juliao ocampo KUWAIT: The 45th GCC summit due to be held in Kuwait on Sunday, with the attendance of top leaders or representatives, is yet a new gathering of such level to bolster sustainable development, regional security and stability. The summit, the 8th to be hosted by Kuwait, aims at capitalizing on achievements made over the past years, examining plans for a more stable and prosperous future and taking unified stands vis-a-vis mounting regional threats. The summit at Bayan Palace will address regional security, bolstering pan-GCC economic merger and plans to face regional and international challenges. The leaders will look into schemes for overhauling the joint market, enhancing technology cooperation, infrastructural linkups and a host of political files, namely Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Iraq and relations with regional and international powers. The GCC, founded in 1981, holds annual sessions and strives to enhance cooperation among the member states in various fields. It groups Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar and Oman. Kuwait Task Force (Khaleej) is fully ready to protect and ensure the safety and security of the delegations of the 45th Session of the GCC Supreme Council, the force’s commander Brig Saad Mubarak said. In a statement to KUNA on Saturday, Brig Mubarak said the force had been preparing for the event after the Cabinet issued an order to task the National Guard with protecting security during the summit. The force had set a complete security plan for the Sheraton, St Regis and Four Points hotels, he noted. Deputy commander Col Mutar Bader told KUNA that the force will facilitate the delegations’ entry to the hotels, while also setting checkpoints for vehicles and baggage inspection. The National Guard will use top-notch and well-developed equipment to prevent any sabotage attempts, including surveillance cameras and communication devices, he said. Kuwaiti political and academic figures affirmed that the 45th GCC summit would be held amid extremely sensitive and difficult regional and international challenges. The experts said in statements to KUNA on this occasion that the summit comes to emphasize the importance of enhancing joint action between GCC countries in response to current changes that require unified positions to ensure the sustainability of security and development in the region. They expressed their visions on the importance of this summit, stressing the role played by the GCC summits in confronting current crises and enhancing the position of the council, focusing on economic, political and security issues imposed by exceptional circumstances. Former GCC Secretary General Dr Abdullah Bishara said the holding of this summit comes at a time when the world is witnessing serious and unpredictable challenges. He stressed leaders of the GCC countries are aware of these challenges as they are following up on regional and international developments that require them to take necessary decisions. Professor of Sociology at Kuwait University Dr Mohammad Al-Rumaihi said the GCC, since 1981, has been contributing to preserving the stability of the region from unsafe circumstances such as the Iraqi-Iranian conflict, as well as the occupation and liberation of Kuwait, the Arab Spring, the COVID pandemic and multiple other conflicts in the region. Professor of Sociology and Anthropology and Director of Gulf and Arabian Peninsula Center at Kuwait University Dr Yagoub Al-Kandari said Kuwait has always strived to achieve some balance through diplomatic mediation in crises, making the location of this summit appropriate to enhance cooperation, achieve solidarity and overcome differences. Al-Kandari stated the GCC countries face a set of regional and international issues, notably the Palestinian issue and the Zionist occupation aggression on Lebanon, which requires more coordination to confront these challenges. He expressed hope that the outcomes of this summit would focus on the economic situation, which is heading towards more global changes, to achieve more accomplishments in various fields. — KUNAShohei Ohtani wins 3rd AP Male Athlete of the Year award, tying Michael Jordan for 1 shy of record LOS ANGELES (AP) — Shohei Ohtani has been named The Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year for the third time. That ties the two-way superstar with Michael Jordan, an athlete Ohtani followed while growing up in Japan. He trails only Lance Armstrong, Tiger Woods and LeBron James, who each won the award four times. Ohtani received 48 votes in balloting by 74 sports journalists from the AP and its members. He earned his third National League Most Valuable Player award after helping the Dodgers win their eighth World Series title. Ohtani hit 54 home runs and stole 59 bases as the first player with a 50-50 season. His dog, Decoy, became a celebrity, too, helping Ohtani deliver a ceremonial first pitch at a game. On Football: Falcons and Buccaneers flip spots atop the NFC South and playoff races tighten up The 49ers, Cowboys and Cardinals are out of the playoff race. The Falcons took control of their hopes and the Colts, Dolphins and Bengals kept slim chances alive. The NFL’s playoff picture became clearer Sunday. With two weeks remaining, three of eight division titles are secured, eight teams have wrapped up playoff berths and 11 more are competing for the six remaining spots. The biggest change in the standings occurred in the NFC South with Atlanta reclaiming the top spot from Tampa Bay. The Chiefs have the inside track for the AFC's No. 1 seed and the NFC's top spot could likely come down to the Vikings-Lions matchup in Week 18. Tennessee and Auburn remain 1-2 in AP Top 25 poll featuring 10 SEC teams Tennessee and Auburn remained Nos. 1-2 atop The Associated Press men’s college basketball poll. They were the headliners among the Southeastern Conference's haul of 10 ranked teams. Iowa State, Duke and Alabama rounded out the top five. Kentucky had the week's biggest fall, sliding six spots to No. 10 after a loss to Ohio State. Mississippi State, Arkansas, Illinois and Baylor rejoined the poll after stints in the rankings earlier this season. They replaced Memphis, Dayton, Michigan and Clemson. The Big 12 and Big Ten were tied for second with five teams each in the AP Top 25. USC up to No. 4 in women's AP Top 25 after win over UConn. UCLA, South Carolina, Notre Dame stay 1-3 Southern California jumped to No. 4 in The Associated Press women’s college basketball poll on Monday after edging UConn. The Trojans moved up three spots after beating the then-No. 4 Huskies 72-70 in a rematch of last season’s Elite Eight game that UConn won. UCLA, South Carolina and Notre Dame remained the top three teams. The Bruins received 30 of the 32 first-place votes from a national media panel. The Gamecocks and the Fighting Irish each got one first-place vote. UConn fell to seventh behind Texas and LSU. Maryland, Oklahoma and Ohio State rounded out the top 10 teams. Former NFL great Michael Vick introduced as Norfolk State’s football coach NORFOLK, Va. (AP) — Michael Vick has been introduced as Norfolk State’s football coach, a homecoming for the former NFL star and a splashy, attention-grabbing hire for a program that has struggled in recent years. Vick donned a Norfolk State letterman’s jacket and cap in front of a crowd of supporters that included fellow Hampton Roads, Virginia, sports greats Allen Iverson and Bruce Smith. Vick led Virginia Tech to the national championship game as a redshirt freshman and was selected No. 1 overall in the 2001 NFL draft by the Atlanta Falcons. His career was derailed by his conviction in 2007 for his involvement in a dogfighting ring. No. 1 Oregon and No. 8 Ohio State gear up for rematch of thriller won by Ducks Oregon and Ohio State have already produced one heck of a game this season. Now, the top-seeded Ducks and eighth-seeded Buckeyes are gearing up for a rematch more than 10 weeks later in a College Football Playoff quarterfinal game at the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day. Of course, both teams have had ample time for evolution since that 32-31 Oregon win on Oct. 12. But they also have that game and players’ familiarity with each other, not to mention common opponents in the Big Ten. Penn State preparing for hard-charging Jeanty and Boise State in CFP quarterfinals STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (AP) — Penn State players have watched Ashton Jeanty make opponents look silly all season. They don’t want to be the next defenders Boise State’s star posterizes with jukes, spin moves, stiff arms and heavy shoulders. But they also know that slowing down Jeanty, who finished second in Heisman Trophy voting, will be their toughest task yet when the two teams meet in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal Fiesta Bowl on Dec. 31. Texas sues NCAA in latest push to block transgender athletes in women's sports AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has sued the NCAA to block the participation of transgender athletes in women’s sports, arguing that it tricks and misleads fans. The lawsuit filed in state district court argues the NCAA violates the Texas Trade Practices Act. The law is designed to protect consumers from deceptive business practices. The lawsuit is the latest attempt by conservative politicians to target transgender athletes and push the NCAA into banning them from competition. NCAA President Charlie Baker recently told Congress he was aware of fewer than 10 active transgender athletes. Sabrina Ionescu is joining Unrivaled as the new 3-on-3 league's final player Sabrina Ionescu is joining Unrivaled as the new league’s final player for this season. The Liberty star guard who helped New York win the first championship in franchise history earlier this year signed a historic agreement on Monday. She’ll join the Phantom BC that made a trade Saturday night to acquire Natasha Cloud. Ionescu will also be playing with Brittney Griner, Marina Mabrey, Satou Sabally and Katie Lou Samuelson. The 27-year-old Ionescu is recovering from a procedure she had earlier this month on her right thumb to stabilize the ulnar collateral ligament. Sean Manaea to re-sign with Mets for $75 million over 3 years, AP source says NEW YORK (AP) — Sean Manaea is set to return to the New York Mets on a $75 million, three-year contract, according to a person familiar with the agreement. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the deal was subject to a successful physical. Manaea blossomed into New York’s top starting pitcher this year during his first season with the team, going 12-6 with a 3.47 ERA in 32 starts. Then he became a free agent for the third straight offseason. The reunion with Manaea, who turns 33 on Feb. 1, gives New York a much-needed frontline starter to help complete its reconstructed rotation. Mets owner Steve Cohen has committed $916.25 million to five free agents this offseason — four of them starting pitchers.

PARIS (AP) — French President Emmanuel Macron’s office announced a new government Monday, after the previous Cabinet collapsed in a historic vote prompted by fighting over the country's budget. The government, put together by newly named Prime Minister Francois Bayrou , includes members of the outgoing conservative-dominated team and new figures from centrist or left-leaning backgrounds. Coming up with a 2025 budget will be the most urgent order of business. The new government enters office after months of political deadlock and crisis and pressure from financial markets to reduce France’s colossal debt. Macron has vowed to remain in office until his term ends in 2027, but has struggled to govern since snap elections in the summer left no single party with a majority in the National Assembly. Since his appointment 10 days ago, Bayrou has held talks with political leaders from various parties in search of the right balance for the new government. Some critics on Monday were angry at Bayrou for consulting with Marine Le Pen’s far-right party, and some argue the government looks too much like the old one to win lawmakers’ trust. Former Prime Minister Michel Barnier resigned this month following a no-confidence vote prompted by budget disputes in the National Assembly , leaving France without a functioning government. Le Pen played a key role in Barnier’s downfall by joining her National Rally party’s forces with the left to pass the no-confidence motion. Bayrou will need support from moderate legislators on the right and left to keep his government alive. Banker Eric Lombard will be finance minister, a crucial post when France is working to fulfill its promises to European Union partners to reduce its deficit, estimated to reach 6% of its gross domestic product this year. Lombard briefly worked as an adviser to a Socialist finance minister in the 1990s. Bayrou has said he supports tax hikes championed by his predecessor, but it’s not clear how the new government can find the right calculation for a budget that satisfies a majority of lawmakers angry over spending cuts. Hard-right Bruno Retailleau stays on as interior minister, with responsibility for France’s security and migration policy. Sebastien Lecornu, who has been at the forefront of France’s military support for Ukraine, remains defense minister, while Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, who has traveled extensively in the Mideast in recent weeks, also retains his post. Among new faces are two former prime ministers. Manuel Valls will be minister for overseas affairs, and Elisabeth Borne takes the education ministry.

De’Andre Hunter scored 23 points off the bench as the Atlanta Hawks beat league-leading Cleveland again on Friday to advance in the NBA Cup. The Hawks, who handed the Cavs their first home defeat of the season on Wednesday, came out on top at home, parlaying a 52-50 halftime lead into a 117-101 triumph. It was enough to put Atlanta into the NBA Cup knockout rounds as winner of their group after the Boston Celtics beat the Bulls 138-129 in Chicago. Trae Young scored 21 points and handed out 11 assists and Jalen Johnson chipped in 20 points for Atlanta, who had six players score in double figures. Darius Garland scored 29 points for Cleveland and Evan Mobley added 24 points for the Cavs, who opened the season on a 15-0 tear and at 17-3 still boast the best record in the league. The Hawks held Cavs star Donovan Mitchell to 12 points and out-scored Cleveland 39-23 in the third quarter to take control for good in the contest that was one of 10 NBA Cup group stage games scheduled on the Thanksgiving holiday Friday. “They outplayed us,” Cleveland coach Kenny Atkinson said after the Cavaliers were held to their lowest point total of the season. “Sometimes you just have to call it like you see it.” The Los Angeles Lakers, who won the inaugural edition of the Cup last season, were essentially eliminated from the in-season tournament after falling 101-93 to the Oklahoma City Thunder.At least 1 man in custody after police standoff on Feild Street in St. John's

NORAD’s Santa tracker was a Cold War morale boost. Now it attracts millions of kids.

( MENAFN - Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) MANAMA, Dec 23 (KUNA) -- The Kuwaiti Ministry of Social Affairs participated on Monday in the Arab Social Affairs Ministers senior meeting in Bahrain, to discuss common issues among member states. The delegation was headed by Ministry of Social Affairs Acting Undersecretary Khaled Al-Ajmi, said the ministry in a press statement. The meeting discussed continuing lifesaving projects in Palestine, monitoring the social and humanitarian situation in Lebanon, preparing for the 34th Arab League summit, and the upcoming fifth Economic and Social Development summit. They added that the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals were reviewed, especially those related to poverty, rights of persons with disabilities, as well as issues related to the elderly in Arab countries. (end) ays MENAFN23122024000071011013ID1109025298 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.Global stocks mostly cheer Nvidia results as bitcoin gains

Porn star sells likeness to AI firm so she can lighten workloadIs taking offence the new form of protest? If so, then Senator Lidia Thorpe, the Green-turned-independent whose disruptions of parliament have become commonplace, could teach a masterclass in it. Under Thorpe’s model, the more performative the offence-taking, the better the protest. On Wednesday, the Victorian senator caused another parliamentary ruckus. It began when One Nation senator Pauline Hanson questioned the eligibility of Senator Fatima Payman to sit in parliament. Payman – who defected from Labor to the crossbench in July – was born in Kabul, but her family fled the Taliban, and she came to Australia as a child in 2003. Lidia Thorpe and Pauline Hanson after a division in the Senate this week. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen She was made an Australian citizen in 2005, but has had trouble cancelling her Afghan citizenship because the Taliban government does not have diplomatic relations with Australia. Nonetheless, the legal advice is that Payman is eligible for parliament, having taken “all reasonable steps” to renounce her other citizenship. In the Senate, Payman said Hanson was “vindictive, mean, nasty” and that she “[brought] disgrace to the human race”. I am sympathetic to Payman’s anger . Hanson attempted to table documents relating to the matter, but Thorpe seized the papers and ripped them up. She appeared to throw them at the One Nation senator. Thorpe was subsequently ejected from the chamber, and as she departed, she raised her middle finger in an act of defiance you might call adolescent, except it’s insulting to adolescents. The teens I know would never do anything so rude. Afterwards, Thorpe barged into the Senate press gallery, upsetting the scholarly calm within, and used the elevated position to shout a pro-Palestine statement down at the senators she had just been separated from. Speaking afterwards, Thorpe said there is “one rule for white people who get away with racism, and there’s one rule for us when we call this out. We’re then the ones that are naughty little black girls again”. Independent senator Lidia Thorpe leaves the Senate chamber on Wednesday morning. Credit: AAP Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie said what many people were surely thinking when she responded to this: “Calling people racist actually is just a way, I think, that this senator is trying to excuse her own very, very bad behaviour”. The Second Wave feminists of the 1960s used to say that the personal is political, a slogan that was adopted, rightly, by other civil rights movements. Why? Because it’s true. But the slogan was never meant to be twisted to cover the use of political issues as vehicles for personal grievances. Racism is undoubtedly a problem in Australia – a truism so banal it is barely worth writing it, except that it is always worth reminding ourselves of how persistent and misery-making racism is. That’s particularly the case for people (like me) who have never personally experienced it. This week, after publishing a comprehensive national plan to eliminate racism , Race Discrimination Commissioner Giridharan Sivaraman said there had been “alarming rises in racism during recent times”, and that “interpersonal racism is one symptom of the disease of systemic racism”. I have no doubt that Thorpe has copped a lot of racism in her life, as, I’m sure, has Fatima Payman. In October, Thorpe interrupted a reception for King Charles and Queen Camilla in Parliament’s Great Hall with cries of “you are not my king!” and accusations of genocide. She was later censured. I quite admired her audacity – I have enough imagination to conceive that the head of the British monarchy, presiding over Australia like some sort of ... king, might be enraging to Aboriginal people. Why shouldn’t Thorpe shout about it? “You’re not my king”: Lidia Thorpe heckled the visiting King Charles in Canberra. Credit: Getty, Alex Ellinghausen But the more apposite question might be – will the shouting help the cause or hinder it? And, can you remind me what the cause is, exactly? The tension between passion and pragmatism, between purity and practicality, has long been a fault line in progressive politics. When should an activist movement work with the status quo to change it, and when should it reject the status quo entirely? When to shout, and when to negotiate? The conflict is old, but its urgency is fresh. Following the pummelling of the Democrats in the US presidential election, much commentary has been spilled about the party’s mistakes. Many have blamed the censoriousness of the hard-left, and the righteous pleasure with which some of its members seem to take offence. It was interesting to read, this week, a story in The New York Times (and reprinted in Nine newspapers) about trans rights activists who are questioning the confrontational approach of the movement. The argument was that the rhetorical violence of some trans activists has alienated ordinary people. These are people who overwhelmingly believe in the substance of trans rights, but don’t like having their language policed, or their belief in biological sex dismissed as bigotry. A change in tactics is badly needed because trans rights are in grave danger. President-elect Donald Trump, and members of his cabinet, have made their hostility to trans people known. MAGA Republicans, heady with their newly won power, have spent much of the past couple of weeks campaigning for a “congressional bathroom ban”, barring trans people in Congress from using the bathroom that aligns with their gender. It is a nasty crusade clearly targeted at Representative-elect Sarah McBride, a Democrat from Delaware who is the only openly trans person in Congress. Meanwhile, a video this week made public by failed presidential candidate Kamala Harris was full of milquetoast Oprah-isms that did not match the level of threat faced by the left. The Vice President urged supporters to “not let anybody ... take your power from you”. The video was a timely example of how progressive rhetoric collapses when it doesn’t have a firm basis in concrete policy. Such rhetoric doesn’t win hearts or minds. But neither does the performative umbrage-taking of some of the left’s more self-indulgent activists. There will always be a place for protest. But people will listen best to those who invite their respect. And I still can’t think of a better way to do that besides using the now-quaint tools of reason and forceful argument. Jacqueline Maley is a senior writer and columnist. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter .The aching Steelers still control their destiny in the AFC North. Their grasp, however, is slipping PITTSBURGH (AP) — Technically, the standings still show the Pittsburgh Steelers atop the AFC North. It just doesn't exactly feel that way at the moment. Will Graves, The Associated Press Dec 22, 2024 10:52 AM Dec 22, 2024 11:05 AM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin talks to reporters following an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024, in Baltimore. The Ravens won 34-17. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough) PITTSBURGH (AP) — Technically, the standings still show the Pittsburgh Steelers atop the AFC North. It just doesn't exactly feel that way at the moment. While the Steelers still have everything in front of them even after a 34-17 loss in Baltimore on Saturday in which a pair of Russell Wilson turnovers and a battered defense starting to show signs of wear allowed the Ravens to pull away, the grasp they had on the division two weeks ago is now far more tenuous. There were no excuses offered afterward. Yet there's also no time to pout either. Not with Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs visiting Acrisure Stadium on Christmas Day. “The one thing I’m not going to do is keep my head down," Wilson said shortly after a fourth-quarter pick-6 allowed Baltimore to pull away. "I know for us, we got so much great confidence in who we are and what we can do and how we’re going to respond.” If Pittsburgh wants the home playoff game that capturing a division title for the first time since 2020 would provide, it doesn't really have a choice. To do it, the Steelers will likely have to beat the two-time defending Super Bowl champions on three days' rest and then the Bengals in the regular-season finale, not exactly ideal opponents for an injury-marred defense that has given up more than 400 yards in consecutive weeks for the first time since the first three games of the 2019 season. Beating Philadelphia and Baltimore on the road even in the best of times is a tough ask. The Steelers came up empty twice in six days, and while Wilson's turnovers didn’t help, Pittsburgh’s inability to match up with either team in the trenches could be a far bigger problem going forward if it can't find a way to regain the physicality it showed earlier this season. True, the Ravens and Eagles have the two best running games in the league led by backs who are putting together Hall of Fame resumes. Still, every team the Steelers figure to face in the postseason will almost certainly try to follow the blueprint Philadelphia and Baltimore used so effectively. Pittsburgh's truncated schedule — the visit by the Chiefs will be its third game in 11 days — means the tackling issues that have popped up of late will have to be addressed more in theory than in practice. It's a less-than-ideal situation. Yet despite the step or two back recently, the Steelers believe that everything they want to do this season is still in front of them. That's certainly true. Wilson — who knows a thing or two about winning this time of year — remains upbeat. “We can’t let a tough game like this take us into a negative state of mind because there’s a lot more to play for and a lot more we’re searching for, and we can still win the (AFC) North,” he said. "There’s still a lot of opportunity there, too, as well. And so we just got to buckle down and get back to work.” What's working Being disruptive in the red zone. Minkah Fitzpatrick's fourth-quarter pick of Lamar Jackson — his first in 26 games — was the fifth takeaway by the Steelers inside their 20 this season, tied for second most in the NFL. What needs help Just about everything else in the red zone. The Steelers allowed Baltimore to score touchdowns on its first three drives that reached the Pittsburgh 20. The other two ended with Fitzpatrick's interception and a chip-shot field goal by Justin Tucker in the final minutes. Two short touchdown throws from Jackson to tight ends Isaiah Likely and Mark Andrews bothered Steelers coach Mike Tomlin the most. “It is just too late in the year to have guys running open like that, to be quite honest with you," Tomlin said. “So we’ve got some work to do this week and try to shore some of that up.” Stock up Calvin Austin III is the only wide receiver who seems capable of being a difference-maker with George Pickens out of the lineup. The 5-foot-9 Austin has nine receptions for 130 yards over the past two games, and while Wilson's fourth down heave to Austin at the goal line in the third quarter fell incomplete, it also symbolized the faith Wilson has in a highly motivated player who thrives on being underestimated. Stock down Complementary football. The Steelers surged to the top of the division by having a team that thrived in all three phases. That hasn't happened of late. The Ravens turned Wilson's fumble into a 96-yard touchdown drive. Fitzpatrick's interception appeared to give the Steelers momentum only to have Wilson give it right back with a poor throw that Marlon Humphrey turned into the clinching score. Injuries Pickens could return from the hamstring injury that has forced him to miss the past three games. Safety DeShon Elliott (hamstring), defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi (groin), cornerback Donte Jackson (back) could also play after sitting out against Baltimore. The news isn’t as positive for starting cornerback Joey Porter Jr. (knee) and wide receiver Ben Skowronek (hip), both of whom left against the Ravens and did not return. Key number 39 — field goals this season by Chris Boswell, five short of the NFL record set by David Akers with San Francisco in 2011. Next steps Try to heal up quickly and beat Mahomes for the first time. The Kansas City star is 3-0 against the Steelers with 14 touchdowns and zero interceptions. ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl Will Graves, The Associated Press See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Get your daily Victoria news briefing Email Sign Up More Football (NFL) Jalen Hurts ruled out of the Eagles' game at the Commanders with a concussion Dec 22, 2024 11:10 AM Josh Jacobs re-emerging as one of the NFL's elite RBs again in his first season with Packers Dec 22, 2024 10:26 AM Chiefs offense hitting its stride with return of wide receiver Marquise Brown from injury Dec 22, 2024 9:48 AM

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With rookie QB Penix showing poise in starting debut, the Falcons again control their playoff hopesAs TikTok bill steams forward, online influencers put on their lobbying hats to visit WashingtonOklahoma's throwback offensive approach against Alabama gets LSU's attentionIf you are on the hunt for the best ASX dividend stocks to buy, then it could be worth listening to what Bell Potter is saying about the two in this article. They have been named on the broker's Australian's equities panel this month. These are its favoured Australian equities that it believes offer attractive risk-adjusted returns over the long term. Here's what the broker is saying about them: ( ) Bell Potter thinks that investors should be buying Eagers Automotive shares. It notes that it is the dominant player in the automotive retail market in Australia, with a market share >10%. It also highlights that this ASX dividend stock has been around for over 100 years, which it believes shows longevity, good stewardship by the board, and the ability to withstand market downturns. Commenting on its buy recommendation, the broker said: APE should continue to grow revenue via a mix of inorganic and organic growth. The company is also looking to drive margin expansion by buying existing dealership properties (to reduce rent), increasing penetration in finance and insurance (F&I) (higher margin) and through productivity initiatives (technology). Together, management are expecting ~200bps of margin improvement from these initiatives, which would be extremely material (pre-COVID margins of 2.9%). The company is also in a strong financial position with core net debt of around $495m and a property portfolio worth around $727m as at 30 June 2024. As for dividends, its analysts are forecasting fully franked dividends of 66.5 cents in FY 2024 and then 73 cents in FY 2025. Based on the current share price of $11.45, this will mean of 5.8% and 6.4%, respectively. Bell Potter has a buy rating and $13.00 price target on its shares. ( ) Another ASX dividend stock that could be one of the best to buy right now according to Bell Potter is Premier Investments. It is the owner of the Peter Alexander and Smiggle brands, which the broker believes have long growth runways. It is also positive on the proposed divestment of its non-core brands. It said: In addition to Premier Investment's market share of ~6% in the apparel vertical and ~15% in the stationary space in Australia, the Smiggle brand is also a large player in the UK market. As the Smiggle brand looks to grow its presence in the Middle East & Indonesia via a low-risk wholesale model and Peter Alexander into the UK, we think the two brands have a long runway ahead. With the divestment of the non-core Apparel Brands to Myer (MYR) in an all-script deal expected to be completed in January 2025, we see PMV retaining the higher margin Smiggle and Peter Alexander earnings base post-demerger. We view the highly profitable retail business with domestic:offshore exposure of 70:30 (BPe) growing at ~13% (BPe, FY26e), ~26% stake in Breville Group (BRG), together with property assets valued at cost and a strong cash balance (~$327m, BPe), as worthy of a re-rate in the multiple. Bell Potter is forecasting fully franked dividends per share of 111.7 cents in FY 2025 and then 122.6 cents in FY 2026. Based on the current Premier Investments share price of $32.17, this equates to dividend yields of 3.5% and 3.8%, respectively. The broker has a buy rating and $38.00 price target on its shares.

Tariffs, sanctions or bans? What will Trump really achieve when the US says ‘no’

Indian billionaire Gautam Adani, one of Asia's richest men, may be facing his biggest challenge yet with an indictment by U.S. prosecutors for alleged fraud and bribery. But it's unclear just how the case will affect his businesses and own future — as well as the Indian economy and government. On Friday, shares in some of the Adani Group's companies began ticking back up after plunging a day earlier following the announcement of the charges in New York. The stock prices of six of his 10 listed companies rose slightly, between one per cent to nearly four per cent. Adani, a major power player in India perceived as close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was charged Wednesday with securities fraud and conspiracy to commit securities and wire fraud at a court in Brooklyn, N.Y. The test for the tycoon and his multibillion-dollar empire, which encompasses everything from energy and ports to media and agriculture, comes just after the 62-year-old founder and his holdings had bounced back after losing more than $60 billion in market value in early 2023 following allegations of stock price manipulation and fraud by the short-selling firm Hindenburg Research. It also raises questions about corporate governance and crony capitalism in India's economy, which Modi has vowed to make the world's third-largest, and intensified scrutiny on the outsized influence of large, family-run conglomerates. Asia's richest man is another Indian billionaire, Mukesh Ambani of Reliance Industries. Canada's top pensions have trillions in assets. Should they do more to fuel the energy transition? How Indian billionaire Gautam Adani lost half his fortune in a flash, triggering political fallout Prosecutors allege that Adani duped investors in a massive solar project in India by concealing that it was being facilitated by bribes. Seven other executives connected to Adani's massive business holdings also face charges, including three former executives from Quebec's largest pension fund, Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ). The indictment outlines an alleged scheme to pay about $265 million in bribes to government officials in India. Cyril Cabanes, Saurabh Agarwal and Deepak Malhotra, who all held high-ranking positions at CDPQ, are reportedly accused of obstructing a grand jury, the FBI, and the U.S. Securities Exchange Commission. "CDPQ is aware of charges filed in the U.S. against certain former employees," a spokesperson told CBC News. "Those employees were all terminated in 2023 and CDPQ is co-operating with U.S. authorities. In light of the pending cases, we have no further comment at this time." Group denies allegations against green energy arm The Adani group denied the allegations against directors of Adani Green Energy, its renewable energy arm, as "baseless" and said they will be seeking legal recourse. Shares in Adani's green energy venture, which is at the centre of the case, dropped eight per cent on Friday. None of the people charged in the case have been arrested. "For Adani, this hits hard, no matter how you slice it," said Michael Kugelman, director of the South Asia Institute at the Wilson Center. "His public relations machine was in overdrive for nearly two years rehabilitating his image following the Hindenburg allegations. This indictment came like a bolt from the blue and instantly reversed all recent progress in salvaging his reputation and business empire," Kugelman said. Adani's imprint across the Indian economy runs deep. He is the country's largest operator of coal mines and infrastructure developer, operates several ports and airports, and employs tens of thousands of people. Despite his fossil fuel roots, Adani has ambitions to become the world's largest player in renewable energy by 2030. WATCH | How Adani Group lost half its stock value after fraud accusations: India’s Adani Group loses half its stock value after fraud accusations 2 years ago Duration 2:02 Indian billionaire Gautam Adani saw his net worth rapidly plummet after accusations of fraud triggered a steep drop in stock prices for his group of companies, Adani Group. Now, protestors and opposition parties are calling for an investigation. Analysts say a key factor in his meteoric rise over the years has been his knack for aligning his group's priorities with those of the Modi government, investing in key industries like renewable energy, defence and agriculture. Before Modi, Adani was friendly with other parties in power. The latest controversy is likely to put Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party-led government, seen as close to Adani, in an awkward spot. Amit Malviya, the BJP's IT head, said in a post on X that the U.S. charges are "allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty," which critics interpreted as a show of support for the Adani group. The main opposition party has seized on the controversy, demanding Adani's arrest and accusing Modi, who has at times campaigned using an Adani jet, of protecting him. Opposition lawmakers are likely to escalate pressure on Modi when the winter session of parliament begins next week. The controversy has already affected Adani's interests overseas. Kenya's president cancelled multimillion-dollar deals with the Adani group for airport modernization and energy projects. Adani is likely to also face scrutiny in Bangladesh, where a court on Tuesday ordered an inquiry into an energy project. His troubles might complicate India's ties with other countries, such as Sri Lanka, where New Delhi is competing with rival Beijing for strategically important markets. There's no doubt this is "bad timing for New Delhi," said Kugelman, as it comes at a moment "when it's trying to capitalize on the business world's desire to move production out of China and find alternate investment destinations." Could Trump intervene? As for India-U.S. ties, some analysts believe president-elect Donald Trump may intervene. "India would like nothing more than for Trump to halt the investigation once he takes office. That's unlikely. Trump, however, could take a positive view of Adani, a fellow businessman who has praised Trump effusively," said Kugelman. The case highlights business risks in India, though experts believe the impact on investors will be limited mainly to the Adani group. "There are no fears of a financial contagion — at this point, the effect is centred on the group rather than the market. It could slow down the group's expansion and growth as it will become more difficult for Adani to raise funds," said Ambareesh Baliga, an independent market analyst. Still, for many in India, the news isn't that startling. Investors already know "just how ingrained this (bribes and corruption) is in the fabric of the Indian economy — you can't miss it," Baliga said. "Initially, investors may stay away for a while but at the end of the day, they will come back (to Adani). This isn't some small or medium-sized group they can ignore."BUFFALO — The University at Buffalo’s WNY Sophomore Externship Experience (SEE) program is set to return in 2025, offering paid opportunities for undergraduate sophomores from UB and across the region to gain hands-on experience with some of Western New York’s top companies. Designed to help students develop their skills, expand their networks, and deepen their understanding of professional opportunities in the region, the program aims to foster a new generation of talented individuals who can make a lasting impact on the local economy. The program is run by the Division of Student Life’s Startup and Innovation Collaboratory Powered by Blackstone LaunchPad (UB CoLab) at UB. Through the SEE program, participating students are matched with leading Western New York companies and organizations, where they can apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings, explore career paths, and enhance their professional readiness. Each extern will receive a $4,000 stipend for the nine-week program, which will run from June 2 to July 31, 2025. Additionally, externs will earn one course credit through UB (pass/fail) and a micro-credential they can showcase on their LinkedIn profiles and resumes. The SEE program is supported by The Prentice Family Foundation and administered by UB CoLab, powered by Blackstone LaunchPad, with collaboration from a wide range of campus and community partners. “We were thrilled by the success of last year’s inaugural SEE program, which exceeded our expectations in terms of student engagement and employer participation,” said Hadar Borden, director of UB CoLab. “With more than 200 applicants and 47 students placed in externships across 25 host companies, the program demonstrated the immense value of exposing students to real-world opportunities in Western New York.” Borden adds: “This year, we are looking forward to expanding the program to include even more students, businesses and industries. It is an exciting time to grow this initiative and help connect our students with the workforce of the future while also showing them the incredible professional possibilities right here in our region.” The SEE program is open to all undergraduate sophomores who have completed their fourth semester by the spring of 2025. This includes students from UB, other Western New York colleges and universities, and those who graduated from a local high school. The externship is designed to be a part-time, immersive experience, with approximately 25 hours per week working with the host company and engaging in professional development activities. Externs will have the opportunity to engage in various professional development activities, including weekly meetups with fellow students, community-building events like Food Truck Tuesdays, and cultural experiences such as Shakespeare in the Park and an Explore Buffalo tour of Silo City. Last year’s program saw participation from students across a variety of majors, including arts and sciences, engineering, business, and health fields. The host companies and organizations in 2024 included ACV Auctions, Buffalo Zoo, Chautauqua Institution, M&T Bank, Kaleida Health, NOCO Energy Corp., People Inc., and many others across industries like technology, health care, finance and manufacturing. “UB SEE offers the opportunity to companies and organizations to apply and join this program as leaders in workforce development in Western New York,” said Borden. “Not only are we providing an opportunity for students at UB, and beyond, to get meaningful experience early in their college careers, we are working with reputable employers in our region to help bolster the workforce in the years ahead.” By participating as host sites, companies gain access to emerging talent and fresh perspectives, all while contributing to the growth of Western New York’s future workforce. Interested companies can apply online via this application form. 2024 program outcomes and impact: • 47 students from 20+ colleges and universities participated. • 25 host companies offered students exposure to over 140 hours of professional experience. • 98% of students reported expanding their professional network, while 93% felt more confident in their problem-solving abilities. • Host companies reported a 96% satisfaction rate, with more than 80% indicating interest in returning as host sites in 2025. The 2025 WNY Sophomore Externship Experience application deadline for externs is Jan. 31. For companies and organizations interested in hosting externs, priority will be given to those that apply by Jan. 24. Prospective applicants can learn more about the program and how to apply by attending one of the upcoming informational sessions, available both virtually and in person. Interested companies and organizations will be accepted on a rolling basis. Interested students and companies can visit UB’s SEE program website or contact the Startup and Innovation Collaboratory at UB. About UB Startup and Innovation Collaboratory (CoLab) Startup and Innovation CoLab powered by Blackstone LaunchPad opened its doors in March 2016. Located in the Student Union on UB’s North Campus, CoLab provides students with experiential learning, individualized mentorship and ideation support, and seminars and training sessions related to starting and growing a business. The CoLab is one of over 60 campus programs part of the Blackstone Charitable Foundation’s LaunchPad program. Blackstone LaunchPad seeks to close the opportunity gap by equipping primarily first generation and underrepresented college students with key entrepreneurial skills and career exposure, such as paid internships, to build lasting careers.

Wangaratta Monday tips: $4 best bet

Giants' 10th straight loss showed once again that they need a young QBYou can get more then £200 off a Shark Stone FlexStyle + Hot Brush for a limited time. The Shark Stone FlexStyle + Hot Brush is down from £379.98 to £229 but then a further discount can be added when you type in the code SHARKBF25 at the checkout, making the f inal price £163.16. The offer on eBay comes from their refurbished products collection which allows shoppers to buy high value items at a significantly marked down price because they are not new. And eBay said: "All refurbished items on eBay are inspected, cleaned, and restored by either the manufacturer itself or a manufacturer-approved seller, ensuring shoppers can enjoy quality assurance and peace of mind." The Shark Stone FlexStyle + Hot Brush promises to "style while you dry with no heat damage". The product description said: "Say goodbye to extreme heat – Shark FlexStyle measures heat 1,000 times per second ensuring consistent air temperatures and no heat damage. No extreme heat – gently dry and style all hair types with three heat and airflow settings, giving you total control." READ MORE: 4p tablet the NHS says everyone should be taking READ MORE: The Mary Berry kitchen must have that she 'always uses' Promising " salon results at home " it is said to smooth and shine hair with less frizz than air drying and can curl or straighten hair. There are three heat and airflow settings and the bundle includes the all-in-one smoothing hot brush for wet and dry hair. The Shark Stone FlexStyle + Hot Brush is currently out of stock on the Shark website and has hundreds of five star reviews with some saying they prefer the Shark over the Dyson. One said on the eBay website: "This product is very nice and works flawlessly." Another, Sorina, on the Shark website said: "Wonderful hair styling set, so easy to easy, hair remains soft and not damaged, lovely volume and curls. Definitely recommend !" Allan said: "Great product works much better than expected . Dyson doesn't have nothing on this." RBos said: "Absolutely love this styler . I have used the Dyson air wrap before and have to say, I can’t tell the difference. "Plus, this comes with a hair dryer. I have the Dyson hairdryer and this one is great in comparison . It’s lighter and all the attachments are good quality. Money well spent." Andrew Allen said: "My daughter loves this product, it styles and dries with low heat creating less damage to the hair. Just as good as the Dyson bu t half the price no brainer really ." Another added: " The best hairdryer and curler I’ve ever had and it’s all in one. I love it, it’s better than a Dyson too I tried and tested both. Quality in your hands." But some said the straightening tool did not work on their thick hair, Jojo said: "I have thick hair and the hairdryer element is great but the straightening brush just doesn't do a good job on my hair." And if you want an alternative, the Dyson Air wrap does also come very highly recommended. You can also get an eBay refurb of the Dyson AirwrapTM multi-styler which retails for £479.99 but with the limited time Black Friday code DYSONBF35 you can get it for £259.99 . Or there is also the Beauty Works AERIS Multi-Styler which is currently on sale on the LookFantastic website for £187 , down from £222, saving you £33.

Light & Wonder, Inc. 公告:若您因 Light & Wonder, Inc.(NASDAQ: LNW)蒙受損失,請聯絡 Rosen Law Firm 了解您的權益US ports brace for perfect storm as tariff threats scramble supply chainsSchoolchildren spread Christmas cheer to care home residentsTruck drags two on bike for 400 m after accident in Agra

Here’s a roundup of state college football games played on Saturday, Dec. 1. James Rinello had one rushing touchdown and threw a touchdown pass to lead the host Blue Jays (10-1) over the Wolverines (9-2) in an NCAA Division III second-round game. Rinello capped a 12-play, 73-yard drive with a 1-yard touchdown run in the first quarter and completed a 6-yard touchdown pass to EJ Talarico in the fourth quarter for a 17-0 lead. Grove City rallied over the final 5 1/2 minutes, recovering a blocked punt for a touchdown with 3:42 left, but came up short. The Blue Jays extended their winning streak to eight games and advance to face DePauw, a 45-20 winner over Maryville, in next Saturday’s third-round game. SyRus McGowan had two rushing touchdowns and threw a touchdown pass to lead the host Sea Gulls (11-0) over the Monarchs (10-2) in an NCAA Division III second-round game. McGowan went 8-for-16 for 99 yards and completed a 10-yard touchdown pass to Micah Brubaker. McGowan also had 15 carries for 63 yards and two touchdown runs of 3 and 2 yards. Salisbury will face Randolph-Macon, a 38-22 over Washington & Jefferson, in next Saturday’s third-round game.Personal finance lessons from Warren Buffett’s latest letter