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is lodigame legit Chinese tech firms lobby influence raises alert in CanberraThe crypto market has always been the land of big opportunities, where the right investment at the right time can turn a small portfolio into a financial powerhouse. With new projects entering the market daily and established players reaching new heights, it’s never been a better time to build a portfolio aimed at long-term growth. But how do you separate the real gems from the hype machines? If you’re looking to start 2025 with a portfolio poised for success, it’s all about finding projects with strong fundamentals and real potential. Qubetics ($TICS) , for example, is a standout presale that’s capturing attention for its ability to solve problems its predecessors couldn’t. Let’s dive into four cryptos you should consider adding to your portfolio. 1. Qubetics ($TICS): A Groundbreaking Opportunity Qubetics is turning heads in the crypto world—and for good reason. As the world’s first Web3 aggregator, this project is designed to address the gaps left by earlier blockchain technologies. By focusing on usability and integration, Qubetics promises a seamless experience for crypto investors and businesses alike. Whether you’re new to crypto or a seasoned investor, Qubetics is one of the best crypto presales 2024 has to offer. It’s not just about potential; it’s about delivering solutions that are practical and scalable for the future. The presale numbers are already impressive. So far, over 377 million tokens have been sold to more than 11,800 holders, raising over $7.8 million. At the current price of $0.0377, $TICS offers an incredible entry point, especially with a 10% price surge set to take place when the presale moves to its 15th stage this weekend. 2. Ripple (XRP): The Cross-Border Powerhouse Ripple has been a game-changer in blockchain-based payment systems, and its flagship token, XRP, continues to gain momentum. By providing instant and low-cost international money transfers, Ripple is addressing one of the financial industry’s most persistent challenges. With partnerships involving major financial institutions like Santander and American Express, XRP has become a trusted choice for global payments. Recent regulatory victories have only strengthened its position, boosting investor confidence and pushing its value higher. Analysts predict Ripple’s influence will grow in 2025, thanks to increased adoption by banks and payment providers. If you’re building a portfolio with a mix of established players and fresh opportunities, XRP is a must-have for its proven track record and growth potential. 3. Near Protocol (NEAR): Scalability Meets Innovation If scalability is the name of the game, Near Protocol is playing to win. With its Nightshade sharding technology, NEAR has positioned itself as a leader in efficient, scalable blockchain solutions. By enabling faster transactions and lower fees, it’s setting the stage for widespread adoption in DeFi, NFTs, and beyond. But it’s not just about tech; Near Protocol is also known for its developer-friendly ecosystem. Projects built on NEAR are thriving, creating a vibrant and innovative community. With blockchain technology becoming increasingly mainstream, Near Protocol is well-positioned to see significant gains in 2025. As one of the most forward-thinking blockchain platforms, NEAR is a top contender for anyone looking to invest in projects that are shaping the future of Web3. 4. Quant (QNT): Unlocking Interoperability Quant is all about solving one of blockchain’s biggest pain points: interoperability. Its Overledger Network connects different blockchains, enabling them to work together seamlessly. This makes Quant an essential player in a world where multiple blockchains are becoming the norm. Quant has gained attention for its use cases in industries like healthcare, supply chain, and finance. By bridging the gap between traditional systems and blockchain technology, Quant is driving adoption across sectors that previously saw blockchain as too complex. With its unique focus and increasing adoption, QNT is a top pick for investors looking to diversify their portfolios with a project that has strong utility and market relevance. What Is Your Pick? From Qubetics’ presale buzz to Ripple’s dominance in cross-border payments, these projects are setting the stage for an exciting 2025. Whether you’re into innovative presales like Qubetics or established giants like Ripple and Near Protocol, these cryptos offer a solid mix of growth potential and long-term value. Based on the latest research, we recommend Qubetics ($TICS), Ripple (XRP), Near Protocol (NEAR), and Quant (QNT) as the top cryptos to kickstart your 2025 portfolio . Qubetics: https://qubetics.com/ Telegram: https://t.me/qubetics Twitter: https://twitter.com/qubetics Join our WhatsApp Channel to get the latest news, exclusives and videos on WhatsApp _____________ Disclaimer: Analytics Insight does not provide financial advice or guidance. Also note that the cryptocurrencies mentioned/listed on the website could potentially be scams, i.e. designed to induce you to invest financial resources that may be lost forever and not be recoverable once investments are made. You are responsible for conducting your own research (DYOR) before making any investments. Read more here.DIY The Weather Resistant Balcony RoofingBolfing, Cahee return to finish staff

SAINTS AND SINNERS: Clement hits out at his Rangers stars for first-half no-show as Ibrox men fall to costly defeat in Paisley Belgian infuriated by first 45 minutes but sees team fall to late St Mirren winner Results leaves Rangers 12 points behind rivals Celtic at top of Premiership Defender Leon Balogun limps off with injury to add to defensive woes Click here to visit the Scotland home page for the latest news and sport By STEPHEN MCGOWAN Published: 22:34, 26 December 2024 | Updated: 22:40, 26 December 2024 e-mail View comments Philippe Clement last night slammed the mentality of his stuttering Rangers side after a dismal 2-1 defeat to St Mirren left them trailing leaders Celtic by 12 points. A run of four successive wins shuddered to a halt when St Mirren secured their first home league win over the Ibrox side since Christmas 2011. A furious Clement went through his players at half-time after a woeful 45 minutes saw St Mirren claim the lead from a penalty conceded after a Jack Butland error. Nico Raskin and Danilo were thrown into the fray at the break, with the Brazilian drawing the visitors level before St Mirren claimed fifth place in the Premiership and sparked scenes of joy thanks to a goal in the third of six added minutes from substitute Caolan Boyd-Munce. ‘They didn’t give (everything) in the first half,’ said an angry Clement. ‘That’s clear. We lost the game there, that’s why I was so angry at half-time. ‘We played far below our level in every sense, on the ball, without the ball, in the duels, in movements, in everything. Philippe Clement is alone with his thoughts as he contemplates defeat in Paisley Caolan Boyd-Munce leads the celebrations as St Mirren savour a sizeable scalp Northern Irishman Boyd-Munce watches as his perfectly weighted shot seals victory ‘So, I made two changes but it’s not about the two guys, it was the whole team. I could have made eight or nine changes maybe. ‘In the second half you see the football you want to see, you see the intensity you want to see, you see the duels you want to see, you see the chances you want to see. ‘It’s not a tactical thing because there was no big change in tactics in the second half. It’s about quality, intensity. And that’s the frustrating part, if you see the consistency over the last two months. ‘Credit to St Mirren, how they throw their bodies in front of us on the goal line or in the box, preventing these things. But we lose the game ourselves in the first half with not showing the level that we need to show. ‘They showed it in the second half. They showed in the second half that they can do it. ‘They showed it also during the two months with a lot of games and a lot of games against really good opponents. So, it’s there. Jack Butland concedes a first-half penalty after a rash challenge on Saints striker Greg Kiltie Oisin Smyth keeps his cool to convert from the spot to put Stephen Robinson's men ahead ‘But we cannot play like we played in the first half. That’s below level. ‘It’s below par for everybody in the team. And that’s not the mentality you can accept at Rangers.’ Read More ST MIRREN 2 RANGERS 1 This time Clement's men have no-one to blame but themselves The loss of central defender Leon Balogun to a calf or Achilles problem added to Clement’s woes. With John Souttar and Neraysho Kasanwirjo already missing, the Nigerian defender will undergo assessments today but is now a major doubt for the clash with Celtic on January 2. ‘I don’t know what the situation will be with Leon,’ said Clement. ‘But it’s never a good sign if a player comes off in the first half. ‘I had other things to speak about in half-time and after the game also. 'So, I didn’t ask that one because I know the doctor will say he needs to make an assessment tomorrow. We will focus on that tomorrow.’ Balogun limped off with a leg injury and is now certain to miss the New Year Old Firm derby Buddies boss Robinson punches the air before insisting his team merited their victory St Mirren boss Stephen Robinson claimed his side deserved a huge three points for their reaction to the Rangers equaliser. With the Ibrox side pushing hard for a winner, the Saints boss threw on three substitutes — Jonah Ayunga, 17-year-old Evan Mooney and Boyd-Munce — and they all combined for the winning goal. ‘The team’s response to equalising and being under pressure shows the character of the squad,’ said Robinson. ‘We were excellent first half, they were better in the opening 15 minutes of the second — which is expected. But our response meant we deserved to win. ‘We were brave with two centre-forwards and special mention has to go to the three subs for the goal, and young (Callum) Penman. We had no fear throwing them on at 1-1. We have real belief in them. ‘We felt we needed to make changes to stop the tide. We changed to a three in midfield and were more aggressive. ‘It’s hard to single anyone out because to a man they were excellent.’ Share or comment on this article: SAINTS AND SINNERS: Clement hits out at his Rangers stars for first-half no-show as Ibrox men fall to costly defeat in Paisley e-mail Add commentSouth Korea's acting president faces an impeachment vote as the Constitutional Court meets for its first hearing in the case of President Yoon Suk-Yeol, who was impeached and suspended from duties after a short-lived martial law. or signup to continue reading The effort to impeach Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who has been acting president since Yoon was impeached on December 14, threatens to intensify the political crisis gripping Asia's fourth-largest economy and one of its most vibrant democracies. The unexpected martial law decree and swift political fallout shocked the nation and economic markets, unsettling key allies the United States and Europe which had seen Yoon as a staunch partner in global efforts to counter China, Russia, and North Korea. The plan for a vote to impeach Han was unveiled on Thursday by the main opposition Democratic Party after he declined to immediately appoint three justices to fill vacancies at the Constitutional Court, saying it would exceed his acting role. After Yoon's impeachment, the DP had said in the interest of national stability it would not pursue impeaching Han over his role in the martial law bid. But the party has since clashed with the Yoon-appointed prime minister over the justices, as well as bills calling for special prosecutors to investigate the president. On Thursday Han said it was beyond his remit as a caretaker president to appoint the justices without bipartisan agreement. A party spokesman said Han's refusal amounted to an abuse of power aimed at obstructing Yoon's trial, adding that the prime minister was himself "a key suspect in the rebellion". The leader of Yoon's People Power Party, Kwon Young-se, told reporters that if Han was impeached, that could trigger a new financial crisis, the Yonhap news agency said. Yoon cited a high number of impeachment votes and other obstructionist moves by the DP as part of his justification for trying to impose martial law. He also later said it was needed to investigate questions over election security. The vote to determine Han's fate comes as the Constitutional Court is set on Friday to hold its first hearing in a case that will decide whether Yoon is reinstated or permanently removed from office. The court has 180 days to decide whether to reinstate Yoon or remove him. In the latter scenario, a new presidential election would be held within 60 days. Yoon is not required to attend the hearing and it is unclear if anyone from his legal team will be there. In contrast to South Korea's two previous impeached presidents, Yoon has refused to receive or acknowledge court communications so far. On Thursday a court spokesperson said the hearing would be held regardless of his team's participation, but she did not comment on whether the president would eventually be compelled to respond. If Han is impeached, the finance minister will assume the acting presidency. The Democratic Party has majority control of parliament, but there is disagreement between the parties and some constitutional scholars over whether a simple majority or a two-thirds vote is needed to impeach the acting president. On Thursday the South Korean won weakened to its lowest since March 2009 in holiday-thinned trading amid the US dollar's continued rally. Yoon shocked his country and the world with a late-night announcement on December 3 that he was imposing martial law to overcome political deadlock and root out "anti-state forces". The military deployed special forces to the national assembly, the election commission, and the office of a liberal YouTube commentator. It also issued orders banning activity by parliament and political parties, as well as calling for government control of the military. But within hours 190 lawmakers had defied the cordons of troops and police and voted against Yoon's order. About six hours after his initial decree, the president rescinded the order. Advertisement Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date. We care about the protection of your data. Read our . Advertisement

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Vikings thrive under coach of year favorite O'Connell, a relatable state for Packers with LaFleurThe City of Greater Bendigo has assured residents there will be "no change" to how communities throughout the region celebrate or signup to continue reading The and its staff are negotiating a new enterprise bargaining agreement, but after a recent breakdown, both sides will return to the table in 2025. Under the EBA, Australia Day has been referred to as '26 January Public Holiday', raising questions about how the city planned to mark the day - if at all. The city no longer holds citizenship ceremonies on Australia Day. Australian Services Union members have rejected the EBA plan put forward to them, and industrial action from city staff in the new year has not been ruled out. Some of the improved benefits offered by the COGB to its staff included parental leave, superannuation, increases in allowances and emergency services leave. Proposed pay increases also included a year-on-year increase for the next three years including a 3.5 per cent bump in year one, three per cent in year two and 2.75 per cent in year three. Staff were also offered a one-off $500 payment for singing on to the EBA. However, city staff have rejected the proposals. A spokesperson for the COGB said "the sign-on payment of $500 is not unusual and very common practice for local and state government bodies". The spokesperson said the pay bumps would have seen a minimum of $8000 increase for staff in the coming years. "After a detailed benchmarking process the city is confident that the proposed salary increases over three years are in line with other recently approved Local Government Enterprise Agreements," they said. "The city offered significantly improved conditions to the current agreement with a focus to ensure enhanced working conditions for staff, but also a continued high quality of services to our community. "The city will reconvene with the unions and their delegates in the new year to discuss any concerns which remain on the table for both parties." Part of the EBA also referenced a shift from labelling Australia Day to the January 26 public holiday. The spokesperson said the use of the term "January 26" during negotiations between the city and unions representing COGB staff was to ensure transparency. The city spokesperson said there would be no impeding on individuals and communities celebrating January 26 however they saw fit. "Through recent ongoing bargaining negotiations with unions and the city, the use of January 26 was referenced through the log of claims and shared drafted documents to ensure a high level of transparency during discussions," the spokesperson said. "Australia Day events continue to be staged by service clubs and volunteer groups across the community. "There has been no change to these celebrations." Going forward the COGB will not hold citizenship ceremonies on January 26. "The Australian government gave the option to hold citizenship ceremonies between January 23 and 29," they said. The city has elected to hold its January citizenship ceremonies within that date range going forward but not on January 26. The Australian Services Union Victorian acting secretary Ty Lockwood said the organisation was ready to continue negotiations in "good faith". "A clear majority of people working at City of Greater Bendigo voted down the sub-standard offer put to a vote by council executives," he said. "It's disappointing that highly paid management preferred to try and force through an agreement that would take wages backwards, rather than negotiating fair pay for local people in Bendigo during a cost-of-living crisis." Mr Lockwood said a mass member meeting was scheduled for January 17, 2025 following the decision to vote down the COGB's proposals. He said the meeting will be at midday to discuss actions going forward, including potential protected industrial action. The ASU outlined some of its members top priorities for the new EBA, including improved 'flex leave' provisions, fair compensation for working weekends and a wage offer that met rising cost-of-living pressures. Other priorities also included health and wellbeing days for Bendigo Animal Relief Centre staff and an introduction of an end-of-band bonus. WA boy in Bendigo, happy to be in Central Victoria. WA boy in Bendigo, happy to be in Central Victoria. DAILY Today's top stories curated by our news team. WEEKDAYS Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. WEEKLY The latest news, results & expert analysis. WEEKDAYS Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. WEEKLY Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. WEEKLY Love footy? We've got all the action covered. WEEKLY Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. WEEKLY Going out or staying in? Find out what's on. WEEKDAYS Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. TWICE WEEKLY Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. WEEKLY Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. TWICE WEEKLY Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. AS IT HAPPENS Be the first to know when news breaks. DAILY Your digital replica of Today's Paper. Ready to read from 5am! DAILY Test your skills with interactive crosswords, sudoku & trivia. Fresh daily!Tech stocks extended their rally to new heights on Monday, with the Nasdaq 100 index climbing over 1% to surpass 22,000 points, fueled by robust gains among key components in the index. Broadcom Inc. AVGO led the charge, soaring over 8% after receiving bullish price-target updates from analysts. The company's AI-driven growth potential gained further traction on Friday following its announcement of a collaboration with Apple Inc. AAPL to produce a cutting-edge AI chip. Tesla Inc. TSLA also rallied, jumping more than 5%, pushing its post-election gains to 85%, buoyed by positive analyst sentiment. Wedbush Securities described Tesla as a “game-changer” in AI and autonomous advancements under Trump's administration, adding to the bullish outlook. Among other indices, the Russell 2000 rose 1%, while the S&P 500 edged up 0.4%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average, however, dipped 0.2%, weighed down by losses in the energy and healthcare sectors. On the economic front, private-sector surveys showed a stronger-than-expected rebound in December activity. The services sector Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) surged to 58.5, the highest reading since October 2021. Meanwhile, the Composite PMI climbed to 56.6, its best level since April 2022, as robust growth in services offset continued weakness in manufacturing. Crypto-related assets gained fresh bullish momentum, driven by speculation about the U.S. government creating a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve fund. Meanwhile, MicroStrategy Inc. MSTR will be added to the Nasdaq 100 Index on Dec. 23, further boosting sentiment. Bitcoin BTC/USD reached $107,000, marking a year-to-date gain of 153%. MicroStrategy shares rose 5.8%, while other crypto-linked stocks, such as MARA Digital Holdings Inc. MARA , Riot Platforms Inc. RIOT , and Coinbase Inc. COIN , surged 11.1%, 9.2%, and 4.5%, respectively. Monday’s Performance In Major US Indices, ETFs Major Indices Price 1-day % Nasdaq 100 22,043.82 1.2% Russell 2000 2,369.39 1.0% S&P 500 6,076.94 0.4% Dow Jones 43,750.42 -0.2% According to Benzinga Pro data: The SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust SPY rose 0.5% to $607.34. The SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average DIA eased 0.2% to $438.86. The tech-heavy Invesco QQQ Trust Series QQQ rose 1.4% to $537.94. The iShares Russell 2000 ETF IWM rose 1% to $235.13. The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund XLY outperformed, up by 1.2%; the Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund XLE lagged, down 1.8%. Monday’s Stock Movers Micron Technology Inc. MU rose 7.1%, reflecting bullish investor sentiment ahead of its earnings report on Wednesday after the close. Alphabet Inc. GOOGL rose by 4.7%, building up momentum after last week’s 8.7% surge following the announcement of the quantum computer launch. Shares of of natural gas companies fell amid prospects for less colder weather in the upcoming weeks. New Fortress Energy Inc. NFE led industry declines, down 7%. Read Next: Fed Poised To Cut Interest Rates By 0.25% This Week: Here’s Why Your Focus Should Shift To Other Signals Photo: Shutterstock © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

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A fight broke out after 'The Game' between the Michigan Wolverines and the Ohio State Buckeyes on Saturday evening and Ohio State Police Department had to use pepper spray to contain the players. A video of the incident was released by Michigan football on their Instagram account. In the video, officers can be seen using pepper spray as players and from both teams fought on the pitch. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from US News, World and around the world.

Trump aims to appoint son-in-law’s father as US ambassador to FranceChiefs earned rest after their third win in 11 days. For some, the rest could be 24 days

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Workers escape death as 2-story building collapses in UmuahiaChicago's top 10 news stories of 2024

A Ministry of Digital Economy could drive the expansion of e-governance, enabling citizens to access essential services like tax payments, business registrations, and public procurement online The establishment of a Ministry of Digital Economy in Sri Lanka signals a bold step towards embracing the opportunities of the 21st century. This strategic move aligns the country with global trends and positions it to harness the transformative power of digital technologies. As nations worldwide increasingly depend on digital economies for growth and innovation, Sri Lanka’s decision to create this focused ministry is a testament to its commitment to modernising its economic landscape. In an era where technology drives economic progress, the digital economy is no longer an option, it is a necessity. Nations across the globe are leveraging digital platforms and innovations to accelerate growth, improve governance, and create jobs. Sri Lanka, with its strategic location and a talented workforce, stands at a crucial juncture to harness this potential. A bold step in this direction is the country’s goal of building a $ 15 billion digital economy, alongside the establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Digital Economy to lead this transformation. The digital economy, encompassing activities driven by digital technologies such as e-commerce, fintech, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing, is reshaping the global landscape. In developed nations, it contributes significantly to GDP, while for developing economies like Sri Lanka, it represents a game-changing opportunity. At a time when Sri Lanka is navigating economic recovery, a thriving digital economy could unlock unprecedented growth, attract investment, and empower citizens. Achieving a $ 15 billion digital economy requires a focused and strategic approach. The creation of a Ministry of Digital Economy is crucial to driving this agenda forward. A centralised authority dedicated to the digital economy would align policies across sectors and create a unified strategy for digital transformation. With such a ministry, Sri Lanka could better coordinate efforts among government bodies, private enterprises, and international organisations to ensure impactful initiatives. The foundation of a digital economy lies in robust infrastructure. Investments in high-speed internet, 5G networks, and digital public platforms are essential. A Ministry of Digital Economy could prioritise these efforts, ensuring equitable access to digital infrastructure across both urban and rural areas. By bridging the digital divide, the Government can empower all citizens to participate in and benefit from this new era of economic activity. Sri Lanka’s micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), which form the backbone of the economy, are vital to achieving the $ 15 billion target. Many MSMEs, however, lack the tools and knowledge to embrace digitalisation. A Ministry of Digital Economy could spearhead initiatives to train businesses, provide access to affordable digital tools, and open pathways for these enterprises to access global markets. Additionally, startups could benefit from tailored support programs, including funding and mentorship, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship that drives growth. Financial inclusion will be another critical factor in achieving the $ 15 billion digital economy. Despite progress in the financial sector, many Sri Lankans remain unbanked or underbanked. Fintech solutions and digital payment systems can address these gaps, integrating more people into the formal economy. A Ministry of Digital Economy could collaborate with fintech companies to expand mobile banking, promote digital wallets, and implement microcredit schemes, ensuring financial services reach even the most underserved communities. The digital economy cannot grow without a skilled workforce. Developing digital competencies across all levels of society is essential, from basic computer literacy to advanced expertise in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. A dedicated ministry could lead nationwide initiatives to upskill Sri Lanka’s workforce, partnering with educational institutions and the private sector to create targeted training programs. E-governance and digital public services are vital for efficiency and transparency. Digital platforms can simplify Government processes, reduce corruption, and improve service delivery. A Ministry of Digital Economy could drive the expansion of e-governance, enabling citizens to access essential services like tax payments, business registrations, and public procurement online. These advancements would not only increase efficiency but also enhance public trust in Government institutions. Sri Lanka is strategically positioned to become a regional hub for technology and innovation. With its location bridging South Asia and Southeast Asia, along with a growing tech-savvy workforce, the country has the potential to attract significant foreign investment in IT services, software development, and digital innovation. Establishing a Ministry of Digital Economy signals Sri Lanka’s commitment to digital transformation, strengthening investor confidence and fostering global partnerships. As the digital economy grows, so do associated risks like cyberattacks and data breaches. To achieve its $ 15 billion goal, Sri Lanka must prioritise cybersecurity and data protection. A dedicated ministry could lead the way in creating robust frameworks to safeguard businesses and citizens from digital threats. This is essential for building trust in digital platforms and ensuring long-term sustainability. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of digital solutions in maintaining economic resilience. Remote work, e-learning, telemedicine, and e-commerce played pivotal roles in helping economies weather the crisis. A Ministry of Digital Economy could integrate digital technologies into key sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and education, ensuring Sri Lanka is well-prepared for future disruptions. Achieving a $ 15 billion digital economy will have a transformative impact on Sri Lanka. It will boost exports through e-commerce and digital services, create jobs in technology-driven industries, improve governance and public service delivery, and enhance financial stability. Moreover, it will drive inclusive development by empowering marginalised communities, women, and youth, while also supporting environmental sustainability through efficient resource utilisation and reduced carbon footprints. However, building a thriving digital economy is not without challenges. Sri Lanka must address issues such as inadequate digital infrastructure, limited technology access in rural areas, and resistance to change in traditional sectors. Overcoming these obstacles will require significant investments in broadband expansion, 5G deployment, and digital public infrastructure. National campaigns to improve digital literacy, encourage public-private partnerships, and engage international expertise will be critical to success. The establishment of a Ministry of Digital Economy is more than a policy shift—it is a bold declaration of intent. It symbolises Sri Lanka’s commitment to embracing the future, positioning itself as a competitive player in the global digital economy. By focusing on achieving a $ 15 billion digital economy, the nation can unlock new avenues of growth, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for its citizens. With visionary leadership and a coordinated effort, Sri Lanka can harness the power of the digital economy to build a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous future.President-elect Donald Trump said Saturday that he wants real estate developer Charles Kushner, father of Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, to serve as ambassador to France. Trump made the announcement in a Truth Social post, calling Charles Kushner “a tremendous business leader, philanthropist, & dealmaker." Kushner is the founder of Kushner Companies, a real estate firm. Jared Kushner is a former senior Trump adviser who is married to Trump’s eldest daughter, Ivanka. The elder Kushner was pardoned by Trump in December 2020 after pleading guilty years earlier to tax evasion and making illegal campaign donations. Prosecutors alleged that after Charles Kushner discovered his brother-in-law was cooperating with federal authorities in an investigation, he hatched a scheme for revenge and intimidation. RELATED STORY | Trump and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum are discussing tariffs. What should consumers expect? Kushner hired a prostitute to lure his brother-in-law, then arranged to have the encounter in a New Jersey motel room recorded with a hidden camera and the recording sent to his own sister, the man’s wife, prosecutors said. Kushner eventually pleaded guilty to 18 counts including tax evasion and witness tampering. He was sentenced in 2005 to two years in prison — the most he could receive under a plea deal, but less than what Chris Christie, the U.S. attorney for New Jersey at the time and later governor and Republican presidential candidate, had sought. Christie has blamed Jared Kushner for his firing from Trump’s transition team in 2016, and has called Charles Kushner’s offenses “one of the most loathsome, disgusting crimes that I prosecuted when I was U.S. attorney.” Trump and the elder Kushner knew each other from real estate circles and their children were married in 2009.