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Seven & i weighs sale of York Holdings specialty storesAn Ohio State football fan was caught on camera appearing to spit on Michigan players at the teams’ game on Saturday, and it has some online commentators calling for his lifetime ban from Ohio Stadium. The dire rivals clashed in a low-scoring bout that saw the Wolverines pull off a hard-fought 13-10 win over the No.-2 ranked Buckeyes, likely depriving them of a shot at the college football championship. The intense game was capped off by a post-match brawl between players from the opposing teams (which reportedly required police to use pepper spray to break up), but it was the actions of one fan in particular, ahead of the game, that aroused ire on social media. ADVERTISEMENT Early on in the match, Patrick Barron, a photographer for Michigan’s MGoBlog, posted a photo on X of a man wearing an Ohio State jersey who is visibly spitting. Although it wasn’t clear from the photo whether the act was directed at anyone, Barron captioned it, “Ohio State fan spitting on the Michigan players coming out of their locker room.” The situation drew near-universal condemnation from commenters below the post, which has so far been viewed over a million times. “As an Ohio state fan that s--t p--ses me off,” wrote user @holyquacanolli. “Should be identified and punished.” User @THEREDRANGER3 described it as “absolutely disgusting behavior,” earning over 700 likes. Others called for the fan in question to be detained by police, removed from the stadium, and even receive a lifetime ban from attending games. Based on a similar past incident, it seems like an arrest isn’t out of the question. In 2022, a player on UCLA’s basketball team was cited for misdemeanor assault after he spat on an Arizona fan during a game. However, this individual so far does not appear to have been identified, and it is unknown whether the incident is under investigation. Representatives for Ohio State University did not immediately respond to The Daily Beast’s request for comment.Image credit: iStock Horse racing has long been one of Australia’s most beloved pastimes, with events like the Melbourne Cup and The Everest drawing nationwide attention. Alongside the excitement of the races, betting has always been a cornerstone of the sport, adding an extra layer of thrill for fans. Over the past decade, the way Australians engage with horse racing betting has undergone a significant transformation, driven by the rise of online betting sites . In the past, betting on horse racing meant attending the track or visiting a TAB outlet. Punters would place their bets face-to-face, using printed form guides and discussing odds with bookmakers. While this traditional approach still holds appeal for some, the majority of betting activity has now shifted online, thanks to the accessibility and convenience offered by digital platforms. Online betting sites have revolutionized the experience by enabling punters to place bets anywhere, anytime. Whether at home, at a pub with friends, or on the move, Australians can access a vast array of betting options with just a few clicks. This ease of access has been instrumental in bringing horse racing betting to a broader audience, including tech-savvy younger generations. Why Online Betting Sites Are So Popular The appeal of online betting sites lies in their user-friendly interfaces and a wealth of features designed to enhance the betting experience. Some of the key advantages include: The Role of Technology Modern technology plays a significant role in the success of online betting sites. Features like predictive analytics, AI-driven insights, and personalized recommendations help punters refine their betting strategies. Moreover, secure payment gateways and encryption ensure that users can deposit and withdraw funds safely, fostering trust in these platforms. Mobile optimization has also been crucial, with most betting sites now offering seamless mobile versions or dedicated apps. This ensures that users can bet effortlessly from their smartphones or tablets, further boosting convenience. Responsible Gambling and Online Betting With the ease of online betting comes the responsibility of managing gambling habits. Australian betting sites are required to adhere to strict regulations, including offering responsible gambling tools. Features such as deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and activity trackers help users monitor their betting behavior and prevent it from becoming problematic. The Future of Online Horse Racing Betting The future of horse racing betting in Australia is firmly rooted in digital innovation. As competition among betting platforms intensifies, punters can expect even more features, better odds, and enhanced user experiences. Emerging technologies like virtual reality and blockchain could further transform the landscape, offering immersive betting experiences and improved transparency. Conclusion Online betting sites have reshaped horse racing betting in Australia, blending the sport’s rich traditions with modern technology. These platforms provide punters with unparalleled convenience, an array of betting options, and advanced tools to make informed decisions. As horse racing continues to captivate Australians, the shift to online betting ensures the sport remains relevant in a fast-evolving digital world. Whether a seasoned punter or a casual fan, online betting sites offer something for everyone, solidifying their role as an integral part of Australia’s horse racing culture.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 December 2024 – Directors and Officers (D&Os) have been operating in a highly complex environment throughout 2024, and further volatility can be expected during 2025. Executives face multiple exposures in an increasingly interconnected business world, confronted with risks arising from business insolvencies, geopolitical upheaval, climate change, digital transformation, economic uncertainty, shifts in public opinion, and an evolving legal landscape. These are the latest key risk trends in the D&O insurance space, as identified by Allianz Commercial’s annual Directors and Officers Insurance Insights report. “The D&O insurance market has remained competitive for buyers over the past year, but loss potential is still high,” says Vanessa Maxwell, Chief Underwriting Officer, Allianz Commercial. “ The global rise in business insolvencies is a particular focus of concern, with companies and leaders exposed to potential claims from lenders seeking to recover funds, or from shareholders who allege breach of fiduciary duty. At the same time, the litigation landscape and enforcement are increasingly stringent, and we are seeing regulatory bodies across the globe step up scrutiny of corporate conduct, making D&Os more vulnerable to investigations, penalties and lawsuits.” Insolvencies as an emerging D&O risk Global business insolvencies for 2024 are expected to rise by +11%, and countries accounting for more than half of global GDP will be hit by double-digit insolvency increases in 2024, according to Allianz Trade . Major insolvencies already increased by +26% year-on-year for the first three quarters of 2024 (344 cases). Western Europe leads the global count with 195 cases, a reflection of the region’s current economic instability, followed by Asia-Pacific (67 cases) and North America (66 cases). Rising bankruptcies typically lead to an increase in D&O claims, so this trend is a reminder to business leaders of the need to respond and adapt to the challenging environment. “Many companies have faced higher interest expenses, inflationary pressures, and macro- and microeconomic headwinds that have impacted their business and resulted in a struggle to service their debt load,” says Dan Holloway, Head of Global Management Liability Commercial at Allianz Commercial . “Some sectors are particularly exposed, including real estate, construction, hospitality, tourism, and businesses in ‘consumer discretionary’, or non-essential purchases.” Turbulent geopolitical environment and stringent litigation landscape With war in Ukraine and the Middle East, the geopolitical landscape presents liability challenges to businesses as they find themselves caught up in world events with potentially significant consequences for their operations. Upheaval can lead to supply chain disruption, business interruption, and legal and regulatory scrutiny. Companies can face scrutiny for non-compliance with international sanctions, or for failing to adequately manage risks related to politically unstable regions. D&Os can be held accountable for misjudging the impact of geopolitical developments on their company’s operations, leading to shareholder lawsuits or regulatory penalties. At the same time, the litigation landscape and enforcement are increasingly stringent, with securities class actions proliferating not only in the US, but also in Europe (+10% year-on-year) and Australia (+43%) . “D&Os need to update their knowledge around geopolitical and regulatory changes more regularly than ever before,” says Jarrod Schlesinger, Global Head of Financial Lines and Cyber at Allianz Commercial. “A once-a-year review is no longer sufficient in the volatile era businesses are now operating in. These trends are driving the need for D&O policies that are responsive to multi-jurisdictional risks and can provide local coverage for legal defense costs, settlements and other liabilities.” “AI washing” – the new “greenwashing”? The transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) is huge, but it also means companies must adapt quickly to potential exposures around disclosure, regulation, shareholder scrutiny and litigation. AI-related litigation is increasing and exaggerated claims about firms’ technological capabilities – a trend known as “AI washing” – could lead to securities class action lawsuits and enforcement actions. Class action lawsuits have already been filed in the US, but the risk extends beyond North America, as any company that has its stock listed on a US exchange is subject to US securities law. Third-party litigation funding a growing exposure The global litigation funding industry is projected to grow rapidly in the coming years –by almost 10% CAGR up to 2028 – widening access to justice, but also potentially driving up the number of class actions and settlement costs and damages, as also highlighted in Allianz Commercial’s Five Liability Loss Trends To Watch report. And it is not only confined to the US – third-party litigation funding is also established in the UK, Netherlands, Germany, and Australia. “D&Os will face increasing scrutiny from third parties ready to jump on cases and fund them. Claims are likely to become more complex because of funders’ aggressive litigation strategies and the experts they can afford to hire,” says Schlesinger. “Plaintiffs with little to lose financially could be tempted to make baseless claims. Even if the case doesn’t have legs, directors still have to defend it.” Challenges persist in Asia D&O market The price-driven Asia D&O market has experienced a drop in overall premium rates during 2024, due to factors including high competition from an abundance of capacity globally, and challenging economic environments resulting in some clients reducing limits purchased to save costs. “We foresee the overall market size for D&O in 2025 will continue to retract, driven by rate erosion, smaller limits being purchased by customers, and very limited new opportunities given slow capital market activities. Despite this, D&O insurance remains crucial for companies due to the multiple exposures executives face, and as loss potential increases with higher severity for claims being resolved,” says Danielle An, Regional Practice Leader, Management Liability Commercial, Asia, at Allianz Commercial. Hashtag: #Allianz https://commercial.allianz.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/allianz-commercial/ The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Allianz Commercial is the center of expertise and global line of Allianz Group for insuring mid-sized businesses, large enterprises and specialist risks. Among our customers are the world’s largest consumer brands, financial institutions and industry players, the global aviation and shipping industry as well as family-owned and medium enterprises which are the backbone of the economy. We also cover unique risks such as offshore wind parks, infrastructure projects or film productions. Powered by the employees, financial strength , and network of the world’s #1 insurance brand, as ranked by Interbrand , we work together to help our customers prepare for what’s ahead: They trust us to provide a wide range of traditional and alternative risk transfer solutions, outstanding risk consulting and Multinational services, as well as seamless claims handling. The trade name Allianz Commercial brings together the large corporate insurance business of Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS) and the commercial insurance business of national Allianz Property & Casualty entities serving mid-sized companies. We are present in over 200 countries and territories either through our own teams or the Allianz Group network and partners. In 2023, the integrated business of Allianz Commercial generated more than €18 billion gross premium globally.
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy will not play Sunday and head coach Kyle Shanahan said the lingering discomfort is a concern. Purdy sat out Friday after he participated in the start of Thursday's practice with the 49ers, then retreated indoors for what Shanahan said was a treatment session. Brandon Allen, 32, will start in Purdy's place, and the 49ers are also without defensive end Nick Bosa (oblique). Shanahan said players believe in Allen, even if he's an unknown. "Outside of here people haven't seen a lot of Brandon. But it's his second year (with the 49ers)," Shanahan said. "Obviously guys want Brock up, but guys are excited to see Brandon play." Shanahan said they are "a little surprised" Purdy experienced tightness and discomfort in his shoulder after an MRI exam on Monday that showed no long-term cause for concern. "The way it responded this week, it's really up in the air for next week," Shanahan said of Purdy. Allen is familiar to Packers head coach Matt LaFleur, who was an assistant coach with the Rams during Allen's two-year run in Los Angeles. Allen broke into the NFL in 2016 with the Jaguars and is 2-7 in nine career starts. He went 1-2 with the Broncos in 2019 and 1-5 in six starts over two years with the Bengals in 2020 and ‘21. Shanahan said Allen's confidence grew throughout the week and he doesn't anticipate a major change in how he calls the offense. Left tackle Trent Williams (ankle) also missed practice for the third consecutive day. Without disclosing the nature of the ailment to Purdy's throwing shoulder, general manager John Lynch confirmed Friday an MRI exam took place to determine the severity of any injury. Allen worked with the first team most of Thursday and Friday with Joshua Dobbs also taking snaps. Lynch described Purdy's status for the 49ers (5-5) this week as "tenuous." "Hopefully, he makes progress, and we can have a shot at this weekend, but we'll see," Lynch said in an interview with KNBR in San Francisco. "I think it's tenuous." When Purdy was on the field this week, he primarily worked on the side in position-specific drills with QB coach Brian Griese. Williams played through an ankle injury last week after being listed as questionable but exited the stadium with an exaggerated limp on Sunday. Run game coordinator Chris Foerster said the 49ers aren't where they want to be at 5-5 because they haven't won close games, not because of injuries. "Seven games left is like an eternity," Foerster said. "So much can happen. Do the math. What was our record last year? It was 12-5. I was on a 13-win team that was nowhere near as good as the team last year." With or without Purdy, Foerster said the challenge for the 49ers is not to give up the ball to a defense that has 19 takeaways. The 49ers have 13 giveaways this season. --Field Level Media89bio to Participate in the 7th Annual Evercore HealthCONx ConferenceTJX Cos. stock underperforms Tuesday when compared to competitors despite daily gainsNifty opened with a wide gap-up last week but did not get a strong follow-through rise thereafter. That have left the near-term picture unclear. We can see a gap-down open on Monday following the weak GDP data release. However, we will have to see if the Nifty is sustaining lower or bouncing back again. We will have to wait and watch the price action this week to get clarity on the next direction of move. Nifty can trade in a broad range of 23,650 to 24,700. A breakout on either side of the range will decide whether Nifty50 can rise to 25,000 and 25,500 or fall to 23,300-23,000. Nifty Bank index retains its 49,800-52,600 range. A sustained break above 52,600 is needed to become bullish for the nifty bank index to see a rise to 54,000 and higher. Else the index can fall back again towards 50,000. -- BL Portfolio: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/portfolio/ --- Write to the following email ids for any queries on 1) Futures & Options (F&O) : derivatives@thehindu.co.in 2) Technical outlook on the specific stocks: techtrail@thehindu.co.in 3) Mutual Funds: mf@thehindu.co.in 4) Investments, Personal finance: blportfolio@thehindu.co.in --- SOCIAL MEDIA HANDLES Facebook - Blportfolio https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086211032670 LinkedIn - BL Portfolio https://www.linkedin.com/in/bl-portfolio-314bb2220 Twitter - @BlPortfolio https://twitter.com/BlPortfolio?t=B3zkMfwKIMuoHWBWJfoZ3w&s=09 Comments
MIAMI , Dec. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Lennar Corporation (NYSE: LEN and LEN.B), one of the nation's largest homebuilders, announced today that the Company will release earnings for the fourth quarter ended November 30, 2024 after the market closes on December 18, 2024 . Additionally, the Company will hold a conference call on December 19, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time . The call will be broadcast live on the Internet and can be accessed through Lennar's website at investors.lennar.com . If you are unable to participate during the live webcast, the call will be archived at investors.lennar.com for 90 days. Lennar Corporation, founded in 1954, is one of the nation's leading builders of quality homes for all generations. Lennar builds affordable, move-up and active adult homes primarily under the Lennar brand name. Lennar's Financial Services segment provides mortgage financing, title and closing services primarily for buyers of Lennar's homes and, through LMF Commercial, originates mortgage loans secured primarily by commercial real estate properties throughout the United States . Lennar's Multifamily segment is a nationwide developer of high-quality multifamily rental properties. LEN X drives Lennar's technology, innovation and strategic investments. For more information about Lennar, please visit www.lennar.com . Contact: Ian Frazer Investor Relations Lennar Corporation (305) 485-4129 View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lennar-corporations-fourth-quarter-earnings-conference-call-to-be-broadcast-live-on-the-internet-302324202.html SOURCE Lennar Corporation
Biden says Assad's fall in Syria is a 'fundamental act of justice,' but 'a moment of risk'Published 4:38 pm Saturday, November 30, 2024 By Data Skrive Sunday’s college basketball slate includes five games with a ranked team on the court. Among those games is the UCLA Bruins squaring off against the Hawaii Rainbow Wahine. Watch women’s college basketball, other live sports and more on Fubo. What is Fubo? Fubo is a streaming service that gives you access to your favorite live sports and shows on demand. Use our link to sign up for a free trial. Catch tons of live women’s college basketball , plus original programming, with ESPN+ or the Disney Bundle.
We will soon put 2024 in the history books, and what a year it was for the stock market. So far, the S&P 500 index has reached a new all-time high a whopping 50 times. There are multiple reasons for the rise, like a resilient economy and expectations that the Federal Reserve will keep lowering interest rates. However, perhaps the largest reason is artificial intelligence (AI) enthusiasm. Some believe that the stock market is in a bubble, or at least overextended, and there are definitely stocks that appear overvalued. However, the AI market is massive and expanding quickly, as shown below. The AI market could more than quadruple 2024 revenues by 2030, so companies (and investors) are scrambling for a piece of it. AI covers a lot of different applications, one of which is voice recognition technology. This tech communicates with people conversationally and has many applications. One of the leading companies in the field is SoundHound AI ( SOUN 12.60% ) , whose stock has rocketed 578% in 2024 as of this writing. Will this continue in 2025? SoundHound's market opportunity The financial implications of conversational speech recognition are gigantic. Order-taking at drive-thru restaurants and automated customer service will save companies vast sums of money on employee costs. Well-known companies like White Castle, Papa John's , Applebee's, and many more are testing or deploying SoundHound's tech. SoundHound just reported that Torchy's Tacos rolled out the tech at their locations. Automotive is another massive market using SoundHound. The tech accesses a vast database to answer questions like "What's the most scenic route?" "What will the weather be like in Detroit this weekend?" or "Where is a nearby Italian restaurant, and what is the fastest way to get there?" This is a significant advancement from the days of "call so and so" and "play music." I believe that voice recognition tech like this will soon be the standard at drive-thrus and automobiles. Statista predicts the market will more than double by 2030, as you can see below. Revenue is growing faster than the market for SoundHound. Is SoundHound stock a buy now? SoundHound reported an 89% year-over-year increase in revenue to $25 million in the third quarter. It also expanded its customer base significantly in 2024. The company expects sales of $82 million to $85 million for 2024, potentially doubling sales with $165 million as the guidance midpoint of 2025. The revenue growth is incredible; however, investors should note that the company is not profitable and does not produce positive cash flow from operations. This makes the stock riskier than profitable companies. SoundHound's valuation is in question after its recent epic run that saw the stock soar 171% over the past 30 days. The company trades for 33 times its potential $165 million in sales for 2025 based on its $5.5 billion market cap at the time of this writing. That is quite high for any company, let alone one that isn't profitable. Analysts put an average price target on SoundHound of $8.07, well below the current price of $14.62. I am enthusiastic about SoundHound's future and was recently high on the stock; however, investors should consider waiting for a pullback after this run.Trump Defense Secretary Pick Thinks ‘Marxists Are Our Enemies’
Flag football scours nation with talent camps to uncover next wave of stars
Amazon is doubling down on artificial intelligence by investing an additional $4 billion in the San Francisco -based startup Anthropic . The deal, announced Friday, raises Amazon 's total commitment to $8 billion in just over a year. Anthropic, a competitor to OpenAI and Google , develops foundational AI models that drive advanced systems like chatbots and automation tools. This deepened partnership amplifies Amazon's position in AI innovation and integrates its cloud computing arm, Amazon Web Services (AWS), as Anthropic's "primary training partner." Amazon has been rolling out new services to keep up with this year's AI arms race, including updates for its popular assistant Alexa so users can have more human-like conversations and AI-generated summaries of product reviews for consumers. Does Anthropic Stand Out in 2024 AI Development? As part of the agreement, Anthropic will rely on AWS-designed chips and data centers to train and deploy its AI systems. These foundational models are the engines behind general-purpose AI tools, including Claude, Anthropic's competitor to ChatGPT and Bard . Claude is built to engage in detailed conversations, summarize text, analyze information, assist with programming, and provide other computational support. "We've been impressed by Anthropic's pace of innovation and commitment to responsible development of generative AI, and look forward to deepening our collaboration," said Matt Garman, CEO of AWS, in a statement. Companies using Anthropic's advanced generative AI via AWS include DoorDash, GoDaddy, Pfizer , T-Mobile, and Zendesk. This partnership offers Amazon more than just an entry into Anthropic's new technologies. Using AWS servers ensures that a portion of Anthropic's operational costs flow back to Amazon, reinforcing its competitiveness in cloud computing while positioning it as a challenger to Nvidia , a leader in AI chip manufacturing. What Drives Investment? Rivalries The generative AI landscape is crowded, with global tech giants vying for dominance. OpenAI, which secured $6.6 billion in funding in October, now boasts a valuation of $157 billion. Meanwhile, Elon Musk 's xAI is seeking investments that could push its valuation to $40 billion. Amazon's partnership with Anthropic reflects a commitment to outpace its rivals. However, the profitability of such ventures remains a critical concern, especially for smaller AI firms unable to match the pace of investment . Many of these have been acquired by industry heavyweights like Google and Microsoft. Anthropic purports to be doing things differently by creating advanced AI tools while addressing safety concerns that could prevent misuse or harmful outcomes. Amazon Collaboration 'Instrumental,' Says Anthropic CEO The influx of capital into AI startups has also drawn attention from regulators who are monitoring whether such deals stifle competition. In September, the U.K.'s Competition and Markets Authority reviewed Amazon's ties with Anthropic but concluded that their combined market share did not justify further investigation under merger rules. DeDario Amodei, co-founder and chief executive of Anthropic, recently praised Claude's "year of breakout growth." He previously held high positions at OpenAI. "Our collaboration with Amazon has been instrumental in bringing Claude's capabilities to millions of end users across tens of thousands of customers," he said. "We're looking forward to working with Amazon to train and power our most advanced AI model." This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.
Returning to the office a few days a week is worth the commute, experts sayNone
Allstate Corp. stock underperforms Thursday when compared to competitors
Tributes have flooded in across the boxing world after Genadij Krajevskij passed away aged 37 . Krajevskij fought and lost against Jake Paul's former rival Tommy Fury in two rounds back in November 2020. The Lithuanian journeyman was a well-liked figure during his eight-year professional boxing career. Reacting to the news of his passing, the British Boxing Board of Control's Midlands Area Council wrote: "We would like to pass our condolences and thoughts to Genadij Krakevskij’s family and friends at this time. The Baltic Bomber graced the away corner in the midlands area on numerous occasions. He was always a delight to be around in and out of the ring." Logan Paul's best friend calls him out for disrespectful challenge to Mike Tyson Mike Tyson feelings are clear as Gervonta Davis puts the boot in after Jake Paul loss VIPBoxing Promotions said they received the news of Krakevskij's death with "deep sorrow". They added: "We had the honour of featuring him in the VIP Shows on multiple occasions." Known as the 'Baltic Bomber', Krakevskij fought all across England in his 76-bout career. He most recently took on Levi Vaughan in Birmingham back in August. Writing on social media, one boxing fan wrote: "Terrible sad news. RIP Genadij Krakevskij a true warrior, and a lovely fella." Stockbridge Amateur Boxing Club wrote: "RIP to a proper fighter." While he was not successful inside the ring, losing his 75 of his 76 fights, Krakevskij made a real impression in the sport. He was renowned for his personality outside of the ring. Boxing MC Phil Seymour described Krakevskij as a "great presence at fight shows up and down the country". His one victory came against Ryan Broten and promoter VIP Shows tweeted a clip of his reaction after getting the decision. They wrote: "We had the honour of featuring him in the VIP Shows on multiple occasions. Our videographer, Lee Hogan, was fortunate enough to capture his sole professional victory during his 68th fight on a Frank Duffin show. "This moment was incredibly significant for him, as he conveyed the message 'Never give up' to the camera. Rest in peace, Baltic Bomber."No, Amish voters in Pa. did not carry the election for Donald Trump
Scottie Scheffler opens Hero World Challenge strong with new putting gripHow much do you need to worry about a stock-market crash? More than a little. - MarketWatchNone
Green Critical Minerals restarting research into producing single-crystal mullite fibre using topaz High-end, non-oxide mullite fibres could sell for about US$11,000/kg into the growing metal matrix composites market Opportunity made possible by acquisition of VHD Blocks technology and appointment of Professor Andrew Ruy Special Report: Green Critical Minerals is advancing its mine to market strategy after deciding to review its previous research into the production of single-crystal mullite fibre using topaz sourced from its Torrington project in NSW. Between 2019 and 2020 the company conducted research into the production of topaz single-crystal mullite fibres, highly sought after for their high-temperature stability, low thermal expansion, and excellent mechanical strength for use in reinforcing metal and ceramic matrix composites. This demonstrated the potential of mullite fibres in mining for high durability impact and wear pads, advanced brake pads and catalytic converters in the automotive sector, body, vehicle and aircraft armour in the military, and high temperature filtration systems for the chemical industry. Research also highlighted the potential to use all of the fluorine by-product to develop a high-value niche product (fibres) and a large-volume, low-value product (fluoride used widely in water fluoridation). However, further development was paused at that time due to resource constraints and the impact of the COVID 19 pandemic. Torrington currently has an indicated and inferred resource of 4965t tungsten at a contained grade of 0.23% and 198,500t of topaz at a grade of 17% in the Wild Kate and Mount Everard prospects. Mullite fibres. Pic: Green Critical Minerals Back on board Green Critical Minerals (ASX:GCM) now has the opportunity to dust off its previous research into advanced material technologies thanks to the recent acquisition of VHD Block technology and appointment of Professor Andrew Ruy – a globally renowned expert in oxide and non-oxide ceramics – as its head of research and development. This new capability allows the company to review its previous research with an intention to define a pathway to commercialisation for its mullite fibre technology. Efforts will be made to grow mullite whiskers into coarser fibres, potentially enhancing the reinforcement properties, as well as potentially studying factors like aluminium alloy types, mixing techniques, porosity, pore size distribution, calcining temperature, and infiltration parameters. Success could lead to the development of a potentially disruptive beneficiation technology that will transform low-value topaz feedstock into high value single-crystal mullite fibres for use in metal matrix composites (MMCs) and ceramic matrix composites (CMCs). This has the potential to be hugely lucrative as the high-end, non-oxide ceramic fibre can sell for about US$11,000/kg into the MMC market which has been experiencing steady growth, driven by increasing demand across various industries such as automotive, aerospace, and defence. In 2023, the market was valued at ~US$810m and is projected to reach over US$2.2bn by 2032, a compound annual growth rate of ~12.4%. GCM adds that as single-crystal mullite fibres have long been considered the holy grail of fibre reinforcements, but they are not available commercially, there are literally hundreds, if not thousands, of industrial and research laboratories that are potential customers. Work program The company will now develop a work program that considers the recommendations from previous research such as: Optimisation of fibre production by refining parameters such as porosity control, calcining temperatures, and infiltration techniques to achieve consistent and scalable production Exploration of metal and ceramic matrix composites to validate mullite fibre performance under real-world conditions Developing a pilot production facility to bridge the gap between laboratory-scale research and commercial-scale manufacturing Engaging with key industry players to identify priority applications and secure partnerships for product development and adoption; and Environmental impact studies to ensure sustainable practices in the extraction of topaz and production of mullite fibre, aligning with GCM’s environmental and social governance objective. This article was developed in collaboration with Green Critical Minerals, a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing. This article does not constitute financial product advice. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any financial decisions. Originally published as GCM dusts off potentially lucrative research into topaz single-crystal mullite fibres Stockhead Don't miss out on the headlines from Stockhead. Followed categories will be added to My News. More related stories Stockhead Airtasker reaches media capital milestone Airtasker raises $51.6 million of media capital in 2024 for AU, US and UK operations, with two new deals to promote brand growth in the US and UK target markets. Read more Stockhead HeraMED and Metronomic team up for US postpartum care HeraMED has signed a letter of intent with Metronomic to create an integrated postpartum care solution for the US market. Read more