
Sunday, November 24, 2024 Saudi Arabia is revolutionizing its tourism sector under the ambitious Vision 2030 initiative, with women playing a vital role in this transformation. His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism for Saudi Arabia, recently highlighted these advancements during the 122nd UNWTO Executive Council Meeting in Colombia. With over 100,000 women joining the tourism workforce since 2019, Saudi Arabia is demonstrating its commitment to inclusivity, economic diversification, and global leadership in tourism. At the core of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy is a drive to diversify the Kingdom’s economy beyond oil and position tourism as a cornerstone of economic growth. Empowering women in the workforce is a key component of this vision. Since 2019, significant strides have been made to integrate women into the tourism industry, allowing them to take on roles in new developments such as the Red Sea resorts and NEOM, the Kingdom’s futuristic smart city. “Women are passionate, skilled, and enthusiastic to share Saudi Arabia’s story with the world,” said His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism, Saudi Arabia at an exclusive interaction with Anup Kumar Keshan, CEO and Editor-in-Chief, Travel And Tour World. He emphasized that women are not only contributing to the sector’s growth but are also serving as cultural ambassadors, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage and modern ambitions. The Saudi government has implemented several initiatives to support women in tourism. These measures are designed to provide vocational training, improve employment conditions, and create new opportunities across the Kingdom. Here’s how Saudi Arabia is fostering women’s participation in the tourism workforce: Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in training and development programs aimed at equipping women with the skills required for careers in tourism, hospitality, and entertainment. These initiatives ensure that women are prepared to excel in roles such as tour guides, hotel managers, and event coordinators. In partnership with international institutions, these programs focus on building technical expertise, language proficiency, and leadership capabilities. The goal is to create a highly skilled workforce that can cater to the needs of an expanding tourism sector. To attract and retain women in tourism, the Saudi government has introduced policies to increase wages and enhance workplace conditions. These efforts are aligned with broader national goals to improve gender equality and economic participation. Women are playing a pivotal role in some of Saudi Arabia’s most ambitious tourism projects, including the Red Sea resorts and NEOM. These mega-developments are expected to draw millions of tourists annually, creating thousands of jobs in hospitality, entertainment, and retail. Women are contributing to these projects in a variety of roles, from on-the-ground operations to managerial and leadership positions. The government has introduced regulatory frameworks to ensure that women have access to equal opportunities in the tourism sector. These policies focus on creating inclusive workplaces and promoting gender diversity across all levels of the industry. The integration of women into Saudi Arabia’s tourism workforce is not only a matter of social progress but also an economic imperative. Tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the Kingdom, with ambitious targets to attract 100 million annual visitors by 2030 and increase tourism’s contribution to GDP from 3% to 10%. By empowering women, Saudi Arabia is tapping into a vital source of talent and creativity, driving innovation and enhancing the visitor experience. Women are contributing to every aspect of the tourism value chain, from front-line hospitality roles to behind-the-scenes strategic planning. Vision 2030 serves as the guiding framework for Saudi Arabia’s transformation into a global tourism powerhouse. This comprehensive strategy emphasizes sustainability, inclusivity, and the creation of world-class destinations. Women’s participation in tourism is a critical pillar of Vision 2030, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to building a diversified and resilient economy. As part of this vision, Saudi Arabia is also leveraging its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and modern attractions to attract tourists from around the globe. Key destinations such as AlUla, Diriyah, and the Red Sea coastline are being developed to offer unique experiences that blend history, luxury, and adventure. Saudi Arabia’s efforts to transform its tourism sector have garnered international recognition. At the 122nd UNWTO Executive Council Meeting, the Kingdom’s achievements in empowering women and driving sustainable tourism were celebrated as a model for other nations. His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb emphasized that tourism must serve as a tool for social progress. “By investing in people, we create a future where tourism benefits everyone, from local communities to global travelers,” he said. This approach aligns with global goals to make tourism a force for good, promoting economic development and cultural exchange. The inclusion of women in Saudi Arabia’s tourism workforce has a transformative effect on communities and families across the Kingdom. Women who join the industry not only contribute to economic growth but also serve as role models for future generations. Their success stories inspire young Saudis to pursue careers in tourism, creating a ripple effect of empowerment and opportunity. Moreover, women’s unique perspectives and skills enhance the overall quality of the tourism experience. From creating personalized guest experiences to managing complex operations, women bring valuable contributions that elevate Saudi Arabia’s reputation as a world-class destination. As Saudi Arabia continues its journey towards Vision 2030, the role of women in tourism will only grow in importance. The Kingdom is set to launch even more initiatives to support women’s participation, including expanded training programs, mentorship opportunities, and leadership development schemes. Mega-projects such as NEOM and the Red Sea resorts will remain key drivers of job creation, offering women unprecedented opportunities to contribute to the Kingdom’s tourism transformation. Additionally, the increasing number of international tourists will create a demand for skilled professionals who can deliver exceptional service and hospitality. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is redefining the global tourism landscape, with women at the forefront of this transformation. By empowering over 100,000 women to join the tourism workforce since 2019, the Kingdom is demonstrating its commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and economic diversification. Through initiatives such as vocational training, wage increases, and roles in iconic developments like NEOM and the Red Sea resorts, Saudi Arabia is setting a benchmark for gender equality and innovation in tourism. As the Kingdom continues to attract global attention for its ambitious projects and visionary leadership, women will remain integral to its success in becoming a premier global tourism destination. Read Travel Industry News in 104 different regional platforms Get our daily dose of news, by subscribing to our newsletters. Subscribe here . Watch Travel And Tour World Interviews here . Read more Breaking Travel News , Daily Travel Alert , and Travel Industry News on Travel And Tour World only.
Feds suspend ACA marketplace access to companies accused of falsely promising ‘cash cards’
Feds suspend ACA marketplace access to companies accused of falsely promising ‘cash cards’
THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. , Dec. 10, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Amgen (NASDAQ:AMGN) today announced that its Board of Directors declared a $2.38 per share dividend for the first quarter of 2025. The dividend will be paid on March 7, 2025 , to all stockholders of record as of the close of business on February 14, 2025 . About Amgen Amgen discovers, develops, manufactures and delivers innovative medicines to help millions of patients in their fight against some of the world's toughest diseases. More than 40 years ago, Amgen helped to establish the biotechnology industry and remains on the cutting-edge of innovation, using technology and human genetic data to push beyond what's known today. Amgen is advancing a broad and deep pipeline that builds on its existing portfolio of medicines to treat cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis, inflammatory diseases and rare diseases. In 2024, Amgen was named one of the "World's Most Innovative Companies" by Fast Company and one of "America's Best Large Employers" by Forbes, among other external recognitions . Amgen is one of the 30 companies that comprise the Dow Jones Industrial Average ® , and it is also part of the Nasdaq-100 Index ® , which includes the largest and most innovative non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market based on market capitalization. For more information, visit Amgen.com and follow Amgen on X , LinkedIn , Instagram , TikTok , YouTube and Threads . Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on the current expectations and beliefs of Amgen. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including any statements on the outcome, benefits and synergies of collaborations, or potential collaborations, with any other company (including BeiGene, Ltd. or Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd.), the performance of Otezla® (apremilast) (including anticipated Otezla sales growth and the timing of non-GAAP EPS accretion), our acquisitions of Teneobio, Inc., ChemoCentryx, Inc., or Horizon Therapeutics plc (including the prospective performance and outlook of Horizon's business, performance and opportunities, any potential strategic benefits, synergies or opportunities expected as a result of such acquisition, and any projected impacts from the Horizon acquisition on our acquisition-related expenses going forward), as well as estimates of revenues, operating margins, capital expenditures, cash, other financial metrics, expected legal, arbitration, political, regulatory or clinical results or practices, customer and prescriber patterns or practices, reimbursement activities and outcomes, effects of pandemics or other widespread health problems on our business, outcomes, progress, and other such estimates and results. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, including those discussed below and more fully described in the Securities and Exchange Commission reports filed by Amgen, including our most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequent periodic reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K. Unless otherwise noted, Amgen is providing this information as of the date of this news release and does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this document as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual results may differ materially from those we project. Our results may be affected by our ability to successfully market both new and existing products domestically and internationally, clinical and regulatory developments involving current and future products, sales growth of recently launched products, competition from other products including biosimilars, difficulties or delays in manufacturing our products and global economic conditions. In addition, sales of our products are affected by pricing pressure, political and public scrutiny and reimbursement policies imposed by third-party payers, including governments, private insurance plans and managed care providers and may be affected by regulatory, clinical and guideline developments and domestic and international trends toward managed care and healthcare cost containment. Furthermore, our research, testing, pricing, marketing and other operations are subject to extensive regulation by domestic and foreign government regulatory authorities. We or others could identify safety, side effects or manufacturing problems with our products, including our devices, after they are on the market. Our business may be impacted by government investigations, litigation and product liability claims. In addition, our business may be impacted by the adoption of new tax legislation or exposure to additional tax liabilities. If we fail to meet the compliance obligations in the corporate integrity agreement between us and the U.S. government, we could become subject to significant sanctions. Further, while we routinely obtain patents for our products and technology, the protection offered by our patents and patent applications may be challenged, invalidated or circumvented by our competitors, or we may fail to prevail in present and future intellectual property litigation. We perform a substantial amount of our commercial manufacturing activities at a few key facilities, including in Puerto Rico , and also depend on third parties for a portion of our manufacturing activities, and limits on supply may constrain sales of certain of our current products and product candidate development. An outbreak of disease or similar public health threat, such as COVID-19, and the public and governmental effort to mitigate against the spread of such disease, could have a significant adverse effect on the supply of materials for our manufacturing activities, the distribution of our products, the commercialization of our product candidates, and our clinical trial operations, and any such events may have a material adverse effect on our product development, product sales, business and results of operations. We rely on collaborations with third parties for the development of some of our product candidates and for the commercialization and sales of some of our commercial products. In addition, we compete with other companies with respect to many of our marketed products as well as for the discovery and development of new products. Discovery or identification of new product candidates or development of new indications for existing products cannot be guaranteed and movement from concept to product is uncertain; consequently, there can be no guarantee that any particular product candidate or development of a new indication for an existing product will be successful and become a commercial product. Further, some raw materials, medical devices and component parts for our products are supplied by sole third-party suppliers. Certain of our distributors, customers and payers have substantial purchasing leverage in their dealings with us. The discovery of significant problems with a product similar to one of our products that implicate an entire class of products could have a material adverse effect on sales of the affected products and on our business and results of operations. Our efforts to collaborate with or acquire other companies, products or technology, and to integrate the operations of companies or to support the products or technology we have acquired, may not be successful. There can be no guarantee that we will be able to realize any of the strategic benefits, synergies or opportunities arising from the Horizon acquisition, and such benefits, synergies or opportunities may take longer to realize than expected. We may not be able to successfully integrate Horizon, and such integration may take longer, be more difficult or cost more than expected. A breakdown, cyberattack or information security breach of our information technology systems could compromise the confidentiality, integrity and availability of our systems and our data. Our stock price is volatile and may be affected by a number of events. Our business and operations may be negatively affected by the failure, or perceived failure, of achieving our environmental, social and governance objectives. The effects of global climate change and related natural disasters could negatively affect our business and operations. Global economic conditions may magnify certain risks that affect our business. Our business performance could affect or limit the ability of our Board of Directors to declare a dividend or our ability to pay a dividend or repurchase our common stock. We may not be able to access the capital and credit markets on terms that are favorable to us, or at all. CONTACT: Amgen, Thousand Oaks Elissa Snook , 609-251-1407 (media) Justin Claeys , 805-313-9775 (investors) View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/amgen-announces-2025-first-quarter-dividend-302328180.html SOURCE Amgen
NEW YORK, Dec. 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Magnite (NASDAQ: MGNI), the world’s largest independent sell-side advertising platform, today announced the promotion of two key leaders, to further sharpen the company’s strategic focus, drive innovation, and accelerate its momentum in the market. Sean Buckley has been promoted to President, Revenue and Katie Evans has been promoted to President, Operations. Mr. Buckley and Ms. Evans will continue to report to CEO, Michael Barrett. “Sean and Katie have had an enormously positive impact on Magnite’s development,” said Michael Barrett, CEO of Magnite. “The Board and I have great confidence in their leadership, and these promotions will enhance their impact even further. As the company enters its fifth year, we have many exciting opportunities in front of us, including live sports, the continued adoption of programmatic in CTV, and a variety of innovations in DV+. With Sean and Katie in these new roles, Magnite will be able to execute better and faster than ever.” Sean Buckley , has served as the company’s Chief Revenue Officer since 2022. Mr. Buckley joined Magnite following its acquisition of SpotX in May 2021, and has served as the company's Chief Revenue Officer since January 2022. He will continue to lead Magnite's global commercial organization, spearheading top-line growth and fostering new client opportunities. Before Magnite, Mr. Buckley spent eight years at SpotX in various capacities, including Chief Operating Officer and Chief Revenue Officer and led the company's strategic investment in SpringServe. He was instrumental in expanding the company’s platform business, providing media owners with a solution to holistically manage their programmatic video strategies. Katie Evans , has served as the company’s Chief Operating Officer since 2020. Ms. Evans joined Magnite following its acquisition of Telaria in April 2020, and has served as the company's Chief Operating Officer since September 2020. She will continue to oversee the company’s client success, sales operations, technical operations, and business intelligence teams. Ms. Evans is responsible for scaling the company’s global operations and works closely with the revenue, product, and engineering organizations to drive innovation and success for Magnite’s clients. Before Magnite, she was Chief Operating Officer at Telaria, where she was critical in aligning the company’s global strategy, roadmap, and processes. Visit Magnite’s website to learn more about Sean Buckley, Katie Evans and the company’s executive team. About Magnite We’re Magnite (NASDAQ: MGNI), the world’s largest independent sell-side advertising platform. Publishers use our technology to monetize their content across all screens and formats including CTV, online video, display, and audio. The world’s leading agencies and brands trust our platform to access brand-safe, high-quality ad inventory and execute billions of advertising transactions each month. Anchored in bustling New York City, sunny Los Angeles, mile high Denver, historic London, and down under in Sydney, Magnite has offices across North America, EMEA, LATAM, and APAC. Media Contact Charlstie Veith cveith@magnite.com 516-300-3569 Investor Relations Contact Nick Kormeluk nkormeluk@magnite.com
BEIRUT (AP) — A Syrian opposition war monitor and a pro-government media outlet say government forces have withdrawn from much of the central city of Homs. The pro-government Sham FM reported that government forces took positions outside Syria’s third-largest city, without elaborating. Rami Abdurrahman who heads the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, said Syrian troops and members of different security agencies have withdrawn from the city, adding that rebels have entered parts of it. Losing Homs is a potentially crippling blow for Syria’s embattled leader, Bashar Assad. The city stands at an important intersection between Damascus and Syria’s coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartus — the Syrian leader’s base of support and home to a Russian strategic naval base. Its capture is a major victory for insurgents, who have already seized the cities of Aleppo and Hama , as well as large parts of the south, in a lightning offensive that began Nov. 27. Analysts said Homs falling into rebel hands would be a game-changer. THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below. BEIRUT (AP) — Insurgents' stunning march across Syria gained speed on Saturday with news that they had reached the suburbs of the capital and with the government forced to deny rumors that President Bashar Assad had fled the country. The rebels' moves around Damascus, reported by an opposition war monitor and a rebel commander, came after the Syrian army withdrew from much of southern part of the country, leaving more areas, including several provincial capitals, under the control of opposition fighters. The advances in the past week were among the largest in recent years by opposition factions, led by a group that has its origins in al-Qaida and is considered a terrorist organization by the U.S. and the United Nations. In their push to overthrow Assad's government, the insurgents, led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group, or HTS, have met little resistance from the Syrian army. For the first time in the country's long-running civil war, the government now has control of only four of 14 provincial capitals: Damascus, Homs, Latakia and Tartus. The U.N.’s special envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, on Saturday called for urgent talks in Geneva to ensure an “orderly political transition.” Speaking to reporters at the annual Doha Forum in Qatar, he said the situation in Syria was changing by the minute. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, whose country is Assad's chief international backer, said he feels “sorry for the Syrian people.” In Damascus, people rushed to stock up on supplies. Thousands went to Syria's border with Lebanon, trying to leave the country. Many shops in the capital were shuttered, a resident told The Associated Press, and those still open ran out of staples such as sugar. Some were selling items at three times the normal price. “The situation is very strange. We are not used to that,” the resident said, insisting on anonymity, fearing retributions. “People are worried whether there will be a battle (in Damascus) or not.” It was the first time that opposition forces reached the outskirts of Damascus since 2018, when Syrian troops recaptured the area following a yearslong siege. The U.N. said it was moving noncritical staff outside the country as a precaution. Syria’s state media denied social media rumors that Assad left the country, saying he is performing his duties in Damascus. He has had little, if any, help from his allies. Russia, is busy with its war in Ukraine . Lebanon’s Hezbollah, which at one point sent thousands of fighters to shore up Assad's forces, has been weakened by a yearlong conflict with Israel. Iran has seen its proxies across the region degraded by regular Israeli airstrikes. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on Saturday posted on social media that that the United States should avoid engaging militarily in Syria. Pedersen said a date for talks in Geneva on the implementation a U.N. resolution, adopted in 2015, and calling for a Syrian-led political process, would be announced later. The resolution calls for the establishment of a transitional governing body, followed by the drafting of a new constitution and ending with U.N.-supervised elections. Later Saturday, foreign ministers and senior diplomats from eight key countries, including Saudi Arabia, Russia, Egypt, Turkey and Iran, along with Pederson, gathered on the sidelines of the Doha Summit to discuss the situation in Syria. No details were immediately available. Rami Abdurrahman, who heads the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor, said insurgents were in the Damascus suburbs of Maadamiyah, Jaramana and Daraya. Opposition fighters were marching toward the Damascus suburb of Harasta, he added. A commander with the insurgents, Hassan Abdul-Ghani, posted on the Telegram messaging app that opposition forces had begun the “final stage” of their offensive by encircling Damascus. HTS controls much of northwest Syria and in 2017 set up a “salvation government” to run day-to-day affairs in the region. In recent years, HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani has sought to remake the group’s image, cutting ties with al-Qaida, ditching hard-line officials and vowing to embrace pluralism and religious tolerance. Syria’s military, meanwhile, sent large numbers of reinforcements to defend the key central city of Homs, Syria’s third largest, as insurgents approached its outskirts. The shock offensive began Nov. 27, during which gunmen captured the northern city of Aleppo, Syria’s largest, and the central city of Hama , the country’s fourth largest city. Opposition activists said Saturday that a day earlier, insurgents entered Palmyra, which is home to invaluable archaeological sites had been in government hands since being taken from the Islamic State group in 2017. To the south, Syrian troops left much of the province of Quneitra including the main Baath City, activists said. Syrian Observatory said government troops have withdrawn from much of the two southern provinces and are sending reinforcements to Homs, where a battle loomed. If the insurgents capture Homs, they would cut the link between Damascus, Assad’s seat of power, and the coastal region where the president enjoys wide support. The Syrian army said in a statement that it carried out redeployment and repositioning in Sweida and Daraa after its checkpoints came under attack by “terrorists." The army said it was setting up a “strong and coherent defensive and security belt in the area,” apparently to defend Damascus from the south. The Syrian government has referred to opposition gunmen as terrorists since conflict broke out in March 2011. The foreign ministers of Iran, Russia and Turkey, meeting in Qatar, called for an end to the hostilities. Turkey is a main backer of the rebels. Qatar's top diplomat, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, criticized Assad for failing to take advantage of the lull in fighting in recent years to address the country’s underlying problems. “Assad didn’t seize this opportunity to start engaging and restoring his relationship with his people,” he said. Sheikh Mohammed said he was surprised by how quickly the rebels have advanced and said there is a real threat to Syria’s “territorial integrity.” He said the war could “damage and destroy what is left if there is no sense of urgency” to start a political process. Karam reported from London. Associated Press writers Albert Aji in Damascus, Syria and Qassim Abdul-Zahra in Baghdad contributed to this report.Taiwan's Strategic Ties Amid Transition
Indian police fire tear gas to halt farmers’ marchNever forget where you came from. Cam Ward lives by the mantra. The former Wing-T quarterback from Southeast Texas is one of the most popular names in college football, with a chance to claim the sport’s most prestigious award before fulfilling a dream of going to the NFL. Ward has the 11th-ranked Miami Hurricanes in a position to play in the Atlantic Coast Conference title game and a chance to clinch a spot in the expanded College Football Playoffs. However, the ’Canes are taking it one game at a time with the early goal of punching their ticket to the Atlantic Coast Conference title game. “We know we have to win two more,” he said. The Hurricanes are Ward’s third collegiate team since graduating from Columbia High School in 2020. Ward graduated from Washington State in the spring, making him eligible to transfer a second time. He first went through the transfer portal in 2022 after two seasons with the University of Incarnate Word in San Antonio. During his latest journey in the portal, Ward garnered much attention from Power 5 schools, including Florida State and USC, but the quarterback chose Miami and its football pedigree. “I chose Miami because of the coaching staff,” Ward said. “Coach (Mario) Cristobal, coach (Shannon) Dawson being the offensive coordinator, his philosophy and the way he breaks down plays and thinks as an offensive coordinator and how wants to put the ball in play with the run and pass game, those were big reasons why I came to Miami.” Miami allowed Ward to start right away, and he soon won over his team, he said. “They were giving me the opportunity to play, and that’s all I really wanted,” Ward said. Ward felt it didn’t take him long to get acclimated to Florida. The weather certainly made him feel at home, he said. Compared to the winters in Washington state, Ward was happy to get back in the heat, he said. Ward also grew to appreciate the different styles of football in the ACC compared to the Pac-12 during his days in the Football Championship Series at Incarnate Word. “A lot of the teams conference-wise do a lot of different stuff than the Pac-12,” he said. “You see a lot more 1-high (single safety coverage), and the ACC, you get a lot more 2-high, and they play more man.” The Cover 2-man coverage fits Ward’s ability with his group of receivers. This season, Ward has passed for 3,494 yards, 32 touchdowns and six interceptions for an 89.3 QB rating. He’s on the verge of finishing with the second-most passing yards in a season in his career. Ward’s second year at Incarnate Word saw him throw for north of 4,500 yards and 47 touchdowns. More importantly, he is one of the frontrunners for this year’s Heisman Trophy, an annual award given to the most outstanding college football player in the United States. He is in the mix with Colorado two-way player Travis Hunter, Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty and Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel. Ward would be the third ’Cane to win the Heisman, joining quarterbacks Vinny Testaverde in 1986 and Gino Toretta in 1992. “It’s a quarterback-friendly scheme, and it’s good for our running backs and receivers,” Ward said. “I think the best thing for us as an offense is that we can move the ball effectively, whether throwing it or running. “We can take what the defense gives us or be explosive. Dawson’s scheme is why we are so successful right now.” While the Hurricanes are looking to get into position for a crack at the ACC title game, Miami is 11th in the latest College Football Rankings. The team was ranked fourth with its 9-0 record before being upset by Georgia Tech on Nov. 9. Since then, the ’Canes were on a bye last week and will finish the regular season schedule with their final home game against Wake Forest and the finale at Syracuse, which sits second ahead of Miami in the ACC standings. Southern Methodist University is the top dog at 6-0 in conference play. “My expectation is to win a lot of football games, and we are doing that right now,” Ward said. Ward has won plenty of games throughout his five-year collegiate career, with 34 wins. His second season at Incarnate Word saw the most victories in a season with 10, but topping that this year would mean possibly winning a conference title and a bowl game, if not a playoff game. He wants to make history for a program full of tradition by guiding it to its first conference championship. While the Hurricanes have won five national championships, they have yet to win a conference title. “We just want to win the ACC championship. That is something Miami has never done, and we want to be the first team to do it,” Ward said. Ward’s most improbable game of the season was a thrilling comeback win on the road Oct. 5 against new ACC member California. Ward was 35-of-53 passing for 437 yards and two touchdowns. The ’Canes trailed by as much as 35-10 with 8:06 left in the third quarter before outscoring the Golden Bears 29-3 the rest of the way. Ward accounted for three of the team’s final four scores, including a 5-yard go-ahead touchdown pass to Elijah Arroyo with 26 seconds left in regulation. The win improved the then-8th-ranked ’Canes to 6-0 overall and 2-0 in ACC play. “That was just a fun game because it emphasized how resilient our team is,” Ward said. “We can overcome a lot of stuff, and being a part of it and making the plays with my teammates made it even more fun. “If you look at the people of our sideline, they don’t care what the scoreboard says. We play four quarters of football, and you keep playing hard until that clock hits zero.” The game was nationally televised on ESPN, and the broadcast repeatedly showed Ward’s parents, Calvin and Patrice. Cam Ward’s parents have been to every game, home and away, throughout his collegiate career. “Those are the only two people I want in the stands,” Ward said. “What they sacrificed for me to get to where I’m at means a lot to me. It’s why I love playing football — having my parents in the stands cheering for me.” Many people in and around college football have voiced their opinions on the transfer portal and NIL deals. Ward, however, believes the portal is a good thing for the sport. It certainly has helped him experience several levels of the college football ranks. “At the end of the day, I don’t think a lot of kids get credit for why they’re transferring, and no one asks why they are transferring, just that they are in the portal,” Ward said. “A lot of people are transferring because they are not playing or want to be seen on a higher level playing for a bigger school. It’s a mix of both worlds because, at the end of the day, it’s about playing football and we have to do what is best for us to put us in that situation to be able to make plays on the field. “It’s a good addition in college football and everything that comes with it. I think most people think of it the wrong way because maybe a player has bounced around four and five times, and they are still young, but they also haven’t found that right spot that maximizes them to the best of their ability.” Throughout his collegiate career, Ward has cherished the different environments he’s experienced, from the FCS level to the Pac-12 to a juggernaut Power 5 program in Coral Gables, Florida. His experience and play continues to lift his NFL Draft stock as a top half first-round pick in the 2025 draft. “Where you play does matter,” he said. “And what I cherish the most is that I got to experience every part of it.”
Trump Jr helps pick most controversial cabinet
Tech review: Gift options for the cord cutterShare Tweet Share Share Email Understanding The Risks In The Digital Asset World The digital asset landscape has experienced exponential growth in recent years, with cryptocurrencies, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and other blockchain-based assets becoming increasingly mainstream. However, this rapid expansion has also brought with it a significant increase in the risks associated with these investments. From hacking and phishing attacks to scams and fraudulent schemes, digital asset holders have found themselves facing a myriad of challenges when it comes to protecting their investments. One of the most pressing issues in the digital asset world is the prevalence of scams and fraud. Scammers have become increasingly sophisticated in their tactics, using a variety of methods to lure unsuspecting investors into their schemes. These can range from fake cryptocurrency exchanges and investment platforms to social media-based Ponzi schemes and even outright theft of digital assets. Recovering from such scams can be a daunting task, as the decentralized nature of blockchain technology can make it challenging to trace and recover stolen funds. This is where the need for experienced and trusted cryptocurrency recovery experts becomes crucial. Scammed Digital Assets Recovery In Asia Asia, with its rapidly growing digital asset market, has become a prime target for scammers and fraudsters. From the bustling financial hubs of Hong Kong and Singapore to the emerging markets of Southeast Asia, digital asset holders in the region have faced a range of challenges when it comes to recovering their stolen funds. In countries like China and South Korea, the regulatory landscape surrounding digital assets has been in flux, making it even more difficult for victims to navigate the recovery process. Navigating the complex legal and technical aspects of digital asset recovery in these regions requires the expertise of professionals who understand the nuances of the local markets and regulatory environments. Scammed Digital Assets Recovery In Canada Canada, as a global financial center and a hub for blockchain and cryptocurrency innovation, has also seen its fair share of digital asset-related scams and fraud. From the high-profile QuadrigaCX scandal to smaller-scale phishing attacks and Ponzi schemes, Canadian investors have faced significant challenges in recovering their stolen funds. The Canadian regulatory landscape for digital assets has been evolving, with the government taking steps to enhance consumer protection and combat financial crimes. However, the complexity of these cases and the cross-border nature of many scams have made it essential for victims to seek the assistance of specialized cryptocurrency recovery experts who can navigate the legal and technical hurdles. Importance of Hiring a Trusted Cryptocurrency Recovery Agency In the face of these growing risks, the importance of working with a trusted and experienced cryptocurrency recovery agency cannot be overstated. CRE, a leading provider of digital asset recovery services, has established itself as a trusted partner for individuals and businesses seeking to reclaim their stolen or lost digital assets. The CRE team of experts, with their deep understanding of blockchain technology, regulatory frameworks, and investigative techniques, are uniquely positioned to assist victims in navigating the complex and often convoluted recovery process. Whether it’s a case of a hacked exchange, a fraudulent investment scheme, or a simple phishing attack, CRE’s comprehensive approach to digital asset recovery has helped countless clients regain control of their assets. Steps Involved In The Digital Asset Recovery Process CRE digital asset recovery process is designed to be comprehensive and tailored to the unique needs of each client. The process typically involves the following steps: Initial Consultation: The CRE team will conduct a thorough assessment of the client’s case, gathering all relevant information and evidence to understand the nature of the incident and the potential avenues for recovery . Investigative Analysis: CRE team of experts will delve deep into the blockchain ledger, financial records, and other relevant data sources to trace the movement of the stolen digital assets and identify potential leads for recovery. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: The CRE team will work closely with legal professionals to ensure that all recovery efforts are conducted within the applicable legal and regulatory frameworks, both in the client’s home jurisdiction and in any other relevant locations. Asset Tracing and Seizure: Drawing on their extensive network of contacts and partnerships, the CRE team will work tirelessly to locate and secure the stolen digital assets, taking the necessary legal and technical steps to prevent further dissipation or transfer of the funds. Asset Repatriation: Once the stolen digital assets have been recovered, CRE will work with the client to facilitate the safe and secure return of the funds to their rightful owner. Throughout the entire process, the CRE team of experts will provide regular updates and guidance to the client, ensuring transparency and keeping them informed every step of the way. Successful Case Studies of Digital Asset Recovery Crypto Recovery Experts has an extensive track record of successful digital asset recovery cases, having helped numerous clients regain control of their stolen or lost digital assets. Here are a few examples of the company’s successful case studies: Hacked Cryptocurrency Exchange Recovery: A client based in Hong Kong had their cryptocurrency holdings stolen from a hacked exchange. The CRE team was able to trace the stolen funds, work with local authorities, and ultimately recover the majority of the client’s digital assets. Fraudulent Investment Scheme Recovery: A group of investors in Singapore were victims of a Ponzi scheme involving a fake cryptocurrency investment platform. CRE investigators were able to uncover the scheme, trace the stolen funds, and work with local law enforcement to recover a significant portion of the stolen digital assets. Phishing Attack Recovery: A client in Canada had their personal cryptocurrency wallet drained by a sophisticated phishing attack. The CRE team was able to track the movement of the stolen funds, work with the relevant blockchain networks, and recover the majority of the client’s digital assets. These case studies demonstrate the breadth of CRE expertise and the company’s unwavering commitment to helping its clients regain control of their stolen digital assets. The Role of Technology In Digital Asset Recovery The recovery of stolen digital assets is a complex and technologically-driven process, requiring a deep understanding of blockchain technology, cryptography, and investigative techniques. The CRE team of experts leverages the latest advancements in technology to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of their recovery efforts. One of the key technological tools used by CRE is advanced blockchain analytics software, which allows the team to trace the movement of stolen digital assets across multiple blockchain networks. By analyzing the transaction history and identifying patterns of suspicious activity, CRE experts can often pinpoint the location of the stolen funds and take the necessary steps to secure them. Additionally, CRE utilizes a range of investigative tools and techniques, including data mining, open-source intelligence gathering, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies and other industry partners. These technological capabilities, combined with the team’s deep domain expertise, enable CRE to navigate the complex and ever-evolving digital asset landscape and achieve successful recoveries for its clients. Conclusion: How To Contact Crypto Recovery Experts To Begin Your Reclaiming Journey If you or your business have been the victim of a digital asset-related scam or fraud, it’s crucial to act quickly and seek the assistance of a trusted and experienced cryptocurrency recovery agency like CRE. The team at CRE is dedicated to helping clients navigate the complexities of the digital asset recovery process, leveraging their expertise, resources, and technological capabilities to maximize the chances of a successful recovery. To get started on your journey to reclaiming your stolen digital assets, contact the team at CRE today. Their experts are standing by to provide a free initial consultation and guide you through the recovery process. Visit their website at [ www.cryptorecovery.expert ] to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards regaining control of your digital assets Related Items: Navigating The Risks , Our Deep Dive Into The Scammed Digital Assets Reclaiming World In Asia And Canada Share Tweet Share Share Email Comments
The firebombing of the Adass Israel synagogue in Melbourne has sent shockwaves through Australian politics. On Monday, the government announced that the Australian Federal Police (AFP) have established a specialised taskforce targeting threats against the Jewish community. The new Special Operation Avalite, detailed by AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw, will focus explicitly on investigating serious offences targeting Jewish Australians. The operation will investigate incidents including urging violence against Jewish groups, advocating terrorism or genocide, and using communication services to threaten or harass. ASIO director-general Mike Burgess has warned that politically motivated violence is now a principal security concern, with provocative and inflammatory language being normalised. He believes there continues to be more than a 50 per cent chance of a terror attack being attempted or planned in the next 12 months. Under fire for the government’s response to antisemitism since October 7, 2023, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted recent actions aimed at fighting the scourge, including banning Nazi salutes, appointing Australia’s first special envoy to combat antisemitism, and legislation to criminalise hate speech. He has also announced an additional $32.5 million in security funding for Jewish sites to be distributed by the Executive Council of Australian Jewry (ECAJ). The extra money will supplement an earlier $25 million program protecting synagogues, schools and other Jewish community locations. ECAJ president Daniel Aghion cautiously welcomed the support while emphasising the need for more comprehensive action. “We are grateful for the government’s support, but this is still about protecting our institutions from attack,” Aghion said. He stressed that the funding is reactive rather than preventative, saying, “It is not getting ahead of the problem, and it is not dealing with the causes of antisemitism and preventing the attacks and risk in the first place.” The ECAJ wrote to the Prime Minister on Sunday, saying Jewish Australians are questioning their safety and future in the country. It called for urgent national measures, including mandatory antisemitism education, enhanced legal protections and the convening of National Cabinet to further address the national antisemitism crisis. Albanese, who was in Perth at the time of the arson attack, visited the Adass Israel synagogue on Tuesday. Standing next to the ruins, he unequivocally condemned the attack, declaring, “This arson attack is an act of terrorism, it was fuelled by antisemitism and it was stoked by hatred.” The Prime Minister committed his government to supporting the synagogue’s restoration, pledging to “provide whatever support is necessary financially to make sure that those who perpetrated this evil crime do not receive any benefit”. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has already pledged $100,000 towards rebuilding the shule. Upon leaving the synagogue, Albanese encountered some hostility from parts of the crowd but Adass community members quickly silenced the hecklers with calls of “Sha” (“Quiet” in Yiddish). Aghion described the Prime Minister’s visit as deeply impactful. “The Prime Minister was quite touched. In fact, I’d say marked,” he said. Aghion believed that the cat-calling was not representative of the Adass community, noting that they treated him as a guest and that he was “genuinely interested in what they had to say”. “I think the Prime Minister’s intent is genuine. Obviously he will be judged by his actions, not his words, but I think he understands what the Jewish community is facing,” he said. The Prime Minister personally inspected the damage, climbing into the fire-damaged ruins to fully understand the extent of the destruction. Aghion noted that Albanese was willing to get “his suit quite dirty” to show solidarity with the community. Meanwhile, in a rare show of bipartisan solidarity, former Liberal treasurer Josh Frydenberg and former Labor senator Nova Peris jointly condemned the attack at a press conference on Saturday. Frydenberg said government inaction in tackling antisemitism had directly led to the firebombing of the synagogue. “Our leaders still don’t get it – they’re more than recklessly indifferent. They’ve created a very dangerous climate, and that has obviously culminated in the firebombing just a couple of days ago,” he said. Peris was equally forceful, stating, “In this country, we have a constitution which says every Australian has the right to religious freedom. How dare anyone attack a place of worship in this country?” Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus acknowledged the severity of the current situation, noting this represents the highest level of antisemitism he has witnessed in his lifetime. “And our government is determined to do whatever we can to bring this to an end, and I’d be calling on [Opposition Leader] Peter Dutton to stand with the government, not to be making these criticisms or empty calls for the government to do more – or worse,” he said. “He claimed that somehow the government had caused this event to occur, which is an absurd thing for any political leader to suggest,” Dreyfus said on talkback radio. Josh Frydenberg and Nova Peris embrace Jewish community member Charlene Miller after holding a press conference at Princes Park, Caulfield South, following the firebombing of the Adass Israel shule. Photo: Peter HaskinMichigan's defense of national title fell short, aims to cap lost season with win against Ohio State
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THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. , Dec. 10, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Amgen (NASDAQ:AMGN) today announced that its Board of Directors declared a $2.38 per share dividend for the first quarter of 2025. The dividend will be paid on March 7, 2025 , to all stockholders of record as of the close of business on February 14, 2025 . About Amgen Amgen discovers, develops, manufactures and delivers innovative medicines to help millions of patients in their fight against some of the world's toughest diseases. More than 40 years ago, Amgen helped to establish the biotechnology industry and remains on the cutting-edge of innovation, using technology and human genetic data to push beyond what's known today. Amgen is advancing a broad and deep pipeline that builds on its existing portfolio of medicines to treat cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis, inflammatory diseases and rare diseases. In 2024, Amgen was named one of the "World's Most Innovative Companies" by Fast Company and one of "America's Best Large Employers" by Forbes, among other external recognitions . Amgen is one of the 30 companies that comprise the Dow Jones Industrial Average ® , and it is also part of the Nasdaq-100 Index ® , which includes the largest and most innovative non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market based on market capitalization. For more information, visit Amgen.com and follow Amgen on X , LinkedIn , Instagram , TikTok , YouTube and Threads . Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on the current expectations and beliefs of Amgen. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including any statements on the outcome, benefits and synergies of collaborations, or potential collaborations, with any other company (including BeiGene, Ltd. or Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd.), the performance of Otezla® (apremilast) (including anticipated Otezla sales growth and the timing of non-GAAP EPS accretion), our acquisitions of Teneobio, Inc., ChemoCentryx, Inc., or Horizon Therapeutics plc (including the prospective performance and outlook of Horizon's business, performance and opportunities, any potential strategic benefits, synergies or opportunities expected as a result of such acquisition, and any projected impacts from the Horizon acquisition on our acquisition-related expenses going forward), as well as estimates of revenues, operating margins, capital expenditures, cash, other financial metrics, expected legal, arbitration, political, regulatory or clinical results or practices, customer and prescriber patterns or practices, reimbursement activities and outcomes, effects of pandemics or other widespread health problems on our business, outcomes, progress, and other such estimates and results. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, including those discussed below and more fully described in the Securities and Exchange Commission reports filed by Amgen, including our most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequent periodic reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K. Unless otherwise noted, Amgen is providing this information as of the date of this news release and does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this document as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual results may differ materially from those we project. Our results may be affected by our ability to successfully market both new and existing products domestically and internationally, clinical and regulatory developments involving current and future products, sales growth of recently launched products, competition from other products including biosimilars, difficulties or delays in manufacturing our products and global economic conditions. In addition, sales of our products are affected by pricing pressure, political and public scrutiny and reimbursement policies imposed by third-party payers, including governments, private insurance plans and managed care providers and may be affected by regulatory, clinical and guideline developments and domestic and international trends toward managed care and healthcare cost containment. Furthermore, our research, testing, pricing, marketing and other operations are subject to extensive regulation by domestic and foreign government regulatory authorities. We or others could identify safety, side effects or manufacturing problems with our products, including our devices, after they are on the market. Our business may be impacted by government investigations, litigation and product liability claims. In addition, our business may be impacted by the adoption of new tax legislation or exposure to additional tax liabilities. If we fail to meet the compliance obligations in the corporate integrity agreement between us and the U.S. government, we could become subject to significant sanctions. Further, while we routinely obtain patents for our products and technology, the protection offered by our patents and patent applications may be challenged, invalidated or circumvented by our competitors, or we may fail to prevail in present and future intellectual property litigation. We perform a substantial amount of our commercial manufacturing activities at a few key facilities, including in Puerto Rico , and also depend on third parties for a portion of our manufacturing activities, and limits on supply may constrain sales of certain of our current products and product candidate development. An outbreak of disease or similar public health threat, such as COVID-19, and the public and governmental effort to mitigate against the spread of such disease, could have a significant adverse effect on the supply of materials for our manufacturing activities, the distribution of our products, the commercialization of our product candidates, and our clinical trial operations, and any such events may have a material adverse effect on our product development, product sales, business and results of operations. We rely on collaborations with third parties for the development of some of our product candidates and for the commercialization and sales of some of our commercial products. In addition, we compete with other companies with respect to many of our marketed products as well as for the discovery and development of new products. Discovery or identification of new product candidates or development of new indications for existing products cannot be guaranteed and movement from concept to product is uncertain; consequently, there can be no guarantee that any particular product candidate or development of a new indication for an existing product will be successful and become a commercial product. Further, some raw materials, medical devices and component parts for our products are supplied by sole third-party suppliers. Certain of our distributors, customers and payers have substantial purchasing leverage in their dealings with us. The discovery of significant problems with a product similar to one of our products that implicate an entire class of products could have a material adverse effect on sales of the affected products and on our business and results of operations. Our efforts to collaborate with or acquire other companies, products or technology, and to integrate the operations of companies or to support the products or technology we have acquired, may not be successful. There can be no guarantee that we will be able to realize any of the strategic benefits, synergies or opportunities arising from the Horizon acquisition, and such benefits, synergies or opportunities may take longer to realize than expected. We may not be able to successfully integrate Horizon, and such integration may take longer, be more difficult or cost more than expected. A breakdown, cyberattack or information security breach of our information technology systems could compromise the confidentiality, integrity and availability of our systems and our data. Our stock price is volatile and may be affected by a number of events. Our business and operations may be negatively affected by the failure, or perceived failure, of achieving our environmental, social and governance objectives. The effects of global climate change and related natural disasters could negatively affect our business and operations. Global economic conditions may magnify certain risks that affect our business. Our business performance could affect or limit the ability of our Board of Directors to declare a dividend or our ability to pay a dividend or repurchase our common stock. We may not be able to access the capital and credit markets on terms that are favorable to us, or at all. CONTACT: Amgen, Thousand Oaks Elissa Snook , 609-251-1407 (media) Justin Claeys , 805-313-9775 (investors) View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/amgen-announces-2025-first-quarter-dividend-302328180.html SOURCE Amgen