AES Announces 2% Increase in Quarterly DividendMARKHAM, Ontario — As Canada advances toward a greener future, electric vehicles (EVs) are increasingly viewed as essential for reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. Government incentives and growing public awareness have encouraged many Canadians to make the switch to EVs. Despite this progress, there is still room for further adoption if certain concerns, such as cost and infrastructure, can be addressed. While infrastructure development and affordability take time to improve, some barriers lie squarely within the control of manufacturers. Recognizing this, VinFast, a global electric vehicle manufacturer, has taken an innovative step to address a key consumer concern: long-term reliability. By offering an industry-leading 10-year warranty, VinFast aims to reduce anxieties and accelerate EV adoption in Canada. The shift to EVs in Canada has been steady but uneven. While provinces like Quebec and British Columbia lead with aggressive zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandates, others lag behind due to infrastructure gaps and consumer skepticism. While interest in EVs is indeed growing, unfamiliarity still hinders wider adoption. Unlike traditional gasoline vehicles, which Canadians have relied on for decades, EVs represent a new frontier with different upkeep requirements, particularly around their batteries. Studies indicate that these uncertainties can deter potential buyers from transitioning to EVs. A recent survey by Ernst & Young’s 2024 Mobility Consumer Index (MCI) revealed a global slowdown in EV sales growth, with many prospective buyers citing high maintenance and repair costs as a top concern . In Canada, the proportion of prospective car buyers intending to purchase an EV has dropped by 3%, falling to 15% compared to last year—significantly below the global figure (24%). For Canadian consumers weighing the benefits of lower fuel costs and emissions against the perceived risks of costly repairs, a strong warranty can be a game-changer. Long warranties have certainly played a role in boosting consumer confidence, but they are especially significant for EV buyers. Unlike traditional cars, where decades of experience have clarified maintenance expectations, EVs rely on advanced battery systems and cutting-edge electronics. While this technology offers efficiency and environmental benefits, it also introduces uncertainty for those unfamiliar with it. For consumers who are already cautious with big-ticket purchases, the promise of a robust warranty provides peace of mind. The Ernst & Young MCI 2023 report highlighted this emerging trend, noting that 24% of survey participants identified costly battery replacements as a barrier to EV adoption . In 2024, this concern climbed into the top three barriers for the first time. In that context, warranties that extend well beyond the standard three or five years reassure consumers that manufacturers are committed to their products and willing to cover major repair costs. This assurance is particularly compelling in the current economic climate. VinFast has recognized these consumer anxieties and positioned itself as a leader in addressing them. The company’s 10-year/200,000-kilometer vehicle warranty and the 10-year/unlimited mileage for the high voltage battery (under standard usage) is among the most generous in the EV industry, exceeding the typical coverage offered by many competitors. This long coverage directly tackles the primary concerns of EV buyers: the high cost of battery repairs and the reliability of advanced electronic systems. By standing firmly behind its technology, VinFast signals to Canadians that it is confident in the longevity and quality of its vehicles. For VinFast customers, this warranty is more than a marketing tool; it’s a reason to trust the brand. Testimonials from early adopters in North America highlight the pivotal role the warranty plays in purchase decisions. “The 10-year warranty gave us confidence to make the switch,” said Jason Cheung, a VinFast owner who values the long-term support. VinFast’s commitment to long-term reliability has not only earned consumer trust but has also propelled the company to new heights. In its home market of Vietnam, VinFast has become the leading automotive brand—surpassing foreign and gasoline-powered competitors—an impressive feat achieved in just over five years. In North America, VinFast is gaining significant momentum. September, in particular, marked a record-breaking month for the company, fueled by strong customer demand and competitive offerings. Building on this success, VinFast recently began delivering its flagship VF 9—a three-row, 7-seater SUV—in Canada. The VF 9 comes with the company’s signature market-leading 10-year/200,000-kilometer limited warranty, underscoring its commitment to customer satisfaction and long-term reliability. VinFast’s commitment doesn’t stop at its warranty. The company has introduced services aimed at easing the broader transition to EV ownership. For example, VinFast’s app provides a seamless solution by connecting drivers to a comprehensive network of public charging stations across North America. Additionally, the brand offers 24/7 roadside assistance, further enhancing its appeal to Canadian consumers who value reliability and convenience. These added services underscore VinFast’s holistic approach to building trust, not just in its vehicles but in the EV ecosystem as a whole. VinFast’s focus on delivering comprehensive warranties and services reflects a strategic understanding of consumer behavior. By addressing concerns upfront, the company is not only encouraging more Canadians to consider EVs but also challenging the broader industry to adopt similar practices. As Canada aims to meet its climate targets and phase out gas-powered vehicles, efforts like VinFast’s could play a crucial role in accelerating the transition. By removing barriers and building trust, the brand is helping Canadians see EVs not as risky investments but as reliable, long-term solutions. With the support of bold innovators like VinFast, Canada’s shift to electric transportation is not only possible—it’s inevitable. _____________________ John Lindo:
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Commerce Department's efforts to curb China's and Russia's access to American-made advanced computer chips have been “inadequate” and will need more funding to stymie their ability to manufacture advanced weapons, according to a report published Wednesday by the Senate's Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations. The Biden administration imposed export controls to limit the ability of China and Russia ability to access U.S.-made chips after Russia's invasion of Ukraine nearly three years ago. The agency's Bureau of Industry and Security, according to the report, does not have the resources to enforce export controls and has been too reliant on U.S. chip makers voluntarily complying with the rules. But the push for bolstering Commerce's export control enforcement comes as the incoming Trump administration says it is looking to dramatically reduce the size and scope of federal government . President-elect Donald Trump has tapped entrepreneurs Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to lead a new “Department of Government Efficiency” to dismantle parts of the federal government. The Trump transition team did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the report. BIS’s budget, about $191 million, has remained essentially flat since 2010 when adjusted for inflation. “While BIS’ budget has been stagnant for a decade, the bureau works diligently around the clock to meet its mission and safeguard U.S. national security,” Commerce Department spokesperson Charlie Andrews said in a statement in response to the report. Andrews added that with “necessary resources from Congress” the agency would be "better equipped to address the challenges that come with our evolving national security environment.” In a letter to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on Wednesday, Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, chair of the subcommittee, pointed to an audit of Texas Instruments that showed the Russian military continued to acquire components from Texas Instruments through front companies in Hong Kong to illustrate how the export controls are failing as an effective tool. The committee's findings, Blumenthal said, suggest that Texas Instruments “missed clear warning signs” that three companies in its distribution chain had been diverting products to Russia. Texas Instruments did not immediately respond to a request for comment. “While Congress must provide BIS more resources to undertake its critical mission, it is long past time for BIS to make full use of the enforcement powers Congress has conferred upon it and take aggressive steps to cut the flow of U.S. semiconductors into the Russian war machine,” Blumenthal wrote. It's not just Texas Instruments that's the issue. The subcommittee in September published a report that found aggregated exports from four major U.S. advanced chip manufacturers nearly doubled from 2021 to 2022 to Armenia and Georgia. Both of those countries are home to front companies known to assist Russia in acquiring advanced chips made in the U.S. despite export controls. China, meanwhile, has created “vast, barely disguised smuggling networks which enable it to continue to harness U.S. technology,” the subcommittee report asserts. Washington has been gradually expanding the number of companies affected by such export controls in China, as President Joe Biden’s administration has encouraged an expansion of investments in and manufacturing of chips in the U.S. But Chinese companies have found ways to evade export controls in part because of a lack of China subject matter experts and Chinese speakers assigned to Commerce's export control enforcement. The agency's current budget limits the number of international end-use checks, or physical verification overseas of distributors or companies receiving American-made chips that are the supposed end users of products. Currently, Commerce has only 11 export control officers spread around the globe to conduct such checks. The committee made several recommendations in its report, including Congress allocating more money for hiring additional personnel to enforce export controls, imposing larger fines on companies that violate controls and requiring periodic reviews of advanced chip companies’ export control plans by outside entities. Boak reported from West Palm Beach, Florida.
Menarini Group and MEDSIR Present the Phase III Study ADELA: A New Therapeutic Strategy for Advanced Breast CancerTrump expected to nominate Scott Bessent for Treasury secretary
NoneRepublicans rally around Pete Hegseth, Trump's Pentagon pick, as Gaetz withdraws for attorney general
Williams' 19 lead East Texas A&M over Abilene Christian 68-67
Here's How Much $100 Invested In Synopsys 15 Years Ago Would Be Worth Today
( MENAFN - ForPressRelease) Zürich, CH, Switzerland - Storyboards AI, a leading innovator in AI-powered creative solutions, is transforming the way creators develop storyboards. Through its state-of-the-art platform, Storyboards AI enables filmmakers, animators, and content creators to streamline their creative process, allowing for quicker and more efficient storyboard creation. The tool leverages advanced artificial intelligence to simplify the often complex task of visualizing scripts, offering a user-friendly interface that can generate stunning visual storyboards with ease. Storyboards AI is designed to cater to a wide range of industries, from film production and animation to marketing and content creation. By automating the storyboard process, Storyboards AI empowers creators to focus on their storytelling, reducing the time and effort typically required to produce high-quality storyboards. Contact Information: Company Name: Storyboards AI Website: Phone: +41 44 450 05300 Address: Zürich, CH, Switzerland Company :-Storyboards AI User :- james leee Email :... Phone :-0445005300 MENAFN18122024003198003206ID1109009660 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.Williams' 19 lead East Texas A&M over Abilene Christian 68-67DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 18, 2024-- In a move designed to support healthcare practices in maintaining their autonomy and ensuring financial sustainability, IKS Health, a provider of care enablement platforms, today announced a new partnership with Western Washington Medical Group, a prominent multi-specialty healthcare organization in Washington State. This collaboration aims to streamline revenue cycle related processes, enabling the medical group to focus more on patient care while reducing administrative burdens and improving operational efficiency. The announced partnership aims to improve revenue cycle operations at Western Washington Medical Group, and will subsequently improve patient access and elevate the overall patient experience. This collaboration underscores WWMG’s commitment to prioritizing optimal care delivery by leveraging IKS Health’s expertise in efficient and scalable multi-specialty medical group operations. Through this strategic partnership, WWMG aims to streamline processes, reduce administrative burdens, and ensure that its healthcare professionals can dedicate more time to patients. By integrating IKS Health’s advanced technologies and skilled professionals, WWMG is positioned to enhance care quality while delivering improvements to financial outcomes that will allow them to continue to invest in growing the organization. "Partnering with IKS will enable WWMG to significantly enhance our revenue cycle operations AND improve patient care and access. This strategic decision will help WWMG's providers focus on what we do best: delivering exceptional patient care.” said Dr. David Russian, CEO of Western Washington Medical Group. IKS Health’s solutions improve patient access through faster administrative processing, enhance efficiency with advanced tools that reduce errors and minimize claim denials, and alleviate administrative burdens by freeing resources for patient care. With round-the-clock support, IKS accelerates task completion and reimbursement to benefit both patients and providers. “We are excited to partner with Western Washington Medical Group,” said Sachin Gupta, CEO of IKS Health. “Our collaborative approach will enable WWMG to remain independent and continue to grow, while providing excellent patient care in a way that is scalable and financially sustainable.” This partnership reflects IKS Health’s dedication to empowering healthcare organizations with tailored solutions that prioritize patient outcomes and address today’s operational challenges. About Western Washington Medical Group Western Washington Medical Group (WWMG) is a team of over 100 providers in 20+ specialty areas serving patients and their families in the north Puget Sound region of Washington State. Their providers are owners of the company, and they live and work in the communities that they serve. For over 30 years, it's been WWMG’s mission to provide clinicians the freedom to practice medicine with compassion, in the best interest of their patients and community. Learn more at www.wwmedgroup.com About IKS Health IKS Health takes on the chores of healthcare—spanning administrative, clinical, and operational burdens—so that clinicians can focus on their core tasks of care delivery. Combining pragmatic technology and dedicated experts, IKS enables stronger, financially sustainable enterprises. IKS’s Care Enablement Platform delivers data-driven value and expertise across the care journey, and IKS is a partner for clinician enterprises looking to effectively scale, improve quality and achieve cost savings through forward-thinking solutions. Founded in 2006, IKS’s technology-enabled solutions and global workforce supports large health systems, medical groups and risk bearing entities across the United States. For more information, visit ikshealth.com . Inventurus Knowledge Solutions Limited is proposing, subject to receipt of requisite approvals, market conditions and other considerations, to make an initial public offer of its equity shares, and has filed a prospectus dated December 16, 2024, (“ Prospectus ”) with the Registrar of Companies, Maharashtra at Mumbai. The Prospectus is available on the website of SEBI at www.sebi.gov.in as well as on the websites of the Company at https://www.ikshealth.com , book running lead managers, ICICI Securities Limited, JM Financial Limited, J.P. Morgan India Private Limited, Jefferies India Private Limited and Nomura Financial Advisory and Securities (India) Private Limited, at https://www.icicisecurities.com , https://www.jmfl.com/ , www.jpmipl.com , www.jefferies.com and https://www.nomuraholdings.com/company/group/asia/nfaspl.html respectively, and the websites of the stock exchange(s) at www.nseindia.com and www.bseindia.com , respectively. Any potential investor should note that investment in equity shares involves a high degree of risk and for details relating to such risk, see “ Risk Factors ” of the Prospectus, when available. Potential investors should not rely on the DRHP for any investment decision. View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241218349024/en/ CONTACT: Sarah Bennight SVP Marketing sarah.bennight@ikshealth.com KEYWORD: TEXAS NORTH AMERICA UNITED STATES ASIA PACIFIC INDIA CANADA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: SOFTWARE GENERAL HEALTH ACCOUNTING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FINTECH APPS/APPLICATIONS TECHNOLOGY HOSPITALS HEALTH TECHNOLOGY HEALTH INSURANCE PRACTICE MANAGEMENT HEALTH SOURCE: IKS Health Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/18/2024 03:35 PM/DISC: 12/18/2024 03:33 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241218349024/enOkaVate Inc. & Global Organization for Economic Development Fund Association (GOEDFA)
Nokia Corporation Stock Exchange Release 18 December 2024 at 22:30 EET Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 18.12.2024 Espoo, Finland – On 18 December 2024 Nokia Corporation (LEI: 549300A0JPRWG1KI7U06) has acquired its own shares (ISIN FI0009000681) as follows: * Rounded to two decimals On 22 November 2024, Nokia announced that its Board of Directors is initiating a share buyback program to offset the dilutive effect of new Nokia shares issued to the shareholders of Infinera Corporation and certain Infinera Corporation share-based incentives. The repurchases in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR), the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 and under the authorization granted by Nokia’s Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024 started on 25 November 2024 and end by 31 December 2025 and target to repurchase 150 million shares for a maximum aggregate purchase price of EUR 900 million. Total cost of transactions executed on 18 December 2024 was EUR 3,745,465. After the disclosed transactions, Nokia Corporation holds 216,881,871 treasury shares. Details of transactions are included as an appendix to this announcement. On behalf of Nokia Corporation BofA Securities Europe SA About Nokia At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together. As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs. With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future. Inquiries: Nokia Communications Phone: +358 10 448 4900 Email: press.services@nokia.com Maria Vaismaa, Global Head of External Communications Nokia Investor Relations Phone: +358 40 803 4080 Email: investor.relations@nokia.com Attachment Daily Report 2024-12-18
