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Sowei 2025-01-13
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PALM BEACH, USA – In his first news conference since his election victory six weeks ago, President-elect Donald Trump covered the Ukraine war, mysterious drones flying over New Jersey, the future of TikTok, and lawsuits aimed at the media he often loves to hate. Trump displayed the loquaciousness and bravado of his 2017-2021 White House years as he held court in an ornate room at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on Monday, December 16, making an economic announcement and fielding questions for more than an hour. He bantered with reporters, a departure from the dark rhetoric and anger he often flashed on the campaign trail. He answered questions about Ukraine and Israel, but declined to say whether he had spoken to Russian President Vladimir Putin or whether he would support military strikes on Iran. He seemed wiser to the ways of Washington and pleased, if a little bit puzzled, about his own new place in it, marveling at the steady procession of foreign leaders wanting to congratulate him and corporate CEOs rushing to meet with him. “The first term, everybody was fighting me,” he said. “In this term, everybody wants to be my friend. I don’t know — my personality changed or something.” Trump’s return to the White House on January 20 comes at a time of deep polarization in the country and is likely to test democratic institutions at home and relations abroad. Advisers say he has been focused on choosing members of his Cabinet and his broader team who are expected to carry out his plans to dramatically overhaul government and U.S. policy. Since his November 5 victory, Trump has not held one of his signature rallies or spoken at length to reporters, communicating instead through social media posts and the occasional speech. On Monday, however, he had good economic news to announce. With SoftBank Group CEO Masayoshi Son at his side, Trump said the Japanese technology company would invest $100 billion in the US over the next four years. But that was just the warm-up act for the main event. Standing in front of the Trump coat of arms, the president-elect outlined some of his priorities for his second term, criticized President Joe Biden’s outgoing administration and defended some of his own controversial cabinet picks. The lengthy back and forth marked a contrast with Biden, who rarely holds news conferences. ‘Gotta make a deal’ Trump predicted his choice for Health and Human Services secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., would be “much less radical than you think” but waxed on about whether there is a link between vaccines and autism while saying he supports the polio vaccine. Studies have found no links between vaccines and autism. Trump said “it would be a tragedy” if his choice for defense secretary, former Fox News personality Pete Hegseth, does not make it to Senate confirmation amid concerns about allegations of misconduct in his professional and personal life. He spoke about the possibility of issuing a pardon to New York City Mayor Eric Adams and said he thought it was possible to eliminate $2 trillion in government spending through the Elon Musk-led government efficiency project. He said his administration will “take a look” at whether the Chinese-owned social media app TikTok should be banned in the US and encouraged the US military to tell the American public more about the nature of the drone sightings that have plagued the East Coast over the last several weeks. Trump also veered into personal grievances, vowing to file lawsuits against multiple media companies that he felt have abused him. “Now you need fair elections, you need borders, and you need a fair press,” Trump said, touching on some of his favorite grievance-related topics. “Our press is very corrupt. Almost as corrupt as our elections.” That interlude aside, Trump spent most of his time talking about foreign policy and the economy. Of the world’s two biggest hotspots, he was blunt: Hamas needs to reach a deal with Israel releasing the remaining hostages it is holding in Gaza, or face the consequences. If no ceasefire deal is reached by the time he takes office, Trump said, “it’s not going to be pleasant.” He also said Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy should be prepared to make a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin to bring an end to the nearly three-year-old Ukraine war. “Gotta make a deal,” Trump said. – Rappler.com

Investors looking to build their dream portfolio for retirement certainly have plenty of options to choose from. Of course, investors could go the growth route and look to create a portfolio that compounds on itself over time for big gains. Or investors could go the income route, looking to generate a portfolio of passive-income streams to live off of in retirement. I’d argue that an approach that spans both strategies isn’t only possible, but preferable. The two companies I’m going to highlight below provide the right mix of both yield and growth that I think can serve long-term investors well. Here’s why those looking to invest in their Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) may want to consider these two individual stock picks. Dream Industrial REIT ( ) is one of the biggest players in the industrial real estate sector. The company owns and manages a diversified portfolio of high-quality industrial properties across Canada, the United States, and Europe. As e-commerce grows rapidly and warehouse and logistics facilities are in greater demand by companies, Dream Industrial is poised to deliver sustained growth and stable income. In my view, industrial real estate really is the place for most investors to be right now. And with Dream Industrial’s platform consisting of more than 250 properties, many located in the most in-demand markets, there’s a lot to like about this REIT’s long-term growth prospects. Additionally, the trust’s leverage it provides to investors seeking exposure to companies operating in the e-commerce, manufacturing, and logistics sectors is world-class. Recent acquisitions in Europe and the U.S. have broadened its geographic footprint and enhanced its exposure to high-growth markets. In my view, this real estate investment trust (REIT), which yields around 5.8% at the time of writing, is an excellent option on the dividend front. And as investors will note from the stock chart above, there’s plenty of capital appreciation upside ahead, particularly if interest rates do head lower in the years to come. Restaurant Brands ( ) remains among my top picks for long-term investors seeking strong total returns over the long term. Now, the stock’s chart below does show a picture of stability — and that’s something I think those investing for retirement want to see. But with meaningful capital appreciation and dividend growth over time, this is a top-quality TSX stock I think is worth holding particularly on dips like the one we’ve seen this year. Restaurant Brands’s yield happens to be much lower than that of Dream Industrial REIT, largely due to the fact that this company isn’t forced to pay out 90% of its cash flows to investors in the form of dividends. However, the company has generated positive earnings growth over the past decade and is well positioned to do so moving forward. I think more dividends and share buybacks are likely, so long as this trend continues. The fast-food sector is one that’s been hit relatively hard of late, and for good reason. The rise of GLP-1 drugs has shifted demand for unhealthier options away from home toward other offerings. However, the company’s key brand positioning within the quick service restaurant space and its ability to pivot toward trends in a way many of its peers haven’t do position Restaurant Brands well to take advantage of a wave of growth, particularly in international markets. The company is a global giant and could continue to take share in exciting new markets in Europe and Asia. Additionally, the quick-service restaurant industry is considered to be highly resilient, particularly even during any economic downturns. Consumers rely on cheap and affordable dining options during difficult times, thus ensuring cash flows for the brand. Thus, for investors seeking defensive total returns over the long-term, this is a top name I think is worth keeping in the portfolio right now.( MENAFN - Live Mint) As we approach the year 2025, a new generation of babies is set to be born, marking the beginning of what will be known as Generation Beta. Defined as those born between 2025 and 2039, this cohort of children will follow in the footsteps of Generation Alpha, the children born from around 2010 to 2024, and will grow up in an increasingly complex and interconnected world shaped by rapid technological advances and global challenges. According to social researcher Mark McCrindle, who coined the term "Generation Alpha", Generation Beta will face a future defined by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, sustainability, and global population changes. Generation Beta will consist of children born from 2025 to 2039, making them the children of younger Gen Ys (Millennials) and older Gen Z s. By 2035, it is expected that they will make up 16% of the global population, a significant demographic that will influence future economies, cultures, and societies, as per McCrindle's blog post. One of the most notable characteristics of Generation Beta will be their longevity. With advances in healthcare and technology, many children born during this period are expected to live well into the 22nd century, potentially experiencing a life span much longer than previous generations. As these children grow, they will inherit a world grappling with numerous societal challenges. Climate change, global population shifts, and rapid urbanization will be pressing issues that influence their lives. Mark McCrindle emphasizes that sustainability will no longer be a choice but a necessity. For Generation Beta, environmental consciousness and a sustainable lifestyle will be ingrained from an early age, as they will be tasked with finding solutions to the pressing ecological concerns of the 21st century. Technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and automation , will be a dominant force in their daily lives. According to McCrindle, by the time Generation Beta comes of age, these technologies will be fully embedded in education, workplaces, healthcare, and entertainment. “Generation Beta will live in an era where AI and automation are fully embedded in everyday life-from education and workplaces to healthcare and entertainment,” he explained. Generation Beta will primarily consist of children born to younger Gen Ys (Millennials) and older Gen Z s. These parents, who are familiar with the digital age and the rise of social media, will raise their children in a vastly different world-one where artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and sustainability are key aspects of daily life. While Millennials and Gen Z have witnessed and adapted to significant technological shifts, Generation Beta will be born into an even more interconnected, automated, and technologically advanced world. They are the first generation to experience the full impact of AI-driven technologies, shaping not only how they learn and work but also how they interact with the world around them. Many children born in this period are expected to live well into the 22nd century, thanks to advances in healthcare and longevity technologies. This remarkable life expectancy will present unique challenges and opportunities for the generation, as they will need to navigate not only the complexities of a rapidly changing world but also potentially extended lifespans. Global Impact: By 2035, Generation Beta is expected to make up 16% of the world's population, highlighting their significance on a global scale. Their decisions, values, and actions will shape economies, cultures, and industries worldwide. Technological integration: Unlike previous generations, Generation Beta will be surrounded by artificial intelligence and automation from birth. These technologies will be fully integrated into their education systems, workplaces, healthcare, and entertainment. The influence of AI will be pervasive in their everyday lives, allowing them to adapt to a future where machine learning and automation are commonplace. Sustainability focus: Generation Beta will inherit a world confronted by pressing issues such as climate change and resource depletion. The emphasis on sustainability will not just be a choice but a necessity. These challenges will define their approach to living, working, and consuming, with an expectation for greater environmental responsibility. While many of their Millennial and Gen Z parents grew up in a world of rapid change, Generation Beta will be born into a hyper-connected, high-tech world. They will have access to technologies and innovations that today's generations can only imagine, from smart cities to autonomous vehicles to next-generation virtual realities. MENAFN29122024007365015876ID1109039897 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.Viral Video: Learning an entirely new language- other than one’s native- is one of the biggest flexes, especially among one’s professional achievements. There’s a reason why bilinguals hardly ever fail in not mentioning their ‘multiple language speaking skills’ on their resumes. The same also works like a charm when it comes to impressing people in general. And not to forget the most obvious advantage- being able to speak more than one language and understand more people from different corners of the world! With that being clear, it makes sense why the internet- especially loyal K-Drama and K-Pop lovers- went over the moon after a man claimed of teaching ‘Korean in a minute’. A video was shared on social media, where the man was seen giving a brief class on how to speak basic Korean. He began by explaining ‘why Korean was easy to speak’. From the language’s introduction to its history, the man quickly gave a ‘history lesson’ to all the netizens who decided to put up with his ‘promising’ reel. After the history ‘class’, the man moved on to tell a story, which would help people learn Korean alphabets- as per him. Once the alphabets were covered, the man moved on to explaining how to use them, along with their pronunciation. Of course, the reel did not completely replace the need to have a proper class on the Korean language, it regardless drew major attention from many on the internet, who were quick to appreciate the man’s tactic to engage people. As the video went viral, many netizens also opened up on ‘discovering’ their own ‘patience level’ and ‘longer attention span’. The video was shared on Instagram, by the handle ‘Sochourner’. The post was shared a while back and pulled more than 320K likes from people. Watch the viral video: People were quick to ‘run’ to the post’s comment section, as they lauded the man’s method. A user wrote, “On instafoolishness and ran into Korean language learning Productivity!” Another user claimed that they actually ‘learned’ something, as they commented, “OMG THIS IS THE LONGEST VIDEO THAT I WATCH IN INSTAGRAM COMPLETELY WITH PASSION AND I REARN SOMETHING FR.” Another internet user declared themselves ‘bilingual’, as they jokingly commented, “Putting bilingual in my bio now.” “Used my last two brain cells, so worth it,” added another user. “OMG! 1. you’re so good at teaching! 2. This is the most productive few minutes I’ve spent on Instagram this year! 3. I never thought I’d have the attention span to watch this in one go, and I was so concentrated! 4. Learning a language could never be this easy!” commented the next person. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Viral and around the world.

Many in the meme coin market will always remember the exponential expansion DOGE and SHIB saw in 2021. They drew much interest, mostly via social media, celebrity endorsements, and their community-driven character. Investors look for the next great altcoin to replicate these success stories as the cryptocurrency market grows. Elon Musk's Grok AI suggests that the solution might come via a fresh cryptocurrency called Rexas Finance (RXS) . 2021 DOGE and SHIB's Rally Dogecoin's 2021 began with a price of $0.005. Though initially modest, Dogecoin has become a powerful, committed community. Still, in 2021, its value shot skyrocketing. The turning point occurred in May when well-known figures like Elon Musk's sponsorships rapidly sparked curiosity. Reaching an all-time high of $0.73 by the middle of the year, Dogecoin's price indicated an unheard-of rise of around 14,000%. This remarkable success emphasized how social media buzz and community-driven projects shape token values. Starting in January 2021 at less than $0.0000001, Shiba Inu started particularly on services like Twitter. Shiba Inu's explosive ascent was driven primarily by its meme appeal and great community support. Rising to an all-time high of $0.000088 by May, the coin saw an amazing rise of almost 88,000,000% from its starting value. Social media trends and community involvement drove the frenzy over Shiba Inu, proving the ability of meme coins to create enormous value in a brief period. Rexas Finance (RXS): The Meme Coin to Track Next? Elon's Grok AI claims that a new altcoin called Rexas Finance (RXS) could copy the rallies of Shiba Inu and Dogecoin. At Stage 11 of its presale, Rexas Finance was priced at $0.175. It has already shown strong market interest and sold 380,889,281 tokens, raising $33,281,023. Rising by 483% from its initial presale price of $0.03, the token's quick appreciation suggests notable investor trust in its core value proposition. Rexas Finance distinguishes itself from conventional meme coins by focusing on real-world asset (RWA) tokenization. While Shiba Inu and Dogecoin depend on community involvement and buzz, Rexas Finance uses its technology to streamline asset management and investment. By allowing the tokenization of goods, including real estate, art, and commodities, Rexas Finance converts conventional investment choices into easily available and flexible digital assets. Unlike the speculative attraction of other meme coins, this strategy gives the blockchain sector actual value and closes a large market gap. GrokAI’s Prediction for Rexas Finance: A 40,000% Price Surge by 2025 According to Elon's Grok AI estimates, by early 2025, Rexas Finance (RXS) would see a 40,000% price increase. Should this prediction come true, the token might hit $70, among the most amazing crypto success stories ever recorded. This forecast's justification is complex. First, Rexas Finance stands to gain from the increasing need in the blockchain environment for actual asset management solutions. Traditional finance is still reluctant to interact with digital assets completely; hence, new technologies like those presented by Rexas Finance have great potential. Rexas Finance has a special advantage over other tokens since it offers a platform that democratizes investing possibilities and simplifies asset tokenizing. Second, Rexas Finance's future expansion finds a strong basis thanks to its community-driven approach and smart presale operations. Using public presales instead of depending on venture financing has helped the platform build confidence and responsibility among its users. Furthermore, the Certik audit and other quality guarantees Rexas Finance has conducted guarantee high levels of safety and openness, essential in fostering investor confidence. Finally, the case of Rexas Finance goes beyond simple speculation. The technology opens new investing opportunities by allowing the tokenization of actual assets with ease not possible through other techniques. This useful application reflects the causes of the explosive expansion seen with Dogecoin and Shiba Inu: community involvement mixed with creative use cases attracting general attention. Conclusion As the crypto industry develops and welcomes new technology, Rexas Finance, Dogecoin, and Shiba Inu might be the next great performer. Rexas Finance is positioned to create history in the next few years with solid foundations, a clear mission, and an involved community. For more information about Rexas Finance (RXS) visit the links below: Website: https://rexas.com Win $1 Million Giveaway: https://bit.ly/Rexas1M Whitepaper: https://rexas.com/rexas-whitepaper.pdf Twitter/X: https://x.com/rexasfinance Telegram: https://t.me/rexasfinance Join our WhatsApp Channel to get the latest news, exclusives and videos on WhatsApp _____________ Disclaimer: Analytics Insight does not provide financial advice or guidance. Also note that the cryptocurrencies mentioned/listed on the website could potentially be scams, i.e. designed to induce you to invest financial resources that may be lost forever and not be recoverable once investments are made. You are responsible for conducting your own research (DYOR) before making any investments. Read more here.

The gaming world is abuzz with anticipation for Grand Theft Auto 6, the next installment in Rockstar Games’ legendary franchise. Rumors, leaks, and speculation have swirled for years, with many claiming the game has been in some form of development for close to a decade. But is there any truth to this? As a games journalist who has followed Rockstar’s work for over 20 years, I’ve dug deep into the available information to uncover the reality behind GTA 6’s development timeline. The story of GTA 6’s development is a complex one, shrouded in secrecy and fueled by eager fans desperate for any scrap of information. While Rockstar Games officially confirmed the game’s existence in February 2022, whispers and alleged leaks suggest its origins stretch back much further, potentially to 2014 or even earlier. This raises the question: why the long wait? Is GTA 6 truly trapped in “development hell,” plagued by reboots and internal struggles? Or is there a more logical explanation for this extended development cycle? The Early Days: Seeds of Development While it’s impossible to pinpoint the exact start date, evidence suggests that preliminary work on GTA 6 likely began after (or even alongside) the development of GTA 5. Consider this: GTA 5, released in 2013, was a massive undertaking. Rockstar dedicated significant resources to its online component, GTA Online, which continues to generate substantial revenue. It’s plausible that a small team began exploring ideas and concepts for the next installment while the main studio focused on supporting GTA Online. Furthermore, Rockstar Games is known for its meticulous approach to development. They prioritize quality and innovation, often pushing the boundaries of technology and gameplay. Building a successor to the critically acclaimed GTA 5, a game that redefined open-world gaming, would undoubtedly require extensive planning, research, and experimentation. The “Project Americas” Leak and Its Implications In 2019, a significant leak allegedly revealed crucial details about GTA 6, codenamed “Project Americas.” This leak suggested a return to Vice City (inspired by Miami) and a new fictional location based in South America. It also claimed the game would feature multiple protagonists and a narrative inspired by drug cartels. While Rockstar Games never officially confirmed the leak’s validity , many details aligned with subsequent rumors and reports, lending it credibility. If “Project Americas” represents an early iteration of GTA 6, it indicates that the game has undergone significant changes throughout its development. This is not unusual in the game industry, where projects often evolve and iterate based on testing, feedback, and technological advancements. The Impact of GTA Online and Red Dead Redemption 2 Another factor contributing to GTA 6’s extended development cycle is the ongoing success of GTA Online. This online juggernaut has become a significant revenue stream for Rockstar Games, requiring continuous updates and content additions. It’s reasonable to assume that a portion of Rockstar’s development resources was dedicated to supporting GTA Online, potentially impacting the progress of GTA 6. Moreover, Rockstar released Red Dead Redemption 2 in 2018, a critically acclaimed masterpiece that undoubtedly demanded significant time and resources. Developing two massive open-world games concurrently would be a monumental challenge for any studio, even one as large and talented as Rockstar. The Rockstar Culture and Its Influence Rockstar Games has a reputation for its demanding work culture, with reports of crunch and long hours. While the company has taken steps to improve working conditions, it’s possible that this intense environment has contributed to the extended development timeline. Creating a game of GTA 6’s scale and ambition requires a significant investment of time and effort from the development team. Furthermore, Rockstar is known for its perfectionism. They are not afraid to scrap ideas, restart development, or delay releases to ensure their games meet their high standards. This commitment to quality, while admirable, can also lead to longer development cycles. The Pandemic Effect The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted industries worldwide, and the game industry was no exception. Lockdowns, remote work, and supply chain issues impacted game development across the board. It’s likely that GTA 6’s development was also affected, potentially causing delays and setbacks. The 2022 Leaks and Official Confirmation In September 2022, a massive leak rocked the gaming world, featuring early development footage of GTA 6. This leak seemingly confirmed the Vice City setting, the presence of a female protagonist, and other previously rumored details. While Rockstar Games swiftly took down the leaked footage, the damage was done. The leak provided a glimpse into the game’s development, albeit an unfinished one. Following the leak, Rockstar Games officially acknowledged the incident and confirmed that GTA 6 was indeed in development. This confirmation, while not unexpected, finally put an end to years of speculation and rumors. Looking Ahead: What to Expect Despite the leaks and rumors, concrete details about GTA 6 remain scarce. Rockstar Games is notoriously tight-lipped about its projects, preferring to reveal information on its own terms. However, based on available information, we can make some educated guesses. While it’s unlikely that GTA 6 has been in full-scale development for a full decade, it’s clear that its journey has been a long and complex one. Factors such as the success of GTA Online, the development of Red Dead Redemption 2, Rockstar’s meticulous approach, and the COVID-19 pandemic have likely contributed to this extended timeline. Ultimately, GTA 6 is one of the most anticipated games in history. The pressure on Rockstar Games to deliver a worthy successor to GTA 5 is immense. However, based on their track record and the glimpses we’ve seen, there’s reason to believe that GTA 6 will be worth the wait.(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.) A uthor: Huseyn Abdulla , University of Tennessee In 2018, L.L. Bean ended its century-old “lifetime” return policy , limiting returns to one year after purchase and requiring receipts. The demise of this popular policy sparked backlash, with several customers filing lawsuits . It also inspired my team of operations management researchers to study how customers respond when retailers make their return policies more strict. Our key finding : Whether they often or rarely return products they’ve purchased, consumers object – unless those retailers explain why. I work with a group of researchers examining product return policies and how they affect consumers and retailers. As we explained in an article published in the Journal of Operations Management , we designed experiments to study whether and why return policy restrictions irk customers. We also wanted to understand what retailers can do to minimize backlash after making it harder for customers to return stuff. We conducted three experiments in which we presented scenarios to 1,500 U.S. consumers who played the role of loyal customers of a fictional retailer. We examined their reactions to the fictional retailer’s return policy restrictions, such as charging a 15% restocking fee and limiting open-ended return windows to 365, 180 and 30 days. Participants became less willing to buy anything from the fictional retailer after it restricted its long-standing lenient return policy. They also said they would become less willing to recommend the retailer to others. This occurred because the customers began to distrust the retailer and its ability to offer a high-quality service. The backlash was stronger when the restriction was more severe. Even those consumers who said they usually don’t return any products often reacted negatively. When the fictional retailer announced its new, harsher return policy using official communication channels and provided a rationale, there was less backlash. Consumers found the changes more justified if the retailer highlighted increased “ return abuse ,” in which customers return products they’ve already used, or the high cost of processing returns. You might presume that making it harder and more costly to return stuff could drive some shoppers away . Our research shows that the concern is valid and explains why. It also shows how communicating return policy changes directly with customers can help prevent or reduce backlash against retailers. Customers visit Macy’s department store on Nov. 29, 2024, in Chicago for holiday shopping. Kamil Krzaczynski/Getty Images Americans returned products worth an estimated US$890 billion to retailers in 2024. Processing a single item typically costs $21 to $46 . Most of this merchandise ends up in landfills . The rise of e-commerce and other technological changes have contributed to this trend. Another factor is the ease with which consumers may return stuff long after making a purchase and get a full refund. Many other retailers besides L.L. Bean have done away with their long-standing lenient return policies. Over the past decade, for example, Macy’s, a department store chain, and Kohl’s, a big-box clothing store chain, have shortened the time frames for returns. Macy’s restricted its open-ended return window to one year in 2016, further winnowed it to 180 days in 2017, then to 90 days in 2019. It then stopped accepting returns after 30 days in 2023. Kohl’s didn’t have any time limit on returns it would accept until 2019. Then it imposed a 180-day limit. Others, such as fast-fashion giants Zara and H&M, now charge their customers fees when they return merchandise . However, research shows that customers value no-questions-asked return policies and see them as a sign of high-quality service. And when these arrangements become the industry standard, customers can get angry if retailers fail to meet it. Interestingly, most retailers that restricted their policies didn’t tell customers directly. Instead, they quietly updated the new policies on websites, store displays and receipts. Although not drawing attention to bad news might appear prudent – as most customers wouldn’t notice the changes that way – dozens of threads on Reddit about these changes suggest that this isn’t always true. We focused on restrictions on refunds and how long after a purchase customers could return merchandise. Other restrictions, such as retailers making heavily discounted items ineligible for returns, could also be worth investigating. The Research Brief is a short take about interesting academic work. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com/retailers-that-make-it-harder-to-return-stuff-face-backlash-from-their-customers-245239 . More from PennLive Opinion Pursuing Liz Chaney is nothing more than seeking a Jan. 6 scapegoat | Column You can put away your cash on the Pennsylvania Turnpike; they have other ways to make you pay | PennLive Editorial Mandate, shmandate! Trump didn’t even win the majority of the popular vote | Opinion From new commercial Moon landers to asteroid investigations, expect a slate of exciting space missions in 2025

Kenya’s president promises to stop abductions following wave of disappearances | CNNCHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 12, 2024-- The Board of Trustees of Barings Participation Investors (NYSE: MPV) (the “Trust”) today announced that it has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.37 per share payable on January 17, 2025, to shareholders of record on December 30, 2024. The Trust also announced a special distribution of $0.10 per share payable on January 17, 2025, to shareholders of record on December 30, 2024. Based on current projections through the end of 2024, the Trust expects both dividends will be compromised of net investment income. The final determination of the source and tax characteristics of these distributions will depend upon the Trust’s investment experience during its fiscal year and will be made after the Trust’s year end and will be reported on IRS Form 1099-Div. Cliff Noreen, Chairman, stated, “We are pleased to announce a special distribution of $0.10 per share in addition to the Trust’s quarterly cash dividend of $0.37 per share. The special distribution, which was made possible by non-recurring dividend income received in the fourth quarter, highlights the benefits of the Trust’s equity co-investments to our shareholders.” The next scheduled meeting of the Board of Trustees will be held on February 27, 2025. Barings Participation Investors is a closed-end management investment company advised by Barings LLC. Its shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the trading symbol (“MPV”). Per share amounts are rounded to the nearest cent. PAST PERFORMANCE IS NOT NECESSARILY INDICATIVE OF FUTURE RESULTS Cautionary Notice: Certain statements contained in this press release may be “forward-looking” statements. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made and which reflect management’s current estimates, projections, expectations or beliefs, and which are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially. These statements are subject to change at any time based upon economic, market or other conditions and may not be relied upon as investment advice or an indication of the fund's trading intent. References to specific securities are not recommendations of such securities, and may not be representative of the fund's current or future investments. We undertake no obligation to publicly update forward looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. About Barings Barings is a $431+ billion* global asset management firm that partners with institutional, insurance, and intermediary clients, and supports leading businesses with flexible financing solutions. The firm, a subsidiary of MassMutual, seeks to deliver excess returns by leveraging its global scale and capabilities across public and private markets in fixed income, real assets and capital solutions. *Assets under management as of September 30, 2024 View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241212085549/en/ MediaRelations@barings.com KEYWORD: NORTH CAROLINA UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: BANKING ASSET MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FINANCE SOURCE: Barings Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/12/2024 04:15 PM/DISC: 12/12/2024 04:17 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241212085549/en

Salma Hayek's shocking 1995 casting photo goes viralBy HILLEL ITALIE NEW YORK (AP) — Even through a year of nonstop news about elections, climate change, protests and the price of eggs, there was still time to read books. U.S. sales held steady according to Circana, which tracks around 85% of the print market, with many choosing the relief of romance, fantasy and romantasy. Some picked up Taylor Swift’s tie-in book to her blockbuster tour, while others sought out literary fiction, celebrity memoirs, political exposes and a close and painful look at a generation hooked on smartphones. Here are 10 notable books published in 2024, in no particular order. Asking about the year’s hottest reads would basically yield a list of the biggest hits in romantasy, the blend of fantasy and romance that has proved so irresistible fans were snapping up expensive “special editions” with decorative covers and sprayed edges. Of the 25 top sellers of 2024, as compiled by Circana, six were by romantasy favorite Sarah J. Maas, including “House of Flame and Shadow,” the third of her “Crescent City” series. Millions read her latest installment about Bryce Quinlan and Hunter Athalar and traced the ever-growing ties of “Maasverse,” the overlapping worlds of “Crescent City” and her other series, “Throne of Glass” and “A Court of Thorns and Roses.” If romantasy is for escape, other books demand we confront. In the bestselling “The Anxious Generation,” social psychologist Jonathan Haidt looks into studies finding that the mental health of young people began to deteriorate in the 2010s, after decades of progress. According to Haidt, the main culprit is right before us: digital screens that have drawn kids away from “play-based” to “phone-based” childhoods. Although some critics challenged his findings, “The Anxious Generation” became a talking point and a catchphrase. Admirers ranged from Oprah Winfrey to Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee, who in a letter to state legislators advocated such “commonsense recommendations” from the book as banning phones in schools and keeping kids off social media until age 16. Bob Woodward books have been an election tradition for decades. “War,” the latest of his highly sourced Washington insider accounts, made news with its allegations that Donald Trump had been in frequent contact with Russian leader Vladimir Putin even while out of office and, while president, had sent Putin sophisticated COVID-19 test machines. Among Woodward’s other scoops: Putin seriously considered using nuclear weapons against Ukraine, and President Joe Biden blamed former President Barack Obama, under whom he served as vice president, for some of the problems with Russia. “Barack never took Putin seriously,” Woodward quoted Biden as saying. Former (and future) first lady Melania Trump, who gives few interviews and rarely discusses her private life, unexpectedly announced she was publishing a memoir: “Melania.” The publisher was unlikely for a former first lady — not one of the major New York houses, but Skyhorse, where authors include such controversial public figures as Woody Allen and Trump cabinet nominee Robert F. Kennedy Jr. And its success was at least a minor surprise. Melania Trump did little publicity for the book, and offered few revelations beyond posting a video expressing support for abortion rights — a break from one of the cornerstones of GOP policy. But “Melania” still sold hundreds of thousands of copies, many in the days following her husband’s election. Taylor Swift was more than a music story in 2024. Like “Melania,” the news about Taylor Swift’s self-published tie-in to her global tour isn’t so much the book itself, but that it exists. And how well it sold. As she did with the “Eras” concert film, Swift bypassed the established industry and worked directly with a distributor: Target offered “The Eras Tour Book” exclusively. According to Circana, the “Eras” book sold more than 800,000 copies just in its opening week, an astonishing number for a publication unavailable through Amazon.com and other traditional retailers. No new book in 2024 had a better debut. Midnight book parties are supposed to be for “Harry Potter” and other fantasy series, but this fall, more than 100 stores stayed open late to welcome one of the year’s literary events: Sally Rooney’s “Intermezzo.” The Irish author’s fourth novel centers on two brothers, their grief over the death of their father, their very different career paths and their very unsettled love lives. “Intermezzo” was also a book about chess: “You have to read a lot of opening theory — that’s the beginning of a game, the first moves,” one of the brothers explains. “And you’re learning all this for what? Just to get an okay position in the middle game and try to play some decent chess. Which most of the time I can’t do anyway.” Lisa Marie Presley had been working on a memoir at the time of her death , in 2023, and daughter Riley Keough had agreed to help her complete it. “From Here to the Great Unknown” is Lisa Marie’s account of her father, Elvis Presley, and the sagas of of her adult life, notably her marriage to Michael Jackson and the death of son Benjamin Keough. To the end, she was haunted by the loss of Elvis, just 42 when he collapsed and died at his Graceland home while young Lisa Marie was asleep. “She would listen to his music alone, if she was drunk, and cry,” Keough, during an interview with Winfrey, said of her mother. Meanwhile, Cher released the first of two planned memoirs titled “Cher” — no further introduction required. Covering her life from birth to the end of the 1970s, she focuses on her ill-fated marriage to Sonny Bono, remembering him as a gifted entertainer and businessman who helped her believe in herself while turning out to be unfaithful, erratic, controlling and so greedy that he kept all the couple’s earnings for himself. Unsure of whether to leave or stay, she consulted a very famous divorcee, Lucille Ball, who reportedly encouraged her: “F— him, you’re the one with the talent.” A trend in recent years is to take famous novels from the past, and remove words or passages that might offend modern readers; an edition of “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” cuts the racist language from Mark Twain’s original text. In the most celebrated literary work of 2024, Percival Everett found a different way to take on Twain’s classic — write it from the perspective of the enslaved Jim. “James,” winner of the National Book Award, is a recasting in many ways. Everett suggests to us that the real Jim was nothing like the deferential figure known to millions of readers, but a savvy and learned man who concealed his intelligence from the whites around him, and even from Twain himself. Salman Rushdie’s first National Book Award nomination was for a memoir he wished he had no reason to write. In “Knife,” he recounts in full detail the horrifying attempt on his life in 2022, when an attendee rushed the stage during a literary event in western New York and stabbed him repeatedly, leaving with him a blinded eye and lasting nerve damage, but with a spirit surprisingly intact. “If you had told me that this was going to happen and how would I deal with it, I would not have been very optimistic about my chances,” he told The Associated Press last spring. “I’m still myself, you know, and I don’t feel other than myself. But there’s a little iron in the soul, I think.”

HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. (AP) — Josh Dilling's 22 points helped Northern Kentucky defeat Norfolk State 71-62 on Sunday. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. (AP) — Josh Dilling's 22 points helped Northern Kentucky defeat Norfolk State 71-62 on Sunday. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. (AP) — Josh Dilling’s 22 points helped Northern Kentucky defeat Norfolk State 71-62 on Sunday. Dilling also had five rebounds for the Norse (5-6, 1-0 Horizon League). Sam Vinson added 21 points while going 4 of 5 and 13 of 15 from the free-throw line while they also had five assists and three steals. LJ Wells finished 5 of 7 from the field to finish with 10 points. Brian Moore Jr. led the Spartans (6-6) in scoring, finishing with 12 points and two steals. Terrance Jones added 12 points for Norfolk State. Kuluel Mading also had 12 points. Northern Kentucky plays Wednesday against Detroit Mercy at home, and Norfolk State takes on Alabama State on Thursday. ___ The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar. AdvertisementD ear Cathy: I saw the article in your column about the 14-year-old feral cat who was trapped, fixed and left to live outdoors. They mentioned the cat injured a back paw, which made me wonder why they didn’t try to make her an indoor cat where she would be safer. In 2011, we trapped a wild-born feral in our neighborhood, Sox. After getting her fixed and microchipped, we kept her in a half bath with a window for five months, spending time with her daily. It took years for her to trust us, but she eventually became a happy, content indoor cat, even bonding with two of our other cats. We moved across the country with Sox and four other pets, making stops to ensure they were comfortable. Sox remained cautious in our new home but eventually started exploring the house and stopped hiding. She would flop on her back, purr and show us just how happy she had become. She never did want us to touch her or pick her up, though. Sadly, we lost Sox in December 2022 to kidney disease and hypothyroidism. She was so ill at the end that I was able to pick her up for the first time and hold her. We miss her terribly, but we’re grateful for the wonderful life she had with us. — Ken, Las Vegas Dear Ken: Unfortunately, not all feral cats can transition to indoor life as well as Sox did. Cats have a much smaller socialization window than dogs, and if they miss that critical period, they may never adjust to living indoors. Some ferals become severely stressed or fearful in confinement, to the point where their quality of life suffers. In these cases, caretakers often make the tough decision to let them live outdoors. Injuries like the one described in the column are heartbreaking reminders of the risks and challenges outdoor cats face. It also underscores the importance of spaying and neutering pets to reduce the number of unwanted cats left to fend for themselves on the streets. Dear Cathy: My dog, Oliver, is about 2 years old. We’ve had him for a year. He was a stray captured by a Washington, D.C., animal shelter, who was fostered, neutered, vaccinated and operated on for a urinary tract issue. He was later adopted by a family whose “first” dog didn’t want a “little brother.” When we brought him home, his anxiety was understandably high, and he barked aggressively at new faces and visitors. Over time, this behavior has improved — his barking is now less aggressive and shorter. He approaches, backs up and barks a little more but calms down after a few minutes and becomes the friendly, quiet Oliver we love. He’s a terrier mix with a DNA profile showing a mix of about 15 breeds, including bully breeds and husky. He’s a small to medium-size dog. Any suggestions on how to build his confidence when greeting visitors? — Oliver’s Mom, Washington, D.C. Dear Oliver’s Mom: One way to help Oliver feel more secure is to practice controlled greetings. Start with familiar friends. When they arrive, have them enter quietly, avoid direct eye contact and let Oliver approach on his terms. Reward calm behavior with treats and praise, reinforcing that visitors are positive experiences. To strengthen these associations, guests may also offer him a favorite treat or toy upon arrival. The goal is to get Oliver to see new faces as opportunities for fun and rewards, not threats. Pair that with teaching him to sit when new people arrive, since dogs have a more difficult time barking when they are sitting. For extra support, tools like an anxiety wrap, pheromone collar or over-the-counter calming chews can help soothe Oliver and set the stage for success. Puzzle toys filled with high-value treats, reserved specifically for when guests arrive, can also redirect his energy. With consistency and by celebrating small wins, his greeting behavior will likely improve as he builds confidence and learns he is safe. Cathy M. Rosenthal is an author and pet expert. Email her at cathy@petpundit.com . Please include your name, city and state. Get local news delivered to your inbox!

Property tax hike little more than a payday loan to keep broke city’s lights, heat on

Symbotic Announces Acquisition of OhmniLabs

"Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum." Section 1.10.32 of "de Finibus Bonorum et Malorum", written by Cicero in 45 BC "Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo. Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur magni dolores eos qui ratione voluptatem sequi nesciunt. Neque porro quisquam est, qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit, sed quia non numquam eius modi tempora incidunt ut labore et dolore magnam aliquam quaerat voluptatem. Ut enim ad minima veniam, quis nostrum exercitationem ullam corporis suscipit laboriosam, nisi ut aliquid ex ea commodi consequatur? Quis autem vel eum iure reprehenderit qui in ea voluptate velit esse quam nihil molestiae consequatur, vel illum qui dolorem eum fugiat quo voluptas nulla pariatur?" 1914 translation by H. Rackham "But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?" 1914 translation by H. Rackham "But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?" To keep reading, please log in to your account, create a free account, or simply fill out the form below.SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — The San Francisco 49ers activated linebacker Dre Greenlaw to play Thursday night against the Los Angeles Rams for his first action since tearing his left Achilles tendon in last season's Super Bowl . Greenlaw had been practicing the past few weeks and was activated from the physically unable to perform list on Thursday. San Francisco placed offensive lineman Ben Bartch on injured reserve with an ankle injury to make room on the roster. Greenlaw was one of the emotional leaders of San Francisco's defense before the freak injury in the first half of the Super Bowl loss to Kansas City. Greenlaw bounced up and down on the sideline and then started to run onto the field with a few teammates when he collapsed holding his left leg. He was then helped off in a cart. Greenlaw was drafted in the fifth round in 2019 and emerged as one of the key defenders for San Francisco in 2022. He started 30 games the past two seasons with 247 tackles, eight tackles for loss, 10 passes defensed and three takeaways. The Niners have missed his intensity and physical play this season, especially against the run. The Rams and 49ers both promoted players from the practice squad for the game with Los Angeles adding defensive back Charles Woods and San Francisco promoting running back Ke'Shawn Vaughn. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL

Eimear O’Brien, who retired 18 months ago as Clovis Unified’s superintendent, says she will seek election as the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools in 2026. O’Brien said Wednesday she had planned to formally announce her candidacy next month. However, word of her decision was already starting to leak out in the community. The job is currently held by Michelle Cantwell-Copher, who was elected in 2022 to replace Jim Yovino after he opted not to seek reelection. When she announced her retirement in January 2023, O’Brien still had more than a year left on her contract but said she needed to quit so she could help her siblings care for their aging mother, who lives in Ireland. She needed six months to sort out family matters. Beginning last January O’Brien started to take stock: “I realized very quickly that I’m not good at retirement, it just doesn’t suit me at all.” Since leaving Clovis Unified, O’Brien says, she’s been working on different projects: Writing a children’s book, working at the Welty Center at Fresno State on a leadership network with Mabel Franks, the Welty Center director, and Adela Jones, the former Sanger Unified superintendent, and conducting training on the Positivity Project, the character education program that was adopted by Clovis Unified. While she enjoys those projects, O’Brien said she came to realize that she still has a great passion for education and working with others — and a lot of pent-up energy. So she started considering options and talked to people like Yovino, who she says assured her that she has what it takes to excel at the county schools superintendent job. Leadership, Knowledge, Education Combination Is ‘Rare’ Yovino on Thursday confirmed to GV Wire that he will fully support and endorse O’Brien’s candidacy. “It’s rare that you get opportunities of people with that type of leadership and that type of credibility and knowledge and education,” he said. Before becoming Clovis Unified superintendent in 2017, O’Brien was a classroom teacher, a principal at elementary and secondary schools, and an administrator. Yovino said he appreciated how O’Brien was always quick at meetings of district superintendents to offer other districts the opportunity to observe Clovis Unified programs that were working and helping kids be successful. But she saw it as a two-way street, he said: “We’re talking about Firebaugh and they had had a year where they had just tremendous growth in third grade reading. And she goes, ‘Well, can we come out?’ ” O’Brien said she decided to run for county superintendent of schools post — it will be her first run for public office — because she would be able to work with districts across Fresno County, providing support as needed, and continue to develop the relationships she started as the Clovis superintendent. She said that the late Pete Mehas, formerly the county’s schools superintendent, was one of the first people she talked with when she was considering moving from Ireland to California after vacationing here. Although his schedule was full, Mejas generously gave her plenty of his time to answer her questions on that first call, she recalled. She stayed in touch with Mehas over the years and remembered how grateful she was for his generosity and admiring of his leadership when she was introducing him at a scholarship event. Afterward the two chatted, she recalled. “So he said to me, ‘You know, every time I run into you, you seem to (have) kind of moved up in the ranks.’ And I said, I don’t necessarily intend to, but I’m just enjoying every job. And he said, ‘Well, you never know. Maybe someday you’ll go for my job.’ And I said, I doubt if I’ll ever be able to fill those shoes. ... “I always admired his work. And I’ve been reflecting on that interaction in the last few weeks as I’m thinking about doing this, because he was a great leader.” Ready to Un-Retire O’Brien reports that her mother, while in declining health, is in a “good place” both physically and mentally. She travels to Ireland about four times a year to spend time with her. She’s confident she can juggle her roles as mother (one of her daughters is in law school at Berkeley), daughter, and educational leader. And O’Brien says she’s ready to come out of retirement. “I recognize I’m a people person, and I love solving problems. And I’m passionate about elevating people around me,” she said. “We have a lot of educational issues in this Valley and our superintendents need support and help. And I just know that I could be really good at that. “So it just energizes me to be involved ... plus my own deep desire to be involved in my career. I also have a passion. I don’t see it like a job. It’s a passion. It nourishes my soul, you know?”Cousins Properties Announces Pricing of Senior Notes OfferingTimberwolves win third straight game, again in dramatic fashion

Company experts offer predictions across key sectors to help businesses navigate the unexpected MEMPHIS, Tenn. , Dec. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Sedgwick , a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions, has published its Forecasting 2025 thought leadership report . In preparing the report, Sedgwick's experts conducted research and engaged with clients for notable insights to forecast trends across key sectors and topics. The content focuses on ensuring organizations are aware of new risks and evolving trends and helping them navigate the unexpected in the year ahead. The Forecasting 2025 thought leadership report highlights trends related to: The future of the workplace: Organizational leaders will need to navigate generational differences, an ever-increasing focus on mental health, and new strategies for talent recruitment, retention and development — while developing efficient support systems to respond in the event of workplace injuries, accidents and other crises. Recalls, regulatory landscape and compliance: Strategies like "mock recalls" will be a priority as leaders focus on maintaining public trust, tailoring communication strategies to broader and more segmented audiences, and maximizing awareness and response in the event of a product recall. Catastrophe planning and disaster recovery: Operational continuity in the event of a disaster will be key in 2025, as business and property owners, company leaders and private citizens anticipate the rising frequency and intensity of droughts, extreme temperatures, flooding and storms. Parametric insurance policies will become more common, as will new building methods and construction strategies amid regulatory and policy changes, technological advancements, and environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives. AI and ...: Artificial intelligence and robotics have driven some of the most prominent workplace evolutions over the past few years. In 2025, these and other leading-edge technologies will continue to play a significant role in the way companies promote efficiencies and engage with customers. However, business leaders must be able to keep up with new regulations, understand the associated vulnerabilities and risks, and put a team in place to effectively implement and maintain them. Planning ahead: The world is rapidly changing, becoming more uncertain and volatile every day. Supply chain disruptions, new tariffs, more frequent and sophisticated cyber-attacks and business interruption will greatly impact organizations in 2025. Diversification, rapid response and technology will be critical tools in being as prepared as possible. "2024 was a seismic year across industry sectors as companies navigated the unexpected, and 2025 will be no different," said Kimberly George, Sedgwick's Global Chief Brand Officer . "These predictions serve as a barometer for what's to come, so leaders around the world can prepare accordingly." The trends and predictions in the Forecasting 2025 report will be monitored by Sedgwick's experts throughout the year and serve as part of a larger thought leadership strategy to keep clients and partners informed. With this, Sedgwick will launch a new podcast featuring in-depth conversations with its experts and client partners on a new topic each month. For more on the report insights, visit sedgwick.com . About Sedgwick Sedgwick is a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions. The company provides a broad range of resources tailored to clients' specific needs in casualty, property, marine, benefits, brand protection and other lines. At Sedgwick, caring counts; through the dedication and expertise of over 33,000 colleagues across 80 countries, the company takes care of people and organizations by mitigating and reducing risks and losses, promoting health and productivity, protecting brand reputations, and containing costs that can impact performance. Sedgwick's majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com . SOURCE Sedgwick Claims Management Services, Inc.Asian shares were mixed on Monday after stocks fell broadly on Friday as Wall Street closed out a holiday-shortened week on a down note. U.S. futures were lower while oil prices were little changed. In Asia, South Korea’s Kospi added 0.6% to 2,418.80. But shares of Jeju Air Co. lost 8.8% after one of the company’s jets skidded off a runway , slammed into a concrete fence and burst into flames Sunday in South Korea as its landing gear failed to deploy. 179 people died in the crash. Political turmoil continued as South Korean law enforcement officials requested a court warrant on Monday to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol. They are investigating whether his martial law decree on Dec. 3 amounted to rebellion. Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 index lost 0.9% to 39,914.21 as the dollar gained against the Japanese yen, trading at 157.83 yen, up from 157.75 yen. The Tokyo market will wrap up trading for 2024 with a yearend ceremony as Japan begins its New Year holidays, the biggest festival of the year. The Hang Seng in Hong Kong shed 0.3% to 20,030.63 while the Shanghai Composite index was up 0.3% at 3,408.72. Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 dipped 0.9% to 8,191.50. On Friday, the S&P 500 fell 1.1% to 5,970.84. Roughly 90% of stocks in the benchmark index lost ground, but it managed to hold onto a modest gain of 0.7% for the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.8% to 42,992.21. The tech-heavy Nasdaq composite fell 1.5%, to 19,722.03. The losses were made worse by sharp declines for the Big Tech stocks known as the “Magnificent 7”, which can heavily influence the direction of the market because of their large size. A wide range of retailers also fell. Amazon fell 1.5% and Best Buy slipped 1.5%. The sector is being closely watched for clues on how it performed during the holiday shopping season. The S&P 500 gained nearly 3% over a 3-day stretch before breaking for the Christmas holiday. On Thursday, the index posted a small decline. Despite Friday's drop, the market is moving closer to another standout annual finish . The S&P 500 is on track for a gain of around 25% in 2024. That would mark a second consecutive yearly gain of more than 20%, the first time that has happened since 1997-1998. The gains have been driven partly by upbeat economic data showing that consumers continued spending and the labor market remained strong. Inflation, while still high, has also been steadily easing. A report on Friday showed that sales and inventory estimates for the wholesales trade industry fell 0.2% in November, following a slight gain in October. That weaker-than-expected report follows an update on the labor market Thursday that showed unemployment benefits held steady last week. The stream of upbeat economic data and easing inflation helped prompt a reversal in the Federal Reserve's interest rate policy this year. Expectations for interest rate cuts also helped drive market gains. The central bank recently delivered its third cut to interest rates in 2024. Even though inflation has come closer to the central bank's target of 2%, it remains stubbornly above that mark and worries about it heating up again have tempered the forecast for more interest rate cuts. Inflation concerns have added to uncertainties heading into 2025, which include the labor market’s path ahead and shifting economic policies under incoming President Donald Trump. Worries have risen that Trump’s preference for tariffs and other policies could lead to higher inflation , a bigger U.S. government debt and difficulties for global trade. In other dealings early Monday, U.S. benchmark crude oil picked up 1 cent to $70.61 per barrel. Brent crude, the international standard, lost 1 cent to $73.78 per barrel. The euro fell to $1.0427 from $1.0433.

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