The road back home
This ASX All Ords stock is undervalued and could rocket 60%+
Alliant Energy Corp. stock outperforms competitors despite losses on the dayFalcons feeling the pressure at .500 as Cousins' interceptions put spotlight on downturn for offense
Saints hope to ride the Rizzi factor back to relevance after their bye weekIn a world of great need there are more ways to donate money than ever — how should you give?
Sixers say Paul George will miss at least two games with left knee bone bruise
ATLANTA (AP) — Even the woeful NFC South, where no team has a winning record, can't hide the Atlanta Falcons' offensive shortcomings. Three straight setbacks, including an ugly 17-13 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, has left the Falcons 6-6 and feeling the pressure. Only a tiebreaker advantage over Tampa Bay has kept the Falcons atop the division.CHIPOTLE fans could be in for a shock as the chain's new finance chief considers price increases on three popular menu items. The Mexican grill restaurant with around 3,500 locations could soon be hiking prices on its burritos and rice bowls as the company battles rising costs. There have already been six price increases between 2021 and 2024 which has seen some customers already launch boycotts claiming that the chain is no longer affordable. The latest discussion about raising prices comes as raw ingredients like avocados, queso and sour cream become more expensive for Chipotle to buy. This increase could be offset by changes to prices on menus, meaning it will directly impact customers. But, to keep fans loyal, the chain is reportedly hoping to give them different offers and discounts. read more on chipotle Regardless of any increased costs, Chief Financial Officer Adam Rymer told The Wall Street Journal that customers still get better overall value compared to rival chains. Rymer, who took over as CFO in October said that any price increase that takes place will be "modest" as he hopes to keep menu items affordable for customers. It is not known when this supposed price hike would take place. Rymer has been with the Mexican restaurant chain for 15 years, previously taking on roles including vice president of finance and compensation analyst. Most read in Money His predecessor ex-CFO Brian Niccol left the chain in August to become the new CEO of Starbucks which saw Rymer's start date move from January to October. As other fast-food chains have been hit hard by inflation , losing custom and staff, Chiptole has managed to push on through the pressures facing the industry. In the company's latest quarterly results, its same-store sales increased by 6 per cent compared to the same time last year. Also, revenue grew by 13 per cent to $2.8 billion year over year. Despite this success, following the latest news of possible increases, outraged customers took to Facebook to share their thoughts. Many highlighted that previous rises in costs pushed them away from the chain. "Is already pricey enough. Haven't eaten Chipotle in months," one wrote. "Stopped eating there several months ago - skimpy servings for the high price we were paying - and we never added meat = vegetarian!" another added. "Good. I need to start eating healthier and more at home," a third noted. Others warned customers to "get ready to pay more for EVERYTHING" and that Chipotle should prepare "to lose customers." One even accused the chain of "greed." But, a senior analyst at Baird claims that the chain's price hikes have not had a huge effect on its customer base yet and that another one would "likely be digestible," per the WSJ. David Tarantino said that one reason for this is that Chiptole customers are typically more well-off than those of other fast-food chains and that its products offer better value overall. He said: "[Chipotle's] price increases are lagging what we're seeing elsewhere, and that leads to a much stronger value proposition." Read More on The US Sun It comes just months after the chain's CEO was forced to issue a change after diners threatened to boycott. The U.S. Sun has reached out to Chipotle for comment regarding the menu price increase.
Are we truly happy? This question lingers in my mind repeatedly. The word ‘happiness’ holds different meanings for different people. For some, it is tied to wealth, for others, to good health or material possessions. Yet, the essence of true happiness remains a mystery in this chaotic world. In today’s fast-paced, hyper connected world, the pursuit of happiness often feels like chasing shadows in a storm. We live in an era defined by unprecedented technological advances, yet paradoxically, we find ourselves grappling with heightened stress, anxiety etc. This paradox begs the question: what is real happiness, and how do we redefine it in an age marked by chaos? The 21st century offers unparalleled conveniences, from instant communication to on-demand services. But alongside these luxuries, we are bombarded with a relentless stream of news cycles, social media updates, and societal pressures to excel. Global crises such as climate change, pandemics, political unrest etc. further amplify a collective sense of instability. These external factors, combined with internal struggles, create a perfect storm that clouds our understanding of what happiness truly entails. For many, happiness has become synonymous with material success and external validation. We equate joy with promotions, luxury cars, and Instagram-worthy vacations. However, these fleeting pleasures often leave us emptier than before. True happiness, as philosophers and psychologists suggest, stems not from external achievements but from internal contentment and meaningful connections yes the meaningful connections which we lost in this social media era. Amidst the chaos, there’s a growing movement advocating for a return to simplicity. Practices such as mindfulness and gratitude are gaining traction as antidotes to modern life’s overwhelming demands. Mindfulness teaches us to live in the moment, savoring small joys-a child’s laughter, a sunset, or a shared meal. Gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have, fostering a sense of abundance. By focusing on what truly matters, we free ourselves from the tyranny of excess and discover contentment in less. In an age of individualism, fostering a sense of community and belonging is crucial for happiness. Shared experiences, support systems, and acts of kindness create a ripple effect that uplifts not only individuals but society as a whole. Redefining happiness in the age of chaos is not merely an individual endeavor but a collective mission. Governments and institutions must prioritize policies that promote mental health, work-life balance, and social equity. Simultaneously, individuals must take deliberate steps to disconnect from distractions, align their actions with their values, and nurture their inner well-being. Real happiness is not found in the accumulation of things but in the richness of experiences, relationships, and inner peace. It is a state of being that arises from: Human beings are inherently social creatures, and nurturing relationships with family, friends, and community is crucial for emotional well-being. Sharing joy, supporting each other, and feeling a sense of belonging create a reservoir of happiness that sustains us through life’s challenges. A life guided by purpose-whether through work, passion projects, or service to others-provides a sense of accomplishment and direction. It’s not about what we achieve but why we do what we do that determines our happiness. Practicing gratitude for what we have, rather than lamenting what we lack, shifts our focus to the abundance around us. Contentment stems not from settling for less but from appreciating the simple joys of life-a warm meal, a kind word, or a moment of quiet reflection. Dwelling on the past or worrying about the future robs us of the present moment’s joy. Mindfulness and meditation can help anchor us to the here and now, where happiness truly resides. Decluttering both physically and mentally can free up space for what truly matters. Prioritize experiences over possessions and quality over quantity. Embrace Kindness and Generosity: Acts of kindness, no matter how small, create a ripple effect that brings happiness not just to the receiver but also to the giver. Volunteer, help a neighbor, or simply offer a smile-it all counts. Physical well-being is deeply connected to mental happiness. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep form the foundation of a happy life. Invest in Relationships: Make time for loved ones, have meaningful conversations, and be present in your interactions. Building strong emotional bonds is one of the most reliable paths to happiness. Therefore, gaining real happiness is not about reaching a fixed point but embracing the journey itself. It is about recognising that life’s ups and downs are inevitable and finding ways to cultivate joy and resilience through it all. Happiness is not something to be pursued externally; it is discovered within, nurtured by our actions, choices, and mindset. (The author is from Faculty, Department of Commerce, Udhampur Campus, University of Jammu)Pittsburgh Steelers: Report Reveals Potential Fate Of Russell Wilson With Team
SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 2, 2024-- SoundHound AI, Inc. (Nasdaq: SOUN), a global leader in voice artificial intelligence, today announced that it will participate in the following investor conferences in December: Webcast registration links will be available before each conference on SoundHound’s investor relations website at investors.soundhound.com . If you wish to receive company email notifications, please register here . About SoundHound AI SoundHound (Nasdaq: SOUN), a global leader in conversational intelligence, offers voice and conversational AI solutions that let businesses offer incredible experiences to their customers. Built on proprietary technology, SoundHound’s voice AI delivers best-in-class speed and accuracy in numerous languages to product creators and service providers across retail, financial services, healthcare, automotive, smart devices, and restaurants via groundbreaking AI-driven products like Smart Answering, Smart Ordering, Dynamic Drive Thru, and Amelia AI Agents. Along with SoundHound Chat AI, a powerful voice assistant with integrated Generative AI, SoundHound powers millions of products and services, and processes billions of interactions each year for world class businesses. www.soundhound.com . View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241202763976/en/ CONTACT: Investors: Scott Smith 408-724-1498 IR@SoundHound.comMedia : Fiona McEvoy 415-610-6590 PR@SoundHound.com KEYWORD: CALIFORNIA ARIZONA UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: SOFTWARE TECHNOLOGY AUDIO/VIDEO ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SOURCE: SoundHound AI, Inc. Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/02/2024 04:37 PM/DISC: 12/02/2024 04:37 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241202763976/en
The Taiwanese defence ministry is on high alert as it monitors the movements of a Chinese aircraft carrier, amid speculations of imminent military exercises by China. Sources suggest that these exercises could coincide with Taiwan President Lai Ching-te's trip to the Pacific, which includes visits to Hawaii and Guam. China, claiming Taiwan as its territory, has repeatedly expressed its displeasure towards President Lai, labeling him a 'separatist.' The Chinese government, already displeased by Lai's U.S. visit, might use military drills to underscore its stance. Recent intelligence indicates a 'busier' than usual maritime activity, possibly signifying preparation for the drills. Adding to the region's military complexity, a Russian naval fleet has approached Taiwan's contiguous zone, conducting simulated joint attacks with Chinese counterparts. These developments, coupled with China's deployment of an aircraft carrier group, amplify concerns over potential military conflict in the region. (With inputs from agencies.)Seahawks have taken a bumpy path to first place in the NFC West
Justin Herbert tosses 3 TDs, Chargers clinch a playoff spot with a 40-7 rout of Patriots FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Justin Herbert threw three touchdown passes and the Los Angeles Chargers clinched their second playoff appearance in three seasons with a 40-7 victory over the New England Patriots. The win also secured the fourth postseason appearance in Jim Harbaugh’s five seasons as an NFL coach, adding to the three he made during his stint with the San Francisco 49ers. Herbert finished 26 of 38 for 281 yards to become the third player in NFL history with at least 3,000 passing yards and 20 touchdown passes in each of his first five seasons. The Patriots have lost six straight games, their second such losing streak of the season. They are now 2-14 the last two seasons at home. Dallas' Naji Marshall gets 4-game suspension, Phoenix's Jusuf Nurkic is banned 3 games for fight The NBA has suspended Dallas Mavericks forward Naji Marshall for four games and Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkic for three games for their roles in an on-court fight during Friday night’s game. Dallas forward P.J. Washington was suspended for one game. All of the suspensions are without pay. Nurkic was called for an offensive foul while being guarded by Daniel Gafford with 9:02 left in the third quarter before the altercation quickly escalated. Nurkic confronted Marshall before taking an open-handed swing at his head and then Marshall responded with a punch. Washington quickly shoved Nurkic to the ground before the teams were separated. The NBA said Marshall “attempted to further engage Nurkic in a hostile manner in the corridor outside the locker rooms.” Shohei Ohtani to become a father for the 1st time in 2025 LOS ANGELES (AP) — Shohei Ohtani is adding a newcomer to his family lineup. The Los Angeles Dodgers superstar has posted on his Instagram account that he and wife Mamiko Tanaka are expecting a baby in 2025. The photo shows the couple's beloved dog, Decoy, as well as a pink ruffled onesie along with baby shoes and a sonogram that is covered by a baby emoji. Ohtani announced in February that he had married Tanaka, a former professional basketball player from his native Japan. The news from the intensely private player stunned Ohtani's teammates and his fans. Eli Manning and Antonio Gates are among the finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Two-time Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning, former Defensive Players of the Year Luke Kuechly and Terrell Suggs, and prolific tight end Antonio Gates are among the finalists for the 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame class. The Hall on Saturday announced the names of the 15 modern-era finalists who advanced from a group of 25 to the final stage of voting. The selection committee will vote next month to pick the class of between three and five modern-era players that will be announced the week of the Super Bowl. Georgia QB Carson Beck announces plan to enter NFL draft after season-ending elbow injury Georgia quarterback Carson Beck has announced his plans to enter the NFL draft, five days after having season-ending elbow surgery. The fifth-year senior made his NFL plans official on social media. Beck suffered a right elbow injury in the first half of the Bulldogs’ 22-19 overtime win over Texas in the Southeastern Conference championship game on Dec. 7. Beck had surgery on Monday to repair his ulnar collateral ligament in the elbow. He is expected to begin throwing next spring. Backup Gunner Stockton will make his first start in the Sugar Bowl against Notre Dame on Wednesday. Victor Wembanyama plays 1-on-1 chess with fans in New York Victor Wembanyama went to a park in New York City and played 1-on-1 with fans on Saturday. He even lost a couple of games. Not in basketball, though. Wemby was playing chess. Before the San Antonio Spurs left New York for a flight to Minnesota, Wembanyama put out the call on social media: “Who wants to meet me at the SW corner of Washington Square park to play chess? Im there,” Wembanyama wrote. It was 9:36 a.m. And people began showing up almost immediately. Mavs star Luka Doncic is latest pro athlete whose home was burglarized, business manager says DALLAS (AP) — Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks is the latest professional athlete whose home has been burglarized. The star guard’s business manager tells multiple media outlets there was a break-in at Doncic’s home Friday night. Lara Beth Seager says nobody was home, and Doncic filed a police report. The Dallas Morning News reports that jewelry valued at about $30,000 was stolen. Doncic is the sixth known pro athlete in the U.S. whose home was burglarized since October. Star NFL quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes of Kansas City and Joe Burrow of Cincinnati are among them. The NFL and NBA have issued security alerts to players over the break-ins. Panthers place 1,000-yard rusher Chuba Hubbard on IR for final 2 games with strained calf CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The Carolina Panthers have shut down leading rusher Chuba Hubbard for the final two games of the season because of a strained calf. He was placed on injured reserve Saturday. Hubbard was limited in practice Friday with a knee injury and was listed as questionable to play Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. After practice, Hubbard complained of pain and had an MRI, which revealed a grade two calf strain, according to the team. Hubbard ran for 1,195 yards and 10 touchdowns this season. He becomes the third Panthers running back to be placed on injured reserve this season, joining Miles Sanders and rookie Jonathan Brooks. Patriots QB Drake Maye returns to game after evaluation for head injury vs. Chargers FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye has returned to the game after being evaluated for a head injury following a blow to the helmet in the first quarter of New England’s matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers. Maye was scrambling near the sideline on third down of the Patriots’ first possession of the game when he was hit by Chargers cornerback Cam Hart. Maye stayed down on the turf for several seconds before eventually getting up and jogging off the field on his own power. He briefly sat on the bench before going to the medical tent and then the locker room. He was replaced by backup Jacoby Brissett in the next series. But Maye returned at the 10:15 mark of the second quarter. Corbin Burnes and Arizona Diamondbacks agree to $210 million, 6-year deal, AP source says PHOENIX (AP) — Corbin Burnes and the Arizona Diamondbacks have agreed to a $210 million, six-year contract, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the deal was pending a successful physical. The 30-year-old Burnes was perhaps the top free agent pitcher on the market after going 15-9 with a 2.92 ERA for Baltimore last season. The Orioles acquired the right-hander in a February trade after he spent his first six major league seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers.