echo Dots that have come before it (a mean feat given how hard it is to eek good sound out of a small device).” Praising its top functionality and neat new indoor temperature sensor, he said it can be placed anywhere in your home to deliver weather reports, set timers, play music, podcasts, the news and more. The newest version of our favourite tried and tested video doorbell is now 41 per cent off at Amazon thanks to its Cyber Monday sale. One of our home testers, Zoe , found the second-generation Ring doorbell to be the best overall in her review , and now the newest model can be all yours for less than £60. Zoe praised the device for being easy to install and loved the efficiency of the Ring app in alerting her to parcels, something we’re all going to need during Black Friday. Does your telly need an upgrade? This could be the deal for you. You can now step up your at-home entertainment system for less, with 44 per cent off this Fire TV. With QLED providing vivid life-like colours and pictures, fool-proof streaming and a customisable home screen, this is a TV you’ll be proud to build a room around. It was also picked as the best budget buy in our review of the best TVs of 2024. Our household expert and culinary whizz Siobhan picked this pan from Ninja as the best non-stick frying pan in our review. After testing it out Siobhan said she was “seriously impressed” by the pan’s capabilities. She went on to say: “Cooking results are nothing short of outstanding. The pan delivers perfectly even heat, so everything cooks at the same time, and we ditched the oil completely when making some dishes yet food never stuck to the bottom or burned.” To top it all off the drying pan now has 25 per cent off at Amazon, I’m sold. Amazon has reduced a whole host of Le Creuset signature enamelled cast iron casserole dishes, including this bamboo green option. Designed with a tight-fitting lid, it’s ideal for fuss-free one-pot cooking and has enough space to serve up a tasty meal for two to three people. The dish is also incredibly versatile and is suitable for ovens, grills and all hob types, including induction. Plus, it’s dishwasher-safe. There are so many colour options to suit all kitchens in this great deal, from azure blue and volcanic orange to nectar yellow and flint black. Is it time to replace your old, rather worn washing machine with a more efficient washer-dryer? The Samsung series 5 washer may be your next investment while the sales are on. Usually priced at over £700, Amazon is offering a 25 per cent discount on this machine, which our tester Pete found to be a sleek and elegant addition to any modern kitchen, as well as being quieter than most. What he really loved about this washer-dryer is its “ecobubble” tech, which provided “great results at relatively low temperatures, which could help to minimise the risk of delicate materials getting shrunk in the wash”. Out of all the air fryers that Lauren reviewed – she has also been testing a whole host of air fryers for us – she said this one was “the most powerful”, adding that her food ended up “a lot tastier and crispier, compared with when cooking in other air fryer models”. The gadget has six settings – roast, air fry, bake, reheat, crisp and dehydrate – and you can set each of the two drawers to cook different things, at different temperatures, at the same time. Snap it up now while it has more than 35 per cent off. If you’re after a top-performing air purifier for less, you’re in luck. Our home tech whizzes named the Levoit core 400S air purifier the best air purifier overall . Working quickly, it was also “unbelievably quiet and smart, thanks to the handy VeSync app and Alexa and Apple Home integration”, they said. There’s even “a modern LED display that told [them] how dirty the air was, by using different colours.” Even better, snap it up with this Black Friday deal, and you can save more than £50. This Tefal air fryer has 44 per cent off in Amazon’s Cyber Monday 2024 sale. With two different drawer sizes, you can cook two foods, two ways, at once. Ideal for larger households, the air fryer has an 8.3l capacity, cooking meals 40 per cent faster compared to an oven and using 70 per cent less energy. From succulent chicken to crispy chips, there are eight programs that eliminate the guesswork when it comes to cooking. Plus, the sleek black design won’t be an eyesore in the kitchen. If you’ve wanted to invest in a KitchenAid stand mixer but felt put off by the steep price, consider this your sign to take the leap and get baking. Right now, there’s a £50 saving on this smaller style of the mixer, which is the perfect fit for those short on kitchen worktop space. A more compact version of its 4.8l capacity cousin, it’s just as versatile and robust, but 25 per cent lighter and 20 per cent smaller. The cirrus 2 from Steamery will make your clothes and textiles smooth and wrinkle-free in the blink of an eye thanks to the fast heat up and powerful stainless steel mouthpiece. Created for fast-paced lifestyles, and those who are on-the-go, this steamer is sleek and lightweight – fitting in beautifully to your wardrobe space. We love Steamery’s designs so much that we placed the brand’s newer model, the cirrus 3, as the top choice for stylish design in our guide to the best clothes steamers . Right now, the cirrus 2 has got a generous 25 per cent off. This Shark corded vacuum is a steal with 23 per cent off. Vacuum cleaner connoisseur Zoe tested this model and considered it strong enough to land a spot in our guide to the best corded vacuum cleaners . She said: “This nifty corded stick vacuum made cleaning a pleasure (well, almost) due to its slim, lightweight design, plus Shark’s flexology technology, which means a flexible wand bends at the touch of a button to reach underneath low-lying beds, sofas and coffee tables with no need to lift them or bend down.” Thanks to Amazon, there’s no better time to invest. On sale with nearly 30 per cent off, Sage’s barista espresso machine is a must-have for coffee lovers. “We loved how easy this machine was to use, and how much fun we had experimenting with making our perfect cup,”noted coffee expert Zoe, when she put it to the test in her review . Praising the machine’s clever tech, Zoe said it makes “dreamy cups of coffee with little fuss right from the get-go”. There’s currently more than 20 per cent off this model, which was selected as the best for kitchens in our best dehumidifiers guide. Our home appliance reverier Rachael said that it’s ideal for extracting any condensation that may appear during cooking and loved its ease of use and subtle size. “Perfect for small spaces and rooms up to 15 square metres, this dehumidifier is so compact it will sit neatly on your shelves or sideboard without you even realising it’s there. Plus, it feels solid and robust,” she explained. Temperatures are well and truly dropping, so it’s time we get prepared for the colder months ahead by investing in a quality electric heater. This slick and modern model from Duux is ideal for warming up a room and fighting off the winter chill – so much so that it was picked as the best overall buy in our round-up of the best electric heaters . Zoe , one of our reviewers well-versed in home appliances said: “It was powerful enough to warm up a room of 30sqm. For less than £100, we found it to be a well-made, good-looking heater that we could use throughout the year.” Now it has almost 30 per cent off thanks to Amazon. “For any iPhone owner prone to losing things, investing in a pack of four AirTags might be one of the best decisions you ever make,” tech writer Alex said in his review of the best key finders . “Precision tracking works wonderfully well when you can get a signal, and the fact it’s powered by removable batteries is a real bonus, in our eyes.” Our tech expert David tested out this Apple Watch SE a couple of years back, and it’s safe to say he was impressed. It comes with a lower carbon footprint than previous models, and despite being much more affordable, it still hosts all the same speedy and exciting features, making it a fast and responsive device. In his review, David recommended this model specifically for parents, saying: “It makes it an ideal choice for that new trend: parents buying a smartwatch for their children instead of a phone.” The Bose QC Ultra wireless earbuds are a brilliant-sounding pair of noise-cancelling buds that have fallen in price thanks to Black Friday. “They sound better than almost every competitive pair of earbuds we’ve tested,” tech critic David Phelan said in his review . If you’re planning to kick off 2025 in the gym, then you’ll need a massage gun to relieve your tired muscles. A total bargain at a little more than £20 thanks to an Amazon Cyber Monday deal, this massage gun delivers a professional-level deep tissue massage, through 30 variable speeds. The AirPods Pro 2 earbuds have been reduced to their lowest-ever price – yes you, read that right. If you need any convincing, The Independent ’s tech critic David Phelan praised them in his review – noting that they should be a “go-to for audiophiles or those who relish the joys of great noise-cancelling”. As well as having impressive sound and noise-cancelling, the AirPods Pro 2 feature the best battery life on any AirPods. You can save 26 per cent on this Polaroid now gen 2 camera, which featured in our round-up of the best instant cameras of 2024 . Ideal for achieving that classic Polaroid print, our tech writer Alex chose this model as the best vintage-style instant camera for its ability to “transport you back in time”. “Overall, it’s easy to use but fairly basic – you just point, half-click to focus and full click to take the picture,” he said. “Auto-focus works great – it’s a lot more convenient than lining up your subject with the focus hole, meaning the whole picture is in focus, rather than the centre figure.” The PSVR2 is cheaper than ever this Black Friday. When tech expert Steve reviewed the headset, he found it to be an “excellent virtual reality headset for the price”. He added: “But PlayStation’s admirable push to make VR gaming a success has produced one of the best and easiest-to-use VR headsets you can buy today.” Make someone very happy this Christmas and snap it up now. Gaming chairs can cost a pretty penny so I’ll take any opportunity to snap one up with a saving. This Cyber Monday, Amazon has treated gamers to the Trust GXT 716 chair with more than 30 per cent off. Rated the best seat for LED addicts in tech expert Jon ’s gaming chair guide, it boasts wireless control and high-density foam support across the neck and lumbar areas. Jon praised how “the gas lift was responsive, smooth and accurate, so you can make quick adjustments without it affecting your gameplay”, as well as marvelling at its 350 light effect modes. That’s right, 350. High up on many Christmas wishlists this year, the Oura smart ring is a revolutionary device that helps track your sleep, activity, stress, heart rate and more. When our fitness and wellbeing editor reviewed the ring , she particularly liked the sleep features: “The recommended bedtime was a bit like that best friend who’s always looking out for you – it did give us an extra push to put our phone down and go to sleep.” The ring comes in six colourways, including silver, gold, brushed titanium and rose gold. Right now, you can score the 512GB version of the original (and still the best) Meta Quest 3 for £469 – the cheapest it has ever been. Compared to the cheaper Meta Quest 3S, the VR headset uses high-quality lenses for a sharper image, is slightly slimmer, and with 512GB of storage, it can store more games, videos and content. In his review of the Meta Quest 3 , our tech expert Alex described it as “an astounding virtual-reality headset”, adding that it’s “arguably the best consumer VR device currently out there”. “With full-colour passthrough, a faster processor, a more comfortable and ergonomic fit, as well as better hand tracking and, of course, those sweet, sweet pancake lenses that make everything so much more stable, this is the VR headset to beat,” he wrote. Discounted by more than 30 per cent in Amazon’s Cyber Monday sale, Garmin’s forerunner smartwatch will help you track progress and monitor your fitness goals. There’s also a whole catalogue of daily workout suggestions, a widget for estimating your recovery time after each exercise session, and detailed running metrics, including cadence, stride length, ground contact time and balance. This watch also has a heart rate monitor and a widget for monitoring sleep, plus menstrual cycle and pregnancy tracking, and an app for checking on your stress levels, too. Useful for anyone who suffers from SAD (seasonal affective disorder), a Lumie lamp can transform sleeping habits, ensuring you wake up feeling refreshed. Although we haven’t reviewed this exact model, tech and home appliance reviewer Siobhan dubbed another Lumie sunrise alarm clock as the best advanced option in her guide , so, you know this is a brand you can trust. The Switch Lite has a smaller screen than the original version and can only be played in handheld mode. This bundle gets you a copy of Animal Crossing: New Horizons and a 12-month Switch Online membership thrown in for free, saving you a huge £85 on the game and the membership. It’s still available right now in its turquoise iteration, with a cutesy Animal Crossing theme. With a generous £80 discount, the Apple watch series 9 boasts everything from blood oxygen tracking to water resistance up to a whopping 50m. Testing the device for his standalone review , time-earned tech pro David praised its “fast, smooth and responsive” performance. He enjoyed both the “raise your arm to wake the watch” feature and, uniquely to the series 9, the fact that “you can tap your index finger and thumb together twice” to end phone calls, snooze alarms and perform a myriad of other actions. Pretty nifty stuff, eh? Tried-and-tested brand Loop is leading the charge with its stylish, reusable, high-performance earplugs, and they’re reduced at Amazon right now. For less than £20 this Black Friday weekend, you can enjoy a bit of peace and quiet (whether you’re working from home, studying, or hosting rowdy relatives at Christmas), thanks to Loop’s exceptional noise-reducing technology. As our tech critic, Alex hails these as his favourite wireless headphones , and they’re now 35 per cent off at Amazon. Looking to step up your listening experience? Then I have just the thing. Alex was impressed with their noise-cancelling abilities and crystal clarity, saying: “Whether it’s orchestral music, rap, podcasts or your favourite pop tracks, the WH-1000XM5 handles it all with poise and gumption, and it never misses a beat”. This cleansing balm has attained cult status. It landed a spot in beauty buff Louise’s review of the best cleansing balms , in which she noted that after she’d removed the product from her face, her skin “felt soft and smooth, with a subtle glow that you often find after having a facial”. She added that “from start to finish, the experience is a luxurious treat”. Even better, it’s now a treat you can enjoy for less than £30, thanks to this deal. Just in time for party season, beauty writer Maisie’s favourite hair straighteners now have 28 per cent off. In her review , she gave this ghd model full marks, noting that they “effectively style your hair in one glide”. She was shocked by how quickly they heated up, too, going on to say: “I can create poker-straight hair in minutes, or add waves and curls to my hair, courtesy of the curved edges.” Nab the hair tool for yourself, while it’s discounted. In beauty writer Lauren’s hair dryer guide, this model came out trumps. She noticed her hair was immediately less frizzy and was impressed by the technology at work, which helped her create “a smooth, sleek finish”. Affordable even before the discount, now’s the time to snap up this dryer while it’s just £67. CeraVe is one of my favourite affordable skincare brands – and its moisturising lotion is a staple in the bathroom cabinet. The lightweight formula is powered by hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture, delivering up to 48 hours of hydration. It’s non-greasy, which is a big plus too. When reviewing it, beauty writer Helen said she liked “the lack of greasiness and speedy absorption” means it’s “ideal to use in a rush”. Right now, you can save 40 per cent. IndyBest tried-and-tested brand , Kate Sommerville, is included in the Amazon Black Friday sale, with more than £10 off its bestselling blemish targeting face wash. Clinically formulated to help combat sebaceous filaments, pesky spots and blackheads, this face wash will provide visibly clearer skin for party season. Maybelline’s New York sensational sky high mascara boasts a uniquely designed brush that’s long, thin and densely packed with tiny little plastic bristles. This makes it ideal for getting to hard-to-reach areas and easy to manoeuvre from all angles with minimal mess. When Sarah, beauty buff and assistant eCommerce editor, shared her in-depth review of the mascara , she raved about the tiny bristles that line the wand, which she found “helped comb through each and every lash – yes, even those pesky ones right in the corner”. You can pick it up for half price right now. Fake tan fans, you can save nearly 50 per cent on Tan Luxe’s self tan drops in Amazon’s Black Friday sale. “Packed full of skin-boosting ingredients, including raspberry seed oil, vitamin E and aloe vera, these glow-inducing drops are not only incredibly easy to use, but they also help hydrate the skin, too,” beauty writer Lauren said in her review . “Plus, they gave the most noticeable glow out of any option I’ve tried so far.” I’m stocking up while it’s less than £15. Loved by the likes of Hailey Bieber and Rihanna, Weleda’s budget moisturiser has some hefty A-lister approval. For Cyber Monday, you can get it for just £5.62 thanks to the 50 per cent discount. When skincare tester Amy shared her verdict on the formula , she said she loved how easy it was to apply and how their skin “just drank it up.” She added: “Combining, organic sunflower oil with extracts of wild pansy, calendula and camomile, it’s a soothing treat that’s great to reach for when skin is feeling a bit more parched than usual.” Hunter and Gather’s collagen bovine peptides, now reduced by a modest 15 per cent, were rated best overall in our review of the best collagen supplements . This particular collagen powder contains 18 amino acids, and when we spoke to facialist Jude Jackson , she recommended bovine collagen peptides for improving skin elasticity and hydration, while also contributing to “longevity, future bone mineral density and joint health”, as well as current strength and recovery after exercise. This clever electric trimmer from Phillips is a must-buy, according togrooming expert, Paddy , who gave it the top spot in his review of the best beard trimmers . Giving it the full five-star rating, our tester found this trimmer to be a versatile all-rounder. He said: “It’s a decidedly no-frills option that’s easy on the face, body and wallet, with its protective cutting guards and modest price tag”. Now, it’s even more budget-friendly, thanks to a 45 per cent discount at Amazon. Our male grooming experts Sam and Lee named this cologne the best affordable men’s aftershave in their review . And now, thanks to Amazon’s Cyber Monday sale, that price just got even better with a whopping 42 per cent off. Our testers loved how understated the floral scent was, saying: “It’s a light-as-a-feather blend of citrus fruits, rosemary and lavender and not that far removed in smell from Tom Ford’s spenny neroli Portofino.” A designer alternative at a tempting price, what more could you want? Looking to upgrade the family entertainment system? I’ve got just the thing. One tech critic David Phelan’s favourite TVs of 2024 now has more than 30 per cent off. Calling it a “stand-out” TV, thanks to its top-of-the-line picture quality, overall performance and slim and attractive design. He said: “The contrast and strong, deep black colours, which typify OLED, look especially good here, allowing rich brightness as well as subtle shadows.” This smart TV is currently reduced by 37 per cent. When The Independent ’s tech critic David Phelan put it to the test , he was left impressed, scoring it four out of five stars: “It features pin-sharp picture and excellent brightness levels that look realistic and persuasive,” our tester said. Right now, you can save almost 50 per cent on this pair of Levi’s jeans, which have been worn and loved by many celebrities over the decades, from Cindy Crawford to Hailey Bieber. You can’t go wrong with the 501’s, which feature a timeless straight-leg and a flattering cropped silhouette. One of the best gin deals I’ve seen this Cyber Monday, The Botanist’s Islay dry gin was spirits expert Aidy ‘s top pick in his guide to the best gins of 2024. And it’s no surprise with its blend of 22 botanicals and nine spices. He described the tipple as “a silky smooth spirit with a balanced earthy, sweet, floral and herbal profile.” He added: “A truly beautiful bottle, inside and out.” “Old Pulteney’s whiskies are all influenced by the distillery’s coastal location, with the sea air rolling onto the casks and leaving a distinct briny and salty taste”, explained IndyBest reviewer and drinks connoisseur Jonathan . “Rich chocolate, vanilla and citrus notes are joined by a gorgeous Christmas cake characteristic bursting with dried fruit”, he said of this bottle, “while background floral notes and Old Pulteney’s distinctive coastal notes bring a slightly refreshing side to this intense yet exquisitely balanced single malt”. Now, it’s even more tempting, thanks to this discount at Amazon. Whether you’re after something to scratch his golfing itch this Christmas, or you’re stocking up for yourself, these Srixon Z star golf balls are sure to impress on the course. They were sporting expert Adam ’s top pick for speed and distance in his guide to the best golf balls and, now they have nearly 20 per cent off, they’ll stretch the distance of your savings, too. Describing the balls’ performance, Adam explained how the Z stars feel “like a dream on approach shots and when chipping around the green”. My game could certainly do with a helping hand, so sign me up. Amazon’s Black Friday sale ends at 11:59pm on 2 December. The retailer’s official sale started on 21 November with deals dropping continuously. Our shopping experts have been working night and day to find the best deals and will continue to do so until the sale ends. Cyber Monday takes place on the Monday after Black Friday, which means, this year, it falls on 2 December 2024. Traditionally, Black Friday would see retailers launch competitive discounts both in-store and online, while Cyber Monday was the go-to day for tech deals and online-exclusive brands. While it’s true that you will find some brilliant offers on gadgets, the two events aren’t as distinct as they used to be, meaning you can still expect to find savings on pretty much every category, including kitchen appliances , fashion, beauty products and toys . You can pay for Amazon Prime monthly or annually. The monthly plan costs £8.99 per month and gives you the option to cancel at any time. The annual plan is cheaper at £95 per year, working out to £7.92 per month, but you have to commit to being a member for 12 months. You can sign up for a free month’s trial. For the latest offers on tech and more, try the link below: Want even more bargains? Head over to our main Black Friday guide for all the best deals
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NoneBy ERIC TUCKER WASHINGTON (AP) — A ninth U.S. telecoms firm has been confirmed to have been hacked as part of a sprawling Chinese espionage campaign that gave officials in Beijing access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans, a top White House official said Friday. Biden administration officials said this month that at least eight telecommunications companies , as well as dozens of nations, had been affected by the Chinese hacking blitz known as Salt Typhoon. But Anne Neuberger, the deputy national security adviser for cyber and emerging technologies, told reporters Friday that a ninth victim had been identified after the administration released guidance to companies about how to hunt for Chinese culprits in their networks. The update from Neuberger is the latest development in a massive hacking operation that has alarmed national security officials, exposed cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the private sector and laid bare China’s hacking sophistication. The hackers compromised the networks of telecommunications companies to obtain customer call records and gain access to the private communications of “a limited number of individuals.” Though the FBI has not publicly identified any of the victims, officials believe senior U.S. government officials and prominent political figures are among those whose whose communications were accessed. Related Articles National News | Court rules Georgia lawmakers can subpoena Fani Willis for information related to her Trump case National News | US homelessness up 18% as affordable housing remains out of reach for many people National News | Most Americans blame insurance profits and denials alongside the killer in UHC CEO death, poll finds National News | Another jackpot surpasses $1 billion. Is this the new normal? National News | Man indicted in burning death of woman inside a New York City subway train, prosecutors say Neuberger said officials did not yet have a precise sense how many Americans overall were affected by Salt Typhoon, in part because the Chinese were careful about their techniques, but a “large number” were in the Washington-Virginia area. Officials believe the goal of the hackers was to identify who owned the phones and, if they were “government targets of interest,” spy on their texts and phone calls, she said. The FBI said most of the people targeted by the hackers are “primarily involved in government or political activity.” Neuberger said the episode highlighted the need for required cybersecurity practices in the telecommunications industry, something the Federal Communications Commission is to take up at a meeting next month. “We know that voluntary cyber security practices are inadequate to protect against China, Russia and Iran hacking of our critical infrastructure,” she said. The Chinese government has denied responsibility for the hacking.
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Hezbollah fires 240 rockets into Israel in response to deadly Beirut airstrikeWhen EJ Sablan, 22, played for the Father Duenas Memorial School Friars soccer team, he was one of the best strikers the school had ever produced. After the 2021 season, during which he led the Friars to a championship, he was named the Independent Interscholastic Athletic Association of Guam (IIAAG) most valuable player. Soon after earning the IIAAG MVP title, Sablan and his family relocated to Puyallup, Washington, where he joined the Emerald Ridge High School Jaguars boys soccer team. As a Jaguar, his role shifted. He was tasked with playing in the backfield, focusing on keeping the ball out of his team’s net - a role he excelled in. After a standout 2023 season as a defender, Sablan earned a spot on the All-South Puget Sound first team. A different school. A different position. The same results. Sablan, no matter the situation, environment or position, continued to make a name for himself. Now, about a year and a half later, Sablan’s determined play and hard work have earned him recognition at the next level. Sablan, who plays midfielder for the Linfield College Wildcats in McMinnville, Oregon, has been named to the All-Northwest Conference (NWC) second team. “I am blessed to be able to perform at the rate that I am. The endless support of God, my family, my teammates and coaches is what keeps me going and inspired to perform well throughout the season,” Sablan said. “Getting nominated for All-NWC second team is just the beginning of my journey. Although I am grateful, I am not satisfied, as I want to achieve bigger and better things.” Sablan told The Guam Daily Post that he enjoys being a midfielder, a position where he can make the greatest difference and showcase his skills as both a defender and an offensive playmaker. “I do enjoy being a midfielder. It gives me the opportunity to compete in the middle of the field, where, in my opinion, games are won,” he said. “I am not too eager to be a striker because, as a midfielder, I get to express myself - finding opportunities to score but also assisting my teammates and getting everyone involved.” Midway through the 2024 season, during a game against the University of Puget Sound Loggers, Sablan found his footing and delivered a breakout performance. Although Linfield trailed 3-0 and eventually lost 3-2, Sablan scored both of the Wildcats’ goals. “This was one of the best experiences I’ve had in my collegiate career,” Sablan said. “The endless fight my team showed is what makes it one of my proudest moments in my Linfield career.” Over the two years Sablan has played for the Wildcats - an NCAA Division III team in the Northwest Conference - the team has recorded an 8-27-5 record. Despite being part of a struggling program, Sablan remains positive and optimistic. "My experience with Linfield soccer has been nothing but good,” he said. “Although the results aren’t what we wanted or expected, I’m just truly blessed to be able to play the sport I love and continue my journey. Every time I step on the field, I’m one step closer to playing professionally and giving back to the community that raised me.”
As one of the leading providers of a 24/7 autonomous smart store, VenHub has introduced and developed a solution with the potential to transform how consumers interact with technology in retail environments. Powered by proprietary software and unique robotics arms technology, VenHub's product offering can provide a seamless customer experience. Manufactured by a leader in the global robotics industry, the innovative robotic arms technology can differentiate VenHub from traditional retail solutions and well-positions the Company in the automated retail space. Additionally, VenHub's cutting edge vision system adds precision and reliability to its product offering, and the efficiency and security of the Smart Stores are enabled by VenHub's intellectual property portfolio. Founded in 2023, VenHub is addressing challenges facing traditional retail stores, including inefficient inventory management, limited hours, high labor costs, and security concerns. The Smart Stores are designed to utilize data-driven inventory management, a self-service delivery system, and advanced security protection, all of which reduce labor costs and collectively enhance sales and growth potential. Through these potential competitive advantages, VenHub has secured over 1,000 customer pre-orders across 48 states, with potential revenue of more than $300 million 1 in pre-order value. This pre-order book demonstrates market confidence in VenHub's smart store technology. VenHub's growth strategy focuses on geographic and store format expansion to meet the growing demand for autonomous retail solutions, as well as product diversification to enhance VenHub's market presence and operational efficiency. The Company's CapEx-light business model has the potential to create value for stakeholders, and its diversified business model with potential for recurring revenue can allow VenHub to achieve its expansion plan. Key Investment Highlights Shahan Ohanessian, Chief Executive Officer of VenHub, commented : "This is day one for VenHub on a larger stage,” Shahan Ohanessian, CEO of VenHub, remarked. "We're at the starting line of what I believe will be a remarkable journey, turning our vision into reality and expanding our reach on a global scale. We're not just joining the market; we're aiming to pioneer a new frontier in smart retail that enhances how businesses and consumers connect.” Mike Minnick, Chief Executive Officer of TGAA, added : "We are excited to partner with Shahan and the VenHub team. VenHub's efficient, capital-light business model, combined with strong near-term projected positive cash flow generation, positions the Company for sustainable growth. This approach enables strategic expansion into multiple geographic markets while leveraging internally generated cash flow and maintaining disciplined resource allocation.” Proposed Business Combination Overview The Proposed Business Combination implies a pro forma enterprise value of $715 million, which assumes an estimated equity value of $650 million, $26 million in new cash to the balance sheet (assuming 100% redemptions by TGAA public shareholders), and $0.6 million in existing cash. The Proposed Business Combination is expected to provide net cash to VenHub of up to $14 million to support VenHub's continued geographic expansion and product diversification. Cash proceeds raised will consist of TGAA's approximately $20.4 million cash in trust, net of redemptions. The cash in the TGAA trust account is anticipated to support the Company's growth capital needs, including VenHub's production, marketing and sales efforts. It is intended that 100% of existing VenHub stockholders will roll over their equity and, assuming no redemptions and full rollover, own approximately 89% of the pro forma equity of the combined company in connection with the transaction. The Proposed Business Combination has been approved by the boards of directors of both VenHub and TGAA and is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025, subject to shareholder approvals and other customary closing conditions. For a summary of the material terms of the Proposed Business Combination, as well as a supplemental investor presentation, please see the Current Report on Form 8-K filed today by TGAA with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC”). Additional information about the Proposed Business Combination will be described in TGAA's proxy statement relating to the Proposed Business Combination, which it will file with the SEC. Advisors Cohen & Company Capital Markets, a division of J.V.B. Financial Group, LLC, is serving as the exclusive financial advisor, capital markets advisor and placement agent to VenHub. Smith Eilers PLLC is serving as legal counsel to VenHub. Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP is serving as legal counsel to TGAA. Travers Thorp Alberga is serving as legal counsel to TGAA with respect to Cayman Islands law. About VenHub VenHub Global, Inc., f/k/a Autonomous Solutions, Inc., a Delaware corporation, is reshaping the retail industry with its groundbreaking autonomous and robotic-operated Smart Stores. Leveraging advanced AI and smart inventory management systems, VenHub offers a seamless shopping experience that operates 24/7. This approach not only increases revenue but also significantly reduces operational costs compared to traditional retail setups. VenHub's modular design allows for quick installation and easy customization to meet a wide range of consumer needs. The company operates across three main retail formats: fixed Smart Stores for permanent locations, mobile Smart Stores for flexibility and broader accessibility, and innovative solutions that upgrade existing retail spaces and shopping centers into advanced Smart Shopping environments. With its forward-thinking strategy, VenHub is poised to transform the retail landscape, providing an efficient and accessible shopping experience that anticipates the future of commerce. About Target Global Acquisition I Corp. TGAA Acquisition I Corp. is a blank check company incorporated as a Cayman Island exempted company and formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, share, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. TGAA's units, Class A ordinary shares and warrants trade on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbols "TGAAU,” "TGAA,” and "TGAAW” respectively. Forward-Looking Statements This press release includes "forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the "safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. TGAA's and VenHub's actual results may differ from their expectations, estimates and projections and consequently, you should not rely on these forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Words such as "expect,” "estimate,” "project,” "budget,” "forecast,” "anticipate,” "intend,” "plan,” "may,” "will,” "could,” "should,” "believes,” "predicts,” "potential,” "continue,” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, TGAA's and VenHub's expectations with respect to future performance and anticipated financial impacts of the Proposed Business Combination, the satisfaction of the closing conditions to the Proposed Business Combination and the timing of the completion of the Proposed Business Combination. These forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results to differ materially from the expected results. Most of these factors are outside TGAA's and VenHub's control and are difficult to predict. Factors that may cause such differences include, but are not limited to: (1) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the Business Combination Agreement, (2) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against TGAA and VenHub following the announcement of the Business Combination Agreement and the transactions contemplated therein; (3) the inability to complete the Proposed Business Combination, including due to failure to obtain approval of the shareholders of TGAA or other conditions to closing in the Business Combination Agreement; (4) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the Business Combination Agreement or could otherwise cause the Proposed Business Combination to fail to close; (5) the amount of redemption requests made by TGAA's shareholders; (6) the inability to obtain or maintain the listing of the post-business combination company's common stock on the Nasdaq Stock Market LLC following the Proposed Business Combination; (7) the risk that the Proposed Business Combination disrupts current plans and operations as a result of the announcement and consummation of the Proposed Business Combination; (8) the ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the Proposed Business Combination, which may be affected by, among other things, competition, the ability of the combined company to grow and manage growth profitably and retain its key employees; (9) costs related to the Proposed Business Combination; (10) changes in applicable laws or regulations; (11) the possibility that VenHub or the combined company may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; and (12) other risks and uncertainties indicated from time to time in the proxy statement relating to the Proposed Business Combination, including those under "Risk Factors” and "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” which will be set forth in a Registration Statement on Form S-4 (the "Registration Statement”) to be filed by TGAA and the Company and in TGAA's other filings with the SEC. Some of these risks and uncertainties may be amplified by future events and there may be additional risks that we consider immaterial or which are unknown. It is not possible to predict or identify all such risks. TGAA cautions that the foregoing list of factors is not exclusive. TGAA cautions readers not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. TGAA does not undertake or accept any obligation or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in its expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based . Additional Information and Where to Find It This press release relates to a proposed transaction between the Company and TGAA. This document does not constitute an offer to sell or exchange, or the solicitation of an offer to buy or exchange, any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, sale or exchange would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act. TGAA and the Company intend to file a registration statement on Form S-4 that will include a proxy statement/prospectus of TGAA. The proxy statement/prospectus will be sent to all TGAA shareholders. TGAA also will file other documents regarding the proposed transaction with the SEC. Before making any voting decision, investors and security holders of TGAA are urged to read the registration statement, the proxy statement/prospectus and all other relevant documents filed or that will be filed with the SEC in connection with the proposed transaction as they become available because they will contain important information about the proposed transaction. Investors and security holders will be able to obtain free copies of the registration statement and all other relevant documents filed or that will be filed with the SEC by TGAA through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov. In addition, the documents filed by TGAA may be obtained free of charge from TGAA's website at https://tgacquisition1.com/ or by written request to TGAA at: Target Global Acquisition I Corp., PO Box 10176, Governor's Square 23, Lime Tree Bay Avenue, Grand Cayman KY1-1102, Cayman Islands. Participants in the Solicitation TGAA and the Company and their respective directors and officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from TGAA's shareholders in connection with the proposed transaction. Information about TGAA's directors and executive officers and their ownership of TGAA's securities is set forth in TGAA's filings with the SEC. Additional information regarding the interests of those persons and other persons who may be deemed participants in the proposed transaction may be obtained by reading the proxy statement/prospectus regarding the proposed transaction when it becomes available. You may obtain free copies of these documents as described in the preceding paragraph. No Offer or Solicitation This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation to purchase any security of TGAA, VenHub or any of their respective affiliates. No such offering of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act, or an exemption therefrom. The contents of this press release have not been reviewed by any regulatory authority in any jurisdiction. INVESTMENT IN ANY SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN HAS NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SEC OR ANY OTHER REGULATORY AUTHORITY NOR HAS ANY AUTHORITY PASSED UPON OR ENDORSED THE MERITS OF THE OFFERING OR THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE. Investor Relations Contact [email protected] 888-585-4999 Wire Service Contact : IBN Los Angeles, California www.InvestorBrandNetwork.com 310.299.1717 Office [email protected] 1 Grand View Research, "GVR Report cover Convenience Stores Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Cigarettes & Tobacco, Foodservice, Packaged Beverages, Center Store, Low Alcoholic Beverages), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2022 - 2028”, May 2022 2 Based on management estimates. As of September 30, 2024.
New Apple TV and HomePod Mini reportedly launching in 2025 with Apple networking chipBy Kimberly Palmer, NerdWallet The investing information provided on this page is for educational purposes only. NerdWallet, Inc. does not offer advisory or brokerage services, nor does it recommend or advise investors to buy or sell particular stocks, securities or other investments. The start of a new year can bring a surge of motivation around setting new goals, including financial resolutions. One way to help those goals become reality, financial experts say, is to make them as specific as possible. Then, track your progress, while allowing flexibility for unexpected challenges. “It’s easier to track progress when we know where we are going,” says Sylvie Scowcroft, a certified financial planner and founder of The Financial Grove in Cambridge, Massachusetts. That’s why she encourages her clients to set clearly defined goals, often related to paying off a specific debt, saving a certain amount per month or improving their credit score. Here are more tips from financial experts about crafting 2025 financial goals : Trying to accomplish too much can feel overwhelming. Instead, pick your priorities, says Cathleen Tobin, CFP and owner of Moonbridge Financial Design in Rhinebeck, New York. She suggests focusing on those big, often emotionally-driven goals to find motivation. “It’s more compelling than just a number,” she says. For example, do you want to make sure you’re on track for retirement or save money for a house? “Start there.” Scowcroft says she sees clients get tripped up by selecting overly broad goals, such as “get better with money.” Instead, she encourages people to select specific action items, such as “sign up for a budgeting tool and set aside time each month to learn where my money is going.” That level of specificity provides direction so you know what steps to take next, she adds. For example, if your top priority is to become debt-free, then your specific goal might be to pay off an extra $200 of your debt balance each month. Tobin says labeling savings accounts so they correspond with goals can also help. An emergency fund could be named something like “Peace of mind in 2025,” so you remember why you’re saving every time you make a transfer. “It’s more motivating than just ‘emergency fund,’” Tobin says. Measuring your progress as the year unfolds is also a critical component of successful goal setting, Tobin says. She compares it to weight loss. If you want to lose 20 pounds by June, then you need to lose about a pound a week for the first six months of the year. Similarly, she says it helps to break savings goals into microsteps that specify what you need to do each week. Schedule a weekly or monthly check-in with yourself to make sure you are meeting those smaller goals along the way. You might want to review your debt payoff progress or check your credit score , for example. “Being able to break it down into steps that can be done each week or twice a month really helps,” Tobin says. If your goal is to save more money , then setting up an automatic transfer each month can help turn that goal into reality, as long as you know you have the money in your checking account to spare. “It reduces the mental load,” says Mike Hunsberger, CFP and owner of Next Mission Financial Planning in St. Charles, Missouri, where he primarily supports veterans and current members of the military. He recommends starting small to ease into the change. “I wouldn’t jump to double what you’re currently saving,” he says. For example, when it comes to saving in a retirement account, if you’re starting with a 3% contribution, you might want to bump it up to 4%, then slowly increase it from there. “My number one piece of advice is to start small, but make sure you scale over time,” Hunsberger adds. “Because it’s gradual, you probably won’t notice it impacting your lifestyle.” “Stay flexible,” Scowcroft says. “Part of it is just being kind to yourself and not being too rigid.” When unexpected challenges come up, such as a big unplanned expense, you might have to pause making progress on your goal and reset. You might even need to change your goal. Scowcroft says that doesn’t mean you “failed,” just that life changed your plans. Dwelling on any negativity won’t help your forward progress. Sharing your goals with a friend can also make it easier to reach them, Scowcroft says. “It really helps to have an accountability buddy,” she says. She suggests putting a regular “money date” with your friend on the calendar so you can ask each other how you’re doing, brainstorm any challenges or even budget together side-by-side . “It’s a fun excuse to meet up with a friend.” More From NerdWallet Kimberly Palmer writes for NerdWallet. Email: kpalmer@nerdwallet.com. Twitter: @kimberlypalmer. The article The Secret to Making Successful Financial New Year’s Resolutions originally appeared on NerdWallet .LONDON: Saudi petrochemical firms will showcase their products and innovative solutions at the 17th ArabPlast, hosted by the Dubai World Trade Center, the Emirates News Agency — WAM —reported. ArabPlast, an international trade show that takes place from Jan. 7-9, is an important event in the calendar of companies working in the plastics, recycling, petrochemicals, packaging and rubber industries. In 2025, ArabPlast will host 12 national pavilions and 750 exhibitors from a total of 35 countries, including companies from Saudi Arabia, Austria, China, Egypt, Germany, Italy, India, Switzerland, Jordan, UAE and the rest of the GCC countries. They will showcase “a diverse range of products, technologies and solutions that shape the future of plastics, petrochemicals and rubber sectors in the region,” WAM reported. Nidal Mohammed Kadar, director of ArabPlast, said that the event would also feature the “latest developments in robotics and artificial intelligence technologies in the field of recycling,” which will contribute to sustainability. Sadiq Al-Lawati, executive director of Polymers Marketing at OQ Oman, said that ArabPlast will focus on “sustainable, environmentally friendly solutions” as the global demand for plastic increases in industrial sectors, such as construction, food and beverage, aviation, automotive, health care and sports. Alongside the exhibitions, hundreds of professionals and decision-makers will discuss the latest solutions and challenges that the plastic and petrochemical industries are facing in the Arab region.