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( MENAFN - EIN Presswire) ZOETERMEER, NETHERLANDS, December 16, 2024 /EINPresswire / -- EasyDMARC, a vendor of the cloud-native email security and deliverability platform, announced today a strategic partnership with Helibytes Sdn Bhd, a leading managed Service Provider based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This partnership will help Helibytes's clients protect their email domains from being used for phishing and other fraudulent activities, as well as improve their email deliverability rate. Email security has become a significant concern for businesses of all sizes as cyberattacks, such as phishing and spoofing, are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Verizon DBIR 2021 mentions that 93% of all successful cyberattacks begin with a phishing email. In light of this, Helibytes has taken a proactive approach to help its clients secure their email domains and protect their sensitive information. “We are excited to partner with EasyDMARC as an MSP to help organizations in Malaysia and Southeast Asia strengthen their email security ecosystem. By leveraging best practices, we aim to guide businesses in deploying essential email authentication protocols like BIMI and MTA-STS, bolstering existing email security, deliverability, and brand trust. With the support of local experts, we are committed to delivering solutions that protect against email threats and empower organizations to build resilience email communication with confidence,” said Fariz Alli, Founder of Helibytes. "We are thrilled to welcome Helibytes to our growing partner network. Their commitment to delivering exceptional IT services and support to their clients aligns perfectly with our mission to make email safer for everyone," said Gerasim Hovhannisyan, CEO of EasyDMARC. The DMARC standard enables the automatic flagging and removal of receiving emails that are impersonating senders' domains. It is a crucial way to prevent outbound phishing and spoofing attempts. About Helibytes Founded in 2019, Helibytes delivers cutting-edge technology solutions in cybersecurity, IT infrastructure modernization, and enterprise applications for diverse businesses. We are dedicated to providing superior solutions and professional services, leveraging our in-house local expertise and hands-on experience for both domestic and international clients. About EasyDMARC EasyDMARC is a cloud-native B2B SaaS to solve email security and deliverability problems in just a few clicks. With advanced tools, such as its AI-powered DMARC Report Analyser, DMARC, SPF, DKIM cloud management solutions, and email source reputation monitoring, EasyDMARC's platform helps customers stay safe and maintain the health of their domains without risk. Anush Yolyan EasyDMARC Inc. +1 8885635277 email us here Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above. MENAFN15122024003118003196ID1108995553 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Insider Selling: Mader Group Limited (ASX:MAD) Insider Sells 982,000 Shares of StockUS agencies should use advanced technology to identify mysterious drones, Schumer saysBroadcom (NASDAQ: AVGO) Surge Poised for Long-Term Growth In a remarkable transformation, Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ: AVGO) is shedding its past image and increasingly being seen as a major contender in the tech industry, especially in the AI and software segments. While Nvidia’s recent performance shows a dip, Broadcom is rapidly gaining momentum, bolstering investor confidence with a climb of about 35% over the past month and a 106% increase this year. The surge in Broadcom’s stock is attributed to its outstanding fourth-quarter performance, where the company reported a 51% surge in revenues, reaching $14.05 billion. This growth was supported by its strategic expansion in AI solutions and the integration of VMware. For the fiscal year, Broadcom hit a record revenue of $51.6 billion, with software sales contributing significantly. Industry expert Nancy Tengler notes Broadcom’s evolution from being the lesser relative to Nvidia, highlighting its substantial stake in the software sector. Tengler applauds CEO Hock E. Tan’s expertise in successful acquisitions and integrations, which have enhanced Broadcom’s market position and potential for future growth. Looking ahead, Broadcom’s robust growth trajectory is expected to be driven by its strong foothold in AI chips, evidenced by winning key design contracts and targeting an addressable market of up to $90 billion by 2027. The company’s strategic partnerships with tech giants like Alphabet, OpenAI, and Apple further strengthen its revenue prospects. Broadcom’s ongoing advancements make it a popular choice among hedge funds, with significant holdings reflecting confidence in its long-term potential. For those seeking promising AI investments, Broadcom is a formidable player to watch. Why Broadcom’s AI Revolution is Outpacing Competitors: The Real Untold Story Broadcom: Market Analysis and Future Prospects Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ: AVGO) is positioning itself as a formidable force in the tech industry, especially within the AI and software domains, thanks to strategic maneuvers and market adaptations. Recent reports indicate that the company is successfully transforming its business model, leading to significant investor interest and confidence. With an impressive stock increase of 106% this year, Broadcom is set for a promising future. Trends and Insights into Broadcom’s Strategy One of the pivotal insights into Broadcom’s success is its focus on AI chips and software integration, paving the way for fresh revenue streams and market expansion. By securing design wins and forming strategic partnerships with major tech companies like Alphabet, OpenAI, and Apple, Broadcom is not just participating in the AI revolution; it’s actively shaping it. New Innovations Driving Growth Among the standout innovations is Broadcom’s expansion into AI solutions, particularly through their strategic integration of VMware. This move has allowed for enhanced capabilities in cloud and virtualization, positioning Broadcom as a critical player in this domain. The company’s targeting of an addressable AI market projected to reach $90 billion by 2027 illustrates its ambitious yet achievable growth plans. Comparisons and Market Differentiators Broadcom’s path to growth diverges from tech giants such as Nvidia, focusing more on robust software capabilities alongside hardware development. This dual focus grants Broadcom a unique edge in an increasingly competitive landscape, where versatility is key to sustained success. Broadcom’s comprehensive offerings in AI and software make it a versatile contender, distinguishing it from more hardware-centric approaches. Pros and Cons of Investing in Broadcom Pros: – Diverse Portfolio: Broadcom’s strength lies in its diverse portfolio, ranging from semiconductors to software solutions. – Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with tech titans enhance its market credibility and growth potential. – Investment in AI: Heavy investment in AI technologies and infrastructure signifies promising growth prospects. Cons: – Market Volatility: As with any tech player, market volatility can influence Broadcom’s stock price. – Competitive Pressure: The rapid pace of technological advancements requires continuous innovation to maintain leadership. Predictions and Future Outlook Looking forward, Broadcom’s trajectory suggests continued growth aided by its innovative approaches and strategic partnerships. As AI continues to revolutionize industries, Broadcom is poised to capture significant market share, especially with predictions of expansion in the AI market. For those exploring potential AI investments, Broadcom represents a stable yet dynamic option, blending innovation with strategic foresight. Broadcom’s evolution is a testament to its adaptability and vision, making it a future-ready player in the tech landscape. For more information about Broadcom and its offerings, visit the official Broadcom website.Online debate over foreign workers in tech shows tensions in Trump's political coalition
Tech firms say using centralised blockchain to control spam impossible for OTTs
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia , Dec. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The inaugural International MICE Summit (IMS24) has delivered transformational change for the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) industry, with 19 pivotal announcements on an action-packed opening day, bringing new leading exhibitions to Saudi Arabia . Multi-billion and multi-million dollar global event companies such as RX Global, Messe Munich and Clarion announced new office openings in Saudi Arabia , to support the Kingdom’s significant event growth plans over the coming decade. Twelve new marquee event launches were announced to bring events such as Money20/20 (Informa/Tahaluf), FIBO (RX Global), World Refining Technology Congress; Advanced Therapies Week; Fire Department and Emergency Services Conference (Clarion), FSB Sports Show and International Hardware Show (Koelnmesse/DMG), HOST (Fiera Milano), ArabLab (Terrapin), Saudi Muscle Show (Italian Exhibition Group) and World Industrial Materials and World Advanced Packaging, Printing & Plastics (KAOUN) to Saudi Arabia . “The first day of the International MICE Summit has been a tremendous success with three of the top 10 global Professional Event Organizers opening offices in Saudi Arabia , 12 new event launches, and multiple agreements signed to drive industry progress, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s status as the most exciting MICE hub globally,” said His Excellency Fahd Al Rasheed, Chairman of the Summit’s host the Saudi Conventions and Exhibitions General Authority (SCEGA). “Moreover, these announcements underscore the importance of the events and exhibitions industry as a catalyst for transformation, connecting people to opportunities in line with the goals of Vision 2030. IMS24 is driving investment opportunities and new partnerships across all sectors of the economy,” HE Al Rasheed added. In addition to office and event launches, four MOUs were signed with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, the Saudi Tourism Authority, the Events Investment Fund and the National Events Center. Speakers on Day One included HE Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Saudi Minister of Tourism, and former Prime Ministers and Ministers from the United Kingdom , Italy , Bulgaria , and Greece , leaders of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry and International Congress and Convention Association, the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, and executives from Informa, RX Global, Messe Munich, Clarion Events, and Messe Desseldorf, and Richard Attias & Associates. IMS24 continues Monday, with a focus on catalyzing investment in the MICE sector, creating the event venues of the future, addressing global sustainability issues in the MICE industry. IMS24 has drawn over 1,000 global MICE industry leaders from more than 70 countries to Riyadh. About the International MICE Summit The International MICE Summit (IMS) gathers global leaders from the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector, as well as professionals, and organizations from across industries. It provides a platform for industry insights, networking, and discussions on advancing innovation, knowledge sharing and sustainable development within the global MICE sector. Founding Partner: Eye of Riyadh Supporting Partner: OAK View Group Founding Partner: Soudah Development Founding Partner: EIF Founding Partner: Qiddiya Hospitality Partner: Al Taanfethi Associate Partner: RA&A Strategic Partner: Informa/Tahaluf For more information or to register for the event, visit: Website – www.internationalmicesummit.com Twitter/X – https://x.com/ims_summit LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/ims-summit/ YouTube – https://youtube.com/@ims.summit?si=G06nYTaOUWer-OKq For more pictures please click here. About the Saudi Conferences and Exhibitions General Authority (SCEGA) The Saudi Conventions & Exhibitions General Authority (SCEGA) is the official body overseeing the development and regulation of Saudi Arabia’s exhibitions and conventions sector. Established by Royal Decree in 2018, SCEGA aims to strengthen the sector’s economic impact by setting strategic policies, issuing licenses, promoting Saudi Arabia as a premier MICE destination, and fostering investment in line with global standards. Through collaboration with national and international stakeholders, SCEGA works to enhance sector growth, support talent development, and create opportunities for showcasing the Kingdom’s unique identity on the world stage. Contact: IMSmedia@consulum.com SOURCE International MICE SummitShura Council hosts Finance Minister to discuss State Budget 2025Panthers TE Ja'Tavion Sanders carted off field for neck injury
Proposed acquisition strengthens Pharming's late-stage pipeline with a potential first-in-disease asset Abliva's lead product KL1333 is currently in a pivotal clinical trial, with a positive interim analysis achieved, in mitochondrial DNA-driven primary mitochondrial diseases Total transaction value of approximately US$66.1 million No external funding required to fund acquisition and KL1333 development costs Pharming to host a conference call on Monday, December 16, 2024 at 14:00 CET (8:00 am EST) Leiden, the Netherlands, December 15, 2024: Pharming Group N.V. ("Pharming" or "the Company") PHAR today announced a recommended public cash offer to the shareholders of Abliva AB ("Abliva") to acquire all issued and outstanding shares of Abliva. Pharming, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Pharming Technologies B.V., offers the shareholders SEK 0.45 in cash per share in Abliva. The transaction is valued at approximately US$66.1 million. Abliva is a biotechnology company, based in Lund, Sweden, focused on developing medicines for the treatment of mitochondrial disease. Abliva's lead product, KL1333, a regulator of the essential co-enzymes NAD+ and NADH, is in a pivotal clinical study (FALCON) in adult patients with genetically confirmed primary mitochondrial disease (PMD) with mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations who experience consistent, debilitating fatigue and muscle weakness (myopathy), and reduced life expectancy. Over 30,000 patients diagnosed with mtDNA mitochondrial disease would be potentially addressable by KL1333 in the U.S., EU4 (France, Germany, Italy, Spain) and the UK. KL1333 has shown positive clinical effects in a proof-of-concept Phase 1b study, and a pre-planned interim analysis of the ongoing pivotal FALCON trial demonstrated promising differences over placebo in both alternate primary efficacy endpoints. KL1333 has received Fast Track designation in the U.S. and Orphan Drug Designation for the treatment of PMD in the U.S. and EU. Sijmen de Vries, Chief Executive Officer of Pharming, said: "Abliva has made exciting progress developing KL1333, a potential first-in-disease treatment undergoing a pivotal clinical trial that offers new hope to patients with rare mtDNA mitochondrial disease who experience debilitating fatigue and muscle weakness. With over 30,000 addressable patients in the U.S., EU4 and UK, we are excited about the potential of this asset, which achieved a positive interim analysis in the registration trial in July 2024. We believe KL1333 has blockbuster potential in the U.S. alone and can significantly change Pharming's future growth trajectory. We will fund this acquisition using existing cash, and anticipate covering costs to complete the pivotal trial with positive cash flows from our existing business. The acquisition of Abliva would further strengthen our clinical pipeline with the addition of a therapy, with U.S. launch expected in 2028, aligning with our vision to become a leading global rare disease company. We are pleased that Abliva's independent Board of Directors and major shareholders recognize the expertise and value Pharming brings to the development and eventual commercialization of KL1333, and unanimously support this transaction. We look forward to welcoming the Abliva team with their strong expertise in mitochondrial research and drug development and to combining with our resources, capabilities and commercial infrastructure to bring this groundbreaking and important medicine to patients and their healthcare providers." Transaction highlights Today at 19:45 CET, Pharming announced a recommended cash offer to the shareholders of Abliva AB. Hereby Pharming, through a wholly owned subsidiary, has offered SEK 0.45 in cash for each outstanding share of Abliva (the ''Offer''). The total value of the Offer based on all outstanding 1,611,884,536 shares in Abliva amounts to approximately SEK 725,348,041, or approximately US$66.1 million. The Board of Directors of Abliva unanimously recommends the shareholders of Abliva to accept the Offer. The Board of Directors of Abliva has obtained a fairness opinion from PwC, according to which, based on the assumptions and reservations stated in the opinion, the Offer is fair to Abliva's shareholders from a financial perspective. Pharming has obtained acceptance undertakings from the three largest shareholders, accounting for 49.82% of Abliva's outstanding shares. The Offer is subject to customary regulatory approvals, and Pharming expects to obtain such approvals prior to the end of the acceptance period. Pharming Group N.V. has cash on hand to finance the Offer in full. The acceptance period in the offer is expected to commence on or around January 16, 2025 and to expire on or around February 7, 2025. For information in relation to the Offer, please refer to www.raredisease-offer.com . An offer document will be made public by Pharming shortly before the commencement of the acceptance period. Van Lanschot Kempen N.V. is sole financial advisor and NautaDutilh N.V. and Mannheimer Swartling Advokatbyrå are legal advisors to Pharming in connection with the Offer. Invitation to conference call Pharming to host a conference call on Monday, December 16, 2024, at 14:00 CET (8:00 am EST). The conference call presentation is available on the pharming.com website from 14:00 CET on December 16, 2024 A transcript will be made available on the pharming.com website in the days following the call. To participate in the conference call, please register in advance using the link below. Once registered, dial-in information and a unique PIN will be provided, allowing access to the call. Conference call dial-in details: Please note, the Company will only take questions from dial-in attendees. https://register.vevent.com/register/BIfcd1fd2bdf0e443cbf6192dc063763ad Webcast Link: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/2hfpccyi For further public information, contact: Pharming Group, Leiden, the Netherlands Michael Levitan, VP Investor Relations & Corporate Communications T: +1 (908) 705 1696 E: investor@pharming.com FTI Consulting, London, UK Victoria Foster Mitchell/Alex Shaw/Amy Byrne T: +44 203 727 1000 LifeSpring Life Sciences Communication, Amsterdam, the Netherlands Leon Melens T: +31 6 53 81 64 27 E: pharming@lifespring.nl Abliva investors Leo Wei T: +46 (0)709 910 081 E: pharming@fogelpartners.se About KL1333 KL1333 has been designed to treat chronic fatigue and myopathy (muscle weakness) in genetically confirmed adult patients with primary mitochondrial disease. Diagnoses can include MELAS-MIDD and KSS-CPEO spectrum disorders as well as MERRF syndrome. The drug candidate is intended for long-term oral treatment. KL1333 has the ability to restore the ratio of NAD+ and NADH, and thus leads to the formation of new mitochondria and improved energy levels. In a cohort of mitochondrial disease patients in a Phase 1a/b study, the patients who received KL1333 showed both improvements in symptoms of fatigue as well as functional improvements. KL1333 is currently being evaluated in a global, potentially registrational, Phase 2 study (the FALCON study) and has received orphan drug designation in both the USA and Europe as well as Fast Track designation in the USA. About the FALCON Study FALCON is a Phase 2, global, randomized, placebo-controlled, potentially registrational study evaluating the safety and efficacy of KL1333 in adult patients with primary mitochondrial disease who experience consistent, debilitating fatigue and myopathy (muscle weakness), the most common and impairing symptoms. A total of 180 patients with mitochondrial DNA mutations who meet the eligibility criteria are randomized 3:2 to receive KL1333 (50mg-100mg) or placebo twice daily for 48 weeks. The two alternative primary endpoints assess consistent fatigue (using the PROMIS® Fatigue Mitochondrial Disease Short Form) and myopathy (using the 30 second Sit-to-Stand test), only one of which must be positive to file for marketing approval. An interim analysis evaluating 24-week data from the first wave of patients confirmed the strong safety profile of KL1333, and both primary endpoints passed futility, meaning that both have the potential to demonstrate benefit in the final analysis of the study. About Abliva AB Abliva discovers and develops medicines for the treatment of mitochondrial disease. This rare and often very severe disease occurs when the cell's energy provider, the mitochondria, do not function properly. The company has prioritized two projects. KL1333, a powerful regulator of the essential co-enzymes NAD+ and NADH, has entered late-stage development. NV354, an energy replacement therapy, has completed preclinical development. Abliva, based in Lund, Sweden, is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm, Sweden ABLI . For more information, please visit www.abliva.com. About Pharming Group N.V. Pharming Group N.V. PHAR is a global biopharmaceutical company dedicated to transforming the lives of patients with rare, debilitating, and life-threatening diseases. Pharming is commercializing and developing an innovative portfolio of protein replacement therapies and precision medicines, including small molecules and biologics. Pharming is headquartered in Leiden, the Netherlands, and has employees around the globe who serve patients in over 30 markets in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific. For more information, visit www.pharming.com and find us on LinkedIn . Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements of future expectations that are based on management's current expectations and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance, or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these statements. These forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as "aim", "ambition", ‘‘anticipate'', ‘‘believe'', ‘‘could'', ‘‘estimate'', ‘‘expect'', ‘‘goals'', ‘‘intend'', ‘‘may'', "milestones", ‘‘objectives'', ‘‘outlook'', ‘‘plan'', ‘‘probably'', ‘‘project'', ‘‘risks'', "schedule", ‘‘seek'', ‘‘should'', ‘‘target'', ‘‘will'' and similar terms and phrases. Examples of forward-looking statements may include statements with respect to timing and progress of Pharming's preclinical studies and clinical trials of its product candidates, Pharming's clinical and commercial prospects, and Pharming's expectations regarding its projected working capital requirements and cash resources, which statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including, but not limited to the scope, progress and expansion of Pharming's clinical trials and ramifications for the cost thereof; and clinical, scientific, regulatory, commercial, competitive and technical developments. In light of these risks and uncertainties, and other risks and uncertainties that are described in Pharming's 2023 Annual Report and the Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the events and circumstances discussed in such forward-looking statements may not occur, and Pharming's actual results could differ materially and adversely from those anticipated or implied thereby. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained or referred to in this section. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release and are based on information available to Pharming as of the date of this release. Pharming does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or other information. Inside Information This press release relates to the disclosure of information that qualifies, or may have qualified, as inside information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation. Attachment Pharming announces public cash offer to the shareholders of Abliva AB_EN_15DEC24 © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Renuka Rayasam | (TNS) KFF Health News In April, just 12 weeks into her pregnancy, Kathleen Clark was standing at the receptionist window of her OB-GYN’s office when she was asked to pay $960, the total the office estimated she would owe after she delivered. Clark, 39, was shocked that she was asked to pay that amount during this second prenatal visit. Normally, patients receive the bill after insurance has paid its part, and for pregnant women that’s usually only when the pregnancy ends. It would be months before the office filed the claim with her health insurer. Clark said she felt stuck. The Cleveland, Tennessee, obstetrics practice was affiliated with a birthing center where she wanted to deliver. Plus, she and her husband had been wanting to have a baby for a long time. And Clark was emotional, because just weeks earlier her mother had died. “You’re standing there at the window, and there’s people all around, and you’re trying to be really nice,” recalled Clark, through tears. “So, I paid it.” On online baby message boards and other social media forums , pregnant women say they are being asked by their providers to pay out-of-pocket fees earlier than expected. The practice is legal, but patient advocacy groups call it unethical. Medical providers argue that asking for payment up front ensures they get compensated for their services. How frequently this happens is hard to track because it is considered a private transaction between the provider and the patient. Therefore, the payments are not recorded in insurance claims data and are not studied by researchers. Patients, medical billing experts, and patient advocates say the billing practice causes unexpected anxiety at a time of already heightened stress and financial pressure. Estimates can sometimes be higher than what a patient might ultimately owe and force people to fight for refunds if they miscarry or the amount paid was higher than the final bill. Up-front payments also create hurdles for women who may want to switch providers if they are unhappy with their care. In some cases, they may cause women to forgo prenatal care altogether, especially in places where few other maternity care options exist. It’s “holding their treatment hostage,” said Caitlin Donovan, a senior director at the Patient Advocate Foundation . Medical billing and women’s health experts believe OB-GYN offices adopted the practice to manage the high cost of maternity care and the way it is billed for in the U.S. When a pregnancy ends, OB-GYNs typically file a single insurance claim for routine prenatal care, labor, delivery, and, often, postpartum care. That practice of bundling all maternity care into one billing code began three decades ago, said Lisa Satterfield, senior director of health and payment policy at the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists . But such bundled billing has become outdated, she said. Previously, pregnant patients had been subject to copayments for each prenatal visit, which might lead them to skip crucial appointments to save money. But the Affordable Care Act now requires all commercial insurers to fully cover certain prenatal services. Plus, it’s become more common for pregnant women to switch providers, or have different providers handle prenatal care, labor, and delivery — especially in rural areas where patient transfers are common. Some providers say prepayments allow them to spread out one-time payments over the course of the pregnancy to ensure that they are compensated for the care they do provide, even if they don’t ultimately deliver the baby. “You have people who, unfortunately, are not getting paid for the work that they do,” said Pamela Boatner, who works as a midwife in a Georgia hospital. While she believes women should receive pregnancy care regardless of their ability to pay, she also understands that some providers want to make sure their bill isn’t ignored after the baby is delivered. New parents might be overloaded with hospital bills and the costs of caring for a new child, and they may lack income if a parent isn’t working, Boatner said. In the U.S., having a baby can be expensive. People who obtain health insurance through large employers pay an average of nearly $3,000 out-of-pocket for pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care, according to the Peterson-KFF Health System Tracker . In addition, many people are opting for high-deductible health insurance plans, leaving them to shoulder a larger share of the costs. Of the 100 million U.S. people with health care debt, 12% attribute at least some of it to maternity care, according to a 2022 KFF poll . Families need time to save money for the high costs of pregnancy, childbirth, and child care, especially if they lack paid maternity leave, said Joy Burkhard , CEO of the Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health, a Los Angeles-based policy think tank. Asking them to prepay “is another gut punch,” she said. “What if you don’t have the money? Do you put it on credit cards and hope your credit card goes through?” Calculating the final costs of childbirth depends on multiple factors, such as the timing of the pregnancy , plan benefits, and health complications, said Erin Duffy , a health policy researcher at the University of Southern California’s Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics. The final bill for the patient is unclear until a health plan decides how much of the claim it will cover, she said. But sometimes the option to wait for the insurer is taken away. During Jamie Daw’s first pregnancy in 2020, her OB-GYN accepted her refusal to pay in advance because Daw wanted to see the final bill. But in 2023, during her second pregnancy, a private midwifery practice in New York told her that since she had a high-deductible plan, it was mandatory to pay $2,000 spread out with monthly payments. Daw, a health policy researcher at Columbia University, delivered in September 2023 and got a refund check that November for $640 to cover the difference between the estimate and the final bill. “I study health insurance,” she said. “But, as most of us know, it’s so complicated when you’re really living it.” While the Affordable Care Act requires insurers to cover some prenatal services, it doesn’t prohibit providers from sending their final bill to patients early. It would be a challenge politically and practically for state and federal governments to attempt to regulate the timing of the payment request, said Sabrina Corlette , a co-director of the Center on Health Insurance Reforms at Georgetown University. Medical lobbying groups are powerful and contracts between insurers and medical providers are proprietary. Because of the legal gray area, Lacy Marshall , an insurance broker at Rapha Health and Life in Texas, advises clients to ask their insurer if they can refuse to prepay their deductible. Some insurance plans prohibit providers in their network from requiring payment up front. If the insurer says they can refuse to pay up front, Marshall said, she tells clients to get established with a practice before declining to pay, so that the provider can’t refuse treatment. Related Articles Health | Which health insurance plan may be right for you? Health | California case is the first confirmed bird flu infection in a US child Health | Broward Health and Nicklaus Children’s Hospital to share pediatric services Health | Foodborne outbreaks on the rise in Florida: What consumers need to know Health | Your cool black kitchenware could be slowly poisoning you, study says. Here’s what to do Clark said she met her insurance deductible after paying for genetic testing, extra ultrasounds, and other services out of her health care flexible spending account. Then she called her OB-GYN’s office and asked for a refund. “I got my spine back,” said Clark, who had previously worked at a health insurer and a medical office. She got an initial check for about half the $960 she originally paid. In August, Clark was sent to the hospital after her blood pressure spiked. A high-risk pregnancy specialist — not her original OB-GYN practice — delivered her son, Peter, prematurely via emergency cesarean section at 30 weeks. It was only after she resolved most of the bills from the delivery that she received the rest of her refund from the other OB-GYN practice. This final check came in October, just days after Clark brought Peter home from the hospital, and after multiple calls to the office. She said it all added stress to an already stressful period. “Why am I having to pay the price as a patient?” she said. “I’m just trying to have a baby.” ©2024 KFF Health News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.Trump asks Supreme Court to delay TikTok ban so he can weigh in after he takes office
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In a significant development, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced the successful connection of Rarik, a remote village in the Lahaul and Spiti district, to high-speed 4G broadband services. The achievement underscores a vital step forward in bridging digital divides in isolated regions. This breakthrough was made possible through an impressive collaboration with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), utilizing cutting-edge Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) technology. The effort is particularly noteworthy as the region endures extremely low temperatures, often plummeting below zero degrees. Notably, Himachal Pradesh has become the first in the nation to grant complete approval for land transfers under the 4G Saturation Project. Efficient processing of clearances from various state departments facilitated the swift establishment of 4G infrastructure. To date, 294 towers have been erected, with more in the pipeline, further enhancing communication capabilities across the state. (With inputs from agencies.)Record numbers of basketball fans filled arenas to watch the rookie seasons of Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese unfold. Simone Biles captivated the world at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Coco Gauff made women’s tennis history. It was all part of a pivotal year for women in sports, financially and culturally, and after a steady rise in popularity and reach in recent years, the women’s game is more valuable than ever. “(Clark) just moved the needle of the global movement of women in sports,” said softball great and Olympic gold medalist Jennie Finch, “and what a thrill it’s been to be able to see her rise.” The consulting firm Deloitte estimated in November 2023 that women’s sports would generate more than $1 billion in global revenue this year for the first time ever, which the company said is up about 300% from its last estimate in 2021. Skyrocketing viewership and corporate sponsorships were major factors. The WNBA in July signed a historic 11-year media rights deal with Disney, Amazon Prime and NBC valued at about $200 million — a jump from about $60 million currently. Players hope higher salaries and a greater share of revenue could be on the horizon as parity, star power and competition in the WNBA continue to grow. The WNBA had its most-watched regular season in 24 years and best attendance in 22 seasons, and commissioner Cathy Engelbert said in a recent state-of-the-league address that players are getting a lot more marketing deals, turning them into household names. That includes Las Vegas star A’ja Wilson, who had one of the most dominant seasons in WNBA history, and Clark, who set numerous rookie records. The decisive Game 5 of the WNBA finals between the New York Liberty and the Minnesota Lynx drew an average of 2.2 million viewers, peaking at 3.3 million, which made it the most-watched WNBA game in 25 years. “We’ve been growing in popularity, endorsements, media rights, all of those things,” said Amira Rose Davis, a sports historian and assistant professor at the University of Texas at Austin. “This period is one of rapid acceleration,” Davis continued, “where all that growth seems to switch into overdrive, where the deals are getting bigger, where the visibility is stretching out.” Clark, the sharp-shooting Indiana guard became a phenomenon when she played at Iowa, capitalized on a foundation laid by hoops stars such as Diana Taurasi, Candace Parker and Wilson, and turbocharged the visibility of women’s basketball. Ticket sales to Indiana Fever games were up 182% in 2024 from the previous season. The Fever also shattered the attendance record of 13,398 set by the Liberty in 1998 with around 16,084 tickets sold per game. And games featuring Clark and her on-court rival Reese of the Chicago Sky prompted social media debates about basketball, race and culture. “Something that I always tried to do with me was rise and elevate the game,” said Finch, now an adviser for the Athletes Unlimited Softball League. “And that’s what (Clark)’s doing and her teammates. And just to be able to watch her do it and how humbly she does it, and the impact of not only domestic women’s basketball, but women’s athletics globally. It’s a dream.” While many point to the WNBA as a blueprint for success in women’s sports, accomplishments in 2024 went far beyond one league or athlete. Gauff, the 20-year-old tennis superstar, was the world’s highest-paid female athlete this year with $30.4 million in earnings, according to Sportico rankings. Gauff could not defend her 2023 U.S. Open title, but ended her 2024 season with a WTA finals title and a $4.8 million check — the biggest payout ever for a women’s tennis event, per Sportico. The Olympics neared complete gender parity for the first time among the more than 11,000 men and women who competed in Paris this summer. More than 34 million people across all NBC platforms in the U.S. watched Biles exorcise the demons of her surprising exit from the Tokyo games three years earlier. The 27-year-old shared a message of resilience and redemption as she added four gold medals to her resume. Nearly everything she did in Paris made headlines — a clap back at social media trolls, a revelation about her mental health, a moment of triumph. Her TikTok showing Team USA’s gold medals from team competition has more than 139 million views. “She became a symbol,” Davis said. “Whether you wanted to symbolize her as persevering, or talking about mental health or refusal, the politics of refusal. Or (whether) you wanted to symbolize her as being a quitter — being everything that you’re bemoaning about the country. Either way, both projections elevated her even more.” And as Gauff and Biles soared, other women’s leagues leveraged that visibility. The Pro Women’s Hockey League brought in 392,259 fans during its inaugural regular season, highlighted by a women’s hockey record crowd of 21,105 at the home arena of the NHL’s Canadiens for a Montreal-Toronto matchup. The league also reached sponsorship deals with Scotiabank, Air Canada and Hyundai. The PWHL’s strong first season showed its organizers and players that there’s an appetite for women’s sports, so much so that there are hopes to expand from six to eight teams in 2025. “For many of us that have been in the game for so long, it’s emotional to think about where the game’s come from, where we’ve come to,” said Jayna Hefford, the league’s senior vice president of hockey operations. “We spend a lot of time reading research and all these things that suggest the time is now and that the fandom is there. And to be able to live that and feel it in real time was pretty special.” Keith Stein and Justine Siegal want to capitalize on the women’s sports landscape too. Siegal, a former baseball player and coach, partnered with Stein, a lawyer and businessman, to create the Women’s Pro Baseball League, which last month announced plans to launch in 2026 as a six-team circuit for female players. It will be the first pro league for women since the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League dissolved in 1954. “Leagues like the WNBA and (National) Women’s Soccer League have done a lot of the heavy lifting,” Stein said, “and they’re part responsible for the moment we’re having right now where women’s sport is a phenomenon. “I think there’s, in some ways, a lot more momentum behind the development of professional women’s sports leagues than for men’s.” Get local news delivered to your inbox!
We’ve got our Chelsea back – Enzo Maresca loving chants from fans after win
After weeks of fear and bewilderment about the drones buzzing over parts of New York and New Jersey , U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer is urging the federal government to deploy better drone-tracking technology to identify and ultimately stop the airborne pests. The New York Democrat is calling on the Department of Homeland Security to immediately deploy special technology that identifies and tracks drones back to their landing spots, according to briefings from his office. Recommended Videos Schumer’s calls come amid growing public concern that the federal government hasn’t offered clear explanations as to who is operating the drones, and has not stopped them. National security officials have said the drones don’t appear to be a sign of foreign interference. “There’s a lot of us who are pretty frustrated right now,” said Rep. Jim Himes, D-Conn., the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, on Fox News Sunday. “The answer ‘We don’t know’ is not a good enough answer.” President-elect Donald Trump posted on social media last week: “Can this really be happening without our government’s knowledge? I don’t think so. Let the public know, and now. Otherwise, shoot them down.” Certain agencies within the Department of Homeland Security have the power to “incapacitate” drones, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas told ABC’s George Stephanopoulos on Sunday. “But we need those authorities expanded,” he said, without saying exactly how. The drones don’t appear to be linked to foreign governments, Mayorkas said. “We know of no foreign involvement with respect to the sightings in the Northeast. And we are vigilant in investigating this matter,” Mayorkas said. Last year, federal aviation rules began requiring certain drones to broadcast their identities. It’s not clear whether that information has been used to determine who is operating the drones swarming locations in New York and New Jersey. Mayorkas’ office didn’t immediately respond to questions about whether they’ve been able to identify drones using this capability. Schumer is calling for recently declassified radar technology to be used to help determine whether an object is a drone or a bird, identify its electronic registration, and follow it back to its landing place. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul on Sunday said federal officials were sending a drone detection system to the state. “This system will support state and federal law enforcement in their investigations,” Hochul said in a statement. The governor did not immediately provide additional details, including where the system will be deployed. Dozens of mysterious nighttime flights started last month over New Jersey, raising concerns among residents and officials. Part of the worry stems from the flying objects initially being spotted near the Picatinny Arsenal, a U.S. military research and manufacturing facility and over Trump’s golf course in Bedminster. Drones are legal in New Jersey for recreational and commercial use, but they are subject to local and Federal Aviation Administration regulations and flight restrictions. Operators must be FAA certified.TORONTO, Dec. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Abaxx Technologies Inc., (CBOE: ABXX) (OTCQX: ABXXF) (“ Abaxx ” or the “ Company ”), a financial software and market infrastructure company, indirect majority shareholder of Abaxx Singapore Pte Ltd. (“ Abaxx Singapore ”), the owner of Abaxx Commodity Exchange and Clearinghouse (individually, “ Abaxx Exchange ” and “ Abaxx Clearing ”), and producer of the SmarterMarketsTM Podcast, today announces that it has filed an early warning report in respect of MineHub Technologies Inc. (“ MineHub ”). On December 27, 2024, pursuant to a share purchase agreement between Abaxx and MineHub dated December 3, 2024 (the “ SPA ”), Abaxx acquired 8,810,000 common shares of MineHub (“ MineHub Shares ”). Prior to the closing of the SPA (the “ Closing ”), Abaxx held 8,333,333 MineHub Shares representing 10.83% of the issued and outstanding MineHub Shares on an undiluted and a partially diluted basis. Immediately after Closing, Abaxx held 17,143,333 MineHub Shares, representing 19.87% of the issued and outstanding MineHub Shares on an undiluted and a partially diluted basis. As a result of the MineHub Shares issued in connection with the SPA, Abaxx’s holdings have changed by more than 2% on a partially diluted basis since the filing of its previous early warning report. The MineHub Shares held by Abaxx are for investment purposes. In accordance with applicable securities laws, Abaxx may, from time to time and at any time, acquire additional shares and/or other equity, debt or other securities or instruments of MineHub in the open market or otherwise, and reserves the right to dispose of any or all of such securities in the open market or otherwise at any time and from time to time, and to engage in similar transactions with respect to such securities, the whole depending on market conditions, the business and prospects of MineHub and other relevant factors. This disclosure is issued pursuant to National Instrument 62-103 - The Early Warning System and Related Take-Over Bid and Insider Reporting Issues , which also requires an early warning report to be filed with the applicable securities regulators containing additional information with respect to the foregoing matters. A copy of the early warning report will be filed by Abaxx under MineHub’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com or may be obtained at Abaxx’s head office address at 110 Young St., Suite 1601, Toronto, Ontario M5C 1T4. The MineHub Shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol “MHUB”. MineHub is a corporation existing under the laws of British Columbia with its head office at Suite 918 - 1030 West Georgia St., Vancouver, British Columbia, V6E 2Y3, Canada. About Abaxx Technologies Abaxx is building Smarter Markets — markets empowered by better financial technology and market infrastructure to address our biggest challenges, including the energy transition. In addition to developing and deploying financial technologies that make communication, trade, and transactions easier and more secure, Abaxx is an indirect majority-owner of subsidiaries Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing, recognized by MAS as a “recognised market operator” (RMO) and “approved clearing house” (ACH), respectively. Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing are a Singapore-based commodity futures exchange and clearinghouse, introducing centrally cleared, physically deliverable commodities futures and derivatives to provide better price discovery and risk management tools for the commodities critical to our transition to a lower-carbon economy. For more information please visit abaxx.tech , abaxx.exchange and smartermarkets.media . Media and investor inquiries: Abaxx Technologies Inc. Investor Relations Team Tel: +1 246 271 0082 E-mail: ir@abaxx.tech Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information This press release includes certain “forward-looking statements” which do not consist of historical facts. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements that describe Abaxx’s future plans, objectives, or goals, including words to the effect that Abaxx expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as “seeking”, “should”, “intend”, “predict”, “potential”, “believes”, “anticipates”, “expects”, “estimates”, “may”, “could”, “would”, “will”, “continue”, “plan” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions. Since forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Although these statements are based on information currently available to Abaxx, Abaxx does not provide any assurance that actual results will meet respective management expectations. Risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors involved with forward-looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information related to Abaxx in this press release includes but is not limited to, Abaxx’s objectives, goals, and future plans. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions including material estimates and assumptions related to the factors set forth below that, while considered reasonable by Abaxx as at the date of this press release in light of management’s experience and perception of current conditions and expected developments, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Such factors impacting forward-looking information include, among others: risks relating to the global economic climate and extreme weather events; dilution; Abaxx’s limited operating history; future capital needs and uncertainty of additional financing; the competitive nature of the industry; currency exchange risks; the need for Abaxx to manage its planned growth and expansion; the effects of product development and need for continued technology change; protection of proprietary rights; the effect of government regulation and compliance on Abaxx and the industry; regulatory risks in Singapore and Canada; the ability to list Abaxx’s securities on stock exchanges in a timely fashion or at all; network security risks; the ability of Abaxx to maintain properly working systems; reliance on key personnel; global economic and financial market deterioration impeding access to capital or increasing the cost of capital; taxation; resource shortages; damage to the Company’s reputation due to the actual or perceived occurrence of any number of events, including negative publicity with respect to the Company’s operations, whether true or not; risk of loss due to acts of war, terrorism, sabotage and civil disturbances; the impact of inflation, including global energy cost increases; and volatile securities markets impacting security pricing unrelated to operating performance. In addition, particular factors which could impact future results of the business of Abaxx include but are not limited to: operations in foreign jurisdictions, protection of intellectual property rights, contractual risk, third-party risk; clearinghouse risk, malicious actor risks, third-party software license risk, system failure risk, risk of technological change; dependence of technical infrastructure; changes in the price of commodities, capital market conditions and restriction on labor and international travel and supply chains. Abaxx has also assumed that no significant events occur outside of Abaxx’s normal course of business. Abaxx cautions that the foregoing list of material factors is not exhaustive. In addition, although Abaxx has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended. When relying on forward-looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Abaxx has assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraphs will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release represents the expectations of Abaxx as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Abaxx undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements and information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Accordingly, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements and information. Cboe Canada does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.
Blueprint Medicines director Coats sells $1.87 million in stock