Need help with today’s NYT Connections puzzle? Check out hints and answers for Game #556 (December 18, 2024). Solve it step-by-step with expert tips! NYT Connections: Game #556 hints and answers for December 18, 2024: Are you currently experiencing problems with NYT Connexions? Here are some advice to assist you get through it, so don’t worry! You must choose four sets of sixteen words each, each with varying degrees of difficulty, for this practice. The process is cautious and gradual. It gets a little harder with each step you take. Here’s how to accomplish it: You might start with the simpler phases and work your way up to the more challenging ones as a result. The yellow one is among the simplest, while the green, blue, and purple ones are the most difficult. The work of today isn’t very difficult, but it does require concentration and a deep understanding of social dynamics. Don’t make snap decisions without careful consideration. I won’t go into too much depth, but the following tips should help you get started. Enjoy yourself and remember that it’s quite acceptable to take a vacation somewhere new. NYT Connections Hints for December 18, 2024 (#556) Continue reading if you believe you can manage it. Try beginning each category with one of the following words: YELLOW – FIELD GREEN – BITTER BLUE – HEDGE PURPLE – CAPITOL NYT Connections Clues for December 18 (#556): Yellow Category: DEAL WITH Green Category: STYLES OF BEER Blue Category: INVESTMENT VERBS Purple Category: ___ DOME NYT Connections Hints for December 18 (#556) YELLOW – Terms describing how someone handles a problem or responsibility. GREEN – Different types of beer with unique flavours and brewing methods. BLUE – Verbs commonly associated with financial investments. PURPLE – Words or phrases that include specific kinds of “domes.” If you’ve tried everything, don’t give up; there’s always another way to locate the answers. The following are some examples of modern solutions that make use of the NYT Connexions: NYT Connections Answers for December 18, 2024 (#556) Yellow Category: FIELD, HANDLE, MANAGE, TACKLE Green Category: BITTER, BOCK, SOUR, STOUT Blue Category: HEDGE, HOLD, SHORT, TRADE Purple Category: CAPITOL, CHROME, ONION, TEAPOT Click for more latest Gaming news . Also get top headlines and latest news from India and around the world at News9. Pragya is an accomplished journalist known for in-depth reporting and a keen eye for detail. Delivers insightful and well-researched content that informs and engages readers. Latest News
World leaders and American politicians have joined together in paying tribute to former U.S. President Jimmy Carter following his death at the age of 100. Remembered for brokering peace between Israel and Egypt, Carter also received the Nobel Peace Prize for his extensive humanitarian work. President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden described Carter as an extraordinary leader and humanitarian who millions considered a dear friend. President-Elect Donald Trump noted the challenges Carter faced during his presidency and expressed gratitude for his efforts to improve American lives. Among those offering condolences were former Presidents and international leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, who emphasized Carter's steadfast advocacy for the vulnerable and tireless fight for peace. From his civil rights work to his dedication to Habitat for Humanity, Jimmy Carter's legacy is one of profound service and commitment to a better future. (With inputs from agencies.)Monday, December 30, 2024 Turkiye Tourism in the country reached a new milestone in 2024, as over 50 million international visitors explored its diverse attractions in the first 11 months alone. This figure represents a remarkable 7.1% increase compared to the same period in 2023. The surge underscores the country’s growing appeal as a global travel destination and the effectiveness of its strategic initiatives under the ‘Regional Development and National Strategy’ blueprint. The Industry and Technology Ministry’s strategic blueprint aims to revolutionize tourism by analyzing traveler profiles, preferences, and spending patterns. This data-driven approach is designed to help policymakers and stakeholders tailor experiences to meet the expectations of high-value tourists, while also encouraging domestic travel. Crucially, the plan emphasizes spreading tourism activities evenly throughout the year, reducing the traditional focus on peak seasons. The strategy focuses on identifying regions with untapped potential and developing alternative destinations and activities for both local and international travelers. By diversifying the tourism offering, the government hopes to enhance the industry’s resilience and sustainability. Efforts to diversify tourism will focus on seven primary sectors: gastronomy, health, culture, faith, nature, winter, and cruise tourism. Each sector represents a unique aspect of the country’s rich heritage, geography, and traditions. Prominent provinces such as Istanbul, İzmir, Çanakkale, Nevşehir, Mardin, Şanlıurfa, Bursa, and Kars have been identified as key cultural hubs. These destinations will serve as the backbone for train tours and immersive cultural experiences, allowing travelers to explore ancient ruins, historic landmarks, and vibrant local traditions. From the iconic Hagia Sophia in Istanbul to the stunning fairy chimneys of Cappadocia in Nevşehir, culture tourism promises to captivate the imagination of global visitors. Faith tourism is another cornerstone of the strategy, with efforts centered on promoting sacred sites and religious landmarks. Mosques, churches, synagogues, tombs, and cathedrals are key attractions. Natural wonders such as sacred lakes, mountains, islands, groves, and caves are also being incorporated to enhance the spiritual experience for pilgrims and faith-based travelers. The country’s world-renowned culinary heritage will be leveraged to attract food enthusiasts. Gastronomy tourism initiatives aim to showcase regional cuisines, traditional cooking methods, and vibrant food markets. Culinary festivals and workshops will provide immersive experiences that celebrate the diversity of local flavors. Health tourism will capitalize on the country’s advanced medical infrastructure and natural wellness resources. Visitors seeking medical treatments, spa retreats, and wellness therapies will find an array of options tailored to their needs. Hot springs, thermal baths, and specialized clinics are integral to this offering. Nature tourism is set to highlight the country’s breathtaking landscapes, ranging from lush forests and serene lakes to dramatic mountain ranges and pristine beaches. Eco-tourism initiatives will focus on sustainable travel, encouraging visitors to appreciate and preserve the natural environment. With its snow-covered mountains and state-of-the-art ski resorts, the country aims to become a hub for winter sports enthusiasts. Activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing will be complemented by cozy accommodations and après-ski experiences. The strategic development of cruise tourism is expected to draw maritime travelers to the country’s picturesque ports and coastal regions. Itineraries will include stops at historical cities, idyllic islands, and vibrant coastal towns, offering a unique perspective on the nation’s maritime heritage. Central to the strategy is the analysis of traveler profiles in both domestic and international markets. By understanding the preferences and spending habits of high-value tourists, the government can design targeted campaigns and develop experiences that resonate with their expectations. The ultimate goal is to enhance visitor satisfaction while maximizing economic benefits for local communities. The blueprint aims to uncover hidden gems within the country, offering alternative destinations to alleviate overcrowding at popular sites. This approach not only ensures a more balanced distribution of tourism revenue but also helps preserve the cultural and natural integrity of iconic landmarks. Regions previously overlooked by mainstream tourism will gain prominence, fostering inclusive growth and community development. As the country builds on the momentum of its record-breaking tourism figures in 2024, the strategic focus on diversification and sustainability is expected to yield long-term benefits. By investing in infrastructure, promoting unique experiences, and prioritizing data-driven decision-making, the tourism industry is poised to achieve new heights while preserving its rich cultural and natural heritage for generations to come. The 7.1% rise in tourism in 2024 reflects the success of a forward-thinking strategy designed to attract a diverse range of travelers. Through initiatives spanning gastronomy, health, culture, faith, nature, winter, and cruise tourism, the country is transforming its travel landscape to offer year-round, sustainable experiences. With its sights set on innovation and inclusivity, the future of the nation’s tourism industry looks brighter than ever. Discover everything and anything about travel , tourism , trade shows at the Travel And Tour World , including breaking travel news and weekly travel updates for travel trade , airlines , cruise , railways , technology , travel association , DMCs, and video interviews and promotional videos .
NEW YORK (AP) — Police don't know who he is, where he is, or why he did it. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * NEW YORK (AP) — Police don't know who he is, where he is, or why he did it. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? NEW YORK (AP) — Police don’t know who he is, where he is, or why he did it. As the frustrating search for UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s killer got underway for a fifth day Sunday, investigators reckoned with a tantalizing contradiction: They have troves of evidence, but the shooter remains an enigma. One conclusion they are confident of, however: It was a targeted attack, not a random one. They know he ambushed Thompson at 6:44 a.m. Wednesday as the executive arrived at the Hilton for his company’s annual investor conference, using a 9 mm pistol that resembled the guns farmers use to put down animals without causing a loud noise. They know ammunition found near Thompson’s body bore the words “delay,” “deny” and “depose,” mimicking a phrase used by insurance industry critics. The fact that the shooter knew UnitedHealthcare group was holding a conference at the hotel and what route Thompson might take to get there suggested that he could possibly be a disgruntled employee or client, NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said. Police divers were seen searching a pond in Central Park, where the killer fled after the shooting. Officers have been scouring the park for days for any possible clues and found his backpack there Friday. They didn’t immediately reveal what, if anything, it contained but said it would be tested and analyzed. On Sunday morning, police declined to comment on the contents of the backpack, or on the results of the search in the pond, saying no updates were planned. Investigators have urged patience, saying the process of logging evidence that stands up in court isn’t as quick as it looks like on TV. Hundreds of detectives are combing through video recordings and social media, vetting tips from the public and interviewing people who might have information, including Thompson’s family and coworkers and the shooter’s randomly assigned roommates at the Manhattan hostel where he stayed. Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. Investigators caught a break when they came across security camera images of an unguarded moment at the hostel in which he briefly showed his face. Retracing the gunman’s steps using surveillance video, police say, it appears he left the city by bus soon after the shooting outside the New York Hilton Midtown. He was seen on video at an uptown bus station about 45 minutes later, Kenny said. With the high-profile search expanding across state lines, the FBI announced late Friday that it was offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction, adding to a reward of up to $10,000 that the NYPD has offered. Police say they believe the suspect acted alone. Police distributed the images to news outlets and on social media but so far haven’t been able to ID him using facial recognition — possibly because of the angle of the images or limitations on how the NYPD is allowed to use that technology, Kenny said. Late Saturday, police released two additional photos of the suspected shooter that appeared to be from a camera mounted inside a taxi. The first shows him outside the vehicle and the second shows him looking through the partition between the back seat and the front of the cab. In both, his face is partially obscured by a blue, medical-style mask. Advertisement Advertisement
NEW YORK (AP) — No ex-president had a more prolific and diverse publishing career than Jimmy Carter . His more than two dozen books included nonfiction, poetry, fiction, religious meditations and a children’s story. His memoir “An Hour Before Daylight” was a Pulitzer Prize finalist in 2002, while his 2006 best-seller “Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid” stirred a fierce debate by likening Israel’s policies in the West Bank to the brutal South African system of racial segregation. And just before his 100th birthday, the Dayton Literary Peace Prize Foundation honored him with a lifetime achievement award for how he wielded “the power of the written word to foster peace, social justice, and global understanding.” In one recent work, “A Full Life,” Carter observed that he “enjoyed writing” and that his books “provided a much-needed source of income.” But some projects were easier than others. “Everything to Gain,” a 1987 collaboration with his wife, Rosalynn, turned into the “worst threat we ever experienced in our marriage,” an intractable standoff for the facilitator of the Camp David accords and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. According to Carter, Rosalynn was a meticulous author who considered “the resulting sentences as though they have come down from Mount Sinai, carved into stone.” Their memories differed on various events and they fell into “constant arguments.” They were ready to abandon the book and return the advance, until their editor persuaded them to simply divide any disputed passages between them. “In the book, each of these paragraphs is identified by a ‘J’ or an ‘R,’ and our marriage survived,” he wrote. Here is a partial list of books by Carter: “Keeping Faith: Memoirs of a President” “The Blood of Abraham: Insights into the Middle East” (With Rosalynn Carter) “Everything to Gain: Making the Most of the Rest of Your Life” “An Outdoor Journal: Adventures and Reflections” “Turning Point: A Candidate, a State, and a Nation Come of Age” “Always a Reckoning, and Other Poems” (With daughter Amy Carter) “The Little Baby Snoogle-Fleejer” “Living Faith” “The Virtues of Aging” “An Hour Before Daylight: Memories of a Rural Boyhood” “Christmas in Plains: Memories” “The Hornet’s Nest: A Novel of the Revolutionary War” “Our Endangered Values: America’s Moral Crisis” “Faith & Freedom: The Christian Challenge for the World” “Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid” “A Remarkable Mother” “Beyond the White House” “We Can Have Peace in the Holy Land: A Plan That Will Work” “White House Diary” “NIV Lessons from Life Bible: Personal Reflections with Jimmy Carter” “A Call to Action: Women, Religion, Violence, and Power” “A Full Life: Reflections at Ninety”TUSTIN, Calif., Dec. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Avid Bioservices, Inc. (NASDAQ: CDMO), a dedicated biologics contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) working to improve patient lives by providing high quality development and manufacturing services to biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, today announced financial results for the second quarter and six months ended October 31, 2024. Highlights from the Quarter Ended October 31, 2024: “We delivered solid results in a competitive environment, with increased revenues and backlog offset by increased costs,” stated Nick Green, president and CEO of Avid Bioservices. “We are pleased to reach the separately announced agreement with GHO and Ampersand, which will provide our stockholders with significant, immediate and certain cash value for their shares. The transaction also provides us with partners who are committed to leveraging their deep industry experience, focused strategy, and collaborative approach to drive growth beyond the Company’s standalone plan.” Financial Highlights for the Second Quarter and Six Months Ended October 31, 2024 Revenues for the second quarter were $33.5 million, an increase of 32% as compared to revenues of $25.4 million recorded in the same prior year period. For the first six months of fiscal 2025, revenues were $73.7 million, an increase of 17% as compared to revenues of $63.1 million in the same prior year period. The revenue increase for the second quarter and six months ended October 31, 2024, was attributed to increases in manufacturing and process development revenues. As of October 31, 2024, backlog was $220 million an increase of 11% compared to $199 million at the end of the same quarter last year. The company anticipates a significant amount of its backlog will be recognized as revenue over the next five fiscal quarters. Gross loss for the second quarter was $2.0 million compared to a gross loss of $4.7 million for the same prior year period. Gross profit for the first six months of fiscal 2025 was $3.7 million compared to a gross loss of $0.6 million for the same prior year period. The increase in gross profit for the second quarter and six months ended October 31, 2024, compared to the same prior year period was primarily driven by increased revenues, partially offset by increases in compensation and benefit related expenses, facility, manufacturing and other related expenses, and depreciation expense. SG&A expenses for the second quarter were $10.6 million, an increase of 61% compared to $6.6 million recorded in the same prior year period. The increase in SG&A for the second quarter ended October 31, 2024, compared to the same prior year period was primarily due to increases in compensation and benefit related expenses and legal fees. SG&A expenses for the first six months of fiscal 2025 were $18.8 million, an increase of 46% compared to $12.8 million recorded in the prior year period. The increase in SG&A for the second quarter and six months ended October 31, 2024, compared to the same prior year period was primarily due to increases in compensation and benefit related expenses and audit, legal and other consulting fees. Net loss for the second quarter was $17.4 million or $0.27 per basic and diluted share, compared to a net loss of $9.5 million or $0.15 per basic and diluted share for the same prior year period. For the first six months of fiscal 2025, the company recorded a net loss of $22.9 million or $0.36 per basic and diluted share, compared to a net loss of $11.6 million or $0.18 per basic and diluted share during the same prior year period. On October 31, 2024, the company reported cash and cash equivalents of $33.4 million, compared to $38.1 million on April 30, 2024. During the second quarter of fiscal 2025, the company’s revolving line of credit expired. More detailed financial information and analysis may be found in Avid Bioservices’ Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, which is being filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission today. Acquisition of Avid Bioservices by GHO Capital Partners and Ampersand Capital Partners On November 6, 2024, the company announced that Avid, GHO Capital Partners LLP ("GHO") and Ampersand Capital Partners (“Ampersand”) have entered into a definitive merger agreement for Avid to be acquired by funds managed by GHO and Ampersand in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $1.1 billion. Under the terms of the merger agreement, GHO and Ampersand would acquire all the outstanding shares held by Avid’s stockholders for $12.50 per share in cash. The per share purchase price represents a 13.8% premium to Avid’s closing share price of $10.98 on November 6, 2024, the last full trading day prior to the transaction announcement, and a 21.9% premium to the company's 20-day volume-weighted average share price for the period ended November 6, 2024. This transaction equates to an enterprise value of approximately $1.1 billion, a 6.3x multiple to consensus FY2025E revenue. The transaction, which was unanimously approved by the Avid Board of Directors, is currently expected to close in the first quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions, including approval by Avid’s stockholders and receipt of required regulatory approvals. The transaction is not subject to a financing condition. The companies will continue to operate independently until the proposed transaction is finalized. Upon completion of the transaction, Avid common stock will no longer be listed on any public stock exchange. The company will continue to operate under the Avid name and brand. In light of the proposed transaction, Avid will not host an earnings conference call and is suspending its practice of providing financial guidance. About Avid Bioservices, Inc. Avid Bioservices (NASDAQ: CDMO) is a dedicated contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) focused on development and CGMP manufacturing of biologics. The company provides a comprehensive range of process development, CGMP clinical and commercial manufacturing services for the biotechnology and biopharmaceutical industries. With more than 30 years of experience producing biologics, Avid's services include CGMP clinical and commercial drug substance manufacturing, bulk packaging, release and stability testing and regulatory submissions support. For early-stage programs the company provides a variety of process development activities, including cell line development, upstream and downstream development and optimization, analytical methods development, testing and characterization. The scope of our services ranges from standalone process development projects to full development and manufacturing programs through commercialization. www.avidbio.com Forward-Looking Statements Statements in this press release, which are not purely historical, including statements regarding the company’s projected revenue ramp and expected continued momentum, expected future sustained profitability, the estimated annual revenue-generating capacity of the company’s facilities, the expected benefits to the company’s business from customers with later stage programs, the anticipated timing for recognizing revenue from the company’s backlog, the realization of the company’s strategic objectives, the company’s revenue guidance, and other statements relating to the company’s intentions, hopes, beliefs, expectations, representations, projections, plans or predictions of the future, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, the timing, receipt and terms and conditions of any required governmental and regulatory approvals of the proposed transaction that could delay the consummation of the proposed transaction or cause the parties to abandon the proposed transaction; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement entered into in connection with the proposed transaction; the possibility that the company’s stockholders may not approve the proposed transaction; the risk that the parties to the merger agreement may not be able to satisfy the conditions to the proposed transaction in a timely manner or at all; risks related to disruption of management time from ongoing business operations due to the proposed transaction; the risk that any announcements relating to the proposed transaction could have adverse effects on the market price of the company’s common stock; the risk of any unexpected costs or expenses resulting from the proposed transaction; the risk of any litigation relating to the proposed transaction; and the risk that the proposed transaction and its announcement could have an adverse effect on the ability of the company to retain and hire key personnel and to maintain relationships with customers, vendors, partners, employees, stockholders and other business relationships and on its operating results and business generally, the risk the company may experience delays in engaging new customers, the risk that the company may not be successful in executing customers projects, the risk that changing economic conditions may delay or otherwise adversely impact the realization of the company’s backlog, the risk that the company may not be able to convert its backlog into revenue within the contemplated time periods, the risk that the company may experience technical difficulties in completing customer projects due to unanticipated equipment and/or manufacturing facility issues which could result in projects being terminated or delay delivery of products to customers, revenue recognition and receipt of payment or result in the loss of the customer, the risk that the company’s later-stage customers do not receive regulatory approval or that commercial demand for an approved product is less than forecast, the risk that one or more existing customers terminates its contract prior to completion or reduces or delays its demand for development or manufacturing services which could adversely affect guided fiscal 2025 revenues, the risk that expanding into a new biologics manufacturing capability may distract senior management’s focus on the company’s existing operations, the risk that the company may experience delays in hiring qualified individuals into the cell and gene therapy business, the risk that the company may experience delays in engaging customers for the cell and gene therapy business, and the risk that the cell and gene therapy business may not become profitable for several years, if ever. Our business could be affected by a number of other factors, including the risk factors listed from time to time in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission including, but not limited to, our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2024, as well as any updates to these risk factors filed from time to time in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We caution investors not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release, and we disclaim any obligation, and do not undertake, to update or revise any forward-looking statements in this press release except as may be required by law.
In the '70s, North Dakotans and Minnesotans had plenty to say about Jimmy Carter
Tottenham endured a tough week on the pitch and have been dealt further injury woes after back-to-back defeats in the Premier League. A 1-0 loss at Bournemouth saw Ben Davies ruled out for the foreseeable with a hamstring injury, while a home loss to Chelsea saw Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero return, but the latter then potentially pick up another fitness concern. Van de Ven and Brennan Johnson also suffered injury scares, while the likes of Guglielmo Vicario, Wilson Odobert and Richarlison face weeks, if not months, on the sidelines. Here is all the latest Tottenham injury news and return dates... Spurs are hopeful that Johnson has not suffered an injury against Chelsea, with his withdrawal shortly after half-time down to illness. Postecoglou explained after the game: “Brennan just didn't feel well. He didn't feel well at half-time. “He wanted to give it a go, but he just wasn't feeling 100 per cent, so I had to take him off.” Potential return date: Thursday, December 12 vs Rangers The same goes for Van de Ven, who was a shock starter against Chelsea. The defender has been sidelined for the last six games with a hamstring injury sustained during the 2-1 win over Manchester City in the Carabao Cup back in October, and was not expected back until later in December. However, he started against Chelsea and lasted 79 minutes until being replaced by Archie Gray, having required treatment to the back of his leg. It prompted fears of another hamstring injury but Postecoglou said after the game that Van de Ven's withdrawal was "nothing serious", adding: "The plan was always for Micky to play 60, 70 [minutes] today, so we were always going take him off. “He didn't feel anything significant. He just felt tightness, but we were always going to take him off anyway.” Potential return date: Thursday, December 12 vs Rangers Romero has been working his way back from a bruised toe since the international break and was also a starter against Chelsea. The defender lasted less than 15 minutes, with Spurs 2-0 up, before being forced off and replaced by Radu Dragusin. Romero left the pitch with his shirt over his face and Postecoglou spoke afterwards of his concern. “He felt something in his quad,” Postecoglou said: “He trained really well. He wasn't the one I was worried about, to be honest, but it's just the way the season's going for us unfortunately. So we just have to wait and see.” Asked if it was a risk to play Romero, Postecoglou explained: “It's a totally different injury ... it's not like Romero re-injured his toe, it's a totally different injury, which could happen at any time.” Potential return date: Unknown Spurs remain in the dark over how long Ben Davies will be sidelined for after picking up a hamstring injury against Bournemouth last week. Speaking after the 1-0 loss, Postcoglou said: “It looks like he's done his hamstring ... he'll obviously be out for a period of time now, we'll just have to wait and see how long it is.” Postecoglou added after the defeat to Chelsea on Sunday: “We’re still looking to find out the extent of Benny’s injury.” Potential return date: Unknown Tottenham’s goalkeeper suffered a blow to his ankle in the first half against Man City but played on and finished the game, making a string of fine saves in the process. However, he was seen limping when exiting the Etihad Stadium, with Spurs then revealing that he had undergone surgery on a fractured right ankle . Vicario himself took to social media to reveal that he had played with the issue for an hour against City , making his performance all the more impressive. The Italian international looks set for an extended spell out, with no timescale on his potential return as deputy Fraser Forster fills in. Potential return date: Unknown Mikey Moore’s last appearance came at the end of October in the Carabao Cup against Manchester City. The teenager has been out since then with illness and Postecoglou made it clear earlier this week that the club will not rush Moore back. “It's just that he's a young lad and he's only 17, and he's a big part of this football club, and we will protect him, and we'll be guided by how he feels, how he recovers from, you know, an illness,” Postecoglou said. “Like I said, young people will recover at different rates. He'll be back. He's still here. He's part of what we're doing, and he'll be back in the next few week.” Potential return date: Unknown A frustrating time of things on the injury front continued for Richarlison after he suffered a hamstring injury during the win over Aston Villa last month. The Brazilian is not expected back until the New Year. “Hopefully, he'll be back in the New Year but, again, similar to Micky [Van de Ven], we've got to be careful every step of the way,” confirmed Postecoglou. Potential return date: January 2025 Summer signing Wilson Odobert is facing an extended spell on the sidelines after suffering a “serious” setback in his recovery from a hamstring injury. A club statement released on November 16 said : “We can confirm that Wilson Odobert underwent surgery to his right hamstring yesterday "The 19-year-old will continue to be closely monitored by our medical team to determine when he can return to training." Potential return date: Unknown
Surprise Snow Day? Don’t Panic, You’re About To Have These 42 Entertaining Items Your Kids Will Love'All I Want For Christmas is You' is having another record-setting year on Billboard charts
Building on a Legacy of over 80 Years of Manufacturing Excellence - Gemcor Production Solutions Delivers Advanced Factory Integration with Automated Fastening Systems under Ascent AerospaceFor more than a decade, the United States has sought to keep out of Syria's political debacle, seeing no viable partner. Islamist rebels' toppling of strongman Bashar al-Assad has forced a change of tune -- and a debate over just what US interests are. Donald Trump, who returns to the White House in little more than a month, on the eve of Assad's fall called Syria "a mess" and stated in his plain-speaking style that the United States should not be involved. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.
The First Solana Layer 2 Meme Coin Arrives: Could Solaxy Become the Best Crypto Presale Launch Ever?
China and Malaysia formally established diplomatic relations on May 31, 1974, making it the first such relationship among the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Since then, bilateral relations have generally progressed smoothly. In 1999, the two countries signed a joint statement outlining a framework for future bilateral cooperation. In 2004, leaders from both sides reached a consensus on developing a strategic partnership. This partnership was elevated to a “ ” in 2013. In 2023, the two nations announced the establishment of a China-Malaysia community with a shared future. Malaysia is strategically located at the heart of Southeast Asia and serves as a gateway to ASEAN’s 650 million people and a combined GDP of US$3.2 trillion. Its geographical advantage positions it as a hub for accessing ASEAN markets and connecting to the Middle East, Australia, and New Zealand. In 2023, bilateral trade between China and Malaysia amounted to US$190.24 billion. Of this, China’s exports to Malaysia totaled US$87.38 billion, while imports from Malaysia reached US$102.86 billion. China has remained Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years. Major imports from Malaysia include integrated circuits, computers and their components, palm oil, and plastic products. Key Chinese exports to Malaysia consist of computers and their components, integrated circuits, apparel, and textiles. Chinese enterprises have rapidly increased their investments in Malaysia, with a growing diversification of sectors. Chinese companies operate extensively across the country, with major ongoing projects concentrated in railways, bridges, hydropower plants, and real estate. New developments are also emerging in highways, metro systems, light rail, and telecommunications. China has implemented a unilateral , while Malaysia offers 30-day visa-free entry for Chinese citizens. According to Malaysian statistics, over 1.47 million Chinese tourists visited Malaysia in 2023, maintaining China’s position for the seventh consecutive year as Malaysia’s largest source of tourists outside ASEAN. China-Malaysia bilateral trade Malaysia was China’s 10th largest global trading partner and the second largest within ASEAN. However, due to factors such as the decline in international commodity prices (including palm oil and natural gas), uncertainties arising from geopolitical conflicts, and a high base from the previous year, China-Malaysia bilateral trade experienced a slight decline in 2023, decreasing by 5.2 percent year on year. Despite these fluctuations, China remains Malaysia’s primary source of imports and second-largest export destination, underscoring the deep economic ties between the two nations and Malaysia’s pivotal role as China’s second-largest ASEAN trading partner. Source: China’s key export products to Malaysia primarily include electrical machinery, machinery, furniture, plastics, steel products, vehicles and parts, mineral fuels, and textiles. Since 2019, these traditional export categories have consistently ranked among the top 10 in export value, with significant growth in each category. Source: What has increased during 2019-2023: Natural or cultured pearls, a 117 percent increase; Articles of apparel and clothing accessories, a 70 percent increase; Preparations of meat or fish, a 53 percent increase. Malaysia’s exports to China have been stable and robust in recent years with electrical and electronics (E&E) products accounting for the largest share of total exports. The primary export categories from Malaysia to China encompass electrical machinery, mineral fuels, plastics, and medical photographic machinery, demonstrating the diversity of goods traded with the world’s second-largest economy. Source: What has increased during 2019-2023: Paper and paperboard, a 95 percent increase; Residues and waste from the food industry, a 41 percent increase; Edible fruit and nuts, a 39 percent increase. China-Malaysia bilateral investment Benefiting from the diversification of global and regional supply chains and the adoption of ‘China+1’ strategies, net foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows into Malaysia have surged in recent years. To mitigate the impacts of trade tensions with the US, China has been looking to relocate some supply chains or establish new plants in Southeast Asia, including Malaysia. This has led to a steady influx of investment from both Chinese and US companies, making Malaysia one of the fastest-growing hubs for data centers, which are essential for powering artificial intelligence systems. The China-Malaysia Qinzhou Industrial Park and the Malaysia-China Kuantan Industrial Park, jointly developed by China and Malaysia, are thriving and have established a new model of international cooperation known as the “ ” initiative. This initiative exemplifies the close and dynamic trade relationship between the two nations, highlighting their shared vision for future collaboration. Launched under the China-ASEAN strategic framework, it integrates the Qinzhou and Kuantan parks as sister industrial hubs. These parks provide industry-specific infrastructure strategically located near major Malaysian ports and transportation hubs, optimizing logistics for high-value sectors such as manufacturing, electronics, and smart technology. Favorable policies, including tax incentives, tariff reductions, and subsidies, enhance cost efficiency, while joint ventures with Malaysian companies facilitate localized market penetration and access to broader ASEAN markets. Additionally, the initiative promotes technology and knowledge transfer, driving innovation and aligning exports with Malaysia’s focus on renewable energy, e-commerce, and other high-growth industries. This comprehensive ecosystem positions the Twin Parks as a critical enabler of export growth, creating significant opportunities for Chinese businesses to expand their presence in Malaysia and the ASEAN region. Source: As of the end of 2023, Malaysia ranked among the top 20 countries (regions) for China’s outbound FDI stock, reaching US$13.48 billion, which accounts for 0.5 percent of China’s total. Additionally, according to from Malaysia’s Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), in 2022, China was Malaysia’s largest source of approved foreign investment. Malaysia approved a total of RM 163.3 billion (approximately US$36.9 billion) in FDI that year, of which RM 55.4 billion (US$12.5 billion) came from China, accounting for 33.9 percent of the total. In 2023, China ranked among the top five foreign investors in Malaysia, driven by the manufacturing and services sectors. Malaysia’s international standard legal framework, abundant resources, competitive labor costs, and proximity to ASEAN markets further solidify its position as a preferred destination for Chinese enterprises. China’s investment in Malaysia highlights a strongly tied partnership rooted in cultural, economic, and strategic advantages. Chinese companies such as Vanke and CRRC Corporation have leveraged Malaysia’s pro-investment environment and multicultural society, which includes a significant Chinese population, to streamline operations and enhance cooperation. has played a vital role in advancing Malaysia’s transportation sector, particularly in rail and related industries, aligning with Malaysia’s goals of developing sustainable and modern infrastructure. In the telecommunication sector, , beginning in 2001 and 2004 respectively, were drawn by Malaysia’s focus on modernizing its telecommunications infrastructure. With Malaysia’s skilled workforce and a business-friendly environment, these firms have significantly contributed to the country’s digital transformation, supporting Malaysia in gaining access to cutting-edge technology while the firms secure a strategic foothold in a growing market. China’s investment in Malaysia’s real estate sector has been on the rise, exemplified most prominently by the Forest City project. stands as Malaysia’s most ambitious Chinese-funded real estate project, spanning over 1,386 hectares and blending luxury housing with service-oriented industries like tourism, healthcare, and green technology. Malaysia offers a competitive investment environment with strategic initiatives such as tax incentives for manufacturing, green energy, and technology sectors and its promotion of five economic corridors to balance regional development. The government also supports in targeted industries, boosting Malaysia’s attractiveness for FDI. Malaysia presents an exceptional opportunity for investors due to its combination of strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and business-friendly policies. Situated in the heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia’s well-developed transport networks—including international airports, seaports, highways, and railways—facilitate efficient logistics and commerce, making it a central hub for global trade. The country also features over equipped with essential amenities, offering tax and duty incentives to reduce operational costs. In addition, Malaysia also benefits from ASEAN’s regional growth, which features the third-largest labor market globally. With its expanding middle class and increasing demand for goods and services, . These synergies between Malaysia’s infrastructure, strategic location, and access to ASEAN markets firmly establish it as a key hub for international commerce and innovation. The Malaysian government actively supports foreign investment through economic corridors that target regional development. Through its participation in ASEAN Free Trade Agreements (AFTA), . These reduced trade barriers translate into lower operational costs, allowing businesses in Malaysia to capitalize on the opportunities within one of the largest global trade blocs. As a market-oriented economy, it is supported by , which allows foreign investors to own 100 percent equity in manufacturing and specific service industries. The country has , generating over 104,000 jobs and US$143 billion in investments. Malaysia’s strong economic foundation and growth prospects are another draw for investors. As one of the most competitive and innovative emerging markets in ASEAN, Malaysia ranks highly in global indices for investment opportunities. Its policies, such as the “ ,” support digitalization and AI technologies to take up 26 percent of the total GDP in the next decade. Similarly, the “ ” aims to support Malaysia in achieving nationwide electrification and equitable development by expanding rural energy access, enhancing demand-side energy efficiency across sectors, and optimizing the value of indigenous resources like natural gas and petrochemicals. It also promotes private investment in renewable energy sources such as solar, hydroelectric, and bioenergy to support sustainable industry growth and regional competitiveness. The country is rich in natural resources, from palm oil and rubber to petroleum and minerals, supporting a diverse range of industries. Its skilled workforce, with relatively low labor costs, enhances the competitiveness of its manufacturing and service sectors. Additionally, Malaysia’s multicultural environment, especially the large Chinese community, facilitates smooth operations for foreign companies, particularly those from China. China-Malaysia bilateral agreement , effective since 1988 and revised periodically, is designed to eliminate the risk of double taxation on income and foster enhanced economic relations between Malaysia and China. It outlines clear tax obligations for income generated across both countries, ensuring taxpayers are not taxed twice on the same earnings. The treaty stipulates withholding tax rates on various income types to reduce tax burdens for cross-border transactions: Dividends: 5 percent if the recipient holds at least 25 percent (China to Malaysia), or 10 percent (Malaysia to China) of the shares in the company paying the dividends. 10 percent for all other cases. Interest: 10 percent. Royalties: 10 percent. The RCEP Agreement aims to enhance trade and investment among its members by reducing tariffs, simplifying customs procedures, and promoting economic integration. China-Malaysia future opportunities Malaysia’s energy sector is poised for a promising transformation, underpinned by robust plans for renewable energy development and market reforms. Malaysia has incentivized green technology tax benefits since 2001. The . The government’s supportive policies are aiming to attract investments in green technology projects in sectors such as circular economy, low carbon emissions, renewable energy, energy storage, etc. As of 2022, the country’s power industry had an installed capacity of 42 GW and generated 151 TWh of electricity annually. Guided by the “ ” introduced in 2019, the government is gradually liberalizing Peninsular Malaysia’s electricity market to attract independent enterprises and diversify fuel sources. Malaysia has set ambitious renewable energy targets, aiming to increase the share of renewables in installed capacity from 16 percent in 2021 to 31 percent by 2025 and 40 percent by 2040. Furthermore, the nation is committed to reducing its carbon emission intensity by 45 percent by 2030 and 60 percent by 2035, using 2005 levels as a baseline. To achieve these goals, Malaysia plans to halt the construction of new coal plants and retire 7 GW of coal-fired power by 2033. These initiatives highlight Malaysia’s dedication to reducing fossil fuel dependence, curbing carbon emissions, and fostering a sustainable energy future aligned with global climate commitments. Malaysia’s E&E industry is thriving and evolving with increasing opportunities for investment. Semiconductor manufacturing remains one of the country’s primary contributors to economic growth, with strong participation from multinational corporations (MNCs) in the downstream segments such as assembly, advanced packaging, and testing. , as of 2021, foreign investment accounted for 99.4 percent of the total approved investment in electronic components, with the sector receiving US$19.38 billion in investment, resulting in over 12,400 job opportunities. The growing demand for electronics, driven by global trends in automation, electric vehicles, and renewable energy, ensures that Malaysia will remain at the forefront of the semiconductor and electronic component industries. By 2027, the global semiconductor market is expected to grow to US$141.1 billion, and this favorable business climate makes it an attractive location for investors looking to capture a share of this expanding market. Malaysia is also emerging as a leader in the solar energy space, with an almost complete ecosystem of 250 companies involved in solar cell production, inverters, and system integration. The solar sector attracted a significant portion of the total approved investment, reflecting Malaysia’s strategic commitment to renewable energy. Additionally, Malaysia is well-positioned to capitalize on the shift toward advanced manufacturing, with a focus on -embedded electronic products, smart devices, and smart energy solutions. The government’s ongoing support for research and development, coupled with favorable tax incentives, further enhances Malaysia’s appeal as a global electronics manufacturing hub. shows the government’s objectives to attract financial incentives, grants, and support to encourage AI adoption and innovation domestically. In 2024, Malaysia presents an increasingly attractive landscape for investors in the AI industry, driven by its strategic integration of AI technologies across key sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, finance, and education. , the country is on track to harness AI to significantly boost its GDP, with projections indicating a 30 percent increase. This robust government-backed initiative, coupled with improvements in global AI readiness rankings, reflects Malaysia’s commitment to becoming a regional and global leader in AI. The country’s focus on fostering public-private partnerships, workforce upskilling, and cutting-edge digital infrastructure enhances its attractiveness for investors seeking growth in a rapidly evolving AI ecosystem. Additionally, and its emphasis on digitalization as a regional priority highlight the nation’s growing influence in shaping the future of AI adoption within Southeast Asia. Investors can expect a conducive environment for innovation, supported by a clear national AI vision, strategic research investments, and initiatives designed to overcome AI adoption barriers. With Malaysia positioning itself as a hub for AI-driven growth, the country’s comprehensive approach to AI readiness, workforce development, and cross-border collaboration presents significant opportunities for long-term investment in this dynamic sector. Malaysia’s healthcare sector is also offering compelling opportunities for international investors. Investors are attracted by incentives such as tax allowances for establishing or expanding private hospitals and facilities specializing in ambulatory care or rehabilitation. With a rising middle class and a growing aging population, there is a substantial demand for high-quality private healthcare services, including . The sector’s push toward digitalization presents additional avenues for investment in telemedicine, health data analytics, and AI-driven diagnostics. Furthermore, Malaysia’s position as a global medical tourism hub offers lucrative opportunities in wellness centers, cosmetic surgery, and fertility treatments. So, catering to regional and global healthcare demands while tapping into Malaysia’s skilled workforce and robust public-private collaboration frameworks will be attractive in the near future. China Briefing is one of five regional publications, supported by . For a complimentary subscription to China Briefing’s content products, please click . Dezan Shira & Associates assists foreign investors into and has done so since 1992 through offices in , , , , , , , , , , , , , and . We also have offices in , , , , , , , and and partner firms assisting foreign investors in , , , , and . For assistance in China, please contact the firm at or visit our website at . Our free webinars are packed full of useful information for doing business in China. Meet the firm behind our content. Visit their website to see how their services can help your business succeed. Subscribing grants you this, plus free access to our articles and magazines.