Highlights from Trump's interview with Time magazineA United Nations (UN) watchdog is set to launch an investigation into sexual misconduct claims made against the International Criminal Court (ICC) top prosecutor, according to a Tuesday report from The Associated Press. The decision is expected to raise conflict-of-interest concerns due to the prosecutor's wife's previous role with the oversight body. Who Is the ICC Prosecutor? Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan delivered updates this week in The Hague on the International Criminal Court's politically charged investigations into war crimes and atrocities in Ukraine, Gaza and Venezuela, along with other conflict zones, during the court's annual meeting. Judges last month granted a request from Karim Khan to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas ' military chief over accusations of crimes against humanity related to the war in Gaza. Allegations An Associated Press investigation in October revealed that as the ICC was preparing an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Khan was facing internal allegations of misconduct, including claims that he attempted to pressure a female aide into a sexual relationship and groped her on multiple occasions over several months. The Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute, which governs the International Criminal Court, previously announced plans for an external investigation into the allegations but has not disclosed who will lead the inquiry. During this week's meeting, Päivi Kaukoranta, a Finnish diplomat leading the ICC's oversight body, informed delegates that the investigation would be handled by the U.N.'s Office of Internal Oversight Services, according to two diplomats who spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity due to the confidential nature of the discussions. Last month, two prominent human rights organizations raised concerns over the potential involvement of the U.N. in the investigation, citing a possible conflict of interest. Khan's wife, a well-known human rights attorney, previously worked for the agency in Kenya in 2019 and 2020, where she focused on sexual harassment investigations. The allegations against Khan emerged in May when two court employees who were confided in by the alleged victim came forward. This occurred just weeks before Khan first pursued arrest warrants for Netanyahu, Israel's defense minister and three Hamas leaders on war crimes charges. The Associated Press reported that Khan frequently traveled with a woman after transferring her to his office from another department at ICC headquarters. According to whistleblower documents reviewed by the AP and submitted to the court's watchdog, Khan allegedly asked the woman to join him on a hotel bed during one trip and "sexually touched her." On another occasion, he reportedly knocked on her hotel room door at 3:00 a.m. for 10 minutes. Responses In a joint statement, the International Federation for Human Rights and Women's Initiatives for Gender Justice called for Karim Khan to be suspended during the investigation. The groups also urged a rigorous vetting process for the investigative body to ensure it is free from conflicts of interest and has proven expertise in handling such matters. "We strongly recommend ensuring that these concerns are openly and transparently addressed before assigning the mandate to the OIOS," the joint statement said. Kaukoranta declined to comment on the investigation when approached by The Associated Press on Tuesday during the ICC's annual meeting. Neither the U.N. nor Khan's attorney immediately responded to The Associated Press' requests for comment. This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.
AP News Summary at 12:25 p.m. EST
NEW YORK , Nov. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Report with market evolution powered by AI - The luxury furniture market in middle east size is estimated to grow by USD 413.02 million from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.48% during the forecast period. Increase in number of office spaces is driving market growth, with a trend towards increasing acceptance and demand for eco-friendly products. However, growing prominence of furniture rentals poses a challenge.Key market players include Anna Casa Ltd., Auraliving, B and B Italia SPA, Boca Do Lobo, Defure Furniture Trading LLC, DelightFULL, Giorgio Armani S.p.A ., Haworth Inc., Inter IKEA Holding BV, Lazzoni Furniture, Luma Inc., LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE, MillerKnoll Inc., Minotti S.p.A., Natuzzi SpA, Next Space LLC, Pan Emirates Home Furnishings, Poltrona Frau SPA, Scavolini S.p.a., and Workspace. Key insights into market evolution with AI-powered analysis. Explore trends, segmentation, and growth drivers- View Free Sample PDF Market Driver The Middle East luxury furniture market is thriving, with trends including high-demand for lighting, tables, chairs and sofas, accessories, and bedroom furniture. Real estate developments and markets in the real estate sector continue to drive growth in the residential and commercial segments. Oil price fluctuations impact the market, but consumers remain interested in luxury furniture pieces made from high-quality materials like metal, glass, and wood. Home renovation and decoration projects in homes, offices, hotels, restaurants, and schools fuel demand for designer furniture. Tech-savvy consumers seek automation and digitalization, leading to a focus on smart devices and multifunctional furniture. Personalized shopping experiences are in vogue, with flagship stores and specialty stores offering unique furniture pieces. Online sales via home centers, departmental stores, e-commerce websites, and RTA (Ready-to-Assemble) furniture are on the rise. Wood and leather remain popular choices for their aesthetic appeal and durability. The market caters to various sectors, including residential, commercial, office, hospitality, and school furniture. Comfort is a key consideration, with marketing campaigns and social media platforms promoting the latest product designs in living rooms, kitchens, outdoor spaces, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Plastic furniture is also gaining traction for its affordability and versatility. Overall, the market is diverse, with trends reflecting the needs and preferences of consumers in the region. The luxury furniture market in the Middle East is experiencing growth due to the rising demand for eco-friendly furniture. This trend is driven by the benefits of using sustainable and recycled materials in furniture production. Eco-friendly furniture contributes to cleaner air and less environmental pollution by reducing the amount of waste and deforestation. Moreover, refurbished or recycled furniture helps in reducing landfills and conserving forests. The demand for recycled furniture is projected to increase due to its cost-effectiveness compared to new pieces. Various non-profit trade associations have established guidelines for eco-friendly furniture suppliers and manufacturers in the region, further promoting this sustainable practice. Request Sample of our comprehensive report now to stay ahead in the AI-driven market evolution! Market Challenges The Middle East luxury furniture market faces several challenges in various segments. In the residential sector, there's a growing demand for high-quality lighting, tables, chairs and sofas, cabinets, and accessories made from materials like metal, glass, and wood. Real estate developments and markets, as well as oil price fluctuations, impact the luxury furniture market. Home renovation and decoration projects in homes, offices, hotels, schools, and restaurants require exclusive, unique furniture pieces with aesthetic appeal and durability. Technological advancements such as automation and digitalization cater to tech-savvy consumers seeking personalized shopping experiences. The commercial segment, including offices and corporate environments, requires functional, multifunctional furniture. The hospitality industry demands comfortable, designer furniture for residential spaces. Marketing campaigns and social media platforms are essential tools for reaching consumers in the residential and commercial segments. Online sales through e-commerce websites and departmental stores are increasing, making it crucial for businesses to adapt to the global e-retail industry. The online and offline retail landscape offers opportunities for both RTA and specialty stores, catering to various customer preferences and budgets. Plastic furniture is gaining popularity for its affordability and versatility, while living room, kitchen, outdoor, and bathroom furniture remain in high demand. Smart devices and upholstery are essential components of modern luxury interior furnishings. The furniture industry continues to evolve, with a focus on comfort, product designs, and online retailing. The Middle East luxury furniture market faces a significant restraint due to the growing popularity of furniture rentals among consumers. Urbanization has led to an increase in demand for rented apartments and single homes, causing many to opt for rented furniture instead of purchasing. Rental prices for items like sofa-cum beds range from USD26 and above per month, depending on the material. This cost-effective alternative decreases switching costs, thereby limiting the market's growth. Discover how AI is revolutionizing market trends- Get your access now! Segment Overview This luxury furniture market in Middle East report extensively covers market segmentation by 1.1 Residential 1.2 Commercial 2.1 Offline 2.2 Online 3.1 Middle East 1.1 Residential- The Middle East luxury furniture market is experiencing notable growth, particularly in the residential segment. This segment includes furniture items such as lounge chairs, ottomans, sofas, tables, outdoor seating, and bedroom and dining furniture. Major players in this sector include MillerKnoll, IKEA, and Minotti. The residential segment's growth is driven by the increasing demand for multifunctional and multipurpose luxury furniture, particularly foldable beds and extendable sofa sets. The luxury residential furniture market is categorized into living room, bedroom, dining and kitchen, and other residential furniture. The living room segment features reclining sofas, sofa cum beds, L-shaped sofas, and other items. The bedroom segment consists of king and queen beds, lounge chairs, and various storage solutions. The dining and kitchen furniture segment includes dining tables, chairs, and kitchen cabinets. New product launches are invigorating the growth of these segments in the Middle East . The luxury residential living room furniture segment comprises reclining sofas, sofa cum beds, L-shaped sofas, lounge chairs, nested tables, television units, shelves, and bookcases. The luxury residential bedroom furniture segment includes king and queen beds, lounge chairs, wardrobes, bedside tables, dressing tables, and storage solutions. The luxury residential dining and kitchen furniture segment consists of dining tables, chairs, and kitchen cabinets. Frequent product launches in these categories are driving the growth of the luxury residential living room, bedroom, and dining and kitchen furniture segments in the Middle East . Additionally, the other luxury residential furniture application segment includes outdoor furniture, kids' furniture, swings and hammocks, canopies, wall shelves, swivels, and gliders. These factors are expected to continue driving the growth of the residential segment of the luxury furniture market in the Middle East during the forecast period. Download a Sample of our comprehensive report today to discover how AI-driven innovations are reshaping competitive dynamics Research Analysis The Luxury Furniture Market in the Middle East is a thriving industry, catering to the region's growing demand for high-end home furnishings. This market encompasses a wide range of products, including Lighting, Tables, Chairs and Sofas, Accessories, Cabinets, and more. The Residential and Commercial sectors are significant consumers of luxury furniture pieces, with Home Centers and Flagship Stores being popular shopping destinations. Luxury furniture is often crafted from High-quality materials such as Metal, Glass, and Wood, adding Aesthetic appeal to any space. Home renovation and Decoration projects are common applications for these pieces, with Schools, Homes, Offices, Kitchens, Outdoor areas, Bathrooms, Hospitality venues, and even RTA and Non-RTA establishments investing in them. Beds, Departmental Stores, E-commerce Websites, and other retail channels also contribute to the market's growth. With a focus on innovation and design, the Middle East Luxury Furniture Market continues to attract both local and international buyers seeking unique and sophisticated home solutions. Market Research Overview The luxury furniture market in the Middle East is thriving, with a focus on high-end offerings in various segments. Lighting, Tables, Chairs and Sofas, Accessories, and Cabinets are popular categories, featuring Luxury furniture pieces made of high-quality materials such as Metal, Glass, and Wood. Real estate developments and markets in the sector continue to drive demand for residential and commercial spaces, fueled by oil price fluctuations. Home renovation and decoration projects in Homes, Offices, Hotels, Restaurants, and Schools are on the rise, with a preference for unique furniture pieces and aesthetic appeal. Tech-savvy consumers seek automation and digitalization, leading to a growing trend of multifunctional furniture and smart devices. Marketing campaigns on social media platforms cater to personalized shopping experiences, with both online and offline sales channels, including Home Centers, Flagship Stores, and Specialty Stores, offering a wide range of products, from Wood and leather upholstery to Plastic and RTA furniture. Online retailing through e-commerce websites is also gaining popularity in the Global e-retail industry, providing convenience and accessibility to consumers in the residential and commercial segments. Overall, the Middle East luxury furniture market is characterized by its focus on comfort, durability, and designer furniture for various residential and commercial purposes. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation Application Residential Commercial Distribution Channel Offline Online Geography Middle East 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE TechnavioWelcome to the Game Thread. Veterans of the Game Thread know how we do things around here but, for the uninitiated, we have a few rules. Our community guidelines apply and basically say be cool, no personal attacks, and don’t be a troll. Date: Tuesday, December 10, 2024 Time: 7:00PM ET Location: WVU Coliseum, Morgantown, West Virginia Channel: Only available on ESPN+ Announcers: Andrew Caridi, Warren Baker and Anjelica Trinone Online Streaming: Only available on ESPN+ Radio: Mountaineer Sports Network by Learfield ( Radio Affiliates ) | SiriusXM Channel 381 & Streaming Channel 971 | WVU Gameday App ( Apple | Android ) Radio Announcers: Tony Caridi and Brad Howe Betting Odds: WVU -26.5 points, Over/Under 143 Total points via DraftKings Sportsbook Reminder: It is against site policy to post links to illegal streams in the comments. THE ENEMY Where are they from? Durham, NC Series History: This will be the first-ever meeting between the two schools. West Virginia is 13-0 all-time against current members of the MEAC Current Record: 4-7; beat Gardner-Webb, 78-77, on Saturday 2023-24 Record: 18-13 (9-5 MEAC) Head Coach: LeVelle Moton (2nd season) Follow along with us on Twitter @smokingmusket and Bluesksy @smokingmusket.bsky.social for running commentary and join us over on The Smoking Musket Varsity Club Discord. Find a warm, comfortable spot, grab a favorite beverage or threeve, and join in on the running commentary, random observations, silly images, gifs, snark, wit, bitches, complaints, moans, groans, cheers, celebration and jubilation in the comments section below. And, as always...
After-hours movers: GM, Stitch Fix, Dave & Buster's, GME and moreNone
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Company experts offer predictions across key sectors to help businesses navigate the unexpected MEMPHIS, Tenn. , Dec. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Sedgwick , a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions, has published its Forecasting 2025 thought leadership report . In preparing the report, Sedgwick's experts conducted research and engaged with clients for notable insights to forecast trends across key sectors and topics. The content focuses on ensuring organizations are aware of new risks and evolving trends and helping them navigate the unexpected in the year ahead. The Forecasting 2025 thought leadership report highlights trends related to: "2024 was a seismic year across industry sectors as companies navigated the unexpected, and 2025 will be no different," said Kimberly George, Sedgwick's Global Chief Brand Officer . "These predictions serve as a barometer for what's to come, so leaders around the world can prepare accordingly." The trends and predictions in the Forecasting 2025 report will be monitored by Sedgwick's experts throughout the year and serve as part of a larger thought leadership strategy to keep clients and partners informed. With this, Sedgwick will launch a new podcast featuring in-depth conversations with its experts and client partners on a new topic each month. For more on the report insights, visit sedgwick.com . About Sedgwick Sedgwick is a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions. The company provides a broad range of resources tailored to clients' specific needs in casualty, property, marine, benefits, brand protection and other lines. At Sedgwick, caring counts; through the dedication and expertise of over 33,000 colleagues across 80 countries, the company takes care of people and organizations by mitigating and reducing risks and losses, promoting health and productivity, protecting brand reputations, and containing costs that can impact performance. Sedgwick's majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sedgwick-shares-major-trends-in-forecasting-2025-report-302330767.html SOURCE Sedgwick Claims Management Services, Inc.
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Former CytoDyn chief executive guilty in plot to defraud investors- Powering a new era in Brazil's urban core with the Grand Opening of the Ideal Scientology Mission of Santo André - SANTO ANDRÉ, Brazil, and LOS ANGELES, Calif., Dec. 28, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Santo André, Brazil, is a dynamic city of sophistication and opportunity. Home to three-quarters of a million people, it yet maintains its welcoming attitude and signature friendliness. Although lying within Greater São Paulo’s industrial corridor, green spaces such as Parque Central, with its picturesque lakes and shady walkways, provide respite from the city’s hectic urban tempo. And Parque Chácara da Baronesa transports visitors to the 18th century with its colonial-era mansion and landscaped gardens. Downtown Santo André is a center for nightlife, entertainment, and festivals. And right in the bustling center of this dynamic urban mosaic, the new Ideal Church of Scientology Mission of Santo André welcomes one and all. Scientology Missions form the vanguard of the Scientology religion, providing the full array of basic and introductory Scientology services and Scientology auditing (spiritual counseling). And now joining the ranks of Ideal Missions, the new Scientology Mission in Santo André is designed to serve as the physical embodiment of Scientology technology in helping all to attain spiritual freedom. Community leaders, officials and guests joined Scientologists from across São Paulo and Brazil November 16 to celebrate the Grand Opening of the new Ideal Church of Scientology Mission of Santo André. Joining Mission Director Ms. Andreia dos Santos da Silviera on stage were Officer Renata Breyer Correia of the city of Jundiaí Municipal Guard and Chief Marcos Antônio Pinto de Moraes, Special Class Metropolitan Civil Guard of São Paulo. Working in internal affairs and responsible for the ethics of officers accused of misconduct, Ms. Correia experienced setbacks. “We have 50 supervisors and 460 guards. Those in leadership roles are challenged to effectively guide those under their charge,” she said. “This often leads to extra burden placed on other departments. “In trying to resolve these situations both for myself and my fellows, I discovered Dianetics. I was amazed. Here were answers to why man acted irrationally. This had the answers for how to go from being unmotivated to becoming a dynamic powerhouse. For me personally, as I have learned about and used Dianetics, I have increased my own positive influence on those around me. My goal is to improve Brazilian society through the application of the knowledge I have gained.” Ms. Correia presented the Church with a Certificate of Recognition for its work to spread moral values, promote drug-free living and address immorality and illiteracy in the Greater São Paulo area and throughout Brazil. Chief Moraes became a police officer to help people, particularly those living on the street. “People who need help and are on the margins of society are invisible to many. I find those who are destitute and help bring them back up, getting them out of the life of drugs and degradation that they are suffering from and reuniting them with their families. It was by doing this type of work that I first met the Church of Scientology. “Factually, Scientology found me ,” he said. “Brazilian Scientologists saw the work I was doing and got in touch with me to see how they could support me . That is when I first learned of the Drug-Free World program. This was a tool I could use in my work, both on the streets and with the police. I finally had a way to handle drug abuse before it begins. When people receive the Drug-Free World booklets, they see the truth about what drugs are and the effects they cause.” “I have never seen an organization so well managed as the Church of Scientology. And the entire reason for that level of organization is to increase the well-being of others. This is a church that takes action. If one person in the Church says ‘Let’s do this,’ the entire group aligns and unifies behind accomplishing that goal and changing society. I believe this Ideal Mission represents a new level of action and help for our community. Together, we are going to raise our society and help it prosper.” Chief Moraes presented the Mission with a Certificate of Recognition for reaching many thousands of youth with effective drug education to ensure their own future and that of São Paulo. Mission Director Ms. Andreia dos Santos da Silviera ended the dedication by inviting one and all to tour their new facilities. “Our Mission is here to serve the individual as the central ground from which to emanate Mr. Hubbard’s solutions for drug rehabilitation, drug prevention, and campaigns to salvage every sector of society. And we now open our doors to expand our help to the entire community.” Visitors to the Santo André Mission are welcome to tour the Public Information Display, featuring multimedia presentations of the basic beliefs and practices of Dianetics and Scientology as well as the life and legacy of L. Ron Hubbard. As an Ideal Church of Scientology Mission, Santo André is equipped with every facility needed to provide the full array of introductory Scientology services. These include the popular Life Improvement Courses through which anyone may find workable solutions to common challenges of everyday life—such as how to improve a marriage, successfully raise children, increase personal motivation, and set and achieve goals. The new Mission also offers seminars on a wide range of topics, including personal efficiency. The Hubbard Dianetics Seminar is based on Mr. Hubbard’s watershed work Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health , the bestselling book that reveals the source of one’s nightmares, unreasonable fears and irrational behavior—the reactive mind—and how to conquer it. Additionally, the Mission provides spiritual counseling, known as auditing , and the Purification Program , developed by Mr. Hubbard to free individuals from the mental and spiritual damage caused by drugs and toxins. The grand opening of the Ideal Scientology Mission of Santo André contributed to the record-breaking rollout of new Ideal Scientology Missions opened around the globe in 2024. From Quito, Ecuador, at the geographic center of the globe; to a new Ideal Scientology Mission in the thriving community of McMinnville, Oregon; back-to-back openings in Taiwan in the city of Chiayi, the gateway to the nation’s cultural heritage, and the bustling metropolis of Taichung; and finally, Japan’s thriving port city of Osaka. Many more Ideal Scientology Missions are planned across North and South America, Europe and Asia in the coming year. The Scientology religion was founded by author and philosopher L. Ron Hubbard. Mr. David Miscavige is the Scientology religion’s ecclesiastical leader . The first Church of Scientology was formed in Los Angeles in 1954, and the religion has expanded to more than 11,000 Churches, Missions and affiliated groups, with millions of members in 167 countries. LEARN MORE: https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/ https://andre.scientologymissions.org VIDEO: https://youtu.be/j-2euFXXbfc?si=VXBeytzaTjpZu2LN IMAGE: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/24-1228-s2p-COSsanto-300dpi.jpg IMAGE CAPTION: Grand Opening of the Ideal Scientology Mission of Santo André, Brazil TAGS: #SantoAndré #Brazil #SãoPaulo #IdealScientologyMission #GrandOpening NEWS SOURCE: Church of Scientology International Keywords: Religion and Churches, Ideal Scientology Mission of Santo Andre, Brazil, SANTO ANDRE, Brazil This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Church of Scientology International) who is solely responsibile for its accuracy, by Send2Press® Newswire . Information is believed accurate but not guaranteed. Story ID: S2P123064 APDF15TBLLI To view the original version, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/scientology-expands-its-impact-in-santo-andre-the-industrial-heart-of-sao-paulo/ © 2024 Send2Press® Newswire, a press release distribution service, Calif., USA. Disclaimer: This press release content was not created by nor issued by the Associated Press (AP). Content below is unrelated to this news story.
NBA memo to players urges increased vigilance regarding home security following break-ins
AP News Summary at 12:25 p.m. ESTDemocrats stick with Schumer as leader. Their strategy for countering Trump is far less certain
HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 10, 2024-- The glittering lights of Downtown Houston shone even brighter on Saturday, December 7, 2024, as ZT Corporate hosted its highly anticipated Chairman’s Gala at the Hilton Americas. With over 1,000 of Houston’s most distinguished guests in attendance, the event not only celebrated the company’s remarkable achievements but also set the stage for a bold future, unveiling ZT Corporate’s visionary roadmap for 2030. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241210034150/en/ ZT Corporate’s 27th Annual Chairman’s Gala: Taseer Badar & Robin Thicke (Photo: Business Wire) The night was a dazzling celebration of ZT’s growth and success, underscored by a commitment to philanthropy and community. ZT Corporate’s Founder and CEO, Taseer Badar , expressed his gratitude, saying, “This year’s milestones were made possible by the passion, dedication, and innovation of our team. We’ve achieved exceptional growth across our healthcare and automotive portfolios, and with the continued confidence of our investors and the tireless efforts of our people, the future is incredibly bright. Our roadmap for the next five years is bold, ambitious, and driven by the ‘ZT Way’—a blend of strategy, excellence, and vision.” A Night to Remember: Luxury, Entertainment, and Giving Back This year’s Gala took opulence to a whole new level, offering guests an evening packed with entertainment, luxury, and excitement. The highlight of the night was an electrifying performance by Robin Thicke , the five-time GRAMMY® Award-nominated superstar and The Masked Singer judge. Thicke’s smooth, soulful hits and commanding stage presence set the tone for a night full of unforgettable moments, leaving the crowd dancing long into the night. But the excitement didn’t stop there. DJ Esther Anaya , a singer/songwriter, music producer, and classically trained violinist whose unique sounds and imaginative performances captivate audiences worldwide. She had guests on their feet as she spun an unforgettable set that kept the energy flowing throughout the evening. Chester Pitts , the original Houston Texan and community leader, teamed up with the dazzling Miss Universe 2022, R’Bonney Gabriel , as co-hosts, guiding the event with charisma and flair. The duo’s infectious energy had the audience on the edge of their seats as they navigated through the evening’s many thrilling moments. Exclusive Auctions and Unmatched Generosity Guests had the chance to bid on auction items that was donated from luxury brands including Prada, Maison Margiela, Giorgio Armani, Gucci, and more. The live auction, led by Pitts and Gabriel, featured once-in-a-lifetime experiences that had the crowd buzzing with excitement. The Bruno Mars meet-and-greet experience in Las Vegas, donated by Richard and Michelle Knoll , was so hot and in such high demand that the bidding quickly got heated . The couple, clearly moved by the fierce generosity in the room, decided to sweeten the deal —donating an additional Bruno Mars package , giving even more lucky guests the chance to experience the ultimate VIP encounter with the superstar. This gesture sent the crowd into a frenzy, and the auction raised even more for the night’s philanthropic efforts. Other high-end auction items included a Napa Valley wine experience at The French Laundry (donated by Dr. Doug Yarris and The French Laundry) and a VIP Houston Texans & Mastro’s experience paired with wines from Wine Spectator Grand Award wine list (courtesy of Chester Pitts, The Texans Organization, and Landry’s Inc.) offering guests a chance to indulge in exclusive, world-class experiences. In total, over $100,000 was raised from the auction items for the ZT Baseball Foundation, a cause close to the heart of Taseer Badar and the entire ZT Corporate family. The foundation’s mission is to ensure that young athletes have access to the tools, resources, and opportunities to succeed in baseball, no matter their financial background. A heartwarming moment of the night came when over 20 ZT Baseball players, back-to-back Gold Medalists at USA Baseball & Champions of the Perfect Game Invitational, were honored for their exceptional achievements on the field and in the classroom, showcasing the power of hard work and determination. Looking Toward the Future As the evening concluded, the anticipation for ZT Corporate’s future was palpable. The Gala not only celebrated the past year’s incredible achievements but also set the stage for a bold new era of growth and impact. With a clear vision for the next five years, ZT Corporate is poised to continue its legacy of excellence, leadership, and community impact—both in business and beyond, the ZT Way. A Champion Mindset for 2025 In his keynote address, Badar unveiled a bold five-year vision for ZT Corporate. Celebrating past milestones, he outlined a forward-thinking path, emphasizing focus and strategic growth as key drivers of the firm's future. Badar outlined how the ZT Way will unite and propel the business forward into 2025, defining its future through core areas of entrepreneurship, a champion mindset, community and doing the right thing. These pillars were on display throughout the Chairman’s Gala as ZT recapped another dynamic year. Special recognition was spotlighted on the 2024 growth of the healthcare portfolio through diversification as well as transformation of the automotive business through expansion into new markets and boosting retail unit sales . “We are not afraid to take calculated risks, innovate and push boundaries. At ZT, we thrive on creating possibilities not just for ourselves, but for our investors, our community and most importantly, our team,” said Badar. “As much as we grow with new corporate structures and create processes and management teams, will never lose the essence of who we are. We empower our employees to think like entrepreneurs – it’s in our DNA.” Badar highlighted the firm’s commitment to staying one step ahead and delivering continuous improvement in an ever-evolving landscape. By emphasizing the importance of action alongside outcomes, he inspired and motivated guests, reinforcing ZT Corporate’s dedication to forging a path toward future successes. About ZT Corporate Established in 1997, ZT Corporate is a Houston-based private equity firm with offices in New York and Los Angeles. The firm focuses on healthcare and auto dealerships as core investment verticals. ZT Corporate’s investment team collaborates with its operators to support the day-to-day operations of the firm’s portfolio investments. This close collaboration drives value creation by developing stronger operator-investor relationships, cross-functional expertise, and a deeper understanding of the target industries. Since its founding, ZT Corporate has successfully completed more than 60+ investments, including platform companies and follow-on opportunities with multiple liquidity events for its investors. For more information: www.ztcorporate.com . View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241210034150/en/ CONTACT: Thuylan Chang, ZT Corporate thuylan@ztcorporate.com KEYWORD: TEXAS UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: OTHER HEALTH OTHER PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AUTOMOTIVE OTHER ENTERTAINMENT ASSET MANAGEMENT MUSIC FINANCE CONSULTING BANKING ACCOUNTING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES ENTERTAINMENT PERSONAL FINANCE HEALTH EVENTS/CONCERTS OTHER AUTOMOTIVE GENERAL ENTERTAINMENT CELEBRITY SOURCE: ZT Corporate Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/10/2024 06:01 PM/DISC: 12/10/2024 06:00 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241210034150/enHow long can US stocks keep up this momentum?
Two leading proxy advisory firms have recommended Religare Enterprises investors Ltd (REL) to vote against giving a fresh five-year term on the company's board to chairperson Rashmi Saluja, further turning the odds against her re-appointment that was already hanging in the balance amidst her ongoing feud with the company's largest shareholders, the Burman family. Religare has issued a rebuttal to the opinion of the proxy advisors, standing behind Saluja. Justifying their call for Saluja's ouster, proxy advisors InGovern and Institutional Investor Advisory Services (IiAS) said that the protracted battle between the Saluja-led management and the Burman family and the resultant litigation could be a distraction for the company's board. Also Read: Kalyani "The various legal disputes and police cases may be potential distractions to the board and to her in her ability to execute her responsibilities as Executive Chairperson of the company," the IIAS report read. InGovern also raised concerns over her compensation of almost 69 crore a year, which it said was much higher than industry peers. "The ongoing scrutiny of Religare raises questions about the effectiveness of governance under her leadership, which reflects poorly on her oversight and governance capabilities," read the InGovern report released over the weekend. "There are also concerns about her compensation practices and adherence to regulatory guidelines regarding executive remuneration." The proxy advisors' opinion was also influenced by the episode of Religare subsidiary Care Health Insurance issuing stock options to Saluja despite a denial from Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (Irdai). Shareholders will now put to vote the future of Saluja at Religare at the company's annual general meeting (AGM) on the last day of 2024. In August, Religare had moved the Registrar of Companies to delay its AGM by three months to 31 December. Also Read: An ordinary resolution seeking Saluja's re-appointment as a director will need at least half the shareholder votes to be cast in her favour to go through. Passing the shareholder muster seems to becoming ever more difficult for Saluja following the proxy advisor report that institutional investors generally rely upon. Institutional investors like mutual funds own a 13.43% stake in the company. The largest amongst these are Motilal Oswal (7.3%) and Samco (1.37%). Religare's largest shareholders, the Burman family, which control 25.12% shares of the company through four entities, are also expected to vote against Saluja's re-appointment. Saluja joined the board of Religare in 2018 as an independent director when the company was in the midst of a crisis that culminated in its erstwhile promoters being impeached. "It is particularly noteworthy that these attempts to question and malign Dr. Saluja and the board come only after the company has achieved remarkable success, transforming from a 17 share price to touching 315, creating substantial shareholder value," read a statement from Religare. "This timing, coupled with the Burmans' pending legal cases that remain unquestioned, paints a clear picture of the motivations behind these recent developments." Regarding Saluja's compensation and the Care Health Insurance ESOPs, Religare said that the matter was sub-judice. However, it reiterated that the company was in compliance with all legal and regulatory framework. Religare's board, including its independent directors, continues to back Saluja's re-appointment, the statement added. "As REL stands at the cusp of its next growth phase (Religare 2.0), Dr. Saluja's continued leadership as executive chairperson is crucial." Also Read: Earlier this month, the Reserve Bank of India approved the open offer of the Burman family, promoters of FMCG company Dabur, to acquire an additional 26% stake in Religare to become it promoters. The central bank also directed maintaining the current board and management structure of the company.
Democrats stick with Schumer as leader. Their strategy for countering Trump is far less certainWASHINGTON (AP) — The Justice Department is ramping up efforts to address a crisis of suicides and systemic failures in federal prisons and jails, announcing sweeping reforms aimed at overhauling how mental health care is provided behind bars. Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco outlined the measures in a memo and report Tuesday, directing the Bureau of Prisons to update suicide prevention protocols, improve mental health assessments for inmates, and adopt data-driven strategies to reduce deaths in custody. The reforms will also apply to facilities overseen by the U.S. Marshals Service, a broader effort to address chronic shortcomings across the federal detention system. The 14-page report said the measures “will strengthen the Department’s capacity to reduce the risk of suicide by adults in federal custody and advance a culture of safety in its institutions.” The announcement comes after increasing scrutiny on the federal prison system and a scathing report from the Justice Department’s inspector general earlier this year, which found that systemic lapses—like those that allowed financier Jeffrey Epstein’s 2019 death—have contributed to the deaths of hundreds of federal inmates over the years. An ongoing Associated Press investigation has exposed serious issues in the Bureau of Prisons, including rampant misconduct, sexual abuse by staff, dozens of escapes, chronic violence, and staffing shortages that have left its employees ill-equipped to respond to emergencies. Monaco, who has prioritized prison reform during her tenure, has been pressing agency officials to tackle these issues, holding regular meetings to drive change in one of the federal government’s most troubled institutions. In the memo, obtained by The Associated Press, Monaco said the Justice Department must “strive to avert every preventable death of an individual in its custody.” “In pursuit of that goal, individuals who are detained or incarcerated in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) or Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP) should receive timely mental health assessments and ready access to potentially life-saving mental health services,” the memo said. The Justice Department would embrace a “multifaceted approach to reducing the risk of suicide and self-directed violence” for both inmates and staff, according to the memo. “The Department of Justice is committed to protecting the health and safety of every individual in our custody,” Monaco said in a statement. “Today’s reforms—recommended by experts from across the Department’s litigation, law enforcement, and policy operations—will reduce the risk of suicide among adults in federal facilities. Simply put, these measures can help us save lives." Michael Balsamo And Michael R. Sisak, The Associated Press