Robotics is becoming more and more popular with each passing year as demand for efficient and cost-effective solutions rises. With robotic technology offering convenience and improved safety and the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning, allowing for more advanced robotic capabilities, it's no surprise that the global robotics market is expected to surpass $200 billion by the end of this decade . Another evidence of robotics' growing usage is the global installation of industrial robots, which reached 541,302 in 2023, the second-highest annual installation in history. The record was made the year before that when 552,946 units were installed . With that, the total number of operational robots has now reached a new high of around 4.3 million units worldwide, with Asia leading this growth at 70%, followed by Europe at 17%, and then America at 10%. As for robot manufacturing, Japan is in the lead, accounting for a 46% market share. According to the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), robotics growth will accelerate in 2025 and will continue at this speed in the years to come. Now, when it comes to industries that are driving robotics' massive expansion, automotive is in the lead, with electronics, metal and machinery, waste management, agriculture, retail, construction, and food services being other sectors utilizing robots. Robots in Healthcare While robots are being used across industries, there is one sector where it has a far greater and more positive impact, and that's medicine. The global medical robotic systems market is actually fast-growing, and it is estimated that its size will increase from $16 billion in 2024 to $33.8 billion by 2029. Robots are being used in all areas of healthcare, from supplying medications and assisting in rehabilitation to helping with diagnostics, surgery, and drug delivery. For instance, robotic arms are used for mixing, dispensing, counting, and inspecting, while programmed supply robots are used to deliver items to specific locations. These autonomous mobile robots are simplifying routine tasks for healthcare professionals by reducing the physical demands on human workers and addressing staffing shortages. They even keep track of inventory and make sure all the supplies are always in stock when needed, in addition to sanitizing rooms and getting them ready for patients. By taking up all these routine tasks, autonomous mobile robots allow medical staff to focus on patients and their specific needs that can't be met by the technology. The robot called Tug from Aethon is one such example that comes with the capability to move through challenging conditions to make safe deliveries to where they are needed and when they are needed. These robots also help create a safe work environment by handling the tasks of cleaning, disinfection, and transporting supplies to hospitals and regions where there's a risk of pathogen exposure. According to the CDC, about one in 31 hospital patients has at least one healthcare-associated infection on a given day. This is due to hospitals' inability to disinfect rooms completely. To help address such problems, automated robots like FDA-authorized Xenex are being built that use pulsed UV rays to sterilize hospital rooms in just minutes. Technological innovation has also led to advanced surgical-assistance robots that help surgeons achieve greater speed and more accuracy when performing complex operations. A multi-armed wonderbot called da Vinci Surgical System is one such robot used to make surgery less invasive, reduce surgical errors, and provide enhanced control. The Cyberknife is another one that treats cancers by delivering radiation therapy to tumors with extreme precision. Then there are pharmaceutical robots, which are gaining a lot of traction because of the aging population and those with chronic diseases that require ongoing medication and precision treatment. By automating critical processes that are usually done manually and are time-consuming, pharmaceutical robots further help improve quality and precision. Robots for Drug Delivery Driven by technological advancements and the increasing need for automation in drug development and patient care, robots are making drug delivery more efficient and precise, improving patient care. Companies are developing micro and nanorobots that move independently to deliver drugs to hard-to-reach areas powered by chemical reactions or external sources like light, electric fields, or magnetic fields. By targeting disease sites, these robots improve therapeutic efficacy and reduce side effects. A couple of years ago, a team of researchers developed MANiACs, which are tiny tumbling robots having magnetic nanorods encased in a soft spherical shell. Back in 2022, a Stanford mechanical engineer built multifunctional wireless robots for the same. And just a couple of months ago, NTU Singapore researchers developed grain-sized soft robots for targeted drug delivery. The robot, which is made with magnetic microparticles and controlled using magnetic fields, can transport as many as four different drugs and release them in reprogrammable doses and orders. This research was built on the team's previous work that involved magnetically controlled miniature robots that can grip tiny objects and swim through tight spaces, among other complex movements. Taking inspiration from a 1960s sci-fi movie, ‘Fantastic Voyage,' where a crew shrunk to cell size to repair damage in a scientist's brain, the research is bringing imagination to reality. The highly dexterous robot, when tested in lab experiments, moved at speeds of between 0.30 mm and 16.5 mm per second, successfully delivered drugs in more challenging environments, and even after eight hours of constant movement, showed minimal drug leakage. The NTU team is now looking into making these robots even smaller so they can ultimately be used to treat bladder cancer, brain tumors, and colorectal cancer. Microbots: Tiny Robots That Revolutionize Precision Medicine Microrobots utilize miniaturized sensors and actuators to carry out actions that they are programmed to do. Their micron size makes them easy to use in environments that have been traditionally too intricate and difficult to reach. This ability makes these robots invaluable for minimally invasive surgery, disease diagnosis, detoxification, and precision drug delivery. However, they are not without their challenges in terms of their efficacy and localization through deep tissue. Another major issue is that they have proved to be m ore show than substance. Over the past two decades, several versions of micro- or nanorobots have been released, but so far, their applications in living systems have been rather limited. Then there's the fact that moving objects with high accuracy in complex biofluids like saliva, urine, and blood is also pretty complex. Other obstacles for nanorobots include real-time detection within the body and achieving precise remote control for targeted therapy. Also, when designing these microbots, the question arises of whether they should be tethered or untethered. For an untethered microrobot to operate effectively in the human body, it must have steady propulsion through biofluids, strong payload capacity, high biocompatibility to avoid surgical removal, enhanced imaging for real-time visualization, and precise targeting. Here, acoustically actuated robots are showing substantial potential due to the benefits of deep-tissue penetration, non-invasive operation, rapid response, robust propulsive forces, and safety. So, researchers from Caltech introduced BAM — a hydrogel-based, imaging-guided, bioresorbable acoustic microrobot that can navigate the human body with high stability. BAM is not a metal humanoid or bio-mimicking robot, it is a tiny bubble-like sphere. According to co-corresponding author of the paper on bots, Wei Gao, who's a professor of medical engineering at Caltech and Heritage Medical Research Institute Investigator: “We have designed a single platform that can address all of these problems.” In their research , the scientists noted that when tested, the bots helped the team successfully deliver therapeutics that decreased the size of bladder tumors in mice. “Rather than putting a drug into the body and letting it diffuse everywhere, now we can guide our microrobots directly to a tumor site and release the drug in a controlled and efficient way.” – Gao As BAM technology progresses, the study anticipates the device will make a substantial impact on the healthcare sector and patient care. The Design & Development of BAM The new microrobot, which has spherical microstructures, is made of a hydrogel called poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate. Hydrogel starts in liquid or resin form, but when the network of polymers within them becomes cross-linked, it becomes solid. Having such composition and microstructure allows hydrogels to retain large amounts of fluid, helping the team overcome the problem of robots being biocompatible. Meanwhile, additive manufacturing fabrication enables the outer sphere to carry the therapeutic cargo to a target site within the body. The microstructures and hydrogel recipe were made with the help of Julia R. Greer, the co-corresponding author, and Ruben F. and Donna Mettler, Professor of Materials Science, Mechanics, and Medical Engineering. For this, her group made use of two-photon polymerization (TPP) lithography. In this 3D printing technique, a laser is used to create complex structures. Here, ultra-fast pulses of infrared laser light are used to selectively cross-link photosensitive polymers while following a specific design . The TPP lithography basically builds a high-resolution structure layer by layer, allowing the team to achieve complex forms and high precision. The group was able to print (write) microstructures that are roughly 30 microns in diameter, which is the same as human hair. Talking about the sphere shape of the structure, Greer noted that it is “very complicated to write” and requires having a knowledge of “certain tricks of the trade to keep the spheres from collapsing on themselves,” so it's a huge achievement that the team was able to create them. “We were able to not only synthesize the resin that contains all the biofunctionalization and all the medically necessary elements, but we were able to write them in a precise spherical shape with the necessary cavity.” – Greer This is the inner structure of the sphere, and as for its outer structure, the microrobots will incorporate magnetic nanoparticles and the therapeutic drug within it in their final form. The magnetic nanoparticles allow the researchers to control the robots and direct them to a location that they want using an external magnetic field. And when they finally reach the target, the robots stay in that location, and the drug spreads out passively. When it comes to the microstructure's exterior, the team further designed it to be hydrophilic, which means it is attracted to water. Doing so makes sure that the individual robots do not stick together as they travel through the body. Unlike the microrobot's exterior surface, the inner surface is not made hydrophilic but rather hydrophobic because it needs to capture an air bubble, which is easy to dissolve. To build a hybrid microrobot whose exterior attracts water while the interior repels water, the team designed a chemical modification. This modification involved two steps; the first one involved affixing long-chain carbon molecules to the hydrogel, effectively making it hydrophobic. In the second step, the scientists utilize the oxygen plasma etching technique to remove the carbon structures from the exterior, making the outside hydrophilic. Calling their chemical modification “one of the key innovations of this project,” Gao stated that the asymmetric surface modification was what really allowed them “to use many robots and still trap bubbles for a prolonged period of time in biofluids, such as urine or serum.” As per the team's demonstration, this technique allowed bubbles to last for several days as opposed to a few minutes otherwise. Now, just why do we need to trap these bubbles in the first place? Well, having trapped bubbles is necessary to move the robots and to keep track of them with real-time imaging. To enable the microrobot to move forward, the researchers have the sphere with two cylinder-like openings. The team found that having two openings allowed the robots to move in various biofluids at greater speeds than a single opening. When exposed to an ultrasound field, the bubbles within the robot vibrate, causing the fluid surrounding it to stream away from it, propelling the robot through the fluid. The bubble, which is trapped in each microstructure, acts as a great ultrasound imaging contrast agent, allowing for bots' real-time monitoring in vivo. The team then put the microrobots on trial as a drug-delivery tool in mice having bladder tumors. In 22 days, four deliveries of therapeutics were made with the help of microrobots. These deliveries were found to be more successful in reducing the size of tumors than the ones that didn't make use of robots. According to Gao: “We think this is a very promising platform for drug delivery and precision surgery. Looking to the future, we could evaluate using this robot as a platform to deliver different types of therapeutic payloads or agents for different conditions. And in the long term, we hope to test this in humans.” Click here to learn about sticky metal that could have widespread application in robotics. Investable Company in Medical Robotics Sphere Now, let's take a look at a prominent company in this space: Intuitive Surgical ( ISRG +0.51% ) This $186.6 billion market cap company is known for developing, manufacturing, and marketing the da Vinci surgical system and the Ion endoluminal system. Intuitive Surgical's products and services enable improved patient outcomes. Intuitive Surgical, Inc. ( ISRG +0.51% ) (function () { var script = document.createElement('script'); script.src = 'https://s3.tradingview.com/external-embedding/embed-widget-advanced-chart.js'; script.async = true; script.innerHTML = JSON.stringify({ 'autosize': true, 'width': '100%', 'height': '440', 'symbol': 'NASDAQ:ISRG', 'range': 'YTD', 'timezone': 'Etc/UTC', 'theme': 'light', 'style': '3', 'locale': 'en', 'hide_top_toolbar': false, 'hide_legend': true, 'allow_symbol_change': false, 'save_image': false, 'calendar': false, 'hide_volume': true, 'withdateranges': true, 'support_host': 'https://www.tradingview.com' }); document.currentScript.parentNode.insertBefore(script, document.currentScript); })(); At the time of writing, its shares are trading at $517, up 55.3% YTD, while having an EPS (TTM) of 6.2 and a P/E (TTM) of 84.22. For Q3 2024, the company reported $2.04 billion in revenue, an increase of 17% from the same quarter last year. During this period, the worldwide da Vinci procedures jumped by about 18% compared with 3Q23, and its installed base grew to 9,539 systems, with Intuitive Surgical placing 379 such systems. The company also obtained regulatory clearance for the system in South Korea. Conclusion Robotics is gaining a lot of attention all over the world and across industries. The demand for robots in healthcare is particularly strong and growing thanks to their ability to streamline clinical workflows, assist in surgery, reduce the risk of infection, and provide a safer environment and high-quality patient care. The latest research happening in nanorobots, as we noted today, demonstrates a medical breakthrough that can change the healthcare industry by treating conditions that are not only difficult but may even be impossible. This certainly paves the way for improved therapies and a healthier future. Click here for a list of top robotics surgery stocks.Tetra Pak launches its first-ever Sustainability Report for Pakistan
THE year 2024 has been a transformative period for Zimbabwe’s capital markets, marked by significant developments and challenges. The Zimbabwe Stock Exchange (ZSE) and the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange (VFEX) have both experienced unique trajectories influenced by local and international events. The ZSE has shown resilience amidst economic turbulence. The most notable change was the replacement of the Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWL) with the Zimbabwe Gold (ZWG) in April 2024. This shift aimed to stabilize the currency and restore investor confidence. Initially, the ZSE All Share Index achieved a nominal return of 334 percent in ZWL terms, translating to 15 percent in USD terms due to the ZWL’s depreciation. Post the introduction of the ZiG, the index realised a nominal return of 28,64 percent, equivalent to a 27,38 percent return in USD terms. This stability attracted both domestic and foreign investors, although overall liquidity remained tighter compared to previous years. The VFEX, operating in USD, faced different challenges. Despite an increase in listings and a modest 2,7 percent rise in the All Share Index in the first half of 2024, the market struggled with liquidity constraints. Public mistrust in banks and inconsistent monetary policies led to decreased real savings and less foreign cash directed towards capital market investments. However, the VFEX’s ability to raise capital in hard currency and lower trading fees provided some relief and potential for growth. Several key events in 2024 significantly impacted Zimbabwe’s capital markets: Currency Reform: The introduction of the ZiG was a pivotal moment, aimed at curbing hyperinflation and stabilising the economy. This move was crucial for the ZSE, as it helped mitigate the volatility associated with the ZWL. Debt Resolution Efforts: Zimbabwe’s efforts to return to international capital markets, including a $331 million compensation package for white farmers, aimed to improve relations with creditors and attract foreign investment. These efforts are vital for long-term economic stability and market confidence. 3. Global Economic Trends: Internationally, the global economic environment remained volatile, with fluctuating commodity prices and geopolitical tensions affecting investor sentiment. The VFEX, being USD-denominated, was somewhat insulated from local currency issues but still faced global market pressures. The attractiveness of listing on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange (ZSE) has diminished due to economic instability, regulatory hurdles, and limited access to capital. Companies may find the costs and complexities of maintaining a public listing outweigh the benefits, leading to fewer new listings and potentially delistings. This reduces the diversity and vibrancy of the market, limiting investment opportunities. The debt market in Zimbabwe is underdeveloped, with limited issuance and trading of corporate and government bonds. This inactivity restricts companies’ ability to raise capital through debt instruments and limits investors’ options for fixed-income investments. A vibrant debt market is crucial for providing liquidity and stability to the financial system. Investor confidence in the ZSE is low due to economic volatility, political instability, and past instances of market manipulation or corporate governance failures. This lack of confidence discourages both local and foreign investors from participating in the market, reducing overall market activity and liquidity. Low liquidity on the ZSE means that it is difficult for investors to buy or sell shares without significantly impacting the market price. This can lead to higher volatility and increased transaction costs, making the market less attractive to institutional investors who require the ability to enter and exit positions efficiently. High transaction costs, including brokerage fees, taxes, and regulatory charges, make trading on the ZSE less attractive. These costs reduce potential profits and discourage frequent trading, leading to lower market activity. Regulatory costs can also create barriers to entry for new market participants. We must however commend the government for reducing the capital gains tax. A stringent regulatory environment can create challenges for companies and investors. While regulations are necessary for market integrity, overly burdensome requirements can stifle innovation, increase compliance costs, and deter new listings and investments. Economic instability, characterised by fluctuating exchange rates, high inflation, and inconsistent economic policies, creates an uncertain environment for investors. This instability makes it difficult for companies to plan and for investors to make long-term investment decisions. Inconsistent Government policies can create uncertainty and deter investment. Frequent changes in regulations, tax policies, and economic strategies can make it difficult for businesses to operate and for investors to predict future market conditions. High inflation erodes the real value of investment returns, making it less attractive for investors to hold assets in the local currency. This discourages both local and foreign investment and can lead to capital flight. The volatility of the Zimbabwean dollar poses a significant risk to investors. Currency fluctuations can lead to substantial losses for foreign investors and reduce the attractiveness of the ZSE as an investment destination. This has however been stabilized by the introduction of the ZiG but investor perception remains negative and there is need for increased road shows. The T+3 settlement cycle delays the availability of funds or shares for three business days after a trade. This reduces capital efficiency and makes the market less appealing, especially to institutional investors who require quick access to funds. The suspension of major companies like PPC and Old Mutual from trading on the ZSE creates uncertainty and reduces investor confidence. These suspensions diminish market capitalisation and liquidity, making the ZSE less attractive. Banks play a crucial role in underwriting IPOs and providing liquidity. Minimal participation by banks in ZSE IPOs limits the availability of new capital for companies and reduces market dynamism. A less sophisticated investor base can lead to lower market participation and higher volatility. Limited financial literacy and investment knowledge among the general population can reduce the effectiveness of the market. To stimulate Zimbabwe’s capital markets in 2025, several strategic initiatives can be implemented: Engaging with government officials to advocate for favourable policies and regulatory reforms can help create a more conducive environment for capital market growth. This includes reducing transaction costs, streamlining regulatory processes, and ensuring policy consistency. Proactively engaging with potential and existing investors through seminars, workshops, and personalized consultations can help build trust and confidence in the market. Providing clear and transparent information about market opportunities and risks is crucial. Encouraging the government to issue more debt securities on the ZSE can help develop the debt market, provide more investment options, and increase overall market liquidity. Collaborating with private sector entities to develop infrastructure and other projects can attract investment and stimulate economic growth. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) can also help mitigate risks and share resources. Many of these projects require substantial financing, which can be raised through listing bonds or equity on the ZSE, increasing activity on the exchange and bringing in new investors. Migration towards T+0 settlement cycle over the next 2 years Moving towards a T+0 settlement cycle, where transactions are settled on the same day, can significantly improve capital efficiency and make the market more attractive to investors. This requires upgrading market infrastructure and ensuring regulatory support. Working closely with commercial banks to encourage their participation in IPOs and other market activities can help increase liquidity and market depth. Banks can provide underwriting services, liquidity support, and investment products. Implementing widespread investor education programmes to improve financial literacy and investment knowledge among the general population can help build a more sophisticated investor base. This can lead to increased market participation and stability. Both the ZSE and VFEX need to improve liquidity. This can be achieved by introducing more financial instruments, such as derivatives, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), to attract a broader range of investors. Additionally, policies that encourage savings and investment in the capital markets should be prioritised. Regulatory reforms Streamlining regulatory processes and ensuring consistent and transparent policies will build investor confidence. The approval process for new listings and financial instruments should be expedited to reduce delays and encourage market participation. Providing incentives for institutional investors, such as pension funds and insurance companies, to invest in the capital markets can significantly boost market activity. This includes offering tax breaks or other benefits for investments in prescribed assets. Continuing the digital transformation of the ZSE and VFEX will enhance efficiency and accessibility. Implementing advanced trading platforms and ensuring robust cybersecurity measures will attract tech-savvy investors and improve overall market operations including reducing system down times. Promoting sustainable investments Encouraging investments in sectors such as renewable energy, women-run businesses, and environmental projects can attract socially responsible investors. These sectors not only offer growth potential but also align with global sustainability trends. Introducing multi-currency settlement options would broaden the pool of settlement options and enhance trade activity, addressing the limitation of available funds for trading on the ZSE. Migration towards T+1 settlement Cycle shortening the settlement cycle to T+1 reduces the time capital is tied up, enabling faster reinvestment and improved market liquidity. Investors can quickly recycle their funds into new opportunities. Offering tax incentives to companies that list on the ZSE can encourage more businesses to go public, increasing market diversity and investment opportunities. For example, Rwanda has implemented tax incentives to attract junior mining companies, which focus on exploration and then sell their assets after making discoveries. Similarly, Ireland offers a low corporate tax rate of 12.5% to attract multinational companies. Encouraging companies already listed on other exchanges to list on the ZSE can attract foreign investment and enhance market liquidity. The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) in South Africa has successfully implemented a fast-track listing process for companies already listed on major stock exchanges, allowing them to place a secondary listing on the JSE’s Main Board or AltX. This approach has diversified the investor base and improved brand recognition for companies. Providing incentives for IPPs can help address energy shortages and support economic growth. In Africa, countries like Kenya and South Africa have successfully attracted IPPs through favorable policies and regulatory frameworks. For instance, South Africa’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP) has attracted significant private investment in renewable energy projects. These incentives include long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) and government guarantees. Offering tax breaks and other incentives to mining and exploration companies can attract investment in the natural resources sector. Nigeria, for example, provides tax holidays and other incentives to encourage mining exploration. Similarly, British Columbia in Canada has made permanent two existing mining tax credits to support exploration activities. Eliminating taxes on properties transferred into Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) can promote the development of the real estate market and provide more investment options. In Europe, countries like the UK and Germany have introduced REIT regimes to meet the growing demand for tax-efficient real estate investment vehicles. These regimes offer tax advantages that make REITs an attractive option for property investment. Creating a favourable environment for FDI through policy stability, tax incentives, and streamlined regulatory processes can attract international capital and expertise. The European Union (EU) has emphasized the importance of sustainable investments in Africa, promoting partnerships to attract investors and boost regional integration. Additionally, initiatives like the US-Africa Summit have resulted in significant commitments to expand trade and investment in Africa. Developing a framework for green financing can attract investment in sustainable projects and support environmental goals. The European Green Deal, for example, aims to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050 and includes a green bond standard to finance climate change adaptation and mitigation projects. In Africa, green finance is seen as key to unlocking the continent’s potential in renewable energy and carbon sequestration. The year 2024 has been a period of significant change and adaptation for Zimbabwe’s capital markets. While challenges such as economic instability, low liquidity, and regulatory hurdles remain, the steps taken towards currency stabilisation and debt resolution are promising. The introduction of the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) and efforts to improve relations with international creditors have laid a foundation for future growth. To stimulate Zimbabwe’s capital markets in 2025, a strategic and comprehensive approach is essential. Key strategies include enhancing liquidity through the introduction of new financial instruments, streamlining regulatory processes, and implementing widespread investor education programmes. Encouraging institutional investors with tax incentives and leveraging technology to improve market efficiency are also crucial steps. Promoting sustainable investments and developing a green financing framework can attract socially responsible investors and align with global sustainability trends. Additionally, fostering public-private partnerships and encouraging foreign direct investment through policy stability and tax incentives will be vital for long-term growth. By focusing on these strategies and addressing the challenges, Zimbabwe can create a more vibrant and resilient capital market. The Zimbabwe Stock Exchange (ZSE) and the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange (VFEX) have the potential to become robust platforms for investment, contributing significantly to the overall economic development of the country. With continued efforts and strategic initiatives, Zimbabwe’s capital markets can drive economic growth and attract both domestic and international investors in the coming years. Source: Business WeeklyMidland High’s Eric Albright elected as MHSAA Council president
Soccer player Edison Flores was seen camouflaged in a Lima nightclub, fueling rumors of a crisis in his relationship with Ana Siucho, who remains in the United States. Edison Flores, renowned soccer player from Universitario de Deportes, was captured on a night out in Lima, while his wife, Ana Siucho, is working in the United States. The images broadcast by the program ‘ love and fire ‘ show the player in a nightclub, accompanied by friends and wearing a cap to try to go unnoticed, which has generated comments and speculation about his personal life. Edison Flores is caught on nights out without Ana Siucho The popular ‘ Ears ‘was seen enjoying a night at the nightclub located in the Lince district. The program’ love and fire ‘ spread the images, generating comments about his personal life, since his wife, Ana Siucho, is in the United States. In the video, Flores appears accompanied by a group of friends and wearing a cap that covers much of his face, in an apparent attempt to go unnoticed. Rodrigo Gonzalez popularly known as ‘ stuffed animal ‘, he was quick to comment on the fact: “He is enjoying his nights in Lima. This is from yesterday at the Qiu Club nightclub in Lince. Hey, but is he so camouflaged? Those ears are unmistakable. Someone who saw him, recorded it.” Despite the rumors that his night out could generate, González clarified that Edison Flores was not seen flirting with anyone and that he was exclusively in the company of friends. “He’s not flirting with anyone, he’s with a group of male friends, while Ana is busy fighting with Grasse Becerra and he’s enjoying the Christmas preview,” the driver added. This type of public appearances has not gone unnoticed by his followers, who have expressed divided opinions on social networks. While some consider that the footballer has the right to enjoy his free time, others have questioned his attitude due to the absence of his wife and rumors about a possible crisis in his marriage. Join our entertainment channelIvana Bacik had separate meetings with Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin and Fine Gael leader Simon Harris on Tuesday afternoon. Fianna Fail, which won 48 seats in last month’s general election, and Fine Gael, which secured 38 seats, headed up the last coalition in Dublin and are expected to continue that partnership into the next mandate. However, with a combined 86 seats, they are just short of the 88 required for a majority in the Dail parliament. If they wish to return to government together, they would need one smaller party as a junior partner, or a handful of independents. Both Fianna Fail and Fine Gael have ruled out doing business with Sinn Fein, which won 39 seats. The centre-left Social Democrats and Irish Labour Party, both of which won 11 seats in the election, are seen as the only two realistic options if Fianna Fail and Fine Gael seek to convince a smaller party to join the coalition. In a statement, the Labour Party said Ms Bacik outlined key policy priorities in her meetings with Taoiseach Mr Harris and Tanaiste Mr Martin. “There was discussion in both meetings on policies and manifesto commitments on housing, health, climate, workers’ rights and disability services among other issues,” said the statement. “The parliamentary party will meet at 1pm on Friday where the party leader will provide an assessment of engagement to date and consider the outcome of these meetings.” A spokesman for Mr Harris said there had been a “constructive engagement” with Ms Bacik. “The Taoiseach is grateful for the time and engagement on a range of substantial policy issues,” he said. The spokesman said Mr Harris had also met independent TDs who are aligned together in what is called the regional group. “These meetings have been productive,” he added. Mr Harris and party colleagues are due to meet the Social Democrats on Wednesday. Fianna Fail deputy leader Jack Chambers and Fine Gael deputy leader Helen McEntee met on Tuesday evening for discussions on government formation, with the parties’ full negotiating teams set to meet on Wednesday. Fine Gael said the meeting between Ms McEntee and Mr Chambers was “positive” and focused on the “structure and format” of the substantive negotiations going forward. When the two parties entered coalition for the first time after the last general election in 2020, there was only a three-seat difference in their relative strength. That resulted in an equal partnership at the head of the coalition, with the Green Party as the junior partner. The two main parties swapped the role of taoiseach halfway through the term. With Fianna Fail’s lead over Fine Gael having grown to 10 seats following this election, focus has turned to the future of the rotating taoiseach arrangement and whether it will operate again in the next mandate and, if so, on what basis. There are similar questions around the distribution of ministries and other roles. While Mr Martin has so far refused to be drawn on the specifics, he has suggested that he expects Fianna Fail’s greater strength of numbers to be reflected in the new administration. However, Mr Harris has insisted that Fine Gael’s mandate cannot be taken for granted when it comes to government formation. Richard Boyd Barrett from People Before Profit-Solidarity, which won three seats, urged Labour not to “prop up” up a Fianna Fail/Fine Gael administration. “We think that’s a huge mistake,” he told reporters in Dublin. “They shouldn’t do it. They should learn the lessons of the past and actually work with other parties of the left to form a decent left opposition to Fianna Fail and Fine Gael and campaign on the issues that matter.” His party colleague Paul Murphy pointed to the experience of the Green Party, which lost all but one of its 12 seats in the election. “In reality, what is going to happen is a changing of the mudguard for Fianna Fail and Fine Gael,” he said. “And for those who are now auditioning to be a new mudguard for Fianna Fail and Fine Gael, there is a very, very sharp and stark lesson in what happened to the Green Party – obviously almost entirely wiped out. “We think it is a very major mistake for anyone who has the perception of being left, with the votes of people who are looking left, to seek to go into coalition with Fianna Fail and Fine Gael.”
How the stock market defied expectations again this year, by the numbers
BOURNEMOUTH, England (Reuters) – Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou confronted fans after his side’s tame 1-0 Premier League defeat at Bournemouth on Thursday which increased the pressure on the Australian. Postecoglou’s side were unrecognisable from the one that beat Manchester City 4-0 in their last away game, producing a lacklustre display and conceding from a basic set-piece. They have now lost six of their 14 league games this season and sit 10th in the table, below Bournemouth. Boos were heard from the visiting fans after the final whistle and Postecoglou engaged a few in conversation. “They are disappointed, rightly so. They gave me some direct feedback which I guess is taken on board,” he told reporters. Asked what was said, he added: “Probably not for here mate. I’ve got no issue with it. I didn’t like what was being said because I’m a human being but you’ve got to cop it. “I’ve been around long enough to know that if things don’t go well, you’ve got to understand the frustration.” Postecoglou faces a crucial few weeks if the season is not to start unravelling. His stuttering side host high-flying Chelsea on Sunday and travel to Rangers for a crucial Europa League clash next week. After a trip to bottom club Southampton they face Manchester United in the League Cup quarter-finals and host leaders Liverpool shortly before Christmas. “All I can say is I’m really disappointed with tonight and I’m determined to get it right and I’ll keep fighting until we do,” Postecoglou said. Adding to his woes was an injury to Ben Davies who was playing as centre back in the absence of injured duo Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven. “It looks like he’s done his hamstring. Him and Radu (Dragusin) have played every game. It’s the one position we can’t rotate. He’ll obviously be out for a period of time now, we’ll just have to wait and see how long it is. “It’s a consequence of having the squad we have.” (Reporting by Martyn Herman, editing by ERd Osmond) Disclaimer: This report is auto generated from the Reuters news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content. var ytflag = 0;var myListener = function() {document.removeEventListener('mousemove', myListener, false);lazyloadmyframes();};document.addEventListener('mousemove', myListener, false);window.addEventListener('scroll', function() {if (ytflag == 0) {lazyloadmyframes();ytflag = 1;}});function lazyloadmyframes() {var ytv = document.getElementsByClassName("klazyiframe");for (var i = 0; i < ytv.length; i++) {ytv[i].src = ytv[i].getAttribute('data-src');}} Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δ document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() );New Delhi, Dec. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global data center cooling market is projected to attain a valuation of US$ 32.61 billion by 2033 from US$ 10.17 billion in 2024 and at a CAGR of 13.82% from 2025-2033. Today, data center cooling has advanced significantly, driven by the escalating demands of high-performance computing (HPC) and AI workloads. Liquid cooling methods, including direct-to-chip and immersion, now address far heavier densities, with some setups managing up to 140 kW per rack. These improvements enable data centers to surpass the global average Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) through measures like free cooling, refined airflow management, and AI-enabled temperature adjustments. Research indicates that such strategies can cut energy consumption by as much as 40% thereby boosting both efficiency and sustainability. Consequently, facilities can sustain higher performance levels while reducing operating costs and curbing carbon footprints. Download Free Sample Copy @ https://www.astuteanalytica.com/request-sample/data-center-cooling-market Recent analyses suggest data center represent 1-1.8% of global energy usage, with almost 40% of that dedicated to cooling In 2022, the International Energy Agency placed data center electricity demand at 1-1.3% worldwide, emphasizing the necessity of more eco-friendly solutions in the data center cooling market. Innovations illustrate what’s possible: Microsoft attained a PUE of 1.07 by submerging a data center in the ocean, highlighting the untapped potential of liquid cooling. Meanwhile, Google’s water-based cooling systems reportedly lower carbon emissions by about 10% compared to air-cooled setups. Forecasts also project strong expansion for liquid cooling, since it can accommodate escalating workloads and align effectively with sustainability objectives significant, AI-driven cooling can reduce energy usage by up to 30% through real-time, automated temperature controls. Cross-seasonal soil cold storage is likewise gaining traction, providing year-round free cooling in colder regions with minimal energy input. Additionally, partnerships between operators and technology providers are fueling breakthroughs in the data center cooling market by refining immersion frameworks and advanced software controls Altogether, these evolving strategies reflect a unified drive to handle surging data demands while minimizing ecological repercussions. As workloads intensify, advanced cooling solutions remain critical for helping data centers balance performance goals against responsible resource use. From immersion methods to direct liquid cooling, the industry’s pursuit of innovation underscores a shared commitment to sustainability. Consequently, data centers appear poised to meet worldwide demand without linking future growth to an ever-expanding carbon footprint. Key Findings in Data Center Cooling Market Escalating Cooling Needs as Tier 2 Data Centers Drive Market Growth Worldwide and Accounts for 36.5% Market Share Tier 2 data centers have emerged as the largest consumers of cooling solutions in the data center cooling market due to their rapidly expanding footprint and operational requirements. Recent market observations indicate there are over 9 thousand Tier 2 facilities worldwide, collectively housing around 200 million square feet of server space. Many of these sites have an average rack density reaching 6 kilowatts, which escalates the need for robust cooling mechanisms. Some operators report that annual utility bills for cooling alone surpass 5 million dollars per facility, reflecting the intensive energy draw. Capacity expansions among Tier 2 players are rising fast, with some projects adding over 2 thousand new racks each year. Utility data reveals that Tier 2 centers cumulatively account for nearly 30 gigawatts of power consumption, reflecting their growing scale. The appeal of Tier 2 sites lies in their balanced specifications, delivering dependable infrastructure without the hefty cost structures found in hyperscale environments. Many community-based enterprises, regional cloud providers, and medium-sized government bodies rely on Tier 2 facilities for mission-critical tasks due to their reliable uptime rating. Data indicates that certain Tier 2 centers maintain a power usage effectiveness near 1.65, highlighting moderate efficiency levels in the data center cooling market. These facilities often deploy chilled water systems capable of removing over 300 thousand BTUs per hour, ensuring stable temperatures. An average Tier 2 data center invests around 4 million dollars in cooling infrastructure upgrades every two years, keeping pace with evolving IT loads. Furthermore, industry announcements highlight more than 1 thousand new Tier 2 builds in the pipeline for completion by the end of 2023. Growth in industrial automation and edge computing further underscores the rising demand for Tier 2 capacity, as these sectors require facilities that combine strong performance with manageable capital expenses while supporting innovative cooling technologies tailored to mid-size operations. Dominant Room-Based Cooling is Powering Efficient, Sustainable, Modern Data Center Operations Worldwide, Set to Control over 62.6% Market Share Room-based cooling has solidified its position as the most widely adopted solution in data center cooling market, appealing to data centers of varying sizes and tiers. Analysis indicates that more than 6 thousand data center expansions in the past year alone have chosen room-based setups due to their simplicity and cost-effectiveness. Operators report that initial deployment costs can be around 20 thousand dollars for each computer room air conditioning unit, offering a relatively accessible entry point. In many facilities, these systems achieve stable inlet temperatures for over 500 racks, illustrating their scalability. Some hyperscale operators have confirmed using room-based designs to handle IT loads nearing 50 kilowatts per rack, thanks to improved airflow management. Industry feedback suggests that dedicated air distribution channels can reduce server-related overheating incidents by up to 500 events annually. Data center professionals value the simplicity of installation and maintenance that room-based cooling systems bring to the data center cooling market, as they often integrate seamlessly with existing HVAC infrastructure. Some large colocation sites wield more than 100 computer room air handlers, ensuring thorough circulation across multiple server halls. Engineers note that these setups can move upwards of 50 thousand cubic feet of air per minute to sustain constant temperatures. Reports indicate that each unit can manage approximately 5 thousand BTUs per minute, enabling stable performance in high-density spaces. Manufacturers are creating compact versions of these units that fit edge locations under 2 thousand square feet, reflecting the demand for flexible configurations. Power usage effectiveness in room-cooled environments typically hovers near 1.7, reflecting moderate efficiency gains. As colocation and enterprise data centers seek reliability, the straightforward design of room-based cooling remains an essential choice worldwide. Request Free Customization of this report: https://www.astuteanalytica.com/ask-for-customization/data-center-cooling-market IT & Telecom is Largest Powerhouse for Global Data Center Cooling Market and Holds Nearly 24.9% Market Share The IT and telecom sector commands a formidable share of global data center capacity, driven by relentless connectivity needs and expansion. Some estimates place the collective footprint of IT & telecom-operated facilities at over 400 million square feet, housing diverse workloads from core networking to cloud infrastructure. Recent data suggests these centers consume more than 150 terawatt-hours of electricity annually, with cooling representing a substantial operational expenditure. One large telecom-owned campus has claimed a capacity of over 6 million square feet, making it one of the biggest single-industry sites worldwide. Several telecommunications giants report single-site expansions exceeding 3 thousand racks each year to accommodate 5G and fiber-optic services. Major providers invest upwards of 30 million dollars to adopt advanced cooling technologies that keep mission-critical operations stable. Continuous hardware refresh cycles in telecom environments drive higher power densities reaching 40 kilowatts per rack, underscoring the importance of robust thermal management. One of the key drivers behind this massive cooling demand in the data center cooling market is the surge in bandwidth-heavy applications, from mobile broadband to streaming services. Operators often maintain mechanical cooling systems capable of removing over 200 thousand BTUs per hour from hyperscale exchange points. Industry surveys reveal more than 2 thousand new telecom data center builds are underway in 2023, highlighting the sector’s relentless expansion. Many telecom hubs deploy redundant chillers paired with backup generators drawing over 10 megawatts, ensuring uninterrupted functionality. Engineers acknowledge that these sites frequently incorporate water-based cooling loops to control heat generated by high-speed networking gear. As the IT and telecom domain continues to evolve, it remains the principal end user of data center cooling investments, demanding extensive fan, chiller, and airflow innovations. Global Data Center Cooling Market Major Players: Asetek Inc. Coolcentric Daikin Industries Ltd Green Revolution Cooling Iceotope Johnson Controls International PLC Liquid Cool Solutions Inc. LiquidStack Mitsubishi Electric Corporation Munters Group AB. Nortek Air Solutions Parker Hannifin Rittal GmbH & Co. KG Schneider Electric SE SPX Cooling Technologies, Inc STULZ GMBH Telx Holdings, Inc. (Digital Realty Trust, Inc.) Vertiv Co. Other Prominent Players Data Center Colling Market Segmentation: By Component Solution Air Conditioning Chilling Units Cooling Towers Economizer Systems Liquid Cooling Systems Control Systems Others Services Consulting Installation & Deployment Maintenance & Support By Data Centre Type Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 3 Tier 4 By Type of Cooling Room-based Cooling Row/Rack-based Cooling By Industry BFSI IT & Telecom Research & Academic Government & Defense Retails Energy Manufacturing Healthcare Others By Region North America Europe Asia Pacific South America Middle East & Africa (MEA) View report summary and Table of Contents (TOC): https://www.astuteanalytica.com/industry-report/data-center-cooling-market About Astute Analytica Astute Analytica is a global analytics and advisory company which has built a solid reputation in a short period, thanks to the tangible outcomes we have delivered to our clients. We pride ourselves in generating unparalleled, in depth and uncannily accurate estimates and projections for our very demanding clients spread across different verticals. We have a long list of satisfied and repeat clients from a wide spectrum including technology, healthcare, chemicals, semiconductors, FMCG, and many more. These happy customers come to us from all across the Globe. They are able to make well calibrated decisions and leverage highly lucrative opportunities while surmounting the fierce challenges all because we analyze for them the complex business environment, segment wise existing and emerging possibilities, technology formations, growth estimates, and even the strategic choices available. In short, a complete package. All this is possible because we have a highly qualified, competent, and experienced team of professionals comprising of business analysts, economists, consultants, and technology experts. In our list of priorities, you-our patron-come at the top. You can be sure of best cost-effective, value-added package from us, should you decide to engage with us. Contact Us: Astute Analytica Phone: +1-888 429 6757 (US Toll Free); +91-0120- 4483891 (Rest of the World) For Sales Enquiries: sales@astuteanalytica.com Website: https://www.astuteanalytica.com/ LinkedIn | Twitter | YouTube
ROME, Ga. — A motorist was killed as police responded to a bomb threat at the Georgia home of U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, authorities said. A police officer on the local bomb squad was traveling to the scene when he collided with another car on Monday, Rome police said in a statement. Greene identified the woman killed as Tammie Pickelsimer. The emailed threat — which warned of a pipe bomb in Greene’s mailbox and referenced Palestine — was sent to the assistant police chief. That touched off the police response, Greene said on social media. The source of the email was traced to a Russian internet address, she added. It was the latest instance of a crime known as “swatting” in which false threats are made to draw first responders to her home, Greene said. She said it has happened to her at least nine times. “These violent political threats have fatal consequences,” Greene said on the social media platform X, calling the crime a “despicable act.” “The perpetrator of this crime has committed murder in our small community of Rome, Georgia,” she added. The police officer was driving his personal vehicle to join the bomb squad on the call, police said. The officer was injured in the wreck, but the extent of his injuries was not immediately known Tuesday. “I’m sick to my stomach, but I’m also angry,” Greene said. “This should have never happened and I pray it never happens again.”Social Security tackles overpayment ‘injustices,’ but problems remain
Suspect Luigi Mangione is taken into the Blair County Courthouse on Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024, in Hollidaysburg, Pa. —Benjamin B. Braun/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette via AP ALTOONA, Pennsylvania — The suspect in the killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO struggled with deputies and shouted Tuesday while arriving for a court appearance in Pennsylvania, a day after he was arrested at a McDonald’s and charged with murder. Luigi Nicholas Mangione emerged from a patrol car, spun toward reporters and shouted something partly unintelligible referring to an “insult to the intelligence of the American people” while deputies pushed him inside. Prosecutors were beginning to take steps to bring Mangione back to New York to face a murder charge while new details emerged about his life and how he was captured. The 26-year-old Ivy League graduate from a prominent Maryland real estate family was charged with murder hours after he was arrested in the Manhattan killing of Brian Thompson, who led the United States’ largest medical insurance company. At the brief hearing, defense lawyer Thomas Dickey informed the court that Mangione would not waive extradition to New York but instead wants a hearing on the issue. He has 14 days to challenge detention. Mangione, wearing an orange prison jumpsuit, mostly stared straight ahead at the hearing, occasionally consulting papers, rocking in his chair or looking back at the gallery. At one point, he began to speak to respond to the court discussion but was quieted by his lawyer. Mangione likely was motivated by his anger with what he called “parasitic” health insurance companies and a disdain for corporate greed, a law enforcement bulletin obtained by The Associated Press said. He wrote that the U.S. has the most expensive health care system in the world and that profits of major corporations continue to rise while “our life expectancy” does not, according to the bulletin, based on a review of his hand-written notes and social media posts. Mangione called “Unabomber” Ted Kaczynski a “political revolutionary” and may have found inspiration from the man who carried out a series of bombings while railing against modern society and technology, according to police bulletin. Mangione remained jailed in Pennsylvania, where he was initially charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm, forgery and providing false identification to police. Manhattan prosecutors have obtained an arrest warrant, a step that could help expedite his extradition from Pennsylvania. Mangione was arrested in Altoona, Pennsylvania — about 230 miles (about 370 kilometers) west of New York City — after a McDonald’s customer recognized him and notified an employee, authorities said. Officers found him sitting at a back table, wearing a blue medical mask and looking at a laptop, according to a Pennsylvania police criminal complaint. He initially gave them a fake ID, but when an officer asked Mangione whether he’d been to New York recently, he “became quiet and started to shake,” the complaint says. When he pulled his mask down at officers’ request, “we knew that was our guy,” rookie Officer Tyler Frye said. Images of Mangione released Tuesday by Pennsylvania State Police showed him pulling down his mask in the corner of the McDonald’s while holding what appeared to be hash browns and wearing a winter jacket and beanie. In another photo from a holding cell, he stood unsmiling with rumpled hair. New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said Mangione was carrying a gun like the one used to kill Thompson and the same fake ID the shooter had used to check into a New York hostel, along with a passport and other fraudulent IDs. NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said Mangione also had a three-page, handwritten document that shows “some ill will toward corporate America.” A law enforcement official who wasn’t authorized to discuss the investigation publicly and spoke with The Associated Press on condition of anonymity said the document included a line in which Mangione claimed to have acted alone. “To the Feds, I’ll keep this short, because I do respect what you do for our country. To save you a lengthy investigation, I state plainly that I wasn’t working with anyone,” the document said, according to the official. It also had a line that said, “I do apologize for any strife or traumas but it had to be done. Frankly, these parasites simply had it coming.” Pennsylvania prosecutor Peter Weeks said in court that Mangione was found with a passport and $10,000 in cash, $2,000 of it in foreign currency. Mangione disputed the amount. Thompson, 50, was killed Wednesday as he walked alone to a Manhattan hotel for an investor conference. Police quickly came to see the shooting as a targeted attack by a gunman who appeared to wait for Thompson, came up behind him and fired a 9 mm pistol. Investigators have said “delay,” “deny” and “depose” were written on ammunition found near Thompson’s body. The words mimic “delay, deny, defend,” a phrase used to criticize the insurance industry. From surveillance video, New York investigators determined the shooter quickly fled fled the city, likely by bus. A grandson of a wealthy, self-made real estate developer and philanthropist, Mangione is a cousin of a current Maryland state legislator. Valedictorian at his elite Baltimore prep school, he went on to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees in computer science in 2020 from the University of Pennsylvania, a spokesperson said. “Our family is shocked and devastated by Luigi’s arrest,” Mangione’s family said in a statement posted on social media late Monday by his cousin, Maryland Del. Nino Mangione. “We offer our prayers to the family of Brian Thompson and we ask people to pray for all involved.” From January to June 2022, Luigi Mangione lived at Surfbreak, a “co-living” space at the edge of touristy Waikiki in Honolulu. Like other residents of the shared penthouse catering to remote workers, Mangione underwent a background check, said Josiah Ryan, a spokesperson for owner and founder R.J. Martin. “Luigi was just widely considered to be a great guy. There were no complaints,” Ryan said. “There was no sign that might point to these alleged crimes they’re saying he committed.” At Surfbreak, Martin learned Mangione had severe back pain from childhood that interfered with many aspects of his life, from surfing to romance, Ryan said. “He went surfing with R.J. once but it didn’t work out because of his back,” Ryan said, but noted that Mangione and Martin often went together to a rock-climbing gym. Mangione left Surfbreak to get surgery on the mainland, Ryan said, then later returned to Honolulu and rented an apartment. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . Martin stopped hearing from Mangione six months to a year ago. —APBRUSSELS (AP) — European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in Uruguay Thursday for the final stages in years-long negotiations to clinch a trade deal between the 27-nation EU and the South American Mercosur trade bloc that would create a trans-Atlantic market of some 700 million people. “The finish line of the EU-Mercosur agreement is in sight. Let’s work, let’s cross it,” von der Leyen said Thursday, sidestepping objections from some EU member states like France and protests by farmers across the bloc. French President Emmanuel Macron, mindful of his country's vocal and politically powerful farming community, has described what was on the table as "unacceptable.” If the deal with the South American bloc — comprising of Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay and Bolivia — goes ahead, EU producers would have to compete with South American agricultural exports such as beef, poultry and sugar. “We will continue to steadfastly defend our agricultural independence,” Macron said Thursday. Because the EU Commission negotiates trade agreements for all 27 member states, von der Leyen could go ahead with a provisional deal this weekend at the Mercosur summit in Uruguay, only to see it flounder because one or more members states refuse to sign up to it. A draft deal was announced in 2019 , but disagreements over environmental, economic and political issues have delaying its final approval until now. If the final differences are bridged, the EU-Mercosur deal would encompass an economic area covering almost a quarter of global GDP. It would center on reducing tariffs and trade barriers and make it easier for businesses on both sides to export goods. Germany, with its huge car industry, is a big proponent of the deal since it would make it much easier and cheaper for Volkswagens, Audis and BMWs to be sold in Latin America. Von der Leyen's trip suggested that technical issues between the EU and the South American bloc were settled and the road was open for “the top political level to make the final compromises to try to get a deal over the line,” said Commission spokesman Olof Gill. A massive European farmers’ protest movement last year sent warning shots to negotiators and on Thursday, protests from Belgian farmers added their voice by blocking border crossings. They say Mercosur producers would be allowed to flood the market with produce than do not have to meet the strict EU environmental and animal protection standards they have to abide by, thus unfairly undercutting the market. On top of that, they say South American producers benefit from lower labor costs and larger farms. If von der Leyen clinches a deal, the Commission would still have to pour it into legal text and only at that stage would it become clear if certain or all parts need to be approved by unanimity or whether a special majority among EU nations would suffice to make the deal final. Tom Nouvian contributed from ParisINSIDE WINNIPEG POLITICS: Life in Manitoba is going to get more expensive in 2025
Eleventh annual WAC Coaches vs. Cancer Tip-Off Classic set to begin FridayBrazosport ISD prepares for 2025 bond program, facilities in need
PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, Nov. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ocean Biomedical, Inc. ( NASDAQ : OCEA), today announced that on November 18, 2024, it received a notice from The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC ("Nasdaq”) stating that because the Company has not yet filed its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2024 (the "Form 10-Q”), the Company is not in compliance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5250(c)(1), which requires listed companies to timely file all required periodic reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC”). Ocean Biomedical is delayed in filing the Form 10-Q as a result of previously disclosed developments with respect to filing of its 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. The current notice will have no immediate effect on the listing or trading of Ocean Biomedical's common stock on Nasdaq, although there can be no assurances that further delays in the filing of the Form 10-Q will not have an impact on the listing or trading of the company's common stock. On October 16, 2024, Staff notified the Company that since it failed to timely file its Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and its Forms 10-Q for the periods ended March 31, 2024 and June 30, 2024, the Company's securities were subject to delisting. The Company is now delinquent in the filing its form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2024. Accordingly, this matter serves as an additional basis for delisting the Company's securities from The Nasdaq Stock Market. This is formal notification that the Nasdaq Hearings Panel (the "Panel”) will consider this matter in their decision regarding the Company's continued listing on The Nasdaq Capital Market, which hearing is scheduled for December 16, 2024. The Company intends to file the delinquent Forms 10-Q and 10-K as soon as practicable. About Ocean Biomedical Ocean Biomedical, Inc. is a Providence, Rhode Island-based biopharma company with an innovative business model that accelerates the development and commercialization of scientifically compelling assets from research universities and medical centers. Ocean Biomedical deploys the funding and expertise to move new therapeutic candidates efficiently from the laboratory to the clinic to the world. Ocean Biomedical is currently developing five promising discoveries that have the potential to achieve life-changing outcomes in lung cancer, brain cancer, pulmonary fibrosis, and the prevention and treatment of malaria. The Ocean Biomedical team is working on solving some of the world's toughest problems, for the people who need it most. To learn more, visit www.oceanbiomedical.com . Forward-Looking Statements The information included herein and in any oral statements made on behalf of Ocean Biomedical, Inc. (the "Company”) or otherwise in connection herewith include "forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the "safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as "estimate,” "plan,” "project,” "forecast,” "intend,” "will,” "expect,” "anticipate,” "believe,” "seek,” "target,” or other similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding estimates and forecasts of financial and performance metrics and expectations; the expected timing and success of IND filings for our initial product candidates; statements regarding the expected timing of our IND-enabling studies; the frequency and timing of filing additional INDs; expectations regarding the availability and addition of future assets to our pipeline; the advantages of any of our pipeline assets and platforms; the potential benefits of our product candidates; potential commercial opportunities; the timing of key milestones for our programs; the future financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and plans, and objectives of management for future strategy and operations; and statements about industry trends and other companies in the industry. These forward-looking statements are based on various assumptions, whether or not identified herein, and on the current expectations of the Company's management, and they are not predictions of actual performance. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on by any investor as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction, or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Any discoveries announced by the Company are based solely on laboratory and animal studies. The Company has not conducted any studies that show similar efficacy or safety in humans. There can be no assurances that any treatment tested by the Company will prove safe or effective in humans, and that any clinical benefits of any such treatment is subject to clinical trials and ultimate approval of its use in patients by the FDA. Such approval, if granted, could be years away. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections, and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions, or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other important factors, many of which are outside the control of the Company that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties that are described in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and other documents filed by the Company from time to time with the SEC and which are and are available at www.sec.gov . These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. We do not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements made by us. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the Company's assessments as of any date subsequent to the date of this filing. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon the forward-looking statements. Contacts: Ocean Biomedical Investor Relations [email protected] Kevin Kertscher Communications Director
Can you shoot down a drone? Common misconceptions, regulations and rightsNEW YORK (AP) — Remember what you searched for in 2024? Google does. Google released its annual “Year in Search” on Tuesday, rounding up the top trending queries entered into its namesake search engine in 2024. The results show terms that saw the highest spike in traffic compared to last year — ranging from key news events, notably global elections , to the most popular songs, athletes and unforgettable pop-culture moments that people looked up worldwide. Sports — particularly soccer and cricket — dominated Google's overall trending searches in 2024. Copa América topped those search trends globally, followed by the UEFA European Championship and ICC Men's T20 World Cup . Meanwhile, the U.S. election led news-specific searches worldwide. Queries about excessive heat and this year's Olympic Games followed. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump topped searches in Google's people category this year — followed by Catherine, Princess of Wales , U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Algerian boxer Imane Khelif , who also led athlete-specific searches. Meanwhile, the late Liam Payne , Toby Keith and O.J. Simpson led search trends among notable individuals who died in 2024. In the world of entertainment, Disney and Pixar's “Inside Out 2” was the top trending movie of the year, while Netflix's “Baby Reindeer” led TV show trends. And Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” dominated song trends. That's just the tip of the iceberg. Queries for the Olympic village's chocolate muffin , made famous by Norwegian swimmer Henrik Christiansen over the summer games, led Google's global recipe trends this year. The New York Times' “Connections” puzzle topped game searches. And in the U.S., country-specific data shows, many people asked Google about online trends like the word “demure” and “ mob wife aesthetic .” You can find more country-specific lists, and trends from years past , through Google’s “Year in Search” data published online . The California company said it collected 2024 search results from Jan. 1 through Nov. 23 of this year. Google isn't the only one to publish an annual recap or top trends as 2024 draws to a close. Spotify Wrapped , for example, as well as Collins Dictionary and Merriam-Webster’s words of the year, have offered additional reflections for 2024. The Associated Press