BRICS makes its place Global geopolitics is undergoing a significant transformation. The once-dominant unipolar world order, centered on the US hegemony, is being replaced by a fragmented and multipolar system. This shift is driven by the expansion of coalitions like the BRICS, the rise of multi-alignment strategies by emerging powers, and the intensifying US-China rivalry. Each dynamic reflects a deepening complexity in international relations and heralds a potential restructuring of the global order. The implications of this transformation are profound. Rising powers like China and India are leveraging the opportunities of this changing landscape to enhance their influence and strengthen their economies, while the USA faces a relative decline in its global dominance. Understanding these shifts is crucial to evaluate the future of global order. The BRICS bloc— originally Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa— has become a powerful platform for reshaping the global economic order. Its recent expansion, adding major energy exporters like Saudi Arabia and Iran, accentuates its intent to rival Western-led institutions like the G7. Trump’s recent tweet on threatening to impose a 100 percent tariff on the BRICS, further strengthens the argument of viewing BRICS as an emerging threat to economic hegemony of the USA. Collectively, BRICS countries now control more than 40 percent of the global population and nearly 30 percent of global GDP. It is worth noting these countries were colonies of the West, and contributed a big chunk to the global economy in the past. China has become the world’s second-largest economy with a GDP of over $14 trillion, driven by rapid industrialization and export growth, making it a global manufacturing powerhouse. Before colonization, China’s GDP was significantly lower , but it has grown exponentially since then. India leads in information technology and software services, contributing 8 percent to its GDP and attracting significant foreign investment. Before colonization, India’s economy (Now India and Pakistan) was primarily agrarian, and contributed almost 25 percent in global GDP. Brazil, rich in oil, minerals, and agricultural products, is one of the largest producers of soybeans, coffee, and beef. Russia, a major exporter of oil and natural gas, significantly influences global energy markets. South Africa, a leading producer of platinum, gold, and other minerals, has a mining sector that contributes substantially to the global supply of these resources. Moreover, most of the BRICS countries were once colonies of Western powers: Brazil by Portugal, India by Britain, South Africa by the Dutch and British. Russia faced periods of foreign influence, and China experienced significant intervention but was never fully colonized. These histories have shaped their current economic and political landscapes. The shared history of colonization among the BRICS countries provides them with a unique platform for cooperation, enabling them to fulfill the needs required to emerge as significant players in global power dynamics. By leveraging this common experience, these countries will develop stronger economic, political, and strategic alliances. Especially the historical bond between Russia, China and India matched with the geographical proximity, not only fosters solidarity but also strengthens their position in the global power structure, making them formidable contenders in shaping future geopolitics. However, a big question to BRICS credibility lies with India. India’s participation in BRICS, seems to contradict its involvement in the QUAD, a strategic forum with the USA, Japan, and Australia aimed at countering China’s influence in the Asia-Pacific, which is mainly because of its expanding economy. This dual alignment depicts India as trying to play both sides to maximize its benefits, which undermines its credibility with both groups. This balancing act enables India to access Chinese trade opportunities while leveraging the US military technology and strategic support to counterbalance China’s influence in the Asia-Pacific. Given this, China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), for instance, aligns with BRICS’s goals of infrastructure development, providing China access to main markets, such as Europe and resources in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Meanwhile, India leverages BRICS as a platform to challenge Western trade policies, secure investments for infrastructure, and assert its leadership in the Global South. China, too, benefits from multi-alignment. The trade volume between China and Africa reached a record $282 billion in 2023. Although, such strategies as China’s economic partnerships and investments weaken the US ability to isolate or pressure rising powers, further diffusing global power. For decades, the USA maintained its hegemony through control of global financial systems, military alliances like NATO, and soft power institutions such as the IMF and World Bank. Today, these pillars face mounting challenges from counterbalancing institutions and alliances like BRICS, signaling a shift in global power dynamics. Economically, the decline of the dollar’s dominance in international trade poses a significant threat to the US influence. The dollar’s role as the global reserve currency has long provided America with unparalleled financial leverage, allowing it to impose sanctions, control global trade flows, and maintain a robust domestic economy. De-dollarization efforts by BRICS, coupled with emerging alternative currencies like the yuan, could undermine this advantage, forcing the USA to compete on less favourable terms. For example, in 2023, one-fifth of oil trades were conducted using the Chinese Yuan and Indian Rupee, becoming the top used non-dollar currencies. Countries that once relied heavily on US security guarantees, such as Saudi Arabia and Turkey, are now exploring partnerships with China and Russia. The world is entering a multipolar era, driven by BRICS, multi-alignment strategies, and the decline of US dominance. Rising powers like India and China are leveraging this transition to assert global influence and address inequities, challenging traditional US leadership. Platforms like BRICS enable these nations to redefine global governance. However, this shift risks fragmenting international systems, complicating efforts to address shared challenges like climate change and inequality. The way forward lies in fostering inclusive dialogue, strengthening multilateral institutions, and embracing global interconnectedness. Only through collaboration can the world build a future that is balanced, equitable, and sustainable. 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() );WASHINGTON — The chair of the Democratic National Committee informed party leaders on Monday that the DNC will choose his successor in February, an election that will speak volumes about how the party wants to present itself during four more years of Donald Trump in the White House. Democratic Party chair Jaime Harrison speaks during a rally for Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris at the Reno Event... Jaime Harrison, in a letter to members of the party's powerful Rules & Bylaws Committee, outlined the process of how the party will elect its new chair. Harrison, an Orangeburg native, said in the letter that the committee will host four candidate forums — some in person and some virtually — in January, with the final election on Feb. 1 during the party's winter meeting in National Harbor, Maryland. The race to become the next chair of the Democratic National Committee, while an insular party affair, will come days after Trump is inaugurated for a second term. Democrats' selection of a leader after Vice President Kamala Harris' 2024 loss will be a key starting point as the party starts to move forward, including addressing any structural problems and determining how to oppose Trump. Local news has never been this personal. Free to download. Subscribers enjoy unlimited access. Members of the Rules & Bylaws Committee will meet on Dec. 12 to establish the rules for these elections, which beyond the chair position will include top party roles like vice chairs, treasurer, secretary and national finance chair. The committee will also use that meeting to decide the requirements for gaining access to the ballot for those top party roles. In 2021, candidates were required to submit a nominating statement that included signatures from 40 DNC members and that will likely be the same standard for the 2025 campaigns. "The DNC is committed to running a transparent, equitable, and impartial election for the next generation of leadership to guide the party forward," Harrison said in a statement. "Electing the Chair and DNC officers is one of the most important responsibilities of the DNC Membership, and our staff will run an inclusive and transparent process that gives members the opportunity to get to know the candidates as they prepare to cast their votes." Two Democrats have announced campaigns for chair: Ken Martin, chair of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party and a vice chair of the national party, and Martin O'Malley, the former Maryland governor and current commissioner of the Social Security Administration. Other top Democrats are either considering a run to succeed Harrison or are being pushed by party insiders, including former Texas Rep. Beto O'Rourke; Michael Blake, a former vice chair of the party; Ben Wikler, chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin; Rahm Emanuel, the U.S. ambassador to Japan and a former Chicago mayor; Sen. Mallory McMorrow, majority whip of the Michigan Senate, and Chuck Rocha, a longtime Democratic strategist. The next chair of the committee will be tasked with rebuilding a party demoralized by a second Trump victory. They will also oversee the party's 2028 nominating process, a complex and contentious exercise that will make the chair central to the next presidential election. Harrison, of South Carolina, made clear in his letter to the rules committee that the four forums hosted by the party would be live streamed and the party would give grassroots Democrats across the country the ability to engage with the process through those events. He also said he intends to remain neutral during the chair election. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.
NoneAndy Murray enters new chapter with Novak Djokovic as coach of long-time rival
WRDSB suspensions decrease; violent incidents jump 30 per cent
3 Stocks That Could Be Monster Winners in 2025Smart Buildings Market to grow by USD 64.84 Billion (2024-2028), driven by the need for building automation, with AI powering market evolution - Technavio
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos said he’s willing to work with President-elect Donald Trump to dismantle government regulations that hinder economic growth. The U.S. imposes “excessive permitting and regulation,” Bezos said, speaking at the New York Times’ DealBook Summit in New York City on Wednesday. “We need a growth orientation in this country.” The day after the election, Bezos congratulated Trump “on an extraordinary political comeback and decisive victory.” “I’m actually very optimistic this time around,” Bezos said of Trump at the DealBook conference. “He seems to have a lot of energy around reducing regulation. If I can help him do that, I’m gonna help him.” Bezos shared his current impressions of Trump: “What I’ve seen so far is he is calmer than he was the first time [in the White House] and more settled.” Regarding Elon Musk, who is a rival of Bezos’ and has become a top adviser to Trump, Bezos said he did not think Musk would misuse his influence with the incoming administration to harm competitors. “I’ve had a lot of success in life by not being cynical,” said Bezos. Bezos also addressed the major backlash he stirred among Washington Post readers when he decreed — less than two weeks before the U.S. presidential election — that the newspaper would not endorse a candidate this year. Bezos acquired the Washington Post in 2013. At the DealBook Summit, Bezos said, “We just decided [an endorsement] wasn’t... going to influence the election one way or the other.” He added, “The pluses of doing this were very small.” Bezos said it would have been better if he’d had the “prescience” to have made the change two years ago rather than shortly before the 2024 election, but that he was nevertheless “proud” of the decision. Former Washington Post editor Marty Baron had called the non-endorsement “cowardice, with democracy as its casualty.” Bezos commented that the decision “was far from cowardly because we knew there would be blowback, and we did it anyway.” Bezos acknowledged that he’s a “terrible” owner of Washington Post because there are continuous questions of conflicts with Bezos’ interests in Amazon and aerospace company Blue Origin. But, he added, when the Post needs “financial resources, I’m available. I’m like the doting parent in that regard.” Bezos had previously written in a Washington Post op-ed that he was aiming to restore consumers’ trust in the paper by eliminating the practice of political endorsements, which he said “create the perception of bias.” Bezos, 60, is currently the second-richest person in the world (behind Musk) with an estimated net worth of $234 billion, per the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Bezos founded Amazon in 1994 and stepped aside as CEO in 2021; he continues to serve as the company’s executive chairman. He said he always wanted to build a company “that would outlast me... I want Amazon to go off without me.” At the same time, Bezos continues to be actively involved at Amazon. He said 95% of the time he spends at Amazon is on artificial intelligence and that the ecommerce company is building thousands of different AI applications. Bezos also is the founder of Blue Origin, which says its mission is to lower the cost and increase the safety of spaceflight. Bezos said flying into space has a “life-changing, transformative” effect. Bezos (like Musk) sees a future where humanity extends beyond Earth. There’s a “strong argument to be made that the Moon is a stepping stone” to the rest of the solar system, he said. Blue Origin is “not a very good business, yet,” Bezos said. But eventually, he believes it could be bigger than even Amazon: “I think it’s gonna be the best business I’ve ever been involved with.” Bezos said he can fund Blue Origin with his Amazon stock. In 2022, Bezos pledged to donate most of his wealth to charitable causes within his lifetime. As part of that, he established the Bezos Earth Fund, aimed at fighting climate change, with $10 billion in total grants targeted to be disbursed by 2030.
AILE DEADLINE ALERT: ROSEN, LEADING INVESTOR COUNSEL, Encourages iLearningEngines, Inc. Investors to Secure Counsel Before Important December 6 Deadline in Securities Class Action – AILENEW YORK , Nov. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Report with market evolution powered by AI - The global TV and Movie merchandise market size is estimated to grow by USD 103.5 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9.45% during the forecast period. Growth of e-commerce platforms is driving market growth, with a trend towards entertainment companies capitalizing on merchandise sales. However, uncertain economic conditions poses a challenge.Key market players include 41 Entertainment LLC, Aardman Animations Ltd., Amazon.com Inc., AT and T, Banijay Group, Charter Communications Inc., Comcast Corp., Grindstore Ltd., Hasbro Inc., iMPACTFUL Group Inc., LEGO System AS, Mattel Inc., Netflix Inc., Paramount Global, RTL Group SA, Sony Group Corp., Striker Entertainment LLC, The Walt Disney Co., WildBrain Ltd., and World Wrestling Entertainment Inc.. AI-Powered Market Evolution Insights. Our comprehensive market report ready with the latest trends, growth opportunities, and strategic analysis- View Free Sample Report PDF Forecast period 2024-2028 Base Year 2023 Historic Data 2018 - 2022 Segment Covered Application (Offline retail and Online retail), Product (Apparel, Toys, Accessories, Video games, and Others), and Geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa) Region Covered North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Key companies profiled 41 Entertainment LLC, Aardman Animations Ltd., Amazon.com Inc., AT and T, Banijay Group, Charter Communications Inc., Comcast Corp., Grindstore Ltd., Hasbro Inc., iMPACTFUL Group Inc., LEGO System AS, Mattel Inc., Netflix Inc., Paramount Global, RTL Group SA, Sony Group Corp., Striker Entertainment LLC, The Walt Disney Co., WildBrain Ltd., and World Wrestling Entertainment Inc. The TV and movie merchandise market is booming, with trends including toys, apparel, collectibles, comic books, action figures, artwork, home décor, accessories, video games, and more. Both kids and adults are driving demand for these products, fueled by streaming services, social media, and ecommerce. Nostalgia-driven merchandise is a significant trend, with collectibles leading the way. However, challenges such as counterfeiting, high marketing costs, and oversaturation persist. Costumes, movie scripts, and licensed sellers are also part of the mix. Consumers prefer online shopping for convenience, but offline retailers still hold appeal for fan interaction and celebrity endorsement. Purchasing habits vary, with community engagement and viral sensations influencing sales. Product quality, health, and environmental concerns are also important factors. E-commerce expansion continues, with fast delivery options and smart home products gaining popularity. Entertainment companies have shifted their focus from relying solely on ticket sales to generating revenue through merchandise. With declining DVD sales and a stagnant global box office, studios like Disney's Marvel Cinematic Universe are turning to merchandise as an alternative revenue stream. Consumer products now significantly impact moviemaking decisions, leading to sequels and franchises. Notably, some films have earned more revenue from merchandise sales than box office collections. This trend underscores the importance of merchandise in the entertainment industry. Insights on how AI is driving innovation, efficiency, and market growth- Request Sample! • The TV and movie merchandise market is a thriving industry, catering to the demands of kids and adults alike. Toys, apparel, collectibles, comic books, action figures, artwork, home décor, accessories, video games, and more, all generate significant revenue. However, challenges abound. Counterfeiting is a major concern, leading to high marketing costs to ensure authenticity. Nostalgia-driven merchandise continues to be popular, but oversaturation and storage constraints can limit growth. Purchasing habits vary between online shopping websites and offline retailers, with fan interaction and celebrity endorsement driving sales. E-commerce expansion is crucial, but product quality, health, and environmental concerns must be addressed. Smart home products, wearables, and fast delivery options are key trends. Collectors seek authenticity, while cultural phenomena and viral sensations create sudden demand. Overall, the market requires careful management to navigate these challenges and capitalize on opportunities. • The economic instability in various countries could negatively impact the TV and movie merchandise market. Vendors, advertisers, affiliates, suppliers, retailers, insurers, and theater operators may experience reduced sales due to weak or uncertain economic conditions in key markets like China , India , and Brazil . Volatility in the global economy, caused by governmental actions in countries such as Russia and Venezuela , further complicates the situation. These economic uncertainties could potentially hinder the growth and profitability of businesses in this sector. Insights into how AI is reshaping industries and driving growth- Download a Sample Report This tv and movie merchandise market report extensively covers market segmentation by Application 1.1 Offline retail 1.2 Online retail Product 2.1 Apparel 2.2 Toys 2.3 Accessories 2.4 Video games 2.5 Others Geography 3.1 North America 3.2 Europe 3.3 APAC 3.4 South America 3.5 Middle East and Africa 1.1 Offline retail- The offline retail sector continues to be a significant player in the global TV and movie merchandise market. Consumers preferring a tactile shopping experience account for a substantial portion of sales. Offline retail formats such as specialty stores, hypermarkets, supermarkets, convenience stores, clubhouse stores, and department stores dominate merchandise sales. The benefits of offline retail include immediate product customization and inspection. Despite the revenue decline due to online shopping trends, retailers are expanding their physical stores in local and regional markets to boost customer participation. Additionally, the rise of personalized gift outlets in shopping malls and hypermarkets is fueling sales of photo products and merchandise. The supply chain network enhancements enable offline retail to act as a catalyst for market growth. Download complimentary Sample Report to gain insights into AI's impact on market dynamics, emerging trends, and future opportunities- including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2018 - 2022) The TV and movie merchandise market is a vibrant and expansive industry, encompassing a wide range of products that cater to fans of all ages. From toys and action figures to apparel, collectibles, comic books, and artwork, there's something for every fan. Home décor and accessories are also popular choices, allowing fans to bring the magic of their favorite shows and movies into their homes. Kids can enjoy dressed up in costumes or playing with video games, while licensed sellers offer official merchandise on both online shopping websites and offline retailers. The market is constantly expanding with e-commerce growth, ensuring fans have easy access to their desired products. Product quality, health, and environmental protection are increasingly important considerations, with some companies offering plant-based products and eco-friendly packaging. Movie/show scripts are also available for fans who want to delve deeper into their favorite stories. The TV and movie merchandise market is a dynamic and expansive industry encompassing various product categories such as Toys, Apparel, Collectibles, Comic books, Action figures, Artwork, Home décor, Accessories, Video games, and more. Catering to both Kids and Adults, this marketplace thrives on the popularity of streaming services, social media, and ecommerce platforms. Nostalgia-driven merchandise continues to be in high demand, fueled by the collectibles market and fans' desire for authenticity. Counterfeiting poses a challenge, while marketing costs remain high. Costumes, movie/show scripts, and licensed sellers are integral components, with online shopping websites and offline retailers catering to diverse purchasing habits. Fan interaction, celebrity endorsement, and community engagement drive sales, but oversaturation, storage constraints, and preservation requirements are challenges. Authenticity skepticism, viral sensations, and cultural phenomena influence buying trends, with collectors embracing e-commerce expansion and prioritizing product quality, health, and environmental protection. Smart home products, wearables, and fast delivery options further enhance the shopping experience. 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation Application Offline Retail Online Retail Product Apparel Toys Accessories Video Games Others Geography North America Europe APAC South America Middle East And Africa 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: media@technavio.com Website: www.technavio.com/ View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tv-and-movie-merchandise-market-to-grow-by-usd-103-5-billion-2024-2028-driven-by-e-commerce-platform-growth-ai-redefining-market-landscape---technavio-302314065.html SOURCE Technavio © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
No. 8 Kentucky flying high ahead of Western Kentucky meeting
PRINCETON, N.J., Nov. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Clearway Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CWEN, CWEN.A) (“Company”) today announced that it has entered into a binding agreement to acquire the operational Tuolumne Wind Project from Turlock Irrigation District. Tuolumne Wind Project is a 137 MW wind project located in Klickitat County, WA that achieved commercial operations in 2009. The project will sell power under a new PPA with Turlock Irrigation District, an investment-grade regulated entity, with an initial contract term of 15 years to 2040. In conjunction with the acquisition, the Company also has received from Turlock Irrigation District a contractual extension option to enable a potential future repowering of the project. After factoring in estimated closing adjustments and new non-recourse project-level debt, the Company expects its total long-term corporate capital commitment to acquire the project to be approximately $70-75 million, which the Company expects to fund with existing sources of liquidity. Based on current expected terms and conditions of the new non-recourse financing, the acquisition is expected to provide incremental annual levered asset CAFD on a five-year average basis of approximately $9 million beginning January 1, 2026. The Company expects the transaction to close in the first quarter of 2025, after which its targeted contribution to fiscal year 2025 results will be communicated. “Clearway continues its successful track record of executing accretive, third-party acquisitions. We look forward to providing clean, reliable electricity to Turlock Irrigation District and its customers for years to come. Additionally, this transaction, along with other recent investments, underscores Clearway’s expanding presence in Western states alongside our historical core in California, contributing further to our strong incumbency in these attractive markets for clean power,” said Craig Cornelius, Clearway Energy, Inc.’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “We are also pleased to note that this acquisition is the next step in our path to meeting our long-term financial objectives, including our goal to deliver the midpoint or better of $2.40 to $2.60 in CAFD per share in 2027.” About Clearway Energy, Inc. Clearway Energy, Inc. is one of the largest owners of clean energy generation assets in the US and is leading the transition to a world powered by clean energy. Our portfolio comprises approximately 11.7 GW of gross capacity in 26 states, including 9 GW of wind, solar, and battery energy storage and over 2.7 GW of conventional dispatchable power capacity providing critical grid reliability services. Through our diversified and primarily contracted clean energy portfolio, Clearway Energy endeavors to provide our investors with stable and growing dividend income. Clearway Energy, Inc.’s Class C and Class A common stock are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbols CWEN and CWEN.A, respectively. Clearway Energy, Inc. is sponsored by our controlling investor, Clearway Energy Group LLC. For more information, visit investor.clearwayenergy.com. Safe Harbor Disclosure This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions, and typically can be identified by the use of words such as “expect,” “estimate,” "target," “anticipate,” “forecast,” “plan,” “outlook,” “believe” and similar terms. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding, Clearway Energy, Inc.’s (the “Company’s”) dividend expectations and its operations, its facilities and its financial results, statements regarding the likelihood, terms, timing and/or consummation of the transactions described above, the potential benefits, opportunities, and results with respect to the transactions, including the Company’s future relationship and arrangements with Global Infrastructure Partners, TotalEnergies, and Clearway Energy Group (collectively and together with their affiliates, “Related Persons”), as well as the Company's Net Income, Adjusted EBITDA, Cash from Operating Activities, Cash Available for Distribution, the Company’s future revenues, income, indebtedness, capital structure, strategy, plans, expectations, objectives, projected financial performance and/or business results and other future events, and views of economic and market conditions. Although the Company believes that the expectations are reasonable at this time, it can give no assurance that these expectations will prove to be correct, and actual results may vary materially. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated above include, among others, the Company's ability to maintain and grow its quarterly dividend, impacts related to COVID-19 (including any variant of the virus) or any other pandemic, risks relating to the Company's relationships with its sponsors, the failure to identify, execute or successfully implement acquisitions or dispositions (including receipt of third party consents and regulatory approvals), risks related to hazards customary in the power industry, weather conditions, including wind and solar performance, the Company’s ability to operate its businesses efficiently, manage maintenance capital expenditures and costs effectively, and generate earnings and cash flows from its asset-based businesses in relation to its debt and other obligations, the willingness and ability of counterparties to the Company’s offtake agreements to fulfill their obligations under such agreements, the Company's ability to enter into new contracts as existing contracts expire, changes in government regulations, operating and financial restrictions placed on the Company that are contained in the project-level debt facilities and other agreements of the Company and its subsidiaries, and cyber terrorism and inadequate cybersecurity. Furthermore, any dividends are subject to available capital, market conditions, and compliance with associated laws and regulations. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The Cash Available for Distribution are estimates as of today’s date and are based on assumptions believed to be reasonable as of this date. The Company expressly disclaims any current intention to update such guidance. The foregoing review of factors that could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in the forward-looking statements included in this news release should be considered in connection with information regarding risks and uncertainties that may affect the Company's future results included in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov. In addition, the Company makes available free of charge at www.clearwayenergy.com, copies of materials it files with, or furnishes to, the Securities and Exchange Commission. Contacts: Appendix Table A-1: Adjusted EBITDA and Cash Available for Distribution Reconciliation The following table summarizes the calculation of Estimated Cash Available for Distribution and provides a reconciliation to Net Income/(Loss): Non-GAAP Financial Information EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, and Cash Available for Distribution (CAFD) are non-GAAP financial measures. These measurements are not recognized in accordance with GAAP and should not be viewed as an alternative to GAAP measures of performance. The presentation of non-GAAP financial measures should not be construed as an inference that Clearway Energy’s future results will be unaffected by unusual or non-recurring items. EBITDA represents net income before interest (including loss on debt extinguishment), taxes, depreciation and amortization. EBITDA is presented because Clearway Energy considers it an important supplemental measure of its performance and believes debt and equity holders frequently use EBITDA to analyze operating performance and debt service capacity. EBITDA has limitations as an analytical tool, and you should not consider it in isolation, or as a substitute for analysis of our operating results as reported under GAAP. Some of these limitations are: EBITDA does not reflect cash expenditures, or future requirements for capital expenditures, or contractual commitments; EBITDA does not reflect changes in, or cash requirements for, working capital needs; EBITDA does not reflect the significant interest expense, or the cash requirements necessary to service interest or principal payments, on debt or cash income tax payments; Although depreciation and amortization are non-cash charges, the assets being depreciated and amortized will often have to be replaced in the future, and EBITDA does not reflect any cash requirements for such replacements; and Other companies in this industry may calculate EBITDA differently than Clearway Energy does, limiting its usefulness as a comparative measure. Because of these limitations, EBITDA should not be considered as a measure of discretionary cash available to use to invest in the growth of Clearway Energy’s business. Clearway Energy compensates for these limitations by relying primarily on our GAAP results and using EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA only supplementally. See the statements of cash flow included in the financial statements that are a part of this news release. Adjusted EBITDA is presented as a further supplemental measure of operating performance. Adjusted EBITDA represents EBITDA adjusted for mark-to-market gains or losses, non-cash equity compensation expense, asset write offs and impairments; and factors which we do not consider indicative of future operating performance such as transition and integration related costs. The reader is encouraged to evaluate each adjustment and the reasons Clearway Energy considers it appropriate for supplemental analysis. As an analytical tool, Adjusted EBITDA is subject to all of the limitations applicable to EBITDA. In addition, in evaluating Adjusted EBITDA, the reader should be aware that in the future Clearway Energy may incur expenses similar to the adjustments in this news release. Management believes Adjusted EBITDA is useful to investors and other users of our financial statements in evaluating our operating performance because it provides them with an additional tool to compare business performance across companies and across periods. This measure is widely used by investors to measure a company’s operating performance without regard to items such as interest expense, taxes, depreciation and amortization, which can vary substantially from company to company depending upon accounting methods and book value of assets, capital structure and the method by which assets were acquired. Additionally, Management believes that investors commonly adjust EBITDA information to eliminate the effect of restructuring and other expenses, which vary widely from company to company and impair comparability. As we define it, Adjusted EBITDA represents EBITDA adjusted for the effects of impairment losses, gains or losses on sales, non-cash equity compensation expense, dispositions or retirements of assets, any mark-to-market gains or losses from accounting for derivatives, adjustments to exclude gains or losses on the repurchase, modification or extinguishment of debt, and any extraordinary, unusual or non-recurring items plus adjustments to reflect the Adjusted EBITDA from our unconsolidated investments. We adjust for these items in our Adjusted EBITDA as our management believes that these items would distort their ability to efficiently view and assess our core operating trends. In summary, our management uses Adjusted EBITDA as a measure of operating performance to assist in comparing performance from period to period on a consistent basis and to readily view operating trends, as a measure for planning and forecasting overall expectations and for evaluating actual results against such expectations, and in communications with our Board of Directors, shareholders, creditors, analysts and investors concerning our financial performance. Cash Available for Distribution A non-GAAP measure, Cash Available for Distribution is defined as of September 30, 2024 as Adjusted EBITDA plus cash distributions/return of investment from unconsolidated affiliates, cash receipts from notes receivable, cash distributions from noncontrolling interests, adjustments to reflect sales-type lease cash payments and payments for lease expenses, less cash distributions to noncontrolling interests, maintenance capital expenditures, pro-rata Adjusted EBITDA from unconsolidated affiliates, cash interest paid, income taxes paid, principal amortization of indebtedness, changes in prepaid and accrued capacity payments, and adjusted for development expenses. Management believes CAFD is a relevant supplemental measure of the Company’s ability to earn and distribute cash returns to investors. We believe CAFD is useful to investors in evaluating our operating performance because securities analysts and other interested parties use such calculations as a measure of our ability to make quarterly distributions. In addition, CAFD is used by our management team for determining future acquisitions and managing our growth. The GAAP measure most directly comparable to CAFD is cash provided by operating activities. However, CAFD has limitations as an analytical tool because it does not include changes in operating assets and liabilities and excludes the effect of certain other cash flow items, all of which could have a material effect on our financial condition and results from operations. CAFD is a non-GAAP measure and should not be considered an alternative to cash provided by operating activities or any other performance or liquidity measure determined in accordance with GAAP, nor is it indicative of funds available to fund our cash needs. In addition, our calculations of CAFD are not necessarily comparable to CAFD as calculated by other companies. Investors should not rely on these measures as a substitute for any GAAP measure, including cash provided by operating activities.Energy Transfer LP stock outperforms competitors despite losses on the day
Language Training Market In India size is set to grow by USD 7.55 billion from 2024-2028, growing emphasis on continuous professional development to boost the revenue- TechnavioKey points from 5 who want to be the next governor of NJWASHINGTON, Dec. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Buried deep within an 887-page document referred to as Trump’s “Second Term Playbook” , economist and former CIA advisor Jim Rickards, a Paradigm Press author, has uncovered a transformative energy strategy designed to rebuild America’s infrastructure and economic strength. This comprehensive plan, known as “Project Independence” , could position the United States as the global leader in energy innovation while addressing critical national security concerns tied to energy reliance. Rickards, whose career spans advising the Pentagon, CIA, and multiple U.S. administrations, obtained the document during a private meeting with Trump’s Chief Strategist and several other DC insiders. What he found inside goes far beyond a typical policy proposal —it outlines a vision to restore American strength through advanced nuclear technology, bolster national security, and reduce economic vulnerability to foreign energy markets. Rebuilding Energy Independence as a National Security Imperative At the heart of the plan lies Nuclear 2.0 , a groundbreaking strategy centered around Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). Unlike traditional nuclear plants, SMRs are: Compact and scalable, making them ideal for distributed energy grids. Designed for enhanced safety, shutting down automatically during malfunctions. Capable of producing decades of power with near-zero emissions, providing a clean and sustainable energy source. For Rickards, the implications of Nuclear 2.0 are not just economic but strategic. “Energy is the backbone of national security,” Rickards stated. “Trump’s vision for ‘Project Independence’ could ensure America is no longer vulnerable to foreign energy manipulation while driving economic innovation at home.” A Strategic Blueprint for a Stronger America Rickards argues that “Project Independence” has the potential to echo the transformative policies of past administrations. Drawing parallels to the Reagan-era Mandate for Leadership , he notes that Trump’s plan leverages cutting-edge technology to solve 21st-century challenges. Beyond energy, the playbook outlines: A Shift in Regulatory Power: Streamlining the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to accelerate innovation and private-sector growth. Infrastructure Modernization: Integrating nuclear technology into a national grid capable of supporting emerging technologies like AI. Economic Revitalization: Creating jobs and boosting domestic industries by prioritizing American-made energy solutions. Image by Jim Rickards Why Jim Rickards’ Insights Matte r Known for his unparalleled ability to connect economic trends with geopolitical shifts, Rickards has a track record of identifying pivotal moments. His predictions of the 2008 financial crisis, the COVID pandemic, and the 2024 electoral outcome (Trump’s victory with a 312–226 margin) demonstrate his expertise in recognizing game-changing developments before they become widely apparent. Now, with Trump’s “Second Term Playbook” in hand, Rickards is sounding the alarm that “Project Independence” represents a rare opportunity to strengthen the nation’s security and rebuild its energy future. About Jim Rickards Jim Rickards is a former CIA advisor, economist, and global financial strategist with over four decades of experience. Known for his accurate forecasts and access to high-level information, Rickards is a trusted voice in connecting economic insights to national and global events. Take action NOW. Jim has released a comprehensive brief detailing everything found in Trump’s “Second Term Playbook” To follow new stories and updates from Jim, please visit Paradigm Press Group . Media Contact: Derek Warren Public Relations Manager Paradigm Press Group Email: dwarren@paradigmpressgroup.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/37d7a1fd-8908-4dfe-a6d4-ecf7624877e5
“Gladiator II” asks the question: Are you not moderately entertained for roughly 60% of this sequel? Truly, this is a movie dependent on managed expectations and a forgiving attitude toward its tendency to overserve. More of a thrash-and-burn schlock epic than the comparatively restrained 2000 “Gladiator,” also directed by Ridley Scott, the new one recycles a fair bit of the old one’s narrative cries for freedom while tossing in some digital sharks for the flooded Colosseum and a bout of deadly sea-battle theatrics. They really did flood the Colosseum in those days, though no historical evidence suggests shark deployment, real or digital. On the other hand (checks notes), “Gladiator II” is fiction. Screenwriter David Scarpa picks things up 16 years after “Gladiator,” which gave us the noble death of the noble warrior Maximus, shortly after slaying the ignoble emperor and returning Rome to the control of the Senate. Our new hero, Lucius (Paul Mescal), has fled Rome for Numidia, on the North African coast. The time is 200 A.D., and for the corrupt, party-time twins running the empire (Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger), that means invasion time. Pedro Pascal takes the role of Acacius, the deeply conflicted general, sick of war and tired of taking orders from a pair of depraved ferrets. The new film winds around the old one this way: Acacius is married to Lucilla (Connie Nielsen, in a welcome return), daughter of the now-deceased emperor Aurelius and the love of the late Maximus’s life. Enslaved and dragged to Rome to gladiate, the widower Lucius vows revenge on the general whose armies killed his wife. But there are things this angry young phenom must learn, about his ancestry and his destiny. It’s the movie’s worst-kept secret, but there’s a reason he keeps seeing footage of Russell Crowe from the first movie in his fever dreams. Battle follows battle, on the field, in the arena, in the nearest river, wherever, and usually with endless splurches of computer-generated blood. “Gladiator II” essentially bumper-cars its way through the mayhem, pausing for long periods of expository scheming about overthrowing the current regime. The prince of all fixers, a wily operative with interests in both managing gladiators and stocking munitions, goes by the name Macrinus. He’s played by Denzel Washington, who at one point makes a full meal out of pronouncing the word “politics” like it’s a poisoned fig. Also, if you want a masterclass in letting your robes do a lot of your acting for you, watch what Washington does here. He’s more fun than the movie but you can’t have everything. The movie tries everything, all right, and twice. Ridley Scott marshals the chaotic action sequences well enough, though he’s undercut by frenetic cutting rhythms, with that now-familiar, slightly sped-up visual acceleration in frequent use. (Claire Simpson and Sam Restivo are the editors.) Mescal acquits himself well in his first big-budget commercial walloper of an assignment, confined though he is to a narrower range of seething resentments than Crowe’s in the first film. I left thinking about two things: the word “politics” as savored/spit out by Washington, and the innate paradox of how Scott, whose best work over the decades has been wonderful, delivers spectacle. The director and his lavishly talented design team built all the rough-hewn sets with actual tangible materials the massive budget allowed. They took care to find the right locations in Morocco and Malta. Yet when combined in post-production with scads of medium-grade digital effects work in crowd scenes and the like, never mind the sharks, the movie’s a somewhat frustrating amalgam. With an uneven script on top of it, the visual texture of “Gladiator II” grows increasingly less enveloping and atmospherically persuasive, not more. But I hung there, for some of the acting, for some of the callbacks, and for the many individual moments, or single shots, that could only have come from Ridley Scott. And in the end, yes, you too may be moderately entertained. “Gladiator II” — 2.5 stars (out of 4) MPA rating: R (for strong bloody violence) Running time: 2:28 How to watch: Premieres in theaters Nov. 21. Michael Phillips is a Tribune critic.None
Manhunt continues for gunman in ‘brazen, targeted attack’ on UnitedHealthcare CEOAT THE QUARTER MARK: Ottawa Senators remain confident
Alberta to fund $50 million for new drilling test site - Edmonton JournalFC Cincinnati's Star Luciano Acosta's Future Uncertain Amid Transfer Rumors
2024 in review: The year that saw India's women voters emerging as a force to be reckoned with
NEW YORK , Dec. 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Report with market evolution powered by AI - The global property management market size is estimated to grow by USD 11.3 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7.81% during the forecast period. Adherence to industry and government regulations for property listings is driving market growth, with a trend towards blockchain and smart contracts. However, changing skill requirements for the adoption of emerging technologies poses a challenge. Key market players include 360 Mango Solutions Pvt. Ltd., Amadeus IT Group SA, CBRE Group Inc., Ciirus Inc., Digital Arbitrage Ltd., Ezee Technosys Pvt. Ltd., Frontdesk Anywhere Inc., Guestline Ltd., Honeywell International Inc., Hotelogix India Pvt. Ltd., InnKey PMS, InnQuest Software, International Business Machines Corp., Koch Industries Inc., Microsoft Corp., Micro Star International Co. Ltd., Northwind Commercial Real Estate, Oracle Corp., Saaranya Hospitality Technologies Pvt. Ltd., and SAP SE. AI-Powered Market Evolution Insights. Our comprehensive market report ready with the latest trends, growth opportunities, and strategic analysis- View Free Sample Report PDF Key Market Trends Fueling Growth Property management is a dynamic market that caters to property owners, landlords, and real estate professionals. Urbanization drives demand for property operations, including maintenance, tenant interactions, and returns. Population growth fuels the need for residential, commercial, industrial spaces, and rental properties. Technology plays a crucial role, with digital solutions enhancing accountability through lease management, tenant communication, and customer satisfaction. Property maintenance and tenant management remain key focus areas, especially during lockdowns and economic uncertainty. Anarock Property Consultants' opportunity assessment highlights trends like smart building projects, workplace mobility, and IoT devices. Real-time data and smart buildings prioritize public safety and offer cost savings. However, financial limitations and security risks require careful consideration when deploying AR, VR technologies. Porter's Five Forces analysis reveals components like competition, supplier power, buyer power, threat of new entrants, and threat of substitutes. Cloud-based solutions cater to SMEs and large enterprises in verticals like ITES, telecommunications, banking, financial services, insurance, manufacturing, consumer goods, healthcare, entertainment, and trade. Blockchain technology is revolutionizing the property management industry by enabling faster and more secure transactions and information exchanges. Smart contracts based on this technology are becoming popular alternatives to traditional lease agreements and rent-collecting procedures. These contracts automate contract processing, saving time and effort, while adding safety and transparency to real estate transactions. Another emerging trend is property tokenization, which transforms specific properties into tokens for secure transfer between contract parties. This innovative approach streamlines transactions and opens new opportunities for real estate startups. Insights on how AI is driving innovation, efficiency, and market growth- Request Sample! Market Challenges Property management entails overseeing and maintaining real estate assets, including residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. Property owners and landlords rely on real estate professionals to ensure optimal property operations and returns. Urbanization and population growth present challenges, such as tenant interactions, maintenance, and accountability. Technology plays a crucial role, with digital solutions enhancing lease management, tenant communication, and customer satisfaction. Economic uncertainty and lockdowns necessitate adaptability and innovation. Anarock Property Consultants' opportunity assessment highlights the potential of smart building projects, workplace mobility, and IoT devices. However, financial limitations, security risks, and compliance concerns necessitate careful consideration when deploying AR, VR technologies, or IT solutions. Porter's Five Forces analysis reveals components like competition, suppliers, buyers, threats, and substitutes impacting the property management market. Organizations, from SMEs to Large Enterprises in sectors like ITES, Telecommunications, Banking, Financial Services, Insurance, Manufacturing, Consumer Goods, Healthcare, Entertainment, and Trade, grapple with these challenges. Advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, chatbots, and machine learning, are revolutionizing the property management industry. These technologies streamline problem-solving processes, keeping customers informed and in control. By analyzing customer behavior patterns, property managers can offer customized solutions. Customer-facing applications are emerging, allowing customers to engage in the management process. Data analytics is being integrated into property management software to derive insights, better understand customer needs, and predict demand trends. These advancements enhance customer satisfaction and efficiency in property management. Insights into how AI is reshaping industries and driving growth- Download a Sample Report Segment Overview This property management market report extensively covers market segmentation by 1.1 Commercial 1.2 Industrial 1.3 Residential 1.4 Recreational marinas 2.1 Solutions 2.2 Services 3.1 North America 3.2 Europe 3.3 APAC 3.4 South America 3.5 Middle East and Africa 1.1 Commercial- Commercial property management involves overseeing the administration and operation of non-residential properties, including office buildings, retail spaces, industrial facilities, and commercial complexes. The commercial segment requires specialized expertise in tasks unique to commercial real estate, such as lease negotiations, tenant retention strategies, facility maintenance, and adherence to commercial property regulations. The demand for commercial property management services has escalated due to the intricacy of managing diverse commercial real estate portfolios. Notably, the APAC region, particularly China and India , is experiencing significant growth in the commercial property sector. Cities like Shanghai and Beijing in China have witnessed increased office space requirements, with international corporations setting up operations. In the Middle East , countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia , and Qatar are expanding their commercial sectors with infrastructure projects and free zones. Dubai , for instance, has emerged as a global business hub, necessitating advanced commercial property management services for large office complexes, shopping malls, and industrial zones. The growth of the commercial real estate sector will continue to fuel the market's expansion in the commercial segment during the forecast period. Download complimentary Sample Report to gain insights into AI's impact on market dynamics, emerging trends, and future opportunities- including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2017 - 2021) Research Analysis Property management refers to the process of overseeing and maintaining real estate properties on behalf of property owners, landlords, and real estate professionals. Urbanization and population growth have led to an increased demand for property management services, encompassing residential, commercial, industrial spaces, and rental properties. Property operations include tenant interactions, maintenance, and ensuring optimal returns for property ownership experience. The property management market faces various challenges such as lockdowns and economic uncertainty. However, digital solutions are transforming the industry, enabling efficient property management through cloud-based platforms and on-premises systems. Porter's Five Forces analysis reveals component suppliers as a significant force, with ITES and real estate professionals as buyers. Deployment types include on-premises and cloud solutions, catering to organization sizes ranging from SMEs to large enterprises in the verticals of property management. Market Research Overview Property management refers to the process of overseeing and maintaining real estate properties on behalf of property owners, landlords, and real estate professionals. Urbanization and population growth have led to an increased demand for property management services, encompassing residential, commercial, industrial spaces, and rental properties. Property operations include maintenance, tenant interactions, and lease management. Technology plays a crucial role, with digital solutions offering accountability, tenant communication, and customer satisfaction. Porter's Five Forces analysis reveals components such as threat of new entrants, bargaining power of buyers, suppliers, and substitutes, and competitive rivalry. Property management solutions are deployed on-premises or in the cloud, catering to SMEs and large enterprises across various verticals like ITES, telecommunications, banking, financial services, insurance, manufacturing, consumer goods, healthcare, entertainment, and trade. The ongoing challenges of lockdowns and economic uncertainty necessitate smart building projects, workplace mobility, IoT devices, real-time data, and smart devices. Financial limitations, security risks, and compliance concerns call for innovative solutions like AR and VR technologies, data structures, IT teams, and buyer experiences. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation Application Commercial Industrial Residential Recreational Marinas Component Solutions Services Geography North America Europe APAC South America Middle East And Africa 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio