One of the most common areas where we experience stubborn fat is the belly (tummy). The fat around this area is easiest to gain and the most difficult to shed. Also known as visceral fat, this provides some kind of cushioning to our organs but too much of it can pose a health hazard. In fact, belly fat can lead to a number of cardiovascular diseases. A major reason for gaining stubborn belly fat is our diet and lifestyle. Have you been struggling with stubborn belly fat? An expert has answers to what could be wrong with your dietary habits.
Also Read: 5 Morning Rituals To Kick-Start Weight Loss Journey And Cut Belly Fat
Nutritionist and Holistic Health Service Provider Shalini Sudhakar (@consciouslivingwithshalini) shared a video on her Instagram handle pointing out three food mistakes that could lead to belly fat.
What Are 3 Food Mistakes That You Should Avoid To Prevent Belly Fat:
1. Eating An Imbalanced Meal
When you miss important nutrients like protein and fibre, and make your meal predominantly carbohydrate-rich, it could lead to belly fat. Nutritionist Shalini Sudhakar shares that carbohydrates are largely glucose and can spike your sugar levels immediately. Higher sugar levels increase the cortisol levels of your body which could lead to belly fat.
2. Putting Your Body Into A Craving Mode
Nutritionist Sudhakar shares that when you eat an imbalanced meal and spike the cortisol levels of your body, it will make you crave sugar or something savoury. This will make you have no self-control and you will eat a lot of fat-rich food, which will contribute to your belly fat.
3. Not Drinking Enough Water
When your cells, muscles and tissues are dehydrated, it can also be felt as hunger. When you take this dehydration as hunger, you will eat more, said nutritionist Sudhakar. When you eat more, you create a calorie surplus and it gets stored in your belly fat.
How Can You Tackle Belly Fat Then?
Nutritionist Shalini Sudhakar suggested three ways in which you can tackle your belly fat. She shares:
Eating a balanced meal having equal proportions of carbohydrates, proteins, and fibre. This will give you essential nutrients and also keep you full.
Don’t skip protein and fibre in your meal as it could lead to high cortisol levels. This could result in stubborn sugar cravings.
Make sure to drink 2.5 to 3 litres of water every day, as this is the bare minimum requirement of an adult human body. Anything less than this can give you hunger pangs making you eat more.
These green juice recipes can help you lose stubborn belly fat. (Photo: iStock)
Green Juices To Help You Lose Belly Fat
If you are reading this article, it means you or someone you know is struggling with belly fat. But what if we tell you that we have some simple green juice recipes that can help shed those extra kilos? Read on to know our 5 recommendations:
1. Spinach and Kale Juice
Packed with the goodness of spinach and kale, this delicious juice recipe is low in calories and high in fibre. Spinach is packed with iron and kale has a high water content, making it perfect for weight loss. Find the full recipe for Spinach and Kale Juice here.
2. Cucumber Kiwi Juice
Cucumber has a 95 percent water content while kiwi is rich in vitamin C. This combination makes this green juice light, nutrient-rich, and delicious. This will help you lose your stubborn belly fat and keep you nourished. Find the full recipe for cucumber kiwi juice here.
3. Bottle Gourd Juice
Also known as lauki, bottle gourd is high in fibre and low in calories, making it ideal for belly fat loss. You can also add pineapple and orange to this recipe to make your juice tastier and rich in vitamin C. Find the full recipe for bottled gourd juice here.
4. Amla Juice
The juice of Amla (Indian gooseberry) is alkaline in nature and helps support your digestive system. This helps in improving your metabolism and flush out toxins from your body. So drink up and say goodbye to that stubborn belly fat. Find the step-by-step recipe for Amla Juice here.
5. Cabbage Juice
Cabbage is packed with essential vitamins and minerals that can nourish your body. It helps in purifying the upper section of the intestines and removes the waste material from the body easily. Cabbage juice can smoothen your digestion process. Find the full recipe for cabbage juice here.
Were you aware of these dietary mistakes? Let us know in the comments below.
Note: This article may contain links to third-party websites or resources. However, this does not affect the integrity of the content, and all the recommendations and views are based on our independent research and judgement.
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-01-30/Palestinian-militants-begin-handover-of-three-Israeli-hostages-1AAljVf7IrK/img/6d350c4d05a54d6c9e42bf27d177e24f/6d350c4d05a54d6c9e42bf27d177e24f.png' alt='An aerial view of the Al-Qassam Brigades gathered in front of Yahya Sinwar's house in Khan Younis, where Israeli hostages will be released as part of the ceasefire and prisoner and hostage swap agreement in Khan Yunis, Gaza, January 30, 2025. /CFP'
Palestinian militants began handing over three Israeli hostages in Gaza on Thursday in return for 110 Palestinian prisoners to be freed in the latest stage of a ceasefire deal.
A female Israeli soldier, Agam Berger, waved at the crowd from a podium in Jabalia in northern Gaza before being handed to the Red Cross.
Gadi Moses, 80, and Arbel Yahud, 29, both abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz in the Hamas-led assault on Israel on October 7, 2023, hugged one another in the presence of masked gunmen in black uniforms at another exchange site in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, a video released by Hamas ally Islamic Jihad showed.
The spokesman from the group’s armed wing said on Telegram that it had “completed procedures to hand over two Israeli hostages.”
An Israeli official told Reuters that the three hostages were expected to be taken to three different hospitals in Israel, though that could change depending on their immediate inspection from doctors upon arrival.
Israelis began to gather in what has become known as Hostages Square, a central square in Tel Aviv that has become the central location for efforts to campaign on behalf of hostages being held in Gaza.
Three Israeli civilians and four soldiers – all women – have been released so far in the ceasefire, which began on January 19. In return, Israel has released 290 Palestinian convicts and detainees.
More than 250 hostages were abducted in the Hamas attack in Israel.
Around half were released the following month during the only previous truce, and others have been recovered dead or alive during Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, which has left tens of thousands of Palestinians dead and turned the tiny coastal enclave into a wasteland of rubble.
Israel still lists 90 captives in Gaza, with around 30 declared dead in absentia.
Embassy Office Parks REIT, India’s largest office REIT, reported record quarterly revenue of ₹1,022 crores and net operating income of ₹829 crores for Q3 FY2025, both up 9 per cent year-over-year. The company announced distributions of ₹559 crores (₹5.90 per unit), marking a 13 per cent increase from the previous year.
The REIT leased 1.1 million square feet across 21 deals in Q3, with Global Capability Centers (GCCs) accounting for approximately 70 per cent of the leasing activity. Portfolio occupancy stood at 90 per cent by value, with key markets Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Chennai achieving occupancy levels exceeding 90 per cent.
In a significant development, Embassy REIT delivered a 0.6 million square feet office block to a global banking major at Embassy TechVillage in Bengaluru. The company maintains a development pipeline of 7.4 million square feet in Bengaluru and Chennai, expecting a 19 per cent yield on cost.
Interim CEO Ritwik Bhattacharjee noted strong demand for office space in gateway markets, citing record absorption in India during calendar year 2024. The company successfully raised ₹1,000 crores of debt at approximately 7.73 per cent, securing about 70 basis points in interest cost savings.
The record date for Q3 FY2025 distribution is set for February 1, 2025, with payments to be made by February 7, 2025.
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.
U HRVATSKOJ je jučer započeo najavljeni tjedni bojkot trgovačkih lanaca Lidl, Eurospin i dm te triju proizvoda – Coca-Cole, drugih gaziranih pića, vode u bocama i deterdženata za posuđe, na poziv platforme Halo, inspektore.
Iako su organizatori dali i vizualne upute, mnogima još nije jasno kada i što se bojkotira. Na Redditu je netko postavio pitanje: “Zašto kompliciraju bojkot? Zašto ne bi da petkom bojkot svih trgovina bude u sljedećih mjesec dana i gotovo?”
Ovaj prijedlog izazvao je razne reakcije – dok neki misle da stvar ne može bit jednostavnija, drugi se žale da im je teško pratiti kada i što točno treba bojkotirati.
Jedan korisnik je komentirao: “Svi s mobitelom u džepovima, ali teško vam je provjeriti osnovne informacije. Jasno do kad, od danas do srijede Lidl, dm i Eurospin bojkot, skupa s Colom, gaziranim pićima i deterdžentima, a sutra, u petak, bojkot svih lanaca.”
Drugi korisnik je izrazio svoju frustraciju s komentarom: “Isuse Kriste, doslovno se ne mogu načuditi da vam je sve teško i komplicirano i ovo i ono, ljudi danas nemaju motivaciju ni za što niti ustraju ni u čemu. Kupi sve prije bojkota pa ne idi 10 dana nikud ili idi di hoćeš i kad hoćeš, stvarno nije tako teško”.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
“Ako su tri smjernice previše za Hrvate, onda ovaj narod i ne zaslužuje bolje”, “Nama Hrvatima je očito previše teško zapamtiti tri dućana”, komentirali su drugi.
“Čim sam vidio onu infografiku znao sam da će se bojkot razvodniti i propasti do kraja veljače”
Iako većina misli da nije komplicirano, neki vjeruju da bi sve trebalo biti jednostavnije i lakše za pratiti.
“Usrali su s danima. Uvijek treba biti od ponedjeljka do petka. Znači petak bojkot svega, a ostale dane u tjednu bojkot ta tri lanca ili po meni, bolje bi bilo bojkot samo jednog velikog lanca tipa Konzum pa onda svaki tjedan novi.
Ovo od četvrtka do srijede je besmisleno kompliciranje, da ne spominjem gluparije s pojedinim proizvodima. Lakše je starijima zapamtit po tjednima od ponedjeljka do petka. Čim sam vidio onu infografiku znao sam da će se bojkot razvodniti i propasti do kraja veljače”.
“Ja sam zbilja mislila da ću moć pratit koga se i kad blokira, jer kao nisam još senilna i znam se snaći na internetu. Trebalo mi niti 24 h i nekoliko problema koji se se zaredali da zaboravim kako se zovem, a kamoli u koji dućan ne odem. Tako da se slažem – nek prestanu komplicirati”, pisali su.
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There are few similarities between soccer and acting, Tristian Eggerling says. And he should know since he’s both a forward with OC Sporting White in the fourth-tier United Premier Soccer League Division 1 and an actor whose credits include TV’s “Modern Family” and the big-screen slasher “Halloween Kills.”
“They are polar opposite,” he said. “One of them is very much about having a mental will to push yourself and push through pain and just have kind of a stubbornness to you.”
That would be soccer.
“The other one is much more about getting into a feel of empathy and really getting in tune with your emotions,” he adds. “You’re playing a fantasy but it’s about getting your head into that fantasy.”
That would be acting.
Tristian Eggerling, a soccer player for the UPSL OC Sporting FC and actor, rehearses lines with acting coach Marnie Cooper at her Studio City home on Jan. 10.
(Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times)
Yet Eggerling, who is exceptional at both, isn’t sure he’ll continue much longer with either. A 17-year-old senior who attends school online, Eggerling has a 4.6 grade-point average and a passion for engineering. So while being an athlete or an actor — much less both — may be a dream for many, it’s just not his dream.
“Ever since I was 10, when we toured JPL, I’ve wanted to be an engineer for NASA,” Eggerling said. “It just feels more part of my identity. I have natural talent in math and academics. I feel like those are more useful tools for life than playing soccer, acting.”
Which isn’t to say he’s giving up either for the time being.
“I just do it because I really love [it],” he said. “It’s just so much fun to play a role or play a sport.”
Tristian Eggerling, 17, a soccer player for the UPSL’s OC Sporting FC, practices with coach/trainer Michael Holzer at Lexington Park in Cypress on Jan. 7.
(Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times)
Eggerling followed his brother Gabe into acting, making his debut at age 4. He then followed his father in soccer; Christian Eggerling played for 17 years but never had the chance to go pro in those pre-MLS days. His son, he says, can do that.
“I had my gifts and he’s three steps ahead of me,” said the elder Eggerling, 54, the executive director of hospitality and culinary operations at City of Hope. “He’s got some real potential.”
However Eggerling’s coach Paul Caligiuri, who was a pro, playing 110 times for the U.S. national team and making seven World Cup starts, is pumping the brakes a bit on those expectations.
“I don’t think he’s on pace to go pro right now,” Caligiuri said. “But he’s a very unique individual in terms of how quick he learned. [From] when I started coaching him to where he’s at now, is just amazing, amazing progress.
“He has that mindset. And also the fact that he’s a great actor, it’s like his lifestyles are quite unique to be successful in all these levels.”
After Eggerling had been with the UPSL team a while and it was obvious he could hold his own, Caligiuri began introducing him to teammates as an actor.
“And the guys go ‘No way!’ And then you see the acceptance level strengthen because it’s cool to be an actor,” Caligiuri said.
Tristian Eggerling, 17, a soccer player for the UPSL OC Sporting FC and actor, rehearses lines with an acting coach Marnie Cooper at her Studio City home on Jan. 10.
(Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times)
Eggerling, who lives in Orange, isn’t the first person to juggle acting and soccer. Andrew Shue (“Melrose Place,” “The Rainmaker”) played five games for the Galaxy in the inaugural MLS season while Eric Braeden, who won a Daytime Emmy Award for his portrayal of the villainous Victor Newman on “The Young and the Restless,” led the Maccabee Los Angeles Soccer Club to the U.S. Open Cup title in 1973. More recently Jenna Ortega (“Scream,” “Beetlejuice”), who made her acting debut at 10, said she nearly gave up Hollywood for soccer as a grade-schooler.
The acting world, Eggerling says, is far more competitive than soccer.
“Very brutal,” he said. “It was nice and naive in soccer. Once we started to get into higher-end clubs, we were like ‘this feels familiar.’ Because acting, [from] the very get-go, it is extremely competitive.”
Yet for all the differences, the two can be complementary.
Tristian Eggerling, left, practices with his coach/trainer Michael Holzer, right, at Lexington Park in Cypress on Jan. 7.
(Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times)
“With soccer, it’s a lot about having a mental toughness to you. Soccer taught me how to work hard,” he said. “You can obviously apply that to acting.”
His parents have been key to his success. His father the chef monitors his diet and, because Eggerling hasn’t found time to get a driver’s license, his mother, Melissa, carts him to auditions and soccer practices.
“A lot of driving. Put a lot of cars into the grave,” Christian Eggerling said. “It makes for early mornings and late nights sometimes. And making sure all the laundry is done in between.”
The parents say they also make sure it’s not about them because they’ve seen far too many children who have been pushed to continue acting or soccer long after they stopped enjoying it. If Tristian ever feels that way, they say, it will be his call to quit or stay, not theirs.
Melissa Eggerling, left, talks with her son, Tristian Eggerling, center, after rehearsing lines with acting coach Marnie Cooper, right, at her Studio City on Jan. 10.
(Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times)
“You don’t want to play another season, I’m good with that,” Melissa Eggerling said. “But you don’t stop something in the process, because there’s other people [involved]. He has surrounded himself around people who have more and know more than him, because that’s how you build yourself up. That’s how you grow.
“You can’t let people down that are backing you and are there for you, but you can stop or shift gears and do something else, if that’s what you want to do.”
Eggerling’s next stop could be England, where he’ll have to find his own way around. After impressing during a trial there last summer, he could be returning next year to play soccer and study engineering in Newcastle. Where that would lead him is uncertain, but with either his soccer talents or the nest egg of money he’s saved from Hollywood funding his college education, Eggerling is unusually well prepared for the next act.
“The next play is the most important play,” he said, repeating a lesson he learned from Caligiuri. “You never close a door. You always keep your options open.”
India’s data centre market is projected to expand from USD 4.5 billion in 2023 to USD 11.6 billion by 2032, according to the Economic Survey 2024-25, which was tabled in Parliament on Friday.
India’s data centre market is experiencing substantial growth, fuelled by the expansion of infrastructure and an increasing demand for digital services, the survey said.
“The data centre market in India is expected to grow from USD 4.5 billion in 2023 to USD 11.6 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 10.98 per cent,” the document said.
India benefits from lower construction costs on account of its well-established IT and digitally enabled services ecosystem, as well as relatively affordable real estate with a median of USD 6.8 million per MW in 2023, compared to USD 9.17 million in Australia, USD 12.73 million in Japan, and USD 11.23 million in Singapore, it said.
According to the survey, India’s colocation data centre capacity reached 977 MW in 2023. An additional capacity of 258 MW led to a 105 per cent year-on-year growth.
“The total capacity under construction for 2024-2028 is 1.03 GW, with an additional 1.29 GW planned,” the survey said.
Further, it informed that the government has empanelled 23 public and private cloud service providers to address the cloud needs of user departments, under the GI Cloud initiative, known as MeghRaj.
As of November 30, 2024, the National Informatics Centre supports 1,917 applications on its cloud, it said.
The Economic Survey is an annual report presented by the government prior to the Union Budget, which assesses the state of the economy. It is prepared by the Economic Division within the Department of Economic Affairs, part of the Ministry of Finance, under the guidance of the Chief Economic Adviser.
The Union Budget for 2025-26 will be presented by the Finance Minister on Saturday.
Increased volcanic activity in Greece’s famed tourist hotspot of Santorini has prompted the country’s civil protection minister to call a meeting with local and disaster response officials.
Is Santorini’s volcano waking up? What tourists need to know!(Image by X/ilove_gr)
In an announcement late Wednesday, the Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Ministry said monitoring sensors had picked up “mild seismic-volcanic activity” in Santorini’s caldera. Similar volcanic activity had been recorded in the area in 2011, when it lasted for 14 months and ended without causing any issues.
Scientists monitoring the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, which stretches from the Peloponnese in southern Greece through the Cycladic islands, have noted an increase in activity in a central fault line in the northern part of Santorini’s caldera, the announcement said.
“According to the scientists, based on the currently available data there is no cause for particular concern,” it added.
The crescent-shaped island of Santorini is one of Greece’s most popular tourist destinations, drawing visitors from across the world for its whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches clinging to the cliff edge of the flooded caldera.
It was also the site of one of largest volcanic eruptions in human history, which took place in the Bronze Age around 1620 BC, destroying a large part of the island and giving Santorini its current shape. The eruption is believed to have contributed to the decline of the ancient Minoan civilization which had flourished in the region.
Although it is still an active volcano, the last notable eruption occurred in 1950.
“What we must realise is that the Santorini volcano produces very large explosions every 20,000 years,” Efthymios Lekkas, seismologist and head of the scientific monitoring committee for the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, said on Greece’s ERT television Thursday. “It’s been 3,000 years since the last explosion, so we have a very long time ahead of us before we face a big explosion.”
In the intervening time, Lekkas said, volcanic activity increases and decreases, and can cause small earthquakes. “The volcano is a living organism,” he said, adding that “we will not face a big explosion, but a mild procedure.”
Lekkas was among those who attended Wednesday’s meeting called by Civil Protection Minister Vassilis Kikilias, along with the head of Greece’s fire department, the deputy minister in charge of natural disaster recovery and several local and regional officials.
She has the most beautiful voice since Karen Carpenter, warm, velvety, and full of heart.
Rumer, also known as Sarah Joyce, is the former south London barmaid who shocked the pop world with her astounding 2010 debut album Seasons Of My Soul.
Likened to the Carpenters and Carole King’s Tapestry, it went double platinum and spawned the relaxed yet compelling hit single Slow with its Bacharach-style chords.
Here, Rumer reimagines her finest work with the help of Redtenbacher’s Funkestra, breathing fresh feeling into songs like Aretha, her hymn to Aretha Franklin, the greatest of all the American gospel-schooled soul icons.
The new arrangements they came up with rehearsing for her one-off show at the O2 Indigo in December 2023 gave Sarah the inspiration for this collection.
Five numbers from her debut album get a soulful makeover including the gorgeous Saving Grace, Am I Forgiven and Take Me As I Am.
She has also re-arranged strong later songs like the jazzy dance track Dangerous from her third hit album, 2014’s In Colour, which tackles her feelings of trepidation about getting back into the music industry after being overwhelmed by her rapid rise.
‘Stop hanging around my window, stop hanging around my door/My heart has grown cold, and I could never be, what you want me to be,’ she sings.
We also get a fresh take on her 2012 cover of Richie Havens’s It Could Be The First Day, the new album’s dreamy opener, and The Fate Of Fireflies from her blissful 2020 Americana album Nashville Tears where she covered numbers penned by country songwriter Hugh Priestwood.
These eleven songs are a timely reminded of Rumer’s remarkable talents. Gorgeous melodies abound.
The album is released today on standard black, purple and mint green coloured vinyl as well as CD.
bILK. Essex, Drugs And Rock And Roll.
This is glorious, an explosion of heartfelt high-energy rock with hip hop influences that channels The Streets and the Arctic Monkeys with a dollop of Oasis arrogance thrown in. Stand-outs include stomping opener RnR, the punchy rush of Slag (about singer Sol Abrahams’s own sex-life) and the surging and infectious, semi-rapped Go. Band Life Blues is, unsurprisingly, bluesier and autobiographical. All in all the Essex trio’s second album is vibrant proof that guitar rock isn’t dead.
The Weeknd. Hurry Up Tomorrow.
His coming movie of the same name is a musically-driven psychological thriller and tracks like the moody scene-setter Unprepared Certainty and opener Timeless (with Playboi Carti) will work better in that context. Dancing In The Flames is a little underwhelming but the songs are charged with Abel’s unmistakable haunting magic.
flipturn. Burnout Days.
The Florida-based quintet’s second album is a feast of dreamy indie-pop awash with revelations. On shimmering track Sunlight, singer Dillon Basse recalls driving his mum to rehab. Numbers like Rodeo Clown breeze along on an atmospheric tide as he confesses, ‘MDMA made me love you more – it’s all just a chemical feeling’.
The updated and renamed GWM Cannon ute will arrive on Australian soil with a higher entry price and a more potent turbo-diesel powertrain.
Due in showrooms this February, the rebranded Cannon – formerly the Ute – is priced from $40,490 drive-away in Lux guise, a $4000 increase over the standard price of the outgoing base model, or $5000 if you factor in GWM’s current runout offers.
Four variants will be offered – the Lux, Ultra, Vanta and XSR – with the latter flagship receiving a $3000 price cut compared to the Ute’s standard price, but a $3000 increase based on the aforementioned runout offers.
The cab-chassis body style has been axed for 2025.
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All GWM Cannons feature a 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine borrowed from the larger Cannon Alpha, producing 135kW of power and 480Nm of torque.
That’s an increase of15kW and 80Nm on the 2.0-litre found in the previous Ute, while the outgoing eight-speed automatic transmission has also been ditched in favour of a nine-speed unit.
Braked towing capacity has increased from 3200kg to 3500kg, matching the Ranger and HiLux as well as the larger Cannon Alpha. It had already been bumped up from 3000kg last year.
Outside, the new Cannon presents with revised front-end styling, while ‘GWM’ is embossed in the tailgate. There’s less chrome trim than before, too.
Inside, physical controls have been abandoned in favour of a simpler layout centring around a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless smartphone mirroring. The interior technology suite also includes a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster and wireless charging pad.
Pricing
Model
Drive-away price
2025 GWM Cannon Lux 4×4 dual-cab
$40,490 (up $4000 over Ute Cannon Premium, $1000 over Ute Cannon Lux)
2025 GWM Cannon Ultra 4×4 dual-cab
$43,490
2025 GWM Cannon Vanta 4×4 dual-cab
$45,490 (up $2000 over Ute Cannon Vanta)
2025 GWM Cannon XSR 4×4 dual-cab
$49,990 (down $3000 on Ute Cannon-XSR)
Drivetrains and Efficiency
2025 GWM Cannon
Engine
2.4-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel
Power
135kW
Torque
480Nm
Transmission
Nine-speed automatic
Drive type
4×4
Fuel economy (claimed)
8.4L/100km
Fuel tank capacity
TBA
Braked towing capacity
3500kg
Dimensions
GWM Cannon Lux, Vanta, Ultra
GWM Cannon XSR
Length
5416mm
5439mm
Width
1947mm
1958mm
Height
1884mm
1893mm
Wheelbase
3230mm
3230mm
Servicing and Warranty
As with the rest of the GWM range, the Cannon ute is backed by a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty and five years of roadside assistance.
The first service is due at six months or 5000km, while subsequent services are required at 12-month/10,000km intervals.
There will be five years of capped-price servicing, and pricing related to the servicing program will be confirmed closer to the official launch.
Safety
All variants of the GWM Ute – except for the Cannon XSR – were awarded a five-star safety rating from ANCAP in November 2021.
Assessment category
Score
Adult occupant protection
86 per cent
Child occupant protection
87 per cent
Vulnerable road user protection
67 per cent
Safety assist
73 per cent
Standard features across all models are:
Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian, cyclist detection
Seven airbags including a front-centre airbag
Reverse and passenger-kerbside camera views
Rear parking sensors
Lane departure warning
Lane-keep assist
Rear cross-traffic alert
Adaptive cruise control
Speed warning
Traffic sign recognition
Tyre-pressure monitoring
Driver fatigue monitoring system
Rear parking sensors
All bar the base model and Cannon XSR feature a surround-view camera and front parking sensors.
Standard Equipment
The base Cannon Lux comes standard with the following equipment:
18-inch alloy wheels
Chrome sports bar
LED headlights
Power-folding side mirrors
Spray-in bedliner
Keyless entry
Leatherette upholstery
Leatherette steering wheel
Single-zone climate control
Wireless phone charger
3 x 12V power outlets
12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
6-speaker sound system
DAB+ digital radio
Front and rear USB-A, USB-C outlets
7.0-inch digital instrument cluster
Rain-sensing wipers
The Cannon Ultra adds:
Electric sunroof
Rear privacy glass
Leather accented seats
Heated and ventilated front seats
Heated steering wheel
6-way power-adjustable driver seat
4-way power-adjustable front passenger seat
USB port for dash camera
Ambient lighting
Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
The Cannon Vanta gains:
18-inch black alloy wheels
Black sports bar
Matte black exterior trim
The Cannon XSR adds:
Off-road drive modes
Front differential lock
Body-coloured exterior trim
Snorkel
Colours
A choice of six exterior colours are available on the Cannon lineup:
Pearl White
Crystal Black
Scarlet Red
Pittsburgh Silver (not available on XSR)
Sapphire Blue
Stealth Grey (not available on XSR)
All finishes except the base Pearl White incur a $595 premium.
MORE: Everything GWM Cannon MORE: Buy a GWM Cannon
India Budget 2025 Insights: James Wilson, a Scottish economist, delivered India’s first budget on April 7, 1860.
The Union Budget 2025 is expected to bring bold tax reforms aimed at boosting disposable income, simplifying compliance, and enhancing financial security.
Union Budget 2025 Facts: This year on February 1, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is scheduled to announce the Union Budget. Hopes are high for infrastructure allocation, income tax slabs, GST rationalisation, and regulatory revisions to address consumer sentiment and economic pain, from regular taxpayers to those in the tech, healthcare, insurance, and financial industries.
The first part of Parliament’s budget session will start on January 31 and last through February 13, 2025. Additionally, the session’s second half will start on March 10 and end on April 4, 2025.
Before the finance minister announces the budget, here are some interesting facts about the Union Budget:
– James Wilson, a Scottish economist, delivered India’s first budget on April 7, 1860.
– Following independence, on February 28, 1948, the country’s first annual budget was presented by then-finance minister R K Shanmukham Chetty.
– Up to 1999, the budget for India was announced on the last working day of February at 5 pm. In the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led government at the time, Yashwant Sinha, the finance minister, changed this to 11 am.
– The record for the longest budget speech in terms of words is held by Dr Manmohan Singh, who used 18,604 words in 1991. In 2018, Arun Jaitley’s speech ranked second in terms of word count with 18,604 words.
– Furthermore, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman holds the record for the longest budget speech. She spoke for two hours and 42 minutes during the Union Budget for 2020-21.
– Nirmala Sitharaman broke the record set by former Finance Minister Morarji Desai in 2024 by being the first Finance Minister to propose seven consecutive budgets.
– Moraraji Desai continues to be the person who submitted the most budget proposals in India’s history. From 1962 to 1969, he served as finance minister and presented eleven budgets.
– In 1977, Hirubhai Mulljibhai Patel gave the shortest budget speech, which was only 800 words long.
– Up until 1955, only English was used to present the Union Budget. It was eventually agreed by the Congress government to print the budget documents in both Hindi and English.
– The first budget to be fully digitalised due to the COVID-19 epidemic was the 2021–2022 budget.
News business Budget 2025: 10 Amazing Facts To Know About Union Budgets
With the bull run underway, there is still time to load up on good coins. However, the best way to do this is to look at coins with a lot of potential that haven’t yet been pumped. Here we’ll explore Elluminex, Toncoin, Hedera, and Near Protocol.
Why Elluminex Could Be The DeFi Hub TON Needs
Elluminex is a DeFi project being built on the TON blockchain. The aim of the ex-Silicon Valley team is to create an ‘all in one DeFi hub’ for TON and Telegram.
Unlike many new coins and meme coins, Elluminex has put its focus on utility. They are building features like a powerful DEX to make swapping easy, a staking platform so users can easily generate yields, a cross-chain bridge to make getting on and off-chain simpler, and to improve blockchain
interoperability. There will also be an AI portfolio tracker to help people make great decisions and have a watchful assistant even when they sleep.
As the ELX coin is at $0.06 in the presale’s first stage, Elluminex could be a very high potential investment.
Its low market cap (currently at $21M), and user-focused roadmap, suggest that there is a lot of room for growth. Especially when given the rapid growth of TON and the new partnership between TON and its integration with Telegram’s 950M active user base.
TON’s Telegram Partnership Brings More Utility For Toncoin
Toncoin has been one of the most talked-about coins in 2024 and 2025, thanks to its deep integration with Telegram. Telegram recently announced that all new mini-apps on its platform must operate on the TON blockchain, which means that Toncoin will be the go-to currency for everything from in-app purchases to advertising.
The new partnership also mandates that Toncoin will be the only cryptocurrency used for Telegram Stars, Ads, and Premium services. This all gives TON a huge advantage over most blockchains.
Despite this, Toncoin remains underpriced, likely because the market hasn’t fully digested the impact of these changes. As adoption grows, TON could see substantial upside, especially if it becomes the central token for mass crypto adoption through Telegram.
Stellar Provides A Strong Alternative For International Payments
Stellar, often seen as Ripple’s quieter sibling, is another coin in which we see significant potential. Stellar focuses on fast, low-cost cross-border payments and has already made partnerships with financial institutions to enable global remittances.
What makes XLM particularly interesting right now is its valuation. While Ripple has surged after winning its legal battle with the SEC, Stellar remains relatively undervalued. This is despite offering a similar use case for international payments and positioning itself as a competitor in the same space.
For traders looking for a coin with strong fundamentals but more room to grow than XRP, XLM could be an ideal pick.
Hedera Hashgraph is unique due to its enterprise focus and innovative hashgraph consensus mechanism.
As it is backed by major companies like Google and IBM, Hedera has the potential to be the blockchain of choice for businesses looking for scalable, energy-efficient solutions.
Its current price, however, doesn’t, in our opinion, reflect the scale of its partnerships or the scope of its real-world use cases. From supply chain tracking to decentralized identity verification, HBAR is powering solutions that are being used now, not at some random point in the future.
As more companies turn to blockchain technology for real-world applications, Hedera is ready to seize the market, and its undervalued price makes it a strong candidate for growth.
Near Protocol Is Quietly Building The Blockchain Of Tomorrow
Near Protocol is on the list because they are quietly building some of the most advanced technology in the blockchain right now.
Near’s sharding technology means it can process transactions faster and more efficiently than many of its competitors, or at least according to NEAR (testing actual TPS is a minefield).
NEAR also offers a developer-friendly environment, which has helped attract developers to make decentralized apps on its ecosystem.
Despite its cutting-edge technology, NEAR is trading well below the valuations of other layer-1 blockchains like Arbitrum or Ethereum. This has created a potentially appealing entry point for traders who believe in its long-term scalability and potential to attract more developers.
As blockchain adoption increases and more dApps go live on NEAR, its ecosystem could grow significantly. This makes it another undervalued pick for the current market cycle.
For more information about Elluminex (ELX) visit the links below:
Queen’s University Belfast which is opening an international campus in GIFT City, Gujarat will begin the academic session in January 2026 and will offer five postgraduate programmes that will be tailored to the specific needs of the Indian economy.
The University from Northern Ireland is a 200-year-old educational institution and also figures in the list of top 200 universities of the world. Through the five postgraduate programmes that will be initially offered to students at GIFT City, the University will focus on equipping students with high-demand skills in the areas of finance, technology and business analytics, stated the University in an official statement on its website.
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In December 2024, businessline had reported about International Financial Services Centre Authority (IFSCA) providing the necessary clearances to set up an international campus in GIFT City. Queen’s University will be the third foreign educational institution to open an international campus in GIFT City after two Australian Universities — Deakin and Wollongong University.
Dipesh Shah, Executive Director, IFSCA in GIFT City stated, “We welcome Queen’s University Belfast to GIFT IFSC. The international branch campus regulations of IFSCA enables seamless onboarding of top foreign universities in GIFT City. This would be the first UK University entering GIFT IFSC.”
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In addition to the five postgraduate programmes offered initially, the University plans to increase the range of courses and also welcome PhD students. Queen’s President and vice chancellor professor Sir Ian Greer stated, “We are delighted that work is underway to bring Queen University’s world-class education to the wider student base in India. Our campus will offer opportunity and potential for a diverse range of students whilst also delivering social value and impact to the region. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, our GIFT City campus will create opportunities for knowledge exchange and advance the4 shared goal of sustainable development.”
A member of the Russell Group, Queen’s also figures among the UK’s top 24 leading research-intensive universities.
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, Connections and Connections: Sports Edition puzzles.
The NYT Mini Crossword wasn’t too tough today. Movie fans, you should do pretty well, thanks to 7-Across and 8-Across. Need some more help with today’s Mini Crossword? Read on. 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, Connections: Sports Edition 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 Jan. 31, 2025.
NYT/Screenshot by CNET
Mini across clues and answers
1A clue: Like a dry-cleaned shirt or fresh sheets Answer: CRISP
6A clue: Weapon used on horseback Answer: LANCE
7A clue: One of a potential 13 for “Emilia Pérez,” as announced last week Answer: OSCAR
8A clue: Movie double’s responsibility Answer: STUNT
9A clue: The “blue marble” Answer: EARTH
Mini down clues and answers
1D clue: In the ballpark Answer: CLOSE
2D clue: Someone who might smoke ganja as a sacrament, informally Answer: RASTA
3D clue: Run up, as debt Answer: INCUR
4D clue: Meager Answer: SCANT
5D clue: Capital of Western Australia Answer: PERTH
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 Ebola outbreak has been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
At least a dozen cases of the hemorrhagic fever have been reported in the Bolamba health zone, which is located in the Équateur Province in the DRC. Eight deaths have been reported.
Colomba Mampuya, president of the Red Cross/Ecuador committee, reportedly shared the information with media on Jan. 27.
CDC WARNS US PUBLIC HEALTH OFFICIALS OF EBOLA-LIKE DISEASE
Meanwhile, the neighboring country of Tanzania has been grappling with an outbreak of Marburg fever.
An Ebola outbreak has been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in Africa.(iStock)
“This is an unusually high death rate, even for Ebola,” said Jacob Glanville, CEO and president of biotechnology company Centivax in San Francisco.
“This suggests either that more active cases have been identified, or that this strain is more lethal than average for prior strains, or that medical care was unusually poor for these subjects,” he told Fox News Digital.
“While the risk of widespread transmission is likely low, local impacts could still be substantial.”
The cases were identified in isolated villages, which improves the odds of outbreak isolation and increases the chance that medical care was substandard, Glanville noted.
“However, biopsy samples should immediately be sequenced to rule out a new and potentially more lethal form of Ebola,” he said.
KANSAS CITY TUBERCULOSIS OUTBREAK IS LARGEST IN US HISTORY
Samuel Scarpino, director of AI and life sciences and professor of health sciences at Northeastern University in Boston, reiterated that the ongoing situation in rural DRC is “quite serious.”
Ebola occurs when someone is infected with orthoebolavirus zairense, which is a virus mainly found in sub-Saharan Africa.(iStock)
“While the risk of widespread transmission is likely low, local impacts could still be substantial,” he told Fox News Digital.
“It is essential that the international community provides medical and public health support to DRC and that vaccines be made quickly available in both the affected and surrounding areas.”
“We will be watching the situation closely, but currently, the risk to the U.S. is incredibly low.”
Both experts agreed that the U.S. is not at risk.
“Because Ebola only spreads from symptomatic individuals, the risk that a traveler could spark a small cluster of cases outside of DRC is very low,” Scarpino said.
“We will be watching the situation closely, but currently, the risk to the U.S. is incredibly low.”
What to know about Ebola
Ebola occurs when someone is infected with orthoebolavirus zairense, which is a virus mainly found in sub-Saharan Africa, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The virus was first discovered in 1976 in the DRC.
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The resulting disease is life-threatening, causing death in up to 90% of cases.
Initial symptoms of Ebola disease include “dry” symptoms like fever, aches, pains and fatigue, the CDC stated.
A boy gets vaccinated for Ebola virus in the village of Mangina in North Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, on Aug. 18, 2018. “It is essential that the international community provides medical and public health support to DRC and that vaccines be made quickly available in both the affected and surrounding areas,” an expert said.(REUTERS/Olivia Acland)
As the disease progresses, the person may experience “wet” symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting and unexplained bleeding.
Symptoms usually begin within eight to 10 days of exposure, according to the same source.
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The sickness is spread through contact with bodily fluids from someone who has been infected.
In rare cases, it may spread from contact with an infected animal.
This undated colorized transmission electron micrograph file image made available by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows an Ebola virus virion. (Frederick Murphy/CDC via AP, File)(AP Images)
The best ways to prevent infection are to avoid contact with bodily fluids of infected people, to wear the proper protective equipment in high-risk environments, and to monitor for symptoms to ensure timely medical attention.
There are two FDA-approved medications (monoclonal antibodies) available to treat Ebola disease: mAb114 (Ansuvimab, also known as Ebanga) and REGN-EB3 (Inmazeb).
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Patients should also receive supportive care, including fluids and electrolytes, medicine to treat symptoms and any necessary treatment for infections, according to the CDC.
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].
Car Cafes are quickly becoming the latest trend in dining, blending the comfort of a hotel, the fun of a cinema, and the high-quality food of a five-star restaurant. Maple Pods is at the forefront of this trend, offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience that combines privacy with luxury. With Maple Pods, guests can enjoy their meals in car-shaped dining pods that accommodate up to six people. These pods provide a private and relaxing space, ideal for anyone looking for a mix of entertainment and fine dining. Some pods even feature TVs and premium audio systems, enhancing the overall experience.
Maple Pods Photo Credit: Photo Credit: _delhicafes via Instagram
Eco-Friendly And Innovative Dining
In addition to offering an exceptional dining experience, Maple Pods is committed to sustainability. The pods are crafted using recycled car parts, contributing to the reduction of automobile waste and helping to combat environmental pollution. This inventive method of repurposing discarded materials positions Maple Pods as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional dining establishments, making it an attractive option for customers who prioritise eco-conscious dining.
What Makes Maple Pods Special?
Maple Pods stands out for three key reasons:
1. Recycling Automobile Waste
Maple Pods transforms old car parts into stylish and functional dining spaces, showcasing an inspiring example of sustainable design.
Already established in New Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, Mumbai, and Pune, Maple Pods has plans to expand to 30 more cities across India, the UAE, and beyond.
3. High-Tech, Handcrafted Dining Pods
Each pod is designed with cutting-edge technology and intricate handcrafted details, ensuring a seamless and luxurious dining experience.
Custom Dining Packages For Every Occasion
Maple Pods offers a range of custom packages to cater to different needs. Whether it’s a romantic dinner, a birthday celebration, a Netflix & Chill evening, a proposal, or a family get-together, there’s a package to suit everyone. Prices range from INR 1,500 to INR 10,000, depending on the features, food, and the length of the experience.
Also read: https://food.ndtv.com/reviews/delectable-food-and-drinks-meet-soulful-jazz-music-at-the-piano-man-3344209
Custom Dining Packages Photo Credit: Photo Credit: _delhicafes via Instagram
A Favourite Dining Spot Among Gen Z
The concept of enjoying privacy in public has gained immense popularity, particularly among Gen Z, who appreciate exclusive yet social experiences. As public spaces become more crowded, Maple Pods offers the perfect solution, allowing people to enjoy a night out while still maintaining their own personal space. This has made it a favourite choice for young customers seeking a unique dining experience.
A Trend That’s Here To Stay
With its combination of privacy, entertainment, sustainability, and luxury, Maple Pods is changing the dining scene. As the brand continues to expand across India and internationally, it’s set to revolutionise the way people dine. Whether it’s a casual outing, a romantic evening, or a special celebration, Maple Pods is leading the way in the future of hospitality – one pod at a time.
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<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-01-30/DR-Congo-leader-says-troops-mounting-vigorous-response-to-M23-1AAhyKKvSkE/img/14b286534a944608adbe7b953615a8b7/14b286534a944608adbe7b953615a8b7.png' alt='Members of the M23 armed group operate in the streets of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, January 29, 2025. /CFP'
President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) insisted on Wednesday his troops were mounting a “vigorous” response to Rwanda-backed fighters advancing in the country’s perennially troubled east and slammed the international community’s “silence and inaction.”
The weeks-long march of the M23 armed group, which has captured vast swathes of eastern DRC, including most of the key city of Goma, has prompted calls for crisis talks and warnings of a looming humanitarian crisis.
DRC’s mineral-rich east has been wracked by decades of conflict involving scores of armed groups that can be partly traced back to the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
In his first remarks since the latest crisis began, Tshisekedi said late Wednesday that a “vigorous and coordinated response against these terrorists and their sponsors is underway.”
The “silence and inaction” of the international community were an “affront” in the face of an “unprecedented worsening of the security situation,” he said in a televised address.
He warned the advance of Rwanda-backed fighters could lead “straight to an escalation” in the broader Great Lakes region.
It followed local sources telling AFP that Kigali-backed fighters had seized two districts in South Kivu.
The Congolese army had yet to make a statement about the M23’s fresh advances.
After days of intense clashes that left more than 100 dead and nearly 1,000 wounded, according to an AFP tally from overflowing hospitals, calm returned to Goma as residents started venturing from their homes.
“Today we are not afraid,” Goma resident Jean de Dieu told AFP by telephone from the city of 1 million people wedged between Lake Kivu and the Rwandan border.
‘Peaceful settlement’ urged
Despite international pressure to end the crisis, Tshisekedi declined to attend crisis talks with his Rwandan counterpart Paul Kagame on Wednesday.
Following the virtual summit, the regional East African Community bloc “called for peaceful settlement of the conflicts,” urging the DRC to “directly engage with all stakeholders, including the M23.”
In a late-night tweet, Kagame warned South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who tweeted condolences following the death of 13 South Africans in DRC, his country was “in no position to take on the role of a peacemaker or mediator.”
The troops were part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC), which Kagame said had “no place in this situation.”
Angola, which mediated failed talks last month, has also called for the Congolese and Rwandan leaders to meet urgently in Luanda and said Wednesday that Tshisekedi had arrived in the city.
The fighting has heightened an already dire humanitarian crisis in the region, causing food and water shortages and forcing half a million people from their homes this month, according to the United Nations.
‘Cut off from the world’
On Sunday, M23 fighters and Rwandan troops entered Goma city, seizing the key mineral trading hub’s airport, with AFP reporters saying they were the only forces remaining in the city’s downtown.
A long line of hundreds of Congolese soldiers and pro-Kinshasa militiamen, unarmed and wearing white headbands, were marched through the city’s center by M23 fighters, a security source said.
There was also widespread looting, AFP journalists observed.
Student Merdi Kambelenge told AFP while the situation had “stabilized, the lack of electricity meant we’re cut off from the world.”
Earlier in the week, furious protesters in the capital of Kinshasa attacked various embassies, accusing them of not stepping in to halt the chaos in the east. Calm was restored after officials banned all further demonstrations.
M23 advance ‘will continue’
The UN, U.S., China and the European Union have all called on Rwanda to withdraw its forces from the region.
But Rwanda’s ambassador-at-large for the Great Lakes region, Vincent Karega, told AFP the M23 advance “will continue.”
It was possible the fighters could push beyond the country’s east – even to Kinshasa, he added.
DRC is rich in gold and other minerals such as cobalt, coltan, tantalum and tin used in batteries and electronics worldwide.
Kinshasa has accused Rwanda of waging the offensive to profit from the region’s mineral wealth – a claim backed by UN experts who say Kigali has thousands of troops in its neighbor and “de facto control” over the M23.
Rwanda has denied the accusations.
Kagame has never admitted military involvement, saying Rwanda’s aim is to destroy a DRC-based armed group, the FDLR, created by former Hutu leaders who massacred Tutsis during the genocide.
A 4-acre property in Mumbai, the site of the historic Filmistan Studio which churned out blockbuster movies in the 1940s and 1950s, has been acquired by Arkade Developers for ₹165 crore.
Arkade plans to develop luxury residences on the site with a saleable area of 5 lakh square feet and estimated revenue potential of ₹2000 crore. The property is currently leased to Filmistan Pvt Ltd, and Amit Jain, Chairman and Managing Director, Arkade Developers, told businessline that the lease would be terminated and the tenant appropriately compensated.
The property was acquired from Aspen Properties Pvt Ltd and their joint venture partners, Kamanwala Housing Construction.
Jain said that the aim is to build luxury and premium highrises on the property with spacious apartments with three and four bedrooms at starting rates of ₹40,000 per square feet.
The property is located in Goregaon in the western suburbs of the financial capital and according to Jain, there are no comparable projects in that area.
This is the second studio to be snapped up by a real estate developer, after RK Studios in Chembur was acquired by Godrej Properties in 2023.
Filmistan was set up in 1943 by Ashok Kumar and Sashadhar Mukherjee and one of the first movies to be produced by it was Chal Chal Re Naujawan in 1944 that had Ashok Kumar and Naseem Banu in the lead roles.
Some of the movies produced by the studio were ‘Do Bhai,’ ‘Jagriti,’ ‘Nastik’ and Dev Anand-starrer ‘Paying Guest.’
When Sashadhar left the studio in 1958, the quality of movies produced by it also suffered and in recent times it has been used as a studio for film shoots as well as some reality shows.
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.
KONZUM je objavio da snižava cijene 250 domaćih proizvoda koji nisu obuhvaćeni najavljenom vladinom odlukom o ograničenju cijena.
Konzumova odluka došla je dan uoči najavljenog masovnog bojkota trgovina na koji je pozvala potrošačka platforma Halo, inspektore, po uzoru na onaj koji se dogodio u petak 17. siječnja. Iz Konzuma navode da je riječ o “atraktivnim proizvodima hrvatskih proizvođača koji se redovito nalaze u košaricama većine Konzumovih kupaca”.
Tako će se od subote, 1. veljače, uz listu proizvoda čiju cijenu ograničava vlada, sniziti i zaključati cijene dodatnih 250 proizvoda i neće se mijenjati sve do 1. lipnja 2025., osim što mogu biti dodatno snižene.
Prosječno sniženje iznosi oko 10 posto, a na pojedinim proizvodima i više od 30 posto. Konzum je u ovaj novi krug snižavanja i zaključavanja cijena uložio novih milijun eura, naveli su u priopćenju.
Reakcije javnosti na ovaj Konzumov potez su podijeljene, a na društvenim mrežama razvile su se rasprave. Dok neki pozdravljaju potez kao pozitivan korak, drugi su skeptični i smatraju da se radi o marketinškom odgovoru na pritisak javnosti, a neki su, pak, uočili i neke nelogičnosti.
“Dokaz da trebamo nastaviti s bojkotom”
Dio komentatora smatra da snižavanje cijena nije toliko značajno kako se predstavlja te da se zapravo radi o taktičkom potezu. “Trebalo bi pratiti hoće li to zaista biti tako relevantno sniženje ili je samo fensi taktika da se izbjegne biti idući bojkotirani lanac.”
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
S druge strane, postoje i oni koji smatraju da ovaj potez samo potvrđuje kako bojkot trgovina ima učinka te da ga treba nastaviti. “Po meni su ova snižavanja samo dokaz da trebamo nastaviti s bojkotom, ako ne i još jače. Pokazali su da mogu bez problema snizit cijene, a da im marža ostane na njima prihvatljivoj razini (koja je vjerojatno i dalje nešto veća nego što bi trebala bit).”
Dio komentatora postavlja pitanje zašto su cijene snižene samo do 1. lipnja 2025., što je izazvalo bojazan da bi mogle ponovno porasti s početkom turističke sezone. “A zašto samo do 1.6. ako uvjeti ostanu isti. Ovo je znak da u sezoni opet divljate”, “Prvo ste ih povisili, sada ‘trajno’ snizili, i ne, to nije trajno, već do 1.6.2025. kada ćete ih opet u nebesa vinuti zbog turista.”
“Cekin pileći medaljoni 400 g na webu su 4.59 eura, a zamrzavaju cijenu na 5.59 eura”
Osim rasprava o Konzumovom potezu, pojedini kupci primijetili su i neke nelogičnosti – primjerice, da jedan proizvod s popisa sniženih artikala ima višu cijenu od one trenutno istaknute u webshopu. “Cekin pileći medaljoni 400 g na web stranici je 4.59 eura, a zamrzavaju cijenu na 5.59 eura, znači uvećano za 22%…”, napisala je jedna osoba.
Konzumu smo poslali upit o ovoj razlici u cijeni, ako i kada stigne odgovor, objavit ćemo ga.
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Eric Musselman knew well before he took the reins at USC that recruiting the Southland and its wellspring of hoops talent would be essential to his success with the Trojans.
“We have to recruit L.A.,” Musselman said after a game in December. “And not just recruit them a little bit. We have to recruit them relentlessly.”
That unrelenting approach on the recruiting trail had yet to fully resonate until Thursday, when five-star Chatsworth guard Alijah Arenas, one of the top uncommitted prospects in this year’s class, committed to the Trojans.
Arenas’ commitment marks the biggest recruiting victory of the Musselman era, the first five-star prospect to endorse the coach’s vision in L.A.
Arenas, the son of former NBA player Gilbert Arenas, is the No. 10 recruit in this year’s class and the second-ranked prospect in the state, according to 247 Sports. He picked USC over Arizona, among other schools.
“It felt like the best fit,” Arenas said while announcing his commitment on his father’s podcast, “Gil’s Arena.” “Seeing what USC was like, it made me feel special.”
Arenas, a 6-foot-6 guard, was named to the McDonald’s All-American game this week after reclassifying to become a senior. He’s averaging 31.8 points for Chatsworth in his third season for the Chancellors. The family decided to enroll him in a City Section public school rather than a private school in the hope it would help him improve as a leader and player facing double and triple teams.
Gilbert Arenas attended Grant High and Arizona, so USC’s success in recruiting Alijah might come as a surprise considering his father’s Arizona ties.
Arenas gives USC a trio of prospects in this year’s class, alongside top-50 guard Jerry Easter of Missouri and four-star St. John Bosco guard Elzie Harrington. They’ll join a roster next season that will look decidedly different. More than half the team will have exhausted its eligibility, making it even more critical that Musselman establish a foothold in Southern California.
Thailand expects to complete its first high-speed rail network linking the country to China through Laos in 2030, a long-delayed project officials have touted as key to furthering bilateral relations and trade between the two nations.
A woman makes an offering to gods as part of the traditional worship rituals on the eve of the Lunar New Year in Chinatown, Bangkok, Thailand. Forget the airport—Thailand’s new train network will link you straight to China!(Image by REUTERS/Chalinee Thirasupa)
The construction of the first phase linking Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima province is currently at about 36% completion, Jirayu Houngsub, the government’s spokesman, said in a statement Wednesday. The design for the second phase that will extend the rail line to the northeastern border province of Nong Khai has been finalized and is ready to be submitted to the cabinet for approval, he said.
In all, the rail line is 609 kilometers (378 miles) long and is estimated to cost 434 billion baht ($12.9 billion). The Thai network will be connected to the Laos-China line via a bridge built over the Mekong River.
Thailand is looking to improve its connectivity with China, its biggest trading partner, as Southeast Asia’s second-biggest economy struggles to match the pace of the growth of its regional peers. Beyond trade, the two nations are also forging closer tourism ties as both countries last year waived tourist visas for their citizens.
Once operational, the Thailand-Laos rail network will make it possible to travel from Bangkok to China’s capital via stops in Vientiane and the southern Chinese city of Kunming, where there is a separate semi-high speed service to Beijing.
Thailand started the construction of the high-speed rail network in 2017 under the Chinese government’s Belt and Road Initiative, according to the project’s website. The Thai government is responsible for entire project investment, civil works construction, and application of Chinese construction technologies and railway systems.
The first phase of the project being built at an estimated cost of 179 billion baht is expected to start operation in 2027.
The Laos and Thailand segments are seen by many as the start of infrastructure that will directly connect China with much of Southeast Asia, including Malaysia and Singapore. Laos opened a rail line in 2021 that cost the landlocked country nearly $6 billion to link with China.
Fortnite fans are counting down to the release of update 33.30, which introduces OG Chapter 1, Season 2.
Epic Games has confirmed that update 33.30 and OG Season 2 will have a January 31 release date on PS5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch and Android.
Unfortunately, however, fans won’t be able to check out the new content until after a period of server downtime, which begins at 9am GMT UK time.
You can see the OG Season 2 Battle Pass skins in the picture at the top of the page.
The news was announced by Epic Games on X, alongside confirmation that a popular point of interest will be included in Season 2.
“Meet you at Tilted Towers?” reads an Epic post. “Downtime for v33.30 begins at 4 AM ET with matchmaking ending shortly beforehand.”
Because of the size of the update and amount of new content, chances are servers will be offline for longer and file sizes will be bigger.
As you can see from the map and trailer below, points of interest include Junk Junction, Haunted Hills, Pleasant Park, Anarchy Acres, Snobby Shores, Tilted Towers, Greasy Grove, Shifty Shafts, Flush Factory, Fatal Fields and Salty Springs.
That’s on top of Dusty Depot, Tomato Town, Wailing Woods, Lonely Lodge, Retail Row and Moisty Mire.
As you can see from the trailer, the Boogie Bomb is back, alongside remixed versions of classic skins, such as the Black Knight and Sparkle Specialist.
As for regular Fortnite, update 33.30 will also add new content and features across the various game modes.
For starters, Godzilla will be vaulted following the recent Kong event, while new crossovers will join the game files.
This includes the next batch of Jujutsu Kaisen skins, as well as the AC Milan crossover.
There’s also a chance we’ll get some leaks for any potential end of season event and Chapter 6, Season 2 themes.
Fortnite Ballistic will add the Drum Gun, all the while making various gameplay changes and bug fixes.
Speaking of which, you can check out the early update 33.30 patch notes below.
Fortnite update 33.30 patch notes…
GENERAL
• Incorrect Emote order in the Emote Wheel.
– Emotes assigned to the Emote Wheel may appear in the wrong order, i.e. the Wheel appears to be incorrectly rotated.
• Homescape Wrap not animating.
– The Homescape Wrap does not animate when viewed or equipped due to an issue. We are working to resolve this, and will update this card as we have identified and deployed a fix.
BATTLE ROYALE/RELOAD/OG
• Display issues in split screen when three or more players are signed in.
– If three or more players are signed in to a console and play Fortnite in split screen mode while the third player is not in the game, they may notice a third display pop up instead of the intended two.
• [PC/EGS] Players unable to enter build mode using build tools bound to the F key.
– We’ve identified a keybind overlap issue affecting multiple build keybinds on keyboard. The fix to address these conflicts is in the works and will be coming with the v33.30 game update.
• Players might get stuck in a sliding animation while moving around regularly.
– Occasionally, players may find themselves stuck in a sliding animation when moving or standing still after using the sliding mechanic as intended.
• Structures at BURD drop Stone instead of Metal.
– When harvesting resources at the BURD gas station, some metal structures may drop Stone instead of intended Metal.
FORTNITE MOBILE
• Unable to pick up ammo or items while using a Medkit/Shield
– Potion.Players may be unable to pick up any ammo or items while under the Medkit/Shield Potion effect – even if they have available Inventory slots.
BALLISTIC (via Hypex)
• New Drum Gun Added – Costs 3,500 Credits
• You can no longer use Gadgets during buy phase
• Rift Device plant bonus: 500 -> 200 Credits
• Hyper SMG cost: 1500 -> 1800 Credits
• Frenzy Shotgun cost: 1600 -> 1500 Credits
• Reaper Sniper cost: 5000 -> 4700 Credits
• Hammer Shotgun: Point-blank dmg up, mid-range dmg up, long-range dmg slightly down & headshot multi reduced from x3 to x2
• Frenzy Shotgun: Point-blank dmg slightly up, mid-range dmg slightly up & long-range dmg slightly down
• Reaper Sniper: Faster first-shot accuracy recovery & mag size increased from 3 to 5
The clock is running out on the Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) exemption for plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs), and Australian BYD distributor EVDirect is working to deliver delayed Shark 6 utes before the April 1 cutoff date.
Shark 6 deliveries have been impacted by industrial action at Australian ports. Though this action has now ended, the ripple effects are seeing customers take delivery of their vehicles later than expected.
EVDirect now says it has received over 6000 Shark 6 orders – up another 500 in the last fortnight alone – since it announced pricing and opened orders last October, though deliveries only commenced earlier this month.
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It’s unclear how many vehicle deliveries have been impacted by the drama at the ports.
“We have the whole team working around the clock to minimise [the impact of the industrial action],” EVDirect founder and executive chairman Luke Todd told CarExpert.
“The port activity was completely out of our hands, but the impact of that is significant.
“The timing of it, when we did have so many people waiting – especially just after Christmas and New Year.
“The impact of the strike activity at ports was just terrible timing, so we’re now doing everything we can to satisfy as many deliveries as possible, and we’re doing everything we can to hopefully have zero people impacted with the FBT, but as it stands I couldn’t assure that.
“We’re doing all we can, and that’s all we can do. It’s unfortunate that as an island country we are held to ransom by ports.”
While the FBT exemption will continue for certain EVs beyond April 1, it’s ending for PHEVs as from that date they’ll no longer be considered a zero- or low-emissions vehicle.
That means customers will need to sign a novated lease agreement and take delivery before April 1, per Australian Tax Office (ATO) guidelines.
PHEV sales were up by 100.2 per cent in 2024, outpacing the growth for electric vehicles (up 4.7 per cent over 2023) and hybrids (up 76 per cent).
With the Shark 6, BYD has beaten other brands to the punch in offering a PHEV ute in Australia.
Ford’s Ranger PHEV isn’t due here until mid-year, while the PHEV version of GWM’s Cannon Alpha is set for a second-quarter launch.
BYD’s first ute is available in a sole 4×4 dual-cab specification, priced at $57,900 before on-road costs.
This sees it undercut the Ford Ranger XLT Bi-Turbo dual-cab ($63,640 before on-roads), which indicates there will be a significant gulf between the Shark and a comparable Ranger PHEV.
Powering the Shark 6 is a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, plus two electric motors (one on each axle), and a 29.58kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack.
The powertrain produces total outputs of 321kW and 650Nm, sent to all four wheels.
BYD claims an electric-only driving range of 100km (NEDC), with fuel economy as low as 2.0L/100km when running as a hybrid with the battery charged.
The Shark 6 has a braked towing capacity of 2500kg – down on the 3500kg figure of most Ranger models, including the upcoming PHEV.
Healthcare players expect measures, including reduced duty on hospitals, infrastructure incentives, health insurance reforms, and support for preventive care and wellness, from Union Budget 2025-26.
Know Budget 2025 expectations from the healthcare industry.
Union Budget 2025-26 Expectations: As the Union Budget 2025-26 approaches, healthcare industry stakeholders have outlined critical expectations to address pressing challenges in the sector and accelerate progress toward a robust and equitable healthcare system. From reducing treatment costs and promoting infrastructure expansion to rationalizing tax structures and fostering innovation, their recommendations reflect the urgent need for targeted policy interventions.
Focus on NCDs and Cancer Treatment
Suneeta Reddy, managing director of Apollo Hospitals, highlighted the importance of addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which have become a significant public health concern. Building on last year’s reduced customs duties on cancer medicines, she advocated for extending these benefits to targeted therapy drugs and advanced cancer treatment equipment like radiotherapy machines and robotics, which currently attract customs duties of up to 37 per cent.
“Rationalising the duty structure on these will help lower cancer treatment costs in the country,” she added.
Infrastructure Expansion Incentives
To address India’s shortage of hospital beds, Reddy proposed an infrastructure-linked incentive (ILI) similar to the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme. Under this model, the government could offer a 50 per cent incentive on capital expenditure for new hospitals with over 100 beds, allowing companies to offset the cost against their tax liabilities.
“This can significantly facilitate faster capacity creation in the industry which will bode well for the patients and the population at large,” Reddy added.
Boosting Health Insurance Penetration
Healthcare leaders also called for measures to improve health insurance adoption. Reddy urged the government to lower GST on health insurance premiums to 5 per cent and mandate coverage for companies employing over 20 workers.
Rakesh Goyal, director of Probus, advocated for a dedicated healthcare regulator to ensure transparency and fairness in collaborations between insurers and healthcare providers.
“By standardising ethical pricing and curbing unjustified price hikes, such a regulatory would build consumer confidence and drive higher adoption of health insurance, thereby significantly boosting insurance penetration in India,” Goyal said.
Promoting Telehealth and Preventive Care
Telehealth and digital medicine remain pivotal for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Industry leaders expect the budget to allocate resources to boost telehealth infrastructure and focus on preventive care, which could reduce the burden on hospitals and improve long-term health outcomes.
Support for Natural Wellness and R&D
Stating that the Indian wellness industry is projected to reach $72 billion by 2025, Prabhat Maheshwari, co-founder of Amocare, called for rationalising tax rates on natural wellness products to make them more accessible to middle-class consumers.
He also emphasised increased budgetary allocation for R&D in natural sciences and preventive healthcare to accelerate innovation in plant-based wellness solutions. This would align with government initiatives like the National Health Mission, which has prioritized women’s health and preventive care.
Subsidies for Middle-Class Families
Goyal also recommended extending subsidies for health insurance to middle-class families, mirroring benefits offered to low-income groups. Such measures, he argued, would provide much-needed financial relief to a significant section of the population while boosting insurance adoption.
The healthcare sector’s expectations from the Union Budget 2025-26 underscore the need for a balanced approach that prioritises affordability, accessibility, and innovation.
News business Budget 2025: Healthcare Industry Seeks Incentive Scheme, Push For Telehealthcare, NCD & Cancer Treatment
Dogecoin (DOGE), the popular and largest meme coin in the cryptocurrency space, appears to be shifting towards a bullish trend after several days in a downtrend. As of January 30, 2025, along with other major assets, DOGE seems to be recovering, forming a bullish price action.
DOGE Price Momentum
With a positive market outlook, DOGE is currently trading near $0.33 and has experienced a price surge of over 4.05% in the past 24 hours.
Following a price reversal from the crucial support level of $0.31, traders and investors have shown strong interest and confidence in the meme coin, resulting in an 8.5% increase in trading volume compared to the previous day.
Source: Trading View
Dogecoin (DOGE) Technical Analysis and Key Levels
According to expert technical analysis, DOGE appears to be forming a bullish double-bottom price action pattern on the daily time frame. However, the meme coin’s bullish price action is still in formation, and it is currently at a support level of $0.31, which has a history of strong bullish price reversals.
Based on the recent price action, if DOGE holds this support level, there is a strong possibility it could soar by 25% to reach the $0.41 level in the coming days.
On the positive side, DOGE’s Relative Strength Index (RSI) currently stands at 45, indicating strong potential for the meme coin to rally further.
Bullish On-Chain Metrics
Looking at the bullish price action and market sentiment, traders and investors have been betting on and accumulating the meme coin, as reported by the on-chain analytics firm Coinglass. Data from spot inflow/outflow revealed that exchanges have witnessed an outflow of a significant $11.50 million worth of DOGE.
In the cryptocurrency landscape, outflow refers to the movement of assets from exchanges to wallets, suggesting potential accumulation. This can create buying pressure and lead to a further upside rally.
Apart from this, traders seem to be strongly betting on the long side. Currently, the DOGE Long/Short ratio stands at 1.056, indicating strong bullish sentiment among traders, the highest since the beginning of December 2024.
Source: Coinglass
Data further revealed that 53.5% of top traders hold long positions, while 46.5% hold short positions.
When combining these on-chain metrics with the technical analysis, it appears that bulls are strongly supporting and dominating the meme coin and could help it achieve the predicted level in the coming days.
The Content Marketing Institute team byline indicates this article reflects the collective work of the CMI team. CMI is a global marketing education and training organization dedicated to advancing the practice of content marketing. We create and curate content experiences that teach marketers and creators from enterprise brands, small businesses, and agencies how to attract and retain customers through compelling, multichannel storytelling. Global brands turn to CMI for strategic consultation, research, and training and certification, and send teams to Content Marketing World, the largest content marketing-focused event, the Marketing Analytics & Data Science (MADS) conference, and CMI digital events every year. Follow @CMIContent on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram, and use the hashtag #CMWorld.
The Chennai-based Veranda Learning Solutions has announced a partnership with Norway’s Nursing Europe AS to empower Indian nurses with the skills needed to secure employment in Europe’s healthcare sector. Nursing Europe AS specialises in providing fully EU-qualified and licensed nurses to healthcare providers across European nations.
The partnership is projected to generate significant revenue, with estimates of over ₹200 crore in the next 3-5 years by placing over 2,000 students, says a release.
Europe faces a critical shortage of healthcare professionals, with the World Health Organization projecting a shortfall of 13 million healthcare workers by 2030.
Countries like Norway, Denmark, Germany, Austria, and Italy urgently need qualified nurses to meet this growing demand. This shortage presents a unique opportunity for Indian nurses, who are highly skilled but often encounter challenges such as degree recognition, language proficiency and cultural adaptation when seeking employment abroad, the release said.
The global skilling initiative will offer a range of training and support services, including courses designed to meet European healthcare standards, focusing on both clinical and non-clinical competencies and preparing Indian nurses to achieve fluency in the languages required for effective patient care in their destination countries, the release said.
The share price of Veranda Learning on the NSE closed at ₹234.80, up by ₹11.42 or 5.11 per cent.
Some people watch the Super Bowl for the football, some for the commercials and some for the star-studded musical halftime show, which has come a long way since its wholesome Up With People days. It always features a superstar performer now, and it’s the closest thing we have to a national concert.
Here’s what to know and how to tune in to the Super Bowl 2025 halftime show.
Who’s playing the Super Bowl halftime show?
Influential musician and rapper and 17-time Grammy winner Kendrick Lamar (who’s the recipient of the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for Music) will be taking the stage. Like the Chiefs and the Eagles matchup, he’s been here before. Lamar performed at the 2022 Super Bowl as part of a mega-show that also featured Dr. Dre, Eminem, Snoop Dogg and Mary J. Blige. That performance won a Primetime Emmy Award for outstanding variety special.
But this year, he’s taking center stage. With Lamar is his fellow Grammy winner SZA, who appeared on Lamar’s recent album, GNX. Lamar and SZA also performed the Oscar-nominated All the Stars, the lead single from the 2018 hit movie Black Panther.
What’s the song controversy with Drake?
Lamar reportedly plans to perform his 2024 song Not Like Us during the halftime show. It’s a diss track aimed at his musical rival, Drake. Drake is suing record label Universal Music Group for defamation and harassment, alleging that the company helped to spread a “false and malicious” narrative about him via the song.
It’s not just some simple insults, either. Drake’s lawsuit alleges that UMG “approved, published and launched a campaign to create a viral hit out of a rap track that falsely accuses Drake of being a pedophile and calls for violent retribution against him.”
Who is singing the National Anthem?
The game is in Louisiana, and all the pre-game singers are from that state. Jon Batiste will sing the national anthem, Trombone Shorty and Lauren Daigle will sing America the Beautiful and Ledisi will perform Lift Every Voice and Sing before the game.
How do I watch the Super Bowl?
The Super Bowl will be played on Sunday, Feb. 9, at 6:30 p.m. ET (3:30 p.m. PT), in New Orleans.
The big game will be broadcast nationally on Fox. This year, for the first time, you’ll be able to watch the game on streaming service Tubi — for free and in 4K.
Read more: Super Bowl 2025: Date, Time, How to Watch Chiefs vs. Eagles for Free from Anywhere
Which teams are playing in the Super Bowl?
The Kansas City Chiefs, led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, are gunning for their third straight Super Bowl title. No team has ever won three in a row, and some fans are hoping for the first-ever three-peat.
But the Chiefs will have to defeat the Philadelphia Eagles, who are looking for their second Super Bowl title ever. The Chiefs beat the Eagles two years ago for the first of their back-to-back titles. The Eagles beat Tom Brady’s New England Patriots when they won the 2018 Super Bowl in Minneapolis. Brady has since retired from football and will be in the broadcast booth, calling the game for Fox.
As Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appeared on Capitol Hill Wednesday for the confirmation hearing for HHS Secretary, Marla Maples spoke with Fox News Digital about her hopes for a healthier America.
As Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appeared on Capitol Hill Wednesday for the confirmation hearing for HHS Secretary, supporters and leaders in the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement gathered to show their support.
Among the supporters was Marla Maples, ex-wife of President Donald Trump and mother of Tiffany Trump. Maples co-founded the Global Wellness Forum.
The organization “unites and empowers groups and activists worldwide, amplifying their efforts to promote health, sovereignty, truth and transparency,” according to its website.
WHY DOES RFK JR.’S VOICE SOUND RASPY? HERE’S WHAT TO KNOW
Fox News Digital talked to Maples in an on-camera interview on Wednesday; she shared her excitement for the MAHA movement and her hopes for a healthier America under the guidance of her friend Kennedy.
“I have to support America’s health, our children’s health… We suffered [for] so long with what they’re putting in our food supply without having consent on what we’re getting medically,” said Maples.
Maples spoke with Fox News Digital in an on-camera interview sharing her excitement for the MAHA movement and her hopes for a healthier America under Robert F. Kennedy Jr.(Fox News)
Maples added, “It’s the most important thing I think we have for ourselves [and] our children … and I have a little grandbaby coming, so I want to make sure we leave a cleaner world for our children’s children, too.”
Tiffany, 30, is expecting a child with her husband Michael Boulos, President Trump announced in October.
Maples shared that Americans should “read every label” of the foods they are consuming.
MAKE AMERICA HEALTHY AGAIN: THE POWERHOUSE FOODS THAT WORK MEDICAL MAGIC
“Just make sure you stay away from corn syrups, any artificial colors. I’ve been telling people forever. No refined sugars.”
Marla Maples, left, will soon become a grandmother, as her daughter, Tiffany, is expecting a child with husband Michael Boulos.(Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for Taoray Wang)
Maples said she believes Americans should rely on their own intuition when it comes to their health.
“Truly, you have an inner sense of what’s good for us, and really trusting that, taking time and just caring enough about yourself.”
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
She added, “It’s about maintaining your own health and being your own best doctor.”
Maples also advocated for people to grow their own food when possible.
“If you have the chance to grow your own garden, that’s the best. I used to do it growing up. Now I live in a condo and I have little herbs growing.”
The wellness advocate is also a big believer in the power of prayer. “Be really sure before you put anything in your body and pray over it all,” she told Fox News Digital.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
To stay fit both physically and mentally, Maples shared that she does handstands and lots of stretching.
“I have to support America’s health, our children’s health… We suffered so long with what they’re putting in our food supply without having consent on what we’re getting medically,” Maples told Fox News Digital.(Nordin Catic/Getty Images for The Cambridge Union)
“If I have a chance to play a sport during the week, I’ll get out and do that because it keeps my mind very clear and helps my mind be very focused.”
Representatives of the Global Wellness Forum were also seen supporting Kennedy at his confirmation hearing.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
“We’re going to be helping support Bobby and Bobby’s initiatives in the government… making sure there’s a way we can bring teams together to support what he’s going to be doing in the government, so we can support the community,” Maples added.
Sydney Borchers of Fox News Digital contributed reporting.
We Indians have an obsession with pairing our food with different accompaniments, don’t we? In South India, the most preferred option is pachadi – a type of chutney. From sweet and sour to tangy and spicy, pachadi comes in endless flavours. Some of the most popular ones include mango pachadi, coconut pachadi, pineapple pachadi, beetroot pachadi, and so on. However, have you ever heard of or tried spinach (palak) pachadi? This unique version adds a twist to the classic recipes and is something you shouldn’t miss trying. Before we dive into the recipe, let’s first understand what exactly pachadi is. Also Read: Say Yay To Lauki With This South Indian Sorakaya Pachadi Recipe – Try It Now!
What Is Pachadi?
Pachadi is a popular South Indian-style chutney, with different variations across each state. Some are made with vegetables, while others use fruits or even yoghurt. It’s a go-to accompaniment for everyday meals. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make!
Is Spinach Pachadi Healthy?
Absolutely! Spinach, the key ingredient in this pachadi, is a great source of iron and vitamin A. It also contains other ingredients such as onions, tomatoes, imli, urad dal, and chana dal, which provide essential nutrients and protein. Overall, spinach pachadi makes a wonderful addition to your diet.
What To Serve With Spinach Pachadi?
Pachadi is typically enjoyed with steaming hot rice, and this spinach pachadi is no exception. Whether you prefer plain rice or flavoured versions like ghee rice, tomato rice, or lemon rice, you can pair it with any of these.
How To Make South Indian Spinach Pachadi | Spinach Pachadi Recipe
The recipe for this South Indian spinach pachadi was shared by chef Guntas Sethi on her Instagram page. To make it, you only need a handful of ingredients and 10 minutes of your time. Here are the steps to follow:
Chop onions, tomatoes, and spinach. Add them to a blender along with garlic cloves, imli, and red chilli powder. Blitz well to form a smooth paste.
Heat ghee in a pan and add dried red chillies, jeera, urad dal, chana dal, mustard seeds, and curry leaves. Saute well.
Add the prepared onion-tomato-spinach paste and fresh palak leaves.
Give everything a good mix and allow it to cook for a few minutes.
Your spinach pachadi is now ready to be savoured. Enjoy!
Watch the complete recipe video below:
Also Read: Spicy, Tangy, and Irresistible: This Tomato Pachadi Recipe Will Tantalise Your Taste Buds Try making this spinach pachadi at home and impress your family with your culinary skills. For more recipes like this, keep visiting our website.
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-01-29/Foreign-leaders-extend-best-wishes-for-Chinese-New-Year-1AyieUhqhFe/img/f74054480a294b2f9b491f7df8e409c1/f74054480a294b2f9b491f7df8e409c1.png' alt='Members of Chinese and Asian communities come together to celebrate the Year of the Snake in Edmonton's Chinatown, Edmonton, Canada, January 26, 2025. /CFP'
Foreign leaders have sent their best wishes to the Chinese people around the world celebrating the Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival.
China on Tuesday rang in the Year of the Snake. Regarded as the most celebrated holiday among the Chinese, the Spring Festival signifies a time of family reunions and a slew of cultural events.
Beninese Minister of Foreign Affairs Olushegun Adjadi Bakari on Tuesday extended the warmest New Year greetings to the Chinese government and people when meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Benin Zhang Wei.
“Happy Spring Festival! As Chinese communities in Benin and around the world are celebrating the Chinese New Year, I would like to take this opportunity to emphasize the great importance we attach to the strong and enduring friendship between Benin and China,” Bakari said.
Bakari also drew a cultural parallel between the Year of the Snake in the Chinese zodiac, which symbolizes transformation, intelligence and perseverance, and Dan, the serpent deity in the Beninese culture, who is revered as a source of wealth, wisdom and harmony.
“These shared values resonate profoundly within the context of our bilateral relations and reflect the depth of our cultural ties,” Bakari said. “May this Year of the Snake be a year of prosperity for all and for the enduring friendship between Benin and China.”
Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka on Tuesday extended greetings to the people in China and overseas Chinese around the world in a video message.
“On behalf of the Fijian government and the people, I wish you all a joyous and prosperous Chinese New Year. May this year bring happiness, health and harmony to your loved ones,” Rabuka said.
The Spring Festival marks the time of renewal, hope and prosperity, values that resonate deeply with the Fijian spirit, said the prime minister, who also expressed his gratitude to the overseas Chinese for “their invaluable contributions” to Fiji.
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-01-29/Foreign-leaders-extend-best-wishes-for-Chinese-New-Year-1AyieUhqhFe/img/ee810fb7da014ea686f9f40f3d3baf89/ee810fb7da014ea686f9f40f3d3baf89.png' alt='The Chinese Spring Festival theme is displayed as part of the celebration of the Chinese New Year at the National Museum of Qatar in Doha, Qatar, January 28, 2025. /CFP'
Miguel Diaz-Canel, first secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba and Cuban president, also sent a video message. On behalf of the Communist Party of Cuba, the government and the people of Cuba, he sent Chinese people the most sincere wishes for the Chinese New Year.
Besides wishing China prosperity and the people happiness, Diaz-Canel said that Cuba continues to promote the building of a China-Cuba community with a shared future.
In his Chinese New Year message to the Chinese people and overseas Chinese, Guyanese President Irfaan Ali said that on behalf of the government and people of Guyana, he wishes to extend best wishes to all Chinese people on the occasion of the Chinese New Year and Spring Festival. He wished Chinese people peace, prosperity, good luck.
Felix Ulloa, vice president of El Salvador, sent his wishes to the Chinese people in a video message. On behalf of the people and government of El Salvador, he wished Chinese people all the best wishes for the Year of the Snake.
Noting the Year of the Snake symbolizes the vitality of life, he said may it bring prosperity, health and happiness to all Chinese families, and may the colorful colors of the Spring Festival illuminate the road full of hope.
Honduran Second Vice President Doris Gutierrez also sent a video message to extend greetings to the Chinese people.
While reaffirming Honduras’s continued commitment to strengthening cooperation and bilateral relations with China to achieve common goals that benefit the people of both countries, Gutierrez said Happy Spring Festival and Auspicious Year of the snake to Chinese people.
Gregory Mattingly, MD, president, Midwest Research Group, founding partner, St. Charles Psychiatric Associates, discusses the immediate impact Spravato has had on patients with treatment-resistant depression.
Leasing in industrial & logistics reached a peak of 39.5 million sq ft in CY 2024 across the top eight cities. This is supported by a robust supply addition of 38.6 million sq ft during 2024, says real estate consulting firm CBRE South Asia Pvt Ltd in its report, ‘CBRE Industrial & Logistics Figures H2 2024.’ The report highlighted the strong leasing momentum witnessed by the I&L sector.
Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, and Kolkata accounted for almost 60 per cent of the leasing activity during the year. Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru emerged as the key contributors to supply addition, collectively accounting for over half of the total supply in CY2024.
The I&L space take-up was predominantly steered by the third-party logistics (3PL) players, accounting for 41 per cent share in the overall leasing activity in CY 2024. Engineering and manufacturing firms also remained active, registering a space take-up share of 18 per cent during the year.
The report said that the majority of space uptaken in 2024 was led by small-sized transactions (under 50,000 sq ft), representing 43 per cent of the total leasing volume. Medium-sized transactions (50,000–1,00,000 sq ft) and large-sized transactions (exceeding 1,00,000 sq ft) each accounted for 28 per cent of the overall absorption.
Anshuman Magazine, Chairman & CEO, India, Southeast Asia, Middle East & Africa, CBRE, said, the growth in the I&L sector highlights its resilience, even amidst global economic uncertainties. “We expect the in-city warehousing and quick-commerce concept to become even more significant in 2025. Delhi-NCR, Kolkata, and Bengaluru are anticipated to lead the absorption activity in 2025,” he said.
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.
KADA svoj dom uređujete ili renovirate, pred vama je puno malih odluka (i još više troškova). Brzo ćete primijetiti da budžet postaje manji jer imate osjećaj da morate kupiti sve. Lako je uletjeti u zamku i trošiti više na trendi komade ili na stvari koje privlače pažnju, ali prije nego što to učinite, zastanite na trenutak.
Postoje neki kućni predmeti na koje mnogi od nas troše previše iako nisu nužni. Dizajneri interijera su za Real Simple otkrili na koje komade ljudi često bacaju previše novca. Evo par stvari za koje dizajneri savjetuju da ne bacate novac ili da barem pronađete jeftiniju opciju.
Predimenzionirani lusteri
Dizajnerica interijera Annie Downing upozorava da preveliki, moderni lusteri mogu previše dominirati prostorom i učiniti ga neskladnim. Veliki komadi ili ultramoderni lusteri često ne odgovaraju proporcijama sobe i brzo postanu zastarjeli jer se trendovi mijenjaju. Annie preporučuje da se radije fokusirate na kvalitetnu, bezvremensku rasvjetu.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Uređaji koje ne koristite često
Jessica Davis, dizajnerica interijera, kaže da je važno da kuhinjski uređaji budu ne samo lijepi nego i praktični. Ako planirate trošiti puno novca na uređaje koji će samo stajati i izgledati dobro, ali ih neće puno koristiti, možda je bolje da razmislite. “Radije bih taj novac uložila u nešto što je i lijepo i korisno”, kaže ona.
Previše ukrasnih jastuka
Mnogi ljudi često potroše previše novca na skupe ukrasne jastuke, da bi kasnije shvatili da im zapravo samo smetaju. Umjesto da kupujete previše jastuka, bolje je da se odlučite za one s kvalitetnim materijalima i jednostavnim uzorcima koji se lako uklapaju u prostor.
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There’s no slowing Cleveland High’s rise in the City Section basketball hierarchy this season.
The Cavaliers are 17-4 and 4-0 in the West Valley League after a 75-59 win over El Camino Real on Wednesday.
Serigne Deme, a 6-foot-8 junior center who became eligible last week after transferring from Blair, continued his impact play with 20 points and two dunks. Cayden Kelly, a 6-foot-6 senior, had 18 points, including 11 in the third quarter when he helped the Cavaliers pull away from El Camino Real.
Chatsworth 79, Birmingham 58: V’Elijahh Miller had 22 points and Alijah Arenas added 20 points and eight assists to lead Chatsworth.
Sun Valley Poly 86, Monroe 31: JD Wyatt scored 31 points for Poly. Quian Khawaja had 16 points and 10 assists.
Arleta 78, Verdugo Hills 63: Joaquin Corleto had 20 points, including four threes, for Arleta.
Venice 62, Fairfax 51: The Gondoliers improved to 4-1 in the Western League. Rodrigo Trujillo had 25 points for Venice, including seven threes. Venice has a big game on Friday against first-place Westchester.
Westchester 93, University 36: Freshman Tajh Ingram scored 20 points and Tajh Ariza added 16 points for the Comets. Ariza, however, was ejected, which means he will miss Westchester’s game against Venice Friday.
Damien 89, Upland 42: Elijah Smith finished with 23 points. Damien made 14 threes to advance to the semifinals of the Baseline League tournament.
JSerra 62, Mater Dei 52: The wild Trinity League race now has four teams with two losses after JSerra completed a sweep of the Monarchs. JSerra is 6-2, St. John Bosco 6-2, Santa Margarita 5-2 and Mater Dei 5-2. It was the Lions’ fourth consecutive win in the series with Mater Dei during the past two seasons. BJ Ray-Davis had 23 points for JSerra.
Santa Margarita 82, Orange Lutheran 36: Bryaden Kyman had 16 points for Santa Margarita (19-5, 5-2).
St. John Bosco 76, Servite 50: The Braves (22-4, 6-2) moved back into a tie for first place in Trinity League. Brandon McCoy scored 23 points.
St. Anthony 66, St. Paul 60: Donovan Pitts had 15 points for St. Anthony in the Del Rey League win. Dillon Chelsea led St. Paul with 21 points.
Malibu 85, Community Charter 39: Dylan Goosen scored 42 points.
Girls basketball
Birmingham 83, Chatsworth 39: The Patriots (16-6, 5-0) received 25 points from Kayla Tanijiri.
Russia is in discussions with India for a ‘group-free visa regime,’ allowing a specified number of tourists travelling together in a group to enter the country without a visa, a Moscow City Tourism Committee official said on Thursday.
Two young women walk through Red Square in Moscow, Russia, during an unusually warm spell with temperatures of 5 degrees Celsius (41 degrees Fahrenheit). Big news for Indian travellers: Moscow may soon be visa-free for groups!(AP Photo/Alexander Zemlianichenko)
“When there is a group of tourists travelling together to Russia, the particular number should be mentioned in the document for the visit to become visa free. For example, in the Chinese document, the group should be 10-20 people. The Russian government is in talks with the Indian External Affairs Ministry for a final agreement on the number of people comprising a group from India to avail this facility,” Moscow City Tourism Committee Chairman Evgeny Kozlov told PTI.
Kozlov further said India is an important country and ranks second in terms of source market among far abroad countries after China.
“India is a priority market for us. For us among the far abroad countries, China ranks at the number one position, followed by India. Indians are also good spenders while travelling, spending around USD 2,000 per person per trip,” he said on the sidelines of an event on Wednesday evening.
In the first nine months of 2024, January-September, Moscow received 19.7 million guests including 61,000 Indians, he said.
By 2030 the number of foreign tourists in Moscow is expected to reach 6 million people, mainly due to travellers from the CIS countries (Commonwealth of Independent States), the Asia-Pacific region, India, the Middle East and other parts of the world, he stated.
“In the last two years we made the tourism image of Moscow our priority. There are three reasons for the increase in international visitors. First, we’ve been improving tourism infrastructure, second, actively promoting Moscow in our key countries like India. At the same time introducing e-visa regime,” he added
Among segments, Kozlov said, Moscow City is focusing on Business, Wedding, Family and Film tourism.
Meanwhile, he said, a delegation of the Moscow City Tourism Committee is in talks with production houses to invite them to shoot in Moscow City.
“We want to attract Indian visitors to Moscow through cinema, therefore, our delegates are meeting with production houses and film directors to invite them to showcase Moscow City in their films. We are planning to provide them with incentives, which is still under discussion,” Kozlov added.
Harry Potter fans will be thrilled to hear that video game spinoff Hogwarts Legacy is about to get a magical new update.
Available for PC users on Steamand Epic Games Store, the new update adds mod support to Hogwarts Legacy.
Available completely free of charge, Hogwarts Legacy mod support has a January 30 release date. Expect the update to drop at around midday.
The news was announced by Portkey Games, alongside a preview video about what to expect.
“The keys to the castle are now in the hands of the Community!” reads a Steam post.
“In the latest FREE update to Hogwarts Legacy, PC Modding will now be officially supported with the release of our Creator Kit and in-game Mod Manager. It’s time to conjure up a whole new Hogwarts and live the unwritten like never before!”
As you can see from the video below, fans will be able to download the Creator Kit, which should simplify the procedure.
For starters, players will be able to make small changes like adding new hairstyles to the game, or changing appearances.
On the other end of the scale, modders can even create entire dungeons, and conjure up new quests.
Modding can also add things like magic carpet rides, new brooms, and even additional items.
Modders can upload their creations by creating an account with Warner Bros. A selection of pre-made mods will also be available at launch, just to get the creative juices flowing.
Hogwarts Legacy is an open-world RPG set long before the events of the Harry Potter books and films.
Players must attend classes and learn new skills, such as casting spells, creating potions and identifying beasts. That’s on top of attempting to save the entire wizarding world.
“Experience Hogwarts in the 1800s,” reads the official description. “Your character is a student who holds the key to an ancient secret that threatens to tear the wizarding world apart.
“Make allies, battle Dark wizards, and ultimately decide the fate of the wizarding world. Your legacy is what you make of it. Live the Unwritten.”
China is now the third-largest importer of new vehicles in Australia, and it doesn’t look like slowing down any time soon.
Last year, 210,113 new cars made in China were delivered to Australian customers, representing just under 17 per cent of the 1,237,287 total deliveries made in the record 2024 market.
It’s a sharp increase in exports from the world’s second most populous nation and Australia’s biggest trade partner, which accounted for just 1.7 per cent of the local auto market five years ago in 2019, and less than half a percent a decade ago.
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Despite growing by almost nine per cent last year alone, vehicle services and market intelligence firm Cox Automotive Australia has forecasted Chinese imports will account for an even greater share of the new car market in 2025.
According to the automotive industry group, Chinese brands could get close to taking a 20 per cent stake in the Aussie auto market this year.
While this is only up by three per cent from the share held by Chinese-made vehicles last year, Cox’s forecast excludes cars built in the country by foreign-owned brands.
That includes Tesla (which builds the Model Y and Model 3 there), BMW (iX3), Mini (Cooper E), Volvo (XC40 Recharge) and others which counted towards the total.
With these vehicles excluded, Cox says approximately 142,000 cars were sold here by Chinese auto brands in 2024, accounting for a 12 per cent market share.
Based on the firm’s prediction of 1.18 million new vehicle sales this year, that means the Chinese marques could combine for 236,000 deliveries in 2025.
For context, that figure combined with sales of vehicles made in the nation by overseas brands could see China topple Thailand as the second biggest source of Australian vehicle imports (thanks largely to utes).
Last year, 272,139 new vehicles came here from Thailand. Japan continued as Australia’s number one vehicle importer with 378,911 (thanks in large part to market leader Toyota).
According to Cox, this increase will not only be driven by the likes of MG, GWM, BYD, LDV and Chery, but also new-to-arrive or returning marques such as Geely, Foton, Xpeng, Leapmotor, Deepal and JAC, to name a few.
“By the end of 2025, there will be around 15 Chinese brand names in the market, covering all segments and fuel types, with price bands from $25,000 and into six-figures,” Cox said in a media release.
Despite Chinese brands often being thought of as some of the most affordable on the market, the title of Australia’s cheapest vehicle is currently held by the South Korean-made Kia Picanto, with the Suzuki Ignis, Hyundai Venue and Japanese-built Mazda 2 all also being cheaper than the outgoing-generation MG ZS.
However, the GWM Ora remains Australia’s cheapest electric vehicle (EV), and it’s this technology that China has been so dominant in selling, both globally and locally.
Last year, eight of the 10 best-selling EVs in Australia were made in China, with five coming from Chinese-owned brands (MG, BYD and Volvo).
Budget 2025 India Expectations Live Updates: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present the Union Budget for 2025-26 on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 11 am in Parliament. This will mark her eighth consecutive budget presentation. Many experts and taxpayers are hopeful for significant changes to the income tax structure. Among the key expectations are adjustments to income tax slabs in the new tax regime, increased tax benefits in the old regime, and hikes in various exemptions and deductions. Other top demands include the introduction of a voluntary NPS contribution deduction in the new regime, higher deductions for health and life insurance premiums, and for home loans.
What are taxpayers hoping for in the Union Budget 2025-26?
One major expectation is an increase in the current standard deduction limits. The old tax regime offers a fixed standard deduction of Rs 50,000, while the new tax regime allows Rs 75,000, which was raised from Rs 50,000 in Budget 2024. Taxpayers are also hoping for simplification of the long-term capital gains tax (LTCG) and short-term capital gains tax (STCG), as well as the reintroduction of the indexation benefit for LTCG on debt mutual funds and real estate. However, recent reports suggest that no significant changes in these taxation areas are expected, as major provisions related to LTCG and STCG were already introduced in the interim Budget 2024.
In the previous budget, the government outlined plans for a comprehensive overhaul and simplification of the 63-year-old Income Tax (I-T) Act, with the aim of making it more understandable for taxpayers and reducing litigation. It is anticipated that FM Sitharaman may introduce the Direct Tax Code (DTC) during this year’s budget session, which runs from January 31 to April 4, 2025.
The crypto markets reacted positively as the Fed held the interest steady. Many believed the markets may exhibit extreme volatility ahead of FOMC but the fresh rates offered a significant push to the BTC price and also the other altcoins. Meanwhile, Litecoin’s price seems to have been preparing for the breakout, as it triggered a strong rebound much before the FOMC and, amid the SEC’s review of the ETF application, surged by over 14%.
LTC price surged 14% upon an acknowledgement of ETF; where will the price head once it is approved?
Litecoin is considered one of the most undervalued tokens as it is the first crypto after Bitcoin, which is still working. In the times when the token appeared dead for many, the LTC price displayed a huge bullish move. The LTC price rally has been restricted below $100 through the year 2023 and 2024 and now that the price is consolidating above the range since the start of 2025, a new ATH seems to be imminent this year.
The weekly chart of LTC price shows the price is preparing for the next bullish action as the levels have sustained above the 200-day MA. Moreover, the 50/200 day weekly MA is heading for a bullish crossover, known as Golden Cross, which may further push the price beyond the resistance at $205. Besides, the MACD, which was about to undergo a bearish crossover, quickly displayed a bullish divergence and revived bullish hopes.
Hence, the Litecoin price is believed to break above the prevailing consolidation and rise above the pivotal range of around $150. The rise in volume suggests a rise in the trader’s participation, which may eventually increase the volatility of the token. Therefore, the price, which has been within the top 20, is soon believed to enter the top 15 as the bulls are primed to elevate the levels beyond $300.
MICA, a marketing and communication institute in Ahmedabad achieved a record highest stipend of ₹5 lakh for a two-month internship offered during summer placements for the 2024-26 batch.
This is a 10 percent growth compared to the ₹4.55 lakh offered last year. The placement process participation of recruiters like Google India, Accenture S&C, IBM, Hindustan Lever, MasterCard, L’Oreal, Nivea, Puma India, Coca-Cola Company, Titan, and HSBC among others saw average stipends rise by 4.5 percent to ₹1.58 lakh for the two-month internship period.
Notably, the top 25 students secured an average stipend of ₹4,20,072 compared to ₹3,63,800 last year, while the top 50 students received an average stipend of ₹3,48,368, up from ₹3,01,820. “The demand for summer hires has remained strong across sectors this year, with particularly positive traction in FMCG, IT/ITES, BFSI, and Consulting,” stated Indranil Banerjee, Head of Corporate and Alumni Relations at MICA, in an official statement.
Read also: Queen’s University Belfast to become 1st UK university to enter GIFT City
FMCG, IT/ITES, BFSI, and consulting firms have been among the most enthusiastic recruiters, reflecting the shift toward data-driven marketing, digital transformation, and customer-centric strategies. This year, the internship roles spanned across diverse domains like Sales and Marketing, Analytics,
Strategy, Sports Marketing, Media Procurement, E-commerce, Corporate Communications, Product Management, D2C Product Marketing, Market Research, Product, Management Trainee, Consulting, Associate Consultant, Retail Operations and Marketing and many more, the statement added.
Winter temperatures have dropped across the country, and the extreme cold has been pushing up monthly energy bills. In December, 40% of the monthly inflation increase was attributed to a rise in overall energy costs. An exclusive CNET survey found that most households expect to pay $688 on energy bills over the course of the winter months (December through February), with households in the northeast expecting to pay an average of $804 for the season.
That’s not surprising to Wael Kanj, a senior research associate for Rewiring America. Kanj has been paying close attention to household energy costs, and he’s noticed a 30% increase over the past four years.
As energy costs rise, six in 10 (62%) of US adults expect their winter energy bill will put a squeeze on their finances. Currently, 11% of US adults (which breaks down to approximately 28 million Americans) are already behind on their energy bills, according to the survey.
“Winter energy costs could be a burden for households, especially depending on where they live,” Kanj said.
If you’re struggling to afford your energy bill, there are steps you can take to lower your costs without sacrificing your comfort.
Here’s a breakdown on how much people expect to pay this winter, expert cost-saving solutions and resources to get help if you’re struggling to pay high energy bills.
Average winter energy bill costs
Last summer, the US Energy Information Administration found that US adults paid an average of $135 per month among the top 10 states with the highest electricity bills. Winter energy costs are driving up monthly bills even more.
Depending on where you live, costs could exceed this amount. Residents in the northeast expect to pay close to $288 on average. Those living in the southern part of the US anticipate the lowest energy bills, at nearly $220 per month.
How this winter’s energy bills are affecting US adults’ finances
Approximately 62% of US adults expect this winter’s energy bills to strain their finances. Here’s a breakdown of how they plan to afford their energy bills:
What’s driving up energy bills?
Several factors can impact your winter energy bill, including the makeup of your home, the type of fuel you use and how much you pay for it.
Kanj said the bulk of your energy bill isn’t from running your appliances or lights — it’s how much it’s going to cost to heat your home. It’s also how you’re heating your home — such as the appliances and fuel you’re using.
Your area’s climate can also impact your thermostat temperature and how often you run your furnace. Even though the weather is out of your control, there are steps you can take to lower your energy costs.
How US adults plan to stay warm and reduce energy costs
Most of the energy-saving efforts below can help lower your bill, but only to a certain extent depending on your home’s appliances and weatherization. There’s also a chance that you’ll need to make other long-term efforts to lower your bill. Here’s a breakdown of how US adults are staying warm while hoping to keep their energy costs down.
Some of these measures can help you lower your energy bill, while others aren’t as effective, Kanj said. For example, using a smart thermostat and lowering your home’s temperature while you’re away can conserve energy and save your money. However, Reed said that you may still save significantly on your energy bill if you’re able to run a lower temperature in the winter, even for a few hours a day while you’re at work.
“In the winter, the best way to keep your heating bill down is to keep your thermostat at 70 degrees or lower,” Reed said.
You shouldn’t lower your thermostat to an uncomfortable or unsafe point, however, warned Kanj.
“There’s a limit to how low you should set your thermostat in the winter. You want to make sure your home is still warm enough that your water pipes won’t freeze, creating a huge headache and costly repairs, or that you’ll be too cold for comfort,” Reed said. “Most thermostats won’t go much lower than 60. Keep in mind that no amount of energy savings is worth sacrificing your health, comfort or safety.”
Space heaters are typically heated with electric resistance, and can heat a small space — like one room in your home without driving up your energy bill. “If you only need to keep part of your home warmer at one time, consider using a space heater while keeping your main thermostat setting lower,” Reed said.
Space heaters are a great way to warm one part of your home, as long as you use them safely. However, if you use multiple space heaters, you could end up increasing your electric bill, Kanj said.
Read more: We Did the Math and Found Money Savings With a Space Heater
Outside of lowering your thermostat and using a space heater, Kanj recommends insulating and weatherizing your home to keep heat inside and prevent cold air from leaking in to make the biggest impact on your energy bill. Check how well-sealed your doors and windows are to prevent heat from seeping out. And make sure your attic, basement and walls.
Long-term energy-saving steps you can take
There may not seem like much you can do to drastically lower energy costs right now, but there are some steps you can take to help you save money in the future.
Long-term energy-saving steps you can take
There may not seem like much you can do to drastically lower energy costs right now, but there are some steps you can take to help you save money in the future.
Upgrade your home appliances: If your appliances aren’t energy efficient, maybe it’s time for an upgrade. If you’re unsure if your appliance is efficient, look for the Energy Star label. These products meet government-standard efficiency requirements and could save money on your bill.
Consider a heat pump: If your furnace is nearing the end of its lifespan, Kanj recommends installing a heat pump as your heating and cooling system. A heat pump uses air and water to control your home’s temperature, and the savings can add up to $1,000 annually, Kanj said.
Get a home energy audit: You can schedule a home energy audit with your utility provider. An assessor will examine your home room-by-room and review past energy bills to identify energy-saving upgrades. Energy audits can cost a few hundred dollars, but the costs can be claimed as a tax credit.
Look into community solar programs: You may have access to solar energy without installing panels on your roof. Some areas have a nearby solar power farm. You’ll pay a portion of the electricity to use it, but you can save money on your monthly bill.
Some energy efficiency recommendations may seem costly, but Kanj noted that there are credits and state-level rebates to reduce upfront costs on some energy-efficient appliances. The Weatherization Assistance Program uses funding from the Department of Energy to cover energy-efficient repairs and upgrades. Rewiring America can create a personalized electrification plan to show you your estimated savings by switching to energy-saving appliances.
What to do if you can’t afford to pay your energy bill
If you can’t afford to pay your energy bill, there are programs available to help. First, Kanj recommends checking to see if your utility provider offers a utility assistance program. For example, South Carolina residents who have Duke Energy may qualify for help from the Share the Light Fund to cover reconnection fees, deposits and energy bills. Your utility provider may also have payment plans and assistance depending on your eligibility.
Some energy providers also offer due date extensions, payment installment plans, and service moratoriums to prevent disconnection during the colder months. For example, Duke Energy’s Electric Service Moratorium may keep service from being disconnected between Dec. 1 and March 31 for 30 days — with an extension every 30 days — if you meet certain criteria.
Other federal utility assistance programs can help, including the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, which offers assistance covering energy bills, weatherization, and energy-related repairs and crises. Eligibility depends on the state, income and household size.
Methodology
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov. Total sample size was 2,531 adults, of whom 1,777 pay their home energy bills. Fieldwork was undertaken between Jan. 7-9, 2025. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all US adults (aged 18 and older).
Fox News’ Health newsletter brings you stories on the latest developments in health care, wellness, diseases, mental health and more.
TOP 3:
– This disease kills more people than all cancers and accidents combined
– Red meat could raise dementia risk, researchers claim, yet some doctors have questions
– Brain and memory are boosted by eating one particular diet, study finds
Heart disease remains the top killer of Americans as risk factors continue to grow. The latest statistics were revealed in the American Heart Association’s annual report, 2025 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics.(iStock)
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SOBER EFFECTS – Kelly Ripa reveals the surprising result of giving up alcohol. Continue reading…
DEMENTIA DUPE – A little-known condition is often misdiagnosed as Alzheimer’s disease. Continue reading…
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When it comes to kitchen cleaning, cleaning your gas stove might not be the most glamorous of tasks. However, it is important to keep your cooking area efficient and hygienic to prevent any foodborne illnesses. If you’re a multitasker, you’ll understand how even well-meaning intentions can lead to mistakes that cause damage, waste time, or even compromise safety. To help you avoid such pitfalls, we’ve listed some common mistakes to avoid while cleaning your gas stove. Whether your stove has removable parts or can be lifted, you’ll find tips to make the process easier. Ready to learn some easily avoidable mistakes while cleaning gas stoves? Roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive in.
Also Read:Washing Greasy Pans With Hot Water? Here’s Why It’s Not A Good Idea
Photo: iStock
Here Are 6 Mistakes To Avoid While Cleaning Gas Stoves
1. Cleaning Burners Before They’ve Cooled
It might be tempting to clean up right after a messy meal, but scrubbing burners that are still hot can be disastrous. Not only can you burn yourself, but the harsh scrubbing on hot surfaces can also damage the stove’s appearance. Instead, make it a habit to let the stove cool down completely before tackling the mess. This way, you’ll protect both yourself and your appliance, and extend your stove’s lifespan.
2. Not Lifting The Cooktop For Cleaning
Many gas cooktops are designed to be lifted for easier cleaning, but this clever feature is often overlooked. Lifting your cooktop allows you to access and clean the corners of the stove where food often hides. If you’re unsure whether your stove has this feature, check the manual—using this function can save you from awkward scrubbing and missed spots.
3. Choosing The Wrong Cleaning Solution
Not all cleaning products are suitable for your gas stove. Harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia can damage the surface and even cause discoloration. Instead, use a mild, non-abrasive cleaner or a simple DIY solution made from dish soap and water. If you’re uncertain about a cleaning product, test it on a small area first to avoid ruining your cooktop’s finish.
Photo: iStock
4. Reattaching Burner Parts While They’re Still Wet
After washing all the removable parts of your gas stove, make sure to be patient before reassembling them. Reattaching burners or grates while they’re still wet can lead to rust buildup and improper ignition. Ensure that every component is thoroughly dry before putting it back in place. For quicker drying, pat them with a clean towel or leave them out in the air for a while.
5. Neglecting The Grates And Drip Pans
Grates and drip pans are detachable but are often cleaned without removal. However, these parts collect grease and grime just like the burners do. Soak them in warm, soapy water for about 20 minutes before scrubbing with a non-abrasive sponge. Regular cleaning will prevent stubborn buildup and keep your stove looking its best.
6. Forgetting To Clean The Ignition Ports
Over time, food particles can block the ignition ports, causing issues with lighting the burners. Use a soft-bristled brush or a toothpick to gently remove any debris. Avoid using anything metallic, as it may damage the ignition system. Regular attention to these small details will keep your stove functioning smoothly.
Also Read: 7 Kitchen Essentials You Must Replace From Time To Time
So, make sure not to do these mistakes the next time you’re cleaning your gas stove!
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-01-29/Poll-85-of-Greenlanders-do-not-want-to-be-part-of-the-U-S–1AyGM8a39LO/img/f37836b13b9f4c1eac505fcf8951879a/f37836b13b9f4c1eac505fcf8951879a.png' alt='Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen (C), Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen (L) and Danish Foreign Minister Lars Loekke Rasmussen during a press conference following a meeting with party leaders regarding Greenland, Copenhagen, Denmark, January 9, 2025. /CFP'
An opinion poll indicated on Tuesday that 85 percent of Greenlanders do not wish their Arctic island, a semi-autonomous Danish territory, to become a part of the United States, Danish daily Berlingske reported.
U.S. President Donald Trump said earlier this month that Greenland was vital to U.S. security and that Denmark should give up control of the strategically important island. Since then, he has repeatedly called for Washington to acquire Greenland and has refused to rule out using military force.
The survey by pollster Verian, commissioned by the Danish paper, showed that only six percent of Greenlanders favor becoming part of the U.S., with nine percent undecided, Berlingske said.
Denmark said on Monday that it would spend 14.6 billion crowns (about $2.04 billion) on boosting its military presence in the Arctic.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen visited three European capitals on Tuesday, meeting French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte.
She said the country has received substantial support from fellow European nations as she seeks support to counter Trump’s threats to take over the Arctic island.
Greenland’s Prime Minister Mute Egede, who has stepped up a push for independence, has repeatedly said the island is not for sale and that it’s up to its people to decide their future.
He said on Tuesday that his government is working to arrange a meeting with Trump.
“It’s very understandable that people are worried. But the most important thing now is that people remain calm,” Egede said. “We must be able to meet and talk about this calmly.”
With a land mass larger than Mexico and a population of 57,000, Greenland was granted broad self-governing autonomy in 2009, including the right to declare independence from Denmark through a referendum.
The U.S. military has a permanent presence at the Pituffik Space Base in northwestern Greenland, a strategic location for its ballistic missile early-warning system, as the shortest route from Europe to North America runs via the island.
Nancy Ghattas, VP, US franchise head, imunno-oncology, gastrointestinal tumors, AstraZeneca, discusses the promising results from the ADRIATIC trial, in which patients were treated with Imfinzi for limited-stage small cell lung cancer.
Welcome to the Wednesday Cats of Catster! Every month, we ask our cat-loving Catsters to weigh in on a new topic. This week, we asked them to tell us what their cat hates! Here’s what they had to say:
Crystal & Ivy
Ivy is a sassy kitty, and she will absolutely let us know when she doesn’t like something.
She does this by hissing, biting, scratching, loudly meowing, or yowling. A kitty of many talents, you may say!
One of her top hates has to be getting a bath! Since she is a long-haired kitty, she does need occasional baths – especially to clean up around the booty area. My fellow long-haired cat parents will understand this!
Interestingly, she loves looking at the bathtub as the water is running. It’s worth mentioning that neither my fiance nor myself take baths, so the only time we use the bath is when it’s for her! Honestly, it’s like she forgets this.
Interested vs Furious!
Nevertheless, as soon as the bathroom door gets closed and her collar is taken off, it’s time to cue the kitty opera. And let me tell you, this opera is a loud, long one. She will meow and yowl for the entire duration of the bath. Sometimes, I’m worried about what our neighbors might think.
Another one of her strong dislikes is getting picked up, sadly. She used to love it as a kitten, but now, not so much. I can kind of understand this one. Imagine you’re on your way somewhere, and suddenly get swooped up by a giant only to be cuddled and kissed, with no means of escaping since you’re so tiny. Terrible, right? (Honestly, it does sound quite scary!)
Only look, no picking up!
A little lower on the list would be her semi-new-found sibling, an orange fella named ‘Toast.’ More on him in the weeks to come! But in short, he’s roughly around the same age as Ivy, and they were introduced to each other when my sister moved in with us. I’d say they now have a love-hate relationship, but initially, it was just hate. Hissing, swatting, scratching, the works!
It’s gotten a whole lot better, and they can now tolerate being in the same room together at the same time.
He’s behind me, isn’t he?
He does still get the occasional hiss-and-swat, especially when it’s food time. I always have to remind her that in all her time of being with us, I have never, ever, not even once, not given her food. That usually doesn’t work.
So there you have it, Catsters! Ivy’s top hates: baths, being picked up, and her orange brother.
What’s something your cat absolutely cannot stand?
Catch you next time!
Isabel & Milly
Milly hates many things.
Like when her dry food isn’t topped with fresh food every hour. Or when I leave the house for any amount of time. Or when we need to drive 6 minutes (in total) to the vet. She also despises dogs and water and she can’t take it when I don’t immediately start petting her when she checks in on me while I’m working.
Cats know what they want and even more so, what they don’t want. Sometimes, it can be challenging when our cats express disapproval towards certain things, especially when our feelings are involved. Of course, cats are allowed to express to us as their caretakers when they don’t like something, but in some cases, our cats just have irrational fears!
For example, Milly has a burning hatred for round brushes, hairdryers (curl diffusers especially), hair straighteners, and most of all, the dreaded vacuum cleaner. I’m not sure why she detests hair-styling items, because her hair always looks fabulous!
The vacuum, on the other hand, is a well-known sworn enemy of the cat-kind… The hairdryer is probably loathed for the same reasons – loud, obnoxious things! But believe it or not… Some cats love vacuums. You may have read about Clutch, Dr. Karyn’s white rescue cat, who thoroughly enjoys being vacuumed. It’s a must-read (and must-see!)
The brushes and hair dryer diffusers are disliked probably because they’re spikey and look like they could hurt. Although, she’s usually more curious and cautious than scared.
Milly inspecting the strange spikey creature.
Sometimes I slowly present it to her, then her eyes widen and her body goes on high alert. She always moves in slow motion, picking up her dominant paw and stretching it out ever so gently to softly feel the texture of the brush. She does the cutest little pitter-patters with her paw!
I have to watch my moves because any sudden movements could send her jumping 2m high and having the fright of her life! So, I just slowly back away and put the brush in the drawer and then she loses interest.
Is your cat afraid of anything unusual or funny? Does anyone share any fears with Milly?
Check back next time for another cat parent adventure from Milly and I.
Cheers vir eers!
(Cheers for now!)
Wes & Raphael
Raphael, as you all know, is an easy-to-please little gentleman. Especially when it comes to food. As I’ve mentioned before, he is incredibly food-motivated and will meow until he’s blue in the face for us to place another crumb in his bowl.
But there is one food group that we simply cannot consistently crack – fish.
Now, I’m not talking about a beautiful, buttery, flaky piece of seabass that has just come out of the air fryer…that was a painful (and hunger-inducing) lesson to learn. No, he won’t eat any fish when it’s a real mealtime.
Turkey, chicken, beef, lamb. All the tasty treats of his world will be gobbled up with abandon, but fish is a “no canned do.”
I know what you’re thinking: “But what about a balanced diet?” Well, we add some Omega 3 supplements to his meat feast. But it’s just not the same. I still hope that one day, we’ll crack the code in that cute little mind and have him eating the fish packets we buy for him.
This article features all of our Wednesday Cats of Catster.
Bengaluru-based property developer Brigade Enterprises reported a profit after tax of ₹236 crore for the quarter ended December 31, marking a 322 per cent increase from the corresponding quarter last year.
The growth was attributed to the completion of two residential towers each in Hyderabad and North Bengaluru.
The total revenue stood at ₹1,530 crore for Q3FY25. The company observed growth across all segments. Elaborating on the quarter’s performance, Pavitra Shankar, Managing Director of Brigade Enterprises Ltd., said, “Growth in the residential business continues, driven by pricing and volume, with the launch of premium projects and a strong pipeline of launches in the coming quarters. Our leasing efforts have maintained strong momentum.”
She further noted that the company plans to expand its land bank through aggressive acquisitions.
The company has achieved a pre-sales volume of 2.19 million sq. ft., delivering over 280 buildings totaling more than 90 million sq. ft. It currently has 24 million sq. ft. of ongoing projects and 15 million sq. ft. of upcoming launches, including 11.87 million sq. ft. in real estate across Chennai, Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Hyderabad.
Segment performance
During the quarter, the net bookings in the real estate segment of Q3FY25 stood at 2.19 mn sqft with a sale value of ₹2,492 crore.
The revenue from real estate was at ₹ 1,103 crore, up by 31 per cent compared to Q3 FY24. While the leasing revenue grew by 13 per cent to ₹ 280 crore. Brigade shared closed at ₹1,094.10, on the BSE up by 7.77 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.
JEDNA od najvećih svjetskih modnih tražilica, Lyst, objavila je najnoviji Lyst Index, kvartalnu ljestvicu koja rangira najpoželjnije brendove i proizvode na temelju analize pretraga, prodaje i angažmana korisnika. Na vrhu je ponovno Miu Miu. Ipak, u četvrtom tromjesečju najskuplji brendovi nisu potpuno dominirali – u fokusu su bile i pristupačnije marke. Brendovi poput Coach, Cos i Massimo Dutti također su bili vrlo traženi.
Najtraženiji brend: Miu Miu
Kao i prethodnih mjeseci, Miu Miu je u četvrtom tromjesečju zadržao titulu najpoželjnijeg brenda na svijetu te je proglašen brendom godine. Matični brend Prada tijekom cijele godine bio je među tri najpoželjnija, a u četvrtom tromjesečju zadržao je treće mjesto.
Saint Laurent završio je na drugom mjestu i postao još jedna velika priča o uspjehu u 2024., postupno se probijajući među top pet. Lyst naglašava da se ljestvica i dalje mijenja jer ljubitelji mode preispituju vrijednost luksuznih brendova i otkrivaju pristupačnije marke i trendove.
Na četvrtom mjestu našao se Loewe, a slijede ga Coach, Bottega Veneta, Alaïa, Moncler, The Row i UGG. Lyst ističe da je UGG “favorit generacije Z”. Iako UGG redovito bilježi sezonski uspjeh, ovog tromjesečja potražnja je dosegnula rekordne razine – pretrage za brendom porasle su 358% u posljednja tri mjeseca i 12% na godišnjoj razini.
Na pozicijama od 11. do 20. mjesta nalaze se Skims, Gucci, Jacquemus, Versace, Balenciaga, Valentino, COS, Ralph Lauren, Chloé i Toteme. Ulazak COS-a u top 20 najpoželjnijih brendova prema Lyst Indexu još je jedan pokazatelj da se kupci okreću pristupačnijim markama.
Najtraženiji proizvod: Coach Brooklyn torba
Osim ljestvice najpoželjnijih brendova, Lyst donosi i popis najtraženijih proizvoda. Na prvom mjestu nalazi se Coach Brooklyn torba, uz rast pretraga od 46%. Slijede UGG Classic Ultra Mini čizme na drugom mjestu i Miu Miu gornji dio trenirke na trećem.
Privjesak za torbu u obliku trešnje brenda Coach zauzeo je četvrto mjesto, prateći trend personalizacije torbi među generacijom Z. Naime, pretrage za privjescima za torbe na Lystu skočile su 77%. COS džemper od kašmira završio je na petom mjestu, blejzer-haljina brenda Wardrobe NYC na šestom, a jakna iz suradnje Skims x North Face na sedmom.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Kaput s leopard uzorkom Charlotte Simone zauzeo je osmo mjesto, &Daughter Ada kardigan deveto, a Massimo Dutti mokasine deseto.
Poznate osobe dodatno su popularizirale pojedine komade
Ovaj popis jasno pokazuje da je usporavanje luksuznog segmenta u nekim slučajevima dovelo do toga da su ultraskupi proizvodi izgubili pozicije u korist znatno pristupačnijih komada. Lyst je također istaknuo da su kardigani s okruglim izrezom postali trend i u ženskoj i u muškoj modi.
Vrijedi istaknuti da su poznate osobe dodatno popularizirale pojedine komade. Bella Hadid je tijekom 2024. nekoliko puta viđena s Coach torbom, što je pridonijelo njezinoj popularnosti.
Beyoncé je Wardrobe NYC-ovoj RHW blazer haljini donijela skok pretraga od 110% nakon što ju je nosila na skupu Kamale Harris, dok je Taylor Swift potaknula rast interesa za vintage-inspirirane kapute Charlotte Simone, čije su pretrage porasle za impresivnih 242%.
O Lyst Indexu
Lyst Index izvješće je kvartalno ili godišnje izvješće koje objavljuje platforma Lyst, jedna od najvećih svjetskih modnih tražilica. Ovo izvješće prati najpopularnije brendove, proizvode i modne trendove na globalnoj razini, koristeći podatke o ponašanju kupaca iz cijelog svijeta.
Lyst analizira milijune pretraga, prodaja i angažmana na društvenim mrežama kako bi rangirao brendove i proizvode prema njihovoj popularnosti. Ovo izvješće je vrlo utjecajno u modnoj industriji, jer pruža uvid u potrošačke trendove i preferencije na temelju velikih količina podataka.
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The only things missing from his emergence as UCLA’s closer are an entrance song and a breathless announcement from the P.A. announcer.
“Preparing to take the big shot for the Bruins, No. 12, Sebastian Mack!”
Otherwise, the sophomore guard has mastered taking over a game in the final minutes.
He made the three-pointer that kept USC from completing a comeback. He converted an old-fashioned three-point play to nudge his team ahead against Gonzaga. He badgered Wisconsin with a barrage of floaters and driving layups.
Like baseball’s best closers, Mack has shown a knack for being dependable in pressure situations.
“Sebastian’s got no fear,” UCLA coach Mick Cronin said Wednesday, “and when you’ve got a guy like that, he believes he can score at any time.”
Mack often finishes what his teammates started, coming off the bench to provide an infusion of offense. The latest came with 68 seconds left Monday against the Trojans, who had crept to within a point after being down by 12.
With the shot clock about to expire and three of the Bruins’ top five scorers on the bench — Tyler Bilodeau with an injured ankle, Dylan Andrews with cramps and Kobe Johnson with five fouls — Mack rose for the three-pointer that quieted the roaring crowd inside the Galen Center.
“My mindset was, just try to find something,” Mack said. “ … I just felt like I could get us there, I’ll take us home.”
Having developed a tendency to shoot line drives that barely clear the rim, Mack might have benefited from good defense on several of his late jumpers.
UCLA guard Sebastian Mack (12) dribbles though a double team set by USC guards Desmond Claude (1) and Clark Slajchert (32) at the Galen Center on Monday.
(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)
“Because they were contested,” Cronin said, “he had to lift his elbow and finish high, therefore he shot the ball with arc, the way he should have and the way we try to work with him on, and that’s why he made them.”
Mack pointed out that others have also stepped up late in games. Bilodeau buried Arizona with a flurry of baskets, Skyy Clark made critical free throws in several games and Andrews sank three-pointers against Oregon and Washington.
But Mack might have become the one Bruin other teams don’t want to see with the ball in his hands in the final moments.
“It’s nice to have a Mariano Rivera that can get a bucket,” Cronin said, referring to the Hall of Fame reliever from the New York Yankees. “He can get you an out. It’s nice to have somebody get you a bucket when you need a bucket and it’s in his DNA; it’s the way he’s wired.”
A bigs decision
UCLA center Aday Mara (15) regains possession of the ball after an attempted steal by USC forward Rashaun Agee (12) at the Galen Center Monday.
(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)
Should Cronin go with Bilodeau or Aday Mara in the starting lineup once Bilodeau makes his imminent return from the ankle injury that forced him to miss most of the last two games?
How about both?
Cronin said he went back and watched the handful of situations where both players were on the court together this season. The challenge with that lineup involves opponents that play four guards, putting Bilodeau at a disadvantage against a significantly quicker player.
“If you want that lineup in and you want Tyler at the four,” Cronin said, “defensively, how are you going to handle that if he’s guarding the fourth guard?”
Cronin may not have to answer that question against No. 16 Oregon on Thursday night at Pauley Pavilion given that the Ducks usually don’t use a small-ball approach. That could lead to more minutes for Mara, who has averaged 15.3 points, 7.7 rebounds and 4.0 blocks while shooting 64.3% during his past three games, even if Bilodeau returns from his injury. Bilodeau practiced with the team Wednesday, putting him on track to possibly play against the Ducks.
Cronin said Mara’s defense and rebounding, not to mention his willingness to push back against counterparts trying to bully him, have been the biggest reasons he’s earned more playing time.
“The more he puts his hands up and the more he fights back,” Cronin said, “the more the officials are going to actually call the foul [on the other player], OK?”
Familiar problem
UCLA guards Eric Dailey Jr. (3), Kobe Johnson (0) and Dylan Andrews (2) react after Bruins center Aday Mara (15) was fouled while scoring against USC Monday at the Galen Center.
(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)
The cramps that forced Andrews to sit out the final five minutes against USC have been an ongoing issue since his arrival on campus.
Breeze McDonald, Andrews’ godmother, told The Times last year that extensive testing revealed the condition was related to hydration and nerves.
“He’s cramped for so long, even when he wasn’t going to cramp, he didn’t not want to not cramp, if you get it,” McDonald said. “So he would play differently, it became psychosomatic at that point that, ‘Wow, I don’t want to let my team down,’ and … he kept saying, ‘No, I’m going to get through it.’ ”
Andrews’ treatment plan, devised by a team of specialists, involves a special diet, fluids and supplements.
“It’s been looked at from all angles,” Cronin said. “I think it’s one of those things where they’ve helped him a lot, but it’s crept back up again.”
No love lost
UCLA center Aday Mara (15) and guard Kobe Johnson (0) box out USC forward Rashaun Agee (12) at the Galen Center Monday.
(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)
Johnson, on being booed every time he touched the ball in his return to the Galen Center after spending his first three college seasons at USC: “I didn’t expect it to be that bad, but I loved every second of it.”
Before he fouled out with seven points, three rebounds and two assists, Johnson held a finger over his mouth in a shushing gesture with the Bruins on their way to a second consecutive victory on the Trojans’ home court.
A group of UCLA students got in the final word while walking through the concourse after the game, chanting “Kobe Johnson!”
“That’s huge to me,” Johnson said of the support, “knowing that UCLA has embraced me so much already, so I can’t wait to try and continue to win here.”
Everyone wants to be an avid traveller. Of course, it doesn’t cost a penny to make dreamy Pinterest boards and travel bucket lists. But the wallet will give a reality check when you see how expensive travel expenses can be.
Air travel can be expensive but the right ‘time’ can help you get good deals. (Shutterstock)
This doesn’t mean, though, that you give up on your dream vacation. With appropriate planning and understanding the right ticket booking time, the best deals can be snagged without breaking the bank. Travel expenses are all about meticulous planning, down to the smallest, microscopic detail, keeping an eye out for the cheapest travel seasons.
Expedia, an online travel booking site, shared some hacks- from the best days to book air tickets to the cheapest month to travel. Here are the air ticket and travel hacks:
Cheapest day to book air tickets
Booking is the day you purchase the ticket. Sunday is the cheapest day to book air tickets as per Expedia. There’s up to 8% savings compared to Friday air ticket bookings.
The possible reason behind this could be that over the weekend, there may be new discounts. Sunday is also a less busy day than Friday, as people may be flying over the weekend, booking last-minute tickets.
Cheapest day to fly
Flying date is the scheduled departure date of your flight. Expedia revealed that when travelling internationally, flying on a Thursday is the cheapest option, allowing travellers to save up to 15% compared to flying on a Sunday.
Thursday is a mid-week day, so there may be lower demand, making it relatively cheaper.
Smart travel is all about being meticulous about your travel expenses.(Pexels)
Cheapest month to travel
August is the cheapest month to travel and flying economy in this month can save up to 13%. On the contrary, March is the most expensive month to travel.
This may happen because summer travel often begins in March. March is also one of the months when schools close for breaks.
ALSO READ: Airline amenities grow ever more luxurious for those who can pay
Booking period
Often, for international flights, people book tickets up to two months in advance. But, this may not lead to the best savings always. Expedia revealed that booking 18 to 29 days before the international flight is the actual ‘sweet spot,’ offering a steal of 17% in savings.
Understanding the right time to book a ticket can make the entire thing cost-effective for you, making your dream vacation more affordable.
ALSO READ: What are ‘aisle lice’? The latest travel term for annoying passengers on flights
Sony has announced plans to make big changes to PlayStation Plus subscriptions.
At the time of writing, subscribers to the PS Plus Essentials tier receive three free games each month. This typically includes a couple of games that are playable on both PS4 and PS5.
However, in a move that will affect millions of subscribers, Sony has confirmed that PS4 games will no longer be included in the monthly line-up from January 2026.
According to the wording of a recent Sony statement, the monthly offerings will shift away from PS4 and focus on PS5 games.
This means that while occasional PS4 and cross-platform games will join the line-up, the majority of games will be PS5 only.
Sony explains more: “As many of our players are currently playing on PS5 and have shifted toward redeeming and accessing PS5 titles from the Monthly Games and Game Catalog benefit, PlayStation Plus is also evolving with this trend and will focus on offering PS5 titles through the Monthly Games and Game Catalog benefit starting January 2026.
“As we shift to PS5, PS4 games will no longer be a key benefit and will only be occasionally offered for PlayStation Plus Monthly Games and Game Catalog starting January 2026.
“We may still provide titles that can be playable on both PS4 and PS5 consoles after this date.”
Sony points out that the changes won’t affect any PS4 games already redeemed by subscribers, which means you aren’t about to lose any of your old titles.
Likewise, PS4 games will continue to be included in the PS Plus Extra Game Catalog, at least until they leave the library.
The news comes just moments after Sony announced the next batch of PS Plus Essentials for February 2025.
Available from the morning of February 4, the new games are headlined by PS5 release Payday 3.
The multiplayer heist game will be joined by High on Life, as well as Pac-Man World Re-Pac.
In the domain of pure driver’s cars, one could argue that nothing on the market comes close to Porsche’s visceral 911 GT3, which eschews turbochargers, hybrid systems and unnecessary complexities, unlike every other competitor out there.
The Zuffenhausen performance car maker has clung resolutely to the ethos it established back in 1999 with the debut of the 996-series 911 GT3, kicking off a lineage that’s among the most desirable in the automotive arena.
Chalking up the 25th anniversary of the GT3 is the 992.2 edition of the fast and focused coupe, with Porsche breaking from tradition by launching both the regular GT3 and GT3 with Touring Package simultaneously.
The latter foregoes the regular GT3’s ginormous fixed wing in lieu of an integrated active rear wing with Gurney flap, making for a more understated look.
As before, at the heart of the GT3 is a naturally aspirated 4.0-litre flat-six powerplant that joyfully sings its way to 9000rpm, and Porsche also stands alone in offering customers a choice of manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions.
Although retaining the essence of its predecessor, the 992.2 edition of the GT3 gains a substantially reworked powertrain, along with revised aero, eight per cent shorter overall gearing in both manual and PDK versions and fettled steering and suspension that makes for even sharper and more tactile responses.
Also new is the optional Weissach Package, which offers even more custom configuration for track use.
Fulfilling a long-standing customer request, rear seats are now available as an option for the first time, albeit specifically with the Touring Package.
How does the Porsche 911 compare?
View a detailed breakdown of the Porsche 911 against similarly sized vehicles.
Porsche
911
How much does the Porsche 911 cost?
Australian pricing for the 2025 Porsche 911 GT3 and GT3 Touring Package is pegged at $446,700 before on-road costs, with local deliveries set to commence in the second half of this year. The price is the same for both manual and PDK auto versions.
It’s a substantial outlay (considering the entry-level 911 kicks off at $280k), but Australian-spec GT3s come with extra equipment fitted as part of the standard kit list, including front-axle lift, park assist (rear) with reversing camera, light design package, tyre fit set and DAB+ digital radio.
The aforementioned Weissach Package takes the price tag nigh on half a million bucks as it’ll set you back a cool $47,530.
This sizable outlay gets you a raft of CFRP components, including the anti-roll bar, coupling rods and shear panel on the rear axle, roof, rear wing side plates, exterior mirror shells and front air blades.
Inside, there’s additional leather as well as Race-Tex upholstery and CFRP door handles and storage nets to help reduce weight.
The bewinged GT3 continues to offer the Club Sport package at no additional charge, which includes a bolted roll cage in the rear, a six-point harness for the driver and a hand-held fire extinguisher.
For the more restrained GT3 with Touring Package, Porsche offers the $71,120 Leichtbau (Lightweight) Package. It includes extensive CFRP for the painted roof as well as the stabiliser, coupling rods and shear panel on the rear axle.
Also part of the package are CFRP door cards and the shortened manual shifter from the ST with a plaque reading ‘Leichtbau’.
The 911 GT3 comes standard with forged aluminium rims shod with 255/35ZR20 (front) and 315/30ZR21 (rear) tyres. Customers can also buy model-specific, street-legal ultra-high-performance tyres through approved retailers. (The cars we drove at the launch wore Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres).
Among the optional goodies are magnesium forged wheels that save 9kg of unsprung mass. They’ll set you back an eye-watering $33,480!
A Porsche Cars Australia spokesperson says there’s been a high uptake locally for the Weissach Package and a strong trend towards the manual for the GT3 Touring and PDK for the GT3.
To see how the Porsche 911 stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
What is the Porsche 911 like on the inside?
As you’d expect, the cabin of the GT3 has a no-nonsense theme, with the emphasis being on functionality and a driving position that’s optimal for track attacks.
The superbly sculpted Sports Seats Plus – fabricated from CFRP in a carbon-weave finish – are set ultra-low, so much so that I thought I was going to fall through the floor the first time I plonked my torso down into the driver’s seat.
There’s adequate adjustability in all directions, so you can have the lovely three-spoke wheel sitting nicely in your fingertips with your feet perfectly positioned to apply pedal pressure.
Handily, the head restraint cushion can be removed, which means your head won’t be uncomfortably propped forward whenever you’ve donned a helmet for racetrack sessions.
Purists might lament that the traditional analogue tacho has been usurped by a digitised dial but – in terms of readability, and even aesthetic appeal – the new format scores highly. You can even opt to rotate the dial so that the 9000rpm redline marker sits at the top, rather than at the bottom right.
The 992.2 GT3 also features an optional bolted roll cage at the rear in carbon-weave finish (satin), while the centre console includes a visible supporting structure and is optionally available with a carbon-weave finish.
In the 911 GT3 with Touring package, there’s now the option of rear seats, catering to customers who have been asking for these for years.
Overall, there’s not much to fault in the innards of the new GT3 and GT3 with Touring Package, although shorter drivers (I’m included here as I stand a modest 1.72m tall) may find that the manual gearshift lever is positioned a little too far back for comfort.
As a result, you almost need to awkwardly fold your arm to effect gearshifts. It wouldn’t necessarily be an issue for taller drivers, as they’d have the seat set further back.
One other challenge – at least for those with less mobility – is that the ultra-low seating position makes climbing out of the car an exercise in calisthenics. It could get wearisome if you’re running around town getting various errands done, necessitating the act of frequently getting in and out of the car.
To see how the Porsche 911 stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
What’s under the bonnet?
As before, propulsion for the GT3 comes from a naturally aspirated big-bore 4.0-litre boxer six that howls its way to 9000rpm.
Outputs of 375kW at 9000rpm and 450Nm at 6100rpm are nothing spectacular by today’s standards, especially considering its 992.1 predecessor eked out an identical power output and 20Nm more torque.
However, that needs be put in context as emissions laws are getting ever more draconian, with some particulate regulations a full 50 per cent harsher than when the original 992 GT3 launched in 2021.
This has necessitated the fitment of two particulate filters and four catalytic converters, so even keeping outputs at parity with the outgoing GT3 required the hotter cams from the GT3 RS, as well as a redesigned cylinder-head and flow-optimised individual throttle bodies.
It helps that the 992.2 GT3 isn’t excessively lardy as extensive use of CFRP in the body and various components has kept its weight down to just 1479kg, while the 911 GT3 with Touring package weighs in at 1461kg.
As a result, the GT3 never feels short on grunt, and a claimed 0-100km/h sprint time of 3.4 seconds for the PDK (the manual is 0.5s slower) and top speed of 311km/h are pretty sharp stats.
To see how the Porsche 911 stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
How does the Porsche 911 drive?
If there’s a purer driver’s car out there, I’ve yet to sample it.
There’s beautiful tactility to the 992.2 GT3 and a level of communicativeness that makes its considerable dynamic envelope very quickly accessible. Even a handful of laps on track (which is all we had the opportunity for) are enough to dial in to the GT3 and start wringing its neck.
It’s pure joy. The GT3 feels like a living being connected to your fingertips, soles of your feet and torso. There’s an aliveness to every element, so much so that pedalling it hard is an almost sacred experience.
Nobody does EPAS (electrically assisted power steering) better than Porsche, and that reaches a new high in the GT3, which serves up the most textured and nuanced feedback to your fingertips imaginable. You feel every surface change and minute undulation in the tarmac below.
The steering has been recalibrated for the 992.2 GT3 and, in the words of rallying demigod Walter Rohrl, “It instils even greater confidence in the car because it responds more calmly from the centre position without losing any of its directness.”
There are no layers of electronics and computerised software dumbing down the feedback to a videogame-esque experience. It’s almost as though you can sense pistons and valves working in sync, brake calipers clamping onto discs and springs and dampers compressing and extending.
With a couple of sighting laps of the tight and twisty 4.005km Circuito Ricardo Tormo under the belt, it’s time to start upping the pace. As the cornering and braking thresholds are approached, one can feel the GT3 begin to subtly dance and squirm under hard braking in the way that only 911s do.
There’s a lovely adjustability to the car, which means you can use the brakes, throttle and steering to finagle your line through corners, even if you might have dived into the bend a little bit hot.
Although there’s a racecar-level of tautness to the car, the chassis has just enough suppleness to ride over the apex kerbs without rattling your teeth fillings.
The huge carbon-ceramic discs provide titanic stopping power and, in the 992.2 GT3, the front ball-joint of the lower trailing arm sits lower on the front axle to create an anti-dive effect that reduces pitching under braking.
Apart from instilling greater confidence in the driver, this also helps maintain consistent aerodynamic balance under heavy braking, which is obviously important during high-speed corner entries on fast racetracks.
Back in the pit paddock after our five-lap track quota, it’s time to hit the road in the GT3 with Touring Package. We nabbed a six-speed manual to see how that would gel as a real-world proposition.
Shift action in the three-pedal car is meaty and satisfying, but one of the manual’s limitations soon becomes apparent. Out on the freeway, even a 100km/h cruise in sixth gear has the flat-six engine spinning raucously at almost 3000rpm. I was initially searching vainly for a seventh gear, but there isn’t one.
Even though Porsche has attached a ‘Touring’ suffix to this car, realistically you may not entertain it for any cross-continent touring experiences as the flat-six motor busily working away behind you at middling revs would become intrusive before too long.
As alluded to earlier, shorter drivers may also find the gear lever positioned a bit too far back for comfort as you almost have to double your arm over to effect gearshifts.
While we’re getting the gripes out of the way, we should also point out that the car’s low-speed ride is distinctly jiggly (the McLaren Artura and Ferrari 296 GTB ride with more compliance) and there’s also some noticeable gear whine in the manual as we pootle slowly through Spanish villages in third or fourth gear.
Other than these annoyances, the GT3 with Touring Package is a delightful driver’s car and it’s hugely entertaining across fast, flowing mountain roads.
What do you get?
On test here is the sporty Porsche 911 GT3.
2025 Porsche 911 GT3 equipment highlights:
Matrix Design LED headlights with dynamic auto levelling
20/21-inch forged aluminium lightweight rims
PASM sport suspension
Lightweight stainless-steel sports exhaust with black outlets
Sound Package Plus eight-speaker 150W audio system
Porsche Communication Management (PCM) including navigation, smartphone integration, voice control, USB-C ports
12.6-inch digital instrument cluster
Powered Sports Seats Plus with leather and Race-Tex trim and GT3 logo
Interior package in brushed Aluminium in Anthracite
GT sports steering wheel with black Race-Tex trim
GT-specific gear selector with black Race-Tex trim
Black Race-Tex roof headlining and pillars
Stainless steel pedals
Light Design Package including additional, dimmable ambient lighting in seven colours
Alarm system with ultrasonic sound-based interior surveillance
Dual-zone automatic air-conditioning
Power windows with one-touch up/down function
Is the Porsche 911 safe?
Porsche sports cars are not independently crash tested, so there’s no ANCAP or Euro NCAP safety rating for the 911 range. Even so, there’s a comprehensive list of standard safety equipment.
Standard safety equipment includes:
Porsche Stability Management (PSM) with electronic stability control (ESC)
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and traction control
Dual front, side and curtain airbags
Brake Assist
Front Collision Mitigation
Low tyre-pressure warning
Reversing Camera
Rear Park Assist
Cruise Control
How much does the Porsche 911 cost to run?
All new Porsches sold in Australia are covered by a three-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. Service intervals are 12 months/15,000km – whichever comes first. Paint is covered for three years, and the rust warranty is 12 years.
Service costs vary from dealer to dealer, and can cost anywhere between about $700 and $3000 depending on the interval, so check with your Porsche Centre.
To see how the Porsche 911 stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
CarExpert’s Take on the Porsche 911
The Porsche 911 GT3 and GT3 with Touring Package are somewhat unique offerings in that nothing else out there delivers a driving experience of the same calibre.
Yes, there are competitors available from Ferrari, McLaren and Lamborghini that are in a similar ballpark dynamically, and some are faster in a straight line.
But what separates the GT3 from these is the supreme level of driver engagement and pure unadulterated feedback it serves up to all your senses.
If you’re the kind of buyer who wants a 911 GT3, nothing else will do. That’s pretty much the way it’s been ever since the 996 GT3 erupted onto the scene back in 1999.
Interested in buying a Porsche 911? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
US Fed Chairman Jerome Powell says labour market conditions have cooled from their overheated state and remain solid. Inflation has moved much closer to our longer-term goal of 2 per cent though it remains somewhat elevated.
US Fed Meeting Updates.
US Fed Meeting January 2025: The US Federal Reserve on Wednesday kept its key interest rates unchanged at 4.25-4.50 per cent in the first monetary policy review of the year 2025. It is in line with the market expectations.
While addressing the media after the FOMC decision, US Fed Chairman Jerome Powell said, “The economy is strong overall and has made significant progress in the past two years. Labour market conditions have cooled from their overheated state and remain solid. Inflation has moved much closer to our longer-term goal of 2 per cent though it remains somewhat elevated.”
He said the recent indicators suggest that economic activity has continued to expand at a solid pace. For 2024 as a whole, GDP looks to have risen above 2%, bolstered by resilient consumer spending.
“The unemployment rate has stabilized since the middle of last year, and at 4.1% in December, remains low. Nominal wage growth has eased over the past year, and the jobs to workers gap has narrowed,” he added.
The US Market Impact
Ahead of the policy decision, the US markets were trading lower with the Dow Jones down by 0.17 per cent and the Nasdaq trading lower by 0.78 per cent (12:13 am IST). The US Dollar Index was trading marginally higher by 0.05 per cent at 107.92, while the US 10-year bond yield was slightly up at 4.557 per cent.
After the decision, the US markets extended losses with the Dow trading lower by 0.43 per cent and the Nasdaq down by 1.04 per cent (12:41 am IST). However, the US bond yield rose to 4.573 per cent. The US dollar index remained almost flat at 107.96.
The Status Quo On Rates & The FOMC Statement
“The Committee judges that the risks to achieving its employment and inflation goals are roughly in balance. The economic outlook is uncertain, and the Committee is attentive to the risks to both sides of its dual mandate,” the FOMC said in a statement.
It added, “In support of its goals, the Committee decided to maintain the target range for the federal funds rate at 4-1/4 to 4-1/2 per cent.”
The FOMC also said the Committee will continue reducing its holdings of Treasury securities and agency debt and agency mortgage‑backed securities.
Previous Rate Cuts
The US Fed on December 18 announced a cut in the key interest rates by 25 basis points to 4.25-4.50 per cent. It was the third rate cut by FOMC in three months, with the first rate cut announced in September (by 50 basis points) and second in November (by 25 bps). The first cut in the current rate cut cycle came in September after a gap of four years.
In December 2024, the US Fed projections had shown two quarter-point interest-rate cuts in 2025.
The central bank implemented aggressive rate hikes in 2022 and 2023 to combat soaring inflation, which peaked at 9.1% in mid-2022. However, inflation has gradually cooled, coming closer to the Fed’s 2% target.
News business » markets US Fed Meeting: FOMC Keeps Interest Rates Unchanged At 4.25-4.5%; Jerome Powell Says Job Market Remains ‘Solid’
In a recent development, the Czech Republic plans to adopt a Bitcoin reserve. Senator Cynthia Lummis is urging the US to act on its own Bitcoin reserve proposal before the Czech Republic does. Lummis’ proposal has inspired other countries to consider creating their own Bitcoin reserves, but the US has not yet implemented the plan.
She has emphasized the urgent need for the US to establish a strategic Bitcoin reserve.“If you’re not first, you’re last. America must take decisive action to establish a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and secure its place in the 21st century,” she shared in an X post.
If you’re not first, you’re last. America must take decisive action to establish a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and secure its place in the 21st century. pic.twitter.com/96huqxoHES
Inspired by Donald Trump’s crypto policies, countries like the Czech Republic are moving to adopt Bitcoin. Meanwhile, Arizona and Utah have recently passed Bitcoin bills, pushing forward progressive financial policies.
Notably, Senator Lummis made her comments after the Czech Republic announced plans to hold billions of dollars in Bitcoin reserves. On Wednesday, Governor Ales Michl revealed the country’s intention to introduce a Bitcoin acquisition bill, which, if passed, would make the Czech Republic the first nation to hold a BTC reserve.
In early January, Governor Michl expressed interest in adding Bitcoin to the Czech National Bank’s (CNB) balance sheet for diversification. CNB has now revealed plans to allocate over $7.3 billion, or 5% of its balance, into Bitcoin.
You have too many marketing tasks and responsibilities to do them the hard way. Your work is too critical to business success to let best practices slide and details fall through the cracks.
Since you can’t always trust AI tools to do the job right the first time, trust the wisdom of your industry peers who have found ways to make content and marketing more manageable.
I’ve gathered some of their best tips, templates, and cheat sheets to break complex tasks into simpler steps and avoid frustrating bottlenecks. And, if you’re in between jobs or looking to advance your role, knowing these tips can help you secure a position to put these approaches to good use.
Align strategic goals with audience needs
Brands often default to their stated mission or purpose when determining their strategic approach to content. But what your business wants to share doesn’t always align with what your audience wants to hear. It can also result in vague platitudes that fail to distinguish your brand’s unique content advantages.
To avoid those pitfalls, work through the five-whys exercise to pinpoint where (or if) your brand’s goals intersect with what your customers care about.
The 5 whys
CMI’s Robert Rose explains the first step is to generate a list of content marketing ideas. For example, your brand may want to educate prospects on using your products or curate industry news to position your business as a thought leader.
Next, write down why the first idea is important. Then, ask why that importance is important. Ask why about that answer. Ask why about the preceding explanation two more times. (Repeat this process for each idea.)
To illustrate how it works, I’ve filled in this template with a sample idea Robert offered in his article:
Because developments in our industry are changing quickly, our customers need a trusted partner to keep them up to date.
Why 1
Answer
Why is curating news to position us as thought leaders important to our customers?
Because our customers will see that we have our finger on the pulse of the business and a point of view on the industry.
Why 2
Answer
Why is it important that customers see that we have our finger on the pulse and a viewpoint on the industry?
Because our customers and prospects will have more trust in what we say.
Why 3
Answer
Why is it important to our customers and prospects to have more trust in what we say?
Because developments in our industry are changing quickly, and our customers need a trusted partner to keep them up to date.
Why 4
Answer
Why do customers need a trusted partner to keep them up to date with what’s going on in the industry?
Because they are busy trying to succeed, a trusted partner can help them be informed.
Why 5
Answer
Why is it important for our customers’ success to be informed?
If our customers are properly informed about the industry, they will be more competitive and successful.
The final answer should reveal a motivation for the idea that aligns with your audience’s purpose and clarifies how it fits into the brand’s overarching story.
Streamline your content operations
Your strategy dictates what you want to achieve through content. Thorough operational planning enables you to achieve it consistently. Think of it as the work to do, so everything else you do works.
Build and activate a content plan
With the matter of why settled, focus on the next big questions — what content will you create? How do you make that happen? A content plan will help determine the best answers.
A content plan comprises the policies, practices, resources, and task-related decisions to execute the strategy. This invaluable tool lets the team orchestrate operational workflows, implement efficient processes, and enable the transformation of creative ideas into high-value marketing assets.
To build your content plan, you need to consider these four components:
Governance and guidelines: standards, practices, and guiding principles that define and distinguish your content’s unique value
Processes and systems: tasks, workflows, techniques, and technologies to manage your content marketing operations
Team resources: roles and skills required to perform the work and plans to fill gaps as they emerge
Content creation and delivery: topics, generation process and prioritization of creative ideas, content types, formats, and platforms
Decision-making in each area can take time — and a lot of effort. But fear not: The tips in this content planning checklist below will help ease the burden. (You can get more details and resources to assist you in CMI’s 4-Part Guide To Crafting a Winning Content Plan.)
Content Planning Checklist
Focal Areas
Actions to Take
Tips to Get Started
Establish content guidelines and governance
Define the unique value your content will deliver
Outline the qualities and characteristics that will make your content recognizable and distinct, including your brand’s signature voice and style.
Establish editorial quality and value standards
Outline the details of how your content will deliver against the five most critical benchmarks for audience value: Findability, readability, understandability, actionability, and shareability.
Build your systems, processes, and support mechanisms
Define the workflow and build critical processes
Build your workflow by identifying the tasks required to produce a content asset. Then, set those tasks sequentially and build agile processes that can be adapted to maintain optimal efficiency.
Promote smooth collaboration and communication
Create a detailed editorial calendar so all team members can see where assets are in the production process, what tasks still need to be done, and how to move them to completion.
Determine how projects will be managed and prioritized
Implement transparent criteria, such as a scoring process, for ranking and prioritizing existing projects and new requests by their potential to perform.
Build in quality assurance
Follow quality assurance best practices to keep typos, grammatical mistakes, and factual inaccuracies out of your published content and your brand’s reputation above reproach.
Select and implement appropriate technologies
Ensure you have the tools to manage your content ecosystem and maintain optimal productivity. Consider where and how (or if) you’ll benefit from using AI tools in your operations.
Structure your team and skill sets
Determine essential roles
Aim to cover the most critical content roles and consider whether your best option is to expand your resources or rebalance current responsibilities to fill any gaps.
Evaluate team skill sets and determine how to fill gaps
Ensure your team has competency in the most critical content marketing skills, and explore available resources for outsourcing, augmenting, or upskilling in areas where they are lacking.
Make sound creative and distribution decisions
Identify critical topics
Explore marketplace, audience, and industry trends to identify topics and issues of emerging importance. Consider developing a content council or editorial board to help surface relevant areas where your content may offer the most value.
Plan big ideas to develop into assets
Focus on generating big ideas that are likely to activate your audience or can be repackaged for use on multiple platforms and channels. Creative brainstorming is a viable technique for initial ideation.
Determine optimal story packaging and distribution options
Look for efficient, cost-effective ways to distribute content across multiple platforms. Consider content mapping techniques to determine which distribution formats and channels to use.
Map your standard workflow (and common variations)
To ensure high-quality assets are developed consistently, content teams need a system to track and manage the production and distribution tasks.
This five-step process can help you map the workflow for each content format (and variations). From there, you can build the processes to operationalize those workflows.
You can find the details in this guide, but this abbreviated description, along with the example templates, show what the information should look like at each step:
Step 1: Conduct a content audit. This high-level view of content deliverables and distribution is organized into four columns:
Content format: Create a row for each format your team regularly produces.
Primary delivery platform: Note where each format is published or shared first.
Additional distribution targets: List additional channels and platforms where this content format may be used.
Special circumstances and variations: Note any variations that require extra steps or a distinct production process.
Content Format
Primary Distribution Platform
Additional Distribution Platforms
Special Circumstances and Variations
Editorial article
Website (blog)
· Newsletters · LinkedIn profile pages/groups · Social media
· Website blog · Event microsite · Website video page
· Sponsored webinars
Social media posts
LinkedIn
· Facebook · LinkedIn · Instagram
· Paid promotions · Co-created with influencers
Live presentations
In-person events
· Virtual events platforms · LinkedIn Live
· Video snippets on social media · Distribution partner sites
Step 2: List all tasks required for each format. Don’t worry about putting the tasks in order yet.
Step 3: Organize tasks by production stage. Group each format’s tasks sequentially based on pre-production, production, or post-production timing.
Stage of Content Format (editorial article)
Required Tasks
Pre-production stage
Determine the topic.
Brainstorm angle.
Identify sources/subject matter experts.
Request sales/marketing feedback on the topic and approach.
Assign a writer.
Facilitate governance requirements.
Create/gather author bio info/assets.
Production stage
Receive author submission.
Edit/revise copy for style and substance.
Design/develop visuals.
Send a final copy to the author and stakeholders for revisions/approval.
Load/format copy and visuals for layout.
Set metadata details for SEO.
Proof and approve the final layout.
Post-production stage
Schedule publication in the editorial calendar.
Publish content (including metadata) to its primary platform.
Send content to [contact] for email alert/newsletter inclusion.
Share links/assets with content partners for additional promotion, repurposing, and distribution efforts per the content plan.
Collect metrics data and generate reports.
Share performance data with stakeholders to inform potential adjustments or future content plans.
Step 4: Add a column for each task’s roles and responsibilities. Map how production flows from one role to the next.
Stage of Content Format (editorial article)
Task To Do
Roles
Pre-production stage
Determine the topic.
· Team leader
Brainstorm angle.
· Team leader · Managing editor
Identify sources/subject matter experts.
· Managing editor · Story editor · Staff writers
Request sales/marketing feedback on the topic and approach.
· Managing editor
Assign a writer.
· Managing editor
Facilitate governance requirements.
· Managing editor
Create/gather author bio info/assets.
· Copy editor
Step 5: Operationalize and iterate. Create a mechanism to track tasks as they’re completed and notify the next party in the chain when the asset is ready for them. If you don’t have dedicated software tools for this, a simple spreadsheet can work.
Systematize content requests and assignments
Requests to create content for other organizational teams is a common pain point for marketing creatives. These unexpected tasks can tax schedules and disrupt productivity; at worst, they conflict with your brand’s strategic purpose and distinct content mission.
You may not have the power to refuse, but you can systematize these requests so everyone stays focused on content with the best potential impact.
Requiring requesters to submit a content brief is a great place to start. Documenting the necessary information and instructions gets everyone on the same page, minimizing time spent on rewrites and edits. A brief also helps when outsourcing creation to freelance writers, guest authors, and other external collaborators.
Dan Hatch says a good content brief establishes clear expectations. It covers details like the working title, project deadline, and what the story is about. It should also outline why the story is valuable, the key messages, the intended audience, and how your brand typically communicates with them.
You can start with this content brief template I use when assigning stories and customize it by adding fields for relevant contextual details, such as the target format or platform, desired responses, links to reference materials, or subject matter experts for source interviews.
Content Brief Template
Working Title
Word Count
Deadline
Insight or problem (Why it matters)
What is it about? (Brief overview of the idea)
What to include (Key messages; potential support points)
Conclusion (Key takeaways)
Desired response (Next steps or calls to action)
Source materials (Links to reference materials, research data, SME contact info, etc.)
Intended audience/ target persona
Copy notes (Tone, style, language, etc.)
Rehabilitate bad content ideas
What if you receive a brief that’s way off track or too challenging to execute? Guide the requester in a more manageable direction with this step-by-step approach suggested by Cloudflare’s Amy Higgins and Nextiva’s Monica Norton.
In their post, Bad Content Ideas: What To Do When You Can’t Say No, they share all the details and explanations. To start, use this checklist to prepare for the tough conversations to determine the best way forward:
How To Rehab Bad Content Ideas
Prepare an informed response to the idea
Purpose
Actions To Take
Step 1: Understand the ask.
Determine what success looks like to the requester.
Ask: Why is this idea top of mind? How did this idea originate? What do you like most about the idea? Have you done it or seen another company do it?
Step 2: Determine the intent behind the request.
Find the disconnect between the requester’s view of success and your team’s KPIs.
How does its objective align with existing goals? Where are they off? Why?
Step 3: Focus on the actual audience.
Discover opportunities to realign the requester’s idea against known customer needs.
Use the “yes and” method to clarify the value for your audience. Example: “Yes. I love your idea of a blog post about the product features. And let’s start by explaining how they help our customers solve their pain points.”
Step 4: Identify where the idea fits in the content journey.
Determine if content gaps along the journey could be filled with this idea or if existing assets can be optimized to meet this request.
Audit your published content to understand what content ideas resonate. Apply that data to provide a rationale for moving to a more impactful idea.
Step 5: Look at your resources.
Assess team needs so you can facilitate a conversation about what to do next.
Do you need more budget or resources? Do you have the right tools to measure the impact of the request? Do you have the time to do it correctly?
Craft resonant, accessible stories
Aligning topics, ideas, and formats sets your creative team up for success. However, working with a proven storytelling structure can ensure the resulting content resonates with the audience.
Base stories on familiar archetypes
Seven classic archetypes work for memorable storytelling. You’ll find detailed explanations and examples in my post on storytelling archetypes. Here’s a handy rundown for writers to use the next time they’re stuck staring at a blank page:
Storytelling Archetypes
Archetype
Classic Definition
Ideal for
The Quest
A protagonist must overcome a series of obstacles to acquire an important object or reach a desired destination.
Educating and assisting consumers about approaches that enable them to achieve critical goals
Overcoming the Monster
An unlikely hero is challenged by a formidable foe and gradually gains the courage, knowledge, or strength to defeat it.
Casting your brand — and your customers — as conquering heroes
Rags to Riches
A protagonist from humble beginnings acquires great power, knowledge, or riches and becomes changed for the better after initial struggles.
Illustrating how your thought leaders and team members have overcome relatable challenges
Rebirth
An adversarial person or event drives a flawed main character to reflect on their actions and compels them to achieve a more positive outcome by embracing redemptive change.
Resetting expectations around your business by speaking out about known issues and the steps you’re taking to combat them
Voyage and Return
A protagonist travels to a strange land and encounters unexpected oppositional forces. Upon returning home, the protagonist has been changed for the better by the experience.
Highlighting the transformational effects of your product and service offerings
Comedy
Thrust into surreal or unlikely scenarios, a protagonist triumphs over adversity by going to absurdly extreme lengths.
Helping small or newer brands draw attention, bringing legacy brands back into the consideration mix, and fanning the flames of passion-driven loyalty
Tragedy
A flawed hero makes a choice or takes an action that ultimately leads to their undoing.
Sharing vital information, such as guidance that helps protect consumers from harm
Write to be read and understood
Even the most powerful ideas won’t help your brand gain traction if the audience struggles to engage, and the writing is unclear.
You’ll find dozens of tips for writing concisely in Ann Gynn’s post, 31 Great Content Writing Examples, Tips, and Tools. Quickly conveying your point is among them. For example, Ann suggests a few replacements for wordy phrases:
“Show,” not “indicate”
“Use,” not “utilize”
“To,” not “in order to”
“Help,” not “facilitate”
“Get,” not “obtain”
To help express your ideas more succinctly, work with a tool like Web FX’s Readability Test.
Make content easy for everyone to access
No matter how well written, your content won’t influence anyone who can’t access it. That includes consumers who use voice commands and screen readers to navigate websites or prefer reading transcripts to engaging with videos and audio stories.
Refer to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines to ensure your content is fully accessible. This checklist covers the basics in Irina Weber’s eight practical accessibility tips:
Content Accessibility
Action
Why
Tips
Optimize title tags and headings.
Helps users quickly find the information they need.
Use clear and unique page titles and headings. Use only one H1 tag. Keep your subheadings in sequential order. Precisely describe the content.
Create accessible tables.
Tables inside text can be difficult for screen readers to interpret.
Build tables using cascading style sheets.
Use descriptive anchor text for links.
Users want to know what they can expect to find when clicking the link.
Avoid generic phrases. Consider using a target keyword. Be concise.
Include descriptive alt text for images.
Enables search engines and the visually impaired to interpret visual content accurately and may boost Google’s visibility and rankings.
Write alt text for every image and video. Add captions for content on sites that do not have an alt-text option.
Add a public sitemap.
Allows visitors to find what they need quickly and helps search engines index pages.
Ensure that your site includes both an XML and an HTML sitemap.
Make social media content accessible.
Social media can affect buying choices, particularly for younger consumers like Gen-Z.
Add captions and transcripts for video and alt text to images. Have a sign language interpreter for videos and at events. Capitalize each word in hashtags. Avoid overuse of emojis.
Use accessible language.
Exacting language and a well-structured format make content easy to understand.
Use clear and simple language or provide a simplified version. Explain uncommon words, idioms, phrases, and abbreviations. Use bullet points for emphasis. Indicate the content’s language with the “lang” attribute in HTML.
Create accessible calls to action.
Encourages and enables consumers to take the next step.
Write descriptive and action-oriented text. Use this contrast checker to determine whether the CTA button meets accessibility guidelines. Place the primary CTA above the fold so users can see it without scrolling down the page. Adjust the size and placement of the CTA in mobile versions to ensure its effectiveness.
Plan for impactful distribution
Your marketing team doesn’t have bandwidth to spare. Don’t squander precious resources on channels and platforms unlikely to drive the right impact. With some extra legwork, you can make more informed decisions about where to share and promote the content.
Evaluate your social platform options
Like the content plan that guides your team’s creative and operational efforts, a robust distribution plan takes effort. Each media platform offers a unique experience with its pros and cons. You need to weigh them carefully.
Though that task can get complicated with social media platforms, the planning process boils down to four steps:
Investigate your options
Audit existing assets
Identify top opportunities
Establish procedures and guidelines
I outline details for each step in How To Build a Winning Content Plan for Social Media, but this checklist will help you know what information to gather and what questions to ask:
Evaluate Social Media Distribution Options
Who uses this channel, and how do they use it?
What content topics and formats get the most traction?
How do brands engage and market here?
Can we gain a competitive advantage?
Is it an essential channel for the target personas? How much time, on average, do users spend here? What are conversations and interactions like?
Do we already produce these types of conversations? Do we have enough assets/resources to maintain a consistent presence? Does the platform offer integrated creative tools to scale production?
Do brands have different profile page options than other users? Is there a verification system? What options exist for boosting organic reach? How does the platform treat backlinks and referral traffic? What metrics does the platform provide?
Are our competitors active in this space? What kinds of content/conversations do they share here?
Measure and compare content performance
Thorough planning can increase the chances of success, but you also must consistently measure the content’s performance to prove the plan works correctly (or that it doesn’t.)
A content scorecard can help you understand the effectiveness of your content and the corrective actions to optimize its impact. In How To Set Up a Content Scoring Process for Better Decisions, Tendo Communications vice president Lindy Roux outlines a process for quantitative and qualitative assessment. Though each analysis uses different criteria, both rate content performance on a one-to-five-point scale.
In Lindy’s approach, quantitative scores gauge asset performance against the content’s goals, such as:
Exposure: views, impressions, backlinks
Engagement: time on page, clicks, ratings, comments
Conversion: purchases, registrations for gated content, return visits, clicks
Redistribution: shares, pins
Qualitative scores gauge the relative value of the asset regardless of its performance analytics. Lindy shares some of the criteria she’s used in her scorecards:
Consistency: Is the content consistent with the brand voice and style?
Clarity and accuracy: Is the content understandable, accurate, and current?
Discoverability: Does the layout of the information support key information flows?
Engagement: Does the content use the appropriate techniques to influence or engage visitors?
Relevance: Does the content meet the needs of all intended user types?
Authenticity: Is the content authentic and original?
In her article, Lindy explains how to set benchmarks and make your calculations. Then, you can create a scorecard like this one:
Qualitative Scores
Content A
Content B
Content C
Content D
Content E
Consistency
5
1
2
3
1
Clarity and accuracy
4
2
3
2
2
Discoverability
3
3
3
3
3
Engagement
4
2
4
2
2
Relevance
3
3
5
3
3
Average Qualitative Score
3.8
2.2
3.4
2.6
2.2
Quantitative Scores
Exposure
3.2
1.2
3.0
3.2
2.8
Engagement
1.8
2.2
2.0
2.5
2.0
Conversion
2.2
3.2
2.8
1.5
3.0
Average Quantitative Score
2.4
2.2
2.6
2.4
2.6
Average Qualitative Score
3.8
2.2
3.4
2.6
2.2
Recommended Action
Review and improve
Remove and avoid
Reconsider distribution plan
Reconsider distribution plan
Review and improve
By comparing each asset’s scores side-by-side, you can more easily determine the best course of action to take. For example:
Quantitative scores higher than qualitative: Review the content, looking for ways to optimize it and enhance performance.
Qualitative scores higher than quantitative: Consider alternative ways to distribute the asset for better performance.
Low performers: Remove them from your content platforms and avoid creating similar types of content.
High performers: Promote and reuse these assets regularly. Update your content plan to create more of this type of content.
Get the help you need to get the job done
As you head into a year bound to bring new changes and challenges, use this guidance and tools to enhance your productivity, uphold the quality and value of your content, and enjoy greater success in your content marketing career.
All tools mentioned in this article were suggested by the author. If you’d like to suggest a tool, share the article on social media with a comment.
HANDPICKED RELATED CONTENT:
Cover image by Joseph Kalinowski/Content Marketing Institute
Vidyadhan, a philanthropic initiative started by Infosys Founder Shibulal’s family, is targeting to provide one lakh scholarships by 2030.
Run by the Shiblal Family Philanthropic Initiative (SFPI), the programme so far supported over 14,000 students through 50,000 scholarships in 20 States and Union Territories.
“We follow a rigorous filtering process to select the deserving candidates for the scholarships. The process includes a written test and house visits,” a senior functionary of the organisation has said.
At a function held here on Wednesday to mark the 25th anniversary of the programme, S D Shibulal and Kumari Shibulal interacted with the old and new candidates that were selected for the programme.
“Every child deserves a chance to dream and achieve. Vidyadhan has been a catalyst for making those dreams a reality,” Kumari, Co-Founder of SFPI, said.
Shibulal said the organisation aimed to break the cycle of poverty and create a generation of confident, self-reliant individuals. “We would like to scale the programme to provide one lakh scholarships by 2030,” he said.
After three consecutive rate cuts, the Federal Reserve opted to hold rates steady at today’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting.
“Inflation has been coming down, but it’s still not where the Fed wants it to be,” said Taylor Kovar, CFP, founder and CEO of 11 Financial. “Pausing gives them a chance to see how the economy reacts to previous hikes before making any big moves.”
This decision has lots of repercussions for your money, from how much you’ll pay on your debt to how much interest you’ll earn on your savings. Here’s what you should do now to maximize your benefits — and minimize your losses — in light of the Fed’s latest decision.
Make these 4 money moves ASAP
Make the most of the Fed’s rate pause by doing these things now.
✅ Open a certificate of deposit
A rate pause means there’s still time to score a high annual percentage yield, or APY, on a CD. Banks tend to follow the Fed’s lead when setting CD rates, so we’re likely to see APYs hold steady for the time being.
“Investors still have an opportunity to lock in very attractive interest and CD rates, which are paying far more than inflation,” said Noah Damsky, CFA, Principal of Marina Wealth Advisors.
CDs are unique deposit accounts that come in terms typically ranging from a few months to several years. You’ll need to leave your money in the CD for the entire term to avoid any early withdrawal penalties. In exchange, the bank or credit union will pay you a fixed return for the entire term based on the interest rate in effect when you open the CD.
Some of today’s best CDs offer annual percentage yields, or APYs, up to 4.65%. With the Fed expected to cut rates in late spring or early summer, locking in your APY now can protect your earnings if rates drop.
✅ Open a high-yield savings account
A CD is a great home for money you won’t need to touch for some time. But what about your emergency savings? You want to keep these funds liquid while still earning the most interest you can on them.
A high-yield savings account can help. Often provided by online banks, high-yield savings accounts offer significantly better returns than the traditional savings options available at major banks. For example, today’s top savings accounts pay at least 10 times the national average savings rate.
It’s usually easy to access your funds in a high-yield savings account, although there may be withdrawal limits. For example, you may pay a fee if you withdraw money from your account more than six times in any given month.
Interest rates on high-yield savings accounts are variable, which means they tend to fall when the Fed cuts the federal funds rate. So you’ll want to open a high-yield savings account ASAP to take advantage of today’s great APYs while you still can.
✅ Hold off on big purchases
If you’re thinking about financing a new car or other large purchase, consider waiting until the Fed begins cutting rates again to avoid paying more in interest charges. If you’re in the market for a new home, it’s also smart to hold off. Mortgage rates remain high, and experts don’t expect a Fed rate pause to bring them down.
✅ Pay down debt
Debt — especially high-interest debt — can significantly hamper your financial stability. When you spend a large amount of money on interest, that money is no longer free for savings, investments or even to cover daily expenses.
Paying down credit cards and other high-interest debt is a smart move in any rate environment, but especially while interest rates remain high. You may also want to consider a debt consolidation loan to combine your outstanding debt at a lower interest rate.
Keep in mind that now is the time to start shopping, not necessarily the time to open a new debt consolidation loan. For now, search for a reputable lender you’re interested in working with so that, when rates do start to fall, all you’ll need to do is apply.
You can’t control what the Fed does with interest rates, but you can take some smart steps to make the most of its decisions. Maximize your finances now, and you’ll be poised to benefit from the Fed’s latest decision.
As Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. appeared on Capitol Hill Wednesday for the confirmation hearing for Health and Human Services Secretary, some may have noticed that his voice has a raspy, strained sound.
The prospective HHS head has spoken about his voice over the years, sharing that he was diagnosed long ago with a disorder called spasmodic dysphonia.
“I had a very, very strong voice until I was 46 years old,” Kennedy said during an interview with NewsNation in 2023. “It was unusually strong. It makes my voice tremble. At the time, I didn’t know what was wrong with it. But when I would go on TV, people would write me letters and say, ‘You have spasmodic dysphonia.’”
BILL GATES LIKELY HAD AUTISM AS A CHILD, HE REVEALS: ‘WASN’T WIDELY UNDERSTOOD’
He was officially diagnosed with the condition in 1996, he shared.
President Donald Trump’s nominee to be Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert Kennedy Jr. sits in a meeting with Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) on Capitol Hill on Jan. 9, 2025, in Washington, DC.(Jon Cherry/Getty Images)
In April 2024, Kennedy told the Los Angeles Times that he “hates” the sound of his own voice.
“I feel sorry for the people who have to listen to me,” he said. “My voice doesn’t really get tired. It just sounds terrible. But the injury is neurological, so actually the more I use the voice, the stronger it tends to get.”
“If I could sound better, I would,” he added.
What is spasmodic dysphonia?
Spasmodic dysphonia is a rare speech disorder that affects the vocal cords, according to Cleveland Clinic.
Those affected may have strained, hoarse or shaky voices that can sometimes make it difficult for others to understand them. Sometimes it can cause words to cut off due to breaks in the voice.
“I feel sorry for the people who have to listen to me.”
The condition can cause stress or anxiety for the person affected, the above source noted.
The condition is neurological, stemming from an area of the brain that causes spasms in the muscles of the voice box. There is no known trigger for these spasms.
The prospective HHS head has spoken about his voice over the years, sharing that he was diagnosed long ago with a disorder called spasmodic dysphonia.(Associated Press)
There are three main types of spasmodic dysphonia, per Cleveland Clinic.
Most people have adductor spasmodic dysphonia, which causes the voice to sound strained, tight and hoarse.
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Abductor spasmodic dysphonia, the second most common type, causes a breathy voice or loss of voice.
A rarer type, mixed spasmodic dysphonia, causes the voice to sound strained, tight and breathy.
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Around 500,000 people in the U.S. have spasmodic dysphonia, which is more prevalent among females. Symptoms typically emerge during adulthood, between the ages of 30 and 60, per Cleveland Clinic.
Potential therapies
“Voice therapy and Botox can help, but there are no cures,” Dr. Marc Siegel, senior medical analyst for Fox News, told Fox News Digital about the disorder.
With the Botox approach, small amounts of botulinum toxin are injected into the voice box muscles to stop the spasms.
The condition is neurological, stemming from an area of the brain that causes spasms in the muscles of the voice box.(iStock)
Kennedy has previously said that he receives Botox injections every few months, as he told “The Diane Rehm Show” in 2005.
With voice therapy, a speech-language or respiratory therapist may recommend specific vocal cord exercises to help alleviate symptoms, per Cleveland Clinic.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
For extreme cases, some surgical interventions can help ease the vocal cord spasms.
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].
Struggling with dull, dry, and flaky skin? Many people experience rough skin or flaky scalp with weather changes, especially during winter. While a healthy skincare routine is essential, your diet is equally important for achieving and maintaining soft and hydrated skin. Wondering how to do that? In a recent Instagram video, nutritionist and weight loss coach Mohita Mascaren has shares simple dietary tips to nourish skin from inside. These tips can also get rid of flaky scalp, another common concern during winter.
4 Diet Tips For Dull, Dry, Itchy And Flaky Skin As Shared By The Nutritionist:
1. Drink Water And Herbal Infusions
Hydration is the foundation of healthy skin. When your body is dehydrated, your skin loses moisture, leading to dryness and flakiness. Make it a point to drink more water and eat water-rich foods. Reduce your intake of tea and coffee. You can also try herbal infusions like chamomile, tulsi, or fennel tea to increase your water intake during winter. These beverages also have skin-friendly antioxidants.
2. Foods Rich In Vitamins C, A and E
Consume foods that are a good source of vitamins C, A and E. Vitamin C boosts collagen production, keeping skin firm and youthful. Vitamin A helps to shed dead skin cells and prevent dryness while vitamin E acts as a natural moisturizer. Vitamin-rich foods include amla, guava, oranges, leafy greens, papaya, carrots, spinach, sweet potato and pumpkin.
3. Go For Healthy Fats
Healthy fats are essential for maintaining your skin’s natural barrier, which prevents moisture loss. Include healthy fats like ghee, olive oil, walnuts, almonds, avocado, chia, coconut and pumpkin seeds. Start taking an omega-3 supplement if you don’t eat fatty fish regularly. “It works like magic,” says the nutritionist.
Also Read:Want Natural Winter Glow? This Skin-Loving Fruit Is Your Go-To Snack For The Season
4. Consume High-Protein Foods
Don’t compromise on your protein intake. You need at least one gram per kg of your body weight. Protein is essential to repair the skin cells which are damaged and to facilitate faster regeneration of new skin. Good sources include lentils, eggs, paneer, chicken, tofu, and nuts.
Pro Tips: Skin Care Advice To Heal Flaky Skin
Along with what to eat, the expert also shares some basic skin care tips to follow. Cleanse your skin and hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water. Hot water strips the skin of natural oils, making the skin even more dry. Lastly, protect your skin with a body oil or nourishing body butter.
Follow these diet and skin care tips for supple, smooth and hydrated skin.
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-01-28/UN-chief-urges-U-S-to-exempt-critical-aid-from-assistance-pause-1Awx2wZsBXO/img/eba2a88d036f43c0b2e977164da39719/eba2a88d036f43c0b2e977164da39719.png' alt='Handout photo from Lebanon's presidential press office shows UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres delivering a statement after meeting Lebanon's new president at the Baabda presidential palace, east of Beirut, January 18, 2025. /CFP'
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged the United States to exempt critical aid deliveries from its sweeping order to pause foreign assistance, his spokesman said on Monday.
Guterres “notes with concern” the announcement of the U.S. foreign assistance pause, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.
The UN chief called for additional exemptions to ensure the continued delivery of critical development and humanitarian aid to vulnerable communities worldwide, whose lives and livelihoods depend on such support, Dujarric said.
Guterres expressed a willingness to engage with the new U.S. administration on providing much-needed development aid to people facing significant challenges in the developing world, the spokesman added. “The United States is one of the largest aid providers, and it is vital that we work constructively to jointly shape a strategic path forward.”
On Friday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordered a sweeping pause on most of the State Department’s foreign aid grants. Effective immediately and valid for 90 days, Rubio’s directive required staff to issue “stop-work orders” on nearly all “existing foreign assistance awards,” according to media reports.
Arvind SmartSpaces Limited (ASL), the real-estate arm of Ahmedabad-based textile major Arvind Ltd, on Monday said that it has signed an agreement for a ₹1350 crore industrial park that will be spread on an estimated 440 acres near Ahmedabad.
This mega project, located on NH47, Bavla-Bagodara Road, will be developed under a joint development model(70.5 per cent revenue share), stated an official release.
The project is located at a tri-junction that connects the project to Saurashtra region, Vadodara, Ahmedabad and key ports like Kandla, Mundra and Pipavav. The project is also located close to Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) and the upcoming Dholera Special Investment Region.
Commenting on this development, Mr. Kamal Singal, Managing Director and CEO, Arvind Smartspaces said, “We are excited to diversify our horizontal product mix in Ahmedabad and add a large industrial park to our portfolio. With this industrial plotted development, we have further augmented our horizontal portfolio and now have about 77 million square feet of projects in the Ahmedabad region. Given the healthy performance of the Ahmedabad economy, industrial park development market presents a sustainable and sizeable opportunity, and we remain at the forefront to address it.”
“Our Business Development initiatives are shaping up well and the cumulative new business development topline potential stands at more than ~₹3,850 Cr for the current year to date. We look forward to add projects across our target markets of MMR, Bengaluru and Ahmedabad in the coming quarters.”
The project is envisaged to be one of the largest industrial parks in Gujarat with end-to-end ecosystem to ensure a thriving environment for industries. The proposed infrastructure includes a common effluent treatment plant(CETP), Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD), labour housing, executive housing, weight bridge, logistics zones, etc.
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.
NAKON što su se brojni Hrvati 24. siječnja odazvali masovnom bojkotu trgovina, trgovačkih lanaca i benzinskih postaja, a uoči najave novih bojkota, na društvenim mrežama povela se rasprava o tome što bi se još moglo bojkotirati. Na Redditu je jedan korisnik pokrenuo tu raspravu i otkrio da je odlučio prestati koristiti frizerske usluge.
>> Frizeri nezadovoljni. “Otkad je došao euro, cijene su se drastično digle”
“Ja konkretno frizera. Kupio krajem ljeta Philipsovu mašinicu i lagano svaki tjedan skratim sve na 3 mm. Pokušao sam radit fade, ali jbg, treba prakse, a ja nemam živaca. Istina je da mi puno bolje stoji kad mi frizer napravi fade, ali ne dam im 15 eura više. Mislim da im je 10 eura sasvim dovoljna cijena, ako nije, Bože moj, sigurno ima ekipe koja će uvijek to moći platiti.
Inače kod mene u gradu su svi digli cijene na isto za muško šišanje, kao da su se dogovorili, tako da nije da imam izbor za manje. 60 eura mjesečno nije mala cifra”, napisao je autor objave na Redditu i upitao druge: “Što po vama se može isto tako samostalno odraditi bez da se plaćaju napucane cijene kao kod frizera?”
“Ono što sam nekad plaćala 150 kn sad košta 100 eura”
Kako je spomenuo bojkot frizerskih usluga, mnogi su u komentarima raspravljali o cijenama šišanja te uspoređivali koliko su koštale prije, a koliko danas.
“Prije eura šišanje je došlo 50 kuna. Na početku kad je došao euro moja frizerka je postavila cijenu na 8 eura, par mjeseci kasnije došlo je na 10. Ok, prihvatljivo, ali nakon još par mjeseci digla je na 15.
E pa draga moja frizerko zadnji put si me vidjela jer za 20 minuta posla digneš preko 100 kuna. Ja toliko ne zarađujem i plaća mi nije išla gore već par godina. Sad idem kod lokalnog brice za 10 eura. Nisam budala i još mogu procijeniti koliko nešto realno košta”, napisala je jedna osoba.
Drugi su također podijelili svoja iskustva i stavove o cijenama frizerskih usluga. “Mislim da ću se pridružiti bojkotu, ono što sam nekad plaćala 150 kn sad košta 100 eura”, “Ovo! Šišanje i farbanje s pramenovima je bilo 150 kuna. Kako je došlo na 100+ eura???”, “2019. u Splitu, izrast, pramenovi i šišanje 220 kuna. Sad ta frizerka za to uzima 80 eura”, pisali su neki.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
“Neću bojkotirati kafić, frizera i sl.”
No nisu se svi složili s bojkotom frizera, ali ni kafića, koji se također često spominju kao mjesta za potencijalni bojkot. “Neću bojkotirati kafić, frizera i sl. jer su to mjesta gdje me nitko ne tjera i idem jer želim i kada želim”, “Ne znam kako ti, ali šišam se jednom u 4-5 tjedana, platim to 7 eura i to mi je prihvatljivo”, “Za frizerku mi nikada neće biti žao platit”, komentirali su drugi.
Međutim neki su istaknuli da su pojedine usluge jednostavno morale poskupjeti.
“Neke usluge su morale poskupjeti jer su povezane s cijelom situacijom u svijetu, nema smisla bojkotirat sve. Iako podržavam da ljudi znaju što više i troše što manje, sve to oduzima i vremena, očisti, spremi… Zanati nam pomažu. Plaćam 10 eura šišanje jer trenutačno mogu, frizerka je jako uljudna, razgovara sa mnom, sasluša me, daje savjet točno odmjeren, nikad ne forsira. Sve to vrijedi 10 eura, po meni. Postoje mjesta za 6-7 eura, ali nema prethodno navedeno”, napisala je jedna osoba.
“Manje-više sve usluge koje su poskupile”
Drugi su pak upitali ima li smisla bojkotirati nešto što nije nužno. “Zašto bi bojkotirao nešto što ti nije nužno? Uostalom mislim da je 15 eura sasvim realna cijena uzimajući u obzir da plaćaš uslugu, znanje, iskustvo. Nitko od malih poduzeća nije velika riba, i oni manje više sklapaju kraj s krajem, čemu ovo…”
Osim frizera, neki su predložili bojkot drugih usluga i proizvoda, uključujući komunalne usluge, energente i određene prehrambene brendove.
“Ja bih konkretno najviše volio bojkotirati grad i državu i županiju. Komunalne usluge su poskupjele a gradovi su sve prljaviji. Struja je poskupila, plin itd. PDV je i dalje ogromnih 25%. Treba tankati benzin i kupovati u susjednoj zemlji, smeće iz protesta ostavljati izvan kanti dok usluga ne pojeftini”, napisala je jedna osoba.
“Manje-više sve usluge koje su poskupile. Ja sam jesenas popizdio na vulkanizera – promjenu guma na 2 auta (uz cjelogodišnje čuvanje guma) mi naplatio skoro 150 eura. Još bi mu i oprostio da me nije zajebavao s terminima zamjene i ostavio sat i pol da čekam”, dodala je druga.
“Ljudi, bojkotirajte čokoladu”, “Sve ću bojkotirati dok ne crknem od gladi. Mater im jebem”, bili su još neki od odgovora na upit što sve treba bojkotirati.
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The 2026 World Cup kicks off in less than 500 days and there is mounting concern that the U.S. is not ready to welcome the more than 6 million visitors who will flood North America for the tournament.
Fans, politicians and other stakeholders, including FIFA, the world governing body for soccer, fear rigid immigration rules and long visa wait times will make it difficult for supporters and even players to enter the U.S. for the games, tarnishing what FIFA president Gianni Infantino once promised would be the “most inclusive World Cup ever.”
“It’s going to be a massive problem,” said David J. Bier, the associate director for immigration studies at the Cato Institute, a libertarian public policy research organization. “There’s no one paying attention to this at all.”
Wait times for interviews for business and tourist visas, which built up under the Biden administration, top 330 days at 18 U.S. embassies and consulates, with some of the longest waits coming in India, Colombia, Peru and Honduras. And since World Cup tickets aren’t expected to go on sale until late this year, most fans planning to come to the U.S. for the games will have less than six months to secure the necessary paperwork.
“I am deeply concerned that there does not seem to be an appetite for making sure that the State Department is funded and prepared and focused on this issue,” said Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Los Angeles), who last fall led a bipartisan group of 53 lawmakers in urging Antony J. Blinken, President Biden’s secretary of State, to lean into sports diplomacy as the U.S. prepares to host seven major global sporting events, including the World Cup and 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, during the next decade.
“It is untenable that we would not surge resources to make sure that we have the right folks in the right places,” Kamlager-Dove said. “They need to facilitate these interviews and get these visas to those who are trying to enter our country for legitimate reasons. It will be unacceptable that we allow our country to fail at putting our best foot forward for the World Cup.”
A spokeswoman for the State Department said in a statement the agency is “committed to protecting our nation and its citizens by upholding the highest standards of national security and public safety through our visa process.”
There’s a lot at stake. U.S. prestige would take a humiliating blow if red tape and bureaucratic bungling closed the borders to World Cup visitors. There would also be an economic cost. SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, which borders Kamlager-Dove’s district, will host eight World Cup games. That is expected to bring 180,000 visitors and an economic impact of nearly $600 million to greater Los Angeles, according to a report by Micronomics Economic Research and Consulting.
The tournament, the largest in World Cup history with an expanded field of 48 teams and 104 matches, will be co-hosted by the U.S., Canada and Mexico and is expected to draw nearly twice as many visitors from June 11-July 19, 2026, as the last World Cup in Qatar in 2022. And 78 of those matches will be played in 11 U.S. cities, meaning this country could enjoy more than $3.75 billion of the economic boost the entire tournament is expected to generate.
“This is really an unprecedented opportunity that we have as a country over the next 10 years,” said Travis Murphy, a former U.S. diplomat who is the founder and chief executive of Jetr Global Partners, a Washington-based firm that works to solve visa and immigrant issues for athletes and sports franchises. “If we want those people, then we are going to have to make changes. How we manage the next few years — and immigration is a fundamental component of that — is really going to be key to whether or not we’re successful.”
During his first term, President Trump promised FIFA that World Cup organizations and their fans would not face restrictions coming to the U.S. for the tournament.
(Mark Schiefelbein / Associated Press)
The Trump administration and its supporters could have a lot to say about that. During his first term, when the U.S. and its two neighbors were bidding to host the 2026 World Cup, President Trump signed a trio of letters in which he promised FIFA that World Cup organizations and their fans would not face restrictions coming to the U.S. for the tournament.
In one letter Trump wrote that “all eligible athletes, officials and fans from all countries around the world would be able to enter the United States without discrimination.”
FIFA officials say concerns over visa wait times — which also threatens to impact the FIFA Club World Cup, to be played in 11 U.S. cities this summer — are overblown and point to those letters and to Trump’s personal relationship with Infantino as proof that the president is committed to the World Cup, an event FIFA considers too big to fail.
“It is worth noting that the incoming administration [was] in office during the successful bid process for 2026, and signed the government guarantees as part of that process,” the organization said in a statement. “We continue to work with various departments and agencies of the U.S. government to ensure the U.S. can capitalize on this once-in-a-generation opportunity to tap into billions of dollars in positive financial benefits and goodwill, and bring millions of people from different nations and communities together to celebrate in the United States.”
Trump referenced the World Cup during a pre-inauguration rally in Washington D.C. last week and in remarks to the World Economic Forum in Davos. Despite that, some FIFA officials remain quietly concerned, people with knowledge about the situation not authorized to discuss it publicly told The Times.
In its statement to The Times, the organization said it will “continue to push visa information to fans and other relevant stakeholders through various FIFA channels” and is working in ensure fans can apply for visas without having to purchase a ticket first, a delay that would have made it nearly impossible for people in dozens of countries to attend the tournament.
While Trump has spoken favorably of the World Cup, he has also made a crackdown on immigration, legal and otherwise, a centerpiece of his administration’s agenda, tightening restrictions and reducing staff, which could introduce new friction for both business travelers and tourists seeking visas.
On Sunday, for example, as part of a standoff with Colombian president Gustavo Petro, Trump suspended the processing of visas and canceling appointments at the U.S. Embassy in Bogota, where the wait was already 700 days. That’s significant because only the U.S. and Brazil, among foreign countries, bought more tickets to the 2018 World Cup than Colombia, the last in which the country qualified to play.
Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA) is among those raising the alarm on the visa approval delay issues that could cut off many fans from attending the World Cup and Los Angeles Olympics.
(Nathan Posner / Anadolu via Getty Images)
The State Department, now run by former Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, manages visa processing and has pledged to lower wait times but it has also said it will not treat soccer fans preferentially. That contrasts with Russia and Qatar, the last two World Cup hosts, who streamlined the process for ticket-holders to enter their countries.
The Laken Riley Act, named for a Georgia nursing student who was killed last year by an undocumented Venezuelan immigrant who was convicted of murder, could jumble things further. Among other things the bill, approved by Congress and sent to the president’s desk last week, gives individual states the power to demand the government withhold visas from citizens of countries that refuse to accept the return of deported nationals. That would allow, for example, Iowa or Mississippi, states which are hosting no World Cup activities and thus have no financial stake in the games, to sue to block the issuance of visas to people from more than a dozen countries.
“It’s complicated for sure,” said Bier, who testified before Congress on immigration issues last week. “They could be pressured into blocking all visas. It could be a very huge problem if it is fully implemented.”
Trump’s harsh rhetoric may pose additional hurdles. Although much of the president’s ire has been aimed at immigrants without legal status, many of his supporters have conflated that into opposition for all forms of immigration, including the admission of highly skilled foreign workers and even tourists. That could make it hard for the State Department to start approving hundreds of thousands of visas for World Cup visitors, even if they qualify.
During Trump’s first term, visas for temporary nonimmigrant visas — the kind typically issued to tourists — fell 10% between 2017-19, then plunged 54% in Trump’s final year, according to the Migration Policy Institute, although the COVID-19 pandemic also had an impact on that decline.
“The Trump administration didn’t prioritize visa processing,” Bier said. “It really slowed down visa processing, removing requirements to process visas quickly. So I can’t imagine that there’s going to be some full-court press to get these visas processed in a short amount of time.”
Attempting to get a U.S. visa can be a complicated, cumbersome and lengthy ordeal. Applicants must begin by filling out Form DS-160, which the State Department says typically takes 90 minutes to complete. Applicants must also submit extensive documentation about their personal lives, education, employment history and the places they intend to visit in the U.S. — all in English — and pay a $185 nonrefundable fee at the time of their in-person interview at an embassy or consulate.
Those rules do not apply to people in the 42 countries covered by the Visa Waiver Program, a cooperative agreement between the U.S. and partner nations such as Japan, the United Kingdom, Germany, New Zealand, France and Australia, which enables citizens of those countries to travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa.
In fiscal year 2023, 1.8 million people, nearly a quarter of those who applied for visitor visas, were denied. In that same year, according to the Department of Homeland Security, 1.31% of foreign visitors to the U.S. overstayed their visas.
“I don’t think anyone is suggesting that we compromise our national security,” said Kamlager-Dove, a member of the House Foreign Affairs committee. But, she added “there are some real things that they can be doing and hopefully they find the courage to do it. It’s not that hard. They need more people to take care of these applications and to do these interviews.”
Staff writer Tracy Wilkinson contributed to this story.
Following last year’s popular neologism ‘gate lice’, a new travel trend is coming up that is ‘aisle lice’.
“Aisle lice” describes passengers who jump out of their seats the moment the seatbelt sign is off and push through others to be the first off the plane.
The term ‘aisle lice’ follows other recent travel trends, such as ‘raw dogging’ and the ‘check-in chicken’. Here’s what you need to know about the growing buzz surrounding ‘aisle lice’ and how to deal with it:
What are gate lice?
‘Gate lice’ refers to passengers who crowd the boarding gate before their group is called. The phenomenon became so widespread that in 2024, American Airlines introduced technology to prevent passengers from boarding prematurely by rejecting boarding passes scanned out of turn.
What are aisle lice?
Boarding a plane can be stressful, but exiting one shouldn’t be. However, aisle lice disrupt the orderly process of deplaning by forcing their way past other passengers. ‘Aisle lice’ describes passengers who jump out of their seats the moment the seatbelt sign is off and push through others to be the first off the plane. It’s a humorous yet pointed nickname for those passengers who push their way down the aisle the moment the plane lands, eager to exit before their row is even called.
One Reddit user shared their frustration after witnessing this behavior on a flight from Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport to LaGuardia Airport: “Not only do the two people next to me stand up, but somehow the guy from the window seat shoves his way forward and is the first of all of us to get off the plane.”
Internet is reacting to it
The term “aisle lice” quickly gained traction, with social media users passionately sharing their opinions. Many users found aisle lice more irritating than gate lice. One person wrote, “Gate lice don’t bother me since most people want to get on first for bin space, but aisle lice slow everything down.” Another added, “If you don’t have a tight connection or emergency, just wait your turn.”
Some commenters blamed airlines for failing to enforce deplaning protocols. Others pointed out that both gate lice and aisle lice reflect selfish tendencies. As one user put it, “The fact we have to choose between these two is ridiculous. Neither is appropriate adult behavior.”
So what is the right way to exit a plane?
Airplane etiquette is simple—wait for your turn. The unspoken rule is that passengers exit row by row, starting from the front. If everyone followed this system, the process would be smooth and efficient. However, aisle lice disrupt this by treating deplaning like a personal race, disregarding common courtesy.
Ironically, the rush to exit usually doesn’t save much time. If anything, their impatience only leads to frustration and delays. Respecting the flow of deplaning makes for a smoother, less stressful experience for everyone onboard. After all, flying is already hectic enough, why make it worse?
Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is one of the biggest and most impressive action RPGs ever made.
The popular role-playing game arguably put the series on the map, attracting a more mainstream audience following its release on Xbox 360.
It also contains one of gaming’s most iconic moments, as players exit the sewers and step into the Oblivion’s stunning open world for the first time.
Moments like these helped the game earn a 94-rating on Metacritic and an overwhelmingly positive rating on Steam.
With this in mind, fans will be pleased to hear that an Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion remake is reportedly launching this summer.
The Oblivion remake was tipped to appear during the recent Xbox Developer Direct event.
While the Oblivion remake would skip the event, a new report on The Verge suggests that it’s very much still in development.
In fact, the Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion remake will reportedly launch either in late spring or early summer.
The iconic Bethesda game will be remade in Unreal Engine 5, and is said to be in development at Virtuous. Better yet, it’s not just coming to Xbox Series X|S, but also PS5 and PC.
With the next mainline entry in the Elder Scrolls series still a year or two away from release, the Oblivion remake should help plug the gap.
Bethesda explains more: “Step inside the most richly detailed and vibrant game-world ever created. Oblivion is the latest chapter in the epic Elder Scrolls saga.
“With a powerful combination of freeform gameplay and unprecedented graphics, you can unravel the main quest at your own pace or explore the vast world and find your own challenges.”
It’s unclear if the Oblivion remake will include the Knights of the Nine or Shivering Isles expansions, so we’ll have to wait and see.
The Mk8.5 Volkswagen Golf is due to arrive in Australia from April, when the facelifted German hatchback will become available in six model variants.
It’s been a year since the updated Golf was revealed in Europe, and now Volkswagen Australia has locked in features and specifications for the local range – but pricing is yet to be announced.
The lineup will comprise the entry-level Golf Life, the new Style, the mid-range R-Line, the front-wheel drive GTI, the all-wheel drive R performance flagship, and an even more aggressive looking R Black Edition.
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Golf GTI
While there’s no sign of a return for the discontinued Golf wagon, all variants of the Mk8.5 Golf feature a restyled front bumper and LED headlights, as well as a full-width front light bar, which on European examples is interrupted by an illuminated Volkswagen badge.
The Golf Life’s equipment remains largely unchanged, except for its infotainment touchscreen growing from 10 inches to 10.4 inches, and now featuring a new, simpler menu structure with configurable shortcuts and upper and lower control bars that always remain visible, as well as illuminated temperature and volume control sliders.
Positioned above it, the Golf Style – which Volkswagen says is more akin to the Mk7 Highline – gains a larger 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen with navigation and voice assistant, a 14-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory, microfleece upholstery and LED Plus headlights, among other features.
The R-Line is also virtually unchanged, except for its larger infotainment screen.
Golf R
Golf GTIs have received a 15kW power increase and now produce 195kW and 370Nm, while they’ll also be fitted with 19-inch wheels as standard, up from 18 inches.
At the top of the range, the Golf R has also become more potent, gaining 10kW and 20Nm to now produce 245kW/420Nm, matching the Audi S3.
It’s also two-tenths of a second quicker from 0-100km/h, achieving the benchmark sprint in a claimed 4.6 seconds.
A breakdown of each variant’s drivetrain is available below.
Volkswagen Golf Life, Style, R-Line
Volkswagen Golf GTI
Volkswagen Golf R
Engine
Turbocharged 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol
Turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol
Turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol
Power
110kW
195kW
245kW
Torque
250Nm
370Nm
420Nm
Drive type
Front-wheel
Front-wheel
All-wheel
Transmission
Eight-speed torque-converter automatic
Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic
Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic
Golf R
Price increases are expected across the range, accounting for the new equipment and higher outputs.
The pre-facelift Golf Life is priced from $39,190 before on-road costs, the Golf R-Line starts at $42,290, the Golf GTI costs $56,090 and the Golf R is $70,590.
Standard Equipment
The 2025 Volkswagen Golf Life features as standard:
17-inch alloy wheels
Automatic LED headlights
Surround lighting
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Climate control
10.4-inch infotainment touchscreen
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
DAB+ digital radio
Ventilated wireless smartphone charger
Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection
Adaptive cruise control
Blind-spot monitoring
Lane-keep assist
Front and rear parking sensors
Park assist
Rear cross-traffic alert
The Golf Highline adds:
18-inch alloy wheels
‘LED Plus’ headlights
Chrome exterior highlights
Dark tinted privacy glass
14-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory
ArtVelours microfleece upholstery
12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen
Embedded navigation
IDA voice assistant
30 ambient lighting colours
The Golf R-Line adds:
Unique 18-inch alloy wheels
R-Line exterior and interior styling
Front sports seats with heating and ventilation
Power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory
Vienna leather-appointed upholstery
Driving profiles
Progressive steering
Golf GTI
The Golf GTI adds:
19-inch alloy wheels
Fog lights
Tartan upholstery
Tri-zone climate control
Adaptive dampers
Park Assist Plus
The Golf R adds:
Unique 19-inch alloy wheels
Matrix LED headlights
3D LED tail-lights
Harman/Kardon sound system
Nürburgring and Drift drive moses
Surround-view camera
Torque-vectoring
The Black Edition package for the Golf R adds:
Darkened badges and headlights
Black brake calipers
Black 19-inch ‘Estoril’ wheels
Black exhaust outlets
R Black Edition
Options
A Sound and Vision package for the Golf Style, R-Line and GTI will add:
Harman/Kardon sound system
Head-up display
Surround-view camera
These variants can also be ordered with a panoramic sunroof as a standalone option.
The Golf GTI’s Leather Package will bring:
Vienna leather
Power-adjustable driver’s seat
Heated and ventilated front seats
MORE: Everything Volkswagen Golf MORE: 2025 Volkswagen Golf is an exercise in fixing complaints MORE: 2025 Volkswagen Golf R: Hot hatch gets hotter
The CCEA approves higher ex-mill price for ethanol produced from C-heavy molasses to Rs 57.97 from Rs 56.28 per litre, for the 2024-25 period ending October 31 this year.
Ethanol Prices.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on Wednesday cleared higher ex-mill price for ethanol produced from C-heavy molasses to Rs 57.97 from Rs 56.28 per litre, for the 2024-25 period ending October 31 this year, said Union Information & Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
The prices for ethanol produced from B heavy molasses and from sugarcane juice/ sugar/ sugar syrup were left unchanged at Rs 60.73 per litre and Rs 65.61 per litre, respectively.
Announcing the decision, Vaishnaw said the revision of ethanol procurement price for public sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) for the Ethanol Supply Year (ESY) 2024-25 has been approved. The government has also advanced the target of 20 per cent ethanol blending in petrol to ethanol year 2025-26 from earlier target of 2030.
“As a step in this direction, OMCs plan to achieve 18 per cent blending during the ongoing ESY 2024-25,” an official release said.
(With inputs from PTI)
News business » economy Cabinet Clears Higher Ex-Mill Price For Ethanol Produced From C-Heavy Molasses
Solana’s price is struggling to hold above the pivotal support at $230, which has offered a strong base in the recent past. Besides, the need for an SOL ETF is intensifying with Cboe re-filing the ETF on behalf of VanEck. With this, the price, which is under the bearish influence, is expected to reverse the trend as soon as the network’s traffic is about to escalate. Below are some popular Solana-based tokens that could mark fresh highs in the coming days.
Uniswap (UNI)
Uniswap is the most popular decentralised trading protocol and facilitates automated trading of the DeFi tokens without any need for any third party. The native token, UNI, which is used as a governance token and pay fees, has been performing exceptionally well. The price has been maintaining a consolidated ascending trend followed by a huge breakout. Presently, the UNI price is trying to reverse the bearish trend and once validated, a 50% upswing could be imminent.
As seen in the above chart, the UNI price has been trading within a rising parallel channel for over a couple of years. After testing the resistance and support, the price is trying hard to validate a rebound from the average levels as RSI has also displayed a bearish divergence. Moreover, the 50/200 day weekly MA is healing towards the very first bullish crossover or the Golden Cross, which is expected to offer more bullish momentum that may push the price beyond $20.
Jupiter (JUP)
Jupiter, the most advanced swap aggregation engine on Solana, has raised many eyebrows in recent times. With a huge influx of liquidity, the token possessed massive volatility, causing a ‘v-shaped’ recovery in the JUP prices. Currently, the bulls appear to have drained out of strength as the volume has dropped and the token is experiencing significant upward pressure. However, the token has attempted to surpass $1.25 a couple of times and hence another attempt could clear these levels.
The JUP price is constantly trying to achieve the local resistance at $1.3 while the bears are restricting the levels at $1.25. The RSI remains incremental while the CMF has regained levels above ‘0’. These indicators suggest the market strength is increasing, which could further keep up the momentum of the rally. Therefore, the Jupiter price is believed to rise and achieve beyond the interim highs shortly.
Raydium (RAY)
The Raydium price broke out of the consolidation and remained elevated throughout 2024, displaying huge volatility as the volume remained above the average range. Moreover, the token broke out of the pattern in the first few days of the year and the rise of the memecoins over the Solana chain also benefitted the token to a large extent. Currently, the price is about to end the correction after a breakout, which could pave the way for a strong upswing.
The above chart suggests the RAY price broke out of the ascending triangle and marked interim highs above $8 and above to end its correction too. The RSI is displaying a bullish divergence, while the OBV, which is a volume-based indicator, has also shown a similar move. This suggests a rise in the rally’s strength as the buyers are more active than sellers, which could push the prices higher back above $8.
Other than these tokens, memecoins like dogwifhat (WIF), Bonk (BONK), etc and a few more are also expected to thrive as the Solana network is expected to gain traction in the coming days.
The Indian Institute of Management-Ahmedabad (IIMA), the top B-school in the country, will begin its final placement process for the Post-Graduate Programme (PGP) from January 31.
The placement process for 2024-25 has been divided into three clusters. While the placements for Cluster 1 will be held on January 31, those for Cluster 2 and 3 will be held on February 3 and February 6, respectively. IIMA follows a cluster-cohort-based placement process wherein companies are assorted into cohorts on the basis of their industry profiles and several cohorts are invited to the campus in a particular cluster, stated an official release from the institute.
The placements for the PGP-Food and Agri Business Management will also be held parallely on the same dates.
IIMA hosted an elaborate mix of firms from diverse sectors during the Laterals Placement process that concluded on January 21. The highest offers — eleven– were rolled out by FinIQ Consulting. Other recruiters present included Browserstack, Mastercard, Navi, Zomato, and Vector Consulting Group, amongst others, the release added.
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, Connections and Connections: Sports Edition puzzles.
Oof, the NYT Mini Crossword had some stumpers today. Those three clues about magicians threw me, and I had to slowly work my way through the other clues before I solved them. Need some more help with today’s Mini Crossword? Read on. 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, Connections: Sports Edition 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 Jan. 29, 2025.
NYT/Screenshot by CNET
Mini across clues and answers
1A clue: Type of bulb in many Christmas lights, for short Answer: LED
4A clue: Diminish, as confidence Answer: ERODE
6A clue: With 7-Across, sawing a person in half, e.g. Answer: MAGIC
7A clue: See 6-Across Answer: TRICK
8A clue: Breakaway religious groups Answer: SECTS
Mini down clues and answers
1D clue: Sudoku solver’s asset Answer: LOGIC
2D clue: Official decree Answer: EDICT
3D clue: Illusionists might cut them in half Answer: DECKS
4D clue: CPR pros Answer: EMTS
5D clue: Like finding a four-leaf clover Answer: RARE
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 tuberculosis outbreak in Kansas City, Kansas, has become the largest documented on record in the United States.
As of Jan. 24, 2025, there have been 67 active cases reported in Wyandotte County (60) and Johnson County (7) since January 2024, according to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE).
There have also been 79 latent, or asymptomatic, tuberculosis (TB) infections reported over the last year, including 77 in Wyandotte County and two in Johnson County.
FEELING EXTRA TIRED? THIS VIRUS COULD BE THE CULPRIT, STUDY SUGGESTS
KDHE has reportedly been working with local health departments in response to the outbreak, following guidance on proper treatment and prevention from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
In a statement sent to Fox News Digital, KDHE confirmed that the outbreak is “still ongoing, which means there could be more cases.”
TB is an infectious disease that most often affects the lungs. It is caused by bacteria that spreads through the air when infected people cough, speak or sing.(Spencer Platt/Getty Images)
Two TB deaths associated with this outbreak were reported in 2024, KDHE noted.
In comparison, the CDC recorded 46 active TB cases in Kansas in 2023.
HAS A ‘QUADEMIC’ HIT THE US? 4 VIRAL INFECTIONS AND WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THEM
“In an effort to provide efficient and quality care to those individuals affected by the outbreak, KDHE assumed responsibility for the coordination and distribution of testing, treatment and medical consultation in Wyandotte County,” the agency shared.
TB is an infectious disease that most often affects the lungs, according to KDHE. It is caused by bacteria that spreads through the air when infected people cough, speak or sing.
“Kansas is not alone in its battle against TB, which kills more than a million people each year.”
It is not spread by kissing, shaking hands, sharing food and drink, or touching objects, the same source stated.
TB symptoms can include coughing, chest pain, coughing up blood or mucus, fatigue, weight loss, fever and night sweats.
Tuberculosis can show up as pulmonary TB, infection in the lungs or extra-pulmonary TB, which are infections in other parts of the body.(iStock)
KDHE confirmed to Fox News Digital that there is a “very low risk” of infection to the general public.
Wendy Thanassi, M.D., senior medical director of TB and Infectious diseases at QIAGEN North America, shared her thoughts on the threat of the outbreak in a separate interview with Fox News Digital.
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“Kansas is not alone in its battle against TB, which kills more than a million people each year,” said the San Francisco-based doctor.
“Every undetected case is an outbreak waiting to happen, yet we have the power to stop TB before it starts.”
KDHE confirmed that the outbreak is “still ongoing, which means there could be more cases.”(iStock)
Thanassi encouraged employers, doctors and community leaders to “organize testing” to stop the spread.
“One simple blood test can identify this sleeping killer before it awakes, and one course of antibiotics can stop it from infecting the people we love,” she said.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
A person with active TB will no longer be infectious “shortly after beginning treatment” with antibiotics, according to KDHE.
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There were 9,633 cases of TB disease reported in the U.S. in 2023, according to the CDC, which is 15.6% more than the prior year.
Angelica Stabile is a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital.
Basant Panchami (or Vasant Panchami) is just around the corner, and you know what that means: the sun is shining, the weather’s getting perfect, and nature is at its absolute best. This is the time when winter starts fading away and spring steps in with all its glory. Spring is often called the ‘king of all seasons’ – and it totally deserves that title. In the Hindu calendar, Basant Panchami falls on the Panchami Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the Magh month, and it’s dedicated to Goddess Saraswati. This festival, celebrated across India, has different traditions depending on the region. In the east, it’s all about Saraswati Puja, while the south celebrates it as ‘Shri Panchami’.
Also Read: Watch: Make These 6 Special Basant Panchami Mithai To Celebrate Spring
While the date changes slightly every year, Basant Panchami usually falls between the end of January and early February. In 2025, it will be celebrated on February 2.
Basant Panchami 2025: Date And Time:
Date: Sunday, February 2, 2025
Basant Panchami Muhurat: 07:09 AM to 12:35 PM
Duration: 05 Hours 26 Mins
Vasant Panchami Madhyahna Moment: 12:35 PM
Panchami Tithi Begins: 09:14 AM on February 2, 2025
Panchami Tithi Ends: 06:52 AM on February 3, 2025
Why Basant Panchami Is So Special:
Basant Panchami marks the end of chilly winters and the start of a bright, beautiful spring. The colour yellow plays a massive role in the celebrations. This is because yellow is the symbol of prosperity, optimism, energy, and positivity – everything we need as we step into the warmer months. People wear yellow, decorate with yellow, and even cook up delicious yellow food!
The day is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, with students marking the occasion by offering stationery items to her. It’s a significant day for learning and personal growth.
Basant Panchami 2025: 5 Yummy Yellow Recipes To Try This Basant Panchami:
Basant Panchami, like many other festivals, is a feast for the senses-especially when it comes to food. This celebration is brimming with dishes in vibrant yellow hues. Here are five delicious recipes to try this year:
1. Rava Kesari
This delicious sweet, also known as kesari bhaat, is made with semolina, ghee, sugar, dry fruits, and saffron. It’s the perfect festive treat! Click here for the recipe.
2. Boondi ke Ladoo
These round, sweet treats are a festival classic! Easy to make, and a must-have for Basant Panchami. Click here for the recipe.
3. Rajbhog
A favourite Bengali dessert, rajbhog is made from chenna and stuffed with almonds and pistachios. It’s like a bigger, yellow version of rasgulla. Click here for the recipe.
4. Shrikhand
This creamy, saffron-infused dessert from Maharashtra is made with yogurt, sugar, and dry fruits. It’s smooth, sweet, and super quick to whip up. Click here for the recipe.
5. Kesari Kheer
Made with saffron, this rice pudding is a simple yet indulgent treat. Perfect for the occasion. Click here for the recipe.
So, why not try these delicious yellow recipes to make your Basant Panchami 2025 celebration extra special? Happy Basant Panchami 2025!
Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, has always shared his best wishes with Chinese people during the Gregorian New Year as well as the Chinese New Year.
Here are some of his wishes to Chinese people in recent years.
Gregory Mattingly, MD, president, Midwest Research Group, founding partner, St. Charles Psychiatric Associates, discusses the approval of Spravato for treatment-resistant depression.
Blackstone Inc is gearing up to file the draft papers for the launch of its office-based real estate investment trust (REIT) in India, sometime in February, sources said.
With a size of $700-750 million, this will be the country’s largest REIT. The US-based asset manager is also understood to have appointed Kotak Mahindra Capital Company as the lead investment banker.
Blackstone declined to comment on the proposed filing., and Kotak did not respond to an email seeking clarification.
Sources also confirmed that the REIT will consist of around 50 million square feet of assets belonging to Blackstone under Nucleus Office Parks and those developed jointly with Bengaluru-based real estate developer Sattva Group. Assets held under a joint venture between Blackstone and Panchshil Realty would not form part of the REIT portfolio, they asserted.
Blackstone has a portfolio of 20 million square feet under Nucleus, while with Sattva it has a joint portfolio of 32 msf of which 18 msf is completed.
Under Nucleus Parks, it has 14 properties across five cities – Mumbai, Gurugram, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad. Five of the properties such as One BKC, One International Centre, Prima Bay are located in Mumbai while in Bengaluru it owns assets such as One Trade Tower and Cessna Business Park.
The joint projects between Blackstone and Sattva include Knowledge City and Knowledge Park in Hyderabad and Sattva Global City in Bengaluru. Sattva Global (formerly Village Tech Park) is a green tech park and was acquired from Coffee Day Enterprises. It is majority owned by Blackstone.
At present there are four listed REITs in India with ₹1.2 lakh crore of assets under management, market capitalisation of over ₹75,000 crore and a portfolio covering 113.5 msf. Three are office-based REITs and one retail based.
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.
NIKE je predstavio novu boju Air Max Muse tenisica naziva Habanero Red. Predstavljena je povodom Valentinova, zbog čega je u prikladnoj vrlo intenzivnoj crvenoj boji. Ove upečatljive tenisice su robusnog dizajna i bez sumnje će privlačiti pažnju gdje god se u njima pojavili.
Snažna crvena s metalik kontrastnim detaljima
Sjajne sintetičke obloge dodaju dubinu i uglađen, profinjen izgled, dok metalik srebrni detalji na Swoosh logu i drugim branding elementima pružaju suptilan, ali snažan kontrast dominantnoj crvenoj boji.
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Nike Air Max Muse u boji Habanero Red bit će dostupne u prodaji od 8. veljače u Nike webshopu i u odabranim trgovinama, a cijena će biti 160 američkih dolara, odnosno otprilike 154 eura.
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Despite support from his fellow Mission League baseball coaches, Bishop Alemany coach Randy Thompson said Tuesday his son, Brody, a junior catcher, has been denied immediate eligibility by the Southern Section after transferring from Sherman Oaks Notre Dame. He will have to sit out the first portion of the season until March 28.
Thompson had been head coach at Alemany for 18 years until losing his job in a cost cutting measure in 2019. He became an assistant coach at Notre Dame. When the school decided it wanted him back to be athletic director and baseball coach, he agreed. His son, a starter at Notre Dame last season as a sophomore, wanted to join him at Alemany.
Junior catcher Brody Thompson of Bishop Alemany.
(Bishop Alemany)
Notre Dame coach Tom Dill wrote a letter to the Southern Section supporting the move. But Southern Section rules require students to move physically to be eligible immediately. Thompson said he could not afford to move.
“It’s unfortunate,” Thompson said. “The rules are set up to prevent athletically-motivated transfers. My son wants to play for his dad.”
Said Dill: “My request was that we as coaches put in a lot of time developing young men, trying to make a difference in their lives, not just in game of baseball. We spend our careers doing that. I think a son should be able to play for him. How could he not go back to Alemany for his dad? The whole league agreed and I don’t know why there could not be an exception.”
A Southern Section spokesman said no valid residential change occurred and the organization cannot waive bylaw 206. Other coaches who brought along their sons without moving have faced a similar situation.
Nintendo Switch 2 will reportedly launch in either May or June, although we won’t for sure until after the next Nintendo Direct on April 2.
What we do know is that fans will be able to go hands-on with the console during special events taking place around the world during April and May. For UK fans, a Switch 2 Experience event be held from April 11 until April 13.
If you applied to go hands-on with the Nintendo Switch 2 during one of the upcoming events, then you should check your emails now.
Nintendo has emailed fans with confirmation or rejection messages about the upcoming events.
Successful applicants have been given the good news, alongside confirmation about specific dates and times.
Unfortunately, however, Nintendo has also broken a few hearts, telling unsuccessful applicants that they didn’t win the drawing.
While it’s a blow to fans who received rejection messages, the rumours suggest that the console will launch shortly after.
This means you shouldn’t have to wait too long to get your hands on the device, even if you were unsuccessful.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is larger than the current model, featuring a bigger screen and JoyCons.
The JoyCons will reportedly utilise technology to eliminate stick drift, as well as magnets for connecting to the display.
Judging by the announcement trailer, the JoyCons can also be used like a mouse, meaning PC-style games should work better on the Switch 2.
The kickstand is also more flexible, giving users more viewing angles when playing in handheld mode.
We’ll find out more when Nintendo holds a Switch 2 Direct on April 2.
The title for the world’s fastest blind person on a quarter-mile (402m) drag strip now belongs to an Australian, with Jamie Ruggier setting a new record in Victoria.
Mr Ruggier set what is claimed to be a new world record at Heathcote Park Raceway, about 150km north-west of Melbourne and just 30km east of Bendigo.
Aboard his brother Daniel’s modified turbocharged 13B two-rotor powered Mazda RX-3, Jamie Ruggier set a time of 10.32 seconds down the quarter-mile, passing through the finish marker at 208km/h (129mph).
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The previous record of 11.5 seconds was set in the US in 2023 by Sheldon Wilson in a Dodge Challenger SRT Super Stock.
Mr Ruggier had help from more than just one brother, with his other sibling Justin – a previous winner of the V8 Kumho Touring Car Championship which feeds to Supercars – riding shotgun and guiding him down the drag strip.
To make the record run even more impressive, Jamie’s time was just 1.5 seconds slower than the RX-3’s personal best, with an 8.82 second/240km/h run recorded back in 2013.
Test your knowledge with this GK quiz on India’s Union Budget. From fiscal years to historic moments, challenge yourself and learn key facts!
The Union Budget 2025 is set to be presented on February 1. (Courtesy: Reuters)
GK Quiz On Union Budget: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget for the upcoming fiscal year on February 1, 2025. The finance minister, along with senior officials, works together to craft the budget, a process that is kept confidential. Participants in the budget-making process are placed under lockdown and prohibited from using their phones until the presentation. Now is the time to brush up on your knowledge of this crucial financial document as the Union Budget 2025 approaches.
GK Quiz On Budget: Test Your General Knowledge
Who presents the Union Budget of India?
a) Prime Minister
b) Finance Minister
c) President of India
d) Governor of RBI
Answer: b) Finance Minister
What is the fiscal year period in India?
a) 1st April to 31st March
b) 1st January to 31st December
c) 1st June to 31st May
d) 1st October to 30th September
Answer: a) 1st April to 31st March
Who was the first Finance Minister to present the Union Budget of independent India?
a) R. K. Shanmukham Chetty
b) Jawaharlal Nehru
c) Morarji Desai
d) C. D. Deshmukh
Answer: a) R. K. Shanmukham Chetty
When is the Union Budget usually presented?
a) 1st January
b) 26th January
c) 1st February
d) 15th March
Answer: c) 1st February
What is the fiscal deficit?
a) Total tax collected by the government
b) Difference between imports and exports
c) Total expenditure minus total receipts (excluding borrowings)
d) Total income of the government
Answer: c) Total expenditure minus total receipts (excluding borrowings)
Which constitutional article relates to the Union Budget?
a) Article 110
b) Article 320
c) Article 124
d) Article 112
Answer: d) Article 112
Which sector gets the highest allocation in most Union Budgets?
a) Education
b) Defence
c) Infrastructure
d) Agriculture
Answer: b) Defence
What is a ‘Vote on Account’?
a) A summary of the budget
b) A temporary arrangement for expenditure
c) A report on government debt
d) None of the above
Answer: b) A temporary arrangement for expenditure
What does GDP stand for?
a) Gross Domestic Product
b) Gross Development Plan
c) General Data Policy
d) Government Development Project
Answer: a) Gross Domestic Product
What is a direct tax?
a) Tax levied on income and profits
b) Tax on goods and services
c) Tax on imports and exports
d) None of the above
Answer: a) Tax levied on income and profits
The Union Budget is presented in which house of Parliament?
a) Lok Sabha
b) Rajya Sabha
c) Both
d) None
Answer: a) Lok Sabha
Which document outlines the estimated receipts and expenditures of the government for a particular fiscal year?
a) Economic Survey
b) Annual Financial Statement
c) Finance Bill
d) Monetary Policy
Answer: b) Annual Financial Statement
The Union Budget of India is also known as?
a) Fiscal Statement
b) Economic Plan
c) Annual Financial Plan
d) None of the above
Answer: c) Annual Financial Plan
What is the primary source of revenue for the Indian government according to the Union Budget?
a) Income Tax
b) Goods and Services Tax (GST)
c) Corporate Tax
d) Customs Duty
Answer: b) Goods and Services Tax (GST)
The concept of Zero-Based Budgeting was introduced in which Union Budget?
a) 2018-19
b) 2017-18
c) 2016-17
d) 2015-16
Answer: c) 2016-17
The Finance Minister’s Budget speech usually begins with which traditional Indian salutation?
a) Vande Mataram
b) Jai Hind
c) Om Shanti
d) Satyameva Jayate
Answer: d) Satyameva Jayate
When is the term “Interim Budget” used?
a) A new government is formed
b) The government is facing financial constraints
c) A full budget is presented during an election year
d) The budget is presented for a short period before a new fiscal year
Answer: d) The budget is presented for a short period before a new fiscal year
India’s first-ever Budget was announced on 7th April, 1860, in pre-independent India. Who presented it?
a) Robert Clive
b) Lord Mountbatten
c) King George V
d) James Wilson
Answer: James Wilson
Who are the only three Prime Ministers to have presented a Budget?
a) Indira Gandhi, Manmohan Singh, HD Deve Gowda
b) Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Manmohan Singh
c) PV Narasimha Rao, Lal Bahadur Shastri, Chandra Shekhar
d) Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi
Answer: d) Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi
Who holds the record of presenting the most number of Budgets in the history of India?
a) Moraraji Desai
b) Indira Gandhi
c) Nirmala Sitharaman
d) Pranab Mukherjee
Answer: a) Moraraji Desai
The shortest Budget speech had only 800 words and was delivered in 1977. Who delivered it?
a) Chandra Shekhar
b) Hirubhai Mulljibhai Patel
c) VP Singh
d) Madhu Dhanwate
Answer: b) Hirubhai Mulljibhai Patel
In 1991, who concluded the Budget speech by quoting French poet Victor Hugo’s words, “Nothing can stop the idea whose time has come”?
a) Manmohan Singh
b) VP Singh
c) Indira Gandhi
d) Nirmala Sitharaman
Answer: a) Manmohan Singh
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman delivered the longest-ever Budget speech in which year?
a) 2000
b) 2020
c) 2021
d) 2024
Answer: b) 2020
How long was Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s Budget speech in 2020?
a) 2 hours and 42 minutes
b) 1 hour and 3 minutes
c) 3 hours and 10 minutes
d) Half an hour
Answer: a) 2 hours and 42 minutes
The Union Budget has one popular tradition, called?
Ondo Finance, a tokenized real-world asset platform, is bringing its $185 million U.S. Treasury token to the enterprise-focused XRP Ledger network to expand its offerings for institutional investors. The token, backed by BlackRock’s USD Institutional Digital Liquidity Fund (BUIDL), allows qualified investors to mint and redeem tokens quickly using Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin. The deployment is expected to go live within the next six months. This partnership bridges traditional finance with the blockchain space. The OUSG token on the XRP Ledger is backed by short-term US Treasuries and complies with regulatory standards, including KYC and AML. The XRP Ledger’s efficient and scalable infrastructure ensures easy access to liquidity and smooth digital asset transactions.
Just before sitting down to write this article, I was working on a social calendar project for a new client. I turned to Google and asked: “What’s the ideal frequency to post on LinkedIn?”
As I typed, the search engine’s auto-populated options finished the phrase with options including:
LinkedIn
Instagram
YouTube and YouTube Shorts
TikTok
Most social media platforms
Posting content in a Facebook awareness campaign
Like most marketers, I had hoped for a one-size-fits-all answer even though I knew that was silly. People are not homogenous. They don’t all consume social media, newsletters, podcasts, videos, etc., at the same time. And their consumption behavior varies depending on how the topic fits with their personal and professional interests.
However, that doesn’t mean you just guess. To help make educated choices and develop a go-to publishing frequency strategy, learn how your peers do it and glean relevant tips from their advice.
Start frequency decisions with others’ research
OK, yes, this recommendation seems what you would find Googling a question about scheduling and frequency. But, as long as you don’t treat it as the first and only stop on your quest, it’s truly helpful.
Common social posting frequencies for B2B and B2C brands based on the platform include:
Facebook: Multiple times a day (B2B and B2C)
XEx: Multiple times a day (B2B and B2C) and multiple times per week (B2B)
TikTok: Multiple times a day (B2B), once a day (B2C)
Instagram: Multiple times a day (B2B), multiple times per week (B2C)
LinkedIn: Multiple times per week (B2B), weekly, or multiple times per month (B2C)
Pinterest: Multiple times a day (B2B), multiple times per month (B2C)
Sprout Social analyzed nearly 2 billion engagements across 400,000 social profiles including, X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok, to determine the best times to post on social media:
Mondays: 11 a.m. to noon
Tuesdays: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 3 to 4 p.m.
Wednesdays: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Thursdays: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Fridays: 10 to 11 a.m.
Though it doesn’t identify the best publishing times for Saturday and Sunday, it says Sundays are the worst-performing days. The best days are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
CJ Digital, a hospitality marketing agency, relies first on recommendations from expert sites because they’re based on quality research, says CEO Joshua Wood.
Then, the agency does A/B split testing on each platform to see what works in the hospitality industry. What works on one platform may not work on another. “We change it up quite often,” he says.
TIP: Don’t forget to use the recommendations provided in your content distribution tools, such as your newsletter platform, as they base those suggestions on the data your audience is providing.
Sally Howard, founder and marketing strategist at 49 North Digital, has some general preferences for publishing times based on the distribution vehicles:
LinkedIn: 7 a.m. — the early morning works best to reach commuters and decision-makers heading to the office.
Instagram: Though the platform now delivers content based on interests, the morning is a good time to grab people’s attention because they scroll while having coffee. Loyal followers who see it first thing in the day can interact with it, potentially pushing it out to more people.
Blogs: Publication time doesn’t really matter. People Google things at all times of the day, so timing doesn’t matter if SEO is the goal.
Emails: If you target corporate audiences, don’t publish on Mondays and Fridays. If you’re a small business retailer, post at 6 p.m. on Friday when your audience is looking to treat themselves after making it through the week.
However, Sally cautions that you can’t pick a publishing time and forget it. She points to an agency client in the coaching industry who experienced shifts in email open rates throughout the year. The agency played with distribution times and found a sweet spot — shifting from an evening email to a morning one prompted open rates to go from around 36% to over 50%.
Sally says marketers should review their send times quarterly around seasonal changes. “For example, if you normally send emails at 6 p.m. and you’ve noticed in the summer those email open rates have dropped because people who are your target market aren’t picking up their phones as much on summer evenings, you may want to consider targeting them during their morning commute,” she explains.
You also should test send times if you notice a sharp decline in your open rates and haven’t made drastic changes to your subject lines or experienced significant industry updates like the recent domain verification by Google.
Research your audience qualitatively and quantitatively
Recognizing your audience’s preferences is a must. Connie Smart, a writer and content creator for the City of Edmonton in Alberta, Canada, prefers the direct approach to assessing what channels the audience prefers, how often they want to receive the content, and what time they’re most available to consume and engage with it.
To get the answers, ask your audience. “Surveys, online polls, focus groups, and even informal chats can help you glean some great nuggets,” she says.
Then, combine that qualitative feedback with your quantitative analytics to better understand your audience’s content consumption behavior.
Build a strategy based on your primary social platforms
Mariela Azcuy, vice president of B2B strategy and executive communications at Carve Communications, recommends you focus on a few anchor channels and then:
Pick a frequency based on the channel: Post more often on social media to appease algorithms and reinforce messages. Post blog articles less often to emphasize quality, though the actual number will depend on the available resources and SEO’s importance in your marketing strategy.
Evaluate the effort vs. payoff: Assess your resources, including AI and external contributor support, to identify a schedule and frequency that will have the biggest payoffs.
Think seasonally: Publishing schedules shouldn’t necessarily be the same every month of the year. What are the big moments in your industry and in the audience’s world? How should your schedule address them?
Build on what works: Launch something small, and if it works, grow from there. For example, Carve Communications started a behind-the-scenes video series on LinkedIn. It received great viewership, so Carve created a separate LinkedIn multimedia newsletter dedicated to its behind-the-scenes work.
Test, then analyze
William Reinhart, founder and president of Signature W Studio, says a publishing schedule and plan are critical to scaling your efforts.
When his agency works with companies to reach a new audience, it goes through four stages — experimenting, analyzing, iterating, and analyzing again. “We will stagger the time of day, vary the number of times posted per week, and alternate the content types,” William explains.
The experiment phase runs 60 to 90 days, which is usually enough time to develop a sample size that provides sufficient metrics for an analysis.
The analysis lets them know which post types and times get the most engagement and drive audiences to the brand’s desired results. Then, the process moves to the iteration stage. “Alternate successful post types with popular times of day,” William says. “This will help you build the best possible posting schedule based on the type of content.”
When the iteration stage achieves a sufficient sample size, return to the analytics. Compare the metrics from the iteration phase to the initial period to make informed decisions for your publishing plan.
Experienced marketer Liz Kolb, is the co-founder and CEO at Axion Now, a company specializing in the collectible card game Magic the Gathering.
When Axion Now sends email marketing campaigns to promote an event, it uses its database with years of information to send when open and sign-up rates are likely to be the highest.
“We never send out emails on a Monday or Friday. It seems our customers are busier on these days, and the average open rate is around 40% lower,” she explains.
Whatever the frequency, show up consistently
Don’t get so focused on the optimal publishing time that you ignore the roles that publishing frequency and consistency play.
Adam Nathan, CEO of Blaze.AI, explains, “The more you post, the more you create a repeatable pattern with your audience that the (social media platform’s) algorithm can recognize, leading to compounding engagement and account growth.”
Michelle Garrett, founder of Garrett Public Relations, sees value in consistency for newsletters, too. She religiously sends hers on the second Tuesday morning of the month.
As a newsletter consumer, she also appreciates consistency.
“I remember one newsletter I always received on Friday mornings. I always read it when it arrived. Then it started showing up randomly, and I stopped reading it as often,” she says.
Recognize when to adjust the plan
Holly Gaffney, marketing brand and content manager at Calla Shoes, grew its Instagram account from 14,000 to 174,000 followers in 2024. Her best advice? If an Instagram Reel goes viral, increase the frequency of your Instagram posts to “ride the wave.”
She explains, “We had a few viral reels, and the videos that followed also always had a great uplift. It’s also a great chance to post content that is particularly informative or engaging to people who are new to your account.”
I would think the same strategy would work well for any social media platform.
Chris Inman, president of I.D.E.A. Cleveland, adjusted his podcast frequency from 30-minute episodes one day a week to three 10-minute episodes three days a week. “I have noticed that the number of listeners doesn’t change, but the completion and retention numbers go up,” he says, noting the increased frequency also gives him a chance to share the call to action more often.
Expect to make industry-related adjustments, too.
Writer Connie Smart explains, “Become aware of how your audience’s content needs might fluctuate throughout the year. If your audience is small business owners, you might consider pulling back on frequency during heavy sales periods like the holiday season. If your audience is financial services, maybe you ramp up your frequency around tax time or savings contribution deadlines.”
Belinda Conde, head of marketing at Datos, a Semrush company, says you also should consider timing in the context of your industry, not just your audience’s behavior.
“While timing is important, what matters even more is aligning our content with timely industry trends,” she says. “We look at what’s happening in the market or what our customers are currently concerned about and make sure we’re publishing insights or data that address those needs when it’s most relevant.”
For example, Datos published a white paper, Retail AI: Four User Behavior Trends to Know, when many journalists were writing about how they used AI for their holiday shopping. “By publishing during this conversation, we provided research that was both timely and valuable for our audience and the industry at large,” Belinda says.
A single answer doesn’t exist
Of course, not everyone has the same opinion or priorities on when to publish. Lindsay Young, owner and president of 3 Aspens Media, advocates for publishing content on your website when it’s ready. “There’s zero reason to wait if it holds true value to your prospects or customers,” she says.
Dane Frederiksen, founder and chief visual storyteller of Digital Accomplice, favors the publish-more strategy. “Video every day. The algorithm loves frequency; feed the beast,” he says.
5 steps to the best publishing frequency decisions
When you’re ready to optimize your content calendar, from social media posts and podcast episodes to blogs, newsletters, and videos, follow this curated advice:
Investigate your audience quantitatively and qualitatively to understand their consumption behavior with content formats, topics, and distribution channels.
Use the personalized recommendation tools from your relevant software providers.
Develop a scheduling strategy that consistently delivers at a frequency that works for your audience and your resources.
Be flexible enough to capitalize on trends related to your industry and the big success your content may find.
Analyze the behavior metrics after two to three months, and revise the strategy based on what you’ve learned.
By implementing this thoughtful process, you’ll never need to Google “What’s the best time to publish …” again.
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
No power on earth can stop India’s growth trajectory, said Mukesh Ambani, chairman and managing director of Reliance Industries, while speaking at the 12th convocation ceremony of Pandit Deendayal Energy University (PDEU) at Gandhinagar, in Gujarat.
“Within a couple of years, India will emerge as the third largest economy in the world. No power on earth can stop India’s growth trajectory. I can clearly foresee that India will become the most prosperous nation in the world, before the end of this century,” said Ambani while addressing the convocation Tuesday evening.
“But, India with other large economies also has a big responsibility. We must not allow economic growth to endanger planet earth and further worsen the climate crisis. Therefore, the transition from fossil fuels to clean and green energy, has to be accelerated. I am supremely confident that green technologies and green enterprises can reverse the ecological degradation and indeed make our planet more beautiful and liveable for future generations. Our Prime Minister wants India to become the greenest nation in the world. For this purpose, India is transforming into a deep tech-nation, with advanced manufacturing capabilities,” he added.
Addressing the graduating students, Ambani also told them that they were entering the “golden age of India.” “There has never been a better time to be young and ambitious in India. You are stepping into the golden age of India. You are not only its inheritors but also its creators. The future belongs to you,” he said.
We’ve checked out the big names, including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music,YouTube Music and Deezer as well as smaller ones such as Tidal, Qobuz, Napster and Pandora Premium, to see how each platform stacks up for your subscription dollar. Most of the services feature music catalogs of around 100 million tracks and are supported by a host of different devices.
Given that all of the services basically have the same libraries, we evaluated each one based on:
Ease of use
Cost
Features
Sound quality
While YouTube Music and Spotify offer objectively the “worst” quality based on numbers alone, most people won’t notice a difference, especially on phones or Bluetooth speakers. The biggest boons for Spotify users, in particular, are that service’s ubiquity, community features and ability to easily pair with other devices.
Apple’s also gets high marks due to its suitability for iOS and Mac users, as well as the ability to listen to higher-quality streams at no extra cost. If the service was more yielding to PC users and smart home fans, Apple Music would easily become the service we would recommend. In short, Spotify is better for users of almost any phone, smart device or computer.
A common mental health issue could take years off your life, new research has revealed.
People with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) were found to live shorter lives than those who were not diagnosed, according to a study published in The British Journal of Psychiatry.
Researchers from University College London analyzed the health data of 30,029 U.K. adults with ADHD, then compared it to 300,390 non-ADHD participants, a press release noted.
7 SIGNS YOU MIGHT HAVE ADHD AND WHAT STEPS TO TAKE
They determined that among men with ADHD, life expectancy was shortened by 4.5 to 9 years. For women with ADHD, it was shortened by 6.5 to 11 years.
People with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) were found to live shorter lives than those who were not diagnosed, a new study found.(iStock)
While the researchers did not look at potential causes for the shortened lifespan, they shared some theories.
“Based on other research, we think that likely reasons are to do with unmet support needs around mental health, risky behaviors and addictive behaviors, all of which are higher in people with ADHD and can lead to suicide and addictions and can convey health risks,” senior author Josh Stott, professor of psychology and language sciences at UCL, told Fox News Digital.
ADHD NOW AFFECTS 15.5 MILLION US ADULTS, SAYS NEW CDC REPORT
Another factor may be that society is not set up for people who have different ways of processing information (neurodivergent as opposed to neurotypical), Stott noted.
“That means people with ADHD might struggle to access services and have difficulties in schooling and employment that affect their life chances and potentially their health,” he added.
For women with ADHD, life expectancy was shortened by 6.5 to 11 years, the researchers determined.(iStock)
The main limitation of the study, according to Stott, is that the researchers could only look at diagnosed rather than undiagnosed people with ADHD, and also that they did not look directly at causes of death.
‘Tip of the iceberg’
Dr. Ujjwal Ramtekkar, an Ohio-based psychiatrist and chief medical officer at LifeStance Health, was not involved in the study but said it addresses a “critical gap” in the understanding of life expectancy for adults with ADHD.
“It’s the first study to use direct mortality data rather than predictive models based on self-reported information,” he told Fox News Digital.
ADHD AFFECTS 1 IN 9 KIDS IN US, NEW REPORT REVEALS
“The study findings confirm what we’ve long suspected and give us a more accurate picture of health outcomes in adults with ADHD.”
Ramtekkar noted that there is a “significant underdiagnosis” of ADHD in adults, with only about one in nine cases identified.
“ADHD isn’t about having low motivation or being lazy or scatterbrained — it’s a real health condition with real risks,” an expert said.(iStock)
“This means we’re seeing just the tip of the iceberg, and many people aren’t getting the help they need,” he said.
The study also shows that co-occurring conditions with ADHD are “not an exception, but a norm.”
Life expectancy was shortened by up to 9 years for men and up to 11 years for women, the study found.
Ramtekkar added, “While not surprising, the findings indicate higher rates of co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression and suicide risk, as well as physical health conditions like cardiovascular disorders in adults with ADHD.”
The doctor reiterated that the study points to several lifestyle factors contributing to mortality, such as higher rates of smoking, substance use, poor sleep habits and high-risk behaviors resulting in accidents.
“This indicates that premature death is not caused by ADHD itself, but rather by the effects of untreated symptoms that are potentially preventable.”
What can be done?
To help reduce ADHD-associated mortality, Stott emphasized the need to provide healthcare systems and interventions that are adapted for people with ADHD and other neurodiverse people, which could require special training and research.
“Doing this could provide an environment where people with ADHD are better able to access support,” he told Fox News Digital. “Research is needed to investigate barriers to care experienced by adults with ADHD and how we might adapt care.”
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Stott also said it’s important to look beyond healthcare, as lifespan is affected by socioeconomic factors like employment and schooling.
“This indicates that premature death is not caused by ADHD itself, but rather by the effects of untreated symptoms.”
“We need to think about how we develop schools and employment that are ADHD-affirmative,” he advised.
“This will not only benefit people with ADHD, but society and the economy, too, since people with ADHD are more likely to be creative and are very energetic.”
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Ramtekkar emphasized the need to “fight the stigma” associated with the disorder.
“ADHD isn’t about having low motivation or being lazy or scatterbrained — it’s a real health condition with real risks,” he said.
Loved ones should also point out any signs they notice, the doctor advised, which could help with timely diagnosis and treatment.
“Families can support by creating structure, maintaining consistent daily routines and encouraging regular healthcare visits,” Ramtekkar said.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
They can also help with accountability for lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and alcohol use and getting adequate sleep and exercise, he went on.
“The more they support individuals with ADHD, the more we chip away at that life expectancy gap.”
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].
So, you have cooked your favourite meal and now face the task of cleaning a greasy pan. Many of us instinctively reach for hot water, thinking it will quickly dissolve the grease and eliminate lingering odours. However, while hot water may seem like the ideal solution, it can actually damage your cookware and cause issues you might not expect. Hot water does not work the same way on all kitchen utensils, and it is especially problematic when dealing with greasy residue. Want to know why using hot water is not the best choice? Let’s find out!
Also Read: Kitchen Tips: 5 Easy Ways To Clean A Greasy Chimney
Photo: iStock
Why You Should Never Use Hot Water On Greasy Pans
Using hot water to clean your greasy pans might seem effective in melting the grime, but it can cause major issues for your plumbing. When you wash a greasy pan with hot water, the dirty water travels down the pipes. Once it cools, the grease solidifies and clings to the inside of the pipes, leading to a gradual buildup. Over time, this can result in blockages and potentially costly plumbing repairs.
Additionally, the drastic change in temperature can cause thermal shock, particularly if you are cleaning non-stick or cast-iron pans. Washing these types of pans right after cooking can weaken the surface coating, causing the pan to lose its non-stick properties and even crack.
Here Are 5 Easy Tips To Make Your Pans Last Longer:
To keep your pans, especially non-stick ones, in good condition for longer, follow these helpful tips. Kitchen utensils experience a lot of wear and tear, yet they often get the least attention when it comes to proper care. Here is what you should do:
1. Clean With Gentle Soap
When cleaning your pans, use a mild dishwashing soap or liquid. These will help remove stubborn stains without damaging the coatings. Avoid harsh chemicals that could crack the surface over time.
2. Choose The Right Cleaning Tools
Rather than using abrasive steel wool, opt for soft silicone scrubbers. Rough pads can scratch the surface, damaging the protective layers and making your pans less effective.
3. Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes
As mentioned earlier, sudden temperature changes can damage your pans quickly. Always let your pans cool down naturally before washing them. For stubborn stains, use lukewarm water instead of hot water.
Photo: iStock
4. Season Pans Regularly
For cast-iron pans, seasoning is essential. After cleaning, apply a thin layer of oil and heat the pan gently to prevent rusting.
5. Store Properly
To avoid scratches, refrain from stacking your pans directly on top of each other. If storage space is tight, place a soft cloth or liner between the pans.
Also Read: 10 Dos And Don’ts To Keep Your Greasy Taps And Clogged Faucets Clean
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday noted solid progress the country has made in advancing Chinese modernization amid “complex and challenging” situations over the past 12 months at a high-level reception to ring in the Chinese New Year.
“In the Year of the Dragon, we demonstrated vitality and a can-do spirit. We endured storms and saw the rainbow,” said Xi, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission.
Faced with complex and challenging situations, China responded with composure and implemented a range of comprehensive measures, overcame difficulties and forged ahead with determination, Xi said at the reception held by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council to usher in the Year of the Snake, which begins on January 29.
At the reception attended by over 2,000 people, Xi extended Spring Festival greetings to the Chinese people of all ethnic groups, compatriots in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Macao Special Administrative Region, Taiwan, and overseas Chinese.
Over the past year, China effectively implemented existing policies and proactively introduced a package of incremental policies, which helped promote the recovery of the economy, Xi said.
China achieved remarkable progress in technological and industrial innovation, with new quality productive forces forging ahead steadily. China’s employment and consumer prices also remained stable, Xi said.
From a global perspective, China remained a major engine for the world’s economic growth, he said.
China dealt with major natural disasters with strong and effective measures, Xi said, adding that Team China achieved its best overseas performance at the Paris Olympics and the country has injected more positive energy into safeguarding world peace and stability and promoting human development and progress.
Xi hailed the journey over the past year as “extraordinary” and the achievements “very encouraging.”
“We proved once again through our hard work that no difficulty or obstacle will hold back the Chinese people in their pursuit of a better life,” Xi said. “Our historical course to build a strong country and rejuvenate the nation will not be blocked.”
“We will undoubtedly break new ground in reform and development as long as we strengthen our conviction and confidence, confront problems and obstacles directly, and tackle risks and challenges without hesitation,” Xi added.
(Cover: File photo of the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China. /CFP)
In the United States, the biomedical industry encounters numerous regulatory challenges in conducting nonclinical and clinical studies and managing chemistry, manufacturing, and controls (CMC) activities.
IPO-bound Infra.Market has signed a 20-year lease with Ekatva Group at its property in Thane at rent of over ₹200 crore, a release from the real estate developer said.
The total area being leased is 70,000 square feet and under the terms of the agreement, Infra.Market will register the first three floors this month and five more floors in March.
Infra.Market is a building materials platform, that provides a range of materials ranging from concrete and walling products to electrical appliances and consumer durables. It has its own manufacturing facilities as well as in-house brands, supported by a pan-India network of over 10,000 dealers and over 25,000 retail touchpoints
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.
ERIC Migicovsky, osnivač tvrtke Pebble, još uvijek nosi svoj originalni pametni sat Pebble, više od osam godina nakon što je tvrtka prodana Fitbitu, a kasnije prešla pod Google. Kako ažuriranja neće trajati vječno, Migicovsky je odlučio vratiti Pebble u život.
Nakon što je prošle godine prodao svoj startup Beeper, zamolio je Google da otvori izvorni kod Pebbleova operativnog sustava. Google je pristao, a sada je sav Pebbleov softver dostupan na GitHubu, što znači da entuzijasti i programeri sada mogu sami raditi na Pebble softveru, prilagođavati ga ili stvarati nove uređaje.
Cilj je stvoriti pametni sat koji neće ovisiti o ulaganjima
Migicovsky vjeruje da na tržištu danas nema ničega poput Pebblea jer su brojni pametni satovi fokusirani na napredno praćenje zdravlja i fitnessa, dok Pebble nudi osnovne funkcije, poput prikaza obavijesti, upravljanja medijima, praćenja tjelesne aktivnosti i podrške za pojedine aplikacije.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Novi projekt, zasad nazvan RePebble, želi obnoviti Pebble u gotovo istom obliku kao prije, ali ga modernizirati. Cilj je stvoriti održiv proizvod koji neće ovisiti o velikim ulaganjima.
Vraćanje Pebblea simbolizira povratak jednostavnim, korisnički orijentiranim gadgetima u svijetu gdje su pametni satovi sve složeniji. Ako uspije, novi Pebble mogao bi ponovno oduševiti stare obožavatelje i pokazati da jednostavnost i praktičnost još uvijek imaju svoje mjesto na tržištu.
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Saint Thomas wiped his hands, tossing away the towel as he stepped to the free-throw line. Ninety-six seconds remained in the latest meeting of the crosstown showdown — a game that, in recent memory, had lent itself to late-game heroics on this very hardwood. USC had won five of six here over UCLA, and so the whole of Galen Center now teemed with anxious delirium, expecting more rivalry magic.
Thomas had just pulled down a pivotal rebound in traffic on the other end, drawing a foul that could finally put USC in front of UCLA after an entire night spent clawing toward that end. In the moment, the senior forward roared to the arena’s rafters, both of his hands clenched in fists. But now Thomas stood with his right toe on the stripe, steeling himself for two of the biggest free throws of USC’s season to date. He took a deep breath.
His first free throw went long, clanking off the back iron. Thomas took another deep breath. Then, the second rattled out.
Less than 30 seconds later, UCLA’s Sebastian Mack let a dagger fly from distance, and the Trojans, in the wake of an 82-76 loss to the rival Bruins, were left to wonder where they might be with just a few more successful free throws.
After a second straight game marred by poor shooting from the line, USC coach Eric Musselman didn’t mince words. He called it “a huge problem”.
“We had two home games where we just haven’t converted at a good enough rate. I don’t know what else to do,” Musselman said. “I’m not gonna wave a magic wand and change that.”
After shooting just 11 of 17 from the line in its last home loss to Wisconsin, USC was 11 of 19 on Monday. The Trojans missed seven free throws in the second half against UCLA, including five in the final five-plus minutes. And while Thomas’ pair of misses came at the most consequential moment, a trio of other Trojans had their chances in the moments before. Rashaun Agee missed a critical and-one with 5:13 remaining. Then, Desmond Claude missed the back end of a pair at the 3:31 mark.
Freshman guard Wesley Yates would have a shot to tie the game, too, just one possession before Thomas. But his first free throw was short, a miss that lingered with him after the game.
“I work on free throws every single day, so it’s pretty frustrating for me,” Yates said. “I try to get at least 100 makes in a day. Ten free throws in a row, 10 times. I’ve just got to be more focused, gotta step up, gotta be mature enough to do it every game.”
Part of the problem, in Musselman’s estimation, is USC simply isn’t drawing the number of fouls that the coach is used to. In five of his last six seasons as a coach, Musselman’s teams have ranked among the top 31 in college basketball in free-throw rate.
Those calls, as USC’s coach sees it, haven’t been coming as frequently in the Big Ten.
“Our team — not now, not this year, but for like the last 11 years — we put pressure on the rim, and we’re one of the highest free-throw-attempt teams in the country,” Musselman said. “So you come into the game, and say, ‘Drive the basketball, they’re a high-foul team, a really physical team.’ All these questions and stuff, and one of the most baffling is how do we only take 19 foul shots?”
Without the whistles they were hoping for, the Trojans turned to the three-point line early. That approach worked quite well for a while, as USC kept itself afloat with seven first-half threes. The Trojans made 31 three-point attempts in total, their most of the season. But USC hit just one shot from long range over the game’s final 10 minutes.
The Trojans would instead rely on undersized big man Agee to carry them to the finish line. Agee scored 11 points in the final 13 minutes on his way to a career-high 21.
But his effort wasn’t quite enough, not as USC left five free points on the table in the final minutes.
“You can’t get every shot,” Agee said. “But what we’re gonna do is we’re gonna get in the gym tomorrow, and we’re gonna do exactly what we always do. We’re gonna work on our game, we’re gonna build confidence, and next game we’re going to make them.”
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said he is the “product of the bond” that exists between India and the US, as top government officials and American lawmakers lauded the Indian community’s contribution during Republic Day commemoration here.
The Consulate General of India in Seattle hosted a special reception on Sunday at the Bell Harbour Conference Centre to commemorate India’s 76th Republic Day.
Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson and Nadella were the Guests of Honour at the reception attended by over 500 people from the Indian-American community, according to a press release issued by the Consulate. In a unique first, several members of the US Congress also joined the evening celebrations.
Nadella, addressing the gathering, acknowledged that he “was a product of the bond that exists between the two countries (India and US).”
He praised the leadership of both nations for their “focus on how to use technology to leverage education outcomes, health outcomes, public service efficiency, competitiveness and productivity of small businesses”, the press release said.
Addressing members of the Indian-American community at the Republic Day reception, Ferguson, the newly elected 24th Governor of Washington State, acknowledged “the incredible contribution the Indian society makes not just for India but for the entire world”.
He added that as a new Governor of the State of Washington, he looked forward to building on the relationship with the Consulate General of India in Seattle.
In a special recognition to mark the occasion, Washington State Senate in Olympia passed a State Senate Resolution, moved by State Senator Manka Dhingra and supported by Senator Vandana Slatter, welcoming the 76th Republic Day of India and the strong friendship between the people of India and the US.
The Republic Day reception, hosted by the Consul General of India in Seattle Prakash Gupta was also attended by a distinguished line-up of top government officials, lawmakers as well as Mayors of ten cities.
Several members of the US Congress who joined the evening celebrations included Rep. Suzan DelBene, Rep. Adam Smith, Rep. Michael Baumgartner, and Rep. Kim Schrier, who welcomed India’s achievements as the world’s largest democracy.
Other distinguished participants included Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown, Secretary of State Steve Hobbs, several Washington State Senators and Representatives.
The Republic Day reception in Seattle showcased several unique exhibits highlighting the cultural diversity of India, including ‘One District, One Product’ (ODOP) featuring one unique cultural heritage product from each state and union territory of India.
On the occasion, a photo exhibit ‘India through Tim’s Eyes’ was also organised that displayed some of India’s most iconic tourism sites photographed by ace photographer Tim Durkan during a visit to India in September last year.
The reception also featured a specially-curated dance performance showcasing various dance forms of Bharat titled ‘Natyam’, which was widely applauded by the gathering.
In another special gesture by Seattle city, several iconic buildings in Seattle, including the Seattle Great Wheel, Seattle Convention Center and Columbia Center were lit up in hues of the Indian tricolour to mark the Republic Day, the release added.
Earlier this month, Nadella had met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. “Thank you, PM @narendramodi ji for your leadership. Excited to build on our commitment to making India AI-first and work together on our continued expansion in the country to ensure every Indian benefits from this AI platform shift,” the Microsoft Chairman and CEO had said in a post on X about his meeting with Modi.
Modi had voiced appreciation for Microsoft’s ambitious expansion and investment plans in India. “It was indeed a delight to meet you, @satyanadella! Glad to know about Microsoft’s ambitious expansion and investment plans in India. It was also wonderful discussing various aspects of tech, innovation and AI in our meeting,” Modi had said, responding to Nadella’s post.
Parklife is one of Manchester’s best-loved festivals, and 2025 is set to be an even bigger event for the city.
This year’s event is set to be a celebration of 15 years at Heaton Park. And this year, Parklife is due to kick off on Saturday, June 14 and run through to Sunday, June 15.
Previously, the festival confirmed Charli XCX as its headliner for 2025’s festival, and now 50 Cent has joined the fray.
What’s more, a plethora of new stars have been added to the absolutely stacked line-up, including Jorja Smith, Overmno, Flo, and many more.
We’ve got all the information on how to get tickets and enter presale right now. Here’s the breakdown:
At the time of writing, there are two limited presales kicking off this week.
The first comes from Three+, which is on right now. You can get involved using the link below:
The first production Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 will also likely be the most expensive, after it sold for an eye-watering US$3.7 million (A$5.92 million) at a US auction.
Chevrolet’s new flagship sports car hasn’t reached showrooms yet, but NASCAR’s most successful team owner and car collector Rick Hendrick paid the exorbitant sum for the right to own ZR1 VIN 001 at the annual Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale, Arizona.
The black ZR1 displayed at Barrett-Jackson was a pre-production placeholder, so Mr Hendrick will have the opportunity to spec the first production ZR1 to his liking before taking delivery.
Mr Hendrick is an avid follower of the Corvette nameplate with more than 150 examples in his collection, including the first production C8 Z06, Stingray, and E-Ray.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
A pretty premium was paid for each, Mr Hendrick forking out a combined US$5.7 million (A$9.1 million) to secure the trio of fresh models – and that’s before he bid on the ZR1.
As was the case with those previous purchases, all proceeds from the sale of the first ZR1 will be donated to charity – this time the American Red Cross.
“We’ve been very fortunate to help a lot of charities, and I really respect (Craig Jackson, chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson) a lot because he’s about the only guy I know that has an auction that gives all the money to the charities that we represent,” said Mr Hendrick.
“North Carolina was basically destroyed in the western part of the state and now the fires in California, it’s been something we’ve tried to support all these years.
“There’s a lot of need in the western part of our state and I’m a Chevrolet guy and a Corvette guy, so it’ll be good to have that one in the collection.”
The C8 ZR1 is not only the most powerful Corvette ever made, it also packs the most powerful production V8 ever from an American carmaker.
Under the bonnet sits a twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre flat-plane crank V8 engine coined the ‘LT7’, producing up to 783kW at 7000rpm and 1123Nm of torque at 6000rpm. Chevrolet claims it will pull all the way to 346km/h.
The ZR1 will enter production in 2025, though Australia isn’t in line to receive it. Pricing starts from US$175,000 (AU$280,000), 21 times less than the sum paid for VIN 001.
MORE: Everything Chevrolet Corvette MORE: 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is the quickest, most powerful ‘Vette ever
Hyundai believes that the newly launched Creta Electric will drive phenomenal success, build strong momentum and will be a game-changer in the EV landscape, it said.
Hyundai Motor India on Tuesday said its consolidated profit after tax declined 19 per cent to Rs 1,161 crore for the third quarter ended December 31, 2024, hit by subdued demand and geo-political factors.
The auto major had reported a Profit After Tax (PAT) of Rs 1,425 crore in the October-December period of last fiscal.
Total revenue from operations declined to Rs 16,648 crore in the third quarter as against Rs 16,875 crore in the year-ago period.
The decline in margins was mainly due to subdued demand & geo-political factors, the company said.
“While the challenges persist in the overall market due to global factors, our business fundamentals remain strong, and we remain confident in our ability to leverage our strengths and actively explore potential opportunities to improve our volumes and profitability,” Hyundai Motor India Managing Director Unsoo Kim said.
The company said it sold a total of 1,86,408 units of passenger vehicles during the third quarter, a dip of 2 per cent as compared with 1,90,979 units in the same period of last fiscal.
The sales in the third quarter of this fiscal include 1,46,022 units in the domestic market with a strong contribution from the SUV segment, it added.
Hyundai said it has achieved its highest-ever CNG penetration during the quarter, reaching 15 per cent which was 12 per cent in the third quarter of the previous year.
During the quarter, the automaker said it has demonstrated robust growth in rural penetration reaching 21.2 per cent compared to 19.7 per cent in the same period last year.
The export volume stood at 40,386 units, it added.
The automaker said it is confident about its growth trajectory and is committed to drive long-term value for its stakeholders.
The company has a positive outlook on growing EV penetration in India and is headed towards electrification with a holistic approach, it added.
Hyundai believes that the newly launched Creta Electric will drive phenomenal success, build strong momentum and will be a game-changer in the EV landscape, it said.
The company is also building a strong EV ecosystem in India like localisation, charging infrastructure, etc and along with three more EVs planned in due time, the company is expected to greatly contribute to India’s EV growth story, it added.
Aligned with the aggressive capacity expansion plans from the Pune plant, the company will also be focusing on diversifying its product portfolio, it said.
The company said it will also look to explore opportunities in alternate eco-friendly powertrains.
With access to Hyundai Motor Company’s global powertrain technologies like hybrids, hydrogen, flex-fuel etc., the company believes it is well placed to adapt to any change in demand dynamics and regulatory environment, it added.
Shares of the automaker were trading 0.99 per cent down at Rs 1,627.35 apiece on BSE.
(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed – PTI)
News business » markets Hyundai Q3 Profit Dips 19% to Rs 1,161 Crore on Lower Sales, Geopolitical Factors
Metaplanet Inc. (Tokyo: 3350), a fast-growing company through its Bitcoin treasury, has announced a bold plan to strengthen its BTC strategy in the coming two years. After achieving remarkable results in 2024, Metaplanet has announced plans to accumulate 10k Bitcoins by the end of 2025. Additionally, the company has set a goal of accumulating 21k Bitcoins by the end of 2026.
“The market has recognized Metaplanet as Tokyo’s preeminent Bitcoin company, and we are seizing this momentum to solidify our position as a global leader. Our vision is to lead the Bitcoin renaissance in Japan and emerge as one of the largest corporate Bitcoin holders globally. This plan is our commitment to that future,” Simon Gerovich, Representative Director of Metaplanet, noted.
Having attracted major global investors, such as Capital Group with over $2 trillion in assets under management (AUM), Metaplanet now plans to scale further its share sale programs to raise more funds. In the first phase dubbed the ‘21 Million Plan’, Metaplanet intends to issue 21 million shares via moving strike warrants to raise around ¥116.65 billion.
“We don’t measure performance in fiat currencies like the yen or the dollar—our benchmark is Bitcoin itself. Our mission is to maximize Bitcoin per share for our shareholders. Bitcoin is not just an asset; it’s the exit strategy. We’re here to accumulate and lead, not sell,” Dylan LeClair, Director of Bitcoin Strategy at Metaplanet, noted.
As a result, the company now aims to achieve a 35 percent BTC Yield per quarter throughout 2025. Moreover, the company reported a record 309 percent BTC yield during the fourth quarter, up from 41 percent in the previous quarter.
CNET’s broadband experts have done the work to help you find the right internet provider and plan. Whether you want the fastest speeds or the most budget-friendly option, there’s something for everyone. After reviewing the available providers, our experts selected Spectrum as the best internet service provider in North Carolina —thanks to its fast speeds, widespread availability and reasonable pricing. The cable giant services a lot of addresses in the state, but if you’re out of the coverage area, there are plenty of other options, depending on where you live.
If you want the top speeds, Google Fiber offers the fastest internet in North Carolina, with speeds as high as 8,000 megabits per second at reasonable prices. However, Google Fiber only serves select cities in North Carolina, such as Charlotte and Wilmington. If you’re in the rural areas, you can opt for local fiber providers or fixed wireless options like T-Mobile Home Internet. Select parts of the state can also access speeds of up to 5,000Mbps through AT&T Fiber. Check out all of our top picks below to find the best internet provider for your home.
What’s the best internet providers in North Carolina?
Whether gaming, watching movies and TV shows, or working, North Carolina is home to some of the fastest internet speeds in the country. While AT&T and Google’s fiber options are mainly limited to Charlotte and The Triangle, North Carolinians can access many internet connection types. Due to its wide availability in the state, fast speeds and simple pricing, we’re giving the nod to Spectrum as the best internet provider overall in North Carolina. Your options will vary depending on where you live, but fortunately, everyone in the state can get online, although it may be through satellite internet.
Best internet options in North Carolina
Rural internet options in North Carolina
Provider
Connection type
Price range
Speed range
Data cap
Availability
Brightspeed
DSL
$50
Up to 100Mbps
None
Eastern part of the state
Brightspeed Fiber
Fiber
$49-$89
200-2,000Mbps
None
Eastern part of the state
Hughesnet Read full review
Satellite
$75-$90 ($25 discount available for first 12 months)
50-100Mbps
100-200GB
Entire state
T-Mobile Home Internet Read full review
Fixed wireless
$50-$70 ($35-$55 with eligible phone plans)
87-415Mbps
None
Entire state
Viasat Read full review
Satellite
$100
25-150Mbps
850GB
Entire state
Show more (0 item)
Source: CNET analysis of provider data
Jumping Rocks/Universal Images Group/Getty Images
North Carolina broadband at a glance
Around 96% of North Carolinians have access to download speeds of 100Mbps and upload speeds of 20Mbps, according to state data. FCC data puts this number at 100%. Additionally, North Carolina ranks seventh among the 50 states and Rhode Island, for the fastest median download speeds, per the speed-testing company Ookla. (Disclosure: Ookla is owned by the same parent company as CNET, Ziff Davis.) The median download speed in the Tar Heel State sits at about 231Mbps, thanks in part to the reliably fast Google Fiber, and in fact, Raleigh holds the top spot on its list of cities with the fastest internet, with median download speeds of about 289Mbps. North Carolina boasts a four cities in the top 30 of Ookla’s ranking of 100 cities by fastest internet speeds, with Raleigh coming in at the top, Durham at seven, Charlotte at 21, Winston-Salem at No. 22 and Greensboro comes in at No. 45. So yes, the Tar Heel State has some fast internet, mostly thanks to fiber internet from AT&T and Google. Just over 48% have access to a fiber internet connection, although mostly in Charlotte and The Triangle.
Internet breakdown by city in North Carolina
It’s hard to cover the broadband options of an entire state and give individual cities the attention they deserve. That’s why we also compile lists of the best internet providers in cities across the US, including those in North Carolina. We tackle details such as internet connection types, max speeds and cheapest providers. Check back later if you don’t find the city you’re looking for below. We’re working to add more locations every week.
How many members of your household use the internet?
Internet pricing in North Carolina
The starting price of internet service in North Carolina will depend on where you live, but judging by the most widely available ISPs in the state, expect to pay around $50 to get online. If you’re an existing customer of certain T-Mobile plans and have access to its 5G internet offering, you can get that service for $40 per month.
How CNET chose the best internet providers in North Carolina
Internet service providers are numerous and regional. Unlike the latest smartphone, laptop, router or kitchen tool, it’s impractical to personally test every ISP in a given city. 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.
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?
While the answers to those questions are often layered and complex, the providers that 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, although 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 FCC reports.
To explore our process in more depth, visit our how we test ISPs page.
Future of broadband in North Carolina
The federal government in late June awarded North Carolina $1.5 billion to expand high-speed internet access across the state. The Department of Information Technology Division of Broadband and Digital Equity “will use [Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment] funding to connect high-cost areas, remaining unserved and underserved locations, and community anchor institutions without fiber access,” reads the state’s five-year plan draft. The government also plans to boost digital literacy and make internet access more affordable.
Internet in North Carolina FAQs
Does North Carolina have good internet?
You bet your tar heel it does. Not only does North Carolina rank 7th out of the 50 states and District of Columbia in terms of fast median download speeds, according to Ookla, but five cities — Charlotte, Durham, Greensboro, Raleigh and Winston-Salem — boast some of the highest city download speeds in the country.
Yes. There are two primary providers: AT&T and Google. Fiber internet is mostly available in Charlotte and The Triangle, but the state government plans to expand access to the technology over the next five years.
Is Spectrum or AT&T better to connect to the internet in North Carolina?
If you have access to Spectrum and AT&T, you may wonder which is the best choice. The short answer: If you can get fiber internet from AT&T, that’s your best option. If AT&T’s DSL service is matched up against Spectrum’s cable connection, you’d be wise to turn to Spectrum. Read more in CNET’s breakdown of AT&T vs. Spectrum.
The confirmation hearing to consider the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) is expected to take place beginning Wednesday, Jan. 29.
The highly anticipated hearing follows the introduction of the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement – a campaign to revolutionize health in the country.
On “Fox & Friends” on Monday morning, Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel expressed his confidence in RFK’s confirmation being successful.
TRUMP AND A HEALTHIER AMERICA WELCOMED BY DOCTORS: ‘NEW GOLDEN AGE’
“He’s right in the middle of a really important issue in this country, and it’s why he’s going to get in,” Siegel predicted.
“We are not healthy here. We are a sick society.”
Dr. Marc Siegel predicted on “Fox & Friends” on Jan. 27, 2025, that RFK Jr. will “for sure” be confirmed as HHS secretary. (Fox News)
According to Siegel, 45% of U.S. adults and 20% of children are obese, which can lead to diseases such as high blood pressure, heart disease, cancer and diabetes.
The MAHA agenda focuses on nutrition as a key element of creating a healthier nation.
NUTRITIONISTS REACT TO THE RED FOOD DYE BAN
Siegel agreed that “we have to start with the food we eat,” commenting on the health hazards of consuming ultraprocessed foods.
“He’s right in the middle of a really important issue in this country, and it’s why he’s going to get in.”
“So, a little kid says, ‘Let me have that cereal that looks like it came from Mars,’ but it has empty calories in it. It’s got chemicals in it. They get addicted to it, and they don’t eat healthy foods.”
Siegel emphasized the need to bring back a “farm to fork” method of food supply and nutrition.
America’s kids are eating foods that have “empty calories” and are addictive, said a physician and senior medical analyst. (iStock)
“Our farmers will love that,” he said. “We need to support our farmers and go back to organic food – farm to fork – without the chemicals. That’s what Kennedy wants.”
RFK’s movement aims to promote better health through several avenues, including outlawing dyes and additives in food that lead to chronic disease, removing toxins from the environment, combating corporate corruption and supporting regenerative agriculture.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
Siegel echoed that the goal is to “make people feel better,” which includes weighing less and exercising more.
“I would add to his agenda tax incentives for gym memberships,” the doctor suggested. “You join a gym — you get a tax incentive.”
President Donald Trump’s nominee to be Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert Kennedy Jr., sits in a meeting with Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) on Capitol Hill on Jan. 9, 2025, in Washington, D.C.(Jon Cherry/Getty Images)
“We are a very sedentary society,” he went on.
“Let’s get us exercising again, eating right again, losing weight. The obesity epidemic is causing a huge amount of health issues in this country.”
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
In a separate interview with Fox News Digital, Siegel elaborated that the U.S. has a “sick care system rather than a healthcare system.”
“It is a combination of big insurance and big pharma, which profits when we are ill,” he said.
“If we exercise more and drink less and eat healthier foods, we are going to be healthier.”
Siegel shared how obesity leads to inflammation and other “expensive diseases” that he treats in his own practice, like hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, sleep apnea, stroke, cancer, joint problems, back pain and Alzheimer’s disease.
“If we exercise more and drink less and eat healthier foods, we are going to be healthier, which is an enormous saving in healthcare costs,” he noted.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
There should be focus on removing chemicals and dyes in foods, Siegel reiterated, along with a push for less addictive food and freshly grown produce, especially in schools.
The doctor also suggested more emphasis on non-invasive wellness modalities like yoga, acupuncture and chiropractic care.
Angelica Stabile is a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital.
Are you a seafood lover and impressed by the variety of delicious seafood recipes? Seafood is gaining popularity these days, and one of the main reasons for this is the wide variety available. Butter garlic prawns, spicy fish curry, and tandoori prawns are just a few examples. These dishes are famous not only for their taste but also for their health benefits. Seafood contains protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and many other essential nutrients, all of which are beneficial for the body. This is why health-conscious people are now including seafood in their diets.
Also Read: Love Fish Curry? Try This Andhra-Style Fish Curry For An Indulgent Meal
However, making seafood at home can be a challenge for some. Often, small mistakes while cooking seafood can prevent it from achieving the perfect texture and taste that you get in your favourite restaurant dishes. For example, overcooked fish can become rubbery, and improperly cleaned prawns can taste bitter. To avoid these issues and ensure your seafood dish turns out delicious, here are a few important tips to keep in mind:
Here Are Some Tips and Mistakes to Avoid While Making Seafood:
1. Always Choose Fresh Seafood
When preparing seafood at home, always make sure to use fresh seafood. If you use stored seafood, it may develop an unpleasant odour. Fresh seafood has a distinct, better flavour, so always choose it for the best taste.
2. Check the Quality
Before buying seafood, examine it closely. Look carefully at the fish or other seafood, and make sure you’re purchasing from a reputable store. If you’re not cooking it immediately, pack it in an airtight bag and store it in the freezer.
3. Avoid Storing for Too Long
Many people store seafood for too long, which is not ideal for both health and taste. Seafood is delicate and perishable, and keeping it for an extended period increases the risk of bacterial growth, which could lead to food poisoning. It’s best to cook seafood within 2 hours of purchase or store it in the freezer.
4. Pay Attention to the Cooking Process
Not knowing the correct way to cook seafood can ruin your dish. Overcooking seafood, such as fish, prawns, or crabs, can cause it to become tough, chewy, and lose its flavour. In some cases, seafood may even turn bitter if overcooked. Pay close attention to cooking times for each type of seafood.
5. Wash Seafood Properly
It’s essential to clean seafood thoroughly before cooking it. If not cleaned properly, seafood can taste bitter and might even be harmful to your health. Make sure to wash seafood with hot water to remove any impurities.
So, the next time you’re planning to make seafood at home, don’t forget to keep these tips in mind for the best results!
The two Lodha brothers, Abhishek Lodha of Macrotech Developers and his brother Abhinandan Lodha of House of Abhinandan Lodha, are slugging it out in court over the use of the ‘Lodha’ name. On Monday, they were advised by the Bombay High Court to seek mediation.
“We will go by the advice of the Hon’ble Bombay High Court,” said a spokesperson for Lodha Ventures, controlled by Abhinandan Lodha.
The next hearing on the matter is fixed for Tuesday, January 28, for Abhishek’s counsel Janak Dwarkadas to revert if Abhishek is willing to pursue mediation.
The dispute
Last week, Macrotech Developers, controlled by Abhishek filed a ₹5,000 crore trademark dispute case against the House of Abhinandan Lodha (HoAL), seeking an order restraining his brother’s company from using the ‘Lodha’ name in any form.
According to Macrotech Developers, use of the brand name by the rival faction had created confusion in the minds of customers. “Lodha’s brand has been built with lots of investment and effort over 40 years. It is critical for the company to protect its IPR and ensure that no other developer creates confusion of being similar to or same as our brand,” a spokesperson for the group said.
The Lodha group, established in 1980 by Mangal Prabhat Lodha, saw tensions arise between his two sons from 2008 to 2015, that finally led to a split. In 2017, the two brothers formally split, and under its terms Abhishek was left with the business, while Abhinandan opted to take the payout and set up his own business. There was also a non-compete clause, which the Abhinandan faction claims was in operation from 2017 to 2022 and was limited to two locations, Mumbai, and London.
According to Macrotech Developers, between 2015 and 2020, Abhishek Lodha and his family went through a ‘near death experience’ due to the baggage of ₹20,000-crore debt he was saddled with.
One of the main contentions of Macrotech in its lawsuit is that, HoAL has been using the Lodha trademark rampantly, “from applying for similar trademarks with the registry, to bidding for ‘Lodha’ on Google, to releasing advertisements with the trademark,” effectively trying to portray it as the ‘Lodha Group’.
The lawsuit also states that the 2017 family agreement was repudiated by Abhinandan, and a second one was drawn up in 2023 in which it was agreed that Abhinandan “would not use any name which is similar to or leads with Lodha, including ‘ Lodha Ventures’. The application stated that Abhishek “agreed to not object to Abhinandan’s use of ‘House of Abhinandan Lodha’ for his business.
Meanwhile, HoAL told businessline that the lawsuit by Macrotech Developers “came as a surprise” as Abhinandan Lodha continued to believe that family matters should not be settled in public.
The spokesperson also made it clear that HoAL was in plotted development and the product was different from what Macrotech developed. “We are largely not present in the locations where their projects are on offer.”
Macrotech is present across the spectrum of residences right from middle-income to luxury. Its Lodha Malabar in Mumbai has spacious apartments starting from ₹50 crore and are sold at rates well over ₹1 lakh per square feet.
What the HC said
At the hearing today, Justice Arif Doctor observing that the dispute appeared to be originating from the two brothers, queried if any genuine effort had been made to resolve the dispute.
Justice Doctor also suggested that a retired Chief Justice of India, along with another senior member should be appointed for mediation, that would be time bound and not more than two weeks.
Macrotech counsel Darius Khambata and Abhishek’s lawyer Janak Dwarkadas both told the court said that they were not against mediation, but HoAL and related entities should stop using the trademark till mediation is pending.
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.
PJEVAČICA Nina Badrić nedavno je gostovala na Radiju Dalmacija, gdje je srela pjevača Giuliana. Tim povodom objavila je par fotografija iz studija, a nama je za oko zapela njezina ležerna, ali sofisticirana kombinacija.
Sastojala se od klasičnih, ali trendi komada – crne kožne jakne s bijelom krznenom podstavom, koja nije samo praktična već i dodaje dozu luksuza svakodnevnom stajlingu, crnih uskih hlača koje savršeno pristaju uz gotovo svaki outfit, jednostavne bijele majice koja unosi ravnotežu i svježinu u kombinaciju te chelsea gležnjača s chunky potplatima.
Cijeli look zaokružila je trendi torbicom u obliku polumjeseca u svijetloj bež boji. Ispleteni uzorak torbice unosi dodatnu teksturu u kombinaciju, pružajući elegantan kontrast crnim i bijelim tonovima ostatka outfita.
Praktična i šik kombinacija
Nina je ovim stajlingom pokazala da su jednostavni, ali pomno birani komadi ključ svakodnevne elegancije. Kombinacija koja je istovremeno praktična i šik savršena je za sve prigode, od opuštenih druženja do poslovnih obveza.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Njezina objava privukla je brojne komplimente na društvenoj mreži. “Najzgodnija”, “Predivna si”, “Predivna Nina”, “Žena i dama par ekselans. Sebi kažem fakat, žena za sva vremena”, “Svaka ti čast, predivna si”, samo su neki od njih.
U nastavku smo izdvojili dva ključna komada iz njezina outfita – kožnu jaknu i chelsea gležnjače. Ovi komadi nisu samo trendi, već i svestrani, savršeni za stvaranje modernih i funkcionalnih kombinacija. Slične opcije pronađite ispod.
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The boys’ and girls’ teams were announced on Monday for the April 1 McDonald’s All-American basketball games in Brooklyn, N.Y., and Southern California was well represented.
Making the boys’ team were Alijah Arenas of Chatsworth, Brayden Burries of Eastvale Roosevelt, Nikolas Khamenia of Harvard-Westlake and Tounde Yessoufou of Santa Maria St. Joseph. Arenas became eligible when he reclassified to become a senior.
Congrats to every player that worked hard to make the 2025 McDonald’s All-American Game (April 1, Brooklyn)
4⃣ players from CIF programs plus two from Prolific Prep, which gives The Crew 1⃣4⃣ selections since 2016, No. 3 all-time from a single program behind OHA & MVA. #McDAAGpic.twitter.com/d7tfhOVJl5
As the countdown to the Union Budget 2025 begins, former Tech Mahindra CEO and industry veteran CP Gurnani has emphasised the need for a focus on upskilling initiatives and computing infrastructure.
Talking with PTI, Gurnani highlighted that India’s technology exports are approximately $250 billion and enhanced government support in skilling and upskilling initiatives is needed to be successful.
“India’s exports are approximately $250 billion in the technology sector. And for us to be successful, I think we need to allocate a lot more to skilling and upskilling.
We need to involve the academia. We need to involve the schools…We would need the government’s support there,” he said.
He also highlighted the need for a more distributed and cost-effective computing infrastructure.
Gurnani, who recently started an AI venture, AIonOS, noted that enhancements are crucial to support growth in the tech sector.
He expressed confidence in the Modi government’s responsiveness to suggestions.”The compute infrastructure, it has to be a lot more distributed, a lot more cost-effective.
We need to anticipate how we leverage the future of technology, whether it is on compute or the new developments that are taking place. And I’m quite excited. I know that Prime Minister Modi’s administration is very open.
“In the past, whenever nasscom and us have gone and met the Prime Minister’s office or the Minister of IT Mr Ashwini Vaishnav, they are open to being responsive. So, budget is an enabler,” he said.
Addressing domestic manufacturing, he acknowledged improvements in basic infrastructure, such as roads and digital connectivity.
He referred to India’s digital infrastructure as “world-class” and emphasised that the country must aim for “ambitions to disrupt.”
Maybe it was the year long stock shortages or the lack of proper current-gen exclusives, but the latest console generation still feels reasonably fresh.
In reality, the PS5 launched all the way back in 2020, and we’re already hearing rumours about the PS6 release date.
Indeed, according to the latest reports, the PlayStation 6 will have a 2027 release date, which means we’re only a couple of years away from the next-gen.
And judging by the latest sales reports, Sony can’t afford to waste any time with the release of the PlayStation 6.
According to figures posted by VGChartz, PS5 sales for December 2024 were down compared to the same month the previous year.
Sony reportedly sold 1.62 million units in the Americas in December 2024, which is down by nearly 200,000 compared to December 2023. That’s a 10.4% decrease.
It’s unclear how the sales were split between the original PS5 and the PS5 Pro, which launched back in November.
Sony also launched its 30th Anniversary range of consoles in late 2024, which were snapped up fast.
A big upgrade over the original PS5, the PS5 Pro makes a variety of improvements to visuals and performance.
The PS5 Pro console comes with Sony’s excellent DualSense controller, as well as a copy of Astro’s Playroom built-in to the device.
While the improvements to visuals and performance are the headline features, it’s worth remembering that the PS5 Pro also comes with a 2TB solid-state drive, which is twice the storage of the original PS5 at launch.
With games like Call of Duty potentially taking up a few hundred gigabytes of storage space, the bigger SSD is arguably worth the price alone.
Of course, it’s the improved specs that really makes the PS5 Pro worth purchasing, especially if you’re sick of choosing between graphics and performance.
Cupra is set to launch updated versions of its Leon hatchback and Formentor crossover soon, but it has also introduced a new entry-level version of the oldest model it currently offers in Australia, the Cupra Ateca mid-sized SUV.
The Ateca helped launch the sporty Volkswagen Group-owned brand Down Under in 2022, pre-dating other nameplates in the current range such as the Formentor and Born.
The Ateca V was released locally late last year and it’s the Spanish counterpart to the likes of the Audi Q2 40 TFSI, Skoda Karoq Sportline 4×4 and Volkswagen T-Roc R-Line.
All of these vehicles are powered by the same Volkswagen Group 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol EA888 engine, producing 140kW of power and 320Nm of torque.
While the Ateca V launched at $49,888 drive-away, this pricing offer lapsed on December 31, 2024, and it’s now priced from $51,990 drive-away.
Cupra Australia has confirmed the Ateca, which dates back to 2016 in SEAT form and 2018 in Cupra form, will be indirectly replaced by the Volkswagen Tiguan-sized Terramar, which is set to arrive in Australia later in 2025. But the Ateca will continue to be available alongside Terramar until at least the end of this year.
In the meantime, does this new entry-level Ateca V have enough Spanish flair to make it stand out from the crowd? Read along to find out.
How does the Cupra Ateca compare?
View a detailed breakdown of the Cupra Ateca against similarly sized vehicles.
Cupra
Ateca
How much does the Cupra Ateca cost?
The base Cupra Ateca V now costs $2102 more than it did when it was released here in late 2024.
There’s no current deal on this model, but the top-spec Ateca VZx can be had for $61,750 drive-away until March 31. This is a discount of $7240.
Model
Drive-away pricing
2025 Cupra Ateca V
$51,990
2025 Cupra Ateca VZx
$68,990 ($61,750 until March 31)
To see how the Cupra Ateca stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
What is the Cupra Ateca like on the inside?
The Ateca’s cabin is refreshing old-school with plenty of physical hardware, especially in an age when numerous other carmakers, including Cupra itself, are integrating more functions into the touchscreen.
Like virtually all crossover SUVs, the Ateca is an easy vehicle to get in and out of thanks to its higher ride height. You can see why people with poor mobility are attracted to these kinds of vehicles because you don’t need to climb up or down, and can instead slide across into the seats.
Once you’re in the driver’s seat, you sit up high and have a great view at the road ahead. It’s a commanding place to be and it brings a king-of-the-road feeling that’s common in a number of high-riding crossover SUVs.
As standard, the base Ateca V comes with black leather upholstered seats that don’t look as cool or unique as the Petrol Blue ones in the top-spec VZx. Thankfully, they retain the sporty bucket-like design, so you have plenty of support.
Something that always surprises me with Cupra seats is that although they look sporty, they’re also comfortable. The head restraint in particular, even though it’s fixed to the backrest and can’t be adjusted, is super-soft, almost like a Kia Carnival’s.
The driver’s seat comes with electric adjustment as standard, which is a rarity in an entry-level vehicle, along with position memory. It adjusts in many different ways, and in particular I appreciate how much thigh support you can dial in.
Ahead of the driver is one of my favourite steering wheels in a mainstream vehicle. It has a thin rim that fits nicely in hand, plus the leather wrapping feels sumptuous.
The main reason I like this steering wheel, however, is the number of physical buttons it incorporates. They’re clearly labelled and have a squishy yet satisfying click when pressed.
A strange omission, however, is the lack of a dedicated phone call answer and hang-up button, especially given there are buttons for virtually every other function, including the voice assist. What you have to do instead when you get a call is use in the right-hand side scroll wheel, which can sometimes be a faff because you need to scroll before pushing it in.
Behind the steering wheel is a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster that’ll look familiar if you’ve driven any other Cupra vehicle before. Like many other Volkswagen Group vehicles, it’s top-notch for the segment.
The display itself is crisp and bright, plus there are numerous layouts to choose from. One looks eerily similar to the Audi R8’s, which is my personal favourite.
Moving across, the 9.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system is good, but it doesn’t look nearly as current as the larger, more tablet-like 12-inch touchscreen in the Formentor and Leon.
Thankfully, it appears the Ateca and both those aforementioned Cupras share the same infotainment software, so despite the differing screen sizes, their menu interfaces look the same.
Navigating around this system isn’t immediately clear and can take a bit of time to learn. For example, something that took me ages to find was the menu for adjusting the sound system’s equaliser.
Unlike in the Formentor and Leon, there are touch-sensitive buttons beside the touchscreen for changing the volume, which is arguably a lot easier than using the touch slider in those cars.
Another major difference is the Ateca comes with a proper physical climate control setup with dials and buttons, unlike other Cupras that have this integrated into the touchscreen, bar a couple of touch-sensitive sliders.
This particular layout dates back to the Mk7 Golf, but that’s not a bad thing because it works perfectly and is incredibly easy to use and understand.
As standard, the Ateca V comes with both wired and wireless forms of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. With my iPhone 15 Pro Max connected wirelessly, I didn’t experience any major issues, though on one particular trip the infotainment system refused to connect with my phone.
There’s a wireless phone charger at the front of the centre console area, which is handy to have, but it’s not ventilated and tended to overheat my phone. If you need to keep your phone battery topped on longer trips, thankfully there are two USB-C ports, plus a 12V socket in the same location.
Looking around the cabin, there are disappointingly a lot of hard, scratchy plastics. It’s clear Cupra has cut costs in certain areas so it can retain the fancy seats and steering wheel. Thankfully, the main areas that you touch, including the armrests, are soft and spongey.
Speaking of the armrests, the centre unit both extends and ratchets up so you can find your perfect position. This is one of my favourite features in a number of Volkswagen Group cars, and I’m glad it’s present in the Ateca V.
Unlike the top-spec VZx, the V’s interior is a little drab and dark given everything is finished in black. There is the odd copper lashing on the steering wheel and air vents, but they’re only minor highlights.
Our tester was equipped with the optional glass panoramic sunroof, which thankfully makes the cabin a much airier space to be. It doesn’t feel quite as claustrophobic as some cars with all-black interiors do.
The centre console area in this car is traditional, and includes a large gear selector and a round dial for the drive modes. It’s a refreshing change from the unsatisfying gear shift nubs other Volkswagen Group vehicles have.
In terms of storage up front there are two cupholders on the centre console, which are different sizes, plus decently sized door pockets that are unfortunately not felt-lined like they are in other Volkswagen Group vehicles.
Hopping into the second row is just as easy as getting into the front. Once you’re back there, there’s a decent amount of room for adults to sit behind adults.
It’s actually a nice place to be, though frontward visibility is impeded slightly by the sporty bucket front seats. This may be a red flag for kiddies who are prone to carsickness.
Two people will able to fit fine, though pushing it to three abreast gets squishy. The middle passenger will also have to contend with the chunky transmission tunnel hump, which is never fun.
In terms of second-row amenities, there are air vents and USB-C ports on the back of the centre console, map pockets on both front seat backs, smallish door pockets, plus a fold-down armrest with cupholders.
There are also the requisite ISOFIX child seat anchor points on the two outboard seats, plus top-tether points on all three rear seats.
Around the back, the Ateca V comes standard with a power tailgate that opens quickly and quietly, just like any power tailgate should. It also has a hands-free function, which is handy if you’ve got your hands full.
Once it’s open, the boot space on offer is generous. Cupra claims there’s 485L of boot space with the rear seats upright, which is a lot for the small SUV segment.
In the boot is where you see the full effects of cost-cutting. There are barely any amenities apart from small nooks off to the side and tabs to fold down the 60/40-split rear seats.
When you do fold the rear seats the cargo floor is disappointingly not flat. The difference between the boot height and seat height isn’t overly large, but it’s worth keeping in mind if you frequent IKEA.
Lastly, the Ateca V comes with a space-saver spare wheel as standard. While this isn’t as handy as a proper full-size spare, it’s more reliable than a can of goo if you ever have a puncture and still need to make your way home.
Dimensions
Cupra Ateca V
Length
4381mm
Width
1841mm
Height
1625mm
Wheelbase
2630mm
Cargo capacity
485L
To see how the Cupra Ateca stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
What’s under the bonnet?
The Cupra Ateca V is powered by a version of the Volkswagen Group’s venerable EA888 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder. This exact engine and tune is also offered in the Audi Q2 40 TFSI, Cupra Formentor V, Skoda Karoq Sportline 4×4, and Volkswagen T-Roc R-Line, among others.
Specifications
Cupra Ateca V
Engine
2.0L 4cyl turbo-petrol
Power
140kW (4200-6000rpm)
Torque
320Nm (1500-4100rpm)
Transmission
7-speed DSG
Driven wheels
All-wheel drive
Weight
1614kg
Fuel economy (claimed)
7.1L/100km
Fuel economy (as tested)
8.0L/100km (200km)
Fuel tank capacity
55L
Fuel requirement
95 RON
CO2 emissions
160g/km
Emissions standard
Euro 6
Braked tow capacity
1900kg
To see how the Cupra Ateca stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
How does the Cupra Ateca drive?
To start up the Cupra Ateca V, you press a button on the centre console, which isn’t revolutionary but it doesn’t feel quite as special as the VZx’s steering wheel-mounted starter.
When the turbo-petrol engine fires up there’s a sweet rev blip, which sounds nice inside the cabin. Once this subsides the engine settles into a quiet idle.
Setting off, there’s decent acceleration that won’t blow your socks off unless you plant your foot hard. It’ll keep up with other traffic with no problems at all, and pull ahead from a standstill if you partake in traffic-light grands prix.
While Cupra is a sporty brand, you sometimes need to force this engine to bring out its best performance characteristics. In normal ‘Comfort’ mode it prefers docile throttle inputs, resulting in easy, effortless driving. It also allows you to lean into the wealth of torque available from just above idle.
As standard, there’s a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission which is up there as one of my favourites because it doesn’t hesitate or lurch like some others can. Volkswagen Group vehicles have been the benchmark for silky smooth dual-clutches for years now.
In practice, the dual-clutch auto likes to shift up to second gear as quickly as possible to reduce fuel consumption. The car will even try to set off in second gear if possible, because first gear is very short.
Slotting into the ‘Sport’ drive mode is easy thanks to the tactile rotary dial. When you do this, the car’s character changes, hunkering down and preparing to attack – it’s no longer a house cat capable of catching a mouse, but now a feral cat that could rip your face off.
The turbo-four feels more potent and, thanks to the all-wheel drive system, you can slingshot away from the lights and tight turns. It feels quick in isolation, but compared to the more powerful Ateca VZx it’s nowhere near as rapid.
The Ateca V misses out the hi-po ‘Cupra’ drive mode that turns everything up to 11. This isn’t surprising, however, given it’s a base model.
Around town the suspension is fantastically comfortable, which is surprising given the large 19-inch alloy wheels and low-profile tyres. It’s made better thanks to the adaptive dampers (aka Dynamic Chassis Control), which is apart of the $2950 Tech Pack, as they soak up almost all pimply urban road imperfections.
Regardless of the drive mode there’s light and direct steering at low speeds, making the car feel more manoeuvrable, especially in tight carparks.
As standard there are front and rear parking sensors, and a reversing camera. You have to pay extra for a surround-view camera with decent quality, as part of the aforementioned Tech Pack.
There’s also a standard parking assistant that, like in other Volkswagen Group vehicles, isn’t the most intelligent. To work properly, it requires two vehicles so the car can park between them. Disappointingly, the system isn’t capable of detecting parking spot lines.
Building up pace in the Ateca V is easy and effortless. It’ll happily cruise along at highways speeds in top gear, and only drop down gears if really needed.
It doesn’t feel like you need more power, though what the Ateca VZx offers is very appealing if you desire that extra punch. It’s certainly a want and not a need though.
Regardless, this car stretches its legs on the highway, where it becomes a comfortable open-road tourer and fuel consumption also drops considerably.
At higher speeds the progressive steering system gains more weight, making it more rewarding to link up apexes on B-roads. In fact, this car is a super fun, dynamic car to drive on twisty roads. Its stellar chassis tuning makes it feel nimble not only in the bends, but even in your normal daily commute.
You can tell this car wants to be driven hard at speed and is capable of doing so, but one of the few things holding it back is outright engine power when compared to the VZx.
Like many European cars, there’s a lot of road and tyre noise at higher speeds, though this can be drowned out by turning up the cracking sound system. The optional nine-speaker Beats sound system in this car thankfully is a banger.
On the safety front, the adaptive cruise control system is good at managing the distance between you and the car ahead. It also doesn’t slam on the brakes when a car travelling slightly faster cuts in front of you.
An annoyance is the undertaking prevention feature of the adaptive cruise control system, as lane etiquette is occasionally forgotten in Australia. Thankfully, to override this all you need to is briefly prod the accelerator.
The lane-keep assist system is largely pretty good, though it can get confused on poorly marked roads and even freeway exits. In these moments the steering wheel vibrates and can sometimes jerk in the wrong direction.
I appreciated the Travel Assist system, which pairs both adaptive cruise control and lane centring. It’s a handy feature on clearly marked highways and freeways as it reduces driver fatigue.
Lastly, the Ateca V comes with bright LED headlights as standard, which are great when driving along dimly lit rural and outer-urban roads. It also offers automatic high-beam, which is nice to have, but it’s not quite as handy as proper adaptive or matrix high-beam.
To see how the Cupra Ateca stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
What do you get?
Quite a bit for a base model.
2025 Cupra Ateca V equipment highlights:
19-inch alloy wheels in black and silver
18-inch temporary spare
Hidden exhaust
Hands-free power tailgate
Automatic LED headlights
Automatic high-beam
Fog lights with cornering lights
Rain-sensing wipers
Rear privacy glass
Heated, power-folding side mirrors with memory
10.25-inch Digital Cockpit
9.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
Digital DAB+ radio
Wireless phone charging
4 x USB-C outlets (2x front, 2x rear)
8-speaker sound system
Keyless entry and start
Dual-zone climate control
Ambient lighting
Paddle shifters
Progressive steering
Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter
Heated steering wheel
Illuminated sill plates
Aluminium pedals
Black leather upholstery
Power driver’s seat with memory
Heated front seats
Options
The Cupra Ateca V is available with a suite of optional extras, and our tester was equipped with all of them.
Tech Pack: $2950
Surround-view camera
Beats 9-speaker sound system
Dynamic Chassis control
Other single options include:
Electric panoramic sunroof: $1850
Premium metallic paint: $490
To see how the Cupra Ateca stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
Is the Cupra Ateca safe?
The Cupra Ateca is currently unrated by both ANCAP and its European counterpart, Euro NCAP.
Standard safety equipment includes:
Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
Pedestrian, cyclist detection
Adaptive cruise control
Travel Assist
Front assist
Park assist
Blind-spot monitoring
Lane keep assist
Driver fatigue detection
Safe exit warning
Reversing camera
Front and rear parking sensors
7 airbags
VZx adds:
Surround-view camera (also in Ateca V w/ Tech Pack)
To see how the Cupra Ateca stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
How much does the Cupra Ateca cost to run?
The Cupra Ateca is covered by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty.
Servicing and Warranty
Cupra Ateca
Warranty
5 years, unlimited kilometres
Roadside assistance
5 years
Service intervals
12 months or 15,000km
Capped-price servicing
3 or 5 years
Total capped-price service cost
$990 – 3 years $1990 – 5 years
To see how the Cupra Ateca stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool
CarExpert’s Take on the Cupra Ateca V
In isolation, the Cupra Ateca V is a fantastic medium SUV. It offers enough pep to feel sporty, plus you can tell it wants to be driven hard, even if the engine does have to be coaxed at times.
This is the perfect option for those wanting a warm SUV that has the character of a hot hatch, but the seating position of a larger SUV.
The issue, however, is the existence of the more powerful Ateca VZx. It produces considerably more power, which certainly isn’t a need, but for many buyers it’s a want and it can be had without breaking the bank.
Although the cabin is starting to look its age, I appreciate how old-school the interior feels, even if the large amount of harder plastic screams cost-cutting. In particular, I like how much physical switchgear there is for functions like the climate controls, among others.
The interior doesn’t look as flash when compared to newer Cupras, especially with the bland black leather upholstery in this entry-level variant, but it’s very functional. You just can’t beat physical buttons, knobs and switches.
Lastly, the Ateca V has a lot of competition in Australia, and a considerable number of them are from competing Volkswagen Group brands.
The Volkswagen T-Roc R-Line currently costs the same as the Ateca V, and with the options fitted to this tester it’s virtually like-for-like with the Skoda Karoq Sportline 4×4.
Sure, there are plenty of options to choose from, but if a sporty character is high on the list for you, this car definitely shouldn’t be overlooked because once you take it for a spin you’ll be charmed.
Interested in buying a Cupra Ateca? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
Denta Water IPO Allotment Today: Unlisted shares of Denta Water and Infra Solutions Ltd are trading at Rs 394 apiece in the grey market, which is a 34.01% GMP over the upper IPO price of Rs 100.
Denta Water IPO Allotment Status Online.
Denta Water IPO Allotment Status: Even as the Denta Water and Infra Solutions IPO has received an overwhelming 221.52 times subscription from investors, the allotment is set to be finalised today, January 27, in the evening. The IPO allotment is taking time as its registrar’s website has crashed. Once allotted, investors will start receiving bank debit messages. They can also check the allotment status on the websites of the BSE and NSE, as well as on registrar Integrated Registry Management Services Pvt Ltd.
After the allotment is finalised, the IPO listing is scheduled to take place on January 29 on both BSE and NSE.
Denta Water IPO: How To Check Allotment Status Online?
The Denta Water IPO allotment will take place on Monday, January 27. The IPO allotment status can be checked online by following these steps:
According to market observers, unlisted shares of Denta Water and Infra Solutions Ltd are currently trading at Rs 394 apiece in the grey market, which is a 34.01 per cent premium over the upper IPO price of Rs 100. It indicates a strong listing gain for investors on January 29.
The GMP is based on market sentiments and keeps changing. ‘Grey market premium’ indicates investors’ readiness to pay more than the issue price.
Denta Water IPO: More Details
The initial public offering of Denta Water and Infra Solutions Ltd, which was open between January 22 and January 24, received a whopping 221.54 times subscription garnering bids for 1,16,31,09,250 shares against 52,50,000 shares on offer. The retail category received a 90.38 times subscription in total, the NII portion got 507.07 times subscription. Its QIB category has been subscribed to by 236.94 times.
The price band of the Rs 220.50-crore IPO was fixed at Rs 179 to 294 apiece.
The IPO had received a 17.29 times subscription on Day 1 and a 50.9 subscription on Day 2.
The Denta Water and Infra Solutions IPO is entirely a fresh issue of 75 lakh equity shares worth Rs 220.5 crore at the upper end of the price band.
The company on Tuesday said it has raised a little over Rs 66 crore from anchor investors. The issue, with a price band of Rs 279-294 per share, will conclude for public subscription on January 24.
Proceeds to the extent of Rs 150 crore will be utilised for meeting working capital requirements and a portion will be used for general corporate purpose.
Founded in 2016, Denta Water and Infra Solutions Ltd has emerged as one of the key players in the field of water engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services.
It has completed 32 water management projects out of which 11 projects were undertaken as the main contractor, 1 project under a consortium/joint venture arrangement and 20 projects undertaken under a sub-contract arrangement with the main contractor.
News business » ipo Denta Water IPO Allotment Finalised: A Step-By-Step Guide To Check Allotment Status Online, Know Latest GMP
ETH, the native token of the Ethereum blockchain, is gaining significant attention from both the pro-crypto community and former United States President Donald Trump. His project appears to have accumulated a substantial amount of ETH since his inauguration.
Donald Trump’s $5 Million Investment in Ethereum (ETH)
On January 27, 2024, Arkham Intelligence, a blockchain-based security firm, revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that Trump’s World Liberty project had recently invested in Ethereum (ETH).
According to the post on X, Arkham revealed that Trump’s project had just purchased 1,623 Ethereum (ETH) worth $4.99 million. Since his inauguration, his project has purchased over a billion dollars worth of ETH, suggesting the potential of Ethereum.
$273 Million of ETH Outflow
Data from the on-chain analytics firm revealed that exchanges have witnessed an outflow of a significant $273 million worth of ETH, indicating potential accumulation. This also suggests an ideal buying opportunity with the potential to increase buying pressure and trigger a further upside rally.
With the rising interest and confidence among investors and long-term holders, ETH’s trading volume has soared by 220% in the past 24 hours. However, ETH is currently trading near $3,110 and has experienced a price drop of 7.10% during the same period.
This record trading volume suggests that investors are potentially taking advantage of the price decline.
Ethereum Price Action and Upcoming Levels
According to expert technical analysis, Ethereum’s ETH appears bullish as it has formed a bullish falling wedge price action pattern on the daily time frame, with the price currently at the lower trendline.
Source: Trading View
Based on the recent price action and historical momentum, ETH could soar by 30% to reach the $4,100 level and by 6% to reach the $3,350 level in the future.
However, this price prediction is based on both long-term and short-term ETH holders.
Once upon a time, that word was the most common answer I heard when I asked marketing leaders what was wrong with their content operations. “We have limited visibility into what content is planned and produced and how effective it is,” they’d say.
One CMO of a Fortune 1000 company even admitted she learned about the company’s thought leadership by subscribing to the newsletter. “I have no idea what they’re planning,” she said.
Over the last two years, that word has faded.
Generative AI stormed into our vocabularies, commoditizing content creation. Speed and quantity are the new watchwords, and senior leaders seem to have resigned themselves to content wastage as the cost of doing business.
“Visibility? Meh. Why worry about it when we’re producing so quickly? What’s the worst that can happen? It won’t get used?”
Well, yes. And that’s precisely the problem. I talk about it and the solutions in this video. Keep reading for even more detail.
Now, we’re sleepwalking into the same room with content strategy — or, more precisely, the lack of one. Forrester estimates that 65% of customer-oriented content goes unused due to issues with findability, relevance, or quality.
Let’s do some quick math: If marketers recovered even half of that wasted content, do you think overall marketing results might improve?
The messy content machine
Consider how raw ideas become marketing messages, thought leadership, articles, and campaigns. That process — now supercharged (or muddled) by generative AI — usually starts with someone creating or curating the “right” inputs to feed the content machine.
Leaders may establish the themes, but those soon get distorted by siloed teams using tools that promise efficiency but deliver chaos.
Here’s the irony: AI was supposed to make this easier.
Spoiler: It doesn’t.
AI amplifies the mess. Ideas are invisible until they’re transformed into content. And without visibility, businesses fall into the same trap: Content is everybody’s job but nobody’s strategy.
Frontline teams use AI to pump out hyper-specific content for immediate needs. Meanwhile, central teams struggle to manage the tidal wave of content or hesitate to trust it all — because they have no visibility into what was generated by AI versus what was crafted by humans.
Imagine running an automobile assembly line. The average car has 30,000 parts assembled along a line about 1,000 feet long.
Now, imagine you only have visibility into the last 50 feet. You’d have no idea how many cars are coming, which models, and whether someone swapped out a key part.
That’s what many organizations’ content operations look like today: no visibility, no alignment, and no control.
The fear factor in content collaboration
At the heart of this visibility crisis lies a deeper, often overlooked issue: a fear of collaboration.
I’ve noticed this fear growing over the last few years — especially in environments where production speed is the priority. Collaboration is often perceived as a bottleneck, requiring more time for multiple voices to be heard, consensus to be built, and conflicts to be resolved. Put simply: The focus shifted from “crafting with intention” to “publishing for the sake of speed.”
AI has only added to this challenge, amplifying the tension between speed and meaningful collaboration. Let’s unpack this further:
Fear of losing control (to the machine)
A global enterprise I worked with has been trying to use AI to churn out massive quantities of SEO-oriented content. But regional teams often find it tone-deaf and irrelevant. Leadership resists collaborating with regional teams to improve relevance, fearing it would “pollute” the AI’s training data or slow production. The result? AI content that’s fast but increasingly ineffective.
Fear of too much process
At one SaaS company, the CEO proudly claimed, “GenAI will replace midlevel employees soon.” They’ve implemented AI tools for everything — content creation, analytics, publishing schedules, etc. But without a collaborative framework, the tools have become distractions. Teams generate more content, but it lacks strategic alignment. The result? Algorithmic clutter.
(This situation reminds me of actor and director Ben Affleck’s comment about AI and art: “AI is a craftsman at best … craftsman is knowing how to work. Art is knowing when to stop.”)
Fear of failure (in the AI spotlight)
I know of a midsize consultancy that has deployed AI tools to centralize content marketing creation. But I also know that individual practitioners fear that the shared system will expose their work as less polished. So they’ve tried to use their own models. Instead of fostering collaboration, AI reinforced silos. The result? Missed opportunities and a more complicated case for future AI investments.
Generative AI will perform much better in environments with precise inputs, processes, and collaboration.
Logistics offers a perfect analogy: AI optimizes supply chains when it has complete visibility into raw materials, production stages, and delivery timelines. Your content “supply chain” is no different.
Embrace the AI-powered mess
Here’s the uncomfortable truth: AI doesn’t eliminate our content mess — it amplifies it.
Regional teams will still create their own content. Subject-matter experts will still upload slide decks that don’t align with strategy. AI will still generate headlines that sound right but miss the point.
And that’s OK — as long as there’s a mechanism to make the mess visible to the humans who need to make the content mean something.
Think of your content strategy and the visibility it provides as air traffic control. You don’t dictate every takeoff or landing. But you do need to know what’s in the air, what’s ready to launch, and what’s grounded.
Generative AI isn’t going away — it’s only becoming more central to content creation. The first step to thriving in this new era is reclaiming visibility.
Here’s how to start:
Map your content supply chain: Identify every stage of content creation, including where AI contributes.
Test and choose collaborative tools: Prioritize tools that enhance visibility and teamwork, not just automation.
Build a culture of partnership: Embrace AI as a tool that works with the individuals on your team and their role in the process, not in place of them.
Slow down to speed up: Sometimes, the most effective way forward is to pause, reflect, and create intentional friction in your content process. This pause isn’t about delaying progress — it’s about ensuring sharper focus, fostering creativity, and making decisions that lead to impactful, sustainable momentum.
It’s your story. AI can help you tell it — but it still needs you (and a strategy) to guide it.
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Cover image by Joseph Kalinowski/Content Marketing Institute
On Saturday, January 25, FIITJEE – one of the largest training institutes in India primarily for engineering aspirants – said, it was working to “resume operations at all place within a reasonable time.” This came after centres pan- India, but primarily across Delhi – NCR, UP and MP, closed down overnight leaving several students in the lurch.
A glance through FIITJEE Ltd’s – almost a three-decade old entity – last available finances by businessline, indicate some stress with declining profits – down 77 per cent on a three-year basis (FY21-23), falling EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation), drop in revenues by 8 per cent (for a three year basis).
On a five year comparison (FY19 – 23), revenues are down 5 per cent, and profits are up 3 per cent CAGR.
As per filings with RoC and also available with Tracxn – the global start-up data platform – the last financial reports are updated till FY23.
In FY23, the company, as per Tracxn – had a negative cash flow from activities to the tune of ₹18 crore, and cash flow from financing activities were also in the negative, at ₹8.2 crore. Cash and cash equivalents for the period was ₹5.3 crore.
Numbers Game
The data reveals, FY23 revenues were up 22 per cent up year-on-year to ₹481.1 crore, from ₹394.4 crore in FY22 (a year partly impacted by Covid). Revenues have however took a fall from the FY20 peak, when it stood at ₹618 crore, up by 1 per cent-odd y-o-y over ₹615 crore of FY19. Highest revenue fall was reported in FY22 – a Covid year – at ₹394.4 crore.
Interestingly, during this five year period under review the company wiped out losses of FY19 which were to tune of ₹135 crore-odd and reported a profit of ₹20 crore in FY20. Profits peaked (in the five year review period) in FY21 to ₹57 crore, but there was a sharp decline a year later to ₹0.4 core in FY22. In FY23, the company had slipped into losses of ₹71 crore, as per Tracxn data.
The company’s EBITDA – a measure of profitability – also indicate a similar fluctuation.
In FY23, there was an EBITDA loss of ₹41.2 crore, while in the year-ago-period there was a positive EBITDA of ₹23.9 crore (for FY22). However, FY22 EBITDA was down 75 per cent-odd y-o-y from the ₹101 crore in FY21 – when it had peaked over a five year period. In FY20, EBITDA was 53.8 crore. In FY19, the company had a negative EBITDA of ₹109 crore-odd.
FIITJEE is yet to respond to queries from businessline; or share a turnaround plan.
In fact, there has also been a fall in its teaching staff numbers. Last available numbers with Tracxn show it had 1431 employees in September 2024, down 37 per cent. In fact, the employee count has been going down on sequential basis too. As on April there were 1689 staff (down from 2042 in March), and since then the head count went down to 1670 in May, to 1495 in June, and so on till there was a slight jump in August at 1466.
The company has an authorised capital of ₹62.7 crore and a paid up capital of ₹42.5 crore.
What FIITJEE said earlier
The Delhi-based company issued an official statement last week pointing out that the current turmoil is because of “overnight desertion of the centre by the Centre Managing Partner along with the entire team” and that the “present turmoil in the institution is temporary”.
Explaining the financial set-up FIITJEE said, every managing partner is responsible for the P&L of the centre. And all centre-level operational decisions (strategy & planning for business growth, management, revenue generation, administration, infrastructure, costs & expenses) are managed and executed at “exclusive discretion and judgement” of the managing partners-cum-centre heads.
“The corporate office at Delhi only follows the advice of the Managing Partners in order to grow the business,” it said adding that managing partners have a profit-sharing model (besides getting a regular salary).
Squarely blaming the managing partners, the company said, “owing to mismanagement & exploitation …FIITJEE’s financial situation worsened in January 2024. Group CFO forecasted that after 6 months, the company might run into operational cash crunch.”
In February 2024, the company had told its managing partners to “optimise excess manpower” while outlin(ing) a strategy for bouncing back.
AI assistant DeepSeek has rocketed to the top of the iPhone App Store free apps chart – but if you’re one of the many who’s downloaded the Chinese app, maybe don’t get too attached.
The chatbot has been lauded for its speed, efficiency and powerful reasoning skills, drawing comparisons to OpenAI’s ChatGPT, which DeepSeek knocked off the top of the iPhone chart. Not only that, but it runs on less advanced chips than the top US-based competitors, raising questions about whether Silicon Valley is the leading force in AI it portrays itself as.
When it comes to China-based apps and services, the first question that often arises is around user privacy. The viral success of the DeepSeek app indicates that regardless of these concerns, the AI assistant is already on many people’s phones across the country. Whether you choose to trust or not trust DeepSeek with your data is totally your choice for now – but it might not be in the long run.
That’s because the US government is wary of Chinese technology, and could step in to interfere with the app’s success in the country. There’s precedent for this. You only need to look at what’s currently happening with TikTok, and what previously happened to Chinese smartphone manufacturer Huawei – you can’t buy a Huawei phone in the US (to say nothing of Huawei’s networking gear) – to see that if Washington seriously objects to a product or service with links to China due to national security concerns, it can and will take action.
Back in 2018, Huawei became the second biggest smartphone maker in the world behind Samsung, pushing Apple down into third place. But following restrictions that resulted in Huawei being forced to retreat from selling phones in the US, the company’s global market share has continued to decline. Meanwhile, popular social media app TikTok has reached a crunch point in its own battle to stay active in the US, and it currently can’t be downloaded on any iPhones or Android phones in the country.
Unlike some chatbot rivals, the fact that DeepSeek is open source provides it with some level of protection. This means that anyone can run it on their computer and developers can tap into the API in a way that would be hard to restrict. But the DeepSeek app is still at risk.
Along with potential national security concerns, the US government may well view DeepSeek as a threat to the success of homegrown companies, in the same way Huawei was to Apple and TikTok is to US-based social media companies such as Meta. DeepSeek’s sudden virality coincides with what many consider to be an AI arms race, which the US hopes to dominate.
The politics of AI
From talking fridges to iPhones, our experts are here to help make the world a little less complicated.
Just last week, President Trump announced US-based companies OpenAI and Nvidia as key partners in his new AI infrastructure project ‘”Stargate” – and both companies have seen an immediate knock-on impact of DeepSeek’s success on their own businesses. OpenAI’s tool ChatGPT has slipped down the app store charts, while Nvidia’s stock has taken a tumble.
Trump hasn’t publicly reacted to DeepSeek’s sudden rise to prominence, but he’s historically been bullish about protecting American business interests. The line between what companies supposedly constitute a national security threat and those that pose a competitive threat to US businesses can often look blurred to observers. As such, Chinese companies making waves in the US need to be squeaky clean if they want to avoid becoming the target of government scrutiny.
Already, questions are being raised around DeepSeek given there seems to be censorship at play when it comes to answering questions about historical Chinese events that the country’s Communist government has long sought to suppress. There’s a strong chance that a blight such as this on the company’s reputation could be used as a reason to restrict access in the US.
Fighting the US government on a ban isn’t for the weak. Both TikTok and Huawei spent significant time and resources on lobbying in the US in attempts to disprove any reason for concern. DeepSeek will need deep pockets if it ends up in a similar situation. And whether you enjoy using it and find it to be superior to ChatGPT or any other AI assistants won’t matter.
Public support for TikTok in the US is strong, regardless of how the country’s political entities view the platform. At CNET, we’ve been consistently impressed by Huawei’s phones over the years, finding the company’s devices to be competitive with our favorite iPhones and Samsung Galaxy products. But national security concerns and political decision making about Chinese companies will always hold more sway than the quality of their products.
All this is to say, if you do play around with DeepSeek, try not to get hooked. History shows us that Chinese technology can come and go from our lives within the blink of an eye, and we shouldn’t rely on DeepSeek becoming another mainstay competitor in the AI assistants market – in the US at least.
A man who served in World War II as an airman recently turned 100 years old — and celebrated in style with two different birthday parties.
He also said the smartphone has been one of the most significant inventions in his lifetime — plus shared his tips for living a long and healthy life.
John Fife, who lives in Clevedon, in North Somerset in the U.K., turned 100 on Dec. 26, 2024, news agency SWNS reported.
EATING THIS BREAKFAST FOOD COULD HELP YOU LIVE LONGER, STUDY SUGGESTS
He celebrated first with family and friends at a hotel — and second with friends and neighbors in the lounge at Coleridge Court, a McCarthy Stone Retiring Living development, as SWNS noted.
He said, “I feel very fortunate that I still enjoy good health and am able to get out and about.”
John Fife, who served in World War II in the Royal Air Force, turned 100 years old in Dec. 2024. (SWNS)
Born and educated in Edinburgh, Fife said he was called up for national service with the Royal Air Force in 1943.
He trained as a wireless operator and air gunner in the RAF, SWNS said.
He then served with Coastal Command Air/Sea Rescue until he was demobilized in 1946.
TO LIVE LONGER, DO THESE 5 THINGS EVERY DAY, SAYS A BRAIN HEALTH EXPERT
After leaving the military, Fife got married and started a career in the civil service with the Post Office Savings Bank in two different locations.
He, his wife and their two sons moved to Glasgow in 1966 where, following the separation of the Savings Bank from the Post Office, he worked on setting up a new headquarters for the Savings Bank, known today in the U.K. as National Savings & Investments, the same source noted.
Even at 100 years old, a World War II veteran said he enjoys making new friends and taking up new activities.(iStock)
During this time, he received special recognition for his services.
“In 1970, I was presented to Queen Elizabeth II on her visit to the headquarters of the new Department,” Fife said, as SNWS reported.
He retired from the Civil Service in 1984 and moved to Clevedon to be nearer his sons.
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So how does he keep active even today?
“I start each day with a fixed goal, such as a long walk or going to church, and I love completing jigsaws,” he said, as SWNS reported.
For more Health articles, visit foxnews.com/health
He said he’s also “made new friends and started new activities since moving to Coleridge Court in 2022.”
A veteran of World War II recently turned 100 years old — and named the smartphone as the most significant technological advance in his lifetime. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
When asked for his secrets of living a long life, Fife was quite clear.
“Make a decision to do things and carry them out and do what you can to help the less fortunate,” he said.
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He said medical advances throughout his years on Earth have been extraordinary — and also named the smartphone as probably the most significant development he’s witnessed in his 100 years.
Maureen Mackey is managing editor of lifestyle at Fox News Digital.
Some days ago, a woman from Bengaluru highlighted instances of Zepto pricing products differently for Android and iPhone users. Her post went viral and sparked discussion online. For example, as per that post, half a kilo of grapes was listed for Rs 65 on the Android device, while the same product cost Rs 146 on the iPhone. She also compared the prices of capsicum, cauliflower and onions, highlighting the differences in rates on the app (read full story here).
More recently, another post has alleged that Zepto is charging Android and iPhone users different prices for the same product. Vinita Singh took to LinkedIn to flag the same. She posted screenshots showing the listing of green capsicum on Zepto on two different devices. The Android phone apparently showed the price to be Rs 21 for 500-600 grams, while the iPhone showed it to be Rs 107 for the same product and weight. In the caption, the user wrote, “Both the screenshots were taken at the same time, this morning. But why such a difference, Zepto?” Check out the complete post here. Take a look at the screenshots below:
Photo Credit: LinkedIn/ Vinita Singh
Photo Credit: LinkedIn/ Vinita Singh
Disclaimer: NDTV does not vouch for the claims in the post by the LinkedIn user.
The post has received attention on other social media platforms too. Here’s how people reacted to it on LinkedIn:
“They also need money to buy an iPhone. That’s why.”
“Now I think we should all buy Android devices just to Buy Groceries, Book Cabs etc..”
“Facing similar issues with almost all quick commerce platforms. This is something which is very concerning as these days we all have so much dependency on these applications. This disparity cannot have any explanation.”
“They are delivering capsicum 1 min earlier when you order it with an iPhone. That’s why it’s expensive.”
“I have one question – are both the screenshots taken from the same account? Because the price is the same, only the discount provided is different. If the accounts are different then the difference is not only because of Android and iPhone.”
NDTV has reached out to Zepto for a comment but they are yet to respond.
Also Read: Woman Receives ‘Free’ Dhaniya With Roses From Swiggy Instamart, Internet Reacts
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-01-26/news-1AtLoqn4dOw/img/99baaf6d7ed74ade8ec979828fc15b92/99baaf6d7ed74ade8ec979828fc15b92.png' alt='South Korea's impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol attends the fourth hearing of his impeachment trial at the Constitutional Court in Seoul, January 23, 2025. /CFP'
South Korea’s prosecution indicted arrested President Yoon Suk-yeol on an insurrection charge, multiple media outlets reported on Sunday.
Yoon was put on trial in custody as the suspected ringleader of insurrection, becoming the country’s first incumbent president to be formally arrested and indicted.
Yoon was accused of conspiring with former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, who had already been indicted under detention, to declare unconstitutional, illegal martial law and dispatch armed forces into the National Assembly.
After receiving Yoon’s case from the anti-corruption agency, the prosecution requested Yoon’s extended arrest twice for supplementary investigation, but the Seoul Central District Court repeatedly rejected it to bring Yoon to trial as early as possible.
A warrant to keep Yoon in custody for up to 20 days, including the arrest period, was issued by another Seoul court on January 19.
Yoon was apprehended in the presidential office on January 15.
The motion to impeach Yoon was passed through the National Assembly on December 14 last year and was delivered to the constitutional court to deliberate it for up to 180 days, during which Yoon’s presidential power is suspended.
Yoon declared an emergency martial law on the night of December 3. It was revoked by the National Assembly hours later.
Our fashion critic discusses the evolution of dress codes, including how rules — like one discouraging brown shoes with blue or black trousers — can come in and out of favor.
Veeva’s vice president of commercial strategy discusses how streamlining their processes with a single goal in mind can improve their relationships with customers.
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.
SPECIFIKACIJE kamere za Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 procurile su online te otkrivaju da uređaj ima isti hardver kamere kao i Z Flip 6. To znači glavnu kameru od 50 MP i ultraširokokutnu kameru od 12 MP, bez telefoto kamere. Uređaj će navodno imati prednju kameru od 10 MP umjesto uobičajene 12 MP kamere iz Galaxy S serije.
Samsung je nedavno lansirao Galaxy S25 seriju, no očekuje se da će kasnije ove godine predstaviti Galaxy Z Fold 7 i Galaxy Z Flip 7. Sada su pouzdani izvori otkrili specifikacije kamere za Flip model.
Nije poznato hoće li biti softverskih poboljšanja
Prema portalu GalaxyClub, Galaxy Z Flip 7 imat će glavnu kameru od 50 MP i ultraširokokutnu kameru od 12 MP. Rasklopljeni telefon otkriva prednju kameru od 10 MP. Nedavno predstavljeni Galaxy S uređaji imaju prednju kameru od 12 MP.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Ove specifikacije kamera su identične onima u Galaxy Z Flip 6 modelu. Nije jasno hoće li Samsung ponuditi veće senzore.
GalaxyClub također napominje da nije sve u MP-ima te da će eventualna poboljšanja kamere ovisiti o softverskim unapređenjima. Odabir čipseta također bi mogao utjecati na performanse kamere s obzirom na to da Snapdragon 8 Elite omogućuje bolje snimanje u slabom osvjetljenju kod S25 serije.
Međutim, glasine sugeriraju da bi Z Flip 7 mogao koristiti Exynos 2500 čip, čije mogućnosti za kamere još nisu poznate.
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KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Before they broke out the celebratory beverages in the locker room, the Kansas City Chiefs sipped cups of chicken broth on the sideline Sunday night to combat the frigid weather.
Comfort food. Makes sense.
Whereas the Chiefs were completely at home, securing yet another trip to the Super Bowl, the Buffalo Bills looked entirely out of their element.
The game was close, as per usual, with Kansas City winning 32-29, but isn’t that the way it always goes for this franchise of destiny? The Chiefs, who will face the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX, were an astounding 11-0 this season in one-score games.
“It means we’re a team that deserves to be in the Super Bowl,” said receiver DeAndre Hopkins, traded to the Chiefs by Tennessee in October. “We play to the last second. We don’t give up. Lot of competitors, man. That says a lot about a team like that.”
In two weeks, Kansas City will play Philadelphia, which soundly beat the NFC East rival Washington Commanders earlier Sunday in the NFC title game.
So, New Orleans will play host to a rematch of the Super Bowl from two years ago, when the Chiefs beat the Eagles 38-35.
On Sunday night, the packed house at Arrowhead Stadium saw six lead changes, a Chiefs turnover — the first since mid-November — and two fourth-down stops by Kansas City’s defense in the fourth quarter.
Buffalo’s Josh Allen threw two touchdown passes to one by Patrick Mahomes, but the Chiefs quarterback also ran for a couple of scores, including tucking the ball under his arm and powering 10 yards into the end zone in the fourth quarter.
The Chiefs defense kept the pressure on Bills quarterback Josh Allen (17) during the AFC championship game.
(Charlie Riedel / Associated Press)
Tight end Travis Kelce was the lead blocker clearing the way on that touchdown.
“It’s always great when you have people in front of you that are going to lay their body on the line to get you into the end zone,” Mahomes said.
Harrison Butker made the go-ahead, 35-yard field goal with 3:33 remaining, and Kansas City’s defense came up with a final stop to turn back the Bills.
With Mahomes at quarterback, the Chiefs are 4-0 against Buffalo in the postseason — even though the Allen-led Bills have a 4-1 record against Kansas City in the regular season.
“Some of these games are gut-wrenching,” said Kansas City coach Andy Reid, whose club has the chance to pull off an unprecedented Super Bowl three-peat. “And I’ve got a lot of gut to wrench.”
Jokes aside, few people in NFL history have a resumé as robust as Reid, who grew up in Los Angeles, and whose playing career started at Marshall High and included a stop at Glendale College. Not only does he have more wins than any coach in Chiefs history, but also more than any in Eagles history. He was head coach in Philadelphia from 1999 through 2012, and went to four consecutive NFC championship games and a Super Bowl.
Canton is the likely next stop for Reid, who has been an assistant or head coach in seven Super Bowls and 14 conference championship games, including seven consecutive AFC title games with the Chiefs.
Chiefs owner Clark Hunt said Reid “has to be in the conversation” of who is the greatest coach in the history of the league. Up there with the likes of Bill Belichick, Vince Lombardi and George Halas.
“Different time periods make it hard to compare coaches from different generations,” Hunt said. “Certainly having cleared 300 wins and the Super Bowl wins that he already has, AFC championships and NFC championships that he won, he’s got to be right there at the top.”
The Bills, meanwhile, were looking to reach the Super Bowl for the first time since losing four in a row from 1990 through ’93. Most of their players weren’t even born when the franchise last played on the league’s biggest stage.
“It’s not fun,” said Allen, looking down and speaking softly with grass stains on both shoulders of his white uniform. “But to be the champs you’ve got to beat the champs, and we didn’t do it tonight.”
These teams know each other well, and Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo noticed a tendency for Allen to go over his left guard on short-yardage keepers. Kansas City reacted accordingly by shading its biggest bodies to that side.
“They put big guys in there, and they played it well,” Allen said.
The big block on Mahomes’ fourth-quarter touchdown run was a reminder that Kelce can do the grunt work to go along with the glamour. His girlfriend, pop star Taylor Swift, was at the game and made a beeline for the trophy ceremony alongside Kelce’s mother.
Several minutes later, Travis Kelce and Swift walked back up the locker room tunnel, both smiling and his arm wrapped around her.
“Everybody was doing their job today,” Kelce said later. “That’s why we put up so many points today. That’s why we were scoring touchdowns. One-five [a reference to Mahomes’ jersey number] was playing the best that he’s played all year. That’s what you want to see going into the last game.”
The broth-sipping Chiefs are heading to a familiar place. Comfortable, confident and dangerous.
India’s apex IT industry body Nasscom has batted for tweaks in safe harbour rules and widening the scope for utilisation of SEZ reinvestment reserves in its Budget wishlist, while advocating for creation of a central deeptech fund to bolster startup ecosystem in India.
Creation of a grant framework for the deeptech ecosystem, and making the deferment of the time of payment of tax on Employee Stock Option Plan available to employees of all DPIIT-recognized startups also tops the Budget expectations of the industry.
The Union Budget for financial year 2025-26 is scheduled to be presented in Parliament by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, 2025.
For the $250 billion export-led Indian IT industry, the Budget comes amid continued global macro headwinds, geopolitical risks, and growing unease about possibility of sudden policy and tariff moves by the US, where President Donald Trump has promised to script a new, glorious chapter for America with his headline-grabbing second-term.
Issues under transfer-pricing regime, expanding the scope for utilisation of SEZ reinvestment reserve for tech companies, as well as measures to promote startup in India figure high on Nasscom’s budget expectations.
Among the key asks is also making deferment of the time of payment of tax on Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP) available to the employees of more startups.
“The deferment – even if you look at only DPIIT-registered startups – is actually available only to about 2.5 per cent of these startups.
“While the DPIIT has roughly around 1.43 lakh startups registered on its portal, of which 3,600 odd are certified by the inter-ministerial board, and only these startups can get this benefit,” Ashish Aggarwal, Vice President and Head of Public Policy at Nasscom told PTI.
Given that the employee is required to pay full tax and there is only a deferment of the time of payment, the benefit should be available to all DPIIT recognised start-ups, not limited to 3,605 start-ups who have obtained IMB certificate under IT Act, according to Aggarwal.
“In fact, there is a merit in going beyond,” he said.
Along with making the deferment available for all DPIIT recognised startups, safeguards can be added to say that eligible ESOPs will be available only to employees of DPIIT registered start-ups, and that ESOPs will be offered only to Indian resident taxpayers.
“ESOP schemes should be uniform for all employees so that you don’t create some scheme which is uniquely tailored for certain employees,” he said.
Nasscom is also batting for measures to strengthen availability of ‘patient capital’ (long-term capital) for deeptech startups in India.
According to the industry body, the government should create a dedicated deeptech fund (in the form of fund-of-funds) structured with flexibility for longer gestation (10 years with extensions).
The fund’s structure may incorporate provisions for matching capital to encourage greater venture investment in the sector.
This was also proposed in draft National DeepTech Startup (NDTSP) 2023.
Another ask pertains to creation of a grant framework for the deeptech ecosystem.
“A common grant framework should be established across government ministries, through a two-tiered funding approach – Initial Proof of Concept grant of at least Rs two crore to validate core technologies; tested Prototype grant of minimum Rs 3 crore to support market validation and early commercialisation,” NASSCOM said as part of its Budget recommendations.
Further, specific infrastructure grants – in the form of access to labs and testing facilities for the high-cost areas like Space, Semiconductors, AI, Clean Energy, etc. Should be explored, it says.
The industry asserts that since Global Capability Centres (captive centres) only provide services to their own group companies/parent companies and are normally based on a cost-plus model, the safe harbour rules should be available to all the GCCs and the cap on turnover (up to Rs 200 crore) and the criterion of bearing insignificant risk needs to be dispensed with.
“The safe harbour regime should be made available for all related party entities. Given the competitive nature of industry, the rate of profit margins are not observed to be higher merely because a company is bigger in terms of annual revenues.
Therefore, abolish or significantly increase the eligibility threshold for SHR,” according to Nasscom.
Further, the Safe Harbour margin rates – though reduced in 2017 are “still very high” and needs to be reduced. The industry is also pinning its hopes on a simpler regime and fewer categories.
So far as issues impacting the tech industry goes, Nasscom has recommended that the government should expand the scope for utilisation of SEZ reinvestment reserve to include operating expenses incurred on leasing of computers/ laptops, using cloud infrastructure, buying software; capital investment in building infrastructure and expenses incurred on new employees such as salary cost, training costs.
Privacy suites, double-wide beds, Christofle cutlery: Business-class cabins have been on a dizzying luxury ascent for years.
Airlines are now upgrading some of the finer points of their front-cabin services, such as amenity kits and meals.(Pexels)
But the game is changing. With so many carriers having overhauled their aircraft interiors and premium seats, airlines are now upgrading some of the finer points of their front-cabin services, such as amenity kits and meals. (If you’re in the back of the plane, that’s still business as usual.) Also read | Luxury train travel is booming. Here’s why, and the trips you must book
“Generally speaking, leisure travelers want an experience,” says Brian Sumers, aviation expert and founder of the Airline Observer newsletter. “Airlines have realized that if they want to compete for premium travelers, they need to wow them.”
Wowing travelers with swanky amenity kits is nothing new, of course. It’s been almost a decade since airlines began partnering with high-end retailers to elevate their brands, such as United Airlines Holdings Inc.’s business-class bedding partnership with Saks Fifth Avenue. But the latest additions represent first-time partnerships with some of the world’s best-known luxury powerhouses, as well as caviar and Champagne services that hark back to the glamour of air travel in the 1950s. “Airlines are screaming from the rooftops: We are premium!” says Sumers, adding that these sky-high perks tend to yield a greater reputational benefit for airlines than sales boosts for the associated retailers.
Here are the latest luxury amenities you can expect to find in premium cabins this year.
Haute amenity kits
If India is one of the fastest-growing markets for luxury travel, its national carrier is taking note and following suit with its new amenities introduced in December. On most long-haul Air India flights, first- and business-class flyers will now find Ferragamo cosmetic bags, each packed with the brand’s body lotion, hand cream, lip balm and—for first class only, a 5-milliliter bottle of perfume. It’s all part of an upscaling effort for India’s flag carrier following a 2024 merger with India-based premium airline Vistara, as part of a restructuring by the Tata Group; brand-new cabin interiors on Airbus A350 aircraft include flat beds in private suites in business class. Also read | Villas, hidden gems and unique stays: 7 top travel trends of 2024 that redefined how we explore the world
Also since December, business-class flyers on Singapore Airlines’ long- and ultra-long-haul routes have begun to receive amenity kits from New York-based fragrance house Le Labo, owned by Estée Lauder—a move that puts the airline in step with many high-end restaurants and hotels. The kits include lip balm, face mist and hand pomade, all neatly zipped up in a waxed canvas bag that’s designed to be repurposed as a passport holder.
The haute amenity kit trend extends stateside. In the past year, Delta Air Lines Inc. has introduced Missoni-branded kits, while JetBlue debuted Mint amenity pouches in partnership with New York City brands such as Caraa.
Perhaps the most decadent amenity kit of them all is now found on Dubai-based Emirates, which recently began gifting first- and business-class flyers with amenity kits from LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE-owned Bulgari; in addition to a bottle of eau de parfum, they include a gold-lacquered mirror from the storied Italian brand.
Deutsche Lufthansa AG, however, may be taking a page from luxury hotels with their swanky co-branded spas and limited edition designer merchandise. Its new amenity kits are from of-the-moment beauty brand, Augustinus Bader, available exclusively in the airline’s new Allegris First Class suites—whose seats can be heated and cooled with temperature controls. In a high-altitude pop-up of sorts, the airline is also gifting first class passengers on certain flights a limited edition loungewear set by Japanese artist Sho Shibuya during the month of February; the ombre pattern is like a gradient sky printed on organic cotton satin.
Caviar (and fast food)
Last summer, Qatar Airways began serving caviar—specifically, Siberian sturgeon—in business class on 13 international routes from Doha, including flights to New York, Hong Kong, London, Paris, Singapore and São Paulo. The servings clock in at 0.53 ounces (15 grams), paired with Balik-style salmon and sides of warm blinis and melba toast. It’s a service whose cost can quickly climb: In most places, an ounce of Siberian sturgeon costs about $50-$86, without the additional trimmings. Since August 2024, when the service started, there have been about 200,000 caviar servings in business class, the airline said.
And in keeping with a culture that marries caviar with chicken nuggets, Delta’s answer to first-class decadence is the Shake Shack cheeseburger, which appears on its first-class menus; the perk started in December 2024. Banana pudding from New York City’s Magnolia Bakery is also served in United First on select flights of more than 901 miles.
High-end champagne
On Jan. 1, United Airlines announced it would begin serving Laurent-Perrier La Cuvée Champagne to its Polaris cabin flyers.
Also doubling down on premium bubbly: Singapore Airlines. In December the airline announced its first-class suites would become the only place to enjoy Cristal at 36,000 feet, thanks to an exclusive agreement with the French Champagne house Louis Roederer. Specifically, the winemaker’s 2015 vintage will be served on flights from Singapore to Delhi, Hong Kong, London, Los Angeles, Paris, Shanghai, Sydney and Tokyo; additional routes will welcome the perk in March. (The airline will also continue to serve Krug Grande Cuvée and Taittinger Comtes de Champagne.) Also read | Your next luxury trip to Hong Kong just got cheaper! Here’s how
A sense of place
If fashion, beauty and wine partnerships are the hot aviation trend of early 2025, Turkish Airlines may be planting the seeds for what comes next: amenities that double as an artisan souvenir from the place you’re about to visit. Its new kits, introduced on Jan. 2, include bags that are decorated with traditional ebru, an art form recognized by Unesco as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity. And yet, the hand cream, body lotion and lip balm inside are from Parisian luxury fragrance brand Ex Nihilo rather than a local outfit.
“The Unesco amenity kits serve as a unique introduction to the diversity and vibrancy of Turkish culture, inspiring passengers to explore the wonders of our home country,” said Akif Konar, chief operations officer at Turkish Airlines, in a press release. If rose-water-infused creams and argan oil face serums filled the bags in a future iteration, we’d consider it luxury of another order.
PS Plus subscribers are just days away from discovering the identity of the new games joining the service in February 2025.
The next batch of PlayStation Plus Essentials will be revealed at 4.30pm GMT UK time on January 29. You’ll be able to download and play the free PS4 and PS5 games less than a week later, on the morning of February 4.
With games like Suicide Squad, Need for Speed Hot Pursuit Remastered, God of War Ragnarok and Like a Dragon Gaiden all joining PS Plus in January, fans will be hoping for more high-profile releases in February.
Without any leaks to go on, some fans have been attempting to predict the line-up ahead of the big reveal.
Indeed, according to the predictions thread over on Reddit, multiple fans believe EA Sports FC 25 will join the Essentials line-up.
Elsewhere, many fans think Scorn could join the line-up, alongside Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, Hades, Vampire Survivors and Sea of Stars.
Ever since leaving Xbox Game Pass in 2024, Atomic Heart continues to make multiple appearance in the predictions thread. Maybe February will be the month the action game finally joins the line-up.
Jusant, Hogwarts Legacy, Assassin’s Creed Mirage and Robocop also continue to be popular picks among PlayStation Plus subscribers.
Other games featured in the predictions thread include Parcel Corps, WrestleQuest, SnowRunner, Nickelodeon Kart Racing 3 and EA Sports UFC 5.
F1 Manager 24, High on Life, Braid Anniversary Edition and Lords of the Fallen all appear multiple times, as well as Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands, Hunt Showdown and TopSpin 2K25.
There are also a small number of picks for games like Far Cry Primal, The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles, Sekiro, Cuphead, Rise of the Ronin, Spyro Reignited Trilogy and Wo Long Fallen Dynasty.
That’s on top of Payday 3, Pacific Drive, Castlevania Advance Collection, Banishers Ghosts of New Eden, Lost Judgement, Lies of P, Guilty Gear strive, Blasphemous 2, Dredge, Two Point Hospital, Deathloop and The Outlast Trials.
Other infrequent but somewhat realistic picks include Persona 4 Golden, Planet Zoo, Chants of Sennaar, Signalis, Shadow Gambit, Unpacking, Bramble: The Mountain King and Stray.
A few people believe Kingdom Come Deliverance could join PS Plus, although this seems unlikely with the new game just weeks away from launch. Likewise for Monster Hunter Stories.
Then there are popular games like Sonic X Shadow Generations and Black Myth Wukong that are too recent to join the service.
The Skoda Fabia has become cheaper for 2025, thanks to the addition of a new base-spec variant.
When the current-generation Fabia arrived in Australia in 2022, it came only in flagship Monte Carlo guise. At nearly $40,000 drive-away it’s more expensive than the base Audi A1, while also being priced nearly identical to the closely related Volkswagen Polo GTI.
Its sales have reflected that too, with just 331 Fabias sold in 2024 compared to the Polo’s 2154. In early 2024 though, Skoda announced it would be bringing a cheaper Fabia Down Under – $8000 cheaper, to be exact.
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At the bottom of the range now sits the Fabia 85TSI Select. It’s fitted with a smaller engine, less gear, and more friendly styling, making it a much more logical alternative to many other hatches around the $30,000 mark.
The more premium Fabia 110TSI Monte Carlo is still available as always, with the same four-cylinder engine and more aggressive styling its headlining features.
Inside you get unique sporty seats, larger infotainment and instrument displays, and various other creature comforts like dual-zone climate control and aluminium trim pieces.
It also retains its sporty suspension setup and larger wheels, presenting it as something more special than the more accessible Select.
Pricing
The Fabia range in Australia has extended to two models, with the new base-spec Select better aligning it with cheaper hatchbacks like the Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Polo, and Mazda 3.
Model
Drive-away price
2025 Skoda Fabia 85TSI Select
$31,990
2025 Skoda Fabia 110TSI Monte Carlo
$39,990
Drivetrains and Efficiency
Two turbocharged engines are available across the Fabia range: the lower-output 85TSI three-cylinder in the Select, and the beefier 110TSI four-cylinder in the Monte Carlo.
Fabia 85TSI Select
Fabia 110TSI Monte Carlo
Specifications
Fabia 85TSI Select
Fabia 110TSI Monte Carlo
Engine
1.0L 3cyl turbo-petrol
1.5L 4cyl turbo-petrol
Power
85kW @ 5500rpm
110kW @ 6000rpm
Torque
200Nm @ 2000-3500rpm
250Nm @ 1500-3500rpm
Transmission
7-speed dual-clutch auto
7-speed dual-clutch auto
Drive type
Front-wheel drive
Front-wheel drive
Kerb weight
1264kg
1289kg
0-100km/h (claimed)
9.7 seconds
8.0 seconds
Fuel economy (claimed)
5.0L/100km
5.3L/100km
Fuel tank capacity
42L
42L
Fuel requirement
95 octane premium unleaded
95 octane premium unleaded
CO2 emissions
114g/km
119g/km
Emissions standard
Euro 6
Euro 6
Braked tow capacity
1100kg
1200kg
Dimensions
Dimensions
Skoda Fabia
Length
4108mm
Width
1780mm
Height
1459mm
Wheelbase
2564mm
Cargo capacity
380L (rear seats up) 1190L (rear seats folded)
Servicing and Warranty
Skoda backs its Fabia range with a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, as well as 12 months of roadside assistance.
Servicing and Warranty
Skoda Fabia
Warranty
7 years, unlimited kilometres
Roadside assistance
12 months
Service intervals
12 months, 15,000km
Capped-price servicing
7-year service pack
Total capped-price servicing cost
$3650
Average annual servicing cost
$521
Servicing is required every 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first. Buyers have the option of purchasing a seven-year service pack with their new Fabia purchase, priced at $3650.
Safety
The Skoda Fabia wears a five-star ANCAP safety rating based on testing conducted by Euro NCAP in 2021.
Category
Skoda Fabia
Adult occupant protection
85 per cent
Child occupant protection
81 per cent
Vulnerable road user protection
70 per cent
Safety assist
71 per cent
Standard safety features on the Fabia Select include:
6 airbags
Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian, cyclist detection
Parking-speed AEB in drive and reverse
Blind-spot monitoring
Driver fatigue monitoring
Lane-keep assist
Lane departure warning
Rear cross-traffic alert
Rear-view camera
Front, rear parking sensors
Fabia Monte Carlo adds:
Adaptive cruise control
Tyre pressure monitoring
Standard Equipment
The two grades of Fabia differ substantially in standard equipment, which results in a more premium look for the Monte Carlo.
Six colours are available for the base Fabia Select, and all but one are no-cost options.
Fabia Select colours:
Moon White Metallic
Brilliant Silver Metallic
Graphite Grey Metallic
Black Magic Pearlescent
Race Blue Metallic
Velvet Red Metallic ($500)
Six colours are also available for the Fabia Monte Carlo, though all are two-tone finishes with a Black Magic Pearlescent roof. Two command an extra cost of $500.
Indian benchmark equity indices BSE Sensex and Nifty50 declined at market open on Monday, amid mixed global and domestic cues.
Stock Market Updates
Benchmark equity indices, the BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty50, closed the first trading session of the week in the red, each dropping by over 1 percent, primarily due to widespread selling pressure. The 30-share Sensex plunged 824.29 points, or 1.08 percent, finishing at 75,366.17. The index fluctuated between 75,925.72 and 75,267.59 during the session.
Similarly, the NSE Nifty50 ended lower by 263.05 points, or 1.14 percent, closing at 22,829.15. The index reached a high of 23,007.45 and a low of 22,786.90 on Monday.
The session tilted in favor of the bears, with 43 of the 50 stocks on the Nifty50 index closing lower. The biggest laggards included HCL Tech, Tech Mahindra, Wipro, Hindalco, and Shriram Finance, which saw losses of up to 4.59 percent. On the other hand, ICICI Bank, Britannia, Mahindra & Mahindra, Hindustan Unilever, and State Bank of India were among the seven stocks that managed to end in the green, with gains reaching up to 1.50 percent.
Broader market indices followed the trend of the benchmarks, with the Nifty Smallcap100 and Nifty Midcap100 indices falling by 3.84 percent and 2.75 percent, respectively.
Global Cues
Markets in the Asia-Pacific region showed a mixed performance, with Australia, Taiwan, and South Korea closed for holidays. Japan’s Nikkei 225 dipped 0.33%, while the Topix gained 0.62%. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index rose by 0.85%, while the CSI 300 saw a slight decline of 0.07%.
In the currency markets, the US dollar weakened on Friday, marking its worst week since November 2023, driven by reduced concerns over tariffs from the Trump administration. However, those worries resurfaced after Trump stated his intention to impose new measures on Colombia. Trump’s comments about a “friendly” conversation with President Xi Jinping and his belief that a trade deal with China could be reached gave mixed signals. The US dollar dropped by as much as 0.8% against a basket of currencies before reducing losses to close down 0.65%, ultimately posting its biggest weekly loss since November, down 1.8% from Monday.
Some analysts cautioned that the dollar could strengthen if the US changes its tariff or interest rate policies. On Monday, the dollar firmed as traders weighed the potential impact of Trump’s tariff plans, with the Federal Reserve expected to keep interest rates steady. The dollar index, which measures the US currency against six major currencies, stood at 107.6, still close to the one-month low it reached last week.
Global stocks had a lackluster session, with the MSCI world index little changed. US stocks showed similar weakness, with the S&P 500, Dow Jones, and Nasdaq all posting losses. Meanwhile, China’s stock markets and the yuan strengthened after Trump’s remarks, with the blue-chip index up 0.8% and the yuan gaining 0.7% to 7.239 against the dollar in offshore trading.
Oil prices stabilized after Trump mentioned that he would ask Saudi Arabia and OPEC to lower oil prices. US crude futures edged up to $74.66 a barrel, while Brent crude increased 0.3% to $78.50. Amelie Derambure, a senior portfolio manager at Amundi, noted that Trump’s pro-America policies, which call for lower oil prices, could benefit other global markets, including Europe. European stocks showed a slight boost, with the STOXX 600 rising 0.3%, driven by strong earnings from Burberry, though it later retreated to a flat finish.
The crypto market started the yearly trade with a massive bullish push that helped the XRP price reclaim its levels not visited in the past 7 years, surpassing $3.3. However, the crypto markets are facing major turbulence, due to which the XRP price is plunging hard after losing the key support at $3. What’s next? Should you consider selling XRP and joining the ‘panic seller’ list or hold until the selling pressure eases?
As the market sentiments have turned bearish, the XRP price may tend to remain deflated for a while. Meanwhile, the bulls are trying hard to hold the rally at $2.75, which has been the previous top after the breakout in November 2024. After losing over 12% since the early trading hours, the question arises whether it is the time to sell XRP as the buyers remain passive at the moment.
Ever since the price lost support at $3.1, the bears have held a strong grip over the rally and dragged the price by over 12%. The volume has soar by over 200%, crossing $9 billion, which is majorly dominated by the bears, hinting towards the token offering a good buying range shortly.
The short-term price action of XRP suggests the token is facing a free fall after losing the resistance at the 50-day MA. There is a possibility of a healthy rebound as the 200-day MA is expected to offer a strong base. With this, the price could continue to drop by another 4% to 5%, reaching close to $2.6 that may further attract massive liquidity. One of the major bullish signals is the bullish reversal seen with the ADX, hinting towards the rally gaining strength. However, the +Di & -Di levels have diverged away from each other after a bearish crossover, suggesting the rebound could consume more time than speculated.
Therefore, the XRP price continues to remain within a bullish range regardless of the persistent bearish pressure escalating over the token. The market sentiments are believed to turn bullish very soon, pushing the price back above $3. Hence, the probability of a new ATH still remains higher as the XRP price remains primed to surge beyond $4 in the upcoming days.
I loved the sleek silhouette and wood grain accents of this Lasko tower fan. It was also the third-quietest fan that I tested, measuring just a few decibels noisier than the Honeywell. On top of that, it features Bluetooth, which lets you control the oscillating fan via an app on your phone.
The problem is that the app is all you get as far as remote controls are concerned. That isn’t ideal for a shared space, as the fan can only connect with one device at a time. In other words, if someone else pairs with the fan, your connection gets cut.
That might be forgivable if the app offered advanced features like voice controls or the ability to set a custom schedule, but it doesn’t. You can turn it on and off, turn the oscillation feature on and off, adjust among three speed settings or start the sleep timer; the same controls as you’ll find on the fan itself. It doesn’t ask for any permissions aside from Bluetooth access, the app doesn’t seem to offer a privacy policy at all. All of that makes this Lasko fan easy to skip at $80.
Vornado V-Flow Air Circulator Tower Fan
Ry Crist/CNET
The Vornado V-Flow tower fan features a neat-looking build that twists the fan’s grille around the cylindrical base. It’s one of the best-looking tower fans I tested, but it doesn’t oscillate like a traditional tower fan. Instead, it relies on that twisty design to move a wider field of air throughout the room.
It worked well enough in my tests when I had it aimed at me, but coverage varied at those side angles, where the airstream is positioned lower or higher due to that diagonal grille. The bigger issue was that the Vornado V-Flow was the noisiest fan I tested, ringing in at 50 decibels at the highest of its three speeds from a distance of 30 inches. On top of that, my remote wouldn’t work, which echoes frustrations I’ve seen from user reviews at retailers where the V-Flow is sold. That, plus a lack of features beyond the usual sleep timer, has me saying no thanks to Vornado’s $70 price tag here (and I’d probably skip it during a sale too). That’s a shame, as Vornado’s five-year warranty was the best among all of the fans I looked at for this roundup, and more than twice as long as you get with the $550 Dyson TP04.
AmazonBasics Oscillating 3-Speed Tower Fan
Ry Crist/CNET
Amazon continues to sell a growing variety of products under its AmazonBasics brand and these days that includes a tower fan. As the name suggests, it isn’t anything too fancy. The remote batteries don’t come included, but you at least get a couple of natural wind settings on top of the typical low, medium and high speed settings.
Unfortunately, I had a disappointing experience with this fan. The remote stopped working shortly after I started testing, and the fan detached from its flimsy base after a few moves between rooms. Despite its 35-watt power draw being the lowest of all the fans I tested, the airflow was weak, even at the highest setting. At $60, this tower fan isn’t worth the price.
Unfortunately, most tower fans won’t work very well with smart plugs.
An Alabama woman who is the only living recipient of a pig organ transplant passed a major milestone on Saturday when she became the longest living person with a functioning pig organ.
Towana Looney, 53, remains healthy and full of energy, reaching the record 61-day mark with her pig kidney on Saturday.
“I’m superwoman,” Looney told The Associated Press. “It’s a new take on life.”
Only four other Americans have received experimental transplants of gene-edited pig organs — two receiving a heart while the other two received a kidney — but none of them lived more than two months.
WOMAN RECEIVES PIG KIDNEY TRANSPLANT, WALKS OUT OF HOSPITAL DAYS LATER: ‘SECOND CHANCE’
Towana Looney, who received a pig kidney transplant in November 2024, goes over notes about her recovery with Dr. Jeffrey Stern at NYU Langone Health in New York, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025.(AP)
“If you saw her on the street, you would have no idea that she’s the only person in the world walking around with a pig organ inside them that’s functioning,” Dr. Robert Montgomery of NYU Langone Health, who led Looney’s transplant, said.
Montgomery said Looney’s kidney function is “absolutely normal.” She has been staying in New York temporarily so she can receive post-transplant checkups, but doctors hope she can return to her home in Gadsden, Alabama, in about a month.
“We’re quite optimistic that this is going to continue to work and work well for, you know, a significant period of time,” Montgomery said.
Scientists are genetically altering pigs, so their organs are more human-like to support a severe shortage of human organs that can be used for transplants.
More than 100,000 people are on the U.S. transplant list. Most of these individuals need a kidney, and thousands die waiting.
The Food and Drug Administration only allows pig organ transplants in special circumstances for people who have run out of other alternatives.
Dr. Tatsuo Kawai of Massachusetts General Hospital, who led the world’s first pig kidney transplant last year and works with another pig developer, eGenesis, said how well Looney does is a “very precious experience.”
Towana Looney sits for an NYU Langone Health press conference on Tuesday, December 17, 2024.(Fox News)
Looney was far healthier than previous pig organ recipients, according to Kawai, who said her progress will help inform doctors about future attempts.
“We have to learn from each other,” he said.
Looney donated a kidney to her mother in 1999 and later pregnancy complications caused high blood pressure that damaged her remaining kidney, which eventually failed, a rare circumstance among living donors.
She spent eight years on dialysis before doctors determined she was unlikely to receive a donated organ, as she had developed very high levels of antibodies abnormally primed to attack another human kidney.
Looney, seeking an alternative, wanted to try out the pig organ experiment. Nobody knew how it would work in someone “highly sensitized” with the overactive antibodies.
Montgomery’s team has closely tracked Looney’s recovery through blood tests and other measurements since the Nov. 25 surgery. About three weeks after the transplant, subtle signs were detected that rejection was beginning. They knew to look for these signs because of a 2023 experiment when a pig kidney worked for 61 days inside a deceased man whose body was donated for research.
MASSACHUSETTS MAN, RECIPIENT OF FIRST SUCCESSFUL PIG KIDNEY TRANSPLANT, IS DISCHARGED FROM HOSPITAL
Outside the NYU Langone Health emergency room entrance on April 6, 2020, in New York City.(Noam Galai/Getty Images)
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Montgomery said his team successfully treated Looney and there have not been signs of rejection since.
It is impossible to predict how long Looney’s new kidney will work. But if it were to fail, she could receive dialysis again.
“The truth is we don’t really know what the next hurdles are because this is the first time we’ve gotten this far,” Montgomery said. “We’ll have to continue to really keep a close eye on her.”
When it comes to food updates, Padma Lakshmi never fails to impress. From hosting cooking shows to sharing tips and tricks on Instagram, she keeps her followers hooked with all things delicious. On Friday, she posted a video explaining why washing rice is an essential step in cooking. “So what people do not realise is that the first important step to cooking basmati rice is to rinse it,” Padma Lakshmi shares.
Holding up a bowl of rice, Padma Lakshmi shows the cloudy water from the first rinse and explains that rinsing removes starch. She explains how one should keep rinsing until the water runs “clear.” Padma Lakshmi mentions people do not wash their rice because they think it washes away nutrients. “I was raised to wash rice,” she adds. According to her, removing starch ensures that the rice turns out perfectly “fluffy.” She describes the process as “meditative,” saying she loves standing by the window, swirling the rice around in the water.
Also Read:Padma Lakshmi’s Manga Curry Recipe Has Our Undivided Attention
In her caption, Padma Lakshmi wrote, “Don’t forget to rinse your basmati rice until the water runs clear!! What you don’t see is that I rinsed this rice at least seven times before it was ready to cook.”
Check out Padma Lakshmi’s video below:
This is not the first time that Padma Lakshmi has shared her insights on staples. Last month, Padma Lakshmi shared a quick and easy hack for making baked potatoes – no oven needed. Yep, she used a microwave to whip up this comfort food classic. Her toppings? A heavenly combo of butter, yoghurt and a drizzle of Tapatio hot sauce for that fiery kick.
Padma Lakshmi started by piercing the potato all over with a knife or fork to let the steam escape. Then, she placed it into the microwave for a few minutes until it got soft and perfectly cooked. Once done, she topped it with a pat of butter, a dollop of yoghurt and a generous splash of hot sauce. Click here for the full story.
President Xi Jinping and other Chinese leaders have visited or entrusted others to visit retired senior officials to extend greetings ahead of the Spring Festival, which falls on January 29 this year.
Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, and other leaders wished the retired senior officials a happy Spring Festival, good health and longevity.
The retired senior officials spoke highly of the CPC Central Committee’s work over the past year and voiced wholehearted support for Xi’s core position on the CPC Central Committee and in the Party as a whole.
They expressed hope that the Party, the military and the people of all ethnic groups will unite even more closely around the Party Central Committee with Xi at its core to build China into a stronger country and achieve national rejuvenation through a Chinese path to modernization.
(Cover: A view of lanterns in Beijing, China, January 24, 2025. /CFP)
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.
SINSAY je nedavno u svoju ponudu dodao staklene čaše u obliku cvijeta, koje su nas odmah zaintrigirale svojom jednostavnošću i originalnošću. Visoke i elegantne, ove čaše donose dašak sofisticiranosti, a istovremeno su vrlo praktične za svakodnevnu upotrebu.
Savršene su za koktele, jer visok i zaobljen oblik omogućava dovoljno prostora za složene napitke, s dodatkom voća, začina ili leda. Osim za koktele, ove čaše mogu se koristiti i za šampanjac, voćne napitke ili sokove, čineći svaki trenutak malo posebnijim.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Cijena im je pristupačna
Iako njihov dizajn nije pretjerano ukrašen, jednostavan oblik cvijeta čini ih vrlo atraktivnima. Ove čaše su idealan izbor ako želite unijeti malo stila u svakodnevne trenutke ili ako planirate manju zabavu i želite impresionirati svoje goste nečim jednostavnim, ali zanimljivim. Cijena im je pristupačna, pa pružaju dobar omjer kvalitete i dizajna.
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That’s all it took for Saquon Barkley to break free for a sensational first-quarter touchdown run that put the Philadelphia Eagles ahead in the NFC championship game.
One more touch.
That’s all it took for Barkley to increase the lead with another touchdown.
Barkley’s scoring plays of 60 and four yards on Sunday helped the Eagles build an advantage that held up in a 55-23 victory over the Washington Commanders at Lincoln Financial Field.
The Eagles advanced to Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, where they will play the winner of Sunday’ night’s AFC championship game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Buffalo Bills.
Barkley rushed for 118 yards and three touchdowns, quarterback Jalen Hurts rushed for three touchdowns and passed for another and the Eagles forced four turnovers to earn their second Super Bowl berth in three seasons.
“I’m not gonna lie. I tried to downplay it in my head but it’s just amazing man, it’s amazing … we’re here — Super Bowl,” Barkley told Fox Sports’ Erin Andrews after the game. “But the goal wasn’t just getting there. The goal’s to win. Now were going to celebrate and enjoy this and get right back to work.”
Two years ago, the Eagles fell short on the sport’s biggest stage when Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes led his team to a last-second victory in Arizona, the first of two consecutive titles for the Chiefs.
After losing in the wild-card round last season, this Eagles team was built for a Super Bowl run.
Coach Nick Sirianni hired offensive coordinator Kellen Moore and veteran defensive coordinator Vic Fangio.
Still, the most notable addition was Barkley, who toiled for the New York Giants for six seasons.
Barkley rushed for 2,005 yards during the regular season and did not slow down in playoff victories over the Green Bay Packers and the Rams. The week before Sunday’s victory, Barkley rushed for 205 yards and scored on touchdown runs of 62 and 78 yards against the Rams.
On Sunday, with movie stars Bradley Cooper and Kevin Hart among others in attendance, the Eagles trailed 3-0 when Barkley took a hand off from Hurts on the Eagles’ first play and ran off the left side for what looked like a long gain that would end at the sideline. Instead, Barkley spun out of two tackles and cut back across the field to the end zone for a 60-yard touchdown.
Commanders receiver Dyami Brown then lost a fumble. The Eagles drove 44 yards in five plays without giving the ball to Barkley but on the sixth he ran four yards for a touchdown and a 14-3 lead.
The Commanders pulled within 14-12 midway through the second quarter but ultimately could not overcome their mistakes.
The loss ended a magical season for a franchise that after years of chaos under former owner Daniel Snyder thrived under new ownership, a new general manager and coach and, most notably, a star rookie quarterback in Jayden Daniels.
Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels is sacked by Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nolan Smith during the second half Sunday.
(Derik Hamilton / Associated Press)
Daniels, the former San Bernardino Cajon High star who played at Arizona State and Louisiana State, had led the Commanders to playoff victories over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the top-seeded Detroit Lions. The Heisman Trophy winner was aiming to become the first rookie quarterback to start a Super Bowl and lead the Commanders to their first Super Bowl title since the 1991-92 season.
Daniels asserted himself Sunday, completing 29 of 48 passes for 255 yards and a touchdown, with an interception. He rushed for 48 yards and a touchdown.
Daniels could not overcome his team’s three lost fumbles and the interception, all of which led to Eagles touchdowns.
The Eagles led 27-15 at halftime on Barkley’s first two touchdown runs, a touchdown sneak by Hurts, and a touchdown catch by receiver A.J. Brown.
How about our quarterback. He’s a stud,” Sirianni told Fox Sports’ Terry Bradshaw after the game. “I knew he was going to play that way. I knew it. Don’t doubt him. All he does is win.”
Midway through the third quarter, Hurts increased the lead with a nine-yard touchdown run, before Daniels answered with a 10-yard scoring run and a two-point conversion pass to pull the Commanders within 34-23.
The Commanders were driving again late in the third quarter, but Austin Ekeler fumbled after catching a pass. The Eagles converted it into another Hurts touchdown sneak and 41-23 lead early in the fourth quarter.
Barkley continued the rout with a short touchdown run with about eight minutes left.
Hurts completed 20 of 28 passes for 246 yards. Two years ago in the Super Bowl, Hurts rushed for three touchdowns and passed for another in a losing effort.
Now he gets another chance on the sport’s biggest stage.
This time he will have Barkley by his side.
“What a run it’s been but we gotta finish it,” Hurts told Bradshaw after the game.
After an expensive Christmas and New Year, January is time to tighten the purse strings and save some cash.
In fact, with sites like eBay and Vinted making it free to sell, alongside high-street retailers like CEX buying your old tech, you can actually make some money while saving cash.
Video game collecting is big business among retro gaming fans, with some games and consoles fetching thousands of pounds.
As you can see from the list below, this includes classic PlayStation 2 games, which can be worth a ton of money, especially if they’re in good condition and with manuals.
At the time of writing, CEX is willing to pay between £290 to £520 for copies of terrible shooting game Gun Club.
Horror game Kuon is worth upwards of £487, while action game Michigan: Report From Hell could net you £373.
Silent Hill: Shattered Memories could be worth £302 depending on the condition, while triple-pack Silent Hill Collection is worth £127 (which is annoying because I used to own that).
Elsewhere, you can make big bucks by selling the likes of Rule of Rose, Armored Core: Last Raven and Samurai Western.
If you used to collect shoot-em-ups, titles like Homura, Dragon Blaze and Gigawing Generations are worth a decent amount of money.
The prices below are correct at the time of writing, but are prone to fluctuate depending on supply and demand. Likewise, the amount you get depends on condition.
Ten most valuable PS2 games at CEX
1. Gun Clun (MINT) – £520 / Gun Club (Boxed with Manual) – £422 / Gun Clun (No Manual) – £290
2. Kuon (MINT) – £487 / Kuon (Boxed with Manual) – £380 / Kuon (No Manual) – £255
3. Michigan: Report From Hell (MINT) – £373 / Michigan: Report From Hell (Boxed with Manual) – £341 / Michigan Report from Hell (No Manual) – £261
4. Silent Hill: Shattered Memories (MINT) – £302
5. Rule of Rose (Mint UK packaging) – £202 / Rule of Rose (Mint European packaging) – £197
Electric vehicles (EVs) have increased in popularity in recent years, with motorists recognising the benefits of the zero tailpipe emissions technology.
With demand having cooled slightly in key markets in recent months, many car brands that have previously set ambitious plans to ditch petrol and diesel engines in the coming years have subsequently adjusted their plans.
Below is a list of every car brand sold in Australia and what their global plans are for EVs.
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Alfa Romeo
A part of automotive conglomerate Stellantis, Alfa Romeo had previously said it’d only launch EVs from 2025 and have an exclusively electric lineup from 2027.
However, last year Jean-Philippe Imparato, Alfa Romeo’s former CEO and now head of Stellantis Europe, told Auto Express that the new-generation Giulia may have petrol power, delaying its original plans to go EV-only.
Alpine
Renault’s performance off-shoot plans to launch seven new EVs from last year until 2030, departing from its recent roots of only having the petrol-powered A110 in its lineup.
Aston Martin
The luxury British marque has been one which has had to delay the launch of its first EV due to cooling demand, now debuting in 2026 at the earliest rather than its original 2025 timeframe.
It’s not announced plans to go electric-only, despite the looming 2035 bans on petrol and diesel vehicles in the key markets of Europe and the UK.
Audi
In 2021 Audi said it would stop production of internal combustion engine-powered vehicles at the end of 2032, leaving its lineup as only EVs from 2033 onwards except in China.
However, last year Autocar reported the brand will instead revise its approach, shifting to a hybrid-focused strategy as the transition from internal combustion to EVs is expected to take “longer than initially thought”.
Bentley
The Volkswagen-owned luxury brand is set to launch its first EV this year, but it’ll wait until 2035 – pushed back from 2033 – to only sell electric models globally.
As with other brands, the decision was made due to “today’s economic, market and legislative environment”. To accommodate this shift, Bentley plans on “extending the lifecycle of PHEV models beyond 2030”.
BMW
BMW was Australia’s fourth-best selling EV brand in 2024, thanks to its lineup of relatively affordable luxury EVs – but it’s yet to announce when it’ll go electric-only globally.
It’s also been one of a handful of brands investing in hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicles as an alternative to battery-electric vehicles.
BYD
As the world’s second-largest EV maker, you’d think BYD would commit to a solely electric future, but demands for other “new energy vehicles” in the Chinese market means it’s keeping its options open.
Last year about 40 per cent of BYD’s global deliveries were of EVs, while plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) accounted for a majority of the remaining figure, and enjoyed a far greater increase in sales.
The Chinese carmaker, as of 2022, only produces PHEVs and EVs.
Cadillac
US luxury icon Cadillac is in the minority of brands which are only selling EVs in Australia, however this approach hasn’t extended to its global operations.
While it’d previously announced plans to go EV-only by 2030, last year Cadillac’s marketing boss backtracked and said it would follow market demands.
Chery
As a big player in the budget market, Chery isn’t yet making commitments to stop selling its petrol and diesel models, even if its lineup includes EVs.
The brand is popular in markets like Latin America and Africa where EV uptake has been slower.
Chevrolet
Chevrolet, the brand famous for V8 engines, is understandably not rushing to make any plans to go electric, despite its growing lineup of EVs overseas.
It’s yet to launch any EVs in Australia, with its local model range exclusively featuring V8-powered vehicles.
Citroen
It may not be in Australian showrooms anymore, but Citroen is keen to go all-electric well ahead of many so-called ‘legacy’ brands.
By 2030 it won’t sell EVs in Europe, five years before it’s required to. Sadly we never saw any of its EVs in Australia after it pulled out of the market late in 2024.
Cupra
Volkswagen’s sporty Spanish brand is another early adopter of the EV-only approach, committing to do so by 2030, five years before European and UK regulations force its hand.
While the Born is its only EV in Australia, it’s expanding its lineup of battery-powered models globally.
But it has also confirmed it’ll enter the US market by the end of this decade, with CEO Wayne Griffiths telling Motor1 last December that these plans will now see it bring hybrid, plug-in hybrid and combustion-powered vehicles to American buyers as well as EVs.
That appears to leave the door open for combustion-powered Cupras into the 2030s.
Deepal
Deepal technically only sells EVs, however some can also use petrol as a partial power source.
Among its lineup of EVs are a handful of extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs), which use petrol engines to charge the on-board battery.
It’s yet to announce plans to stop selling EREVs and only produce EVs.
Ferrari
The Prancing Horse’s first EV is due to be revealed this year and go on sale in 2026, but don’t expect the brand synonymous with sonorous V12s to only lean on battery-powered models.
More EVs will come, though we can expect Ferrari will be pushing to keep engines alive for as long as legally possible.
Fiat
Fiat has started to go to an electric lineup, most notably with the 500e – however low demand has led to recent production pauses, as well as the development of a mild-hybrid petrol-powered version of the new-generation city car.
Overall the brand plans to ditch engines from its global lineup by 2030, provided it can muster enough demand to keep this financially viable.
Ford
Changing market demands has forced many brands to backtrack on EV plans, and Ford is arguably one of the most popular to do so.
It initially said it would go EV-only across its European passenger vehicle lineup by 2030 before winding this back last year.
Ford has made no plans to only sell EVs in any other market.
Genesis
As Hyundai’s luxury brand, Genesis initially said it’d only release EVs from 2025 before going electric and hydrogen only by 2030.
However, hybrids are now included in those 2025 and on launch plans, while it’s understood the 2030 deadline has also been scrapped.
GWM
China’s GWM is yet to detail its global EV strategy.
Honda
With Japan’s marques traditionally pushing back on going exclusively electric, Honda is no different, having planned to only sell EVs alongside hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles by 2040.
Its next-generation EVs – known as the 0 Series models – will launch from 2026.
Hyundai
Hyundai is yet another brand unwilling to commit to solely EVs by any specific time, only announcing last year that it’ll launch 21 exclusively electric models by 2030.
Ineos
Currently reliant on BMW for powertrains, Ineos is carrying on with engines until the electric Fusulier joins its range.
Initially due to launch in 2027, it was put on ice last year due to “reluctant consumer uptake of EVs, and industry uncertainty around tariffs, timings and taxation”, Ineos said in July.
Isuzu
Isuzu Ute is yet to launch an EV, and will do so this year with the D-Max EV – first in Norway, with Australian deliveries to follow at a yet-to-be-announced date.
It’s not announced any plans to only sell EVs due to all of its current models being powered by turbo-diesel engines.
JAC
Currently JAC only has a small handful of EVs globally, and its commercial vehicle focus means it’s yet to commit to an electric-only future.
Jaguar
If you haven’t heard about Jaguar’s future plans, you should be congratulated on not looking at the internet.
Jaguar is set to relaunch in 2026 as a more upmarket, EV-only brand. It has been winding down production of all of its models in the meantime, including the I-Pace which was its only EV.
Jeep
Jeep is one of the many US brands that’s willing to follow its country’s lack of an EV mandate, with no commitment to completely ditch petrol and diesel engines.
However, it has already launched the electric Avenger in markets like Europe and Australia, with the Wagoneer S reaching dealers in the US and the Recon off-roader set to follow soon.
KGM SsangYong
The brand formerly known as SsangYong is only now about to roll out its first EV in Australia, and has made no announcement to move to an electric-only lineup globally.
Kia
While Kia is ramping up its rollout of EV offerings, the Korean brand isn’t yet committing to an exclusively electric lineup.
Lamborghini
Demand for EVs (or at least the cooling of it) led Lamborghini to delay its first electric model’s launch to 2029.
It’s been one of the Italian brands pushing for exemptions to the European ban on combustion-powered vehicle sales that’ll come into effect in 2035.
Land Rover
The first electric Land Rover, which will be a Range Rover, is due this year, opening the floodgates to more models in the future.
Despite the bold plans of its Jaguar stablemate, it’s not yet committing to an electric-only future lineup.
LDV
After first launching its e-T60 EV in Australia in 2022, LDV is set to bring another electric ute to local showrooms this year.
However, it’s not yet committing to moving away from petrol and diesel engines globally.
Leapmotor
Like Deepal, Leapmotor’s global model lineup consists of EVs and EREVs, and it’s not committing to ditching the latter technology just yet.
Lexus
Unlike its parent company Toyota, Lexus has laid out a roadmap towards an electric-only future, which it hopes to achieve by 2035.
The US market, long one of its most popular, will go without petrol and diesel models by 2030.
Lotus
Despite long standing behind its plans to be an EV brand by 2028, Lotus is now opening the door to hybrids for its future model lineup.
Mahindra
Indian brand Mahindra is launching its Origin series EVs shortly, crucial to its plans of reaching between 20 and 30 per cent electric sales by 2027.
Maserati
From this year Maserati will only launch electric models, and its entire global lineup will consist of EVs by 2028, a whole seven years before the European and UK regulations come into effect.
Mazda
It’s been a tough start to Mazda’s EV campaign, having axed the MX-30 from Australia due to low sales.
Though it plans to launch seven or eight EVs globally by 2030 – leaning on Toyota for assistance – it’s not yet planning to only sell electric cars.
McLaren
While its supercar rivals are soon launching EVs, it’s expected McLaren’s first won’t come until 2030 at the earliest – and it could be an SUV.
Mercedes-Benz
In 2021, Mercedes-Benz said EVs would account for half of its sales by 2025, however last year it pushed back this target to 2030, and included plug-in hybrids in the total.
The brand had previously announced its intention to go fully electric by 2030, but only in markets which supported the move, without announcing specific regions where it planned to phase out petrol and diesel cars.
MG
Reports from the UK in 2022 suggested MG would only have electric models in its lineup by 2027, though it wasn’t made clear whether this related solely to that market or globally.
Given the recent launch of a handful of petrol and hybrid models, it’s unlikely MG will move to only EVs before the end of the decade.
Mini
By 2030, BMW-owned small car specialist Mini will only have EVs rolling off its global production lines.
Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi is another in the line of Japanese brands holding out on an EV-exclusive future.
However, in 2023 it said hybrids, plug-in hybrids and EVs would account for 50 per cent of its sales by 2030, and its full lineup by 2035.
Nissan
Globally the Nissan brand isn’t committing to going electric, however in Europe it’ll ditch engines by 2030.
Peugeot
Every new Peugeot launched from 2023 onwards has been and will be electrified, which includes hybrids and plug-in hybrids.
It announced in 2030 it would be an EV-only brand in Europe by 2030.
Polestar
After first launching as a break-away from Volvo with the plug-in hybrid Polestar 1, the Chinese-Swedish brand is now only selling EVs both in Australia and overseas.
Porsche
One of the world’s most recognisable brands, Porsche isn’t willing to trade away its petrol-powered heritage just yet, even if about 80 per cent of its sales will be EVs by 2030.
It’s also been at the forefront of sustainable fuel development, hoping to keep engines alive.
Ram
Ram isn’t launching its first EV, the 1500 REV, in the US until next year, and the pickup specialist isn’t yet announcing plans to ditch engines for batteries.
Renault
Despite planning to go electric-only in Europe by 2030, Renault has been pushing back against the region’s 2035 engine ban.
Rolls-Royce
There’s arguably no better fit for a silent electric motor in the whisper-quiet luxury vehicles of Rolls-Royce, and the BMW-owned marque has said it’ll only sell EVs by 2030.
Skoda
Skoda planned to launch seven EVs globally by 2027, but this doesn’t mean it’ll exclusively embrace electric technology.
It is one of many brands without a commitment to stop selling petrol and diesel engines, with its lineup likely to be shaped by regulations.
Smart
Reinvented as an EV brand in 2019, the Mercedes-Benz and Geely joint venture Smart only this week announcing the new #5 will be available as a plug-in hybrid, abandoning its electric plans.
Subaru
Subaru will also lean on Toyota for its future EVs, with three new models due by 2026.
It’s targeted EVs to account for half of its projected 1.2 million sales in 2030, even though it only sold about 14,000 examples of its Solterra electric SUV in 2023 – approximately six per cent of its total global sales.
It hasn’t made any pledge to go EV-only.
Suzuki
The Japanese light car specialist is slowly introducing more EVs globally, however it’s far from leaving petrol engines behind.
Tesla
The world’s largest seller of EVs is solely dedicated to the technology, and is not expected to ever deviate from its roots.
Toyota
In 2024 Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda declared: “To all those who have made engines up until now, let’s continue to make engines,” responding to criticism of his brand’s delayed EV rollout.
While Toyota plans to launch 30 EVs by 2030 – by which point it wants to be selling at least 3.5 million EVs globally each year – it wants to keep hybrids in its lineup. It has also invested heavily in hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicles.
Volkswagen
In the wake of the Dieselgate saga, Volkswagen committed to an electric model range in Europe by 2033, however it recently pushed this timeline back to 2035.
Increasing pressure has been put on the brand by its own workforce, following speculation about potential job cuts in the near future.
Volvo
In March 2021, Volvo announced bold plans to only sell EVs globally by 2030, five years ahead of Europe’s looming ban on new petrol and diesel-powered vehicles in 2035.
However, cooling demand for EVs led Volvo to walk back its plans in September 2024, now targeting 90 to 100 per cent electrified vehicle sales by 2030 – with the new target including plug-in hybrids (PHEVs).
Volvo Car Australia announced in 2022 its plans to switch to an electric-only lineup by 2026, four years ahead of its global parent. It hasn’t changed its course despite the global announcement.
Xpeng
Xpeng only sells EVs globally and has exclusively done so since being founded.
Zeekr
Geely-owned Zeekr was established as a “premium” EV brand in 2021, only selling electric models globally. However, it recently confirmed it would introduce hybrid-powered large SUVs and people movers later in 2025.
The previous full Budget had provided some relief to salaried taxpayers opting for the simplified tax regime
Income Tax Budget 2025
Union Budget 2025 is scheduled to be presented before the Parliament on 1 February 2025. The previous full Budget, presented six months before in July 2024, had provided some relief to salaried taxpayers opting for the simplified tax regime, by way of increased standard deduction from INR 50,000 to INR 75,000 and through rejigged tax slabs. This year’s Budget announcements are expected to carry forward the momentum towards boosting the disposable income of taxpayers and easing compliance.
The Finance Minister had laid the foundation for a comprehensive review of the Income-tax Act in the July 2024 Budget to make the legislation concise, lucid, and easy to understand. A committee formed by CBDT to oversee this review has already garnered over 6,500 suggestions. With this feedback under review, the upcoming Budget presents an opportunity to witness changes aimed at simplifying the tax law and in easing tax compliance. The following are some of Budget 2025’s expectations in the personal tax space.
Easing TDS Compliance on NRI Real Estate Transactions
TDS compliance on purchasing property from non-residents has long been an intricate process for Indian taxpayers. Under current provisions, a buyer must withhold tax at an ‘applicable rate’ when the seller is a non-resident. This further necessitates obtaining a Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN) and filing e-TDS returns. While obtaining a TAN is a one-time requirement, it often results in the TAN later becoming inactive as property transactions with a non-resident seller(s) are quite infrequent. Taxpayers hope for a system akin to the streamlined challan-cum-return process, which is available for resident sellers, allowing them to complete TDS compliance without unnecessary administrative hurdles.
Easing Non-Resident Tax Compliances
There is a sizeable population of individual taxpayers who qualify as non-resident (NR) in India. These NRs may earn some income in India due to their employment with an Indian company or may be due to passive income sources in India which may trigger a requirement for filing a tax return in India.
Being NRs, such individuals are required to file their tax return in Form ITR-2 even for cases where no relief is being claimed under a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement. In case any tax payment is required to be made before filing the tax return, it can be done through anyone of the options available on the tax department’s website.
However, all payment methods are limited to the Indian banking ecosystem which makes the tax payment process more challenging for NRs. Allowing NR taxpayers to use the simplified ITR 1 Form where no double taxation relief are being claimed in their tax returns, will imply a considerable step towards simplifying their compliances. Further, introducing a mechanism for payment of income tax directly from overseas bank accounts will simplify the tax compliance process for such NRs.
Similar challenges are being faced by NRs who have a tax refund due in their tax returns. Such individuals need to maintain a bank account in India just for collecting the refund. Their challenges can be eased by establishing a process for remittance of tax refunds outside India.
Timelines for Filing Revised/ Belated Returns
The timeline for filing is another area that needs change. To file revised or belated returns, the current timeline is 31 December following the end of the financial year; for taxpayers claiming double taxation relief, especially credit of taxes paid in foreign jurisdictions, the aforementioned due date provides a very limited window for accurately ascertaining the foreign tax credit. This is especially true when the foreign tax credit is to be claimed in respect of a country which follows calendar year compliances and 31 December coincides with their fiscal year end. Extending the deadline to March 31 would provide ample time to taxpayers to claim accurate FTCs without resorting to estimates.
Vivad se Samadhan
Another significant challenge which currently burdens both the taxpayers and the administrators, is the pendency of tax disputes – especially at the first appellate level before the Commissioner of Income Tax (Appeals). While introduction of Vivad Se Vishwas Scheme and faceless appeal process have provided some relief, taxpayers still face delays, often exceeding six years. A more robust appeal disposal process including an automated appeal effect and refund issuance for resolved cases, could alleviate these hardships by closing long-standing disputes.
The Union Budget 2025 holds immense potential to redefine the personal taxation landscape. By addressing long-standing challenges such as TDS compliance, overseas tax payments, and refunds, and resolving the appeal pendency, the government can provide taxpayers with a fair and efficient tax system. As taxpayers and stakeholders eagerly await the announcement, the hope is that this Budget will not only simplify the compliance of individual taxpayers but also empower them to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economic growth. Whether these aspirations are realized or not will soon unfold, but the dialogue and anticipation reflect a collective vision for a fairer, more inclusive tax regime.
Written By: Tarun Garg is a Director with Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP and Aditya Soni, Manager, Deloitte Haskins and Sells LLP and Nitish Kohli, Associate Director, Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP have also contributed to this article.
Disclaimer:The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not represent the stand of this publication.
News business » tax Union Budget 2025: Impact Of Upcoming Budget On Taxpayers And Personal Taxation Landscape
Over 29 million XRP, worth over $92 million, has been moved to the major crypto exchange Coinbase, sparking interest in the crypto community. Whale Alert tracked the transfer, which involved 29,532,534 XRP from an unknown wallet to Coinbase. Although large transfers like this often signal the intention to sell, the true reason remains unclear. The transfer could be aimed at boosting liquidity for Coinbase, especially during periods of increased trading demand. Another possibility is that it’s simply a reshuffling of funds for diversification. While the exact reason remains a mystery, the significant move highlights the growing activity in the XRP market.
At Larsen & Toubro’s Tunnelling Excellence Academy (TEA) in Kancheepuram, Sekar (name changed), wearing goggles and a helmet, keenly observes his instructor describing the working of the massive tunnel boring machines (TBMs) used to drill underground metro rail corridors. He and the other trainees at the academy will soon join the large workforce involved in laying underground metro lines around the country.
India’s rapid development of metro rail systems has led to the creation of a nearly 1,000 km network across 25 cities. L&T is one of the main companies executing metro projects in India. To remedy the dearth of skilled people, the company is creating its own trained pool of human resources.
It has deployed 21 TBMs in places such as Chennai and Hyderabad to execute several metro, railway, road, and water infrastructure projects.
In-house talent
The company’s maiden metro tunnelling project dates back to 1999 — an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract for Delhi Metro. However, that section of the network was mostly elevated, and the scope of work changed when underground metro projects were launched in Chennai, Mumbai and Bengaluru.
In the absence of in-house talent, the tunnelling staff were mostly hired from outside the company. That’s when the need for the academy was felt, as the company targeted becoming a major player in the tunnelling business.
Established in 2018, the TEA is the country’s first dedicated training centre for tunnelling and underground construction. It offers a mix of classroom-based learning and hands-on training, covering all aspects of tunnelling — from designing and construction to operating TBMs, says K Senthilnathan, Executive Vice President and Head-Technical Services, Heavy Civil Infrastructure, L&T Construction.
“We have so far trained over 1,000 people at various levels, including frontline supervisors and engineers. It is only for internal use. However, the market is very dynamic and some of the people who were trained here have left. Meanwhile, we have to sustain our business and we continue training more people,” he says.
TEA also has a tie-up with Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology, Nagpur, which has a department specialising in rock mechanics.
Trainees attend a two-week theoretical session there. In the case of middle managers, after 45 days of training at various sites, they receive practical training at TEA. Those at the junior or primary level receive training at TEA before being assigned to various sites, he says.
The minimum qualification for a tunnelling workman is 12th pass; the engineers involved in this work typically have a background in rock mechanics or geotechnical studies.
Skill Pool
The academy’s director, Puny Praya Boni, says tunnelling in India is a relatively new field of work. L&T is contributing to the growth in the number of skilled engineers and workmen to help realise the dream of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, he adds.
The TEA aims to function as a global centre of excellence for academic research in tunnelling and related underground construction technologies, Senthilnathan says. Those trained at the academy are currently deployed at various sites in India and overseas. Refresher courses are also on offer, he says.
Tunnelling is a complicated line of work, as it involves working underground with little knowledge of what to expect in the terrain. The technicians are often called upon to take split-second decisions. Any emergencies also require the personnel to act fast, with no time to reach out to superiors above the ground for instructions.
Given the intensive nature of the work, tunnelling projects call for workers with a passion for the job, says Boni.
With extreme weather events increasing in recent years, homeowners insurance companies have raised premiums or stopped offering coverage completely. Many of the policyholders hit with nonrenewal or cancellation notices are the ones most in need of insurance coverage.
Just six months before the devastating wildfires ripped through Southern California, State Farm canceled 1,600 policies in the Pacific Palisades community of Los Angeles.
If you live somewhere with a high risk of certain disasters, you might not be covered for very costly scenarios. That includes Californians in wildfire-prone areas, Floridians in hurricane paths and Texans in areas with a high probability of wind and hail damage.
As the nationwide insurance crisis gains more public attention, some temporary measures have been taken. For example, the California Department of Insurance issued a one-year moratorium on nonrenewals and cancellations for properties located near the recent wildfire destruction.
Here’s more on what you can do if you’ve been denied insurance on your home.
Read more: Fires, Floods, Hurricanes and Tornadoes: Do You Need More Home Insurance for Natural Disasters?
What homeowners insurance covers
Insurance won’t cover everything. Flood damage, for example, is not part of most standard homeowners insurance policies. Neither is damage from earthquakes, mudslides, mold or pest infestations. If you have failed to maintain the property in good condition, your company can determine it’s not responsible for certain damage.
Though policies vary, standard homeowners insurance typically covers these areas:
Dwelling protection: This portion protects the actual structure of the home. If a tree falls on the roof, for example, or a vandal breaks your glass door, you can submit a claim to have your insurance company help pay for the repairs after you meet your deductible.
Personal property protection: This portion helps cover costs related to the actual belongings in the home. If the vandal who broke the glass door comes in and steals your living room furniture, personal property protection could help you buy new furniture. It’s important to note that this may not cover everything in your home. For example, if your $2 million wedding ring is stolen, this may well exceed your limits, which is why a lot of homeowners opt for additional coverage for especially valuable items.
Liability protection: This portion applies to the potential costs of an injury on your property. If someone comes to your house, falls down the stairs and winds up in the hospital, you could be liable for the damages. This coverage can help pay for those medical bills and other related costs for the victim.
Read more: Insurance Premiums Spike as Natural Disasters Strike. What Homeowners Can Do
Why you might be denied homeowners insurance
While there are a variety of reasons you might get rejected for coverage, generally when insurance companies determine a high likelihood of risk, they’ll incur more costs, and you’ll have a tough time getting approved.
Here are a few of the most common reasons homeowners are denied or dropped from coverage.
A history of claims
The most common reason policyholders are dropped from coverage is that they have lost their provider’s money. Policygenius research shows that 36% of those who lost their insurance already filed a claim or multiple claims.
High risk of natural disasters
With climate-related disasters on the rise, an increasing number of property owners living in high-risk areas have faced a nonrenewal or outright cancellation of their homeowners insurance coverage.
Some companies are pressing pause on issuing new policies, while other companies are exiting the market altogether: Around 30 insurance companies left Florida after the devastation of Hurricane Ian in 2022.
Age or condition of the home
Insurance companies also evaluate a home’s age and condition. An old home lacking updated plumbing or electrical wiring, for instance, might not qualify for a standard policy. According to Policygenius, 33% of homeowners who have been dropped from their insurance coverage failed a home inspection and didn’t make the necessary improvements.
Companies might also be wary of features that could pose potential hazards, such as nonfenced-in swimming pools, wood-burning stoves or an open pit or well in the yard. It might also be tough to qualify if you’re living in an unconventional home, such as a tiny house or yurt.
Read more: 8 Steps for Homeowners When You’re Home Is Destroyed or Damaged by a Wildfire
What to do if you’re rejected for insurance coverage
If you’re rejected for homeowners insurance, here are some steps you can take.
Find out why
Ask the company to explain the reason behind the rejection. A company is legally required to share why they denied coverage to an applicant, according to Loretta Worters, vice president of media relations at the Insurance Information Institute. “This is typically done through an adverse action notice, which outlines the specific factors that led to the denial.”
If the reason is based on something within your control, try to find a solution and apply again. For instance, you could update old wiring, install security devices or weatherproof your home to mitigate the risk of damage.
Ask for recommendations
Talk to your neighbors to find out what insurance company they use. Locals in your area might recommend a different insurance provider.
Shop around
Every insurance company sets its own rates and requirements, so research multiple options to find one that’s willing to work with you. Your state’s insurance department should provide a list of companies that offer insurance in your area.
Explore alternative policies
If you can’t qualify for a standard insurance plan, you’re not out of options. Here are some alternatives.
State-sponsored options: Dozens of states and the District of Columbia have residual markets to offer coverage for risks that private insurers are not willing to cover. In some areas, these plans are known as FAIR, or Fair Access to Insurance Requirements, but they may go by other names. According to Worters, these plans are typically reserved for those who have been repeatedly denied by private insurance companies due to their property’s location in a high-risk area.
To qualify for state-sponsored coverage, homeowners should be prepared for an inspection to evaluate “the home’s structural soundness, potential fire hazards, security measures and overall maintenance,” Worters said. Inspectors will want to see evidence that you’ve taken preventative measures, such as creating a defensible space free of brush around the perimeter of the home and maintaining debris-free gutters. For more information on your state’s plan, check out the III’s comprehensive list of resources.
HO-8 insurance: Houses that are at least 40 years old may qualify for an HO-8 policy, which is a type of modified plan that covers specific issues, such as fire or vandalism.
Surplus lines policy: You may qualify for a policy from a surplus lines insurance company, though the coverage is usually limited, and you’ll likely have to pay a high deductible. These companies also don’t have to be licensed by the state where you live, which comes with significant drawbacks. You could be more limited in pursuing legal action against them, and if they go bankrupt, you could struggle to get your claim covered.
How to dispute an insurance denial
Even if you have a homeowners insurance policy in place, you might encounter roadblocks when you try to use it. Providers may deny your claim due to lack of coverage, insufficient documentation or another reason.
Look at the notice with the reason for your denial. If you disagree with the decision, you can take these steps to dispute it:
Review your policy: Carefully study your policy to see what it covers. Find out if any exclusions apply to your specific claim. If not, you may go on to dispute the decision.
File an appeal: Call your insurance provider and ask for a review of your claim. See if there’s any additional documentation or information you can provide to clarify the request. This might include photos, videos or a home inventory with receipts. The insurance company may send out someone to visit your home again and reassess the claim.
Hire an insurance professional or attorney: Seek out a professional or hire an attorney to help you navigate the process. A public claims adjuster could also review your claim and provide their opinion. However, these avenues could be expensive, and there’s no guarantee your claim will be approved.
File a complaint: If your insurance provider is treating you unfairly, you could file a complaint with your state’s insurance department. The department might connect you with additional resources that could help.
If you’ve been denied insurance coverage for your most valuable asset, shop around to find an alternative option. Even if you can’t qualify for a standard homeowners insurance plan, you may be able to get a state-sponsored plan or modified policy that offers some coverage in the event of an emergency.
You need more than a roof over your head. You also need financial peace of mind that the roof is protected in case anything goes wrong.
Correction, Jan. 26: Allstate announced its pause on new condo and homeowners insurance policies in California in 2022. State Farm made significant changes to its insurance policies in California in 2023 and 2024.
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People who have had COVID-19 are more likely to develop chronic fatigue syndrome, officially known as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).
That’s according to a study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine earlier this month, which found that 4.5% of people infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID, developed chronic fatigue.
In comparison, only 0.6% of study participants who did not have COVID developed the second condition.
ALWAYS FEELING TIRED? EXPERTS SHARE 4 COMMON CAUSES OF DAYTIME FATIGUE
The researchers determined that cases of ME/CFS were 15 times higher than pre-pandemic levels.
People who have had COVID-19 are more likely to develop chronic fatigue syndrome, officially known as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).(iStock)
“As a researcher dedicated to understanding how viral infections lead to chronic illness, I suspected from the beginning of the pandemic that SARS-CoV2 could trigger ME/CFS, so these results are not surprising,” said lead study author Suzanne D. Vernon, PhD, from the Bateman Horne Center in Salt Lake City.
TRUMP’S DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME PLAN AND SLEEP: WHAT YOU MUST KNOW
The study was part of the National Institute of Health’s RECOVER (Researching COVID to Enhance Recovery) program, which aims to better understand, prevent and treat long COVID, according to an NIH press release.
The study included 11,785 participants. At least six months after they were infected with COVID, researchers assessed whether they had developed chronic fatigue. They then compared those results to 1,439 people who did not have COVID.
The researchers determined that cases of ME/CFS were 15 times higher than pre-pandemic levels.(iStock)
“There are no specific tests or biomarkers, so ME/CFS is diagnosed when someone has a constellation of specific symptoms,” Vernon told Fox News Digital.
“This study asked participants questions to determine what symptoms they were experiencing, which can be viewed as a limitation but is currently the approach used to diagnose ME/CFS.”
“It’s well-known that chronic fatigue syndrome can occur in the setting of viral infections.”
Dr. Kenneth J. Perry, a physician based in South Carolina, wasn’t surprised by the incidence of chronic fatigue after a SARS-CoV-2 infection.
“It’s well-known that chronic fatigue syndrome can occur in the setting of viral infections,” Perry, who was not involved in the research, told Fox News Digital.
“Given the fact that SARS-CoV-2 was a novel virus at the time of the pandemic, the incidence and prevalence of such post-infection syndromes was difficult to predict.”
“It’s well-known that chronic fatigue syndrome can occur in the setting of viral infections,” a physician told Fox News Digital.(iStock)
The study does have some limitations when attempting to compare between different viruses, the doctor noted.
“Patients were required to self-report their symptoms,” he said. “This makes the ability to compare symptoms across viruses difficult, as the spotlight on COVID will increase the possibility of selection bias.”
DEEP SLEEP CAN KEEP TWO BIG HEALTH PROBLEMS AT BAY, NEW STUDIES SUGGEST
It’s difficult to specifically determine how chronic fatigue happens in the setting of a viral infection, according to Perry.
“More studies would have to be done to determine the actual underlying pathophysiology of the disease,” he said. “Given that lack of complete understanding, it is difficult to determine how to adequately prevent the syndrome.”
What to know about chronic fatigue
ME/CFS is a “complex, serious and chronic condition that often occurs following an infection,” the NIH wrote.
The condition is marked by “new-onset fatigue” that lasts for at least six months and impairs the person’s ability to engage in ordinary activities.
“There are both physical and psychological components to the syndrome.”
Another symptom is “post-exertional malaise,” in which the person feels extreme fatigue after physical or mental activity, the study stated.
People with ME/CFS may also experience “unrefreshing sleep,” as well as cognitive impairment or dizziness when standing.
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Many of these symptoms are also associated with long COVID, the researchers wrote.
“Chronic fatigue syndrome can be very problematic for patients,” Perry told Fox News Digital. “There are both physical and psychological components of the syndrome.”
“Having a relationship with a physician who knows your baseline activity level is going to ensure an appropriate evaluation and intervention if there are any changes,” a doctor advised.(iStock)
Perry reiterated that patients can experience direct fatigue and a decreased ability to do normal activities — and this can also lead to anxiety and depression due to these changes.
“It is very difficult to adequately understand the difference between chronic fatigue syndrome and … underlying psychiatric/psychological health changes,” he said. “This makes it a very difficult disease to explain for patients.”
‘Urgent call to action’
Those experiencing symptoms of chronic fatigue should contact their primary care doctor, Perry advised.
“Having a relationship with a physician who knows your baseline activity level is going to ensure an appropriate evaluation and intervention if there are any changes,” he said.
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“For example, a triathlete who can no longer even stay awake through the entirety of a workday would absolutely be concerning to a physician who knows that patient well. This relationship would also allow for appropriate medications and therapies to be initiated earlier in the process.”
“The dramatic increase in ME/CFS cases post-COVID-19 means that providers will encounter this condition far more frequently,” the researcher said.(iStock)
This research underscores an “urgent call to action,” Vernon said — “especially to healthcare providers.”
“The dramatic increase in ME/CFS cases post-COVID-19 means that providers will encounter this condition far more frequently,” she predicted.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
The researcher called for early recognition and proper management of ME/CFS, which she said can be “life-changing” for patients.
“We hope this study helps everyone understand that ME/CFS is a real and diagnosable condition that demands attention, especially in the wake of a global pandemic.”
Tech entrepreneur Bryan Johnson takes a dig at fast-food restaurant company McDonald’s in his latest Instagram video. In the viral clip, Bryan can be seen with the brand’s chicken nuggets and French fries, calling the food “rubber” like and “dripping with oil”. Johnson briefly explains the addictive nature of the food, not blaming consumers who are addicted to these foods. In the video, Johnson says, “McDonald’s who makes 24 billion dollars a year, they know they can own us with their addictive foods.”
Explaining the science of the food, he adds, “The thing here that sucks is that our willpower is outmatched by the science and the addictive nature of this food – perfectly constructed to appeal to our worst instincts and our most addictive behaviours.”
He concluded, “I don’t fault any one of you. I don’t fault society. It is very very hard to navigate the modern world. I’m definitely not loving it.”
The video received mixed reactions in the comments section. Some McDonald’s fans were left unimpressed:
“Sorry, but McDonald’s is life. It’s a feeling, it’s a vibe. Maybe not every day but it’s fine to have every once in a while,” an Instagram user wrote.
Another said, “Some of the best athletes in the world eat McDonalds’ and perform in the top 1% of their peers.”
Others appreciated Bryan for his content:
One wrote, “Keep educating the world, Bryan. Respect.”
Another said, “Can’t believe I consumed this my entire childhood. Wish I had you as a parent, glad I came across your profile, life changer.”
A third one added, “Proud to say I haven’t eaten McDonald’s in like 5 years.”
What do you think of this video? Share with us in the comments section.
About Jigyasa KakwaniJigyasa finds her solace through writing, a medium she is exploring to make the world more informed and curious with every story published. She is always up for exploring new cuisines, but her heart comes back to the comforting ghar-ka-khana.
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-01-25/President-Xi-extends-Spring-Festival-greetings-to-all-servicemen-1As4pTMZ7Us/img/a80ba660186642229d5ddb7002d1a9d7/a80ba660186642229d5ddb7002d1a9d7.png' alt='Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, poses for photos with service personnel of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Northern Theater Command, January 24, 2025. /Xinhua'
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday inspected the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Northern Theater Command ahead of the Spring Festival.
President Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), extended festive greetings to service personnel of the PLA and the People’s Armed Police Force, civilian personnel posted in the military, and members of militia and reserve forces, on behalf of the CPC Central Committee and the CMC.
The Spring Festival, the Chinese Lunar New Year, falls on January 29 this year.
On Friday morning, Xi met with officers and soldiers of the PLA Northern Theater Command. He then spoke to representatives of troops across the military via video link.
Officers and soldiers of the troops briefed Xi in turn on their combat readiness duties and mission execution status. Xi fully acknowledged their work.
Xi said troops should bolster the enforcement of their combat readiness duties so as to effectively respond to any emergencies and safeguard national security and social stability during the holidays.
As part of the regulatory action, memantine/donepezil extended-release capsules have been granted a 180-day exclusivity in patients with Alzheimer disease, with Everolimus receiving approval for tuberous sclerosis complex.
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.
ORGANIZACIJA kuhinje, pogotovo kada su začini u pitanju, zna biti pravi izazov. Često se na policama nakupe razne bočice, kutije i pakiranja pa kuhanje postane puno kompliciranije nego što bi trebalo biti. No, na Temuu smo pronašli vrlo jednostavno i korisno rješenje – rotirajući stalak za začine.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Ovaj stalak dolazi s 18 staklenki za začine i rotira se za 360°, što znači da do svakog začina možete doći odmah, bez pomicanja drugih bočica.
Recenzije korisnika
Korisnici su izuzetno zadovoljni s ovim stalkom. Mnogi ističu kako je zaista praktičan i koristan dodatak njihovoj kuhinji. Jedan korisnik kaže: “Preporučujem ovo jer je korisno i praktično.” Drugi dodaje: “Ovo je najbolja stvar koju sam kupio. Čekam da stignu naljepnice i bit ću potpuno zadovoljan.” Uz to, stalak se lako sastavlja pa ne morate gubiti puno vremena na instalaciju.
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Sitting in the back of a cab headed down from my foothills home to LAX early on the morning of Jan. 26, 2020, I remember shivering at a fog so thick I couldn’t see out the car window.
I wondered, how will the cabbie drive through this? As the mist continued to surround the car all the way down the 110, I thought, this is no ordinary fog.
Seven hours and a cross-country trip later, I was sprawled on the bed in my Miami hotel room, exhausted from the dawn journey, embracing a nap such that I ignored my suddenly snarling smartphone. It buzzed, and it buzzed, and it buzzed, and finally, after a dozen missed calls, I finally sighed and picked it up.
It was Times assistant sports editor Athan Atsales. His usually calm voice was rising with each syllable.
“Bill, I have some really bad news to tell you,” he said, followed by two words that are still haunting today.
“Kobe died.”
I cried out in disbelief, threw down the phone, lay frozen for several minutes, then rolled off the bed, turned on my computer and began mourning the only way I knew how.
I began to write.
Kobe Bryant is gone.
I’m screaming right now, cursing into the sky, crying into my keyboard, and I don’t care who knows it.
Five years ago, that was the tortured lede of the column that was published in the immediate wake of Bryant’s death. That is all I’m reprinting here. I can’t bring myself to read the rest of the column. It still doesn’t seem real, and revisiting my overwrought words would make it real, and part of me still is not ready for that.
That is my story. You have yours. So many of you remember exactly where you were on that Sunday afternoon when you heard that Bryant, 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven others were killed in a fog-shrouded Calabasas helicopter crash.
At a party. At a church. On your couch. Somewhere, everywhere, seemingly all of Los Angeles remembers where. For an endless afternoon, our eyes watered and our hearts pounded and our world stood still.
You heard. You gathered. You wept. You honored. With flowers and signs and jerseys and love sprinkled across street corners from Thousand Oaks to Newport Beach, you turned the region into the world’s largest funeral parlor, millions publicly mourning the loss of Los Angeles’ most popular athlete in the 41-year-old prime of his life.
It was impossible to digest then. Five years later, it is even harder to understand.
Xavier Davenport pays his respects to Kobe Bryant at a makeshift memorial for the Lakers star at L.A. Live in downtown Los Angeles on Jan. 29, 2020.
(Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times)
So how about, we don’t even try? Instead of reliving the awful events that have been endlessly recounted during the last half-decade, let’s make this a different sort of five-year anniversary column.
Instead of recounting Kobe Bryant’s death, let’s focus on what could have been the rest of his life.
What if Kobe Bryant had lived? What if he had blinked at the potential bad weather and never boarded that helicopter? What if Kobe Bryant were now a 46-year-old businessman and filmmaker and author and philanthropist living in Newport and wielding influence all over Los Angeles, what would that look like?
It’s obviously impossible to tell but, knowing his Mamba mentality and having closely covered him, I can safely guess he would have transformed what has become a dreadfully mundane local basketball scene into something spectacular again.
In losing our North Star, we not only lost a memorable past, but also a brilliant future.
Here’s what might have been.
Lakers star Kobe Bryant receives a standing ovation as he is introduced before a game against the Utah Jazz in Salt Lake Cityon March 28, 2016.
(Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)
The Lakers would have been perennial championship contenders.
Bryant would have evolved into an influential adviser to Lakers owner Jeanie Buss and, while he never would have supplanted his close friend, Rob Pelinka, he constantly would have been in Pelinka’s ear.
“Don’t break up the 2020 championship team! Don’t trade winning pieces for Russell Westbrook! Find more guys like Robert Horry and Rick Fox! Find people who don’t create a new culture, but add to the existing one!”
In other words, if Kobe Bryant were still here, Klutch Sports Group no longer would run the Lakers.
Ty Lue would be the Lakers coach.
JJ Redick is doing an admirable job, he’s vastly outperformed the predictions of critics like this one and he could be the Lakers’ coach for a long time.
But Bryant loved Lue, considered him one of the finest minds in the game and would have made it his personal mission to steal him from Steve Ballmer long before Redick was available.
And, oh yeah, Lue would have brought Brian Shaw with him, and Derek Fisher would have somehow found a seat on that same bench.
LeBron James finally would have been embraced by Lakers fans as one of their own.
Lakers star LeBron James points to the sky during the national anthem before a game against the Boston Celtics on Jan. 23.
(Wally Skali j/ Los Angeles Times)
Bryant would have made this happen.
In our last interview nine days before his death, Bryant asked me to help make it happen, saying, “When LeBron came to Los Angeles, he is now a Laker. He is part of our brotherhood, part of our fraternity, and we should embrace him that way.”
If Kobe were alive, James would have spent the final years of his career marching arm in arm with him into the sunset, Bryant commenting on each of James’ milestones, Bryant showing up to witness many of James’ heroics.
Instead of joining Kobe, however, James has been forced to essentially replace him, and you know that never will happen.
Without Bryant’s visible backing, James’ legacy is stronger in Cleveland and his impact was greater in Miami. He’ll never be considered a real Laker, simply because he isn’t Kobe.
That in-season tournament banner? Are you kidding me?
Yes, the NBA still would have strong-armed the Lakers into raising that silly banner last year after they won the league’s inaugural in-season tournament.
But a day later Bryant would have convinced the Lakers to cover it up.
“What’s there to be happy about? Job’s not finished,” he famously said after being asked by local broadcaster Ted Sobel about his dour look after the Lakers had taken a two-games-to-none lead over Orlando in the 2009 Finals.
Bryant didn’t like anything phony, anything contrived, anything that interfered with the serious business of winning a championship. About that whatever-it-is tournament thingy, he would have said, not in his rafters.
There never would be three Kobe Bryant statues in front of Crypto.com Arena.
One of the statues honoring Kobe Bryant outside Crypto.com Arena.
(Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times)
A statue of him during the 81-point game? Yes. His wife, Vanessa, said he actually designed that one. Another statue of him with Gigi? Absolutely. he was the ultimate Girl Dad.
But there are currently plans for a third Kobe Bryant statue, three times as many as anyone else, with his main statue taller than anyone else’s, and he never would have stood for that.
He was always cocky but never a self-promoter. He loved to win but he never would rub someone’s face in it. And he loved the Lakers legends so much that he would be embarrassed to be given more attention.
He would have said something like, “You want to erect a third statue of me? Give that space to Pau Gasol.”
Bryant would become the owner of what would become the WNBA’s best franchise, the Los Angeles Sparks.
Bryant’s affinity for women’s basketball was well documented. He attended numerous college and pro games with Gianna. He once said he thought three women’s players — Diana Taurasi, Maya Moore and Elena Delle Donne — could play in the NBA.
He tutored Sabrina Ionescu to greatness, his impact such that she even spoke at his celebration of life service. He characterized the great Jewell Loyd as his “little sister.”
There’s no way he would have tolerated living in the same city of the train wreck that is the Sparks. Once the league’s best franchise, the Sparks have devolved into a rudderless mess with constant changes in leadership, no real stars and only recently announced plans for a new practice facility after being relegated to temporary locker rooms at a community college.
Here’s guessing he would have eventually just bought the team from a Dodger-led group and turned them back into titlists.
And in the 2028 draft, when it came time for his team’s first pick, there would have been no question.
“The Sparks select, from the University of Connecticut, Gianna Bryant.”
Amidst the deafening clamour of Panjim, Goa’s capital, and the shimmering lights of the casinos afloat on the Mandovi river, there stands a beautiful building clothed in indigo blue. The windows wear white painted trims and brown awning, and tiny steps lead into Goa Customs & GST Museum (formerly Goa Customs & Excise Museum), the only one of its kind in India – a museum that traces the history of taxation and the battle of wits between customs officials and smugglers.
Explore India’s only Customs and GST Museum in Goa on National Customs Day.(Preeti Verma Lal)
Currency hidden in the hollows of a book. Extra layer in the shoe sole for precious gems. Tubes of a bicycle tyre. Tiffin box with high-cost watches. Walking canes stuffed with diamonds. Ship hulls. Toilet commode with contraband goods. Headlight of a car. Even a white Premier Padmini car stuck in the wall, its bonnet open and goods hidden in its carburettor. Drugs stashed in sanitary pads to gold bars hidden in Frooti tetra packs, the Museum displays the evil-doer’s incredible ideas to outwit the customs officials.
A painting of the building (Alfandega Nova Goa) based on the travelogue of Lopez Mendez.(Preeti Verma Lal)A Premier Padmini car used to smuggle contraband in its carburettor.(Preeti Verma Lal)A tiff carrier used to smuggle expensive watches.(Preeti Verma Lal)Mannequins sporting uniforms of Indian customs officials.(Preeti Verma Lal)
On the wall is a sepia-toned photograph of eight men who had 510 tolas of gold in their rectum and were arrested at Amritsar Rail Customs Station on June 10-11, 1956. There’s a black/white image of an underwear with specially sewn pockets to conceal gold bars, and an X-ray of the man who had gold bars in his abdomen. The ingenuity of the smugglers is intriguing. In the corner stand a fibre-built aristocratic looking British couple – the man had diamonds in the walking stick and the lady carried gold bars in her striped jacket. The two were arrested in Mumbai port on December 7, 1966.
Divided into galleries, the Museum documents and displays the evolution of Indian customs and excise from the Harappan trade seals and ancient ports to taxation tenets of Kautilya’s Arthashastra. Behind thick glass panes are gold coins from the reign of Kanishka II and Chandragupta Maurya as well as punch-marked coins – the earliest coins issued in India. The Museum also has a copy of Akbar’s Ain-i-Akbari, notes documentingcotton as the first good taxed under Central excise Act during the British India, and the modern-day taxation and customs laws.
An antique seized from a smuggler.(Preeti Verma Lal)Currency stuffed inside the hollows of a book.(Preeti Verma Lal)Specially created shoe soles were used to bring in diamonds.(Preeti Verma Lal)
The Gallery of Rescued Heritage holds a treasure trove of stone and metal sculptures, ivory artefacts, and coins that would have been lost forever, were it not for the ever-vigilant eye of the customs department. The highlight being a Jambhala idol that was seized from a bag atop the roof of the bus from Kathmandu (Nepal) to New Delhi.
Centuries ago, Panjim was a sleepy town. There was nary a street and river Mandovi kissed the first brick of the current Blue Building where in 1479, the Portuguese had set up a Customs check post on the Mandovi river. In the 16th century, horses, tobacco, slaves and spices were the common trade items while pepper was a royal monopoly. In 1770, export and import duties were set at 6% and 9%, respectively. Tobacco was brought in sculls and horses on larger boats.
Now famous as the Blue Building, the 400-year old heritage structure wasn’t always blue. Between 1963 and 2000, it wore a sunflower yellow on its walls and housed the headquarters of Goa Excise & Customs Department. It was in 2001 that the walls were first painted Indigo Blue, the choice of colour borrowing from the fact that indigo was one of the commodities traded during the Portuguese rule.
If you are ever in Goa, step into this fascinating Museum of Customs & GST to know the machinations of smugglers and the history of taxation.
The Nintendo Switch 2 has finally been unveiled, although we’ll have to wait a little while longer for information about the release date, price, pre-orders and games.
Indeed, a Nintendo Direct presentation in April will further spotlight the console, and give fans a taste of some of the new games in development for the device.
However, it looks like one pretty significant third-party release may have leaked early, and it’s great news for fans of first-person shooters.
According to industry insider extas1s, Doom: The Dark Ages is in development for the Nintendo Switch 2.
The highlight of the recent Xbox Developer Direct (outside of Ninja Gaiden 4), Doom: The Dark Ages looks like a potential game of the year contender.
A prequel to Doom and Doom Eternal, the game shifts the action to a medieval setting, complete with brutal new weapons for players to slay hordes of demons.
Doom: The Dark Ages has been announced for Xbox Series X|S, PS5 and PC, where it will launch in May.
With the Nintendo Switch 2 reportedly launching in either May or June, there’s a chance it could be a launch title for the upcoming device.
With the game sporting some incredible visuals, it also bodes well for the kind of experiences we can expect from Nintendo’s new console.
It lends weight to the rumour that Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth could also come to the Nintendo Switch 2.
As for the Nintendo Switch 2, the console is larger than the current model, featuring a bigger screen and JoyCons.
The JoyCons will reportedly utilise technology to eliminate stick drift, as well as magnets for connecting to the display.
Judging by the announcement trailer, the JoyCons can also be used like a mouse, meaning PC-style games should work better on the Switch 2.
The kickstand is also more flexible, giving users more viewing angles when playing in handheld mode.
We’ll find out more when Nintendo holds a Switch 2 Direct on April 2.
It’s official: the Mazda 6 is being discontinued in Australia.
That’s right, the popular Japanese family sedan and wagon will no longer be available when current stocks run out, and that means yet another auto brand will exit the mainstream mid-sized passenger car segment.
This is despite the fact the Mazda 6 remains the third best-seller in the category, even when the current model dates back to 2012.
So Australians will be left with one fewer option when it comes to medium sedans and wagons that cost between $35,000 and $60,000, but that doesn’t mean there are none left.
Though its population is dwindling, the mid-sized car market is actually growing, primarily due to the new Toyota Camry and BYD Seal, and the Hyundai Sonata. Honda Accord sales continue to trickle along and, while the Volkswagen Passat has also been axed, the segment will receive an injection from the facelifted Skoda Octavia.
Between them, the Camry and Seal found 15,401 and 6393 new homes respectively in 2024, accounting for more than 85 per cent of sales in the sub-$60,000 medium-car segment. The Mazda 6 contributed 1354 deliveries last year, for a market share of just 5.5 per cent.
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Toyota Camry
Skoda Octavia
BYD Seal
Honda Accord
Since it will soon be gone and the new Deepal-derived Mazda 6e electric sedan is yet to be confirmed for Australia, it’s worth breaking down some alternatives to help guide people who still prefer a traditional mid-sized car, rather than one of the many mid-sized SUVs that now make it the nation’s single most popular new vehicle type.
Of course, there’s still stock of the Mazda 6 available, and it still stacks up pretty well against its competitors, but it won’t last forever given production of Australian vehicles had already ended before the announcement of the model’s local discontinuation this week.
We asked the members of the CarExpert team what their picks are for a Mazda 6 alternative, and told them they could take some liberties in suggesting something outside the box if they desired.
Here are some of the Mazda 6’s most direct competitors the team was provided with for inspiration:
Let us know your pick in the comments below!
Marton Pettendy: Skoda Octavia
I’d buy a Skoda Octavia in a heartbeat, because it comes with cutting-edge German design, technology and refinement for a very reasonable price.
In fact, the new entry-level Select version of the facelifted fourth-generation Octavia costs just $41,490 drive-away in sedan form – $1000 less than the vehicle it replaces, despite the fresh look, bigger 13.0-inch multimedia touchscreen and extra safety features.
That makes it only slightly pricier than the cheapest Toyota Camry or outgoing Mazda 6, and much less expensive than the BYD Seal EV, Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata N Line, and this European liftback looks a whole lot sexier than all of those Asian sedans.
For another $2500 you can have the much more spacious and practical wagon, or wait a few months for the classier Sportline or the more powerful RS performance versions of the latest Czech mid-sizer.
Interested in buying a Skoda Octavia? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Skoda Octavia
Sean Lander: BYD Seal Premium
Obviously the Camry is the one you should choose – in fact, it’s what most people chose instead of the Mazda 6.
But I’m putting my sensible hat on and buying an EV. The mid-spec Seal costs $52,990 before on-roads, is faster than pretty much any of its combustion-powered rivals, and has better infotainment, a very comfortable ride and plenty of space.
Plus I can feel good that I’m going more green than James’ choice. I can also speak from some experience, given my parents actually bought a Seal Premium and regularly call me with updates on how it’s going and how much money it’s saving them, which means they can put more fuel in their Ram 1500…
The only thing that may put off buyers is resale value, but given the current novated lease options on the table and the deals BYD regularly offers, it gets my Seal of Approval. Oh no, I may have jumped the Shark there…
Interested in buying a BYD Seal? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything BYD Seal
William Stopford: Hyundai Sonata or Toyota Camry
The head says Toyota Camry, the heart says Hyundai Sonata.
Wait, what? Heart and Sonata?
Well, Hyundai only offers its mid-sized sedan here in N Line guise, with a punchy turbocharged 2.5-litre four and a slick-shifting eight-speed dual-clutch auto.
It’s an enjoyable drive, and the Sonata N Line is also attractive inside and out, and comes fully loaded.
Take aside driving enjoyment, though, and the Camry handily beats the Sonata in many key metrics.
Fuel economy is sensational, while interior space is much better.
It’s not like it’s a flaccid thing to drive either, as in addition to terrific ride comfort it has a balanced chassis. It’s not as fun as the Sonata, but it still feels composed while being plusher and quieter.
Personally, I’d want to shell out for the top-spec SL to get the full Lexus-on-a-budget experience… and so people don’t think it’s an Uber or an unmarked police car.
If you’re replacing a Mazda 6 wagon, I’d steer you to the lovely Skoda Octavia… but the practical Czech has gotten enough love in this article!
Interested in buying a Hyundai Sonata or Toyota Camry? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers about the Sonata here, and the Camry here
MORE: Everything Hyundai Sonata MORE: Everything Toyota Camry
Jordan Mulach: Skoda Octavia
This was a surprisingly difficult choice, even if I ended up going with ol’ faithful.
The new Toyota Camry is a brilliant car. Having briefly driven one recently, its hybrid system is undoubtedly a class-leader, and in SL guise it makes you wonder why you’d ever want to buy a Lexus ES.
Much the same can be said for the latest Honda Accord, which is loaded with tech and is arguably the most premium option here.
But I just can’t go past an Octavia in RS guise. My liftback is 10 years old and, while prices have gone up (now starting at close to $60k without change), the upcoming fourth-generation facelift will continue to build on what is a very successful formula.
Give me one in silver, so it can match the one I already have.
Interested in buying a Skoda Octavia? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Skoda Octavia
James Wong: Toyota Camry
I recently drove the latest Camry in top-spec SL form, and it was brilliant.
While older generations have been labelled frumpy and boring, the new one is designed to look and feel like one of Toyota’s more premium Crown products – which is more in line with what the Mazda 6 did so elegantly for years.
Now, where the Mazda lacked a more fuel-efficient drivetrain following the demise of its torquey twin-turbo diesel, the Camry’s proven hybrid system returns insane fuel economy in the low-4.0L/100km range with little effort.
For the kind of driving typical family sedans will do – irrespective of whether it’s for personal use or rideshare purposes – it’s comfortable, quiet and incredibly efficient. What more could you want?
Interested in buying a Toyota Camry? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Toyota Camry
Jack Quick: Mazda CX-5
I know this won’t be the most popular response given I’m suggesting you should buy an SUV instead of a sedan/wagon, but hear me out.
The next most-logical choice if you can no longer get a Mazda 6 and want to still shop in the same showroom is to look at the CX-5. There’s a new one coming, but the current CX-5 is based on the same platform as the Six and shares a lot of componentry, including engines.
The CX-5, like the Mazda 6, is a surprisingly dynamic car to drive. It’s fun to chuck it around on twisty roads, but also doubles as a comfortable everyday commuter.
Compared to the Mazda 6 you gain a higher ride height, which a lot of buyers seek as it provides more confidence behind the wheel. It also makes loading kids into car seats easier as you don’t have to lean down so far.
Another difference worth considering is that the CX-5 has the option of all-wheel drive. This is handy for those who want to head off the beaten path, or go to the snow, for example.
Lastly, even if you think this response isn’t relevant, it’s obvious a lot of Mazda 6 buyers have already moved to crossovers like the CX-5. Last year the CX-5 outsold the Mazda 6 almost 17 to one, which is just one example of why conventional cars are a dying breed in Australia.
Interested in buying a Mazda CX-5? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Mazda CX-5
Josh Nevett: Hyundai i30 N Sedan
More than a month later, I’m still basking in the afterglow of spending a week in the Hyundai i30 N.
My tester was a hatch rather than the sedan, but the stretched saloon is just as much fun to drive and similarly practical.
Sure, the Korean performance car won’t quite be as comfortable or plush as the Mazda, but it’ll spice up your everyday commute in ways that quickly become addictive. Just get a load of that exhaust note!
Indeed, I didn’t want to say goodbye to the N hatch, and from what I’ve gathered few owners do either, once they take the plunge.
Flagship Premium examples command $52,000 before on-roads, just shy of top-spec Mazda 6 money, which is a bargain for a car that’s equally well-equipped to handle peak-hour traffic and cross-country touring, and can also do track days.
Interested in buying a Hyundai i30? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Hyundai i30
Max Davies: Subaru Outback Sport XT
A big part of the Mazda 6’s appeal was the fact you could get it as a wagon. If the mid-sized passenger car is a dying breed in Australia, this body style unfortunately may as well be dead in the water.
While the Octavia will be the last mainstream medium car available in wagon form, the Mazda 6’s departure also leaves just one Japanese manufacturer selling wagons in Australia, and that’s Subaru. Wagons from Japan are already seriously uncommon, with European brands like Mercedes-Benz and Audi typically much more established in the scene.
So that leaves two options for a Japanese wagon. You could go for the WRX Sportswagon, though these days it’s really only a vaguely performance-intended, CVT-only model with no more than a whiff of the iconic WRX pedigree.
Instead, my choice is the Outback. It’s official a large SUV, but it’s technically a lifted wagon that’s straddles the line between car and SUV, and it’s therefore an incredibly versatile Mazda 6 alternative. You have a choice of either naturally aspirated or turbocharged engines, loads of boot space, all-wheel drive and a ride height that means you can comfortably take it off-road on the weekend.
It also doesn’t have to live up to any performance heritage like the WRX does, which means you can happily be satisfied with the grunt offered by the two turbo XT trims.
At $53,190 before on-roads, the Outback Sport XT is even marginally cheaper than the top-spec Mazda 6 Atenza turbo wagon, and from a value perspective that seems hard to look past.
Interested in buying a Subaru Outback? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
Add-ons to health insurance coverage are extra benefits purchased for an additional fee
Health Insurance Add-Ons
Buying health insurance can be difficult, especially when dealing with unfamiliar terminology. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned policyholder, knowing how much and when to spend on the policy is a crucial thing everyone must take care of. While making the purchase, users get riders and add-on options can be tagged for an extra amount which includes a variety of benefits, no claim bonus, OPD care and many more. No matter how beneficial it may seem, it is crucial to understand when a person should get riders and add-ons in a health plan.
Add-ons to health insurance coverage are extra benefits purchased for an additional fee. At times, your medical coverage is insufficient to provide appropriate financial protection. It is when these additional terms come to the rescue.
Riders and add-on covers are those additional elements apart from the base policy that allows the policyholder to customise their insurance policies to meet their needs and requirements.
The question arises when a person should buy riders or add-ons while purchasing a health plan.
There are several types of Add-ons with your health insurance policy such as Room Rent Waiver, Maternity Cover, Hospital Cash Cover, Critical Illness Cover or Personal accident cover, as per your preference.
Every insurer provides a variety of plans it is important to cross-check every plan by going through the policy brochure.
If your basic plan offers limited coverage and you want to widen it, buy the type of add-on you want for yourself and your family as it will provide you extra benefits.
You may also need to add a specific rider if you have an old health policy.
Also, Consider your age, lifestyle, life stage, family medical history, and vulnerability to specific diseases. If you are over 50 and have a family insurance plan including 2-3 people, get a rider that restores the sum insured.
Similarly, if your old health plan doesn’t include maternity cover, add a maternity rider for your benefit.
If your family has a history of heart disease or cancer, you can opt for a critical illness rider which provides a lump sum or a series of payments when a policyholder is diagnosed.
As the medical inflation in India is at its all-time high, surgeries and treatment can cost Lakhs in a private hospital. Therefore, it is ideal to buy a suitable ride option while purchasing a health plan.
XRP has been trading sideways for most of the week, with little movement to suggest a major trend shift in the short term. XRP is approaching the end of a triangle pattern, which typically indicates that a decision point is near. The market must now decide which direction to take as XRP is currently stuck in the range of $3.08-$3.14. The price is also down by more than 2 percent on the weekly chart.
Elliott Wave Analysis for XRP
Using Elliott Wave analysis, a popular sentiment-based method for predicting market movements, analysts anticipate higher prices for XRP in the near future. However, this does not guarantee that the breakout will be upwards right away. There could be a small dip before a rise, but as long as any pullbacks are corrective in nature (slow, overlapping movements), the longer-term trend remains bullish. These corrections are expected to hold above key support levels, particularly the $2.52 level.
Key Support and Resistance Levels
The triangle pattern on XRP’s chart completed on January 13th, marking the end of the current consolidation phase. From an Elliot Wave perspective, this could signal the beginning of a larger five-wave move to the upside. The critical support level to watch is $2.52; a break below this could signal a shift in the market’s direction, introducing more uncertainty. A decisive break below this support would suggest a potential deeper correction.
On the upside, if XRP successfully breaks through resistance, the next target levels to watch are around $4.20 and eventually the $5 mark. These Fibonacci extension levels will give us an indication of the price movement in the coming weeks.
With the triangle formation nearing completion, a breakout is expected soon, but it might take some time to materialize. Volume tends to be lower on weekends, so it’s possible the price could dance around key support levels until more decisive moves occur early next week.
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, Connections and Connections: Sports Edition puzzles.
The NYT Mini Crossword refers to one of my favorite movies today. RIP, Pee-wee Herman. Remember the Alamo, everyone. Need some more help with today’s Mini Crossword? Read on. 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, Connections: Sports Edition 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 Jan. 26, 2025.
NYT/Screenshot by CNET
Mini across clues and answers
1A clue: Instrument in a band’s rhythm section Answer: BASS
5A clue: The name Jane Doe, e.g. Answer: ALIAS
7A clue: Legendary actress Greta Answer: GARBO
8A clue: Manicurist’s board Answer: EMERY
9A clue: Singular Answer: LONE
Mini down clues and answers
1D clue: The “bun” for a breakfast sandwich, often Answer: BAGEL
2D clue: Texas landmark at which Pee-Wee Herman asks “Where’s the basement? … Aren’t we gonna see the basement?” Answer: ALAMO
3D clue: Sound from an ambulance Answer: SIREN
4D clue: Certain sword spelled the British way Answer: SABRE
6D clue: Base of miso Answer: SOY
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.
Several human cases of avian flu (H5N1) have been reported around the U.S., and the virus has also proven to be fatal to felines.
Dozens of cats have reportedly contracted the virus since the start of the current outbreak in March 2024.
While bird flu has some people worried about eating certain human foods, what does this mean for the safety of your pet’s food?
AS BIRD FLU SPREADS, CDC RECOMMENDS FASTER ‘SUBTYPING’ TO CATCH MORE CASES
Jim Keen, DVM, director of vet sciences at the Center for a Humane Economy in Maryland, noted that infected cats have shown respiratory and neurological symptoms.
“Commercial” pet food that does not contain raw ingredients should be safe to eat, according to a veterinarian.(iStock)
Felines are “extremely susceptible” to the current strain that has been circulating in waterfowl and domestic poultry, he told Fox News Digital.
Domestic cats can be exposed to and infected by bird flu through contact with infected wild birds or poultry, alive or dead, according to experts. Contact with infected dairy cattle and their milk can also cause infection.
“Outdoor cats, feral cats and wild cats may kill and eat wild birds that are sick with bird flu,” Keen added.
IS IT SAFE TO EAT EGGS AMID BIRD FLU OUTBREAKS?
Cats can also be infected with bird flu by eating raw poultry or unpasteurized dairy products, like raw cat food or raw milk.
Although there have not been reports of dogs being infected with bird flu in the U.S., according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there have been fatal cases in other countries – but canines usually exhibit mild symptoms and low mortality compared to cats.
Industry standards
While the FDA is currently investigating contamination of raw cat food, Keen reassured that commercial cat food that does not contain raw poultry products “should be safe.”
The FDA released an advisory on Jan. 17 stating the need for cat and dog food manufacturers – who are regulated by the FDA and use uncooked or unpasteurized ingredients from poultry or cattle – to “reanalyze their food safety plans” to include bird flu as a “known or reasonably foreseeable hazard.”
The FDA has notified cat and dog food manufacturers to reanalyze their food safety plans amid the bird flu outbreak.(iStock)
“The FDA is tracking cases of H5N1 in domestic and wild cats in California, Colorado, Oregon and Washington State that are associated with eating contaminated food products,” the notice read.
Fox News Digital reached out to the FDA for comment.
LOUISIANA REPORTS FIRST BIRD FLU-RELATED HUMAN DEATH IN US
Dr. Andrea Y. Tu, chief of veterinary behavior medicine at Heart of Chelsea Veterinary Group in New York, shared with Fox News Digital that there has been a lack of regulations regarding raw foods, which have grown in popularity among pet owners.
Veterinarians recommend cooking raw pet food to 165 degrees to kill off viruses.(iStock)
In most cases, pet food that is freeze-dried or raw has not been heated to a hot enough temperature (165 degrees) for the virus to be killed off, meaning these diets “are not safe,” Tu cautioned.
“The medical community … does not recommend raw foods,” she said. “And especially now with the risk of the highly pathogenic avian influenza, we do have evidence showing this is not safe.”
Keeping your pets safe
The risk of mortality in domestic cats infected with bird flu can be as high as 67%, according to Tu.
Pet owners should consider taking a few cautionary measures to ensure the animals’ safety.
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For cats especially, experts recommend keeping them indoors to prevent access to infected birds, especially in regions where cases have been confirmed.
Experts recommend keeping cats indoors to prevent contact with infected birds. (iStock)
“This virus has been reported in house mice as well,” Tu said. “Cats are going to hunt, so trying to keep them away from undocumented sources of food is probably my top recommendation.”
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
Both Keen and Tu advised against feeding pets raw milk, raw cream or raw pet food.
“If you are cooking your own food at home for your pets, make sure it is heated up to a temperature of 165 degrees,” Tu reiterated.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
If you suspect that your pet has contracted bird flu, contact your veterinarian.
Angelica Stabile is a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital.
The weekend is here, and we could not be happier. For many foodies, weekends are the perfect time to indulge in sweet treats like ice cream and perhaps sip on some cocktail in the evenings. To make this weekend memorable, here are some mind-blowing desserts for you. These are no ordinary desserts. Along with their sweet, enticing taste, these desserts for grown-ups are spiked with alcohol. From red wine to rum to champagne, you can use a variety of alcoholic drinks to make some of the most fun and tasty desserts. So, what are we waiting for? Let’s get this weekend started!
Here Are 5 Fabulous Alcohol-Spiked Sweet Treats For Dessert Time:
1. Sangria Ice Cream
Photo: iStock
This is undoubtedly one of the easiest boozy desserts you can whip up in no time. To make this, take a nice glass and add 2-3 scoops of rich and creamy vanilla ice cream. Now add some red wine. Finish the dessert with canned fruits. Take a spoonful and enjoy. The combination will feel like a frozen sangria dessert.
2. Beer Gelato
Do you like drinking beer while eating your favourite snacks? Now you can even enjoy it in dessert. Beer gelato is made by combining beer with milk and cream while making the ice cream. The flavour has a mix of sweetness from the sugar and bitterness from the beer.
3. Mimosa Cupcakes
Photo: iStock
Take your love for mimosas from breakfast to dessert with these yummy cupcakes. This recipe is also a great way to use any leftover champagne. Add 1 cup champagne and 2 teaspoons orange zest to your cupcake batter and bake. Top the cupcakes with frosting and garnish with orange wedges.
Also Read:6 Easy Ways To Beat Binge Eating And Stick To Your Weight Loss Goals
4. Rum And Coke Cake
Photo: iStock
Turn your regular cake into a fun and boozy dessert with this recipe. Simply add Coke to your cake batter for a sweet taste and spike the whipped cream with some rum. Layer the coke-flavoured cake with the boozy cream and get ready for a sweet party.
5. Cream Liqueur Truffles
Photo: iStock
Cream liqueur in flavours of coffee, cocoa or vanilla is one of the safest and most yummy alcoholic drinks to whip up a dessert. One irresistible treat you can make with cream liqueur is truffle. Stir in some cream liqueur while melting chocolate and heavy cream for making the truffles. Coat the truffles in white chocolate, chill and serve.
Which one of these boozy desserts do you find the most tempting? Share with us in the comments section.
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-01-25/Hamas-releases-second-batch-of-Israeli-hostages-in-Gaza-1AscwLQ60MM/img/b169a20e8995410484a534f1a326d644/b169a20e8995410484a534f1a326d644.jpeg' alt='Israeli hostages wave on stage before Hamas fighters hand them over to a team from the Red Cross in Gaza City, January 25, 2025. /CFP'
The Palestinian Islamic Hamas movement on Saturday released the second batch of Israeli hostages, four women who were received by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Gaza City.
Local eyewitnesses said that dozens of Hamas militants and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad delivered the four hostages to the ICRC at the Palestine Square in Gaza City.
Liri Albag, Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa and Naama Levy were handed over to the ICRC in Gaza, Hamas said in a press statement.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Israel Security Agency (ISA) have confirmed the release of the four Israeli female soldier hostages. They said in a joint statement that the ICRC has communicated with the Israeli side about the Hamas transfer of hostages, who the organization said “are on their way toward IDF and ISA forces in the Gaza Strip.”
The four Israeli army observers, aged 19-20, were abducted by Hamas from the Israeli army’s surveillance base at Nahal Oz on October 7, 2023, near the Gaza Strip border.
They were reunited with their families soon after, according to the military and will be taken to a hospital in central Israel, the Israeli Health Ministry said.
The hostage transfer from Hamas to the ICRC in Gaza was broadcast live on Israel’s state-owned Kan TV News and other leading Israeli and international media outlets. The four, who were wounded during their abduction, appeared to be in good health, walking and smiling.
This hostage release is part of the second phase of a prisoner-hostage exchange between Hamas and Israel, implemented under the initial terms of a ceasefire agreement.
The Israeli authorities on Saturday also released 200 Palestinian prisoners.
The first stage of the six-week ceasefire took effect on January 19. In the first six-week phase of the deal, Hamas has agreed to release 33 hostages, including children, women, older men and the sick and injured, in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails, while Israeli troops pull back from some of their positions in the Gaza Strip.
The ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel was reached after 15 months of intense fighting, as a result of negotiations mediated by Egypt, Qatar and the United States.
After Saturday’s release, 90 hostages remain in Gaza, according to Israeli authorities, who have declared around a third of them dead in absentia.
Kim Jones of Dior remains the subject of rampant speculation in the fashion industry, but at his latest runway show, he reaffirmed his men’s wear mastery.
Mindspace Business Parks REIT reported 8.3 per cent rise in the net operating income in the third quarter at ₹522 crore and revenue from operations rose 7.5 per cent to ₹642 crore, on strong leasing and spreads.
The K Raheja Corp-promoted REIT, leased 1.7 million sq feet in the quarter including 1 msf of pre-leases. It also achieved a re-leasing spread of 26.4 per cent while committed occupancy at its properties were stable at 91.5 per cent.
The board approved distribution at ₹5.32 per unit, up 10.9 per cent on year.
There was a steady growth in rentals across its business parks taking the in-place monthly rent to ₹71.4 per sq feet. The REIT said it was actively working on an under construction pipeline of 4.6 msf.
Gera Commerzone
One of the highlights in the quarter was pre-leasing R2 building at Gera Commerzone Kharadi spread across 1 msf, to a large MNC even prior to its completion. It launched its second data centre in Airoli West and said there were three more in the pipeline.
“With a robust leasing pipeline and solid results, we remain on track for steady growth and long-term value creation,” said Ramesh Nair, CEO, Mindspace REIT.
It has made an offer to acquire Sustain Properties, which houses around 1.8 msf of IT Park at Commerzone Raidurg, Hyderabad, being an asset for which it has right of first offer. It is also evaluating another potential third party acquisition opportunity in Hyderabad, it said.
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.
U POSLJEDNJE vrijeme moda se sve češće okreće prošlosti, a za mnoge to znači povratak u djetinjstvo. Zadnjih godina svjedočimo povratku mašni, bilo kao detalja na odjeći ili u kosi, privjesaka za torbe i drugih nostalgičnih modnih dodataka.
Jedan od tih trendova su i trapez hlače, koje su prvi put postale popularne 1970-ih, obilježile 2000-e, a sada se, izgleda, vraćaju na velika vrata.
Upravo u takvim trapericama viđena je Sydney Sweeney, jedna od najzgodnijih glumica današnjice. U utorak, 21. siječnja, glumica je prisustvovala utakmici između Brooklyn Netsa i New York Knicksa u Barclays Centeru u New Yorku. Večer je provela u društvu svoje 11-godišnje kolegice Indiane Elle, a obje su s mjesta uz teren pratile napetu utakmicu.
Retro izgled
Za tu prigodu Sydney je odabrala ležeran outfit koji je uključivao trapez hlače srednjeg tona trapera, majicu s logom, crnu kožnu jaknu, čizme sa špičastim vrhom i torbu u boho stilu. Od nakita je nosila prsten, decentne naušnice i sat s dijamantnim detaljima. Kosa joj je bila oblikovana u opuštene, prirodne kovrče, koje su savršeno upotpunile njezin retro izgled.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Iako su široke traperice i vrećasti krojevi već neko vrijeme popularni, trapez hlače sada ozbiljno prijete preuzeti prevlast. Sydney Sweeney svojim modnim izdanjem jasno je dala naslutiti povratak ovog stila traperica, a poznato je da ona uvijek pažljivo prati trendove ili ih čak i predvodi.
U nastavku smo izdvojili nekoliko trapezica ako ih želite dodati u garderobu.
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KANSAS CITY — Once again, Jim Nantz has a front-row seat to history.
The legendary CBS play-by-play announcer will call Sunday’s AFC championship game between the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium.
The game marks the ninth meeting between quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes of the Chiefs and Josh Allen of the Bills, and Nantz and Tony Romo have called all but two of those. This is the fourth time those superstar players have met in the postseason, all on CBS, with Mahomes holding a 3-0 advantage.
The matchup is laced with nostalgia, especially for Nantz, seeing as he was a constant in those mesmerizing showdowns between Tom Brady and Peyton Manning for so many years. The league distributes games a little differently now, but for years CBS was the network for AFC games.
“I never thought I’d see another one like that,” Nantz said. “I thought I’d just hit magic that it was in our conference. If this had happened over on the NFC side of the world, I’d get one or two swings at the plate if I’m lucky. And I wouldn’t see the individual matchup between the two of them, that would belong to Fox.
“So I struck twice. It was blind luck. I walked into Brady-Manning and Mahomes-Allen back-to-back. One folded into the next, and there wasn’t an empty space for a year at all. It just instantly developed.”
But the Hall of Fame broadcaster is quick to point out there’s a caveat. Whereas Mahomes has cemented his spot in league history as a three-time Super Bowl winner, Allen is still waiting to get to his first. So don’t be too quick to dub this Brady-Manning 2.0.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, left, and Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen.
(David Dermer, Jeffrey T. Barnes / Associated Press)
“On the AFC side, you’ve got this guy in Cincinnati in Joe Burrow who played in two straight AFC championship games and won at Arrowhead,” he said. “So be careful. He wants it to be Mahomes-Burrow, and he’s building a pretty compelling case.
“Then you’ve got Lamar Jackson in Baltimore, and we know what’s happened as far as shortcomings in the postseason, but he’s a sensational player.
“Those four names — Mahomes and Allen, Burrow and Jackson, they’re not at the midway point of their careers. So you hate to say, boom, this is Manning and Brady. Because one of those other quarterbacks could be a part of it.”
What we do know is Nantz has become close friends with Brady and Manning, and now Mahomes and Allen. He plays golf with all of them, and they have all been to the backyard of his home in Pebble Beach where he has a scaled-down replica of the famed par-three seventh hole at the world-famous course next door.
In fact, it was in Nantz’s backyard that Manning shot his “Peyton’s Places” episode with Brady.
“Peyton called me and said this is going to be the most important one I do,” Nantz recalled. “It’s with my rival and I want to do it on the tee in your backyard. I said, `Have at it. I would be honored.’”
Nantz now lives most of the year at his home in Nashville, Tenn., which is much more convenient for covering NFL games. He has a replica hole in that backyard too. It’s a rendition of the 13th green at Augusta National, and you’re hitting your approach. Allen stopped by last summer and tried mightily to be the first name on the “rock of fame,” where Nantz memorializes friends who ace the hole. It didn’t happen.
“He was out there for a long while,” Nantz said. “You get unlimited attempts until you either get so frustrated you give up, or you get bored.”
Not only is Nantz friends with the four quarterbacks, he has become friends with their parents and families as well.
“There might be some people who say, `Isn’t that blurring the lines? How does that work?’” he said. “But sometimes you can’t help it. Life takes its course.”
Now, a new course is being charted.
For Nantz, the respect stays the same.
“All four of them have shouldered so much in terms of expectations, representing a franchise,” he said. “Being the face of a franchise. Being a leader in their communities. And all four are exceptional.”
Online retailer Amazon said on Wednesday that it’s closing all seven of its warehouses in the Canadian province of Quebec in the next two months.
The e-commerce giant said the move would provide “even more savings to our customers over the long run”.
However, a Canadian union that successfully unionised one warehouse accused the company of closing its sites to fend off organising efforts in the region.
The closures will eliminate about 1,700 permanent full-time jobs in the greater Montreal area, Amazon said. The warehouses also employ 250 temporary employees.
Amazon said it would enlist local, third-party companies to deliver packages, reverting to a business model it used in Quebec before 2020.
“This decision wasn’t made lightly, and we’re offering impacted employees a package that includes up to 14 weeks’ pay after facilities close and transitional benefits, like job placement resources,” Amazon spokesperson Barbara Agrait said in a statement.
Agrait said the decision was made following a “recent review” of the company’s operations in the province. The closing sites include one fulfilment centre, two sorting centres, three delivery stations and a facility Amazon dubs AMXL because it aids in the shipment of large goods such as TVs and furniture.
Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, François-Philippe Champagne, wrote on X that he had contacted the head of Amazon’s operations in Canada to share his objections. “I expressed our dismay and frustration after learning in the news that they intend to let go of 1,700 employees and close all seven of their warehouses in Quebec.
This is not the way business is done in Canada,” Champagne said.
About 240 Amazon workers at a company warehouse in Laval, a Montreal suburb, unionised in May, becoming the first of the tech company’s Canadian warehouses to do so.
Amazon challenged the union’s right to represent the workers but lost at a provincial labour tribunal in October.
Caroline Senneville, president of the union involved with the organisation in Laval, said she has “no doubt” that Wednesday’s closures, which she called “a slap in the face for all Quebec workers”, were part of an anti-union campaign.
“It’s a move that runs counter to the provisions of the Labour Code, and one we’ll be taking a firm stand against,” she said in a press release.
Michael Lynk, a Western University professor emeritus of law, said he saw Amazon’s move as “a labour relations Groundhog Day” for Quebec, where a similar situation played out 20 years ago with Walmart Canada.
Walmart closed a store in Jonquiere, Quebec, citing profitability troubles, just months after workers there received union certification.
The United Food and Commercial Workers Union decided to fight back and, in 2014, the Supreme Court of Canada agreed that Walmart violated Quebec labour law.
China’s transport system experienced a surge in travellers on Saturday, with millions returning home for the Lunar New Year.
Train stations and airports across China saw the biggest peak in travellers on Saturday ahead of the Lunar New Year, as millions of people returned home to spend the holidays with their families in an annual migration that is expected to be a record. The Chinese New Year, the Year of the Snake, begins Wednesday.
A policeman stands watching travellers line up to catch their trains at the departure hall of a railway station ahead of the Lunar New Year in Nantong in east China’s Jiangsu province. (AP)
The Chinese enjoy eight consecutive public holidays, an opportunity to share festive meals with family, attend traditional performances or set off firecrackers and fireworks. At Beijing West Station, an AFP journalist saw thousands of travellers Saturday wrapped up in parkas, many wearing face masks to avoid catching anything on packed trains, dragging their suitcases through the hallways before boarding the carriages.
China travel peaks as millions head home for Lunar New Year
During the traditional 40-day period that runs before, during and after the holidays, some nine billion interprovincial passenger trips, on all forms of transport combined, are expected to be made, according to the official Xinhua news agency. Train and air travel are expected to “hit record highs” during this year’s migration, Xinhua said.
The transport ministry said it expects 510 million train trips and 90 million air trips during the period. According to the national railway company, which has added thousands of trains to meet demand, Saturday is “the main peak” at stations before the holidays.
It said it used data from ticket sales and waiting lists to predict and regulate supply. With many people working and studying in provinces other than their own because of better opportunities, there is a large population migration around the New Year holiday.
Many factories have already closed for the holiday, with such workers traditionally returning home earlier than the rest of the population. While train travel was still an epic journey even 10 years ago, sometimes lasting several days, the rapid development of an efficient and comfortable high-speed network has made travel much simpler.
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Sony is gearing up to announce the PlayStation Plus free games for February 2025, although you’ll have to wait a couple of weeks before you can start playing.
The next batch of free PS4 and PS5 games will be revealed by Sony at 4.30pm GMT UK time on January 29.
While the announcement takes place next week, the games won’t actually be available until the morning of February 4.
Without any leaks to go by at the time of writing, Daily Express will be back with a list of predictions this weekend.
The good news is that subscribers still have plenty of time to download and install the current batch of PS Plus Essentials for January.
The current PlayStation Plus line-up is headlined by live service superhero game Suicide Squad Kill the Justice League.
Despite only launching last year, Kill the Justice League was something of a flop, earning mediocre reviews and suffering from a lack of players.
Sony explains more: “Take down The Justice League yourself in single-player or team up with friends in multiplayer co-op in this genre-defying, action-adventure third-person shooter from Rocksteady Studios, creators of the critically acclaimed Batman: Arkham series.
“Featuring an original narrative set within an expansive open-world city of Metropolis, the game puts the four DC Super-Villains on a collision course with an invading alien force and DC Super Heroes who are now laser-focused on destroying the city they once vowed to protect.”
Despite poor implementation of its live service elements, and a somewhat repetitive combat scheme, Kill the Justice League does have some positives.
The navigation system can be quite fun, and the narrative isn’t too bad. It’s certainly worth playing through the story and then maybe moving on to something else.
The January 2025 PS Plus Essentials also include excellent open-world racing game Need for Speed Hot Pursuit Remastered.
Taking place in a stunning cityscape, players take control of street racers and the cops out to stop them.
The third and final game in the Essentials line-up is The Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxe.
The award-winning narrative adventure is described as an “expanded re-imagining of the 2013 release.
It contains a host of new endings, new choices and a ton of new secrets, giving it enormous replay value.
Needless to say, the visuals have also been given an upgrade, alongside new features and accessibility options.
Mid-sized SUVs have long been Australia’s most popular new-vehicle type, last year chalking up over 80,000 more sales than the next biggest market segment, 4×4 utes.
Toyota RAV4 Edge Hybrid AWD
SUVs in general found a total of 704,557 new homes in 2024, for a market share of 56.9 per cent, with mid-sized SUVs accounting for the biggest portion of them with 287,637 sales.
That sub-category alone enjoyed a year-on-year sales increase of 7.2 per cent compared to 2023, making it one of the fastest-growing segments, while 4×4 ute and large SUV sales declined.
With that in mind, we’ve taken to the VFACTS sales charts to break down the top five best-selling mid-sized SUVs of 2024.
Our previous VFACTS coverage identified the segment-toppers, but this list is intended to provide a slightly more detailed analysis for those considering such a vehicle.
We’ve also provided links to reviews of the top-rated variants of each model tested by the CarExpert team throughout the year.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Exceed Tourer
Mazda CX-5 G25 Touring
Click on a car’s name in the table above to jump directly to its information on this page, or keep scrolling for the full article.
Toyota RAV4
Ranking second overall behind the Ford Ranger, the Toyota RAV4 notched up an exceptionally strong year on the Australian sales charts in 2024, when it chalked up 58,718 deliveries.
Compared to 2023 it experienced a sales increase of 98.2 per cent, helping it to overtake the evergreen HiLux ute to become Toyota’s best-selling vehicle for the first time ever, as well as Australia’s and Toyota’s best-selling SUV (and of course mid-sized SUV).
The fifth-generation RAV4 range, launched in May 2019, is powered exclusively by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder hybrid powertrain comprising a CVT automatic transmission, with either front- or all-wheel drive layouts and claimed fuel economy ranging between 4.7L/100km and 4.8L/100km. Available in nine variants, The RAV4 ranges in price from $42,260 to $58,360 before on-road costs.
All variants come with a five-star ANCAP safety rating based on testing conducted in 2019, and are backed by Toyota’s five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty.
Our highest-scoring RAV4 variant last year was the range-topping Edge Hybrid, which was awarded 8.3/10 by Jack Quick in August.
You can read our full review of the Toyota RAV4 Edge AWD Hybrid here
Interested in buying a Toyota RAV4? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Toyota RAV4
Mitsubishi Outlander
The final car to crack Australia’s overall top five in 2024 was the Mitsubishi Outlander, which saw a year-on-year sales increase of 13.8 per cent to finish with 27,613 deliveries for the year.
As the second best-selling model in the mid-sized SUV category, the Outlander is also among the most configurable. With prices between $37,740 and $73,790 before on-roads, you can purchase it as a five-seater or seven-seater, with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and with plug-in hybrid (PHEV) power.
Non-hybrid models are fitted with a 2.5-litre petrol four-cylinder engine, while the 2.4-litre four-cylinder PHEV powertrain offers boosted outputs and better fuel-efficiency. All powertrains send power to the wheels through a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
The range is covered by Mitsubishi’s conditional 10-year, 200,000km warranty, while the PHEV models are covered for eight years or 160,000km. The fourth-generation Outlander was launched here in November 2021 and has a five-star ANCAP safety rating based on testing conducted in 2022.
Topping CarExpert’s 2024 Outlander ratings was the Exceed Tourer, which sits one rung below the GSR PHEV at the top of the range. It was awarded 8.2/10 by James Wong in July.
You can read our full review of the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Exceed Tourer here
Interested in buying a Mitsubishi Outlander? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Mitsubishi Outlander
Mazda CX-5
Coming in at eighth overall and third in the segment is the Mazda CX-5, which finished the year 1.1 per cent down on 2023 but still with a respectable 22,835 deliveries, despite this second-generation model dating back to March 2017 in Australia.
Three four-cylinder petrol engines are available across the eight-grade CX-5 range: 2.0- and 2.5-litre naturally aspirated, and 2.5-litre turbocharged. The each engine has more power than the last, though that comes at the cost of fuel-efficiency.
Both 2.5-litre engines can be optioned with all-wheel drive, while the 2.0-litre is reserved for the base-spec CX-5 and is only available in front-wheel drive. All variants utilise a six-speed automatic transmission, while the range varies in price from $36,590 to $55,000 before on-road costs.
Mazda backs its CX-5 with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, though it remains without an ANCAP safety score after its rating lapsed at the end of 2023.
Two CX-5 reviews shared in the same 2024 high of 7.7/10. One was the CX-5 G25 Touring reviewed by Jack Quick in April, and the other was the top-spec CX-5 G35 Akera reviewed by James Wong in October.
You can read our full review of the Mazda CX-5 G25 Touring here, and the Mazda CX-5 G35 Akera here
Interested in buying a Mazda CX-5? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Mazda CX-5
Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage ranked 10th overall for sales in 2024, and with 22,210 total deliveries for the year it was the fourth best-selling mid-sized SUV, right behind the CX-5.
Available with four different powertrains – including a hybrid that arrived earlier last year – the Sportage ranges in price from $32,995 to $55,420 before on-road costs, and uniquely opens with a six-speed manual transmission in the base Sportage S.
Other available transmissions include a six-speed auto, eight-speed auto, and seven-speed dual-clutch auto, with the hybrid claiming the highest power outputs and best fuel-efficiency.
All Kia models are backed by a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, and the Sportage comes with a five-star ANCAP safety rating based on testing conducted in 2022.
Arriving here in fifth-generation guise in November 2021, the Sportage received a maximum 2024 rating of 8.2/10 in a review published by James Wong in October, which focused on the SUV’s newly added hybrid variants.
You can read our full review of the Kia Sportage Hybrid here
Interested in buying a Kia Sportage? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
MORE: Everything Kia Sportage
Hyundai Tucson
Rounding out the list is the Hyundai Tucson, which chalked up 19,061 deliveries in 2024 to make it Australia’s 12th best-selling car overall. Released in May 2021, the fourth generation of the Kia Sportage’s sister model was the fifth most popular medium SUV Down Under last year.
Ranging in price from $39,100 to $61,100 before on-road costs, the Tucson is available with three engines and five drivetrain combinations. These include one non-turbo and two turbocharged engines, the latter also offered with hybrid tech, while front- and all-wheel drive are available depending on the variant.
Like all of its competitors except the Sportage, the full range is automatic-only, with a typical torque converter fitted exclusively to all variants except those fitted with the non-hybrid turbocharged engine, which features a seven-speed dual-clutch auto.
Hyundai backs the Tucson range with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, and the range comes with a five-star ANCAP safety rating based on testing conducted in 2021.
The Tucson’s highest CarExpert rating in 2024 was 8.4/10, awarded for the freshest Hybrid variants by James Wong in July.
You can read our full review of the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid here
Interested in buying a Hyundai Tucson? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here
As the record date approaches, investors are weighing whether to buy, sell, or hold Wipro shares.
Wipro Q3 Dividend
Wipro To Trade Ex-Date On Tuesday: Wipro has declared an interim dividend for the fiscal year 2024-25 alongside its Q3 FY25 results. As the record date approaches, investors are weighing whether to buy, sell, or hold Wipro shares.
Wipro Q3 FY25 Results
Wipro reported a 24% year-on-year growth in consolidated net profit for Q3 FY25, amounting to Rs 3,354 crore. Revenue from operations grew modestly by 0.5% to Rs 22,319 crore. Sequentially, profit after tax (PAT) rose nearly 5%, and revenue showed a slight increase of 0.1%.
Wipro Dividend 2025
Wipro’s board has declared an interim dividend of Rs 6 per share (300% payout), based on the face value of Rs 2 per share.
Wipro Dividend Record Date
The company has set January 28 as the record date. Investors owning shares on or before this date will be eligible for the dividend. Those purchasing shares after this date will not qualify. The record date is crucial for identifying shareholders entitled to benefits such as dividends, stock splits, or bonus shares. In the T+1 settlement framework, shares must be in the demat account before the record date for eligibility.
Wipro Dividend Payment Date
Wipro plans to make the interim dividend payment on or before February 15, 2025. This is the date when eligible shareholders will receive the dividend via direct bank transfers.
Wipro Share Price Target 2025
Despite exceeding expectations in Q3, analysts have mixed views on Wipro’s outlook. Nuvama Research has a ‘buy’ rating with a target price of Rs 350, reflecting improved margins and a favorable revenue outlook. Nomura Research also maintains a ‘buy’ rating with a target price of Rs 340, citing an improved margin outlook. On the other hand, Motilal Oswal has a ‘neutral’ rating with a target of Rs 290, considering current valuations. Macquarie Research has an ‘outperform’ rating with a target of Rs 330, while Citi Research has a ‘sell’ rating with a target of Rs 280, reflecting concerns over gradual recovery.
Overall, Wipro’s dividend announcement and Q3 results have drawn mixed reactions from analysts, making it important for investors to evaluate the stock’s potential based on their investment goals.
Disclaimer: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. Users are advised to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.
News business » markets Wipro Dividend: Shares To Trade Ex-Date Next Week; Check Record Date, Target Price
Today, January 25, 2024, the overall cryptocurrency market seems to be struggling. Amid this, Solana-based decentralized exchange Jupiter’s native token, JUP, is defying the market trend with an impressive price gain. Over the past 24 hours, this massive price surge has garnered significant attention from traders and investors.
The Reason For Jupiter’s Price Surge
The potential reason for this massive upside rally is that Jupiter has acquired a majority stake in Moonshot for an undisclosed sum. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Jupiter’s pseudonymous founder, “Meow,” revealed the acquisition. Moonshot is a crypto-based company that enables users to buy and sell meme coins on iOS and Android.
This acquisition creates additional growth opportunities for the decentralized exchange.
$6.5 Million of JUP Inflow
However, amid this upside rally, long-term holders and investors were found dumping their holdings, as reported by the on-chain analytics firm Coinglass. Data from the spot inflow/outflow revealed that exchanges witnessed an inflow of JUP worth $6.5 million in the past 24 hours.
This massive inflow onto exchanges indicates a potential sell-off by investors. Additionally, this could increase selling pressure, potentially leading to a short-term price correction and further price decline.
Current Price Momentum
JUP is currently trading at around $1.01 and has experienced a price surge of over 17% in the past 24 hours. During the same period, its trading volume increased by 95%, indicating heightened participation from traders and investors compared to the previous day.
Jupiter (JUP) Technical Analysis and Upcoming Levels
According to expert technical analysis, the recent price surge has brought JUP to a strong resistance level at $1. Historically, this level has acted as a point of selling pressure. Since December 2024, JUP has reached this level twice, and each time, it experienced a price decline.
Source: Trading View
However, this time, the sentiment has shifted, and with the recent acquisition, there is a strong possibility that JUP could break through this resistance level.
Based on the recent price action, if JUP breaks through the resistance level and closes a daily candle above the $1.05 mark, there is a strong possibility it could surge by 37% to reach the $1.40 level.
On the positive side, with a Relative Strength Index (RSI) of 55, JUP still has enough room to continue its rally and reach the predicted target.
The Trump administration’s policies on citizenship, stricter immigration, and visa rules may influence the preferences of Indian students pursuing higher education in the United States, according to industry players.
India is the top source of international students in the USA. According to the latest Open Doors Report, in the 2023-2024 academic year, 331,602 Indian students are studying in the United States. However, industry experts suggest a potential decline in the number of Indian students choosing the US due to evolving policies and growing uncertainties
Since taking office, President Trump has introduced policies that have created uncertainty for international students. Dr. Ramakrishnan Raman, Vice-Chancellor of Symbiosis International (SIU – Deemed University), highlighted that the administration’s emphasis on recognising only two genders and its colour-blind policies could undermine diversity and inclusion—values that US universities are widely recognised for.
Additionally, amendments to citizenship laws and stricter immigration rules have caused hesitation among prospective Indian students. “This creates a sense of ambiguity for those planning to study and work in the US,” Raman explained.
Stricter visa regulations and potential financial challenges have further complicated the situation. Nitish Jain, President of SP Jain Group, noted that delays in visa processing and complex immigration policies have made the US less appealing. “Many students cannot afford to wait for months for visa approvals or navigate these hurdles,” Jain added.
Numbers decreasing?
Over the past six months, the number of Indian students pursuing higher education in the US has declined. “In the last six months, the volume has fallen. I think it will fall further,” stated Aman Singh, co-Founder of the digital ecosystem for international higher education GradRight.
Destinations like the UK, Australia, have emerged as attractive alternatives.
Rise of alternatives
As the US becomes less accessible for many, Indian students are increasingly exploring alternative destinations and programs. The UK has reintroduced its Graduate Route, allowing students to stay and work for two years after graduation. Australia continues to attract students with its post-study work opportunities and inclusive policies, elaborated Jain.
Dual degree programmes are also witnessing rising demand. Dr. Raman cited the success of a dual degree programme of Symbiosis with Macquarie University in Sydney, which received 2,200 applications for just five seats. “We expect these numbers to grow as students consider alternatives amidst policy uncertainty,” added Raman.
Additionally, satellite campuses of US universities in other countries, such as Rochester Institute of Technology in Dubai and Hult International Business School in Dubai, offer students the chance to earn US degrees while studying in more accessible locations.
Despite the challenges, experts remain optimistic about the resilience of Indian talent. Jain emphasised that skilled and adaptable students will continue to find opportunities globally. “The demand for high-quality education and global exposure will not diminish. The key is for students to build transferable skills that are in demand across industries,” he noted.
Commenting on the visa delays, Sonal Kapoor, Chief Commercial Officer at Prodigy Finance, observed that despite the increased scrutiny of student applications, the resulting pressure is prompting many students to rush their applications to universities in the US.
Singh highlighted a potential silver lining in these policy changes: a shift in demand toward programs in AI, cybersecurity, and other future-focused fields. “While some students may face challenges, top-tier talent will still find ways to thrive in high-quality institutions,” he said.
Spanish Primera leaders Real Madrid will be looking to maintain its success in the league as the team takes on rock bottom Real Valladolid on Saturday.
Los Blancos has won four of its last five La Liga matches, but will once again be without key man Vinicius Junior, as the Brazilian remains suspended after his recent red card against Valencia.
Los Blancos faces a Valladolid team that wasn’t able to build on its recent 1-0 win over Real Betis, having crashed to a 2-1 defeat against fellow struggler Espanyol last Friday to left the team in 20th place.
Real Valladolid takes on Real Madrid at the Estadio José Zorrilla on Saturday, Jan. 25. Kickoff is set for 9 p.m. CET local time, making it a 3 p.m. ET and 12 p.m. PT start in the US, an 8 p.m. GMT start in the UK and a 6a.m. AEDT Sunday kickoff in Australia.
Below, we’ll outline the best live TV streaming services to use to watch the game as it happens, wherever you are in the world.
Brazilian forward Rodrygo scored a brace for Real Madrid’s in their 5-1 win over RB Salzburg in the Champions League on Wednesday.
Antonio Villalba/Real Madrid via Getty Images
How to watch Real Valladolid vs. Real Madrid in the US without cable
This match is available to stream in the US via ESPN Plus, which has live English and Spanish-language broadcast rights for La Liga in the US.
ESPN Plus
How to watch La Liga from anywhere with a VPN
If you find yourself unable to view La Liga matches locally, you may need a different way to watch the games — that’s where using a VPN can come in handy. A VPN is also the best way to stop your ISP from throttling your speeds on game day by encrypting your traffic, and it’s also a great idea if you’re traveling and find yourself connected to a Wi-Fi network and you want to add an extra layer of privacy for your devices and logins.
With a VPN, you’re able to virtually change your location on your phone, tablet or laptop to get access to the game. Most VPNs, like our Editors’ Choice, ExpressVPN, make it really easy to do this.
Using a VPN to watch or stream sports is legal in any country where VPNs are legal, including the US, UK and Canada, as long as you have a legitimate subscription to the service you’re streaming. You should be sure your VPN is set up correctly to prevent leaks: Even where VPNs are legal, the streaming service may terminate the account of anyone it deems to be circumventing correctly applied blackout restrictions.
James Martin/CNET
Latest Tests DNS leaks detected, 25% speed loss in 2024 testsNetwork 3,000 plus servers in 105 countriesJurisdiction British Virgin Islands
ExpressVPN is our current best VPN pick for people who want a reliable and safe VPN, and it works on a variety of devices. It’s normally $13 a month, but if you sign up for an annual subscription for $100 you’ll get three months free and save 49%. That’s the equivalent of $6.67 a month.
Note that ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
61% off with 2yr plan (+4 free months)
Livestream Real Valladolid vs. Real Madrid in the UK
Premier Sports is showing a minimum of five live matches per week from Spain’s top league on its Premier Sports 1 and 2 channels, as well as its dedicated La Liga platform. This game will be shown exclusively live on La Liga TV and Premier Sports 2.
Premier Sports
A subscription to just Premier Sports’ dedicated La Liga channel costs £8 a month.
You can also get the channel via a full subscription to Premier Sports, giving you access to all of the networks’ channels, which have the UK broadcast rights to Scottish Premiership matches, BKT United Rugby Championship and Investec Champions Cup rugby, plus NHL and NASCAR.
A full Premier Sports subscription costs £10 per month for Sky and Virgin TV customers. You can also get Premier Sports through Amazon Prime Video as an add-on for £15 a month.
Livestream Real Valladolid vs. Real Madrid in Canada
TSN is the rights holder for live coverage of La Liga matches in the region, with select fixtures being shown on its linear channels and a wider selection of games being shown on its TSN Plus streaming platform. This match is set to be shown on TSN Plus.
TSN
TSN Plus is a direct-streaming service that costs CA$8 a month and also offers coverage of PGA Tour Live golf, NFL games, F1, NASCAR and the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments.
Livestream Real Valladolid vs. Real Madrid in Australia
Footy fans down under can watch La Liga fixtures live on BeIn Sports, which holds the live broadcast rights in Australia for Spanish top-flight matches. This match is set to be shown on BeIn Sports 2.
BeIn Sports
BeIn Sports is available in Australia for AU$15 a month or a yearly commitment of AU$130.
Quick tips for streaming La Liga using a VPN
With four variables at play — your ISP, browser, video streaming provider and VPN — your experience and success when streaming La Liga matches may vary.
If you don’t see your desired location as a default option for ExpressVPN, try using the “search for city or country” option.
If you’re having trouble getting the game after you’ve turned on your VPN and set it to the correct viewing area, there are two things you can try for a quick fix. First, log into your streaming service subscription account and make sure the address registered for the account is an address in the correct viewing area. If not, you may need to change the physical address on file with your account. Second, some smart TVs — like Roku — don’t have VPN apps you can install directly on the device itself. Instead, you’ll have to install the VPN on your router or the mobile hotspot you’re using (like your phone) so that any device on its Wi-Fi network now appears in the correct viewing location.
All of the VPN providers we recommend have helpful instructions on their main site for quickly installing the VPN on your router. In some cases with smart TV services, after you install a cable network’s sports app, you’ll be asked to verify a numeric code or click a link sent to your email address on file for your smart TV. This is where having a VPN on your router will also help since both devices will appear to be in the correct location.
Remember, browsers can often give away a location despite using a VPN, so be sure you’re using a privacy-first browser to log into your services. We normally recommend Brave.
The negative health impacts of alcohol have been in the spotlight since the surgeon general’s recent advisory, and now experts are warning that older drinkers might be more sensitive to those effects.
As an individual’s body changes with age, so may a person’s tolerance when it comes to drinking.
“As we age, our lean body mass and the water percentage in our body decreases,” Dr. Frederick Davis, associate chair of emergency medicine at Northwell Health on Long Island, New York, told Fox News Digital.
ALCOHOL LINKED TO CANCER RISK IN US SURGEON GENERAL’S NEW ADVISORY
“This leads to a decrease in our ability to metabolize alcohol at the same rate as when we were younger, leading to smaller amounts causing more impairment.”
Some studies have also found that older drinkers might be more susceptible to alcohol’s effect on coordination, reaction time and memory.
Experts are warning that older drinkers might be more sensitive to the effects of alcohol.(iStock)
Healthcare experts warned of the following negative effects of alcohol that can worsen as people age.
1. Heightened cancer risk
In a 2023 study published in the journal Alcohol, chronic heavy alcohol consumption was found to cause DNA damage and oxidative stress, which can lead to an increased risk of cancer, cardiovascular events and liver disease.
It is well-known that alcohol increases the risk of developing various cancers, according to Dr. Frances Lee, who treats alcohol-related liver disease at Mount Sinai Health Systems in New York City.
6 TIPS TO REDUCE ALCOHOL USE AND CANCER RISK AFTER SURGEON GENERAL’S WARNING
“Age is the main factor for developing cancer — and while we can’t stop the aging process, we can control alcohol intake, which can help reduce our overall risk of developing various cancers,” he told Fox News Digital.
Earlier this month, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, M.D., issued an advisory warning of the link between alcohol consumption and certain cancers. Murthy noted that consuming alcohol increases the risk of liver, breast, esophageal, colorectal, esophageal, larynx, mouth and throat cancers.
2. Inflammation and insomnia
Misuse of alcohol can accelerate age-related changes, including systemic inflammation and sleep disturbances, according to the same study in the journal Alcohol.
Chronic use of alcohol in large quantities can contribute to inflammation throughout the body through a process initiated in the gut.
Additionally, the prevalence of insomnia tends to increase with age, and alcohol consumption can worsen it, according to researchers.
Several studies found that although alcohol initially has a sedative effect, it wears off after a few hours and results in disrupted sleep in the second half of the night.
Sleep deprivation is widely known to affect overall health and well-being.
3. Insufficient nutrition
Older adults need to be cautious when consuming alcohol due to nutritional concerns.
That’s according to Laura Feldman, a registered dietitian nutritionist and assistant professor of nutrition at Long Island University Post Campus in Brookville, New York.
Older adults need to be cautious when consuming alcohol due to nutritional concerns, according to a registered dietitian.(iStock)
“We need more of many vitamins and minerals as we age,” Feldman told Fox News Digital.
“When consumed on a long-term basis, alcohol can actually make it harder for the body to absorb these nutrients from foods.”
4. Worsening of existing conditions
Some older patients may have underlying chronic conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease and heart disease, several health experts told Fox News Digital.
“Not only can alcohol worsen the progression of these chronic conditions, it can also interact with medications, potentially increasing the risk of drug-induced liver injury or other undesired side effects of the medications,” Lee said.
“When consumed on a long-term basis, alcohol can make it harder for the body to absorb nutrients from foods.”
Those who have diabetes or pre-diabetes should be mindful of their alcohol intake, Feldman cautioned, as it can have a direct impact on blood sugar levels.
Alcohol may also affect bone health, which particularly affects those with osteoporosis.
Long-term alcohol consumption can interfere with bone growth and replacement of bone tissue, which can result in decreased bone density and increased risk of fractures, according to several studies.
5. Medication interactions
An estimated 87% of adults aged 65 and over and more than 90% of those over age 75 take prescription medications, according to data from the 2021-2022 National Health Interview Survey.
Combining medications with alcohol can potentially have adverse effects on health, according to Davis from Northwell Health.
The prevalence of insomnia tends to increase with age, and alcohol consumption can worsen it, according to researchers.(iStock)
“Alcohol can interact with a number of medications, making it more difficult to manage and control certain conditions and leading to more side effects,” he told Fox News Digital.
“Avoiding alcohol as we are older can reduce these risks and result in a better chance of a higher quality of life.”
6. Increased pain sensitivity
Chronic pain is one of the most common and potentially debilitating health issues facing older adults, studies have shown.
Alcohol crosses the blood brain barrier, which plays a role in its depressive and addictive effects.
Alcohol can exacerbate this issue by increasing an individual’s sensitivity to pain, some health experts shared with Fox News Digital.
“Chronic pain is a complex process of signals to our brains that is different from acute pain,” Lee said. “The complicated neural signaling of chronic pain can be altered and enhanced with alcohol intake.”
7. Mental and cognitive effects
Lee said that alcohol — a known depressant — readily crosses the blood brain barrier, which plays a role in its depressive and addictive effects.
Heavy alcohol use has also been found to increase the risk of dementia.
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“Alcohol intake can also worsen cognitive decline, causing issues with memory, as well as worsening some behavioral issues like depression,” Davis told Fox News Digital.
8. Increased fall risk
The risk of falls is known to increase with age. They are the leading cause of injury for adults 65 and older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Falls “can lead to debilitating injury when we are older,” noted Davis, who specializes in emergency medicine.
Earlier this month, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, MD, issued an advisory warning of the link between alcohol consumption and certain cancers. (iStock)
Alcohol impairment could affect one’s balance and coordination, leading to a higher chance of falls, the doctor cautioned.
Tips on cutting back
Those who are caring for older adults should approach conversations about alcohol consumption with a focus on collaboration rather than control, according to Jonathan Davis, CEO of Trualta, a U.S.-based company that provides education and support for caregivers.
Broaching the topic with empathy and respect will help to build trust while meeting the aging adult’s emotional and physical needs, he added.
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“For some older adults, enjoying an alcoholic beverage may provide a sense of normalcy and autonomy,” Davis told Fox News Digital.
Seeking a healthcare provider’s guidance can help ensure that the person understands the potential risks and interactions, he noted.
If an individual is struggling with alcohol, experts recommend speaking to a healthcare provider who can recommend support systems and medications if necessary.(iStock)
“Together, caregivers and older adults can develop a plan that balances safety with emotional well-being.”
Davis also recommended exploring alternatives to alcoholic beverages, such as mocktails, alcohol-free drinks or specialty teas that can provide similar enjoyment without the risks of alcohol.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
Lee also suggested engaging in activities that do not typically involve alcohol.
If an individual is struggling with alcohol, experts recommend speaking to a healthcare provider who can recommend support systems and medications if necessary.
Amy McGorry is a contributing health writer for Fox News Digital. Follow her on Twitter @amymcgorry.
Do you know what happens when an Indian tries authentic Filipino food? A video shared on Instagram by user, Faye Mabini, offers a glimpse into this delightful culinary exchange. In the video, Faye introduces her Indian mother-in-law to carrot atchara, a Filipino pickle condiment with a sweet and sour flavour. This side dish is typically paired with BBQ, grilled, or fried dishes. The video begins with Faye inviting her mother-in-law to taste-test the atchara. Her mother-in-law eagerly takes a bite and exclaims, “Wow, it’s good!” She even asks Faye for the full recipe.
Faye also shares her recipe in the video: she combines one cup of water, half a cup of vinegar, two tablespoons of salt, one tablespoon of sugar, one bay leaf and some pepper in a pan. Then, she boils the mixture for about three minutes. After removing it from the heat, she adds carrot slices and stored the mix in a container.
In the caption, Faye wrote: “My mother in law doesn’t speak English when we first met, and I also don’t speak much Hindi words but we try our best to communicate with each other. Now, she knows few English words and is not shy from talking and expressing herself.”
She added, “I appreciate how she’s open to try food from my country and very eager to learn how I make it. Sharing these pure moments with her to show that it’s not impossible to build a good relationship with your mother-in-law even if you’re a foreigner.”
The video went viral with over 3 million views so far. The internet found this whole interaction cute and shared their thoughts in the comment section:
One user said, “This is sooooo incredibly cute.”
Another added, “Your MIL is so keen to learn, so cute.”
Also Read:Filipino Woman Makes Pakodas, Her Indian Mother-In-Law’s Verdict Is Viral
Someone commented, “Love has no language barrier and your mother-in-law is so sweet and adorable. Please stay together forever.”
“So sweet! There is genuine excitement and joy as auntie is trying out the pickle,” read a comment.
What do you think about this video? Tell us in the comments.
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-01-24/China-says-pleased-to-see-conditions-being-built-for-Ukraine-dialogue-1Aqr1CFEgb6/img/158099df31df490fb46ab8756772905c/158099df31df490fb46ab8756772905c.png' alt='In this handout photograph taken and released by the Ukrainian Emergency Service on January 24, 2025, Ukrainian rescuers work next to a burning residential building following a missile attack in Kyiv region, Ukraine. /VCG'
China is pleased to see all parties play a constructive role in building up conditions for de-escalating the situation and the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Friday.
The spokesperson made the remarks at a daily press briefing in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent statement that he hopes China will help end the conflict in Ukraine.
“It is China’s longstanding belief that dialogue and negotiation are the only viable solution to the Ukraine crisis,” Mao said, adding that China will continue to promote peace talks and stay in touch with all parties.
Real estate developer Macrotech Developers reported an 88 per cent rise in consolidated net profit in Q3 of FY25, while revenue rose over 39 per cent, as it registered its best quarterly sales and also handed over 1631 units.
Adjusted EBITDA went up 48 per cent to ₹1590 crore, while margins were at a robust 39 per cent.
Earlier in the month the company, which sells projects under “Lodha” brand name, had said it had taken bookings worth ₹4510 crore, while collections of ₹4290 crore had enabled it to reduce its debt during the quarter by ₹610 crore to ₹4310 crore.
Read also: Arvind SmartSpaces enters Mumbai Metropolitan Region with ₹1500 crore township project
For the rest of the current fiscal year the developer has eight projects in the pipeline, with a total area of 4.3 million square feet and gross development value of ₹7520 crore. This includes both three new projects and five new phases of existing projects.
The company’s aim is to reach pre-sales of ₹21,000 by FY26 and return of equity of 20 per cent by that time. In FY25 its pre-sales guidance is for ₹17,500 crore, of which it has already achieved ₹12800 crore. It has also guided for adding 210 new projects during the year and so far has added 194 projects.
The company, which was focused on the Mumbai Metropolitan Region for a long time, has recently forayed into the Bengaluru and Pune markets and sees significant headroom for growth in all three markets.
It expects its market share in the two new cities to go to 27 per cent in FY31 from 7 per cent in FY24.
Read also: Cyient DET PAT declines; Karthikeyan Natarajan steps down as ED and CEO
At Palava, where it is setting up industrial infrastructure as well as premium residences, it recently signed a deal with a global data centre player at ₹21 crore per acre.
For its annuity income generating assets such as office, retail, digital infrastructure, and other supporting infrastructure the company has invested ₹1910 crore so far and plans to ₹3370 crore on it over the next few years.
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.
PHARRELL WILLIAMS, američki pjevač, producent i modni dizajner, ponovno je udružio snage s adidasom kako bi lansirao novi model tenisica Jellyfish. Tijekom Pariškog tjedna mode, adidas je svoje Jellyfish tenisice podijelio nekolicini sretnika među posjetiteljima, a da pritom nije najavio službeno lansiranje ove najnovije suradnje s Pharrellom.
Iako su detalji o ovom modelu još uvijek oskudni, za sada je poznato da dolazi u dvije boje. Prva kombinacija uključuje bijelu, prljavo bijelu, narančastu i crnu – atraktivnu verziju koja privlači poglede, dok je druga potpuno siva. U obje verzije se Pharrella moglo vidjeti unatrag posljednjih mjeseci u par navrata.
Masivan oblik i upečatljiv dizajn
Tenisice se ističu masivnim oblikom i upečatljivim dizajnom. Posebno su dojmljivi geometrijski detalji i adidasov logo sa strane, koji je ovog puta izraženiji. Na peti se nalazi prepoznatljivi adidasov logo, dok je jezik ukrašen dodatnim detaljima – logom, oznakom Jellyfish i simboličnom posvetom Pharrellovoj rodnoj državi Virginiji.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
“Prebrutalno, adidas i Pharrell su razvalili”
“10/10”, “Izgledaju odlično”, “Prebrutalno, adidas i Pharrell su razvalili”, “Trebaju mi”, “Čekao sam ove”, “Odlično mi je koliko su masivne”, “Čekao sam ove jaaako dugo, Pharrell ih je nosio u Disneylandu u Parizu prije nekoliko mjeseci”, “Najbolje tenisice koje je dosad napravio s adidasom”, “Uzimam dva para”, “Jedva čekam vidjeti ostale boje”, “Bolje od tenisica koje radi za Louis Vuitton”, “Podsjećaju na Balenciaga đir”, “adidas je otvorio arhivu i dao nam tenisice iz 90-ih”, samo su neki od komentara na ovaj model.
Prema informacijama koje prenosi Hypebeast, ni Pharrell ni adidas još uvijek nisu otkrili točan datum izlaska novog modela Jellyfish. Ipak, vjerujemo da će sve pojedinosti uskoro biti otkrivene.
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Three days after his breakout game, Aday Mara made sure UCLA didn’t falter with two huge baskets in the final two minutes.
The Bruins had no choice but to use a heavy helping of the 7-foot-3 center on Friday night after forward Tyler Bilodeau turned his ankle in the game’s early going and was limited to just three minutes.
Mara didn’t disappoint in his career-high 30 minutes inside Alaska Airlines Arena, dominating on both ends during UCLA’s 65-60 victory over Washington.
“What he’s doing in these last couple of games is what he does every day in practice,” point guard Dylan Andrews said of Mara, who finished with 12 points, seven rebounds and five blocked shots. “Aday’s a monster and I’m glad people are starting to see that.”
With Washington surging toward what looked like an epic comeback, Mara collected a loose ball along the baseline for a jump hook that put the Bruins ahead by six points with 1 minute 59 seconds left.
Then, after Washington’s D.J. Davis buried a three-pointer, Mara made another jump hook to put UCLA up by five.
Huskies guard Zoom Diallo’s putback pulled his team to within three with 41 seconds left, but Andrews — who had made only three of 12 shots to that point — countered with a step-back three-pointer with 17 seconds to go.
“I just stepped back,” Andrews said, “and, man, thank God I got to see a shot go in.”
After UCLA guard Skyy Clark came up with a steal and was fouled, sending him to the free-throw line, a crowd that had been roaring only moments earlier streamed toward the exits as a few pockets of Bruins fans commenced an eight-clap.
It was UCLA’s first road triumph in the Big Ten since early December against Oregon, when Andrews hit a winning three-pointer.
This time, Washington disrupted the play the Bruins wanted, forcing Andrews to improvise. He credited late-night shooting sessions and others for boosting his confidence in that big moment.
“Just my teammates and coach talking to me, letting me know, just, next shot, don’t worry about the last one that you missed,” Andrews said.
Winners of three consecutive games, the Bruins (14-6 overall, 5-4 Big Ten) are on a roll heading into the crosstown rivalry game Monday against USC at the Galen Center.
They needed a collective effort against the Huskies without Bilodeau, their leading scorer. Clark finished with 12 points and forward Kobe Johnson had 11 points and nine rebounds. Guard Sebastian Mack contributed two three-pointers to go with a steal and a charge taken during a critical sequence in the second half.
Forward Great Osobor scored 19 points for Washington (10-10, 1-8), which has lost six straight games.
After steamrolling Iowa by 24 points and winning with an flurry of offense against Wisconsin, the Bruins showed they could win a slugfest against Washington. After committing eight turnovers in the first half, they had only three over the final 20 minutes.
“It just shows that whatever’s going on in a game,” said Andrews, who finished with nine points, three assists and three turnovers, “we can get through it no matter what.”
The latest turmoil came only a few minutes into the game when Bilodeau went down and limped toward the bench, eventually pounding a trainer’s table with his hand in disgust. Bilodeau re-entered the game a few minutes later but was removed after only 35 seconds, never to return.
“I put him in and I didn’t like the way he was moving,” UCLA coach Mick Cronin said, “so I’m more worried about his career and the rest of our season, and like I told the team, we’ve got enough players — I’ve got confidence in you guys.”
His belief in Mara continues to rise, particularly after the big man showed he could more than hold his own against Washington’s physical front line that included 6-11 Franck Kepnang in addition to the smaller but more mobile Osobor.
Cronin suggested Mara had even more to offer the rest of the season.
“Sometimes he gets too cute and when he gets too cute, Washington had two, three guys on him,” Cronin said. “You know, he’s just got to be confident and turn and score. He’s going to shoot 50% — minimum — and I’ll take that every night.
“You know, when you can’t tackle him and what was happening early was just mind-boggling unbelievable with the forearm stuff [Washington used to defend Mara]. If you’ve got to play him straight up, he’s hard to stop, I keep telling you this, and you’re seeing it now.”
Mara said he wasn’t tired after his 51 minutes over the last two games surpassed his usage over the previous eight games combined — including one game in which he remained on the bench because of a dreaded Did Not Play-Coach’s Decision.
“I knew that Tyler wasn’t going to be able to play because of his injury,” Mara said, “so I just tried to not make stupid fouls, I tried to make a rhythm so I don’t be too tired.”
How did he feel after the game?
“I’m surprised that I didn’t get tired that much, I’m surprised about that,” Mara said, “but I was feeling good.”
The Bruins were feeling even better about their prospects given the way their big man stood tall once more.
“We love having Aday on the court,” Andrews said. “He’s 7 foot, he takes up so much space, rebounds for us, gives us energy, so who doesn’t want a guy like Aday?”
In a respite for Mark Zuckerberg-run Meta, the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) on Thursday stayed the five-year ban imposed by the Competition Commission of India (CCI) on WhatsApp for its data-sharing practices.
The NCLAT bench, led by Justice Ashok Bhushan, said such a ban could disrupt WhatsApp’s business model in the country. WhatsApp has more than 500 million monthly active users in India.
The appellate tribunal also directed Meta to deposit 50 per cent of the Rs 213 core penalty imposed by the CCI, within two weeks.
The social media giant has already paid 25 per cent of the fine.
Last week, the NCLAT had reserved its order on a plea by Meta and WhatsApp seeking a stay on the CCI order that imposed a penalty of Rs 213 crore for “abuse of dominant position”.
According to the tribunal, the upcoming data protection law in India could address concerns related to data privacy.
WhatsApp’s 2021 Privacy Policy allows for user data to be shared with group cos like Meta, and Insta without an “opt out” option.
Earlier this month, social media platform Meta moved the NCLAT against the CCI order. In November last year, the competition watchdog directed WhatsApp to not share user data collected on its platform with other Meta products or companies for advertising purposes for a period of five years, along with imposing a penalty of Rs 213.14 crore on Meta for allegedly abusing its dominant position.
Meta informed the NCLAT that the CCI order has wide ramifications for the industry as a whole and therefore, an urgent hearing in the matter will be required.
Last year, after the CCI directed WhatsApp not to share user data collected on its platform with other Meta products or companies for advertising purposes for a period of five years, the social media platform said it disagreed with the CCI’s decision and planned to appeal.
The CCI began a probe in March 2021 into WhatsApp’s revised privacy policy, which enabled mandatory data sharing with Facebook (now Meta) and its companies, along with an expanded scope of data collection.
Tutankhamun’s treasures are set to captivate UK audiences as the immersive exhibition makes its way to London’s Excel Waterfront this year.
In a matter of weeks, visitors will be transported into an ancient world with the help of “cutting-edge technology” and “rich historical narratives”.
The expansive, 90-minute experience boasts an eight-metre-high immersive video mapping room, a 360-degree virtual reality journey, and an interactive digital “metaverse” room, among other thrilling features.
The exhibition promises a unique blend of history and modernity, honouring the legendary pharaoh while offering a fresh perspective.
Alongside high-quality replicas and facsimiles from Egypt, guests can marvel at original artefacts dating back to 4,000 B.C., including a funerary shabti from Howard Carter’s private collection and items from the reigns of Tutankhamun and Ramses II & III.
Having already attracted over 1.8 million visitors across 12 cities globally, the exhibition is a must-see for history enthusiasts and tech-savvy adventurers alike.
However, those eager to explore this treasure trove should hurry – it’s not a permanent fixture.
The Tutankhamun immersive exhibition set to dazzle at London’s Excel is slated to debut on March 28 and will enchant visitors for a concise 14-week stint until June 29, 2025.
After that, it will embark on a “wider European tour”. Eager attendees can snatch up their tickets exclusively through Fever starting January 31, 2025.
Despite vehicles on the same platform failing to score top marks in ANCAP crash tests, Kia Australia is confident its new K4 – the replacement for the popular Cerato – should achieve a five-star result across most of the range.
Speaking withmedia at the Australian media launch for the K4, Kia Australia’s general manager for product planning, Roland Rivero, said the brand is expecting its new small car to achieve a similar result to its Cerato forebear in that it will have a split safety rating depending on specification.
“We’ve got every intention for success with the K4, and the goal working with the safety teams in R&D is to get a dual rating for this product – obviously five [stars] with the Safety Pack,” Mr Rivero said. “We can’t make that announcement… but the goal or target is four [on S] and five [from Safety Pack up].”
Kia’s local representatives confirmed the K4 will undergo local crash testing with ANCAP during the second quarter of 2025, with an announcement of its results to come in due course.
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Kia Cerato
The 2025 Kia K4 is based on the same ‘K3’ platform as the Hyundai i30 Sedan (Avante/Elantra) and Kona, as well as the Kia Niro. While the Niro wears a five-star ANCAP safety rating, the i30 Sedan and Kona achieved three and four starts respectively.
A five-star ANCAP rating is vital for vehicles targeted at fleets, given most require a five-star rating for consideration.
Kia Australia’s chief operating officer, Dennis Piccoli, told media around 40 per cent of K4 sales are expected to come from fleet, similar to its Cerato predecessor.
Standard safety equipment on the K4 includes seven airbags (including a front-centre airbag, which the i30 Sedan lacks), while the bulk of the available safety systems are standard across the range – such as autonomous emergency braking (AEB); adaptive cruise control; active blind-spot and rear cross-traffic assists; lane-keep and lane centring assists; safe exit warning; as well as a reversing camera with front and rear parking sensors.
Kia K4
Opting for the Safety Pack on the base S adds a more sophisticated AEB system with enhanced functionality with junction crossing and oncoming lane change detection – on top of the base car’s vehicle, pedestrian, cyclist and junction turning functions.
From the Sport grade upwards, you get Kia’s Highway Driving Assist 2 tech. This is effectively a semi-autonomous highway assistant that combines adaptive cruise control and lane centring functions, as well as navigation data, to take the load off of extended highway stints.
There’s even Lane Change Assist 2, debuted here on the EV9 flagship, which will safely help you change lanes when you flick one of the indicators, provided your hands are on the steering wheel.
While the standard safety spec for Australian-delivered Kia K4 models is pretty comprehensive, the local range still misses out on a couple of features offered in other markets for the time being.
A 360-degree camera system with 3D view is offered on high-spec models in North America, but alas despite being sourced from the same Monterrey, Mexico factory as Australian models, it’s not available on any K4 from launch Down Under.
Kia’s Blind Spot View Monitor camera system also is absent from the local spec list. This uses mirror-mounted side-facing cameras to project a live camera feed of the vehicle’s blind spot into the instrument cluster, and is available on the North American-market model.
As we’ve seen in other Kia model lines however, namely the Carnival, these could be supply-restricted features that will be added to the local range with a future update.
The government allocated Rs 1.52 lakh crore for the agriculture sector in the Union Budget 2024-25
In Union Budget 2024-25, the government allocated Rs 1.52 lakh crore for the agriculture sector. (Courtesy: PTI)
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to table the Union Budget 2025-26 in her traditional ‘Bahi-Khata’ on February 1 and the agriculture sector expects the government to introduce reforms which can increase productivity, rural income and enhance exports.
The sector has received consistent allocations in the budget and has seen a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.4% from fiscal year 2019-20.
The outlay for the agriculture and farmers’ welfare department stands at Rs1.32 lakh crore in the current fiscal year which is slightly more than the revised budget of Rs1.27 lakh crore for fiscal year 2024.
In the Union Budget 2024-25, the government allocated Rs 1.52 lakh crore to the Agriculture and Allied sectors.
The government also introduced different schemes for boosting the Indian agricultural sector last year. So, the question is what game-changing reforms will the Union Budget introduce this year for the agriculture sector?
Analysts Predict Budget Plan For Agricultural Sector
As per the analysts, the Union Budget will most likely introduce fertiliser subsidies and welfare schemes for the agricultural sector and also introduce measures for improving the infrastructure.
According to the forecast of the Bank of America Securities, there can be a marginal increase in subsidies.
Meanwhile, Goldman Sachs has forecast that the expenditure of the government on rural, welfare, transfer schemes and subsidies will be around 3% of GDP.
It added that some reallocation can be made in expenditure directed towards welfare spending and rural transfers.
The analysts of Bank of America said that budget allocation on welfare schemes like PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana should see an increase and plans to upgrade roads in the rural areas should be introduced.
The experts have also hinted at the introduction of measures for improving crop protection solutions and introducing agri-tech innovations.
According to Reuters, two officials said that the government plans to increase expenditure on the agriculture sector by around 15%.
They added that the additional cash will be directed towards, increasing storage and supply infrastructure, developing high-yielding seed varieties and improving the production of dairy products, vegetables, pulse crops and oilseeds.
The analysts are also expecting budget allocation for improving irrigation facilities, warehousing infrastructure and supply chain efficiency in the agriculture sector.
News business Budget 2025: Game-Changing Schemes Or Consistent Allocation | What’s In Bahi-Khata For Agri Sector?
Ethereum, once the leader in smart contracts and decentralized applications, now facing significant challenges from within and outside its ecosystem. With its price stuck between $3,200 and $3,500 for weeks, Ethereum’s dominance in the altcoin market appears to be under threat. Competitors like XRP and Solana are emerging as strong contenders and are ready to take over Ethereum.
Ethereum’s Price Struggles Continues
Ethereum’s (ETH) price has been stuck in a consolidation phase, unable to break past the $4,000 mark. Over the past two months, ETH has recorded losses of nearly 20% in value.
Meanwhile, the ETH/BTC ratio a metric comparing its value to Bitcoin has dropped by 19% since early December, highlighting its weakening position in the market.
Adding to Ethereum’s worries, its ETF performance has turmoil. While Bitcoin ETFs saw inflows for ten consecutive days, Ethereum ETFs have recorded outflows, with $15.9 million leaving the market.
Ethereum Foundation Internal Conflict
The Ethereum Foundation (EF), which has long been central to Ethereum’s development, is now struggling with internal challenges. High-profile developers like Eric Conner and Danny Ryan have left, citing frustrations and personal challenges.
These exits highlight growing concerns about leadership stability and the foundation’s vision.
Even Ethereum’s founder, Vitalik Buterin, has acknowledged the need for urgent improvements in scalability, security, and user experience.
Ethereum Faces Growing Competition
Adding to the internal struggles, Ethereum is facing competition from within its ecosystem. Konstantin Lomashuk, co-founder of Lido, recently established a “Second Foundation” to support Ethereum’s development.
Meanwhile, rivals like Solana and XRP are taking advantage of Ethereum’s weaknesses. Solana is known for its high scalability, which processes a staggering 60-65 million daily transactions, far from Ethereum’s 1-1.3 million.
Additionally, Solana has consistently outperformed Ethereum in daily transaction fees, despite Ethereum’s higher fee fees per transaction.
Ripple’s XRP, on the other hand, has surged by 350% against Ethereum since November 2024. Even with delays in XRP ETF approval, Goldman Sachs employee Dom Kwok believes XRP could soon surpass Ethereum as the second-largest cryptocurrency.
The owner of FIITJEE and 11 others have been booked on a complaint by the parents of the coaching institute’s students after several of its centres in Delhi-NCR shut down, police said on Saturday.
FIITJEE founder DK Goyal, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Rajiv Babbar, Chief Operating Officer (COO) Manish Anand and its Greater Noida branch head Ramesh Batlesh have been named in the FIR, a Noida Police spokesperson said.
“Based on the complaint of parents, a case has been registered on charges of criminal conspiracy and breach of trust,” Deputy Commissioner of Police (Noida) Rambadan Singh said.
On Friday, students and parents said several FIITJEE centres have unexpectedly shut down across Delhi-NCR and many teachers have resigned allegedly due to non-payment of salaries for months.
Also read: FIITJEE’s Delhi-NCR centres shut down, leaving students in a lurch
FIITJEE provides coaching for competitive exams to engineering aspirants and has 73 centres across the country.
Citing the complaint of Satsang Kumar, a resident of Greater Noida, the Noida Police spokesperson said that the institute’s centre in Noida, Sector-62 was open till Tuesday but closed an hour before schedule. Later, it was found that the centre had been completely closed. He claimed that more than two thousand students studied at the centre.
Similar allegations have also been made by Manoj Kumar, a resident of Sector Omega-2 of Greater Noida.
The abrupt closure of FIITJEE centres has left many students and their parents, who have paid fees running into lakhs of rupees, in the lurch.
Think about how you start and end each day. Is it typically with your phone in hand, going through a late-night or early-morning doom scroll? If you’re looking to give yourself a little more separation from your device, it may be easier when you have a more traditional alarm clock. This can make sticking to your bedtime and morning routines much easier, improving your sleep health.
Today, alarm clocks are more than a basic wake-up tool — many offer modern conveniences like voice assistants, interactive displays and even sunrise simulation. They can also serve as great budget gifts.
Choosing the perfect everyday alarm clock can be challenging with so many options, so we did the testing for you. Here are our picks for the top alarm clocks you can buy.
Watch this: Tips to know when buying an alarm clock
Best alarm clocks
Tyler Lizenby/CNET
If you’re looking for a simple, straightforward alarm clock, you’ll like the Travelwey Home LED alarm clock. You’ll like its reasonable price tag even more. There are only a few easy-to-use buttons and a prominent classic red time display. It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles that some of the other best alarm clocks on the list have, but if you’re looking for a simple alarm clock to get the job done, Travelwey Home LED is a solid pick.
You can adjust the Travelwey alarm clock’s brightness, but during testing, we found that it doesn’t cast a glow that would disrupt your sleep at the highest setting. It also has a night-light feature if you’re into that. It has a standard 9-minute snooze time, and you can switch between a soft or loud sound setting.
Pros:
Travelwey is the best overall alarm clock because it’s basic but dependable. All the classic features are well implemented.
Travelwey Home’s alarm clock also features a backup battery if you lose power at night.
Cons:
You can’t change the tone or sound of this alarm clock. It only features two volume options.
Additional details:
Display color: Red
Battery backup: 2x AAA
Snooze length: 9 minutes
Wake-up options: Two volume choices
Price: $
Tyler Lizenby/CNET
The digital alarm clock industry has changed a lot. No longer is your alarm clock just something that wakes you up. Many smart alarm clock options function as an interactive hub where you can access your alarms, weather and music. The Amazon Echo Show 5 is one of the best smart alarm clocks, thanks to its varied features and voice assistant connectivity.
This smart alarm clock has unique alarm settings that allow you to use your music or a customizable tone as your alarm as well as a choice of a digital or analog clock. If that’s not enough, it also has a sound ramp-up feature designed to gracefully bring you out of sleep instead of scaring you awake. The screen also gradually gets brighter like a sunrise alarm clock, starting fifteen minutes before your alarm sounds.
You can use voice commands to access the Alexa voice assistant. This smart alarm clock’s touchscreen allows you to check the weather, make video calls or control your smart home. It’s more than an alarm clock and can set multiple alarms throughout the day. If you want to use your alarm clock for everything, consider the Amazon Echo Show 5.
Pros:
Amazon Echo Show 5 is a highly customizable smart alarm clock that allows you to use your music or sound. The ramp-up screen and sound feature are less jarring than traditional alarms.
Cons:
The screen does cast a glow at night, even with the adaptive brightness feature.
You can’t adjust the snooze time.
Additional details:
Display color: Customizable
Battery backup: None
Snooze length: 9 minutes
Wake-up options: Sunrise light, a variety of tones, streaming music
Price: $$
Tyler Lizenby/CNET
A sunrise alarm clock is designed to gradually wake sleepers up with light rather than a blaring alarm. We found that the Philips HF3500 is one of the best sunrise alarm clocks you can get thanks to its orange display, light function and price tag.
Visually, it’s unique — it looks like a UFO with a kickstand. There are simple buttons at the center, under the time display. But the majority of the surface area of this alarm clock is devoted to the light feature. Thirty minutes before your alarm time, this Philips sunrise alarm clock will gradually increase its brightness level until it reaches the maximum you set. To ensure you wake up, it also starts beeping with increasing intensity.
Pros:
This sunrise alarm clock has 10 brightness levels that you can choose from.
Philips HF3500 is a simple yet effective sunrise alarm clock worth the money.
Cons:
Snoozing the Philips HF3500 sunrise alarm clock is a little weird initially. There’s no button. Instead, you press the top half of the light.
Additional details:
Display color: Orange
Battery backup: None
Snooze length: 9 minutes
Wake-up options: Sunrise light and buzzing
Price: $
Tyler Lizenby/CNET
Heavy sleepers can be almost impossible to get up. If you’re someone who sleeps through their alarm and needs something more heavy-duty, we recommend the Sonic Alert Sonic Bomb alarm. It’s one of the best alarm clocks for heavy sleepers.
The Sonic Alert Sonic Bomb alarm comes with two parts — the classic display and incredibly loud buzzer and the vibrating attachment that you can slip under your pillow. You can customize the alarm with controls our team thought were easy to figure out.
Pros:
It’s the best alarm clock for heavy sleepers thanks to its loud buzzer and shaker attachment.
The Sonic Alert alarm clock is customizable with easy controls.
Cons:
It’s a great alarm clock for heavy sleepers, but if you’re not a heavy sleeper, it could be an unpleasant experience.
Additional details:
Display color: Red
Battery backup: 9 volt
Snooze length: Customizable between one and 30 minutes
Wake-up options: Loud buzzing and vibrating accessory
Price: $
Hatch
Finding a kids’ alarm clock that meets all your child’s needs can be hard. The Hatch Rest is a sound machine and smart light in one. This alarm clock for kids has many features that other options can’t compete with. Not only do you get white noise sounds, but there’s a digital alarm clock display and soft control buttons. I actually liked this sound machine so much I bought one for my niece, and she uses it every night.
The Hatch Rest Sound Machine and Smart Light can grow up with your child. It has an app you can access on your phone, which allows you to personalize the clock to suit your growing child. You can create sleep and wake routines with light dimming or brightening for your child like a sunrise alarm clock.
Pros:
Packed with helpful features and allows for personalization.
There’s an easy-to-use app you can access from anywhere.
Cons:
This isn’t the most budget-friendly option at $70.
Additional details:
Display color: Customizable
Battery backup: None
Wake-up options: Sunrise light or sound
Price: $$$
Tyler Lizenby/CNET
Not everyone wants to spend a lot of money on their alarm clock, especially if you don’t want all the added features. That’s where the RCA RCD30 alarm clock comes in. Similar to the Travelwey, the RCA RCD30 is our pick for the best budget alarm clock because of its simple design.
It features the classic red number display that offers two brightness levels. During testing, we found that neither level glows to the point where it would interrupt your sleep. It has an easy-to-find snooze button. It doesn’t have any added features like a night light or lights. It is a straight-to-the-point classic alarm clock that will get the job done.
Pros:
RCA RCD30 is one of the best budget alarm clocks you can get. It’s great for people who don’t want anything special.
It’s cheap and small enough that most people would find this to be one of the best travel alarm clocks as well.
Cons:
Since it’s so basic, resetting or adjusting alarms will take longer.
Additional details:
Display color: Red
Battery backup: 9 volt
Snooze length: 9 minutes
Wake-up options: Simple buzzing
Price: $
Best alarm clocks compared
Travelwey Home LED Alarm Clock
Amazon Echo Show 5
Philips HF3500
RCA RCD30
Sonic Alert Sonic Bomb
Hatch Rest
Price
$18
$70
$60
Currently unavailable
$42
$60
Display color
Red
Customizable
Orange
Red
Red
Customizable
Battery backup
2x AAA
None
None
9V
9V
None
Snooze length
9 min
9 min
9 min
9 min
Customizable between 1 and 30 minutes
Time-to-rise cues
Radio
✘
✘
✘
✘
✘
✘
Wake-up options
Two volume options
Sunrise light, a variety of tones, streaming music
Sunrise light and buzzing
Simple buzzing
Loud buzzing and vibrating accessory
Sunrise light or sound
Other features
Night light
Amazon’s Alexa for voice commands, touchscreen display for videos, shortcuts for smart home controls
Can use as reading light
None
Multiple volume and tone settings, multiple alarms
Personalization, sleep and wake routines, app accessible
Other alarm clocks we’ve tested
We’ve tested a lot of alarm clocks, not all of which made this best alarm clock list. But they’re still worth mentioning and might be the right fit for you.
Read more: Best Sunrise Alarm Clocks for 2025
Lenovo Smart Clock 2
The Lenovo Smart Clock 2 has a 4-inch touchscreen which can show you the weather, your commute and even your calendar. It’s connected to Google Assistant, so you can use voice commands to schedule your alarms. It’s not the most robust smart display out there — you won’t be watching videos or playing your music — but it’s still pretty handy.
The Lenovo Smart Clock also has a sunrise alarm clock feature, meaning the screen gets brighter 30 minutes before your scheduled wake-up time. One drawback of the Lenovo Smart Clock 2 is the display always glows, no matter which clock face you choose. At the moment, you can only find it available as part of a bundle with a Lenovo smart bulb. Read our Lenovo Smart Clock 2 review for more details on this clock.
Amazon Echo Dot with Clock
The Amazon Echo Dot with Clock displays the time, alarms and weather, with the display’s brightness adapting to the room. It’s still a smart speaker first, responding to voice commands through Alexa, but it works well as a basic smart alarm clock. Read our hands-on breakdown of Amazon’s latest Echo Dot for everything you need to know.
American Lifetime Day Clock
If you’re someone with impaired vision, you’ll like the large-print design of the American Lifetime Day Clock. You can program your alarms to include reminders that will be displayed on the screen, like “time to take your medications.” That said, it isn’t the best alarm clock we’ve tested. There is no snooze button. The display is bright, even in the dimmest setting. You must scroll through a menu to schedule alarms, which can get confusing.
iHome IBT29BC
If you’re someone who values all the bells and whistles, consider the $40-ish iHome iBT29BC. It has a built-in radio and two alarms; it doubles as a Bluetooth speaker and even has an auxiliary cable. The iHome IBT29BC allows you to customize it by adjusting the colors and sounds it uses to wake you up. The light doesn’t adjust, but it does come on when your alarm sounds. This alarm clock is a jack of all trades but doesn’t shine in any category.
HomeLabs Home Sunrise Alarm Clock
The HomeLabs Home Sunrise Alarm Clock has many features — the light changes colors and fades up. There’s a radio with various wake-up sounds, including classical music and nature sounds. With this Alarm, you get what you pay for, the buttons aren’t the most responsive and it is more difficult to set alarms. The brightness ramp-up isn’t as seamless as other options, but for less than $25, it’s a good option.
How we tested the best alarm clocks
There are a lot of features that go into alarm clocks, and we tested them all. When testing the best alarm clocks, we assessed each option on their display, sound and ease of use. We considered how long the snooze button was set for, how customizable the alarm is and additional light features you need to know about.
Once we had the data of each alarm clock compiled, we made sure to compare each alarm clock to each other to ensure this best alarm clock list is the best reflection of the current market.
What to consider when buying an alarm clock
When shopping for the best alarm clock for your needs, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with hundreds of options. It’s understandable. A wide variety of alarm clocks are available that differ by features and price. Keep these things in mind when looking for ideal fit:
Price: The alarm clock market is wide — with both budget and luxury options. Defining your budget early will help you narrow down your options and keep you from getting wowed by features you may or may not need.
Features: First and foremost, you must decide if you want to stick to the basics or dive into the ocean of alarm clock features. Do you want your alarm clock to charge your phone? Play music? Or would you rather just have a basic alarm clock with a clearly labeled snooze button? The good news is that there are so many combinations of features that you’re sure to get an alarm clock that fits your needs.
Display: Deciding how elaborate the display of your alarm clock is also important. Some have super bright screens, while others have simple red or orange numbers that don’t cast as much glow.
How it wakes you up: No longer are you limited to a loud blaring screech to wake you up. Alarm clocks have come a long way and now offer gentle wake-up with sound or light that progressively gets louder or brighter. But if you’re a heavy sleeper, you may want something louder.
How “smart” you want it to be: Many of the best alarm clocks are compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple’s Siri, making scheduling alarms easy.
Best alarm clock FAQ
What’s the best alarm clock for heavy sleepers?
Alarm clocks for heavy sleepers tend to be much louder than the average alarm clock; some even vibrate your bed. Our testing found that the Sonic Alert Sonic Bomb is the best alarm clock for heavy sleepers. It’s loud and it has a vibrating attachment that you can slip under your pillow. Not to mention, it’s budget-friendly.
What type of alarm clock is best for light sleepers?
Light sleepers have the flexibility to choose just about any alarm clock out there. The best alarm clock for light sleepers will come down to preference. If you want one that plays your music to wake you up, consider a smart alarm like the Amazon Echo Show 5. If you want a sunrise alarm that uses light to gently wake you up, try the Philips HF3500.
Should I use my phone as my alarm clock?
You can use your phone as your alarm clock as long as you remember to keep it charged enough to last a night. Alarm clocks ultimately make for better options, though, because they’re plugged in with backup batteries, so you never oversleep. Additionally, using your phone as your alarm keeps it close to the bed, which may tempt you to use it late at night. If you prioritize your sleep quality, go with an alarm clock.
As Dry January has some people putting down the bottle for the first month of the year, the health benefits of eliminating alcohol are in the spotlight.
But TV personality Kelly Ripa, host of ABC’s “Live with Kelly and Mark,” revealed that giving up alcohol had an unexpected effect on her.
On Wednesday’s episode, when Andy Cohen co-hosted alongside Ripa, he brought up that he is “in the middle of dry January.”
6 TIPS TO REDUCE ALCOHOL USE AND CANCER RISK AFTER SURGEON GENERAL’S WARNING
“Usually, a little weight loss comes my way after,” he commented. “That’s not really happening yet.”
Mark Consuelos and Kelly Ripa attend the 96th Annual Academy Awards on March 10, 2024, in Hollywood, California.(Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic)
Ripa responded that when she quit drinking in 2017, she expected there to be a “windfall of weight loss.”
“Because everybody’s like, ‘Well you are going to get too skinny … you can’t afford to lose it,’” she said. “I gained 12 pounds!”
DOES ‘DRY JANUARY’ ACTUALLY IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH? HERE’S WHAT TO KNOW
“I don’t understand this ‘magical weight loss’ that people [imply],” she continued. “I think I just took to eating the sugars … because apparently, alcohol is like a lot of sugar.”
In 2020, Ripa revealed to People Magazine that she and her friends decided to try a sober month back in 2017, and that she “liked the way [she] felt.”
Kelly Ripa attends Variety’s 2023 Power of Women event at The Grill on April 4, 2023, in New York City.(Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images)
“Not that I was a heavy drinker — I wasn’t someone who got drunk — but even like two glasses of wine at a girl’s night out dinner, I would feel it the next morning,” she said.
“I just didn’t really feel the need or desire to go back to it,” Ripa went on. “It wasn’t really a choice or a thought, it was just, ‘Yeah, I guess I don’t drink anymore.’”
Alcohol’s impact on weight
Dr. Kathleen Jordan, Midi Health chief medical officer and women’s health and weight management specialist, shared some health benefits of eliminating or limiting alcohol, including reduced cancer risk and weight loss.
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“Less drinking eliminates the hundreds of calories in the drinks themselves (anywhere from 160 to 400 or more calories per drink) and less drinking is often accompanied by less late-night snacking,” the California-based doctor told Fox News Digital.
“Less alcohol also helps your body get a good night’s sleep, while bad sleep is associated with weight gain. Alcohol interferes with the ability to reach a deep sleep, which then contributes to daytime fatigue and sluggishness – and ultimately to weight gain.”
Limiting or eliminating alcohol can have a variety of health impacts, dependent on the individual, one doctor noted.(iStock)
But limiting alcohol might not pose these benefits for everyone, Jordan noted.
If low or moderate drinkers experience weight gain after eliminating alcohol, the expert said that’s most likely due to substituting drinking with snacking or sugary mocktails.
For more Health articles, visit foxnews.com/health
Jordan recommended replacing alcohol with different variations of water instead, including bubbly, flat or garnished water, which will satiate “nervous eating” and the habit of drinking.
Dry January also occurs when the climate is cold and dark, with most Americans tending to spend more time indoors.
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To support the benefits of not drinking and prevent weight gain, Jordan advised keeping up with physical activity even during the winter months.
Angelica Stabile is a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital.
Living alone? There is a lot to love – you get to eat what you want, when you want and no one is around to judge your food choices. But, living solo does come with its fair share of challenges, especially when it comes to eating healthily. Without the routine of shared meals, it’s super easy to fall into the trap of grabbing convenient (and often unhealthy) foods or skipping meals altogether. The good news? You can eat healthy while living on your own, it just takes a bit of planning and a little creativity.
This guide will walk you through some easy tips and strategies to keep your meals nutritious and enjoyable, no matter how busy or independent you are. Whether you’re a working professional, a student, or just loving your solo lifestyle, these tricks will help you nourish your body and feel good, inside and out.
Also Read: Hungry In Hostel? 5 Tips To Eat Healthy On A Student Budget
Living Solo? Here Are 6 Tips To Eat Well Without The Hassle:
1. Plan and Prep Meals
First things first: Plan ahead! Take a few minutes each week to map out your meals so you’re not caught off guard and tempted by unhealthy snacks. Make a grocery list based on your meal plan to stay focused while shopping. It sounds like a lot, but trust us – once you get into the groove, it saves so much time and effort. You can even find weekly menus from dieticians online to give you a head start. Cook larger portions and split them into individual servings to freeze or store. This way, you’ll always have healthy options ready to go.
2. Shop Smart
When you’re living solo, it’s all about making your money go further. Stock up on non-perishable items like grains, beans, and nuts in bulk – you will save cash and won’t have to head to the store every few days. Fresh produce is amazing, but don’t sleep on frozen fruits and vegetables – they’re just as nutritious, and they last way longer. Plus, they come in handy when you run out of fresh options. Look for single-serve packages, or buy foods you can easily portion out, like yoghurt, cheese, and nuts. This way, you’ll manage portion sizes better and cut down on spoilage.
Shopping for healthy is a smart idea to eat healthy.
3. Eat Healthy
Healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow the simple rule of balancing protein, healthy fats, and carbs in each meal. Pack your plate with lots of fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins. Make a habit of sitting down at the table to eat without distractions like your phone or TV. Not only will this help you enjoy your meals more, but it’ll also help you avoid overeating. Drink water throughout the day – sometimes, thirst can feel like hunger, and staying hydrated will keep those cravings in check.
Also Read:Living Alone Overseas? Nutritionist Recommends 5 Healthy Food Picks For Busy Days
4. Cooking for One
Keep things simple when cooking solo! Stir-fries, salads, and one-pot meals are your best friends. Leftovers are also a great way to save time – turn roasted veggies into a salad or a wrap, or repurpose that chicken gravy into a homemade biryani. When setting up your kitchen, pick up smaller appliances like a mini slow cooker, an air fryer, or a single-serve blender – they’re perfect for cooking just for you.
5. Snacking Right
Let’s be honest – snacking can be where we slip up. Keep healthy options like fruits, nuts, yoghurt, and veggies with hummus handy so you’re not tempted by junk food. Portion out your snacks into small containers to help you avoid mindless munching.
6. Make Life Easier
Hosting potlucks with friends can be a fun way to mix up your meals. You can even look for home cooks nearby and enjoy home-cooked meals without all the effort. Also, try to resist the urge to live off ready-to-eat, microwave meals. They may be convenient, but putting a little time into your kitchen is an investment that’ll pay off in the form of better health, more energy, and a happier you.
<img src='https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-01-24/President-Xi-extends-festive-greetings-ahead-of-Chinese-New-Year-1AqwSsC1bnG/img/7986aa043c9a4aef92a1f08560acded7/7986aa043c9a4aef92a1f08560acded7.png' alt='Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, talks with local people while visiting a food market in Shenyang, capital city of northeast China's Liaoning Province, January 23, 2025. Xi on Thursday inspected Shenyang. /Xinhua'
Chinese President Xi Jinping visited ordinary Chinese people and joined them in preparing for the Chinese New Year during an inspection trip to the northeastern industrial hub of Liaoning Province from Wednesday to Friday.
Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, extended his festive greetings to all Chinese people, wishing them happiness and health and the country peace and prosperity in the Year of the Snake.
The Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival, which falls on January 29 this year, is the most important holiday on the Chinese calendar and an occasion for family reunions.
The reigning king of freakish fashions strips things back with stark leather jackets and corporate-type coats. But Mr. Owens could never really make anything average.
Application is supported by results from the DEVOTE study, which suggested that two doses of Spinraza (nusinerse) 50 mg taken 14 days apart can deliver significant clinical benefits in patients with spinal muscular atrophy.
The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.
Learn more »
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.
One really common complaint I hear from cat lovers is that their cats don’t seem to reciprocate their love as enthusiastically as they would like. It is also the reason why some people claim to ‘hate’ cats – better to reject them than be rejected! The irony that many cat lovers will also be familiar with is that the people who don’t want or try to attract the affection of a feline are invariably the ones who receive it. Another classic ‘cat-ism’ is that your cat will want to shower you with love and snuggles at exactly the time it is least convenient.
Case in point: Zelda
Zelda was adopted by Husband as an older kitten; one that had been poorly socialized. Her daily routine generally consisted of eating, sleeping, hiding, and destroying. She had no interest in playing with toys or engaging with any of the other pets or humans that shared her home; her sole focus was shredding the kitchen sponge or loaves of bread. It was only when she was finally caught in the act that Husband realized that the source of all the kitchen confetti was the lightning-fast, black-haired demon that lurked in the shadows of the wardrobe.
Husband is most appealing when busy
Of course, Husband learned to keep the bread in the pantry and hide the sponge under the sink, but accidents and oversights occasionally occurred, and his frustration was nearing the point of explosion. Much as he hated it, his interactions with Zelda had been reduced to silence, frustrated sighs, and delivering & retrieving food bowls. Then, about six months into this rather dismal relationship, it was like someone had flicked a switch in Zelda, and she stopped her reign of destruction and started following Husband wherever he went, jumping into his lap and showering him in love whenever he sat down. She also turned her affections towards Bailey, the gentle yellow Labrador, who, for the most part, ignored Zelda’s loving demonstrations.
Bailey: One of Zelda’s Two Favorite People
Fast forward a few years, and Zelda’s home has become a little more crowded, with the addition of me, a few more cats, and several more dogs. Although she isn’t trotting behind Husband all day, every day, she still loves to sit on his lap and rub herself all over him – honestly, this cat has no shame.
And when is she most insistent about demonstrating her love? It is always when Husband is using a laptop, phone, or PlayStation console. If he is looking busy—Bam!—Here comes Zelda, and this fairy princess is not easily ignored.
Of course, just because this foundation of avoidance and growing resentment has resulted in a relationship of love and affection, it doesn’t mean that this is the method to follow. However…
Reverse Psychology
Unlike dogs, whose threshold for attention and affection has not yet been discovered, and likely doesn’t exist, cats appear to have a definite limit. Each cat’s limit is different and also may differ depending on whom the attention and affection is coming from. That limit seems to exist on the edge of a very sharp drop, and if you exceed your allowance, you are rejected harshly, either with violence or a look of revulsion that makes you wish you’d never been born.
Cats like to be in control. There is a reason why we often say that humans do not own cats, but are owned by them. We laugh about it, but it’s a hollow laugh, built on shame. Deep down we know that if cats had opposable thumbs, the world would be a vastly different place…
Back to reverse psychology!
If you are to have any chance of winning the love and adoration of a cat, you need to make it appear as though it is all their choice; they control when and how much. We are merely here to do their bidding and be damned grateful for the job. If a cat does not feel that they have control of the situation, they are likely to bolt.
So if we want to feel the love of a cat, we must let them come to us. Be disinterested, standoffish, and even walk away. I’m not going as far as to recommend the “treat ‘em mean, keep ‘em keen” philosophy of misogynistic dating, but it is closer to the mark than a love-bombing approach. Perhaps, ‘treat ‘em with indifference’ would be more apt, as negativity and punishment are just as isolating as an aggressively affectionate approach.
Never forget that their comfort comes first
Cats Don’t Need Friends
In the wild, most felines are solitary by nature, meeting up only for reproductive purposes. They are not social beasts and are quite content in their own company. As they tamed humans over the last 10,000 years, they have become more tolerant of company, even seeming to enjoy it. But the point is, they don’t need it, and that’s why cats have the upper hand. We are prepared to do whatever it takes to be deemed worthy of the attention of a cat, but if they’re not happy, they just walk away without a backward glance. Essentially, cats have got us right where they want us.
Cats Are Loyal Friends
So here’s the good news. Once you’ve broken through into the feline friend zone, you aren’t required to constantly maintain your facade of stoic nonchalance. You can lean in for a smooch, or offer up a cuddle, just don’t get too carried away. But if a cat has decided that you are worthy of their time, they aren’t likely to go back on that decision; that would be admitting a mistake!
If this sounds like I resent cats, then I am saying it wrong. I admire them. They have us providing food, warmth, shelter, and safety, and they haven’t compromised their integrity to do it. All they ask is that we follow their lead, and be cool, calm, and composed in the face of feline attention. Don’t beg, chase, capture, or smother; be patient, and let them come to you. But whatever you do, don’t you dare get up when they’re on your lap!
The Best Solution
Clutch the day he came to live with me
If you want to be almost 100% certain of winning a cat’s love, rescue an adult. When you bring home and shower love on a kitten, they often take you for granted! But if you offer your home to an adult cat that has been living rough or neglected, the hard work’s already been done, and you will have a grateful feline friend for life. Just ask Clutch.
This article is a part of Dr. Karyn’s series with her five hilarious cats.
Delhi NCR-based listed real estate developer, DLF Ltd, reported a 62 per cent jump in consolidated net profit, y-o-y to ₹1059 crore for the quarter ended December 31, 2024. The company had posted a net profit of ₹656 crore in the year-ago period.
Consolidated revenues for the country’s largest realtor stood at ₹1738 crore with gross margins being at ₹52 per cent.
The company reported new sales bookings to the tune of ₹12,093 crore.
“Our latest super luxury offering, The Dahlias in DLF 5, Gurugram, performed exceptionally well, garnering ₹11,816 crore of new bookings in the opening quarter,” the company said in a statement.
Post the quarterly sales bookings numbers, the company has surpassed is annual bookings guidance. New sales bookings for the first nine months of the fiscal year stands at ₹19,187 crore.
DLF’s net cash position stood at ₹4534 crore.
The operating cash surplus generated during the quarter was ₹1,850 crore.
Consolidated revenue of DLF Cyber City Developers Limited (DCCDL) stood at ₹1,609 crore, reflecting y-o-y growth of 9 per cent, consolidated profit for the quarter stood at ₹941 crore, registering a healthy growth of 117 per cent as compared to the year-ago-period.
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.
BROJNI građani diljem zemlje podržali su današnji bojkot trgovina – bojkotirali su gotovo sve vrste trgovina, ne samo one mješovitom robom. Tijekom dana Indexovi su reporteri obišli Zagreb kako bi provjerili stanje u trgovinama, šoping-centrima i pekarnicama te razgovarali s prodavačima i građanima o njihovim stavovima prema bojkotu.
Većina je podržala bojkot
Jedan građanin, kojeg smo sreli ranije danas u širem centru Zagreba, rekao nam je da ne namjerava ići u trgovinu te da bojkot apsolutno podržava. Dodao je da je i sam primijetio kako u trgovinama gotovo da i nema ljudi. “Ovaj danas, rekao bih, prije svega je poruka”, istaknuo je na upit našeg reportera smatra li da će bojkot imati učinka. “Ovi sljedeći, ako budu, onda bi oni mogli imati učinka.”
I drugi građanin, s kojim smo razgovarali tijekom prijepodneva, složio se da danas neće zakoračiti u trgovine te je najavio kako će bojkot produžiti. “Danas ni sutra”, poručio nam je. Većina drugih građana koji su pristali stati pred kameru izjavila je isto – danas neće kupovati.
Tekst se nastavlja ispod oglasa
Bilo je izuzetaka
Međutim, bilo je i izuzetaka. Jedan radnik, koji je radio na obližnjem gradilištu, otkrio nam je kako je morao otići po kavu i gablec, ali da unatoč tome podržava bojkot. Ipak, smatra da jednodnevni bojkot neće biti uspješan. “Premalo je jedan dan. Što se mene tiče, ja bih barem, tri, četiri dana, pet. Tada bi bilo nekog, valjda, učinka.”
Još jedan građanin nije podržao bojkot, ali razumije zašto su ga drugi podržali. Smatra kako neće postići nikakav značajan učinak. “Nisam baš siguran. Bojim se da ne. Barem ovako koliko sam se informirao po forumima. Čak i ljudi su se javili koji rade u dućanima, oni misle da jedan dan neće učiniti razliku.”
Građani su također istaknuli kako smatraju da se u Hrvatskoj trenutačno teško može dobro živjeti s prosječnom plaćom uz ovakve cijene.
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It has been a week since the Rams’ season ended. General manager Les Snead apparently will need at least a few more days before he can start seriously thinking about the next one.
“We’re going to somehow try to get through this weekend,” Snead said Friday.
Snead probably won’t watch the NFC championship game between the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders on Sunday. Instead, Snead, coach Sean McVay, president Kevin Demoff and vice-president Tony Pastoors will navigate a “rejuvenation period” before diving headlong into the Rams’ major offseason issues.
“We’ll have a macro plan, macro cap, macro budget and try to, let’s call it, engineer a team that keeps the momentum going from this one,” Snead said during a news conference with reporters.
No offseason issue looms larger than quarterback Matthew Stafford.
The 16-year veteran is under contract through the 2026 season but, as the Rams uncomfortably found out last offseason, Stafford is not satisfied with what has become a below-market deal. The drama quietly played out through the draft and offseason workouts before the Rams finally bent to his demands and agreed to adjust his contract.
Another round of adjustments could be on the table.
If Stafford, who turns 37 in two weeks, does not retire, could Snead definitively say that Stafford would be back?
“He still has years with us, so he’s still a Ram,” Snead said. “I know this: We’ll sit down with all parties to work through that portion of it when we get to that. … That’s something that’s going to be a big line item.
Will quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) be handing the football to running back Kyren Williams for the Rams next season?
(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)
“I think Sean mentioned it. You don’t want those types of issues dragging out throughout the offseason and kind of being a theme going into the season.”
If the Rams and Stafford cannot agree on a way to move forward, another trade involving the quarterback is not out of the realm of possibility. In 2021, two weeks after the Rams lost a divisional-round game against the Green Bay Packers, Snead traded quarterback Jared Goff, two first-round draft picks and a third-round pick to the Detroit Lions to acquire Stafford, who led them to a Super Bowl title in his first season.
“On that one,” Snead said, “Matthew probably disturbed our rejuvenation period because I think we did play in the divisional round that year and then maybe a week later is when it leaked that he would like to be traded and the Lions were thinking of trading him, so we had to get back to work a little bit quicker than we wanted to.”
Snead did not sound as if the Rams are actively shopping Stafford but also did not say he would not be traded.
“On trades, it’ll take someone calling or us reaching out if we want to do that,” he said. “Those are the things that’ll be determined down the road.”
Receiver Cooper Kupp’s situation is the other major issue. Early this season, the Rams pondered dealing the 2021 offensive player of the year and Super Bowl most valuable player, but kept him and then watched his production wane. Asked if the Rams would trade the receiver if he does not agree to restructure the extension he signed in 2022, Snead said he could not answer that because they had not spoken to Kupp about the situation.
Snead mentioned that Stafford and Kupp were among “a subset of players” — one that almost certainly includes right tackle Rob Havenstein and tight end Tyler Higbee — “that are coming to the end of their careers,” and contracts.
“Do you keep going forward with that same contract?” Snead said. “Do you restructure it in some way? For many reasons. Those are all issues we’ve got to really sit down and talk through.”
The Rams brain trust also will discuss offensive lineman Jonah Jackson’s situation. Last March the Rams gave the free-agent offensive lineman a contract that included $34 million in guarantees. Jackson suffered a shoulder injury early in training camp, however, was placed on injured reserve after the second game and did not reestablish himself as a starter.
Jackson is scheduled to earn $9 million in each of the next two seasons, but none of the salary is guaranteed, according to Overthecap.com.
Snead noted that despite Jackson’s injuries and the continuity that other linemen established during his absence, Jackson displayed a professional attitude and accepted his role.
“It’s hard to move on from quality offensive linemen,” Snead said.
A possible extension for running back Kyren Williams also is “something that’s going to be on the plate,” Snead said.
The Rams have had success in the last two drafts, finding stars such as receiver Puka Nacua and defensive tackle Kobe Turner in 2023 and edge rusher Jared Verse and defensive lineman Braden Fiske, among others, last year.
The Rams have the 26th pick in this draft. They do not have a second-round pick.
“Twenty-six is an interesting place to be,” Snead said. “Do you move up? Do you move back? Do you stay and pick?
Is ChatGPT working for you right now? ChatGPT, a popular AI tool, was temporarily down on Thursday, leaving multitudes of people unable to access the technology. The computer program, which has served as a go-to for many across industries in the recent past, was unavailable for several users, triggering messages on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter). Disruptions occurred around 4:45-5:15 pm in India, as reported by different groups of users.
“ChatGPT seems to be down at the moment… Bad gateway – The web server reported a bad gateway error,” a user claimed to have received the message on their screen while trying to access the application.
Several users also took to microblogging site X to describe their inability to access the tool, with many reporting delayed turnaround time in accessing the site/tool.
ChatGPT Down? Is it not working? If so, what is the reason?
At the time of publishing this report, the cause of the disruption was unclear.
Users across the globe reported difficulties connecting, encountering error messages, and experiencing significant delays in loading times.
At 6:38 pm, the ChatGPT website (chatgpt.com) displayed the “bad gateway” error after taking several seconds to load completely.
Screenshots capturing the error/disruption faced while attempting to access the ChatGPT portal on multiple devices.
What is ChatGPT, why is it popular and what can it do?
ChatGPT is a chatbot—or AI-powered tool—capable of interacting with humans and processing complex duties that mimic human-like cognitive capacity, such as writing stories, creating images, and even suggesting solutions to real-life issues.
ChatGPT has really grown in popularity over the past few years, with the growing demand and research in technology across the globe.
Chatbots like ChatGPT are touted as capable of answering any question across topics.
Memes Galore on X as several users claim to have faced difficulty accessing AI tool ChatGPT
Several users used the moment to share memes describing the ordeal as reports surfaced about the possible disruption at ChatGPT.
Tourists in Hong Kong are flocking to the 300-year-old village of Kuk Po, whose decaying mansions and reed fields offer a respite from the city’s famously frenetic pace. The seaside village was once home to Hakka people from southern China but was mostly abandoned in recent decades, even as gleaming high-rises sprang up in nearby Shenzhen across the Chinese border.
Kuk Po village draws visitors seeking calm amid Hong Kong’s bustling city life.(AFP)
But Hong Kong’s government is encouraging visitors to go off the beaten path and has loosened entry restrictions to the city’s northernmost neighbourhood of Sha Tau Kok — making it easier to visit Kuk Po via speedboat. On a recent January weekend, tourists thronged to the village’s picturesque sights, surrounded on three sides by gentle valleys.
Unveiling Hong Kong’s countryside charm
“When people talk about Hong Kong, it was about the skyline, the city area, the financial hub,” Singaporean exchange student Kevin Choy, 24, told AFP. “Very rarely do people talk about the countryside,” he said. “This side of Hong Kong is something that I never imagined.” Lilian Lee, whose family has deep roots in Kuk Po, said her parents returned there during the Covid pandemic to enjoy the charms of village life — a choice that may resonate with stressed-out city-dwellers.
She started welcoming visitors into her family’s two-storey ancestral home — built nearly a century ago — in 2022. “The world outside is very stressful and chaotic… but here you can relax and be at ease,” the 30-year-old told AFP. “This is a beautiful environment that should be treasured (and) our family came together to share this place with more people.”
Sustainable tourism and the future of Kuk Po
The Hakka — whose name means “guest people” — are known for their long history of migration and transformed Kuk Po into a market town, though its numbers dwindled after Hong Kong urbanised in the 1960s. Tour organiser Paul Chan said sustainable tourism was driving more tourists to visit the near-deserted town. “When the public is interested, it creates a virtuous cycle: for houses and monuments to be restored, and cultures to be revived,” Chan said.
The Hong Kong government hopes eco-tours can promote nature conservation while generating cash for the city. Kuk Po was among the rural townships listed in a tourism policy blueprint last month. But despite the uptick in interest, Lee said it was difficult to financially sustain revitalisation efforts that include tours, tasting events and workshops, and that she hoped the city would invest more in sustainable tourism.
“I hope the village will not turn into a tourist attraction solely for sightseeing, but rather to follow an educational approach,” she said. “Many villages and their histories in Hong Kong are gradually disappearing… I hope these things can be passed on.”
Fortnite developer Epic Games has released a new update on PS5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Android and Nintendo Switch.
The surprise new Fortnite update makes a series of balance changes to Battle Royale and Zero Build.
As you can see from the patch notes further down the page, the update improves the fire rate of Oni Shotguns.
Furthermore, Twinfire Auto Shotguns, Fury Assault Rifles, and Veiled Precision SMGs now all reload faster.
Unfortunately, however, it’s not all good news, because Epic Games has nerfed Typhoon Blades and Holo-Twister Assault Rifles.
Holo-Twister Assault Rifles shoot slightly slower and take longer to reload, while Typhoon Blades deal less damage.
Epic Games has also made changes to the Godzilla X Kong Titan Takedown game mode, which should make it more fun.
Epic explains more: “Starting today and through the weekend, Godzilla will terrorize the Island in EVERY match. We’re also buffing the big guy’s overall health.”
Finally, Epic Games has announced a Kaiju No. 8 crossover, which includes three new skins, a transformation emote and more.
Fortnite January 24 update patch notes…
• Oni Shotguns will now fire shots slightly faster.
• Typhoon Blades now deal slightly less damage to both players and structures.
China’s Leapmotor is one of a many new carmakers begging for Australian’s attention with tech-heavy electrified vehicles.
It has just launched locally with the C10, which is an electric mid-size SUV rival to the likes of the Tesla Model Y, Kia EV5, Deepal S07, and Xpeng G6, among others.
Speaking with CarExpert, Andy Hoang, head of Leapmotor Australia said there are “three key pillars” to how the fledgling brand will stand out from the masses.
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Leapmotor C10
“So the first bit is tech … and how it all works together. I think that is going to make us stand out [for] customers and the ingenuity that comes with it,” Mr Hoang said.
“Some of the innovative designs, like the seats folding back flat. I think those are things that are surprising from a product standpoint, that’s going to make us stand out.
“[The] second element being the accessibility.
“Our brand is about accessible. Taking that technology and how do you make it available to the masses. We’re not nice, we’re not exclusive.
“We want to be somewhere in the middle that … [the] majority of average Australians can actually look at our brand.
“So I think that our value proposition has to be one of the key standouts for us. And I get this great technology, but I’m not paying $100,000-plus for it. I’m getting it in … my price range, what I’m expecting.
“I think the third thing that stands out versus everyone else is probably our network.
“We have an established company in Stellantis that’s bringing this product here. We’ve already got dealers … [that] are servicing customers now.
“They’ve got clear processes on what do we need to do to look after customers from sale to aftersales, to when they have a problem.”
While Mr Hoang says tech is a key pillar for Leapmotor, the C10 is one of the few new vehicles sold in Australia without Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, with owners limited to using their phones for Bluetooth and remote services.
While the Leapmotor C10’s infotainment system includes an application store so owners can download certain programs such as Spotify – as in the Tesla Model Y and Model 3 – it doesn’t have the ability to mirror a user’s smartphone to its 14.6-inch touchscreen.
Leapmotor is a young company, founded in China in 2015. It exclusively offers EVs and range-extender vehicles, the latter of which also incorporate a combustion engine.
In October 2023, automotive conglomerate Stellantis – which owns Jeep, Ram, Peugeot, Maserati and Fiat, among others – announced it would invest €1.5 billion (A$2.5 billion) in Leapmotor, purchasing about 21 per cent of the Chinese carmaker.
It obtained a controlling 51 per cent stake in Leapmotor International, a joint venture between the two carmakers, which is now exporting vehicles to markets like Australia and Europe.
Although the C10 EV is the only car Leapmotor currently offers in Australia, the C10 REEV (Range Extender Electric Vehicle) is due in the first half of 2025, and the B10 small electric SUV is due later this year.
“We plan to cover 65 per cent of the Australian segments in the next three years,” Mr Hoang told CarExpert in November last year.
C10 REEV
B10
“[We plan to] have up to six models in the next three years.”
Here, Leapmotor has tapped both Stellantis’ existing dealers plus some new partners. It currently has 12 dealerships across Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, and the Australian Capital Territory.
Mr Hoang indicated there are plans to double its dealer network by the end of 2025, bringing the network to between 20 and 30 dealers.
India will bump up spending on the modernisation of its railways in the upcoming federal budget while marginally increasing allocations to road building, two government sources said.
Infrastructure Budget Wishlist
India will bump up spending on the modernisation of its railways in the upcoming federal budget while marginally increasing allocations to road building, two government sources said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has ramped up infrastructure spending, particularly on the road network, since the pandemic to drive economic growth, but execution challenges could see the focus shift to the railways, the sources said.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the 2025/26 budget on Feb. 1.
The sources requested anonymity as they are not authorised to speak to the media about the budget discussions.
India’s finance, road transport, and railways ministries did not respond to emails seeking comment.
The railways ministry’s budget allocations could rise to between 2.9 trillion rupees and 3 trillion rupees ($33.5 billion-$34.7 billion) for the 2025/26 fiscal year, up from 2.55 trillion rupees, a government source said.
The increase would help fund the expansion of state-run Indian Railways’ more than 68,000 km of track and a goal of adding 400 high-speed Vande Bharat trains by March 2027, as well as an in rail freight, the source said.
The road transport ministry is expecting a 3% to 4% budget increase to about 2.9 trillion rupees ($34.7 billion), after its total spending rose six-fold in a decade, a government source familiar with budget discussions, said.
India has expanded its road network by nearly 60% over the period to more than 146,000 km.
“Given spending limits and land acquisition challenges affecting new projects, the ministry would be content with a 2%-3% budget hike,” the official said, adding the focus is also on raising funds through internal resources.
Policymakers have expressed concerns about a drop in spending by the road transport ministry, partly due to project delays caused by last year’s national and state elections.
The road transport ministry spent only 54% of its full-year budget in the first eight months of the fiscal year through November, government spending data shows, compared to 76% at the railways ministry.
The road transport ministry plans to raise additional funds by selling toll collection rights to private firms and monetising road assets. It aims to raise up to 1 trillion rupees annually, to partly fund plans to build 50,000 km of high-speed road network in coming years, the first source said.
(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed – Reuters)
News business » economy India To Shift Focus To Railways From Road Transport In Infrastructure Push, Say Sources
