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LISBON, Portugal (AP) — The goals are flying in again for Arsenal — and it just happens to coincide with the return from injury of Martin Odegaard. Make that eight goals in two games since the international break for Arsenal after its 5-1 hammering of Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League on Tuesday, tying the English team’s heaviest ever away win in the competition. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.No. 17 Cincinnati kicks off Big 12 play vs. struggling Kansas State
Connor Bedard's Comments Must Get Blackhawks' AttentionThe Infrastructure and Development Bank of Zimbabwe (IDBZ) is targeting to roll out additional accommodation facilities for students countrywide to create a good learning environment for learners at tertiary education level. IDBZ chief executive Mr Thomas Zondo Sakala said the bank wasat various project development stages for other facilities in Lupane, KweKwe,Bindura, Chinhoyi, Masvingo, Gweru, Gwanda, Mutare, Harare and Chipinge. Already, some special purpose vehicles (SPVs) to mobilisefunding for student accommodation facilities at four universities have beencreated. These are Campus Oasis for Lupane State University (LSU), CatholicUniversity of Zimbabwe Students Hostels Private Limited, Multi BUSE Properties PrivateLimited for Bindura University for Science Education and Sesevven Heroes Campus PrivateLimited for Chinhoyi University of Technology. The SPVs are modelled on the Bulawayo Student Accommodation Complex, which was commissioned by President Mnangagwa last Friday and fundedto the tune of US$17,5 million. To develop and deliver the Bulawayo facility, the IDBZ first purchased the land from a private owner who already had the designs but couldnot raise the money for implementation. To mobilise funding for the project,the bank then created a SPV called Zimcampus Properties Private Limited toimplement, own, and operate the complex. As a deliberate strategy, anchored on playing a catalytic role and enabling IDBZ to work on several similar projects across the country,the IDBZ deliberately diluted its shareholding to a minimum. Thus, after Bulawayo facility, the respective shareholding of the three private investors and the IDBZ stands as follows: IDBZ, 7,67 percent, Motor Industry Pension Fund, 19,44 percent, Old Mutual Life Assurance Company Zimbabwe Limited, 49,37 percent and Zimnat, 23,52 percent. Through Zimcampus, the IDBZ secured funding commitments fromOld Mutual, Zimnat and Motor Industry Pension Fund. There are also a number of nominees invested through Old Mutual and Zimnat. Among them is the PublicService Commission Pension Fund who contributed about US1,8 million by the time the project was completed. The partners have rights to participate in the project revenues proportional to their contribution to the development of the facility. The Zimcampus board has since appointed Old Mutual as the facility manager. Until then, the IDBZ was responsible. The complex boasts 516 double rooms, accommodating 1 032 students. The ground floor offers 33 commercial units for businesses like food courts, grocery shops, a sporting facility, a bookshop, banks, apharmacy, laundromats, and supermarkets, exemplifying a modern world-classfacility. Students benefiting from the facility are from institutions like the National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo Polytechnic College and the Zimbabwe School of Mines. Notably, female students will be the primary beneficiaries,with a 60 percent quota set aside for them. Mr Sakala said the bank had already spent close to US$1 million towards project preparation for LSU and US$600 000 for theCatholic University. "The resources are from our Project Preparation and DevelopmentFacility (PPDF)," said Mr Sakala. Close Sign up for free AllAfrica Newsletters Get the latest in African news delivered straight to your inbox Top Headlines Zimbabwe Education Banking Submit By submitting above, you agree to our privacy policy . Success! Almost finished... We need to confirm your email address. To complete the process, please follow the instructions in the email we just sent you. Error! Error! There was a problem processing your submission. Please try again later. _ready.push(function($) {if ( ! loadjs.isDefined( 'newsletter-signup-assets' ) ) { loadjs( ["https://cdn01.allafrica.com/static/js/jquery/jquery.serialize-object.min.js?v=2024110900","https://cdn05.allafrica.com/static/js/newsletter-signup.min.js?v=2024110900","https://cdn05.allafrica.com/static/css/newsletter-signup.min.css?v=2024110900"], 'newsletter-signup-assets', { async: true, });} // the newsletter widget calls storageAllowed(), which is imported with // the cmp bundle. passing an array of bundle names to loadjs triggers // the callback only after all of the listed bundles have fired. loadjs.ready( [ 'cmp', 'js-cookie', 'events', 'newsletter-signup-assets' ], function() { $('.newsletter-signup.inread.collapse.w-background.w-background-color.blue').newsletterInRead({ maxShowCount: 10, maxCloseCount: 3, maxSuccessCount: 1, }); }); }); "It (The PPDF) needs to be optimally resourced, especially given the fact that there is a significant timelag before these outlays are recovered and re-invested through the PPDF." He said the bank had accelerated preparations for similar developments at Lupane, Kwekwe and the Catholic University in Harare and "we havealready funded the designs for these three sites." Accommodation for students remains a challenge nationwide,with students forced to stay in inappropriate environments. A significant number stay in private homes without safety and good hygienic conditions.In 2016, out of about 70 000 enrolled in various State universities across the country, only just under 11 000 were provided with accommodation. The remaining 59 000 students head to make their own arrangements. The situation created a lot of learning, social and security risks for thestudents, especially the girls. Read the original article on The Herald .Musk Calls For Ending Electric Vehicle Tax Credit—Which Could Help Tesla
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Seahawks place RB Kenneth Walker III (ankle) on injured reserveOSUN State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, on Sunday presented a Staff of Office and Instrument of Appointment to the new Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, with a charge to him to rally all citizens of Ijesaland for the development of the area and the state at large. Speaking at the event held at the Obokungbusi Town-hall in Ilesa, the governor congratulated all distinguished sons and daughters of Ijesaland, both at home and abroad, who are witnessing this historic moment. According to him, “Such an event took place over forty years ago when our revered departed father, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran, was presented with his instrument of appointment and staff of office. His reign was long, eventful, peaceful, and full of massive developments in Ijesaland.” “I pray the same for our new Owa, Ade a pe lori, Bata a pe lese. E o pe lori ite awon baba yin. Kabiyesi, now that the time of competition is over and you have become the father of all, I urge you to rally all citizens of Ijesaland for the development of the area and the state at large.” “I urge you to deploy your wealth of experience garnered over the years and your contacts within and outside the country for the development of Ijesaland. There is much work to be done, and the government alone cannot be saddled with the responsibility. It calls for the concerted efforts of all.” “I want to seize this opportunity to call on all Ijesa sons and daughters to continue the development of the fatherland. Our administration is intensifying developmental efforts across the state, including Ijesaland. We need your continued cooperation and collaboration to further speed up the growth process.” “In the last two years of my administration, we have made tremendous impact on the massive infrastructural development of the state, including Ijesaland. For the first time in the history of Ilesa, my administration is constructing a dual carriageway in the ancient town. This is in addition to several other infrastructural developments in Ilesa and Ijesaland in general.” “I, therefore, urge all and sundry to continue to support this administration as we take developments to every corner of the state. I promise not to relent on our efforts to transform our dear state. We have been doing this, and we will continue to do more in the new year.” “I congratulate all members of the State Council of Obas who are here in Ilesa to felicitate with the new Deputy Chairman I of the Council. I urge the Council to continue to advise, support, and cooperate with the government in its task of transforming the lives of the citizens of this great state.” In his remarks at the well-attended event, the new Owa Obokun Adimula, Oba Haastrup, thanked the entire Ijesa people, the governor, members of the state cabinet, state and federal elected and appointed political office holders, other traditional rulers, eminent indigenes of Ijesaland from within Nigeria and the diaspora, members of the royal families, and well-wishers, for their support and encouragement before, during the selection process, and after his appointment had been ratified by the state government. “Let me also use this opportunity to salute the patience, resilience, and resourcefulness of our youths and reassure them that a new dawn has come. Modalities shall be put in place for the productive engagement of our teeming youths in Ijesaland.” “I shall, as a policy direction, promote the economic growth of Ijesaland through agriculture and agriculture-allied industries, as well as supporting creative and strategic development ventures in Ijesaland.” “There shall be zero tolerance for land grabbing in my name and in the name of others, no matter how highly placed. Efforts shall be made toward the establishment of an Ijesa Technical Institute, placing serious attention on the production of artisans, as it is done in China, Ghana, and other places.” He prayed that peace, unity, and harmony would continue to reign in Ijesaland, Osun, and Nigeria as a whole. “My most sincere appreciation to my fellow brothers from the Bilaro family and all my brother princes who contested the throne with me. You are all eminently qualified for the stool.” “But, as in all contests, there will always be one winner. The time for the contest is now over. Let us come together and unite to build a stronger and more prosperous future for all the people of Ijesaland. For me, there is ‘No Victor, No Vanquished!’” “My dear people of Ijesaland, let us move forward together, united in our pursuit of a brighter future. May our land continue to flourish, and may we always remain a beacon of hope and freedom.” “My immediate priority shall be to consolidate on the unity and progress ravaging the whole of Ijesaland. Fortunately, my task has been made easier by the energy, resourcefulness, cooperation, and enthusiasm of our people, as shown by the various unification efforts across Ijesaland over the past few years. Our elders and eminent stakeholders have shown uncommon dedication and loyalty to our land.” ALSO READ: Benin group backs new UNIBEN VC on work agenda “Thank you for your belief, steadfastness, and deployment of your personal resources for the happiness of our people. Please be assured that our projects’ conceptualization and implementation shall continue to be driven by the pan-Ijesa team spirit to promote harmony, trust, and communality. I am eager and willing to do a lot more. With your support and encouragement, I can only build on our legacies and selfless sacrifices.” “Let me also use this opportunity to salute the patience, resilience, and resourcefulness of our youths and reassure them that a new dawn has come. Modalities shall be put in place for the productive engagement of our teeming youths in Ijesaland.” Meanwhile, while the official selection process, which began on Friday, December 27th, has now been completed with the presentation of the Staff of Office, Oba Haastrup will immediately proceed to seclusion, where other traditional rites will be observed. Before he ends his seclusion, a date for the elaborate coronation party, befitting of this first-class king who has previously served as Deputy Governor of the state, will be announced.
NoneThe question sounds so basic and friendly. But it’s actually loaded, as many mothers can attest. “Do you just love getting to be home with him all the time?” asks the younger, more put-together woman in the supermarket. “Must be so wonderful.” Read this article for free: Already have an account? As we navigate through unprecedented times, our journalists are working harder than ever to bring you the latest local updates to keep you safe and informed. Now, more than ever, we need your support. Starting at $14.99 plus taxes every four weeks you can access your Brandon Sun online and full access to all content as it appears on our website. or call circulation directly at (204) 727-0527. Your pledge helps to ensure we provide the news that matters most to your community! The question sounds so basic and friendly. But it’s actually loaded, as many mothers can attest. “Do you just love getting to be home with him all the time?” asks the younger, more put-together woman in the supermarket. “Must be so wonderful.” Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? The question sounds so basic and friendly. But it’s actually loaded, as many mothers can attest. “Do you just love getting to be home with him all the time?” asks the younger, more put-together woman in the supermarket. “Must be so wonderful.” Wonderful, of course — and sometimes brain-numbing and soul-draining too, some exhausted fulltime moms might reply. Especially if, like Amy Adams’ character in Marielle Heller’s “Nightbitch,” they’d left their prized art gallery job to this other woman. And so Adams responds, twice, showing in this very opening scene exactly why her typically brave, brutally frank performance lifts this movie from an oddly uneven script to something unequivocally worth seeing. First we get the honest answer, the one no one really gives until later in the shower: she feels “stuck inside of a prison of my own creation,” where she torments herself and ends up binge-eating Fig Newtons to keep from crying. She is angry all the time. Oh and, she has gotten dumber. Then we rewind and director-writer Heller has Adams give her real answer: “I do, I love it! I love being a Mom.” There we are, two minutes and 13 seconds into “Nightbitch” and you may already find yourself wowed by Adams. If not, just wait until her Mother is sitting at a chic restaurant with a bunch of colleagues from the art world, and her fangs come out. And we don’t mean figuratively. We mean literally. Let’s go back to the beginning, shall we? “Nightbitch” is based on the 2021 novel by Rachel Yoder, a feminist fable that the author has said came from her own malaise when pausing work for child-rearing. She sets her tale in an unidentified suburb of an unidentified city. Mother (characters all have generic names), formerly an admired installation artist, spends her weekdays alone with her adorable, blond 2-year old Son. Husband has a job that seems to bring him home only on weekends. The early scenes depicting Mother’s life are tight and impactful, a contrast to the confused havoc that will come toward the end of the film. Life revolves around the playground and the home, with occasional trips to storytime at the library where she notes, in narration, that she has no interest in the company of other moms — why should they be friends just because they’re moms? In fact, Mother lives in solitude, and director Heller does a nice job illustrating how that feels. You can almost feel the weight of the afternoon coming around, at this comfortable but hardly ostentatious home, when it’s too early for dinner and you’ve done all the activities already and you wonder if you can make it through the day. Then things start to get weird. In the bathroom mirror, Mother starts noticing things. Her teeth are getting sharper. There’s something weird coming out of an apparent cyst at the bottom of her spine. She finds extra nipples. And that’s before she starts eating rare meat. (Also, if you love cats, you may want to close your eyes at one point.) Somehow Adams, who also produces here, makes these things seem, if not quite natural, then logical. What’s happening is that Mother’s frustration is becoming ferocious. Dangerously ferocious. But also — empowering. At night, or so she thinks, she is a wild dog. Aspects of the film work wonderfully. Mother’s relationship with Son (twins Arleigh and Emmett Snowden) is lovely, largely due to a decision to let the young boys talk freely, with the adult actors reacting to their words. It lends a grounding realism to a film that quickly veers surreal. Less successful is the relationship between Mother and Husband (Scoot McNairy), which takes on too much importance as the film goes on, in a baffling way. (Also, just asking, has anyone in this movie ever heard of a babysitter?) More importantly, a story that posits itself on such a tantalizing idea — that by transforming into a dog, Mother discovers her true nature and power — resorts late in the game to a safer story about a marriage that never seemed appealing enough for us to care about anyway. It doesn’t help that it’s hard to grasp the distracting subplot about Mother’s own mother. None of this takes away from the strength of Adams’ performance. You believe her love for her child as much as you believe her resentment for what he is taking away from her. And Adams can make almost any line work, including one about a walnut. But we digress. It’s an irony that for reasons of storytelling, characters have generic names — because Adams is such a singular and particular talent. The journey she embarks upon is bizarre indeed, but you won’t regret taking it with her. “Nightbitch,” a Searchlight Pictures release, has been rated R by the Motion Picture Association “for language and some sexuality. “ Running time: 98 minutes. Two stars out of four. Advertisement Advertisement
7.0 earthquake off Northern California prompts brief tsunami warningLOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles Lakers have traded guard D'Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets for forward Dorian Finney-Smith and guard Shake Milton. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles Lakers have traded guard D'Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets for forward Dorian Finney-Smith and guard Shake Milton. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles Lakers have traded guard D’Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets for forward Dorian Finney-Smith and guard Shake Milton. The Lakers also sent forward Maxwell Lewis and three second-round draft picks to Brooklyn on Sunday. Russell averaged a career-low 12.4 points for the Lakers this season in a diminished role under new coach JJ Redick, who had vowed to unlock the point guard’s formidable offensive game. Instead, Russell was removed from the starting lineup early in the season, and he struggled to make a consistent impact as a reserve, with his shooting percentages declining significantly. The 6-foot-7 Finney-Smith isn’t a top scorer, but he is a steady 3-and-D wing who fills an obvious need for the Lakers. Los Angeles has had inconsistent wing play and has lacked an effective defender at the key position during the long-term injury absence of Jarred Vanderbilt, who hasn’t played since Feb. 1. Finney-Smith averaged 10.4 points and 4.6 rebounds this season for the Nets, who acquired him from Dallas in the February 2023 in the trade of Kyrie Irving. Finney-Smith has been limited to five games this month by a sprained ankle and a bruised calf, but the 31-year-old played 27 minutes against San Antonio on Friday. Redick and Finney-Smith were teammates with the Mavericks during the 2020-21 season, and Redick has expressed admiration for Finney-Smith’s hard-nosed game. Milton is joining his sixth NBA team in less than two years, including his third trade in 11 months. He is averaging 7.4 points and 2.4 assists per game this season as a Nets reserve. Russell is being traded by the Lakers to the Nets for the second time in his career. He also made the move in 2017 after spending his first two NBA seasons with Los Angeles, which drafted him in 2015. Russell earned the only All-Star selection of his career during his two seasons in Brooklyn. Russell has been traded five times in the past 7 1/2 years. The 10-year pro excelled for the Lakers during their run to the 2023 Western Conference finals after returning to the team in February of that season, although he got benched during that final playoff series against Denver. Russell remained a fairly consistent scorer last year while setting a new franchise record for 3-pointers made in a season, but his career-long problems with offensive inconsistency and defensive ability kept him out of Redick’s plans this year. With Russell’s departure, Gabe Vincent is the only true point guard left in the Lakers’ rotation, although LeBron James often fills the role of initiating their offense. The Lakers (18-13) have won five of six heading into their visit from Cleveland on New Year’s Eve. The trade continues a roster restructuring by the Nets, who traded former Lakers point guard Dennis Schröder to Golden State two weeks ago. Schröder was Brooklyn’s third-leading scorer, while Finney-Smith was its fourth-leading scorer. Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. The Nets have been one of the NBA’s lowest-scoring teams this season, so Russell should have plenty of chances to make an offensive impact. Brooklyn has lost three of four heading into its road game against Orlando on Sunday. Russell’s $18.7 million contract expires this summer, while Finney-Smith has a $15.4 million player option for the 2025-26 season. Lewis was the Lakers’ second-round pick in 2023, but he played in just 41 games over the past two seasons while shuttling to the G League. ___ AP NBA: https://apnews.com/NBA Advertisement AdvertisementNone
Former Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya (left) and Opposition Leader, Inia Seruiratu (right) Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has called for a thorough investigation into potential criminality and a possible cover-up related to the dismissal of former Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya. While acknowledging the Prime Minister’s decision to remove Tabuya from her ministerial role, Seruiratu expressed concerns about the integrity of the former. The main issue raised by Seruiratu involves the misrepresentation of Tabuya’s marital status. Tabuya had previously declared that she had been divorced from Robert Semaan since 2016 which allowed her to exempt his assets from official declarations. However, Seruiratu stated that recent revelations suggest they are still married, casting doubt on her honesty and transparency. Seruiratu also pointed to the controversy surrounding a private video involving Tabuya, which has circulated widely. The video, which Tabuya has stated is a personal matter with her husband, contradicts her earlier claim of being divorced. Seruiratu said that these contradictions further undermine her credibility and trust with the public. Another concern highlighted by Seruiratu is Tabuya’s role as co-chair of the National Taskforce to address Pornography in Fiji. Given the strict code of conduct required for such a position, Seruiratu argued that Tabuya’s involvement in this matter compromises her ability to lead efforts to combat pornography and protect children from online exploitation. Seruiratu also raised concerns about the influence of FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali in closing the investigation into Tabuya’s false declaration. He called for an investigation into whether Tabuya exerted any influence over Malimali to end the case, stressing the importance of maintaining the integrity of Fiji’s anti-corruption institutions. Seruiratu called for a transparent investigation into these matters to restore public trust. He emphasized the need for public officials to uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability. He also stated that he would bring this matter to parliament to ensure it receives the attention it deserves. Meanwhile, FBC News has sent questions to Tabuya and Malimali regarding the concerns raised by Seruiratu.Cathie Wood’s Ark Innovation ETF is blazing trails in the artificial intelligence sector, thanks to its forward-thinking investments made long before AI became mainstream. The fund’s strategic moves have positioned it for remarkable success, especially in 2024. Palantir Technologies: A Data Powerhouse Palantir Technologies stands as a pillar in the Ark Innovation ETF, dazzling investors with a 380% stock surge in 2024. This phenomenal growth is driven by Palantir’s strong revenue performance and its strategic positioning within key stock indices like the S&P 500 and Nasdaq-100. Major government contracts continue to bolster its long-term potential, as the company embodies a shift towards data-driven efficiency and security. Nvidia: At the Core of AI Advancements Despite trimming Nvidia shares, Cathie Wood maintains a strong connection to the company through her other funds. Nvidia’s graphic processing units (GPUs) are crucial to AI applications, a fact reflected in a 180% rise in stock price this past year. CEO Jensen Huang sees broader opportunities for Nvidia in accelerated computing, expanding beyond AI and setting the stage for future growth. Tesla: Driving AI Innovations Tesla remains a flagship investment for Wood, marking more than an 80% increase in share value since November 2023. Market optimism about AI initiatives, including a potential robotaxi service, keeps Tesla in the spotlight. While valuations raise some eyebrows, the company’s commitment to leveraging AI reinforces its pioneering status in the automotive industry. As AI propels these companies forward, 2025 promises further exciting opportunities, with continued advancements in technology and market dynamics to watch closely. Investors keen on riding the AI wave should keep an eye on these transformative leaders. Investing in AI: Unpacking Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities in 2025 In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, Cathie Wood’s Ark Innovation ETF continues to set the benchmark for strategic investments in the artificial intelligence sector. The fund’s foresight in capitalizing on AI-related opportunities has created substantial market buzz, with significant implications for 2025 and beyond. Market Analysis and Predictions As 2024 paved the way for unprecedented growth in AI, 2025 holds the promise of transforming market dynamics further. Investors and analysts are closely monitoring how key players like Palantir Technologies, Nvidia, and Tesla will adapt to, and drive, the next wave of AI innovations. The burgeoning growth in AI solutions, from machine learning models to AI-driven automation, indicates a robust market trajectory where the integration of AI into various industries becomes not just beneficial but essential. Features and Innovations Palantir Technologies stands at the forefront, celebrated for its advanced data analytics platforms that cater specifically to government and large enterprise needs. The integration of AI in Palantir’s offerings allows for unprecedented data interpretation abilities, providing clients with actionable insights that drive operational efficiency and security. Nvidia , renowned for its cutting-edge GPUs, is not just an AI enabler but also looks to broaden its horizon through accelerated computing beyond traditional AI applications. CEO Jensen Huang’s vision indicates a diversification strategy that could redefine sectors such as healthcare, autonomous vehicles, and finance. Tesla , synonymous with innovation in the electric vehicle market, continues to harness AI for transformative initiatives like the anticipated robotaxi service. Tesla’s strategic AI endeavors underscore its goal to remain a vanguard in automotive technology, spotlighting its pioneering role in the integration of AI with mobility solutions. Challenges and Security Aspects Despite these advancements, the AI sector faces critical challenges, particularly in balancing rapid growth with ethical considerations and security concerns. As AI systems become increasingly integrated into business processes, safeguarding data integrity and addressing potential biases in machine learning models become paramount. Companies must navigate these intricacies to foster trust and maintain innovation momentum. Sustainability and Future Trends Sustainability in AI development is emerging as a key pillar, with enterprises seeking ways to reduce the ecological footprint of AI solutions. Companies are investing in energy-efficient data centers and cleaner production processes, aligning with global sustainability goals. As AI evolves, its applications in environmental monitoring and resource management offer promising avenues for sustainable growth. Looking ahead, the trend toward democratizing AI technology will redefine accessibility, allowing smaller businesses and startups to harness AI for niche applications, thus fostering an inclusive technological ecosystem. In conclusion, as Cathie Wood’s Ark Innovation ETF captures the essence of AI potential, investors should remain attentive to shifting market landscapes, emerging technologies, and the ethical considerations that influence this dynamic sector. The heightened focus on innovation and sustainability will undoubtedly shape the contours of AI’s future. For those interested in the broader implications of these trends, learn more about the broader strategies by visiting the Ark Invest official website.
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Each year, as December fades into January, the world of business is inundated with articles and reports forecasting the trends that are expected to shape the coming year. From advancements in technology and shifting consumer behavior to evolving workplace dynamics, these insights promise to help leaders anticipate and navigate an ever-changing landscape. But is there real value in immersing oneself in these predictions, or do they merely serve as an annual ritual with limited practical impact? At its core, the value of reading about upcoming trends lies in fostering preparedness. Businesses do not operate in isolation; they are deeply intertwined with technological, societal, and economic currents. For instance, the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence and automation in recent years has forced companies to rethink not only their operations but also their strategies for talent management and customer engagement. Leaders who fail to recognize or respond to such shifts risk falling behind their more proactive competitors. Trend forecasts, while not infallible, offer a curated glimpse into the potential opportunities and challenges ahead, enabling businesses to position themselves advantageously. In the realm of strategy, staying informed about trends can serve as a catalyst for innovation. Consider the ongoing emphasis on sustainability and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives. Ten years ago, such concepts were emerging as niche concerns; today, they are integral to the success of global brands. Companies that paid attention to these nascent trends early — by rethinking supply chains, adopting greener technologies, and embedding ESG principles into their operations — are now reaping the rewards. Reading about potential trends helps managers identify areas where innovation can create competitive differentiation, whether through new products, improved processes, or stronger relationships with stakeholders. However, not all predictions are created equal. The proliferation of articles and reports about annual trends can sometimes result in an overwhelming and contradictory deluge of information. One publication may emphasize the rise of the metaverse, while another champions the return to human-centric, in-person interactions. Such disparities raise questions about the reliability of these forecasts. In some cases, trends are overhyped or lack the empirical basis needed to justify their prominence. Therefore, the value derived from reading these forecasts depends heavily on the critical thinking skills of the reader. Managers and leaders must assess the credibility of sources, evaluate the alignment of predicted trends with their specific industry, and recognize that not every trend is relevant to their context. Moreover, it is crucial to acknowledge the inherent uncertainty in predicting the future. Many trends that dominate discussions at the start of the year fail to materialize or unfold in ways that differ significantly from initial expectations. The unpredictability of global events—ranging from economic recessions to geopolitical conflicts—can swiftly render even the most well-informed predictions obsolete. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted nearly every industry worldwide, challenging previously forecasted trends and accelerating others, such as remote work and digital transformation, far beyond anyone’s expectations. This serves as a reminder that while trend reports are valuable tools, they should not be treated as definitive roadmaps. Despite these limitations, reading about trends offers an additional benefit: fostering a culture of curiosity and learning within organizations. The act of exploring emerging ideas encourages leaders and teams to think expansively, question established norms, and engage in meaningful discussions about the future. For instance, a company reading about the rise of decentralized finance (DeFi) might not immediately invest in blockchain technologies but could spark internal conversations about how to leverage digital tools for financial operations. Even when a particular trend does not lead to immediate action, the process of engaging with forward-looking ideas can stimulate creativity and long-term strategic thinking. In the competitive world of business, timing is often a decisive factor in success. Organizations that are quick to identify and act on relevant trends can achieve first-mover advantages, while those that lag may struggle to catch up. Reading about trends at the start of the year provides a temporal edge, enabling businesses to plan ahead, allocate resources effectively, and communicate their vision to stakeholders. For example, a company that anticipated the growing demand for personalized customer experiences in retail might have invested early in data analytics and AI-driven solutions, securing a stronger foothold in an increasingly competitive market. Nonetheless, it is essential to strike a balance between trend adoption and core business priorities. Overzealous pursuit of every new idea can lead to strategic dilution and resource misallocation. Companies must discern which trends align with their long-term goals, customer needs, and organizational capabilities. This requires a disciplined approach to trend evaluation, combining quantitative analysis with qualitative insights and a firm understanding of the broader industry context. In the end, there is undeniable value in reading about trends for the coming year, particularly for business and management professionals. These forecasts provide a foundation for preparedness, innovation, and strategic foresight, helping organizations stay relevant in a dynamic world. However, the real utility of such insights depends on how they are interpreted and applied. Businesses must approach trend reports with a critical eye, separating actionable insights from fleeting buzzwords, and remain agile enough to adapt when the unexpected occurs. By doing so, they can harness the power of trends not just as predictions but as tools for thoughtful and effective decision-making. The views expressed herein are his own and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of his office as well as FINEX. Reynaldo C. Lugtu, Jr. is the Founder and CEO of Hungry Workhorse, a digital, culture, and customer experience transformation consulting firm. He is a Fellow at the US-based Institute for Digital Transformation. He is the Chair of the Digital Transformation IT Governance Committee of FINEX Academy. He teaches strategic management and digital transformation in the MBA Program of De La Salle University. The author may be emailed at rey.lugtu@hungryworkhorse.com
‘Who is winning?’: The inevitable question that reporters face
In significant sports developments, Manchester City will match up against Juventus in the Club World Cup group stage, alongside teams such as Wydad AC and Al Ain. Soccer legend Lionel Messi and Inter Miami will face Al Ahly, Porto, and Palmeiras in the opening stages of the expanded tournament. Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama will miss the game against the Chicago Bulls due to bilateral low back soreness. Zach Collins is anticipated to replace him in the lineup for Thursday's game. The Mavericks' CeeDee Lamb also plans to play despite a shoulder injury that has lingered for weeks. Manny Pacquiao, one of the most accomplished boxers in history, is set to be inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Meanwhile, the MLB sees Luis Severino striking a historic $67 million deal with the Oakland Athletics, marking the largest financial agreement in the franchise's history. (With inputs from agencies.)SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — A 7.0 magnitude earthquake shook a large area of Northern California on Thursday, knocking items of grocery store shelves, sending children scrambling under desks and prompting a brief tsunami warning for 5.3 million people along the U.S. West Coast. The quake struck at 10:44 a.m. west of Ferndale, a small city in coastal Humboldt County, about 130 miles (209 km) from the Oregon border, the U.S. Geological Survey said. It was felt as far south as San Francisco, some 270 miles (435 km) away, where residents felt a rolling motion for several seconds. It was followed by multiple smaller aftershocks. There were no immediate reports of major damage or injury. The tsunami warning was in effect for roughly an hour. It was issued shortly after the temblor struck and covered nearly 500 miles (805 km) of coastline, from the edge of California’s Monterey Bay north into Oregon. “It was a strong quake, our building shook, we’re fine but I have a mess to clean up right now,” said Julie Kreitzer, owner of Golden Gait Mercantile, a store packed with food, wares and souvenirs that is a main attraction in Ferndale. “We lost a lot of stuff. It’s probably worse than two years ago. I have to go, I have to try and salvage something for the holidays because it’s going to be a tough year,” Kreitzer said before hanging up. The region — known for its redwood forests, scenic mountains and the three-county Emerald Triangle’s legendary marijuana crop — was struck by a 6.4 magnitude quake in 2022 that left thousands of people without power and water. The northwest corner of California is the most seismically active part of the state since it’s where three tectonic plates meet, seismologist Lucy Jones said on the social media platform BlueSky. Shortly after the quake, phones in Northern California buzzed with the tsunami warning from the National Weather Service that said: “A series of powerful waves and strong currents may impact coasts near you. You are in danger. Get away from coastal waters. Move to high ground or inland now. Keep away from the coast until local officials say it is safe to return.” South of San Francisco in Santa Cruz, authorities cleared the main beach, taping off entrances with police tape. Numerous cities urged people to evacuate to higher ground as a precaution, including Eureka. “I thought my axles had fallen apart,” said Valerie Starkey, a Del Norte County supervisor representing Crescent City, a town of fewer than 6,000 about 66 miles (106 km) north of Eureka. “That’s what I was feeling ... ‘My axles are broken now.’ I did not realize it was an earthquake.” Gov. Gavin Newsom said he has signed off on a state of emergency declaration to quickly move state resources to impacted areas along the coast. State officials were concerned about damages in the northern part of the state, Newsom said. Crews in Eureka, the biggest city in the region, were assessing if there was any major damage from the quake, Eureka Mayor Kim Bergel said. Bergel, who works as a resource aid at a middle school, said lights were swaying and everyone got under desks. “The kids were so great and terrified. It seemed to go back and forth for quite a long time,” she said. Some children asked, “Can I call my mom?" The students were later sent home. In nearby Arcata, students and faculty were urged to shelter in place at California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt. The campus in was not in the tsunami hazard zone and after inspections, “all utilities and building systems are normal and operational,” the university said in a statement. Humboldt County Sheriff William Honsal said residents experienced some cracks in their homes’ foundations, as well as broken glass and windows, but nothing severe. There also have been no major infrastructure problems, building collapses or roadway issues, and no major injuries or deaths have been reported, he said. Honsal said he was in his office in the 75-year-old courthouse in downtown Eureka when he felt the quake. “We’re used to it. It is known as ‘earthquake country’ up here,” he said. “It wasn’t a sharp jolt. It was a slow roller, but significant.” Michael Luna, owner of a Grocery Outlet in Eureka, said that besides a few items falling off shelves, the store on Commercial Street was unscathed by the earthquake. “We didn’t have any issues but a couple of deodorants fall off.... I think the way the earthquake rumbled this time, it was a good thing for our store because the last earthquake was a huge mess," he said. They evacuated customers and closed their doors temporarily until officials lifted the tsunami warning, he said, rushing off the phone to attend to a growing line of customers at check-out. The San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District, known as BART, stopped traffic in all directions through the underwater tunnel between San Francisco and Oakland, and the San Francisco Zoo’s visitors were evacuated. Dave Snider, tsunami warning coordinator for the Tsunami Warning Center in Alaska, said the computer models indicated that this was the type of earthquake that was unlikely to cause a tsunami and gauges that monitor waves then confirmed it, so forecasters canceled the warning. This quake was a strike-slip type of temblor that shifts more horizontally and is less prone to cause tsunamis, unlike the more vertical types, said National Weather Service tsunami program manager Corina Allen in Washington state. The California Geological Survey says the state’s shores have been struck by more than 150 tsunamis since 1800, and while most were minor, some have been destructive and deadly. On March 28, 1964, a tsunami triggered by a powerful earthquake in Alaska smashed into Crescent City hours later. Much of the business district was leveled and a dozen people were killed. More recently, a tsunami from a 2011 earthquake in Japan caused about $100 million in damages along the California coast, much of it in Crescent City. Dazio reported from Los Angeles. AP writers Chris Weber and Dorany Pineda in Los Angeles; Martha Mendoza in Santa Cruz, California; Sophie Austin and Tran Nguyen in Sacramento, California and Seth Borenstein in Washington, D.C. contributed to this report.
NoneChinese semiconductor firm Loongson Technology has unveiled ambitious plans to compete with global chipmakers like and . The company has announced the upcoming release of its 3C6000 processor series, with notable advancements in processing power and efficiency. This high-performance Q model aims to deliver even greater processing power, supporting up to 128 threads in advanced server setups, and if successful, it will enhance . A key milestone Despite the US trade restrictions designed to limit the flow of advanced chips and manufacturing equipment to China, the nation is still progressing in its semiconductor production capabilities, with Longsoon's release set to play a key role. As part of Loongson's fourth-generation architecture, the 3C6000 processors will be offered in : the 3C6000/S, which matches the performance of Intel's Xeon 4314; the 32-core 3C6000/D; and the 64-core 3C6000/Q, currently in final packaging and slated for release in 2025. Each 3C6000 chip uses a single silicon design, with 16 cores and 32 threads. The series supports DDR4-3200 × 4 memory configurations, along with dual- and quad-silicon chip options for even greater processing power. These advanced configurations enable up to 64 cores and , catering to demanding server applications and data processing tasks. Additionally, the processors are designed to support GPGPU (General Purpose GPU) operations and a variety of hardware accelerators, making them versatile for workloads such as artificial intelligence, simulation, and large-scale data analytics. In response to investors' inquiry on its 2K3000 processor and independent graphics card, 9A1000, Loongson revealed that the 2K3000 tape-out was completed in June 2024, with market availability expected after testing and productization. Similarly, the 9A1000 graphics card is slated for tape-out in 2025. Via
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