
Trump's Hush Money Sentencing Delayed As Legal Immunity Debate EscalatesI am not against any brilliant very young chap getting admission into our university system from either rich or poor backgrounds, if he or she deserves it. We should not forget that there is no age limit or requirements to getting wisdom or talents as Michael Jackson started his dance and music career at five while still schooling. The problem of our educational system goes beyond this. What our leaders need to be concerned more about should be how to address poor out-of-school children. If not addressed, they remain potential future terrorists, bandits and kidnappers. Imagine being afraid to move around or to continue your journey when it becomes very dark just because we have growing jobless citizens with no social security as our leaders continue to get more for themselves through constituency projects and jumbo pay. Secondly, our leaders should make our educational standard count, from primary to universities, technical and polytechnic, essentially to help create opportunities for self-employment to address the rising rate of idleness and rising youth unemployment, which are adding up to insecurity in the country. This has made more youths embrace internet scams and be recruited by unknown gunmen, terrorists, bandits and prostitutes. For God’s sake? Can our society not start helping gifted and talented people to become more productive like in other climes and to check people “japaing” (migration)? I think parents have a role to play aside from our leaders. Related News 5 ways to stay healthy as you age ‘Giving children tasks above their age hinders brain development’ School of nursing admission adverts fake — Rivers govt Accepted, you want your children to become well-read getting a degree or diploma or any certificate for that matter but try to look out for their talents as they are growing up and help to nurture them to become great just as MJ’s parents did making him become King of Pop. Parents should stop forcing their children to study what they are not prepared for. Instance, you cannot force any child to study medicine when he or she is an art or commercial student. Allow God to do His work in their lives. And after all, we have seen some that studied medicine law and others but ended up doing something else like music and other stuff they never even studied. Mind you, whatever you can survive with, remain your God’s given talents. Our youths will have no excuse to indulge in crime if we begin to encourage talented and gifted people, especially the youths and insecurity will eventually reduce. Emeka Anozie is an ex-private secretary to the former Federal Minister of Information, Otunba T. O. S. Benson. He is a writer, political analyst in mass media for good governance and human rights activist. He writes from Lagos. [email protected]
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The buzz around the upcoming Bande Passante Flight Simulator 2024 is dominating gaming forums, promising a revolutionary blend of realism and technology. The title suggests a significant leap in how flight simulation enthusiasts will experience the virtual skies, incorporating advanced bandwidth technologies to enhance connectivity and realism. This breakthrough relies on the integration of 5G and fiber-optic technologies , enabling unprecedented data transfer speeds crucial for simulating expansive, immersive worlds. These advancements are expected to facilitate real-time weather dynamics, global air traffic data updates, and collaborative multiplayer experiences with minimal latency. An exciting feature to watch is the use of artificial intelligence in enhancing the flight experience. AI-powered systems will manage more lifelike air traffic scenarios, providing dynamic challenges that adapt to player actions, making every session unique. Additionally, enhanced AI-driven co-pilot functions will assist players with complex navigation and aircraft management tasks. Virtual Reality (VR) Compatibility is another cornerstone of the 2024 edition. The promises of immersive, 360-degree experiences in the cockpit are becoming a reality, pushing the boundaries of simulation and offering a near-authentic pilot experience. Coupled with advanced haptic feedback devices, players might soon not only see and hear but also feel their simulations. In summary, the Bande Passante Flight Simulator 2024 is on track to set new standards in the simulation genre. By intertwining cutting-edge technology and innovative gameplay mechanics, it aims to craft an authentic, seamless flight experience that remains unmatched in 2024 and beyond. Sky-High Innovations: What to Expect from Bande Passante Flight Simulator 2024 The soon-to-be-unveiled Bande Passante Flight Simulator 2024 is setting the stage for a transformative experience in the world of virtual flight. This cutting-edge flight simulator is packed with innovative features and state-of-the-art technology, promising to elevate the standards of realism and interactivity in the simulation genre. Key Features and Innovations One of the standout features is its reliance on 5G and fiber-optic technologies . These advancements are central to delivering high-speed data transfer, which is essential for creating vast, immersive virtual environments. Players can anticipate real-time updates on weather conditions and air traffic data, creating a dynamic and ever-changing world that responds seamlessly to player actions and decisions. A highlight that has enthusiasts buzzing is the integration of artificial intelligence . AI will play a crucial role in generating more realistic air traffic scenarios. This technology adapts to individual player styles, presenting unique challenges during each session. The AI-driven co-pilot is another asset, as it aids in complex navigation and aircraft management tasks, providing valuable assistance to both novice and seasoned pilots. Virtual Reality Compatibility The 2024 edition of the flight simulator is fully compatible with Virtual Reality (VR) , offering an unparalleled immersive experience. With a 360-degree view inside the virtual cockpit, the line between simulation and reality becomes increasingly blurred. The addition of advanced haptic feedback devices will enhance this realism, allowing players not only to see and hear their environments but also to feel them. Pros and Cons – Pros: – Immersive and realistic flight experience. – State-of-the-art technologies enhancing connectivity and interactivity. – AI features tailoring unique challenges for users. – Full VR compatibility for an authentic cockpit experience. – Cons: – Requires high-speed internet for optimal performance. – May necessitate investment in VR and haptic feedback equipment for full experience. Market Impact and Predictions The integration of these advanced technologies positions Bande Passante Flight Simulator 2024 at the forefront of market trends. This simulator is likely to influence future developments not only within flight simulation but across various simulation genres, as competing developers scramble to match its high standards. Pricing and Availability While exact pricing details have not been confirmed, industry analysts anticipate competitive pricing given the range of features offered. As the release date approaches, further announcements about pre-orders and bundle options, including VR setups, are expected. Sustainability and Future Trends With growing attention on sustainability, the developers of Bande Passante Flight Simulator 2024 are reportedly exploring eco-friendly practices in game development and server management. This initiative could set a precedent for sustainable gaming practices within the industry. Conclusion Bande Passante Flight Simulator 2024 promises to redefine virtual aviation through its blend of technology and gameplay innovations. As anticipation builds, enthusiasts and newcomers alike eagerly await the opportunity to take to the virtual skies with unmatched realism and connectivity. For further updates and announcements, explore the latest developments in the world of gaming technology.Winners of 3 straight, UTEP takes aim at short-handed Louisville
NoneJACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Robert McCray scored 22 points as Jacksonville beat East Tennessee State 60-52 on Saturday. McCray added five rebounds, five steals, and four blocks for the Dolphins (6-5). Zimi Nwokeji scored 15 points while going 5 of 6 (4 for 5 from 3-point range) and added five rebounds. Kendall Munson shot 3 of 4 from the field and 2 for 3 from the line to finish with eight points. The Buccaneers (6-5) were led by John Buggs III, who recorded 15 points. East Tennessee State also got 13 points and five assists from Quimari Peterson. Jaden Seymour also put up nine points and two blocks. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .
NoneFrance faces political turmoil as confidence vote topples PM Barnier's govt
Charles Schwab Corp. stock rises Wednesday, still underperforms marketJim Carrey revealed why he returned for Sonic the Hedgehog 3 to reprise his role as Doctor Robotnik. During the film’s UK premiere in London, the Ace Ventura Pet Detective star joked about why he signed on to do the third installment of the film based on the Sega video game. “I came back to this universe because, first of all, I get to play a genius, which is a bit of a stretch. And, you know, it’s just... I bought a lot of stuff and I need the money, frankly. Yeah,” Carrey told the Associated Press . In 2022, wh en the Bruce Almighty star was promoting the sequel to Sonic the Hedgehog , he said he was retiring from acting . “I’m being fairly serious,” he said in an interview to Access Hollywood at the time. “It depends. If the angels bring some sort of script that’s written in gold ink, that says to me that it’s going to be really important for people to see, I might continue down the road. But I’m taking a break.” When AP asked during the premiere on December 10 about what he said in 2022, Carrey said, “That might have been hyperbole.” Sonic the Hedgehog 3 opens in U.S. theaters on December 20. The third installment of the action-adventure film has Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles facing a mysterious adversary known as Shadow the Hedgehog and are forced to form an unlikely alliance with villain Dr. Robotnik. The voice cast includes Ben Schwartz as Sonic, Colleen O’Shaughnessey as Tails, Idris Elba as Knuckles, and Keanu Reeves as Shadow. Live-action actors include Carrey, James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, Krysten Ritter, Natasha Rothwell, Lee Majdoub, Tom Butler, Adam Pally, Shemar Moore and Alyla Browne.
What does your horoscope say about you today: Thursday, November 28White House pressing Ukraine to draft 18-year-olds so it has enough troops to battle Russia
Viewers say that the television reboot of the romance thriller Cruel Intentions is so "bad" that they can't look away. Reviews are rolling in for the Amazon Prime Video television series based on the original 1999 hit film by the same name. The reboot, which launched on Nov. 21, is a TV adaptation of the movie that was met with widespread success that starred Reese Witherspoon , Sarah Michelle Gellar, and Ryan Phillippe. And while the reboot features an all-new cast, one member of the original crew joined the project. Actor Sean Patrick Thomas reprised his role from the OG movie as he took on the role of Ronald Clifford, CeCe’s love interest, once again. The show follows a similar storyline to the movie as viewers follow the lives of step-siblings Caroline and Lucien as they work to stay at the top of the social ladder at Manchester College. But after getting entangled in a hazing scandal, the pair are on a mission to seek revenge on their nemesis Annie Grover who is the daughter of the Vice President of the United States. Al Michaels audibly disgusted on NFL's Amazon Prime Video commentary - 'what was that?' Cruel Intentions reboot drops release date and steamy new trailer - here’s how you can watch As the movie is given new life on the small screen, fans have taken to social media sharing their mixed reactions towards the show. On X, formerly Twitter, one person wrote: "The #CruelIntentions reboot is predictably bad, but once you stop comparing it to the greatest movie ever made, it’s fun to watch in a tacky, addictive way. The main pair share an unforgivable lack of chemistry, but the supporting cast save it. It’s also gayer than the original." Some viewers were pleased with the reboot as one fan wrote: "i want another season IM SEATED FOR ANOTHER ONE." Another echoed: "so most of us are in agreement that cruel intentions actually turned out to be a decent reimagining and s2 could only make the show better??" While a third satisfied chimed in: "i haven't watched a trash series that kept me glued to the screen in a long time. we are so back!" But others were less pleased with the remake. One disappointed viewer wrote: "The #CruelIntentions series is worse than I could have ever imagined." Another added: "I can't with episode 8, the way I shouted at that last few minutes. It's so disturbing I wanna crawl in ball & gouge my eyes out again." A third said: "i binged the #cruelintentions remake and i thought it was a limited series, but it doesn't even have a real ending." Click here to follow the Mirror US on Google News to stay up to date with all the latest news, sport and entertainment stories. All the latest news, showbiz, lifestyle and sports updates, brought to you by our dedicated American team. Follow the Mirror US News page on Facebook to make sure you're not missing out. DAILY NEWSLETTER: Sign up here to get the latest news and updates from the Mirror US straight to your inbox with our FREE newsletter.U.S. stock indexes reached more records after tech companies talked up how much artificial intelligence is boosting their results. The S&P 500 climbed 0.6% Wednesday to add to what looks to be one of its best years of the millennium. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.7%, while the Nasdaq composite added 1.3% to its own record. Salesforce pulled the market higher after highlighting its artificial-intelligence offering for customers. Marvell Technology jumped even more after saying it’s seeing strong demand from AI. Treasury yields eased, while bitcoin climbed after President-elect Donald Trump nominated a crypto advocate to head the Securities and Exchange Commission. On Wednesday: The S&P 500 rose 36.61 points, or 0.6%, to 6,086.49. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 308.51 points, or 0.7%, to 45,014.04. The Nasdaq composite rose 254.21 points, or 1.3%, to 19,735.12. The Russell 2000 index of smaller companies rose 10.22 points, or 0.4%, to 2,426.56. For the week: The S&P 500 is up 54.11 points, or 0.9%. The Dow is up 103.39 points, or 0.2%. The Nasdaq is up 516.95 points, or 2.7%. The Russell 2000 is down 8.16 points, or 0.3%. For the year: The S&P 500 is up 1,316.66 points, or 27.6%. The Dow is up 7,324.50 points, or 19.4%. The Nasdaq is up 4,723.76 points, or 31.5%. The Russell 2000 is up 399.49 points, or 19.7%.
Intel claims retailers are facing high return rates for Snapdragon PCs, Qualcomm denies itIDT’s income from operations +38% to $23.6 million; Adjusted EBITDA * +31% to a record $29.1 million GAAP EPS increased to $0.68 from $0.30; Non-GAAP EPS * increased to $0.71 from $0.32 NEWARK, NJ, Dec. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- IDT Corporation (NYSE: IDT), a global provider of fintech, cloud communications, and traditional communications solutions, today reported results for its first quarter fiscal year 2025, the three months ended October 31, 2024. FIRST QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS (Throughout this release, unless otherwise noted, results for the first quarter of fiscal year 2025 (1Q25) are compared to the first quarter of fiscal year 2024 (1Q24). All earnings per share (EPS) and other ‘per share’ results are per diluted share.) Key Businesses / Segments NRS Recurring revenue ** : +29% to $28.9 million; Income from operations: +21% to $6.6 million; Adjusted EBITDA: +22% to $7.6 million; BOSS Money / Fintech BOSS Money revenue: +39% to $33.7 million; Fintech segment revenue : +40% to $37.1 million; Fintech segment income from operations: increased to $3.2 million compared to a loss of $(1.4) million; Fintech segment Adjusted EBITDA: increased to $4.0 million compared to a loss of $(690) thousand; net2phone Subscription revenue ** : +13% to $21.0 million; Income from operations: increased to $1.0 million compared to breakeven; Adjusted EBITDA: +77% to $2.5 million; Traditional Communications Revenue: decreased (4)% to $220.5 million; Income from operations: +2% to $15.7 million; Adjusted EBITDA: decreased (1)% to $17.8 million; IDT Consolidated Revenue : +3% to $309.6 million, driven by revenue growth at NRS, BOSS Money, net2phone, and the IDT Digital Payments business within Traditional Communications; Gross profit (GP) / margin : GP +15% to $107.6 million; GP margin +360 bps to 34.8%; Income from operations: +38% to $23.6 million; Net income attributable to IDT: +125% to $17.2 million; GAAP EPS: Increased to $0.68 from $0.30; Non-GAAP EPS : Increased to $0.71from $0.32; Adjusted EBITDA: +31% to $29.1 million; Repurchased 37,714 shares of IDT Class B common stock in market transactions for $1.3 million. REMARKS BY SHMUEL JONAS, CEO “Building on our momentum from fiscal 2024, IDT delivered strong financial results in the first quarter of fiscal 2025, including record levels of gross profit, gross profit margin and Adjusted EBITDA. Consolidated revenue has now increased sequentially for three consecutive quarters. NRS along with our Fintech segment powered by BOSS Money, and net2phone each achieved robust increases in revenue, gross profit, and Adjusted EBITDA. “At NRS, we are focused on providing solutions to address the needs of our independent retailer market while heavily investing to develop new products and services to broaden our addressable market. In Q1, we continued to achieve increased adoption rates on our payment processing offerings and SaaS feature plans. We look forward to continuing this momentum through the remainder of the fiscal year. “BOSS Money’s Q1 results reflected our decision to enhance margins, particularly within our retail channel. As a result, BOSS Money’s gross margin expanded significantly and transaction growth slowed somewhat. The enhanced margins boosted Fintech’s Q1 income from operations by $4.6 million year-over-year, and in November, following the quarter close, transaction growth rebounded led by D2C. “net2phone increased seats served to over four hundred thousand, driving a 13% increase in subscription revenue, despite the negative FX impact to its Latin American operations from the strong US dollar. net2phone’s financial discipline also contributed to healthy increases in income from operations and Adjusted EBITDA. “In the Traditional Communications segment, our ongoing efforts to streamline these business units and improve their economics continue to pay off. In Q1, the year over year revenue decrease was 4%, while income from operations increased by 2%." 1Q25 RESULTS BY SEGMENT National Retail Solutions (NRS) NRS Take-Aways / Updates: NRS added approximately 1,000 net active terminals during Q1, a decrease in net adds compared to recent quarters. The decrease primarily reflects elevated (and expected, as noted in IDT’s 4Q24 earnings release) - seasonal churn. In addition, NRS added approximately 1,400 net payment processing accounts during the quarter. The 51% increase in Merchant Services & Other revenue was driven by the growth in payment processing accounts, and higher merchant services revenue per account, driven in part by the increased percentage of retail transactions paid with a credit or debit card. The 30% increase in SaaS Fees revenue reflects the growth of net active terminals and migration of retailers to premium SaaS plans. Fintech Fintech Take-Aways: BOSS Money revenue increased 39% driven primarily by successful cross-marketing initiatives within the larger BOSS ecosystem and, to a lesser extent, by expansion of the retail agent network. The increase in BOSS Money transactions reflected a 41% increase in digital transactions and a 29% increase in retail transactions. Across both channels, and particularly in the retail channel, BOSS Money focused during Q1 on expanding gross margin per transaction, which contributed to a 45% increase in the Fintech segment’s gross profit even as year-over-year transaction growth at Retail slowed. The strong increases in Fintech’s income from operations and Adjusted EBITDA were driven by BOSS Money revenue growth, higher margin on BOSS Money transactions and improved operating leverage as the business continues to scale. net2phone net2phone Take-Aways: Seats served increased by 11% year over year powered by continued expansion in key markets led by the U.S., Brazil, and Mexico. CCaaS seats served increased by 19% year-over year. Subscription revenue increased by 13% year-over-year driven both by the growth in seats served and in the subscription revenue-per-seat * * , as net2phone’s higher revenue-per-seat CCaaS offering continues to grow as a percentage of total seats served. These factors overcame the negative FX impact of a strengthened US dollar versus local currencies in net2phone’s key Latin American markets. Excluding the translation FX impact, subscription revenue increased by 16% year-over-year. Operating margin * * increased to +5% from break even in 1Q24, and Adjusted EBITDA margin * * increased to 12% from 7%. Traditional Communications Take-Aways: The year-over-year increase in IDT Digital Payments’ revenue largely reflects improved unit pricing economics. IDT Global continues to mitigate the impacts of the ongoing industry-wide declines in paid-minute voice through a traffic mix shift to higher margin routes and operational efficiencies. For the second consecutive quarter, both income from operations and Adjusted EBITDA for Traditional Communications increased, driven by both improved pricing at IDT Digital Payments and decreases in SG&A and Technology & Development expense, following significant cost cutting and streamlining initiatives undertaken during FY 2024. OTHER FINANCIAL RESULTS Consolidated results for all periods presented include corporate overhead. In 1Q25, Corporate G&A expense was $2.9 million compared to $2.8 million in 1Q24. As of October 31, 2024, IDT held $180.4 million in cash, cash equivalents, debt securities, and current equity investments, a decrease from $193.0 million at July 31, 2024. The decrease predominantly reflects the timing of payments made by IDT to cover anticipated BOSS Money disbursement prefunding. Also at July 31, 2024, current assets totaled $431.7 million and current liabilities totaled $269.8 million. The Company had no outstanding debt at the quarter end. Net cash provided by operating activities decreased to $0.2 million in 1Q25 from $14.9 million in 1Q24. Exclusive of changes in customer funds deposits at IDT’s Fintech segment, net cash provided by operating activities was negative $(2.6) million in 1Q25 and positive $17.9 million in 1Q24. Capital expenditures increased to $5.3 million in 1Q25 from $4.3 million in 1Q24. IDT EARNINGS ANNOUNCEMENT INFORMATION This release is available for download in the “Investors & Media” section of the IDT Corporation website ( https://www.idt.net/investors-and-media ) and has been filed on a current report (Form 8-K) with the SEC. IDT will host an earnings conference call beginning at 5:30 PM Eastern today with management’s discussion of results followed by Q&A with investors. To listen to the call and participate in the Q&A, dial 1-888-506-0062 (toll-free from the US) or 1-973-528-0011 (international) and provide the following access code: 335618. A replay of the conference call will be available approximately three hours after the call concludes through December 18, 2024. To access the call replay, dial 1-877-481-4010 (toll-free from the US) or 1-919-882-2331 (international) and provide this replay passcode: 51571. The replay will also be accessible via streaming audio at the IDT investor relations website . NOTES * Adjusted EBITDA and Non-GAAP EPS are Non-GAAP financial measures intended to provide useful information that supplements IDT’s or the relevant segment’s results in accordance with GAAP. Please refer to the Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures later in this release for an explanation of these terms and their respective reconciliations to the most directly comparable GAAP measures. * * See ‘Explanation of Key Performance Metrics’ at the end of this release. ABOUT IDT CORPORATION IDT Corporation (NYSE: IDT) is a global provider of fintech and communications solutions through a portfolio of synergistic businesses: National Retail Solutions (NRS), through its point-of-sale (POS) platform, enables independent retailers to operate more effectively while providing advertisers and marketers with unprecedented reach into underserved consumer markets; BOSS Money facilitates innovative international remittances and fintech payments solutions; net2phone provides enterprises and organizations with intelligently integrated cloud communications and contact center services across channels and devices; IDT Digital Payments and the BOSS Revolution calling service make sharing prepaid products and services and speaking with friends and family around the world convenient and reliable; and, IDT Global and IDT Express enable communications services to provision and manage international voice and SMS messaging. All statements above that are not purely about historical facts, including, but not limited to, those in which we use the words “believe,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “plan,” “intend,” “estimate,” “target” and similar expressions, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. While these forward-looking statements represent our current judgment of what may happen in the future, actual results may differ materially from the results expressed or implied by these statements due to numerous important factors. Our filings with the SEC provide detailed information on such statements and risks and should be consulted along with this release. To the extent permitted under applicable law, IDT assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements. CONTACT IDT Corporation Investor Relations Bill Ulrey william.ulrey@idt.net 973-438-3838 IDT CORPORATION CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS IDT CORPORATION CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (Unaudited) IDT CORPORATION CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited) * Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures for the First Quarter Fiscal 202 5 and 202 4 In addition to disclosing financial results that are determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (GAAP), IDT also disclosed for 1Q25, 4Q24, and 1Q24, Adjusted EBITDA, and for 1Q25 and 1Q24, non-GAAP earnings per diluted share (Non-GAAP EPS). Adjusted EBITDA and Non-GAAP EPS are non-GAAP financial measures intended to provide useful information that supplements IDT’s or the relevant segment’s results in accordance with GAAP. The following explains these terms and their respective reconciliations to the most directly comparable GAAP measures Generally, a non-GAAP measure is a numerical measure of a company’s performance, financial position, or cash flows that either excludes or includes amounts that are not normally excluded or included in the most directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP. IDT’s measure of Non-GAAP EPS is calculated by dividing non-GAAP net income by the diluted weighted-average shares. IDT’s measure of non-GAAP net income starts with net income attributable to IDT in accordance with GAAP and adds severance expense, stock-based compensation, and other operating expenses, and deducts other operating gains. These additions and subtractions are non-cash and/or non-routine items in the relevant fiscal 2025 and fiscal 2024 periods. Management believes that IDT’s Adjusted EBITDA and Non-GAAP EPS are measures which provide useful information to both management and investors by excluding certain expenses and non-routine gains and losses that may not be indicative of IDT’s or the relevant segment’s core operating results. Management uses Adjusted EBITDA, among other measures, as a relevant indicator of core operational strengths in its financial and operational decision making. In addition, management uses Adjusted EBITDA and Non-GAAP EPS to evaluate operating performance in relation to IDT’s competitors. Disclosure of these financial measures may be useful to investors in evaluating performance and allows for greater transparency to the underlying supplemental information used by management in its financial and operational decision-making. In addition, IDT has historically reported similar financial measures and believes such measures are commonly used by readers of financial information in assessing performance, therefore the inclusion of comparative numbers provides consistency in financial reporting. Management refers to Adjusted EBITDA, as well as the GAAP measures income (loss) from operations and net income, on a segment and/or consolidated level to facilitate internal and external comparisons to the segments’ and IDT's historical operating results, in making operating decisions, for budget and planning purposes, and to form the basis upon which management is compensated. While depreciation and amortization are considered operating costs under GAAP, these expenses primarily represent the non-cash current period allocation of costs associated with long-lived assets acquired or capitalized in prior periods. IDT’s Adjusted EBITDA, which is exclusive of depreciation and amortization, is a useful indicator of its current performance. Severance expense is excluded from the calculation of Adjusted EBITDA and Non-GAAP EPS. Severance expense is reflective of decisions made by management in each period regarding the aspects of IDT’s and its segments’ businesses to be focused on in light of changing market realities and other factors. While there may be similar charges in other periods, the nature and magnitude of these charges can fluctuate markedly and do not reflect the performance of IDT’s core and continuing operations. Other operating gains (expense), net, which is a component of income (loss) from operations, is excluded from the calculation of Adjusted EBITDA and Non-GAAP EPS. Other operating gains (expense), net includes, among other items, legal fees net of insurance claims related to Straight Path Communications Inc.’s stockholders’ class action and gain from the write-off of a contingent consideration liability. From time-to-time, IDT may have gains or incur costs related to non-routine legal, tax, and other matters, however, these various items generally do not occur each quarter. IDT believes the gain and losses from these non-routine matters are not components of IDT’s or the relevant segment’s core operating results. Stock-based compensation recognized by IDT and other companies may not be comparable because of the variety of types of awards as well as the various valuation methodologies and subjective assumptions that are permitted under GAAP. Stock-based compensation is excluded from IDT’s calculation of Non-GAAP EPS because management believes this allows investors to make more meaningful comparisons of the operating results per share of IDT’s core business with the results of other companies. However, stock-based compensation will continue to be a significant expense for IDT for the foreseeable future and an important part of employees’ compensation that impacts their performance. Adjusted EBITDA and Non-GAAP EPS should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for, or superior to, income (loss) from operations, cash flow from operating activities, net income, basic and diluted earnings per share or other measures of liquidity and financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. In addition, IDT’s measurements of Adjusted EBITDA and Non-GAAP EPS may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies. Following are reconciliations of Adjusted EBITDA and Non-GAAP EPS to the most directly comparable GAAP measure, which are, (a) for Adjusted EBITDA, income (loss) from operations for IDT’s reportable segments and net income for IDT on a consolidated basis, and (b) for Non-GAAP EPS, diluted earnings per share. IDT Corporation Reconciliation of Net Income to Adjusted EBITDA (unaudited) in millions. Figures may not foot or cross-foot due to rounding to millions IDT Corporation Reconciliation of Net Income to Adjusted EBITDA (unaudited) in millions. Figures may not foot or cross-foot due to rounding to millions IDT Corporation Reconciliation of Earnings per share to Non-GAAP EPS (unaudited) in millions, except per share data. Figures may not foot due to rounding to millions. * * Explanation of Key Performance Metrics NRS’ recurring revenue is calculated by subtracting NRS’ revenue from POS terminal sales from its revenue in accordance with GAAP. NRS’ Monthly Average Recurring Revenue per Terminal is calculated by dividing NRS’ recurring revenue by the average number of active POS terminals during the period. The average number of active POS terminals is calculated by adding the beginning and ending number of active POS terminals during the period and dividing by two. NRS’ recurring revenue divided by the average number of active POS terminals is divided by three when the period is a fiscal quarter. Recurring revenue and Monthly Average Recurring Revenue per Terminal are useful for comparisons of NRS’ revenue and revenue per customer to prior periods and to competitors and others in the market, as well as for forecasting future revenue from the customer base. BOSS Money’s Average Revenue per Transaction is calculated by dividing BOSS Money’s revenue in accordance with GAAP by the number of transactions during the period. Average Revenue per Transaction is useful for comparisons of BOSS Money’s revenue per transaction to prior periods and to competitors and others in the market, as well as for forecasting future revenue based on transaction trends. net2phone’s subscription revenue is calculated by subtracting net2phone’s equipment revenue and revenue generated by a legacy SIP trunking offering in Brazil from its revenue in accordance with GAAP. net2phone’s cloud communications and contact center offerings are priced on a per-seat basis, with customers paying based on the number of users in their organization. The number of seats served and subscription revenue trends and comparisons between periods are used in the analysis of net2phone’s revenues and direct cost of revenues and are strong indications of the top-line growth and performance of the business. net2phone’s subscription revenue per seat is calculated by dividing net2phone’s subscription revenue, as defined in the preceding paragraph, by the average number of seats served during the period. The average number of seats served is calculated by adding the beginning and ending number of seats served and dividing by two. Subscription revenue per seat is the amount of revenue generated by each seat sold during the period. It provides a basis for pricing seat-based services, as well as for comparing performance in past periods and projecting future revenue, and for comparing the value of each seat served to competitors. net2phone’s operating margin is calculated by dividing GAAP income from operations by GAAP revenue for the period indicated. Operating margin measures the percentage that each dollar of revenue contributes to profitability. Operating margin is useful for evaluating current period profitability relative to sales, for comparisons to prior period performance, for forecasting future income from operations levels based on projected levels of sales, and for comparing net2phone’s relative profitability to its competitors and peers. net2phone’s Adjusted EBITDA margin is calculated by dividing net2phone’s Adjusted EBITDA, a Non-GAAP measure, by net2phone’s GAAP revenue for the comparable quarter or period. Adjusted EBITDA margin measures the percentage that each dollar of revenue contributes to profitability before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and other adjustments as described in the Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures. net2phone’s Adjusted EBITDA margin is useful for evaluating current period profitability relative to sales, for comparisons to prior period performance, for forecasting future Adjusted EBITDA levels based on projected levels of sales, and for comparing net2phone’s relative profitability to its competitors and peers. # # #Unai Emery felt his Aston Villa side restored confidence by returning to winning ways with a 3-1 victory over Brentford in the Premier League. Morgan Rogers’ fourth goal of the season, an Ollie Watkins penalty and Matty Cash’s finish put Villa 3-0 up after 34 minutes. Mikkel Damsgaard pulled one back for Brentford in the second half but the damage had been done as Villa ended their eight-match winless run in all competitions. Emery was relieved to end the unwanted streak but quickly turned his attention to the next fixture against Southampton on Saturday. “We broke a spell of bad results we were having,” the Villa boss said. “We started the first five or 10 minutes not in control of the game but then progressively we controlled. “Today we achieved those three points and it has given us confidence again but even like that it’s not enough. We have to keep going and think about the next match against Southampton on Saturday. “The message was try to focus on each match, try to forget the table. How we can recover confidence and feel comfortable at home. Today was a fantastic match.” Tyrone Mings returned to the starting line-up in the Premier League for the first time since August 2023. Emery admitted it has been a long road back for the 31-year-old and is pleased to have him back. He added: “Mings played in the Champions league but it’s the first time in the league for a year and three months. “I think he played fantastic – he might be tired tomorrow but will be ready for Saturday again. “It was very, very long, the injury he had. His comeback is fantastic for him and everybody, for the doctor and physio and now he’s training everyday.” Brentford fell to a sixth away defeat from seven games and have picked up only a solitary point on the road this season. They have the best home record in the league, with 19 points from seven matches, but they have the joint worst away record. Bees boss Thomas Frank is confident form will improve on the road. He said: “On numbers we can’t argue we are better at home than away, but on numbers it’s a coincidence. I think two of the seven away games have been bad. “The other games we performed well in big spells. I’m confident at the end of the season we will have some wins away from home.” Frank felt Villa should not have been given a penalty when Ethan Pinnock brought Watkins down. He added: “I want to argue the penalty. I don’t think it is (one). I think Ollie kicked back and hit Ethan, yes there is an arm on the shoulder but threshold and all that – but that’s not the reason we lost.”
I REFER to the story regarding Newcastle council's "modest surplus" ( Newcastle Herald 12/11). While it presents a fairly positive view of the 2023-24 financials, I have a different view when taking into account the history leading to this point. This administration always places great stock in the Audit Office's report. It is good that the dollars have been put in the right boxes, but the AO always has a disclaimer that the " audit does not include, nor provide assurance that the council has carried out its activities effectively, efficiently and economically". Login or signup to continue reading I believe the $4.2 million surplus does not stack up against the fact that rates have gone up 72 per cent since the big rate rise introduced in 2016. This is three times the inflation rate and yielded an extra $75 million in rates in 2023-24 alone. Over the same period, fees and charges have gone up 72 per cent. It is easy to make a surplus when ratepayers are contributing so much more every year. Where is all the extra money going? Well, workforce costs alone have gone up 37 per cent over the past five years. The waste business made a surplus of $14 million last year, and this was on top of a $12 million surplus in each of the two previous years. However, domestic waste charges went up 10 per cent last year, and have gone up 50 per cent over the last five years. Despite spending $40 million on infrastructure renewal last year, this is 20 per cent behind the NSW government target. In fact, this council has not met the target in any of the last seven years and is now $100 million behind what it should have spent over that period. This is driving up the infrastructure backlog, which is now double the target and increasing. If the council had not changed the accounting method and wiped $101 million of the backlog a couple of years ago, it would now be 11 per cent versus the target of 2 per cent. In 2015 the council promised IPART that it would achieve 2 per cent, under the old measurement system, with proceeds from the rate increase. It is very difficult to determine where the money is going because there are large chunks of operating expenditure where the split-up of costs is not visible. For a number of years, ratepayers have been complaining that project budgets, costs and delivery times have been hidden from the public. It appears to me that the public is getting a raw deal, and I hope that the messages delivered by the electorate in the recent election are taken seriously by the new council. GLENDALE offers an unprecedented opportunity for Newcastle Basketball to be involved in the largest sporting complex in NSW with existing facilities. Consider that within kilometres there is already is conglomerate of venues such as a first class golf course, bowling, sailing, boating, fishing, rugby league, Aussie rules, baseball, swimming, croquet, cricket, BMX, netball, roller and ice skating, soccer, walking and cycling. Combine the above with uncomplicated access. Sorry, did I miss a sport? The area also has motels, hotels, licenced clubs, schools and TAFE. Build the stadium at Glendale. Look at the bigger picture in the future. The Hunter may become the mecca for sport and recreation. WHY is it that Woolworths and Coles are copping a hammering because they are trying to do well to keep shareholders happy? Why is it that our major airlines go over and above to look after their shareholders and nothing is said? They double their prices in peak times like Christmas and school holidays and we don't hear a whisper. Yet if our supermarkets were to price gouge in those times, they would be hauled over the coals. Can someone tell me the difference? Major supermarkets have cost of living to take into account such as warehousing, power costs and everything that goes into it like transport. It's all a balancing act to make a profit over all their stores, and to make a profit for the shareholders. Major airlines have static costs all year round yet they take advantage of the travelling public and don't give a damn. I'M so pleased that a choir has once again been created for dementia patients in Newcastle. In 2010, a singing group was formed at the Alzheimer's Centre in Percy Street, Hamilton, for dementia patients and their carers. It was a social morning with tea and biscuits followed by an hour of singing. The group was dubbed The Percy Street Singers. COVID put a stop to this, but the group was apparently never allowed back into the centre. Since Dementia Australia took over the centre, in my view all the activities virtually stopped. Like so many things in Newcastle, it seemed to become a Sydney-centric organisation. My husband died 10 years ago, and by then could not hold a conversation but could sing every word in every song. It was a great joy for him. The centre also provided a men's cooking group, movie afternoons, coffee groups, art and creative afternoons, and memory loss courses for people with dementia and their careers. The funding for so much was gradually removed, and staff dwindled. What a sad time for Newcastle. Destiny on Dyke Point has welcomed visitors to our safe, beautiful harbour for almost 25 years. It was Destiny's birthday on Sunday (November 24). She was sculpted by Julie Squires, a wonderfully talented local sculptor. When you stroll the promenade at Honeysuckle check her out. She is so beautiful and gracious: we are your destiny, you are safe and welcomed. Cheers to her. I arrived at the protest site about 9:15am on Friday. It was too early for any action but the police presence was way over the top. They also had a visible presence down as far as Honeysuckle, so it would be in the interest of balanced reporting could the Herald get official figures on police numbers? And yes, I rode there by bike - 39km return trip. ALAN Jones's high-profile supporters have deserted him, like rats deserting a sinking ship. "A friend in need is a friend indeed" seems to not apply here. AS one who occasionally uses the word 'woke', I'd like make it clear that to me it refers to those who think they are superior to the rest, never wrong, overuse - often incorrectly - words such as 'racist' and 'misogynist', and jump on every left-wing bandwagon in their never-ending search for popularity. LABOR'S latest Orwellian attempt to control public debate, its Misinformation and Disinformation (MAD) Bill, seems dead in the water in the face of growing Senate opposition. The price of liberty is eternal vigilance. DON Owers ("Disruptions aren't all equal", Letters, 21/11), doesn't seem to know that no government has authority over industrial action. It's the domain of the Fair Work Commission. I don't remember anything from Mr Owers when the Liberal government closed the rail network for a day in 2022, claiming "safety issues". It blamed striking workers despite them not being on strike and at work. Quietly dropped with no apology when the FWC demanded to see their risk assessment. DAILY Today's top stories curated by our news team. Also includes evening update. WEEKDAYS Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. WEEKLY The latest news, results & expert analysis. WEEKDAYS Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. WEEKLY Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. WEEKLY Love footy? We've got all the action covered. 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