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NoneThe Samajwadi Party MLA, Rais Shaikh, has moved a private member bill, seeking penal provisions on the lines of the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) to stop defamation of eminent personalities. A bill moved by an individual elected representative is called a private member bill. The opposition uses it as a legal weapon to introduce reforms or press for certain demands. Shaikh, who represents the Bhiwandi East seat, has named the proposal as the Maharashtra Defamation of Revered Leaders and Iconic Figures (Prevention and Punishment) Bill, 2024. It aims to control the increasing incidents of defamation and objectionable comments against religious leaders, historical figures and national icons. The bill will be vetted before allowing the legislator to introduce it in the house. Outlining the objective behind the proposal, Shaikh said in the bill's draft that the idea is to curb the rising trend of whipping up sentiments by posting derogatory content against eminent personalities on social media. Such incidents have often led to public unrest, social tensions and violent protests in some cases, Shaikh added. He pointed out that the existing sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita are inadequate for punishing such offences hence a MCOCA-like law will help deter such miscreants.TikToker teaching science hopes short-form video will become part of curriculumMiddle East latest: Israel expels patients from a hospital in Gaza
Nebraska nurse has her license revoked for prescribing weight loss drugs illegallyFBI chief Christopher Wray to resign before Trump takes office( MENAFN - GetNews) Recognition highlights Brazos Home Care's unwavering commitment to serving veterans and seniors with top-tier care services. Bryan, TX - Brazos Home Care, a leading provider of in-home care services, has been honored with the prestigious Reader's Choice Award. This award recognizes the company's exceptional dedication to providing high-quality home care for veterans in Bryan, TX. The award reflects Brazos Home Care's commitment to serving the local community with compassion and excellence, especially seniors and veterans who require specialized care. “At Brazos Home Care, our mission has always been to serve the veterans and seniors of Bryan with the respect, dignity, and care they deserve,” said Robert Palmarez, owner of Brazos Home Care.“This award is a testament to our team's hard work, and we are deeply honored. Our community's commitment to veterans and seniors is stronger than ever, and we will continue to ensure their comfort, safety, and well-being in their homes.” The Reader's Choice Award highlights Brazos Home Care's role as a trusted source of home care services. Their tailored care plans, which include everything from daily living assistance to specialized medical needs, have significantly impacted the lives of veterans and seniors. Brazos Home Care's focus on maintaining independence, improving quality of life, and providing compassionate service has set them apart in Bryan's home care industry. For families considering care options for their veteran loved ones, home care is essential in ensuring they receive the personalized attention they deserve. Veterans often face unique health challenges that stem from their time in service, such as post-traumatic stress, mobility issues, or chronic conditions. Home care offers a safe, comfortable environment where these individuals can receive assistance tailored to their needs without sacrificing independence. One significant benefit of home care is its ability to provide one-on-one attention. In contrast to facility-based care, where the attention is divided among multiple patients, in-home caregivers can dedicate their time to understanding the veteran's specific needs. This personalized care helps manage complex health conditions, ensuring seniors receive proper medication, therapy, and support in a familiar environment. Home care is not just about health needs; it's also about enhancing emotional well-being. Many veterans experience feelings of isolation, especially if they are dealing with physical limitations or cognitive challenges. Having a caregiver who can provide companionship, help with daily activities, and engage them socially can make a significant difference in their mental health. Families can have peace of mind knowing their loved ones are safe and supported emotionally. Brazos Home Care continues to be the go-to provider for families in Bryan, TX, who are looking for expert home care for veterans in Bryan, TX . To learn more about Brazos Home Care and their services, please visit their website at About Brazos Home Care: Brazos Home Care is a trusted provider of in-home care services in Bryan, TX, dedicated to improving the quality of life for seniors and veterans. With a team of compassionate and skilled caregivers, Brazos Home Care offers personalized care solutions that ensure independence and comfort at home. The company is committed to providing the highest level of service, making it a recognized leader in the home care industry in Bryan. MENAFN24122024003238003268ID1109028527 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
NoneSmokers who quit for a week could save a day of their life, experts sayAP News Summary at 3:58 p.m. EST
Last week's congressional votesDUP minister rejected suggestion licensing laws could be relaxed for jubileeShares of home goods retailer Williams Sonoma ( WSM 3.22% ) rallied 28.2% in November, according to data from S&P Global Market Intelligence . Williams-Sonoma reported third-quarter results on Nov. 20, with shares skyrocketing in the aftermath, accounting for most of the month's gains. While headlines results didn't seem like much to cheer about at first glance, they were well above expectations, with Wall Street cheering management's navigation of a tough consumer spending environment. Revenues decline, but margins go up Williams-Sonoma is a specialty retailer that owns several high-end home goods brands, including its Williams-Sonoma namesake, Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids, West Elm, and Rejuvenation. As has been the case with virtually every discretionary and home goods retailer, Williams-Sonoma has seen sales declines amid post-pandemic inflation following the home goods boom during the pandemic. At first glance, investors might be confused as to why the stock was up so much after seeing the numbers, After all, revenue declined 2.9% to $1.8 billion, with comparable-store sales down a similar amount. Yet while revenue was down, the reported number still came in ahead of analyst expectations. Meanwhile, Williams-Sonoma was actually able to grow earnings per share by 7.1% in the quarter to $1.96, which also came in ahead of Wall Street's expectations. The impressive profit growth came as a result of higher gross margins , which expanded from 44.4% last year to 46.7%. Additionally, the company lowered its share count by repurchasing $533 million worth of stock in the quarter, increasing the year-to-date repurchase total to $707 million. Not only did repurchases ramp up, suggesting optimism on the part of management, but Williams-Sonoma's board of directors also authorized another $1 billion share repurchase program on the earnings release. Management also gave strong guidance, at least on a relative basis relative to prior figures. Williams-Sonoma now sees full-year revenues down between 3% and 1.5% for the full year, which would be an improvement over the third quarter, and sees operating margins improving by 40 basis points relative to the prior outlook. Williams-Sonoma is allocating capital well Amid the downturn in home goods sales, Williams-Sonoma appears to be strategizing well. Understanding the importance of preserving its brand power and its debt-free balance sheet, the company appears to be maintaining or raising prices to grow gross margin at the sacrifice of volumes and revenue growth. Clearly, investors are cheering the strategy and execution, as well as the generous shareholder returns. That being said, shares now seem to reflect an anticipation of a recovery in the year ahead, as they trade for 22 times earnings. While not overly expensive, that figure does seem to anticipate a better consumer spending environment in the future. After all, one can't generate earnings growth by raising prices exorbitantly or cutting costs forever.
I went to Primark and picked out stocking fillers for under £20Visa Inc. stands as a dominant player in the financial services sector, offering one of the world's most recognized brands in payment processing. Its solid business model, global presence, and ability to innovate in a competitive landscape make it a strong contender for long-term investment. Here's a deep dive into the reasons why Visa deserves attention from investors. Visa operates as a payment processing company that connects consumers, merchants, and financial institutions. Unlike traditional banks, Visa doesn't issue cards or extend credit. Instead, it facilitates electronic payments and earns revenue through transaction fees, data processing, and value-added services. This asset-light model allows Visa to generate high margins and strong cash flows with limited exposure to credit risk. Transaction Fees : A small percentage of every transaction processed on its network. Value-Added Services : Includes fraud prevention tools, analytics, and loyalty programs. Global Network : Operates in over 200 countries, ensuring revenue diversification. Visa has delivered strong and consistent revenue growth over the years, even during periods of economic uncertainty. Its ability to expand internationally and capture market share has contributed significantly to its top-line growth. Growing Payment Volumes : The shift from cash to digital payments is a key growth driver. According to industry reports, global digital payments are expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.8% through 2030, and Visa is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. Cross-Border Transactions : As international travel rebounds, Visa benefits from increased cross-border payment volumes, which carry higher fees Visa's financials consistently reflect its status as a high-quality investment. Key metrics demonstrate its operational efficiency and shareholder value creation. Revenue and Earnings Growth : Revenue has grown at a CAGR of around 10% over the past decade. Earnings growth has been even higher, fueled by operating leverage. Profit Margins : Visa enjoys operating margins above 65%, one of the highest in the industry. Return on Equity (ROE) : Consistently above 30%, indicating efficient use of shareholder capital. Cash Flow : Visa generates robust free cash flow, enabling consistent dividend payouts and share buybacks. Visa has demonstrated remarkable resilience during periods of economic turbulence. Even when consumer spending slows, Visa benefits from the continued reliance on electronic payments for essential goods and services. COVID-19 Recovery : During the pandemic, Visa saw a temporary dip in transaction volumes but quickly rebounded as economies reopened. Its adaptability and diversified revenue streams contributed to a swift recovery. Inflation and Recession-Proof : As transaction fees are tied to payment volumes, Visa benefits from higher prices during inflationary periods. Additionally, its business model is less vulnerable to interest rate fluctuations compared to traditional financial institutions. Visa consistently invests in technology to enhance its payment ecosystem and stay ahead of competitors. Its focus on innovation has enabled it to adapt to emerging trends in fintech and digital payments. Contactless Payments : Visa has been a pioneer in promoting tap-and-go payment technology, which gained significant traction during the pandemic. Cryptocurrency Integration : Visa is actively exploring blockchain technology and cryptocurrency payment solutions. It has partnered with various crypto platforms to enable seamless transactions using digital assets. AI and Machine Learning : Visa employs advanced analytics and AI to improve fraud detection and optimize payment processes. Visa's international presence provides ample room for growth, particularly in emerging markets. Many countries still rely heavily on cash, presenting significant opportunities for Visa to drive digital payment adoption. Asia-Pacific : With a large unbanked population and rapid smartphone penetration, Visa has been focusing on expanding its footprint in this region. Africa and Latin America : These regions represent untapped markets where Visa can leverage its technology and partnerships to promote financial inclusion. Visa’s competitive moat is built on several factors, making it difficult for rivals to erode its market share. Network Effects : The more consumers and merchants that use Visa, the more valuable its network becomes, creating a virtuous cycle of growth. Brand Recognition : Visa is one of the most trusted and recognized brands globally, giving it an edge over competitors. Partnerships : Strong relationships with banks, fintech companies, and governments enable Visa to integrate seamlessly into various ecosystems. Visa’s commitment to rewarding shareholders makes it an attractive choice for income-focused investors. Dividend Growth : Although its yield is modest, Visa has consistently increased its dividend payouts over the years. Share Buybacks : Visa regularly repurchases shares, enhancing shareholder value and demonstrating confidence in its future growth. Several macroeconomic and technological trends favor Visa’s long-term growth prospects. Shift to Cashless Societies : Governments and businesses worldwide are promoting digital payments to reduce costs and increase transparency. E-commerce Growth : The rise of online shopping has fueled demand for secure and efficient payment solutions, benefiting Visa. Sustainable Payments : Visa is committed to promoting environmentally friendly practices, aligning with the growing emphasis on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors. The attached chart highlights Visa's consistent upward trajectory in stock performance. Analysts predict continued growth, driven by strong fundamentals and favorable market dynamics. Current Price : Approximately Rs. 314.31 Minimum: Rs. 289.00 (-8.05%) Average: Rs. 335.94 (+6.88%) Maximum: Rs. 375.00 (+19.31%) Visa’s ability to outperform the market averages stems from its superior business model, strong execution, and robust growth prospects. Despite its strengths, Visa is not without risks. Potential investors should be aware of the following: Regulatory Scrutiny : As a dominant player, Visa often faces regulatory challenges, particularly in antitrust matters. Competition : While Visa maintains a significant lead, fintech disruptors and digital payment startups are increasing competitive pressure. Currency Fluctuations : With significant international revenue, Visa is exposed to exchange rate risks. Visa remains one of the best stocks to invest in for long-term growth and stability. Its dominant market position, strong financial metrics, and adaptability to changing consumer behaviors make it a compelling choice for investors. While risks exist, Visa’s ability to innovate and expand into new markets ensures it stays ahead of the curve. For those looking to benefit from the ongoing shift toward digital payments, Visa offers an unparalleled investment opportunity.RA Capital Management Announces Close of $1.4 Billion Acquisition of Aliada Therapeutics by AbbVie
Tuesday, December 24, 2024 The global domestic tourism market, which generated $1.22 trillion in 2020, is expected to grow significantly, reaching an estimated $6.73 trillion by 2030. This remarkable growth reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.4% from 2021 to 2030, driven by various emerging trends, including increased online bookings, a preference for unique and exotic holiday experiences, and the growing influence of social media on travel decisions. However, the market’s expansion faces some challenges, including insufficient supportive infrastructure in certain regions. Despite these challenges, the demand for enhanced service standards and the rise of eco-friendly tourism present new opportunities that are expected to fuel the market’s future growth. Several factors are fueling the surge in domestic tourism. The increasing trend of online bookings, where digital platforms and travel apps allow consumers to easily access vacation deals, is reshaping the market. Consumers are now able to compare prices, read reviews, and book accommodations and activities seamlessly through Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) and direct booking channels. Furthermore, the shift toward unique and off-the-beaten-path holiday experiences is resonating with a growing number of tourists. Domestic travelers are looking for new destinations within their own countries that offer authentic and culturally rich experiences, often influenced by social media content. Instagram and YouTube, in particular, are powerful platforms for travel inspiration, influencing millions to explore domestic destinations they might not have considered before. Eco-tourism has also seen a substantial rise, as more travelers become environmentally conscious. As a result, they are seeking sustainable travel options that minimize their carbon footprint while exploring natural attractions. This demand for eco-friendly experiences is pushing destinations to adopt greener practices in order to attract the modern tourist. Despite the growth prospects, the market faces challenges. A key hindrance is the insufficient infrastructure in many countries, particularly in rural or less-developed regions. The lack of adequate transportation, accommodations, and tourist services in some areas can limit the ability of certain destinations to capitalize on the growing demand for domestic tourism. The global domestic tourism market is segmented based on location, mode of booking, tour type, age group, and region. Each of these segments offers unique insights into the consumer preferences and trends driving the tourism market. The domestic tourism market is also divided by region, with Asia-Pacific holding the largest share in 2020, accounting for more than two-fifths of the global market. The region’s dominance is largely attributed to countries like China, India, and Japan, where domestic tourism is a significant driver of the economy. Rising incomes, improved infrastructure, and greater regional mobility have made Asia-Pacific a prime location for domestic travelers. Looking forward, the Latin America, Middle East, and Africa (LAMEA) region is expected to see the fastest growth, with a projected CAGR of 15.7%. As tourism infrastructure improves across these regions and more consumers embrace the concept of staycations and local exploration, LAMEA’s market share is set to grow significantly. The global domestic tourism market is competitive, with numerous travel agencies, online platforms, and tourism boards vying for attention. Leading players include Abercrombie & Kent USA LLC, Cox & Kings Ltd., Butterfield & Robinson, and Thomas Cook India Ltd. These companies are continually adapting to the needs of modern consumers, focusing on offering personalized experiences, luxury services, and sustainable travel options. Online platforms such as Expedia Group, American Express Travel, and Travel Leaders Group are also key players, facilitating seamless booking experiences for travelers worldwide. The domestic tourism market presents numerous opportunities, particularly in regions that are investing in tourism infrastructure and sustainability. Destinations that offer a unique combination of cultural, historical, and natural attractions are expected to see increased demand from both local and international travelers. Additionally, the rise of wellness tourism, adventure tourism, and gastronomic experiences are expected to fuel growth in the coming years. Moreover, the growing trend of personalized travel experiences, facilitated by technology such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, will also enhance the consumer experience and drive further market expansion. The domestic tourism market is poised for significant growth, driven by increased consumer interest in local travel experiences, eco-friendly tourism, and the ease of online booking. While challenges related to infrastructure persist, the demand for high-quality, personalized, and sustainable tourism experiences is expected to shape the future of the industry. As countries focus on improving their tourism services and attracting both domestic and international tourists, the global market for domestic tourism will continue to flourish, reaching an estimated $6.73 trillion by 2030.
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A Merrimack County Superior Court judge delivered an early-but-significant victory to Attorney General John Formella’s sweeping lawsuit that accuses Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, of using marketing methods that mentally and physically harm young children. Lawyers for Meta had moved to dismiss the suit Formella brought last October, but denial of that motion means the five-count claim will go forward. Judge John Kissinger cited the clout of these platforms in making a critical finding that the state has “sovereign interest” and jurisdiction over Meta’s designs due to the potential impact on the mental health of young people. “13.49% of the under-eighteen population are active monthly Facebook users and 35% are active monthly Instagram users,” Kissinger wrote in a detailed 56-page ruling. “Teenagers in New Hampshire have also suffered from declining mental health since 2011. The state has an interest in protecting the mental health of its youngest population. The court sees no reason to distinguish between physical and mental health in this context.” In another key decision, Kissinger said the First Amendment gave Meta no immunity from lawsuit because the state was targeting the design of the platform and not the specific content on social media. He also decided that the product liability and consumer protection laws applied in this case because the design of the platform was by itself a commercial product. “Thus, because Meta has designed a product, placed that product in the stream of commerce, marketed it, and profited from it, Meta has a duty to reasonably design the Social Media Platforms,” Kissinger ruled. The decision also rejected Meta’s argument it was exempt from liability under the federal Communications Decency Act because the suit targets the company’s design of addictive features of its apps and not as a publisher of content. “This ruling is the first step toward holding Meta accountable for its actions in New Hampshire. This is a clear victory for the people of New Hampshire, particularly our children, who are increasingly vulnerable to the addictive and harmful features embedded in social media platforms,” Formella said in a statement. “Meta’s business model thrives by exploiting teenagers’ attention, and today’s decision sends a message that the court will allow the State’s case seeking accountability from the social media giant for its harmful conduct to proceed.” Earlier in 2023, 33 other attorneys general brought a similar joint action against Meta in a California federal court, charging the company with hooking young children on their platforms, which prosecutors maintain has led to higher rates of anxiety, depression and insomnia. New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Vermont are among eight states and the District of Columbia that brought their own suits in state courts. “New Hampshire will not stand by while our children’s mental and emotional health is put at risk for the sake of profit,” Formella added. Meta is the world’s largest social media company. Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram each has more than a billion users. Last June, the state brought a similar suit against the makers of TikTok, the wildly popular platform that allows users to create, share and distribute short videos. Gov. Chris Sununu said these suits were Formella’s response to the executive order he signed in the spring of 2023 that directed state agencies to develop curriculum aimed at reducing social media harms. klandrigan@unionleader.com
Ryder Novock notches hat trick, as Country Day gets past Ike, 5-2, thanks to second-period flurryAll you have to do to become a South Dakota resident is spend one night. Stay in a campground or hotel and then stop by one of the businesses that specialize in helping people become South Dakotans, and they’ll help you do the paperwork to gain residency in a state with no income tax and relatively cheap vehicle registration. The system brings in extra government revenue through vehicle fees and offers refuge to full-time travelers who wouldn’t otherwise have a permanent address or a place to vote. And that’s the problem. State leaders are at a stalemate between those who say people who don’t really live in South Dakota shouldn’t be allowed to vote in local elections and those who say efforts to impose a longer residency requirement for voting violate the principle that everyone gets to vote. And at least one state has gotten wind that its residents might be avoiding high income taxes with easy South Dakota residency and is investigating. Catering to the nomadic lifestyle for nomads has become an enterprising opportunity for businesses such as RV parks and mail forwarders. “That’s the primary concept here, is the people that have given up their sticks and bricks and now are on wheel estate, we call it, and they’re full-time traveling,” said Dane Goetz, owner of the Spearfish-based South Dakota Residency Center, which caters to full-time travelers. “They need a place to call home, and we provide that address for them to do that, and they are just perpetually on the move.” Goetz estimated more than 30,000 people are full-time traveler residents of South Dakota, but the actual number is unclear. The state Department of Public Safety, which handles driver licensing, says it doesn’t track the number of full-time traveler applications. Officials of the South Dakota Secretary of State’s Office did not respond to emailed questions or a phone message seeking the state’s tally of full-time travelers registered to vote. The office is not responsible for enforcing residency requirements, Division of Elections Director Rachel Soulek said. Victor Robledo, his wife and their five kids hit the road a decade ago in a 28-foot (8.5-meter) motorhome to seek adventure and ease their high cost of living in Southern California. They found South Dakota to be an opportunity to save money, receive mail and “take a residency in a state that really nurtures us,” he said. They filed for residency in 2020. “It was as simple as coming into the state, staying one night in one of the campgrounds, and once we do that, we bring in a receipt to the office, fill out some paperwork, change our licenses. I mean, really, you can blow through there — gosh, 48 hours,” Robledo said. Residency rules spark election concerns Residency becomes thorny around voting. Some opponents don’t want people who don’t physically live in South Dakota to vote in its elections. “I don’t want to deny somebody their right to vote, but to think that they can vote in a school board election or a legislative election or a county election when they’re not part of the community, I’m troubled by that,” said Democratic Rep. Linda Duba, who cited 10,000 people or roughly 40% of her Sioux Falls constituents being essentially mailbox residents. She likes to knock on doors and meet people but said she is unable to do “relationship politics” with travelers. The law the Republican-controlled Legislature passed in 2023 added requirements for voter registration, including 30 days of residency — which don’t have to be consecutive — and having “an actual fixed permanent dwelling, establishment, or any other abode to which the person returns after a period of absence.” The bill’s prime sponsor, Republican Sen. Randy Deibert, told a Senate panel that citizens expressed concerns about “people coming to the state, being a resident overnight and voting (by) absentee ballot or another way the next day and then leaving the state.” Those registered to vote before the new law took effect remain registered, but some who tried to register since its passage had trouble. Dozens of people recently denied voter registration contacted the American Civil Liberties Union of South Dakota, according to the chapter’s advocacy manager, Samantha Chapman. Durational residency requirements for voting are, in general, unconstitutional because such restrictions interfere with the interstate right to travel, said David Schultz, a Hamline University professor of political science and a professor of law at the University of St. Thomas. “It’s kind of this parochialism, this idea of saying that only people who are really in our neighborhood, who really live in our city have a sufficient stake in it, and the courts have generally been unsympathetic to those types of arguments because, more often than not, they’re used for discriminatory purposes,” he said. State lawmakers at odds over residency law Earlier this year, the Legislature considered a bill to roll back the 2023 law. It passed the Senate but stalled in the House. During a House hearing on that bill, Republican Rep. Jon Hansen asked one full-time traveler when he was last in South Dakota and when he intends to return. The man said he was in the state a year earlier but planned to return in coming months. Another man who moved from Iowa to work overseas said he had not lived “for any period of time, physically” in South Dakota. “I don’t think we should allow people who have never lived in this state to vote in our state,” Hansen said. Republican Sen. David Wheeler, an attorney in Huron, said he expects litigation would be what forces a change. It’s unlikely a change to the 30-day requirement would pass the Legislature now, he said. “It is a complicated topic that involves federal and state law and federal and state voting rights, and it is difficult to bring everybody together on how to appropriately address that,” Wheeler said. Out-of-state residents may see tax benefits More than 1,600 miles (2,500 kilometers) east, Connecticut State Comptroller Sean Scanlon has asked prosecutors to look into whether some state employees who live in Connecticut may have skirted their tax obligations by claiming to be residents of South Dakota. Connecticut has a graduated income tax rate of 3.0% to 6.99%. Connecticut cities and towns also impose a property tax on vehicles. South Dakota has none. Scanlon and his office, which administers state employee retiree benefits, learned from a Hartford Courant columnist in September that some state retirees might be using South Dakota’s mail-forwarding services for nefarious reasons. Asked if there are concerns about other Connecticut taxpayers who are not state retirees possibly misusing South Dakota’s lenient residency laws, the Department of Revenue Services would only say the agency is “aware of the situation and we’re working with our partners to resolve it.” A South Dakota legislative panel broached the residency issue as recently as August, a meeting in which one lawmaker called the topic “the Gordian knot of politics.” “It seems like it’s almost impossible to come to some clear and definitive statement as to what constitutes a residency with such a mobile population with people with multiple homes and addresses and political boundaries that are easy to see on a map but there’s so much cross-transportation across them,” Republican Sen. Jim Bolin said. ___ Dura reported from Bismarck, North Dakota. Associated Press Writer Susan Haigh in Hartford, Connecticut, contributed to this report. Jack Dura, The Associated Press
EAGAN, Minn. (AP) — Justin Jefferson might be weary of all the safeties shadowing his every route, determined not to let the go deep, but he's hardly angry. The double and triple coverage he continually faces, after all, is a sign of immense respect for his game-breaking ability. The strategy also simply makes sense. “I would do the same," Jefferson said. "It’s either let everybody else go off or let Justin go off. I’m going to let everybody else go off. That would be my game plan.” When the Vikings visit Chicago on Sunday, they're expecting the usual heavy dose of split-safety coverage designed to put a lid on the passing attack and force them to operate primarily underneath. “We see that every week: Teams just have different tendencies on film, and then when we go out on the field they play us totally different,” Jefferson said, later adding: “I don’t really feel like anyone else is getting played how I’m getting played.” Jefferson nonetheless is second in the in receiving yards (912) behind Cincinnati's Ja'Marr Chase, his former college teammate at LSU. Last week, Jefferson set yet another all-time record by passing Torry Holt for the most receiving yards over the first five seasons of a career. Holt logged 80 regular-season games and accumulated 6,784 yards for St. Louis. Jefferson has 6,811 yards — in just 70 games. “I want to go up against those single coverages. I want to go have my opportunities to catch a deep pass downfield, just one-on-one coverage, like a lot of these other receivers get," Jefferson said. "It’s definitely difficult going up against an extra person or an extra two people, but it is what it is and the concepts that we’re drawing up and the ways that we’re trying to get me open, it definitely helps.” With fellow tight end Josh Oliver ruled out of the game on Sunday because of a sprained ankle, T.J. Hockenson is certain to have his heaviest workload since returning from knee surgery four weeks ago. He's also certain that Jefferson will continue to see persistent double-teams. “It puts it on us to make some plays and do some things to get them out of that,” Hockenson said. Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell has been forced to dig deeper into the vault of play designs and game plans to help keep quarterback Sam Darnold and the offense on track. O'Connell said after Minnesota's 12-7 win at Jacksonville, when Darnold threw three interceptions to precipitate a safer strategy down the stretch, that he superseded his play-calling role with the wisdom of a head coach to help win that game. "Not just the egomaniac of wanting to score points and constantly show everybody how smart we are. There was a mode that I think you have to go into sometimes to ensure a victory,” O'Connell said on his weekly show on KFAN radio. Taking what the defense gives is usually the shrewdest strategy. “You’ve got to really implement some new things and some things that maybe you didn’t come across during your early coaching years whether as a coordinator or position coach or even when you’re responsible for a small area of the game plan as a younger coach," O'Connell said. "You really have to kind of look outside the lens of always what you see on tape.” AP NFL:NoneBy Luisa Maria Jacinta C. Jocson, Reporter MORE SHORT-TERM foreign investments flowed into the Philippines in November, data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed. Transactions on foreign investments registered with the central bank through authorized banks posted a net inflow of $96.59 million, a turnaround from the $529.68-million outflow in October. However, the net inflows fell by 85.6% from the $671.77-million inflow posted a year ago. These foreign portfolio investments are also called “hot money” due to the ease by which these funds enter and leave the economy. BSP data showed gross inflows jumped by 18.2% to $1.86 billion in November from $1.57 billion in the same month a year ago. During the month, investment inflows came mostly from the United Kingdom, Singapore, the United States, Luxembourg and Norway. These economies accounted for 90% of foreign portfolio investment inflows. The bulk (71.4%) of these investments went into peso government securities while the rest (28.6%) went to Philippine Stock Exchange-listed securities of banks; holding firms; property; transportation services; and food, beverage and tobacco. Meanwhile, gross outflows of hot money nearly doubled to $1.76 billion in November from $903.1 million a year earlier. “The US remains to be the top destination of outflows, receiving $914.2 million (or 51.8%) of total outward remittances,” the central bank said. In the January-to-November period, BSP-registered foreign investments yielded a net inflow of $2.59 billion, a turnaround from the $43.66-million net outflow in the same period a year prior. Gross net inflows stood at $16.88 billion, while net outflows amounted to $14.29 billion in the 11-month period. “The data improved month on month after tensions eased between Iran and Israel after Iran’s second missile attack on Israel this year on Oct. 1, but there was no retaliation from Israel so far,” Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort said. However, he noted that various political events weighed on markets during the month. “The Trump factor was still the major catalyst for the local and global markets in November, after Trump won the US presidential elections on Nov. 5,” Mr. Ricafort said. “Possible higher US import tariffs and trade war could slow down global trade and global economic growth, similar to the first Trump administration.” Markets have been pricing in the impact of Mr. Trump’s proposed policies on the Philippines, which heavily relies on the United States for business and economic activity. His proposals include a hike in import tariffs on Asian economies, as well as stricter immigration measures. The US President-elect is set to take of f ice on Jan. 20. “Political noises locally since late October 2024 also partly weighed on market sentiment.” Mr. Ricafort added. For the coming months, this could be offset by possible rate cuts from the BSP and the US Federal Reserve. The BSP has delivered a total of 75 basis points (bps) worth of rate cuts this year, bringing the benchmark to 5.75%. BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. has signaled further easing but noted that delivering 100 bps worth of rate cuts in 2025 might be “too much.” The central bank will likely keep reducing rates in “baby steps” as it is still carefully monitoring upside risks to inflation, the BSP chief added. Mr. Ricafort also noted the recent upgrade in the country’s credit rating outlook. In late November, S&P Global Ratings af f irmed the Philippines’ investment grade rating on Tuesday and raised its outlook to “positive” from “stable,” reflecting the economy’s strong growth potential. The BSP expects foreign portfolio investments to yield a net inflow of $4.2 billion this year.
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Popular actor-director Kabir Sadanand , known for featuring in shows like Kuch Kehti Hai Khamoshiyaan, Family No.1 , Shagun, and Kumkum – Ek Pyara Sa Bandhan among others is looking forward to celebrating Christmas Eve with his daughter Kahineer. He said, "To mark the celebrations, Me and my daughter have been out shopping for Christmas, putting up the Christmas tree, decorating the house, wrapping gifts and now attempting to bake our first cake together. I feel the festival reminds us of the importance of love and unity. It encourages us to set aside differences and celebrate the gift of togetherness. The festival’s charm lies in its ability to spread joy and hope, making it a truly magical and meaningful day for everyone." He continued, "Christmas is especially magical because of Santa Claus , the legendary figure believed to bring gifts to well-behaved kids. The tradition of hanging stockings and waiting for Santa adds to the excitement of the season. Waking up on Christmas morning to find presents under the tree is a cherished moment for every child. It's a festival of hope and making memories. Here is wishing everyone a happy Christmas and new year from all of us as we look forward to some new challenges in the year ahead." As the New Year's is around the actor reflects back on his journey in 2024. He shared, "2024 has also been a year with its anxious moments too as my closest friend and brother from another mother Navtez Dadwal, undertook a solo journey across the world in his car from California to India. I feel amazed at his fantastic journey filled with courage and stumbling blocks. I also went to the Wagah border to receive him. I am anxiously looking forward to him reaching India to celebrate Christmas with us." He added, "The year has also been a year of additions as our handsome new husky Mr. Nixon (pet) joins the family and we are looking forward to the festive season and the spirit of Christmas. For me, it’s not just a festival but a mood, a spirit, a vibe which is empowering." Kabir is also known for directing films like ‘Fugly” and ‘Tum Milo Toh Sahi’.Itron SVP Donald Reeves sells $27,182 in common stockHarris has ‘no knowledge’ anyone tried to get RTE to take down viral clip