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Manz , which employs around 1,200 people, has revised its earnings forecasts multiple times in 2023. As of early December, it anticipated annual sales between €170 million ($187 million) and €180 million ($198 million), significantly lower than the €250 million ($275 million) reported the previous year. The estimated operating loss lies between €30 million ($33 million) and €35 million ($38 million), along with additional write-downs. The CEO position changed hands in the summer of 2023, while company founder Dieter Manz still holds approximately 19% ownership. Manz encountered severe obstacles in the display equipment market, where it lost competitiveness to lower-cost Asian producers. In solar production equipment, the company faced weakened global subsidies and intense price competition, and technological improvements were not enough to counter an unfavorable market environment. The electric vehicle battery equipment segment experienced rising competition and volatile demand, compounded by the bankruptcy filing of a major European battery manufacturer that disrupted the industry. Manz also carried substantial debt due to its large-scale expansion in renewable energy. When banks withdrew financial support and talks with potential investors failed, the company faced a critical liquidity shortfall days before the Christmas break. Among other things display, Manz specializes in wet chemical processes for display production, including cleaning substrates, developing photoresists, and etching fine structures on LCDs, touch sensors, and OLED panels. The company also provides fully automated systems for loading and unloading in-line sputter systems, laser-cutting glass substrates, and conducting in-line inspections, all designed for clean room environments.Marilyn Manson To Pay Evan Rachel Wood’s $330K Legal Fees As Faded Shock Rocker Deep Sixes Defamation Suit Against ‘Westworld’ StarMONCTON, New Brunswick, Dec. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Major Drilling Group International Inc. (“Major Drilling” or the “Company”) (TSX: MDI), a leading provider of specialized drilling services to the mining sector, today reported results for the second quarter of fiscal 2025, ended October 31, 2024. Quarterly Highlights: Revenue of $189.3 million, in line with the $190.0 million generated in fiscal Q1, but down 8.6% from $207.0 million in the same period last year. Adjusted gross margin (1) of 30.5%, consistent with the 31.0% achieved in the same period last year as the Company remained focused on higher-margin specialized drilling. EBITDA (1) of $38.7 million, down from $43.6 million in the same period last year. Net earnings of $18.2 million (or $0.22 per share), down from $23.7 million (or $0.29 per share) in the same period last year. Net cash (1) increased by $23.5 million to $100.4 million, enabling the Company to react to potential growth opportunities. Subsequent to quarter end, completed the acquisition of Explomin, a leading specialty drilling contractor based in Lima, Peru, for an up-front cash payment of US$63 million (approximately C$88 million). “For Q2 of fiscal 2025, Major Drilling’s globally diversified operations and reputation as the driller-of-choice enabled us to maintain our revenue run rate relative to fiscal Q1, despite challenging conditions in certain markets,” commented Mr. Denis Larocque, President & CEO of Major Drilling. “We were pleased once again by our Australasian and Chilean operations, which continue to offset lower activity levels in North America, primarily driven by lower junior exploration expenditures.” “The Company delivered solid financial results for the quarter, supported by an adjusted gross margin of 30.5%. This represented an increase from 28.9% in fiscal Q1 and is in line with the 31.0% achieved over the same period last year as the Company remains focused on profitable operations and our best-in-class specialized drilling services,” commented Ian Ross, CFO of Major Drilling. “As previously disclosed, our 2021 McKay acquisition successfully met all of the EBITDA milestones in the earnout period, with the final contingent payment of $9.1 million made during the quarter. We also continue to modernize our drill fleet, having spent $20.1 million in capex, which includes the addition of 5 new drills and support equipment, while disposing of 4 older, less efficient rigs, bringing Major Drilling’s total fleet to 610 drills. Given another strong operational performance, our net cash position increased to $100.4 million at quarter end, while we continue to retain an industry leading balance sheet, enabling the acquisition of Explomin in early fiscal Q3,” concluded Mr. Ross. “With McKay continuing to demonstrate strong results in Australasia since its acquisition in 2021, our focus now turns to the integration of Explomin – a leading South American driller with operations in Peru, Colombia, the Dominican Republic and Spain. I am excited to welcome Explomin and its employees to the Major Drilling team. Their long-standing reputation, strong base of senior mining customers, and focus on specialized drilling, with its well-maintained fleet of rigs, complement our existing operations and offer further potential growth opportunities in South America,” said Mr. Larocque. “As Peru has been on our radar for quite some time given its status as the second largest copper producer, Explomin solidifies our South American presence, supplementing our existing operations in Brazil, Chile, Argentina, and throughout the Guyana Shield.” “Looking ahead to our seasonally slower third quarter of fiscal 2025, we are expecting programs in North America to pause for the holiday period slightly earlier than in prior years, although this is expected to be partially offset by ongoing strength in Australia and Chile. While we will be adding revenue from the Explomin operations, we expect them to have the same usual seasonality as the rest of our South American operations. Demand from senior customers for calendar 2025 is expected to remain robust, while we are optimistic regarding the activity levels of juniors following a slight increase in financing activity. The combination of elevated commodity prices, translating to increased free cash flow generation for mining companies, coupled with depleted reserve bases, should lead to increases in demand for drilling services over the years to come.” “Our well-maintained fleet ensures that we retain utilization capacity which, combined with our optimal inventory levels and experienced crews, puts us in an excellent position to capitalize on these increased levels of demand for our drilling services. Our core strategy is to remain the leader in specialized drilling as new discoveries are made in increasingly challenging and remote locations. Our solid foundation, supplemented by ongoing technological innovation, puts us in an ideal position to take on these new and exciting challenges." “I’m extremely proud to announce that our Canadian team was recently awarded the Safe Day Every Day Gold Award by the Association for Mineral Exploration, Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada, and Canadian Diamond Drilling Association. Our Canadian team achieved over 1,146,000 hours without a lost time injury, an achievement that demonstrates our ongoing dedication to maintaining high safety standards across all projects around the world,” concluded Mr. Larocque. Finally, Major Drilling announces the resignation of Mr. Robert Krcmarov from the Board of Directors effective December 5, 2024, to focus on his new role as Chief Executive Officer of Hecla Mining Company. Kim Keating, Chair of the Board, commented: “On behalf of the Board and the leadership team at Major Drilling, I would like to congratulate Rob on this appointment, and thank him for his significant contributions during his tenure on the Board. Rob’s experience and insights were of great benefit to Major Drilling’s Board and leadership team. He was instrumental in the development of Major Drilling’s Decarbonization Action Plan and in strengthening the Company’s health and safety program, as well as his timely advice regarding the most recent acquisition of Explomin Perforaciones earlier this month. We thank Rob for his invaluable advice and wish him all the best in his new role leading Hecla Mining Company.” Second Quarter Ended October 31, 2024 Total revenue for the quarter was $189.3 million, down 8.6% from revenue of $207.0 million recorded in the same quarter last year. The foreign exchange translation impact on revenue and earnings, when comparing to the effective rates for the previous year, was minimal. Revenue for the quarter from Canada - U.S. drilling operations decreased by 20.0% to $85.4 million, compared to the same period last year. While senior and intermediate activity levels increased slightly, this only partially offset the decline in demand from juniors relative to the same period last year as they continued to face challenging financing opportunities. South and Central American revenue decreased by 6.5% to $49.1 million for the quarter, compared to the same quarter last year. While operations in Chile remain robust, this was offset by slowdowns in other parts of the region. Australasian and African revenue increased by 14.4% to $54.7 million, compared to the same period last year as demand for specialized drilling services in Australia and Mongolia continue to drive growth in the region. Gross margin percentage for the quarter was 23.4%, compared to 25.3% for the same period last year. Depreciation expense totaling $13.4 million is included in direct costs for the current quarter, versus $11.8 million in the same quarter last year. Adjusted gross margin, which excludes depreciation expense, was 30.5% for the quarter, compared to 31.0% for the same period last year. Adjusted gross margin remained relatively unchanged as the Company remains disciplined with respect to pricing. General and administrative costs were $18.4 million, an increase of $0.8 million compared to the same quarter last year. This increase primarily relates to inflationary wage adjustments. Other expenses were $2.5 million, down from $3.2 million in the same quarter last year due primarily to lower incentive compensation expenses given the decreased profitability. Foreign exchange gain was $0.5 million, compared to a loss of $0.9 million for the same quarter last year. While the Company's reporting currency is the Canadian dollar, various jurisdictions have net monetary assets or liabilities exposed to various other currencies. The income tax provision for the quarter was an expense of $6.5 million, compared to an expense of $7.4 million for the prior year period. The decrease from the prior year was driven by reduced profitability. Net earnings were $18.2 million or $0.22 per share ($0.22 per share diluted) for the quarter, compared to net earnings of $23.7 million or $0.29 per share ($0.29 per share diluted) for the prior year quarter. Non-IFRS Financial Measures The Company’s financial data has been prepared in accordance with IFRS, with the exception of certain financial measures detailed below. The measures below have been used consistently by the Company’s management team in assessing operational performance on both segmented and consolidated levels, and in assessing the Company’s financial strength. The Company believes these non-IFRS financial measures are key, for both management and investors, in evaluating performance at a consolidated level and are commonly reported and widely used by investors and lending institutions as indicators of a company’s operating performance and ability to incur and service debt, and as a valuation metric. These measures do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other publicly traded companies and should not be construed as an alternative to other financial measures determined in accordance with IFRS. EBITDA - earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization: Adjusted gross profit/margin - excludes depreciation expense: Net cash – cash net of debt, excluding lease liabilities reported under IFRS 16 Leases: Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes certain information that may constitute “forward-looking information” under applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this news release that address future events, developments, or performance that the Company expects to occur (including management’s expectations regarding the Company’s objectives, strategies, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and businesses) are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by future or conditional verbs such as “outlook”, “believe”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “project”, “expect”, “intend”, “plan”, and terms and expressions of similar import. All forward-looking information in this news release is qualified by this cautionary note. Forward-looking information is necessarily based upon various estimates and assumptions including, without limitation, the expectations and beliefs of management related to the factors set forth below. While these factors and assumptions are considered reasonable by the Company as at the date of this document in light of management’s experience and perception of current conditions and expected developments, these statements are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Known and unknown factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements and information. Such forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that include, but are not limited to: the level of activity in the mining industry and the demand for the Company’s services; competitive pressures; global and local political and economic environments and conditions; the level of funding for the Company’s clients (particularly for junior mining companies); the Company’s dependence on key customers; the integration of business acquisitions and the realization of the intended benefits of such acquisitions; efficient management of the Company’s growth; exposure to currency movements (which can affect the Company’s revenue in Canadian dollars); currency restrictions; safety of the Company’s workforce; risks and uncertainties relating to climate change and natural disaster; the geographic distribution of the Company’s operations; the impact of operational changes; changes in jurisdictions in which the Company operates (including changes in regulation); failure by counterparties to fulfill contractual obligations; disease outbreak; as well as other risk factors described under “General Risks and Uncertainties” in the Company’s MD&A for the year ended April 30, 2024, available on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca . Should one or more risk, uncertainty, contingency, or other factor materialize or should any factor or assumption prove incorrect, actual results could vary materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements made in this document are made as of the date of this document and the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, even if new information becomes available, as a result of future events, or for any other reasons, except as required by applicable securities laws. About Major Drilling Major Drilling Group International Inc. is the world’s leading provider of specialized drilling services primarily serving the mining industry. Established in 1980, Major Drilling has over 1,000 years of combined experience and expertise within its management team. The Company maintains field operations and offices in North America, South America, Australia, Asia, Africa, and Europe. Major Drilling provides a complete suite of drilling services including surface and underground coring, directional, reverse circulation, sonic, geotechnical, environmental, water-well, coal-bed methane, shallow gas, underground percussive/longhole drilling, surface drill and blast, a variety of mine services, and ongoing development of data-driven, high-tech drillside solutions. Webcast/Conference Call Major Drilling Group International Inc. will provide a simultaneous webcast and conference call to discuss its quarterly results on Friday, December 6, 2024 at 8:00 AM (EST). To access the webcast, which includes a slide presentation, please go to the investors/webcasts section of Major Drilling’s website at www.majordrilling.com and click on the link. Please note that this is listen-only mode. To participate in the conference call, please dial 416-340-2217, participant passcode 4769038# and ask for Major Drilling’s Second Quarter Results Conference Call. To ensure your participation, please call in approximately five minutes prior to the scheduled start of the call. For those unable to participate, a taped rebroadcast will be available approximately one hour after the completion of the call until Monday, January 6, 2025. To access the rebroadcast, dial 905-694-9451 and enter the passcode 1708283#. The webcast will also be archived for one year and can be accessed on the Major Drilling website at www.majordrilling.com. For further information: Ryan Hanley Director, Corporate Development & Investor Relations Tel: (506) 857-8636 Fax: (506) 857-9211 ir@majordrilling.com MAJOR DRILLING GROUP INTERNATIONAL INC. NOTES TO INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE THREE AND SIX MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 31, 2024 AND 2023 (UNAUDITED) (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share information) 1. NATURE OF ACTIVITIES Major Drilling Group International Inc. (the “Company”) is incorporated under the Canada Business Corporations Act and has its head office at 111 St. George Street, Moncton, NB, Canada. The Company’s common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”). The principal source of revenue consists of contract drilling for companies primarily involved in mining and mineral exploration. The Company has operations in North America, South America, Australia, Asia, and Africa. 2. BASIS OF PRESENTATION Statement of compliance These Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting (“IAS 34”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”) and using the accounting policies as outlined in the Company’s annual Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended April 30, 2024. On December 5, 2024, the Board of Directors authorized the financial statements for issue. Basis of consolidation These Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements incorporate the financial statements of the Company and entities controlled by the Company. Control is achieved when the Company is exposed or has rights to variable returns from its involvement with the investee and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the investee. The results of subsidiaries acquired or disposed of during the period are included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations from the effective date of acquisition or up to the effective date of disposal, as appropriate. Intercompany transactions, balances, income and expenses are eliminated on consolidation, where appropriate. Basis of preparation These Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared based on the historical cost basis, except for certain financial instruments that are measured at fair value, using the same accounting policies and methods of computation, with the exception of those detailed in note 4 below, as presented in the Company’s annual Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended April 30, 2024. 3. APPLICATION OF NEW AND REVISED IFRS ® ACCOUNTING STANDARDS The Company has not applied the following IASB standard amendment and standard that have been issued, but are not yet effective: IAS 21 (as amended in 2023) - The Effect of Changes in Foreign Exchange Rates - effective for periods beginning on or after January 1, 2025, with earlier application permitted. The amendments contain guidance to specify when a currency is exchangeable and how to determine the exchange rate when it is not. IFRS 18 (as issued in 2024) - Presentation and Disclosure of Financial Statements - effective for periods beginning on or after January 1, 2027, with earlier application permitted. The standard replaces IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements, and includes requirements for the presentation and disclosure of information in financial statements. The Company is currently in the process of assessing the impact the adoption of the above amendment and standard will have on the Consolidated Financial Statements. 4. MATERIAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES With the exception of the policy detailed below, all accounting policies and methods of computation remain the same as those presented in the Company's annual Consolidation Financial Statements for the year ended April 30, 2024. Investment in associate Associates are companies that the Company has significant influence over and are accounted for under the equity method. Significant influence is the power to participate in the financial and operating policy decisions of the investee, but is not control or joint control over those policies. Significant influence is presumed when the Company has an ownership interest greater than 20%, unless certain qualitative factors overcome this assumption. In assessing significant influence and the ownership interest, potential voting or other rights that are currently exercisable are taken into consideration. Investments in associates are accounted for using the equity method and are initially recognized at cost, inclusive of transaction costs. The Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include the Company's share of the income or loss and equity movement of equity accounted associates. The Company does not recognize losses exceeding the carrying value of its interest in the associate. 5. KEY SOURCES OF ESTIMATION UNCERTAINTY AND CRITICAL ACCOUNTING JUDGMENTS The preparation of financial statements, in conformity with IFRS, requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that are not readily apparent from other sources, which affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the estimate is revised, if the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods, if the revision affects both current and future periods. Significant areas requiring the use of management estimates relate to the useful lives of property, plant and equipment for depreciation purposes, inventory valuation, determination of income and other taxes, recoverability of deferred income tax assets, assumptions used in compilation of share-based payments, provisions, contingent considerations, impairment testing of goodwill and intangible assets and long-lived assets. The Company applied judgment in determining the functional currency of the Company and its subsidiaries, the determination of cash-generating units (“CGUs”), the degree of componentization of property, plant and equipment, the recognition of provisions, the determination of the probability that deferred income tax assets will be realized from future taxable earnings, and the determination of whether the Company exerts significant influence with respect to its investment in associate under the equity accounting method. 6. SEASONALITY OF OPERATIONS The third quarter (November to January) is normally the Company’s weakest quarter due to the shutdown of mining and exploration activities, often for extended periods over the holiday season. 7. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT Capital expenditures for the three and six months ended October 31, 2024 were $20,073 (2023 - $17,443) and $41,324 (2023 - $33,717). The Company did not obtain direct financing for the three and six months ended October 31, 2024 or 2023. 8. INVESTMENT IN ASSOCIATE On July 22, 2024, the Company purchased shares in DGI Geoscience Inc. (“DGI”) for $15,000 in cash consideration, a 39.8% equity interest (that provides the Company with 42.3% of the voting rights). DGI and its subsidiaries are privately held entities, headquartered in Canada, focused on downhole survey and imaging services as well as using artificial intelligence for logging scanned rock samples. In addition to the equity interest, Major Drilling's representation on the DGI Board of Directors gives the Company significant influence over DGI. While there are special approval rights granted to the Company as part of the investment, these are more protective in nature and therefore, would not result in control, or joint control of DGI. As a result, the Company concluded that the equity method of accounting is appropriate for its investment in DGI. During the prior quarter, the Company incurred costs of $205 for this investment, relating to external legal fees and due diligence costs. These amounts have been recorded as part of the cost of the investment in associate in the Interim Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. In the current quarter, the Company's earnings from investment in associate is $27. 9. SHARE BUYBACK During the prior year, for the three and six months ended October 31, 2023, the Company repurchased 875,268 and 1,020,568 common shares, respectively, at an average price of $8.31 and $8.40, respectively, under its Normal Course Issuer Bid. 10. EXPENSES BY NATURE Direct costs by nature are as follows: General and administrative expenses by nature are as follows: 11. INCOME TAXES The income tax provision for the periods can be reconciled to accounting earnings before income tax as follows: The Company periodically assesses its liabilities and contingencies for all tax years open to audit based upon the latest information available. For those matters where it is probable that an adjustment will be made, the Company records its best estimate of these tax liabilities, including related interest charges. Inherent uncertainties exist in estimates of tax contingencies due to changes in tax laws. While management believes they have adequately provided for the probable outcome of these matters, future results may include favourable or unfavourable adjustments to these estimated tax liabilities in the period the assessments are made, or resolved, or when the statutes of limitations lapse. 12. EARNINGS PER SHARE All of the Company’s earnings are attributable to common shares, therefore, net earnings are used in determining earnings per share. The calculation of diluted earnings per share for the three and six months ended October 31, 2024 excludes the effect of 200,000 options for both periods (2023 - 297,000 and 205,000, respectively) as they were not in-the-money. The total number of shares outstanding on October 31, 2024 was 81,842,086 (2023 - 82,093,486). 13. SEGMENTED INFORMATION The Company’s operations are divided into the following three geographic segments, corresponding to its management structure: Canada - U.S.; South and Central America; and Australasia and Africa. The services provided in each of the reportable segments are essentially the same. The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the Company’s annual Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended April 30, 2024. Management evaluates performance based on earnings from operations in these three geographic segments before finance costs, general corporate expenses and income taxes. Data relating to each of the Company’s reportable segments is presented as follows: *Canada - U.S. includes revenue of $25,695 and $34,074 for Canadian operations for the three months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively and $57,543 and $70,762 for the six months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. **General and corporate expenses include expenses for corporate offices and stock-based compensation. *Canada - U.S. includes property, plant and equipment as at October 31, 2024 of $64,041 (April 30, 2024 - $62,991) for Canadian operations. 14. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS Fair value The carrying values of cash, trade and other receivables, demand credit facilities and trade and other payables approximate their fair value due to the relatively short period to maturity of the instruments. The carrying value of contingent consideration and long-term debt approximates their fair value as the interest applicable is reflective of fair market rates. Financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value are classified and disclosed in one of the following categories: Level 1 - quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities; Level 2 - inputs other than quoted prices included in level 1 that are observable for the assets or liabilities, either directly (i.e., as prices) or indirectly (i.e., derived from prices); and Level 3 - inputs for the assets or liabilities that are not based on observable market data (unobservable inputs). The Company enters into certain derivative financial instruments to manage its exposure to market risks, comprised of share-price forward contracts with a combined notional amount of $8,654, maturing at varying dates through June 2027. The fair value hierarchy requires the use of observable market inputs whenever such inputs exist. A financial instrument is classified to the lowest level of the hierarchy for which a significant input has been considered in measuring fair value. The Company’s derivatives, with fair values as follows, are classified as level 2 financial instruments and recorded in trade and other receivables (payables) in the Interim Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. There were no transfers of amounts between level 1, level 2 and level 3 financial instruments for the three and six months ended October 31, 2024. Credit risk As at October 31, 2024, 96.1% (April 30, 2024 - 95.9%) of the Company’s trade receivables were aged as current and 3.5% (April 30, 2024 - 3.5%) of the trade receivables were impaired. The movements in the allowance for impairment of trade receivables during the periods were as follows: Foreign currency risk As at October 31, 2024, the most significant carrying amounts of net monetary assets and/or liabilities (which may include intercompany balances with other subsidiaries) that: (i) are denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of the respective Company subsidiary; and (ii) cause foreign exchange rate exposure, including the impact on earnings before income taxes (“EBIT”), if the corresponding rate changes by 10%, are as follows (in $000s CAD): Liquidity risk The following table details contractual maturities for the Company’s financial liabilities: 15. SUBSEQUENT EVENT On November 5, 2024, the Company completed the purchase of all of the issued and outstanding shares of Explomin Perforaciones ("Explomin"), a leading specialty drilling contractor based in Lima, Peru. This acquisition provides Major Drilling with increased exposure to the copper market as Explomin is one of the largest South American drilling contractors, with the majority of their operations in Peru, while also servicing markets in Colombia, Dominican Republic, and Spain. The purchase price for the acquisition is valued at an amount up to US$85 million, consisting of: (i) a cash payment of US$63 million payable on closing, subject to working capital adjustments; and (ii) an earnout of up to US$22 million payable in cash over the next three years, based on the achievement of certain milestones. The cash portion of the purchase price has been funded from Major Drilling’s cash and existing debt facilities.
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RELATED: These are the best early Black Friday deals on the internet so far AnaMaria Glavan was an editor at BuzzFeed Shopping and her work has been featured in Allure, Rolling Stone, HuffPost, InStyle, and more. She is also the co-founder of GAAN Creative, a company that contracts with the owner of this station to produce content. Product recommendations are based solely on the writer’s independent research and selection.
NEWTON, Mass. & PETACH TIKVA, Israel--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 5, 2024-- CyberArk (NASDAQ: CYBR) (the “Company” or “CyberArk”), a global leader in identity security, announced today that it has launched an underwritten secondary public offering (the “Offering”) by Triton Seller, LP (the “Selling Shareholder”), which is an affiliate of certain funds managed by Thoma Bravo, L.P., of 1,142,538 shares of the Company’s ordinary shares, par value NIS 0.01 per share (“Ordinary Shares”). The Selling Shareholder will receive all of the proceeds from the Offering. The Company will not receive any proceeds from the sale of the Ordinary Shares being offered by the Selling Shareholder. The last reported sale price of CyberArk’s Ordinary Shares on December 5, 2024 was $327.57 per share. BofA Securities, Inc. is acting as the underwriter and sole book-running manager. The underwriter will offer the Ordinary Shares from time to time for sale in one or more transactions on the Nasdaq, in the over-the-counter market, through negotiated transactions or otherwise at market prices prevailing at the time of sale, at prices related to prevailing market prices or at negotiated prices. The Offering is being made pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement on Form F-3 (including a prospectus) filed by the Company with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on October 22, 2024, to which this communication relates. Before you invest, you should read the prospectus in the shelf registration statement and other documents the Company has filed with the SEC for more complete information about the Company and the Offering. The Offering will be made only by means of a free writing prospectus, a prospectus and a related prospectus supplement relating to the Offering, copies of which may be obtained from BofA Securities, NC1-022-02-25, 201 North Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC, 28255-0001, Attn: Prospectus Department, by email at dg.prospectus_requests@bofa.com . A copy of the free writing prospectus, the prospectus and the related prospectus supplement relating to the Offering may also be obtained free of charge by visiting EDGAR on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov . This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction. Any offers, solicitations or offers to buy, or any sales of securities will be made in accordance with the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. About CyberArk CyberArk (NASDAQ: CYBR) is the global leader in identity security. Centered on intelligent privilege controls, CyberArk provides the most comprehensive security offering for any identity – human or machine – across business applications, distributed workforces, hybrid cloud environments and throughout the DevOps lifecycle. The world’s leading organizations trust CyberArk to help secure their most critical assets. To learn more about CyberArk, visit https://www.cyberark.com . Cautionary Note Concerning Forward Looking Statements This release contains forward-looking statements, which express the current beliefs and expectations of the Company’s management. These statements are any statement contained herein that is not strictly historical, including, but not limited to, statements regarding the expected sale of Ordinary Shares by the Selling Shareholder in the Offering. In some cases, forward-looking statements may be identified by terminology such as “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “expect,” “predict,” “potential” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions. Such statements involve a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause the Company’s future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from the results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include risks relating, but not limited to: risks related to the Company’s acquisition of Venafi Holdings, Inc. (“Venafi”), including impacts of the acquisition on the Company’s or Venafi’s operating results and business generally; the ability of the Company or Venafi to retain and hire key personnel and maintain relationships with customers, suppliers and others with whom the Company or Venafi do business; risks that Venafi’s business will not be integrated successfully into the Company’s operations; risks relating to the Company’s ability to realize anticipated benefits of the combined operations after the Venafi acquisition; changes to the drivers of the Company’s growth and the Company’s ability to adapt its solutions to the information security market changes and demands, including artificial intelligence (“AI”); the Company’s ability to acquire new customers and maintain and expand the Company’s revenues from existing customers; intense competition within the information security market; real or perceived security vulnerabilities, gaps, or cybersecurity breaches of the Company, or the Company’s customers’ or partners’ systems, solutions or services; risks related to the Company’s compliance with privacy, data protection and AI laws and regulations; the Company’s ability to successfully operate its business as a subscription company and fluctuation in the quarterly results of operations; the Company’s reliance on third-party cloud providers for its operations and software-as-a-service (“SaaS”) solutions; the Company’s ability to hire, train, retain and motivate qualified personnel; the Company’s ability to effectively execute its sales and marketing strategies; the Company’s ability to find, complete, fully integrate or achieve the expected benefits of additional strategic acquisitions; the Company’s ability to maintain successful relationships with channel partners, or if the Company’s channel partners fail to perform; risks related to sales made to government entities; prolonged economic uncertainties or downturns; the Company’s history of incurring net losses, the Company’s ability to generate sufficient revenue to achieve and sustain profitability and the Company’s ability to generate cash flow from operating activities; regulatory and geopolitical risks associated with the Company’s global sales and operations; risks related to intellectual property claims; fluctuations in currency exchange rates; the ability of the Company’s products to help customers achieve and maintain compliance with government regulations or industry standards; the Company’s ability to protect its proprietary technology and intellectual property rights; risks related to using third-party software, such as open-source software; risks related to stock price volatility or activist shareholders; any failure to retain the Company’s “foreign private issuer” status or the risk that the Company may be classified, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, as a “passive foreign investment company”; changes in tax laws; the Company’s expectation to not pay dividends on the Company’s ordinary shares for the foreseeable future; risks related to the Company’s incorporation and location in Israel, including the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas and conflict in the region; and other factors discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recent annual report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements in this release are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions contained in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are made only as of the date hereof, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241205281226/en/ CONTACT: Investor Relations: Srinivas Anantha, CFA CyberArk 617-558-2132 ir@cyberark.comMedia : Nick Bowman CyberArk +44 (0) 7841 673378 press@cyberark.com KEYWORD: UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA ISRAEL MIDDLE EAST MASSACHUSETTS INDUSTRY KEYWORD: SOFTWARE TECHNOLOGY INTERNET SECURITY SOURCE: CyberArk Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/05/2024 04:38 PM/DISC: 12/05/2024 04:36 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241205281226/en Copyright Business Wire 2024.Toronto-Dominion Bank stock falls Thursday, underperforms market
Movie Review: Nicole Kidman commands the erotic office drama 'Babygirl'
WASHINGTON — Donald Trump threatened the United States’s closest neighbours with big tariffs this week, in a move that has reminded many of the unpredictable tactics the president-elect deployed during his first tenure in the White House. Trump said Monday he would use an executive order to impose 25 per cent tariffs on all goods coming from Canada and Mexico until the two countries stop drugs and migrants from illegally crossing the U.S. border. The announcement, made on Truth Social, brought swift responses from officials and industry in both countries who are bracing for chaos during Trump’s second tenure. He has long used the threat of import taxes to pressure other countries to do his bidding, saying this summer that “the most beautiful word in the dictionary is ‘tariff.'” It’s unlikely the move would violate the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement, which was negotiated during the first Trump administration. Laura Dawson, an expert on Canada-U. S. relations and the executive director of the Future Borders Coalition, said the president can impose tariffs under his national security powers. This type of duty has a time limit and can only be made permanent through Congressional approval, but for Trump, national security powers are like a “get out of jail free card,” Dawson said. “This is exactly what happened in the last Trump administration,” Dawson said. “Everyone said, ‘Well, that is ridiculous. Canada is the U.S.’s best security partner. What do you mean our steel and aluminum imports are somehow a source of insecurity?'” But within the global trade system, she said, no country challenges another’s right to define their own national security imperatives. Trump’s first administration demonstrated how vulnerable Canada is to America’s whims when the former president scrapped the North American Free Trade Agreement. The U.S. is Canada’s closest neighbour and largest trading partner. More than 77 per cent of Canadian exports go to the U.S. Negotiation of CUSMA, commonly dubbed “the new NAFTA,” was a key test for Ottawa following Trump’s first victory. The trilateral agreement is up for review in 2026 and experts suspect this week’s tariff announcement is a negotiating tactic. Scott Bessent, Trump’s pick for treasury secretary, said in a recent op-ed that tariffs are “a useful tool for achieving the president’s foreign policy objectives.” “Whether it is getting allies to spend more on their own defence, opening foreign markets to U.S. exports, securing co-operation on ending illegal immigration and interdicting fentanyl trafficking, or deterring military aggression, tariffs can play a central role.” During the initial CUSMA negotiations in 2018, Trump floated the idea of a 25 per cent tariff on the Canadian auto sector — something that would have been crippling for the industry on both sides of the border. It was never implemented. At the time, he did use his national security powers to impose a 25 per cent tariff on steel and 10 per cent tariff on aluminum imports, casting fear of an all-out trade war that would threaten the global economy. The day after announcing those levies, Trump posted on social media “trade wars are good, and easy to win.” Former U.S. trade representative Robert Lighthizer recounted in his book that the duties sent an “unmistakable signal that business as usual was over.” “The Trump administration was willing to ruffle diplomatic feathers to advance its trade agenda.” It led to a legendary clash between Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Trump at the G7 in Quebec. Trudeau said Canada would impose retaliatory measures, saying the argument that tariffs on steel and aluminum were a matter of national security was “kind of insulting.” Trump took to social media, where, in a flurry of posts he called Trudeau “very dishonest and weak.” Canada and other countries brought their own duties against the U.S. in response. They targeted products for political, rather than economic, reasons. Canada hit yogurt with a 10 per cent duty. Most of the product impacted came from one plant in Wisconsin, the home state of then-Republican House Speaker Paul Ryan. The European Union, Mexico and Canada all targeted U.S. whiskey products with tariffs, in a clear signal to then Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and his home state of Kentucky’s bourbon industry. Ultimately, Canada and Mexico were able to negotiate exemptions. Carlo Dade, the director of trade and trade infrastructure at the Canada West Foundation, said Trump is returning to the White House with more experience and a plan. But he suspects Americans will not like the blow to their bank accounts. Trump’s new across-the-board tariff strategy would not only disrupt global supply chains, it would also cause a major shakeup to the American economy. It’s unclear if Trump will go through with them, or for how long, after campaigning on making life more affordable and increasing the energy market. “I think it will be short-term,” Dade said. “The U.S. can only inflict damage on itself for so long.” This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 26, 2024. — With files from The Associated Press Kelly Geraldine Malone, The Canadian PressCHATSWORTH, Calif., Nov. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Toll Brothers, Inc. (NYSE:TOL), the nation’s leading builder of luxury homes, today announced the final opportunity to own a new home at Verona Estates , an exclusive gated community in Chatsworth, California. Only a few homes remain available for sale in this prestigious community, including the professionally decorated Siena Modern Farmhouse model home. The intimate gated enclave of Verona Estates is a rare find showcasing award-winning architecture and innovative home designs. Nestled in an established Chatsworth neighborhood south of the Santa Susana Mountains and adjacent to the Vineyards at Porter Ranch, this exceptional community offers a serene and relaxed atmosphere with the convenience of nearby shopping and easy access to freeways, entertainment, and recreation. Toll Brothers residents in Verona Estates will enjoy distinctive architecture, quality craftsmanship, luxurious home designs with open floor plans, expansive home sites, and proximity to the future 50-acre Porter Ranch community park. Verona Estates offers generous two-story home designs ranging from 4,700 to 6,000+ square feet, with 5 to 6 bedrooms, 4.5 to 6.5 bathrooms, and 3-car garages. The homes also feature popular floor plan options including prep kitchens, guest suites, floating staircases, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, and more. Move-in ready homes in the community are priced from $1,979,995. “We are thrilled to offer the final opportunity to own a home in the exclusive Verona Estates community,” said Nick Norvilas, Division President of Toll Brothers in Los Angeles. “The Siena model home is a showcase of luxury and design, and we encourage interested home buyers to visit and experience this exceptional home along with the final few quick move-in homes remaining in the community firsthand.” The Siena Modern Farmhouse model home features designer upgrades throughout, including fully landscaped and furnished interiors, offering an unparalleled living experience. The professionally decorated model home is priced at $2,999,995. For more information, call 844-700-8655 or visit TollBrothers.com/LA . The Sales Center for Verona Estates is located at 20508 Edgewood Court in Chatsworth and is open by appointment only. About Toll Brothers Toll Brothers, Inc., a Fortune 500 Company, is the nation’s leading builder of luxury homes. The Company was founded 57 years ago in 1967 and became a public company in 1986. Its common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “TOL.” The Company serves first-time, move-up, empty-nester, active-adult, and second-home buyers, as well as urban and suburban renters. Toll Brothers builds in over 60 markets in 24 states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and Washington, as well as in the District of Columbia. The Company operates its own architectural, engineering, mortgage, title, land development, smart home technology, and landscape subsidiaries. The Company also develops master-planned and golf course communities as well as operates its own lumber distribution, house component assembly, and manufacturing operations. In 2024, Toll Brothers marked 10 years in a row being named to the Fortune World’s Most Admired CompaniesTM list and the Company’s Chairman and CEO Douglas C. Yearley, Jr. was named one of 25 Top CEOs by Barron’s magazine. Toll Brothers has also been named Builder of the Year by Builder magazine and is the first two-time recipient of Builder of the Year from Professional Builder magazine. For more information visit TollBrothers.com . From Fortune, ©2024 Fortune Media IP Limited. All rights reserved. Used under license. Contact: Andrea Meck | Toll Brothers, Director, Public Relations & Social Media | 215-938-8169 | ameck@tollbrothers.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cbb8cf4a-a018-4df0-955e-3cf4ab63edeb Sent by Toll Brothers via Regional Globe Newswire (TOLL-REG)
Trump's tariff threat a grim reminder of turbulent trade in first administrationLUCKNOW: Seers' organisation Akhil Bharatiya Sant Samiti (AKSS) criticised on Monday RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat 's recent remarks cautioning against 'an unacceptable trend of wannabe Hindu leaders raking up temple-mosque disputes at various sites'. AKSS general secretary Swami Jitendranand Saraswati said such religious matters should be decided by 'dharmacharyas' (religious leaders) rather than RSS, which he described as a 'cultural organisation'. "When the subject of religion arises, it is for religious gurus to decide. And whatever they decide will be accepted by Sangh and VHP," Saraswati said. He said despite Bhagwat's similar comments in the past, temple structures have been identified at 56 new sites, underscoring ongoing interest in these disputes. He said religious organisations often act in response to public sentiment than political agendas. This marks the first time Bhagwat has faced major dissent from within the saffron ecosystem. Religious gurus like Jagadguru Rambhadracharya believe that Sangh should defer to spiritual figures in decisions related to religion. Analysts suggested the seer's backlash reflects a larger struggle within the Hindu religious community over RSS's influence in matters of faith. Bhagwat's remarks came after Hindu groups filed legal petitions seeking the demolition of mosques they claim were built on temple sites, including Shahi Jama Masjid in UP's Sambhal. In response, Bhagwat warned that 'no one will become a leader of Hindus by raking up temple-mosque disputes and spreading communal divide'. Rambhadracharya challenged the RSS chief's authority, saying: "Let me make it clear, Mohan Bhagwat is not our disciplinarian, but we are." He said the recent unrest in Sambhal, where a temple-mosque dispute led to violence and five deaths, highlight the importance of judicial and democratic processes in resolving such issues. "The positive side is that things are being uncovered in favour of Hindus. We will secure this through the courts, through the ballot, and with public support," Rambhadracharya said. Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India . Don't miss daily games like Crossword , Sudoku , and Mini Crossword . Spread love this holiday season with these Christmas wishes , messages , and quotes.
Penrith halfback Nathan Cleary says he’s ahead of schedule after returning to training on Thursday just five weeks after shoulder surgery, hoping to develop a relationship with new recruit Blaize Talagi as the Panthers plot a path to what would be a staggering fifth-straight NRL premiership. It comes as the 27-year-old revealed the extreme dit measures he is taking while away from partner Mary Fowler on the comeback trail. Talagi, who crossed to the reigning champions from Parramatta, looms as the replacement in the halves for Jarome Luai, the latest in a lengthy line of premiership winners who have left in recent seasons. Both Talagi and superstar Penrith fullback Dylan Edwards have also had shoulder surgery in the off-season, but all could be available for their first game in Las Vegas, with Cleary looking good during Thursday’s session. The four-time premiership winner was with teammates at Nepean Hospital on Friday afternoon spreading Christmas cheer, with the locals stoked to see their main man looking so good just weeks after major surgery to repair a shoulder injury that plagued him in pre-season and ruled him out for a few weeks on the eve of the finals. “It’s pretty much a three or four month recovery so it’s been good so far. I came back to training yesterday (on Thursday) and it’s been good so far,” Cleary told NewsWire. “I’m slowly ticking the boxes and then it’ll start ramping up after Christmas. I’m a little bit ahead of schedule which is cool. “There are a few guys at the club who have come back from shoulder surgery and everyone is doing really well. We’re all progressing well together.” Cleary hasn’t been able to do full contact or major ball work, with the champion playmaker set to spend the pre-season building a relationship with 19-year-old Talagi. But it won’t be a simple swap for Luai, given Cleary and his former five-eighth spent a decade together coming through the junior grades before becoming a dominant pairing in the NRL. They were Batman and Robin for so long that everything felt second nature which is why Cleary doesn’t want to make any bold predictions about Talagi who is battling with Jack Cole for the number six jersey. “I don’t have any expectations at the moment,” he said. “He has come back in really good shape for a guy who had his shoulder done a week after me and he’s absolutely flying. “I’ve been getting to know him these past couple of days. He’s actually my locker neighbour so that’s been nice. “He’s a shy young kid but he’s really willing to learn. If you tell him something then he takes it on board straight away, and he’s a quick learner. “I don’t have any expectations yet, but I played him last season and know that he’s a great player with great talent, but he’s also got a lot to learn. “I just want to get to know him as a person first and help him where I can on the training field. “There’s a long way to go before round one comes around, and there are other guys who are putting their hands up for the number six position. It’s really healthy competition.” Cleary could invite Talagi over for dinner to share a few ideas where the teenager would be treated to sea moss, steaks, scrambled eggs and then some bone broth and more sea moss for dessert. It’s all part of Cleary’s carnivore diet which he turned to while dealing with repeated hamstring injuries which limited him to a career-low 13 matches in 2024. “When I was going through the hammy troubles last year, I wanted to have a clean slate and take a step back to look at everything I was doing,” he revealed. “If there was anything I could do to help me in any way then I’d do it. “The carnivore stuff isn’t full-time. I use it here and there as a bit of a cleanse and then I add fruit and sweet potato back in after that. “I just want to be more conscious of my diet and try to do any little one-percenters that will keep me on the field. “I go through periods where I’m quite disciplined, but after a game I’ll have a little treat here and there to keep a healthy balance. “I’ve been feeling really good, particularly in my gut, with my recovery time and my mental clarity.”FACT FOCUS: Inspector general’s Jan. 6 report misrepresented as proof of FBI setupIN THE last two decades, the rise of social media has introduced new phenomena, including “finfluencers”— finance influencers who impact financial decision-making. These individuals offer advice and information on everything from bonds, equities, and crypto to traditional savings accounts and travel miles. But are they replacing traditional financial advisors? A recent survey indicates that 79 per cent of Millennials and Gen Zs sought financial advice from “finfluencers” in 2023. With such a significant shift, one cannot help but wonder what the real impact is on traditional advisors in this evolving landscape. In this episode of Money Hacks by The Business Times, Howie Lim discusses this very topic with Brian Seetoh, a financial services manager at PhilipCapital, and Dawn Cher, a leading personal finance influencer known as SGBudgetBabe. The growing influence of “finfluencers” “Finfluencers” have become a prominent category within the influencer community, garnering considerable traction. According to Cher, social media has taken over many traditional mediums like textbooks, documentaries, and TV shows - serving as a primary source of information for many people. Brian Seetoh points out that “finfluencers” act as entertainers, educators, and community builders. They leverage social media to amplify their reach globally, attracting audiences with engaging, bite-sized content. In contrast, traditional financial advisors usually don’t have such broad, instant reach. The role of social media The role of social media in financial education cannot be underestimated. Cher shares that her content aims to simplify complex financial concepts, making them accessible to the average person. Unlike Wall Street analysts who often use jargon, Cher communicates in simple, easy-to-understand language. However, with this ease of access comes the risk of misinformation and fraud. Seetoh warns that while social media has democratised financial literacy, it has also made the quality of information inconsistent. The need for regulation As the landscape evolves, the question of regulation looms large. Seetoh believes some form of regulation is inevitable, requiring a balance to ensure transparency without stifling creativity. Cher agrees, adding that guidelines and regulations could make the industry more beneficial for consumers. Cher also highlights the importance of consumer responsibility emphasising that consumers must tailor the advice they consume to fit their unique situations. Credibility and integrity Both Cher and Seetoh stress the importance of credible information. Cher recounts rejecting unregulated sponsorship deals, underscoring her commitment to integrity. She warns that even non-financial influencers can spread financial misinformation if they lack a deep understanding of the subject. According to Seetoh, while advice on social media can be valuable, it’s crucial to cross-reference it with local regulations and consult multiple sources before making decisions. He believes a professional financial advisor can often provide more personalised and cost-effective advice. As social media continues to revolutionise how people consume financial information, the roles of “finfluencers” and traditional financial advisors are still distinct but increasingly overlapping. Listen now to find out how traditional advisors and “fininfluencers” can co-exist and how you can benefit. For more episodes, go to bt.sg/moneyhacks and if you have feedback or an episode idea, please get in touch at btpodcasts@sph.com.sg . --- Written and hosted by: Howie Lim (howielim@sph.com.sg) With Dawn Cher, SGBudgetBabe, a leading personal finance influencer based in Singapore and Brian Seetoh, financial services manager, PhilipCapital Edited by: Howie Lim & Claressa Monteiro Produced by: Howie Lim Engineered by: Chai Pei Chieh A podcast by BT Podcasts, The Business Times , SPH Media --- Follow BT Money Hacks podcasts every Monday: Channel: bt.sg/btmoneyhacks Amazon: bt.sg/mham Apple Podcasts: bt.sg/oeXe Spotify: bt.sg/oeGN YouTube Music: bt.sg/mhyt Website: bt.sg/moneyhacks Do note: This podcast is meant to provide general information only. SPH Media accepts no liability for loss arising from any reliance on the podcast or use of third party’s products and services. Please consult professional advisors for independent advice. --- Discover more BT podcast series: BT Correspondents: bt.sg/btcobt BT Market Focus at: bt.sg/btmktfocus BT Podcasts at: bt.sg/pcOM BT Branded Podcasts at : bt.sg/brpod BT Lens On: bt.sg/btlensonMost Australians feel they are poorer now than they were three years ago, as a poll reveals widespread dissatisfaction with the Albanese government’s priorities. A new Redbridge poll found 52 per cent of those surveyed either disagreed or strongly disagreed with the proposition that the government has the right focus. 40 per cent of voters said Peter Dutton was ready for office, slightly more than the 39 per cent who said he was not. Asked on Seven’s if the polling meant Australia was “in the mood for change”, Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth said the government was focused on the cost of living, while the Coalition was blocking bills. Directing her comments to Liberal senator Jane Hume, Rishworth said: “You’ve voted against our housing bills. Blocked our cost of living measures. Fought against our energy price measures. Everything we’ve done, the Liberal Party have fought against it...” Hume repeatedly interjected Rishworth’s response, asking “Where have you been for 21⁄2 years?” “You spent a year concentrating on the Voice referendum,” she quipped. Meanwhile, on Nine’s , Nationals senator Matt Canavan also responded to the poll, saying Australians were poorer because “we’ve adopted a lot of stupid policies that deny Australians the use of their own energy resources that load our country with way too much red tape”. Last month, the found Australians hold Labor accountable for the financial pain of rising prices and the cost of housing. Thirty-six per cent believe the federal government is responsible for their rising living costs – far greater than the 13 per cent who blame global factors outside Australia’s control. Independent MP Andrew Wilkie has backflipped on supporting the government’s teen social media ban, saying he has realised “the whole thing’s a nonsense”. Yesterday, moderate Liberal MPs Bridget Archer and Richard Colbeck threatened to vote against the ban that Opposition Leader Peter Dutton wants to ram through the parliament with Labor. Speaking on ABC Radio National this morning, Wilkie said he had changed his mind about supporting the bill. “I’ve got a confession to make. I’ve done a backflip on this,” he said. “I got it wrong and I’ve changed my mind. I’ve got two teenage daughters and I’ve got three teenage stepsons. My first response to the news that under 16s would be banned: ‘I agree with joy’, I thought ‘that’s a great idea’. “But as soon as I started to research it, as soon as I started to hear commentary from youth and adolescent mental health experts, from youth welfare experts, from technical experts to talk about the practicalities of this ... I realise[d] the whole thing’s a nonsense and, frankly, I am doubtful that it will ever be realised.” The Queensland election was a month ago but the pomp and circumstance will happen today, with the Governor to travel to Parliament House to formally open the 58th Parliament, meaning there will be road closures in the city. Upon Governor Dr Jeannette Young’s arrival at the Queensland Parliament at 1.40pm, a 19-gun salute will fire from Kangaroo Point, and she will receive a royal salute from the Royal Guard, be invited to inspect the Guard, the Australian Army band, Brisbane and Queensland mounted police escort. She will then deliver the opening address in Parliament, outlining the priorities and objectives of the incoming LNP government. These are the road changes: President Joe Biden on Tuesday called Israel and Hezbollah’s ceasefire agreement “good news” and expressed hope the pause in more than 13 months of fighting will be the catalyst to also end the war in Gaza. Biden made his comments in a Rose Garden speech. He stressed that Israel reserved the right to quickly resume operations in Lebanon if Hezbollah broke the terms of the truce. Biden added that the deal between Israel and Hezbollah “was designed to be a permanent cessation of hostilities”. The president’s comments come as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s security Cabinet approved a ceasefire deal with Hezbollah, clearing the way for the truce to take effect. Netanyahu’s office said the plan was approved by a 10-1 margin. The late-night vote came shortly before President Joe Biden was expected to announce details of the deal in Washington. Earlier, Netanyahu defended the ceasefire, saying Israel has inflicted heavy damage on Hezbollah and could now focus its efforts on Hamas militants in Gaza and his top security concern, Iran. Netanyahu vowed to strike Hezbollah hard if it violates the expected deal. Most Australians feel they are poorer now than they were three years ago, as a poll reveals widespread dissatisfaction with the Albanese government’s priorities. A new Redbridge poll found 52 per cent of those surveyed either disagreed or strongly disagreed with the proposition that the government has the right focus. 40 per cent of voters said Peter Dutton was ready for office, slightly more than the 39 per cent who said he was not. Asked on Seven’s if the polling meant Australia was “in the mood for change”, Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth said the government was focused on the cost of living, while the Coalition was blocking bills. Directing her comments to Liberal senator Jane Hume, Rishworth said: “You’ve voted against our housing bills. Blocked our cost of living measures. Fought against our energy price measures. Everything we’ve done, the Liberal Party have fought against it...” Hume repeatedly interjected Rishworth’s response, asking “Where have you been for 21⁄2 years?” “You spent a year concentrating on the Voice referendum,” she quipped. Meanwhile, on Nine’s , Nationals senator Matt Canavan also responded to the poll, saying Australians were poorer because “we’ve adopted a lot of stupid policies that deny Australians the use of their own energy resources that load our country with way too much red tape”. Last month, the found Australians hold Labor accountable for the financial pain of rising prices and the cost of housing. Thirty-six per cent believe the federal government is responsible for their rising living costs – far greater than the 13 per cent who blame global factors outside Australia’s control. It’s likely to be another cloudy day in Brisbane, with a medium chance of showers throughout the day. And the temperature is forecast to reach a maximum just short of 30 degrees. The weather bureau predicts a slight breeze throughout the day also, dropping off into the evening. Here’s the seven-day outlook: Stories making the rounds further afield this morning: The grieving families of two backpackers who died after a suspected mass methanol poisoning have after living every parents’ nightmare. The Australian economy has been destabilised by incoming US president Donald Trump’s declaration of a on three of America’s biggest trading partners. Trump has always demanded loyalty from his aides but . A 33-year-old former far-right cable TV host, Harp is nearly always at Trump’s side and has written him a series of devotional letters. Now she is poised to play an influential role in his White House. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced he will recommend a to his cabinet for approval, setting the stage for an end to nearly 14 months of fighting. And from January 8, to enter the UK. You can apply for yours now. Good morning, thanks for joining us for live news blog. It’s Wednesday, November 27, and we’re expecting a partly cloudy day and a top temperature of 29 degrees. In this morning’s local headlines: Did Brisbane’s buses get more crowded after 50¢ fares? What impact has working from home had on public transport? . Queensland’s new LNP government will to give it time to “get our head around” Labor’s cost blowouts, says Treasurer David Janetzki. , with staff at Brisbane public hospitals reporting up to 28 times the number of cases normally seen by this time of year. Thirty-four years ago, former . As he reflects on the damage caused by an angry player, a Queensland academic explains why decision-makers shouldn’t be surprised by “concussion crises”. And it took just a $30 investment and a tug on his heartstrings to convince former St George Illawarra captain , where his career began.
SAN DIEGO, Dec. 13, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Robbins LLP reminds investors that a class action was filed on behalf of all persons and entities who purchased or otherwise acquired Marqeta, Inc. (NASDAQ: MQ) securities between August 7, 2024 and November 4, 2024. Marqeta creates digital payment technology for innovation leaders. For more information, submit a form , email attorney Aaron Dumas, Jr., or give us a call at (800) 350-6003. The Allegations: Robbins LLP is Investigating Allegations that Marqeta, Inc. (MQ) Failed to Disclose the Impact of Regulatory Scrutiny on its Business Prospects According to the complaint, during the class period, defendants failed to disclose that Marqeta understated the regulatory challenges affecting its business outlook and therefore, would have to cut its guidance for the fourth quarter of 2024. The complaint alleges that on November 4, 2024, Marqeta announced third quarter 2024 financial results and revised its fourth quarter projections to "reflect[] several changes that became apparent over the last few months with regards to the heightened scrutiny of the banking environment and specific customer program changes." The complaint further alleges that Marqeta's CEO and CFO actually knew of the heightened regulatory scrutiny affecting the Company's business from the beginning of the year, which they revealed in connection with the November 4 announcement. On this news, Marqeta’s stock price fell $2.53 per share, or 42.5%, to close at $3.42 per share on November 5, 2024. What Now: You may be eligible to participate in the class action against Marqeta, Inc. Shareholders who want to serve as lead plaintiff for the class must submit their application to the court by February 7, 2025. A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. You do not have to participate in the case to be eligible for a recovery. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member. For more information, click here . All representation is on a contingency fee basis. Shareholders pay no fees or expenses. About Robbins LLP: A recognized leader in shareholder rights litigation, the attorneys and staff of Robbins LLP have been dedicated to helping shareholders recover losses, improve corporate governance structures, and hold company executives accountable for their wrongdoing since 2002. To be notified if a class action against Marqeta, Inc. settles or to receive free alerts when corporate executives engage in wrongdoing, sign up for Stock Watch today. Attorney Advertising. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/53e69218-456a-4e86-81b7-b14619b1f825
The demands of achieving both one-day shipping and a satisfying orgasm collide in Halina Reijn’s “Babygirl,” a kinky and darkly comic erotic thriller about sex in the Amazon era. Nicole Kidman stars as Romy Mathis, the chief executive of Tensile, a robotics business that pioneered automotive warehouses. In the movie’s opening credits, a maze of conveyor belts and bots shuttle boxes this way and that without a human in sight. Romy, too, is a little robotic. She intensely presides over the company. Her eyes are glued to her phone. She gets Botox injections, practices corporate-speak presentations (“Look up, smile and never show your weakness”) and maintains a floor-through New York apartment, along with a mansion in the suburbs that she shares with her theater-director husband ( Antonio Banderas ) and two teenage daughters (Esther McGregor and Vaughan Reilly). But the veneer of control is only that in “Babygirl,” a sometimes campy, frequently entertaining modern update to the erotically charged movies of the 1990s, like “Basic Instinct” and “9 1/2 Weeks.” Reijn, the Danish director of “Bodies Bodies Bodies” has critically made her film from a more female point of view, resulting in ever-shifting gender and power dynamics that make “Babygirl” seldom predictable — even if the film is never quite as daring as it seems to thinks it is. The opening moments of “Babygirl,” which A24 releases Wednesday, are of Kidman in close-up and apparent climax. But moments after she and her husband finish and say “I love you,” she retreats down the hall to writhe on the floor while watching cheap, transgressive internet pornography. The breathy soundtrack, by the composer Cristobal Tapia de Veer, heaves and puffs along with the film's main character. One day while walking into the office, Romy is taken by a scene on the street. A violent dog gets loose but a young man, with remarkable calmness, calls to the dog and settles it. She seems infatuated. The young man turns out to be Samuel (Harris Dickinson), one of the interns just starting at Tensile. When they meet inside the building, his manner with her is disarmingly frank. Samuel arranges for a brief meeting with Romy, during which he tells her, point blank, “I think you like to be told what to do.” She doesn't disagree. Some of the same dynamic seen on the sidewalk, of animalistic urges and submission to them, ensues between Samuel and Romy. A great deal of the pleasure in “Babygirl” comes in watching Kidman, who so indelibly depicted uncompromised female desire in Stanley Kubrick’s “Eyes Wide Shut,” again wade into the mysteries of sexual hunger. “Babygirl,” which Reijn also wrote, is sometimes a bit much. (In one scene, Samuel feeds Romy saucers of milk while George Michael’s “Father Figure” blares.) But its two lead actors are never anything but completely magnetic. Kidman deftly portrays Romy as a woman falling helplessly into an affair; she both knows what she’s doing and doesn’t. Dickinson exudes a disarming intensity; his chemistry with Kidman, despite their quickly forgotten age gap, is visceral. As their affair evolves, Samuel’s sense of control expands and he begins to threaten a call to HR. That he could destroy her doesn’t necessarily make Romy any less interested in seeing him, though there are some delicious post-#MeToo ironies in their clandestine CEO-intern relationship. Also in the mix is Romy’s executive assistant, Esme (Sophie Wilde, also very good), who's eager for her own promotion. Where “Babygirl” heads from here, I won’t say. But the movie is less interested in workplace politics than it is in acknowledging authentic desires, even if they’re a little ludicrous. There’s genuine tenderness in their meetings, no matter the games that are played. Late in the film, Samuel describes it as “two children playing.” As a kind of erotic parable of control, “Babygirl” is also, either fittingly or ironically, shot in the very New York headquarters of its distributor, A24. For a studio that’s sometimes been accused of having a “house style,” here’s a movie that goes one step further by literally moving in. What about that automation stuff earlier? Well, our collective submission to digital overloads might have been a compelling jumping-off point for the film, but along the way, not every thread gets unraveled in the easily distracted “Babygirl.” Saucers of milk will do that. “Babygirl,” an A24 release, is rated R by the Motion Picture Association for “strong sexual content, nudity and language.” Running time: 114 minutes. Three stars out of four. Jake Coyle, The Associated Press