axiebet88 voucher code free philippines King laughs at British comedian’s impression of Donald Trump at Royal VarietyNEW ORLEANS (AP) — The largest artificial intelligence data center ever built by Facebook’s parent company Meta is coming to northeast Louisiana, the company said Wednesday, bringing hopes that the $10 billion facility will transform an economically neglected corner of the state. Republican Gov. Jeff Landry called it “game-changing” for his state's expanding tech sector, yet some environmental groups have raised concerns over the center's reliance on fossil fuels — and whether the plans for new natural gas power to support it could lead to higher energy bills in the future for Louisiana residents. Meanwhile, Elon Musk's AI startup, xAI, is expanding its existing supercomputer project in Memphis, Tennessee, the city's chamber of commerce said Wednesday. The chamber also said that Nvidia, Dell, and Supermicro Computer will be “establishing operations in Memphis,” without offering further details. Louisiana is among a growing number of states offering tax credits and other incentives to lure big tech firms seeking sites for energy-intensive data centers. The U.S. Commerce Department found that there aren’t enough data centers in the U.S. to meet the rising AI-fueled demand, which is projected to grow by 9% each year through 2030, citing industry reports. Meta anticipates its Louisiana data center will create 500 operational jobs and 5,000 temporary construction jobs, said Kevin Janda, director of data center strategy. At 4 million square feet (370,000 square meters), it will be the company's largest AI data center to date, he added. “We want to make sure we are having a positive impact on the local level,” Janda said. Congressional leaders and local representatives from across the political spectrum heralded the Meta facility as a boon for Richland parish, a rural part of Louisiana with a population of 20,000 historically reliant on agriculture. About one in four residents are considered to live in poverty and the parish has an employment rate below 50%, according to the U.S. census data. Meta plans to invest $200 million into road and water infrastructure improvements for the parish to offset its water usage. The facility is expected to be completed in 2030. Entergy, one of the nation's largest utility providers, is fast-tracking plans to build three natural gas power plants in Louisiana capable of generating 2,262 megawatts for Meta's data center over a 15-year period — nearly one-tenth of Entergy's existing energy capacity across four states. The Louisiana Public Service Commission is weighing Entergy's proposal as some environmental groups have opposed locking the state into more fossil fuel-based energy infrastructure. Meta said it plans to help bring 1,500 megawatts of renewable energy onto the grid in the future. Louisiana residents may ultimately end up with rate increases to pay off the cost of operating these natural gas power plants when Meta's contract with Entergy expires, said Jessica Hendricks, state policy director for the Alliance for Affordable Energy, a Louisiana-based nonprofit advocating for energy consumers. “There’s no reason why residential customers in Louisiana need to pay for a power plant for energy that they’re not going to use," Hendricks said. "And we want to make sure that there’s safeguards in place.” Public service commissioner Foster Campbell, representing northeast Louisiana, said he does not believe the data center will increase rates for Louisiana residents and views it as vital for his region. “It’s going in one of the most needed places in Louisiana and maybe one of the most needed places in the United States of America,” Foster said. “I’m for it 100%.” Environmental groups have also warned of the pollution generated by Musk's AI data center in Memphis. The Southern Environmental Law Center, among others, says the supercomputer could strain the power grid, prompting attention from the Environmental Protection Agency. Eighteen gas turbines currently running at xAI’s south Memphis facility are significant sources of ground-level ozone, better known as smog, the group said. Patrick Anderson, an attorney at the law center, said xAI has operated with “a stunning lack of transparency” in developing its South Memphis facility, which is located near predominantly Black neighborhoods that have long dealt with pollution and health risks from factories and other industrial sites. “Memphians deserve to know how xAI will affect them,” he said, “and should have a seat at the table when these decisions are being made.” Sainz reported from Memphis, Tennessee. Associated Press writer Matt O’Brien in Providence, Rhode Island, contributed to this report. Brook is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow Brook on the social platform X: @jack_brook96

The gaming world is on the cusp of a revolution, as Virtual Reality (VR) evolves beyond current expectations, promising experiences that blur the line between reality and imagination. Immersive Worlds Redefined The future of VR gaming is not just about donning a headset; it’s stepping into universes with unparalleled detail and interactivity. Upcoming advancements in haptic feedback technology aim to engage multiple senses, making virtual environments feel more tangible than ever. Gamers will soon grasp virtual objects and experience textures, weights, and even temperatures, creating an unprecedented level of immersion and redefining how games are played and experienced. Beyond Gaming: Educational and Therapeutic Journeys VR’s potential extends beyond entertainment, ushering in new ways to learn and heal. Future VR games may incorporate educational narratives, allowing users to explore history, science, and art interactively. In healthcare, therapeutic games are on the horizon, presenting innovative treatment avenues for mental health issues like anxiety and PTSD. This dual-purpose approach positions VR as a transformative tool, impacting broader aspects of life. Social Integration and Community Building The next-generation VR platforms will focus on enhancing social interactivity. Players can not only face off in competitive arenas but also collaborate across continents. The integration of seamless voice and gesture recognition technology will allow for more natural communication, fostering friendships and communities that transcend geographical barriers. In conclusion, as VR technology progresses, gaming will no longer be a solitary or flat-screen experience. It will become a gateway to endless possibilities, where reality and digital innovation entwine, setting the stage for the next era of human interaction and exploration. The Next Frontier: How Virtual Reality is Transforming More Than Just Gaming Virtual Reality (VR) is poised for transformative growth, promising a future rich with innovations that extend well beyond the realm of gaming. This article delves into the emerging aspects of VR that will redefine our digital experience. Pros and Cons of Emerging VR Technologies The advantages of VR are immense, especially as advancements are made in haptic feedback technology, which will offer users a more immersive experience with tactile interactions. Users will be able to feel every nuance of the virtual world, from the weight of a sword to the texture of a tree bark. However, challenges remain, such as the high cost of equipment, potential motion sickness for some users, and the technological demands that limit accessibility. Innovations in Educational and Therapeutic VR One of the most promising trends in VR is its application in education and therapy. Educational programs can leverage VR for virtual field trips and science simulations, providing students with experiences that textbooks simply cannot match. In therapy, VR is being explored as a tool to treat phobias, PTSD, and anxiety by creating safe, controlled environments for exposure therapy. For more information on integrating VR in education, you might visit Google VR . Emerging Trends in Social VR Experiences Social interaction in VR is set to be revolutionized with new technologies that enable more natural communication. This includes enhanced voice recognition and realistic gesture tracking, which support deeper engagement and interaction in virtual spaces. These innovations will foster global communities, enabling users to collaborate or compete in expansive virtual landscapes. Security and Privacy in VR Spaces As VR becomes more prevalent, the need for robust security and privacy measures is critical. Securing personal data and ensuring safe online environments are paramount. Developers are working to implement encryption and authentication measures to protect users in virtual spaces. The Future of VR: Sustainability and Predictions Looking ahead, developers are focusing on making VR more sustainable. This includes creating energy-efficient hardware and using eco-friendly materials. As technology advances, VR is predicted to become a staple in various sectors, beyond gaming, shaping the way we work, learn, and socialize. For the latest updates on VR technology advancements, explore Oculus . In summary, VR is evolving rapidly, opening doors to new applications and experiences that were previously unimaginable. Its impact will be felt across education, healthcare, social interaction, and more, marking the dawn of a new era where the virtual and real worlds seamlessly intertwine.

AP News Summary at 6:28 p.m. EST

Saudi-Qatari roundtable explores opportunities in key investment sectorsPresident-elect Donald Trump shared a surprisingly sentimental tribute to former President Jimmy Carter after his passing Sunday at 100, writing that “we all owe him a debt of gratitude.” Taking to , Trump wrote: “I just heard of the news about the passing of President Jimmy Carter. Those of us who have been fortunate to have served as President understand this is a very exclusive club, and only we can relate to the enormous responsibility of leading the Greatest Nation in History. “The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude,” he continued. “Melania and I are thinking warmly of the Carter Family and their loved ones during this difficult time. We urge everyone to keep them in their hearts and prayers.” Carter’s son, Chip, confirmed to the that his father died in his home in Plains, Georgia at 3:45 pm after having entered hospice care in February 2023. Trump’s stance on Carter has notoriously been fickle, with the president-elect on his 100th birthday in October while campaigning in Waunakee, Wisconsin. At the time, Trump called President Joe Biden the “worst” president in U.S. history and said that “Jimmy Carter is the happiest man because Jimmy Carter is considered a brilliant president in comparison.” During the campaign, Carter made his support for Trump’s opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris, abundantly clear, repeatedly reiterating that he intended to vote for her throughout her campaign. “He’s plugged in,” Chip told in October. “I asked him two months ago if he was trying to live to be 100, and he said, ‘No, I’m trying to live to vote for Kamala Harris.’”

Forage Machinery Market to Witness Stunning Growth | Major Giants John Deere, Massey Ferguson, KroneNone

Specsavers Barry has teamed up with ETO, a shop run by social enterprise Awesome Wales, to provide more than 200 branded vests. They will be given to children in the area to help them be more visible to drivers on the road throughout the winter months. The initiative starts on December 1 and will run throughout the Christmas season, which is a time when darker mornings and evenings increase the risk of road-related accidents. Jamie Pullen, retail director at Specsavers Barry, said: "At Specsavers Barry, our commitment to the community goes beyond ensuring clear vision and hearing. "We are proud to work with ETO to improve road safety for children in Barry. "These high-visibility vests are a simple yet impactful way to help ensure their safety during the darker months." The initiative was announced in line with Road Safety Week, which takes place from November 17 to November 23. This is the UK’s biggest annual road safety campaign, which this year aims to raise awareness about safe and sustainable travel. Amy Greenfield, director at Awesome Wales, said: "We’re thrilled to partner with Specsavers Barry for this important initiative. "At Awesome Wales, we’re passionate about giving back to the community, and these high-visibility vests will make a real difference in keeping children safe as they navigate their daily journeys." The vests will be given out to parents for free at ETO, which is located on Holton Road. Parents are encouraged to visit the shop from December 1 to collect the vests for their children. For more information about the partnership and other community initiatives by Specsavers Barry, visit their website or Awesome Wales. Specsavers also provides home visits for customers unable to visit stores due to disability or illness.How to (kindly) ask people not to post your kids' photos on social media

All-Area Football First Team OffenseBy Kemberley Washington, CPA, Bankrate.com (TNS) As the end of the year approaches, now’s the time to start preparing for filing your 2024 tax return in 2025. When it comes to tax strategies, generally Dec. 31 is the deadline to make changes that might lower your tax bill. One major exception is the deadline for contributing to a Roth or traditional IRA : You have until April 15, 2025, to make a contribution to a Roth or traditional IRA for tax year 2024. If you qualify for deductible IRA contributions , then a contribution to your traditional IRA can reduce your taxable income for 2024. Here are tips and strategies to prepare now for the 2025 tax-filing deadline. If you had significant changes in your life in 2024 — maybe you got married or divorced, started your own business, or had to claim unemployment benefits — your taxes may be more complicated. As a result, you might need to hire a certified public accountant (CPA), enrolled agent (EA) or other tax professional to prepare and file your taxes. If you decide to hire someone, it’s best to start planning for that sooner rather than later. Waiting until the calendar flips to April could cost you. The average fee for a professional to prepare and file a simple Form 1040 tax return, with no itemized deductions, is about $220, according to a survey by the National Society of Accountants in 2020-2021, the most recent data available. But that amount rises quickly for more complex returns, and varies depending on where you live. For example, a Form 1040 with itemized deductions costs an average of $432 in states on the Pacific Coast, compared with $285 in New England. No matter where you live, prices usually rise as the tax deadline approaches, so it’s smart to start searching for a tax pro soon. If you’re uncomfortable doing your taxes on your own and can’t afford a CPA, enrolled agent or other tax pro, or to pay for tax software , there are free options to consider. The IRS currently offers three ways to prepare your taxes for free: •With the IRS Free File program, the IRS partners with for-profit tax-software companies that offer free tax-prep software to eligible taxpayers so they can file their federal tax returns for free. Some taxpayers may also qualify for a free state tax filing, depending on the software provider. In January, the IRS will announce the income limit to qualify for the program for the 2025 tax season (for filing 2024 tax returns). For the 2024 tax season (2023 tax returns), taxpayers’ adjusted gross income (AGI) couldn’t exceed $79,000. •The IRS also offers its Direct File program, a free tool that allows you to file your federal income tax return directly with the IRS at no cost. The program supports simple tax returns and is available only in certain states. Check to see if you qualify here. •Another free-filing option is the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. IRS-certified volunteers offer free basic tax preparation in person to people who earn less than $67,000 a year, are disabled or whose English is limited. The IRS has an online location tool for hundreds of free tax preparation sites in the U.S. (the locator tool is updated from February through April). Some VITA sites also offer online tax-prep assistance. Now is a good time to create an IRS online account. If you want to see your Form 1040 from last year, or you’re missing a prior year Form W-2 or mortgage interest statement, you can find your documents using this free tax tool. Another benefit of creating an IRS online account is that it allows you to quickly obtain your prior year’s tax information without sitting on the phone for hours with an IRS representative, says Carl Johnson, a certified public accountant in New Orleans. An IRS online account also lets you view your account balance and payment history for each year. You can also create a payment plan to settle your federal income tax debt within minutes. If you’re 73 years old and have enjoyed watching your 401(k) or IRA grow tax-free without touching it, remember that the IRS is going to want its share each year. That means you’ll have to make withdrawals — and pay income tax. If you turned 73 in 2024, plan to take your required minimum distribution (RMD) at the latest by April 1, 2025. Read this IRS bulletin for more information. The amount of your RMDs is based on your age and the year-end values of your retirement accounts. A Roth IRA has two big tax advantages over a traditional IRA : Qualified withdrawals are not considered income for federal (and usually state) tax purposes, and you don’t have to take distributions from a Roth every year once you reach age 73. Converting a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA may save you money in the long run. Just know that when you convert an IRA to a Roth, it’s considered taxable income, which will raise your tax bill for that year. Generally, it’s best to convert to a Roth IRA when you’re in a low-income year. As tax season approaches, many people start receiving phone calls, emails and texts from entities claiming to be the IRS. Be wary, and understand that these are scams. Typically, the IRS will mail you a notice before using any other method of communication to notify you concerning issues with your tax return. The IRS won’t reach out via social media or text messaging. Relatedly, the IRS warns taxpayers to be careful when choosing a tax preparer. Taking time to vet your tax preparer is crucial to protect yourself from tax scams and fraud. Before hiring a tax professional, search that person’s name in the IRS database of federal tax return preparers to avoid dishonest “professionals.” “Taxpayers should check the tax professional’s credentials,” Johnson says. Tax pros without credentials “may take questionable positions without any degree of scrutiny or fear of losing their access to the profession,” Johnson says. Taxpayers who don’t file a tax return and owe a tax bill, or who file but don’t pay their tax bill on time, risk severe penalties. The IRS can even seize assets if necessary. Respond quickly if the IRS has been sending you letters because it found an error on your return or claims you owe back taxes. Typically, the IRS will send you a notice if you have a balance due, changes were made to your tax return, or the agency needs additional information. “If you ignore a collection letter from the IRS, you may face wage garnishments, liens, bank levies, and other adverse action. And in some cases, the amount due may increase for failure to respond,” Johnson says. Keep in mind the IRS does offer installment plans and other payment plans. Make copies of your correspondence and use only the U.S. Postal Service, the postmark from which is your proof of timeliness when responding. But whatever you do, don’t ignore the IRS because this may cause more issues in the future. ©2024 Bankrate.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

7 tips to prepare for next year’s taxes now

Udupi: NCC Karnataka and Goa Directorate , in collaboration with MAHE, NCC Exchange Participants Association of India (EXPA), and Manipal Skill Development Centre (MSDC), organised a programme for selected NCC cadets to enhance their entrepreneurship acumen and startup skills. A 10-day camp by 21 Karnataka Battalion NCC at Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), Manipal, started on December 21, and will continue until December 30. Training on entrepreneurship and skill development will be provided to 80 NCC cadets, selected from the 441 camp participants, for three days until Dec 29. Brigadier Surjit Singh Pabla, chairman of MSDC, addressed the NCC cadets on the first day of the three-day entrepreneurship and skill development programme on Thursday. He said that NCC offers good learning opportunities at a very early age, and the NCC cadets should make use of it. He called upon the cadets to hone their skills during their camps and training programmes, as the industry-academia gap is a challenge in the present-day world. Further, Army veteran Brigadier Pabla, who participated in the Indo-Pak war in 1970 as a young lieutenant, said that discipline and moral courage are the two gifts that NCC offers to those who join it. Learning entrepreneurship skills will give another dimension to the career path, he said. Further guiding the NCC cadets, he told them to get the NCC ‘C' Certificate so that they can directly go for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview. "Today universities are five to 10 years behind what industrialists are expecting, so bridging the gap between academia and industry is the need of the hour," he stressed. The cadets selected for this training programme will be exposed to startup incubators and innovation labs to focus on solving largescale problems through the intervention of technology and entrepreneural zeal. The module of this training programme includes a series of lectures, demonstrations, visits, and talks by experts in various fields with diverse experience in skill development and entrepreneurship. Colonel Rahul Chauhan, commanding officer, Karnataka Battalion NCC Udupi was present. Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India . Don't miss daily games like Crossword , Sudoku , Location Guesser and Mini Crossword .NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Tennessee Titans coach Brian Callahan said Wednesday that wide receiver Treylon Burks, who’s been on injured reserve since mid-October with an injured knee, recently had surgery to fix a partially torn ACL. “It was a loose ACL that wasn’t fully torn, and so they had to go see a specialist, so some weeks went by after he went on IR and he eventually had to have ACL surgery,” Callahan said. “The surgery was a couple of weeks back, and the time from when he went to IR until he had the surgery was also a couple of weeks.” Burks was hurt in practice the week after the on Oct. 13 and The 2022 first-round pick is no stranger to injuries. He suffered concussions in both 2022 against Philadelphia and last year against Pittsburgh. Burks missed six games in each of his first two seasons with the Titans and played in just five games this season before being placed on injured reserve. He finished 2024 with four receptions for 34 yards. For his three NFL seasons, Burks has 53 receptions for 699 yards and one touchdown catch. The Titans (3-9) host Jacksonville (2-10) on Sunday. Window opened The Titans opened the three-week practice window for offensive tackle Jaelyn Duncan to return from injured reserve. Duncan has started two games, the second against Buffalo on Oct. 20 at right tackle and lasted four snaps before hurting his hamstring. He was placed on ___ AP NFL:Ensuring a reliable supply of critical battery raw materials will be crucial to the global push to net-zero, especially with demand for battery electric vehicles (BEV) picking up pace towards the end of this decade, a new report by McKinsey finds. By 2030, McKinsey estimates that worldwide demand for passenger cars in the BEV segment will grow sixfold from 2021 through 2030, with annual unit sales increasing to roughly 28 million from 4.5 million during that period. Such a projection, the consultancy says, means that the industry is “likely to confront persistent long-term challenges” in keeping with demand. In particular, its reports highlights that automotive OEMs are giving more attention to reducing Scope 3 emissions from material usage, which contribute a large portion of what batteries emit. As a result, battery materials sourcing has become ever more important for battery producers. Based on the latest estimates, McKinsey’s analysis projects that demand will outpace base-case supply for certain materials, requiring additional investment and leading to fear of shortages and price volatility, among other challenges. Supply shortages looming Based on current market observations, battery manufacturers can expect challenges securing supply of several essential battery raw materials by 2030, McKinsey’s report finds. Battery makers use more than 80% of all lithium that is mined today, and that share could grow to 95% by 2030. With technological advancements shifting in favor of lithium-heavy batteries, lithium mining will need to increase substantially to meet 2030 demand, McKinsey says. For nickel, fears of a shortage prompted by the shift to BEVs have already triggered significant investments in new mines, particularly in Southeast Asia, but even more supply will need to be brought online. McKinsey’s report suggests the possibility of a slight shortage in 2030 as the battery sector continues to vie with steel and other sectors for Class 1 nickel. While the share of cobalt in battery chemistry mix is expected to decrease, the absolute demand for cobalt for all applications could rise by 7.5% a year from 2023 and 2030, McKinsey estimates, adding that shortages of cobalt are unlikely, but its supply will be driven by nickel and copper since it is largely a byproduct of their production. Meanwhile, the supply of manganese is projected to grow moderately through 2030, but an increasing demand for battery-grade material is likely to outpace supply, requiring the development of new refineries. To account for a rapid adoption of LFP (lithium iron phosphate) technology, McKinsey’s study models the 2030 supply and demand balances with two scenarios. Under the base case, only about 20% of the HPMSM (high-purity manganese sulfate monohydrate) supply will meet the requirements of battery applications (30% if all announced projects are realized), which themselves will account for only about 5% of total demand for manganese. In a world where the rapid adoption of LFP technology is coupled with a lower growth in EV production, the demand of battery materials could look different: Global trends Although overall demand for batteries and raw materials is increasing rapidly, supply is — and will remain — largely concentrated in a few naturally endowed countries, including Indonesia for nickel; Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile for lithium; and the DRC for cobalt, McKinsey says. Meanwhile, the refining typically takes place elsewhere, often in China (for cobalt and lithium), Indonesia (nickel), and Brazil (niobium). This value chain setup, according to McKinsey, poses additional considerations for regions such as the European Union and the United States, both of which have high demand for imported materials and often rely heavily on single-country sources. For example, the European Union imports 68% of its cobalt from the DRC, 24% of its nickel from Canada, and 79% of its refined lithium from Chile. Supply chain transparency Moreover, although supply concentration for materials such as refined nickel, cobalt and lithium are knowable, complete visibility into the origin of raw materials is sometimes unattainable. This is the case with high-purity manganese, of which more than 95% is produced in China and minor volumes come from Belgium and Japan; graphite, of which almost all is refined in China; and anode production, on which China has a near monopoly. Limited transparency into the origins of battery raw materials supply also poses broader ESG concerns and attention. For instance, the EU Batteries Regulation aims to make batteries sustainable throughout their entire life cycle, from material sourcing to battery collection, recycling and repurposing. As a result, McKinsey believes the pressure to address ESG concerns will likely increase moving forward. Recent supply chain disruptions, such as those affecting magnesium, silicon and semiconductors in from 2021 to 2023, have increased buyers’ needs to boost supply chain resilience for critical battery raw materials. Buyers’ risks of import dependency are further heightened by recent trade restrictions introduced by exporters, including China’s export controls on some materials (such as synthetic graphite and natural flake graphite products used in BEVs) and Indonesia’s ban on nickel ore exports.

Kelly Loeffler nominated by Trump to lead Small Business AdministrationKelly Loeffler nominated by Trump to lead Small Business AdministrationBenchmark indices on Wall Street scaled new peaks on Wednesday after comments from Fed Chair Jerome Powell ahead of the policy announcement on December 18. Share Market View All Nifty Gainers View All Company Value Change %Change The Dow Jones closed above the mark of 45,000 for the first time, the S&P 500 added 0.6% to close near 6,100, while the Nasdaq Composite outperformed, gaining 1.3%. The tech-heavy index is now 1.3% away from the 20,000 mark. All seven big-tech stocks ended higher, sending a Magnificent Seven-linked ETF to gains of 62% so far for the year. The Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund also ended at an all-time high, a first since July. Stocks surged after Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that the US economy is in "remarkably good shape." Powell also said officials can afford to be cautious as they lower rates toward a neutral level — one that neither stimulates nor holds back the economy. He spoke at the New York Times DealBook Summit in New York. “We view this as slightly hawkish — but stopping well short of challenging the market’s growing confidence that a December cut is the base case, which has been our view all along,” said Krishna Guha at Evercore. One of Powell’s favorite barometers of the economy — the Beige Book — showed economic activity increased slightly in November, and businesses grew more upbeat about demand prospects. Treasury 10-year yields declined four basis points to 4.18%. French bond futures held onto earlier gains after far-right leader Marine Le Pen joined a left-wing coalition to topple the government, setting the stage for further political wrangling that has weighed on the nation’s assets for months. “The current market environment is clearly ‘risk-on’,” said Steve Sosnick at Interactive Brokers. “Yet the evidence shows that someone has been buying insurance against a 10% correction in the S&P 500, even though — or perhaps because — we haven’t seen one in months.” “We remain tactically bullish into year-end given the positive macro environment, earnings growth, and a Fed that remains supportive of markets,” wrote JPMorgan Chase & Co.’s Market Intelligence Team led by Andrew Tyler. “It is sensible to play the market’s momentum and see low pullback potential until mid-January,” they said. A Bank of America Corp. indicator that tracks sell-side strategists’ average recommendations remains at its highest level since early 2022, in neutral territory, but much closer to a contrarian “sell” signal than a “buy.” In commodities, West Texas Intermediate fell 2% Wednesday as tepid US economic data undercut OPEC+’s progress on a deal to keep output constrained. Gold was little changed early Thursday after two daily advances. (With Inputs From Agencies.)

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Dec, 2024) A pivotal two-day seminar on Ageing and Inclusive Development convened in the capital, addressing pressing issues faced by Pakistan’s rapidly growing older population. Hosted by the Ministry of Human Rights in collaboration with the Foundation for Ageing and Inclusive Development (FAID)—a network member of HelpAge International—the event underscored the urgent need for policy interventions and innovative solutions to uplift the lives of older citizens. The seminar started with the launching of FAID and opened with remarks from Syed Moeez Kakahkhail, CEO of FAID, who highlighted the organization’s mission to advocate for the rights and inclusion of older people in national development strategies. “We aim to create an equitable society where every older person has access to the care, respect, and opportunities they deserve,” he said. Chief guest Ms Saba Sadiq, Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Human Rights, lauded FAID and its partners for their advocacy efforts. She emphasized the government’s initiatives for senior citizens, including the establishment of specialized wards in hospitals. "Our government is committed to ensuring the dignity and well-being of older people," she stated, pledging continued support for initiatives aimed at improving their quality of life. Adding to this, Arif Shamim, Director General (Development) at the Ministry of Human Rights, announced plans for a state-of-the-art old age home in Islamabad. The facility, he said, would serve as a model for future projects, providing comprehensive care and support for older citizens. The event also featured a presentation by Mr Shahzado Khaskheli, FAID’s Head of Programs, who addressed the dire need for specialized geriatric healthcare. “Pakistan has only two trained geriatricians for a population of 13.5 million older people,” he said, calling for immediate investment in training healthcare professionals and adopting technological innovations to enhance care services. A lively panel discussion on Senior Citizen Acts and Geriatric Care brought together prominent voices, including Ms. Musarrat Rani, a seasoned health expert; Mr Ayyaz Ahmad, Director of the Drug Regulatory Authority of (DRAP); and Dr Irum Naveed, Deputy Executive Director of PIMS Hospital. Moderated by Dr Muhammad Arif of the Ministry of Human Rights, the discussion explored how to integrate geriatric care into Pakistan’s medical system. Panelists urged collaboration between the Ministry, FAID, and the Planning Commission to launch targeted capacity-building programs. During the session, Mr Sajjad Hussain Shah, Program Coordinator at FAID, introduced the newly launched Resource Center on Ageing, a digital platform aimed at advancing research and advocacy on ageing. The platform will house comprehensive data to support academicians, health professionals, and students in conducting research on ageing-related issues. Mr Shah described it as a groundbreaking initiative that will serve as a knowledge hub for stakeholders working on ageing in Pakistan. The day concluded with an urgent call to action: establish a senior citizen fund to finance healthcare and other essential services, and implement awareness campaigns on the care of older people in educational institutions and mass media. The second day of the seminar, for December 12, will focus on reviewing the implementation of Senior Citizen Acts in Pakistan's provinces and the Islamabad Capital Territory. It will also feature the launch of FAID’s landmark research study on the social protection of older people, offering critical insights into how policies can better serve this vulnerable population. With 13.5 million older people in Pakistan—a figure expected to rise dramatically in the coming decades—this seminar highlights the urgent need for a cohesive national strategy to address ageing and inclusivity.

Controversy Over Exclusion of Historical Holidays in Jammu and Kashmir

Chiefs earned a rest after their third win in 11 days. For some, the rest could be 24 days

What's New Marianne Williamson, an author who has run twice for president, announced on Thursday that she will be running to be chair of the Democratic National Committee . Why It Matters In a letter penned to members, Williams announced her interest, noting how the political sphere "feels different." "Before now, the party had faced defeats to be sure. But our playbook still basically worked," Williamson said in the letter. "The waters were turbulent at times, but our ship was steady." Williamson, 72, went on to list the "political theatre" supported by President-elect Donald Trump and how the "MAGA phenomenon" poses "challenges" to how politics are conducted. She laid out her own plan for the party, looking to move forward after losing the White House and Senate in November. "As chairwoman, I will work to reinvent the party from the inside out," Williamson wrote. "For if we want a new president in four years, and a new Congress in two, then we must immediately get about the task of creating a new party." Williamson ran for the Democratic nomination for president in 2020 and 2024. Her past policies have included calling for an end to the war on drugs, supporting abortion access and choice, increasing the minimum wage, addressing climate change and creating a Department of Peace. She has written several books, with seven appearing on the New York Times Best Sellers list, and became a more recognized name when she frequented Oprah Winfrey 's daytime talk show as a guest. Williamson also was a spiritual leader for the Church of Today in Michigan. What To Know Williamson joins a long list of candidates running to be DNC chair as Jaime Harrison is not seeking reelection. Martin O'Malley , 61, made his bid official in November. The former Maryland governor and Baltimore mayor stepped down from his most recent role as Social Security Administration commissioner effective November 29. His platform emphasizes the need for a comprehensive "after-action report" about recent electoral performance, arguing that such analysis should be "based on truth, well researched and based on the facts and numbers." He said he plans to lean heavily on his experience leading the Democratic Governors Association and his track record in executive positions. Ken Martin , 51, the current Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party chair, has garnered early support among DNC members. He told NewsNation that after November's election, the party is at a "crisis moment," but that means there's also "an opportunity to reimagine the DNC, to really think through a critical lens of what it could be and what it should be." As president of the Association of State Democratic Committees, Martin worked on Minnesota investments, noting that it's important to focus on the local elections to win "in every ZIP code and up and down the ballot." Politico has Martin as an early front-runner in the race. He has been endorsed by Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar as well as Minnesota Representatives Angie Craig, Betty McCollum and Dean Phillips. More than 100 DNC members have endorsed him, according to the Huffington Post. Ben Wikler , 43, is the chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin. In an interview with NewsNation, Wikler noted that his state "overperformed" in voting for Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election. Wikler has built a reputation as an effective fundraiser and gained respect across party lines for his leadership of the state party. In his announcement video for his candidacy, Wikler said the party needs "to be stronger, to unite, to fight and to win." Robert Houton , 53, penned a letter to the DNC members at the beginning of December launching his bid for the chair position. He said he wanted to "lead and grow our Democratic Party to champion electoral and transformative, legacy victories in 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, and beyond." Houton, a former candidate for Senate from Maryland, told the Washington Examiner that he doesn't "tolerate just sitting back and watching the party implode." Jason Paul, 38, is the executive member of the Newton, Massachusetts, Democratic City Committee. The lawyer and political strategist told the Newton Beacon in early December that he wants to see a total overhaul of the party. Paul, 38, has worked on various campaigns throughout New England and the Midwest. James Skoufis , 37, is a New York state senator and a former member of the New York State Assembly. In his announcement video, Skoufis called himself an "outsider" and the "underdog." He told the New York Times that he's hearing an "overwhelming sentiment" for the party "to do things differently." Nate Snyder , a former Department of Homeland Security official, joined the race on December 10, saying he is looking to win back the working class. Snyder is an adjunct professor at the University of Chicago, according to his LinkedIn. He told Reuters that he decided to run after a meeting with state party officials in Arizona, where there was a lack of discussion about the need for change. He said the party has "sort of lost our way" on issues like "education, loan forgiveness, putting food on the table, fighting for the little guy." One of Gen Z's biggest political voices, David Hogg, 24, an American gun control activist and a survivor of the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, in 2018, is running for DNC vice chair. What People Are Saying Pennsylvania Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis told Politico: "This really is an inflection point for the Democratic Party." Democratic strategist Jennifer Holdsworth told Politico: "This is a pivotal moment that will show us whether the party has learned its lessons or not, and we'll know what direction it's going based on who it selects as its chair. We need a party leader, and we don't have one." What's Next Forums featuring qualifying candidates will be held in January. In order to qualify, a candidate must submit a nominating statement signed by at least 40 committee members by January 25. The 448 voting members will elect the party's newest chair, as well as other officers, on February 1. The party's winter meeting will be in National Harbor, Maryland.

None