The first medication for obstructive sleep apnea has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
On Dec. 20, the FDA announced that the agency has approved Eli Lilly’s Zepbound (tirzepatide) to treat moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in adults with obesity.
The drug is to be paired with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, the FDA noted.
SOME SLEEP APNEA PATIENTS SEE IMPROVEMENT WITH NEW BREATHING TOOL
Sally Seymour, M.D., director of the Division of Pulmonology, Allergy and Critical Care in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research in Washington, D.C., applauded the approval in an announcement.
Happy and healthy senior man sleeping deeply on his left side without snoring(iStock)
“Today’s approval marks the first drug treatment option for certain patients with obstructive sleep apnea,” Seymour wrote. “This is a major step forward for patients with obstructive sleep apnea.”
OSA occurs when the upper airway becomes blocked and causes pauses in breathing during sleep, according to the FDA. The condition is more common in people who are overweight or obese.
UNTREATED SLEEP APNEA PRESENTS ‘DISRUPTIVE’ DANGERS TO PEOPLE’S LIVES, INCLUDING HEART ISSUES, SAYS EXPERT
Similar to semaglutide treatments like Ozempic and Wegovy, Zepbound activates receptors of hormones secreted from the intestine (GLP-1 and GIP) to reduce appetite and food intake.
About 30 million people suffer from sleep apnea in the U.S.
Studies show that by reducing body weight, Zepbound “also improves OSA,” the FDA noted.
In a 52-week study, participants treated with Zepbound experienced “statistically significant and clinically meaningful reduction in events of apnea or hypopnea,” and a large share of participants achieved remission or “resolution of symptoms.”
Zepbound improves obstructive sleep apnea by reducing body weight, studies show.(iStock)
Zepbound-treated patients also reported a significant decrease in body weight, the FDA mentioned.
The drug can reportedly cause side effects like nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, stomach discomfort and pain, injection site reactions, fatigue, allergic reactions (typically fever and rash), burping, hair loss and gastroesophageal reflux disease.
DO WOMEN NEED MORE SLEEP THAN ME? HERE’S WHAT EXPERTS THINK
While Zepbound causes thyroid C-cell tumors in rats, it’s unknown whether it causes these tumors in humans, so it should not be used by patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2, per the FDA.
The agency encourages all OSA patients to consult with a doctor before taking Zepbound and to monitor for any complications.
One sleep expert called the FDA’s approval a “promising advancement for the millions of people who suffer from this condition.”(iStock)
Sleep expert Dr. Wendy Troxel, who is a RAND Corporation senior behavioral specialist and licensed clinical psychologist in Utah, called the FDA’s approval a “promising advancement for the millions of people who suffer from this condition.”
“Zepbound promotes weight loss and has been shown to reduce apnea events.”
About 30 million people suffer from sleep apnea in the U.S., Troxel told Fox News Digital.
While the most common treatment for sleep apnea — positive airway pressure (PAP) — is “highly effective” at treating the condition, up to 50% of patients are “non-adherent,” she said.
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“Zepbound promotes weight loss and has been shown to reduce apnea events,” Troxel noted.
“For obese individuals with moderate to severe sleep apnea, this new treatment option may offer an important alternative or adjunctive treatment, particularly for those who struggle with sleep apnea therapies, such as positive airway pressure.”
People with a history of severe allergic reaction to tirzepatide should not use Zepbound, the FDA warned in a news release.(iStock)
Troxel added that treating sleep apnea is “critical not only for the patient’s health and well-being, but also for their bed partners, who are often the ‘hidden casualties’ of untreated sleep apnea, given that loud snoring and gasping for air are primary symptoms,” she said.
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Dr. William Lu, medical director of Dreem Health in San Francisco, told Fox News Digital that obesity and sleep apnea are “two of the most prevalent health conditions that affect Americans today.”
“We still need to emphasize shifting the diet and health habits of many, but this is a fantastic start.”
“And they go hand in hand,” he said. “For the patients who qualify and have no contraindications, tirzepatide has the opportunity to be a generational medication that can help people lose weight, reduce the severity of sleep apnea and improve overall health.”
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“We still need to emphasize shifting the diet and health habits of many, but this is a fantastic start.”
Getting tested for sleep apnea is “critical for your health,” Lu said, and could also be a requirement for getting coverage for the medication.
Fox News Digital reached out to Eli Lilly requesting comment.
Angelica Stabile is a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital.
Leah Shutkever from the UK has set a new Guinness World Record for eating the “most cotton candy (candy floss) in one minute,” devouring 49 grams (1.72 oz) in 60 seconds. Known for holding multiple food record titles, Shutkever achieved this latest feat just in time for Christmas. The Guinness World Records shared a video of her attempt on Instagram. Staying festive, Shutkever chose green candy floss, representing the Grinch. Candy floss, a sugary treat made by heating and spinning sugar, is often associated with fairs and carnivals. After completing the challenge, Shutkever described the experience as “absolutely delicious.” “Merry cotton candy Grinchmas to one and all,” Guinness World Records commented on the video.
Also Read:Blindfolded Man Cuts Cucumbers With A Chainsaw To Set Guinness World Record
The speed eating record garnered a range of reactions in the comments section:
“I feel like I could beat that record easily,” an Instagram user wrote. Another added, “I could do that in 20 seconds.”
Also Read: Man Breaks 2 Records For Drinking One Litre Of Acidic Lemon And Lime Juice Each In Seconds
Enjoying this challenge, a viewer said, “Grinch Candy Floss 10/10.” One suggested, “You can just roll the Cotten candy into a ball and eat that in 5 seconds.”
“Oh the hot dog girl,” a user commented, remembering Shutkever’s 2021 record for the fastest time to eat a hot dog with no hands. The “serial speed eater” achieved the feat in just 18.15 seconds. Watch the video here.
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-12-23/Xi-presents-order-to-promote-military-officer-to-rank-of-general-1zzpyhhcwhi/img/e5a1093c430648378a0adee24d5c5661/e5a1093c430648378a0adee24d5c5661.png' alt='Xi Jinping, chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), presents a certificate of order to promote Chen Hui, Political Commissar of the Army of the People's Liberation Army, to the rank of general, at a ceremony in Beijing, China, December 23, 2024. /CMG'
Xi Jinping, chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), on Monday presented a certificate of order to promote a military officer to the rank of general.
The promoted officer is the Political Commissar of the Army of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Chen Hui.
Zhang Youxia, vice chairman of the CMC, announced the order of promotion, which was signed by Xi, at a ceremony held for the promotion in Beijing. He Weidong, another CMC vice chairman, presided over the ceremony.
Oberoi Realty said it has executed an agreement for the development of an 81-acre parcel of land situated at village Tekali, Alibag in Maharashtra where it plans to develop a hotel or a resort and residential villas.
The Mumbai-based real estate developer said that on around 8.6 acres or 34,803 square meters of the land it intended to construct a high-end luxury five-star hotel or a resort with a floor space index of 30,000 square metres.
On the balance land of 72.45 acres the company intends to construct about 150 high end luxury, fully serviced, branded residential villas with FSI of around 1.2 lakh square metres.
The company said it has taken physical possession of the land, and the landowners will be compensated in the firms of revenue and area share in the residential project.
Pri kreiranju rubrike Index Shopping nastojimo izdvajati odlične proizvode koji se i nama sviđaju te odlične akcije i popuste. Ne objavljujemo proizvode koje i sami ne bismo kupili ili smatramo da njihova promocija nije u skladu s profesionalnim standardima. Neki proizvodi u rubrici Index Shopping mogu biti sponzorirani.
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Identity in the NBA, the foundational qualities that define how a team will play most nights, are almost always forged over the course of a season.
The Lakers began the season convinced they would need to simply outscore their opponents because of their defensive liabilities. Then, in a 180-degree turn, an improved defensive effort helped fuel their recent run of strong play — the team simply pouring more energy into that area of the court.
But what about the parts of identity that can’t be learned? What about the things that just are?
On Monday night against the Detroit Pistons the Lakers, at times, played with speed. They were, at times, able to play with physicality.
But the Lakers, on most nights, are simply a roster trying to be those things. And against a team such as Detroit, one that doesn’t have to try to be physical or athletic, it’s crystal clear what the Lakers aren’t — big, strong or particularly athletic.
LeBron James has made a career of owning those traits at levels that no one else could match. But 22 years in the NBA has provided a template for how to bully smaller players, the Pistons hunting the smaller Lakers with Cade Cunningham and Detroit’s younger, stronger and tougher players battering them for a 117-114 win.
Cunningham needed 25 shots to score 20 points, but there was a cumulative effect to the effort and energy it took the Lakers, particularly Max Christie and Austin Reaves, to try and slow down the former No. 1 pick. It wasn’t all at once. But the sum of the spent energy undoubtedly bled into other areas.
The Lakers (16-13), who trailed by as many as 11 in the fourth after getting bruised for most of the second half, got to within three in the final 30 seconds. But Anthony Davis missed a driving layup. And while a foul got called, Detroit challenged, and officials overturned the decision.
The Pistons (13-17) and Cunningham again went at Reaves, with the Lakers guard forcing a late-clock miss. The team had 3.7 seconds and one last chance to get a tie, but James missed an open three just before the buzzer.
“It was something we work on,” James said of his final shot. “We work on end-of-game stuff every day. We got the look we wanted and it just didn’t go.”
Monday’s loss was a testament to the Lakers’ growing understanding of the way they need to play, aided by some welcomed offense provided by 14 successful three-pointers — the most for the Lakers in five games.
And physically, the Lakers did fight — just not with as much comfort as the Pistons.
No Laker had a second foul called on them until there was 4 minutes 20 seconds left in the game. And Detroit’s muscle certainly contributed to the Lakers’ 20 turnovers, mistakes that led to 28 Pistons points (the Lakers scored only nine off 12 Detroit turnovers).
Detroit Pistons guard Jaden Ivey, center, drives past Lakers forwards Anthony Davis, left, and Cam Reddish during the second half Monday.
(Eric Thayer / Associated Press)
“We were just loose with the ball,” Davis said. “…We were trying to make the right plays. But they do a good job of creating turnovers and it’s hard to win a game with 20. But we’ve just got to be better with the basketball. Everybody. I think that’s what was the difference in the game.”
Reaves had six of those turnovers, saying afterward that he needed to play better.
“They’re a really aggressive defensive team, and myself personally, I didn’t handle it well,” he said.
James led the Lakers with 28 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists. Each of the other four starters scored at least 10, but ex-Laker Malik Beasley scored 21 off the Detroit bench. The Pistons’ reserves outscored the Lakers’ 52-28.
But the tone of the game was set by how Detroit won the minor battles that define possessions, the ball pressure that knocks a team out of rhythm, the grabbing that makes a screen slightly more effective, the shoving under the glass that leads to an extra possession.
The Lakers have countered it before — just not consistently. There are things the Lakers can do to make more physical teams less of a problem. But there’s probably not much they can do to make that problem go away completely.
“We gotta be stronger. That’s all,” James said. “…We gotta do it as a team. We gotta help guys get open. When guys are pressuring the ball, you gotta help guys screen better. You gotta screen better. … You gotta use your triple-threat (position). When you have a live dribble, get guys up off you.
“It’s not something you can learn, though. You don’t learn to be more physical. It’s either in you or it’s not.”
A Japanese hot spring town popular for its photogenic snowy scenes began limiting entry to day-trippers on Monday in a trial to tackle overtourism during winter.
Ginzan Onsen, a remote town in northern Yamagata region, draws around 330,000 visitors each year.(Pexels)
Ginzan Onsen, a remote town in northern Yamagata region, draws around 330,000 visitors each year.
Many share photos online of its old-fashioned buildings blanketed in snow and illuminated by lamplight that create a nostalgic atmosphere. Also read | Japan’s tourism surge: Record numbers, rising spending and what travellers should know
However, authorities in Ginzan Onsen, as in more famous destinations such as Kyoto and Mount Fuji, have become fed up with a rise in road problems, quarrels and other nuisances.
Authorities in Ginzan Onsen limits visitors:
From Monday, only people staying at local hotels will be allowed to enter the town after 8 pm, while those wishing to visit between 5 pm and 8 pm will need a reservation.
Japan has seen a record influx of foreign tourists this year as the weak yen swells a post-pandemic travel boom.
“Traffic jams have sometimes been caused by cars getting stuck in the snow, because travellers were driving with normal tyres” instead of with snow tyres, said Takayuki Saito, head of commerce and tourism for the municipality of Obanazawa, where the town is located.
“We’ve also heard of cases of emergency vehicles not being able to reach” Ginzan Onsen due to congestion, Saito told AFP.
Driving there “can be dangerous with poor visibility in snowstorms” in winter, he said. Also read | Japan travel update: Mount Fuji introduces online reservations to manage summer crowds as hiking season begins
Until the end of February, day-trippers will be asked to park at a tourism centre two kilometres (1.2 miles) away and pay for a shuttle bus.
The official website for Ginzan Onsen said the trial had been launched after years of debate, adding that authorities were hoping to maintain a good relationship with visitors.
When heavy traffic recently stopped an ambulance, “an emergency service team made it to the scene by running, but it was truly a life-and-death situation,” the site said.
“Some visitors are verbally abusive” when officials come to help cars stuck in snow, according to the site, which it described as “unbearable”.
More than 33 million foreign visitors have entered Japan so far this year, breaking 2019’s full-year record of nearly 32 million.
Locals in Japan’s ancient capital Kyoto have complained of tourists harassing the city’s famed geisha and decided to ban visitors from entering private alleys. Also read | Japan eases entry for travellers with new preclearance system, faster immigration processing as tourist wave hits record
Authorities have also introduced an entry fee and daily cap on numbers on Mount Fuji’s most popular trail, while barriers were installed outside a convenience store nearby to stop crowds of snap-happy visitors getting injured on the road.
For years, fans of the classic Christmas film Home Alone have been willing to forgive the colossal parenting blunder made by Kate and Peter McCallister. It’s only halfway through a flight spanning over 4,000 miles from their home that they realise they’ve left their eight year old son behind for the festive season.
This leaves him with the task of purchasing his own toothbrush and fending off burglars armed with a blowtorch and a firearm. However, accidents do occur.
It’s an easy mistake to make – after causing a family uproar over a cheese pizza, Kevin is instructed to sleep in the attic. The next morning, a neighbouring child with a similar hat preference is mistakenly counted in the headcount.
It’s all just an innocent error, right?
Some sharp-eyed viewers believe it’s not as straightforward as it appears. They accuse one family member of intentionally putting Kevin in danger, with a very dark motive, reports the Mirror.
Reddit users have proposed a theory that Kevin’s father Peter orchestrated the entire situation after noticing he discarded Kevin’s plane ticket, which would have otherwise highlighted his absence at the airport. During the clean-up following the cheese pizza incident, there’s a fleeting moment where Peter tosses a stack of damp napkins into the bin.
Peeking out from behind them is an American Airlines ticket with ‘Kevin’ handwritten on the front.
Conspiracy theories about the classic holiday film “Home Alone” abound, with one individual suggesting a sinister twist: “Let’s dispel with this fiction that Mr. McCallister doesn’t know what he’s doing. He knows exactly what he’s doing.”
A second posits a disturbing theory: “He hired those two robbers to rob his house without telling them Kevin would be there, with the plan being that they would panic and kill Kevin (which seems to be what they tried to do by the end).”
Debates continue to rage as a third points out possible family conflict as a motive: “Peter didn’t want Frank to spoil the vacation so when he found the perfect opportunity to throw out Kevin’s ticket, he took it right here.”
Speculation intensifies with comments such as “What if Peter hated Kevin just as much as Frank did, only he was better at hiding it?” The discussions are fueled by keen-eyed observations, with someone expressing amazement: “I’ve seen this twenty times and never noticed this. Good work! ” This spurs on the question – did Kevin’s father accidentally leave him behind or was there a more horrifying intention at play?
The Ford Escort has made its official return, and unlike other reborn Blue Oval nameplates, it’s not an electric SUV.
Earlier this month, Ford’s “official brand licence partner” Boreham Motorworks unveiled the Escort Mk1 RS, marking the first time the nameplate has been used in more than two decades.
According to Boreham Motorworks, its Escort Mk1 RS isn’t a continuation nor a restomod, instead claiming it as a Continumod, having received the blessing of Ford.
While other companies have been able to make recreations of the Escort with period-correct body shells, they haven’t been able to use the name. This has been the case for MST, who builds the Mk1 and Mk2, based on corresponding generations of the Escort.
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“[Continumod:] A blueprint-accurate, period-sympathetic vehicle built new – no donor car, just an authentic continuation with approved chassis numbers from the original manufacturer,” Boreham said in a media release.
“Combining the timeless spirit of classic cars with modern engineering, design, and advanced manufacturing, a Continumod redefines heritage with cutting-edge innovation.”
Just 150 examples will be produced from the third quarter of 2025 (July to September), with prices starting from an eye-watering £295,000 (A$593,185).
Based on the first-generation Ford Escort RS1600, Boreham stayed largely faithful to the 1960s model’s exterior design, though there are modern touches such as LED headlights (made to look like they’ve been covered in tape, similar to racing cars of the period) and LED tail lights.
As with all Escort RSs, the Boreham Continumod features flared wheel-arches, under which sit bespoke 15-inch wheels, also inspired by classing racers. The front brakes include four-piston calipers and ventilated discs, while there’s two-pot calipers and solid discs at the rear.
Inside, the design of the Mk1 Escort remains largely unchanged, with six gauges sitting in front of the driver – something which was exclusive to the top-spec RS1600s.
The dashboard, steering wheel rim, seats and door cards are upholstered in Alcantara for a modern touch, while a tiny screen appears to show Apple CarPlay functionality.
Buyers have the choice of two engines. The first is a 1.8-litre simply known as the Twin Cam – though it’s unknown if it bears any relation to the Lotus-developed, Kent-based engine originally powering the RS1600.
A fuel injection system has bumped outputs up to 136kW, or about 30kW more than the most potent Lotus Twin Cams in the period.
This engine is exclusively mated to a four-speed manual transmission, and can spin up to 9000rpm.
A second bespoke engine is also available, displacing 2.1 litres, and fitted with an electronic throttle. It can produce up to 221kW at 10,000rpm, and is paired with a five-speed ‘dog leg’ manual transmission, where first gear is placed where second normally is.
Boreham says it’s targeting a kerb weight of just 800kg, which would give the Escort RS a power-to-weight ratio of 276kW/tonne.
Available to order in both right- and left-hand drive, there’s MacPherson struts at the front end and a floating rear axle at the rear, made from lightweight aluminium. Adjustable coilovers feature all round.
Boreham claims it’s achieved a weight distribution of 55 per cent front and 45 per cent rear.
The vehicle is backed by a two-year, 20,000-mile (32,190km) warranty.
Its debut comes shortly after Ford brought the Capri back for the first time in Europe since 1986, however rather than returning as a coupe as it was for its first three generations, it’s now an electric SUV with Volkswagen underpinnings.
Boreham Motorworks is also soon bringing back the Ford RS200 – a mid-engined, all-wheel drive monster first made for rally racing – and has recently announced famed Ford racing team Alan Mann Racing as its performance division.
MORE: 2025 Ford Capri is a Volkswagen electric SUV in a new suit, not a reborn coupe
Bank Holiday On Christmas In India: Check Reserve Bank of India’s Full List Of Holidays
Christmas Bank Holiday In India: Check All Details Here
Bank Holiday On Christmas In India: As the festive season approaches, many are gearing up for celebrations while also managing essential errands. Among the common concerns during Christmas is the availability of banking services. If you’re planning financial transactions, here’s everything you need to know about the bank holiday status for Christmas Day 2024.
As Christmas is a nationwide holiday, in-person banking services, including branch operations and counter transactions, will be unavailable. Customers are advised to plan to avoid any disruptions during this period.
Christmas Bank Holiday In India
On Wednesday, December 25, 2024, banks across India will remain closed in observance of Christmas, as per the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) list of holidays. In some states, Christmas festivities extend beyond December 25, with bank closures lasting until Friday, December 27.
Christmas Eve and Extended Bank Holidays
Certain states also observe bank holidays on Christmas Eve, December 24, and in the days following Christmas. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Nagaland: A four-day holiday, with banks closed from December 24 to December 27.
Mizoram & Meghalaya: A three-day holiday, with banks shut from December 24 to December 26.
Bank Holiday On Christmas In India: Check Full Region-Wise List
Online Banking to the Rescue
Even though physical branches will be closed, digital banking services will remain fully operational. Customers can perform tasks such as money transfers, balance checks, and utility payments using online platforms and mobile apps. However, processes like cheque clearances might experience slight delays.
ATM Services and Cash Availability
ATMs will function as usual on December 25, providing access to cash. However, due to higher demand and the possibility of technical glitches, it’s recommended to withdraw cash in advance to ensure uninterrupted access during the holiday period.
Plan for a Stress-Free Holiday
To avoid last-minute inconveniences, it’s best to complete all crucial banking tasks—such as cheque deposits, cash withdrawals, or branch-related work—by Tuesday, December 24, 2024.
By planning ahead, you can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free holiday season while ensuring your financial needs are met.
SonicX, a popular tap-to-earn game on TikTok, will airdrop its SONIC tokens to users through Solana’s Sonic SVM network. Launched in October, SonicX allows players to tap their screens to earn rewards, purchase power-ups, and refer friends. The game’s user-friendly setup requires no crypto wallet or complex transactions, attracting over 2 million players in just two months. The SONIC token snapshot is yet to be taken, meaning new users can still qualify for the January airdrop by logging in via TikTok. Sonic SVM, Solana’s layer-2 gaming network, supports over 20 projects and plans to expand its reach with partnerships like Mahjong123. This marks another milestone in TikTok’s growing presence in Web3 gaming.
Looking for the most recent Mini Crossword answer? Click here for today’s Mini Crossword hints, as well as our daily answers and hints for The New York Times Wordle, Strands and Connections puzzles.
The New York Times Mini Crossword threw kind of a toughie at us for Christmas Eve, I thought. And that day actually showed up in the clues — spoiler!. Anyway, if you’re stuck on any of the clues today, we’ve got the answers. And if you could use some hints and guidance for daily solving, check out our Mini Crossword tips.
The Mini Crossword is just one of many games in the Times’ games collection. If you’re looking for today’s Wordle, Connections and Strands answers, you can visit CNET’s NYT puzzle hints page.
Read more: Tips and Tricks for Solving The New York Times Mini Crossword
Let’s get at those Mini Crossword clues and answers.
The completed NYT Mini Crossword puzzle for Dec. 24, 2024.
NYT/Screenshot by CNET
Mini across clues and answers
1A clue: Christmas ___ Answer: EVE
4A clue: Hanker for, as Christmas cookies Answer: CRAVE
6A clue: Instrument heard in many a Christmas hymn Answer: ORGAN
7A clue: Rounded heap Answer: MOUND
8A clue: Vintner’s device Answer: PRESS
Mini down clues and answers
1A clue: Proofreader’s catch Answer: ERROR
2A clue: Like a Christmas wish list that just says “toys” Answer: VAGUE
3A clue: Chris of “Knives Out” Answer: EVANS
4A clue: Provide free of charge Answer: COMP
5A clue: Comes to a close Answer: ENDS
How to play more Mini Crosswords
The New York Times Games section offers a large number of online games, but only some of them are free for all to play. You can play the current day’s Mini Crossword for free, but you’ll need a subscription to the Times Games section to play older puzzles from the archives.
A printed circuit board is a thin, flexible substrate with conductive traces and surface mount devices (SMD) that connects electronic components for power and signal transmission. Often, these boards are used in advanced technology like automobiles/vehicles, wearables and computers, but they can also be found in simple consumer electronics products like cell phones and MP3 players. Regardless of the application, a high-quality PCB must be designed, manufactured and tested for manufacturability, reliability and functionality. To achieve this, manufacturers must employ rigorous processes and quality assurance procedures throughout the manufacturing cycle.
Flex PCBs, also known as flex circuits, are made of different materials than rigid PCBs and use a special printing process to create their unique design features. The first step is to select a suitable base material for the circuit. This can be FR4, Rogers 4003 or other polyimide-based materials. The choice depends on the circuit’s thermal and mechanical requirements, as well as solder masking and component placement needs.
After the base material is chosen, the manufacturer prepares it for the circuit board layout and component mounting. For this, they may use a buildup process or an imaging technique where circuit artwork patterns are applied to the production panel and a photoresist is overlaid to protect those areas. Then, a chemical solution is used to etch the copper away in the patterned area, leaving only the desired wiring pattern. The cured photoresist is then removed and an insulating coverlay is formed to protect the wiring pattern.
How Flexible Printed Circuit Manufacturers Optimize Production Processes
Through-holes are then plated on the bare copper using the same process as flexible printed circuit manufacturers. It’s important to ensure that the holes have sufficient plating thickness to provide adequate mechanical support for the connections, especially if the circuit will be subjected to any thermal or mechanical stress. Lastly, the manufacturer applies a conductive finish to the entire board to increase current-carrying capability and improve environmental resistance.
The flex circuit is now ready for assembly and the components can be placed on the board using one of the major soldering techniques. In many cases, the manufacturer will run flex boards through reliability tests to test for any potential failure points or defects.
Unlike rigid PCBs, flex circuits are much more fragile and have more defect opportunities. This is due to their small form factor and flexibility. To mitigate this, a strong focus on DFX principles, appropriate storage and handling procedures, inline inspection at critical points in the process, and employee training are essential.
As part of the manufacturing process, the flex circuit is tested for electrical continuity, impedance control and signal isolation. Additionally, mechanical testing is done to evaluate durability and structural integrity under stress. During these tests, the manufacturer will identify any potential issues and make any necessary changes to the production process. This ensures that the final product meets the required performance specifications and will function properly in its intended environment.
The first human case of H5N1, more commonly known as avian influenza or bird flu, has been confirmed in Los Angeles County in California, in connection with an adult who was exposed to livestock.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health said the person who contracted bird flu had mild symptoms, was treated with antivirals and is now recovering at home.
While this is the first human case in the county, the public health department said the overall risk of H5 bird flu to the public remains low, adding that there is currently no evidence of person-to-person spread of the virus.
Still, those who are in close contact with the infected person, as well as other workers at the worksite, are being monitored for symptoms and have been offered testing, antiviral prophylaxis and personal protective equipment.
GOVERNOR NEWSOM DECLARES STATE OF EMERGENCY IN CALIFORNIA DUE TO BIRD FLU
The CDC said on Wednesday a patient has been hospitalized with a severe case of H5N1 infection in Louisiana.(Reuters/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo)
The case is part of an ongoing investigation which involves the county public health department, the California Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“People rarely get bird flu, but those who interact with infected livestock or wildlife have a greater risk of infection. This case reminds us to take basic precautions to prevent being exposed,” LA County health officer Muntu Davis said. “People should avoid unprotected contact with sick or dead animals including cows, poultry, and wild birds; avoid consuming raw or undercooked animal products, such as raw milk; and protect pets and backyard poultry from exposure to wild animals.”
Davis also encouraged the public to get the seasonal flu vaccine, which he said can help prevent severe seasonal flu illness and lower the risk of getting seasonal and bird flu infections at the same time if exposed.
BIRD FLU CAUSES DEATHS OF CATS AND ZOO ANIMALS AS VIRUS SPREADS IN US
Colorized transmission electron micrograph of Avian influenza A H5N1 viruses (seen in gold) grown in MDCK cells (seen in green). (Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images)
Bird flu symptoms in humans include eye redness or discharge, fever, cough or difficulty breathing, sore throat, muscle aches, diarrhea and vomiting.
The news comes just days after California Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency due to bird flu.
Newsom issued the state of emergency after an outbreak of the virus occurred among dairy cows in Southern California farms.
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At least two farm workers have been infected with H5N1 bird flu this year.(iStock)
After initially being reported in Texas and Kansas in March, bird flu has been confirmed in cattle across 16 U.S. states, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported.
“This proclamation is a targeted action to ensure government agencies have the resources and flexibility they need to respond quickly to this outbreak,” Newsom said in a statement.
Also, last week, the first case of severe bird flu was confirmed in a human patient in Louisiana, according to the CDC.
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The health agency maintains that “the current public health risk is low,” but said it is “watching the situation carefully.”
Fox News Digital’s Melissa Rudy contributed to this report.
Greg Wehner is a breaking news reporter for Fox News Digital.
Story tips and ideas can be sent to [email protected] and on Twitter @GregWehner.
The holiday season is at its peak, with Christmas just around the corner. However, before the big day arrives, there’s another very special day to celebrate – Christmas Eve. While the entire month of December brims with festive cheer, Christmas festivities are marked not just on December 25 but also on Christmas Eve, which falls on December 24 every year. According to legend, Lord Jesus was born at the stroke of midnight on December 25, making the eve of His birth-Christmas Eve-exceptionally special.
It’s a day filled with wonder and hope, welcoming baby Jesus into our hearts. The evening of December 24 is often spent in family gatherings and attending midnight mass at church. Carol singing forms a big part of midnight masses on Christmas Eve.
The Christmas feast is significant, and so is the Christmas Eve spread. You can keep it simple or indulge in extravagant dishes. Here are some Christmas-special recipes to help you plan your Christmas Eve dinner. Enjoy!
Here Are 7 Yummy Christmas-Eve Special Recipes For You:
1. Christmas Gluhwein
Photo: iStock
Gluhwein, or German mulled wine, is a warm and comforting beverage perfect for a chilly winter evening. The name “gluhwein” translates to “glow wine” because of the cosy glow it brings after sipping it. Click here to learn how to make this simple and delicious Christmas gluhwein at home.
2. Caramel Shake
If you’re looking for non-alcoholic options, try this delectable caramel shake. Made with milk, caramel, oats, chopped apples, and flaxseed powder, it’s a dreamy addition to your Christmas Eve dinner. Besides being delicious, it’s also quite healthy. Here’s the full recipe.
3. Roast Turkey
This simple roast turkey with gravy is a mouthwatering dish ideal for a Christmas dinner. You can enjoy it on Christmas Eve or prepare it in advance for the next day. Check out the step-by-step recipe here.
4. Christmas Tree Pizza
Photo: iStock
If you love pizza, why not include it in your Christmas celebrations? This fun and delicious Christmas tree pizza is made with just a few simple ingredients. Topped with veggie ornaments, it’s a perfect holiday treat, especially for kids. Check out the full recipe here.
5. Mince Pie
Photo: iStock
Mince pie is a sweet British pastry filled with a mix of dried fruits, apples, and brandy. End your hearty Christmas Eve dinner with this buttery, crumbly dessert. Click here to try this flavorful recipe for your holiday dinners.
6. Flambeed Chocolate Cake
Christmas Eve calls for a special cake! Presenting the flambeed chocolate cake-a whiskey-soaked dessert that’s set aflame for a glowing, boozy treat. Want to learn how to make this delightful dessert? Here’s the recipe.
7. Christmas Special Kulkuls
Kulkuls are a traditional East Indian treat made by Catholic communities in Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka during Christmas. Made with flour and coconut milk, these sweet delights are deep-fried until golden brown. Click here for the recipe.
Do you have a traditional must-have recipe for Christmas Eve? Share it with us in the comments section! Merry Christmas!
Chinese President Xi Jinping conducted a number of domestic tours in 2024, traveling to Tianjin, Hunan, Chongqing, Shandong, Qinghai, Ningxia, Shaanxi, Gansu, Fujian, Anhui, Hubei, Hainan and Macao as well as paying visits to military facilities.
According to an analysis by CGTN, “development” was the most frequently mentioned keyword during these tours, joined in the top 10 by “people,” “modernization,” “economy” and “ecology,” underscoring the direction and key elements of China’s modernization path.
“Culture” featured prominently during Xi’s visits to Tianjin’s Ancient Culture Street, Guandi Cultural Industrial Park in Fujian, and Liuchi Alley, a historical cultural site in Anhui Province. During these visits, he stressed the importance of preserving traditional culture.
Keyword frequency data provides insights into the focus areas of each tour. For instance, in Anhui and Hubei, “technology” and “innovation” were emphasized, reflecting the priority given to industrial transformation and technological advancement. In Qinghai and Gansu, “ecology” was a dominant keyword, highlighting Xi’s concern for ecological protection.
The following charts visualize the relationships and trends among 10 keywords across his domestic tours and military visits. This detailed presentation offers a vivid perspective on Xi’s key priorities during 2024.
Approval was based on positive results from the Phase III balance study, where Tryngolza demonstrated a notable placebo-adjusted triglyceride reduction at 12 months.
Pri kreiranju rubrike Index Shopping nastojimo izdvajati odlične proizvode koji se i nama sviđaju te odlične akcije i popuste. Ne objavljujemo proizvode koje i sami ne bismo kupili ili smatramo da njihova promocija nije u skladu s profesionalnim standardima. Neki proizvodi u rubrici Index Shopping mogu biti sponzorirani.
VAŠ omiljeni luksuzni brend možda vam prodaje proizvode kvalitete slične onima sa Sheina, ali po znatno višoj cijeni. Upravo se o ovoj temi povela rasprava na TikToku. Korisnica Gigi (@freckles_g) odgovorila je na komentar osobe koja je primijetila da skuplji proizvodi ponekad traju jednako kratko kao jeftine kopije iz Kine.
Gigi je objasnila da samo zato što neki proizvod vidite na Sheinu ili Amazonu, ne znači da je riječ o “jeftinoj kopiji”, već da je vrlo vjerojatno riječ o posve istom proizvodu koji se prodaje pod drugim imenom na etiketi.
“Puno trgovina to radi već godinama”
“Trgovina u koju odlazite i Shein samo imaju istog dobavljača”, pojasnila je Gigi u viralnom videu koji je pregledalo preko 155 tisuća ljudi. “Shein taj proizvod prodaje za 5 dolara, a trgovina u koju odlazite za 45 dolara.”
Iako stara mudrost nalaže da je pametnije izdvojiti više novca za skuplji proizvod koji će duže trajati, možda možete pronaći posve isti proizvod po puno nižoj cijeni.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
“Zato još uvijek ponekad kupujem na Sheinu”, “Osim ako nešto platiš stvarno jako puno, vjerojatno je iste kvalitete kao Shein”, “Puno trgovina to radi već godinama. Sve upozoravam, nitko me ne sluša”, “Čak koriste i iste slike proizvoda”, “Ako nešto nađeš jeftinije na Temuu, znači da nikad nije ni trebalo biti skupo”, glase neki od komentara na objavu.
Što je white labeling, odnosno bijela etiketa?
Pojava o kojoj Gigi govori je najpoznatija pod nazivom white labeling (bijela etiketa), a u pitanju je poslovna praksa u kojoj tvrtka kupuje gotov proizvod, obično od veleprodaje, i prodaje ga pod vlastitim brendom i logom.
Naziv white labeling praksa je dobila po bijeloj, praznoj etiketi na koju brendovi samo stave svoj logo i prilagode je svojim potrebama. Ovaj pristup omogućuje različitim tvrtkama da prodaju identičan proizvod, ali s različitom ambalažom, marketingom i cijenom, tumači Daily Dot.
Ova praksa je raširena u gotovo svim industrijama, uključujući modu, ljepotu, namještaj, prehranu i software.
Ako mislite da biste neki proizvod mogli pronaći po nižoj cijeni, možete se poslužiti Google Objektivom i provjeriti postoji li negdje drugdje taj isti proizvod.
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Walker Buehler, arms extended, strutting off the Yankee Stadium mound, a World Series title having just been secured by his trademark knuckle-curveball.
Now, the scene will be a parting image for Buehler’s distinguished tenure with the club, too.
On Monday, Buehler agreed to a one-year, $21.05 million contract with the Boston Red Sox, as Yahoo Sports first reported, officially ending a seven-year run with the Dodgers that included tantalizing highs (two All-Star selections, two World Series titles and from 2018-2021 the fourth-best ERA in the majors), injury-plagued lows (including two Tommy John surgeries that derailed his ascent as the Dodgers’ next great ace) and a fitting final act, with Buehler’s iconic save in Game 5 of the World Series proving to be his last game in a Dodgers uniform.
It’s a departure that, for most of this year, had been expected, as Buehler struggled mightily in the regular season returning from his second Tommy John procedure.
However, despite his 1-6 record and career-worst 5.38 ERA, Buehler sneaked into the Dodgers’ postseason rotation amid a rash of other pitching injuries and delivered in ways even he wasn’t fully expecting. Four shutout innings in a Game 3 win in the National League Championship Series. Five spotless frames in Game 3 of the Fall Classic. And then, on just one day of rest, a 16-pitch relief appearance to close out a championship.
For the first time in three years, flashes of Buehler’s once-dominant form returned.
And for a moment, a pathway for the impending free agent to re-sign in Los Angeles appeared to emerge.
“What Walker did, what he has done for us, what he did for us this year, his teammates, that does not go lost on us,” general manager Brandon Gomes said last month.
Alas, the chances of such a reunion were effectively dashed in the first week of the offseason, when the Dodgers decided not to extend a one-year, $21.05 million qualifying offer to the 30-year-old right-hander.
That move allowed Buehler to hit the open market without the burden of a draft-pick penalty. And, as the Dodgers looked elsewhere to shore up their rotation — they signed two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell to a $182 million contract and remain engaged in the sweepstakes for star 23-year-old Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki — it became clear Buehler was unlikely to fit in their 2025 plans.
“I think there’s no better way to go out if I do,” Buehler said on the eve of the Fall Classic, when asked about 2024 potentially being his final season with the Dodgers, “than after hopefully a successful World Series.”
The Dodgers’ decision to not offer Buehler a QO — which was for virtually the same amount he will reportedly receive from the Red Sox — was met with some surprise around the industry.
In a vacuum, Buehler’s regular-season performance might not have warranted such a payday. The bleak history of two-time Tommy John pitchers added risk as well.
Nonetheless, Buehler was perhaps the best homegrown success story of this era of Dodgers baseball, going from a first-round draft pick out of Vanderbilt in 2017 to an integral member of the club’s 2020 and 2024 championship teams.
This year’s October heroics had rekindled the fan base’s love of the ever-confident veteran pitcher, evidenced by the raucous reception he got at the team’s championship parade last month while donning the vintage jersey that Orel Hersisher — a longtime mentor of his within the organization — had worn in the 1988 World Series.
Walker Buehler, wearing an Orel Hershiser jersey, speaks at the championship celebration at Dodger Stadium last month.
(Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)
At various points leading up to this offseason, Buehler had expressed a desire to remain in Los Angeles, saying before the World Series that “I’m very happy to be a Los Angeles Dodger, and I would love to stay here for as long as they’ll have me.”
Even then, though, Buehler hinted that the team’s QO decision would likely dictate his chances of a return.
“The first step in all that stuff is on the team,” he said of his upcoming free agency. “And that will happen really quickly one way or the other.”
While the Dodgers remained open to bringing back Buehler even after declining to offer him a QO, market dynamics always appeared likely to instead result in a split. Because Beuhler didn’t receive a QO, other teams weren’t forced to surrender a draft pick to sign him. And as a talented arm with a sterling postseason track record, he became an intriguing option for fellow contenders looking to round out their rotations.
Where he might have been a superfluous signing for a Dodgers team that is already well past the highest luxury tax threshold, and will be getting Shohei Ohtani, Dustin May and Tony Gonsolin back from injuries next season, Buehler might now be a missing piece for the playoff-hungry Red Sox, who finished last season five games out of the American League wild-card picture.
“The past couple months,” Buehler said amid his postseason resurgence, “I’ve kind of built my confidence up a little bit to the point that there’ll be some teams that would want me on their team. I feel like a major league starting pitcher, whether it’s here or elsewhere.”
On Monday, the latter officially became reality.
Walker Buehler is no longer a Dodger. His championship-clinching curveball will be the lasting memory of his tenure with the team.
“I played my whole career here, I love playing here,” Buehler said during the World Series. “I wouldn’t have had it any other way.”
Rome’s Trevi Fountain reopened with a visitor limit of 400 to enhance enjoyment and reduce crowds, announced Mayor Roberto Gualtieri.
Rome’s famous Trevi Fountain reopened Sunday following a three-month clean-up, but visitors will for now be limited to 400 to avoid the crowds of the past, said the city’s mayor. Imposing the limit, which might later be modified, will “allow everyone to better enjoy the fountain, without crowds or confusion”, Roberto Gualtieri told journalists in front of the famous landmark.
Trevi Fountain reopens with visitor limit of 400 amid three-month clean-up.(AP Photo)
Trevi Fountain restoration ahead of Catholic Jubilee
Gualtieri also said the city authorities were considering charging a modest entry price to finance, among other things, the fountain’s upkeep. The clean-up of the fountain and other key city sites, is aimed at “returning most of the monuments to the city in time for the start of the Jubilee” Claudio Parisi Presicce, Rome’s superintendent for cultural heritage sites, told AFP-TV.
The jubilee of the Catholic Church begins on December 24. The Trevi fountain, a baroque masterpiece, is one of the most visited sites in Rome. Featured in many films set in the city, it famously appears in a classic scene in Federico Fellini’s “La Dolce Vita”, when Anita Ekberg invites Marcello Mastroianni to join her in the fountain’s basin.
Trevi Fountain reopens after restoration
Sunday’s reopening took place under light rain in the presence of several hundred tourists, many of whom followed the mayor by throwing a coin into the fountain. Between 10,000 and 12,000 tourists a day used to visit the Trevi Fountain. Making a wish and tossing a coin into the water is such a tradition that the city authorities used to collect around 10,000 euros ($10,500) a week. That was turned over to the Caritas charity to provide meals for the poor.
The three-month cleaning project involved removing mould and calcium incrustations. The Trevi fountain is just one of the sites being cleaned up across the Italian capital as it prepares for the arrival of the 33 million people expected in 2025 for the Jubilee. This event, declared by Pope Francis, is a year of pilgrimage and prayer, marked by religious and cultural events held across the Vatican and Rome. It takes place roughly every 25 years.
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News / Lifestyle / Travel / Rome’s famous Trevi Fountain reopens for tourists after restoration ahead of 2025 Jubilee
2025 is set to be a cinematic extravaganza, with Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning topping the list as the most eagerly awaited film, according to a recent poll.
Movie buffs are eagerly awaiting Tom Cruise’s return as Ethan Hunt in what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the spy series.
Close behind is Jurassic World: Rebirth, the latest instalment in the dinosaur franchise, and Avatar: Fire and Ash, which continues James Cameron’s visually spectacular sci-fi epic.
Other films causing a stir among cinema-goers include 28 Years Later, an addition to Danny Boyle’s chilling post-apocalyptic tale, and the high-octane Fast and Furious 11.
Jake Ashton from OLBG, the company that conducted the research, highlighted the buzz around these cinematic blockbusters: “Avatar: Fire and Ash is the early favourite to break the $1bn (£974k) barrier at the box office.”
He continued: “The previous two films in the series both exceeded expectations, reaching the $2bn mark (£1.58m), making them some of the highest-grossing films ever.”
Ashton also hinted that Jurassic World: Rebirth could emulate the financial success of its predecessors, aiming for the $1bn milestone achieved by earlier films. However, he warned against overconfidence, citing Joker: Folie a Deux, which failed to meet expectations despite the hype it generated before its release, reports The Mirror.
The study also shone a light on UK cinema-goers’ habits and preferences. It turns out that one in five Brits makes a trip to the pictures every few months, while 15% are monthly movie enthusiasts.
But according to the poll, 20% aim to ramp up their cinema visits when 2025 rolls around. This is compared to a mere 10% who expect to cut back.
Price is a big contributor when it comes to reasons for visiting less, the research revealed that the most film buffs are willing to fork out is around £10.98 for a ticket.
Looking back at 2024, Deadpool pairing with Wolverine clinched the title of blockbuster of the year, with Paul Mescal’s Gladiator II hot on their heels. Animation and musicals continued its success streak with Despicable Me 4 and Wicked making waves among audiences.
Ashton declared: “Next year, movie lovers are in for a treat, with some of the most popular franchises releasing their latest instalments.”
“Let’s see what the UK public has to say – sometimes it’s the films we least expect which provide us with the most entertainment,” he added.
Honda and Nissan have agreed to merge, which, if everything goes according to plan, will see the two automakers become one by the middle of 2026.
Spurred by Nissan’s precarious financial position, the continuing rise of Chinese automakers, and the enormous cost of developing large scale electric vehicle platforms, Honda and Nissan will join forces to become, potentially, the world’s third largest car manufacturer.
In a press conference fronted by Makoto Uchida, Nissan’s CEO, Toshihiro Mibe, Honda’s CEO, and Takao Kato, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors, the automakers said Honda and Nissan have signed a memorandum of understanding formally kicking off work on a merger between Japan’s second largest (Honda) and third largest (Nissan) automakers.
Timeline for a potential mega-merger
As Honda in a much stronger financial position — its market capitalization is four times that of Nissan’s, and it is still profitable — it will nominate a majority of the combined automaker’s board, and the top executive positions will be occupied by Honda nominees.
According to the timeline laid out by the two car companies, a definitive agreement laying out the specifics of the merger, including share transfers, will completed by June 2025. Shareholders in both firms will then vote on the merger in April 2026.
Assuming approval is given, Honda and Nissan will be delisted from the Tokyo Stock Exchange by late July or early August 2026, with a new holding company taking their place.
Mitsubishi Motors will decide on whether it will join the Honda-Nissan merger by the end of January 2025. Nissan is currently the largest shareholder in Mitsubishi Motors, but due to its recent financial troubles recently sold off some of its stake, and no longer holds a controlling 34 per cent stake.
Based on 2023 sales figures, the merged Honda-Nissan entity would be the world’s third largest automaker by volume. Their combined sales of 7.35 million vehicles would take it past Hyundai-Kia, which sold 7.31 million cars last year.
Mitsubishi Triton
Mitsubishi’s potential entry into the merger would see roughly 900,000 added to combined automaker’s numbers, pushing comfortably past Hyundai-Kia, but still behind Toyota and Volkswagen.
Should current capitalisation rates hold, the Honda Nissan merger could eclipse the US$52 billion (A$83bn) merger of PSA (Peugeot-Citroen) and Fiat Chrysler to form Stellantis in 2021.
When, or if, the Honda Nissan merger takes place, it will consolidate Japan’s automakers into two key clear blocs with Honda-Nissan-Mitsubishi on one side, and Toyota on the other. Toyota, the world’s number one car maker, owns Daihatsu and Lexus outright, has minority shareholdings in Subaru, Suzuki, and Mazda.
Why now?
Speaking to the press, Honda CEO Toshihiro Mibe said the combination “is not a rescue of Nissan”, and Nissan getting its house in order was a “prerequisite” for the merger.
Last month, red ink began to flow at Nissan, and the company said it was entering “emergency mode” with plans to reduce production capacity by 20 per cent and fire 9000 workers.
Since then rumours have swirled about merger talks between Honda and Nissan. The long-standing rivals began discussions on joint projects in March this year, before confirming in August they and Mitsubishi would collaborate on electric vehicles and intelligence.
Nissan Leaf
According to Reuters, Taiwan’s Foxconn, the contract manufacturer famed for building the Apple iPhone, approached Nissan about a bid, but was rejected by the automaker.
Both Honda and Nissan, like many other automakers, including Volkswagen, have been hit hard by the surge in demand for local brands in China, which has been largely driven by electric vehicles developed by domestic manufacturers, such as BYD, SAIC and Geely.
Honda’s motorcycle business, strength in hybrid power, and comfortable position in the US market, especially with private buyers, have helped it weather the storm so far. Nissan, with its lack of hybrid models in North America, and more bargain-focussed position, has sales suffer and stockpiles grow.
Synergies and potential pitfalls
Honda and Nissan envisage the combined firm eventually having annual revenue of ¥30 trillion (A$310bn), and turning an operating profit of over ¥3 trillion (A$30bn).
There could a lot of short term pain, though, with Mibe-san cautioning the combined automaker will only see significant gains starting in 2030.
In the medium term, Honda and Nissan will combine platforms in order lower costs for both brands by increasing scale, and reducing research and development costs.
Both manufacturers are currently working on new EV architectures for vehicles slated to appear later this decade. One of these platforms may need to be shelved, causing potential delays for one brand.
The research and development departments will also be brought together, which some industry analysts believe could lead to some corporate culture clashes. Other cost savings will come from combining back office operations, such as marketing, HR and IT.
Plant closures are likely with the automakers looking at “optimising manufacturing systems and facilities” through the “shared use of production lines”.
During the press conference Mibe-san was keen to point out the merger won’t be solely focussed on “just carving out, carving out, carving out and leaving only the good parts”.
He said the new company will be keen “to think about options that lead us to bigger scale”, and dangled the thought bubble of combining Honda’s strength in hybrid drivetrains with Nissan’s knowledge of body-on-frame architectures to create a hybrid ute.
Honda Ridgeline
It’s unknown at this stage what the combined Honda Nissan will be known as, nor do we know how it plans to differentiate its two main brands. There’s a significant amount of model and geographic overlap for both companies, with Honda and Nissan deriving 37 per cent of their sales from the North American market.
While Honda has a stronger presence in China and Asia, Nissan has a significantly larger market share in Europe. The two automakers each have a significant foothold Japan’s kei car market.
Although the automakers say they will continue “developing the brands held by Honda and Nissan equally”, there will surely be debate about the eventual fate of their luxury brands, Acura and Infiniti. Both of which are struggling for sales, and have largely retreated to their North American base.
While Nissan’s relationship with Renault has unravelled spectacularly since the arrest of former CEO Carlos Ghosn in 2018, the two still have shared platforms, purchasing agreements, and some shared models, primarily vans for the European market.
At the height of their alliance, Renault had a 44 per cent stake in Nissan. As part of the reimagined Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance announced in early 2023, Renault agreed to slowly sell down its shareholding in Nissan to 15 per cent, while Nissan finally gained voting rights at Renault.
Acura ZDX
Honda, on other hand, has been working closely with GM on hydrogen fuel cell research and development, and currently sells the Honda Prologue and Acura ZDX electric crossovers in North America, both of which are produced by GM, and feature Honda-developed bodies and interiors mounted on a GM-designed EV architecture.
The last time Honda owned a significant portion of another automaker was in the 1980s and 1990s when it had a 20 per cent stake in the Rover Group. It eventually sold out in 1994 when BMW purchased the other 80 per cent of Rover from British Aerospace.
Mibe-san said after the merger Honda will continue its work with GM. Likewise Uchida-san said Nissan will continue working with Renault on a “project basis” whenever there are synergies available.
Retail Individual Investors part fetches 4.45 times subscription, while the category for NII receives 4.02 times subscription. The quota for QIBs gets subscribed 2.49 times.
Unimech Aerospace and Manufacturing IPO.
The initial public offering of Unimech Aerospace and Manufacturing Ltd received 3.81 times subscription on the first day of share sale on Monday, helped by encouraging investors’ participation. The Rs 500-crore initial share sale received bids for 1,79,22,111 shares, as against 47,04,028 shares on offer, as per NSE data.
Retail Individual Investors (RIIs) part fetched 4.45 times subscription, while the category for non-institutional investors received 4.02 times subscription. The quota for Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs) got subscribed 2.49 times.
The Initial Public Offering (IPO) has a fresh issue of up to Rs 250 crore and an offer-for-sale (OFS) of up to Rs 250 crore.
Price range for the offer has been fixed at Rs 745-785 per share.
Anand Rathi Advisors Ltd and Equirus Capital Private Ltd are the book running lead managers to the offer.
Unimech Aerospace is a high-precision engineering solutions company specialising in complex manufacturing solutions for the aerospace, defence, energy and semiconductor industries.
Shares of the firm will be listed on the BSE and NSE.
(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed – PTI)
News business » ipo Unimech Aerospace IPO Day 1: Check Subscription Status, GMP Today
In a significant development for the tech and blockchain sectors, Finnish telecom giant Nokia has filed for a patent related to the encryption of digital assets. On December 23, the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) disclosed a patent application that outlines a device, method, and computer program aimed at encrypting digital assets.
The patent application also revealed that the device and program involve a component which is specifically designed for the encryption of digital assets. It also outlines the use of indexes of digital assets for encryption purposes, suggesting that the proposed technology could provide an essential function for digital asset security.
For a long time, Nokia has been exploring innovations in blockchain and the metaverse. In 2021, it launched the Nokia Data Marketplace, a blockchain-based platform aimed at facilitating enterprise-level data transactions and analysis, which uses permissioned blockchain infrastructure. This technology highlights Nokia’s commitment to develop practical blockchain solutions for businesses.
In 2023, the company embarked into the metaverse with a unique project involving a 5G-connected microbrewery. Researchers in Australia and Germany collaborated in the project on brewing experiments, which utilized augmented reality (AR) technology. The researchers used digital simulations to “perfect beer” in the virtual space, which depicts Nokia’s interest in leveraging emerging technologies for innovative applications.
Nokia’s efforts also extend to the telecommunications industry. On March 1, the company revealed its intentions to build network architecture to cater to the emerging innovations market. It anticipates a 22% to 25% increase in network demand by 2030. This strategy is part of the company’s broader plan to meet the needs of the rapidly growing innovations market.
Nokia’s Increasing Involvement In Digital Space
This move signals Nokia’s increasing involvement in the digital asset space and hints at the development of technology that could play a key role in securing cryptocurrency and other digital assets. Nokia’s entry into this space can be seen as a push by traditional telecom companies to diversify their portfolios and embrace the digital future.
Besides, Taiwan Mobile, Taiwan’s second-largest telecom operator, recently obtained a virtual asset service provider (VASP) license from Taiwan’s Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC). This license allows Taiwan Mobile to establish a digital asset exchange, highlighting the growing convergence of telecom and digital finance.
It’s win and you’re in for Green Bay tonight. If the 10-4 Packers can beat the 5-9 Saints tonight at home at Lambeau Field, then they’ll punch their ticket to the NFC Playoffs. The Packers can’t overlook the Saints, who must leave the climate-controlled confines of the Superdome for a December road trip to Green Bay while starting backup rookie QB Spencer Rattler, as they eye next Sunday’s huge road test against the 13-2 Vikings.
The Saints and Packers kick off tonight at8:15 p.m. ET (5:15 p.m. PT) on ABC and ESPN. Looking for the ManningCast? The Manning brothers have the night off; Peyton and Eli won’t return until next month for a Wild Card game.
If you don’t have a cable or satellite TV subscription, you can watch Monday Night Football tonight with a live TV streaming service.
Jordan Love and the Green Bay Packers can clinch a playoff spot tonight with a win at home against the New Orleans Saints on Monday Night Football.
John Fisher/Getty Images
How to watch MNF without cable
You can watch the game tonight with a live TV streaming service. The good news for football fans is that ABC and ESPN are available on all five major streaming services.
The other option is to use an over-the-air antenna connected to your TV to watch on ABC. The best part about antennas is that there are no streaming or monthly fees required, although you will need to make sure you have good reception.
Sling TV/CNET
Sling TV’s Sling Orange plan includes ESPN but not ABC, and the Blue plan includes ABC (in only in a handful of markets) but not ESPN. Each plan costs $45 a month in the areas with ABC and $40 elsewhere. The combined Orange-and-Blue plan costs $55 or $60 a month.
Read our Sling TV review.
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YouTube TV costs $83 a month after a recent price hike and includes ESPN and ABC. Right now, the first three months are discounted to $60 a month. Plug in your ZIP code on YouTube TV’s welcome page to see which local networks are available in your area.
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At the beginning of 2024, the American Cancer Society predicted that 2,001,140 new cancer cases and 611,720 cancer deaths would occur in the United States.
Now, as the year draws to a close, experts are looking back and reflecting on the discoveries and advances that have been made in the field of cancer treatment and prevention.
Fox News Digital spoke with four oncologists from the Sarah Cannon Research Institute in Nashville, Tennessee, about the most notable accomplishments of 2024 and what they see on the horizon for 2025.
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See the answers and questions below.
Krish Patel, MD, director of lymphoma research
Krish Patel, M.D., is director of lymphoma research at Sarah Cannon Research Institute in Nashville, Tennessee.(Sarah Cannon Research Institute )
Q: What do you see as the most important cancer advances in 2024?
A: In the field of lymphomas, we see growing momentum for therapies that use the patient’s own immune system to fight their cancer, such as CAR T-cell therapy and bispecific antibodies.
These are treatments that are now being studied and are making an impact earlier in the disease course, including one now being studied as the very first treatment a patient might receive for their lymphoma.
PANCREATIC CANCER PATIENT SURVIVAL DOUBLED WITH HIGH DOSE OF COMMON VITAMIN, STUDY FINDS
These treatments are helping us to be less dependent on chemotherapies (which may be effective but have broad side effects) for the treatment of lymphomas.
Q: What are your predictions for cancer research in 2025?
A: Every year we are improving the curative treatment options we have for specific types of lymphomas, such as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), which is the most common lymphoma we see.
We are also gradually becoming better able to offer these treatments closer to – or in – patients’ homes and communities, so they can receive the best care as close to home as possible.
“Every year, we are improving the curative treatment options we have for specific types of lymphomas.”
I believe that in 2025, we will continue to see more advancement in immunotherapies, development of more targeted therapies (including oral medicines), and hopefully soon the approval of next generations of immunotherapies that may work for patients who have already received today’s immunotherapies but need more treatment options.
Q: How has the state of cancer in your specialty area changed and evolved over the past decade?
A: It has changed and evolved dramatically. A decade ago, care for lymphomas was primarily chemotherapy-based. Now, we are shifting rapidly away from chemotherapies in some types of lymphomas in favor of immunotherapies and targeted oral therapies that lead to excellent long-term outcomes for patients, with fewer side effects than historical treatments.
As 2024 comes to an end, experts are looking back and reflecting on the discoveries and advances that have been made in the field of cancer treatment and prevention.(iStock)
Q: What can people do to reduce their cancer risk?
A: We think of lymphomas as diseases of aging for most patients. Some patients may have select risk factors, such as being on specific immunosuppressants or having exposure to very specific industrial chemicals.
Those risks may or may not be so modifiable for patients, and they represent the minority of patients who develop lymphoma.
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While it is not entirely clear what modifiable risks patients may have, there is ongoing work to help better answer that question. However, we know that the better general health someone is in, the more likely they are to have any and all treatment options available to them.
I would say that for most people, exercising regularly, eating well and sleeping regularly are important.
Q: Anything else people should know?
A: There is great hope and a lot of exciting science happening to help us drive toward more cures, more effective treatments and less toxic treatments for lymphomas.
We have already made major strides in the last decade, and we continue to build on that momentum through clinical trials that provide early access to cutting-edge therapies.
Exercising regularly, eating well and getting enough sleep are all recommended activities to help prevent cancer risk, experts agreed.(iStock)
For patients, participating in clinical trials may help to close that time gap between the treatments that are broadly available today and the treatments we expect to be available years from now.
They also provide a way for patients to contribute positively to the care patients in future generations may receive, which I have been told by many of my patients is something they really want to do and something that is important to them.
Erika Hamilton, MD, director of breast cancer research
Erika Hamilton, M.D., is director of breast cancer research at Sarah Cannon Research Institute in Nashville, Tennessee.(Sarah Cannon Research Institute)
Q: What do you see as the most important cancer advances in 2024?
A: The two most exciting focuses of 2024 were 1) expansion of targeted therapies in the curative setting for hormonally driven breast cancer and 2) antibody drug conjugates.
First, three different CDK4/6 inhibitors have been approved in the metastatic setting, and they improve survival and outcomes.
Treatments that are precisely tailored to the genetic makeup of a person’s cancer are becoming more widely available, experts say.(iStock)
In 2024, we saw the approval of a second one in the curative setting, enabling us to identify the highest-risk patients and offer them something additional to endocrine therapy to improve cure rates.
Second, we now have multiple antibody drug conjugates approved across all types of breast cancer. These therapies target a chemotherapy drug directly to the tumor via an antibody-honing mechanism and largely spare normal body cells.
“I anticipate drugs that are better tolerated with decreased side effects for patients, and a continued emphasis on personalized medicine.”
Q: What are your predictions for cancer advances in 2025?
A: I anticipate seeing more targeted agents in 2025 and the approval of antibody drug conjugates in curative early breast cancer — currently, most are only approved in metastatic cancer.
[I also anticipate] drugs that are better tolerated with decreased side effects for patients, and a continued emphasis on personalized medicine.
Q: How has the state of cancer in your specialty area changed and evolved over the past decade?
A: In 2024, truly personalized medicine is possible, from mutation testing to direct targeted therapy to what a cancer needs to grow — as well as being able to provide many HR+ breast cancer patients with curative chemotherapy through personalized risk stratification assays.
“I anticipate seeing more targeted agents in 2025 and the approval of antibody drug conjugates in curative early breast cancer,” said Hamilton (not pictured).(iStock)
Q: What can people do to reduce their cancer risk?
A:Continued breast screening with mammograms yearly is really important to find cancers earlier when a cure is more likely.
People can also reduce their risk through avoiding alcohol and cigarettes and making sure they get regular exercise and maintain a normal body weight.
Vivek Subbiah, MD, chief of early-phase drug development
Vivek Subbiah, M.D., is chief of early-phase drug development at Sarah Cannon Research Institute in Nashville, Tennessee.(Sarah Cannon Research Institute )
Q: What do you see as the most important cancer advances in 2024?
A: In 2024, precision cancer treatment made big strides with many new drug approvals by the FDA, specifically for treatments guided by specific biomarkers, which means treatments can be more precisely tailored to the genetic makeup of a person’s cancer.
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A key change was moving some therapies from faster, temporary approval processes to full approval, showing strong evidence that these targeted therapy drugs, such as tepotinib and amivantamab for certain types of lung cancer, are effective and safe.
There were also new drug approvals for rare cancers, including tovorafenib, a BRAF precision medicine for a rare type of brain tumor in children, and afamitresgene autoleucel, a type of immunotherapy for a rare cancer called synovial sarcoma. This highlights important progress in treating these challenging conditions.
“In 2024, precision cancer treatment made big strides with many new drug approvals by the FDA, specifically for treatments guided by specific biomarkers,” Subbiah (not pictured) told Fox News Digital.(iStock)
We have also seen the approval of precision therapies that work on different types of cancer — not just one specific cancer. This is what we call “tissue-agnostic therapies.”
One such drug is an antibody drug conjugate called trastuzumab deruxtecan, which acts like a smart missile targeting HER2-positive cancers. Another is repotrectinib, which works on any cancer that has the NTRK biomarker, regardless of where it is in the body.
Q: What are your predictions for cancer advances in 2025?
A: By 2025, cancer research is likely to see advancements in precision oncology and the use of artificial intelligence.
In precision oncology, we can expect more personalized treatment plans based on an individual’s genetic makeup, leading to more effective and targeted therapies with fewer side effects.
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Additionally, AI will likely play a larger role in analyzing vast amounts of data to identify new drug targets, predict patient responses to treatments and enhance early detection methods.
These advancements have the potential to improve cancer diagnosis, treatment and overall patient outcomes.
Q: How has the state of cancer in your specialty area changed and evolved over the past decade?
A: In the last 10 years, cancer treatment has changed dramatically. By using genetic information to create personalized treatments that match the specific details of each person’s cancer, therapies are more effective and less harmful.
“In precision oncology, we can expect more personalized treatment plans based on an individual’s genetic makeup,” Subbiah said.(iStock)
New technologies such as analyzing cancer’s genetic profile, blood tests that detect cancer, and treatments that boost the immune system have greatly improved how we diagnose, track and treat cancer, leading to better results for patients.
Q: What can people do to reduce their cancer risk?
A: To lower the risk of cancer, people can avoid smoking, eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, limit alcohol, protect their skin from the sun and maintain a healthy weight.
Q: Anything else people should know?
A: Get vaccines for viruses like HPV and hepatitis B, as they can lead to some cancers. Also, go for regular health checks to catch any signs of cancer early.
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We are in a unique time when treatments can be tailored specifically to each person, and many of these are available through clinical trials. If you or a loved one is diagnosed with cancer, ask your doctor if there are any clinical trials that might be a good fit.
Meredith McKean, MD, MPH, director of melanoma and skin cancer research
Meredith McKean, M.D., MPH, is the director of melanoma and skin cancer research at Sarah Cannon Research Institute in Nashville, Tennessee.(Sarah Cannon Research Institute)
Q: What do you see as the most important cancer advances in 2024?
A: The first cellular therapy, Lifileucel, was approved in melanoma after decades of research in academia and industry.
“We are in a unique time when treatments can be tailored specifically to each person, and many of these are available through clinical trials.”
This is a significant step forward for both patients with melanoma, but also the field of oncology at large.
Q: What are your predictions for cancer advances in 2025?
A: As we look to bring effective therapies from the metastatic setting into early stages of disease, we are anxiously awaiting updates in the next 18 to 24 months for a number of ongoing trials for combination therapy for patients with high-risk stage 2 or 3 melanoma.
In 2024, the first cellular therapy, Lifileucel, was approved in melanoma after decades of research, according to Meredith McKean, M.D., of the Sarah Cannon Research Institute (not pictured).(iStock)
Q: How has the state of cancer in your specialty area changed and evolved over the past decade?
A: Outcomes for melanoma have significantly changed over the past 10 years.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
The five-year survival for patients with a diagnosis of stage 4 melanoma was less than 5% before 2010, and now clinical trials have shown that more than 50% of patients are still alive 10 years after being treated with FDA-approved immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Q: What can people do to reduce their cancer risk?
A: Lifelong sun protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, avoiding direct UV exposure during peak hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and avoiding tanning beds continue to be important starting at an early age.
Rockhampton (Australia), Dec 23 (The Conversation) The holiday season can be a time of joy, celebration, and indulgence in delicious foods and meals. However, for many, it can also be an emotional and stressful period.
This stress can manifest in our eating habits, leading to what is known as emotional or stress eating.
There are certain foods we tend to eat more of when we’re stressed, and these can affect our health. What’s more, our food choices can influence our stress levels and make us feel worse. Here’s how.
Why we might eat more when stressed
The human stress response is a complex signalling network across the body and brain. Our nervous system then responds to physical and psychological events to maintain our health. Our stress response – which can be subtle or trigger a fight-or-flight response – is essential and part of daily life.
The stress response increases production of the hormones cortisol and insulin and the release of glucose (blood sugars) and brain chemicals to meet demand. Eating when we experience stress is a normal behaviour to meet a spike in energy needs.
But sometimes our relationship with food becomes strained in response to different types of stress. We might attach shame or guilt to overeating. And anxiety or insecurity can mean some people under-eat in stressful times.
Over time, people can start to associate eating with negative emotions – such as anger, sadness, fear or worry. This link can create behavioural cycles of emotional eating. “Emotional eaters” may go on to develop altered brain responses to the sight or smell of food.
What stress eating can do to the body Stress eating can include binge eating, grazing, eating late at night, eating quickly or eating past the feeling of fullness. It can also involve craving or eating foods we don’t normally choose. For example, stressed people often reach for ultra-processed foods. While eating these foods is not necessarily a sign of stress, having them can activate the reward system in our brain to alleviate stress and create a pattern.
Short-term stress eating, such as across the holiday period, can lead to symptoms such as acid reflux and poor sleep – particularly when combined with drinking alcohol.
In the longer term, stress eating can lead to weight gain and obesity, increasing the risks of cancer, heart diseases and diabetes.
While stress eating may help reduce stress in the moment, long-term stress eating is linked with an increase in depressive symptoms and poor mental health.
What we eat can make us more or less stressed
The foods we choose can also influence our stress levels.
Diets high in refined carbohydrates and sugar (such as sugary drinks, sweets, crackers, cakes and most chocolates) can make blood sugar levels spike and then crash.
Diets high in unhealthy saturated and trans fats (processed foods, animal fats and commercially fried foods) can increase inflammatory responses.
Rapid changes in blood sugar and inflammation can increase anxiety and can change our mood.
Meanwhile, certain foods can improve the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate stress and mood.
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseeds, are known to reduce inflammation and support brain health. Magnesium, found in leafy greens and nuts, helps regulate cortisol levels and the body’s stress response.
Vitamin Bs, found in whole grains, nuts, seeds, beans and animal products (mostly B12), help maintain a healthy nervous system and energy metabolism, improving mood and cognitive performance.
5 tips for the holiday table and beyond
Food is a big part of the festive season, and treating yourself to delicious treats can be part of the fun. Here are some tips for enjoying festive foods, while avoiding stress eating: 1. slow down: be mindful about the speed of your eating. Slow down, chew food well and put down your utensils after each bite 2. watch the clock: even if you’re eating more food than you normally would, sticking to the same timing of eating can help maintain your body’s response to the food. If you normally have an eight-hour eating window (the time between your first meal and last meal of the day) then stick to this even if you’re eating more 3. continue other health behaviours: even if we are eating more food or different food during the festive season, try to keep up other healthy behaviours, such as sleep and exercise 4. stay hydrated: make sure to drink plenty of fluids, especially water. This helps our body function and can help with feelings of hunger. When our brain gets the message something has entered the stomach (what we drink) this can provide a temporary reduction in feelings of hunger 5. don’t restrict: if we have a big day of eating, it can be tempting to restrict eating in the days before or after. But it is never a good idea to overly constrain food intake. It can lead to more overeating and worsen stress.
Plus 3 bonus tips to manage holiday stress
1. shift your thinking: try reframing festive stress. Instead of viewing it as “something bad”, see it as “providing the energy” to reach your goals, such as a family gathering or present shopping 2. be kind to yourself and others: practise an act of compassion for someone else or try talking to yourself as you would a friend. These actions can stimulate our brains and improve wellbeing 3. do something enjoyable: being absorbed in enjoyable activities – such as crafting, movement or even breathing exercises – can help our brains and bodies to return to a more relaxed state, feel steady and connected. (The Conversation)
(Disclaimer: Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-12-22/S-Korea-s-acting-president-urged-to-promulgate-special-counsel-bills-1zxBpqT6DaU/img/67a6c14c32f348f98fbd3a9d41601bff/67a6c14c32f348f98fbd3a9d41601bff.png' alt='South Korea's acting President Han Duck-soo (R) deliveres a speech during a meeting in Seoul, South Korea, December 20, 2024. /CFP'
Park Chan-dae, floor leader of South Korea’s main opposition party, on Sunday called on acting President Han Duck-soo to promulgate special counsel bills against impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol and First Lady Kim Keon-hee by Tuesday, vowing to hold him accountable if he fails to do so, Yonhap news agency reported.
Earlier this month, the National Assembly passed a special counsel bill to investigate whether President Yoon committed insurrection and other violations over his declaration of martial law.
The parliament also passed a bill mandating a special counsel probe into two key allegations involving the first lady, her alleged involvement in a stock manipulation scheme and interference in election nominations through a power broker.
The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.
Learn more »
Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their cat’s health and well-being.
Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned cat lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your kitty happy, healthy, and feline fine. Stay tuned for expert guidance on a range of topics that matter most to you and your cat, so you can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your furry companion.
Have a question? Send it in here!
Help! My Cat Walks Bow-Legged!
“ Hello. My male 18-month-old tuxedo cat is like a limo (or dachshund of a cat). His brother is long too, but Onyx is abnormally long. And has the lowest tail I have ever seen as well. My question is, can his length cause him extra spinal issues? He kind of walks bow-legged. And he and his brother were running around several months ago. Onyx hit the dresser hard and since then, he has had a tiny bump near his back. I am assuming like a bruise. How long could a bruise like this last? I am also wondering what kind of cat has a very long length as he does so I can research. I have looked everywhere, but can’t seem to find a guy that looks like him. His face looks similar to a Bombay and he has very very sleek medium hair and talks constantly with the tiniest meow. ” – Cathie
Hi Cathie,
I have never heard of an extra-long cat. When we compare Dachshunds to the cat version, we are usually looking at Munchkin cats who have short legs due to an agenetic mutation known as achondroplasia or chondrodysplasia. Since you are not mentioning short legs but bow-leggedness, I am assuming Onyx’s legs are normal length. It sounds like Onyx has some physical abnormalities, but knowing exactly what from your description is unfortunately not possible.
However, you are right, pets with abnormally long spines are more susceptible to suffering from spinal issues, for example, intervertebral disc disease. If we consider Onyx’s long spine is combined with other anatomical variations like a low-set tail or bow-legged gait we can assume there is potential for additional stress on the spine and joints, which could lead to discomfort or mobility challenges over time.
Since you describe the accident that happened months ago and the bump is still there, the best thing you could do is get Onyx checked by a vet. They will need to do at least some X-rays and possibly even an MRI to diagnose what is going on. After examination, the vet may also be able to give you a diagnosis of his condition.
By your description, it sounds like he might be a mixed cat but if you want to be certain about his genetic makeup you can by performing a DNA test, and for this, you can get a kit and don’t even need to get the vet involved.
As an additional tip, I would recommend keeping a close eye on Onyx, paying special attention to his mobility, and reporting any changes in his activity levels to your vet. You could also do some modifications to your home environment to ensure there are no extremely high surfaces to jump from, adding ramps for him to easily climb on to couches or beds, add some soft landing areas, and perhaps even some secure playpens to minimize the risk of accidents and collisions.
Best wishes! Dr. Paola
Image Credit: P. Bunjongpol, Shutterstock
Help! My Cat has a Bald Spot!
“Maverick is getting a bald spot between his shoulder blades just below his neck, he’s acting normal but I’m a bit concerned” – Nicholas
Hi Nicholas, there are several reasons why Maverick could be getting a bald spot. The area you are describing is where pour-on anti-flea treatments are placed, so if he gets those, a reaction to them would be the first potential cause to rule out.
Additionally, you need to observe his behavior as there is a possibility that this is due to him rubbing this area against any surface. You should also note whether he may be causing the fur in this area to fall off due to excessive stretching. If that is the case, the area will also look red and irritated.
There could be many causes of itchy skin and secondary alopecia, with the most common ones including bacterial or fungal infections, fleas, and food or environmental allergies. A visit to the vet to collect samples is the best way to get a definitive diagnosis and provide appropriate treatment. Good luck!
Sincerely, Dr. Paola
Help! My Cat Loves to Bury All Her Toys!
“My cat loves to bury her toys in her bed or under a pile of blankets and then dig them out like it’s a treasure hunt. Is this normal?” – Deena (Mom of Sprinkles)
Hey Deena, it sounds like Sprinkles is playing. No need to be concerned, just enjoy the show!
This article is a part of our weekly Ask Dr. Paola series
Pri kreiranju rubrike Index Shopping nastojimo izdvajati odlične proizvode koji se i nama sviđaju te odlične akcije i popuste. Ne objavljujemo proizvode koje i sami ne bismo kupili ili smatramo da njihova promocija nije u skladu s profesionalnim standardima. Neki proizvodi u rubrici Index Shopping mogu biti sponzorirani.
KAUFLAND je prije nekoliko dana na svojim društvenim mrežama obavijestio potrošače da se Ülker Dubai čokolada može pronaći i kod njih. Riječ je o turskom proizvođaču čokolada koji je u ponudu uvrstio vlastitu verziju popularne Dubai čokolade s kadaifom i pistacijom.
Dubai čokolada već neko vrijeme ne prestaje plijeniti pažnju, a posebno je popularna postala kod nas kada se njezina verzija pojavila na zagrebačkom Adventu. Uz nju su se na Adventu pojavile i Dubai germknedle te Dubai fritule, koje su također stekle veliku popularnost. Čini se da su ove slastice postale nezaobilazan dio adventskog doživljaja, a mnogi su barem jednu od njih isprobali.
“Dobra je, ali nije top”
U posljednje vrijeme razne verzije Dubai čokolade stigle su i u trgovine diljem zemlje, a u nekima su planule odmah po dolasku, o čemu smo već pisali. Sada se tom popisu pridružio i Kaufland, čija je objava privukla veliku pozornost potrošača.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
“Dobra je”, “Probat ćemo”, “Bolja mi je kad ju sama napravim, probala sam par vrsti kupovnih ni jedna nije kao domaća”, “Super je”, “Jučer kupljena i isprobana. Uopće nije tako hrskava kako pričaju. Dobra je, ali nije top”, “Moram ju uzeti pa ju testirati jer su digli svi prašinu oko nje”, “Jao, to moram probati”, “Odlična”, “Probala i ne sviđa mi se”, “Ova Ülkerova nažalost nije baš nešto”, “Predobra je”, “Upravo kupila i probala. Fina je, ali ne kako je razvikana”, neki su od komentara ispod Kauflandove objave.
Trenutačna cijena Ülker Dubai čokolade u Kauflandu iznosi 3.59 eura za 93 grama, a riječ je o kratkotrajnoj ponudi.
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EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — The florescent green cleats of Kyren Williams could be seen from space.
But it was the feet inside those shoes that set the tone Sunday in the Rams’ 19-9 victory over the New York Jets.
In this final stretch before the NFL playoffs, when the weather turns as bitter cold as it was at MetLife Stadium, it’s essential for teams to be able to run the football. Williams did that for the Rams, gaining 122 yards in 23 carries at a robust average of 5.3 yards a pop.
“It’s a security blanket,” Rams right tackle Rob Havenstein said. “There’s a ton of good rush fronts out there in the league, but to be able to run the ball and kind of dictate how we want to play offense because we can run the ball, that’s something that doesn’t just show up on game day. It’s something we work really hard on during the week.”
The numbers weren’t splashy. The highlights were sparse. But for the Rams to travel across the country for a 10 a.m. body-clock kickoff, with temperatures in the teens, this workmanlike win was a resounding statement: This team is capable of doing some damage in the playoffs.
Twenty-three carries is a full plate — the Rams only had a 50 offensive plays — but it was fewer than Williams had in his previous two games, when he had 29 and 29.
“Not quite 29,” coach Sean McVay quipped, “so he’s fresh.”
Fresh as the opportunities unfurling before the team. With the Rams winning, and Arizona losing at Carolina, the once-surging Cardinals have been eliminated from the playoff picture. They play the Rams at SoFi Stadium on Saturday night, and figure to be less formidable with running back James Conner dealing with an apparent knee injury that sidelined him in the second half Sunday.
So the NFC West race comes down to the Rams and Seattle, who play in a season finale in Los Angeles. The Rams have the upper hand at this point, with a better record after the Seahawks lost to the Vikings on Sunday and already having won at Seattle.
Meanwhile, the Jets are a mess, not news to the thousands of disgruntled fans streaming to the MetLife exits throughout the second half.
They have fired their coach and general manager, and seem to have handed the decision-making to quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who went for it on fourth down five times and converted two against the Rams.
According to ESPN, the Jets are the first team in 25 years to not punt in a game and still be held to fewer than 10 points.
Rams running back Kyren Williams carried the ball 23 times against the Jets after carrying it 29 times in each of his last two games.
(Seth Wenig / Associated Press)
What’s more, every one of their offensive linemen was flagged for a penalty, and there were six of those players since the Jets had to sub in a replacement for their injured left tackle. Dutifully, fill-in Max Mitchell checked the box with a false start just before the two-minute warning.
And to think the game began with such promise for the home team, the Jets assembling their first 99-yard scoring drive in eight years on their opening possession.
The Rams tightened the screws after that and surrendered only a field goal. Not to say it was a pristine defensive performance, though, as the tackling still needs to be better to increase the chance of survival in the postseason.
In many respects, it was a weird game that — thanks to all the running — glided by with the speed of time-lapse photography. The Rams were already in the fourth quarter while some teams were still waiting to start the second half.
The game went so quickly, in fact, that the NFL had to pump the brakes with commercials. The league doesn’t like to go commercial-kickoff-commercial, yet it had to do that three times in Rams-Jets in order to fill the three-hour window.
Rams Braden Fiske (55) and Jared Verse (8) converge to sack Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8).
(Adam Hunger / Associated Press)
The Jets had the ball for the final 6 minutes, 22 seconds of the first half, then — because they received the kickoff to start the second half — held it for the first 10 minutes of the third quarter.
“I was like, ‘I haven’t played football in 30 minutes,’” Havenstein said. “This wasn’t the game to get tight out there. You ain’t gonna get warmed up any time.”
That was definitely the feeling on the visitors’ sideline.
“We were huddled up against that heater on the sideline, that’s all you could do,” Rams guard Kevin Dotson said. “We’re not used to it. It was like 12 degrees, 13, and it seemed to get even colder at the end. I’m from Louisiana, so I’m thin-skinned. That cold is different.
“As offensive linemen they tell you, ‘Don’t wear sleeves.’ I gotta wear sleeves. I won’t be the same person if I don’t wear sleeves. I put my sleeves on and just go hard enough where they can’t say, ‘Oh, he’s soft.’”
The strong performance on the ground was a testament not only to Williams but also to a stalwart Rams offensive line that only recently has come together as intended with the starters all getting healthy (enough) to operate in lockstep.
As for those bright green shoes Williams was wearing? They were the Nike Vapor Edge Kobe “Grinch” cleats, an homage to one of his all-time favorite athletes.
Grinch makes sense. For the Jets, he unquestionably stole Christmas.
The nation’s favourite Christmas film of all time has been revealed thanks to a new nationwide survey. Festive classics like It’s a Wonderful Life, Love Actually and Elf all made the top 10. However, number one may surprise you.
Interestingly, the much-debated Die Hard also ranked highly on the list, despite director John McTiernan refuting its status as a Christmas movie.
The study, conducted by Showcase Cinemas, also found that 82 percent of Brits would rather go to the cinema than the pantomime at Christmas, and 65 percent said watching Christmas films with their family and friends is one of their favourite things to do over the festive period.
Here are the nation’s top 10 favourite Christmas films of all time.
An ongoing police operation targeting illegally modified cars in New South Wales has led to 23 vehicles with alleged links to street racing and anti-social driving being defected.
On December 18 and 19, officers from Illawarra Traffic and Highway Patrol teamed up with Transport for NSW compliance inspectors to continue Operation Dissent, following the first public outing of the pairing in August.
A total of 36 vehicles attended a temporary inspection site in Bulli near Wollongong, where 23 were issued red labels for major grounding defects, preventing them from being driven home.
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A further 11 yellow labels for more minor defects were also applied, however this merely allows the owners enough time to drive their vehicles home before they are deemed non-compliant.
According to officers, 75 traffic infringement notices were issued, and seven charges are expected to be laid to owners of vehicles who didn’t attend the inspection station.
Police also blocked the registration of 10 vehicles, pending a further inspection by Transport for NSW compliance officers.
Operation Dissent will continue to run throughout 2024 and beyond.
MORE: Police defect 24 modified cars in 24-hour blitz
Unlisted shares of Transrail Lighting Ltd are trading at Rs 612 in the grey market, reflecting a premium of 41.67% over the upper price band of Rs 432, indicating a potentially strong listing on December 27.
Transrail Lighting IPO.
Transrail Lighting IPO: The initial public offering of Transrail Lighting Ltd is going to be closed on Monday, December 23. On Friday, the Rs 838.91-crore IPO witnessed the second day of bidding and received an 5.67 times subscription. Now, till 11:54 am on the final day of bidding, the IPO has received a 11.71 times subscription garnering bids for 16,07,17,830 shares as against the 1,37,15,425 shares on offer.
The price band of the IPO has been fixed at Rs 410 to Rs 432 per share.
So far, the retail category has received a 11.71 times subscription, while the non-institutional category (NII) got a 26.35 times subscription. The qualified institutional buyers (QIB) category received a 1.83 times subscription.
The IPO was opened on Thursday, December 19.
Transrail Lighting IPO GMP Today
As per market observers, the unlisted shares of Transrail Lighting Ltd are trading at Rs 612 in the grey market, reflecting a premium of Rs 186 (41.67 per cent) over the upper price band of Rs 432. This indicates a potentially strong listing on December 27.
The 41.67 per cent GMP is lower than the 43.06 per cent premium recorded on Friday.
Transrail Lighting IPO: Key Dates
Closing Date: December 23 (Monday)
Allotment Finalisation: December 24
Listing on BSE and NSE: December 27 (Friday)
Transrail Lighting IPO: More Details
The Rs 839-crore Transrail Lighting IPO is available for public subscription from December 19 to December 23. The price band has been set at Rs 410-432 per share.
It is a combination of a fresh issue of shares worth Rs 400 crore and an offer for sale of 1.01 crore equity shares by a promoter Ajanma Holdings Private Ltd. Currently, Ajanma Holdings holds 83.22 per cent stake in the Mumbai-based company.
At the upper end of the price band, the IPO size has been pegged at Rs 839 crore and a market capitalisation of nearly Rs 5,600 crore.
Transrail Lighting Ltd has mobilised Rs 246 crore from anchor investors including ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund and Tata Mutual Fund. Apart from these, Winro Commercial (India) Ltd, Bengal Finance and Investments, SBI General Insurance Company and LIC Mutual Fund are the top anchor investors, according to a circular uploaded on BSE’s website.
As per the circular, Transrail Lighting has allotted 56.94 lakh shares to 19 funds at Rs 432 apiece, which is also the upper end of the price band. This aggregates the transaction size to Rs 245.97 crore.
Proceeds from the fresh issue will be used to fund incremental working capital requirements, to support capital expenditure and for general corporate purposes.
Half of the issue has been reserved for qualified institutional buyers, 35 for retail investors and the remaining 15 per cent for non-institutional investors.
Further, investors can bid for a minimum of 34 shares and in multiples thereof.
Transrail Lighting is one of the leading Indian Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) companies with a primary focus on the power transmission and distribution business and integrated manufacturing facilities for lattice structures, conductors, and monopoles.
It has a footprint in more than 58 countries. Inga Ventures, Axis Capital, HDFC Bank and IDBI Capital Markets & Securities are the book running lead managers to the issue.
What is the best internet provider in Murfreesboro?
CNET recommends Xfinity as the best internet provider for most households in Murfreesboro, thanks to its wide coverage, unlimited data and variety of plans. However, if Xfinity isn’t available at your address, AT&T Fiber and T-Mobile Home Internet are excellent alternatives for reliable home broadband.
For those seeking the lowest prices, Xfinity’s Connect plan offers speeds up to 150 or 300Mbps for just $35 per month. Alternatively, T-Mobile and Verizon may provide service for $35, depending on eligibility as a mobile customer.
When it comes to the fastest speeds in Murfreesboro, AT&T Fiber leads with 5Gbps for $245 per month. Xfinity and Middle Tennessee Electric also offer multi-gigabit speeds to select households, giving residents plenty of high-speed connectivity options.
Best internet in Murfreesboro
Murfreesboro internet providers compared
Provider
Internet technology
Monthly price range
Speed range
Monthly equipment costs
Data cap
Contract
CNET review score
AT&T Home Internet Read full review
DSL
$60
10-100Mbps
None
1.5TB
None
7.4
AT&T Fiber Read full review
Fiber
$55-$245
300-5,000Mbps
None
None
None
7.4
Middle Tennessee Electric
Fixed wireless/fiber
$50-$150
25-8,000Mbps
$10 (optional)
None
None
N/A
Spectrum Read full review
Cable
$50-$70
500-1,000Mbps
$10 router (optional)
None
7.2
T-Mobile Home Internet Read full review
Fixed wireless
$50-$70 ($35 for eligible Go5G Plus and Magenta Max mobile customers)
72-245Mbps
None
None
None
7.4
Verizon 5G Home Internet Read full review
Fixed wireless
$50-$70 ($35-$45 with qualifying Verizon 5G mobile plans)
50-1,000Mbps
None
None
None
7.2
Xfinity Read full review
Cable
$35-$95
150-2,000Mbps
$15 (optional)
1.2TB on some plans
None
7
Show more (3 items)
Source: CNET analysis of provider data.
What’s the cheapest internet plan in Murfreesboro?
Provider
Starting monthly price
Max download speed
Monthly equipment fee
Xfinity Connect Read full review
$35
150Mbps
$15 (optional)
Xfinity Connect More Read full review
$35
300Mbps
$15 (optional)
Middle Electric Tennessee 300
$50
300Mbps
$10 (optional)
Spectrum Internet Read full review
$50
300Mbps
$10 (optional)
T-Mobile Home Internet Read full review
$50 ($35 with eligible mobile plan)
245Mbps
None
Verizon 5G Home Internet Read full review
$50 ($35 with eligible mobile plan)
300Mbps
None
AT&T Home Internet Read full review
$60
100Mbps
None
AT&T Fiber Read full review
$55
300Mbps
None
Show more (4 items)
Source: CNET analysis of provider data.
How to find internet deals and promotions in Murfreesboro
The best internet deals and top promotions in Murfreesboro depend on what discounts are available during a given time. Most deals are short-lived, but we look frequently for the latest offers.
How many members of your household use the internet?
Murfreesboro internet providers, such as Xfinity and Spectrum, may offer lower introductory pricing or streaming add-ons for a limited time. Many, however, including AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon, run the same standard pricing year-round.
For a more extensive list of promos, check out our guide to the best internet deals.
Denis Tangney Jr./Getty Images
Fastest internet plans in Murfreesboro
Provider
Starting price
Max download speed
Max upload speed
Data cap
Connection type
AT&T Fiber 5000 Read full review
$245
5,000Mbps
5,000Mbps
None
Fiber
AT&T Fiber 2000 Read full review
$145
2,000Mbps
2,000Mbps
None
Fiber
Middle Electric 2 Gig
$100
2,000Mbps
2,000Mbps
None
Fiber
Xfinity Gigabit X2 Read full review
$95
2,000Mbps
200Mbps
None
Cable
AT&T Fiber Read full review
$80
1,000Mbps
1,000Mbps
None
Fiber
Middle Electric 1 Gig
$80
1,000Mbps
1,000Mbps
None
Fiber
Spectrum Internet Gig Read full review
$70
1,000Mbps
35Mbps
None
Cable
Xfinity Gigabit Read full review
$65
1,000Mbps
20Mbps
1.2TB in some areas
Cable
Verizon 5G Home Plus Internet Read full review
$70 ($45 with eligible mobile plan)
1,000Mbps
75Mbps
None
Fixed wireless
Show more (5 items)
Source: CNET analysis of provider data.
What’s a good internet speed?
Most internet connection plans can now handle basic productivity and communication tasks. If you’re looking for an internet plan that can accommodate videoconferencing, streaming video or gaming, you’ll have a better experience with a more robust connection. Here’s an overview of the recommended minimum download speeds for various applications, according to the Federal Communications Commission. Note that these are only guidelines — and that internet speed, service and performance vary by connection type, provider and address.
For more information, refer to our guide on how much internet speed you really need.
0 to 5Mbps allows you to tackle the basics: browsing the internet, sending and receiving email, streaming low-quality video.
5 to 40Mbps gives you higher-quality video streaming and videoconferencing.
40 to 100Mbps should give one user sufficient bandwidth to satisfy the demands of modern telecommuting, video streaming and online gaming.
100 to 500Mbps allows one to two users to simultaneously engage in high-bandwidth activities like videoconferencing, streaming and online gaming.
500 to 1,000Mbps allows three or more users to engage in high-bandwidth activities at the same time.
How CNET chose the best internet providers in Murfreesboro
Internet service providers are numerous and regional. Unlike with the latest smartphone, laptop, router or kitchen tool, it’s impractical to personally test every ISP in a given city. So what’s our approach? We start by researching the pricing, availability and speed information, drawing on our own historical ISP data, the provider sites and mapping information from the Federal Communications Commission at FCC.gov.
But it doesn’t end there. We go to the FCC’s website to check our data and ensure we consider every ISP that provides service in an area. We also input local addresses on provider websites to find specific options for residents. We look at sources, including the American Customer Satisfaction Index and J.D. Power, to evaluate how happy customers are with an ISP’s service. ISP plans and prices are subject to frequent changes; all information provided is accurate as of publication.
Once we have this localized information, we ask three main questions:
Does the provider offer access to reasonably fast internet speeds?
Do customers get decent value for what they’re paying?
Are customers happy with their service?
Though the answers to those questions are often layered and complex, the providers who come closest to “yes” on all three are the ones we recommend. When selecting the cheapest internet service, we look for the plans with the lowest monthly fee, though we also factor in things like price increases, equipment fees and contracts. Choosing the fastest internet service is relatively straightforward. We look at advertised upload and download speeds and consider real-world speed data from sources like Ookla and the FCC. (Disclaimer: Ookla is owned by the same parent company as CNET, Ziff Davis.)
To explore our process in more depth, visit our how we test ISPs page.
Internet providers in Murfreesboro FAQ
What is the best internet service provider in Murfreesboro?
Xfinity is Murfreesboro’s best internet provider. In addition to providing service to most of the city, Xfinity offers the lowest prices and doesn’t enforce a data cap on any of its plans (in most locations).
Is fiber internet available in Murfreesboro?
Yes. AT&T Fiber and Middle Tennessee Electric are Murfreesboro’s largest fiber providers, but select households might be able to access Xfinity’s fiber network.
Who is the cheapest internet provider in Murfreesboro?
The cheapest internet service in Murfreesboro is Xfinity’s Connect plan, which costs $35 monthly for speeds up to 150Mbps or 300Mbps.
Which internet provider in Murfreesboro offers the fastest plan?
AT&T Fiber’s 5 gigabit plan serves up the fastest speed Murfreesboro residents can access, costing $245 per month.
Travel is a big part of the holiday season, with statistics showing that more than 119 million Americans plan to embark on some type of journey between Christmas and New Year’s.
Unfortunately, traveling also increases the risk of getting sick — but there are steps you can take to increase your chances of staying healthy while away from home.
“When you’re traveling, when you’re on the road, there’s a lot of risk of stress and disorientation,” Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Health and Fox News senior medical analyst, told Fox News Digital.
NEW TRAVEL TREND HAS AMERICANS CHASING FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH
“You’re not in your usual habitat, and that can make people disoriented, upset, anxious or even sleep-deprived, especially when changing time zones.”
Siegel shared some of his top tips for preventing illness during holiday travel.
Traveling increases the risk of getting sick — but there are steps you can take to increase your chances of staying healthy while away from home.(iStock)
1. Stay well-hydrated
Staying hydrated has been shown to boost the immune system and protect against illness.
Water is always best, but other hydrating fluids include plain coffee or tea, sparkling or flavored waters, 100% vegetable juice, and milk or milk alternatives.
2. Keep up with your exercise routine
It’s best to travel while “well-exercised,” Siegel said.
“If you have a regular exercise routine, I wouldn’t suspend it a week before travel,” he said.
‘HOLIDAY SHOPPING WIPES ME OUT, HOW CAN I KEEP UP MY STAMINA?’: ASK A DOCTOR
“If you’re regularly exercising, sleeping right and eating right before you go, I think that that puts you in much better shape when you’re traveling.”
3. Wipe down surfaces
Siegel said he’s a “big believer” in wiping down surfaces, especially when traveling by plane.
“You wouldn’t believe what these surfaces carry — we’ve studied that,” he said. “There are a lot of germs in that tray table, and it’s the person next to you who could be sick.”
“You wouldn’t believe what these surfaces carry — we’ve studied that,” Siegel said. “There are a lot of germs in that tray table, and it’s the person next to you who could be sick.” (iStock)
4. Stay up-to-date on vaccines
“When you’re about to take a trip, it is a good time for you to think about whether you’re up-to-date on your vaccines,” Siegel said.
One immunization that isn’t given enough attention, according to the doctor, is Tdap, a combination vaccine that protects against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough).
It is given at least once every five to 10 years.
COVID VACCINE DISTRUST GROWING AMONG AMERICANS
“There’s a ton of whooping cough around this year,” Siegel said. “Thousands of cases are reported, but many thousands aren’t.”
The doctor also recommends the shingles shot for those over the age of 50 and the pneumonia vaccine for people 60 and older.
“When you’re about to take a trip, it is a good time for you to think about whether you’re up-to-date on your vaccines,” Siegel said.(iStock)
“When you’re under stress from travel, that might be when you could get sick,” Siegel said, as the immune system isn’t functioning at an optimal level.
“When you’re under stress from travel, that might be when you could get sick.”
“That’s when shingles might reappear,” he warned. “Shingles is actually a chickenpox virus that’s dormant in your body for years, but can recur at times of stress.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also recommends that everyone 6 months and older receives COVID and flu vaccinations, with rare exceptions.
5. Pack a travel health kit
For those who take multiple daily medications, the doctor recommends traveling with one pill bottle and putting the various pills in it, making it less likely for any to get misplaced.
“Make sure you have more than enough,” he advised. “You never know when you’re going to get delayed, especially around holiday travel.”
Siegel recommends bringing three or four extra days of pills for all medications.(iStock)
Siegel recommends bringing three or four extra days of pills for all medications.
“Depending on what chronic illnesses you may have, it’s a good idea to be up-to-date with blood draws and visits to your doctor” before traveling, he added.
6. Get sufficient, quality sleep
It can be challenging to maintain a regular sleep cycle while traveling, Siegel noted, especially when time zones are changing.
“The more you can catch some winks while traveling, the better off you’re going to be,” he said.
SLEEP AND TRAVEL DON’T ALWAYS MIX: HERE ARE 7 TIPS TO HELP YOU REST ON THE ROAD
For those who have trouble falling asleep while on the road, Siegel recommends identifying what makes you drift off at home and using those same techniques.
“I get asked a lot for sleeping aids,” he said. “For people who are traveling on long trips, I personally am uncomfortable giving medication if the patient hasn’t been taking it already.”
7. Use masks as needed
While masks “got a bad name” during the pandemic because of mandates, Siegel noted that they are tools that can be used for those who are ill or at a higher risk.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
“If you’re a person who’s at risk of an infectious disease or has a chronic illness, the last thing you need is to get the flu, COVID or RSV.”
While masks “got a bad name” during the pandemic because of mandates, Siegel noted that they are tools that can be used for those who are ill or at a higher risk. (iStock)
The doctor recommends considering a mask for tight spaces where there are a lot of people around.
“You don’t know what they have or what they are harboring,” he said.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
“That’s why I would consider one, especially if you’re at high risk.”
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
Overall, Siegel said, “staying hydrated, eating right and sleeping properly as best as possible is the way to go in decreasing stress while traveling.”
Melissa Rudy is senior health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to [email protected].
As the weather in Delhi has begun to cool down, it’s the perfect time to step out and explore new culinary experiences around the city. With the change in season, many of Delhi’s best restaurants have introduced fresh, seasonal menus that are sure to excite your taste buds. Along with newly opened spots, you can enjoy unique cocktails, nostalgic brunch offerings, and more. We’ve rounded up a list of our top picks for you to explore. Save this guide for your next November and December foodie outing!
Here Are The Best New Menus To Try In Delhi-NCR:
1. Dhaba
Dhaba Estd 1986 has launched a special Sharab & Kebab menu, available from October 15th to November 15th, 2024. Inspired by Bollywood and the rustic charm of Indian highway dhabas, the menu blends classic Indian kebabs with modern twists. Created by chefs Kartik and Ravi Saxena, it features dishes like Dohri Seekh Kebab, Khatti Sunheri Chaapein, and Zaituni Paneer Tikka. Seafood fans can try the Tawa Machli Smoked Bharta. Signature cocktails like Smoked G&T and Salt Lime Rickey pair perfectly with these bold flavours, making it a festive culinary experience.
Where: Connaught Place, Aerocity, Cyberhub, Ambience Gurgaon, Vasant Kunj, and Mall of India
Photo Credit: Dhaba
2. Sunday Brunch At The Claridges
The Claridges New Delhi is thrilled to announce the launch of its much-anticipated Sunday Brunches at The Claridges Garden, starting on November 10th, 2024. This exclusive dining experience promises to bring a delightful fusion of fine dining, live music, and warm hospitality, offering the perfect Sunday retreat for families, friends, and food enthusiasts. The Claridges New Delhi’s Sunday Brunch offers an array of live culinary stations. The brunch showcases a wide selection of international cuisines, prepared by the hotel’s expert chefs, featuring freshly grilled Mediterranean dishes, Asian delicacies, traditional Indian cuisine, and a variety of artisanal desserts. The inaugural brunch on November 10th also featured a special Cake Mixing Ceremony, a symbolic tradition that marks the beginning of the festive season. Guests mixed dried fruits, nuts, and spices, along with a selection of spirits, in preparation for holiday cakes. The Cake Mixing Ceremony served as a fitting start to the brunch series, creating a festive atmosphere for all attendees. In addition to the culinary offerings, guests can enjoy live musical performances throughout the brunch. The live music provides a sophisticated backdrop to the afternoon, creating an inviting and relaxed atmosphere for diners.
When: Every Sunday, starting 10th November 2024 onwards, 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Where: Garden, The Claridges New Delhi
Prosecco Brunch (Rs 6495+ taxes per person): Features an exclusive selection of sparkling wines and prosecco.
Premium Brunch (Rs 4995+ taxes per person): The Premium Brunch presents an extensive selection of dishes.
Kids Brunch (Rs 2495+ taxes per person): Features a specially designed menu to cater to younger guests.
3. Mesa, Kitchen & Bar
Mesa, Kitchen & Bar, located in New Delhi’s Aerocity, has introduced a fresh new menu that highlights international flavours with a touch of sophistication. Featuring dishes like Wild Mushroom & Porcini Soup, Pedron Pepper Chill Skewer, and Baked Brie Torch, the menu caters to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian tastes, with standouts such as Rare-Seared Tuna Tataki and Shaksouka-Inspired Lamb Meatballs. Each dish is carefully crafted with fresh ingredients, complemented by an exceptional wine and cocktail selection that enhances the dining experience.
Where: Ground Floor, Worldmark 3, Aerocity, New Delhi
Photo Credit: Mesa
4. Monkey Bar
Monkey Bar’s revamped menu is a delightful blend of Indian regional specialties, global classics, and inventive twists. It features favourites like Puy Lentil Salad alongside new dishes such as Sahuji Mutton Roll, inspired by Nagpur’s flavours, and South Indian treats like Paddus with a Twist and Curry Leaf Wings. The cocktail menu showcases creative concoctions, including Down & Dirty with amla brine, the rasam-infused Rasam Ki Kasam, and Manga Mule inspired by green mango murabba. Sweet and bold flavours shine in the Chocolate Old Fashioned and Petha Pisco Sour. For non-drinkers, zero-proof options like Shrub & Tonic and Barley & Tonic offer refreshing alternative. This menu promises a vibrant culinary experience.
Where: Pocket B-C, Sector C, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi
Photo Credit: Monkey Bar
5. Flow Brew & Dine
Flow Brew & Dine, renowned for its craft beverages, has introduced the Special Eights menu, a collection of eight innovative cocktails that redefine mixology. This menu showcases the venue’s dedication to creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural fusion, offering a unique tasting experience with diverse flavour profiles. The menu features intriguing creations such as Navy Neater, Flow Picante, Spice & Slice, Rum & Roses, Bourbon Brew, Serrano Serenade, Salty Sage, and Velvet Vibes. These drinks reflect the artistry and global inspiration behind Flow Brew & Dine’s offerings. The Special Eights menu is a must-try for cocktail enthusiasts seeking a distinctive experience.
Where: Commons, DLF Avenue, 2nd Floor, Saket, New Delhi
6. Hyatt Regency Delhi
Aangan Reloaded, a cherished dining gem in Delhi, has reopened at Hyatt Regency Delhi, offering a tribute to India’s rich culinary heritage. With its inviting ambience and traditional clay ovens, the restaurant captures the heart of North India’s flavours. Led by Chef Anil Khurana, the menu showcases rare Indian ingredients and timeless recipes, blending classic techniques with meticulous craftsmanship. Guests can relish succulent kebabs, from vegetarian delights like Dahi aur Anjeer Ke Kebab and Tandoori Broccoli to non-vegetarian favorites such as Kalmi Murg and Boti Kebab.
Where: Ring Road, Bhikaji Cama Place, Rama Krishna Puram, New Delhi
Photo Credit: Hyatt Regency
7. Chor Bizarre
Hosa, Goa’s famed South Indian restaurant, is bringing its signature culinary experience to Delhi-NCR with pop-ups at Chor Bizarre, New Delhi, on November 16-17, and Comorin, Gurugram, on November 19-20. Known for reimagining South Indian cuisine with a contemporary twist, Hosa will offer a curated set menu priced at ₹1600 (non-vegetarian) and ₹1300 (vegetarian), inclusive of all charges. Crafted by Brand Chef Harish Rao, the menu features standout dishes like Kari Dosa with poached egg and bone marrow hollandaise, Cracked Potatoes with cauliflower mousse, and Andhra Okra Masala with ghee rice. Other highlights include Toddy Shop Prawns with raw mango salad and the Coconut Jasmine dessert with coconut ice cream and jasmine granita.
Where: Chor Bizarre and Comorin
Photo Credit: Chor Bizarre
8. Mamagoto
Mamagoto invites diners on a flavourful journey with its newly launched limited-edition Thai menu. Inspired by the vibrant streets of Bangkok, the menu offers a delightful mix of authentic Thai dishes. Begin with the Kiao Naam (Kai), a fragrant clear wonton soup with herbs and rice noodles, or the Yam Koong Takrai Sord, a refreshing salad featuring prawns, grapefruit, and lemongrass. For a crispy treat, indulge in the Khek Khawphod, coconut-flavoured corn cakes served with Thai chili jam. Savour mains like Kung Phad Nam Makham, stir-fried prawns or tofu with tamarind sauce, or Gai Hoa Bai Toey, pandan-wrapped chicken with a spicy sriracha dip. Don’t miss the Gaeng Maan Noon, a green jackfruit and potato curry, or Kaeng Koong Supparod, a rich prawn and pineapple curry. End on a sweet note with Tab Tim Grob, water chestnut rubies in coconut cream infused with lemongrass.
Where: Mamagoto outlets in Khan Market, DLF Promenade, Select CityWalk
Photo Credit: Mamagoto
9. KHI KHI
KHI KHI, Delhi’s vibrant dining and nightlife hotspot, has unveiled an exciting new menu that combines modern culinary techniques with classic Indian flavours for a truly unforgettable experience. The innovative menu features standout vegetarian options like the KHI KHI Hummus Bowl with olive achar and brioche pao, Amaranth Leaf Chaat with roasted potatoes, and Bhutta Bhaji 2.0 with burrata and makki chips. Non-vegetarian highlights include the KHI KHI Chicken Pakora with aioli and capers, Tawa Prawns with curry leaves and lime, and Mutton Seekh with Kimchi Pepper. The bar menu presents inventive cocktails, including That’s Fermented, Shikanji Highball, and the fiery KHI KHI Picante.
Where: KHI KHI, Unit Number F-02, First Floor, Basant Lok, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi
Photo Credit: KHI KHI
10. MKT
MKT at The Chanakya has introduced a Thanksgiving menu that blends traditional American flavours with the vibrant spirit of Delhi. This exclusive offering promises a luxurious dining experience, crafted with the finest seasonal ingredients for an unforgettable holiday gathering. The a la carte menu features vegetarian options like the Shepherd’s Pie and Wild Mushroom Wellington, alongside indulgent dishes such as Potato au Gratin and Lamb Ossobuco. For meat lovers, the Ballotine de Poulet and Confit Duck Leg are standout choices, while Lobster Thermidor adds a unique seafood option. Dessert includes a decadent Dark Chocolate Plum Pudding, and MKT’s winter cocktails, made with seasonal ingredients, perfectly complement the festive menu.
Where: MKT, The Chanakya Mall, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi
Photo Credit: MKT
11. 6 Ballygunge Place
The iconic 6 Ballygunge Place Delhi, renowned for its authentic Bengali cuisine, recently launched its new Hi-Tea Menu. This thoughtfully curated menu blends traditional Bengali savouries with contemporary Mocktail innovations and classic tea and coffee offerings. The Hi-Tea Menu reflects the perfect harmony of tradition and innovation, featuring an array of savoury and sweet delicacies, all paired with a selection of refreshing teas. Highlights include Mochar Chop, Aloo Phulkopir Singer, Fish Fry, Murshidabadi Grilled Chicken, Dimer Divel, and more.
Where: 6 Ballygunge Place, Eldeco Centre, Saket, New Delhi
Photo Credit: 6 Ballygunge Place
12. BOSS Burger By SOCIAL
BOSS Burger by SOCIAL, the gourmet burger delivery brand, is unveiling crave-worthy new additions to its menu that are bold, indulgent, and designed to satisfy every craving. Launching across 48 delivery locations in India, the new menu combines high-quality ingredients, innovative flavours, and indulgent fillings, bringing a premium burger experience to your doorstep. Whether you’re ordering at home or hosting a gathering, BOSS Burger is set to elevate your burger moments like never before. The new menu is a bold celebration of flavours and indulgence, introducing a lineup of drool-worthy burgers crafted to satisfy every craving.
13. First Coffee
Get ready to level up your coffee and snacks game with First Coffee’s brand-new winter menu! From sweet to savoury, they’ve crafted bold flavours perfectly paired with winter special brews. For those craving a savoury bite, enjoy fresh Paneer Tikka Sandwiches and Chipotle Veggie Sandwiches packed with bold, hearty flavours. Their Wrap Battle offers unique wraps like the Chickpea Veggie Wrap and Flaky Chicken Seekh Wrap for a satisfying experience. To elevate your meal, pair dishes with expertly crafted coffee options, such as Crunchy Hazelnut Smash or comforting chai and Matcha Latte. For a refreshing side, try Cascara Thunder with lemonade and ice.
Where: First Coffee, outlets at Cyberhub, Gurgaon, Pacific Mall – Jasola and Pacific Mall – NSP
14. Cafe Delhi Heights
Warm up to the magic of winter at Cafe Delhi Heights! This season, gather around the table with loved ones and indulge in their specially crafted winter menu. Savour the richness of their Four Cheese Fondue, CDH’s version of fondue served with gems from their kitchen. Alternatively, cozy up with a warm Bagel Sandwich, topped with crumble chicken or exotic vegetables perfectly toasted to bring out the flavours. Treat your taste buds to decadent delights like the Chocolate Bomb, Moong Daal Crumble Tart, and Red Velvet Baby Croissant. For a sweet and indulgent treat, dip into their Chocolate Fondue, paired with fresh strawberries, marshmallows, or muffins.
Where: Cafe Delhi Heights, all outlets
Photo Credit: Cafe Delhi Heights
15. The Imperial Patisserie
Experience the elegance of The Imperial Patisserie with their Gugelhupf & Madeleines Box. This meticulously curated collection celebrates the dessert traditions of 19th-century Vienna and Paris, perfect for elevating any special occasion. Inside the collector’s box, you’ll find a luscious Gugelhupf and twelve delicate Madeleines, each available in a selection of ten luxurious flavours, such as Premium Chocolate Sacher and Apricot Confit & Carraway. These artisanal creations pay homage to the rich heritage of European patisseries, ensuring a memorable experience for every celebration.
Where: The Imperial, Janpath, New Delhi
Photo Credit: The Imperial
16. Swan
Swan invites guests to experience the fusion of Peruvian-Japanese (Nikkei) and Peruvian-Italian (Bachiche) cuisine with its new captivating menu. Offering bold and innovative flavours, diners can indulge in dishes like signature Nikkei tiradito, ceviche, Japanese-inspired carpaccio, and wood-fired Quattro Formaggi pizza. The cocktail menu takes guests on a sensory journey through Peru’s culinary evolution, blending indigenous and Spanish influences. To enhance the experience, Swan offers a dedicated Nikkei Sushi Bar, expanded Raw Bar featuring tiradito, ceviche, and carpaccio, and curated cocktail and sake pairings. Exclusive pairings include Pisco Sour with ceviche, Wasabi Martini with sushi, and a curated Sake Flight to complement the raw selections.
Where: Swan, Kharsra No 1501, 1st Floor, Kalka Das Marg, Mehrauli New Delhi
Photo Credit: Swan
17. Anardana
This winter, Anardana invites you to savour the warmth of their specially crafted seasonal menu. Indulge in the zesty Sweet Potato Chaat, creamy Four Cheese Chicken Tikka, and aromatic Paneer Patrani. Dive into flavourful mains like Yam and Hari Mirch Keema or the regal Kundan Kaliyan, and end on a sweet note with Gajar Ka Halwa, Seethaphal Rice Pudding, or both! Pair your meal with cosy cocktails like Mulled Wine, Hot Toddy, or Monty’s Coffee. Prefer something refreshing? Try their mocktails – Apple and Tonic, 0-Proof Toddy, or soothing Kashmiri Kahwa. This winter, let Anardana be your go-to destination for heartwarming flavours and unforgettable dining experiences.
Where: Anardana, all Delhi-NCR outlets
18. The Big Tree Cafe
Step into the cosy and inviting ambiance of The Big Tree Cafe, where winter feels magical. Nestled amidst lush greenery, this charming cafe is the perfect spot to unwind and indulge in seasonal delights. Enjoy winter specials like the comforting French Onion Soup, creamy Chicken/Mushroom Pot Pie, Roasted Orange Rosemary Chicken, and the delectable Salted Caramel Snowman Brownies, along with many more treats. Visit for delicious food, exceptional service, and the ultimate winter experience. What’s more, this new winter menu will be available until February.
Where: The Big Tree Cafe, Gurgaon
19. Smoke House Deli
This festive season, Smoke House Deli invites you to its ‘Merry at the Deli’ celebration with a specially curated Winter Food & Drinks Menu that captures the magic of the holidays. Running from 19th December 2024 to 19th January 2025 across Delhi NCR and Dehradun outlets, the menu blends nostalgic traditions with comforting European flavours. Guests can savour hearty dishes, indulgent desserts, and a delightful winter drinks menu that embodies the festive spirit. Adding to the cheer, an exclusive 1+1 offer makes dining even more special, perfect for sharing with loved ones. From warm starters to flavourful mains and decadent desserts, every bite evokes the season’s joy. Pair your meal with cosy beverages like mulled wine, eggnog, or a festive cocktail to toast the holidays.
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-12-22/Chinese-lawmakers-hear-reports-at-NPC-standing-committee-session-1zxSstGDDna/img/0615728d8d1043208ced9db5ad00af30/0615728d8d1043208ced9db5ad00af30.png' alt='The second plenary meeting of the 13th session of the 14th NPC Standing Committee is held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, December 22, 2024. /Xinhua'
Senior Chinese lawmakers met on Sunday to deliberate reports during an ongoing session of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee.
Zhao Leji, chairman of the NPC Standing Committee, attended the plenary meeting of the session.
The meeting heard a report on enforcing the Law on State-Owned Assets of Enterprises. The report proposed establishing and improving the entrusted agency mechanism for state-owned enterprises and state capital.
Lawmakers reviewed a report on the enforcement of the Yellow River Protection Law, which calls for promoting law-based governance of the river and advancing the conservation and restoration of the ecosystem of its basin.
They heard an audit rectification report for 2023, which stated that as of the end of September, the rectification process had involved a total of 538 billion yuan (about $74.8 billion) in funds, while over 2,800 individuals had been held to account.
The meeting also deliberated a report on the allocation and utilization of fiscal funds for disaster prevention, mitigation and emergency management. The report proposed improving fiscal policies and systems and optimizing fund-allocation models.
The meeting also heard reports on farmland protection, legislative recording and review, and addressing misconduct and corruption among the people.
Pri kreiranju rubrike Index Shopping nastojimo izdvajati odlične proizvode koji se i nama sviđaju te odlične akcije i popuste. Ne objavljujemo proizvode koje i sami ne bismo kupili ili smatramo da njihova promocija nije u skladu s profesionalnim standardima. Neki proizvodi u rubrici Index Shopping mogu biti sponzorirani.
HAILEY Bieber nedavno je na svom Instagram storyju podijelila nešto što je šokiralo mnoge njezine obožavatelje – luksuznu dječju knjigu s cijenom od nevjerojatnih 4218 eura. Ova knjiga izazvala je mnoštvo reakcija, a mnogi nisu mogli vjerovati da takve knjige uopće postoje.
Knjiga je temeljena na priči Biggest Word Book Ever! Richarda Scarryja. Ono što je čini posebnijom od standardnih izdanja je prepoznatljiv omot od teleće kože u karakterističnom Intrecciato stilu brenda Bottega Veneta.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Luksuzne knjige za bebe? Reakcije na društvenim mrežama podijeljene
Komentari na društvenim mrežama nisu izostali, a reakcije su bile podijeljene. Mnogi su bili šokirani cijenom knjige pa su komentirali: “Nisam znala da postoje luksuzne knjige!”, “Zašto košta toliko?”, “Znači, beba je razmažena!” Neki su izrazili drugačije mišljenje: “Iskreno, da imam novca, učinio bih isto za svoju djecu.” Drugi su istaknuli: “4 tisuće dolara za knjigu je ludo, definitivno bezveze.”
Bilo je i onih koji su naveli da je obitelj Bieber navikla na takav način života i da im cijena ne predstavlja nikakav problem: “Za njih je to ništa, to im je kao 10 dolara.”
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In 2024, travel shifted towards remote destinations and wellness retreats, transforming how we approach relaxation and adventure. The focus this year? Disconnecting from the digital world. Post-pandemic, there’s a greater emphasis on nurturing both our mental and physical health, and we’re realising that maintaining balance and longevity goes beyond just silencing our phones.
2024 sees shift to remote destinations and wellness retreats for health and relaxation.(Unsplash)
For many, travel is a therapeutic escape, with a wider range of experiences now offering more than just a mood boost, ensuring we return feeling rejuvenated and healthier than ever. Let’s take a look at some of the top trends we saw this year. (Also read: Rise of ‘green travel’: How sustainability shaped travel trends and changed the way we explore world in 2024 )
1. Blue zones
In the quest for lifespan expansion, travellers sought inspiration from some of the world’s longest-living populations. Perhaps a result of watching Netflix’s Secrets of the Blue Zones, taking notes on the healthy lifestyles of the self-confident grannies of Okinawa or the hedonistic inhabitants of Greece’s Ikaria became a top priority when planning wellness-focused travels in 2024.
2. Grief travel
Grief travel, often referred to as the (admittedly icky) portmanteau “griefcation,” reflected an age-old tradition of seeking solace in distant lands after the loss of loved ones. In 2024, an increasing number of retreats around the world created dedicated spaces for those dealing with grief to process their emotions.
3. Analogue adventures
Despite being digital natives, many travellers in 2024 stepped away from high-tech experiences, embracing old-school, lo-fi adventures instead. Seeking pared-back escapes far from their hyper-digital lives, they logged off Instagram to rediscover the pre-digital charm of exploring cities off-grid.
4. Destination dupes
In 2024, travellers embraced the trend of destination dupes, which are affordable alternatives that capture the charm of popular destinations without the high costs. These budget-friendly spots not only offered similar vibes but also provided a quieter, less touristy experience, making them a hit for savvy adventurers seeking value and serenity.
5. Menopause retreats
In 2024, menopause retreats gained popularity, offering women relaxation and support during the transition through perimenopause and menopause, focusing on self-care.
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News / Lifestyle / Travel / Year ender 2024: How wellness retreats and remote escapes defined the year; top 5 trends that dominated
On Thursday evening, Sir Paul McCartney completed his Got Back tour with an epic final show at London’s O2 Arena.
Beatles fans were ecstatic when Sir Ringo Starr joined Macca on stage for Sgt Pepper’s and Helter Skelter during the encore.
Now as he winds down for a well earned Christmas break after completing his post-pandemic world tour, Sir Paul has been answering some fan questions.
Published today on his official website, the final one asked the 82-year-old music icon: “Do you have any New Year’s resolutions for 2025?”
And it turns out Macca has been working on a new solo album.
Sir Paul’s last record of new material was 2020’s McCartney III, following in the tradition of 1970’s McCartney and 1980’s McCartney II, in which he sings and performs on every instrument across all the tracks. In the almost five years since the release of his lockdown album, he’s put out 2021’s remix record McCartney III Imagined, with other artists covering the tracks from McCartney III. More recently, he released the live-in-studio album One Hand Clapping almost 50 years after the Wings record was recorded. Now, it sounds like we could hear his latest solo album as early as this time next year.
Answering the question on New Year’s resolutions for 2025, Macca replied today: “Here’s one: finish an album! I’ve been working on a lot of songs, and have had to put it to the side because of the tour. So, I’m hoping to get back into that and finish up a lot of these songs. So, how’s about that? ‘My New Year’s resolution is to finish a new album!’ How about that for a teaser? You can do it, Paul!”
The Kia Sorento is one of the still few large SUVs in Australia available with a hybrid option – but spoiler alert, it’s still in very short supply.
Note: This is an updated version of a review first published in June, as there have been no major changes to pricing for specification in the past six months since publication.
We have updated key details such as pricing and specifications with the most up to date information available.Read the original version of this review here
WATCH: Paul’s video review of the 2024 Kia Sorento GT-Line HEV AWD
This is the Kia Sorento GT-Line HEV AWD, which is the penultimate variant in the range sitting under the even more electrified Sorento GT-Line PHEV AWD, which costs $11,000 more.
Priced from a little over $73,000 before on-road costs, the updated model is a few thousand dollars dearer than before – and supply is still pegged around 20 units per month, unfortunately.
Still, the top-spec Sorento Hybrid is around the same money as a mid-tier Toyota Kluger Hybrid. The related Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid has just arrived with better supply and a wider range of variants, but a more polarising design.
Key upgrades as part of the mid-life refresh include a fresh exterior design, as well as an updated interior and an enhanced technology suite. The hybrid drivetrain, meanwhile, is unchanged.
Should you be getting in the queue for one of these electrified Kias, or are you better off looking at other options?
How does the Kia Sorento compare?
View a detailed breakdown of the Kia Sorento against similarly sized vehicles.
Kia
Sorento
How much does the Kia Sorento cost?
The model year 2025 (MY25) Kia Sorento didn’t see any further price adjustments since the initial launch earlier in the year, though each facelifted model carries a circa-$3000 premium over the equivalent pre-update model.
Model
Price before on-road costs
2025 Kia Sorento S V6 FWD
$50,680
2025 Kia Sorento S Diesel AWD
$53,680
2025 Kia Sorento Sport V6 FWD
$53,300
2025 Kia Sorento Sport Diesel AWD
$56,300
2025 Kia Sorento Sport+ V6 FWD
$58,230
2025 Kia Sorento Sport+ Diesel AWD
$61,230
2025 Kia Sorento GT-Line V6 FWD
$65,590
2025 Kia Sorento GT-Line Diesel AWD
$68,590
2025 Kia Sorento GT-Line HEV FWD
$70,330
2025 Kia Sorento GT-Line HEV AWD
$73,330
2025 Kia Sorento GT-Line PHEV AWD
$84,660
As was the case pre-update, the Sorento Hybrid (HEV) and Plug-in Hybrid are only available in top-spec GT-Line guise due to limited supply.
Kia Australia says it’s working with the factory to increase allocation, but the car is sourced from the factory that supplies Europe, North America and the Korean domestic market.
To see how the Kia Sorento lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
What is the Kia Sorento like on the inside?
If you’ve sat in an updated Sorento GT-Line, it’s pretty much the same here.
Save for energy flow graphics and a dedicated hybrid menu in the infotainment system and cluster, it’s otherwise the same as a Sorento GT-Line in V6 or diesel flavours.
That means you get a nicely trimmed cabin with Nappa leather upholstery, lashings of gloss black, and brighter silver tones, and it’s all nicely put together and has an upmarket look and feel to it.
Even the base Sorento S scores a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Kia Connect, and higher grades get embedded satellite navigation with real-time traffic updates. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard across the board, as is DAB radio.
The GT-Line gets the upscale twin 12.3-inch array which effectively gives the Sorento the same full digital cockpit as the larger all-electric EV9.
There’s also a 10-inch head-up display with better graphics, and can project turn-by-turn navigation prompts from third-party mapping apps from smartphones. There’s a digital rear-view mirror on the flagship too.
Kia’s latest software features here, bringing wireless smartphone mirroring across the range (yay!) and Kia Connect for connected navigation, over the air software updates, and remote functions including cabin pre-conditioning, and more.
Higher grades offer extended functionality too, such as surround camera snapshots on the GT-Line, and you can control the vehicle’s windows GT-Line models with auto up/down functionality.
All of this is accessed via the Kia Connect smartphone app. We’ve tried these features in other Kias, and they’re handy once you get it all set up. The Bose 12-speaker premium audio system is also good, with crisp audio and punchy bass.
Comfort and space up front are pretty good, with plenty of nooks and crannies to store your phones, wallets, and keys. There’s a big shelf under the centre stack for your phone, toothed cupholders, and several bins and cubbies – though the door pockets will only fit smaller bottles.
The GT-Line offers a wireless phone fast charger. Worth noting is some of the cubbies aren’t felt or rubber lined so harder items can rattle around a bit.
Another new feature of the Sorento is the touch bar that serves as a climate control panel and virtual hard controls for the infotainment system. We’ve seen this on the EV6 and Sportage; unlike some touch-based controls the Kia ones work much like conventional switchgear.
As before, the GT-Line gets a slew of luxury features like heated and ventilated front seats, as well as a heated steering wheel and manual rear sunshades. A panoramic sunroof is again reserved for the flagship, and it’s a great feature if your kids like to look up at the sky while in the car.
Not much has changed in the rear other than some new seat designs and new USB-C ports on the seat backs in higher models, but there’s still plenty of goodness in the second and third rows.
Adults easily fit behind adults in the second row, even three abreast without it being too much of a squeeze. The third row is one of the more practical for the segment, though it’s not as good as the Palisade or Carnival and the curtain airbags only cover that second window – and therefore technically don’t offer full three-row coverage.
The Sorento is also very kid-friendly, with five top-tether and four ISOFIX anchors meaning you can fill up the rear two rows with child capsules if you need the space. The second row has a one-touch entrance function too to make getting in and out of the rearmost seats easier.
The third row itself remains one of the best in class, with enough room for average-sized adults for shorter journeys and more than enough space for kids. Disappointingly, the Sorento doesn’t get a proper third zone of automatic climate control like numerous rivals do.
Rounding out the rear amenities are a fold-down centre armrest with cupholders, net-type map pockets behind the front seats, cupholders, and bottle holders in the doors themselves, as well as a 12V outlet behind the centre console. GT-Line models also feature heated outer second-row seats.
Regardless of which Sorento you choose, there’s a full-size alloy spare wheel under the boot floor as well. Props to Kia for continuing to offer this, which no doubt will be a key point of difference to many buyers.
Dimensions
Kia Sorento HEV
Length
4815mm
Width
1900mm
Height
1700mm
Wheelbase
2815mm
Boot capacity
179-1995 litres
Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM)
2580kg – FWD 2640kg – AWD
To see how the Kia Sorento lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
What’s under the bonnet?
As before, it’s a 1.6-litre turbocharged hybrid drivetrain underneath the skin.
Specifications
Kia Sorento HEV
Engine
1.6L 4cyl turbo-petrol HEV
Power
169kW
Engine torque
350Nm
Transmission
6-speed auto
Driven wheels
FWD or AWD
Kerb weight
1951kg – FWD 2014kg – AWD
Fuel economy – claim
5.4L/100km – FWD 5.7L/100km – AWD
Fuel economy – observed
6.8L/100km
Fuel tank size
67 litres
Fuel requirement
91 RON
CO2 emissions
122g/km – FWD 129g/km – AWD
Emissions standard
Euro 5
Maximum tow capacity
1650kg – braked
To see how the Kia Sorento lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
How does the Kia Sorento drive?
The combustion-only Sorento range is already good, and the HEV adds an electrified powertrain into that mix.
Overseas model shown
With a small turbocharged engine and an electric motor built into the six-speed automatic transmission, the Sorento HEV requires little learning curve to get accustomed to its driving characteristics.
The Sorento HEV will often start in silence, but on cold starts the petrol engine fires up shortly after with the buzzy, muted tone this unit has in other Hyundai-Kia products. It sometimes sends slight vibrations into the cabin, but it’s far from harsh.
Being mated to a conventional auto and not a dual-clutch, as well as having an electric motor fill the void that would normally be turbo lag, the Sorento HEV actually gets off the line quite smoothly.
Compared to something like a Kluger Hybrid, which uses an e-CVT, you might need to get used to the shifting between cogs, but otherwise it’s pretty conventional. You’ll find it doesn’t stay in EV mode much during acceleration unless you’re really feathering it or rolling at slow speeds in stop-start traffic.
The Sorento HEV is clearly pitched at those that rarely venture onto the open road, with its hybrid system doing its best work in town. The gearing sees the 1.6-litre engine spinning at about 2000rpm at 100km/h. By comparison, the V6 and diesel will be far less stressed on the freeway thanks to their eight-speed ‘boxes.
It’s also evident in the indicated fuel consumption. Our week ended with an indicated readout of 6.8L/100km which is good for this size of vehicle given we mainly drove to and from the office in peak hour with high traffic, though it’s still a bit up on the brand’s 5.7L/100km claim. Spend more time on the highway and you’ll see sevens.
Technically the electric motor acts as a launch gear and reverse, so you could consider it a seven-speeder, but the final drive appears a touch short to really make this a proper all-rounder. If you spend more time on the freeway, the diesel even without idle stop-start will do better numbers than the more expensive hybrid.
Otherwise it’s all pretty much standard Sorento, as with the mid-life update both the Sorento HEV and PHEV have been given the same ride and handling tune as the wider range, which wasn’t the case previously. As you’d expect, the Sorento HEV handles with accuracy and confidence, with a lovely balance between comfort and engagement.
The updated model feels nicely tied together to mask its size, and is a little softer in its damping to add an extra layer of compliance over undulations and harder hits.
The Sorento HEV barely has any added weight compared to the equivalent petrol or diesel. While Kia Australia doesn’t quote 0-100km/h times, the UK division quotes 8.7 seconds for the Sorento Hybrid, with the PHEV reducing that to 8.4 seconds. According to British specs, the diesel is almost half a second slower.
It doesn’t feel as outright punchy as the V6, nor as effortlessly torquey as the diesel. It splits the two in terms of performance and refinement, adding the electrified low-speed drive as a bonus while also achieving diesel-like economy for the most part.
Insulation from road and wind noise is good, and the new Santa Fe arguably pushes the game forward again with its very clear focus on premium rivals in terms of presentation and ambience.
The array of driver assistance systems works well, as we found in the core range. Highway Driving Assist combines adaptive cruise and lane centring for a semi-autonomous highway driving experience, and works well if for the odd confusion in freeway construction zones or if a vehicle suddenly cuts you off.
Blind Spot View Monitor bolsters the standard blind-spot and rear cross-traffic assist features by showing you a live side camera feed every time you indicate, and the surround camera with 3D view likewise increases visibility.
If there’s one complaint, it’s the annoying beeps and bongs of the Speed Limit Assist default to on and can be quite annoying even if they’re quieter than previous iterations. Best to add the shortcut to the assistance menu to the star-labelled button on the steering wheel.
To see how the Kia Sorento lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
What do you get?
The Sorento HEV is exclusively offered in flagship GT-Line trim, meaning it comes fully loaded.
Sorento HEV GT-Line highlights:
19-inch alloy wheels
Full size spare wheel
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen
Blind Spot View Monitor
Remote Smart Parking Assist
Parking Collision Avoidance Assist – Reverse
Quilted Nappa leather-appointed seats
Digital centre mirror
Suede headliner
Interior mood lighting
360-degree surround view monitor
Heated, ventilated front seats
Heated second-row seats – outer
Panoramic sunroof – powered
Kia Connect
Over the Air (OTA) updates
To see how the Kia Sorento lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
Is the Kia Sorento safe?
The new Sorento carries over the pre-update model’s five-star ANCAP safety rating, based on Euro NCAP tests.
Category
Kia Sorento
Adult occupant protection
82 per cent
Child occupant protection
85 per cent
Vulnerable road user protection
63 per cent
Safety assist
89 per cent
Standard safety features include:
7 airbags incl. front-centre
Adaptive cruise control
Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
Car detection
Pedestrian detection
Cyclist detection
Junction assist
Blind-spot assist
Driver attention alert
Highway Driving Assist (HDA)
Adaptive cruise incl. stop/go
Lane Following Assist
Navigation-based
Lane Following Assist
Lane keep assist
Intelligent Speed Limit Assist
Parking sensors front, rear
Rear cross-traffic assist
Reversing camera
Safe Exit Warning
Tyre pressure monitoring
Kia Connect features include:
eCall
Remote lock
Remote climate control
Vehicle tracking
Vehicle status monitoring
Voice assistant
Destination send to vehicle
Real-time traffic updates
Valet parking mode
It’s worth noting the updated Australian range doesn’t pick up more airbags like Korean models, which get rear-side inflators and a driver’s knee airbag – bringing the total to 10.
Local models also appear to miss out on the ‘reverse guide lamp’ that’s similar to the rear lights offered by Genesis models.
To see how the Kia Sorento lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
How much does the Kia Sorento cost to run?
The Kia Sorento lineup is covered by a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. High-voltage battery and motor components for electrified models are covered for seven years or 150,000 kilometres.
Servicing and Warranty
Kia Sorento HEV
Warranty
7 years, unlimited kilometres – vehicle 7 years or 150,000 kilometres – HV battery
Roadside assistance
7 years
Service intervals
12 months or 10,000 kilometres
Capped-price servicing
Up to 7 years
Total capped-price service cost
$4545 – HEV FWD* $4581 – HEV AWD*
Scheduled maintenance is required every 12 months or 10,000 kilometres – whichever comes first. Kia models with turbocharged petrol engines have shorter mileage intervals than naturally aspirated petrols and turbo-diesels.
It’s also worth noting the related Hyundai Santa Fe with a similar hybrid system is far cheaper to service, at least over a five-year period.
*MY24 service pricing shown
To see how the Kia Sorento lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
CarExpert’s Take on the Kia Sorento
The Sorento Hybrid remains a solid option for families wanting to reduce their emissions, if you can get your hands on one.
While the Australian-market diesel continues with older Euro 5 emissions systems, the HEV is easily the cleanest way to get around. If you’re spending more time in town, it’ll outdo both the V6 and oiler for fuel consumption.
It’ll take some time to make up the $4000-$5000 premium over the equivalent V6 and diesel, and the lack of national drive-away pricing means that initial deficit could be wider from the get-go. But, if you’re not only buying for the fuel savings and just general reduction of impact and perhaps future resale, it could be the better bet.
There are a few things going against it, however. High relative consumption on the highway is one, which I imagine will only get worse with seven on board. As noted earlier, regular highway stints or plans to tow would make the cheaper and more readily available diesel a better option.
Very short supply is the other huge grey cloud. You could be waiting a very long time for one. It isn’t be subject to FBT exemptions like the PHEV is until April 1, 2025 – which if you’re leasing, could make the plug-in more attractive.
Finally, there’s the fact the new Santa Fe Hybrid does the same things but offers a wider range of variants and better supply (starting from $15,000 less), as well as a more power (172kW v 169kW). It may have looks that polarise, but it has a newer version of the same mechanicals underneath.
That all said, the Sorento stacks up well still against the Toyota Kluger like-for-like, and will no doubt be a very capable family chariot for those lucky few that can get one in their driveway. Hopefully upcoming emissions regulations in Australia open up more supply Down Under.
Interested in buying a Kia Sorento? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
Several factors, including private equity exits, sponsor-driven sales, and shifts in corporate funding strategies, have also driven the IPO activity.
Several factors, including private equity exits, sponsor-driven sales, and shifts in corporate funding strategies, have also driven the IPO activity.
Fundraising via IPOs in India hit another landmark as economic growth, favourable market conditions and improvements in the regulatory framework helped companies raise a record Rs 1.6 lakh crore in 2024, while the pipeline for the next year holds out bigger promise.
This exceptional year not only reflected the confidence of issuers but also highlighted investors’ eagerness to seize listing-day gains or back companies with strong long-term growth potential.
Key Milestones and Historic IPOs
The year was marked by Hyundai Motor India’s historic IPO, the largest in the country’s history, which raised Rs 27,870 crore.
Companies of varying market capitalisations — large, mid, and small — tapped into the IPO route in 2024, with the average issue size rising significantly from Rs 867 crore in 2023 to over Rs 1,700 crore in 2024, according to an analysis by news agency PTI.
The exceptional vibrancy of the IPO market was evident, with December alone seeing at least 15 launches.
Factors Driving IPO Momentum
“Rising retail participation, strong domestic inflows and active participation by FPIs (even though they have been net sellers in the secondary market), private capex increase and the government’s strategic focus on infrastructure and key sectors have collectively laid a strong foundation for the fundraising momentum in India,” V Prashant Rao, Director & Head – ECM, Investment Banking at Anand Rathi Advisors, said.
Expectations for 2025
Fundraising momentum is expected to accelerate further in the New Year, potentially surpassing 2024’s record figures, market analysts said.
“Based on the 75 IPO documents, which are at various stages of approval/ marketing and the deal pipelines, we expect issuance activity in 2025 to cross Rs 2.5 lakh crore,” Munish Aggarwal, Managing Director and Head of Equity Capital Markets at Equirus, said.
The IPO pipeline for the next year is set to feature major offerings, including HDB Financial Services’ proposed Rs 12,500 crore issue, LG Electronics India’s Rs 15,000 crore public float, and Hexaware Technologies’ Rs 9,950 crore offering.
According to data available with the exchanges, 90 maiden public issues were launched in 2024, collectively raising Rs 1.6 lakh crore. This includes eight IPOs scheduled to conclude on December 23-24. Besides, the Rs 500-crore IPO of Unimech Aerospace and Manufacturing is slated to open on December 23.
Additionally, Vodafone Idea raised Rs 18,000 crore through a follow-on public offer (FPO).
About Rs 1.6 lakh crore raised in 2024 far exceeded Rs 49,436 crore garnered by 57 firms through IPOs in 2023.
2024 saw 63 companies raising Rs 1.2 lakh crore, marking the best IPO year in two decades, driven by abundant liquidity, increased retail investor participation, and sustained euphoria in the primary market.
SME Segment Growth
The resurgence in activity also extended to the SME segment, where a record 238 small and medium enterprises raised Rs 8,700 crore, nearly doubling the Rs 4,686 crore raised in 2023, according to the data provided by primedatabase.com.
This growth reflects increasing interest in SME public offerings, although it comes with heightened risks for retail investors.
In response, Sebi decided to introduce stricter regulatory frameworks, including profitability requirements, a cap on the offer-for-sale (OFS) component and a “draw of lots” system for non-institutional investors (NIIs) to safeguard smaller investors.
Factors Contributing to Robust IPO Activity
Experts attributed this year’s robust IPO activity to a stable economic environment, policy continuity at the central government level, and broad-based economic growth.
“Stable economic environment, policy continuity at the central government level combined with broad-based growth have encouraged companies and investors to raise funds. Foreign portfolio investors have also been big buyers, especially in the larger IPOs,” said Pranjal Srivastava, Partner-Investment Banking at Centrum Capital.
Several factors, including private equity exits, sponsor-driven sales, and shifts in corporate funding strategies, have also driven the IPO activity.
“The resurgence of manufacturing and increased private capital expenditure are key contributors as companies look to fund expansion and modernisation. Many businesses are also focusing on diversifying their funding sources by shifting from debt-heavy models to equity, ensuring stronger balance sheets and reduced leverage,” said Neha Agrawal, MD & Head, Equity Capital Markets at JM Financial Institutional Securities.
Largest and Smallest IPOs of 2024
Among the year’s largest main-board IPOs, Hyundai Motor India led the pack, raising Rs 27,870 crore, followed by Swiggy (Rs 11,327 crore), NTPC Green Energy (Rs 10,000 crore), Bajaj Housing Finance (Rs 6,560 crore), and Ola Electric Mobility (Rs 6,145 crore).
In contrast, Vibhor Steel Tubes launched the smallest IPO, raising just Rs 72 crore, indicating the diversity of companies accessing the capital markets.
For companies, going public provides crucial funds for expansion, working capital, and debt repayment while enhancing visibility and attracting new business opportunities. IPOs also serve as an exit strategy for long-term investors.
Exceptional Subscription Ratios and Listing Gains
Interestingly, the IPO subscription ratios have been exceptionally high this year. Vibhor Steel Tubes saw an impressive subscription of 320 times, while other offerings like KRN Heat Exchanger and Refrigeration, Manba Finance, and Gala Precision Engineering were each subscribed over 200 times.
Additionally, IPOs of companies like One Mobikwik Systems, Unicommerce eSolutions, Diffusion Engineers, BLS E-Services, and Exicom Tele-Systems were subscribed more than 100 times.
This strong demand translated into substantial listing gains, with over 60 companies delivering positive returns on their debut day.
Vibhor Steel Tubes, BLS E-Services, Bajaj Housing Finance and KRN Heat Exchanger delivered more than 100 per cent gain, reflecting robust investor demand.
Stock Market Performance
Meanwhile, India’s equity markets also saw record-breaking performances, with the NSE Nifty 50 reaching an all-time high of 26,216 points on September 27 and the BSE Sensex peaking at 85,836 points on September 26, supported by the country’s robust economic growth outlook.
What Is An IPO?
An IPO is the process through which a privately owned company sells its shares to the public for the first time, transitioning into a publicly traded entity. This allows companies to raise funds from public investors to support growth, repay debts, or achieve other business objectives.
In India, IPOs are regulated by the Sebi, which ensures companies comply with stringent guidelines and provide full financial and operational disclosures to safeguard investor interests.
(With PTI inputs)
News business » ipo India’s IPO Boom: Record Rs 1.6 Lakh Crore Raised In 2024, Bigger Plans In 2025
Recent chatter in the crypto world has revolved around a bold claim that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) recently witnessed its Bitcoin holdings reach an impressive $40 billion. Perhaps prominent crypto commentator Bitcoin Archive raises questions over this news citing the lack of evidence supporting this bold news. Did the UAE’s Bitcoin holdings truly surge to $40 billion, or is it just a rumor? let’s find it out.
UAE Bitcoin Holdings Reach $40 Billion
The UAE’s Bitcoin holdings have reportedly reached $40 billion, showcasing its growing interest in cryptocurrencies.
This surge aligns with a global crypto bull market and reflects the UAE’s focus on fostering a crypto-friendly environment. Initiatives like the cryptocurrency center in Dubai have supported blockchain startups, boosting Bitcoin reserves in the country.
Experts believe the UAE will continue expanding its Bitcoin holdings, setting an example for other nations and encouraging institutional investments in Bitcoin. However, earlier Binance’s Former CEO CZ hinted that UAE secretly is increasing its bitcoin reserve.
No Evidence to Support the Claim
Bitcoin Archive recently pointed out the news provided by Bitcoinist about the United Arab Emirates (UAE) bitcoin holding. However, the Bitcoin Archive says they didn’t provide any credible sources, links, or supporting evidence to validate the $40 billion Bitcoin acquisition.
The “Bitcoinist” website picked it up and stated it as a fact.
No sources cited, no links, nothing. Search results return nothing. This would be HUGE news that is widely reported, especially in light on the USA Strategic Reserve commitment by Trump.
After searching for trustworthy information, the Bitcoin Archive found no confirmation of such a purchase. They explained that a move as big as this would make global headlines, especially since the UAE has a major impact on the crypto market.
They also mentioned the ongoing discussion about Bitcoin’s role in financial reserves, such as former President Trump’s idea of a U.S. Strategic Reserve.
Questions About the News
Bitcoin Archive also criticized the article on “Bitcoinist.” They noted that it had a flashy headline but lacked any credible details. The author of the piece also did not provide any background information, which further raised doubts about the report’s authenticity.
UAE’s Growing Bitcoin Boom
Between 2023 to June 2024, the UAE saw a massive $34 billion flow into cryptocurrencies, marking a 42% jump from the previous year. Bitcoin has emerged as a key player, holding 19% of the market share, while stablecoins like Tether make up 51%.
Tether even plans to launch a dirham-backed token, showing the UAE’s focus on digital assets. By 2025, crypto users in the UAE are expected to reach 3.78 million.
A report also shows that 72% of UAE residents had invested in Bitcoin by early 2024, with big funds and institutions driving this growth. The UAE is quickly becoming a key player in the crypto world.
Pointing to the “optimism” in the job market in India, Shantanu Rooj, founder and CEO of TeamLease EdTech feels that the upcoming placement season in India’s top B-schools is expected to fetch salary packages that are 15-20 per cent higher than the average salaries the previous year.
“Because of the global situation and political uncertainty, the IT sector which was one of the largest employers, was not hiring for the last six quarters. But our research says that in a quarter or two the industry is going to return to the job market scouting for fresh talent. Like the IT sector, most sectors are growing and willing to hire. Our research also says that we are expecting a hike of 15-20 percent in average salaries that were pocketed by B-school graduates the previous year. Offers from IT, Consulting. E-commerce and Startups will be among the biggest employers for B-school graduates,” says Rooj during an interaction with businessline
Read:Robust final placements at top B-schools allay fears of slowdown in hiring
According to him, the average salary packages in the top IIMs in the country range between ₹30-35 lakhs. “In the newer IIMs like IIM-Ranchi, IIM-Raipur, IIM-Bodh Gaya or IIM-Udaipur, the average salaries stand far lower at ₹15-20 lakhs. The good quality management colleges like IMT Ghaziabad or FMS Delhi or XLRI Jamshedpur or MDI in Gurgaon attract a good number of employers offering good pay packages. For instance FMS Delhi this highest package was Rs one crore-plus and their average around is ₹40 lakhs.” he added. The current job market shows high demand for roles in digital marketing, product management, business analytics, and consulting. Positions such as Data Analysts, product managers, digital marketing specialists and management consultants are sought after.
Earlier this month, Professor Vishwanath Pingali, Chairperson (Placements), IIMA, had told businessline that the institute was “cautiously optimistic” about the upcoming placement season as some of the recruiters at IIMA were reassessing their workforce requirements, which were lower than what the firms had predicted at the beginning of the year.
Read also: Why can’t B-schools forecast MBA demand better?
Rooj from TeamLease EduTech felt that some sectors, like FMCG, have slowed down. “In the FMCG sector, the urban consumption story has slowed down. However, since the last few quarters there has been talks about rural consumption going up and this will drive a lot of growth in the FMCG sector. This growth will in turn drive hiring for fresh talent from B-schools,” he said, adding that the third-quarter results of Indian companies will usher in “bullishness” in the Indian job market.
When it comes to the best Android phones of 2024, Google makes some of the best phones on the market right now. Several models from its Pixel 9 lineup have impressed our reviewers thanks to features like superior cameras and novel features like onboard AI. Prices start at $799 for the basic Pixel 9 and range all the way up to a staggering $1,799 for the 9 Pro Fold, but no matter which model you’re after, there’s no reason to spend more than you have to.
That’s why Adrian Marlow and other CNET deal experts have scoured the web to bring you the best offers out there on all four Pixel 9 phones. You’ll find straightforward discounts at a handful of retailers right now, and you can score even more substantial savings if you trade in or activate a new line at a carrier. There are some excellent bargains available now, and we’ll continue to update this page as offers come and go, so be sure to check back often.
Read more: Pixel 9 Pro XL Review: Google Goes All In on AI, for Better or Worse
Google/CNET
The Pixel 9 lineup runs on Google’s Tensor G4 processor and the just-released Android 15. As for other specs, the premium Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has a 6.8-inch OLED display, a 5,060-mAh battery and is available with 128GB, 256GB, 512GB or 1TB of storage, along with 16GB of RAM. If you’re looking at the base model instead, you’ll get a 6.3-inch OLED screen and a 4,700-mAh battery, as well as 12GB of RAM and the choice of either 128GB or 256GB of storage.
Watch this: Google Pixel 9 Review: More AI, a New Look and a Higher Price
How much does the Pixel 9 series cost?
Pricing on the new models varies, with the base Pixel 9 listing at $799, the Pixel 9 Pro retailing for $999 and the premium Pixel 9 Pro XL selling for $1,099. There is also a newly designed Pixel 9 Pro Fold that starts at $1,799 if you prefer a foldable model.
If you’re ready to upgrade, there’s no need to wait. The entire Google Pixel 9 lineup is on shelves now, and there are discounts to be had if you know where to look. Deals are showing up at multiple retailers and carriers, helping you save on the latest flagship devices. We’ve listed the best below. Additionally, you should start seeing pretty significant Pixel deals on older models now that the newest edition is on the horizon, which could be another great option for budget-conscious buyers.
Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money.
Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Pixel 9 Pro.
Google
Best unlocked Pixel 9 deals
Google is offering straightforward discounts on all its latest Pixel phones right now. The basic Pixel 9, 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL are all $150 off, or you can save $300 if you opt for the advanced Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
Plus, those who join Google Fi Wireless can get an extra $500 back via bill credits over a 36-month period. This purchase also comes with a free year of access to Gemini Advanced.
Best Buy has matched Google’s offers on unlocked Pixel 9 models, so you can save $150 on the Pixel 9, 9 Pro or 9 Pro XL, and $300 on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. You can also score an extra $100 off when you opt for same-day activation through either AT&T or Verizon. Best Buy also has its own trade-in program that can save you even more.
Like Google and other retailers, Target is offering $300 off the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and $150 off all other Pixel 9 models. You can also save 5% when you make the purchase with your Target Circle Card.*
Grab an unlocked Pixel 9 at Amazon for a straightforward $150 off, with multiple color variants available right now.
Read more: Inside Google’s Secret Camera Lab That’s Like an Ikea for Pixel Testing
Best Pixel 9 deals with a carrier
AT&T doesn’t carry the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, but it is offering some savings on other models right now. If you’re after the basic Pixel 9, you can snag it for just $11 per month when you purchase it on an installment plan. That saves you $454 with no trade-in or new line required. If you do have an old phone valued at just $35 or higher, you can trade it in to get the Pixel 9 Pro or 9 Pro XL for free, as long as you have or switch to an eligible unlimited plan.
Other offers include a free Google Pixel Watch 3 with the purchase, as long as you activate it on a new data plan, as well as 50% off select pairs of Google Pixel Buds.
Verizon is offering some generous savings on the Pixel 9 lineup right now, but you’ll have to jump through a few hoops to take advantage of these discounts. Those adding a new Unlimited Welcome, Plus or Ultimate line can trade in their old phone for up to $1,000 off, which scores you the Pixel 9 Pro for free, drops the Pixel 9 Pro XL down to less than $6 per month and the 9 Pro Fold to $22 per month. Those adding a new Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Ultimate line can get the basic Pixel 9 for free without a trade-in.
T-Mobile has some generous offers for those adding a new line or looking to trade in their old phone right now. If you’re on a Go5G Next or Plus plan, you’ll get $1,000 off when either trading in an old phone or adding a new line of service. If you’re on a Go5G, Magenta or One plan, you can still save $600 with a new line or $500 with an eligible trade-in.
T-Mobile has also knocked $100 off the price for the 256GB Pixel 9 Pro, which means you’re getting a free storage upgrade.
Those adding a new line at Xfinity can save $830 on the Pixel 9 lineup when trading in their old phone, which scores you the basic Pixel 9 for free. And if you’re looking to make the switch from another carrier, Xfinity will give you up to $500 to pay off your current contract.
Mint Mobile is offering one of the best straightforward discounts out there right now as far as carrier models go. You can save $500 on the basic Pixel 9 and $350 on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, with no trade-in required. Plus, you get a year of unlimited data for just $15 per month with the purchase as well.
At the moment, Mint Mobile does not have the Pixel 9 Pro or 9 Pro XL available.
*All information about the Target Circle Card has been collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer.
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Rubbing beef fat on your face is one of the newest skincare fads.
Beef tallow is currently trending on social media as an alternative to traditional skincare products.
The simple-ingredient balms are made from the fat surrounding the kidneys of cows and processed into a butter that can be used as a moisturizer.
AIRPLANE PASSENGERS GO VIRAL FOR MID-FLIGHT BEAUTY ROUTINES: DERMATOLOGISTS WEIGH IN
While many might turn up their noses to using an animal-based product on the face, natural skincare company Hearth and Homestead in Virginia sold out of its tallow balm product on Black Friday.
Lily Wilmoth, the company’s founder and president, spoke with Fox News Digital in an on-camera interview about the skyrocketing demand for beef tallow.
Hearth and Homestead founder Lily Wilmoth is pictured with her husband and five children. “The biggest product for us has always been our tallow-based skincare products,” she told Fox News Digital.(Hearth and Homestead)
“It’s bigger than ever,” she said. “The biggest product for us has always been our tallow-based skincare products.”
How is beef tallow made?
Wilmoth revealed that her tallow balm is made from 100% grass-fed beef suet, or the fat that encases a cow’s kidney, which is sourced from farms across the country.
The fat is harvested, ground into a butter consistency and blended with an herb-infused olive oil before being melted, whipped, cooled and jarred, she said.
‘I’M A PHARMACIST, AND I WOULDN’T TAKE THESE 3 VITAMIN SUPPLEMENTS’
“It’s not the back fat or other types of fat that you might find on your steak,” Wilmoth said. “It’s a very specific fat … our ancestors recognized that this fat was special.”
“It has a higher amount of nutrients than all the other fats in the animal,” she went on. “It’s very creamy and white in texture. It doesn’t have a weird smell or taste.”
This specific fat is where nutrients, including vitamins D and A, are stored, according to Wilmoth.
Potential benefits for the skin
“Our skin is an organ,” Wilmoth said. “That’s why it’s so important that anything we put on our skin should be something we’re really thinking about carefully.”
Some moisturizers on the market have a “long list of complex ingredients, preservatives, emulsifiers … fragrances and dyes,” which could worsen skin conditions like eczema and acne, she cautioned.
Tallow balm is recommended as a moisturizer at the end of a skincare routine, after washing with a simple, all-natural soap.(Hearth and Homestead)
“Tallow balm, which is oil-based, doesn’t need preservatives because it doesn’t contain water,” she said. “It’s not going to disrupt the natural skin barrier.”
While tallow balm is “not a healing remedy” and each person’s skin will react to it differently, Wilmoth noted that many customers say it helps with conditions like acne and psoriasis.
“It has a higher amount of nutrients than all the other fats in the animal.”
Dr. Brendan Camp, a New York-based dermatologist, agreed that beef tallow is “generally well-tolerated” by most skin types.
He confirmed that beef tallow acts as a moisturizer to help “trap water into the skin” and make it feel “smooth and soft.”
For the skeptics who may think using fat on the face can be pore-clogging, one expert noted that tallow’s fatty acid profile is “similar to our own skin’s make-up.”(Hearth and Homestead)
“As an emollient, beef tallow fills in cracks and crevices in the skin that contribute to a rough texture,” he said to Fox News Digital.
Beef tallow also contains omega-3 fatty acids and various vitamins, Camp noted, which help maintain the health of the skin barrier and protect it from “oxidative stress.”
Not ideal for everyone
Wilmoth admitted that she “cannot guarantee that every single person is going to see amazing results with tallow,” as every person’s microbiome is different.
“Depending on your particular skin type, you may find that something else works better for you,” she said.
People with oily skin may find beef tallow products to be “too heavy or greasy,” Camp cautioned.
TANNING PILLS CAN POSE SERIOUS DANGERS, DERMATOLOGISTS WARN: ‘CONSUMERS SHOULD BE AWARE’
“If you have sensitive skin, you may want to consider doing a patch test on the inside of your arm prior to using it more liberally on the skin,” he recommended.
For those who opt not to use beef tallow, Camp suggested trying other basic moisturizers that are free of fragrances and dyes and that contain hydrating ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid and squalane.
One dermatologist warned that beef tallow could cause inflammation for some people.(iStock)
He also noted that, like most over-the-counter supplements, beef tallow products are not FDA-regulated.
In a video posted to Instagram and shared with Fox News Digital, Dr. Tiina Meder — a cosmetic safety expert, dermatologist and founder of Meder Beauty in London — questioned the hype around tallow balm.
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Meder, who grew up in Estonia in the 1970s, shared that her mother applied beef tallow to her face and hands in the cold winters because there weren’t any other options.
“It was the only thing to protect children’s faces and hands from cold burn,” she said.
One expert warned that some of the lipids found in beef tallow can be pro-inflammatory for humans and can “sensitize the skin.”(iStock)
But Meder wondered why people would choose not to take advantage of the variety of creams and moisturizers available today that are “better than beef tallow.”
For more Health articles, visit foxnews.com/health
“Beef tallow is not bioidentical,” she said. “Beef tallow lipids have very little in common with lipids of the human skin.”
“Depending on your particular skin type, you may find that something else works better for you.”
Linoleic acid, which is found in human sebum glands, is particularly essential for skin health, Meder noted, as it’s an anti-inflammatory antioxidant and also promotes viscosity — but beef tallow doesn’t contain any.
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Meder added that other lipids found in beef tallow can be pro-inflammatory for humans and can “sensitize the skin.”
“It is simply not right to apply beef tallow on the skin when you have such a huge choice,” she said.
Christmas 2024: Are you planning a house party this holiday season? If you’re hosting a Christmas get-together, we have a special recommendation for you: add some chaat to the menu. Different types of chaat are commonly served during festive get-togethers for Diwali and Holi. But you might be wondering how to make it stand out during a Christmas party. We have put together some tips and suggestions for you to tweak popular chaat recipes to make them Christmas-themed. These creative dishes are sure to impress your guests and will contribute towards an unforgettable festive feast. Check them out below:
Christmas 2024: Here Are 5 Yummy Chaat Recipes For Your Christmas Party
1. Palak Patta Chaat – with a twist
Christmas 2024: Palak patta chaat can be easily customised. Photo Credit: iStock
Palak patta chaat is a classic but wondering how to make it Christmassy? Fortunately, its ingredients are already on theme: green from the spinach and hari chutney, white from the dahi and reddish shades from imli chutney and pomegranate arils (typically used for garnish). To make your festive platter special, you can arrange the leaves of the palak like holly leaves and add the arils in the centre to represent cherries. Drizzle dahi to mimic hints of snow. Alternatively, arrange the leaves in a circular manner to make a mistletoe-like shape on a plate. Then carefully ‘decorate’ the patta. Use crisp sev to give a suggestion of shining golden elements on your Christmas platter. Read the basic recipe here for Palak Patta Chaat here.
Also Read: 7 Christmas Lunch Ideas That Will Wow Your Guests
2. Dahi Bhalla Chaat
Dahi bhalla and dahi vada chaats are always crowd-pleasers, so definitely consider adding them to your Christmas party menu. Like palak patta chaat, the basic ingredients of this recipe too are already Christmas-themed. We recommend first cooking the bhallas, soaking them in the seasoned dahi and refrigerating them. Once you’re ready to serve, add them to bowls and carefully drizzle the imli and green chutneys with a small spoon on top. Garnish with pomegranate arils and chopped coriander leaves. Click here for a classic dahi bhalla recipe.
3. Tangy Paneer Chaat
Combine green capsicum, peanuts, tomato, white radish and boiled potato/corn with some sweet chutney made with dates or tamarind (imli). Mix in finely chopped green chillies to add spice. Crumble lots of fresh paneer, stir slightly and serve immediately.
4. Spicy Potato Chaat
Christmas 2024: Potato chaat is a tasty option for a party. Photo Credit: iStock
Mix boiled potatoes, channa, capsicum and sprouts with hari chutney to get a wholesome and green base. Use honey and/or fruits like apples and grapes to bring some sweetness to the chaat and balance the spice of the chutney. Garnish with chopped tomatoes and pomegranate arils for the red layer. Instead of yellow sev, garnish with kurmura for extra crunch and to add a white element!
Also Read: 12 Classic Party Snacks You Can Make In An Air Fryer
5. Christmas Fruit Chaat
Winter brings a bounty of delicious seasonal fruits and making a fruit chaat is a great way to enjoy their taste. Mix strawberries/cherries kiwis, apples (red and green), bananas, dragon fruit, etc. to get a colourful Christmas-themed mix. Balance the acidity and flavours with a dash of lemon or orange juice. Season with chaat masala and add almond slivers for some festive crunch. Just before you serve, sprinkle some powdered sugar to give your bowl a fun frosty look!
Looking for more recipes for Christmas 2024? If you want to make a traditional meal, we recommend trying classic Goan recipes. Click here to explore some of them.
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-12-21/Chinese-envoy-calls-on-U-S-to-stop-stoking-confrontation-on-Ukraine-1zw5064V9Uk/img/761be762ca5448fb8fc386057ed1a188/761be762ca5448fb8fc386057ed1a188.png' alt='Ukrainian law enforcement officers stand among rubble next to a damaged residential building following a drone attack in Kharkiv, Ukraine, December 20, 2024. /CFP'
A senior Chinese diplomat on Friday called on the United States to stop its senseless blame game and provoking confrontation on the Ukraine issue.
“The crisis in Ukraine continues to drag on, and the fighting has shown no signs of abatement,” Geng Shuang, China’s deputy permanent representative to the United Nations (UN), told the UN Security Council.
Stressing that weapons may help win the war but cannot bring about lasting peace, he called on the parties to the conflict to start peace talks at an early date, and also the international community to actively create conditions to this end.
Since the conflict started, China has been calling on the parties to realize a ceasefire, start negotiations and restore peace as soon as possible, Geng said.
“Russia, Ukraine, countries of the Global South and many European countries have all welcomed China’s role and contribution to the resolution of the Ukraine crisis.”
He further said that the United States is the only country that has chosen to turn a blind eye to China’s efforts and continued to spread false information.
“China did not create the Ukraine crisis, nor is it a party to the crisis,” Geng said. “The United States cannot, on the one hand, hope that China will play a greater role in ending the war, while on the other hand, keeps discrediting China’s efforts for peace and continues to slander and put pressure on China.”
“We hope that the U.S. will stop its senseless blame game and its provocation of antagonism and confrontation,” he added.
Geng urged the United States to work with the countries concerned, including China, to build solidarity and consensus, and create conditions and an atmosphere conducive to the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis.
Pri kreiranju rubrike Index Shopping nastojimo izdvajati odlične proizvode koji se i nama sviđaju te odlične akcije i popuste. Ne objavljujemo proizvode koje i sami ne bismo kupili ili smatramo da njihova promocija nije u skladu s profesionalnim standardima. Neki proizvodi u rubrici Index Shopping mogu biti sponzorirani.
AKO planirate otići u kupovinu, preporučuje se prvo provjeriti radno vrijeme šoping-centara, trgovina i pekarnica kako biste izbjegli neugodna iznenađenja – odnosno kako ne biste poljubili vrata.
Većina je zatvorena nedjeljom, ali ima iznimaka. Da sve stignete na vrijeme, sastavili smo popis radnog vremena trgovina, šoping-centara i pekarnica za ovu nedjelju, 22. prosinca. Pogledajte ga u nastavku.
Radno vrijeme trgovina možete provjeriti i na stranici radne-nedjelje.
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HARTFORD, Conn. — In a marquee matchup Saturday night, No. 7 USC defeated perennial powerhouse No. 4 Connecticut 72-70, avenging its Elite Eight loss to the Huskies in April and strengthening its status as one of the nation’s elite teams.
“This is a really significant win, and it’s a significant win because of the stature of the UConn program and what [Connecticut coach] Geno Auriemma has done for our sport,” USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb said. “I told [the team] in [the locker room] — for me, for my entire high school and on, this is what basketball excellence was, this is what we saw. And it’s challenged all of us to want to be better, to find players who want to be better and be that elite.”
Undeterred playing in front of a sold-out crowd on the road, USC opened the game with a 9-0 run, capitalizing on cold shooting and defensive lapses from the Huskies. Buoyed by 15 points from JuJu Watkins, the Trojans shot 48.6% from the floor in the first half, including seven for 11 from three-point range, to take a 42-29 lead at halftime.
“A lot of the things [JuJu] does [are] super hard, but she makes it look so easy,” USC forward Kiki Iriafen said. “So I think she really got us going on the offensive end … we all know she’s a superstar, so playing with her definitely relieved the pressure on everybody else.”
Connecticut came out of the locker room with increased intensity, forcing seven Trojan turnovers and limiting Watkins to four points in the third quarter. Propelled by nine points from guard Paige Bueckers, the Huskies outscored USC (11-1) 20-13 in the third quarter, cutting their deficit to six points entering the fourth.
Connecticut (10-2) continued to chip away and took its first and only lead when freshman Sarah Strong scored on a layup with 4:34 left. USC regained the lead moments later on a Watkins jumper, but the Huskies wouldn’t let the Trojans pull away.
“I don’t think we were ever really rattled,” Watkins said. “We knew what [Connecticut] is capable of, they were going to go on runs, so it was just a matter of handling that and coming down on top.”
With USC leading by three with five seconds left, Strong drew a foul off Watkins while attempting a three-point shot. Strong made her first free throw, but missed her second attempt. After Strong missed her final attempt, Bueckers grabbed the rebound and fed the ball back to Strong, who missed a logo three at the buzzer.
Watkins finished with 25 points, six rebounds, five assists and three blocks. Iriafen had 16 points, 11 rebounds and six assists.
Bueckers and Strong each had 22 points.
Auriemma praised Watkins’ exceptional talent.
“Every scouting report that you put together, or every film that you watch, it’s very evident that one player can’t guard her,” Auriemma said. “You have to hope she helps, you have to hope she misses. And when she gets a little bit of a rhythm like she got in that first half, it’s really, really difficult … there’s qualities that she has that are just unique.”
Watkins showed why she’s one of the nation’s brightest stars, helping the Trojans earn a signature win. The victory was a showcase of the elite talent that has accelerated women’s college basketball’s growth in popularity.
“It’s just a testament to when you give women a platform, we’re going to perform,” Watkins said. “And I think that tonight was an excellent game. … It was just beautiful to be a part of. And I couldn’t imagine watching it — so, super exciting. And I think, as we continue to get games like this, we’ll always show up.”
The Trojans next play No. 20 Michigan at Galen Center on Dec. 29.
Sir Elton John has revealed he is working on new songs despite having quit touring and suffering a severe infection that has left him unable to see out of his right eye.
The Rocket Man, 77, says he has been in the recording studio as “the juices have never dried up”.
And the legendary entertainer adds he has never been happier than he is today due to his “fantastic family”.
He took some time off from music after finishing his epic Goodbye Yellow Brick Road tour in July, which grossed more than £700mlliion.
But Sir Elton said: “You will be getting some more [music]. The juices have never dried up.
“They never want to dry up because I’m always looking to create things. It’s just having the space now to do it at my own time. Of course there will be new Elton John music.”
The veteran star reflected on his recent medical woes, from knee replacements to being unable to see properly any more.
“I have never been healthier. I have a little problem with the eyes but compared to most people I am the luckiest man in the world. I am very, very happy.”
Sir Elton says he is still staggered by how he came up with his back catalogue of hits, given he was never with lyricist Bernie Taupin, 74.
“I write to lyrics. When I see the written word I get an idea in my head,” he said. “If I choose the title, or if I read through the lyrics, I say, ‘that’s the one’, it just sets me off.
“God knows how I do it. Bernie and I had written songs and never been in the same room.”
Small SUVs continued to sell well in Australia throughout 2024, and that meant there were plenty of them for us to review.
Nissan Qashqai Ti e-Power
As we continue recapping our 2024, we’re compiling the highest-rated cars from across Australia’s most popular new car segments into a list to show you what we liked best.
We’ve done mid-sized SUVs and utes so far, which means small SUVs are now up to bat. For this list we’ve kept it to the sub-$45,000 segment on the VFACTS sales charts, as they’re much more approachable for people wanting to simply get behind the wheel.
Some of these models have been reviewed on multiple occasions this year, so we’ve only featured the variant that achieved the highest rating.
Prices are based on each manufacturer’s configurators for a Victorian postcode, which should provide a representative estimate of what the average Australian buyer will end up paying.
100s of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
Honda HR-V e:HEV L
Volkswagen T-Roc 110TSI Style
Click on car’s name in the table above to jump directly to its information on the page, or keep scrolling for the full article.
Toyota Corolla Cross
Our top sub-$45,000 small SUV for 2024 was the Toyota Corolla Cross, which senior contributor Matt Campbell awarded a score of 8.4.
That score was for the base GX Hybrid, which we said offered exceptional value, space and efficiency underneath a barebones presentation. “Basic but brilliant” was the term used to sum up the Corolla Cross, and our rating reflects that.
It achieved an excellent fuel efficiency of just 4.3L/100km during our test, and with top-notch safety and interior space ratings we deemed it to be properly fit for purpose.
We didn’t like how it’s fitted with halogen daytime running lights instead of LEDs. That lead us to suggest the step up to the GXL for an extra $4000-odd was worth it, especially when you consider this base spec is already more than $40,000 drive-away.
Still, we found it to be a well-considered small SUV that can comfortably get the job done in a no-frills manner.
You can read our full review of the Toyota Corolla Cross GX Hybrid here
Toyota Corolla Cross GX Hybrid
CarExpert rating
8.4
Victorian drive-away price
$40,990
Pros
Cons
Exceptional fuel efficiency
Interior is pretty basic
Great space inside
Halogen daytime running lights
Good to drive
$3750 extra for the GXL is worth it
Interested in buying a Toyota Corolla Cross? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Toyota Corolla Cross
Skoda Kamiq
The Skoda Kamiq received a facelift this year, and our all-encompassing review of the new two-model range by marketplace journalist Josh Nevett listed a score of 8.4.
It was praised for its quality tech upgrades, while it also benefits from packing in big-car practicality into its small-car frame. Better yet, we said it was a great value proposition – especially given the base Select costs just $33,990 drive-away.
We gave it high individual scores across the board, headlined by a fit-for-purpose rating of 9 and a safety rating of 8.9. The Kamiq also impressed with its low cost of ownership and fuel efficiency, the latter a product of its two quality engines; turbos with either three or four cylinders.
A negative aspect was the Monte Carlo’s “polarising” interior design, while we were disappointed that the base-spec Select misses out on adaptive cruise control.
As is often a complaint with dual-clutch cars, we also found the Kamiq’s DSG unit was clunky at low speed, though it did have solid performance once on the move.
You can read our full review of the Skoda Kamiq here
Skoda Kamiq
CarExpert rating
8.4
Victorian drive-away price
$33,990 – $44,990
Pros
Cons
Meaningful tech upgrades
Polarising Monte Carlo interior design
Small car drivability, big car interior space
Base model misses out on adaptive cruise
Still great value across the range
DSG isn’t always smooth at low speeds
Interested in buying a Skoda Kamiq? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Skoda Kamiq
Nissan Qashqai
As reviewed by marketplace editor James Wong, the Nissan Qashqai Ti e-Power scored a respectable 8.2 in March this year.
We liked the hybrid Qashqai’s seemingly easy performance, something that comes as a result of Nissan’s unique electric motor-internal combustion engine it has over other traditional hybrids. That gives it a more electric vehicle (EV) feel, though a normal engine can still be heard.
That also contributes to its refined on-road characteristics, as it’s mostly quiet at low speeds and generally very smooth. Nissan backs up those traits with an upmarket interior that punches above the Qashqai’s paygrade.
It wasn’t all positive though. We don’t like how the e-Power Qashqai is only available in one top-spec Ti variant, as it seems to push it out of the realm of a lot of hybrid buyers. It’s also considerably more expensive than the non-hybrid equivalent.
We also felt its ride could be somewhat firm on occasion, but none of that was enough to detract from an otherwise solid Toyota hybrid rival.
You can read our full review of the Nissan Qashqai Ti e-Power here
Nissan Qashai Ti e-Power
CarExpert rating
8.2
Victorian drive-away price
$56,907
Pros
Cons
Effortless performance
Limited to flagship Ti spec
Upmarket cabin feel
$4200 premium over 1.3T
Great on-road refinement
Ride can be a touch firm at times
Interested in buying a Nissan Qashqai? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Nissan Qashqai
Volkswagen T-Roc
We’ve published a handful of reviews for Volkswagen’s T-Roc small SUV this year, but it was senior contributor Matt Campbell’s review of the Style that scored the highest at 8.2.
The Style is one rung up from the bottom of the T-Roc range, and we liked it for its easy driving characteristics and its well-laid out cabin. It’s also a considerable improvement on the features list compared to the base CityLife without being too much more expensive.
We felt it was nicely fit for purpose, and it scored highly on ride comfort and infotainment technology. Under the bonnet is a simple 1.4-litre four-cylinder turbo sent to the front wheels only, with higher-performance options reserved for more expensive T-Rocs.
On the other hand, we felt its eight-speed automatic transmission wasn’t quite as sharp as Volkswagen’s typical dual-clutch DSG, but that did mean its low-speed drivability was improved.
Its second row also isn’t terribly large as a result of the small SUV frame, and rough roads can induce a fair bit of cabin noise. Still, we found it to be a solid choice for crossover customers.
You can read our full review of the Volkswagen T-Roc 110TSI Style here
Volkswagen T-Roc 110TSI Style
CarExpert rating
8.2
Victorian drive-away price
$41,990
Pros
Cons
Great to drive
Eight-speed auto not as snappy as DSG
Classy and intuitive cabin
Second row is a bit cramped
Big step up in spec over CityLife
Coarse-chip road noise intrusion
Interested in buying a Volkswagen T-Roc? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Volkswagen T-Roc
Honda HR-V
Honda’s smallest SUV entered 2024 off the back of a fresh redesign, and news editor William Stopford found its top-spec variant to be worthy of a score of 8.1
That variant is the e:HEV L, the one hybrid in the range. We liked how refined it appeared to be, and the Magic Seats in its second row proved to be practical in the real world.
Its cabin is also well-appointed and spacious, while everything is practical and easy to operate in daily use. Even those coming to the HR-V for the first time will likely find it easy to get settled.
It lost marks for its price and lack of a spare wheel, and we really couldn’t get past the fact it’s only a four-seater. There’s enough space for a third seat on the second row, but the lack of a centre seatbelt means it can’t legally be used as a seat.
While the HR-V may not feel as premium as its ZR-V sibling, there’s a lot that it does right to deserve a spot on this list.
You can read our full review of the Honda HR-V e:HEV L here
Honda HR-V e:HEV L
CarExpert rating
8.1
Victorian drive-away price
$42,900
Pros
Cons
Impressive refinement
Lack of a centre rear seatbelt is a copout
Magic Seats bring real practicality gains
No spare wheel
Spacious, attractive cabin
Not the cheapest small hybrid SUV
Interested in buying a Honda HR-V? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Honda HR-V
Honourable mentions
There were four other small SUVs that were also rated at 8.1, and we feel they deserve a mention too.
Mazda CX-30
Toyota C-HR
MG ZS
Chery Omoda E5
The final spot on the list above could have easily been taken by the Mazda CX-30 G25 GT SP, though the Honda comes first alphabetically. You can read the review of that CX-30 here.
Our all-encompassing review of the new Toyota C-HR range could also sneak in, but because a later review of the specific GR Sport variant scored 7.9 we decided to give it an honourable mention instead.
The updated MG ZS range scored 8.1 too, but because that was also a broad review of a model we’re yet to review in specifics it gets an honourable mention. Like, the new C-HR GR Sport, the outgoing MG ZST scored 7.6.
Finally is the Omoda E5, which scored 8.1 in its standalone review. We’ve given it an honourable mention because we’re yet to get our hands on one to test at home in our usual manner.
The GST Council inter-alia made several recommendations relating to changes in GST tax rates.
FM Nirmala Sitharaman addresses media after the GST Council meeting on December 21, 2024
GST Council Meeting Recommendations: The GST Council has made several key recommendations aimed at simplifying and reducing the tax burden in specific areas.
The 55th GST Council met under the Chairpersonship of Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan on December 21.
55th GST Council Meeting Highlights
Firstly, the Council has recommended a reduction in the GST rate on Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK), which is classified under HS Code 1904, to 5%. This move aims to make FRK more affordable and accessible.
In addition, the Council has recommended a full exemption of GST on gene therapy, recognizing its potential in medical treatment and the need to make it more accessible to those in need.
The Council has also proposed that contributions made by general insurance companies from third-party motor vehicle premiums to the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund should be exempt from GST. This exemption would help streamline the collection and use of these contributions.
Furthermore, the GST Council clarified that no GST should apply to transactions involving vouchers, as they do not constitute a supply of goods or services. To further simplify matters, provisions related to vouchers are also being revised.
Additionally, the Council has clarified that penal charges levied by banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) from borrowers for non-compliance with loan terms are not subject to GST.
Lastly, the GST Council has recommended a reduction in the pre-deposit required when filing an appeal before the Appellate Authority in cases where the order in question involves only penalty amounts. This change is intended to make the appeals process more accessible and less financially burdensome for taxpayers.
Complete Details Of 55th GST Council Meeting Recommendations
The GST Council inter-alia made the following recommendations relating to changes in GST tax rates, provide relief to individuals, measures for facilitation of trade and measures for streamlining compliances in GST.
Cheaper and Dearer in GST Council Meeting
Changes in GST rates of goods
Goods
To reduce the GST rate on the Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK), classifiable under 1904, to 5%.
To exempt GST on gene therapy.
To extend IGST exemption to systems, sub-systems, equipment, parts, sub-parts, tools, test equipment, software meant assembly/manufacture of LRSAM system under Notification 19/2019-Customs.
To reduce the rate of Compensation Cess to 0.1% on supplies to merchant exporters at par with GST rate on such supplies.
To be exempt from IGST imports of all equipment and consumable samples by the Inspection Team of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) subject to specified conditions.
To extend the concessional 5% GST rate on food inputs of food preparations under HSN 19 or 21 that are supplied for food preparations intended for free distribution to economically weaker sections under a government program subject to the existing conditions.
Services
To bring a supply of the sponsorship services provided by the body corporates under the Forward Charge Mechanism.
To exempt GST on the contributions made by general insurance companies from the third-party motor vehicle premiums collected by them to the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund, constituted under section 164B of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. This fund is constituted for providing compensation/ cashless treatment to the victims of road accidents including hit-and-run cases.
To omit the definition of declared tariff and suitably amend the definition of specified premises (from the services rate and exemption notifications) to link it with actual value of supply of any unit of accommodation provided by the hotel and to make the rate of GST applicable on restaurant services in such hotels, for a given financial year, dependent upon the ‘value of supply’ of units of accommodation made in the preceding financial year, i.e. 18% with ITC if the ‘value of supply’ exceeded Rs. 7,500 for any unit of accommodation in the preceding financial year, and 5% without ITC otherwise. Further, to give an option to pay tax on restaurant service in hotels at the rate of 18% with ITC, if the hotel so chooses, by giving a declaration to that effect on or before the beginning of the financial year or on obtaining registration. The above changes to be made effective from 01.04.2025 to avoid any transition difficulties.
To exclude taxpayers registered under composition levy scheme from the entry at Sr. No. 5AB introduced vide Notification No. 09/2024-CTR dated 08.10.2024 vide which renting of any commercial/ immovable property (other than residential dwelling) by unregistered person to registered person was brought under reverse charge mechanism. Further, to regularize the period from the date when the notification No. 09/2024-CTR dated 08.10.2024, became effective i.e. from 10.10.2024 till the date of issuance of the proposed notification on “as is where is” basis.
Other changes relating to goods and services
1. To increase the GST rate from 12% to 18 % on the sale of all old and used vehicles, including EVs other than those specified at 18% – Sale of old and used petrol vehicles of engine capacity of 1200 cc or more & of length of 4000 mm or more; diesel vehicles of engine capacity of 1500 cc or more & of length of 4000 mm and SUVs.
[Note: GST is applicable only on the Value that represents the Margin of the Supplier, that is, the difference between the Purchase price and Selling price (depreciated value if depreciation is claimed) and not on the value of the vehicle. Also, it is not applicable in case of unregistered persons.]
2. To clarify that Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (ACC) blocks containing more than 50% fly ash content will fall under HS 6815 and attract 12% GST.
3. To clarify that pepper whether fresh green or dried pepper and raisins when supplied by an agriculturist is not liable to GST.
4. To amend the definition of ‘pre-packaged and labelled’ to cover all commodities that are intended for retail sale and containing not more than 25 kg or 25 litre, which are ‘pre-packed’ as defined under the Legal Metrology Act, or a label affixed thereto is required to bear the declarations under the provisions of the Act and rules.
5. To clarify, ready-to-eat popcorn that is mixed with salt and spices is classifiable under HS 2106 90 99 and attracts 5% GST if supplied as other than pre-packaged and labelled and 12% GST if supplied as pre-packaged and labelled. However, when popcorn is mixed with sugar thereby changing its character to sugar confectionery (e.g. caramel popcorn), it would be classifiable under HS 1704 90 90 and attract 18% GST. It has been decided to regularise the issues for the past on “as is where is” basis. (Note: There is no new imposition of any tax in this regard and is merely a clarification as certain field units were demanding different tax rates on the same. Therefore, it is a clarification being recommended by the GST Council to settle the disputes arising out of interpretation.)
6. To clarify that the Explanation in Sl. No. 52B in notification No. 1/2017- Compensation Cess (Rate) dated 28.6.2017 regarding ground clearance is applicable with effect from 26.07.2023.
7. To clarify that RBI regulated Payment Aggregators are eligible for the exemption under entry at Sl. No. 34 of notification No. 12/2017-CT(R) dated 28.06.2017 since they fall within the ambit of ‘acquiring bank’ as defined in the said entry. To also clarify that this exemption does not cover payment gateway (PG) and other fintech services which do not involve settlement of funds.
8. To clarify that no GST is payable on the ‘penal charges’ levied and collected by banks and NBFCs from borrowers for non-compliance with loan terms.
News business » tax 55th GST Council Meeting Recommendations: What’s Cheaper And Costlier, Check Full Details
Whales are rebalancing their portfolios for a blistering year ahead, with Cardano (ADA), Dogecoin (DOGE) and Rollblock (RBLK) at the top of most lists. Many whales are talking about Cardano’s potential rally to $6, but they are most excited about crypto casino Rollblock’s 1000% potential. This top altcoin has created a next-generation online gambling experience and is looking at explosive growth when its crypto presale ends.
Rollblock Tops Whale Interest With Enormous Revenue Potential
Rollblock is a revolutionary next-generation GambleFi protocol set to disrupt the $500 billion casino industry. The global gambling industry is ripe for a blockchain technology revolution, with a rapidly increasing share of this revenue moving online each day.
Legacy online gambling sites are still slow, dull and riddled with red tape and hidden fees. Rollblock’s casino of more than 7,000 games and sports betting is changing this.
Rollblock’s platform operates on the blockchain, which means fast, seamless and transparent access from anywhere in the world through over 20 different crypto tokens. Rollblock has also enhanced the player experience through the latest in UX design and a community-focused approach.
This community focus includes a generous suite of rewards programs and fresh events each month. However, its most important element is its game-changing profit-sharing system.
Rollblock’s system works through buybacks that employ a portion of the casino’s weekly revenue. These buybacks share profit back with the community through either burn events that increase RBLK’s value or through staking rewards that are competitive with current industry standards.
$RBLK tokens are currently selling out fast during stage nine of its presale, with tokens valued at $0.043. With early investors already seeing returns of over 300% experts are making extremely bullish predictions of over 800% returns going into 2025.
Cardano Midnight Upgrade Sets Course for $6 by 2026
Cardano is also seeing massive whale interest thanks to its imminent Midnight upgrade.
The Midnight upgrade will see Cardano build a sidechain dedicated to processing transactions that limit public information. This will make Cardano the ideal platform for DeFi applications that need to confirm transactions while hiding the details involved.
The Cardano price is expected to increase to over $6 by 2026 on this rapid DeFi expansion. This would be an over 500% increase from the current price and more than double its all-time high from 2021.
Dogecoin to Be Meme Coin of 2025 Thanks to Trump Presidency
The Dogecoin price is expected to continue its association with Elon Musk and the Donald Trump presidency in 2025. This association could send the Dogecoin price as much as 1000% higher as Trump and Musk dominate the headlines for the year.
Dogecoin has been the top meme coin destination for crypto enthusiasts looking to celebrate Trump’s win and Musk’s creation of the Department of Government Efficiency. This association already took Dogecoin 500% higher in November with Dogecoin currently trading at $0.2892.
Rollblock Top Altcoin for Crypto Whale Portfolios in 2025
While Dogecoin and Cardano look promising for 2025, Rollblock is the undisputed top altcoin for crypto whales. With experts predicting a huge 100x rally out of its crypto presale, Rollblock is being added to whale portfolios now before it is too late.
Discover the Exciting Opportunities of the Rollblock (RBLK) Presale Today!
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The Andhra Pradesh government and EdTech company PhysicsWallah have signed an agreement to set up a University of Innovation (UoI) at an investment of up to ₹1,000 crore.
The UoI is set to emerge as the first institute of eminence in the state and aligns with Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s aim to provide the state’s youth with education in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies.
“We are committed to investing up to ₹1,000 crores by GSV Ventures – US and other investors, the purpose is to create an institution that combines academic learning with industry relevance. The UoI will help learners with the skills they might need in a constantly evolving job market, in an attempt to foster entrepreneurship and innovation,” said PhysicsWallah founder and chief executive Alakh Pandey in a press release on Friday.
Also read: Ex-Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa faces arrest over provident fund fraud
The UoI will work towards blending academic excellence, innovation, and research, focusing on addressing key challenges in education and employability.
Following a hub and spoke model, the varsity will serve as a central hub with satellite centres across the southern state serving as spokes.
Further, in a bid to keep the curriculum aligned with the market, PhysicsWallah is collaborating with industry partners like Amazon Web Services India Pvt Ltd to provide industry-relevant education.
IT Minister Nara Lokesh added that the partnership with the EdTech company aims at advancing innovation and equipping Andhra Pradesh’s youth with skills which align with industry demands and standards.
Also read: BIMARU states turn the tables as MF AUMs in smaller states grow faster
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The holiday season can be a stressful time for everyone — but particularly for those living with dementia, as well as their caregivers and loved ones.
Statistics show that an estimated 6.7 million people over 65 in the U.S. have Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia.
Meanwhile, nearly 90% of U.S. adults report experiencing stress during the holiday season, according to the American Psychological Association.
15 HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR DEMENTIA PATIENTS AND CAREGIVERS: ‘COGNITIVELY APPROPRIATE’
“The holiday season can be confusing and overwhelming for those living with dementia, as well as a stressful time for their family caregivers who care for them every day,” said Jessica Corona-Irwin, an Ohio-based registered nurse and certified dementia practitioner at Remo Health, a virtual dementia care company.
“One-on-one interactions can be easier than larger group conversations, as the individual feels included and valued,” one expert said.(iStock)
“One reason for this is that the holiday season often involves changes in daily routines,” she told Fox News Digital. “People living with dementia often need to maintain a daily routine. This consistency can help them feel more secure and reduce anxiety.”
Several experts shared the following tips to help dementia patients, family members and caregivers enjoy a smooth, low-stress holiday.
DEMENTIA REPORT REVEALS ‘SHOCKING’ SIGNS AT AGE 60 THAT YOU’LL DEVELOP THE DISEASE BY AGE 80
1. Prepare family and friends in advance
Kate Granigan, Aging Life Care Association board president in Boston, Massachusetts, recommends explaining any changes in the loved one’s behavior, memory or communication prior to holiday gatherings, especially if others are unfamiliar with dementia.
“A little preparation and understanding helps create a more positive atmosphere.”
“Encourage visitors to be patient, avoid correcting or interrupting, and give your loved one time to express themselves,” she suggested to Fox News Digital.
“A little preparation and understanding helps create a more positive atmosphere.”
2. Stay as consistent as possible
It’s important to try to keep meal times, bedtimes and other daily activities at approximately the same times during the holiday season, according to Corona-Irwin.
“If changes are necessary, make them gradually and communicate them clearly,” she advised.
One expert recommended engaging your loved one in familiar traditions, such as stirring cookie dough or singing familiar songs, to “spark joy and a sense of inclusion.”(iStock)
“For example, if you’re planning a holiday meal at a different time, one tip is to start shifting the usual mealtime a few days in advance to help your loved one adjust smoothly.”
3. Simplify the environment
It’s best to keep the dementia patient’s surroundings as simple as possible, according to Dr. Tina Sadarangani, an NYU professor, board-certified geriatric nurse practitioner, and founder of the CareMobi app and The Enlightened Caregiver.
“Stick to familiar and nostalgic decorations, avoiding flashing lights or loud sounds that might be overstimulating,” she suggested.
‘HIDDEN’ FAT COULD PREDICT ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE UP TO 20 YEARS BEFORE SYMPTOMS, RESEARCH FINDS
The theme of simplicity should extend to activities, said Corona-Irwin.
“Prioritize activities that are simple and enjoyable, such as listening to favorite holiday music, looking at old family photos, or engaging in gentle, sensory activities,” she suggested.
“These can be very comforting and bring joy without causing stress.”
4. Communicate clearly and patiently
For many individuals with dementia, it can be challenging to follow conversations, especially when the environment is very busy and noisy, according to Dr. Michele Nealon, president of The Chicago School, a non-profit graduate school focused on psychology and related behavioral sciences.
When selecting gifts for someone with dementia, experts suggest considering their comfort and enjoyment.(iStock)
“Use straightforward language, make eye contact and give your loved one extra time to respond or even not respond,” California-based Nealon advised.
“One-on-one interactions can be easier than larger group conversations, as the individual feels included and valued.”
5. Embrace familiar traditions
Sadarangani also recommends engaging your loved one in familiar traditions, such as stirring cookie dough or singing familiar songs, to “spark joy and a sense of inclusion.”
“Sensory activities like listening to calming holiday music, touching soft decorations or enjoying the scents of the season can also evoke positive feelings without overwhelming them,” she added.
“Accept that holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.”
Focus on what they can do rather than their limitations, Sadarangani suggested.
“Involve them in simple, meaningful tasks like folding napkins or flipping through photo albums,” she said. “Planning short, flexible activities can prevent fatigue.”
6. Provide a calm space
The holidays tend to be noisier and busier than usual, which can overwhelm someone with dementia, Nealon noted.
“If you can, have a quiet space or room where they can retreat for relaxation if that is needed,” an expert suggested.(iStock)
“If you can, have a quiet space or room where they can retreat for relaxation if that is needed,” she suggested to Fox News Digital.
“Set up the room to be as soothing as possible, with soft lighting, familiar objects and gentle music to create a sense of calmness.”
7. Prioritize self-care
For caregivers, Sadarangani emphasized the importance of setting realistic expectations and prioritizing self-care.
“Accept that holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful and embrace moments of connection, however small they may be,” she advised.
DEMENTIA RISK COULD BE LINKED TO WALKING SPEED, STUDY SUGGESTS
To help lighten the load during the busy season, caregivers should enlist help when they need it.
“Caregiving can be physically and emotionally exhausting, and even brief moments of rest can go a long way toward reducing stress and avoiding burnout,” Nealon said.
“Ask for help, assign responsibilities to family members and get the family involved with cooking, decorating and cleaning up.”
“Caregivers cannot do it all, and certainly not alone.”
8. Choose thoughtful gifts
When selecting gifts for someone with dementia, Nealon suggests considering their comfort and enjoyment.
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“Items like simple puzzles or a warm sensory blanket can provide much-needed comfort and joy,” she suggested.
9. Swap the TV for music
For some people living with dementia, watching television can be difficult, as they may struggle with storylines, according to Hannah Karim, care expert lead for the online care finder Lottie.
“It’s important to validate their feelings and provide reassurance.”
“This Christmas, swap out the TV for the radio — or a specially curated dementia-friendly playlist — as it can be easier to follow,” suggested Karim, who is based in the U.K.
“Music has many health and well-being benefits, especially for those with dementia,” she went on. “Research has found that music can help reduce anxiety and spark joy while reminiscing over fond memories of Christmas celebrations from the past.”
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Listening to the family’s favorite Christmas songs during the holidays can also help create shared memories for everyone, Karim added.
10. Validate their feelings
Emotional support is just as important as physical care, Corwin-Irwin noted.
“Your loved one might feel sad, anxious or overwhelmed during the holidays,” she said. “It’s important to validate their feelings and provide reassurance.”
“Stick to familiar and nostalgic decorations, avoiding flashing lights or loud sounds that might be overstimulating,” a geriatric nurse practitioner suggested. (iStock)
You can do this by letting them know it’s OK to feel the way they do and that you are there to support them, according to Corwin-Irwin.
“Simple gestures like holding their hand, giving them a hug or sitting quietly with them can be incredibly comforting,” she added.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
Added Sadarangani, “By focusing on creating a calm, inclusive environment and cherishing meaningful moments, you can ensure that the holidays remain a source of joy and connection for your loved one and your family.”
One of the best things about childhood is watching cartoons and eating ice cream, candies, and all kinds of forbidden junk food. As we grow up, we might still love ice cream, but somehow fail to match the enthusiasm of our childhood. Right? Well, if you wish to reignite your love for fun foods, let us take you on a nostalgic journey by revisiting some of the iconic foods featured in our favourite and popular cartoons from the ’90s. Brace yourselves for a dreamy and ‘foodilicious’ ride that will take you back to those wonderful, carefree days.
Here Are 5 Foods From Cartoons Every ’90s Kid Will Remember:
1. Spinach From ‘Popeye The Sailor’
Many parents of ’90s kids are grateful to Popeye. Why? Every time our favourite ‘sailor man’ needed strength to fight the bad guys, he would eat a can of spinach and be fueled with great energy. Inspired by Popeye, many kids would eat their spinach or “palak” without any fuss and with great enthusiasm.
2. Cheese From ‘Tom and Jerry’
Menus of restaurants and cafes these days might be full of cheesy pizzas and sandwiches. However, during the ’90s, cheese was still an indulgence and something not that readily available. Since kids love cheese, many of us were tempted by the blocks of yellow cheese with holes, as shown in the iconic ‘Tom and Jerry‘ cartoon show. We would love to get a bite of that creamy cheese-one of Jerry’s favourite snacks.
3. Bugs Bunny’s Carrots From ‘Looney Tunes Cartoons’
Another healthy food item many kids would like to snack on is carrots. No point in guessing which cartoon character loves these the most – the funny and witty Bugs Bunny. Whether it was a hunter looking to kill him or the jealous Daffy Duck finding ways to snub him, our favourite bunny character would fight all challenges with ease, while chomping on a carrot. Do not forget his iconic dialogue while eating a carrot-“Eh, kya baat hai dost? (Eh… What’s Up Doc?)”
Also Read:Why ‘Nani Ke Ghar Ka Khaana’ Is So Delicious and Will Always Be
4. The Big Banana From ‘Oswald’
Did you love Oswald as a child? Who are we kidding? Chances are, you still do. Oswald is kind and caring, loving and nurturing. This blue octopus is a lovely friend and a great neighbour. Oswald loves to do different activities with his friends. Remember the time he grew a banana in his house? It was so big that it ended up taking up space in the entire living room. In pure Oswald fashion, he shared it with everyone and they celebrated the Big Banana Festival.
5. Food Machines From ‘The Jetsons’
This cartoon show features the Jetson family living in a utopian future. In the future, people do not need to cook and can fix any meal at the click of a button. The ‘Foodarackacycle’ is a food-serving machine that makes and dispenses any meal at the touch of a button. They also have a machine called ‘Menulator,’ which allows you to make any sandwich by simply announcing everything you want in the filling. Cool, right?
Also Read: 8 Childhood Food Habits And Memories We Would Want To Live Again!
Do you remember any more iconic foods from ’90s cartoons? We would love to hear from you! Share with us in the comments section and maybe rewatch your favourite cartoons and enjoy their iconic snacks. Happy eating!
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-12-21/China-s-top-legislature-convenes-standing-committee-session-1zw8yvEPrq0/img/0f0cda7fe20e4ce992d1f03e1aa9fd98/0f0cda7fe20e4ce992d1f03e1aa9fd98.png' alt='The first plenary meeting of the 13th session of the 14th National People's Congress Standing Committee is held in Beijing, China, December 21, 2024. /Xinhua'
China’s top legislature on Saturday started a regular session to review a raft of bills including law drafts and reports.
Zhao Leji, chairman of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, presided over the first plenary meeting of the committee’s 13th session.
Lawmakers reviewed a draft value-added tax law, a draft national park law, a draft law on the publicity and education regarding the rule of law, a draft private sector promotion law and a draft hazardous chemicals safety law.
They deliberated a draft amendment to the law on people’s congress deputies, a draft amendment to the supervision law, a draft revision to science and technology popularization law, a draft revision to the anti-unfair competition law and a draft revision to the fisheries law.
Lawmakers also reviewed a draft decision on convening the third session of the 14th NPC, reports on the handling of the suggestions, criticisms and comments submitted by lawmakers at the second session of the 14th NPC, a deputy qualification report and personnel-related bills, among others.
In this part of his Pharmaceutical Executive video interview, Peter Ax, CEO of UpScriptHealth, discusses the recent DEA extensions of telehealth for controlled substances and new treatment modalities or patient populations he anticipates will become more accessible through telehealth in 2025.
The ongoing quarter is proving to be not so good for the residential real estate sector with both new supply and absorption seeing a fall. Data indicates that new housing supply has fallen by a third on year and sales by over a fifth across the top nine cities of India.
In Q4 of 2024 so far 85,765 new housing units have come into the market, compared to 1.28 lakh units year ago, a decrease of 33 per cent, according to data provided by real estate data analytics firm PropEquity.
Home sales in the quarter has fallen 21 per cent to a little over 1 lakh units compared to around 1.4 lakh units year ago. The data shows that the drop has been across all cities, with the sole exception of Delhi-National Capital Region, which bucked the trend on both aspects.
The cities that have been surveyed are Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi-NCR , Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Pune.
Sales across the nine cities have risen 5 per cent on the quarter and launches 7 per cent.
Sales slowdown
The drop in sales ranges from 9 to 47 per cent, with Chennai seeing the least drop and Hyderabad the most.
In recent months Hyderabad has been seeing a slowdown in the sales volume of premium homes, that accounted for a good portion of the demand. In the quarter under review around 12,682 housing units were sold in the city compared to around 24,044 units year ago. In the September quarter also the city saw an over 20 per cent dip in sales volume, pointing to a longer trend of tapering sales momentum.
Prices in the city have risen sharply over the last year or so putting homes out of reach for many. According to Anarock, the average ticket price in the city in the first half of FY25 increased to ₹1.15 crore from ₹84 lakh in the first half of FY24.
In Chennai sales have dipped 9 per cent y-o-y and 10 per cent q-o-q, according to the data. Sales in Mumbai, that accounts for close to half of the total residential market in the country by value, fell 27 per cent to just over 10,000 units.
The sole exception in the list, Delhi-NCR, saw sales rising 25 per cent on year and 20 per cent q-o-q to 12,915 units.
Supply drop
The drop in new supply ranges from 11 to 52 per cent, with Bengaluru seeing the least drop and Hyderabad again showing the most drop.
In Bengaluru, the quarter under review has seen nearly 14,511 new housing units coming up compared to 16,364 units year ago.
Bengaluru has been a strong residential market, due to demand from the high-income earning IT professionals. A disturbing data point is that the city has also seen a 22 per cent decline in launches sequentially – from the September quarter – indicating an overall downward trend.
In Chennai new supply has fallen 17 per cent on year and 32 per cent on the quarter to 3196 units, pointing to weakness in the market.
Mumbai, saw a new supply fall 25 per cent on year and 10 per cent sequentially to 7234 units.
Pri kreiranju rubrike Index Shopping nastojimo izdvajati odlične proizvode koji se i nama sviđaju te odlične akcije i popuste. Ne objavljujemo proizvode koje i sami ne bismo kupili ili smatramo da njihova promocija nije u skladu s profesionalnim standardima. Neki proizvodi u rubrici Index Shopping mogu biti sponzorirani.
PRIJE nekoliko dana pojavila se navodna talijanska Samsungova pozivnica za nadolazeći Unpacked događaj, na kojem bi trebala biti predstavljena nova Galaxy S25 serija. Zanimljivo je da pozivnica prikazuje četiri uređaja umjesto uobičajena tri. Prema glasinama, razlog tome je što će uz modele S25, S25+ i S25 Ultra obitelj Galaxy S25 dobiti još jednog člana – Galaxy S25 Slim.
Čini se da Samsung ovim modelom planira odgovoriti na Appleov iPhone 17 Air, koji bi, prema dosadašnjim glasinama, trebao biti predstavljen sljedećeg rujna. Trenutačno se puno govori o Galaxy S25 Slim uređaju, a jedno od ključnih pitanja je koliko će zapravo biti tanak. Kineski izvor Ice Universe donosi prve informacije o tome.
Prema njemu, Galaxy S25 Slim trebao bi biti debeo 6.x mm, što znači da će sigurno biti tanji od 7 mm, iako precizna debljina još nije poznata.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Navodno bi trebao biti predstavljen na sljedećem Unpackedu
Ako se ove glasine pokažu točnima, Apple bi i dalje mogao imati najtanji pametni telefon, s obzirom na to da se za iPhone 17 Air navodi debljina između 5 mm i 6 mm. Ipak, kako bi postigao takvu debljinu, Apple bi navodno morao napraviti određene ustupke, uključujući ugradnju samo jedne stražnje kamere, što podsjeća na SE modele, prenosi GSM Arena.
Osim glasina o debljini, pojavile su se informacije i o drugim značajkama Galaxy S25 Slim modela. Navodi se da će imati 6.66-inčni zaslon (iste veličine kao S25+), čipset Snapdragon 8 Elite i bateriju kapaciteta između 4700 mAh i 5000 mAh.
Također, uređaj bi navodno trebao imati glavnu kameru od 200 MP sa Samsungovim ISOCELL HP5 senzorom, ultraširokokutnu kameru od 50 MP i telefoto kameru od 50 MP s 3.5x optičkim zoomom – obje s ISOCELL JN5 senzorom.
Spominje se i da Galaxy S25 Slim neće biti pušten u prodaju s ostatkom Galaxy S25 serije. Iako će navodno biti predstavljen na Unpacked događaju krajem siječnja, u trgovinama bi se mogao pojaviti tek u drugom kvartalu sljedeće godine, između travnja i lipnja.
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The US Commerce Department has awarded Samsung Electronics up to $4.745 billion in direct funding to support the South Korean tech giant’s chipmaking investment in central Texas, as it strives to strengthen domestic semiconductor production.
The announcement came after the department announced a preliminary deal with Samsung in April to provide up to $6.4 billion in grants under the CHIPS and Science Act, reports Yonhap news agency.
It also announced a final decision to give up to $458 million in direct funding and up to $500 million in loans to another Korean firm, SK hynix, for its investment in Indiana.
The funding will support Samsung’s investment of over $37 billion in the coming years to turn its existing presence in central Texas into a comprehensive ecosystem for the development and production of leading-edge chips in the United States, the department said.
Samsung’s investment program includes two new leading-edge logic fabs and an R&D fab in Taylor, as well as an expansion to their existing facility in Austin.
“With this investment in Samsung, the U.S. is now officially the only country on the planet that is home to all five leading-edge semiconductor manufacturers,” Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo was quoted as saying in a statement.
“This is an extraordinary achievement, which will ensure we have a steady, domestic supply of the most advanced semiconductors that are essential to AI and national security, while also creating tens of thousands of good-paying jobs and transforming communities across the country,” she added.
Jun Young-hyun, vice chairman and CEO of Device Solutions Division at Samsung Electronics, expressed hope for further collaboration with U.S. partners to meet the “evolving needs of the upcoming AI-driven era.”
“With nearly 30 years of semiconductor manufacturing experience in the United States, we are proud and grateful for the long-standing relationships we have established with our American partners and customers, as well as communities across Texas,” Jun said.
“Our agreement with the U.S. Government today under the CHIPS and Science Act represents another milestone as we continue to invest and build a state-of-the-art semiconductor ecosystem in the U.S.”
The department said that Samsung’s CHIPS investment would support the creation of approximately 12,000 construction jobs and more than 3,500 manufacturing jobs within the next five years, while stimulating regional commercial growth.
Soprano Lesley Garrett has revealed her impending 70th birthday has made her think about quitting singing.
The classical music star says she would hate for audiences to complain she was no longer as good as she used to be at the height of her fame.
So with her landmark birthday looming in April she has started to ponder retiring while she is still ahead.
Lesley, who was the principal soprano for the English National Opera and has also performed in musicals in the West End, said: “I’m now having to look at re-inventing myself, because, although I am still singing and still performing, next year I’ll be 70. Can you keep going forever?
“Or, do I quit while I’m ahead and say, ‘right. I’ve had 45 years of an amazing career, let’s just park that and go and do something else – save the whales, whatever.’ It’s a bit of a crossroads.”
Speaking to broadcaster Kaye Adams on her How to be 60 podcast, Lesley added: “My husband says I’m only at my happiest when I’m singing. He says he worries about my mental health if I stop singing.
“He says I’m at my most energetic and positive when I’m involved in singing. But there are other aspects; there are other things that start to go, like memory. Any kind of singing is about remembering huge tracts of text and suddenly you’ll not be able to remember a word.
“You can’t do that on a stage in front of 2,000 people. You don’t want people to be leaving the auditorium saying, ‘well, you know, she’s not as good as she was.’ I would hate that.”
The Yorkshire-born singer, who is married to retired GP Peter Christian and has two children, disclosed she was even wondering whether to abandon her singing surname, Garrett.
She explained: “I’ve been thinking about dropping that name altogether and just being known by my married name, because I do go by both names, so I’m Mrs Christian – mum and wife – and Lesley Garrett – diva. I don’t know if I could, because I just don’t think I’d know who the hell I was and what would I be here for.”
Lesley has also enjoyed a successful TV career, taking part in the first series of Strictly when she was partnered with Anton Du Beke, and appearing on the Loose Women panel. She has released 14 solo albums and was awarded a CBE in 2002.
New year, same old Mazda 3? Not quite, but updates for the 2025 model year aren’t exactly obvious on first glance.
After all, the basic formula remains unchanged. It still comes wrapped in the same gorgeous swoopy bodywork, with a choice of naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines under the skin.
Rather, the updated Mazda 3 brings sweeping tech and safety upgrades, from the introduction of Mazda Connected Services to wider standardisation of the Vision Package safety suite.
Unfortunately, there’s no such thing as a free lunch. That means spec improvements have been accompanied by price rises, to the tune of up to $2320.
Both the big ticket inclusions feature on the vehicle tested here – a 2025 Mazda 3 G25 Evolve SP. It sits right in the middle of the range, positioned to compete with similarly well-equipped hatches such as the Hyundai i30 N Line and Kia Cerato GT.
WATCH: Paul’s video review of the 2020 Mazda 3 G25 Astina
So, is an inflated price tag enough to put us off this charming small car, or does the extra kit catapult the new Evolve SP above its rivals?
How does the Mazda 3 compare?
View a detailed breakdown of the Mazda 3 against similarly sized vehicles.
Mazda
Mazda 3
How much does the Mazda 3 cost?
Prices are up by between $720 and $2320, with the higher-end increases due to previously optional equipment becoming standard.
Model
Price before on-road costs
2025 Mazda 3 G20 Pure
$31,190
2025 Mazda 3 G20 Evolve
$32,990
2025 Mazda 3 G20 Touring with Vision Pack
$36,990
2025 Mazda 3 G25 Evolve SP with Vision Pack
$36,990
2025 Mazda 3 G25 GT with Vision Pack
$39,990
2025 Mazda 3 G25 Astina
$43,190
To see how the Mazda 3 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
What is the Mazda 3 like on the inside?
You’ve probably heard this before, but Mazda’s premium push has worked wonders from an interior presentation standpoint.
I wouldn’t go as far as to say the G25 Evolve SP looks a million dollars, but it would definitely compare favourably to cars in the $50,000 ballpark.
From the driver’s seat the car wraps around you like a welcoming cocoon. There are soft touches everywhere, from the leather armrest to padded door card and centre tunnel trims. The entire dash is also tactile and squidgy – kudos to you, Mazda.
High traffic areas including the steering wheel and shifter score even better materials, smooth leather in this case. All the physical buttons throughout the cabin have a satisfying click.
It’s not quite perfect. The doors feel tinny, and scratch-prone gloss black plastic surrounds the shifter and infotainment controls. Nevertheless, this is a lovely cabin to spend time in.
The mid-spec G25 Evolve SP features grippy, firmly-bolstered cloth seats which proved to be up to the rigours of everyday driving and comfortable over long journeys.
Both front seats appear identical, but the driver is treated to electric adjustment with lumbar, while the passenger seat comes with do-it-yourself manual controls.
None of this is new to owners of the pre-update Mazda 3, as the most apparent changes lie in the technology department.
As part of the newly-standard Vision Package, the Evolve SP now comes with a larger 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen.
That’s a good thing – size matters when it comes to useability, and the graphics appear crisper than before. The 10.25-inch unit is a proper touchscreen too, unlike Mazda’s previous products that required the use of a rotary dial.
However, as a taller type that tends to sit further back that most, I found the screen to be too far away from my driving position to be used regularly as a touchscreen. It was physically more comfortable, and safer, to use the dial than reach forward while driving.
It’s an ergonomic compromise that I’ve faced in Mazda vehicles before, the main problem being that the screen sits too deep on the dash.
I’m sure many will get on with the layout in the Mazda 3 just fine, and the infotainment system itself is uncluttered and easy to navigate.
You’re initially greeted by a compact scroll menu layout with no more than five tabs for vehicle information, entertainment, communication, navigation and settings. Simples.
It’s the same interface that we’ve seen for a while with Mazda – classy white font on top of a black background. Easy to read, if not overly inspiring.
I spent most of my time with the Mazda 3 in Apple CarPlay, which can be accessed wirelessly with the upgraded infotainment system. The CarPlay connection was quick and consistent, providing easy access to apps like Spotify and Waze. Having said that, it’d be nice if there was a fixed shortcut button to exit smartphone mirroring.
Ahead of the driver sits a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster. Well, that’s what they call it. Really, it’s a set of digitised gauges with a small customisable centre screen.
The gauges build on the theme of classy simplicity that resonates throughout the cabin, and I’d expect the setup to appeal to mature motorists seeking familiarity in their small car. Young tech-heads, not so much.
Rather, they can marvel at the small head-up display projected on the windscreen. In a similar vein to the gauges, the climate controls are old-school, a mix of physical buttons and dials.
Despite the compact feel of the Mazda 3, there’s plenty of storage space up front. A spacious split centre console and absurdly deep glovebox are highlights, while you also get skinny door bins, a sunglasses compartment, centre cupholders, and a coin tray next to the steering wheel.
Device connectivity is covered by a pair of USB-C outlets in the centre console, plus a 12V socket. A wireless phone charger is located under the centre stack, although it only worked intermittently in my experience.
It may be surprisingly roomy up front, but it’s a completely different story in the second row.
First and foremost, there’s very little space for passengers. At 6’1″, I was forced to perform an unflattering leg spread, wrapping my legs around the driver’s seat to get achieve some semblance of comfort. Even then, I could barely close the door.
Headroom is also restrictive – passengers topping 5’10” will come into contact with the ceiling.
The combination of limited space, a black headliner and small windows makes the back of the Mazda 3 feel quite claustrophobic. In other words, the second row is best suited to kids and cargo.
The list of back seat amenities isn’t great. There’s a centre armrest with integrated cupholders, puny door bins and a single map pocket, but no USB outlets or air vents. Now that I think of it, kids mightn’t love it back there either.
If it were practical, I’d recommend folding the rear seats down (60/40 split) and treating the bench as extra luggage space. However, the two front seats need to be all the way forward for the rear seats to fold flat. That renders the bench storage next to useless.
Adding insult to injury, boot capacity is a meagre 295 litres. To put that into context, the Hyundai i30 N Line offers 395L, while the Kia Cerato GT boasts 428L.
The boot may be small, but the aperture is nicely square and the manual tailgate opens high enabling easy loading of items.
A space-saver spare tyre is located under the boot floor, which is nice to have in case of emergency, especially for owners in remote areas.
Dimensions
Mazda 3 Hatch
Length
4460mm
Width
1795mm
Height
1435mm
Wheelbase
2725mm
Cargo capacity
295 litres
To see how the Mazda 3 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
What’s under the bonnet?
No changes have been made to either drivetrain for 2025. G25 examples feature a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive.
Specifications
Mazda 3 G25
Engine
2.5L 4cyl petrol
Power
139kW @ 6000rpm
Torque
252Nm @ 4000rpm
Transmission
6-speed auto
Driven wheels
FWD
Weight
1417kg (kerb)
Fuel economy (claimed)
6.6L/100km
Fuel economy (as tested)
10.5L/100km
Fuel tank capacity
51 litres
Fuel requirement
91 octane unleaded (E10 compatible)
CO2 emissions
154g/km
Emissions standard
Euro 5
Braked tow capacity
1200kg
To see how the Mazda 3 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
How does the Mazda 3 drive?
If you treat cars like glorified white goods, then it’s unlikely you’ll appreciate what the Mazda 3 has to offer.
G20 Evolve shown
You sit nice and low in the cockpit-like cabin, perfectly positioned to take full control of the driving experience.
Indeed, the Mazda 3 is a properly engaging little car to drive, especially with the 2.5-litre engine. The extra displacement ups outputs to 139kW and 252Nm, increases of 25kW and 52Nm over the 2.0-litre, respectively.
That’s enough to make the sleek G25 feel nippy enough, and the power is delivered in a familiarly linear manner, but it still doesn’t feel quick unless you push towards redline.
Hardly an issue for buyers who plan to eat up highway or countryside kilometres, but city-slickers will be left wanting when they search for a hit of lowdown torque from a set of traffic lights.
A firmly planted right foot will eventually see the Mazda 3 take off but the harder you push it, the more noise it makes. And that’s unlikely to make for a relaxing commute, or impress your passengers.
We’ve been spoilt rotten by modern turbocharged and hybrid engines, and stepping back into a car like the Mazda 3 reminds you why so many carmakers have made the switch from naturally aspirated power.
Fuel consumption is also a key sticking point. Mazda claims our tester can achieve 6.6L/100km, but I was seeing over 10L/100km across a week of mixed driving, which is a lot for a small car. It’s the price you pay for a characterful engine that likes to rev.
The ride offered in the Mazda 3 is also reflective of its old-school nature – it’s on the firmer side, and you feel undulations and imperfections in the road. Indeed, the ride can become choppy on coarse surfaces, and steep speed humps sometimes end in a crashy landing.
On the flip side, the car feels nimble and dynamic as a result, helped by well-metered body control and direct, well-weighted steering. The Evolve SP is easy to manoeuvre in traffic, and a joy to zip through the suburbs.
Another problem I encountered when driving around town was a lack of outward visibility from the driver’s seat.
Both the side windows and rear windscreen of the Mazda 3 are on the smaller side due its low roofline, which makes it tough to spot surrounding traffic and perform head checks when changing lanes.
The Mazda 3 is likely to appeal to learner drivers given its affordable sticker price, but inexperienced steerers need all the visibility they can get.
Parking has also traditionally required an unimpeded view out each side of the car, but the Evolve SP comes with Mazda’s Vision Package, which includes a high-resolution surround-view camera that takes the stress out of squeezing into tight spaces.
The previously optional Vision Package is now standard on all Mazda 3 variants except the Pure and Evolve. Although it’s a worthwhile upgrade, it has also pushed prices up across the range.
Mazda’s safety and infotainment tech bundle also comes in handy on the highway.
The package includes a semi-autonomous driving system that’s among the most user-friendly systems on the market.
Honestly, the feature is essentially set and forget. Speed and following distance toggles are right in front of the driver, and the software effectively manages both parameters whether you’re negotiating heavy traffic or enjoying free flowing driving.
The addition of semi-autonomous cruising effectively transforms the Mazda 3 into a comfortable long-distance cruiser, and I wouldn’t shirk a long roadtrip behind the wheel.
I had no qualms with the other advanced driver assist systems throughout this test. The driver monitoring, blind-spot monitoring and AEB functions rarely overstepped, allowing me to focus on the road ahead.
Tyre roar was absent throughout highway stints, although I did notice quite a bit of wind noise in the cabin, perhaps owing to the tinny-feeling exterior panels.
G25 versions of the Mazda 3 have more than enough power to reach highway speeds and complete overtaking manoeuvres, especially when you take advantage of the paddle shifters.
When left to its own devices the transmission can take a while to kick down when you plant the throttle, but once on song the 2.5-litre is meaty. Flick the switch for sports mode and the transmission will hold gears for a little longer.
The combination of a willing engine and involving driving dynamics guarantee this little hatch also feels right at home on a country road. The Mazda 3 offers a lot more feedback and driving engagement than other cars in the segment, even if that comes at the cost of comfort and efficiency on occasion.
To see how the Mazda 3 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
What do you get?
All grades get additional features for the new model year.
G20 Pure equipment highlights:
16-inch alloy wheels – silver
7.0-inch instrument cluster screen
8.8-inch Mazda Connect display
Keyless start
Air-conditioning
Wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
8-speaker audio
AM/FM/DAB+ radio
Electric parking brake incl. Auto Hold
Automatic LED headlights
Automatic high-beam
Leather-wrapped gearshift, steering wheel
Power exterior mirrors – auto folding
Power windows incl. auto up/down
Satellite navigation
Seat trim – black cloth
60:40-split rear seats
Tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment
USB-C input and charging port
Mazda Connected Services
MyMazda app compatible
Vehicle locator
Geofencing function
Flash lights
Curfew notifications
Remote locking
Vehicle health report
Vehicle status report
Vehicle tracking assistance
SOS call
G20 Evolve adds:
18-inch alloy wheels – metallic grey
Dual-zone climate control
Rear air vents
Auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror
Paddle shifters
Rear centre fold-down armrest
Overhead sunglasses storage box
Wireless Apple CarPlay
Wireless Android Auto
Wireless phone charger
G20 Touring adds:
Keyless entry
Driver mirror – auto dimming
Exterior mirrors – heating function
Exterior mirrors – reverse tilt-down function
Exterior mirrors – position memory
Seat trim – black leather
10-way power driver seat incl. lumbar, memory
Vanity mirrors with illumination
Vision Pack
Surround-view camera
10.25-inch Mazda Connect display
Cruising & Traffic Support
Driver monitoring
Front cross-traffic alert
G25 Evolve SP adds (over G20 Evolve):
18-inch alloy wheels – metallic black
Keyless entry
Driver mirror – auto dimming
Exterior mirrors – reverse tilt-down function
Exterior mirrors – position memory
Exterior mirrors in black
10-way power driver seat incl. lumbar, memory
G25 GT adds (over G25 Evolve SP):
18-inch alloy wheels – metallic grey
Exterior mirrors – heating function
Heated front seats
Seat trim – black leather
Heated steering wheel
G25 Astina adds:
18-inch alloy wheels – gloss black
Bose premium sound system
Glass sunroof – power tilt, slide
Seat trim – black leather or optional Burgundy leather
To see how the Mazda 3 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
Is the Mazda 3 safe?
The Mazda 3 wears a 2019-stamped five-star ANCAP safety rating based on Euro NCAP testing.
Category
Mazda 3
Adult occupant protection
98 per cent
Child occupant protection
89 per cent
Vulnerable road user protection
81 per cent
Safety assist
76 per cent
Standard safety features include:
Autonomous emergency braking (forward, reverse)
Lane departure warning
Lane-keep assist
Blind-spot monitoring
Rear cross-traffic alert
Traffic sign recognition
Adaptive cruise control with stop/go
Reversing camera
Rear parking sensors
Tyre pressure monitoring
Dual front, front-side and curtain airbags
Driver’s knee airbag
SOS emergency call
Vision Package* adds:
Surround-view camera
Cruising & Traffic Support
Driver monitoring
Front cross-traffic alert
Front parking sensors
* $2000 on G20 Pure, G20 Evolve
To see how the Mazda 3 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
How much does the Mazda 3 cost to run?
The Mazda 3 is more expensive to service than most rivals – the Corolla Hybrid and Skoda Fabia are both cheaper to maintain over the first five years, while the i30 costs an average of $435 over the first 10 scheduled services.
Servicing and Warranty
Mazda 3
Warranty
5 years, unlimited kilometres
Roadside assistance
5 years
Service intervals
12 months or 15,000 kilometres
Capped-price servicing
5 years
Total capped-price service cost
$2235
To see how the Mazda 3 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
CarExpert’s Take on the Mazda 3
The Mazda 3 G25 Evolve SP has benefited from gaining the latest tech and safety features, but a few familiar pitfalls hold it back from small car greatness.
Neither connected services nor the standard Vision Package address the relatively poor packaging of the Mazda 3, and it remains a thirsty beast with high running costs.
That said, the Mazda 3 still sets the standard for driving dynamics and cabin presentation and ergonomics, but are those the most important criteria for affordable small car buyers? I’d argue not, in the majority of cases.
On the other hand, practicality and efficiency are paramount for most, and the stylish Evolve SP trails the pack on that front.
However, there’s still plenty to be said for the Mazda 3 from the perspective of a single city-slicker who commutes to and from the office with a briefcase each day. With such a person in mind, I’d recommend our tester as the pick of the range, closely followed by the smaller-engined G20 Evolve.
For a more versatile hatch, look to the newer i30, or even the smaller but more sophisticated Skoda Fabia.
Interested in buying a Mazda 3? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
With regard to the decision taken about GST rate on goods, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said, the Council has decided to cut the rate on fortified rice kernel (FRK) to 5 per cent.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman (File photo: PTI)
In a significant move to plug leakage, the GST Council on Saturday approved a proposal to implement ’Track and Trace Mechanism’ for specified evasion-prone commodities, under which a unique mark will be affixed on such goods or packages to trace them throughout the supply chain.
This is to insert an enabling provision in CGST Act, 2017 through Section 148A so as to empower the government to enforce the Track and Trace Mechanism for specified evasion-prone commodities.
“The system shall be based on a Unique Identification Marking which shall be affixed on the said goods or the packages thereof. This will provide a legal framework for developing such a system and will help in implementation of mechanism for tracing specified commodities throughout the supply chain,” the finance ministry said while listing out decisions taken in the 55th Council meeting here.
“To clarify that in respect of supply of ’Online Services’ such as supply of online money gaming, OIDAR services, etc. to unregistered recipients, the supplier is required to mandatorily record the name of the state of the unregistered recipient on the tax invoice and such name of state of recipient shall be deemed to be the address on record of the recipient for the purpose of section 12(2)(b) of IGST Act, 2017 read with proviso to rule 46(f) of CGST Rules, 2017,” it said.
With regard to the decision taken about GST rate on goods, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said, the Council has decided to cut the rate on fortified rice kernel (FRK) to 5 per cent from 18 per cent and also exempted GST on gene therapy.
Besides, she said, it was decided to reduce the rate of compensation cess to 0.1 per cent on supplies to merchant exporters at par with GST rate on such supplies and to exempt from IGST imports of all equipment and consumable samples by Inspection Team of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) subject to specified conditions.
As regards services, she said, the Council decided to exempt GST on the contributions made by general insurance companies from the third-party motor vehicle premiums collected by them to the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund, constituted under section 164B of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
This fund is constituted for providing compensation/cashless treatment to the victims of road accidents including hit and run cases.
In addition, she said, GST Council recommended no GST on transaction of vouchers as they are neither supply of goods nor supply of services.
The provisions related to vouchers is also being simplified, she said, adding, the Council recommended to amend the definition of ’pre-packaged and labelled’ to cover all commodities that are intended for retail sale and containing not more than 25 kg or 25 litre, which are ’pre-packed’ as defined under the Legal Metrology Act, or a label affixed thereto is required to bear the declarations under the provisions of the Act and rules.
It was also clarified that no GST is payable on the ’penal charges’ levied and collected by banks and NBFCs from borrowers for non-compliance with loan terms.
The Council too approved issuance of clarifications through circulars to remove ambiguity and legal disputes in certain issues.
The panel recommended reduction of payment of pre-deposit for filing an appeal before the appellate authority in respect of an order passed, which involves only a penalty amount.
(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed – PTI)
News business GST Council Approves ‘Track And Trace Mechanism’ To Curb Evasion
In the race for explosive crypto growth, Chainlink ($LINK) has long been a staple in the market. However, a new contender, FXGuys ($FXG), is making waves as the top PropFi project with a clear path toward 500x gains in the upcoming bull run. Combining decentralized finance (DeFi) with proprietary trading innovation, FX Guys offers investors a unique mix of utility, scalability, and high potential upside, positioning itself among the top DeFi coins.
FXGuys is not just another DeFi project. It operates as a proprietary trading company, offering funded accounts to traders and aligning growth with platform activity. Through its Trader Funding Program, FXGuys provides top retail traders the chance to access up to $500,000 in real trading capital. This creates a self-sustaining model where trading volume drives demand for the $FXG token.
Adding further value is the Trade2Earn program, which rewards traders with $FXG tokens for every trade executed, regardless of the outcome. This constant activity ensures robust trading volume, making FXGuys a standout among high potential altcoins.
Utility-Driven $FXG Token Economics
Unlike speculative tokens, the $FXG token boasts strong real-world utility:
Pay Platform Fees: Traders can use $FXG tokens to pay for subscriptions, challenges, and trading tools.
Staking Rewards: Users can stake their tokens to earn passive income, aligning rewards with trading volume. This positions $FXG as one of the best DeFi tokens for long-term holders.
Governance: $FXG holders have voting rights, allowing the community to shape the platform’s future direction.
The combination of staking, rewards, and governance aligns incentives for traders and investors, ensuring steady demand for the $FXG token.
A Bull Run Favorite Among High Potential Altcoins
FXGuys is emerging as one of the best proprietary trading firms, bridging the gap between TradFi and DeFi. Here’s why it’s primed for 500x growth:
Massive Market Opportunity: The global forex and prop trading markets are worth trillions, with FXGuys targeting a significant share through its proprietary trading company model.
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Early Stage Investment: With the current public sale price at $0.04 and stages progressing quickly, early adopters stand to benefit the most as FXGuys grows.
FXGuys combines everything investors look for in the next bull run: real-world utility, staking rewards, and platform-driven demand. With its unique Trade2Earn program, robust ecosystem, and proven tokenomics, FXGuys positions itself as a top DeFi coin poised for significant upside.
For investors looking beyond established players like Chainlink ($LINK), FXGuys represents one of the best proprietary trading firms with exponential potential. If you’re hunting for the next high potential altcoin, FXGuys ($FXG) is a project to watch closely as the market heats up.
To find out more about FXGuys follow the links below:
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The Government of Andhra Pradesh (GoAP) and edtech major Physics Wallah (PW), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the University of Innovation (UoI).
The University of Innovation will work towards blending academic excellence, innovation and research. Its focus is to address key challenges in education and employability.
Hub-and-spoke model
The initiative will follow a hub-and-spoke model, with the university serving as the central hub and satellite centres across Andhra Pradesh acting as spokes. This approach is an attempt to provide students from diverse backgrounds and regions access to contemporary, hybrid education that combines online and in-person learning experiences.
Alakh Pandey, Founder & CEO, PW said, “We are committed to invest up to ₹1,000 crore by GSV Ventures – US and other investors, the purpose is to create an institution that combines academic learning with industry relevance. The UoI will help learners with the skills they might need in a constantly evolving job market, in an attempt to foster entrepreneurship and innovation.”
The university will also attempt to leverage technology, including AI-driven tools and adaptive learning platforms, to ensure personalised learning experiences for all students. PW is also collaborating with industry partners like Amazon Web Services (AWS) India to provide industry relevant education.
Founded in 2020 by Pandey and Prateek Maheshwari, Physics Wallah currently operates offline and hybrid centres in more than 105 cities in India. It also claims to offer free education to over 4.6 crore students through its 112 YouTube channels in five vernacular languages.
The edtech start-up has now set its eyes on listing on the stock exchanges next year. It recently raised $210 million in its Series B round led by Hornbill Capital at a post-money valuation of $2.8 bn.
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For those who are feeling “stuck” or overwhelmed while striving for work-life balance, some experts recommend adopting a “pendulum lifestyle.”
Coined by Dr. Jeffrey Karp, Ph.D, a professor of biomedical engineering at Brigham & Women’s Hospital Harvard Medical School in Boston, the pendulum lifestyle is defined as a “concept that acknowledges life’s natural ebb and flow, and empowers you to thrive amidst the swings.”
“Rarely are we in balance … it’s just unrealistic and an anxiety-inducing expectation,” the doctor told Fox News Digital in an interview.
Seeing the world as a pendulum fosters a more compassionate mindset and alleviates the pressure to be perfect, Karp said.
For those who are feeling “stuck” or overwhelmed while striving for work-life balance, some experts recommend adopting a “pendulum lifestyle.”(iStock)
With this approach, people can take small steps to “swing the pendulum,” enabling them to feel more emotionally, mentally and physically “balanced” during the day, according to the expert.
This could also empower individuals who feel “stuck” when facing daily challenges, he said.
“Looking at nature, there are so many cycles, so many things that are kind of going back and forth, like night and day …. changes of seasons, and the waxing and waning of the moon,” noted Karp.
MOST PRODUCTIVE THINGS YOU CAN GET DONE EARLY IN THE MORNING BEFORE WORK, ACCORDING TO CAREER COACHES
The pendulum lifestyle involves daily “self-check-ins” where the person gauges their physical, emotional and mental energy levels, Karp said. They can then take immediate steps to move their levels in a positive direction toward the ideal balance.
“If we can visualize everything on a pendulum, we can think, ‘What’s the one step I could take today to bring the pendulum a little closer to where I want it to be?’” he said.
With this approach, people can take small steps to “swing the pendulum,” enabling them to feel more emotionally, mentally and physically “balanced” during the day.(iStock)
For example, a person who has low physical energy could visualize a pendulum with the lowest energy on one side and the highest energy on the other.
He would then do a “self-check” to identify where his energy level lies on the pendulum and what small steps could move it closer to the ideal balance point, Karp said.
“True well-being doesn’t lie in perfection or consistency, but in our ability to navigate the ebb and flow of life.”
That might mean taking a 10-minute walk, doing some jumping jacks or performing a few stretches to move the pendulum to a higher energy level position.
“This empowers the person and reminds them they are not stuck,” Karp said.
Taking a 10-minute walk, doing some jumping jacks or performing a few stretches can move the pendulum to a higher energy level position, the expert said. (iStock)
On the flip side, if it’s late at night and a person needs to wind down, she might engage in a calming exercise like meditation or listening to relaxing music as a way to swing the pendulum to a level more conducive to sleeping, the expert advised.
The pendulum lifestyle can also serve as a mood-booster, Kelp said. When someone is feeling down, watching a funny movie or practicing gratitude can help shift the pendulum.
WHAT IS ‘BRAIN ROT’? THE SCIENCE BEHIND WHAT TOO MUCH SCROLLING DOES TO OUR BRAINS
The approach could also help launch forward momentum if someone feels “stuck” in life, the expert said.
“When you start to realize that you’re not limited to being at that spot on the pendulum, but can take a step forward and be intentional, it’s just so empowering,” he said.
The daily check-in process could help individuals identify when they are feeling in less than tip-top shape and find ways to swing in a better direction, one expert said.(iStock)
Dr. Molly Sherb, an assistant professor of psychiatry at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and a licensed psychologist at Mount Sinai in New York City, commented on Karp’s concept of a pendulum lifestyle.
“When you start to realize that you’re not limited to being at that spot on the pendulum, but can take a step forward and be intentional, it’s just so empowering.”
She agreed that the daily check-in process could help individuals identify when they are feeling in less than tip-top shape and find ways to swing in a better direction.
“That might include getting better sleep or eating a healthier breakfast … to help you wake up with a better bandwidth tomorrow,” Sherb said.
Progress, not perfection
Dr. Christopher Fisher, a psychologist at Zucker Hillside Hospital Northwell Health in Queens, New York, said the pendulum lifestyle could help those who feel pressured to achieve a perfect work-life balance.
“The pendulum of life’s experiences – whether emotional, cognitive or physical – is one of the truest expressions of what it means to be human,” he told Fox News Digital.
TRUMP’S DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME PLAN AND SLEEP: WHAT YOU MUST KNOW
“True well-being doesn’t lie in perfection or consistency, but in our ability to navigate the ebb and flow of life,” he told Fox News Digital.
Sherb agreed that the essence of the pendulum lifestyle is that it’s not always possible to strike that 50-50 equal balance.
Adopt a constructive viewpoint and ask yourself what positive changes or routines can help you achieve a more optimal level on the pendulum path, one expert advised.(iStock)
“It’s about constantly tuning into yourself … and seeing which parts of your life might need you more at certain times,” she said.
“It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach, but a more tailored approach based on what you need and what people in your life need from you.”
4 steps to implementing the pendulum lifestyle
Karp shared some specific strategies for adopting the pendulum approach.
1. Perform a head-to-toe check-in each morning
Ask yourself how you are feeling emotionally, physically and mentally. What parts do not feel at a 100% level?
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2. Make any necessary adjustments
Based on your self-check-in, consider changing your routine to accommodate your energy level or take simple steps to help move the pendulum in a positive direction, Karp suggested.
3. Be compassionate and curious
If you feel off-balance, Karp said to recognize that as part of the natural pendulum swing and to embrace it with self-compassion rather than shame and criticism.
“It’s about constantly tuning into yourself … and seeing which parts of your life might need you more at certain times.”
Adopt a constructive viewpoint and ask yourself what positive changes or routines can help you achieve a more optimal level on the pendulum path, he advised.
4. Understand your pendulum swings
It could be helpful to ask yourself specific questions, such as the following.
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“What factors helped contribute to a state of feeling balanced?”
“What factors contributed to feeling off-balance?”
“What small changes can I make today to foster a sense of better balance?”
“How did I respond to feeling imbalanced and was it effective?”
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
Above all, Karp said, it’s important to remember that finding balance is a “lifelong journey.”
Natural sources don’t offer options to satisfy our sweet cravings without increasing our calorie intake. White sugar, brown sugar, honey, and jaggery all have similar calorie content. Sugar substitutes, however, help reduce calorie intake, as many of them have close to zero calories. For instance, a 500 ml can of cola contains approximately 12 spoons of added sugar – almost 220 calories – whereas a can of diet cola has zero calories! Theoretically, sugar substitutes are an attractive proposition. However, they are not without controversy. There are two common types of sugar substitutes: artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols. Artificial sweeteners are synthetic substitutes, including saccharin, cyclamate, aspartame, sucralose, acesulfame, and neotame. The other type of sugar substitute is plant-derived sugar alcohols, such as erythritol, mannitol, and sorbitol. In addition to sweetness, sugar alcohols add texture to food. Their sweetness varies from 25% to 100% compared to regular sugar. Consuming large quantities of sugar alcohols can cause bloating, loose stools, or diarrhea, though tolerance typically develops over time. Also Read: Worried About Early-Onset Diabetes? Try These 3 Simple Diet Strategies
Photo Credit: iStock
Stevia and monk fruit sugar are considered “natural” sweeteners because they are derived from plant sources. Sugar substitutes are widely used in processed foods, including soft drinks, cookies, chocolates, and jams. Some, like sucralose, can also be used in baking or cooking. However, a “sugar-free” label on a product can sometimes be misleading, as it may lead us to believe the product is “zero-calorie,” resulting in overconsumption. For example, a bar of sugar-free chocolate contains about 60% of the calories of a regular chocolate bar due to its fat content. It remains unclear whether replacing dietary sugar with artificially sweetened products can reverse the health consequences of sugar overconsumption, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Some studies have shown that artificial sweeteners may increase the risk of diabetes and obesity, while others have found no such evidence. A 2022 WHO report observed modest associations between consuming beverages with artificial sweeteners and conditions like cholesterol abnormalities and high blood pressure. It has also been suggested that these sweeteners may alter gut flora, potentially increasing the risk of weight gain and diabetes. A 2022 French study linked artificial sweetener intake to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer. Saccharin was once associated with cancer in rats, and aspartame with brain tumors, though these claims lack solid evidence. Concerns about adverse effects on kidneys, memory loss, dementia, and stroke have been reported but remain unproven. Additionally, mixing alcohol with artificially sweetened beverages has been shown to raise blood alcohol levels, increasing the risk of intoxication. Also Read: Not Just Sugar: 5 Other Factors That May Be Hindering Diabetes Control
Photo Credit: iStock
Artificial sweeteners may also affect how our brains respond to sweetness, making naturally sweet foods like fruits less appealing and increasing our cravings for sweeter substances. For those who consume large amounts of sweetened beverages and are trying to reduce their intake, artificially sweetened beverages can be used temporarily while gradually transitioning to water. People with bowel disorders or those who have undergone bariatric surgery should avoid them altogether. So, what should those of us trying to lose weight or control diabetes do? The best approach is to eliminate sugar entirely. If sweet cravings persist, it is generally safe to consume sweeteners in small amounts. A daily intake of 1-2 servings of sweeteners is considered safe, though conclusive data is lacking. Plant-derived sweeteners like monk fruit sugar or stevia may be safer options, but this too is yet to be proven.
About The Author: Dr. Ambrish Mithal is the Chairman and Head of Endocrinology and Diabetes at Max Hospital, Saket.
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-12-20/Xi-expresses-confidence-in-Macao-s-new-chief-executive-1zubx8srLZm/img/4c9332c188b64ec88ee5ffcdf5210522/4c9332c188b64ec88ee5ffcdf5210522.png' alt='Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) meets with Sam Hou Fai, who was sworn in as the sixth-term chief executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), in Macao, south China, December 20, 2024. /Xinhua'
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday expressed his confidence in Sam Hou Fai, who was just sworn in as the sixth-term chief executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR).
When meeting with Sam, Xi said he is confident that Sam will lead the SAR’s new government and people from all walks of life in comprehensively, accurately and unwaveringly implementing the principle of “One Country, Two Systems,” under which the people of Macao administer Macao with a high degree of autonomy.
Xi expressed the belief that Macao will firmly safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, vigorously promote appropriate economic diversification, and continuously improve public well-being.
He also voiced his conviction that Macao will leverage its unique position and advantages to better integrate into overall national development and deepen exchanges and cooperation with other countries and regions.
“The central government will fully support the chief executive and the Macao SAR government in fulfilling their duties,” Xi noted.
Sam expressed his gratitude to Xi and the central government for the trust. He pledged to lead the new SAR government in breaking new ground for the successful practice of “One Country, Two Systems” in Macao.
Cai Qi and other officials were present at the meeting.
Sherman Oaks Notre Dame is loving late-night basketball in Las Vegas.
The unbeaten Knights (12-0) advanced to the Platinum Division championship game of the Tarkanian Classic, opening a 20-point lead before prevailing over Layton Christian (Utah) 73-60 on Friday night. Notre Dame will face Eastvale Roosevelt (10-1) for the championship Saturday at 4:30 p.m. at Bishop Gorman. They are ranked No. 2 and No. 4 in The Times’ top 25 rankings.
Tyran Stokes continued his impressive play with a 29-point, 10-rebound performance after a 30-point effort on Thursday. NaVorro Bowman had 20 points.
Eastvale Roosevelt 78, Redondo Union 74: Brayden Burries and Myles Walker each scored 18 points in the win. Roosevelt had a 45-32 halftime lead before handing Redondo Union (9-1) its first defeat. Hudson Mayes had 22 points and Chris Sanders scored 20 points for Redondo Union.
Crespi 76, St. Anthony 56: The Celts (8-4) picked up a quality nonleague win, with Peyton White scoring 26 points, Isaiah Barnes 16, Carter Barnes 14 and Malakai Perrantes 13.
La Habra 70, Sonora 45: The Highlanders are 13-1 after a strong performance from Jaedon Anderson, who made a school-record nine threes en route to a 32-point effort.
Anaheim Canyon 91, Costa Mesa 41: Brandon Benjamin had 31 points for Canyon.
Grant 67, Viewpoint 66: In only its second game of the season, the Lancers (2-0) served notice they figure to reach the City Section Open Division playoffs. Aeneas Grullon scored 26 points for Viewpoint (9-3). Wizdom Burnes, who scored 18 points and had 13 rebounds for Grant, made a shot at the buzzer for the win. Champ Merrill led Grant with 24 points.
Harvard-Westlake 74, Fairfax 33: Joe Sterling had 21 points and Cole Holden 14 points for the Wolverines.
Chatsworth 66, West Albany (Ore.) 56: The Chancellors improved to 7-1 in Oregon. Alijah Arenas had 24 points.
Golden Valley 60, Gardena 45: Alex Villego had 25 points for Golden Valley.
Legacy Christian 78, Crescenta Valley 71: Vaughn Zargarian had 41 points for Crescenta Valley.
Heritage Christian 81, Valencia 40: Tae Simmons had 22 points and Dillan Shaw 19 for 11-0 Heritage Christian.
Palisades 55, El Camino Real 54: Jack Levey made a shot at the buzzer to give Palisades the victory.
Girls basketball
Ontario Christian 73, Maryland Bullis 65: Kaleena Smith had 26 points and nine assists for unbeaten Ontario Christian (14-0), which will play in the Nike TOC final against Archbishop Mitty from San José in a game that will decide No. 1 in California and maybe No. 1 in the nation in girls basketball. Archbishop Mitty defeated Mater Dei 59-42 in the other semifinal.
Sierra Canyon 69, Coeur d’Alene (Idaho) 56: Jerzy Robinson led the unbeaten Trailblazers with 30 points.
Birmingham 65, Mt. Diablo 50: Lili Martinez had 20 points and Zoee Mitchell 16 for the Patriots.
St. Joseph 85, Valencia 84: Freshman Kamilia Basyrova scored a school-record 40 points for Valencia.
Yearender 2024: In this hyper-connected world, you may have trouble finding peaceful getaways. But these options can help you find tranquility.
Yearender 2024: As the temperature drops and summer becomes a distant memory, our minds begin to wander to beach getaways. But if you’re planning a quick escape from your city this Christmas, be sure to consider these destinations in north, east, south and west India that will satisfy your travel lust. Also read | Top travel trends of 2024
Yearender 2024: Watch time slow down at a houseboat in Alappuzha, Kerala. (Instagram/ Kerala Tourism)
Four hidden gems from across India that will give you a sense of being calm, peaceful and untroubled this Christmas:
West: Make most of Rann Of Kutch’s white desert
Celebrate Christmas with a touch of magic at a tent in Rann Of Kutch, a massive salt marsh in the Thar Desert in western Gujarat, where all you can see is white sand. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and serene beauty of the white desert for a truly unforgettable Christmas experience. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself getting pleasantly lost in the mesmerising landscape. This is the best to visit, which means you can enjoy the white desert in all its glory while driving through in broad daylight and also feel the pleasant chill in the air at night as you watch the stars slowly come out.
South: Slow things down on backwaters of Kerala
This Christmas, if you are planning a trip to Kerala, stay in a houseboat for an unforgettable experience in God’s Own Country. What could be better than cruising along Kerala’s chain of interconnected lagoons and lakes linked by canals and fed by dozens of rivers on a houseboat? These boats serve as a luxe stay option for couples looking for a romantic escape this Christmas. If you are on a family holiday or want to see a side of Kerala that you’ve never seen before with your friends, don’t miss the chance to witness dreamy sunsets from the deck and starry skies at night.
North: Stay in Himachal’s igloo camps
An igloo stay in Himachal Pradesh’s Manali is all about soaking in the Eskimo way of life. These campsites have igloos with about zero degrees, all equipped with warm mattresses, sleeping bags, and winter essentials. When not out exploring local activities, you can sit around a bonfire if you please. These freezing igloos, nestled in quaint little villages in Himachal Pradesh, are only open for the season once snowfall hits the valley, mostly around mid-December.
East: Take a road trip through Odisha
Want to explore both the touristy and non-touristy parts of Odisha by road? You could plan day trips and explore the beaches of Puri and Gopalpur, temples of Bhubaneswar and Konark, Chilka Lake and other places in the eastern state if you want to stick to the tourist map. But apart from Chilka Lake, Cuttack, Puri, and Kheonjar, some popular destinations for road trips in Odisha could be ecological campsites to spend time away from the crowds.
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News / Lifestyle / Travel / Top winter getaways for Christmas 2024: What you can do in Rann Of Kutch, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh and Odisha
Wham! have claimed the Christmas number one spot once again this year with their winter classic, Last Christmas.
Last year, the pop duo topped the leaderboard with their classic festive hit, despite being released 39 years ago. The song completed the longest journey ever to Christmas number 1 and has 1.5 billion streams online.
The band were overwhelming favourites to once again be top of the charts at Christmas this year, and for the first time ever they managed to go back to back.
Meanwhile, Gracie Abrams came close to spoiling the party with her song, That’s So True, in second place.
Mariah Carey secured the Number Three spot with her festive hit, All I Want For Christmas Is You, whilst Tom Grennan posed a challenge in fourth position with his song, It Can’t Be Christmas.
Ed Sheeran’s 2017 hit Perfect is the most successful Christmas number one of the last 20 years, with 3 billion streams and almost £11m in estimated royalties.
The second most successful UK Christmas number 1 is Clean Bandit’s Rockabye featuring Sean Paul and Anne-Marie. Spending a sensational nine weeks at number 1, the song has over 1.6 billion streams.
The band Wham, which comprised of George Michael and Andrew Ridgely, has become the first ever British pop duo to top the festive charts for two years in a row.
George Michael died on Christmas Day in 2016 at the age of 53.
Speaking about topping the charts, Andrew told the Official Charts: “I’m especially pleased for George, he would have been utterly delighted, his fabulous Christmas composition has become such a classic, almost as much a part of Christmas as mince pies, turkey and pigs in blankets.”
As we continue to count down to the end of 2024, we’re giving you a year-in-review on the cars that took our fancy throughout the year.
Isuzu D-Max LS-U+
Continuing on from last week’s mid-sized SUV review wrap-up, we’re moving on to 4×4 utes. It’s the second-largest segment on the VFACTS sales charts by volume, and while it may not be as densely packed as other segments, there’s still plenty of options to choose from.
We’ve had the chance to drive plenty this year, and these are the five that topped our score charts over the calendar year. Some of these models have been reviewed on multiple occasions this year, so we’ve only featured the variant that achieved the highest rating.
Prices are based on each manufacturer’s configurators using a Victorian postcode, which should provide a representative estimate of what the average Australian buyer will end up paying.
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Mazda BT-50 SP
Mitsubishi Triton GLS
Click on car’s name in the table above to jump directly to its information on the page, or keep scrolling for the full article.
Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger was our highest-rated ute for 2024, scoring an impressive 8.6 out of 10 in a review written by senior contributor Matt Campbell.
We praised the Ranger’s SUV-like interior feel, something especially evident in the Wildtrak grade reviewed. Its cabin fit and finish was also a positive, with high-quality materials and robust tech helping it achieve a high score.
Helping the Wildtrak to the highest rating of any ute was its V6 diesel powertrain, which we described as the “ideal fit for this type of ute”. The 10-speed automatic gearbox was also identified as a key factor behind its quality drive experience, with “smart shifts” that allowed the engine to thrive in all situations.
Our review summed it up by labelling this specific ranger a “great choice for those who will use it for work, play, or both”, praising its capacity to be a flexible family dual-cab ute. Its price was listed as a negative, while space in both the back seat and tub could also have been improved.
You can read our full review of the Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6 here
CarExpert rating
8.6
Victorian drive-away price
$80,944
Pros
Cons
Superb V6 powertrain
Expensive, and prices keep rising
Great to drive
Back seat space a bit limited
Some great tech inclusions
Tray roller cover eats into space
Interested in buying a Ford Ranger? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Ford Ranger
Volkswagen Amarok
The Ranger’s Amarok cousin was our next-best ute for 2024, with news editor William Stopford giving it a respectable score of 8.3
Highlights included its safety and ride comfort, while our in-depth ratings for cost of ownership, fuel efficiency and its infotainment tech also reflected the Amarok’s positive traits.
Unlike the Ranger, we praised its bi-turbo four-cylinder engine for its cheaper price yet respectable outputs. We also said it was attractive inside and out and appreciated its consistent steering feel.
We still preferred the interior of the Ranger, and our rating of the Amarok in comparison reflects that. It scored relatively poorly on value for money and interior practicality and space as a result.
Otherwise, its main drawback for an otherwise solid ute was listed as a lack of rear USB outlets.
You can read our full review of the Volkswagen Amarok TDI500 Style here
Volkswagen Amarok TDI500 Style
CarExpert rating
8.3
Victorian drive-away price
$69,740
Pros
Cons
Superb technology that all works
Less user-friendly interior than Ranger
Attractive styling, inside and out
No rear USB outlets or app connectivity
Smooth, responsive powertrain
A bit pricey
Interested in buying a Volkswagen Amarok? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Volkswagen Amarok
Isuzu D-Max
The D-Max was the third and final ute to score higher than 8.0 this year, as it was awarded an 8.1 by marketplace journalist Max Davies.
Sitting near the top of the D-Max range, the LS-U+ was praised for its 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine that was said to offer strong performance while maintaining proven reliability.
We liked its interior technology and comfort, while also identifying its ride comfort as a key positive. It was also deemed practical inside relative to its dimensions and maintained a commendable fuel efficiency rating.
It’s not particularly cheap though, and that was reflected in our review. We also weren’t overjoyed by its fit and finish as we identified a handful of rattles both from the interior and from the handful of exterior accessories fitted to our tester.
We also said the fact you couldn’t drive the LS-U+ on sealed roads with four-wheel drive activated was a drawback, especially compared to rivals like the Ranger.
You can read our full review of the Isuzu D-Max LS-U+ here
Isuzu D-Max LS-U+
CarExpert rating
8.1
Victorian drive-away price
$71,182
Pros
Cons
Strong, reliable diesel engine
No full-time 4WD
Comfortable interior, good tech
Prices keep climbing
Impressive ride quality
A little rattly here and there
Interested in buying an Isuzu D-Max? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Isuzu D-Max
Mazda BT-50
Mazda’s BT-50 was reviewed in SP guise this year, and it scored 7.9 at the hands of marketplace journalist Josh Nevett.
Like the Ranger, we felt the BT-50 SP “drives like an SUV” which was identified as a key positive and contributed to its respectable score. Its interior fit and finish was also solid and we had no issues with its advanced driver assist systems either.
Its safety, cost of ownership, fuel efficiency, and infotainment technology were also given commendable ratings. Interior practicality and space wasn’t as strong as some of its rivals, and while outputs from its 3.0-litre turbo-diesel aren’t as high as others we said it had “more than adequate shove” around town.
Despite being on the cheaper end of higher-spec dual-cab utes, we rated its value for money poorly. This is largely because it becomes fairly expensive when the “SP Pro” options are fitted, and the infotainment upgrade it received was also costly.
Nevertheless, we felt the D-Max-twinning BT-50 was well-equipped and benefitted from the credibility of the Mazda badge.
You can read our full review of the Mazda BT-50 SP here
Mazda BT-50 SP
CarExpert rating
7.9
Victorian drive-away price
$63,990
Pros
Cons
Drives like an SUV
Expensive with options
Well-calibrated ADAS
Rivals have more grunt
Premium cabin materials
Infotainment upgrade isn’t worth $5000
Interested in buying a Mazda BT-50? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Mazda BT-50
Mitsubishi Triton
Mitsubishi managed to crack our 2024 top five with the Triton, thanks to its 7.9 rating awarded by assistant production editor Jack Quick.
We were impressed by the fact its towing specs are now up-to-scratch with the rest of the segment, while its 2.4-litre bi-turbo diesel four-cylinder showed commendable performance and fuel efficiency.
We also liked its handling dynamics and its interior practicality, the latter of which was given a higher rating than other competitors. Its infotainment technology also received praise.
We didn’t like its driver attention monitoring system and found it to be “infuriating” when on the move. Equally, its idle stop-start function didn’t perform as we’d expect, and its ride comfort proved to be below par.
Its six-speed automatic transmission is also less versatile than other units with more gears found in some rivals, something we feel should be addressed with a few more gears.
You can read our full review of the Mitsubishi Triton GLS here
Mitsubishi Triton GLS
CarExpert rating
7.9
Victorian drive-away price
$60,990
Pros
Cons
Towing specs finally segment-matching
Infuriating driver attention monitor
Efficient bi-turbo diesel
Idle stop-start is painfully laggy
Long conditional warranty
Transmission needs more gears
Interested in buying a Mitsubishi Triton? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
55th GST Council Meeting: The Council is expected to address crucial proposals for rate adjustments spanning insurance, luxury goods, aviation turbine fuel (ATF), and more.
In the 55th GST Council meeting, the much-awaited decision on exemption or lower GST rate on health and life insurance would be taken.
55th GST Council Meeting: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will chair the 55th GST Council meeting on Saturday in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. The decision will be announced on Saturday in the second half, probably in the evening. The Council is expected to address crucial proposals for rate adjustments spanning insurance, luxury goods, aviation turbine fuel (ATF), and more.
The GST Council, chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman along with state finance ministers, is the apex decision-making body on indirect taxes. Here are the expected decisions today:
Life and Health Insurance
The Council will deliberate on proposals aimed at easing the tax burden on life and health insurance premiums. Key recommendations include:
Exempting GST on premiums for term life insurance policies.
Waiving GST on health insurance premiums paid by senior citizens.
GST exemption for health insurance policies with coverage up to ₹5 lakh for individuals other than senior citizens.
Maintaining the 18% GST rate on premiums for policies covering over ₹5 lakh.
Luxury and Sin Goods
The Group of Ministers (GoM) on GST rate rationalisation has proposed significant hikes on luxury and sin goods:
Luxury wristwatches priced above ₹25,000: GST to increase from 18% to 28%.
Premium footwear priced above ₹15,000 per pair: GST to rise from 18% to 28%.
Ready-made garments:
Up to ₹1,500: GST at 5%.
₹1,500 to ₹10,000: GST at 18%.
Above ₹10,000: GST at 28%.
Sin goods such as aerated drinks, cigarettes, and tobacco products:The introduction of a 35% GST slab, which is up from the existing 28%.
Tax Reductions
Several items are slated for GST rate cuts to provide relief to consumers:
Packaged drinking water (20 liters or more): GST to drop from 18% to 5%.
Bicycles priced under ₹10,000: GST reduction from 12% to 5%.
Exercise notebooks: GST to fall from 12% to 5%.
Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) Under GST
A long-standing demand of the aviation industry to include ATF under GST is likely to be addressed. If approved, this would:
Bring uniform taxation across states.
Allow airlines to claim input tax credit (ITC) on ATF.
Currently, ATF is subject to central excise duties and state-level VAT. The proposed inclusion under GST aims to lower operational costs for airlines and simplify the tax structure.
Floor Space Index Under GST
The GST Council is likely to bring real estate floor space index (FSI) and additional FSI charges within the scope of GST. It might impose an 18 per cent GST.
Other Key Proposals
Discussions on 148 items for potential rate changes, including rate hikes on used electric vehicles (EVs) and smaller petrol and diesel vehicles from 12% to 18%.
Extending the GST compensation cess regime until June 2025.
Proposals to lower GST rates on food delivery platforms like Swiggy and Zomato from 18% (with ITC) to 5% (without ITC).
Since its implementation on July 1, 2017, GST excluded five key commodities—crude oil, natural gas, petrol, diesel, and ATF—leaving them under the dual taxation of excise duty and VAT. Revisiting their inclusion under GST is a critical demand, particularly for industries like aviation, which face high operating costs.
News business 55th GST Council Meeting Today: What Will Be Cheaper, Costlier? All You Need To Know
Bitcoin struggles to recover from the big drop. It fell down to $92,000 as we predicted in our analysis yesterday. Though BTC has moved up by 5%, it still lies in a danger zone. Let’s analyse market metrics to understand what is happening and what to expect.
The Bitcoin Chart
Bitcoin is currently trading at $97,536 and is trying to move ahead. The presence of Moving Average 200 is active as the active resistance here. The RSI has also risen and has moved out of the oversold zone, however the danger of pullback remains. If the market does not get enough buying volume, the MA 200 can push the price back down. Earlier, it received support around $92k due to the presence of MA 50 on the daily chart, however that might not be enough this time. The Greed and Fear index is at 73, however the real market sentiment is still bearish.
Source : Coinglass
The MACD histogram shows reduction in selling pressure, however the average direction index has fallen to 33.62 which is not a good sign for Bitcoin. We can also see the moving average 20 has fallen below MA 50 and 100 which sends a negative impression to the market. If the price keeps on consolidating in this area or it moves a little down the smallest MA will go below the highest and it will trigger a panic in the market. This could send the price down to $90k or even bad.
The Liquidation Data
According to Coinglass’s crypto liquidation data, in the past 24 hours, 296,631 traders got liquidated. This caused a total of $831.74 million to wash out of the market. Yesterday this amount went over $1 billion. The last 4 days have been very bad for the long traders as the market kept on going down.
Source : Coinglass
The liquidation map shows that there are still traders who have opened long trades for Bitcoin with high leverages upto 100x. Taking some decisions in time of a bearish momentum shows there are still people out there who do not understand the gravity of the situation. The map also shows the short trades with high leverages. During such periods, the market has a tendency to suddenly move in the opposite direction to liquidate traders with bad risk management.
Source : Coinglass
What to Expect
The very first thing we should be seeing now is Bitcoin price coming above the moving average 200. That will decrease the negative sentiment from the market and encourage more investors to jump in. However, for this to happen the market needs some buying volume. The market could make a sudden spike, just to liquidate the careless short traders, and this will give support to the market. Yes, not everything can be good for everybody, but let’s see the big picture here. If Bitcoin stays in this dangerous zone, it might fall down to $90k, triggering a panic sell resulting in altcoins rolling down as well.
What do you think will happen? The market will rise or will it go down further?
While eggs haven’t historically been considered a “health food,” the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) now classifies them as a “healthy, nutrient-dense” food, according to a new proposed rule.
The update is the result of changes in nutrition science and dietary recommendations, according to the agency.
The FDA’s “healthy” designation for food labeling purposes has been in use since the early 1990s.
‘I’M A HEART SURGEON, HERE’S WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT EGGS, YOUR HEART AND YOUR HEALTH’
“Healthy diets are made up of a variety of food groups and nutrients, and the ‘healthy’ claim can help consumers identify those foods that are the foundation of healthy dietary patterns,” the agency stated in its guidance.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration now classifies eggs as a “healthy, nutrient-dense” food, according to a new proposed rule. (iStock)
“On behalf of America’s egg farmers, we are thrilled to see the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announce that eggs meet the updated definition of ‘healthy,’” said Emily Metz, president and CEO of the American Egg Board, in a statement sent to Fox News Digital.
“This is an important milestone for eggs, bringing current nutrition science and federal dietary guidance into alignment, and affirming eggs’ role in supporting the health of American families, with nutritional benefits for everyone.”
5 EGG MYTHS DISPELLED BY AN EXPERT, PLUS TIPS FOR EVERY EGG LOVER
Metz referred to eggs as a “nutritional powerhouse,” noting that they contain eight essential nutrients that support health at every age.
“Eggs are particularly known for being one of the highest quality proteins available, playing a vital role in muscle health and overall wellness,” she added.
“This is a significant milestone, as eggs are an affordable source of high-quality protein and a rich source of nutrients.”
Tanya Freirich, a registered dietitian nutritionist in Charlotte, North Carolina, who practices as The Lupus Dietitian, noted that eggs are a “fantastic source” of protein, choline, B vitamins and selenium, as well as a “fair source” of vitamin D, vitamin E, calcium and zinc.
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“While in the past, many people were told to avoid eggs due to their cholesterol content, in more recent years, research has shown that dietary cholesterol intake does not increase your blood levels of cholesterol as much as previously understood,” she told Fox News Digital.
“Eggs, especially pasture-raised or omega 3-enriched, are particularly nutritious.”
The president and CEO of the American Egg Board referred to eggs as a “nutritional powerhouse,” noting that they contain eight essential nutrients that support health at every age. (iStock)
While eggs are a “superior” replacement for sugary cereals or a doughnut, Freirich cautioned that, like other foods, they should be consumed in moderation.
“[The FDA’s announcement] doesn’t mean we should all consume multiple eggs every day,” she said. “Current studies and recommendations support consuming up to one egg a day.”
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New Jersey-based registered dietitian Erin Palinski-Wade also said she was “very happy” to hear the FDA’s recognition of eggs as a healthy food.
While eggs are a “superior” replacement for sugary cereals or a doughnut, one dietitian cautioned that, like other foods, they should be consumed in moderation.(iStock)
“This is a significant milestone, as eggs are an affordable source of high-quality protein and a rich source of nutrients such as choline, vitamin D and essential fatty acids that many of us fall short on in our diets,” she told Fox News Digital.
The dietitian said she hopes that the designation will dispel the “outdated concerns” about eggs and dietary cholesterol.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
“This will go a long way in helping consumers make informed choices about their dietary protein sources and support eggs as part of a nutritious diet.”
Fox News Digital reached out to the FDA for comment.
Melissa Rudy is senior health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to [email protected].
Samosas are the ultimate snack that no one can resist! A classic treat, they’re available everywhere – from street stalls to high-end restaurants. Sure, there’s nothing like the combo of hot samosas with a cup of tea, but in some places, they’re served with chutney, potato, or even chickpea curry. The popularity of samosas is so high that we’re constantly seeing new and exciting versions. Think noodle samosas, matar samosas, or even dal-stuffed samosas. While experimenting with fillings is always fun, today we’re sharing a recipe that’s perfect for the winter: palak paneer samosas. Trust me, these samosas are made to be enjoyed on weekends. Whether you’re hosting guests or having a family gathering, no one will be able to resist this delicious treat!
Also Read: Making Samosa At Home Has Never Been Easier! Try This 10-Min Leftover Bread Samosa Recipe
What Makes Palak Paneer Samosa So Special?
What makes these samosas stand out is the outer layer made from spinach. Yep, you read that right! Normally, the outer shell is made with flour, but in this recipe, spinach puree is added to the dough, giving it a beautiful green colour. On top of that, the filling is packed with onions, ginger, garlic, cumin, salt, asafoetida, and small paneer cubes – all spiced just right to create an irresistible stuffing.
How to Make Palak Paneer Samosa
Make the Dough
Start by adding 2 cups of flour to a bowl, then mix in 1 tbsp ghee, salt, celery, and 1 cup spinach puree. Add water as needed to knead a smooth dough, but make sure it’s not too thin. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
Prepare the Stuffing
Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a pan, then add a chopped onion and sauté it. Next, toss in 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds, a pinch of asafoetida, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, 1 teaspoon red chili powder, mango powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir for 2 minutes. If you like, you can add boiled peas – they add a nice touch to the stuffing.
Add Paneer
Now it’s time for the paneer! Make sure the pieces are small – this way, they’ll blend better and prevent the samosa from bursting. Add the paneer to the spice mix and cook for another 2 minutes. Then, let the stuffing cool completely.
Shape the Samosas
Take a small ball of dough, cut it in half, and shape one half into a cone. Fill the cone with the stuffing and seal it tightly. Repeat this process for all the samosas.
Fry the Samosas
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Don’t heat it too much, or the samosas might burn. Add a few samosas at a time and fry them until golden and crispy. Pair these hot samosas with your favourite chutney or a warm cup of tea.
Sounds like a tasty recipe, right? Try making this winter-special palak paneer samosa this weekend – your taste buds will thank you!
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-12-20/Xi-meets-Macao-SAR-s-new-executive-legislative-judicial-officials-1zucyOVAgFy/img/22e911c2dbae4562a5797ed8527223d6/22e911c2dbae4562a5797ed8527223d6.png' alt='Chinese President Xi Jinping (C, front) meets with new officials of the executive, legislative and judicial organs of the Macao Special Administrative Region in Macao, south China, December 20, 2024. /Xinhua'
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday met with new officials of the executive, legislative and judicial organs of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR).
Noting that the governance team of the sixth-term Macao SAR government is young and energetic with high morale, Xi expressed confidence that they will bear in mind their oath, fulfill their mission, be accountable to both the country and Macao, and deliver outstanding results that will make the nation, Macao and themselves proud.
Xi expressed his expectations for the new team, urging them to keep in mind the country’s fundamental interests and Macao’s overall interests. They should also firmly safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, Xi told them.
He called on them to do solid work with a greater sense of responsibility, vigorously promote appropriate economic diversification, foster a more favorable business environment and maintain stability and harmony in Macao.
The team headed by the SAR’s chief executive should enhance unity and cooperation, Xi said, urging them to strengthen cross-domain and inter-departmental coordination to improve governance efficiency.
He also stressed the need to maintain integrity and honesty, always bear in mind the livelihood of Macao residents, use power prudently and serve as upright officials who bring benefits to the people.
Cai Qi, Xia Baolong and other senior officials attended the meeting. Macao SAR Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai was also present.
The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.
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Hi, I’m Dr. Karyn! Read my introduction to learn more about me and meet my five hilarious cats: Clutch, Cyril, Alex, Zelda, and Zazzles.
I’m not really into Christmas. That’s right, I said it. I don’t like Christmas.
Despite 12 years of Catholic education, Sunday morning sleep-ins ruined by enforced church attendance, and many a Christmas Eve spent yawning through Midnight Mass, I have emerged as a fairly well-rounded atheist. Of course, I have no objection to other peoples’ choice to subscribe to whichever religion speaks to them, provided I get to click ‘unsubscribe.’ Mind you, these days, the most recognized and celebrated Christmas traditions, like Santa Claus, overpriced gifts, cheesy Hallmark movies, and Mariah-bloody-Carey, have very little to do with religion! So it’s not that aspect that turns me into a Grinch.
For me, it’s just a lot of hassle and stress with a big mess to clean up at the end. But before you start hurling ‘Bah humbug’ in my direction, there are two Christmas traditions I do enjoy: watching Die Hard and my annual attempt to successfully wrap a cat.
Wrapping My Cats
Getting the measurements right
Ever since a rather entertaining video emerged several years ago of a very patient kitty being carefully measured, wrapped in paper, and topped with a ribbon, it has been my Christmas wish to recreate this wonder in my home. You would think that, with five possible candidates, I would have succeeded in my mission by now, but alas, my efforts have only ever resulted in torn wrapping paper and a mildly irritated feline.
The trouble with my mission is that I’m not going to force cooperation from any of my cats, which realistically whittles my list of likely participants from five to two: Clutch or Cyril.
Alex is far too intent on playing with the paper, Zelda too feisty, and Zazzles will either hide until everything is packed away or trollop around on top of it. Either way, she is impossible to wrap. Clutch tends to tolerate most things you can throw at him…as long as you don’t actually throw things, of course, while Cyril is a huge fan of any activity that involves inactivity. This was going to be my year. I felt it. The question was, did they?
Success! Sort of…
Alex was definitely more interested in playing than being wrapped
Rather surprisingly, Cyril was decidedly scared of sitting on paper, so he was out of the running immediately. Alex looked like a contender for a few minutes, but as predicted, preferred playing with the paper more than being wrapped in it.
Clutch took one for the team and was the most cooperative of the bunch. Initially, he made things a little challenging by lying on his side, then all of a sudden, he rolled back so he was lying on all fours, almost as though he understood the assignment. He was not, however, quite as tolerant as the cat from the video who inspired my dream; that one even allowed his tail to be wrapped separately!
Although my wrapping job was not particularly pretty, I did manage to get most of Clutch wrapped up for Christmas, including a festive bow on his head!
That’s A Wrap
That’s a wrap
Did I succeed? Sort of. Did I have fun? Not really! I’ve finally got the cat-wrapping challenge out of my system, but it wasn’t as fun or satisfying as I had hoped. But the cats thoroughly enjoyed playing with the wrapping paper at the end!
Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Kwanza, Hanukkah, or just plain old celebrating, be sure to take care of each other, take care of yourself, and most importantly, take care of the cat!
And yes, Die Hard ISa Christmas movie!
This article is a part of Dr. Karyn’s series with her five hilarious cats.
Logistics and warehouses developer Welspun One, is looking to raise ₹4,000 crore, to double its portfolio size to 32 million square feet (msf) by 2028 from 16 msf now.
The company said it is tapping investors including private equity firms and sovereign wealth funds, within Asia and outside, who have already shown considerable interest. The funds are proposed to be raised over the next 9-12 months.
It has already identified the assets that it plans to acquire with a pipeline of around 8 msf across multiple assets.
Also read: FMCG distributors body says hike in tax on soft drinks will adversely impact incomes
It was exploring financial and strategic partnerships at the General Partner (GP) level, it said adding that these alliances would broaden its investor base and position the platform as a node for international investors seeking exposure to India’s rapidly evolving logistics landscape.
Welspun One has already committed 75 per cent of its ₹2,275 crore of Fund 2, within six months of its final close earlier this year. It has also returned 40 per cent of the capital from Fund 1 through two successful exits.
It expects to reach an AUM of $1 billion across 16 Grade A assets by 2026, to become a significant player in the logistics and warehousing sector.
On the prospective investors it is hoping to attract, the company said the next logical step was to harness global partnerships at the GP level. For existing investors, this would mean access to global best practices, advanced technologies, and extensive networks of blue-chip tenants.
Also read: Hindustan Zinc to transition to renewables for 70% of total power requirements
“This will significantly enhance the platform’s leasing velocity and market share, potentially improving investor returns. Tenants will benefit from a wider network of high-quality assets and advanced supply chain solutions designed to adapt to rapid market shifts,” it said.
“By aligning with global partners who bring unmatched expertise and capabilities, we are not only securing capital but also setting a new standard for efficiency, adaptability, and long-term value creation,” said Yash Ravel, CEO Fund Management, Welspun One.
Pri kreiranju rubrike Index Shopping nastojimo izdvajati odlične proizvode koji se i nama sviđaju te odlične akcije i popuste. Ne objavljujemo proizvode koje i sami ne bismo kupili ili smatramo da njihova promocija nije u skladu s profesionalnim standardima. Neki proizvodi u rubrici Index Shopping mogu biti sponzorirani.
SVAKE godine Marques Brownlee, poznatiji kao MKBHD, jedan od najutjecajnijih tech youtubera, održava dodjelu nagrada za pametne telefone birajući najbolje uređaje u različitim kategorijama. U 2024. godini odabrao je telefone u 10 kategorija. No jedan je izbor ove godine mnoge iznenadio. Naime, iPhone 16 osvojio je titulu najboljeg malog telefona.
Kad je došao do kategorije najboljih malih telefona, MKBHD je primijetio da je situacija ove godine “tužna”. Primijetio je da telefoni postaju sve veći, ali i da je izbor manjih modela izrazito oskudan.
Istaknuo je kako se zbog toga i sama definicija malog telefona značajno promijenila tijekom posljednjih nekoliko godina jer su mnoge tvrtke prestale proizvoditi manje uređaje. Prilikom odabira najboljeg malog telefona, razmatrao je čak i neke preklopne uređaje. No, kako je objasnio, iako su kompaktni kad su sklopljeni, čim se rasklope, postaju “ogromni”. Zbog toga se odlučio za iPhone 16.
Iako ima zaslon dijagonale 6.1 inč, njegova se veličina smatra relativno malom prema današnjim standardima. Marques hvali Apple jer je ove godine značajno unaprijedio osnovni model uvođenjem brojnih značajki iz Pro linije, a pritom zadržao kompaktnost i praktičnost uređaja.
Ovaj odabir privukao je pažnju mnogih. “Tužno je što se iPhone 16 danas smatra ‘malim’ telefonom”, “U usporedbi s drugim uređajima, iPhone 16 zaista djeluje prilično maleno”, “Ako ljudi ne kupuju manje telefone, oni će ostati veliki”, “Možda je vrijeme da se ta kategorija umirovi”, komentirali su neki.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Najbolja vrijednost za novac: Nothing Phone 2a
Što se tiče ostalih kategorija, kamera je jedna od ključnih značajki pri odabiru telefona za mnoge korisnike. U ovoj kategoriji MKBHD je proglasio iPhone 16 Pro telefonom s najboljom kamerom. Iako je pohvalio uređaje s naprednijim senzorima, poput Vivo X200 Pro, smatra da se iPhone ističe kao cjelovit paket.
“Mrzim što pobjeđuju svake godine, kao i svi drugi, ali pitajte bilo koga tko redovito koristi telefon za snimanje i fotografiranje što bi odabrao i odgovor će uvijek biti iPhone Pro”, rekao je. Istaknuo je Appleove ovogodišnje značajke koje podižu iskustvo korištenja, a posebno je pohvalio kvalitetu videosnimanja iPhonea.
Još jedan važan faktor kod odabira telefona mnogima je cijena. Iako je nahvalio Pixel 8a, telefon koji, prema ovom youtuberu, ove godine pruža najbolju vrijednost za novac je Nothing Phone 2a. Ističe da za cijenu po kojoj se prodaje, ovaj uređaj nudi brojne izvrsne značajke, poput vrhunskog ekrana, dugotrajne baterije, kvalitetne kamere i još mnogo toga. Posebno pohvaljuje softver i glyph svjetla na poleđini.
“Ovo je telefon koji košta znatno manje od svih ovih flagshipova, ali prilikom korištenja – barem po mom iskustvu – ostavlja dojam iznimne glatkoće i promišljenosti izrade, baš kao i bilo koji drugi flagship, posebno zahvaljujući softveru”, ističe.
Telefon godine: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Na kraju, Marques je za telefon godine odabrao Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. “Dobar je u svemu”, istaknuo je dodavši da je možda “dosadan” jer nema ništa posebno uzbudljivo kod njega. Ipak, rekao je da je riječ o uređaju koji je jednostavno “izvanredan”. Dodao je da zaslužuje ovu nagradu i da je to telefon koji je najviše koristio tijekom godine.
Evo i kompletnog popisa:
Najbolji veliki telefon: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Najbolji mali telefon: iPhone 16
Telefon s najboljom kamerom: iPhone 16 Pro
Telefon koji pruža najbolju vrijednost za novac: Nothing Phone 2a
Telefon s najboljom baterijom: Red Magic 10 Pro
Telefon s najboljim dizajnom: Huawei Mate XT
Najbolji sklopivi telefon: Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Telefon s najvećim napretkom: Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Razočaranje godine: Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra
Telefon godine: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
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Netflix on Friday said it will stream for the first time the FIFA Women’s World Cup, as the streamer continues to expand its library of live sports content.
Netflix has the exclusive U.S. rights to stream the 2027 and 2031 tournaments in all languages. The company said it has plans to have a dual telecast in English and Spanish with studio shows and top-tier talent. Netflix also plans to have documentary programming, featuring the top players.
The 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup will take place in Brazil on June 24 to July 25, with 32 teams competing in 12 cities. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Netflix Chief Content Officer Bela Bajaria cited the growing global popularity of women’s soccer.
“Bringing this iconic tournament to Netflix is not just about streaming matches — it’s about celebrating the players, the culture, and the passion driving the global rise of women’s sports,” Bajaria said in a statement.
She noted that the company’s success with its recent livestreamed boxing match between Amanda Serrano and Katie Taylor has “demonstrated the massive appetite for women’s sports and live programming.”
The Serrano-Taylor fight had an average of 74 million live viewers tuning in, with Netflix calling it the most-watched professional women’s sports event in U.S. history. The match was part of a larger event that featured YouTube star turned professional boxer Jake Paul beating former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson last month. An average audience of 108 million live viewers turned in for that fight, though some viewers reported buffering issues. Netflix said it worked quickly to stabilize the viewing for a majority of its subscribers.
Netflix began delving into streaming live events last year with a Chris Rock comedy special. Since then, it has hosted several live programs, including a hot dog eating competition, Tom Brady comedy roast, Screen Actors Guild Awards and a tennis exhibition match. Next week, Netflix will stream two NFL Christmas Day games for the first time.
Live sports has been increasingly attractive to some streaming services because it draws large audiences and passionate fans. Organizers behind live sporting events have also been interested in working with streamers to reach global audiences and younger viewers.
Apple in 2022 entered into a 10-year deal with Major League Soccer for exclusive streaming rights to its games. The terms were not disclosed but is allegedly worth about $2.5 billion over the contract.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino called the Netflix deal a “landmark moment for sports media rights,” adding, “Netflix will play a key role in terms of bringing the fascination of women’s football to a multimillion audience in the lead-up to both final tournaments, thereby enabling us to further increase their appeal.”
Last year, FIFA Women’s World Cup in the U.S. was broadcast by Fox Sports, which has a deal to broadcast FIFA World Cup through 2026.
Another day, another travel trend that will make you scratch your head. Here’s everything you need know about the hotel room hack, ‘mattress runs’.
‘Mattress runs’: a travel trend in which guests book hotel rooms to earn free nights or accumulate status points. The catch? These people are apparently not completing their hotel stays but reserving rooms to rack up reward points. It’s a move that could backfire, according to some hotels’ terms and conditions listed online, as per a report by Fox News. Also read | ‘Flying naked’ travel trend is raising eyebrows on internet but it’s not what you think
‘Mattress runs’ have guests booking hotel rooms to earn free nights or accumulate status points with some not even staying in the hotel room. (Representative photo: Pexels)
Chatter on Reddit
One traveller took to Reddit and asked, “Hyatt Mattress Run – has anyone ever been penalised for doing a mattress run via digital check-in and never showing up? Does that work?” A person responded, “Yes, they didn’t credit me the stay, and they charged me the cash rate. It’s very hit or miss.”
Another said, “I was able to [check out] online this morning. This was just a one-day test – which seemed to have worked. I’ll see if I get the qualifying night credited or not.”
But should you give tis travel trend a go?
Alston Causey, vice president of Travelmation, a US based travel agency, told Fox News that people love hotel points and status, but achieving these should not be accomplished by cheating the system.
He said, “In the travel business, few things are worse than a hotel room or vacation that is paid for and not used… a ‘mattress run’ is more for people who are on the cusp and tend to find themselves there every year.”
Alston advised travellers that before they try out ‘mattress runs’, they should ask themselves, “’Will this be worth it for me? Will that price be worth the benefits of status in the coming year?’ This will be different for each person, so take the time to ensure it’s truly necessary for you. If you do book that hotel room, make sure you use it.”
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News / Lifestyle / Travel / Would you try ‘mattress runs’? This travel trend about booking hotel rooms could backfire majorly
In today’s episode of Queen the Greatest, looking back at the making of the band’s debut album, Sir Brian May shared some incredible revelations.
Going through the artwork of the remixed and remastered Queen I record, the guitar legend confessed to a massive gut prediction he had about Freddie Mercury that came true.
Looking at the 1973 album cover, the 77-year-old said he could tell that their singer was going to become the face of Queen.
He shared: “I had this premonition that Freddie was special and he was going to be our icon.
“So, I thought it would be nice just to have Freddie as a symbol, like the figurehead on a Viking ship.”
Sir Brian continued: “I found this picture of him onstage, which Doug Puddifoot had taken standing in a spotlight, and I liked the way the spotlight looked because it looked like a comet in the sky. And that was basically the cover and everyone liked it. Freddie had designed this lovely special font for Queen. So, we said, ‘Okay, we’ll go with that’.
Meanwhile, Sir Brian looked back at Freddie and John Deacon’s original stage names, with the latter’s reversed, as printed on the original album’s credits.
Sir Brian added: “Deacon John is down to [producer] John Anthony. He wanted things to be grand and memorable, and he thought having a pseudonym was a good idea. Freddie was already Freddie Mercury rather than Freddie Bulsara or Farrokh Bulsara. But when the tracks were first played on the John Peel Show, that hadn’t got through. So, John Peel, who was a big disc jockey at the time, read out a previous blurb: ‘Well, here we have a record by Queen, a new group, and it’s Brian May and Freddie Bulsara and Deacon John’. So he’d read out what was on some previous blurb, but at that point Freddie had already decided he was Freddie Mercury, messenger of the gods.”
The Volvo XC60 remains one of the Swedish brand’s top-sellers in Australia, but it’s the only SUV in Volvo’s range that doesn’t offer an all-electric counterpart… yet.
Note: This is an updated version of a review first published in June, as we haven’t been able to get an MY25 specification for review in the past six months since publication.
The 2025 Volvo XC60 will remain largely the same with some minor revisions, including the discontinuation of the as-tested T8 Black Edition – though this is heavily based on the remaining top-spec model.
We have updated key details such as pricing and specifications with the most up to date information available.Read the original version of this review here
WATCH: Paul’s video review of the 2023 Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid
While there’s no pure EV option, the XC60’s available T8 plug-in hybrid (now sans Recharge label) drivetrain could be all the ‘EV’ that most buyers ever need.
It offers a claimed 81 kilometres of electric driving range, which is more than enough for the average person’s daily commute, and its beefy outputs of 340kW and 709Nm give it the grunt to compete with the likes of the Audi SQ5 and BMW M40.
The Black Edition pictured here has been discontinued for model year 2025 (MY25), but the T8 drivetrain lives on in Plus and Ultra grades, both of which continue into the new build year with no changes to pricing or spec.
Is the Chinese-sourced Volvo still one of our class favourites? Or are you better off shopping elsewhere?
Note: MY24 Volvo XC60 T8 Black Edition shown throughout
How does the Volvo XC60 compare?
View a detailed breakdown of the Volvo XC60 against similarly sized vehicles.
Volvo
XC60
How much does the Volvo XC60 cost?
The XC60 T8 Black Edition has been discontinued for MY25, but it’s effectively a blacked-out version of the surviving Ultra T8 that returns to its place atop the lineup in Australia. Pricing is unchanged.
Model
Price before on-road costs
2025 Volvo XC60 Plus B5
$73,990
2025 Volvo XC60 Ultra B5 Bright
$80,090
2025 Volvo XC60 Plus T8
$92,390
2025 Volvo XC60 Ultra T8
$101,390
You may notice the new naming structure of the 2025 range, with the previous Ultimate grades being rebadged ‘Ultra’, and the old Recharge tag removed from plug-in hybrid (PHEV) grades.
Volvo Cars Australia has confirmed that PHEVs will be badged solely ‘T6’ or ‘T8’ depending on power level. Otherwise, “specification is basically identical”.
To see how the Volvo XC60 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
What is the Volvo XC60 like on the inside?
The interior of the XC60 is very stylish, very Swedish, and very black – in the case of this MY24 Black Edition.
In this case those are all good things, and there’s plenty of substance to match the style.
It all starts with the perforated leather seats, which leave little to fault. They’re soft, supportive and fully adjustable. We’re not just talking slide and recline; there’s a page in the infotainment system dedicated to adjustments for bolster width, thigh support and lumbar support, in addition to the expected functions.
Changes can be made via toggles on the side of the seat and through the screen itself, so it’s easy find a comfortable setup that moulds to your frame. With so much adjustability available, memory settings are handy when switching between drivers.
You’ll never find the seats too hot or cold either, as both front chairs have three-stage heating and cooling functions.
The next most important touchpoint is the steering wheel, and it also feels premium.
A happy medium between thin and thick, the rim is trimmed in leather with black stitching. While there’s not much padding or squidge, it’s comfortable to hold and should wear well over time.
As with other top end Volvos, the piece de resistance is the Orrefors crystal gear selector.
It adds no functionality whatsoever and does look a little out of place among the rest of the black and silver trim, but I don’t care. The cabin is a more special place because of it, and it’s far more interesting than the pint-sized toggles you see elsewhere.
Not for everyone, but I commend Volvo for thinking outside the box.
Elsewhere it’s a swathe of black leather and plastic with some metal accents.
The dash, door cards and armrest are all trimmed in soft leather, so you never come in contact with anything cheap and nasty. I do question the longevity of the glossy black plastic surrounding the gear selector and infotainment screen though.
Every part feels sturdy too, so it’s hard to feel shortchanged. All the physical buttons and switches have a solid clunk to them.
Aside from the crystal gear selector, there’s less bling here than in other premium SUVs. In my view that’s a drawcard, as the cabin is comfortable and easy to adjust to if you’re new to the Volvo brand.
That approachability carries over to the technology on offer in the XC60 Black Edition.
Behind the steering wheel sits a digital instrument display that shows all the information you need and not much more.
From left to right you get a speedo, customisable centre screen and drive mode display. Throughout the test I stuck with maps as the centre readout, which is a great way to keep your eyes facing ahead while driving.
Automotive industry take note – you can prioritise safety without introducing overbearing nannies.
None of the available display space has gone to waste as trip information and range figures are located at the base of the screen.
Shifting across, a 9.0-inch portrait infotainment screen is located front and centre, and it has quickly become one of my favourite systems going around.
Jointly developed with Google, the system is laid out like a smartphone with built-in Google apps and services such as YouTube and Google Maps.
The main upside of this is that people are so used to living with smartphones that navigating the infotainment screen feels like second nature.
It’s easy to move between the home screen and different apps, while convenient shortcuts to commonly used features are permanently pinned to the bottom of the screen. Like a modern iPhone, the screen in the Volvo is ultra responsive.
Google Maps in particular is a valuable inclusion, as the app provides accurate, up-to-date traffic information.
The user-friendly nature of Volvo’s infotainment setup makes it all the more surprising that Apple CarPlay requires a wired connection.
The native system is great, but you’d expect wireless mirroring in a $100,000 premium SUV. Having said that, the wireless charging pad proved temperamental so plugging devices in is the safest option if you want to arrive at your destination with a fully charged phone.
Two USB-C points can be found under the centre armrest, and there’s a 12V outlet near the gear selector.
The buttons on the steering wheel also lack edges to separate them, so it can be difficult to make the right selection without looking down.
It was a mistake I made often as I was regularly reaching to crank up the incredible 15-speaker Bowers and Wilkins stereo. As well as looking the part, the speakers are clean, crisp, and easily configurable.
Custom sound experiences are available within the infotainment menus, and I particularly enjoyed the ‘concert’ mode which transports you to the mosh pit at your favourite live music act.
The sound system is one of several features elevating the interior of the XC60, but it didn’t completely distract me from the lack of storage space available.
Aside from generous door bins and a large glovebox, the clever storage solutions associated with Swedish engineering are in short supply.
There’s no space underneath the centre stack, the centre cupholders are on the smaller side and sunglasses are left homeless. A BMW X3 or Mercedes-Benz GLC definitely offers more on this front.
At least occupants aren’t left wanting for room as there’s plenty for both first and second row passengers, with one exception.
Kids and adults of all shapes and sizes can get comfortable in the rear outboard seats as legroom is plentiful. Just don’t extend your knees out too far, as the front seat backs are too firm to rest against.
Even with the panoramic sunroof, only tall types topping six-four will struggle for headroom. The middle seat is a child-only zone, though.
A tall transmission tunnel eliminates just about all legroom for the middle passenger, forcing them to take up the foot room of people either side.
It’s a shame given the XC60 serves as a family car for many. The rear doors don’t open especially wide either, making it difficult for less mobile people to access the back seats.
Volvo has thought of the children though, including pop-up booster seats in the outboard seats to save parents from lugging around a loose, bulky alternative.
Given the compromised seating space, the centre seat is better left empty with the armrest folded down. That gives the option of retractable cupholders, freeing up space elsewhere.
Other amenities include a pair of USB-C connections, air vents located next to the rear windows, map pockets, and small door bins on either side.
Further back, boot space is down on most rivals at 468 litres. It’s easy to load items thanks to a wide-opening powered tailgate, but the total space available is capped.
Hardcore IKEA enthusiasts can take solace in the fact that the rear bench folds 60/40 to unlock 1445L of cargo room.
Camping trips are made easier by the inclusion of a 12V outlet on the boot wall, which is perfect for powering an esky.
A net on the left side helps to keep smaller items secure, and the boot is well lit.
Dimensions
Volvo XC60 T8
Length
4708mm
Width
1999mm
Height
1658mm
Wheelbase
2865mm
Kerb weight
2146kg
Boot space (seats up)
468L
Boot space (seats folded)
1445L
To see how the Volvo XC60 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
What’s under the bonnet?
On test we have the flagship T8 plug-in hybrid drivetrain. A four-cylinder mild-hybrid is also available.
To see how the Volvo XC60 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
How does the Volvo XC60 drive?
Modern Volvos promise comfort and safety. While both are present here, the XC60 has some tricks up its sleeve in Recharge T8 guise.
MY22 Ultimate T8 PHEV shown
The plug-in hybrid powertrain offers drivers a choice, and imbues the car with a wonderfully split personality.
If you ignore the little bag of charging goodies in the boot, the XC60 runs as a smooth, efficient hybrid with bucketloads of power on tap when called upon.
System outputs are 340kW and 709Nm, and the XC60 PHEV feels every bit as quick as Volvo claims it is when your put your foot down. All the while, the fuel economy readout rarely tipped over 5.0L/100km in my experience.
That makes the T8 a capable long-distance cruiser, as overtaking is never an issue and fuel stops are few and far between. It’s comfortable, too.
Floaty suspension keeps the disturbances of potholes and coarse country roads out of the cabin, while tyre noise is minimal even with the 21-inch alloys.It feels like a big car, because it is.
But what if you have no interest in 0-100km/h times and just want to negotiate the daily city commute without losing your cool? The XC60 can do that, too.
Volvo claims the plug-in hybrid can travel 81km on electric power alone, so in theory an average commute (33km round trip in Australia) can be completed in peaceful, efficient silence.
That formed the basis of my experience with the car, as I charged it every night and activated the Pure EV drive mode every morning before setting off to work, hence the fuel consumption figure in the table above. Your mileage may vary.
Charging times will vary depending on the resources at your disposal, but when plugged in to a traditional wall socket the battery in our tester charged from zero to 100 per cent in around eight hours.
In EV mode the XC60 is whisper quiet, and still packs enough punch to seize upon gaps in the traffic.
The auto-hold feature takes some of the effort out of sitting in bumper-to-bumper jams, allowing the driver an opportunity to give their right foot a rest from modulating the brake pedal.
As for suburban streets, it’s more of the same except for a couple of frustrating quirks.
For example, we found the front collision warning system to be over-sensitive, sending unnecessary shudders through the cabin when passing through narrow openings between parked cars.
To see how the Volvo XC60 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
What do you get?
The new Black Edition gets all the best kit of the XC60 range as well as a black exterior package.
XC60 Plus B5 equipment highlights:
19-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
LED headlights with active bending
LED front fog lights
9.0-inch Android Automotive infotainment system
Satellite navigation incl. Google Maps
DAB radio
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
Digital Service, 4yr subscription
Wireless smartphone charger
Dual-zone climate control
Electric tailgate
Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
Electric front seats with memory
Power-folding rear headrests
Leather-accented upholstery
XC60 Plus T8 adds:
20-inch alloy wheels
R-Design exterior styling
XC60 Ultra B5 Bright adds:
20-inch alloy wheels – different design
Head-up display
Unique instrument panel display
Heated front seats
Heated steering wheel
Crystal gear selector
XC60 Ultra T8 adds:
Air suspension with Four-C Active Chassis
Bowers and Wilkins sound system
Rear privacy glass
21-inch alloy wheels
To see how the Volvo XC60 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
Is the Volvo XC60 safe?
Volvo XC60 models built in 2024 are currently unrated, although petrol versions of the Volvo XC60 built between 2017 and the end of 2023 wear a five-star ANCAP safety rating based on Euro NCAP tests in 2017.
Category
Volvo XC60
Adult occupant protection
98 per cent
Child occupant protection
87 per cent
Vulnerable road user protection
76 per cent
Safety assist
95 per cent
Standard safety features include:
Adjustable speed limiter
Adaptive cruise control incl. Pilot Assist
Active lane centring
Stop&Go function
Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
Forward, Reverse
Pedestrian, Cyclist, Animal detection
Blind-spot monitoring
Rear cross-traffic assist
360-degree cameras
Front, rear, side parking sensors
Hill start assist
Hill descent control
To see how the Volvo XC60 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
How much does the Volvo XC60 cost to run?
Like the wider Volvo line-up, the XC60 is backed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, with eight years of complementary 24/7 roadside assistance.
Servicing and Warranty
Volvo XC60 T8
Warranty
5 years, unlimited kilometres
PHEV battery warranty
8 years
Service intervals
12 months or 15,000 kilometres
Service plan pricing
$1750 – 3 years $3000 – 5 years
To see how the Volvo XC60 lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
CarExpert’s Take on the Volvo XC60
The appeal of the MY24 Black Edition is largely subject to individual aesthetic preferences, but the question we’re looking to answer in 2025 is whether the T8 plug-in hybrid drivetrain is worth the extra spend.
For us, it’s a real selling point – blending efficiency and performance seamlessly in all driving environments.
The equivalent BMW X3 – at least the outgoing one – can’t match the Volvo on either front, and the Swede still comes in cheaper. You may not get quite as much gadgetry or bling in the cabin of the XC60, but that brings a charm of its own.
Sure, you also have to pay a hefty premium over the base XC60 B5, but that’s often the case with premium brands when upgrading within the model range.
If only the Volvo had a little more storage space, then it would be a truly compelling package.
Interested in buying a Volvo XC60? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
Wedding planners and event management companies are often accused of inflating prices for services like floral arrangements and catering.
Consumers urged to be cautious and ensure transparency in wedding services. (Image: Shutterstock)
In recent years, the trend of hiring wedding planners and event management companies has gained significant popularity among couples planning their big day. These agencies promise to relieve the stress of event planning, taking care of everything from venue booking to catering. However, recent investigations have revealed that not all is as rosy as it seems. Customers who rely on these services may be unknowingly falling victim to fraudulent practices, leading to massive financial losses.
A significant operation led by the Income Tax Department in Jaipur, Rajasthan, raised alarms over widespread tax evasion in the wedding industry. The department conducted raids at over 24 locations, targetting businesses and individuals involved in wedding-related services.
This includes high-profile names such as Taluka Tent House, Gunjan Singhal Wedding Planners, Bhavana Charan, Indian Wedding Planner, J Oberoi Caterers, My Bagiya, Mapsor, and the luxury wedding destination, The Gulmohar in Kukas. Locations raided include various offices and residences in prominent areas like C-Scheme, Banipark, Shyam Nagar, Tonk Road, Civil Lines, Durgapura, and Kukas.
The investigation revolved around suspicions of large-scale tax evasion, with an estimated amount running into crores of rupees. The Income Tax Department was particularly concerned about the widespread practice of underreporting earnings by manipulating payment methods in wedding transactions. In many cases, payments were split into two parts: around 40-50% which was billed officially, while the remaining 50-60% was paid in cash. This cash component, which helped avoid paying the 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on banquet halls and wedding venues, was a deliberate effort to evade taxes.
This illegal practice is not just limited to tax evasion. Wedding planners and event management companies are often accused of inflating prices for services like floral arrangements and catering. While the quoted prices may appear steep, the actual costs of these services are far lower. To make matters worse, some companies promise high-quality products but deliver subpar materials, leaving customers dissatisfied and financially burdened.
In addition to overcharging, some planners employ dishonest tactics, adding unexpected charges after the initial agreement is made. These hidden fees significantly increase the final bill, causing substantial financial strain on unsuspecting customers. Worse yet, a few dishonest planners collaborate with fake vendors, only to vanish with the advance payments made by clients, leaving them without the services they paid for.
One of the most alarming revelations from the recent raids was the discovery of the inflated rental prices at premium wedding venues. For instance, The Gulmohar, a luxurious wedding destination in Kukas, charged a staggering Rs 8-10 lakh for a one-day event, further highlighting the scale of financial exploitation within the industry.
As wedding planning continues to evolve into a multi-crore industry, it is crucial for consumers to be vigilant. Ensuring that wedding service providers are legitimate, transparent, and registered is essential to avoid falling prey to fraudulent schemes. Couples must also be cautious of hidden costs and pressure tactics used to inflate prices, as these can lead to significant financial losses.
Location :
Rajasthan, India
News business Income Tax Raids Reveal Fraud Worth Crores Among Wedding Planners In Jaipur
The new EU crypto regulations, set to take effect at the end of the year, are already reshaping the market for digital tokens, especially stablecoins like Tether’s USDT. Many crypto exchanges in the EU have delisted the dominant stablecoin USDT to comply with the MiCA. While the regulations aim to improve oversight and prevent crimes like money laundering, crypto experts warn that they might reduce market activity without fully achieving these goals.
Could MiCA Hamper Market Liquidity?
Crypto executives warn that the MiCA regulations may reduce market liquidity without meeting their intended goals, potentially making the EU less attractive to digital-asset traders at a crucial time.
Usman Ahmad, CEO of Zodia Markets, explained that the removal of USDT, the most liquid stablecoin, limits options for EU clients. While Stablecoins like USDT are essential for crypto traders to transfer funds, move money across borders, and settle traditional assets, concerns have grown about their use in illegal activities, as witnessed in recent reports of Russian networks using USDT for illicit transactions.
However, Tether has condemned these illegal uses and emphasized its commitment to preventing such activities.
MiCA Requires Stablecoins On CEXs To Have E-Money License
In an effort to tighten the oversight of the asset class, MiCA requires all stablecoins listed on centralized exchanges must be issued by a company with an e-money license. The issuers must keep up to two-thirds of reserves backing their tokens with an independent bank and monitor all transactions made for payment purposes
While Circle has received this license, but Tether hasn’t yet obtained it, which could lead to its delisting by December 30. Even with MiCA in place, authorities need better tools to track illegal transactions, something that is not ready yet. USDT has been widely used in illegal activities, but Tether is working to address this with a new partnership aimed at combating financial crimes.
Meanwhile, with President-elect Trump’s victory, there are rising expectations that the U.S. will adopt a more crypto-friendly regulatory approach, sparking a market rally. In contrast, Europe is witnessing declining crypto investments and venture capital in crypto startups is set to hit a four-year low, raising concerns that it may fall behind in the crypto market.
Encouraging Signs
However, there are some encouraging signs. Crypto ownership in the euro area has more than doubled to 9% since 2022, though the European Central Bank cautioned that the increase may be influenced by a change in survey methodology.
Despite this growth, the removal of Tether (USDT) from platforms in the EU is expected to significantly reduce liquidity, as USDT has the most trading pairs globally. Traders are likely to face disruptions as they move away from USDT to other stablecoins or fiat pairs. Some exchanges, like OKX, have already seen traders shift to fiat pairs instead of using other stablecoins.
I hope you are getting ready for a wonderful season of giving, and taking a pause from all things marketing and business. For the last — well, decade — I have ended the year with a special review.
This year, AI seems to have taken all the oxygen out of the marketing room. With a nod to those brands feeling compelled to fill their marketing with AI-generated content, 2024 felt a little grinchy. So, if you’ll indulge me:
Everyone in Marketing loved creativity a lot, But the executives running the business did NOT.
They hated Creative! The sentiment! The trends! Expensive brand campaigns with emotional ends.
They smirked at the memes; the creative was so cute. They sneered, “Who needs empathy when we’ve got compute?”
“Look at these fools with their thought leadership fluff, Brainstorming for hours — like that’s ever enough! They’re slow and inefficient, stuck in their ways, While I optimize content in seconds, not days!”
Now, with a neural net hum and a Tesla-like purr, AI learned all their content in one swift blur. They launched drones over Jersey with flair, And rewrote their ads with a cold, bot-generated air.
Gone were stories, the joy, and the fun, Replaced with AI: “Delving and evolving savings! Buy one, get one!” Ads smacking and packing with gerunds galore, While bots buzzed in circles and crashed at the door.
And as the execs planned to lay off the team, The tech bros got together and logged in with a scheme. Sam Altman posted, “Let’s optimize joy with OpenAI flair!” While Bezos declared, “Creativity’s dead — AI will write with more care!”
Sundar Pichai chimed, “Productivity’s key! No delay!” “AI will deliver Marketing’s Christmas, the Google way!”
But way down in the marketers’ corner, the teams regrouped, Ignoring the chaos of tech-bro loops. They slowed down, creating stuff humans would feel. Not algorithms or billionaires making a steal.
They crafted slow stories with care and delight, Handmade campaigns that felt human and bright. While AI churned dreck — cold, soulless, and bland, Their creative magic flew, built by real hands.
The execs stared down at their dashboards and feeds, Perplexed by the magic that human joy breeds. They paused their machines, unsure what to say, As the marketers showed, they knew the right way.
They didn’t need bots or predictive commands, Just humor, emotion, and work from their hands. They gathered in rooms with ideas to share, Proving it’s humans who give brands their flair.
“What is this?” the execs cried, “We can’t look away! How did humans outshine the power of AI?”
They learned that connection can’t be tracked on a chart, And real engagement begins with the heart.
So, what happened then? Well, in Marketing they say, The execs’ sense of wisdom grew five sizes that day! They joined the marketers, crafting captions with flair, And helped Santa upgrade with Wi-Fi to spare.
Now, every Christmas, they play a small part, Balancing big data with a marketer’s heart. And even Sam Altman, with a sheepish, small grin, Writes human content — with no AI spin.
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Cover image by Joseph Kalinowski/Content Marketing Institute
Ben Schwartzman and Carol Kane star in the mostly improvised comedy, Between the Ferns
Sony Pictures Classics
Between the Temples, the mostly improvised comedy from director Nathan Silver, follows Ben, a grieving cantor played by Jason Schwartzman, and Carla (Carol Kane), a retired school teacher interested in getting her Bat Mitzvah. Through their work together, Ben and Carla grow close and find a sense of healing in their lives as they navigate the steady dysfunction brought on by their families and friends.
With 175 credits to her name, Kane has probably played at least one character you’re fond of. There’s Simka Dahblitz-Gravas, the wife of Andy Kaufman’s Latka, on the sitcom Taxi — a role that won her her first and only Golden Globe Award. She was Miracle Max’s wife, Valerie, in The Princess Bride. In Scrooged, she was handy with a toaster as the Ghost of Christmas Present. And in The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, she steadily brought the laughs as Kimmy’s neighbor, Lillian Kaushtupper.
Kane received the Best Supporting prize from the New York Film Critics Circle and has been nominated for Best Supporting Performance at the 2025 Independent Spirit Awards for her performance in the movie.
What makes this nomination different from past accolades? It’s probably the rawness of her performance as Carla in the film, thanks to the improvisational style of the production. Instead of leaning into the quirky comedy stylings she has been known for throughout her career, Kane tapped into her authentic voice in Between the Temples, resulting in a resonant, heartfelt performance.
“There was not a solid script, so take to take a lot of the dialogue would be different,” Kane explained to Gold Derby. “The essence and the structure of the scene would be the same, but we could improvise the dialogue as we went along.” Could an Oscar nomination be next? Possibly.
One thing’s certain: Carol Kane’s finally getting the flowers she deserves. Read on to find out when to watch Between the Temples.
Read more: 21 TV Shows on Netflix That Are Perfect for Your Next Binge-Watch
Carol Kane stars as Carla, a retired music teacher looking to get her Bat Mitzvah in Between the Temples.
Sony Pictures Classics
When to watch Between the Temples
After a brief theatrical run, Between the Temples will premiere on Netflix on Saturday, Dec. 21.
James Martin/CNET
Netflix is the streaming spot for Between the Temples. The service currently offers subscriptions that cost between $7 and $23 per month in the US. There’s an extra member fee of $8 if you’re a premium subscriber who wants to share your account with someone outside your household.
Vitamin D, a nutrient known for promoting bone health, might not be effective in protecting all seniors from injury.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) released a draft recommendation this week advising against the use of vitamin D for preventing falls and fractures in postmenopausal women and men over 60 years old.
A panel of 16 medical experts reviewed the benefits of taking vitamin D with or without calcium supplements for individuals who live independently.
COMMON PAIN RELIEVER COULD CAUSE MEDICAL COMPLICATIONS IN SOME PEOPLE OVER 65, STUDY SUGGESTS
The USPSTF concluded that these supplements offer no “net benefit” for the prevention of falls and fractures based on evidence that vitamin D and calcium don’t lower the risk for generally healthy individuals without other deficiencies or medical conditions.
The USPSTF recommendation advises against the use of vitamin D for preventing falls and fractures in some people over 60.(iStock)
Vitamin D is a nutrient that is essential for building and maintaining healthy bones, according to Mayo Clinic.
“That’s because your body can only absorb calcium, the primary component of bone, when vitamin D is present,” that same source wrote on its website.
COSTCO-BRAND COLD AND FLU MEDICATION RECALLED BY FDA: ‘NOT EFFECTIVE’
The vitamin also regulates other cellular functions in the body, and acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
“[Its] neuroprotective properties support immune health, muscle function and brain cell activity,” Mayo Clinic reports.
Vitamin D helps build and maintain healthy bones, according to Mayo Clinic.(iStock)
Vitamin D is most commonly produced in the body by exposure to direct sunlight, which means levels often dip during the less sunny winter months.
This new and developing research, however, suggests that the supplement won’t necessarily protect the bones of aging individuals.
“It’s important to evaluate older adults for any factors, including osteoporosis, that may increase their risk of falls or fractures.”
Katy Dubinsky, a New York pharmacist and founder and CEO of Vitalize, clarified that these conclusions are based on a review of “recent randomized clinical trials,” which collectively displayed “no significant difference in fall or fracture risk between those taking the supplements and those who did not.”
PANCREATIC CANCER PATIENT SURVIVAL DOUBLED WITH HIGH DOSE OF COMMON VITAMIN, STUDY FINDS
“It’s important to evaluate older adults for any factors, including osteoporosis, that may increase their risk of falls or fractures,” she told Fox News Digital.
“While vitamin D and calcium are key for maintaining strong bones, research suggests that routine supplementation in healthy, independent older adults may not effectively prevent falls or fractures.”
Regular doctor’s visits and physical activity are “proven, reliable measures that make a real difference” in maintaining bone health, one expert said.(iStock)
Dubinsky added that the best way to maintain strong bones and prevent injury is to prioritize physical activity and stay consistent with regular doctor’s visits.
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To protect bone health and decrease the risk of falls, the USPSTF recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week along with regular strength training exercises.
Falls are the leading cause of unintentional injury among older adults.
“Exercises that focus on balance and coordination can reduce the risk of falls, while resistance training strengthens bones and helps prevent muscle loss,” Dubinsky said.
For more Health articles, visit foxnews.com/health
About 14 million adults over 65 reported falling at least once in the previous year, according to 2020 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Falls are a leading cause of unintentional injury among older adults, the USPSTF reported.(iStock)
Unintentional falls caused 78 deaths per 100,000 people in 2021, making them “the leading cause of unintentional injury among older adults,” according to the USPSTF.
The task force stated on its website that recommendations made by the agency are “independent of the U.S. government.”
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“They should not be construed as an official position of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,” they wrote.
Fox News Digital reached out to USPSTF for comment.
Angelica Stabile is a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital.
Conformal coating is essential for protecting printed circuit boards (PCBs) from environmental hazards. It provides a barrier that protects the board from moisture, dust, humidity, and salt spray. It also prevents the growth of mold and other contaminants, which can damage the electrical components and shorten the life of the circuit. In addition, it can shield the board from chemical infringement and physical abrasion.
The type of conformal coating used depends on the PCB’s operating environment and the standards it must meet. It is important to choose the right coating material, since it can affect the performance of the board during vibrations and operating stresses. A rigid flex coating that does not flex with the board can create mechanical stress at connection points, such as component legs and wires soldered to the board. This can require changes in the board design or enclosure to manage the impact.
Coating thickness is another factor to consider. Thicker conformal coatings offer more protection against moisture and chemical contamination, but they may increase the risk of cracking under operating stresses or during vibrations. The coating material’s ability to adhere to the circuit board substrate is also an important consideration. The board substrate must be free of grease and dirt, and cleaning techniques such as solvents or an ultrasonic bath can help ensure proper adhesion.
The Role of Conformal Coating in Rigid Flex
Many conformal coatings are sensitive to solvent removal, and the choice must be made based on the availability of a suitable solvent and the ability to remove the coating without damaging parts or components on the board. Acrylics are most sensitive to solvents, while epoxies and urethanes are less so. Silicone and parylene are not susceptible to solvents and can be removed by heat (thermal or burn-through), if necessary.
Conformal coatings can be applied in different ways, including dipping, spraying, brushing, and vapor deposition. The optimal application method depends on the dimensions of the board, the types of components and their placement, the production volume, and the budget. For smaller production quantities, brush or spray application is often the most practical option.
A primer must be used before applying most conformal coatings, but this requirement varies by the type of coating. For example, acrylics and epoxies don’t require a primer; however, polyurethanes and silicones do. Primers help to improve adhesion and provide a binding layer that helps retain the coating.
Choosing the right conformal coating for your flex PCB is essential to ensuring its functionality and longevity. Choosing the wrong coating can damage the board, which will result in costly repairs and wasted time, money, resources, and energy. It is important to consult with an expert PCB manufacturer to determine the best conformal coating for your specific needs.
Three homegrown Indian chocolate brands have won big at the prestigious Academy Of Chocolate Awards UK 2024. The results, which came out earlier this week, announced 17 accolades in total for Indian chocolate products. The brands that won were Paul and Mike, Bon Fiction and Manam Chocolate. Paul and Mike is based in Kerala, Bon Fiction in Andhra Pradesh and Manam Chocolate in Hyderabad. The three brands work to champion Indian cacao in various ways and have won several awards on the global stage in the past too. Find out which specific creations won recognition below:
Which Indian Chocolates Were Awarded This Year?
At the Academy Of Chocolate Awards UK 2024, Paul and Mike won silver for its ‘Brunost Cheese Fine Milk Chocolate’ and bronze for ‘Rum & Rummy Raisins Mild Dark Chocolate.’ Bon Fiction won four accolades: a gold for ‘A Rose in Pistachio Skies,’ silver for its ‘7 Assorted Bars Gift Pack,’ and bronze for its ‘82% Dark Drinking Chocolate’ and ‘The Mango Menace.’
Manam Chocolate won three silver awards for its ‘Chocolate Lab Tablet No. 2 – Pedda Rasalu Mango’, ‘Chocolate Lab Tablet No. 3 – Chakkarakeli Banana’, and ‘Indian Origin Tablet No. 6 – 66% Dark.’ It won bronze awards for eight of its chocolates, namely ‘Indian Origin Tablet No. 5 – 80% Dark’, ‘Indian Origin Tablet No. 7 – 69% Dark’, ‘Indian Origin Tablet No. 8 – 100% Dark’, ‘International Origin Tablet No. 14 – 80% Dark’, ‘Hazelnut & Cardamom Praline’, ‘Toasted Hazelnut & Cardamom Bonbon’, and ‘45% Milk Chocolate x Yuzu-Scented Caramel Ganache.’
Also Read: 11 Times Indian Food Shone Globally In 2024: A Year In Review
Manam Chocolate took to Instagram to announce the news and stated, “It’s important to reiterate that these awards don’t celebrate the triumph of a single person, but rather, they belong to everyone at Manam-the farmers, the fermenters, the chocolate-makers and the chocolatiers. It’s their ability to grow, harvest, ferment, refine and express cacao into delicious Indian Craft Chocolate, that makes this recognition possible. And together, we continue to carve a new identity for Indian chocolate on the global stage, showcasing the excellence of Indian craftsmanship.”
Earlier this year, Manam Chocolate Karkhana [a factory and experience centre] received global recognition in a different way. It was one of two Indian establishments to be named among TIME magazine’s ‘World’s Greatest Places’ for 2024 (more details here). Some time ago, Paul and Mike also made headlines when it became the first Indian brand to win a Gold at the prestigious International Chocolate Awards. It won the award for its ‘Milk Chocolate Coated Salted Capers’ (read more here).
The three brands (including Bon Fiction) also won multiple accolades at last year’s edition of the Academy Of Chocolate Awards UK. Click here to know more.
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-12-19/Xi-lauds-work-of-Macao-SAR-s-executive-legislative-judicial-organs-1zsPuCkCTEA/img/70af448308084a70ad0fb005f01e7a10/70af448308084a70ad0fb005f01e7a10.png' alt='A view of the Macao Special Administrative Region, China, August 25, 2024. /CFP'
Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Thursday that the executive, legislative and judicial organs of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) have comprehensively, accurately and unwaveringly implemented the “One Country, Two Systems” policy.
When meeting with officials of the three organs, Xi said they have performed their duties pragmatically and effectively headed by Macao SAR Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng over the past five years.
The Telangana Government has introduced Bhu Bharati (Record of Rights) Act 2024 replacing a similar act, Dharani, enacted during the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) regime. Introducing the bill in the Assembly on Wednesday, Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy said that the Act has corrected several anomalies in the old Act, which created a lot of confusion and hardship.
The Act will facilitate issuance of ‘Bhudhar Cards’ on the lines of Aadhaar Cards, making it easy to refer to the documents.
“We have not introduced the new bill just for the sake of changing the old one. We brainstormed with intellectuals and several stakeholders to make it a complete one addressing all the grievances,” he said.
Also read: No groundwork yet for PF withdrawals via ATMs, say sources
The Act will ensure all the land-owners get a passbook. It allows people to make an appeal if they find an error in the mutation. There will be a two-level mechanism in each district to take care of the disputes. It promises to find a solution without having to go to court.
Landowners will get a mutation certificate and passbook immediately after the registration process is over. The mutation certificate comes with a map to check against multiple registrations.
The new Act will also allow for the regularisation of the lands under ‘sada bainama’ (agricultural lands bought and sold without papers).
“Landowners who don’t have any official paper to prove the ownership will get a passbook,” the Minister said, adding that the Dharani Act created a lot of confusion resulting in stalling of registrations across the State for over four months.
Pri kreiranju rubrike Index Shopping nastojimo izdvajati odlične proizvode koji se i nama sviđaju te odlične akcije i popuste. Ne objavljujemo proizvode koje i sami ne bismo kupili ili smatramo da njihova promocija nije u skladu s profesionalnim standardima. Neki proizvodi u rubrici Index Shopping mogu biti sponzorirani.
SYDNEY SWEENEY ponovno je privukla pažnju objavom serije fotografija i videom na svom Instagram profilu. Glumica je pozirala na balkonu s pogledom na kišni New York, no upravo je njen odvažan outfit razlog zbog kojeg su je pratitelji zasuli komentarima, a gotovo svi mediji izvijestili o tom izdanju.
Miu Miu torbica i kardigan
Na fotografijama je nosila raskopčani debeli kardigan brenda Miu Miu ispod kojeg nije imala ništa, kožnu torbu Aventure istog brenda te traperice ravnih nogavica. Torbu je ukrasila privjescima, koji su trenutačno nezaobilazan modni dodatak. Uz fotografije je dodala opis: “Kišo, kišo, prestani.”
Ispod objave zaredalo se mnoštvo komentara. “Sydney, molim te, obriši ovo prije nego što moj dečko vidi!”, “Dragi Djede Božićnjaku: ‘Ovo'”, “Sviđa mi se ovaj smeđi trenutak”, “Miu Miu kraljica”, “Sviđa mi se kiša, sviđa mi se pogled”, “Bože.”
Često nosi Miu Miu torbe
Među omiljenim komadima brenda Miu Miu, čija je Sydney Sweeney ambasadorica od 2022. godine, ističu se torbe koje često nosi. Prošlog tjedna, tijekom večernjeg izlaska sa zaručnikom Jonathanom Davinom, odabrala je crnu verziju Matelassé mini tote torbe. Torbu je, kao i obično, ukrasila privjescima poput ružičastog kožnog srca, žutog lica sa smiješkom i svijetlo plave ukrasne trake.
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Ovo je .
Homepage nacije.
Imate važnu priču? Javite se na [email protected] ili klikom ovdje. Atraktivne fotografije i videe plaćamo.
SACRAMENTO — Midway through the first quarter Thursday night, LeBron James checked out against the Sacramento Kings, walking to the bench in the city where he played his first NBA regular season minutes more than 21 years ago.
It would be his last walk off the court before achieving another milestone. By the time his next shift ended in the second quarter, he passed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the most minutes logged in the regular season, breaking the previous record of 57,446 minutes.
“I just think it’s just a commitment to the craft and to the passion and love I have for the game,” James said about his achievement — one in which he has spent more than 957 hours playing in professional basketball games.
Still, after all that time, James is capable of making winning plays — the chase-down block, the key defensive stop and the bully-ball dagger all playing a role in helping the Lakers defeat the Kings 113-100.
Austin Reaves led the Lakers with 25 points and James had 19 points, six rebounds and seven assists. He ended the game at 57,471 career minutes after playing 34 minutes.
“I’ve been able to do this at a high level over two decades,” James said. “And to continue to put myself in record books in this game of basketball that I love so much and in the best league in the world is pretty cool and it’s very humbling.”
Despite a slow shooting night, Anthony Davis dominated with 21 points, four assists and season highs of 18 rebounds and six blocked shots. Davis also had three steals.
“He was phenomenal tonight,” Redick said. “And it just shows you how elite he is as a player that he can have a seven-for-20 night and still dominate a basketball game.”
The minutes record comes at a time when the Lakers and James have been very in touch with how much he has (and hasn’t) been playing. James missed two games and spent a week away from the team, getting a mental and physical reset after his left foot began to bother him.
He returned Sunday against Memphis and had noticeably more energy on both ends of the court. Coach JJ Redick said the team could look for other opportunities to give the soon-to-be 40-year-old more rest.
Speaking before the game, James said, more so than in the past, he could be open to that.
“I’m just not a guy that likes to sit games if I’m somewhat healthy. It doesn’t matter. It’s just, it’s never been my thing,” James said when asked about it. “If there’s an opportunity where it could benefit my body and benefit my play long-term for the better of the team, then I’m always open to having that conversation. So we’ll see what happens.”
The Lakers, who had three days off since their last game, had plenty of energy, using it against the Kings to storm to an early 14-point lead on the backs of their much-improved defense.
With the Kings playing transition defense, the Lakers were able to create tons of open looks from the perimeter, making seven threes in the first quarter alone.
The game tightened in the second, the Kings taking the lead before the Lakers’ best players took control.
Reaves got to the line and hit big shots. Davis out-battled Domantas Sabonis, a player he’s now bested two games in a row. And James controlled the game without dominating the flow of it. Gabe Vincent, who has struggled to shoot the ball since joining the Lakers, hit four threes.
But it was defensively where the Lakers continued to play their best basketball, holding an opponent to 100 points or fewer for the third time in four games.
“I really felt like this might be my favorite win we’ve had all season just because we weren’t efficient offensively,” Redick said. “But because of our crashing, because we limited them in transition, limited them to one shot — like all of the things that we’ve preached that give yourself a chance to win every night if you have an off-shooting night and an off-offensive night — we did tonight.”
James said that he wasn’t thinking about what his accomplishment meant for the future, not even in regard to Saturday’s rematch with the Kings in Sacramento.
“I just set the all-time (record) in minutes,” he said with a smile. “I am not thinking about this next game yet. I’m about to get to this room, drink some wine, play some Madden and chill…”
Soon there will be another game and more minutes to play, and whatever works, well, it’s worked.
Christmas 2024: Dreaming of a white Christmas? The rosy association between Christmas and snow has existed since time immemorial. A blanket of snow on Christmas Day might be the stuff of childhood memories, thanks to countless Christmas movies, but how often does it actually happen in India? Well, Christmas snow is not a dream but a reality in a few parts of India — think Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir. Also read | Top winter getaways for Christmas 2024: What you can do in Rann Of Kutch, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh and Odisha
Christmas 2024: Check out the best places to celebrate white Christmas in India. (Freepik)
Fans of snowy winters will want to check out the best places to celebrate white Christmas in India:
Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
Lovers of snow, it’s that time of the year again. Recently, many towns in plain areas of north and south Kashmir received the season’s first snowfall. The Valley’s upper reaches and the tourist resorts of Gulmarg and Sonmarg received fresh snowfall last week. Gulmarg Valley is draped in swathes of pristine white snow right now, creating an inviting, intriguing, and enchanting sight to behold. You can enjoy a gondola ride for the perfect views, walk on a frozen lake or even go for a picturesque picnic with a backdrop of endless meadows and rocky peaks.
Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Earlier this month, Himachal Pradesh witnessed its first snowfall of the season. Snowfall was also recorded in key tourist destinations such as Manali, Kasauli, and Chail. When there’s snow in Manali, you can enjoy activities like skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, zorbing, paragliding, taking a cable car ride in Solang Valley, building snowmen, or going on a yak ride. You can also visit the local markets, indulge in hot springs, or simply take in the stunning snow-covered Himalayan views.
Leh, Ladakh
The mesmerising landscape of Ladakh has something to offer in every season, and if you plan your trip in winter, it will make all the difference to your experience. Back in October, Leh in Ladakh received the season’s first snowfall indicating the arrival of the winter season. The mountains in and around Leh have been covered with layers of snow adding charm to the beauty of Ladakh. Here, you can visit Hemis National Park or Pangong Tso Lake, where time stops. As spellbinding as it seems, Leh-Ladakh in December is equally unpredictable. Therefore, don’t plan to stick to a predefined itinerary.
Tsomgo Lake, Sikkim
Tsomgo Lake, a popular destination known for its scenic beauty, becomes even more attractive in winter. The first snowfall of the season in east Sikkim transformed it into a picturesque winter landscape. The people of Sikkim consider the lake sacred. There is a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva by the lake. The lake is around 1 km long and is surrounded by steep mountain covered with snow right now.
Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang has emerged as a popular tourist spot between October and December. A couple of months ago, the first snowfall of the season blanketed the route from Tawang to Bum-La Pass, drawing thousands of visitors to this strategic location along the Sino-Indian border in Arunachal Pradesh. The historic Bum-La Pass, situated at 15,200 feet, has been transformed into a winter wonderland. You can also visit Sela Pass, a high-altitude mountain pass with snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, and meandering roads. The frozen Sela Lake is another key attraction in the winter. You can also explore the local lakes: Tawang has over 100 of them.
Our epic drag racing series is back in action! You’re going to see some of the world’s most impressive supercars go head-to-head in drag races across the quarter mile at our regional airport base in Wyalkatchem, Western Australia.
We need to give a massive shout out to our mates at Caltex for helping us cover the cost of putting this event on. It’s an incredibly expensive undertaking and none of this would be possible without their support.
The cars we are running today are powered by Premium 98 Caltex with Techron, Caltex with Techron has been scientifically proven to help clean and protect engines. A clean engine helps maximise power and acceleration providing better fuel economy, reliable performance and delivering a smooth drive. Head to Caltex.com/au for more information.
The cars
This is a bloody exciting drag race. We’ve pitted one of the craziest hypercars on the market, the McLaren Senna, up against a more ‘attainable’ primarily road going McLaren in the 765LT to figure out which is quicker.
They share a very similar engine and while the Senna is built almost entirely out of carbon, it weighs around 30kg less than the 765LT. But we reckon the Senna will be slowed down by the drag added by its giant wing.
McLaren Senna
The Senna is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces 588kW of power and 800Nm of torque. It uses a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and sends torque through the rear axle.
It has a top speed of 335km/h, which is just nuts! While the official 0-100km/h time is 2.8 seconds, it’ll struggle to get traction on our unprepped airport runway surface.
McLaren 765LT
Featuring a similar top speed of 330km/h, the 765LT uses a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces 563kW of power and 800Nm of torque. It also features a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with launch control and also sends torque through the rear axle.
It has an identical claimed 0-100km/h time of 2.8 seconds too, so this is going to be close!
Results
Vehicle
0-100km/h
80-120km/h
0-200km/h
1/4 mile
McLaren Senna
3.96s
1.48s
9.50s
11.02s @ 219.50km/h
McLaren 765LT
3.54s
1.39s
7.98s
10.43s @ 233.41km/h
The results speak for themselves. It was SO close, but it looks like that extra drag on the Senna slowed it down slightly. Still an incredibly fast result, but shows you how much power both of these cars have.
Keep in mind as well that it’s an unprepped surface, which makes it even harder for high horsepower cars to get off the line and get traction.
Unlisted shares of Transrail Lighting Ltd are trading at Rs 617 in the grey market, reflecting a GMP of 42.82 per cent over the upper price band of Rs 432.
Transrail Lighting IPO.
Transrail Lighting IPO: The initial public offering of Transrail Lighting Ltd, which opened on Thursday, received a 2.1 times subscription on the first day of bidding. On Friday, the Rs 838.91-crore IPO is witnessing the second day of bidding. Till 11:39 am on the second day of bidding, the IPO received a 3.2 times subscription garnering bids for 4,38,85,262 shares as against the 1,37,15,425 shares on offer.
The price band of the IPO has been fixed at Rs 410 to Rs 432 per share.
So far, the retail category has received a 4.48 times subscription, while the non-institutional category (NII) got a 3.79 times subscription. The qualified institutional buyers (QIB) category received a 0.77 times subscription.
Transrail Lighting IPO: Key Dates
Closing Date: December 23 (Monday)
Allotment Finalisation: December 24
Listing on BSE and NSE: December 27 (Friday)
Transrail Lighting IPO GMP Today
As per market observers, the unlisted shares of Transrail Lighting Ltd are trading at Rs 617 in the grey market, reflecting a premium of Rs 185 (42.82 per cent) over the upper price band of Rs 432. This indicates a potentially strong listing on December 27.
Transrail Lighting IPO: More Details
The Rs 839-crore Transrail Lighting IPO is available for public subscription from December 19 to December 23. The price band has been set at Rs 410-432 per share.
It is a combination of a fresh issue of shares worth Rs 400 crore and an offer for sale of 1.01 crore equity shares by a promoter Ajanma Holdings Private Ltd. Currently, Ajanma Holdings holds 83.22 per cent stake in the Mumbai-based company.
At the upper end of the price band, the IPO size has been pegged at Rs 839 crore and a market capitalisation of nearly Rs 5,600 crore.
Transrail Lighting Ltd has mobilised Rs 246 crore from anchor investors including ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund and Tata Mutual Fund. Apart from these, Winro Commercial (India) Ltd, Bengal Finance and Investments, SBI General Insurance Company and LIC Mutual Fund are the top anchor investors, according to a circular uploaded on BSE’s website.
As per the circular, Transrail Lighting has allotted 56.94 lakh shares to 19 funds at Rs 432 apiece, which is also the upper end of the price band. This aggregates the transaction size to Rs 245.97 crore.
Proceeds from the fresh issue will be used to fund incremental working capital requirements, to support capital expenditure and for general corporate purposes.
Half of the issue has been reserved for qualified institutional buyers, 35 for retail investors and the remaining 15 per cent for non-institutional investors.
Further, investors can bid for a minimum of 34 shares and in multiples thereof.
Transrail Lighting is one of the leading Indian Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) companies with a primary focus on the power transmission and distribution business and integrated manufacturing facilities for lattice structures, conductors, and monopoles.
It has a footprint in more than 58 countries. Inga Ventures, Axis Capital, HDFC Bank and IDBI Capital Markets & Securities are the book running lead managers to the issue.
News business » ipo Transrail Lighting IPO Day 2: Check Subscription Status, GMP Today
Metaplanet, a Japanese Tokyo-listed company, is taking a major step to increase its Bitcoin reserves by issuing 5 billion yen (about $33.3 million) in ordinary bonds. These bonds paid on December 20th will mature on June 16, 2025, giving the company ample time to carry out its Bitcoin purchasing plan. The company plans to repay the bonds using money raised from selling stock rights, ensuring it stays financially secure while growing its Bitcoin holdings.
Now the question arises is it a strategy or a gamble following the bigger companies adding Bitcoin to sustain financial strain? As of now, companies across the world using this strategy have gained like MicroStrategy. This bitcoin buying plan has doubled companies’ stock prices in just 5 years.
*Metaplanet to issue 5.0 billion yen in Ordinary Bonds to Accelerate Bitcoin Purchases; Repayment to be made from Warrant Exercise Proceeds* pic.twitter.com/9Sr6a5kDkD
Metaplanet’s Bitcoin buying spree began in April 2024 and has already added 1,150 BTC, worth $122.67 million, to its holdings. The company sees Bitcoin as valuable because it has a limited supply and isn’t controlled by governments. This new bond plan is part of Metaplanet’s goal to become Asia’s largest Bitcoin holder, following a strategy similar to MicroStrategy’s, using Bitcoin as a key asset to handle future financial challenges.
Also Read :
Japan Considers National Bitcoin Reserve as Countries Embrace Crypto
,
Market Cheers the Move
The announcement has gone well with crypto investors, triggering Metaplanet’s stock up by 51% in just five days with a whopping market cap of more than ¥1 billion, with shares hitting ¥4,270. CEO Simon Gerovich thanked investors for their support and said the company is confident about its plans. Moreover, Zero-interest bonds reduce short-term financial strain while boosting long-term Bitcoin investments.
To make it attractive for investors they are also coming up with Bitcoin Rewards Program. Shareholders who own at least 100 shares by December 31, 2024, will be entered into a lottery to win Bitcoin from a ¥30 million ($199,500) prize pool. A total of 2,350 winners will be chosen, with prizes varying in size.
How are nations and institutions fueling Bitcoin adoption? What does it mean for the future? Read Bitcoin price prediction to find out!
Conclusion
The future is bright if the company manages to stick to its plan as it will require long-term planning and short-term plans can only give a calculated profit. Countries are following Bitcoin since the US is going all out to support the crypto to become a top leader in terms of holding maximum Bitcoin. However, the supply is limited and such accumulations can be risky if not planned properly.
Never Miss a Beat in the Crypto World!
Stay ahead with breaking news, expert analysis, and real-time updates on the latest trends in Bitcoin, altcoins, DeFi, NFTs, and more.
FAQs
What does Metaplanet do?
Metaplanet is a Tokyo-listed company focused on strategic Bitcoin investments to hedge against economic instability and drive long-term growth.
Looking for the most recent Mini Crossword answer? Click here for today’s Mini Crossword hints, as well as our daily answers and hints for The New York Times Wordle, Strands and Connections puzzles.
A couple of Christmas clues in today’s Mini Crossword, just a reminder that the holiday is approaching. I didn’t find today’s puzzle too tough. But if you’re stuck, we’ve got the answers. And if you could use some hints and guidance for daily solving, check out our Mini Crossword tips.
The Mini Crossword is just one of many games in the Times’ games collection. If you’re looking for today’s Wordle, Connections and Strands answers, you can visit CNET’s NYT puzzle hints page.
Read more: Tips and Tricks for Solving The New York Times Mini Crossword
Let’s get at those Mini Crossword clues and answers.
The completed NYT Mini Crossword puzzle for Dec. 20, 2024.
NYT/Screenshot by CNET
Mini across clues and answers
1A clue: What it doesn’t hurt to do if you’re confused, they say Answer: ASK
4A clue: “Toodles!” Answer: TATA
5A clue: “A Christmas ___” (classic holiday book) Answer: CAROL
6A clue: Really love Answer: ADORE
7A clue: More than a few Answer: MANY
Mini down clues and answers
1D clue: Burr in “Hamilton” Answer: AARON
2D clue: “A Christmas ___” (classic holiday movie) Answer: STORY
3D clue: Dark green leafy green Answer: KALE
4D clue: Magician’s “I did it!” Answer: TADA
5D clue: Word after dash or web Answer: CAM
How to play more Mini Crosswords
The New York Times Games section offers a large number of online games, but only some of them are free for all to play. You can play the current day’s Mini Crossword for free, but you’ll need a subscription to the Times Games section to play older puzzles from the archives.
An Alabama woman has successfully received a gene-edited pig kidney transplant at NYU Langone Health.
This was the seventh pig organ transplant completed by NYU Langone surgeons.
Towana Looney, 53, miraculously walked out of the hospital just a few days following the procedure.
MASSACHUSETTS MAN, RECIPIENT OF FIRST SUCCESSFUL PIG KIDNEY TRANSPLANT, IS DISCHARGED FROM HOSPITAL
In an NYU Langone press conference, Looney expressed feeling “overjoyed” and “blessed to have received this gift – a second chance at life.”
“I want to give courage to those out there on dialysis,” she said.
Towana Looney sits for an NYU Langone Health press conference on Dec. 17, 2024.(Fox News)
Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst and NYU Langone clinical professor of medicine, joined “America Reports” on Wednesday to share how this should bring hope for the future of transplant medicine.
“We have a great shortage of body organs,” he said. “And even if we get people to donate, we’re still going to have a big shortage … so we’ve got to do something.”
WOMAN WHO RECEIVE EXPERIMENTAL PIG KIDNEY TRANSPLANT BACK ON DIALYSIS AFTER NEW ORGAN FAILED
“We can bio-engineer them, or we can use them from other species, [which is] called xenotransplant.”
Siegel commended Looney on her “incredible” journey, which began when she donated her own kidney to her mother 25 years ago.
“She is looking for any other possibility, any other chance, at having a normal life again.”
Looney then developed a rare complication while pregnant, according to Siegel, which led to kidney failure.
NYU Langone Transplant Institute Director Dr. Robert Montgomery called Looney a “hero” while speaking to Siegel in a separate interview.
Dr. Marc Siegel joined “America Reports” to discuss NYU Langone’s successful pig kidney transplant.(Fox News)
“She gave the gift of life to her mother,” he said. “She’s someone who already paid a really significant price for an incredible act of generosity.”
“She is looking for any other possibility, any other chance, at having a normal life again.”
HIV-POSITIVE TRANSPLANTS NOW PERMITTED FOR LIVERS AND KIDNEYS
Montgomery shared that he thinks Looney will “change the face of transplantation.”
According to Siegel, Montgomery is one to know about the struggle of waiting for a donated organ, since he himself had a heart transplant after surviving 30 cardiac arrests.
Dr. Robert Montgomery called Looney “one of those pioneers” in transplantation medicine.(Fox News)
“My epiphany in living through that – and realizing that I probably wouldn’t live through it – was that we needed another source of organs,” said Montgomery, noting that “far less” than 1% of people who die every year are eligible to be an organ donor.
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“At the same time, the number of people who can benefit from an organ transplant continues to increase,” he added.
Out of the seven pig organ transplants that have been performed at NYU Langone, Siegel confirmed that “this one worked” to the extent that Looney was able to walk out of the hospital.
For more Health articles, visit foxnews.com/health
Montgomery explained to Siegel that this is because the kidney had been modified with 10 genetic modifications.
“This is going to be a big deal when we get past the rejections,” Siegel said.(Joe Carrotta via NYU Langone Health)
The “key” now, according to the doctor, is to focus on immunology to help ensure that Looney’s immune system doesn’t reject the kidney.
“That’s why going forward, in the future, this is going to be a big deal when we get past the rejections,” Siegel added.
“This is the future.”
Out of the 100,000 people awaiting an organ transplant each year, 80,000 of them are waiting for kidneys, according to Siegel, but this type of transplant could also extend to hearts and livers.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
“This is the future,” he said.
The accessibility of lab-manufactured, or bio-engineered, organs is “much farther away” than xenotransplantation, which is “in front of us now,” Montgomery added.
Angelica Stabile is a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital.
Amul is back with another creative and fun tribute, this time celebrating the film Agni. The movie, which portrays the courage and challenges faced by Mumbai’s firefighters, has earned a special place in the hearts of audiences. Amul, known for its witty and timely topicals, has captured the essence of the film with a clever cartoon of the four main firemen. The tagline, “Yeh aag se aagey badhte hai,” meaning “They move beyond the fire,” reflects the heroic efforts of these firefighters as they face life-threatening situations to save lives. The topical also includes the playful phrase “Hot seller,” drawing a connection between the dangerous work of firefighters, the film’s fiery theme and butter being a bestselling product of Amul’s.
Agni, directed by Rahul Dholakia, tells the story of Vitthal Rao (played by Pratik Gandhi), the head of a Parel fire station, who leads a team of firefighters in Mumbai. The film showcases their struggles, where they fight dangerous fires and save lives, often without receiving much recognition. The film contrasts Vitthal’s selfless work with the easy glory of his brother-in-law, Samit (played by Divyenndu), a police inspector. The strong chemistry between Pratik Gandhi and Divyenndu adds to the film’s tension and drama. Amul’s caption read, “#Amul Topical: AGNI… the blockbuster film about our brave, fearless firemen!” Take a look here:
The dairy brand earlier celebrated filmmaker Payal Kapadia’s achievements with a creative topical following her film All We Imagine As Light receiving two Golden Globe nominations. The film earned nominations for Best Motion Picture (Non-English Language) and Best Director (Motion Picture) for Kapadia. Amul’s topical showed Kapadia enjoying Amul butter on toast alongside actresses Divya Prabha and Kani Kusruti, featuring a tagline, “All, We Imagine, Are Delighted,” reflecting the film’s success. It also included the pun, “This Gold, Loved Globally,” in reference to the Golden Globe nominations. This wasn’t Amul’s first tribute to Payal Kapadia’s success. In May, the brand celebrated All We Imagine As Light winning the Grand Prix at Cannes 2024.
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-12-19/President-Xi-meets-former-chief-executives-of-Macao-SAR-1zsPiQr76BW/img/88fc4a39c22041b5b050b87dad800946/88fc4a39c22041b5b050b87dad800946.png' alt='A view of the Macao Special Administrative Region, China, August 25, 2024. /CFP'
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday afternoon met with Ho Hau Wah and Chui Sai On, two former chief executives of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR).
Ho is also vice chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference.
Amid the end of a national GLP-1 shortage, the FDA will now require all compounding, distributing, or dispensing of compounded tirzepatide injections to end within 90 days.
A little Rag Doll, a little main coon, a little long hair
Fun Fact:
Rue is about 6 weeks old here. We found him all alone behind a dumpster. He immediately took a liking to us and is now about 1 year old. He was the cuddliest kitten and now the best cat! He’s the sweetest little punk. We love him!
Silliest
Name:
LilyRose
Breed:
Sphynx
Fun Fact:
LilyRose is a black Sphynx who loves her humans more than anything.1. People are her passion and she has never met one she didn’t like. 2. She is an advocate for kindness and laughs, loving yourself and preserving the human-animal bond by helping keep pets with their people through her human’s nonprofit Locks 4 Paws. 3. She grows ear “floofs” in the winter.
Romina is 3 years old. She loves treats, watching squirrels from the window, and sleeping under the blankets. She’s got lots of sass and energy!
Socials
rominathecalico
Most Dignified
Name:
Atticus
Breed:
DSH
Fun Fact:
Atticus is a gorgeous, affectionate 15 year old boy who is always looking very majestic 🙂
Most Expressive
Name:
Puuch
Breed:
Calico
Fun Fact:
Puuch used to fight with our stray cat (Billo), when we used to feed her. Little did se know, Puuch became a part of us, a part of me. She has no tail, and that’s what makes her the prettiest of all. This photo was taken on one of the happiest days we’ve spent together, we were playing outside, with her kittens. Puuch has my heart.
Best Action Shot
Name:
Taj
Breed:
European
Fun Fact:
It was the first time he went voluntarily on this armchair. I was looking for him in other usual places where he usually sleeps and then found him there and just had to take a picture.
TVS Emerald, a subsidiary of TVS Holdings Ltd (formerly known as Sundaram-Clayton Ltd), will acquire Radial (Phase II) IT Park Pvt Ltd and Radial (Phase III) IT Park Pvt Ltd for a total consideration of ₹576 crore.
TVS Emerald will acquire 43.59 lakh equity shares and 7.25 lakh compulsorily convertible debentures, constituting 100 per cent of the issued and paid-up share capital of Radial (Phase II) IT Park Pvt Ltd for a total consideration of ₹234 crore.
It will acquire 55.06 lakh equity shares and 10 lakh compulsorily convertible debentures, constituting 100 per cent of the issued and paid-up share capital of Radial Phase III for a consideration of ₹342 crore, according to a TVS Holdings filing with the National Stock Exchange.
Also read: TVS Emerald acquires land parcels in Bengaluru & Chennai for residential projects
It is expected that the acquisition of both will enable TVS Emerald (formerly known as Emerald Haven Realty Ltd) to gain access to new markets, increase market penetration, and add new capabilities to its existing line of business, thereby maximising revenue opportunities, the filing says.
Radial Phase II IT Park is engaged in the business of construction and development. During FY 2023-24, it generated ‘NIL’ turnover with a loss after tax of ₹0.21 crore and had a net worth of ₹86 crore. Similarly, Radial Phase III IT Park, also in the construction and development business, generated ‘NIL’ turnover with a loss after tax of ₹0.37 crore and had a net worth of ₹108.60 crore.
Radial Phase II IT Park is engaged in the business of construction and development. During FY 2023-24, it generated NIL turnover, reported a loss after tax of ₹0.21 crore, and had a net worth of ₹86 crore. Similarly, Radial Phase III IT Park, also in the construction and development business, generated NIL turnover during FY 2023-24, reported a loss after tax of ₹0.37 crore, and had a net worth of ₹108.60 crore.
TVS Emerald signed two Share Purchase Agreements (SPAs) on December 17 with two unrelated companies for the acquisition of 100 per cent of the equity shares and compulsorily Convertible Debentures of the target companies from their sellers.
After completion of the proposed transaction, both target companies will become wholly owned subsidiaries of TVS Emerald and, consequently, step-down subsidiaries of the parent company, according to the filing.
The share price of TVS Holdings on the NSE closed at ₹11,200, down by ₹2.50 or 0.02 per cent.
Pri kreiranju rubrike Index Shopping nastojimo izdvajati odlične proizvode koji se i nama sviđaju te odlične akcije i popuste. Ne objavljujemo proizvode koje i sami ne bismo kupili ili smatramo da njihova promocija nije u skladu s profesionalnim standardima. Neki proizvodi u rubrici Index Shopping mogu biti sponzorirani.
TOPLA kupka oduvijek je bila jedan od najvećih životnih luksuza. Još od drevnih kupališta na Kreti do modernih čuda arhitekture poput Therma Vals u Švicarskoj, kupanje je smatrano ritualom. Winston Churchill toliko je volio kade da je dnevno imao dvije kupke, s vodom zagrijanom na preciznih 37 stupnjeva, a u kadi je donosio važne političke odluke.
Danas rijetko tko ima vremena slijediti njegov primjer jer su brzi tuševi postali svakodnevica. Ipak, kade nisu izgubile svoj šarm. Naprotiv, mnogima su i dalje izbor broj jedan.
Kade su ključan dio luksuznih kupaonica
“Kupke su ultimativni način uživanja kod kuće”, rekla je Noz Nozawa, dizajnerica iz San Francisca, za Elle Decor. Tuširanjem štedite vrijeme, ali kupanje je odlična prilika da uzmete trenutak za sebe.
U posljednjih nekoliko godina mnogi su renovacijama izbacivali kade kako bi ugradili prostrane tuš kabine. No, taj trend je prestao. Sada dizajneri koriste kade kao centralni element luksuznih kupaonica.
“Velika, upečatljiva kada daje osjećaj veličine i elegancije”, izjavio je Gary Eisner, dizajner iz New Yorka.
Primjerice, u jednom projektu Eisner je postavio modernu samostojeću kadu na platformu od tikovine, ispred zida od mramora s ugrađenom rasvjetom. U drugom slučaju kada je bila smještena ispred velikog prozora s pogledom na grad.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Kada je poput skulpture
Dizajner Rodney Lawrence često dodaje i posebne detalje, poput dramatičnih lustera ili unikatnih pločica. U jednoj kupaonici postavio je kadu ispod svjetleće instalacije s kapljicama od stakla i bronce, dok je u drugoj kadu smjestio uz zid od oniksa, čiji uzorci stvaraju dojam vrtloga.
“Ljudi ne koriste kadu neprekidno, pa ju je dobro postaviti poput skulpture”, rekao je. “No trebate razmišljati i o tome što vidite dok ležite u njoj i gledate prema gore.”
“Kupka je trenutak kada se tijelo i duša obnavljaju”, zaključuje Busca. Kako biste u potpunosti uživali u luksuznim trenucima koje vam pruža kada, potrebno je samo posvetiti joj vrijeme, baš kao što je to radio Churchill.
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Threads has introduced a new feature aimed at improving how users share media on the platform.
The latest update allows users to reshare photos and videos without including the original post, making it easier to add personal text while still crediting the content creator, as per The Verge.
According to Instagram head, Adam Mosseri, this new feature offers “a quick, easy way to add your creative takes to trending images and clips without quote posting.”
The reshared media will display the original creator’s username in the top left corner, along with a repost counter in the lower left corner.
Users can tap on the username to view a list of all posts that have used the media, with the original post appearing at the top.
The feature is designed to address growing concerns over users reposting content without proper credit. Creators will be notified whenever their content is reshared, and they will have the option to disable resharing in their account settings, as per The Verge.
This will help ensure creators receive recognition for their work and maintain greater control over their content.
To use the feature, simply long-press the media or click on the repost button, select “use media,” and add your own text before sharing the post.
This feature is similar to a feature on X (formerly Twitter), which allows resharing of videos with credit, although X only applies this system to video content.
Threads’ new resharing feature improves both user experience and content creator rights, offering a cleaner way to share media while ensuring proper attribution.
In 2024, sustainability wasn’t just a buzzword it transformed the way people traveled. From eco-conscious accommodations to greener transportation options, travellers embraced mindful tourism to reduce their environmental impact. Let’s take a look at how sustainability shaped travel trends in 2024. (Also read: Villas, hidden gems and unique stays: 7 top travel trends of 2024 that redefined how we explore the world )
2024 travel trends highlight sustainability and wellness in hospitality sector.(Freepik)
How sustainability is shaping the hospitality industry
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Vishal Vincent Tony, Managing Director, Ayatana Resorts shared, “In current times, sustainability is emerging as a defining factor in the hospitality sector. The industry has witnessed profound transformation in 2024 promoting eco-conscious practices and enabling immersive local experiences for the guests. It is a remarkable shift to see travellers increasingly prioritise greener choices and help build an ecosystem of ‘conscious living, preserving nature.”
He added, “The hospitality industry has been instrumental in redefining luxury with sustainable alternatives in daily practices offering a holistic approach that includes utilising energy-efficient architecture, harvesting rainwater, practising organic farming, offering carbon-neutral packages and initiating offset programs.”
Rise of local experiences and cultural exchange
Talking about the growing trend of sustainability in the hospitality sector, Vishal said, “Several hospitality brands are partnering with local communities or artists for curated guest experiences like traditional art workshops, cultural exchange programs/ exhibitions, guided nature walks and local culinary programs to help the local communities exhibit their artwork and cultural strengths to travellers from across the country.”
“As travellers become increasingly aware of environmental and social concerns, sustainability is emerging not just as a moral responsibility but as a competitive advantage. From offering eco-friendly stays to curating meaningful experiences that connect guests with nature, sustainability can now shape brand loyalty, operational efficiency, and overall profitability. Sustainability in hospitality goes beyond environmental conservation. It was also observed during this period that most travellers were opting for extended stays at a single destination helping control the carbon footprint by reducing transportation,” says Vishal.
He further shared, “These eco-conscious decisions help in meaningful local interactions that focus on giving back to nature and communities. Sourcing locally grown produce and ensuring zero waste have also been some prominent changes observed during the year among many hospitality brands to ensure sustainability practices are at the forefront of defining the brand values.”
Offbeat destinations and wellness retreats
Talking about off-beat destinations, he revealed, “The growing interest in travelling to off-beat destinations while supporting lesser-known communities and reducing environmental damage have also been in trend and is here to stay promoting a culture of eco- harmony. Resorts and hotels are also introducing EV transportation facilities to significantly cut down on carbon emissions and retain the air quality in and around the properties for wellness purposes. ”
“Most travellers are looking for wellness retreats and organic services such as herbal spa treatments, etc, for ultimate rejuvenation. The need and interest to build a resort in harmony with nature, the brands are launching wellness treatments and experiences suitable to provide a calming sensation and offer relaxation,” Vishal concluded.
Overwatch 2 fans are counting down to the start of the Winter Wonderland event for 2024.
The festive-themed Winter Wonderland event has a December 19 release date and a 6pm GMT UK start time for PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch and PC.
Featuring a host of Christmas rewards and limited-time game modes, the event runs until January 6. It’s playable alongside the recently introduced 6v6 Experiment mode.
The highlight of the event is the release of the Winter Brawls, which include fan-favourite game mode Mei’s Snowball Offensive.
With players firing deadly snowballs, the mode features 5v5 elimination and free-for-all deathmatch.
Another mode featuring Mei is Yeti Hunt, which is an asymmetrical battle in which five players hunt down a Yeti Winston.
The final limited-time game mode is Freeze Flash elimination, which is described as the game’s take on freeze tag.
“It’s Overwatch’s take on freeze tag, where eliminations are not as permanent, because allies can thaw you so that you can get back into it.”
The Winter Wonderland festivities are accompanied by the chance to earn fresh rewards by completing challenges.
For starters, fans can earn the Causal Hanzo skin, as well as new sprays and name cards to “deck the halls”.
Best of all, however, is the chance to unlock three new legendary skins for free – and just by playing games. (You can see the skins in the tweet below.)
Blizzard explains more: “When you complete just three fun and festive games, the Merry Marionette Echo Legendary Skin shall be gained.
“Playing a total of six games won’t leave you frosty, because Cassidy’s new Legendary Skin and Highlight Intro will be nice and cozy.
“Finally, playing nine games will be just as sleek, with Widowmaker’s Legendary Skin and Highlight Intro that is totally winter chic.”
It’s also worth pointing out that wins count as double, which means skilled players can earn the skins in super quick time.
Of course, fans can also purchase new festive skins, with the Happy Holly Mercy Bundle joining the item shop. (You can see the Mercy skin at the top of the page.)
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross was the first plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) in the small SUV class, making it an especially important model in Australia as a result.
It might have been among the first auto brands to commit the sin of recycling a historically sporty nameplate for a crossover SUV, but Mitsubishi struck gold with its recipe for the Eclipse Cross.
Now the MG HS Plus EV is on hiatus as we await the arrival of its mid-sized PHEV SUV replacement, Mitsubishi is pretty much alone in offering a PHEV in the affordable SUV segments – but that doesn’t mean there isn’t more convincing competition elsewhere.
Mitsubishi’s own larger Outlander PHEV has progressed and the current generation is now a solid option, even if it is more expensive. The Eclipse Cross, meanwhile, is largely the same as it was when it launched in 2018.
It has since received a light facelift inside and out, but its interior remains very 2010.
WATCH: Paul’s video review of a 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV
There’s also a selection of gear that’s only available at the very top of the range, even though the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV Aspire on test here is the first of two variants to cost more than $50,000 before on-road costs.
That means it’s up against tough competition from the likes of multiple non-hybrid SUVs sold by other legacy Japanese manufacturers, and it’ll likely receive a wake-up call when the next-generation MG HS PHEV arrives.
Still, plug-in hybrid SUV buyers could do a lot worse, especially when tax exemptions are considered and the price of one of these Eclipse Cross PHEVs starts to look more appealing – even if its interior does the opposite.
Is the Eclipse Cross PHEV still a good choice in today’s market, or has Mitsubishi sat on it for just a bit too long?
How does the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross compare?
View a detailed breakdown of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross against similarly sized vehicles.
Mitsubishi
Eclipse Cross
How much does the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross cost?
There are three Eclipse Cross PHEV variants available to purchase right now, and the Aspire sits right in the middle.
Model
Price before on-road costs
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES FWD
$31,990
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross LS FWD
$34,740
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross LS Black Edition FWD
$35,990
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Aspire FWD
$36,990
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross LS AWD
$37,240
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Exceed FWD
$40,990
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Exceed AWD
$43,490
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV ES
$47,790
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV Aspire
$51,740
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV Exceed
$56,490
At $51,740 plus on-roads, it’s nearly $15,000 more expensive than the front-wheel drive non-hybrid Aspire on which it’s based. But you could stand to save thousands on a novated lease for a car like this, as owners will not have to pay Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) until April 1, 2025.
At the moment, plug-in hybrid versions of the Eclipse Cross have no direct budget rivals. That will change in mid-2025 though, when the next-generation MG HS PHEV arrives, since the outgoing HS is no longer available.
Standard Eclipse Cross models, however, have a packed list of competitors. The new petrol HS is one of them, and it ranges in price from $34,990 to $40,990 drive-away.
To see how the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
What is the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross like on the inside?
The Eclipse Cross is getting long in the tooth, and nowhere is that better demonstrated than its interior.
Being the Aspire, it benefits from some nicer cabin materials like the ‘mi-suede’ and synthetic leather upholstery found on the seats, but for the most part it’s struggling to keep up with the times.
The infotainment system leaves a lot to be desired. At 8.0 inches it’s comparatively small alongside the competition, and it pokes out of the dashboard awkwardly as if it was an afterthought, although that’s not uncommon these days.
It’s also old graphically and its resolution isn’t as crisp as we would like, but it’s at least easy to navigate. Its home screen features five large tile icons for the various menus available, while touch-capacitive buttons and two knobs are included along the screen’s bottom bezel.
We don’t mind the mix of the touchscreen and physical controls, and similar setups in other cars – Skoda in particular – are useful to keep things clear and simple. Sure, this may be another product of its age, but this is one that works.
In terms of presentation, some of the material choices are also telling of the car’s age. The hard silver plastic is one giveaway, and the faux carbon-fibre trim pieces on the central panel and door armrests were always a bit iffy.
The interior of the Eclipse Cross has hardly changed at all since the car launched, and that’s a big part of the problem. It means those who will have test driven other new cars with cleaner, screen-heavier setups may be underwhelmed, but of course there are many different buyer types.
If you’re coming from an older car, the setup of this car will feel much less alien than something like a new Hyundai Tucson, for example. That’s helped by the continued inclusion of physical controls which, as mentioned, is something that benefits useability.
Where others have shifted to effectively screen-only multimedia approaches, the Eclipse Cross still has a traditional climate control interface that is clear and easy to use.
It’s made up of an LCD display surrounded by an array of buttons, while below that you’ll find clearly marked switches and buttons for things like front seat heating and drive modes.
All the buttons are clearly labelled too, which means those unfamiliar with the car are unlikely to feel overwhelmed when jumping in for the first time. Again, its age helps make the Eclipse Cross be more approachable.
While that’s all fine, there’s still a strange mix of themes going on in here. Around the strangely shaped gear selector is loads of gloss black trim, which is then broken up by some hard, dull plastic switches for the seat heating.
More silver trim appears on the centre console too, and all of that means there’s simply too much going on. Some simplification here could go a long way for both cleaning things up and modernising its appearance.
A pet peeve is the use of more gloss black on the steering wheel, which is just a magnet for fingerprints and smudges. The rest of the wheel is leather-wrapped, but it doesn’t feel like the same quality of leather we’ve experienced in other cars.
The tiller rim feels relatively small in the hands too, which adds to the old-school feel. Even if it is based on the non-hybrid Aspire, we’d want something a bit nicer for the money.
You still get the standard steering wheel buttons for infotainment and driver assist controls, and at least they’re finished in more durable hard plastic instead of anything glossy.
Ahead of the steering wheel is a traditional two-gauge cluster, with the digital acreage limited to a smaller display in the middle. While the whole unit may be simple and a little clunky in appearance, it’s perfectly functional and easy to read.
We’ve said the infotainment screen is lacking compared to the competition, but we can’t ignore the fact you still get some useful features here. Standard on this grade of Eclipse Cross is a reversing camera, as well as a handy surround-view camera.
Neither camera may be of particularly high resolution, but we’d rather have both views even if it means sacrificing some legibility. It all helps make this car easy to live with.
A downside of the aging interior is that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are wired only, and connect via one of two USB-A ports up front, but you’ll at least have the reliability of a hardwired link.
As such, we had no issues with smartphone mirroring during our week with the car. Other power sources are limited to the 12V outlet nearby, and unfortunately there’s no wireless phone charging pad to be found here.
Stepping into the back can be a squeeze, as the opening angle of the doors is relatively limited. There’s not a lot of room on the floor to step in either, and the door sills are wider than what you may expect.
Once you’re in though, you’ll find the rear seats are upholstered in the same suede and synthetic leather as up front, and they’re comfortable to sit in for longer periods of time. There’s loads of head and legroom, but it’s a fairly barebones experience.
The cabin presentation is actually easier to digest than it is up the front, as there’s much less variation in materials and it all stays relatively coherent. There’s none of that silver trim back here, where everything is dull-finished hard plastic.
Amenities are limited to a fold-down armrest, a USB-A and USB-C port, and that’s it. There aren’t even any rear-facing air vents, which is disappointing for anyone spending time in the rear.
The boot of the Eclipse Cross is one of its strengths. While it’s quoted as less than the smaller Volkswagen T-Roc (392L) and Nissan Qashqai (429L), you still get loads of floor space up to the second-row seatbacks.
The sharply sloped roofline does mean vertical space is compromised. The wheel-arches also eat into space either side, and the floor sits relatively high because of the storage for charging-related equipment underneath.
Being the Aspire, it also misses out on a power tailgate, which is another one of those things we think a model variant one rung down from the top of the range should feature.
At least because it’s a PHEV you do benefit from a 1500W V2L outlet, but it misses out on a spare tyre. Overall, while it may all be functional, the Eclipse Cross interior is desperately in need of a refresh, even if it’s just a minor update to keep up with the times.
To see how the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
What’s under the bonnet?
All Eclipse Cross PHEVs utilise a 2.4-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, supported by electric motors on the front and rear axles.
Specifications
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV
Engine
2.4L 4cyl petrol PHEV
Engine outputs
94kW @ 4500rpm 199Nm @ 4500rpm
Electric motor outputs
60kW / 137Nm (front) 70kW / 195Nm (rear)
Battery
13.8kWh lithium-ion
Generator output
80kW
Transmission
Single-speed fixed
Driven wheels
AWD
Kerb weight
1920kg
Fuel economy (claimed)
1.9L/100km
Fuel economy (as tested)
4.0L/100km
Electric driving range (PHEV)
55km
Fuel tank capacity
45 litres
Fuel requirement
91 RON
Braked tow capacity
1500kg
Our week with the car primarily involved highway driving, with some time also spent on slower roads in built-up areas.
The higher-than-claimed fuel economy figure we recorded is a result of the PHEV powertrain’s limitations, primarily its electric-only range. More on that below.
To see how the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
How does the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross drive?
The Eclipse Cross is classed as a small SUV, but it doesn’t really feel like one on the road.
PHEVExceed pictured
Of course, it’s nowhere near as large as the Pajero Sport or even the Outlander, but the PHEV powertrain probably has a large part to play in the way this particular Eclipse Cross feels on the road.
For one, it’s more than 400kg heavier than the standard non-hybrid Aspire, which is front-wheel drive only. While this AWD PHEV doesn’t feel heavy thanks to its appropriately peppy throttle response, you do notice the extra weight being lugged around.
Its kerb weight is listed at nearly two tonnes, which for a ‘small SUV’ is nothing to sneeze at. The compromise is its handling dynamics, which we’d stop short of calling sloppy but it’s by no means nimble.
The car’s suspension is set up well enough to handle its extra mass, and at no point does the Eclipse Cross PHEV feel unwieldy. It doesn’t clatter over bumps nor wallow over softer undulations either.
It’s a solid ride/handling balance that we can’t really knock. The added weight may even help it to feel more planted than the standard Aspire, and you get the added security of all-wheel drive if you decide to head off-road or to the snow.
Of course, the the main drawcard of this car is its PHEV powertrain. While 55km of electric-only range doesn’t seem like a lot, there isn’t anything else at this price that offers the same zero-emissions driving capability – let alone more.
The Eclipse Cross’ tried-and-tested approach to plug-in tech actually works in its favour in this case.
When you consider the upcoming Ford Ranger PHEV – which of course is a much bigger, heavier and more capable vehicle – is expected to have an electric-only range of 45km and will likely be considerably more expensive, this suddenly doesn’t seem so bad.
And, to its credit, the Aspire PHEV was able to match or better its 1.9L/100km fuel economy claim in normal conditions, meaning standard urban traffic and, crucially, a fully charged battery to start with.
But once the battery goes flat – which happens surprisingly quickly if you have a longer commute – you’re relying solely on the 2.4-litre naturally aspirated engine, and consumption rises dramatically from the paltry sub-2.0L/100km claimed average.
Mitsubishi claims the 55km EV range is enough for the daily commute of most Aussies, but I have a 60km commute twice daily, so after fully charging the battery at home each night, arriving at work with a flat battery, then driving home on engine power alone, I averaged 4.0L/100km.
So even without engaging the handy electric vehicle (EV)-only mode, the battery still won’t be able to last a full day’s driving for me and therefore this PHEV won’t be as efficient as it can be.
That makes it less suited to longer-distance commuters, but 4.0L/100km is still more efficient than the Toyota Corolla Cross hybrid and the Nissan Qashqai E-Power. And unlike an EV, the Eclipse Cross won’t leave you stranded when its battery is depleted, making its longer total range well suited to many Aussies.
Of course, Mitsubishi could increase the range of the Eclipse Cross PHEV, but that would also drive up its price. Instead, it’s worth remembering this car is still incoporates previous-generation Mitsubishi PHEV tech, which makes it a reliable setup that’s comfortably under-budget for most PHEVs.
It’s also currently unique in the market until the new MG HS plug-in hybrid arrives. The MG will have the advantage of being a bigger new PHEV with an up-to-date interior, but that doesn’t mean the Eclipse Cross PHEV should be overlooked.
Rivals from brands like BYD and even Mitsubishi’s own Outlander PHEV have EV ranges of more than 80km, but they’re much more expensive.
If you do go for the Eclipse Cross PHEV and your commute is as long as mine, and you can plug in your car when you get to your destination, you might spend a lot more time charging but you’ll also spend very little on fuel and almost all your driving in EV mode.
And if your each-way commute is less than about 25km, all your driving will be in EV mode and you’ll pay off this PHEV’s price premium a lot more quickly.
If, on the other hand, your commute is longer than 55km and, like most people, you can’t be bothered recharging your PHEV regularly, then you might as well get a non-hybrid Eclipse Cross.
On its own then, the Eclipse Cross PHEV is a good choice if you have a shorter daily commute. The fact it’s produced by an established carmaker with a solid – albeit uninspiring – track record with such tech also improves buyer confidence, as does Mitsubishi’s conditional 10-year warranty.
As you may have deduced from our thoughts on its interior, the issues with this car don’t relate to the PHEV powertrain but its outdated presentation as a whole.
Its age is also evidenced by the standard safety tech. Being the higher-spec Aspire, you do benefit from adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera, as well as rear cross-traffic alert and blind spot monitoring, which isn’t available in the entry-level Eclipse Cross.
But Mitsubishi’s clever Ultrasonic Misacceleration Mitigation System, which stops the car when it detects the accelerator has been pressed instead of the brake pedal at low speeds, is only found in the top-spec Exceed.
It’s also worth remembering the Aspire PHEV is roughly $15,000 more expensive than the non-hybrid Aspire, which gets all the same equipment. The only real difference is the petrol version has no electric motors and therefore uses more fuel, and it’s front-wheel drive only.
Petrol-only or PHEV, the Eclipse Cross thrives in urban areas. It’s easy to manoeuvre thanks to its well weighted steering feel, which isn’t as light as in some of its competitors.
Visibility out the windows is also good, with rear-view visiion not compromised despite the sharply angled rear window. Blind spot monitoring and front parking sensors are welcome additions that help in navigating tight streets and carparks.
All that means the Aspire PHEV’s on-road experience is largely misaligned with its aged interior presentation, which is one of the reasons it’s relatively good value.
To see how the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
What do you get?
There are four distinct grades of Eclipse Cross, with the Aspire tested here sitting second from the top of the range. The PHEV version gains a series of tweaks over its non-hybrid counterpart.
Eclipse Cross ES equipment highlights:
16-inch alloy wheels
LED daytime running lights
Automatic headlights
Rear LED fog lamp
Soundproof windshield glass
Rain-sensing wipers
Black fabric upholstery
Climate control air-conditioning
8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
4-speaker sound system
Tilt and telescopic steering column adjustment
Cruise control
Keyless entry
Eclipse Cross ES PHEV adds:
Illuminated front door trim
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Rear centre armrest with cupholders
Electric park brake
Mode 2 charging cable
Mode 3 charging cable
Acoustic vehicle alert system
Eclipse Cross LS adds (over ES):
18-inch alloy wheels
LED front fog lights
Automatic high-beam
Privacy glass
Power-folding exterior mirrors
Electric park brake with auto hold
6-speaker sound system
Rear USB-A and USB-C outlets
Electrochromatic rear-view mirror
Eclipse Cross LS Black Edition adds:
Black 18-inch alloy wheels
Gloss black mirrors, skid plates
Mi-suede and synthetic leather upholstery
Black dimpled leather-wrapped steering wheel with grey stitching
Black headliner, pillar trims
4-way power driver’s seat
Heated front seats
PVC leather door cards
Grey stitching details
Silver garnishes on instrument panel, centre console sides, door grips
Eclipse Cross Aspire variants gain (over LS):
Gloss black front and rear skid plates
Black grille
Mi-suede and synthetic leather upholstery
Dual-zone climate control
8-speaker sound system with 4 tweeters
4-way power driver’s seat
Heated front seats
Eclipse Cross Aspire PHEV adds:
Automatic LED headlights
Roof rails
Silver front lower bumper
Black front bumper centre garnish
Black grille insert
Black and insert rear lower bumper
Black side door garnish
1500-watt V2L capacity
To see how the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
Is the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross safe?
As of January 2024, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is ‘unrated’ by ANCAP, with its five-star safety rating – awarded in 2017 – stripped due to the organisation’s six-year expiry policy.
Standard safety equipment across the range includes:
7 airbags
AEB with pedestrian detection
Reversing camera
Rear parking sensors
Lane departure warning
LS and above get:
Blind-spot monitoring
Rear cross-traffic alert
Aspire and above get:
Adaptive cruise control
Front parking sensors
Surround-view camera
Exceed and Exceed PHEV receive Mitsubishi’s Ultrasonic Misacceleration Mitigation System, which is designed to stop the car when it detects the accelerator has been pressed instead of the brake at low speeds.
To see how the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
How much does the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross cost to run?
Mitsubishi backs its Eclipse Cross with a 10-year, 200,000km warranty if you service at a Mitsubishi dealer (if not it’s five years and 100,000km), and its PHEV models are covered by an eight year, 160,000km battery warranty.
Servicing and Warranty
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV
Warranty
10 years or 200,000km
Battery warranty
8 years or 160,000km
Roadside assistance
Up to 10 years (12 months free, then service-activated)
Service intervals
12 months or 15,000 kilometres
Capped price servicing
Up to 10 years
Total capped price service cost
$5940 – 10 years
Servicing intervals are 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first. The total price for capped-price servicing over 10 years is exactly $1000 cheaper for petrol models compared to PHEVs.
To see how the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
CarExpert’s Take on the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV Aspire
Fundamentally, this is a solid small SUV that can comfortably get the job done, but it’s incredibly outdated.
Apart from its comparatively short EV range, the Eclipse Cross doesn’t do a lot wrong when you’re on the move. And there are really no other small PHEV SUVs available at this price point, which is a compelling case on its own.
Its dynamics are predictable and user-friendly, and there’s no unnecessary safety tech to annoy you. It’s easy to park and manoeuvre, and has enough space inside to comfortably transport a handful of passengers and their luggage – or a large load of groceries.
In its natural urban environment it’s also more economical than comparable small plugless hybrid SUVs, and if you have a short commute and keep its battery charged you’ll quicky pay off the purchase price premium and start saving big money on fuel bills.
We like that it can be locked in EV mode up to a certain speed, and naturally the e-motors contribute to the Eclipse Cross’ ability to quickly get going.
The car’s ageing design results in a largely analogue driving experience that some buyers may appreciate, but it comes at the detriment of its interior.
The Eclipse Cross isn’t the worst offender in this area on sale right now, given other Mitsubishis like the ASX are arguably more outdated, but it’s hard for us to rally around the way this car presents.
There are too many different materials including that tacky faux carbon-fibre, while most of the interior is draped in uninviting hard plastic. Its cabin tech is functional, but the omission of wireless smartphone mirroring continues to be disappointing… but not surprising.
That’s a shame, because a well-considered interior update would go a long way to addressing one of our only complaints here, especially given the exterior doesn’t look bad and it drives as well as it does.
As a budget-friendly alternative to larger, more expensive PHEVs, the Eclipse Cross does the job well and the Aspire version is probably the pick of the bunch. But once the larger yet similarly priced MG HS PHEV arrives, we expect Mitsubishi will have to pull its socks up.
Interested in buying a Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
NACDAC Infrastructure IPO: Retail investors subscribed 2,503.68 times, NIIs an astounding 4,084.36 times, and QIBs an impressive 236.39 times, reflecting unprecedented demand across categories.
The NACDAC Infrastructure IPO offered 18.6 lakh shares to raise Rs 10.01 crore between December 17 and December 19.
NACDAC Infrastructure IPO Subscription Status, GMP Today: The Rs 10-crore NACDAC Infrastructure IPO has made history with one of the highest subscription levels ever recorded. In a stunning display of investor enthusiasm, the construction company’s Rs 10-crore SME IPO garnered bids worth an astronomical Rs 14,385.43 crore, a feat that underscores its blockbuster appeal.
Launched between December 17 and December 19, the IPO offered 18.6 lakh shares to raise Rs 10.01 crore. By the close of the three-day bidding period on Thursday, the BSE IPO ended up receiving bids for an astonishing 411.01 crore shares, achieving a jaw-dropping oversubscription of 2,209.74 times.
NACDAC Infrastructure Ltd, which specialises in the construction of multi-story buildings, residential, commercial, and institutional structures, posted a net profit of Rs 3.16 crore in the financial year 2023-24 and a revenue of Rs 36.33 crore.
NACDAC Infrastructure IPO: Meteoric Response Across Investor Categories
The IPO witnessed an overwhelming response across all investor categories:
Retail Investors has been subscribed by an eye-popping 2,503.68 times, showcasing unparalleled demand from this segment.
Non-Institutional Investors (NII) recorded a meteoric 4,084.36 times subscription.
Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIB) achieved an impressive 236.39 times subscription.
The price band for the IPO was set at Rs 33 to Rs 35 per share, making it an attractive proposition for investors.
NACDAC Infrastructure IPO GMP Today
In the grey market, the unlisted shares of NACDAC Infrastructure Ltd are currently trading at Rs 77, reflecting a premium of Rs 42 (52.3%) over the upper price band of Rs 35. This suggests a spectacular listing on December 27, with potential gains of more than double the IPO price.
Also Read: Five IPOs Open Today: Detailed Comparison Of GMP, Subscription Status; Which One To Apply?
The IPO will be listed on the BSE SME platform on December 24, while its allotment will likely be finalised on December 20.
NACDAC Infrastructure IPO: More Details
The IPO is entirely a fresh issue of 28.60 lakh shares. Its bidding started on December 17, 2024 and ended on December 19, 2024.
NACDAC Infrastructure IPO will list on BSE SME with tentative listing date fixed as Tuesday, December 24, 2024.
The price band of the IPO was fixed at Rs 33 to Rs 35 per share. The minimum lot size for an application is 4,000. The minimum amount of investment required by retail investors is Rs 1,40,000. The minimum lot size investment for HNI is 2 lots (8,000 shares) amounting to Rs 2,80,000.
GYR Capital Advisors Private Limited is the book-running lead manager of the NACDAC Infrastructure IPO, while Maashitla Securities Private Limited is the registrar for the issue. The market maker for NACDAC Infrastructure IPO is Giriraj Stock Broking Private Limited.
On Wednesday, markets regulator Sebi’s board approved a series of measures including stricter regulatory norms for SME IPOs. Sebi has decided to introduce profitability criteria for companies planning to come out with an IPO, put a limit on offer-for-sale (OFS) and introduce phased lock-in for promoters.
In August also, the IPO of a New Delhi-based bike showroom Resourceful Automobile’s Rs 12-crore SME IPO received investor bids of over Rs 4,700 crore. The company operates just two Yamaha showrooms in New Delhi.
News business » ipo Historic Subscription! This Rs 10-Crore SME IPO Receives Bids Worth Rs 14,300 Crore
Coinbase Advanced, the cryptocurrency exchange’s platform for professional traders, saw a surge in users and trading volumes in 2024. The platform clocked a 191% increase in trading volumes driven by strong growth in derivatives trading and a 77% increase in users. Notably, Coinbase Advanced offers experienced traders a flat monthly fee in exchange for lower trading costs, more order options, and analytics tools. Coinbase shared that Derivatives products experienced especially rapid growth, with volumes soaring roughly 10,950% in 2024. The exchange launched its derivatives platform in the U.S. in 2022, offering cryptocurrency futures, including nano Bitcoin and nano Ether contracts, to millions of users.
When your content fires on all cylinders, the signs are obvious.
Your audience searches for your content by name, eagerly engages with it, and spends time exploring your related assets. Rave reviews are posted across social media. Buyers fill the sales funnel to connect with your sales team and buy your products.
When your content stalls out, the signs aren’t always easy to see.
However, you must figure out how to get the content humming again. The best place to start is looking for simple oversights and missteps that cause performance to slip over time or fail to move altogether.
To help, consider these four common mistakes, along with signs, symptoms, and corrective actions to get your content program back on track.
Mistake 1: Content lacks a clear and distinct purpose
On the surface, your content seems great — it’s creative, well-written, and provides valuable insights for consumers. You consistently produce stories in multiple formats to accommodate consumer preferences; you share them everywhere your audience will likely look for them.
However, according to your analytics, the audience doesn’t seem to care. Your content doesn’t get traction on any content platform, and those who view it move on quickly without taking action.
Signs of this mistake
“Great” content that doesn’t resonate or spark the desire to connect with your business may indicate the lack of a clear, unifying purpose. It often manifests as a jack-of-all-trades, master-of-none syndrome: You aim to appeal to anyone and everyone instead of building the deeper, trusted connections that drive desirable marketing outcomes.
Here are a few signs this mistake exists:
You publish content without defining your business purpose or how your content will work to achieve it.
You can’t explain who your target audiences are, what you want them to do, and what it will take to nurture them from casual viewers to active customers.
Your content doesn’t speak from a unique point of view, leaving your audience struggling to find a compelling reason to engage.
Solution: Build a content marketing strategy
It’s common to think casting the widest possible net will get your content enough traction. What business would miss an opportunity to connect with a potential customer? But even the highest-quality content in the world won’t help the business if you don’t clearly understand why it’s being created, for whom, and how it functions best as a business asset.
To make that happen, you need a content marketing strategy. Start with these three questions:
What goals will the content help the business accomplish, and what does that contribution to success look like?
What audiences should the storytelling activate?
How will those stories uniquely compel and provide value to those audiences?
TIP: View your brand’s priorities through your audience’s lenses. Keep an eye on industry trends, marketplace disruptions, and emerging ideas that may affect your content’s relevance and value proposition.
Mistake 2: Content is narcissistic and lacks empathy
You’ve worked hard to create content that puts your business in the spotlight and casts your experts as follow-worthy thought leaders. But while your unique views are on an upswing, they don’t translate to an uptick in customer behaviors or inquiries.
This mistake happens when brands forget that content is a conversation — both parties must see the benefit of the exchange. Your business talks a good game but fails to give its audience members a voice, demonstrate an understanding of their problems, or express a genuine interest in providing help. Potential customers see your content as irrelevant noise and decline to engage more deeply.
Signs of this mistake
Content solely focused on your business, its offerings, and its messaging priorities shows that your business is more interested in speaking than listening — a common turnoff for today’s marketing-fatigued consumers.
Remember, the goal isn’t just to get users to consume your content. It’s to convince them to convert as customers. That becomes harder to achieve unless you demonstrate an understanding of their needs and your unique ability to satisfy them.
Here are a few signs your content is falling short:
Your content discusses your products and solutions instead of audience needs and interests.
Your experience is organized hierarchically rather than contextually, making it difficult for consumers to find the content they need most or take action on the intentions that brought them to it.
Your content prioritizes attracting attention over earning the audience’s trust.
Solution: Make your audience the star of the content experience
Instead of focusing on your marketing goals first, focus on the customers’ desired outcomes — not just the transactional moves. Remember, consumers aren’t abstract constructs. They’re people who want to be seen and valued. If your content experience is built for personal resonance, it will gain traction more quickly.
These content tactics and techniques are well-suited to demonstrate a genuine interest in helping customers achieve their goals:
Use social media to create trust, not just transactions. Pay attention to the conversations in relevant communities. Ask questions that encourage your audience members to share their experiences and then respond to their comments with genuine concern — even when you can’t provide a product-related solution.
Drive participation with interactive content. Give audiences something to do, say, see, and feel. Allowing them to express their views, opinions, and preferences helps them feel more connected to your content experience.
Recognize and empower customers to share their stories. Content like reviews and ratings, case studies, and testimonials lets customers talk about your benefits in their own words, which can inspire other like-minded audiences to put their trust in your brand and its value.
Customize the information exchange. Giving your audience the ability to decide how, when, and what information they receive from your brand puts the power in their hands while keeping the channels of communication open. At the very least, offer subscribers the ability to opt out of messages they aren’t interested in. If you have marketing automation capabilities, use personalization techniques to tailor their content experience based on interests, behaviors, and preferences they’ve shared with your business.
Enlist community members to lead your brand’s conversations. Your social media communities may be filled with subject matter experts looking to share relevant experiences and discuss challenges with their peers. Offer them opportunities to elevate their profiles, such as guest hosting your forums. Not only can this encourage their fellow participants to share authentic perspectives, but it can also increase their interest in contributing to your content success.
For example, the Content Marketing Institute asked Jeremy Bednarski, a senior manager of content strategy at Salesforce, if he would be interested in hosting the CMI Slack channel. Five years later, Jeremy’s daily conversation prompts have helped grow the channel into one of our most vibrant and active community forums.
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Mistake 3: The content experience has grown stale and stagnant
It’s normal for content marketing performance to ebb and flow. However, if you see steady or significant declines, your content program could be overdue for an overhaul.
Business conditions, media trends, and consumer interests evolve, which means topics and tactics that once worked like a charm can lose their relevance and impact. And even once-reliable subscribers and followers can become less receptive to your stories if they don’t reflect current needs and priorities.
Content marketing isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it technique. You must continually refresh your approach and offerings, so consumers see your brand experience as a resource worthy of their attention.
Signs of this mistake
Failing to adapt your content around emerging marketplace trends and consumer behaviors can harm your brand perception and drive your audience into the arms of your competitors. Avoid that fate by demonstrating your ability to experiment, innovate, and lean into new insights and ideas.
Here are some signs that a lack of content agility may put your customer relationships at risk:
Your creative team struggles to generate fresh ideas and find novel ways to approach evergreen topics.
Your distribution plan centers on channels your target audience has abandoned (sorry, Snapchat, SlideShare, and X) or fails to embrace up-and-coming platforms and media products.
Your top-performing search content includes outdated stats, information, and creative examples, which reflects poorly on your brand’s relevance and value.
Solution: Audit, analyze, and intervene
Flagging performance may not be your fault, but it is your responsibility to proactively see the red flags and fix obvious signs of stagnancy before they escalate into a full-scale content fail.
Audit
The process of diagnosing performance problems starts with an audit of your content assets. It can give a clearer picture of the stories and formats customers care about most and help identify critical gaps in your coverage.
TIP: The process doesn’t require a massively disruptive undertaking. A streamlined content audit speeds things up without losing any directional guidance you need.
Analyze
Monitor your analytics regularly to quickly pinpoint any high-performing assets that need updating to preserve their accuracy. The data can also reveal topics or formats to retire, allowing the team to refocus resources on areas of greater interest.
TIP: Build a performance dashboard to give the content team an at-a-glance view of the metrics that matter most for your organization’s goals.
Intervene
Once you analyze the insights and evaluate your course-correcting options, you are prepared to conquer even the most intimidating tasks required to recapture your audience’s attention and reinvigorate your content performance.
TIP: It can be challenging to get the support you need to implement strategic overhauls and tactical retrofits. CMI’s Robert Rose recommends staying the course in the short term while working behind the scenes to build a new strategy from the ground up.
Mistake 4: Team resources are pushed to breaking point
“Do more with less” — it’s the default mantra for every budget-conscious marketing department (and show me one that isn’t). Out of necessity and determination, your team pulls together, tightens their belts, and pushes forward as best they can with the resources available.
But there comes a point when frugality exceeds feasibility. When marketers stretch content resources beyond those limits, the resulting stress can send shock waves across productivity, work quality, and turnover.
Signs of this mistake
A company might need to add a few tasks to their content creators’ to-do lists in a pinch. However, these stop-gap measures shouldn’t be a long-term substitute for filling critical roles or providing adequate resources.
When extra tasks and asks add up to an untenable volume, signs like these may appear:
The normally high-functioning content team loses efficiency. They struggle with getting regularly planned efforts off the ground, let alone bringing novel content ideas and initiatives to fruition.
Deadlines are frequently missed, obvious errors are made, and exciting projects sit in limbo because the team focuses on the low-hanging fruit that can be executed quickly.
Team morale is shot, staff churn is high, and burned-out workers air grievances on public channels.
Solution: Educate, prioritize, and partner on content
Businesses commonly expect their content marketing teams to tackle all kinds of content requests across the enterprise. This scope creep typically happens when hiring budgets are stretched, and no one else can share the writing workload. It also occurs when management sees competitors making waves on a new channel and demands that a brand also needs a presence.
You can address these issues in a few ways, but it always starts with a root cause.
Educate
When management doesn’t understand why your content team can’t just create a few more assets to fuel a new channel or fulfill their requests, developing (and documenting) a clear content plan is a good idea.
Sharing this business case for content creation and distribution, quality criteria, governance policies, and benefits can help stakeholders see the bigger strategic picture. Once they recognize how much work is involved in effective content marketing, they may provide additional support or authorize a budget increase.
Prioritize
With too few players and too many asks, your team must set clear priorities around the content types, channels, and platforms.
Implementing a content-scoring process can help with this. It provides a quantifiable way to gauge which kinds of content deliver the strongest performance against industry benchmarks or internal criteria. That information can help you advocate for focusing your resources on viable efforts and pulling back on less impactful ones.
For example, if your company wants to add livestreaming video to the mix, run some competitors’ efforts through your scoring worksheet first. If you find that those conditions aren’t ideal for your business (e.g., you don’t have video editors or production resources, your audience isn’t engaging with this format, the market is oversaturated with competing livestreams), it’s best to leave it off your list until the situation changes.
However, if you discover that this new format presents an attractive opportunity or offers a high-priority benefit you have been struggling to provide, scale down or pause lower-performing content activities to free up the necessary team resources.
Partner with creators and technology
If your options are limited and upper management won’t staff up or scale down, forge a content partnership.
Co-creating content with the help of relevant industry influencers, high-profile thought leaders, and like-minded complementary brands can be a cost-effective way to shore up your assets without overstressing in-house content creators. Tap into your actively engaged community’s creative talents by empowering them to contribute guest posts or other types of user-generated content.
Content partnerships don’t always have to be people-centric. You can unlock content marketing potential by pairing your human creatives with the power of technology.
Incorporate generative AI and other machine-learning tools into your content operations to produce more content — in more formats — with less manual effort:
Remix and reuse existing content to give older assets new relevance and value.
Fill gaps in your team’s design or video production capabilities using AI to transform text-based content into eye-catching videos, animations, and data visualizations.
Use text-to-audio tools to instantly convert lengthy copy into easy-to-consume audio stories and podcasts.
TIP: Consider these nine additional actions to help get better content results without blowing your budget or causing your team to break down.
Got problems? Get answers
Though not all content marketing problems have simple solutions, identifying warning signs like these four is your best first line of defense against major missteps, miscalculations, and missed opportunities. What other big content challenges are you currently struggling with? Share this article on social with a comment.
Updated from a September 2021 article.
Want more content marketing tips, insights, and examples? Subscribe to workday or weekly emails from CMI.
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Cover image by Joseph Kalinowski/Content Marketing Institute
Student Tribe, an online student community with 6.50 lakh members in eight cities, has partnered with Marut Drones to expose students to opportunities in drones and drone technology.
“It’s a comprehensive ecosystem designed to transform how students learn, engage, and build careers in emerging technological fields,” Charan Lakkaraju, Founder & CEO of Student Tribe, said.
The collaboration would offer structured learning beyond traditional academic curricula, besides providing networking opportunities with industry experts.
The duo would organise an annual Drone Fest where students can interact with technology and showcase their potential.
Marut Drones, a DGCA-approved Remote Pilot Training Organisation (RPTO), will offer a five-day Drone Pilot Training (RPC) workshop. The workshop will cover flight simulator training and drone flying practice, hands-on field experience, solo field flying tests, and DGCA certification upon successful completion.
A $55 million settlement has been set aside for Michigan residents whose pandemic-era unemployment benefits clawed back by the state, but the window for opting in to a payment closes tomorrow.
The unemployment rate in the US spiked to alarming levels during the COVID-19 pandemic, as numerous businesses were forced to either cut their workers or close up shop altogether. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, the unemployment rate during this time peaked at an average of 13% in the second quarter of 2020, a huge jump from 3.5% in February 2020.
Some of those affected by this surge in unemployment later claimed in a suit that their benefits were clawed back by the state in a manner that violated their rights. Now, a sizable settlement for these claimants has been reached, and there’s still a chance you could get in on it.
There are only a few days left before the deadline for opting into this settlement, which should help some workers get a measure of restitution for their struggles. Read on to get all the answers you need, and for more settlement news, find out if you’re eligible for a recent settlement against 23andMe.
Why was there a class-action lawsuit?
The settlement resulted from the class-action lawsuit Saunders, et al. vs. State of Michigan Unemployment Insurance. Initially brought back in January 2022, the suit accused the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency of unlawfully taking back unemployment benefits that were issued during the COVID-19 pandemic. A settlement was reached in April, with $55 million being set aside for claimants.
The lawsuit accused the unemployment agency of claiming that certain individuals had been overpaid in benefits during the pandemic, which then led to it enforcing repayment before appeals decisions could be properly assessed. This, the claimants argued, was a violation of their rights to due process, and led to their wages being garnished and their tax returns being seized.
Who is eligible for this class-action settlement?
Michigan residents whose benefits were taken back by the agency between March 1, 2020, and April 25, 2024, are eligible to apply.
Those who are eligible for the settlement should have already been alerted by mail or email. You can also log into your Michigan Web Account Manager account for unemployment insurance and see if there is a message titled, “Saunders v. UIA Improper Collections Alert.” You can also check your eligibility with the settlement’s administrator by calling 866-499-4565 or emailing [email protected].
How do I opt into this settlement?
You can submit a claim on the settlement administrator’s website, which requires a claim number and PIN. You can contact the settlement administrator if you’re unsure about the credentials you’ll need.
The deadline for submitting these claims was previously set for Nov. 4, but was later extended to this Friday, Dec. 20.
How much will this settlement pay out?
Payment estimates for this settlement are about $250 or more per claimant. It is unclear, however, when these payments will be delivered. There is a final hearing in the case scheduled for March 20, 2025, but the settlement can still be appealed if it’s approved, potentially delaying things even more.
For more, find out if you’re eligible for the Fortnite class-action settlement.
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President-elect Donald Trump wants to do away with daylight saving time (DST), a move that some experts say could improve health and wellness.
Trump announced the goal in a post on Truth Social last Friday.
“The Republican Party will use its best efforts to eliminate Daylight Saving Time, which has a small but strong constituency, but shouldn’t!” he wrote. “Daylight Saving Time is inconvenient, and very costly to our Nation.”
‘I CAN’T SLEEP BECAUSE OF RACING THOUGHTS AT NIGHT — HOW CAN I STOP THEM?’: ASK A DOCTOR
With rare exceptions, the vast majority of the U.S. follows DST, which mandates adjusting clocks forward one hour in the spring (the second Sunday in March) to extend daylight during summer evenings.
In the fall (the first Sunday in November), the clocks are turned back to standard time.
President-elect Donald Trump wants to do away with daylight saving time (DST), he announced in a post on Truth Social.(AP Photo/Alex Brandon; iStock)
The practice was first introduced in 1918 with the Standard Time Act, a wartime measure designed to conserve energy during World War I, according to the U.S. Department of Defense.
It was again implemented in 1942 during World War II to conserve fuel and “promote national security and defense.”
For two decades, the rule was not enforced, until Congress passed the Uniform Time Act in 1966, a federal mandate that established daylight saving time.
Doing away with disruption
Dr. Earnest Lee Murray, a board-certified neurologist at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital in Jackson, Tennessee, supports Trump’s aim to do away with DST.
“Honestly, it’s about time, no pun intended,” he told Fox News Digital. “The historical reason for DST doesn’t really matter anymore.”
“Honestly, it’s about time, no pun intended.”
Changing the clocks twice a year can cause disruptions in sleep patterns, which have been known to cause various health-related issues, according to Murray.
“Most of the issues occur in the springtime when transitioning to daylight saving time (losing an hour of sleep),” he said.
Changing the clocks twice a year can cause disruptions in sleep patterns, which have been known to cause various health-related issues.(iStock)
Several studies have shown that this change results in decreased sleep duration and increased fatigue during daytime hours, the doctor noted.
“This often affects cognitive performance and seems to slow thought processing,” Murray added.
Mood issues, particularly depression, have been shown to increase during time changes.
Several studies have shown that the time change results in decreased sleep duration and increased fatigue during daytime hours.(iStock)
“Several studies have also shown an increased risk of stroke during the first two to three days from the time switch,” Murray said.
“This correlates to the disruption in the circadian rhythm — and likely the overall stress it causes on the body.”
SLEEPY DURING THE DAY? IT COULD BE AN EARLY WARNING SIGN OF DEMENTIA, STUDY SUGGESTS
Jonathan Alpert, a psychotherapist in Manhattan and Washington, D.C., agreed that sleep quality might improve if daylight saving time is eliminated.
“The abrupt shift in time can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to poor sleep quality and fatigue,” he told Fox News Digital.
“If daylight saving time is eliminated, it would help maintain a consistent sleep schedule, thereby reducing some of the issues stemming from poor sleep quality.”
One psychotherapist said his patients are more tired and less focused following the time change.(iStock)
Alpert said he notices the effects of the time change on his own patients each spring and fall.
“My patients are more tired and less focused, and often complain about an increase in stress,” he noted. “A stable time system could mitigate these effects.”
“The abrupt shift in time can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to poor sleep quality and fatigue.”
“Ultimately, having a consistent time system would allow people to stay more alert, and we might see an increase in productivity.”
Consistent light and dark cycles are also critical for regulating the body’s circadian rhythm, Alpert pointed out.
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“Disruptions caused by daylight saving have been linked to an increase in mood disorders, which is consistent with what I see in my practice,” he said.
There could also be a decrease in accidents and workplace injuries, as studies show these often increase following the time change, according to the psychotherapist.
‘A seasonal shift’?
Despite the likely benefits, there could be a downside to eliminating DST, Alpert said.
“Shorter evening daylight hours could potentially affect people’s motivation to be active or social after work,” one expert said, noting that seasonal affective disorder (SAD) isn’t just a winter phenomenon.(iStock)
“Without daylight saving time, there would be fewer hours of sunlight in the evening during spring and summer. This could reduce opportunities for outdoor activities after work, which many people find enjoyable and beneficial for mental health,” he told Fox News Digital.
“I’d have real concerns about how this might impact people, especially people who have been prone to mood issues.”
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Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) isn’t just a winter phenomenon, the expert noted.
“Shorter evening daylight hours could potentially affect people’s motivation to be active or social after work.”
“People will adapt and adjust if a change is made — and will ultimately thrive.”
Also, given how long most Americans have been adjusting their clocks, it could be “difficult or even disorienting” for people to adjust to not having DST, said Alpert — “as for many people, it signifies a seasonal shift.”
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“My guess is that if a change is made, there will be backlash, as the arguments for eliminating it are as compelling as those for keeping it,” Alpert predicted.
He added, “That said, over time, people will adapt and adjust if a change is made — and will ultimately thrive.”
Fox News Digital reached out to Trump’s transition team for comment.
Christmas is all about red and green outfits, lots of feasting, decorating everything with lights, and having a good time with friends and family. Among the many holiday traditions, Christmas cakes hold a special place on dessert tables worldwide. While most people are familiar with the plum or rum cake, there is a range of delicious and special Christmas cakes in different parts of the world. This Christmas, embrace the global spirit of celebration with cakes from around the world.
Here Are 5 Traditional Christmas Cakes Worldwide:
1. Christmas Cake – England
The England-style Christmas cake has become a beloved holiday dessert worldwide. This dense fruit cake is packed with candied or dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices – all soaked in spirits like brandy, rum, or cognac. The flavours of the cake are a unique mix of sweet, spicy, and boozy.
2. Buche de Noel – France
In France, Buche de Noel is a popular Christmas cake. This iconic dessert is a light sponge cake rolled into a log shape. The outer layer is coated in chocolate or coffee – flavoured buttercream and textured to resemble tree bark. To add a Christmas-special touch, it is decorated with powdered sugar, edible leaves, and meringue mushrooms.
Photo: iStock
3. Bolo Rei – Portugal
Portugal’s traditional Christmas cake looks fascinating and tastes amazing. Bolo Rei means ‘King’s Cake,’ and that’s what it looks like. The cake is shaped like a crown with a hole in the centre. Just like bright gems, it is adorned with candied fruits and nuts. As per tradition, a fava bean is hidden in the cake, and whoever gets that slice has to buy the cake next Christmas.
Photo: iStock
4. Panettone – Italy
Italy’s classic recipe is another favourite Christmas cake across Europe and beyond. This sweet cake is dome-shaped and has a bread-like texture-light, airy, and yeasty – similar to sourdough bread. Panettone also contains raisins and candied fruits. The true origin of Panettone lies in the medieval custom of enriching the daily bread during the Christmas period.
Also Read:Kylie Jenner’s “Christmas Tree Pancakes” Scream Festive Vibes From Miles Away
5. Bibingka – Philippines
Christmas is a cherished holiday in the Philippines, celebrated with a holiday-special cake called bibingka. This traditional rice cake is made with coconut milk and wrapped in banana leaf moulds, giving it a unique aroma and interesting presentation. It is often topped with caramelized coconut strips.
Which is your favourite cake for Christmas celebrations? Share with us in the comments section.
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-12-18/Poll-Macao-shows-vitality-of-One-Country-Two-Systems-to-the-world-1zqYWeEcZuE/img/95c78ad6cf7845ed9a592f457d20b3a6/95c78ad6cf7845ed9a592f457d20b3a6.png' alt='Tourists visit the Ruins of St. Paul's in south China's Macao Special Administrative Region, December 16, 2024. /CFP'
China’s Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) is about to usher in another moment of glory. On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the central government’s resumption of the exercise of sovereignty over Macao, a survey conducted jointly by CGTN and the Centre for Macau Studies, targeting 1,551 respondents from Macao, shows that the successful implementation of “One Country, Two Systems” in Macao is highly recognized by the respondents. They generally believe it to be the best system for resolving similar issues and maintaining long-term prosperity and stability in the region.
In the evaluation of satisfaction with Macao’s economic and social development, 93.9 percent of respondents agreed with the performance of the Macao SAR government in recent years. A total of 91.9 percent stated that the political rights and freedoms of the people in Macao are fully protected, and 90.8 percent praised the significant improvement in social welfare levels in Macao.
The satisfaction and happiness of Macao’s respondents are a true reflection of the remarkable economic and social progress Macao has made over the past 25 years. Data shows that Macao’s GDP has increased by 7.3 times from 1999 to 2023. In 2023, trade between the Chinese mainland and Macao reached $3.84 billion, growing 4.3 times compared to before the handover. As of October this year, direct investment from the mainland into Macao totaled $14.19 billion.
In the survey, 94.3 percent of respondents expressed that the strong support of the mainland has been crucial to Macao’s prosperity and development. Additionally, 92.7 percent of respondents deeply feel that Macao’s ties with the mainland are increasingly close. With the authorization and support of the Chinese central government, Macao has established stable economic, trade and cultural relations with over 120 countries and regions. The number of international organizations and institutions that Macao participates in has increased to more than 190, and it now enjoys visa-free or visa-on-arrival privileges with 147 countries and regions. A total of 92.5 percent of respondents believe that Macao’s unique advantage lies in being backed by the motherland and connected to the world.
Macao’s prosperity and stability are grounded in the principle of “One Country” and ensured when the unique strengths of “Two Systems” are brought into full play. Macao, after its return, has become a key window for the world to observe the success of “One Country, Two Systems.” In the survey, 92.2 percent of respondents believe that the practice of “One Country, Two Systems” in Macao has been successful. The top three reasons behind this viewpoint are: “People of Macao governing Macao” with a high degree of autonomy, which suits Macao’s realities; the central government’s comprehensive support for Macao; and the patriotism and enterprising spirit of Macao’s residents. A remarkable 93.9 percent of respondents expressed confidence in the implementation of “One Country, Two Systems” and “the people of Macao governing Macao.”
With the country doing well, Macao is set to fare even better. In the survey on the recognition of the concepts and achievements of the Chinese path to modernization, respondents rated achievements in areas such as scientific and technological innovation, cultural development, social security and education with scores above seven out of 10. Additionally, 93 percent of respondents stated that since Macao’s integration into the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, there has been an increase in visitors, more convenient exchanges and more investment attracted. A total of 93.8 percent of respondents believe that China’s modernization offers great opportunities for Macao; 93.3 percent expressed confidence that the central government will maintain Macao’s long-term prosperity and stability; and 92.6 percent are optimistic about Macao’s future development prospects.
Securities and Exchange Board of India has permitted real estate investment trusts and infrastructure investment trusts to invest in unlisted shares under certain conditions and has also allowed the inter-se transfer of locked-in units among sponsor group entities.
At the board meeting on Wednesday, the markets regulator also permitted the trusts to invest in interest rate derivatives for hedging.
REITs and InvITs can invest only in the unlisted shares of companies that provide property management, maintenance, and other incidental services to the assets in their portfolios, SEBI said.
Also read: SEBI tightens norms for SME IPOs, investment bankers
Until now, units held by sponsors and sponsor groups of REITs and InvITs, including multiple sponsors, were subject to a lock-in period of up to three years, with no provision for inter-se transfer of such locked-in units among sponsors and sponsor groups.
Permitting the transfer of such locked-in units within sponsor group entities adds more flexibility to the regulations and aligns them with those governing inter-se transfers in corporates.
Allowing InvITs to use interest rate derivatives for hedging helps them manage interest rate fluctuations, as infrastructure projects have long gestation periods and require extended financing durations.
The regulator has also approved provisions for investments and borrowings by small and medium REITs, bringing them closer to parity with traditional REITs.
Pri kreiranju rubrike Index Shopping nastojimo izdvajati odlične proizvode koji se i nama sviđaju te odlične akcije i popuste. Ne objavljujemo proizvode koje i sami ne bismo kupili ili smatramo da njihova promocija nije u skladu s profesionalnim standardima. Neki proizvodi u rubrici Index Shopping mogu biti sponzorirani.
KAKO se Božić približava, raste interes za kupnju živih borova, koji su već tradicionalan odabir mnogih. Fotoreporterke Indexa obišle su nekoliko lokacija u Zagrebu kako bi provjerile trenutačnu ponudu i cijene, uzimajući u obzir različite vrste i veličine. U nastavku donosimo pregled onoga što su pronašle, uključujući cijene i dostupne opcije.
Žitnjak
Kod šoping-centra City Center one East trenutačno se prodaju živa božićna drvca. Velika drvca visine 170 cm dostupna su po cijeni od 40 eura, dok primjerci visine 190 cm koštaju 50 eura. U ponudi su i male jelke u tegli po cijeni od 60 eura.
Dubrava
Kod tržnice Dubrave također se prodaju božićna drvca. Najpovoljnije su nordijske jele, visine oko 50 cm, po cijeni od 16 eura. Veća drvca mogu se pronaći već za 30 eura, no treba napomenuti da su to uža i manje gusta drvca. Ali cijena je pristupačna. Nadalje, prosječna cijena drvca visine 2 metra kreće se između 40 i 60 eura ovisno o prodavaču.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Borongaj
Drvca se prodaju i na okretištu na Borongaju, no, nažalost, većina cijena nije bila istaknuta. Ipak, neke iznose smo doznali, a cijene su slične onima na Kvatriću. U ponudi prevladavaju jele, s manjim drvcima po cijeni od 55 do 65 eura, dok srednja drvca visine oko 150 cm koštaju približno 80 eura.
Kvatrić
Na tržnici Kvatrić prodaju se živa božićna drvca, no nisu sve cijene bile jasno istaknute. Doznali smo da se jelke srednje veličine, visine oko 150 cm, prodaju za 70 eura.
Iza tržnice, na nekoliko mjesta gdje se također prodaju borovi, cijene su bile jasno istaknute. Manji borovi, visine do jednog metra, koštaju oko 40 eura, oni visoki do 150 cm prodaju se za 60 do 70 eura, dok drvca visine iznad 2 metra stoje 120 eura. Uglavnom su dostupne smreke.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Središće
Ispred Kauflanda u zagrebačkom naselju Središću trenutačno se nudi sorta silver, čija cijena za primjerke visine 170 do 180 cm iznosi 40 eura. Velike jele iste visine dostupne su po cijeni od 50 do 60 eura, dok se manje sorte u tegli prodaju za 30 eura. U ponudi su i vrlo male jele u tegli, visoke oko pola metra, po cijeni od 10 eura.
Trešnjevka
Kod Trešnjevačkog placa također se prodaju božićna drvca. Ona srednje veličine prodaju se po cijeni od 50 do 70 eura, dok manji borovi, primjerice visine 30 cm, koštaju 20 eura. Zanimljivo je da su cijene manjih borova ovdje iste kao cijene većih drvaca na koja smo naišli u Španskom.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Črnomerec
U naselju Črnomerec, u trgovini Pevex na adresi Prilaz baruna Filipovića, također se prodaju živa božićna drvca. U ponudi su rezane jele visine od 175 do 200 cm po akcijskoj cijeni od 29.99 eura, dok primjerci visine od 200 do 250 cm koštaju 34.99 eura. Premium jele visine od 175 do 200 cm dostupne su po cijeni od 49.99 eura, a rezane smreke visine od 150 do 200 cm prodaju se za 21.99 eura.
Črnomerec – Keglić
I kod Keglića na Črnomercu prodaju se živa božićna drvca. U tegli su dostupna drvca visine 130 do 140 cm po cijeni od 50 eura te visine 150 do 160 cm po cijeni od 60 eura. Rezana drvca visine 170 cm stoje 60 ili 70 eura, dok za rezane primjerke visine 2 metra cijena iznosi 90 eura.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Tuđmanac
Na Tuđmancu se također prodaju božićna drvca, a nekoliko prodavača nudi različite vrste.
Kod prodavača smještenog na južnom dijelu mogu se pronaći srebrne smreke visine 160 cm po cijeni od 40 eura, dok su primjerci visine 180 cm dostupni za 50 eura. Nordijske jele visine od 180 cm do 2 metra prodaju se za oko 70 eura. Male jele i smreke u teglama, visine od 1 do 1.5 metara, stoje 30 eura. Dostupna je i dostava drvaca po cijeni od 15 eura.
Prodavač smješten u sredini Tuđmanca, Anđelko Poje, nudi drvca visine 170 cm za 40 eura te nešto viša po cijeni od 50 eura, uz manja drvca sa zemljom.
Na sjevernom dijelu Tuđmanca, odmah uz Ilicu, mogu se pronaći jele visine 160 cm za 15 eura, one od 170 cm za 20 eura, dok su u tegli dostupne samo velike jele visine oko 170 cm po cijeni od 30 eura.
Rudeš
Ponuda božićnih drvaca dostupna je i ispred Kauflanda u naselju Rudeš, na Zagrebačkoj cesti. Tamo smo pronašli drvca visine 160-170 cm po cijeni od 15 eura, što je najpovoljnija opcija u njihovoj ponudi.
U ponudi su i srebrne smreke u tegli visine 160 cm po cijeni od 40 eura, dok obične smreke u tegli iste visine stoje 25 ili 30 eura. Dostupna su i velika drvca visine od 180 cm do 2 metra. Sva su lijepa i gusta, a cijene se kreću od 35 do 45 eura ovisno o visini. Cjenik sa svim stavkama i fotke borova možete vidjeti ispod.
Špansko
Kod tržnice Špansko ima mnogo prodavača božićnih drvaca i ponuda je raznolika. Cijene variraju ovisno o prodavaču, vrsti i visini drvca te se kreću od 15 do približno 100 eura. Na fotografijama možete vidjeti dio ponude i neke od istaknutih cijena.
Naišli smo na “Dubai” bor, kao i na onaj od 1000 eura
Dok smo razgledavali ponudu drvaca, naišli smo i na neke zanimljive primjerke, kao i neočekivane cijene. Ekipa u zagrebačkom naselju Špansko odlučila se našaliti na temu viralnosti svega što u nazivu ima dodatak “Dubai”, pa tako “prodaju” Dubai bor za 499.99 eura.
Na tržnici na Jarunu naišli smo i na najskuplja božićna drvca koja prodaje Marin Jendrijev iz Ferdinandovca. Cijena im je – 1000 eura. Riječ je o kavkaskim jelama koje su autohtone u planinama južno i istočno od Crnog mora, u Turskoj, Gruziji i ruskom Kavkazu. Rasprostranjene su i po Hrvatskoj, najčešće kao ukrasna stabla u vrtovima i većim dvorištima.
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After a season of ups and downs, hit by departures that tested a program still adjusting to success, the UNLV Rebels rallied together with the goal of earning their 11th win.
It took nearly 40 years, but No. 24 UNLV (11-3) clinched an 11-win season — tying the program’s single-season Football Bowl Subdivision record — with a 24-13 win over California (6-7) Wednesday during the LA Bowl played at SoFi Stadium.
The Rebels were led by a dual-threat quarterback, Hajj-Malik Williams, in the bowl game just as they were decades ago during their previous best season when Randall Cunningham directed the UNLV offense.
Described by teammates and coaches as a winner, Williams — a Football Championship Subdivision transfer in his first and only season at UNLV — took over as the starting quarterback three games into the season and guided the Rebels to their first bowl win in 24 years.
Although his performance wasn’t as dominant as expected, Williams did enough to secure the win for the Rebels. He ignited the offense, completing five of 18 passes for 96 yards and two touchdowns while adding 27 yards in 10 carries.
While UNLV entered the game with clarity at quarterback, Cal weighed two options: veteran CJ Harris and true freshman EJ Caminong.
Golden Bears coach Justin Wilcox opted to start Harris, but he switched signal callers in the third quarter. The move proved costly when a backward pass by Caminong later in the quarter led to a turnover, setting up a rushing touchdown by UNLV’s Kylin James that extended the Rebels lead to 21-13.
UNLV added a 48-yard field goal by Caden Chittenden in the fourth quarter and continued to play stout defense to secure the win.
Harris completed 13 of 20 passes for 109 yards, adding 23 yards in 12 carries before he was benched. Caminong was six of 19 passing for 57 yards and had a costly fumble.
California tight end Jack Endries (87) is tackled by UNLV’s Antonio Doyle Jr. (2) and Johnathan Baldwin (3) during the L.A. Bowl Wednesday at SoFi Stadium.
(Ryan Sun / Associated Press)
Cal opened the scoring with a 43-yard field goal from kicker Derek Morris, whose attempt ricocheted off the upright before falling through to give the Bears an early 3-0 lead.
UNLV responded with a 49-yard touchdown pass from Williams to Kayden McGee. McGee sprinted past the Cal secondary to haul in the deep strike, giving the Rebels a 7-3 lead.
The Golden Bears regained momentum on their next possession, marching down the field with a series of big plays. Tight end Jack Endries made two critical catches on passes from Harris — one for 16 yards and another for 22 yards on a screen pass.
Endries emerged as a reliable security blanket for Harris, who targeted him throughout the game. Endries finished as Cal’s leading receiver with 61 yards on seven receptions.
The drive culminated in a reverse to wide receiver Josiah Martin, who powered into the end zone to give Cal a 10-7 lead.
The Rebels were aggressive on their next drive. Marshall Nichols connected with Cameron Oliver on a 52-yard fake punt, putting UNLV in the red zone.
Shifting to a hurry-up offense, Williams connected with Jacob De Jesus for a nine-yard touchdown pass.
UNLV worked to establish the run, carrying the ball 18 times in the first half, to open up the passing game for Williams.
Cal struggled to keep up with the Rebels’ pace. Morris missed a 41-yard field-goal attempt wide left in the second quarter. He was replaced by Ryan Coe, who connected on a 30-yard field goal just before halftime. They were the Golden Bears’ final points of the game.
After a hot start to the season, Cal closes with a losing record during its debut ACC season. The program has now lost 13 consecutive games against opponents ranked in the top 25.
UNLV closed one of the best seasons in school history on a high note, with L.A. native Del Alexander earning the win as interim coach before new head coach Dan Mullen takes over the program.
A Malaysian couple’s passion for motorcycles has been a driving force in their 33-year marriage. Datin Noraliza Abd Rahman and Datuk Taha Ahmad, both 56, have traversed the globe on two wheels, exploring new destinations and deepening their bond, The Star reports.
Their journey began in the mid-90s when they rode to Golok, Thailand, on a Kawasaki. Representative (Pexel)
Their journey began in the mid-90s when they rode to Golok, Thailand, on a Kawasaki Vulcan 800, just a few years into their marriage. From there, their passion for motorcycling only grew, taking them across borders and through mountainous landscapes.
Over time, the couple transitioned from easy riders to touring bikes. They now ride a Honda Gold Wing GL1800 and a BMW R 1250 GS Adventure for their long-distance expeditions. “The touring bikes give us the speed, power, and comfort we need for longer rides,” Taha shared.
The couple ensures they embark on at least one extended trip each year, often alongside their close-knit biking community. “Together with our close friends, we’ve been making annual trips to Thailand,” said Noraliza, who considers Thailand her favourite destination. Taha added that most riders prefer Thailand due to its “food, safety, road conditions, and affordable hotels.”
Exploring Asia’s most scenic routes
Their motorcycle adventures have taken them across ASEAN countries, India, and Pakistan. Among their most memorable trips was the Himalaya expedition from Delhi to Leh, India, where they crossed the Khardung La, the world’s highest motorable pass. Another highlight was their Pakistan Autumn Ride to the Pakistan-China border and a 14-day Borneo Ride covering Kuching to Kota Kinabalu.
Also read: Grímsey Island: Europe’s remote northern settlement is seabird haven
Taha often participates in organised rides, including a 21-day event from Medan to Bali promoting Visit Malaysia Year. He and his friends also arrange independent charity rides across Malaysia and Thailand.
With their daughters managing the family’s chicken and frozen meat supply business, the couple now enjoys greater freedom to travel. Their upcoming plans include a Balkan ride in April and a hiking trip to Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal next October. Noraliza dreams of riding through Africa, while Taha hopes to one day ride to Makkah for Umrah.
Preparation plays a key role in their travels. Taha handles the motorcycles’ maintenance, while Noraliza plans the packing and itinerary. “We pack for functionality—five sets of clothes each, a small stove, and emergency food supplies,” Noraliza explained.
Also read: ‘Flying naked’ travel trend is raising eyebrows on internet but it’s not what you think
The couple prioritises safety and never rides without full gear. Taha advised aspiring motorcyclists to start small and emphasised the importance of resilience. “Riding isn’t something you take up on a whim. Start small, get comfortable on two wheels, and work your way up,” he said.
As they prepare for their annual year-end ride to Thailand, Taha and Noraliza hope their daughters will one day embrace the same adventurous spirit that has defined their lives.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is gaming’s biggest mystery. We know Nintendo is working on a new console and that it will almost certainly launch in 2025, but we don’t know when it will be announced, we don’t have a dedicated release date, and technically we don’t even know what it will be called!
There’s absolutely nothing holding Nintendo back from making the announcement, especially as the original Switch passes a shocking new sales milestone.
Indeed, based on the latest sales figures, the Nintendo Switch has finally overtaken the legendary PlayStation 2 in North America.
According to Circana’s Mat Piscatella on BlueSky, the Nintendo Switch has now sold 46.6 million units in the US.
“Lifetime unit sales of Nintendo Switch have now exceeded those of PlayStation 2 in the U.S. market,” reads a new post by Piscatella.
“With its 46.6 million units sold life-to-date, Switch now ranks 2nd in all-time units sold across all video game hardware platforms in the U.S., trailing only Nintendo DS.”
The PS2 is believed to have sold around 46.5 million units in the US, while the DS has sold an estimated 53.8 million.
While it seems unlikely the Switch will catch up to the DS, there’s enough time to put even more distance between the Nintendo console and PlayStation 2.
With few other records to topple or milestones to achieve, there’s really no time like the present to unveil the Switch 2.
One Reddit user claims to have a unit and has promised to leak the Switch 2 over Christmas.
The user believes the console will be officially revealed in January, before hinting that Mario Kart 9 is one of the games in development.
The new console is reportedly larger than the current model, with a smaller bezel for more screen space.
Perhaps to give it more universal appeal, it’s said to feature a black and white colour scheme, not too dissimilar to the PS5, Xbox Series X and Series S.
There’s a good chance the upcoming Metroid Prime sequel could launch as a cross-generation title for both the Switch and its successor.
Nintendo has done this with games like Twilight Princess back on the Gamecube and Wii, as well as Breath of the Wild on the Wii U and Nintendo Switch.
Speaking of Breath of the Wild, there are reports that Nintendo showcased the power of the Switch 2 with a demo for the highly-rated Legend of Zelda release.
The Switch 2 version featured enhanced visuals, and was reportedly running at 60 frames-per-second in 4K.
Almost three years after its reveal in production form, and nearly eight years after it was previewed in concept form, the Volkswagen ID. Buzz people mover and van range has finally arrived in Australia.
Local customer deliveries of the first battery-electric vehicle (EV) to be sold by Volkswagen in Australia, following numerous delays and setbacks to the ID.4 and ID.5 mid-sized electric SUVs, are set to commence late this year into early next year.
We reviewed the ID. Buzz people movers for the first time on home turf earlier this week, but the ID. Buzz Cargo commercial van forms the entry to the range, priced at $79,990 before on-road costs. It goes up against the likes of the LDV eDeliver 7 and Mercedes-Benz eVito, and the Ford E-Transit Custom when it arrives in 2025.
This big German delivery van is based on the Volkswagen Group’s dedicated-electric MEB platform, which also underpins both the Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5, as well as the VW ID.7, the Cupra Born and Tavascan, the Skoda Enyaq and Elroq, and Audi Q4 e-tron, among other EVs.
WATCH: Paul’s video review of the ID. Buzz Pro SWB
Since the reincarnated Kombi van was revealed back in 2022 with electric power, it has been upgraded with a more powerful electric motor and a larger touchscreen infotainment system, among other minor tweaks.
Is this electric van just a cute design exercise that exploits the heritage of the Kombi, or is it the real deal? Read on to find out.
How does the Volkswagen ID.Buzz compare?
View a detailed breakdown of the Volkswagen ID.Buzz against similarly sized vehicles.
Volkswagen
ID.Buzz
How much does the Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo cost?
The Cargo van is the most affordable variant in the battery-electric ID. Buzz range, and it’s available in just one high-spec, short-wheelbase rear-wheel drive BEV550 Pro variant.
At about $80k plus on-road costs, it easily undercuts the two people mover variants (the BEV560 Pro SWB RWD at $87,990, and the BEV560 Pro LWB RWD at $91,290, before on-roads respectively). It’s also cheaper than the eVito LWB (from $98,951), but more expensive than the LDV eDeliver 7 (from $67,358).
The second iconic VW model to be reincarnated, following the now-discontinued Beetle, will be joined next year by the flagship GTX LWB AWD ($109,990 plus on-roads).
Model
Price before on-road costs
2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz Pro Cargo SWB BEV550 RWD
$79,990
To see how the Volkswagen ID. Buzz stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
What is the Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo like on the inside?
As you’d expect of a reinvented electric Kombi van, the ID. Buzz Cargo is pretty modern and futuristic inside. Commercial vans typically stick with tried-and-tested designs, so this is a drastic change.
It’s easy hopping into this electric van due to large front doors that open nice and wide, and a ride height that makes it a natural step up into the cabin. One of the few things that is missing is a grab handle on the A-pillar.
Once inside, the seats are typical van fare. At launch, there’s only a three-seat bench option with a driver’s seat that offers manual adjustment, and a two-person passenger seat that’s a one-piece unit and fixed in place.
The driver’s seat is comfortable enough and offers adequate support for longer drives. This makes sense because a lot of ID. Buzz Cargo owners will spend a considerable amount of time behind the wheel.
The two-person bench seat on the passenger side, however, is a considerable step down in comfort. You can’t even adjust the backrest angle and it feels like you’re sitting at a 90-degree angle. And two people on the bench seat is rather squishy in terms of space.
It would be nice if Volkswagen considered introducing a two-seat option because although it doesn’t offer the same seating capacity, your passenger will be much more comfy and likely less grumpy when you get to the work site.
Ahead of the driver is a lovely leather-wrapped steering wheel that’s a surprising standard inclusion in a workhorse-oriented commercial van. It offers a great amount of tilt and reach adjustment, meaning plenty of people will be able to get comfortable behind the wheel.
One downside, however, is the steering wheel is fitted with Volkswagen’s annoying touch-sensitive buttons. This is somewhat excusable in the regular ID. Buzz people mover, but it’s frustrating in a commercial vehicle because they get grimy quickly.
It would be nice if the ID. Buzz Cargo came with proper physical steering wheel buttons like all the other models in the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles range. Even the German carmaker’s passenger range is re-adopting these.
Behind the steering wheel is a small digital instrument cluster, as in other Volkswagen ID. models. Despite its size, it shows all the critical information you need to see while driving, and there’s a small amount of custom configuration available to make it more personalised.
Moving across to the centre, there’s a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system that’s properly large, bright and high-resolution. It’s easy to move around the different menus, and if you do get lost there are shortcut buttons that are always present at the top of the screen to make life easier.
It’s occasionally a little frustrating that you need to use the touchscreen to adjust some of the climate control functions, but like the shortcut buttons there’s a range of key features always present at the bottom of the screen. There’s also a physical touch slider under the touchscreen for adjusting the cabin temperature.
If you don’t like using the touchscreen, however, you can interact with the IDA voice assistant. It’s able to change the climate control, among many other functions – including telling you a joke.
Another minor frustration at the launch was that our test vehicles were only equipped with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wireless forms of both phone mirroring systems will be available as part of an over-the-air update in the first quarter of 2025.
That meant we needed to physically plug our phone in using a USB-C cable to use smartphone mirroring. Thankfully, the connection was rock-solid and didn’t waver at any point.
Looking around the cabin, the ID. Buzz Cargo is clearly a commercial vehicle. There are even more harder plastics, if that’s possible, than the people mover.
The door armrests are hard and the flooring is plastic, plus all the interior finishes are boring black, which is far from uncommon in the commercial van space.
Unsurprisingly, there’s a wealth of storage around the cabin, including vast spaces on the dashboard. There’s even a load-through hatch that allows you to extend items from the cargo area into the cabin. It gives you an additional 450mm of load length.
As standard, the ID. Buzz Cargo comes with power-latching side sliding doors and a rear tailgate. You can option power sliding doors, and a power tailgate. Barn doors are also on option.
The load space measures 2208mm long, 1732mm wide (1230mm between the wheel arches), and 1257mm tall. All up there’s 3.9 cubic metres of space.
Volkswagen claims the ID. Buzz Cargo’s load area is large enough to hold two Euro pallets. In terms of amenities there are tie-down points, fastening rails, illumination, a partition between the cabin and load space with a window, and other handy details.
Dimensions
ID. Buzz Cargo
Length
4712mm
Width
1985mm
Height
1927mm
Wheelbase
2989mm
Cargo capacity
3.9m3
To see how the Volkswagen ID. Buzz stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
What’s under the bonnet?
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo has the same electric motor and battery configuration as the ID. Buzz Pro SWB five-seat people mover.
Specifications
Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo
Drivetrain
Single electric motor
Battery
79kWh li-ion
Power
210kW
Torque
550Nm
Drive type
RWD
Weight (kerb)
2374kg
Energy consumption (claimed)
20.3kWh/100km
Energy consumption (as tested)
19.4kWh/100km (100km)
Claimed range
431km
Max AC charge rate
11kW
Max DC charge rate
185kW
Payload
774kg
Gross vehicle mass (GVM)
3150kg
Braked towing capacity
1200kg
To see how the Volkswagen ID. Buzz stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
How does the Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo drive?
Like all Volkswagen Group EVs, you don’t need to actually start up the ID. Buzz Cargo. Instead, all you need to do is hop in, buckle your seatbelt, and press the brake pedal.
When this happens the car will switch on, and all you need to do to get moving is twist the user-friendly column-mounted gear selector to either drive or reverse.
Setting off, this large boxy commercial van is incredibly zippy. Its rear-mounted electric motor offers all 550Nm of torque from standstill, so it’s not underdone in terms of low-speed performance in any regard.
In fact, the ID. Buzz Cargo feels almost performance-car quick at low speeds and around town, which feels incredibly unusual in a commercial van. This makes it confidence-inspiring when you need to set off from the lights, or accelerate with a heavy load onboard.
This big electric van isn’t all about straight-line speed, however. The rear-wheel dynamism gives it a lot of character and actually make it fun to toss around in city streets.
There are two ways to drive the ID. Buzz Cargo. In ‘D’ it drives just like a regular combustion-powered vehicle, requiring you to press the brake pedal to slow down.
But in ‘B’ mode, which is activated by twisting the gear selector to ‘D’ once more, the regenerative braking ramps up when you lift off the accelerator, proving a convenient level of ‘engine braking’. While this was my preferred way to drive this car, there’s no full one-pedal drive mode since you still have to hit the brake pedal to come to a complete stop.
The ID. Buzz Cargo comes with rear drum brakes as standard, which perhaps isn’t surprising given EVs rely a lot more on regenerative braking. But the transition from regenerative braking to regular friction braking can be a little disjointed.
Complementing this car’s zippy rear-mounted electric motor is the well-weighted steering. It’s not too light nor too heavy – Goldilocks would approve.
At low speeds the ID. Buzz Cargo is almost completely silent, and the suspension does a good job of minimising harsh road imperfections. Even opting for the larger 19-inch alloy wheels doesn’t ruin the low-speed ride.
Although this electric van may feel hot-hatch quick around town, there’s no getting around its size when it comes to parking. At just over 4.7 metres long and almost 2.0-metres wide, it’s a big car that fills a parking space.
Thankfully there are front and rear parking sensors as standard, though unlike the people mover there’s only a reversing camera so fortunately it has decent resolution.
Outward visibility isn’t great, but this is pretty common for vans. As standard, there’s a rear window but the centre head restraint blocks your view. And if you opt for the barn doors there’s no rear window at all. Thankfully side visibility is pretty good and the side mirrors are decently sized.
During our media launch, we had the opportunity to briefly drive an ID. Buzz Cargo loaded up with 500kg, which is close to its 774kg payload figure, but only around town at low speeds on Newcastle streets.
While the electric van certainly felt like it had a heavy load on board because it leaned considerably in corners, it didn’t noticeably affect performance. In this regard there’s a light-and-day difference between the ID. Buzz Cargo and the Peugeot E-Expert, which only makes do with a 100kW front-mounted electric motor.
One of the main differences to other EVs in terms of driving is you need to rely on the brakes more, as the regenerative braking system isn’t quite strong enough. The brake pedal feels a little squishy, which is a common trait in vehicles with rear drum brakes instead of discs all around.
The ride while loaded up was surprisingly plush, soaking up pretty much every road imperfection. You can tell this is built to have a heavy load on board. Even harsher speed bumps didn’t faze the ID. Buzz Cargo, though you’d want to make sure your cargo is tied down tight.
Out on the open road the rear-mounted electric motor doesn’t run out of puff. It maintains highway speeds really well and even feels like it has plenty left in the tank for overtaking. This is somewhat surprising, given the brick-shaped silhouette.
It’s not perfect, however, as it can get tossed about a bit in the wind. But the Cargo’s interior doesn’t have nearly as much road noise as its people mover counterpart, thanks to its partition between the cabin and load areas. You can easily have a conversation with your passengers without having to raise your voice.
While the high-speed ride quality of the ID. Buzz people mover with optional 21-inch alloy wheels can be a little rough and unsettled, with smaller 18- and 19-inch wheels the ID. Buzz Cargo is considerably more compliant thanks to the extra sidewall.
On the safety front, the ID. Buzz Cargo is pretty much as fully loaded as the people mover version. The adaptive cruise control is great, like it is in many Volkswagen vehicles, though the undertaking prevention feature does grate.
The Travel Assist function that combines adaptive cruise control and lane centring is a fantastic companion on long highway drives as it reduces driving fatigue. It doesn’t pull at the steering wheel too hard, though on poorly marked roads it can get a little lost.
Lastly, the ID. Buzz Cargo comes with bright LED headlights as standard, though you can option more sophisticated Matrix LED headlights. These are a great feature for dimly lit rural roads, where it allows you to have the high-beams on all the time and will dip only part of the beam when it detects other tail-lights or oncoming headlights.
To see how the Volkswagen ID. Buzz stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
What do you get?
Only one variant of the ID. Buzz Cargo is available from launch.
Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo equipment highlights:
LED headlights
Automatic high-beam
Body-coloured bumpers and door handles
Gloss black, power-folding and heated exterior mirrors
Tailgate with rear window
Rear wiper
Rain-sensing wipers
Dual power-latching sliding doors
18-inch steel wheels
Tyre mobility kit
Tyre pressure monitoring
18-inch front disc brakes with brake pad wear indicator
13-inch rear drum brakes
Electric parking brake
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system
IDA voice assistant
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
DAB+ digital radio
Three-seat layout
2-speaker sound system
2 x USB-C outlets
Dual-zone climate control
Illuminated vanity mirrors
‘Robust’ floor covering in cabin
Fabric upholstery
Lashing rails on side panel, partition
Partition with window, load-through hatch
Hardboard side trim panel in load bay
Wooden load bay floor
To see how the Volkswagen ID. Buzz stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
Options
Like many commercial vehicles, the ID. Buzz is available with a wide variety of optional equipment.
To see how the Volkswagen ID. Buzz stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
Colours
Candy White solid paint is the only standard exterior finish.
Metallic and pearlescent finishes cost an extra $1890. These comprise:
Bay Leaf Green metallic
Energetic Orange metallic
Mono Silver metallic
Pomelo Yellow metallic
Starlight Blue metallic
Deep Black pearlescent
To see how the Volkswagen ID. Buzz stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
Is the Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo safe?
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz has attracted a five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP based on testing conducted in 2022, but Australian sister authority ANCAP has yet to apply a rating locally.
Standard safety equipment includes:
Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
Swerve support
Oncoming vehicle braking when turning
Blind-spot monitoring
Driver attention monitoring
Lane-keep assist
Rear cross-traffic alert
Safe exit warning
Travel Assist
Lane centring
Adaptive cruise control with stop/go
Reversing camera
Front, front-side and curtain airbags
Front and rear parking sensors
All Volkswagen ID. Buzz owners receive a complimentary five-year subscription to a third-party connected services system called Goconnect.
Via the Goconnect phone app, owners can view their parking position, visualise the vehicle’s most recent trips, interact and book appointments with their dealer, view important errors and warnings, check the high-voltage battery status, and more.
To see how the Volkswagen ID. Buzz stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
How much does the Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo cost to run?
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is covered by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, though the high-voltage battery is covered for eight years or 160,000km, whichever comes first.
Coinciding with the launch of the ID. Buzz, Volkswagen Group Australia has detailed its new ‘peace of mind’ package for all of its existing and new EV customers.
Highlights include guaranteed future value, novated leasing options, “all in one” weekly repayments, roadside assist, eight-year/160,000km battery warranty, battery health checks, EV loan cars, and more.
ID. Buzz owners in particular will get discounts at Ampol’s AmpCharge public charging network, as well as discounts on a range of home chargers.
To see how the Volkswagen ID. Buzz stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
CarExpert’s Take on the Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo
If you’re in the market for a delivery van that stands out from the crowd without even having to put signage on it, look no further than this.
During our drive in Newcastle so many people craned their necks just to get a glimpse of this bizarre retro-yet-modern looking box on wheels. It’s very fitting for born-again Kombi van, though I do wish the ID. Buzz Cargo was available with two-tone paint options like the people mover.
In terms of driving dynamics, this is the most engaging van I’ve experienced to date. A lot of European vans verge on feeling almost car-like behind the wheel, but this rear-wheel drive electric van takes it to another level. Its relatively high-output e-motor makes it very zippy, yet it’s also nowhere near as power-hungry as I expected.
I’d go as far to say the ID. Buzz Cargo is my pick out of the entire ID. Buzz range. The cabin so much quieter thanks to the partition between the passenger and cargo spaces, plus the climate control doesn’t have to work as hard to heat/cool the vehicle.
It’s not perfect though. Like many commercial vehicles, hard plastics and finishes abound up front. I’m also not the hugest fan of the black-on-black-on-black interior colourway, especially in a vehicle that’s so loud and characterful on the outside.
Then there’s the price. At $79,990 before on-roads it’s not cheap compared to its most direct competitors, but for a company, fleet buyer or individuals via a novated lease, the ID. Buzz Cargo can actually stack up as good value – as long as you don’t go crazy on the options and you have the ability to charge it at work or home.
Notwithstanding its high price tag, this is the coolest van I’ve ever experienced.
Interested in buying a Volkswagen ID. Buzz? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
DAM Capital Advisors IPO: Unlisted shares of DAM Capital Advisors Ltd are trading at Rs 431 in the grey market, reflecting a GMP of 52.3%, indication a strong listing gain for investors.
DAM Capital Advisors IPO.
DAM Capital Advisors IPO: The initial public offering of domestic investment bank DAM Capital Advisors opened on Thursday. The Rs 840.25-crore IPO has been subscribed over 50 per cent in less than two hours of bidding. Till 11:30 am on the first day on Thursday, the Rs 179.39-crore public issue garnered bids for 2,08,04,632 shares, significantly surpassing the 1,28,89,653 shares on offer, resulting in a subscription rate of 0.62 times.
The price band for the offering has been set between Rs 230 and Rs 243 per share.
DAM Capital Advisors IPO: Category-Wise Subscription
Retail Investors: 1 times subscription
Non-Institutional Investors (NII): 0.56 times subscription
DAM Capital Advisors IPO: Key Dates
Closing Date: December 23 (Monday)
Allotment Finalisation: December 24
Listing on BSE and NSE: December 27 (Friday)
DAM Capital Advisors IPO GMP Today
As per market observers, the unlisted shares of DAM Capital Advisors Ltd are trading at Rs 431 in the grey market, reflecting a premium of Rs 148 (52.3%) over the upper price band of Rs 283. This indicates a potentially strong listing on December 27.
About the IPO
The DAM Capital Advisors IPO is entirely an offer for sale of 2.97 crore shares. Its price band has been fixed at Rs 269 to Rs 283 per share.
The minimum lot size for an application is 53. The minimum amount of investment required by retail investors is Rs 14,999. The minimum lot size investment for small NII is 14 lots (742 shares), amounting to Rs 2,09,986, and for big NII, it is 67 lots (3,551 shares), amounting to Rs 10,04,933.
Nuvama Wealth Management Limited is the book running lead manager of the DAM Capital Advisors IPO, while Link Intime India Private Ltd is the registrar for the issue.
News business » ipo DAM Capital Advisors IPO Day 1: Retail Portion Fully Subscribed, Issue Gets 0.62x Subscription, Check GMP Today
WazirX hack news has taken a dramatic turn as the Delhi High Court ordered a fresh investigation into the $235 million breach, following the Police’s failure to find criminal evidence in their initial probe. Coinciding with this development, Binance declared its intent to delist WazirX’s native token, WRX, on December 18th, escalating challenges for the exchange.
Allegation of Fraud and North Korea Involvement
The court’s directive came regarding a cyber attack reportedly from the North Korean hacking group, that was able exploit the vulnerabilities of the intended platform during the period of sJuly 2024. While attempts to recovery the stolen money have been made , only 57 percent of the lost amount could be recovered implying that 43 percent of the stolen customer money is untraceable.
It also drew focus to Masud Alam, a man from West Bengal, who was arrested in November. Alam is alleged to have signed up the fake account which was later sold to a hacker through the Telegram platform to affect WazirX. The actual perpetrator of the attack as still on the loose and this increases pressure on the police force to produce good results.
Of Binance, Delisting and WRX Impacts
The ruling arrived shortly after Binance moved to suspend its WRX listings over the company’s failure to meet the set operational norms. Although Binance, which has always refuted having any ownership stake in WazirX, says the mentioned exchange platform is operating under Indian laws by Zanmai Labs.
The delisting due to be implemented on December 25 has already sparked reactions in the market, with the value of WRX falling over 51% as of writing. Regarding operational integrity concerns, investors’ trust in the platform is still declining.
A Path to Recovery?
Recently WazirX has stated that it intends to relaunch the platform with a focus on better service and increased transparency and has announced its 5th town hall meeting. It has the vision to begin reopening under a recovery-oriented strategy, with the key of forging a new-age DEX.
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FAQs
What Happened to Wazirx
WazirX faced a $235 million hack allegedly linked to North Korean hackers. The Delhi High Court ordered a fresh investigation.
How to Withdraw Money From Wazirx
Users can still withdraw funds, but delays are expected due to ongoing recovery efforts and operational challenges following the hack.
Looking for the most recent Mini Crossword answer? Click here for today’s Mini Crossword hints, as well as our daily answers and hints for The New York Times Wordle, Strands and Connections puzzles.
I host a cookie swap every year, and so I figured I could ace the two Mini Crossword clues about cookie cutters. Not quite. I nailed one of them, but I figured the other one was TREE, which it was not. For the rest of today’s Mini Crossword puzzle, I did OK. But if you’re stuck, we’ve got the answers. And if you could use some hints and guidance for daily solving, check out our Mini Crossword tips.
The Mini Crossword is just one of many games in the Times’ games collection. If you’re looking for today’s Wordle, Connections and Strands answers, you can visit CNET’s NYT puzzle hints page.
Read more: Tips and Tricks for Solving The New York Times Mini Crossword
Let’s get at those Mini Crossword clues and answers.
The completed NYT Mini Crossword puzzle for Dec. 19, 2024.
NYT/Screenshot by CNET
Mini across clues and answers
1A clue: Common Christmas cookie cutter shape Answer: BELL
5A clue: Opera solos Answer: ARIAS
7A clue: “Forrest Gump” character who calls shrimp “the fruit of the sea” Answer: BUBBA
8A clue: Attire for a baker Answer: APRON
9A clue: Common Christmas cookie cutter shape Answer: STAR
Mini down clues and answers
1D clue: Rum-soaked cakes Answer: BABAS
2D clue: Spew lava Answer: ERUPT
3D clue: Zodiac sign associated with justice Answer: LIBRA
4D clue: What a doula might help you through Answer: LABOR
6D clue: ___ Francisco Answer: SAN
How to play more Mini Crosswords
The New York Times Games section offers a large number of online games, but only some of them are free for all to play. You can play the current day’s Mini Crossword for free, but you’ll need a subscription to the Times Games section to play older puzzles from the archives.
Fox News’ Health newsletter brings you stories on the latest developments in health care, wellness, diseases, mental health and more.
TOP 3:
– Science reveals why women sometimes get “the ick” and feel disgusted by men.
– Nearly 900 million people under age 50 have an incurable and highly contagious STD.
– A specific type of cooking oil has been linked to colon cancer in a new study.
“The ick” describes a feeling of disgust toward the actions, appearances and other characteristics of someone’s partner, which experts say can have a “protective power.”(iStock)
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A day after two groups clashed with each other at a restaurant here, the Gurugram police on Tuesday arrested three people, including the owner of the eatery, officials said. Both sides have filed FIRs against each other at the Shivaji Nagar police station, they said.
Around two dozen men had created a ruckus at the ‘Roti Boti’ restaurant located in the old jail complex near Sohna Chowk on Monday night. According to police sources, the spot is thronged by people who openly drink and sell liquor.
Based on the complaints of both parties, the police registered a cross-case and arrested three accused — Aniket, a resident of Khandsa village, Hemant Sharma and Mohit, residents of Islampur village, said police. “Two cases have been registered against accused Aniket under Excise Act in Gurugram. We are conducting raids to nab other accused,” said the spokesperson of Gurugram police.
(Disclaimer: Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-12-18/Xi-urges-deepening-rural-reform-building-up-strength-in-agriculture-1zqXQI6rxWE/img/e8425183a5094a5aab2b361aaa05c7f8/e8425183a5094a5aab2b361aaa05c7f8.png' alt='A view of Shuikou Village in Huzhou City, east China's Zhejiang Province, December 18, 2024. /CFP'
Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged further deepening rural reform and making solid advances toward building up China’s strength in agriculture.
Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in his instructions on work related to agriculture, rural areas and farmers at the annual central rural work conference in Beijing on Tuesday and Wednesday.
It is imperative to improve supporting systems to strengthen agriculture, benefit farmers, enrich rural areas, and advance rural revitalization across the board, Xi said.
Efforts should be made to ensure stable production and supply of grain and other major agricultural products, create more channels for farmers to increase incomes, continuously consolidate and expand the achievements of poverty alleviation, and ensure that no large-scale lapsing or relapsing into poverty occurs, Xi said.
He also called for solid efforts to promote rural development initiatives and turn the countryside into a beautiful and harmonious place for people to live and work in.
He stressed that Party committees and governments at all levels must prioritize the development of agriculture and rural areas, accelerate the modernization of agriculture and rural areas, further consolidate the country’s agricultural foundation, bring greater prosperity to rural areas and farmers, and steadily advance toward the goal of building up China’s strength in agriculture.
Xi’s instructions were conveyed and studied at the conference.
The conference also discussed the draft opinions of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council on further deepening rural reform and steadily promoting all-around rural revitalization.
Breakthrough Therapy designation for Trodelvy was granted based on promising results from the Phase II TROPiCS-03 study, which showed encouraging antitumor activity in both platinum-resistant and platinum-sensitive extensive-stage small cell lung cancer.
Welcome to the Wednesday Cats of Catster! Every week, we share a story from one of our cat-loving Catsters. This week is about Isabel and her sassy rescue, Milly.
Dearest Catsters. I must apologize, I did everyone dirty and left you on a cliffhanger last month… Milly demanded my immediate attention as I missed dinner time by 33 seconds – a staggering new record. She was appalled, and I had to cut the story short. Forgive me.
Good news – I fed Milly on time today! She’s bathing in the sun, all fat and sassy, so I can continue sharing the story of my 10-stage, panic-infused travel journey with Milly from Johannesburg to Cape Town and how I helped her to settle into her new home.
If you missed the previous article, you’ll need to follow us on Instagram so you don’t miss another wild adventure story of me cat-parenting Milly, the cutest, sassiest cat in the southern hemisphere! You can also read it here.
As I Was Saying, Panic Mode 10 Ensued…
The flight was intense. For me, this was because I worried myself sick about Milly and ugly cried almost the entire duration of the flight. For her, this was because she was in the cargo hold of the plane and had no clue what was going on, where she was headed, how long the journey would be, or if she’d ever see the light of day again for 2 straight hours. That’s rough.
When I landed in Cape Town, we had a bit of a struggle to find the cargo department as it was outside the regular terminal and you needed to drive in between what felt like the underbelly of the airport. It made my anxiety worse because I kept thinking, “Milly is here somewhere! What?!”
Nonetheless, we found her, safe and sound. Someone from Global Paws took us to a back room that closed completely so we could transfer her to her other carrier safely. As expected, she was scared, confused, and a little hesitant to climb out once we opened the metal door of the airline carrier. She even seemed a bit lethargic, which indicated to me that she really didn’t have a nice time.
I felt extremely guilty and angry with myself for being the facilitator of this uncomfortable experience she had to endure. But at the end of the day, it was the right thing to do.
Mily’s First Few Days in Cape Town
Once we arrived home, we immediately took her to the dedicated nesting room (our bedroom), closed all the doors and windows, and shut the curtains so it was nice and dark. Milly’s dad lovingly prepared the room before our arrival so it was stocked with the Cat 101 necessities. I only realized a couple of days later that plastic bowls aren’t ideal as they harbor bacteria, and the litterbox was a tad too small at first, which deterred her from using it. So, make sure you get the right gear for your cat. Catster can help you with that!
The first day, she spent most of the time under the bed or in the cupboard; this is normal. Cats like dark, confined spaces as it makes them feel calm and secure. She didn’t eat or use the litterbox at all in the first 24 hours. She did, however, bake biscuits on our bed when we went to sleep, but then retreated back to the closet and slept in there. Which was totally okay, we just let her do her thing.
The next couple of days, we slowly introduced her to the rest of the house, letting her navigate the journey, moving at her own pace and what she felt comfortable with. We always kept the nesting room’s door open for her to retreat to when she heard something or got overwhelmed.
I’d say it took about 3 weeks for her to settle into the new space completely. There were many ups and downs and lots of learning throughout this whole process. I made a whole 21-day vlog if you’re curious to learn more and see how Milly settled in day-by-day. (Spoiler alert, everything worked out beautifully and she’s happier and healthier than ever before!)
Tips to Help Your Cat Settle Into Their New Space
Here are some quick tips on how to make the moving and settling-in process as comfortable for your cat as you can:
Always Allocate a Safe Space
Put yourself in your cat’s shoes and picture moving from their point of view. The unfamiliar smells, the new rooms, the sheer audacity of it all. Cats find change to be really hard and unsettling. Cats need a small, safe space to process the whole experience before they can really get comfortable and feel safe enough to explore the new home fully.
A safe space in a quiet area of the house is crucial. Make sure to stock it with all their basic needs and anything else that would help them feel at ease. Please be 100% sure that all points of entry are closed at all times in this room and be very careful when entering and exiting yourself (or other household members).
Let Your Cat Explore at Their Own Pace
Cats need to feel that they are in charge of their decisions and movements, it’s just part of their nature. They’ll tell you when they’re ready to explore beyond the borders of their safe nesting room by sitting in front of the door, being vocal in front of the door, following you to the door when you aim to pop out, etc.
Milly sat in front of the door nearing the end of the second day, so we decided to pick her up, open the door, and show her a brief peek into the living room. She looked with big, curious eyes and demanded to be put down at once. She wanted to explore on her terms.
She walked around a bit, peeped out the window, sniffed around the kitchen, and abruptly ran to her nesting room when a couple of kids ran up the stairs outside and she got a fright. I know, how rude. Nonetheless, it was a successful first step outside. Well, inside, but, outside her safe room.
Give Your Cat Plenty of Attention (But Not Too Much)
Milly loves attention, but she’s also a master of the art of “don’t touch me unless I ask for it.” So, I had to find the balance—giving her affection without overwhelming her.
I gave her a lot of love—when she wanted it. When Milly was seeking attention, I’d gladly offer pets, scratches behind the ears, some quality lap time, and of course, bum pats. But when she gave me “the look” or hid under the bed (her dramatic “leave me alone” signal), I respected her space.
Go with your cat’s flow – don’t be pushy!
Keep Their Routine as Normal as Possible
One of the most important things I learned was to keep Milly’s routine as consistent as possible. Cats thrive on routine, and Milly’s regular feeding schedule was not to be messed with. I didn’t change anything about her regular routine, even though everything else was new. I kept feeding her at the same times, and I made sure to spend time playing with her every evening. This consistency made Milly feel like at least *some* things in her world felt familiar.
Patience is Your Best Friend
This is the hardest one to admit: patience is key. The transition wasn’t instant. It took time. And Milly, being the queen she is, wasn’t in any rush to adjust. But slowly, I could see her becoming more comfortable. And that’s the thing—there’s no magic formula, just a lot of time and understanding.
I let Milly adjust at her own pace. I didn’t force her to explore, I didn’t push her to interact, and I definitely didn’t rush her into things. The best thing you can do is wait for your cat to feel ready.
Moving is tough, especially when you’re trying to make sure your cat feels comfortable during this process. Just remember, your cat will adjust in their own time. So, go ahead—give them their space, stick to their routine, and most importantly, *don’t mess with their dinner time.* Eventually, they’ll come around… and when they do, you’ll both be able to enjoy your new life together.
I hope this brings a smile and a bit of insight into your own moving adventures with your cat!
Catch me and Milly next month with another exhilarating cat parenthood story. Next up, everything you need to know about getting a tattoo of your cat! Yup, you read that right.
Cheers vir eers!
(cheers for now)
This article features Isabel and Milly in our Wednesday Cats of Catster series.
Chennai-based real estate development firm Golden Homes Pvt Ltd plans to expand to other cities, including Tiruchi, Coimbatore and Madurai. The company has done around 150 projects only in Chennai, said its Chairman and managing director Balsingh George.
“We are also looking at expanding in Bengaluru,” he told newspersons. George announced that his son Joel George is now ready to take over the baton from him.
Georger said the company’s latest project is providing plots, villas and flats in 23 acres in Old Mahabalipuram Road (near Tiruporur). He did not disclose the investment.
Also read: Fund raising by InvITs slows down, REITs keep up momentum
Pri kreiranju rubrike Index Shopping nastojimo izdvajati odlične proizvode koji se i nama sviđaju te odlične akcije i popuste. Ne objavljujemo proizvode koje i sami ne bismo kupili ili smatramo da njihova promocija nije u skladu s profesionalnim standardima. Neki proizvodi u rubrici Index Shopping mogu biti sponzorirani.
GLUMICA Elle Fanning trenutačno se nalazi u Velikoj Britaniji u sklopu promoviranja biografskog filma o Bobu Dylanu, A Complete Unknown, u kojemu glumi s Timothéejem Chalametom, Monicom Barbaro i Edwardom Nortonom. Na svojem je Instagramu objavila fotografije iz Britanije i oduševila svojom odjevnom kombinacijom.
Budući da se radnja filma odvija 1960-ih, ona i njezina stilistica Samantha McMillen eksperimentiraju sa zabavnim retro izgledima, labavo inspiriranima tim razdobljem. Na fotografijama koje je objavila nosi Versace sako, jednostavne crne tajice i visoke Stuart Weitzman čizme.
“Izgledaš fantastično”
Njezina se odjevna kombinacija mnogima svidjela, tim više što ne viđamo često tajice u kombinaciji s elegantnim čizmama s visokom potpeticom. Rezultat se jako svidio i nama.
“Kao Bond djevojka”, “Neodoljivo”, “Odlično izgledaš sva u crnom”, “Ovo je tako kul”, “Izgledaš fantastično”, “Odlične čizme”, “Obožavam ovakve čizme, super ti stoje”, neki su od komentara na njezinu objavu.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Budući da su najveću pozornost privukle čizme koje su ipak bezvremenski klasik, pronašli smo Stuart Weitzman čizme kakve je Elle nosila, ali i slične povoljnije komade.
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GIRLS
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From major elections across the globe to conflicts and crises, the year 2024 was critical for the news industry, said Google News on Wednesday. These significant events highlighted the important role of newsrooms in providing accurate and timely information, said the company, highlighting its contributions to fight misinformation in the Indian news ecosystem.
In 2024, the tech giant supported the Shakti initiative — a collaboration to combat misinformation and provided AI training to newsrooms.
It also empowered India’s news ecosystem through initiatives like the Indian Languages Programme, boosting user engagement and ad revenue for local publishers, as well as expanded Google News Showcase.
“We’re proud of the significant impact of our scaled and in-depth work with Indian news publishers, spanning efforts to understand new user behaviors and revenue streams, programmes that have driven modernisation and substantial revenue increases, and collaborative initiatives like Shakti, which has established a robust framework for combating misinformation,” said Durga Raghunath, Head of India News Partnerships.
Raghunath noted that the Shakti initiative brought together over 50 news publishers and 300 journalists to debunk misinformation and deepfakes in 10 local languages, reaching a vast audience.
She added that the programme “enabled newsrooms to publish fact-checks 78 per cent faster and facilitated the creation of over 67 new fact-checking desks”.
“In just three months, over 6,600 fact-checks were amplified, leading to a 180 per cent surge in regional language fact-checks and a 92 per cent increase in election-related fact-checks,” Raghunath noted.
Further, recognising the transformative potential of AI in journalism (with transcription, research, translation, or data analysis), Google in 2024 introduced new training programmes. These programmes were aimed at “empowering news organisations to integrate these technologies responsibly”.
The company also expanded Google News Showcase in 2024. Showcase now covers 8 languages including Kannada, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Bengali, English, and Hindi.
In addition, Google News Initiative’s (GNI) Indian Languages Programme has since June 2023 “supported 500+ publishers from 28 states in nine languages” who saw “a 15 per cent increase in active users and a 32 per cent increase in page views”.
Raghunath said the company further aims to “create value for both news publishers and Google in 2025”.
Mary Haddock’s 17th-century tomb in Leigh-on-Sea has been officially protected as a historic site, celebrated for its connection to the Tintin comics.
A 17th-century English tomb linked to the beloved Tintin comics has been granted official protection as a “remarkable” historic place by heritage chiefs. In sleepy Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, far from the snowy mountains of Tibet where the intrepid young reporter Tintin roamed, lies the tomb of Mary Haddock, mother of Admiral Richard Haddock.
The admiral is believed to have inspired the character of the ill-tempered Captain Haddock in Belgium author Herge’s “Adventures of Tintin”. Known for his inventive expletives like “blue blistering barnacles!”, the comic captain was a seafarer like Richard Haddock. (Also read: White Christmas at risk: How climate change is impacting winter tourism )
Mary Haddock’s tomb recognised as remarkable historic site in England
Mary Haddock’s tomb is “notable as a single monument dedicated to a named woman in a period of gender inequality”, according to Historic England, which announced “17 remarkable and unusual historic buildings and places” listed this year on Wednesday.
Other quirky additions include a brutalist concrete Baptist church in Bristol, southwest England, which has a Tesco supermarket on its ground floor and is known locally as the “church above the shops”. Historic England classed the 1960s building as a “striking example of post-war church architecture”. A former bungalow-style maternity ward and an early 20th-century fingerpost — a crossroads signal with pointing fingers at the ends of the direction arms — were also listed as Grade II sites this year.
The annual roundup highlights little-known and quirky heritage sites among the 211 buildings and sites of historic interest listed in 2024. Heritage Minister Chris Bryant said it was a celebration of the “hard work to protect and preserve some truly unique buildings and places that have helped shape our cultural history.”
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News / Lifestyle / Travel / Tintin fans and tourists can now visit historic 17th-century tomb linked to Captain Haddock in Essex
This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.
One of the biggest events in PC gaming, the Steam Winter Sale is about to return for 2024.
The Steam Winter Sale has been given a December 19 start date and a 6pm GMT UK start time. Indeed, if you are thinking of buying a full-priced Steam game, it might be worth waiting.
Unlike the recent Autumn Sale, the latest event runs for two whole weeks, meaning you can take advantage of all the Steam and Steam Deck discounts until January 2.
And thanks to a newly released trailer further down the page, we already know some of the discounts available as part of the event.
As you can see from the trailer below, the Steam Winter Sale will include discounts on relatively new releases such as Metal Slug Tactics.
That’s on top of discounts for Assassin’s Creed Mirage, CarX Street and sandbox survival game Core Keeper.
Fans can also expect discounts on blockbusters such as Helldivers 2, Final Fantasy 16 and surprise hit Manor Lords.
Colourful games like Castle Crashers and Planet Coaster 2 will receive discounts, alongside the unique TCG Card Shop Simulator.
Last year’s Game of the Year Baldur’s Gate 3 will receive a discount, which is ideal if you have it on your Wishlist.
Finally, there are discounts for the likes of The Last of Us Part 1 and recent platforming remake Sonic X Shadow Generations.
Of course, some games have already been discounted before the event has even started.
Call of Duty Black Ops 6 is reduced to £52.49 for the Standard Edition, or £79.99 for the Vault Edition.
Other games currently available at a discounted price include God of War Ragnarok for £39.99. Don’t be surprised if LEGO Horizon Adventures also receives a price cut.
Containing one of the best games ever made, fans can purchase the Mass Effect Legendary Edition for just £3.99. That’s an absolute steal.
Lots of Resident Evil games have already been discounted, alongside Star Wars Jedi Survivor for £14.99 and Hades for £8.39.
Note: This is an updated version of a review first published in June, as there have been no major changes to pricing for specification in the past six months since publication, bar the discontinuation of petrol models.
We have updated key details such as pricing and specifications with the most up to date information available.Read the original version here
WATCH: Paul’s video review of the 2020 Toyota Corolla Hatch ZR Hybrid
Like the Volkswagen Golf, it’s one of those cars everyone recognises. Until recently it had a stint as the world’s most popular car – some 50 million have been produced since the nameplate’s introduction back in the 1960s.
Chances are your parents owned one, you’ve owned one, or you’ve at least ridden in one – these days so many are used as Uber’s, you’d be living under a rock if you hadn’t had some sort of experience.
It remains one of Australia’s most popular vehicles, which is admirable given the state of the market. Passenger cars just aren’t in favour, though the Corolla still manages to consistently clinch a spot in the top 10 of the VFACTS sales charts every month.
Here on test we have the Toyota Corolla Sedan Ascent Sport Hybrid, the most affordable version of the Japanese brand’s small sedan with electrified power.
It’s no secret the Corolla’s reputation for dependability and efficiency are key drivers for its popularity, but it’s always good to revisit a family favourite as more competitors come into market.
More than ever, players like Toyota are under attack from Chinese challengers. This Corolla Sedan, for example, is about then same price drive-away as an all-electric GWM Ora ($35,990 D/A).
Not direct rivals on paper, but as we’ve seen of late Australian customers cross-shop some odd matchups. Does the Corolla Hybrid still deserve to be a top pick?
How does the Toyota Corolla compare?
View a detailed breakdown of the Toyota Corolla against similarly sized vehicles.
Toyota
Corolla
How much does the Toyota Corolla cost?
Like the Corolla Hatch, the Corolla Sedan is now hybrid only. This base Ascent Sport Hybrid starts proceedings at $32,110 plus on-road costs.
Model
Price before on-road costs
2025 Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport Hybrid hatch
$32,110
2025 Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport Hybrid sedan
$32,230
2025 Toyota Corolla SX Hybrid sedan
$34,920
2025 Toyota Corolla SX Hybrid hatch
$35,260
2025 Toyota Corolla ZR Hybrid hatch
$39,100
2025 Toyota Corolla ZR Hybrid sedan
$40,260
To see how the Corolla Hybrid shapes up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool
What is the Toyota Corolla like on the inside?
The Corolla is already an economy car and in base spec is suitably basic inside, if functional and solidly built.
It’s not hard to see where Toyota has saved money in this fleet-focused specification, from the hard door plastics to the untrimmed urethane steering wheel – it’s all basic, but it still works.
Ergonomics are sound and overall comfort is pretty good. The cloth seats are supportive and adjustable enough, and the compact steering wheel feels nice, and has the requisite controls that are super easy to get your head around.
Clearly a focus on simplicity and function has been employed here, and everything just works as you’d expect without much flair or fanfare. That’s all many will ever need.
While there’s a higher ratio of hard-wearing materials and surfaces in the cabin of the Ascent Sport, everything feels well screwed together and built to last – perhaps with the exception of the centre tunnel, which can shift slightly when pressed or wobbled.
Ahead of the driver is a basic 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster flanked by dot matrix-style gauges for fuel level and engine temperature.
While it’s not as swish as the 12.3-inch full-digital panel in the ZR, a version of this display is standard on a lot of Lexus models that cost two or three times as much – riddle me that.
It’s a colour display with a few customisable elements, and does the job just fine. Is it a patch on the digital cockpits in a Volkswagen Golf? Not quite, but that’s not the point here.
The 8.0 central touchscreen is running Toyota’s latest interface and features standard navigation in the hybrid, in addition to wireless smartphone mirroring. It all worked flawlessly during our time with the car.
As we’ve noted in Toyota and Lexus reviews past the software is pretty basic but easy to use, and in this entry-level grade is more than fitting for the money. If anything, it’s one of the more premium touches.
You also get a complimentary 12-month subscription to Toyota Connected Services which brings functionality including SOS emergency call, automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle tracking, and remote services via the myToyota Connect app. There are connected navigation functions too.
It’s a shame the initial free period is only 12 months, and Toyota charges between $9.95 and $12.50 per month after that depending on the package you choose. Other brands offer five to seven years upfront.
Storage up front is pretty good, with plenty of slots and cubbies for your odds and ends. I particularly like the phone-shaped cubby under the dashboard, though there’s no wireless charger in this trim.
If you’re planning to use the second row often, the Corolla Sedan easily beats out the Corolla Hatch.
Part of that is down to the 60mm extended wheelbase, which opens up more leg- and knee room. I’m 6’1 and definitely noticed the difference behind my preferred driving position.
It’s otherwise quite basic in the back, perhaps moreso than the front. You lose rear air vents to higher grades and get a storage slot in its place, but there’s still a fold-down centre armrest with cupholders.
ISOFIX and top tether points keep the kiddies catered for too. Basics covered, nothing more and nothing less.
The Corolla Sedan offers 470 litres of boot space, which is well up on the Corolla Hatch’s 217L. It’s immensely practical for the class, and goes some way to explaining why you’d opt for the sedan over the hatch.
The boot itself opens nice and wide, making it simple to slot in awkwardly shaped items. A space saver spare lives under the boot floor.
Dimensions
Toyota Corolla Sedan
Length
4630mm
Width
1780mm
Height
1435mm
Wheelbase
2700mm
Boot capacity (VDA)
470 litres
To see how the Corolla Hybrid shapes up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool
What’s under the bonnet?
The Corolla Hybrid was updated in 2023 with the brand’s fifth-generation hybrid technology, encompassing a newly developed high-output motor generator, power control unit, and downsized hybrid transaxle.
Technical Specifications
Toyota Corolla Sedan Hybrid
Engine
1.8-litre 4cyl hybrid
Power
103kW – combined
Torque
142Nm – petrol engine only
Transmission
CVT auto
Driven Wheels
Front-wheel drive
Weight
1430kg (kerb)
Fuel economy (claimed)
3.9L/100km
Fuel tank
43 litres
Required fuel
91 octane regular unleaded
Another key upgrade was the introduction of a new lithium-ion battery in place of the outgoing nickel metal hydride power storage unit, which reduces weight by 14 per cent while increasing both input and output power.
It should also mean the Corolla Hybrid can spend more time in EV mode which helps boost efficiency. As a result, the updated model offers more power and performance, while maintaining its predecessor’s benchmark efficiency claims.
To see how the Corolla Hybrid shapes up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool
How does the Toyota Corolla drive?
The Corolla Hybrid’s updated drivetrain certainly makes a difference on the road.
While its 103kW system output still is pretty meek compared to some turbocharged rivals, it’s noticeably more eager than the old 90kW model and the new electrified components make this feel more, erm… electrified.
There’s more low-end punch from the electric motor and the Corolla seems happier to lean on e-power for longer, courtesy of hybrid bits that have proven themselves in the likes of the smaller Yaris.
You can genuinely accelerate off the line to 30 or 40km/h in EV Mode at moderate pace, and the car is more keen to shut off the petrol engine when you lift off the throttle as the speeds climb.
Even at 100km/h you’ll often see the EV Mode indicator flash up on flat ground, making the Corolla Hybrid more efficient on the highway as the engine isn’t constantly humming away. We saw it hover in the low 4.0L/100km during a week of mixed conditions, which is excellent.
As before, general comfort and refinement are good. The Corolla rides really nicely on all road surfaces and that combines nicely with the accurate and well-weighted driver controls.
It’s quite a fun thing to steer, with predictable response and buttery fluidity of a more expensive vehicle. This is a common takeaway I’ve had from pretty much every TNGA-based car I’ve driven.
Perhaps where the Corolla is let down is road noise insulation. We noticed a bit of tyre roar particularly over rougher patches of road – not a dealbreaker, but it’s a knock on an otherwise very capable package.
At least its aerodynamic shape means it cuts through the air nicely, so you don’t get a whole lot of wind whistle over the front pillars or mirrors even at 100-110km/h.
The slick manoeuvrability translates well to the urban grind, making city streets and car parks a cinch.
Light steering and decent outward visibility make for an easy city commuter, bolstered by the decent reversing camera.
Sadly, Ascent Sport versions of the Corolla Sedan miss out on blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, despite the former being standard across all Corolla Hatch models.
The base Corolla is otherwise kitted out with a heap of assistance and active safety features, something not always expected of an entry grade.
Toyota’s adaptive cruise and Lane Trace Assist have evolved in leaps and bounds from previous iterations, and are now a genuinely competitive set of features.
The Corolla will maintain a set speed and distance from the car ahead intuitively whilst also following highway lane markings without yanking suddenly at the wheel.
Further, the standard LED headlights are nice and bright, and the traffic sign recognition doesn’t beep and bong at you constantly like some Korean competition.
There is a function that has an annoying lady say “please obey all traffic regulations” when you go over the detected limit, but thankfully she can be turned off (and kept off) in the touchscreen.
To see how the Corolla Hybrid shapes up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool
What do you get?
The Corolla Ascent Sport is the entry grade in a three-tier trim walk.
Corolla Ascent Sport equipment highlights:
4.2-inch instrument cluster screen (Sedan)
7.0-inch instrument cluster screen (Hybrid)
8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Wireless Apple CarPlay
Wired Android Auto
DAB+ digital radio
Satellite navigation (Hybrid)
Illuminated vanity mirrors
Rear seat reminder
6-speaker sound system
Automatic bi-LED headlights
Automatic high-beam
LED daytime running lights and tail lights
Air-conditioning
16-inch alloy wheels
60/40 split-fold rear seats with centre armrest
Heated, power-folding mirrors
Reversing camera
Toyota Connected Services (12mth subscription)
Spare wheel (Hybrid)
Keyless entry and start (Hybrid)
Convenience Pack ($1000) adds:
Blind-spot monitoring (Sedan)
Rear-cross traffic alert
Front, rear parking sensors (Hatch)
ZR shown
Corolla SX adds:
Rain-sensing wipers
Electrochromatic rear-view mirror
Remote climate control pre-conditioning
Front and rear parking sensors
Satellite navigation
Blind-spot monitoring
Rear cross-traffic alert
Leatherette-wrapped steering wheel, shifter
LED fog lights
Auto-folding side mirrors
Keyless entry and start
Privacy glass
Wireless phone charging
USB charging port
Electric parking brake
7.0-inch driver cluster display
Spare wheel
Corolla ZR adds:
18-inch alloy wheels
JBL sound system, 9 speakers
Front sports seats
8-way power driver’s seat incl. lumbar
Leatherette seat accents (Sedan)
Heated front seats
Head-up display
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
Ambient lighting
Electric sunroof (Sedan)
To see how the Corolla Hybrid shapes up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool
Is the Toyota Corolla safe?
The Toyota Corolla wears a five-star ANCAP safety rating based on testing conducted in 2018.
Category
Toyota Corolla
Adult occupant protection
96 per cent
Child occupant protection
83 per cent
Vulnerable road user protection
86 per cent
Safety assist
76 per cent
Standard safety equipment includes:
7 airbags incl. driver’s knee
Adaptive cruise control
Autonomous emergency braking
Pedestrian, Cyclist, Motorcycle detection
Junction assist
Emergency steering assist
Lane departure warning
Lane keep assist
Lane Trace Assist
Traffic sign recognition
Reversing camera
SX and up add:
Blind-spot monitoring (Sedan)
Rear cross-traffic alert
To see how the Corolla Hybrid shapes up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool
How much does the Toyota Corolla cost to run?
The Corolla is backed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty – which extends to seven years on the engine provided the car according to the service schedule within Toyota’s national dealer network.
Servicing and Warranty
Toyota Corolla Sedan
Warranty
5 years, unlimited kilometres – vehicle 10 years, unlimited kilometres – hybrid driveline, conditional
Roadside assistance
$99 per year
Service intervals
12 months or 15,000 kilometres
Capped-price servicing
Up to 5 years or 75,000 kilometres
Total capped-price service cost
$245 per year $1225 – 5 years
Hybrid models get up to 10 years of driveline warranty coverage “as long as you undertake your annual inspection as part of routine maintenance according to the vehicle logbook”.
To see how the Corolla Hybrid shapes up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool
CarExpert’s Take on the Toyota Corolla
The Corolla has always been a safe buy, and this latest one definitely doesn’t break tradition.
It’s cheap, spacious, efficient, and should be endlessly reliable. There’s little wonder you see so many of them on the road even in these SUV-hungry times, and why they’re a vehicle of choice for fleet and rideshare operators spending hours behind the wheel.
Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA) has afforded even its most basic cars excellent dynamics and all-round competence on the road, and even the economy-chasing Corolla Hybrid is a keen steer. No longer do cars chasing efficiency at all costs have to be boring to drive.
The Corolla Hybrid, regardless of trim, remains an easy pick for those wanting the most cost-effective small passenger car to run, and the Corolla Sedan beats its hatchback sibling with better rear space and a cavernous boot in relative terms.
While the SX and ZR trims offer desirable luxuries for private buyers, the Corolla Ascent Sport Hybrid remains a great choice for fleets, and it’s an easy recommendation to make for those wanting cheap, basic transport. It’s a winning formula that’s hard to beat.
Interested in buying a Toyota Corolla? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
On a gross basis, India’s direct tax collections in the current financial year till December 17, 2024, stood at Rs 19,21,508 crore, a 20.32 per cent jump as compared to the corresponding period last year.
The taxes include corporate tax, non-corporate tax, securities transaction tax, and other taxes.
India’s net direct tax collection grew 16.45 per cent year-on-year to Rs 15,82,584 crore so far in the current financial year 2024-25, according to the latest data from the income tax department released on Wednesday. Advance tax collection during the period rose 21 per cent to Rs 7.56 lakh crore.
On a gross basis, India’s direct tax collections in the current financial year till December 17, 2024, stood at Rs 19,21,508 crore, a 20.32 per cent jump as compared to the corresponding period last year.
These include corporate tax, non-corporate tax, securities transaction tax, and other taxes like fringe benefit tax, wealth tax, banking cash transaction tax, hotel receipt tax, interest tax, expenditure tax, estate duty and gift tax.
The collection includes corporate tax of over Rs 7.42 lakh crore and non-corporate tax mop-up of Rs 7.97 lakh crore. Securities Transaction Tax (STT) of Rs 40,114 crore was collected between April 1-December 17 of current fiscal year.
Refunds worth Rs 3.39 lakh crore were issued during the period, registering a growth of 42.49 per cent year-on-year.
News business » economy Net Direct Tax Collection Jumps 16.45% YoY To Rs 15.82 Lakh Crore In FY25 So Far; Check Details
As 2025 approaches, we are likely to see the cryptocurrency industry still evolving and expanding, offering investors fresh possibilities. And some potential issues, too. It takes both knowledge of current trends and the implementation of wise trading techniques to stay ahead in an ever-changing market. Reducing transaction charges in low-cost trading might become the next big thing, as crypto is back on the right track.
In this article, we will explore the most important crypto trends for 2025, focusing on the value of inexpensive trading platforms and how they enable investors to optimize their holdings.
The Significance of 2025 for Cryptocurrency Investors
2024 was yet another year that proved to the world that cryptocurrencies have the capacity to reshape the financial landscape. With Bitcoin hitting an all-time high (ATH), more and more people have become obsessed with crypto. Traders and investors started looking for new ways to make money, including using a Quick Exchange (like Quickex) mechanism to rapidly trade their assets.
When it comes to 2025, the upcoming months promise some transformative developments. With new crypto trends in mind, traders are looking towards more opportunities for smart and low-cost trading. There are a couple of reasons this year might be significant for crypto investors:
Worldwide Regulatory Developments. Globally, governments are becoming increasingly involved in cryptocurrency regulation. Take El Salvador’s Bitcoin policy, for example, which turned out to be a great success. In addition to giving the market more credibility, the emergence of clearer frameworks attracts new administrations. Trying to cut down expenses, governments will be looking for low-cost alternatives.
Institutional Investor’s Growing Role. Crypto usage is expanding among institutions, affecting market dynamics. The use of digital assets by governments, hedge firms, and pension funds to diversify their holdings is improving market stability. To maintain competitive returns, retail investors can capitalize on this trend by utilizing low-cost exchanges.
Continuous DeFi Involvement. Decentralized Finance (DeFi), which provides decentralized lending, borrowing, and trading options, is still upending established financial structures. High gas costs on some blockchains, however, continue to be an obstacle. Maintaining an active presence in the DeFi ecosystem requires the use of platforms with minimal transaction costs.
TOP 7 Crypto Trends for 2025
The crypto euphoria of late 2024 is very likely to continue, so it would be best to prepare for some of the most interesting crypto trends for 2025.
Trend #1: Low-Cost Quick Crypto Exchanges
Every percentage of transaction fee savings adds up to better total returns as market rivalry heats up. Profitability may be greatly impacted by new and quick crypto exchanges for traders that do a lot of deals.
Imagine a trader using a standard platform. This investor makes 50 trades a month at an average charge of 0.5% for each trade. Now, think about how much this person could save if they switched to a low-cost exchange, charging just 0.1% per transaction.
As Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies surge, traders want to get more of their investments. Cutting down on any additional costs, such as exchange fees, is likely to become a major turning point for many crypto enthusiasts.
Trend #2: Solutions for Layer 2 and the Need for Scalability
Scalability continues to be a major concern as the blockchain ecosystem grows. These issues are being addressed by Layer 2 solutions, which expand upon current blockchains and lower costs while increasing contract speed.
Platforms that make use of Layer 2 solutions, enable traders to take advantage of faster transactions and reduced fees. For active traders who depend on efficiency to optimize returns, this is especially crucial.
Trend #3: The Rising Importance of Stablecoins In Trading
In the ecology of cryptocurrency trading, stablecoins that are based on fiat currencies like USD are growing in significance. The most meaningful example is the USDT. Stablecoins’ adoption plays a vital role in storing money during market downturns since these assets lower volatility. They are also frequently utilized as collateral in DeFi protocols and for cross-border transactions.
Furthermore, as stablecoins will continue being one of the most important crypto trends of 2025, users will be looking for low-cost exchanges allowing them to save money. Utilizing a system supporting well-known stablecoins like USDT and USDC is a must. As a result, traders may more easily protect themselves against market volatility without having to pay expensive transaction fees.
Trend #4: The Involvement of AI-Powered Crypto Tools
If you are looking forward to starting your own crypto investment in 2025, now is the best time to do so. With the wide implementation of AI-powered crypto tools, you can achieve satisfying results easier than ever before.
Artificial intelligence (AI) keeps on transforming our lives in so many ways, cryptocurrency trading included. New and seasoned traders can utilize modern apps and tools in many different ways. Anyhow, two specific directions seem to play a vital part here:
AI in Crypto Trading Market Analysis: AI systems are able to examine enormous volumes of data in order to spot patterns and forecast changes in price.
Automated AI Crypto Trading: AI-driven bots are able to make transactions according to preset standards, doing away with human judgment.
Quicker, easier, and more precise. AI crypto trends for 2025 are sure to reshape the way we view online trading and investments in new coins. These tools frequently depend on high-frequency trading, where even minor costs may have a big impact. Implementing such solutions on a low-cost exchange will additionally provide significant returns.
Trend #5: Switching to Environmental Stability
Whenever cryptocurrencies are becoming the main focal point for investors, potential environmental concerns always arise. The ecological effects of the cryptocurrency business are coming under more scrutiny, especially in relation to energy-intensive mining operations.
As the market evolves, so does the approach to environmental stability across all blockchains. This is an ongoing crypto trend. For example, since Proof-of-Stake (PoS) models use a lot less energy than Proof-of-Work (PoW) models, many blockchain applications are switching to them.
Modern quick exchanges also support the worldwide movement toward sustainability. It is made possible by enabling trading in eco-friendly cryptocurrencies, enabling investors to fund more environmentally stable initiatives without having to pay exorbitant fees.
Trend #6: Wider Adoption of Blockchain Technology
With the inauguration of Donald Trump as the President of the United States, the crypto industry is looking forward to a wider adoption of blockchain technology in the upcoming months. Among crypto trends for 2025, we might be seeing a growing potential for more usecases in such fields as:
Real Estate
Supply Chain Management
Healthcare
As the crypto landscape keeps on reshaping, it pushes towards new prospects in addition to cryptocurrency trading. These changes demonstrate how crucial it is becoming even for ordinary people to comprehend the foundations of blockchain technology.
Throughout 2025, crypto trends might become a double-edged sword, affecting both experts and novice users. By tokenizing real-world assets like housing or artwork, blockchain systems already enable investors to exchange fractional ownership. This tendency is likely to expand.
Trend #7: The Implementation of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs)
As governments investigate digital versions of their fiat currencies, Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) are becoming more and more popular. And they will continue to grow in importance as one of the major crypto trends for 2025. Especially with the concept of de-dollarization on the table.
The goal of CBDCs is to bring together the efficiency of digital assets with the stability of fiatcurrencies. Despite not being cryptocurrencies in the conventional sense, their uptake may increase the number of people using the digital financial ecosystem, which would help the larger crypto market inadvertently.
Thus, the next step for the crypto markets is to push toward the implementation of CBDCs on global crypto exchanges. Such an incorporation can quickly increase the visibility of the new digital assets. This could allow these currencies to be in a good position to meet the changing demands of modern investors. The wider CBDCs will be available, the more governments should think about issuing them via national central banks.
How to Prevent Losses in the Crypto Market: Useful Advice for 2025
Recognizing crypto trends for 2025 is just the beginning. Investors need to implement realistictactics that keep up with these advancements if they want to succeed in the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency sector. Here are a few useful takeaways:
Diversify Your Portfolio. Use major coins (Bitcoin, Ethereum) for stability, invest in stablecoins for risk mitigation, and buy emerging altcoins for promising yield.
Choose Low-Fee Exchanges. Register of Quickex to safely and cheaply exchange hundreds of altcoins with the best rates on the market.
Leverage Educational Resources. Stay ahead of any market changes, follow the latest signals, and follow credible news platforms to get the most reliable insights.
Now or never. 2025 seems like the best moment to go all-in on crypto. However, always remember to follow the trends carefully, if you want to make the most of your investments.
Success in the cryptocurrency landscape depends on remaining educated and implementing astute tactics. Reducing expenses, utilizing new technology, and diversifying portfolios are the keys to accomplishment in 2025. So take these tips and trends into consideration the next time you decide to invest in digital assets!
Hashtag stuffing isn’t as tasty a dish as it once was.
This month, Instagram ended its following hashtags feature. Users can no longer follow hashtags and have that content show up in their feeds or Reels. However, they can still search for a hashtag.
The move is a definite problem for hashtag stuffers — those spammers who include any and every popular and trending hashtag regardless of relevance to get their content in front of more people.
But is the end of Instagram’s follow feature a harbinger for marketers about the future of hashtags?
Yes, according to a handful of marketing experts who responded to CMI’s query on the Qwoted platform.
Forget mass attraction
Robin Dimond CEO & Founder, Fifth & Cor
Robin Dimond, CEO and founder of marketing and innovation firm Fifth & Cor, says the role of hashtags is evolving. “There’s now a tool to enhance relevance rather than to drive mass visibility,” she says.
To optimize their use, she recommends using five to 10 broad and niche hashtags to gain a wider reach and connect with more relevant groups.
Also, lean into other Instagram best practices, such as writing SEO-friendly captions and using trending audio. Collaborate with creators or other brands to boost discoverability.
“While hashtags can support your strategy, they are no longer the centerpiece — authenticity and algorithm-friendly engagement are,” Robin says.
Hashtags count in a different way
Saleh Malik Founder, S-Squared
Saleha Malik, founder of S-Squared, agrees that hashtags still matter, but not the way they used to. She says marketers would do well to adopt a holistic strategy that focuses on engagement metrics, relevancy, and quality content that sparks interaction.
“Once, hashtags were like open-door invitations to broader communities. Using #Travel or #OOTD (opinion of the day) could catapult a post into the feeds of thousands following those topics,” Saleha says.
Now, Instagram prioritizes delivering content tailored to the user’s interests, so its algorithm is more interested in interactions and conference preferences.
She points to sustainable fashion brand Reformation’s Instagram channel. It minimized hashtag usage in its posts — many don’t include any hashtags. This post even uses OOTD in the text in the visual post with three clothing options for being the life of the party — without ever using the hashtag sign.
Instead, Reformation now focuses on encouraging user interaction through questions and polls in Stories to boost its rankings in personalized feeds.
Take a TikTok-like approach
Kaveh Vahdat Founder & President, RiseOpp
Instagram’s move reflects the shift to a more TikTok-like, algorithm-driven approach, says Kaveh Vahdat, founder and president at RiseOpp, a fractional CMO services company.
“On TikTok, while hashtags help categorize content, the platform’s algorithm prioritizes user interactions — such as likes, shares, comments, and watch time — to determine what appears on users’ for-you pages,” he says.
Liam Taylor Content Marketer for Performers & Singers
Liam Taylor, a content marketer for performers and singers, also notes that on TikTok, the best strategy to attract many users is not to use any hashtags.
But that still isn’t the best strategy for Instagram. “The more tags you use, the more it allows you to niche down and reach a specific user,” he says. Still, Liam recommends using no more than three hashtags to attract a target niche.
Kaveh says the most important thing for marketers to do is producing compelling content that resonates with their target audience and fosters engagement, as this is more likely to be favored by the algorithms on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Back to a Google-like strategy
Kate Smoothly Founder & Director, Webhive Digital
Kate Smoothly, founder and director at Webhive Digital, says today’s social media users adopt a Google approach to social media, using these platforms as search tools. So, marketers should follow suit and use keywords to get their content surfaced.
Liam agrees. “You’re better off writing detailed captions, which are engaging and encourage users to interact,” he says.
In the end, how many hashtags to use or not to use is not the question marketers should be answering.
“The most important thing is to find space to experiment. What works today might not work tomorrow. What works for me might not work for you,” Liam says. “Whenever you try a new approach, be sure to measure the results and use that to inform your strategy going forward.”
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Cover image by Joseph Kalinowski/Content Marketing Institute
If you’re a light sleeper, any kind of noise can make sleep feel like a difficult task leaving you restless. There are plenty of sleep products that have come out to help you get into a calm state, ready to sleep. Even with all the best products for relaxation, noise can beat through it all to keep you up. With the best earplugs for sleeping, you can block out excess noise and stay comfortable even while side sleeping, improving your sleep an your overall health.
Read more: Best Smart Home Gifts for 2024
Watch this: First Impressions: Loop Dream Earplugs
There are countless options to consider when shopping for earplugs to wear while sleeping. You’ll want a pair that fits snugly without irritation and helps cut out ambient noise so you can fall asleep with ease. We’ve compiled various options, including traditional foam earplugs and models with different materials, like silicone, that filter noise.
At CNET, our experts have years of experience testing sleep-related products. From the best mattresses to sleep trackers, we know what it takes to actually help you sleep better at night. Check out our picks for the best earplugs for sleeping below.
Read more: Best Mattress Deals: Save Hundreds on Top Mattresses Brands
Best earplugs for sleeping
Mack’s
Like
Affordable
Effectively seals the ear
Don’t like
Earplugs cover the ear canal instead of fitting inside, and failing to use them as directed could lodge them in your ear canal
If you’re strictly a side sleeper, Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Putty Earplugs are the best sleep earplugs for the money. They’re made of soft, fully moldable silicone that conforms to your ear opening and forms an airtight seal that blocks out noise.
Aside from the fact that they could be shaped for a perfect fit, these earplugs were soft and comfortable. They stayed completely flat on my ear opening, so they didn’t hurt to wear. They also stayed in all night; a feat that many standard earplugs haven’t been able to accomplish.
Most importantly, these moldable earplugs did an excellent job at blocking snoring and any other ambient noise (like three large cats play-fighting in the middle of the night).
The six pairs also come neatly packaged in a plastic carrying case, which keeps the silicone clean and free from debris between uses; a small but appreciated touch.
Additional details:
Price: Under $5
Reusable: Up to five uses/nights or until earplugs are no longer sticky
Noise reduction rating: 22 decibels NRR
Comfortable for side sleeping: Yes
Ease of use: Don’t fit like “regular” earplugs so may take some getting used to
Eargasm
Like
Comfortable for side-sleeping
You can cut each earplug/seal for a better fit
Don’t like
More expensive than Mack’s product, but a similar product
The Eargasm Squishies are another moldable silicone option similar to Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Putty Earplugs. The biggest difference, besides the color, is in the directions. Mack’s silicone earplugs must be used whole; you can’t break them or cut them apart.
Eargasm says if the earplugs are too big, you can break off a piece to get that perfect fit. This is helpful if you have small ears and find that using the entire silicone earplug feels too intrusive.
The comfort level was also similar, although the Eargasm Squishies had a slight advantage since I could break off a piece and make it a little smaller. The Eargasm Squishies also comes in a convenient carrying case with eight reusable pairs.
Additional details:
Price: Under $20
Reusable: Yes, but it’s unclear how many uses you’ll get per pair
Noise reduction rating: 22 decibels NRR
Comfortable for side sleeping: Yes
Ease of use: Easy to use
Mack’s
Like
Great for small ear canals
Effectively reduce sound
Don’t like
May not work for larger ear canals
Not designed for multiple uses
The Mack’s Slim Fit Foam Earplugs look like any regular old foam earplugs, but if you have small ears, you may feel the difference in quality immediately. They quickly formed an airtight seal and muffled sound instantly. Loud snoring went from a roaring thunderstorm to a minor distraction that was easy to tune out. These particular earplugs have a noise reduction rating of 31 dB. For reference, most earplugs on the market have a rating of 0 to 30 dB, and the higher the number, the more effective they are.
Mack’s Slim Fit Foam Earplugs are specifically made for small ear canals. Finding the right earplug size makes a huge difference in effectiveness, so keep that in mind. If you don’t have small ears, you can still take advantage of Mack’s advanced snore-blocking technology with its Snore Blockers or Original Soft Foam Earplugs. If you go with any of these options from our best sleep earplugs list, make sure you thoroughly read the directions before putting them in your ears. One of the most common reasons these types of earplugs get a bad review is because they’re not inserted properly.
Additional details:
Price: Under $20
Reusable: No
Noise reduction rating: 31 decibels NRR
Comfort:
Ease of use: Easy to use
Vibes
Like
Great for reducing noise when you want to keep the quality of the sound
Reusable
Don’t like
Not that comfortable for sleeping unless you’re a back sleeper
The Vibes Hi-Fidelity Earplugs are different from the others on this list. They’re actually designed for live music festivals, so rather than blocking out noise, the intent is to lower the decibels of the sound around you to make the noise more manageable. This makes them the ideal choice for traveling when the noise can get overwhelming but you don’t want to be completely checked out from the world as you take a quick snooze. When tested at a store and coffee shop, they did an excellent job blocking out voices, reducing pitches and dulling loud music.
You can also use them for sleeping at home, but only if you’re strictly a back sleeper. The earplugs have a stem that sticks out straight from your ear canal, so not only are they uncomfortable when you’re sleeping on your side, but they could also get pushed too far into your ear and cause problems.
The earplugs come with three different ear tip sizes, so you can find the ideal fit for your ear canal and a small carrying case that makes them easier to travel with.
Pros:
Great for reducing noise when you want to keep the quality of the sound
Reusable
Cons:
Not that comfortable for sleeping unless you’re a back sleeper
Additional details:
Price: Under $30
Reusable: Yes
Sound reduction: Up to 22 decibels (NRR is 15 decibels)
Comfortable for sleeping: No
Ease of use: Easy to use
Loop
Like
Comes with four sizes of adjustable tips
Has a loop you can grab and easily adjust in your ear
Don’t like
Not very easy to switch tip sizes
These reusable silicone earplugs come fixed with a “loop” for making easy adjustments once they’re in your ear. Loop Quiet Earplugs come with four sizes of tips you can choose from to fit your ear canal, which is more selection than a lot of brands. Fixing a new tip size back onto the earplug isn’t the easiest process and requires some focus and finesse. Hopefully, you’d only have to switch tips once or twice to find your size, and then only when you clean them.
Based on reviews, these Loop earplugs seem to work well for some side sleepers. From our testing with side sleeping, they would require some getting used to for longer or everyday use. Due to their easy movement and sleek look, these earplugs would come in handy when you want to turn down the volume and focus. They’re available in mint green and other fun colors.
Additional details:
Price: Under $30
Reusable: Yes
Sound reduction: Up to 27 decibels (14 decibel NRR)
Comfortable for side sleeping: So-so
Ease of use: Easy to adjust once in your ear
Happy Ears
Like
Fit well and barely noticeable
The company sells eco-friendly earplugs
Don’t like
Not the cheapest on the list
Happy Ears is a Swedish company known for its sustainable packaging and recycled material for its earplugs. Happy Ears makes earplugs from ocean plastics and recycled plastics. There is also an “original” earplug that isn’t made from recycled plastics. Even if you don’t buy recycled earplugs, the Happy Ears packaging is recyclable, biodegradable and compostable.
We tested the Original Discovery Pack, which means a package of earplugs comes in small, medium and large sizes for you to choose from. The earplugs are small and straightforward and fit inside the ear canal well. The recycled material earplugs come in black. The earplugs made from ocean plastics are green and reduce two additional decibels of sound.
Additional details:
Price: Under $40
Reusable: Yes
Sound reduction: Up to 25 decibels (original earplug)
Ease of use: Very easy
Comfortable for side-sleeping: Mostly
How we chose the best earplugs for sleeping
When selecting the best earplugs for sleeping, we tested them the only way you can: by wearing them to bed. While testing, we noted each selection’s fit, comfort and quality for the best earplugs for sleeping. We also considered how many decibels the earplugs could reduce, or noise reduction ratings when they were available. Official noise reduction ratings are usually slightly different (and lower) than the average decibel or sound reduction listed because they take into account other factors, Vibes says on its website.
Factors to consider when choosing earplugs for sleep
There’s a lot of variety in earplugs. What works for someone else might not be the best choice for you due to size, shape and material. Here are a few things to look out for.
Safety: It’s important to know whether you’re a good candidate for sleeping in earplugs. People who have an ear infection, a build-up of earwax or other concerns about their ears should check with a doctor before wearing earplugs to sleep. To avoid an infection from wearing your earplugs, you should dispose of disposable earplugs as directed and follow the instructions for your reusable plugs on how to clean them.
Material: This will determine the quality and comfort of the earplugs. Typical materials used are Silicone, wax, foam and cotton. Foam is typically the most common earplug material because it’s the cheapest. On the other hand, Silicone is what you’ll find most reusable options made out of. Wax earplugs give you the benefit of molding them to the shape of your ear.
Noise or sound reduction This is an important one. The noise reduction rating tells you how many decibels the earplugs block. The rating ranges from 0 to 33 dB. So, earplugs with a higher NRR score block out the noise the best.
Whether they’re reusable: Earplugs are available in either single-use or reusable options. There are benefits and drawbacks to each. Single-use earplugs are typically cheaper and suitable for occasional use. If you’re looking to use them regularly, it’s best to invest in reusable options; they’re better for the environment and way more durable.
Price: We all know price is one of the most important parts of shopping for the best earplugs for sleep. A pack of disposable earplugs can seem like the obvious choice based on price, as most packs average around $10. Reusable earplugs may be better suited if you’re looking for a long-term option. They cost a bit more, but you only need to buy them once.
The best kind of earplug for sleeping will depend on preference, although the good options will fit snugly in your ear canal without causing discomfort. During our testing, we found the best earplugs for sleeping to be:
Mack’s Pillow Sock Silicone Putty Earplugs
Eargasm Squishies
Mack’s Slim Fit Foam Earplugs
Vibes Hi-Fidelity Earplugs
Loops Quiet Earplugs
Happy Ears Earplugs
No earplugs block completely block out sound. When testing, we found that Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Putty Earplugs did a great job blocking snoring and other ambient noise.
Earplugs that you can cut or mold to your ear canal will have an edge on those that can’t when blocking sound.
Your sleeping position may be a determining factor in how long it takes you to get used to sleeping in earplugs or whether you love them. Back sleepers typically experience the least amount of problems. Stomach and side sleepers may find that certain earplugs may backfire and make noise as they come in contact with the pillow. Selecting earplugs that don’t stick out of your ears will help side sleepers avoid this.
Usually, yes, as long as you use them as directed. There are side effects you should be aware of. Earplugs may cause earwax buildup and cause ear canal damage if used incorrectly. You also shouldn’t use them if you have signs of an ear infection, like drainage or pain.
If you have reusable earplugs, make sure to follow the directions and regularly clean them. Always throw away the disposable earplugs. Using earplugs that have bacteria on them can lead to an infection.
Other products for drowning out sound
Loud or abrupt sounds can be harmful to your sleep quality, but not everyone will benefit from earplugs. Besides sleep earplugs, here are other products you can use to help drown out unwanted or disruptive noise and get a good night’s sleep.
A patient was hospitalized with a severe case of bird flu in Louisiana, the CDC said.
This case is the first confirmed instance of a severe human infection linked to the H5N1 virus.
The CDC said its assessment of risk to the public remains low.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Wednesday that a patient has been hospitalized with a severe case of H5N1 infection in Louisiana, marking the first known instance of a severe human illness linked to the bird flu virus in the United States.
The case was confirmed by the agency on Friday, it said.
BIRD FLU CAUSES DEATHS OF CATS AND ZOO ANIMALS AS VIRUS SPREADS IN US
The CDC said that a sporadic case of severe H5N1 bird flu illness in a person is not unexpected as has previously been experienced in other countries during 2024 and prior years, including in cases that led to death. The agency said its assessment of risk to the public remains low.
The CDC said on Wednesday a patient has been hospitalized with a severe case of H5N1 infection in Louisiana.(Reuters/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo)
The CDC said that partial viral genome data from the infected patient shows that the virus belongs to the D1.1 genotype, recently detected in wild birds and poultry in the United States and in recent human cases in British Columbia, Canada, and Washington state.
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This genotype of the virus is different from the B3.13 genotype detected in dairy cows, human cases than multiple states, and some poultry outbreaks in the country, CDC said.
There have been a total of 61 human cases of H5 bird flu reported in the United States since April, according to the CDC.
PCB Board Manufacturers Be Used in Aerospace Applications
The electronics used in aerospace require a high level of reliability and durability. They must be able to withstand harsh environmental conditions that would quickly render a standard PCB inoperable. This is especially important since maintenance interventions can be difficult and expensive on aircraft. To meet these requirements, manufacturers must use the most advanced materials and components possible. They must also ensure that the circuit board is designed with the proper tolerances and other requirements created specifically for aerospace applications.
When searching for a pcb board manufacturers, it is crucial to evaluate their reputation and track record. A reputable company will have a solid history of providing customers with high-quality products and excellent customer service. Look for reviews, testimonials, and references from past clients to find a company that is right for your project.
Before a PCB can be made, it must be designed and blueprints are a critical part of this process. The design is a map of the layout of all the components and connections on the board. These blueprints will be the basis for the fabrication process. Once the board is designed, the copper layer can be added. This layer is what carries electrical signals to and from the board, much like your nervous system carries signals between your brain and muscles. This layer can be etched or printed with conductive copper foil or a full copper coating, depending on the desired design of the board.
Can PCB Board Manufacturers Be Used in Aerospace Applications?
Once the copper is in place, it must be protected from corrosion. This can be achieved with an invisible coating that is placed over the exposed copper areas. These coatings typically include aerosol coating and solder masking, although epoxy coatings can be used as well. The coatings act as barriers to prevent oxidation and corrosion, which is the main cause of failure in most PCBs.
In addition to ensuring the highest quality materials, aerospace PCBs must also be designed with the appropriate tolerances and other features created specifically for aerospace applications. These features include separating ground and power planes, and separating parts that generate high and low frequencies. This ensures that interference does not occur between these components and reduces the chance of errors in transmission.
Lastly, aerospace PCBs must also be fabricated to the AS/EN 9100 standard. This standard is similar to the ISO 9001, but it includes additional requirements created specifically for aerospace applications. These requirements include quality assurance, testing, reporting, micro-section analysis, and FAIRS. Some aerospace customers are even stricter than this, requiring up to 200% micro-sectioning for IPC class 3.
With the increasing reliance on advanced electronic technology in the aerospace industry, it is essential that PCBs be designed and manufactured to meet the stringent standards required by the industry. Working with a PCB manufacturer that is AS/EN 9100 certified and has the necessary experience in designing, manufacturing, and testing aerospace-grade circuit boards is vital to success. Imagineering Inc is a premier aerospace PCB manufacturer with the expertise and capabilities needed to deliver exceptional results. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help with your next project.
Sara Tendulkar is a true-blue foodie. Anyone who follows her on Instagram knows that she often shares glimpses of her culinary adventures. On Tuesday, the daughter of cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar indulged in a Japanese delight and posted its snap on her Instagram Stories. The treat? Sashimi. For the unversed, sashimi is raw fish or meat thinly sliced and typically served with soy sauce, wasabi, pickled ginger and daikon radish. In Sara’s post, we could see the neatly sliced fish alongside soy sauce and what appeared to be pickled ginger. Her caption read, “Fresh sashimi.”
Also Read:Watch: Diljit Dosanjh Enjoys Kashmiri Kahwa And Rabab Music On Dal Lake
Take a look:
Earlier, Sara Tendulkar treated her followers to a day full of mouthwatering food. She first shared a picture of a drool-worthy dish with the caption, “Spend a slow Sunday with me.” Later, Sara enjoyed a family lunch where she indulged in a hearty “Gujju thali.” The thali featured bhindi, yellow dal, missi roti, Gujarati kadhi, paneer and sandwich dhokla. We also spotted aloo tamatar and crispy-fried pakodas paired with dahi and chaas. The meethi boondi was the perfect sweet touch.
Following that, Sara Tendulkar went on a “coffee date” with her friend. She sipped on a latte while her BFF enjoyed a hot drink too. One of her Instagram posts also featured almonds, nuts and chocolate chunks. Sara even shared a picture of a glass counter filled with tempting desserts and savoury snacks, including breads, donuts, muffins, hotdogs, quiches and croissants. Click here to read the full story.
Sara Tendulkar is just like the rest of us when it comes to cravings for home-cooked food. Not too long ago, she gave in to her desi food cravings and enjoyed a traditional meal featuring ragi dosa, dry aloo sabzi, yellow dal, paneer bhurji and mint chutney. She shared the delightful spread on her Instagram with the caption, “Ghar ka khana,” along with a drooling face and heart emoji. Full story here.
Also Read: Kareena Kapoor Khan Enjoyed This Dish At Malaika Arora’s Restaurant. Guess What It Is
Sara Tendulkar’s foodie posts always keep us hooked.
As winter settles over Beijing, the city’s 12345 hotline has seen a remarkable 61 percent drop in heating-related complaints. This isn’t a coincidence. This is because since this summer, Beijing’s heating department has proactively repaired the city’s heating system based on frequent issues flagged by residents through the hotline.
Another heartwarming story comes from Ma Shujie, a 63-year-old retired teacher who was struggling to find a suitable nursing home for her 89-year-old mother-in-law. With no luck finding a nearby facility, Ma turned to the 12345 hotline for help. Her request quickly gathered momentum as other similar cases were raised by citizens across Beijing. Thanks to the combined efforts of different government departments, more than 1,000 community-based eldercare stations were established, and Ma’s mother-in-law found a facility just a short walk from her home.
Launched to provide fast solutions to everyday problems, the 12345 hotline has become an indispensable part of Beijing’s urban fabric. From healthcare to housing and even transportation, residents can turn to this government service for everything from emergency requests to general inquiries.
In the six years since its launch, the 12345 hotline has handled an astounding 150 million requests. Resolution rates have skyrocketed from 53 percent to 97 percent, while satisfaction levels have soared from 65 percent to 97.3 percent.
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-12-17/Digitalization-is-revolutionizing-China-s-mega-city-urban-governance-1zpwwAYIGA0/img/7548a8573670496596d40a21caa417be/7548a8573670496596d40a21caa417be.png' alt='The night view of Beijing CBD's skyline. /CFP'
Big data drives long-term changes
The government isn’t just listening. It also uses the big data to drive long-term changes.
“By analyzing vast amounts of data from citizen requests, the platform generates valuable insights that help inform decision-making at the highest levels. It’s an essential tool for science-based governance,” Meng Tianguang, a professor from Tsinghua University’s School of Social Sciences, told CMG.
Taking the case of the Huilongguan and Tiantongyuan areas, two adjacent mega-communities in the northern part of Beijing as an example, the government used 12345 feedback to uncover severe traffic congestion and public facility shortages as the population there swelled far beyond the area’s planned capacity. In response, more than 60 public infrastructure projects were launched in 2018, which improved everything from transportation to healthcare and recreation for residents.
But Beijing’s efforts to improve city governance don’t end there. To make accessing government services even easier, the city has partnered with popular apps like WeChat, Alipay, and Baidu to provide online platforms for handling administrative matters.
On Wechat, citizens can now access nearly a thousand services through the “Jingtong” mini-program, from booking marriage registration appointments to checking traffic or updating social security information. This unified platform spans more than 20 government departments, bringing services to the fingertips of millions.
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-12-17/Digitalization-is-revolutionizing-China-s-mega-city-urban-governance-1zpwwAYIGA0/img/4ca5c37d1756470b82cad9c2a8a56467/4ca5c37d1756470b82cad9c2a8a56467.jpeg' alt='Part of Pudong New Area's "urban brain" system is displayed at the 2024 Shanghai International City and Architecture Expo, Shanghai Municipality, November 1, 2024./CFP
'
China accelerates full-scale urban digitalization
Across China, other large cities are also making changes to improve city governance. From Shanghai to Nanjing, Wuhan to Hangzhou, urban centers are adopting similar hotlines and leveraging digital technologies like AI, big data, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to streamline governance and make urban living more sustainable and citizen-friendly.
Shanghai’s Pudong New Area is one outstanding example. In 2018, the city introduced an ambitious “urban brain” system, integrating cloud computing, big data, and AI with IoT and sensor networks to create a real-time, all-encompassing digital management platform. The system has transformed the way the city monitors everything from traffic patterns to waste management and public safety.
Taking the bike-sharing management system in Pudong as an example, by integrating GPS data from shared bikes with the “urban brain” system, the government can track bike locations in real-time. If an area becomes oversaturated with bikes, the system can prompt companies to redistribute them, ensuring efficient usage while preventing congestion.
Wang Dacheng, Director of the Smart City Engineering Department of the Aerospace Information Research Institute at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, noted that China’s smart city technology is rapidly advancing, entering a phase of full-scale urban digitalization. He stressed the need to continue policy support and investment in 5G, IoT, and cloud computing, alongside promoting AI in urban management, while ensuring interoperability and compatibility through clear technical standards.
Hyper-realistic cats have the gaming community abuzz as Catly made its global debut at this year’s The Game Awards. The stunning trailer gave players their first glimpse into the interactive, charming, and delightfully mischievous open-world cat game. A love letter to felines everywhere, Catly promises to capture everything that makes cats the playful, graceful, and endlessly entertaining companions we know and love.
The trailer showcases an imaginative, technologically innovative world where cats are the undeniable stars. Developed for cat lovers by cat lovers, Catly is a celebration of cat mannerisms and quirks, from their cozy napping habits to their penchant for exploration—and, of course, a touch of chaos. Coming to Steam, Nintendo Switch, and even the Apple Watch, this game is ready to bring purrs of joy to players anywhere, anytime.
What Makes Catly Stand Out
Catly isn’t just another pet simulation game. It is an adventure-driven, open-world experience that empowers cats to accomplish feats that most humans can only dream of—while staying true to the authenticity of feline behavior. The game offers both solo and multiplayer quests filled with exploration, world-building, and charming interactions with stylish feline companions. Catly taps into the fantasy of living life as a cat—but with an imaginative and artistic twist.
Every cat in Catly is unique, offering endless possibilities for customization. Players will be able to accessorize their cats with stylish outfits, quirky accessories, and tailor-made environments to reflect their feline’s personality. The freedom to create one-of-a-kind companions ensures that no two cats—or gameplay experiences—will be alike. It’s a game that encourages creativity and connection, a space where cat lovers can design their dream feline friend and explore an enchanting world alongside them.
Cats, Anywhere and Anytime
One of Catly’s most exciting announcements is its release on the Apple Watch, a platform not typically associated with immersive gaming. This bold move ensures that cat lovers can have their virtual feline companions with them no matter where they are—whether checking in on their cat during a coffee break or completing quick challenges on the go. A little reminder of the Tamagotchi craze in the 1990s.
While Catly is set for more reveals in 2025, the debut trailer alone has proven it’s a game to watch. Its combination of technological innovation, feline charm, and creative freedom makes it a standout in the gaming world. Whether you’re a lifelong cat lover or just someone who appreciates a beautifully crafted experience, Catly promises an adventure full of heart, humor, and endless whisker-filled wonder.
Get ready to pounce into the future of cat gaming—one stylish paw at a time.
Pri kreiranju rubrike Index Shopping nastojimo izdvajati odlične proizvode koji se i nama sviđaju te odlične akcije i popuste. Ne objavljujemo proizvode koje i sami ne bismo kupili ili smatramo da njihova promocija nije u skladu s profesionalnim standardima. Neki proizvodi u rubrici Index Shopping mogu biti sponzorirani.
Sadržaj je nastao u suradnji s: Lidl
BOŽIĆ je ono posebno doba godine kad cijeli dom zrači toplinom, a srca su nam ispunjena radošću. Nema ljepšeg osjećaja nego okupiti obitelj i prijatelje, podijeliti priče i smijeh i – naravno – uživati u bogatoj trpezi.
Nijedan Božić u Hrvatskoj ne može proći bez dobre hrane, jer svaki zalogaj nosi svoju priču – sjećanje na bakine kolače, maminu pečenku ili onu savršenu sarmu koju jedemo nakon ponoćke. Božić je tada više od blagdana, to je vrijeme kada se okupljamo s obitelji, provodimo vrijeme zajedno i čuvamo tradiciju koja nas povezuje.
Što se tiče hrvatskih božićnih jela, pravila su prilično jasna. Na Badnjak su obavezna riblja jela, najčešće bakalar, bilo na bijelo, s krumpirima i češnjakom, ili na crveno. Tu su još jela od slatkovodnih riba, poput šarana, kao i razna morska jela. Često se na stolu nađu i lignje, pripremljene na različite načine.
Božićni stol ne može bez purice, sarme i slastica poput orahnjače
Za Božić, bez iznimke, svi se okreću mesu, a najpopularnija opcija je purica, koja se često poslužuje uz mlince. Osim toga, na stolu se nađu svinjetina, janjetina, a nezaobilazna je i sarma, jelo koje svi obožavaju. I naravno, završava se slasticama, orahnjačom, makovnjačom ili fritulama.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Pronađite sve za blagdanske delicije u Lidlu
Za pripremu svih tih blagdanskih delicija Lidl je vaše pravo odredište. S bogatom ponudom svježih i kvalitetnih namirnica, u Lidlu možete pronaći sve što vam je potrebno za pripremu ovih tradicionalnih jela. Od svježeg bakalara za Badnjak, preko sočnog mesa za savršenu pečenku, do najboljih sastojaka za pripremu sarme za Božić, Lidl nudi širok izbor svježih proizvoda.
Osim toga, Lidl se pobrinuo i za sve sitnije, ali jednako važne sastojke, od brašna, oraha, maslaca i jaja za pripremu božićnih kolača, pa do začina koji će obogatiti okuse vaših jela i slastica. Uz to, Lidl nudi i brojne gotove proizvode koji će vam olakšati pripremu obroka, bilo da tražite predjela, salate ili ukusne priloge koji upotpunjuju blagdanski obrok.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Za savršenu božićnu večeru, Lidl nudi i širok izbor pića, od vina i piva do bezalkoholnih opcija za cijelu obitelj.
Sve ove proizvode možete pronaći na jednom mjestu – u novom Lidlovom katalogu, koji vrijedi od 16.12. do 24.12. Prelistajte ponudu i svratite u Lidl po sve što vam treba.
A sada nas zanima, koji su to proizvodi iz Lidla koje obavezno kupujete za Božić? Podijelite s nama svoje favorite u anketi ispod.
Sponzorirani sadržaj donose Index i Lidl Hrvatska u skladu s najvišim profesionalnim standardima.
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Already poised to turn over most of its offensive line, USC now will have to replace its offensive coach as well.
Josh Henson, who spent the last three seasons leading USC’s offensive line, is leaving to become the offensive coordinator at Purdue, a person familiar with the decision told The Times. While he technically carried the same title at USC, at Purdue, he’ll step into a larger play-calling role for new Boilermakers coach Barry Odom, who previously coached alongside Henson at Missouri.
Henson’s three seasons make him the longest tenured offensive line coach at USC in a decade. But his tenure leading the Trojans front will be remembered as a largely uneven one. After a strong showing in 2022, behind a veteran line, USC’s front took a step back in 2023, then struggled to start the 2024 season, before steadying in the second half of the season.
His departure leaves USC’s offensive line in an even more uncertain state, with three starters to replace and not a lot of depth from which to choose their replacements. Left guard Emmanuel Pregnon and center Jonah Monheim are off to the NFL, while right tackle Mason Murphy has already signed with Auburn as a transfer. Two key reserves on the interior, Gino Quinones and Amos Talalele, have also already entered the transfer portal, along with freshman Kalolo Ta’aga.
More could potentially follow in light of Henson’s departure, putting USC in a precarious position ahead of its bowl game on Dec. 27, with just a few available backups behind a patchwork line. Aside from its two returning starters, Elijah Paige and Alani Noa, the entirety of its returning offensive line corps has just 161 snaps between them, more than half of which belong to offensive tackle Tobias Raymond (86).
Paige, whose presence is now vitally important, assured last week that he planned to stay at USC. But that was prior to Henson’s exit on Tuesday.
“I committed here because I see coach Riley’s vision,” Paige said. “I believe in it. I trust it. I’m a part of it.”
Those plans have already been tested over the last week, as 18 players, four of them linemen, hit the transfer portal. USC will get some reinforcements soon enough, after signing four offensive linemen during the early signing window, including two top-150 tackles. But the Trojans are also expected to target several linemen in the transfer portal.
That wasn’t the path that Riley and Henson had hoped to follow, when they outlined their plans for the offensive line last fall. Then, both made clear they hoped to rely on high school recruiting as their primary focus up front.
But plans have since changed. Henson is now on his way to Purdue. And Riley is left to hire an offensive line coach, with a whole offensive line still left to rebuild after that.
Here’s everything you should know about the strange new travel trend, provocatively termed ‘flying naked’: What it means and what social media has to say.
Before you ask what it means, ‘flying naked’ does not refer to sitting in a plane without any clothes on. Instead, the travel trend that’s being widely discussed on social media right now means flying with minimal belongings. Simply put: flying naked is about stripping away luggage, not clothing. Also read | ‘Sleep divorce’ is new travel trend: Why couples are choosing to ‘break up’ at bedtime while on vacation
Flying naked travel trend is not what you think it is. (Pexels)
‘Flying naked’ is flying with barely anything on you
It is the latest cost-saving travel hack among budget-conscious travellers – instead of hopping on a plane with a carry-on or checking their luggage in, some passengers say they are travelling with the bare minimum. With airlines charging exorbitant fees for extra baggage, more or more people are questioning whether they actually need to bring anything at all.
But as expected, the ‘flying naked’ travel trend is raising eyebrows on social media, with some calling it ‘insane’.
‘Flying naked’ travel trend divides internet
As per a new Fox News report, one TikTok user posted a video of themselves walking through an airport, captioning the footage, “Getting on a plane with no carry-on bags is the weirdest feeling. It’s like you’re just hopping on the local bus and a little while later you [are] off in a completely different city.” Another traveller posted a similar video saying, “Woke up and decided to get on a flight with no checked bag or carry on, just vibes.”
Others on social media said they couldn’t grasp the concept. “I don’t get how come people are on the JFK AirTrain with no bags. Travelling [with] no inventory is insane to me,” another TikTok user said in a video, per Fox News.
This travel trend is not for everyone. For those who can’t imagine travelling without their creature comforts, there are still ways to pack smart and minimise costs. Travel experts share their best tips and tricks for packing light – click here to read them all.
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News / Lifestyle / Travel / ‘Flying naked’ travel trend is raising eyebrows on internet but it’s not what you think
Path of Exile 2 fans are about to be treated to a huge new update on PC (via Steam), PS5 and Xbox Series X.
Since launching earlier this month, developer Grinding Gear Games has been collecting feedback on the early access game.
The developer has used some of this feedback to put together a big new update that’s rolling out to fans soon.
As you can see from the patch notes further down the page, the update adds new gameplay features, makes balance changes to monsters and characters, and improves the endgame.
According to Grinding Gear Games, the changes to the endgame should result in an experience that is “much more survivable than before”.
Having already nerfed some overpowered abilities, the next job is to boost some skills that are underpowered.
This includes improvements to Rolling Slam and all Shield Skills in the Mace section, as well as a boost to various Bow Skills, especially the skills used to generate Frenzy Charges.
The developer has also added two new Supports and removed or lessened the penalties on many others.
If you want to try Path of Exile 2 for yourself, you can pay for early access on PlayStation, Xbox and Steam.
The Path of Exile 2 Early Access Supporter Pack is available for £23.99 on consoles and £23.93 on Steam.
In addition to early access, the Supporter Pack also comes with 300 Points, which can be used to purchase in-game cosmetics.
Fans can also purchase the Lord of Ogham Founder’s Pack for £44.99, or the King of the Faridun pack for £79.99.
Path of Exile 2 December patch notes…
Gameplay Features
• Fast-travel between Checkpoints within an area
– Also more checkpoints at all entrances and exits to areas
• Passive Point respeccing cheaper especially at higher levels.
– This should generally result in approximately 40-50% less gold cost for respeccing between the start and middle of endgame
Trial of the Sekhemas
• Reworked how Honour Damage scales when in close range in Trial of the Sekhemas
• Honour Damage now scales down based on distance to enemies
– When in close range you’ll take 35% less Honour Damage, tapering off as you are further away from Monsters.
• Fixed a bug where Damage over Time was dealing thrice as much damage to Honour as intended
• Skitter Golems no longer use basic attacks and instead now just explode.
• Serpent Clans burrow and ambush attack now has improved visual telegraphing and cannot be used from as far away.
• Volcanoes created by Rattlecage’s Fissure Slam now last half the duration.
Endgame and Monster Balance
• Maps no longer have additional elemental resistance penalties inherently applied at Tier 6 and Tier 11 or higher Maps.
– It is now consistent across all of the Endgame.
• Chaos Damage now also scales less aggressively over the Endgame.
• Critical Strikes from monsters now deal 40% less bonus Damage.
• Lowered the baseline monster density of Breach Encounters, primarily by reducing the frequency of the “Elite” monsters appearing.
• Disabled the Volatile Crystals Modifier, we’ll revisit this in the future pending telegraphing improvements.
• Purple Explosives created by the Volatile Plants Modifier on Rare Monsters now deal significantly less Damage.
• The Siphons Flask Charges Modifier on Monsters now drains ten-times less Flask Charges per second.
Character and Item Balance
• We’ve made Charm Modifiers on Belts substantially more common and now appear at much lower levels.
– The of Symbolism Modifier now appears from level 23 onwards, and the of Inscription Modifier now appears from level 64
• Electrocute is now 25% harder to buildup. (But the Damage Penalty has been removed from the Support Gem).
• Added a new Lightning Damage and Electrocute Cluster to the passive tree in between the Ranger and Monk sections.
• It is now more difficult to chain-freeze enemies by reducing the amount of Freeze Buildup applied after a Freeze has been applied.
• The Hunter’s Talisman Notable now grants +1 Charm Slot.
– The small passive skills leading up to it now grant the stat it formerly gave.
– The Charm helper text has been updated to indicate that you cannot have more than three Charm Slots unlocked, so that we can add more sources of it in the future.
Skill and Support Gem Balance
• Improvements to Rolling Slam and all Shield Skills in the Mace section.
• Improvements to various Bow Skills, especially the skills used to generate Frenzy Charges.
• Improvements to Bone Spells and Chaos Damage over Time Spells in the Occult section.
• Improvements to various Crossbow Skills, especially those at higher Tiers.
• Improvements to some of the underachieving Quarterstaff abilities.
• Added the Tremors Support Gem. Which can be used to give up to multiple more Aftershocks to Skills, with a damage penalty.
• Added the Bidding Support Gem. Which can be used to give more damage to the Command Skills of Supported Minions.
• The Fire Exposure, Lightning Exposure and Cold Exposure Support Gems no longer penalize Damage of Supported Skills.
– They now have a Mana Cost Multiplier of 120%.
• Skeletal Arsonists Spirit costs now match the other two Skeleton Mages, this should result in a slight decrease in the number of Arsonists at a higher level.
• A nerf to the damage over time component on very high levels of Tornado and Vine Arrow.
– These were never intended to be dealing damage themselves, but more so act as a way for other skills to propagate damage.
• Magnetic Salvo can now only use your stuck Lightning Arrows as opposed to those created by your Party Members.
Equipped with the latest multimedia technology, safety equipment and engineering know-how, the LDV D90 is a lot more than just a good buy and a serious value for money proposition in the large SUV category.
While the facelifted 2025 D90 range arrives this month with a new look, more powerful petrol engine and circa-$4200 price increases across the lineup (except for the diesel, which has been dropped), it makes the outgoing MY24 range we’re outlining here even better value, at least while stocks last.
Kicking off from $36,937 drive-away for retail buyers ($34,990 for ABN holders) for the LDV D90 2WD and stretching all the way to $50,095 drive-away ($47,490 for ABN holders) for the top-spec Executive Diesel 4WD, the D90 is the genuine bang for buck hero in the large off-road SUV segment.
Even at the top end of the model lineup, the D90 still undercuts its closest rivals by as much as $17,000 when compared with the range-topping Isuzu MU-X LS-T 4×4 ($67,990), as an example.
It’s a similar story with the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, which is bookended by the base GLX from $51,540 plus on-roads and the range-topping GSR at $64,840 before on-roads – though all versions get a 2.4-litre turbo-diesel powertrain.
LDV D90 pricing:
Model
Drive-away pricing
ABN drive-away pricing
2024 LDV D90 2WD
$36,937
$34,990
2024 LDV D90 Executive 2WD
$41,147
$38,990
2024 LDV D90 Executive 4WD
$44,832
$42,490
2024 LDV D90 Executive Diesel 4WD
$50,095
$47,490
Interested in buying a LDV D90? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
While the LDV D90 is something of a bargain in the large SUV category on price alone, it’s also loaded with technology, creature comforts and a full suite of driver assistance systems, giving it a five-star ANCAP safety rating.
Moreover, buyers can choose between 2WD and 4WD, along with either a punchy 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, or a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel matched to an eight-speed auto.
The 2.0L turbo-petrol engine makes 160kW of power and 350Nm of torque, while the turbo-diesel produces 158kW and 480Nm. 2WD versions are rear-wheel drive with selectable drive modes – Normal, Sport and ECO – while 4WD variants also add Rock, Mud, Sand and Snow modes.
All LDV D90s have a turning circle of 12.0 metres, share the same approach, departure and breakover angles (28.0/25.0/20.0 degrees, respectively), and also share the same 550mm wading depth.
Braked towing capacity for petrol D90 variants is 2000kg, whereas the diesel is able to tow up to 3100kg (braked).
There’s good ride comfort, too, thanks to double-wishbone front suspension and a five-link coil-spring system down back. While the entry-level D90 2WD gets 18-inch light-alloy wheels, Executive models ride on larger 19s.
Regardless of whether you choose petrol or diesel power for your D90, you still get a large 75-litre fuel tank that allows you to make the most of longer hauls, or simply make fewer visits to the bowser.
Fuel consumption across petrol models is a claimed 10.2L/100km on the combined cycle, while diesel versions quote a slightly better 9.1L/100km. All LDV D90 models measure 5005mm in length and ride on a 2950mm wheelbase, while ground clearance is 210mm across the range.
Those numbers also allow for a good deal of passenger space first and foremost, while luggage capacity is quoted at 343 litres even with all three rows of seating in use. Luggage space expands to 1350 litres with the second folded almost flat, and a cavernous 2382 litres with second and third rows stowed.
Creature comforts across the entire range include a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment unit with Apple CarPlay, an 8.0-inch multifunction instrument display, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry and start, front and rear parking sensors, and both LED headlights and daytime running lights.
There are also heated and electrically folding door mirrors, luggage rails, tyre pressure monitoring, side steps and rain-sensing wipers as standard across the range.
Stepping up to the D90 Executive variants brings you door-mounted puddle lights, multi-zone climate control, an electric tailgate, leather-wrapped steering wheel, ambient interior lighting, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, eight-speaker audio, and leather seat trim for the first and second rows.
Finally, the top-spec LDV D90 Executive Diesel 4WD adds a heated steering wheel with paddle shifters to its petrol-powered siblings.
Safety-wise, the entire D90 SUV range comes with a full suite of active safety systems in addition to six airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchors and three top-tether points for the second row.
Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) include autonomous emergency braking (AEB), forward collision warning, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, hill decent control, fatigue reminder and attention assist.
All LDV D90 models are covered by a five-year, 130,000km factory warranty with roadside assist.
The LDV D90 is a nicely designed full-size family SUV with a well-packaged and well-equipped seven-seat interior, and it’s now priced even further below any of its large SUV competitors.
Interested in buying a LDV D90? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
Shares of Sai Life Sciences listed with a premium of more than 20% over the issue price of Rs 549 on Wednesday.
At the NSE, shares of the firm began the day at Rs 650, up 18.39 per cent.
Shares of Sai Life Sciences Ltd. made a strong debut on the stock market, listing with a premium of over 20% above the issue price of Rs 549 on Wednesday.
Stock Performance on BSE and NSE
On the BSE, the stock opened at Rs 660, marking a 20.21% rise from the issue price, and later surged to Rs 702, a 27.86% gain. On the NSE, shares started at Rs 650, reflecting an 18.39% increase from the issue price.
Market Capitalization
The company’s market capitalization stood at Rs 14,493.75 crore after the listing.
IPO Subscription and Details
Sai Life Sciences Ltd.’s Rs 3,043-crore initial public offering (IPO) was oversubscribed by 10.26 times on the final day of the share sale.
The IPO had a price band of Rs 522-549 per share, with a fresh issue of equity shares worth Rs 950 crore and an Offer-for-Sale (OFS) of 3.81 crore shares, valued at Rs 2,092 crore, by promoters, investors, and other shareholders.
Use of IPO Proceeds
Of the funds raised, Rs 600 crore will be used for debt repayment, with the remainder allocated for general corporate purposes.
Company Overview
Based in Hyderabad, Sai Life Sciences provides end-to-end services across the drug discovery, development, and manufacturing value chain for small molecule new chemical entities (NCEs) to global pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms.
It looks like the clouds are clearing for Ripple as recent events have given it a boost, possibly changing the course of its legal battle. Trump’s promise to fire SEC Chair Gary Gensler on day one seems to be coming true, as Gensler announced his resignation on January 20, the same day Trump is inaugurated. This big news helped push XRP to new yearly highs.
Plus, Ripple’s RLUSD launched on December 17, taking a big step toward global growth. Meanwhile, SEC Commissioner Caroline Crenshaw became a target of the crypto community due to her strong anti-crypto stance and was denied renomination. All of these events could lead to something big on January 15, especially with Paul Atkins soon taking over as SEC Chair. Many are hopeful that this will bring a more relaxed approach to crypto regulation.
What Will Happen on January 15?
The SEC has requested an extension to file its principal brief in the ongoing XRP lawsuit with Ripple Labs. The new deadline for filing is set for January 15, 2025. According to attorney Fred Rispoli, this part of the case is strictly about paperwork — no new evidence or jury trial. There are two appeals in process: one from the SEC and another from Ripple, called a “cross-appeal.”
Each side will submit an opening brief, followed by an opposition brief, and then a reply brief. Afterward, there will be a 15-minute oral argument in front of three judges. Fred said that while the argument is brief, it will be crucial, as the judges’ questions can provide insight into their initial thoughts on the case. However, he also said that the entire process could take up to a year and a half, despite the short duration of the oral argument.
Even if the legal case continues, supporters remain optimistic that the new government will implement the right measures to support the crypto industry. Another bullish development is that Empower Oversight is urging Congress to release an SEC Inspector General report on former chairman Jay Clayton’s actions. This report could bolster their investigation before Clayton is confirmed as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York.
Looking for the most recent Strands answer? Click here for our daily Strands hints, as well as our daily answers and hints for The New York Times Mini Crossword, Wordle and Connections puzzles.
Today’s Strands title gave me a certain Beatles song as an earworm. However, the Fab Four have nothing to do with today’s piuzzle or its theme. Take the last word in the title, and play off of that. If you need more hints and answers for today’s Strands puzzle, read on.
Also, I go into depth about the rules for Strands in this story.
If you’re looking for today’s Wordle, Connections and Mini Crossword answers, you can visit CNET’s NYT puzzle hints page.
Read more: NYT Connections Turns 1: These Are the 5 Toughest Puzzles So Far
Hint for today’s Strands puzzle
Today’s Strands theme is: You say you want a revolution.
If that doesn’t help you, here’s a clue: Round and round.
Clue words to unlock in-game hints
Your goal is to find hidden words that fit the puzzle’s theme. If you’re stuck, find any words you can. Every time you find three words of four letters or more, Strands will reveal one of the theme words. These are the words I used to get those hints, but any words of four or more letters that you find will work:
These are the answers that tie into the theme. The goal of the puzzle is to find them all, including the spangram, a theme word that reaches from one side of the puzzle to the other. When you’ve got all of them (I originally thought there were always eight but learned that the number can vary), every letter on the board will be used. Here are the nonspangram answers:
Living longer doesn’t always mean living healthier.
That’s according to a study published in JAMA Network Open, which found a “widening gap between lifespan and healthspan” among 183 countries.
In 2019, there was a “healthspan-lifespan gap” of 9.6 years globally, a 13% increase from 8.5 years in 2019, Mayo Clinic researchers found.
‘I’M A DOCTOR — HERE’S THE WELLNESS ROUTINE I FOLLOW FOR A LONGER, HEALTHIER LIFE’
That gap was largest in the U.S., as Americans live in poor health for an average of 12.4 years, compared to 10.9 years in 2000.
The “healthspan-lifespan gap” was largest in the U.S., as Americans live in poor health for an average of 12.4 years, compared to 10.9 years in 2000.(iStock)
The U.S. also reported the “highest burden of chronic disease,” the researchers noted, primarily due to mental illness, substance use disorders and musculoskeletal conditions.
The researchers analyzed data from the WHO Global Health Observatory, which included statistics on life expectancy, health-adjusted life expectancy and years lived with disease for each member country.
TRUMP’S STAMINA AT AGE 78 IMPRESSES THE EXPERTS: ‘MENTAL AND PHYSICAL RESILIENCE’
Lead study author Dr. Andre Terzic, the Marriott family professor of cardiovascular research at Mayo Clinic, calls the healthspan-lifespan gap a “universal threat to healthy longevity.”
“Advances in longevity are a major milestone for humankind — gains in life expectancy, however, have not been matched with an equivalent expansion in healthy longevity,” he told Fox News Digital.
The U.S. reported the “highest burden of chronic disease,” the researchers noted, primarily due to mental illness, substance use disorders and musculoskeletal conditions.(iStock)
There was also a gender gap, with women experiencing more years in poor health than men.
“Worldwide, women live longer than men, but exhibit a 2.4-year-wider healthspan-lifespan gap,” said Terzic.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
“In the U.S., women had a higher non-communicable disease burden, with a particularly pronounced contribution from musculoskeletal, genitourinary and neurological diseases.”
The study findings point to the need for an “accelerated pivot to proactive, wellness-centric care systems,” according to Terzic.
The study findings point to the need for an “accelerated pivot to proactive, wellness-centric care systems,” according to the lead researcher.(iStock)
“Further study is needed to identify demographic, economic and health drivers of the healthspan-lifespan gap.”
The research was funded by the Marriott Family Foundation, National Institutes of Health and National Institute of General Medical Sciences.
Personalized nutrition is key, doctor says
Grant Antoine, a naturopathic doctor and clinical lead at Viome, a health care testing company in Bellevue, Washington, said there are a number of factors that have widened the healthspan-lifespan gap in the U.S.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
“While medical advancements have extended life expectancy, they haven’t addressed the root causes of poor health, such as diet, chronic stress, sedentary lifestyles and preventable diseases,” he told Fox News Digital.
“These issues are compounded by the fact that there is no one answer to eating healthy.”
Some of the key factors contributing to aging and reduced healthspan include poor nutrition, imbalanced gut health and chronic inflammation, according to one expert.(iStock)
Some of the key factors contributing to aging and reduced healthspan include poor nutrition, imbalanced gut health and chronic inflammation, according to Antoine.
“To close the healthspan-lifespan gap in the U.S., we need to prioritize personalized, science-backed nutrition that’s based on each individual’s biology rather than a one-size-fits-all diet,” he recommended.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
“There is no universally healthy diet or supplement. Personalized nutrition is a key to ensuring that people live healthier longer.”
Melissa Rudy is senior health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to [email protected].
If you are into beers, you’d understand that the rise of microbreweries in India has been nothing short of remarkable. Once considered synonymous with cities like Bangalore, the concept of craft beers has spread across the country, offering beer enthusiasts something unique and local to sip on. Delhi, in particular, has seen a growing love for freshly brewed, artisanal beers. Recently, I visited a newly open spot in the city – Asur: Microbrewery & Kitchen – based in Moti Nagar.
My visit started with a quick tour of the brewing area. Massive stainless-steel tanks stood in the space, where the team worked on everything – from brewing to fermentation. It was fascinating to see the ingredients that go into the preparation of beers, various malts like Wheat Pale, Vienna, Caraaroma, etc. and even hops like Mosaic, Willamette, Colombus, Saaz, etc. Each of these ingredients played a key role in the beer’s character – be it sweetness, bitterness, or aroma.
Photo: Asur Microbrewery.
Once the tour wrapped up, I was ready to try their beers. Their craft beer menu has six different options – each with its own charm. First up, there is Scotch Ale: Smooth and lightly smoky with hints of caramel sweetness. Perfect for those who prefer easygoing beers. This was followed by IPA (New England): Hop-forward with juicy tropical flavours, this one’s for people who love bold, punchy beers. There Marzen is a crisp and refreshing German-style lager, which is simple yet perfectly balanced.
Then came Stout – with its rich and creamy flavours of coffee and chocolate – this drink is smooth and indulgent, almost like dessert. The last two are Witbier and X-Tra Strong Lager. The former is a light, citrusy, and refreshing drink with hints of orange peel, while the latter is bold, malty, and packs a punch for those who enjoy a stronger kick.
Personally, fruity and citrusy tones are my preference, so I liked Witbier the most.
After having a hearty round of beers, we jumped right to the food menu. I started with a variety of starters that perfectly set the tone for the meal. Ordering first thing on the table, I started with the classic Chilli Chicken, which was spicy, tangy, and had just the right amount of heat.
Next up, I craved seafood, and what better way to sate it than by ordering the delicious and succulent Amritsari Fish? It was crisp on the outside and tender on the inside – a perfect burst of flavours and textures. Butter Garlic Prawns, with their juicy and buttery goodness, definitely steal the show. Even the dahi ke kebab was the perfect accompaniment to this group of dishes.
Photo: Nikita Nikhil
To wash down the starters, I sipped on two drinks – Mr Banarasiya and Bloody Alloy. The first one had a refreshing punch with flavours that reminded me of classic Banarasi notes, while the latter was bold and unique, and had a beautiful orange colour.
For the main course, I indulged in Butter Chicken and Naan, a combination I can never say no to. The butter chicken was rich, creamy, and had just the right balance of sweetness and spice. Paired with soft naan, it was comfort food at its best. To wrap up my experience, I dug into two desserts – a New York Cheesecake topped with raspberry sauce. And the irresistible Chocolate Mud Cake. Dense, rich and oh-so-gooey, it was every chocolate lover’s dream.
Photo: Nikita Nikhil
All-in-all, my experience at Asur Microbrewery was memorable. I can’t wait to go back for another round of deliciousness!
Where: Third Floor, 6A, Shivaji Marg, Moti Nagar, Karampura Industrial Area, New Delhi
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-12-17/Xi-calls-on-Hainan-to-write-new-chapter-in-Chinese-modernization-1zpuWV70WWY/img/f018a135c96144769acd346846a972f6/f018a135c96144769acd346846a972f6.jpeg' alt='Xiuying Port in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province, October 2, 2024. /CFP'
Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged China’s southernmost province of Hainan to strive toward writing a new chapter in advancing Chinese modernization.
Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks after listening to work reports from the CPC Hainan Provincial Committee and the provincial government on Tuesday afternoon.
Xi commended Hainan’s achievements in various areas of its work and put forward clear requirements for the province’s work in the future.
Margaret Keegan, the new CEO of Precision Medicine Group, is eager to elevate the profile of the expert-rich service provider and build it into an industry leader in next-gen drug development and commercialization support.
Attached property of economic offenders valued over ₹22,000 crore has been restored to public sector banks and other legitimate claimants, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman told the Lok Sabha on Tuesday. She also disclosed that over 2 lakh assesses have declared their foreign assets in Income Tax Returns this fiscal.
“Properties belonging to Vijaya Mallya, valued at ₹14131.6 crore, were restored and complete amount of attached properties has been successfully restored to the Public Sector Banks,” she said while replying to debate on the first batch of Supplementary Demands for Grants in the Lok Sabha.
As regards the Nirav Modi case, she said, properties to the tune of ₹1,052.58 crore have been restored to PSBs and private banks. In the Mehul Choksi case, properties worth ₹2,565.90 crore have been attached and will be auctioned.
Also read: Fund raising by InvITs slows down, REITs keep up momentum
“We have not spared anyone, even if they fled the country. We’ve gone after them. ED has collected this money and given back to the banks. So, it is important to recognize that we have not spared anybody (who committed) economic offences. We are after them. We will be making sure that money, which has got to go back to banks, will go back,” Sitharaman said.
Talking about measures to spread awareness among taxpayers for disclosure of foreign assets and income, she said that number of such assesses rose to more than 2 lakhs in current Assessment Year (2024-25) as against over 60000 in AY 2021-22.
As on June 30, orders under the Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income & Assets) and Imposition of Tax Act, 2015 have been passed in about 697 cases raising demand of more than ₹17,520 crores (approx.), she said.
On the employment front, the Minister quoted 2023-24 annual PLFS report which showed that all-India Annual Unemployment Rate has been declining since the beginning of the survey in 2017-18, falling from 6 per cent in 2017-18 to 3.2 per cent in 2023-24. Also, the Female labour force participation rate (FLFPR) has been on the rise for the past six years from 24.5 per cent in 2018-19 to 41.7 per cent in 2023-24.
Also read: India’s real estate market thrives amid strong demand, urban growth, and luxury shifts, says Colliers’ Sankey Prasad
Pri kreiranju rubrike Index Shopping nastojimo izdvajati odlične proizvode koji se i nama sviđaju te odlične akcije i popuste. Ne objavljujemo proizvode koje i sami ne bismo kupili ili smatramo da njihova promocija nije u skladu s profesionalnim standardima. Neki proizvodi u rubrici Index Shopping mogu biti sponzorirani.
PROSINAC je stigao, kao i blagdansko ozračje, a mnogi celebovi već su pokazali svoja upečatljiva blagdanska izdanja. Među njima se posebno istaknula glumica Sydney Sweeney, koja je još jednom dokazala da je crvena nepogrešiv izbor za svečani outfit.
Glumica je s 23 milijuna pratitelja na Instagramu prije nekoliko dana podijelila upečatljivo izdanje – mini crvenu haljinu dugih rukava i visokog ovratnika, savršenu za blagdanske partyje i druženja.
Pozirajući ispred ogledala sa svjetlucavim girlandama i velikim vijencem s crvenom mašnom u pozadini, Sydney je upotpunila svoj izgled lakiranim cipelama u boji maslaca iz Jimmy Choo kolekcije. Svoju dugu plavu kosu nosila je raspuštenu s razdjeljkom na sredini, što je cijelom izgledu dalo dozu opuštene elegancije.
U skladu s trendovima, Sydney je odabrala elegantnu francusku manikuru, a umjesto klasično bijelih vrhova odlučila se za nijansu Mocha Mousse, koju je Pantone proglasio bojom godine za 2025.
Servirala je još jedno crveno izdanje
Da je crvena zaista idealna boja za predbožićno i božićno razdoblje te da joj pristaje savršeno, Sydney je dokazala i naknadnom objavom. Ovoga puta zablistala je u još jednoj crvenoj haljini, ali s kratkim rukavima i naborima na prednjem dijelu.
“Prekrasna si”, “Wow”, “Prekrasna kao i uvijek”, “Izgledaš poput božićnog čuda”, “Marilyn Monroe današnjice”, “Plavokosa kraljica”, “Najljepša žena”, “Prekrasna u crvenom”, “Tako je lijepa, poput princeze”, “Nezamjenjiva”, samo su neki od komentara kojima su joj pratitelji zasuli ove objave.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Našli smo slična izdanja
Ako i vi za nadolazeće blagdane želite zablistati u crvenoj haljini poput Sydney Sweeney, izdvojili smo nekoliko modela koji će vas sigurno inspirirati. Bez obzira na to tražite li nešto za svečanu večeru, božićni party ili opušteno blagdansko druženje, ove haljine su savršen odabir za svaki trenutak blagdanske sezone.
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Former UFC champion Conor McGregor says he has agreed to fight influencer Logan Paul in a boxing exhibition in India.
McGregor made the announcement early Tuesday morning on X.
“I am in preliminary agreements with the Ambani family to face Logan Paul in a boxing exhibition in India. I have agreed,” McGregor wrote. “I will then seek my return to the Octagon.”
Paul, a World Wrestling Entertainment superstar and part-time boxer, has yet to comment publicly on McGregor’s statement. Attempts to reach Paul through WWE and his representatives were unsuccessful.
McGregor was the first UFC fighter to hold two belts — featherweight and lightweight — simultaneously. His last UFC fight was a loss by technical knockout to Dustin Poirier in 2021. McGregor was slated to fight Michael Chandler at UFC 303 on June 29 but the fight was canceled due to a McGregor foot injury.
In his X post, McGregor indicated that “rumors” that he’d be facing UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria “are false.”
Last month, a civil court jury in Ireland found McGregor liable for assault after a woman said he “brutally raped and battered” her in 2018. He was ordered to pay her $257,000.
McGregor’s only bout as a professional boxer came in 2017, when he lost to one of the legends of the sport, Floyd Mayweather Jr., by technical knockout in the 10th round.
Paul has fought four times as a boxer, including a draw and a loss against fellow influencer-turned-boxer KSI in 2018 and 2019, a draw with Mayweather in 2021 and a win by disqualification over Dillon Danis in 2023.
Paul’s brother, Jake Paul, is an influencer who has become a successful boxer. His 11-1 record includes a recent unanimous-decision victory over Mike Tyson in a bout that was shown live on Netflix and watched live by an estimated 108 million viewers in around 65 million households worldwide.
Climate change is diminishing winter snow days in the Northern Hemisphere, especially in Europe, threatening tourism and cultural practices.
A white Christmas may increasingly become a nostalgic memory as the Northern Hemisphere sees ever fewer snowy winter days due to climate change, with Europe warming quickest, a report warned on Tuesday. Driven primarily by humanity’s mass burning of fossil fuels, that decline in days below freezing threatens tourism, the economy and cultures, according to Climate Central.
The Northern Hemisphere is experiencing fewer snowy winters due to climate change.(Pixabay)
Climate change cuts freezing days
Tuesday’s report by the US-based research institute argues that manmade climate change had caused more than a third of the 123 countries and nearly half of the 901 cities studied to lose the equivalent of at least a week’s worth of days below freezing — zero degrees Celsius or 32 degrees Fahrenheit — over a decade.
The report’s analysis is based on the daily minimum temperatures covering the months of December to February — roughly the span of the Northern Hemisphere winter — from 2014 to 2023. Those lows were then compared to a simulation of a climate without the warming effects of humanity’s widespread use of coal, oil and gas. It found that climate change had particularly increased the number of winter days above zero in Europe, the world’s fastest-warming continent. Denmark and the Baltic states were the countries most affected.
How disappearing winters threaten ecosystems
“The snow, ice, and chilly temperatures that used to be hallmarks of the winter season are fast disappearing in many places, threatening ecosystems, economies, and cultural traditions,” said Climate Central’s vice president for science Kristina Dahl. “Freezing winter days are crucial for sustaining snow and ice for winter recreation and sports, replenishing the snowpack that supplies freshwater sources, and maintaining plant, animal, and insect life cycles,” Dahl added.
Cold weather helps to control populations of disease-carrying insects such as mosquitoes and ticks, while shorter winters encourage the spread of pollen — and therefore allergies. The study also warned that hotter winters may also affect agriculture, particularly the cultivation of fruits which require prolonged cool periods such as apples and peaches.
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News / Lifestyle / Travel / White Christmas at risk: How climate change is impacting winter tourism
Top Gun is a blockbuster classic, but the sequel was even more of a success – and not just at the box office.
Tom Cruise’s Top Gun Maverick, which was four decades in the making, made a whopping $1.496 billion – the biggest haul of the star’s career to date.
Not only was the film critically acclaimed and Oscar-nominated, but it has had an incredible impact in real life, just as its predecessor did.
The popularity of both movies has seen the US Navy’s recruitment numbers “significantly increase” following Cruise’s role as pilot Pete “Maverick” Mitchell training new recruits. Some US theatres even have sign-ups outside.
As a result, the real-life American maritime force has awarded the Hollywood actor their top civil honour for his “outstanding contributions” to the service.
US Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro presented Cruise with the Navy Distinguished Public Service Award at Longcross South Studios in Runnymede, Surrey today.
Speaking to a mixed audience of those in the movie business and US Navy, Del Toro said the star had spent almost four decades “as an unwavering supporter of the men, women and families of the navy marine corps. His dedicated support to sailors, marines and civilians through his efforts in the film industry increased public awareness and appreciation for our highly trained personnel and the sacrifices they make while in uniform.”
On Top Gun Maverick, the US Navy Secretary added that the film “brought nostalgia to older audiences and reinvigorated the minds of newer audience members, which effectively targeted a younger audience’s interest into the skill sets and opportunities the navy can provide.”
Upon receiving the award, Cruise said: “In life, something that is very true to me is, to lead is to serve. I know that to my core and I see that in the servicemen and women. I appreciate everyone’s dedication and it’s a true honour to represent them.”
The 62-year-old added that he was “proud and overwhelmed” to be given this “extraordinary acknowledgement.”
It should come as little surprise that Top Gun 3 is very much in the works.
MG’s first all-new compact hatch in 15 years has finally arrived in Australia, and it has steep expectations to meet.
The outgoing MG 3 – which dates back to 2011 in China, was first released here in 2016, and is still available in runout while stocks last – was for many years Australia’s top-selling light car, primarily because it was cheap.
It had minimal features in terms of safety and tech, and that allowed the old MG 3 to be priced from just $19,990 drive-away, making it Australia’s cheapest car. That meant it sold well among people, both young and old, who simply needed a vehicle to get about in, and as a result you’ll struggle to travel anywhere without seeing at least one.
While it didn’t have the same misfortune of being slapped with a zero-star ANCAP safety rating like its newer MG 5 sedan stablemate (because it was never tested and always remained ‘unrated’ by the independent auto safety body), it was even more poorly equipped when it came to safety. Autonomous emergency braking (AEB), which becomes mandatory for all new cars from 2025, was just one key omission.
The new MG 3 improves on its predecessor’s shortcomings, but unsurprisingly that has had an effect on its pricing.
WATCH: Paul’s video review of the MG 3 Hybrid+ Essence
Though it’s no longer Australia’s cheapest car, it’s still priced from under than $25,000 drive-away – just – and for that price you get this, the entry-level MG 3 Excite, which is much better-equipped than its aged forebear.
It’s as simple as it gets for the new MG 3, with none of the fancier hybrid tech in more expensive variants to be seen here. Indeed, that adds more than $3000 to the price, with the equivalent MG 3 Hybrid+ Excite priced at almost $28,000 before on-road costs.
At the base petrol Excite’s price point, there’s no shortage of competition in the market, although there’s less than there used to be following the demise of the Kia Rio, Honda Jazz, Hyundai Accent, Ford Fiesta and other popular light cars in recent years.
While the smaller Kia Picanto micro-hatch still costs less than $20,000 (plus on-road costs), the larger Mazda 2 and Suzuki Swift Hybrid (which was also updated this year) light cars are vying for the same mid-$25k-plus buyers.
It can be difficult to decide which car is best for you. Is the MG 3 the pick of the affordable hatch bunch, or should you go for one of the others?
How does the MG3 compare?
View a detailed breakdown of the MG3 against similarly sized vehicles.
MG
MG3
How much does the MG 3 cost?
The MG 3 Excite opens the range, which comprises two powertrains, each available with two equipment grades, at $24,990 drive-away.
Model
Pricing
2025 MG 3 Excite
$24,990 drive-away
2025 MG 3 Essence
$26,990 drive-away
2025 MG 3 Hybrid+ Excite
$27,990 before on-road costs
2025 MG 3 Hybrid+ Essence
$29,990 before on-road costs
It marks a price increase over the old MG 3 of exactly $5000, pushing above the base-spec Picanto ($18,290 before on-roads), Mazda 2 ($22,870 before on-roads), and the Suzuki Swift Hybrid ($24,490 drive-away).
But bear in mind that the cheapest Picanto, Mazda 2 and Swift are all manuals, while the MG 3 lineup is all-auto.
Drive-away prices are only offered for the non-hybrid versions of the MG 3 Excite and Essence, and they were announced shortly after the new MG 3 was released.
To see how the MG 3 stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
What is the MG 3 like on the inside?
About as simple as you might expect, but there are some goodies that set it apart from the competition.
Ahead of the driver is a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster, which is similar in appearance to the driver’s display in the all-electric MG 4 small hatch. You can cycle through a handful of displays related to driver assist tech and fuel economy using the buttons on the steering wheel.
Everything displayed is clear and simple to read once you’ve found what you’re looking for, but the steering wheel controls themselves can appear fairly ambiguous at first glance.
For that reason it pays to spend some time figuring out what everything does. You’ll be able to decipher that the controls on the left relate to safety tech in particular, though the right hand ‘joystick’ lacks clear markings.
After a few minutes spent poking and prodding you’ll find it largely controls the infotainment system, though it can double up as a way to cycle through the instrument cluster menus. A little confusing for sure, but not the end of the world and owners will quickly aclimatise.
Another gripe has to do with cabin materials. It’s unfortunate the Excite is fitted with a plastic steering wheel, though it’s still soft enough and sculpted in a way that makes it comfortable to hold.
For comparison, the similarly priced base Mazda 2 has a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Though that older model’s interior appears much more analogue than the MG 3, its presentation is much more cohesive as a result.
The aesthetic-only 12 o’clock (or 6 o’clock in this case) marker incorporated into the bottom of the steering wheel in lieu of a third spoke is an interesting choice, but it creates character if nothing else.
You’ll also find a fair bit of gloss black plastic on the steering wheel buttons. We’ve always found such glossy materials quickly look grubby, especially in high-touch locations.
Everything works reliably and feels well-built, though the price point here is very much embodied by the uninviting interior materials. Stepping up to the Essence remedies this with a leather-trimmed wheel, and the additional $2000 also brings some other niceties like LED headlights and a sunroof.
The second of the MG 3’s two screens is the 10.25-inch infotainment display, which is also almost identical to the units in other MG models. It’s very simple in appearance, with large shortcut buttons for the car’s key functions.
You only get wired smartphone mirroring, but for a cheap hatch that isn’t unexpected, and it worked reliably in our week with the car. There are two screens to scroll through on the native system, the second primarily for adjusting the car’s settings.
You’ll notice the large climate control shortcut on that home screen, which unfortunately solicits another complaint.
The climate control system can only be adjusted through the touch display, although the shortcut features a couple of handy always-on buttons for temperature, fan speed, and air-conditioning.
Below is an array of physical buttons, one of which is a hardwired shortcut to open the dedicated climate menu.
If auto brands are going to insist on digital-only climate control systems, this is probably the best way to do it, but that doesn’t mean we wouldn’t prefer a more traditional physical setup.
The need to have a button that opens the climate menu adds an unnecessary step to the process, and it’s fiddly to adjust using the screen alone.
Strangely, one of those physical buttons is dedicated to only turning the climate control system on or off, which feels like a waste of space.
What’s even weirder is the fact that smartphone mirroring messes with the way the climate control system works. The physical shortcut button below won’t open the climate menu when you’re using Apple CarPlay, for example, which is incredibly frustrating.
You therefore have to exit out of CarPlay to adjust temperature and fan speed. The buttons below are fairly large – why not split them so that some of the more basic functions are right there and ready to go?
Further down on the centre console is where you’ll find the gear selector and a handful of connectivity options. You get one USB-A port, one USB-C port, and a 12V outlet up front; with the two former options being your main ways to operate the MG 3’s smartphone mirroring.
There’s a phone-sized cubby below, though your phone likely won’t fit comfortably if you have it plugged in. Therefore there’s no wireless phone charger here in any MG 3 variant.
Then there’s the gear selector, which is sturdy, sizeable, and easy to operate. Its shape appears to have been influenced by BMW’s gear selectors, and it’s at least a decent looking unit, but its leather finish would have been nice on the steering wheel to tie everything together.
More of that gloss black plastic appears here too, but at least in this case you have no reason to be touching it. You’ll also find two large switches for the parking brake and the handy auto hold function nearby.
This centre console is home to the majority of the cabin’s storage options, with a dividable cupholder up front, a shallow key slot, and a cubby below the central armrest with a sliding cover. It’s all comfortably sized despite the MG 3’s small proportions.
In the Excite you get cloth seat upholstery, which we found to be a quality finish for the comfortable seats. Of course, everything in here is manually adjustable, but that isn’t a dealbreaker.
You’ll again notice the mix of materials going on in here. Between the plastic steering wheel, cloth seat trim, leather-clad armrest and gear selector, the hard plastic dashboard and the gloss black accents, there’s a bit too much going on.
That isn’t uncommon for this segment though. You’ll find similarly uninviting materials in the Mazda 2 and Swift, and while we prefer the presentation in both of those cars, it’s not like the MG 3 is far off the mark.
Both of those Japanese cars feature a wider array of physical controls though. And, crucially, their climate control systems are not operated via their infotainment screens.
Regardless, the interior of the MG 3 is an easy place to spend time, and if you proactively set the climate before hitting the road, you likely won’t have too many troubles on the move.
The second row isn’t anything special, and it isn’t noticeably different in size to the Mazda 2. That means average-sized people will fit without too much issue, and taller passengers will have to be conscious of headroom.
Legroom will be compromised by taller front-seat passengers, but overall it’s plenty comfortable for ferrying around children or adults – primarily on shorter drives for the latter. The seats themselves are also plush enough, and that cloth upholstery makes them that little bit cozier.
There are some nicer amenities back here that you won’t find in the Mazda 2 as well. Neither have a fold-down armrest, but the MG 3 gets a singular USB-A port below a pair of rear-facing air vents.
It’s surprising to find that in a car like this, but of course the MG 3 is by no longer the cheapest car you can buy.
Storage is limited to a tiny cubby on the back of the centre console, as well as small bottle holders in the doors. You still get the standard assortment of ISOFIX child seat anchors and top-tether points across the second row.
Unsurprisingly, boot space is nothing to write home about, but it’ll get the job of a daily runabout done without much fuss, and longer items can be accommodated by folding the rear seats.
You get a light and a bag hook as standard, but curiously the two road safety apparatuses are strapped to boot floor instead of being tucked away underneath.
To its benefit, non-hybrid MG 3 models gain a space-saver spare wheel under that floor, whereas the hybrids have to make do with a tyre repair kit. The temporary spare doesn’t appear to eat into space here either.
It’s worth considering there’s a sizeable drop from the boot opening to the cargo floor, which means you’ll have to load items up and over instead of sliding them in, which is a fairly common trait across this segment.
Aside from the tech-heavy setup up front, most of the MG 3’s interior is a case of what you see is what you get. We could do with some more clearly labelled buttons on the steering wheel, as well as a better thought-out approach to the climate control setup.
Dimensions
MG 3
Length
4113mm
Width
1797mm
Height
1502mm
Wheelbase
2570mm
Cargo capacity
293L (rear seats up) 983L (rear seats folded)
To see how the MG 3 stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
What’s under the bonnet?
The two non-hybrid MG 3s share the same naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, which produces a largely unthreatening 81kW of power and 142Nm of torque.
Specifications
MG 3 Excite
Engine
1.5-litre 4cyl petrol
Power
81kW @ 6000rpm
Torque
142Nm @ 4500rpm
Transmission
CVT
Driven wheels
Front-wheel drive
Kerb weight
1199kg
Fuel economy (claimed)
6.0L/100km
Fuel economy (as tested)
6.7L/100km
Fuel tank capacity
45L
Fuel requirement
91 octane regular unleaded
CO₂ emissions
139g/km
Maximum towing capacity
500kg
Our week with the car involved primarily freeway driving, though it was broken up by brief stints in Melbourne’s CBD and side streets of a couple regional towns.
Our recorded fuel economy is likely a result of the way in which the MG 3 must be driven to get it up to speed in a reasonable time – more on that in a moment.
To see how the MG 3 stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
How does the MG 3 drive?
With no hybrid assistance and a kerb weight that’s noticeably higher than its rivals, the MG 3 Excite isn’t the most inspiring car to drive, although it is relatively stress-free.
To start with some numbers, this particular MG 3 is a little over 100kg heavier than the cheapest Mazda 2, and nearly 250kg heavier than the equivalent Swift. When you have a car that produces so little power, every kilogram makes a difference.
For context, the hybrid MG 3 weighs 100kg more, but its combined power outputs is considerably higher at 155kW. The petrol Excite is therefore lacking in comparison, and when paired with a CVT auto it feels anything but fast.
Plant your foot and there’s a typical CVT scream, as the revs climb dramatically before being held fairly high. The sound isn’t backed up by much acceleration, which makes pulling out onto faster roads a little unnerving.
On uphill freeway on-ramps, the MG 3 Excite will also struggle. That’s made worse if you have more than one person in the car and some cargo in the boot, when you’ll often need to wring the engine to get up to highway speeds.
That of course eats into fuel economy, but because it’s a small engine it won’t hurt your wallet too badly in the long run, and at least its power delivery is consistent.
However, one of the reasons I like the base-spec Mazda 2 in particular is because it’s still available with a manual transmission. I’m a firm believer that, if you can, you should absolutely go for the manual version of any car with limited power.
To state the obvious if you’re a car enthusiast, manuals are simply more fun and make for a more engaging driving experience, which means new drivers are more likely to pay attention because they have to be more actively involved with the car behind the wheel.
Manuals are also available in the Picanto and Swift Hybrid, though even the CVT version of the latter remains relatively spritely. Unfortunately, there is no manual offered for the petrol MG 3 and there’s a disappointing lack of punch from the engine.
We understand that manuals are a dying breed, because the vast majority of Aussies prefer automatic the convenience of automatic transmissions these days, but the added bonus of manuals is they’re generally cheaper and that would likely have limited the base price hike for the new MG 3.
Beyond that, there aren’t too many complaints regarding the way the MG 3 drives, and most people won’t have much issue behind the wheel. It’s comfortable enough and does everything a cheap hatchback should.
There’s a bit of road noise and you may feel like an ant among the sea of SUVs and trucks, but the compact proportions pay dividends when it comes to parking and driving in tighter environments, where the MG 3 shines.
Of course, the hybrid powertrain helps with fuel economy in stop-start conditions, but there are other characteristics here that help you around the city and suburbs.
For one, the steering is comfortably light, but it still provides adequate feedback from the road below. The suspension soaks up bumps without too much hassle, and body control is solid enough to make it feel stable in the bends.
Then there’s outward visibility, which is a strength of this car. Head checks are easy, and placing the car in tight spaces isn’t at all difficult.
There’s also loads of safety gear included as standard. We found the intelligent cruise and lane-keep assist were unobtrusive and nice to have on the highway, though the cruise-related lane centring function isn’t calibrated well enough to be comfortably relied upon.
Adaptive cruise control does well to maintain both distance and speed relative to the traffic ahead, while the car’s cameras and sensors were able to correctly identify nearby vehicles and display them on the digital instrument cluster.
A benefit of the MG 3 is actually its lack of tech compared to other MG models. A notable omission is any sort of driver attention monitoring system, which to people familiar with other new cars – particularly the HS – will be a relief.
It effectively means the car won’t be constantly pinging at you for supposedly being distracted or even wearing sunglasses, and it simplifies the driving process given you don’t have to dive through the menus to disable such a system every time you jump in.
Sure, the lack of that kind of safety tech does mean the MG 3’s ANCAP safety rating takes a hit. But given it scored above 70 per cent in all three occupant and pedestrian protection assessments, we think it’d be unfair to call it unsafe.
Our final note on the MG 3’s safety tech has to do with its speed limit recognition system. It does have the tendency to read the wrong speed, so it will sometimes warn that you’re travelling too fast even if you’re not.
Fortunately (like the other safety systems) this can be turned off completely, though it needs to be done every time you start the car. It’s not bad enough to ruin the car’s on-road experience, and it’s actually easier to live with than many other similar systems.
Of course, while it’s safety systems help on the open road, the MG 3 is best geared towards urban driving, and as such long-haul trips will likely become uncomfortable after a few hours. As a daily runaround it’s perfectly fine – though not necessarily better than some of its competition.
There are some other quirks to keep in mind, like the way the electronic parking brake doesn’t automatically disengage when you select Drive and hit the accelerator. Prior to the MG 3, I was yet to come across a car that did that, but perhaps it’s an unconventional homage to the physical hand brake.
None of this is reason to wipe this car off your list though. You’ll likely get used to these things quickly if you own one.
To see how the MG 3 stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
What do you get?
The MG 3 range is split into entry-level Excite and top-spec Essence grades, with a few minor differences between the petrol and hybrid versions.
MG 3 Excite highlights:
16-inch alloy wheels
Space-saver spare wheel
Halogen headlights
LED daytime running lights
Automatic headlights
Rear fog light
Push-button start
Electronic parking brake
Auto hold
10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
7.0-inch instrument cluster screen
6-way manual driver’s seat adjustment
4-way manual passenger’s seat adjustment
Tilt steering wheel adjustment
Air-conditioning with rear vents
To see how the MG 3 stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
Is the MG 3 safe?
The new MG 3 wears a three-star ANCAP safety rating, based on testing conducted in 2024.
Category
MG 3
Adult occupant protection
72 per cent
Child occupant protection
74 per cent
Vulnerable road user protection
76 per cent
Safety assist
58 per cent
Standard safety equipment includes:
6 airbags
Dual front
Dual front-side
Dual side curtain
Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
Lane departure warning
Lane-keep assist
Emergency lane-keep assist
Adaptive cruise control
Intelligent cruise assist
Traffic jam assist
Steering, acceleration, braking assistance
Blind-spot monitoring
Rear cross-traffic alert
Intelligent speed assist
Reversing camera
Rear parking sensors
Tyre pressure monitoring
To see how the MG 3 stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
How much does the MG 3 cost to run?
MG Australia offers an industry-leading 10-year, 250,000km warranty for its model range, including the MG 3.
Servicing and Warranty
MG 3 Excite
Warranty
10 years or 250,000km
Roadside assistance
7 years
Service intervals
12 months or 10,000km
Capped-price servicing
7 years or 70,000km
Total capped-price service cost
$2514
All versions get a seven-year roadside assistance plan included and MG has a capped-price servicing offer for seven years, too. Service intervals are 12 months or 10,000km – whichever comes first.
To see how the MG 3 stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
CarExpert’s Take on the MG 3 Excite
The long-awaited new MG 3 is a considerable improvement on the aged model it replaces, and is now a worthy competitor for Australia’s most popular light hatches, and not just because of its price.
This base Excite is a solid proposition too. As is the theme with many of MG’s newest models, a full suite of safety gear is included across the range, which means you don’t miss out on much by going for a cheaper option.
That means you get loads more value with your purchase even if it is more expensive than it used to be. The list of standard equipment is nothing to sneeze at either, and the interior of the MG 3 is a comfortable place to spend time.
Its tech works reliably, and aside from the plastic steering wheel its cabin materials are generally nice to interact with. A physical climate control system would improve the car, and some leather seat trim accents and LED headlights wouldn’t add further value.
But overall the MG 3 is a solid little car, and that’s backed up by its maturity on the road.
Underpowered as it may be, it soaks up bumps without too much issue and has no problem navigating tight city streets.
Prolonged freeway stints won’t upset it too much either, and it offers a relatively ‘hands-on’ driving experience thanks to its lack of over-the-top safety gear.
Even if it’s wishful thinking, we think a manual version would be much better to drive, and it would be the ultimate budget MG alongside direct competitors that still offer a do-it-yourself gearbox in Australia.
As it stands though, the MG 3 Excite is worthy of your consideration should you be shopping for an affordable daily commuter. You could spend another $2000 for the Essence and get a range of nicer gear, but if you simply need a cheap set of new wheels you won’t feel short-changed buying the entry-level MG 3.
Interested in buying an MG 3? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
With both retail and institutional investors closely monitoring public issues, this week promises significant activity in the primary market.
Investors are advised to review the individual IPO prospectuses carefully, understand their objectives, and assess their growth potential before subscribing.
Upcoming IPO List December 2024: The Indian stock market is set for a vibrant week as 8 main board IPOs are scheduled to open for subscription, offering investors exciting opportunities to tap into various sectors. The upcoming IPOs, spanning from December 19 to December 24, showcase the growing enthusiasm in the primary markets as 2024 nears its end.
Here’s a breakdown of the IPOs launching this week:
1. Mamata Machinery IPO
Subscription Period: December 19 to December 23, 2024
2. Transrail Lighting IPO
Subscription Period: December 19 to December 23, 2024
3. Concord Enviro Systems IPO
Subscription Period: December 19 to December 23, 2024
4. Dam Capital Advisors IPO
Subscription Period: December 19 to December 23, 2024
5. Sanathan Textiles IPO
Subscription Period: December 19 to December 23, 2024
6. Ventive Hospitality IPO
Subscription Period: December 20 to December 24, 2024
7. Senores Pharma IPO
Subscription Period: December 20 to December 24, 2024
8. Carraro India IPO
Subscription Period: December 20 to December 24, 2024
Investors’ Outlook
The flurry of IPOs across diverse sectors such as manufacturing, finance, hospitality, and pharma signals a robust confidence in India’s economic growth. With both retail and institutional investors closely monitoring these public issues, this week promises significant activity in the primary market.
Investors are advised to review the individual IPO prospectuses carefully, understand their objectives, and assess their growth potential before subscribing.
Disclaimer: The views and investment tips by experts in this News18.com report are their own and not those of the website or its management. Readers are advised to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions.
News business » ipo Blockbuster December For Investors, 8 Main Board IPOs Set To Open This Week
RLUSD went officially live today on global exchanges, which combines the stability of fiat with the efficiency of blockchain technology. Ripple has described RLUSD as an ‘enterprise-grade stablecoin built on trust, utility, and compliance.’ Backed by US dollar deposits, US government bonds, and other cash equivalents, RLUSD will undergo third-party audits to ensure transparency. Ripple aims to build stronger ties between fiat and crypto while enhancing cross-border payments.
Ripple President Monica Long highlighted the significance of the launch, stating, “The release of RLUSD marks a new chapter, both for the XRP Ledger as well as Ripple for use in our $70B+ payments flows.”
Looming Regulatory Uncertainty
The Tuesday’s launch follows a period of uncertainty surrounding the SEC’s take on the stablecoin. In April 2024, the SEC filed its remedies-related reply brief in the Ripple case, labeling RLUSD an issuance of a new unregistered crypto asset.
A recent X user pointed out that in April, the SEC labeled RLUSD the issuance of a new unregistered crypto asset in its remedies-related reply brief. “While the NYDFS approval is one thing, but could the SEC (Gensler) say Ripple failed to register it?” he questioned.
That is correct, but like a lot of statements made by the SEC about crypto it is incorrect. Obviously, Ripple does not care about the statement. If it was meant to be a warning or a threat it has been disregarded or worked around and quite frankly neither the market nor anybody… https://t.co/7FabxZvAzr
To this, Bill Morgan reacted “That is correct.” However, he added that the SEC made many incorrect statements about crypto and the regulator was wrong here too. Notably, this also includes the term ‘crypto asset securities’ for which the SEC expressed regrets to the court.
But “Ripple Does Not Care”
“Ripple does not care about the statement,” he underscored. “If it was meant to be a warning or a threat, it has been disregarded or worked around, and quite frankly, neither the market nor anybody else cares because RLUSD is now regulated,” he remarked.
The post raises doubts on whether the SEC or outgoing Chair Gary Gensler can cause problems for Ripple on RLUSD stablecoin. However, the SEC has remained silent on the approval from the NFDFS.
Ripple President Monica Long earlier addressed concerns about RLUSD stablecoin impacting XRP. she clarified that the Ripple USD and XRP will serve different purposes within the ecosystem. XRP is used as a bridge asset for cross-border transactions.
Notably, the stablecoin launch fueled the XRP price to surge 12% today and 22% in a week. It is currently trading at $2.64, up over 4% in the past day. With Gensler stepping down on January 20, 2025, regulatory uncertainty surrounding Ripple remains elevated. However, investors remain optimistic, expecting incoming SEC Chair Paul Atkins to end the SEC’s era of regulation through enforcement.
