This year’s economic scorecard Government implements key policy decisions aimed at stabilising the economy Representational image of people buy pulses and grains at a wholesale market. — AFP/File The year 2024 represents a critical juncture for Pakistan’s economy, characterised by a confluence of significant challenges and emerging opportunities. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1700472799616-0'); }); Throughout this period, Pakistan encountered a range of obstacles arising from a complex global economic environment, including fluctuations in commodity prices, alterations in trade dynamics, and geopolitical tensions with extensive implications. Domestically, the government implemented key policy decisions aimed at stabilising the economy. Reforms in taxation and monetary policy were enacted to mitigate inflation and foster foreign investment. Infrastructure development initiatives were prioritised to stimulate economic growth and generate employment, notwithstanding the varying pace of implementation across different regions. Geopolitical developments, both regionally and globally, have considerably influenced Pakistan’s economic trajectory. Shifting alliances and trade relationships have impacted access to markets and the flow of foreign investment. Natural occurrences, such as seasonal monsoons, have introduced further complexity to the economic landscape, affecting agricultural output, which remains a vital component of Pakistan’s economy. Looking ahead, forecasts for 2025 evoke a sense of cautious optimism. Analysts predict a gradual recovery, contingent upon the continuation of reforms, stable political conditions, and improvements in global economic circumstances. A concerted effort to enhance trade relationships and attract foreign direct investment will be essential for sustaining economic growth. In 2024, Pakistan’s economy exhibited a moderate recovery, with Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth estimated at 3.5 per cent, reflecting a slight improvement from the previous year’s sluggish performance. This recovery was predominantly fueled by the agriculture and services sectors, which rebounded following favourable weather conditions and the alleviation of disruptions related to the pandemic. Nevertheless, industrial output continued to face constraints due to energy shortages and inflationary pressures. Inflation remained a significant challenge, averaging approximately 22 per cent throughout the year. Although global energy prices showed some stabilisation, domestic inflation was exacerbated by inefficiencies in supply chains, currency depreciation, and rising utility tariffs. By the end of the year, the Pakistani rupee exhibited volatility and stabilised at approximately Rs305 to the US dollar, following intervention measures implemented by the central bank. Projections for 2025 suggest a gradual reduction in inflation, contingent upon the stability of global commodity prices and the maintenance of fiscal discipline. GDP growth is anticipated to rise to 4.0 per cent as energy projects become operational and investments in infrastructure increase. However, the realisation of these targets will depend significantly on political stability and the consistency of policy measures. The government has adopted a cautious fiscal strategy to reduce the budget deficit, which currently stands at 7.2 per cent of GDP. Key measures implemented include the reduction of non-essential expenditures and the enhancement of tax collection efforts. The introduction of targeted subsidies for low-income households has played a vital role in alleviating the impact of inflation on the most vulnerable segments of the population. On the monetary front, the State Bank of Pakistan has maintained a stringent monetary policy stance by keeping interest rates at historically high levels to mitigate inflation. Although this approach has resulted in a deceleration of credit growth and private-sector borrowing, it is considered a necessary measure to stabilise the economy and restore investor confidence. For the year 2025, policymakers aim to achieve a balance between economic growth and stabilisation. It is anticipated that interest rates will gradually decrease if inflationary pressures subside, potentially stimulating private-sector activities. The government is also exploring innovative avenues for revenue generation, including the broadening of the tax base and the utilisation of digital technologies to enhance compliance. In 2024, Pakistan’s trade deficit exhibited a modest contraction, driven by enhanced exports in textiles, information technology services, and agricultural products. Nevertheless, the nation’s dependence on imported energy and machinery continued to exert upward pressure on the import bill. The government's initiatives promoting renewable energy projects yielded positive outcomes, contributing to a reduction in dependence on high-cost oil imports. Remittances from expatriate Pakistanis were a crucial support to the economy, totalling $28 billion. However, the current account deficit persisted as a significant concern, highlighting the imperative for structural reforms aimed at bolstering export competitiveness and diversifying the economic framework. Looking forward, it is anticipated that the trade deficit will further decrease in 2025 as new export-oriented policies are implemented. Efforts to diminish reliance on energy imports and to enhance domestic production of machinery and industrial inputs will be vital. Remittances are also expected to stabilise, bolstered by strengthened relationships with the diaspora and incentives promoting formal remittance channels. The agriculture sector demonstrated a recovery with a growth rate of 4.1 per cent, supported by favourable monsoon conditions and governmental assistance programs. Key agricultural outputs, including wheat, rice, and cotton, performed well, thereby improving rural livelihoods and food security. In 2025, advancements in mechanisation and the adoption of climate-resilient crop varieties are anticipated to further bolster productivity, aided by government subsidies and international partnerships. Continued energy shortages have posed challenges to industrial productivity; however, renewable energy initiatives have gained traction. Investments in solar and wind energy projects have intensified, establishing a foundation for a more sustainable energy future. With major renewable energy projects scheduled for completion in 2025, the sector is poised for considerable growth, which is expected to decrease the reliance on fossil fuels and reduce production costs for various industries. The information technology and tech sector has emerged as a notable success, with software exports surpassing $3.5 billion. Conditional to the government's commitment to digital transformation and skill development can significantly contribute to this growth. Provided that government policies are effectively implemented to support the information technology and service sectors, alongside ensuring timely and reliable access to the internet for these industries, it is anticipated that they will play a vital role in significantly enhancing the national treasury. By cultivating an environment that promotes growth, these sectors have the potential to make considerable contributions to the overall economic development of the country, thereby benefiting the national exchequer. Forecasting for 2025 indicates further expansion within the sector, with tech exports potentially reaching $4 billion, driven by escalating global demand for IT services and an expanding talent pool fostered through targeted training initiatives. Pakistan has made progress in various areas, but significant challenges remain. Political instability, elevated public debt, and climate-related vulnerabilities continue to hinder economic advancement. The severe floods that occurred in 2022 and 2023 have left enduring effects, necessitating substantial resources for rehabilitation and the reconstruction of infrastructure in 2024. In 2025, the primary challenges will include sustaining fiscal discipline in the face of rising global interest rates and navigating geopolitical tensions that may adversely affect trade and foreign investment. Enhancing climate resilience will remain a paramount concern, with anticipated increases in funding directed towards infrastructure improvements and disaster management systems. The collaboration of the government with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and other international entities will be crucial in ensuring financial stability. Structural reforms, particularly within the energy and tax sectors, will be essential for sustaining growth and mitigating vulnerabilities. The economic landscape for Pakistan in 2024 reflects a narrative of cautious recovery amidst persistent challenges. While growth prospects have marginally improved, the nation's economic resilience will depend on the effective execution of policies, targeted investments in critical sectors, and the cultivation of an environment conducive to sustainable development. Forecasts for 2025 present a cautiously optimistic outlook, subject to the conditions of political stability and the successful execution of reforms. With the appropriate blend of policies and strategic investments, Pakistan can address its challenges and achieve sustained economic growth in the years ahead. The writer is a trade facilitation expert, working with the federal government of Pakistan.esl online game 。

NEW YORK (AP) — Walmart's sweeping rollback of its diversity policies is the strongest indication yet of a profound shift taking hold at U.S. companies that are re-evaluating the legal and political risks associated with bold programs to bolster historically underrepresented groups. The changes announced by the world's biggest retailer on Monday followed a string of legal victories by conservative groups that have filed an onslaught of lawsuits challenging corporate and federal programs aimed at elevating minority and women-owned businesses and employees. The retreat from such programs crystalized with the election of former President Donald Trump, whose administration is certain to make dismantling diversity, equity and inclusion programs a priority. Trump's incoming deputy chief of policy will be his former adviser Stephen Miller , who leads a group called America First Legal that has aggressively challenged corporate DEI policies. “There has been a lot of reassessment of risk looking at programs that could be deemed to constitute reverse discrimination,” said Allan Schweyer, principal researcher at the Human Capital Center at the Conference Board. “This is another domino to fall and it is a rather large domino,” he added. Among other changes, Walmart said it will no longer give priority treatment to suppliers owned by women or minorities. The company also will not renew a five-year commitment for a racial equity center set up in 2020 after the police killing of George Floyd. And it pulled out of a prominent gay rights index . Schweyer said the biggest trigger for companies making such changes is simply a reassessment of their legal risk exposure, which began after U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in June 2023 that ended affirmative action in college admissions. Since then, conservative groups using similar arguments have secured court victories against various diversity programs, especially those that steer contracts to minority or women-owned businesses. Most recently, the conservative Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty won a victory in a case against the U.S. Department of Transportation over its use of a program that gives priority to minority-owned businesses when it awards contracts. Companies are seeing a big legal risk in continuing with DEI efforts, said Dan Lennington, a deputy counsel at the institute. His organization says it has identified more than 60 programs in the federal government that it considers discriminatory, he said. “We have a legal landscape within the entire federal government, all three branches -- the U.S. Supreme Court, the Congress and the President -- are all now firmly pointed in the direction towards equality of individuals and individualized treatment of all Americans, instead of diversity, equity and inclusion treating people as members of racial groups,” Lennington said. The Trump administration is also likely to take direct aim at DEI initiatives through executive orders and other policies that affect private companies, especially federal contractors. “The impact of the election on DEI policies is huge. It can’t be overstated,” said Jason Schwartz, co-chair of the Labor & Employment Practice Group at law firm Gibson Dunn. With Miller returning to the White House, rolling back DEI initiatives is likely to be a priority, Schwartz said. “Companies are trying to strike the right balance to make clear they’ve got an inclusive workplace where everyone is welcome, and they want to get the best talent, while at the same time trying not to alienate various parts of their employees and customer base who might feel one way or the other. It’s a virtually impossible dilemma,” Schwartz said. A recent survey by Pew Research Center showed that workers are divided on the merits of DEI policies. While still broadly popular, the share of workers who said focusing on workplace diversity was mostly a good thing fell to 52% in the October survey, compared to 56% in a similar survey in February 2023. Rachel Minkin, a research associate at Pew, called it a small but significant shift in short amount of time. There will be more companies pulling back from their DEI policies, but it likely won’t be a retreat across the board, said David Glasgow, executive director of the Meltzer Center for Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging at New York University. “There are vastly more companies that are sticking with DEI," Glasgow said. "The only reason you don’t hear about it is most of them are doing it by stealth. They’re putting their heads down and doing DEI work and hoping not to attract attention.” Glasgow advises organizations to stick to their own core values, because attitudes toward the topic can change quickly in the span of four years. “It’s going to leave them looking a little bit weak if there’s a kind of flip-flopping, depending on whichever direction the political winds are blowing,” he said. One reason DEI programs exist is because without those programs, companies may be vulnerable to lawsuits for traditional discrimination. “Really think carefully about the risks in all directions on this topic,” Glasgow said. Walmart confirmed will no longer consider race and gender as a litmus test to improve diversity when it offers supplier contracts. Walmart says its U.S. businesses sourced more than $13 billion in goods and services from diverse suppliers in fiscal year 2024, including businesses owned by minorities, women and veterans. It was unclear how its relationships with such business would change going forward. Organizations that have partnered with Walmart on its diversity initiatives offered a cautious response. The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council, a non-profit that last year named Walmart one of America's top corporation for women-owned enterprises, said it was still evaluating the impact of Walmart's announcement. Pamela Prince-Eason, the president and CEO of the organization, said she hoped Walmart's need to cater to its diverse customer base will continue to drive contracts to women-owned suppliers even if the company has no explicit dollar goals. “I suspect Walmart will continue to have one of the most inclusive supply chains in the World,” Prince-Eason wrote. “Any retailer's ability to serve the communities they operate in will continue to value understanding their customers, (many of which are women), in order to better provide products and services desired and no one understands customers better than Walmart." Walmart's announcement came after the company spoke directly with conservative political commentator and activist Robby Starbuck, who has been going after corporate DEI policies, calling out individual companies on the social media platform X. Several of those companies have subsequently announced that they are pulling back their initiatives, including Ford , Harley-Davidson, Lowe’s and Tractor Supply . Walmart confirmed to The Associated Press that it will better monitor its third-party marketplace items to make sure they don’t feature sexual and transgender products aimed at minors. The company also will stop participating in the Human Rights Campaign’s annual benchmark index that measures workplace inclusion for LGBTQ+ employees. A Walmart spokesperson added that some of the changes were already in progress and not as a result of conversations that it had with Starbuck. RaShawn “Shawnie” Hawkins, senior director of the HRC Foundation’s Workplace Equality Program, said companies that “abandon” their commitments workplace inclusion policies “are shirking their responsibility to their employees, consumers, and shareholders.” She said the buying power of LGBTQ customers is powerful and noted that the index will have record participation of more than 1,400 companies in 2025.In the true spirit of giving, the London-St. Thomas Association of Realtors (LSTAR) was on a tour across the region, making donations to local charities. “We're so lucky to have LSTAR visiting us today. They're dropping off a cheque for $10,000 to support our subsidy programs,” said Executive Director of Meals on Wheels London Chad Callander. In total, LSTAR visited 10 charities Wednesday: The company donated over $80,000 to these charities, bringing their annual charitable contribution to approximately $143,000. According to Meals on Wheels, this donation couldn’t have come at a better time. “The number of individuals that are relying on us in order to be able to afford their meals is continuously growing. We're doing about 130,000 meals a year, which is about up 15 to 20 per cent. So the support is absolutely appreciated,” said Callander. “As realtors, the community supports us in our business, and we believe strongly that we need to support the community. We have a strong focus on housing and that sort of thing and the items that we support. So it's just really important to, to promote those initiatives in London,” said LSTAR Chair Kathy Amess. Shopping Trends The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop. Read about us. Editor's Picks 15 Amazon Canada Stocking Stuffers Under $10 That Everyone Will Love 19 Gifts Under $50 That Are Better Than A Gift Card 19 Practical Gifts That Anyone Would Love To Unwrap Home The Good Stuff: Our Favourite Christmas Lights For 2024 Our Guide To The Best Sectional Sofas You Can Get In Canada Our Guide To The Best Electric Snow Shovels In Canada In 2024 (And Where To Get Them) Gifts 25 Last-Minute Secret Santa Gifts From Amazon Canada That’ll Arrive On Time 19 Of The Best Gifts For People Who Love To Cook 28 Crowd-Pleasing Gifts For The Pickiest People On Your List Beauty 12 Budget-Friendly Products To Add To Your Winter Skincare Routine Our Guide To The Best Self Tanners You Can Get In Canada 20 Anti-Aging Skincare Products That Reviewers Can’t Stop Talking About Deals Don’t Walk, Run! 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In the last three months, 7 analysts have published ratings on 8x8 EGHT , offering a diverse range of perspectives from bullish to bearish. The following table summarizes their recent ratings, shedding light on the changing sentiments within the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months. Bullish Somewhat Bullish Indifferent Somewhat Bearish Bearish Total Ratings 2 0 2 3 0 Last 30D 0 0 0 1 0 1M Ago 0 0 0 1 0 2M Ago 2 0 2 1 0 3M Ago 0 0 0 0 0 Insights from analysts' 12-month price targets are revealed, presenting an average target of $2.84, a high estimate of $4.00, and a low estimate of $2.00. A 8.68% drop is evident in the current average compared to the previous average price target of $3.11. Understanding Analyst Ratings: A Comprehensive Breakdown The standing of 8x8 among financial experts becomes clear with a thorough analysis of recent analyst actions. The summary below outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets. Analyst Analyst Firm Action Taken Rating Current Price Target Prior Price Target Meta Marshall Morgan Stanley Raises Underweight $2.60 $2.00 Siti Panigrahi Mizuho Lowers Underperform $2.50 $2.75 Michael Turrin Wells Fargo Raises Underweight $2.00 $1.50 Siti Panigrahi Mizuho Raises Neutral $2.75 $2.50 Ryan Macwilliams Barclays Raises Equal-Weight $2.50 $2.00 Catharine Trebnick Rosenblatt Lowers Buy $3.50 $4.00 Josh Nichols B. Riley Securities Lowers Buy $4.00 $7.00 Key Insights: Action Taken: Analysts respond to changes in market conditions and company performance, frequently updating their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to 8x8. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company. Rating: Gaining insights, analysts provide qualitative assessments, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings reflect expectations for the relative performance of 8x8 compared to the broader market. Price Targets: Gaining insights, analysts provide estimates for the future value of 8x8's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time. Considering these analyst evaluations in conjunction with other financial indicators can offer a comprehensive understanding of 8x8's market position. Stay informed and make well-informed decisions with our Ratings Table. Stay up to date on 8x8 analyst ratings. If you are interested in following small-cap stock news and performance you can start by tracking it here . All You Need to Know About 8x8 8x8 Inc provides contact-center-as-a-service and unified-communications-as-a-service software applications to approximately 2.5 million users. The company's unified platform enables omnichannel communication to assist employees in communicating across voice, video, text, chat, and contact centers. The Company also generates revenue from sales of hardware and professional services, which are complementary to the delivery of its integrated technology platform.. Geographically, it derives a majority of revenue from the United States. Financial Insights: 8x8 Market Capitalization Analysis: Above industry benchmarks, the company's market capitalization emphasizes a noteworthy size, indicative of a strong market presence. Negative Revenue Trend: Examining 8x8's financials over 3 months reveals challenges. As of 30 September, 2024, the company experienced a decline of approximately -2.16% in revenue growth, reflecting a decrease in top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company encountered difficulties, with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Information Technology sector. Net Margin: 8x8's net margin is below industry averages, indicating potential challenges in maintaining strong profitability. With a net margin of -8.03%, the company may face hurdles in effective cost management. Return on Equity (ROE): The company's ROE is below industry benchmarks, signaling potential difficulties in efficiently using equity capital. With an ROE of -13.57%, the company may need to address challenges in generating satisfactory returns for shareholders. Return on Assets (ROA): 8x8's ROA is below industry averages, indicating potential challenges in efficiently utilizing assets. With an ROA of -1.94%, the company may face hurdles in achieving optimal financial returns. Debt Management: With a high debt-to-equity ratio of 4.2 , 8x8 faces challenges in effectively managing its debt levels, indicating potential financial strain. The Core of Analyst Ratings: What Every Investor Should Know Analyst ratings serve as essential indicators of stock performance, provided by experts in banking and financial systems. These specialists diligently analyze company financial statements, participate in conference calls, and engage with insiders to generate quarterly ratings for individual stocks. Some analysts also offer predictions for helpful metrics such as earnings, revenue, and growth estimates to provide further guidance as to what to do with certain tickers. It is important to keep in mind that while stock and sector analysts are specialists, they are also human and can only forecast their beliefs to traders. Breaking: Wall Street's Next Big Mover Benzinga's #1 analyst just identified a stock poised for explosive growth. This under-the-radar company could surge 200%+ as major market shifts unfold. Click here for urgent details . This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

Dalfa Cattle Show from Jan 17

Christmas came early for me yesterday. After previously announcing Project Zomboid's long-awaited Build 42 would be out by the end of the year, developer The Indie Stone released the absolutely colossal update on Tuesday . In terms of the sheer number of features—from a total crafting overhaul to a considerable expansion of the already huge map—this is the biggest update Zomboid has ever gotten. And for me? It's the biggest game release of 2024. Move aside, Shadow of the Erdtree. I mean, just look at some of these additions from the patch notes : Underground areas, basements, and high rise buildings New lighting system Animal husbandry New fishing mechanic New build menu Basic tracking and hunting Improved gunplay More Romero-like zombie spawn locations There isn't really a single theme to Build 42, but the strongest elevator pitch I could make for it is that it aims to extend your post-apocalyptic life more or less indefinitely after the tumultuous times of the initial outbreak. The devs have expressed a desire to enable the "Alexandria Years" of your server or playthrough, referencing a settlement of the same name in The Walking Dead. It's not the end of the world Previously, Zomboid was mostly a game about looting. It's been in development since 2011, but really exploded in popularity with December 2021's Build 41 , which made similar sweeping overhauls to the game. Prior to Build 42 there were limited farming mechanics just to make sure you wouldn't starve when all the supermarkets in Kentucky ran out of canned beans. But if you wanted more tools, supplies, or materials, you'd have to go scrounging for pre-apocalyptic stuff in the far-flung corners of the map. This was particularly an issue for multiplayer, since bigger servers would have to enable respawning loot—a major sacrifice of immersion, in my opinion—so new players didn't simply find a world already stripped bare. Build 42 has completely reworked crafting and added a number of post-apocalyptic professions from blacksmithing to pottery that ensure even when all the machines have broken down, the gas pumps have run dry, and you've broken every wrench in the hardware store bashing zombies' brains out, you'll be able to make your own stuff from raw materials. There are now recipes for stone and forged tools and weapons, leather armor, and ceramic storage containers. You might not be able to make everything that was available in the Old World. But you'll be able to survive, potentially forever. This includes a big expansion of farming and fishing, and the addition of hunting and animal husbandry. The number of seed types has been expanded from a handful to more than 50, and each type of crop has its own growing seasons now. Chickens can provide you with a constant supply of eggs as long as you keep them warm and fed. There are also supposedly cows and pigs out there, though I've yet to come across any just yet. Essentially, you could play the same character for 50 in-game years and have something resembling a thriving medieval village by the end of that time. But wait, there's more! That's just one aspect of Build 42, though. What if I told you they also completely reworked the entire lighting system, stealth, and ranged combat? What if I told you they made zombie stats like durability and hearing radius semi-randomized, so you never quite know what kind of rotter you're up against and you can't just memorize how far away you need to stand to be safe? What if I told you some houses will now randomly spawn with basements, which could include anything from a fallout shelter to a sex dungeon? The biggest gaming news, reviews and hardware deals Keep up to date with the most important stories and the best deals, as picked by the PC Gamer team. This update has also increased the maximum number of floors a building can have from seven all the way up to 32. So the urbanized part of the map, based on the real-world city of Louisville, Kentucky, can now have proper skyscrapers. Going to the city will really feel like, well, going to the city. And if you prefer a more rural existence, the map has been expanded considerably further west up the Ohio River, too, with three new smaller towns. And while reaching the edge, previously, would just present you with an impassable barrier, these mad fiends have added new tech that will generate miles and miles of procedural wilderness beyond the handcrafted area. Now that you don't need loot to survive, why stay in civilization at all? Go be like that Primitive Technology guy on YouTube . Nothing's stopping you. Living the dream Zomboid runs mostly painlessly at 4K now, which was not at all the case in Build 41. I just about pulled my hair out trying to get it to work after I upgraded my monitor, and ended up having to just change my desktop resolution to 1080p in Windows every time I wanted to play. There was no recourse. It's not perfect yet—some UI elements like the backpack icons in the inventory pane are still almost too small to click on, even with resolution scaling maxed out. But it's a work-in-progress. It's worth noting that this release has been dubbed "Build 42 Unstable" because not all of the planned features are finished yet, and it's in a bit rougher shape than they're aiming for for the full release. You'll have to opt-in to the build by right-clicking Project Zomboid in your Steam library and going to Properties > Betas > "unstable". But I've found it to be about 95 percent functional so far. I don't have any plans to roll back to 41. There are also just tons of little things that make Build 42 nicer, too. You can now select between six different voices for your character, and alter the pitch on each of them. The grass and vegetation have been made more realistic. Books and magazines have proper titles now, which integrates what was previously one of my favorite mods. There's not much that hasn't been touched, to be honest. In the two weeks after I discovered Project Zomboid last year, it devoured more than 80 hours of my life. And I'm looking forward to a holiday break filled with cozying up next to my new stone forge and hammering out spearheads I can sustainably skewer the undead with long after the lights go out and I run out of fuel for my portable generator. Project Zomboid Build 42 is the single late December release that has made my entire year.

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In a landmark financial development, Payaza, a leading African financial services provider, has secured approval for a N50 billion Commercial Paper issuance from FMDQ Exchange. This milestone underscores Payaza’s commitment to becoming Africa’s most trusted payment gateway by delivering seamless, secure, and innovative financial solutions tailored for Africans. The N50 billion Commercial Paper program will significantly enhance Payaza’s liquidity, allowing the company to scale operations, diversify its product offerings, and strengthen its market leadership across Africa. Commenting on the development, Mr Seyi Ebenezer, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Payaza, said: “This approval reflects the confidence placed in our vision by key financial stakeholders. It marks a pivotal step in our journey to deliver innovative, accessible, and scalable financial solutions across Africa. With this opportunity, we are well-positioned to bolster liquidity, expand our services, and drive strategic investments that empower individuals and businesses to thrive in a dynamic economy.” Payaza’s recent successes include an investment-grade rating from Global Credit Rating (GCR), an affiliate of Moody’s, a globally recognized risk assessment firm operating in over 40 countries. This rating reflects Payaza’s strong financial structure, operational efficiency, and robust governance, further solidifying its credibility and boosting investor confidence. Renowned for pioneering digital payment platforms and tailored credit solutions, Payaza leverages cutting-edge technology to bridge financial service gaps across Africa. The company’s vision to become Africa’s foremost fintech powerhouse continues to drive its efforts in promoting financial inclusion and delivering sustainable solutions for underserved markets. According to Mr. Philips Akinyele, Payaza’s Chief Technology Officer; “The N50 billion Commercial Paper approval is more than a financial milestone; it reinforces our dedication to building innovative solutions that drive economic inclusion and growth across Africa. This move will enable us to deepen our offerings, strengthen infrastructure, and create opportunities that transform lives.” As Payaza advances its ambitious expansion strategy, the company continues to inspire confidence among stakeholders, redefine financial solutions, and lead the transformation of Africa’s financial ecosystem. ——- Payaza Africa Limited is a leading financial services provider committed to revolutionizing Africa’s financial landscape through innovative, accessible, and technology-driven solutions. With a focus on bridging financial service gaps, Payaza offers secure payment platforms, tailored credit solutions, and scalable financial products designed to foster economic inclusion and drive sustainable growth. Backed by strong governance, operational excellence, and a recently earned investment-grade rating, Payaza continues to build trust among stakeholders and solidify its position as a trusted partner for individuals and businesses across Africa. The company’s vision is to become Africa’s foremost fintech powerhouse, delivering solutions that empower communities and transform the continent’s financial ecosystem.Share Tweet Share Share Email In the cryptocurrency realm, timing is crucial. Those who spot and seize early opportunities often achieve the greatest gains. Web3Bay , known for its forward-thinking approach to e-commerce, is rapidly catching the eye of astute investors. Currently active, the Web3Bay presale provides a rare chance for significant growth, making it a hot topic in the crypto community. The figures supporting Web3Bay’s presale are impressive. With tokens priced at just $0.003 , a mere $100 investment allows you to claim 33,333 3BAY tokens. When these tokens hit the market at the planned price of $0.19 each , that initial investment could potentially escalate to $6,333 —translating to a remarkable 6,233% return . Yet, the true allure of Web3Bay goes beyond these numbers; it’s about joining a platform that’s revolutionizing the way we shop online. Web3Bay stands out as more than a mere cryptocurrency endeavor; it is a fully decentralized e-commerce platform that aims to empower users. Leveraging blockchain technology, it ensures unmatched transparency and security, with each transaction verifiably recorded. This contrasts sharply with traditional e-commerce giants that often place profits before people, as Web3Bay fosters a balanced and equitable environment for all users. The appeal for investors extends beyond potential financial returns to include the platform’s real-world applications. Owning 3BAY tokens makes you a community member, not just an investor. These tokens provide access to exclusive benefits, such as purchase discounts, special rewards, and voting rights in platform governance, allowing you to influence Web3Bay’s future direction. Web3Bay also proposes a new business paradigm for sellers. Unlike platforms such as Amazon and eBay, which levy substantial fees that can diminish profits, Web3Bay removes these intermediaries. This allows sellers to keep more of their profits and offer better prices, creating a mutually beneficial environment that nurtures a thriving community. The presale period is pivotal. Early investors gain access to token prices that will not be available later, and as the presale progresses, the cost per token will increase. Securing tokens early is crucial for those looking to maximize returns, with the fixed launch price of $0.19 ensuring substantial gains for early participants as Web3Bay expands. Web3Bay’s draw is not merely its financial promise—it is a visionary platform set to reshape e-commerce. By addressing online shopping’s biggest challenges, such as data security, excessive fees, and opacity, Web3Bay isn’t just an investment; it’s a commitment to a more inclusive, rewarding, and transparent e-commerce experience. The Web3Bay presale is live , but the opportunity to get involved at $0.003 per token is quickly diminishing. Each phase of the presale increases the price, reflecting the growing demand and confidence in the platform’s prospects. By acting now, you secure your tokens at the lowest price and position yourself at the forefront of a project set for substantial growth. Imagine being part of a platform that not only transforms online shopping but also offers a return on investment that could significantly alter your financial landscape. Web3Bay provides more than a financial opportunity; it invites you to join a community shaping the future of e-commerce. Don’t let this chance slip by. Secure your 3BAY tokens today and join the legions of investors who recognize Web3Bay’s potential. Be part of something groundbreaking. The presale is underway, the potential is clear, and the future of e-commerce awaits. Start your investment journey with Web3Bay now. Join Web3Bay Presale Now: Presale: https://web3bay.io/buy Website: https://web3bay.io/ Twitter: https://x.com/web3bayofficial Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/web3bayofficial/ Related Items: press release , Web3Bay Share Tweet Share Share Email Recommended for you BlockDAG Drops Down the Latest in PoW+DAG Tech — Aiming for $20 Per Coin; Solana Holds Steady as LINK Climbs Cronos Updates & ETC Price Gains Attract Attention – BlockDAG Makes Headlines With MIT Alum Maurice’s AMA & $168.5M Presale Lightchain Crypto Price Prediction 4 Reasons LCAI Will Skyrocket in 2025 and Key Targets CommentsBrazil shares lower at close of trade; Bovespa down 1.50%

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PRATTVILLE, Ala. (AP) — A federal judge has ordered an Alabama city to allow an LGBTQ+ pride group to participate in the city's Christmas parade on Friday, after the mayor initially blocked the group from the annual event citing unspecified “safety concerns.” Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * PRATTVILLE, Ala. (AP) — A federal judge has ordered an Alabama city to allow an LGBTQ+ pride group to participate in the city's Christmas parade on Friday, after the mayor initially blocked the group from the annual event citing unspecified “safety concerns.” Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? PRATTVILLE, Ala. (AP) — A federal judge has ordered an Alabama city to allow an LGBTQ+ pride group to participate in the city’s Christmas parade on Friday, after the mayor initially blocked the group from the annual event citing unspecified “safety concerns.” U.S. District Judge R. Austin Huffaker Jr. ruled that the City of Prattville violated Prattville Pride’s First Amendment right to free speech and 14th Amendment right to equal protection under the law when it banned the group from running a float in the annual Christmas parade one day before the event was set to take place. “The City removed Prattville Pride from the parade based on its belief that certain members of the public who oppose Prattville Pride, and what is stands for, would react in a disruptive way. But discrimination based on a message’s content ‘cannot be tolerated under the First Amendment,’ ” Huffaker wrote in his opinion. The ruling required the city to provide at least two police officers to escort the float throughout the parade. On Thursday, Prattville Pride requested additional security measures from law enforcement. In response, Mayor Bill Gillespie Jr released a statement banning the group from the parade altogether, citing “serious safety concerns.” Huffaker’s ruling said that, leading up to the event, some community members “voiced vehement opposition” to the group’s inclusion in the parade, but that “the City has presented no evidence of legitimate, true threats of physical violence.” Gillespie’s office referred to a statement posted on the city’s social media in response to a request for comment. “The City respects the ruling of the Court and will comply with its order. The safety of everyone involved with the parade is a priority,” city officials said in a statement on social media. Prattville Pride celebrated the ruling on social media. “The Christmas parade is a cherished holiday tradition, and we are excited to celebrate alongside our neighbors and friends in the spirit of love, joy, and unity,” the group wrote. Prattville is a small city of about 40,000 people, just north of the capital of Montgomery. Advertisement

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House approves $895B defense bill with military pay raise, ban on transgender care for minorsAt a town hall meeting with the bureau workforce, Mr Wray said he would be stepping down “after weeks of careful thought”. Mr Wray’s intended resignation is not unexpected considering that Mr Trump had picked Mr Patel for the role in his new administration. Mr Wray had previously been named by Mr Trump and began the 10-year term — a length meant to insulate the agency from the political influence of changing administrations — in 2017, after Mr Trump fired then-FBI director James Comey. Mr Trump had demonstrated his anger with Mr Wray on multiple occasions, including after Mr Wray’s congressional testimony in September. “My goal is to keep the focus on our mission — the indispensable work you’re doing on behalf of the American people every day,” Mr Wray told agency employees. “In my view, this is the best way to avoid dragging the bureau deeper into the fray, while reinforcing the values and principles that are so important to how we do our work.” Mr Wray continued: “It should go without saying, but I’ll say it anyway — this is not easy for me. I love this place, I love our mission, and I love our people — but my focus is, and always has been, on us and doing what’s right for the FBI.” Mr Wray received a standing ovation following his remarks before a standing-room-only crowd at FBI headquarters and some in the audience cried, according to an FBI official who was not authorised to discuss the private gathering and spoke on condition of anonymity to The Associated Press. Mr Trump applauded the news on social media, calling it “a great day for America as it will end the weaponisation of what has become known as the United States Department of Injustice” and saying that Mr Patel’s confirmation will begin “the process of Making the FBI Great Again”. If confirmed by the Senate, Mr Patel would herald a radical leadership transformation at the nation’s premier federal law enforcement agency. He has advocated shutting down the FBI’s Washington headquarters and called for ridding the federal government of “conspirators”, raising alarm that he might seek to wield the FBI’s significant investigative powers as an instrument of retribution against Mr Trump’s perceived enemies. Mr Patel said in a statement Wednesday that he was looking forward to “a smooth transition. I will be ready to serve the American people on day one”.