The new, 12-team College Football Playoff brings with it a promise to be bigger, more exciting, more lucrative. Perfect or 100% fair? Well, nobody ever believed that. The first expanded playoff bracket unveiled Sunday left a presumably deserving Alabama team on the sideline in favor of an SMU squad that finished with a better record after playing a schedule that was not as difficult. It ranked undefeated Oregon first but set up a possible rematch against Ohio State, the team that came closest to beating the Ducks this year. It treated underdog Boise State like a favorite and banged-up Georgia like a world beater at No. 2. It gave Ohio State home-field advantage against Tennessee for reasons it would take a supercomputer to figure out. It gave the sport the multiweek tournament it has longed for, but also ensured there will be plenty to grouse about between now and when the trophy is handed out on Jan. 20 after what will easily be the longest college football season in history. All of it, thankfully, will be sorted out on the field starting with first-round games on campuses Dec. 20 and 21, then over three succeeding rounds that will wind their way through traditional bowl sites. Maybe Oregon coach Dan Lanning, whose undefeated Ducks are the favorite to win it all, put it best when he offered: "Winning a national championship is not supposed to be easy.” Neither, it turns out, is figuring out who should play for it. Alabama comes up short in the bracket’s biggest debate The Big Ten will lead the way with four teams in the tournament, followed by the SEC with three and the ACC with two. The lasting memory from the inaugural bracket will involve the decision that handed the ACC that second bid. Alabama of the SEC didn't play Saturday. SMU of the ACC did. The Mustangs fell behind by three touchdowns to Clemson before coming back to tie. But they ultimately lost 34-31 on a 56-yard field goal as time expired. “We were on pins and needles,” SMU coach Rhett Lashley said. “Until we saw the name ‘SMU’ up there, we were hanging on the edge. We're really, really happy and thankful to the committee for rewarding our guys for their total body of work." The Mustangs only had two losses, compared to three for the Crimson Tide. Even though SMU's schedule wasn't nearly as tough, the committee was impressed by the way the Mustangs came back against Clemson. “We just felt, in this particular case, SMU had the nod above Alabama,” said Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel, the chairman of the selection committee. “But it’s no disrespect to Alabama’s strength of schedule. We looked at the entire body of work for both teams.” Crimson Tide AD gracious, but looking for answers Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne was gracious, up to a point. “Disappointed with the outcome and felt we were one of the 12 best teams in the country,” he said on social media. He acknowledged — despite all of Alabama’s losses coming against conference opponents this season — that the Tide’s push to schedule more games against teams from other major conferences in order to improve its strength of schedule did not pay off this time. “That is not good for college football," Byrne said. Georgia, Boise State and Arizona State join Oregon with first-round byes Georgia, the SEC champion, was seeded second; Boise State, the Mountain West champion, earned the third seed; and Big 12 titlist Arizona State got the fourth seed and the fourth and final first-round bye. All will play in quarterfinals at bowl games on Dec. 31-Jan. 1. Clemson stole a bid and the 12th seed with its crazy win over SMU, the result that ultimately cost Alabama a spot in the field. The Tigers moved to No. 16 in the rankings, but got in as the fifth-best conference winner. Automatic byes and bids made the bracket strange The conference commissioners' idea to give conference champions preferable treatment in this first iteration of the 12-team playoff could be up for reconsideration after this season. The committee actually ranked Boise State, the Mountain West Champion, at No. 9 and Big 12 champion Arizona State at No. 12, but both get to skip the first round. Another CFP guideline: There’s no reseeding of teams after each round, which means no break for Oregon. The top-seeded Ducks will face the winner of Tennessee-Ohio State in the Rose Bowl. Oregon beat Ohio State 32-31 earlier this year in one of the season’s best games. What the matchups look like No. 12 Clemson at No. 5 Texas, Dec. 21. Clemson is riding high after the SMU upset, while Texas is 0-2 against Georgia and 11-0 vs. everyone else this season. The winner faces ... Arizona State in the Peach Bowl. Huh? No. 11 SMU at No. 6 Penn State, Dec. 21. The biggest knock against the Mustangs was that they didn't play any big boys with that 60th-ranked strength of schedule. Well, now they get to. The winner faces ... Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl. Yes, SMU vs. Boise was the quarterfinal we all expected. No. 10 Indiana at No. 7 Notre Dame, Dec. 20. Hoosiers coach Curt Cignetti thought his team deserved a home game. Well, not quite but close. The winner faces ... Georgia in the Sugar Bowl. The Bulldogs got the No. 2 seed despite a throwing-arm injury to QB Carson Beck. But what else was the committee supposed to do? No. 9 Tennessee at No. 8 Ohio State , Dec. 21. The Buckeyes (losses to Oregon, Michigan) got home field over the Volunteers (losses to Arkansas, Georgia) in a matchup of programs with two of the biggest stadiums in football. The winner faces ... Oregon in the Rose Bowl. Feels like that matchup should come in the semifinals or later. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-footballBOWLING GREEN, Ky. (AP) — Don McHenry scored 29 points as Western Kentucky beat Kentucky Wesleyan 91-71 on Saturday. McHenry also contributed four steals for the Hilltoppers (9-3). Braxton Bayless added 18 points while going 7 of 10 (3 for 3 from 3-point range) while they also had five rebounds. Julius Thedford went 6 of 13 from the field (3 for 7 from 3-point range) to finish with 17 points. It was the sixth straight win for the Hilltoppers. The Panthers were led in scoring by Quentin Toles, who finished with 15 points and six assists. Kentucky Wesleyan also got 14 points and six rebounds from Fatih Huyuk. Kennedy Miles also had 14 points and five assists. Western Kentucky took the lead with 5:32 remaining in the first half and did not relinquish it. The score was 46-41 at halftime, with Bayless racking up 13 points. Western Kentucky pulled away with an 8-0 run in the second half to extend a four-point lead to 12 points. They outscored Kentucky Wesleyan by 15 points in the final half, as McHenry led the way with a team-high 19 second-half points. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .McHenry scores 29 as Western Kentucky defeats Kentucky Wesleyan 91-71
Donald Trump says Fed chair Jerome Powell's job is safe By CITY & FINANCE REPORTER Updated: 08:50 AEDT, 9 December 2024 e-mail View comments Donald Trump has said he will not try to oust Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell in January. When asked by US reporters if he would make a change in January, he said: 'No, I don't think so,' despite having previously argued with Powell over interest rate levels. It follows comments from Powell that he would refuse to leave his position early if Trump tried to push him out Powell said removing any of the Fed's governors before their term finishes was 'not permitted under the law'. In the pink: Donald Trump has said he will not try to oust Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell in January RELATED ARTICLES Previous 1 Next US unemployment rise paves way for Fed rate cut Britain's economy may do better from Trump 2.0 than most... Share this article Share HOW THIS IS MONEY CAN HELP How to choose the best (and cheapest) stocks and shares Isa and the right DIY investing account Powell's term as chair of the central bank is due to run until May 2026. DIY INVESTING PLATFORMS AJ Bell AJ Bell Easy investing and ready-made portfolios Learn More Learn More Hargreaves Lansdown Hargreaves Lansdown Free fund dealing and investment ideas Learn More Learn More interactive investor interactive investor Flat-fee investing from £4.99 per month Learn More Learn More Saxo Saxo Get £200 back in trading fees Learn More Learn More Trading 212 Trading 212 Free dealing and no account fee Learn More Learn More Affiliate links: If you take out a product This is Money may earn a commission. These deals are chosen by our editorial team, as we think they are worth highlighting. This does not affect our editorial independence. Compare the best investing account for you Share or comment on this article: Donald Trump says Fed chair Jerome Powell's job is safe e-mail Add comment Some links in this article may be affiliate links. If you click on them we may earn a small commission. That helps us fund This Is Money, and keep it free to use. We do not write articles to promote products. We do not allow any commercial relationship to affect our editorial independence.None
Sunny Health & Fitness: From Strength to Strength—Unveiling the Sunny Strength LineMIKEL ARTETA did not hold back in his praise for Myles Lewis-Skelly after his first Champions League start as Arsenal's latest graduate more than repaid the faith. Lewis-Skelly showed the confidence and understanding of a player with more than 100 appearances under his belt as the Gunners saw off Monaco 3-0 . Brave on the ball and playing a key role in Arsenal 's first goal - this was a night he can remember fondly. While Arteta continues to worry about just how many injuries are piling up in North London - at least he now has someone he can trust at left-back. With Oleksandr Zinchenko and Riccardo Calafiori sidelined and Jurrien Timber not ready to start, the 18-year-old was given the nod ahead of Kieran Tierney. Arteta hailed the youngster after his Champions League debut versus Monaco, saying: "A really proud moment. He’s one of our own. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL "It’s just a joy to watch it him, a privilege to be able to give the chance to somebody. He took the chance." Gunners fans have had glimpses in the past, especially when he was involved in a spat with Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland before he had even turned 18. But with his progress this season having been hindered by an infected toe, supporters have had to wait a while longer for a proper display. There was plenty to be excited about here, with even Bukayo Saka raving about his display, saying: "His future is very bright. Most read in Champions League FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS "He just needs to keep the same head that he has got, his mentality is top and he is always asking questions, looking to learn. I'm so proud of him. "I just said to him, like I said to him before the game - this is his level. "He needs to have no doubts and play with confidence. “What he’s doing, we see it in training. I was pleased with him, he was a big part of the first goal.” Despite being the youngest player to start in the Champions League for Arsenal since Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in 2011, Lewis-Skelly was not lacking in confidence. Whether that was on the ball, taking possession in tight spaces and always looking to play forwards, or telling other far more senior team-mates where they should be. Lewis-Skelly completed a very impressive 45 of 47 attempted passes, always looking to keep the tempo up and with team-mates not afraid to hand him the ball. Arteta asks his full-backs to move inside when the Gunners are in possession and, having come through the ranks as a midfielder, the teen looks more than comfortable doing so. He just needs to keep the same head that he has got, his mentality is top and he is always asking questions, looking to learn. I'm so proud of him. It was from this position he helped craft the opener. Having shifted inside alongside Declan Rice , Lewis-Skelly collected a pass from skipper Martin Odegaard. Under pressure from Monaco's Maghnes Akliouche, the No49 took a touch backwards to draw the Frenchman in before darting forwards, leaving him stranded. The England Under-19 settled himself and quickly set Gabriel Jesus in behind with a fine pass, from where the Brazilian squared to setup Saka. READ MORE SUN STORIES As the Gunners had to dig in after the break, Arteta sent on the more experienced Timber to shore things up. But Lewis-Skelly still departed to a standing ovation - surely not the last he will receive from Arsenal supporters. BUKAYO SAKA scored twice as Arsenal saw off Monaco 3-0 in the Champions League. Here is how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the players' performances. DAVID RAYA – 7/10 Rarely troubled throughout the game, but did what he had to do. Commanding in the box, and pretty good distribution-wise, with only a few mistakes on that front. THOMAS PARTEY – 6 A mixed bag from Partey tonight, with a few nice passes creating dangerous attacks, and a few going wildly astray. Wasn't caused an awful lot of trouble by Monaco's left side. WILLIAM SALIBA – 7 Solid at the back as per usual. Always gives you a seven out of ten. JAKUB KIWIOR – 7 A capable deputy in Gabriel's absence, sharp on the ball and dependable off of it. Equally as good as Saliba next to him. MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 9 Playing as a left-back, Lewis-Skelly became the latest Hale End academy graduate to make his full Champions League debut vs Monaco. A sensational bit of play to beat Monaco's press allowed him to slot an inch-perfect ball into Jesus who set up Saka for Arsenal's opener. Given a standing ovation by the home support when he left the pitch after 64 minutes. DECLAN RICE – 7 Broke up play nicely as he always does, often sliding in to shut down Monaco attacks. Not as threatening as we have seen him be previously going forward, but that wasn't his job this evening with Merino alongside him. MIKEL MERINO – 4 I wasn't moved. Arsenal fans might be left slightly disappointed by the Odegaard - Merino - Rice midfield they were excited about. Looked heavy and slow, and got booked. MARTIN ODEGAARD – 5 Not his usual elegant self in midfield for Arsenal. Unfortunately let down by his end product tonight, as he missed two huge chances to double their lead either side of half-time. GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 4 A threat down the left side in the first half, he should've had an assist were it not for Arsenal's number nine. While he showed some bright sparks, his end product in general was not good enough. BUKAYO SAKA – 8 In the right place at the right time as he so often is to open the scoring after a great ball across the box by Jesus. Reacted quickly to a goalkeeper mistake and finished into the far corner for what was his seventh home Champions League goal in seven home Champions League games - clinical. GABRIEL JESUS – 5 Could've had a first-half brace, but for his lack of composure, as he missed TWO huge 1v1 chances early on in the tie. What he lacked in finishing however, he made up for with a quality assist to set up Saka for the opening goal. SUBS: LEANDRO TROSSARD (GABRIEL MARTINELLI, 64) – 5 Much the same story as the man whom he replaced. JORGINHO (DECLAN RICE, 64) – 6 A calming presence in the Arsenal midfield, helped to settle the ball when he got on it. JURRIEN TIMBER (MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY, 64) – 6 Replaced the best player on the pitch and Arsenal's level didn't drop much. KAI HAVERTZ (GABRIEL JESUS, 73) – 8 Put the goalkeeper under plenty of pressure to force the mistake for Saka's second. Got the faintest of nicks for the Gunners’ third. ETHAN NWANERI (MARTIN ODEGAARD, 79) – 5 Another good few minutes in the tank for the Arsenal starlet with a very bright future. Some good touches to get the home fans excited.
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Stock market today: Wall Street gains ground as it notches a winning week and another Dow recordPete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s choice to be defense secretary, is joined by his wife Jennifer Rauchet as he speaks with reporters after meeting with Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, speaks with reporters after meeting with Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s choice to be defense secretary, on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s choice to be defense secretary, arrives for a meeting with Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s choice to be defense secretary, is joined by his wife Jennifer Rauchet as he speaks with reporters after meeting with Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) By MARY CLARE JALONICK and MATT BROWN WASHINGTON (AP) — Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Defense Department, said he had a “wonderful conversation” with Maine Sen. Susan Collins on Wednesday as he pushed to win enough votes for confirmation. He said he will not back down after allegations of excessive drinking and sexual misconduct. Related Articles National Politics | Donald Trump will ring the New York Stock Exchange bell. It’ll be a first for him National Politics | The Trump and Biden teams insist they’re working hand in glove on foreign crises National Politics | ‘You don’t know what’s next.’ International students scramble ahead of Trump inauguration National Politics | Trump is threatening to raise tariffs again. Here’s how China plans to fight back National Politics | Trump won’t be able to save the struggling US beef industry Collins said after the hourlong meeting that she questioned Hegseth about the allegations amid reports of drinking and the revelation that he made a settlement payment after being accused of a sexual assault that he denies. She said she had a “good, substantive” discussion with Hegseth and “covered a wide range of topics,” including sexual assault in the military, Ukraine and NATO. But she said she would wait until a hearing, and notably a background check, to make a decision. “I asked virtually every question under the sun,” Collins told reporters as she left her office after the meeting. “I pressed him both on his position on military issues as well as the allegations against him, so I don’t think there was anything that we did not cover.” The meeting with Collins was closely watched as she is seen as more likely than most of her Republican Senate colleagues to vote against some of Trump’s Cabinet picks. She and Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski, a fellow moderate Republican, did not shy from opposing Trump in his first term when they wanted to do so and sometimes supported President Joe Biden’s nominees for the judicial and executive branches. And Hegseth, an infantry combat veteran and former “Fox & Friends” weekend host, is working to gain as many votes as he can as some senators have expressed concerns about his personal history and lack of management experience. “I’m certainly not going to assume anything about where the senator stands,” Hegseth said as he left Collins’ office. “This is a process that we respect and appreciate. And we hope, in time, overall, when we get through that committee and to the floor that we can earn her support.” Hegseth met with Murkowski on Tuesday. He has also been meeting repeatedly with Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst, a military veteran who has said she is a survivor of sexual assault and has spent time in the Senate working on improving how attacks are reported and prosecuted within the ranks. On Monday, Ernst said after a meeting with him that he had committed to selecting a senior official to prioritize those goals. Republicans will have a 53-49 majority next year, meaning Trump cannot lose more than three votes on any of his nominees. It is so far unclear whether Hegseth will have enough support, but Trump has stepped up his pressure on senators in the last week. “Pete is a WINNER, and there is nothing that can be done to change that!!!” Trump posted on his social media platform last week.
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( MENAFN - Gulf Times) Sony Middle East and Africa, alongside Modern Home, its strategic and exclusive partner in Qatar, announced the release of the WF-C510 wireless earbuds, WH-1000XM5, and WF-1000XM5 headphones in Smoky Pink, the MDR-M1 studio monitor headphones, and the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II lens. These exciting new launches cater to a wide range of consumers, from Audio enthusiasts and photographers to creators and professionals. The new launches are available at Modern Home in Al Maha Centre on Salwa Road and Fnac stores in Lagoona Mall, Doha Festival City, and Place Vendome, in addition to other major retailers in town. The WF-C510 wireless earbuds redefine convenience and comfort. Featuring Sony's smallest-ever closed-type design, these earbuds offer a stable and ergonomic fit, ensuring hours of seamless use. The compact, cylindrical charging case is pocket-friendly and provides extended portability. The WF-C510 delivers powerful performance with up to 11 hours of playback time, while a quick five-minute charge gives an impressive 60 minutes of listening time. Equipped with Ambient Sound Mode and Voice Focus, the earbuds allow users to stay connected to their surroundings while enjoying high-quality audio. Personalisation is made possible with the Sony Headphones Connect app, where sound preferences can be customised. Supporting Multipoint Connection for simultaneous pairing with two devices and boasting IPX4 water resistance, the WF-C510 is ideal for everyday use. Enhanced by DSEE (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine), these earbuds ensure crisp, well-balanced sound for an authentic listening experience. Available in blue, yellow, black, and white, they perfectly blend style with practicality. Sony adds a stylish new dimension to its award-winning WH-1000XM5 and WF-1000XM5 noise-cancelling headphones with the introduction of Smoky Pink, a sophisticated shade designed in collaboration with K-Pop sensation LE SSERAFIM. The Smoky Pink edition blends elegant undertones with a matte finish, elevating its appeal as both an audio accessory and a fashion statement. Featuring Sony's best-in-class noise cancellation and 360 Reality Audio, these headphones deliver studio-quality sound engineered to perfection, ensuring music is heard the way it's meant to be. As part of Sony's For The Music campaign, the headphones are inspired by LE SSERAFIM's chic aesthetic and their hit track 'CRAZY', making them a must-have for fans and trendsetters. Designed for maximum comfort and performance, these headphones seamlessly combine cutting-edge technology with style. The MDR-M1 studio monitor headphones are Sony's latest innovation for creators, sound engineers, and music professionals. Designed in collaboration with industry experts like Mike Piacentini (Battery Studios) and Akihiro Nishimura (Power Station NYC), the MDR-M1 offers studio-quality sound reproduction for professional use. The headphones feature a closed acoustic structure for excellent sound isolation, ensuring precise monitoring in any environment. At the heart of the MDR-M1 is a uniquely developed driver unit that achieves ultra-wideband playback (5Hz–80kHz), combining a soft edge for low distortion and a hard dome for crystal-clear high frequencies. Engineered for comfort, the MDR-M1 features low-resilience ear pads and a lightweight design, allowing for long listening sessions without fatigue. Two detachable cables, including a shorter, portable option, offer versatility for professional setups. Supporting Sony's 360 Virtual Mixing Environment (360VME), the MDR-M1 empowers creators to work in virtual studio spaces, delivering consistency and accuracy anywhere. Sony's FE 85mm F1.4 GM II lens raises the bar for portrait and cinematic photography. This second-generation lens features two XA (extreme aspherical) and two ED (extra-low dispersion) elements to achieve outstanding resolution and clarity while suppressing aberrations. The hallmark of the lens is its soft, stunning bokeh, thanks to the 11-blade circular aperture and spherical aberration optimisation. The autofocus (AF) capabilities are significantly enhanced, now up to three times faster than its predecessor, enabling precise subject tracking even during high-speed continuous shooting, such as with Sony's Alpha 9 III. The lens is also optimised for cinematic video production, minimising focus breathing and providing flexible operability with customizable focus hold buttons and an independent aperture ring. Weighing just 642 grammes, 20% lighter and 13% smaller than the first-generation model, the lens combines advanced technology with a lightweight, compact design, making it an essential tool for portrait, wedding, and travel photographers, as well as videographers. Sony continues to set new standards with products that blend innovative technology, user-focused design, and uncompromising performance. From high-quality audio solutions to professional-grade lenses, Sony's latest launches cater to diverse consumer and professional needs. With the support of Modern Home, Sony reaffirms its commitment to delivering excellence and enriching experiences for customers in Qatar. MENAFN21122024000067011011ID1109020282 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.A timeline of the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson and the search for his killer NEW YORK (AP) — The search for UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s killer has stretched into a fifth day — and beyond New York City. Police say it appears the man left the city on a bus soon after Wednesday's shooting outside the New York Hilton Midtown. The suspect is seen on video at an uptown bus station about 45 minutes later. The FBI is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction. Police believe that words found written on ammunition at the shooting scene, including “deny," “defend” and "depose,” suggest a motive driven by anger toward the healthcare company. The words mimic a phrase used by insurance industry critics. Trump says he can't guarantee tariffs won't raise US prices and won't rule out revenge prosecutions WASHINGTON (AP) — Donald Trump says he can’t guarantee his promised tariffs on key U.S. foreign trade partners won’t raise prices for American consumers. And he's suggesting once more that some political rivals and federal officials who pursued legal cases against him should be imprisoned. The president-elect made the comments in a wide-ranging interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press” that aired Sunday. He also touched on monetary policy, immigration, abortion and health care, and U.S. involvement in Ukraine, Israel and elsewhere. Trump often mixed declarative statements with caveats, at one point cautioning “things do change.” Europe's economy needs help. Political chaos in France and Germany means it may be slower in coming BRUSSELS (AP) — Europe's economy has enough difficulties, from tepid growth to trade tensions with the U.S. Dealing with those woes is only getting harder due to the political chaos in the two biggest European countries, France and Germany. Neither has a government backed by a functioning majority, and France could take a while yet to sort things out. But some problems aren't going to wait, such as what to do about U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's America First stance on trade and how to fund stronger defense against Putin's Russia. ‘Moana 2’ cruises to another record weekend and $600 million globally “Moana 2” remains at the top of the box office in its second weekend in theaters as it pulled in another record haul. According to studio estimates Sunday, the animated Disney film added $52 million, bringing its domestic total to $300 million. That surpasses the take for the original “Moana” and brings the sequel's global tally to a staggering $600 million. It also puts the film in this year's top five at the box office. “Wicked” came in second place for the weekend with $34.9 million and “Gladiator II” was third with $12.5 million. The 10th anniversary re-release of Christopher Nolan's “Interstellar” also earned an impressive $4.4 million even though it played in only 165 theaters. Federal appeals court upholds law requiring sale or ban of TikTok in the US A federal appeals court panel on Friday unanimously upheld a law that could lead to a ban on TikTok as soon as next month, handing a resounding defeat to the popular social media platform as it fights for its survival in the U.S. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit ruled that the law - which requires TikTok to break ties with its China-based parent company ByteDance or be banned by mid-January — is constitutional, rebuffing TikTok’s challenge that the statute ran afoul of the First Amendment and unfairly targeted the platform. TikTok and ByteDance — another plaintiff in the lawsuit — are expected to appeal to the Supreme Court. Executive of Tyler Perry Studios dies when plane he was piloting crashes in Florida ATLANTA (AP) — The president of Atlanta-based Tyler Perry Studios has died when the small plane he was piloting crashed on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The studio confirmed on Saturday that Steve Mensch, its 62-year-old president and general manager, had died Friday. The crash happened in Homosassa, about 60 miles north of Tampa. Photos from the scene show the plane having come to rest upside down on a road. Mensch helped advocate for Georgia’s film tax credit of more than $1 billion a year. Perry hired Mensch to run his namesake studio in 2016. Mensch died as Perry released his war drama, “The Six Triple Eight." The film was shot at the Atlanta studio. US added a strong 227,000 jobs in November in bounce-back from October slowdown WASHINGTON (AP) — America’s job market rebounded in November, adding 227,000 workers in a solid recovery from the previous month, when the effects of strikes and hurricanes had sharply diminished employers’ payrolls. Last month’s hiring growth was up considerably from a meager gain of 36,000 jobs in October. The government also revised up its estimate of job growth in September and October by a combined 56,000. Friday’s report also showed that the unemployment rate ticked up from 4.1% in October to a still-low 4.2%. The November data provided the latest evidence that the U.S. job market remains durable even though it has lost significant momentum from the 2021-2023 hiring boom, when the economy was rebounding from the pandemic recession. Stock market today: Wall Street hits more records following a just-right jobs report NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks rose to records after data suggested the job market remains solid enough to keep the economy going, but not so strong that it raises immediate worries about inflation. The S&P 500 climbed 0.2%, just enough top the all-time high set on Wednesday, as it closed a third straight winning week in what looks to be one of its best years since the 2000 dot-com bust. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 0.3%, while the Nasdaq composite climbed 0.8% to set its own record. Treasury yields eased after the jobs report showed stronger hiring than expected but also an uptick in the unemployment rate. Killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO spotlights complex challenge companies face in protecting top brass NEW YORK (AP) — In an era when online anger and social tensions are increasingly directed at the businesses consumers count on, Meta last year spent $24.4 million to surround CEO Mark Zuckerberg with security. But the fatal shooting this week of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson while walking alone on a New York City sidewalk has put a spotlight on the widely varied approaches companies take to protect their leaders against threats. And experts say the task of evaluating threats against executives and taking action to protect them is getting more difficult. One of the primary worries are loners whose rantings online are fed by others who are like-minded. It’s up to corporate security analysts to decide what represents a real threat. Days after gunman killed UnitedHealthcare's CEO, police push to ID him and FBI offers reward NEW YORK (AP) — Nearly four days after the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, police still do not know the gunman’s name or whereabouts or have a motive for the killing. But they have made some progress in their investigation into Wednesday's killing of the leader of the largest U.S. health insurer, including that the gunman likely left New York City on a bus soon after fleeing the scene. The also found that the gunman left something behind: a backpack that was discovered in Central Park. Police are working with the FBI, which on Friday night announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction.
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This new partnership will focus on astronaut training, research experiments, and mission implementation, marking a step forward in the global space exploration landscape. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has joined forces with the European Space Agency (ESA) in a significant collaboration aimed at advancing human space exploration. This new partnership will focus on astronaut training, research experiments, and mission implementation, marking a step forward in the global space exploration landscape. Agreement for Human Spaceflight Cooperation On Saturday, ISRO and ESA signed a comprehensive agreement to work together in the areas of human space exploration. The deal was signed by ISRO Chairman S. Somanath and ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher, setting the foundation for joint activities in various aspects of space exploration. The collaboration will cover astronaut training, integration of space experiments, research on human health in space, and educational programs, among other areas. The focus of this partnership is to develop and strengthen human spaceflight capabilities, with both agencies committing to exploring new frontiers in space exploration. Key Initiatives Under the Agreement A significant project under this new collaboration will be the Axiom-4 mission, which will see a crew consisting of both an ESA astronaut and ISRO's Gaganyatri astronaut. The mission will involve a series of experiments led by Indian Principal Investigators aboard the International Space Station (ISS), furthering scientific knowledge in space. In addition to the Axiom-4 mission, the collaboration will focus on human and biomedical research, technology demonstrations, and space experiments, utilizing ESA's advanced facilities on the ISS. The partnership also includes joint outreach and educational programs designed to inspire the next generation of space enthusiasts and scientists. ISRO’s Ambitious Space Exploration Vision Somanath emphasized ISRO’s long-term roadmap for human spaceflight during the signing of the agreement, highlighting the agency's vision for expanding its role in space exploration. One of the key milestones in ISRO's future plans is the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), India’s upcoming indigenous space station. This new station presents significant opportunities for collaboration and interoperability with international human spaceflight platforms. The partnership with ESA is seen as a major step towards ISRO's goal of becoming a key player in global space exploration efforts, with a particular focus on human spaceflight and scientific research in space. Strengthening International Space Collaboration ESA's Director General, Aschbacher, praised the progress made in the collaboration and expressed his appreciation for ISRO’s efforts in strengthening ties between the two agencies. The partnership represents a solid framework for future space exploration projects, and both ISRO and ESA are excited about the prospects of working together on the Axiom-4 mission and other upcoming space initiatives. The new partnership between ISRO and ESA is expected to open up numerous opportunities for technological advancements, joint scientific research, and continued collaboration in the field of human space exploration. With both agencies committed to this joint effort, the future of space exploration looks brighter than ever. Stay informed on all the latest news , real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in india news and world News on Zee News.
Looking for stocks to buy in 2025? If you are, then it could be worth looking at the three ASX 200 growth shares listed below. They have been named as buys by brokers and tipped to rise strongly from current levels. Here's what they are saying about them: ( ) Analysts at Goldman Sachs think this beaten down pizza chain operator could be an ASX 200 growth share to buy. After a tough couple of years, the broker believes that Domino's fortunes could soon change thanks to its renewed focus on store unit economics. Goldman explains: We believe that DMP's renewed focus on store unit economics and re-investment to ignite topline growth is rightly placed. While there is still significant progress to be made, we believe that earnings has troughed in FY24 and see a path of improvement through FY25. The broker has a buy rating and $39.10 price target on its shares. This suggests that upside of 34% is possible from current levels. ( ) Another ASX 200 growth share that could be a buy is Neuren Pharmaceuticals. It is a pharmaceuticals company that is developing new drug therapies to treat multiple serious neurological disorders that emerge in early childhood and have no or limited approved treatment options. The team at Bell Potter is very bullish on the company and sees a lot of potential in the development of its NNZ-2591 therapy. It said: Neuren Pharmaceuticals is a biotech company that is well-funded via its first asset, DAYBUE, which is an FDA approved trofinetide for the treatment of Rett syndrome. NEU's value is from its second asset, NNZ-2591, which is under development for rare diseases. NNZ-2591, if successful, could lead to a significant increase in revenue and earnings when brought to market. NEU looks attractive on a risk/adjusted basis after the recent sell-off. Bell Potter has a buy rating and $25.00 price target on its shares. This implies potential upside of approximately 100% for investors from current levels. A third ASX 200 growth share that could be a buy for 2025 is Xero. It is a global small business platform provider with approximately 4.2 million subscribers at the last count. They are using its platform to manage core accounting functions like tax and bank reconciliation, and complete other important small business tasks like payroll and payments. Goldman Sachs likes the company due to its huge total addressable market (TAM). The broker explains: Xero is a Global Cloud Accounting SaaS player, with existing focuses in ANZ, UK, North American and SE Asian markets. We see Xero as very well-placed to take advantage of the digitisation of SMBs globally, driven by compelling efficiency benefits and regulatory tailwinds, with >100mn SMBs worldwide representing a >NZ$100bn TAM. Given the company's pivot to profitable growth and corresponding faster earnings ramp, we see an attractive entry point into a global growth story with Xero our preferred large-cap technology name in ANZ – the stock is Buy rated. Goldman currently has a buy rating and $201.00 price target on its shares. This implies potential upside of 21% for investors over the next 12 months.NEW YORK , Dec. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Report on how AI is redefining market landscape - The global structural health monitoring market size is estimated to grow by USD 2.62 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 15.8% during the forecast period. Increasing need for infrastructure maintenance and safety is driving market growth, with a trend towards advent of iot in structural health monitoring. However, rise in budgetary constraints poses a challenge. Key market players include Campbell Scientific Inc., CGG SA, COWI Holding AS, Digitexx Systems Ltd., Geosense Ltd., Hottinger Bruel and Kjaer GmbH, James Fisher and Sons Plc, Kinemetrics Inc., LiveHooah Technologies Pvt. Ltd., MachineSense LLC, Mistras Group Inc., National Instruments Corp., Nova Ventures Group Corp., Ramboll Group AS, RST Instruments Ltd., Sisgeo S.r.l., STRUCTURAL MONITORING SYSTEMS plc, Vinci, Xylem Inc., and Yokogawa Electric Corp.. AI-Powered Market Evolution Insights. Our comprehensive market report ready with the latest trends, growth opportunities, and strategic analysis- View Free Sample Report PDF Key Market Trends Fueling Growth The Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) market is experiencing significant growth, particularly in the infrastructure sector. SHM systems are becoming increasingly important for ensuring public safety and the sustainability of structures such as bridges, dams, buildings, and airframes. Civil engineers and construction companies are adopting SHM systems to monitor the condition of large machines, turbines, and other critical infrastructure. SHM systems use sensors, data acquisition, and analyzing tools to measure structural performance and assess damage in real-time. These systems are also being integrated into smart cities and are essential for predicting natural calamities and preventing economic and social complications. The SHM market includes players in various segments such as infrastructure development, aerospace, mining, energy, and defense. The need for SHM systems is driven by safety regulations, the aging of infrastructure, and the need for productivity growth. Some of the key trends in the SHM market include the use of wireless sensors, predictive solutions, and energy harvesting systems. Cost-effective constructions and the integration of distributed optic fibers are also gaining popularity. Despite the advantages of SHM systems, there are limitations, such as costs and the need for maintenance. However, the benefits of prior warnings and avoiding loss of lives and economic complications far outweigh the costs. In Europe and France , SHM systems are becoming essential for infrastructure projects, and the market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. The dominance of the SHM industry is also being felt in Latin America , the Middle East , and other nations. Geokon, Acellent Technologies, and Sixense are some of the key players in the SHM systems market, offering hardware, software, and integration services. The market is expected to continue growing as more infrastructure projects are undertaken and the need for reliable and predictive solutions becomes increasingly important. The structural health monitoring market has experienced significant growth due to the integration of IoT and Industry 4.0 technologies. IoT networks, consisting of sensors, thermostats, and actuators, enable smart facilities management by collecting and evaluating data. This data leads to energy savings through predictive maintenance and lower operational costs. IoT also ensures timely maintenance, enhancing productivity and equipment longevity. Overall, these technological innovations have made structural health monitoring more efficient and cost-effective. Insights on how AI is driving innovation, efficiency, and market growth- Request Sample! Market Challenges The Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) market is witnessing significant growth in various sectors including infrastructure, aerospace, mining, and energy. The need for SHM systems is crucial for ensuring safety and sustainability of structures such as bridges, dams, buildings, and stadiums. However, challenges exist in standardizing SHM systems, cost-effectiveness, and integration with existing infrastructure. Civil engineers and construction companies are increasingly focusing on SHM systems for condition assessment and predictive maintenance of large machines, airframes, wind turbines, and turbines. The adoption of SHM systems is driven by the need for prior warnings during natural calamities and the impact of economic and social complications due to infrastructure failures. The SHM systems market includes sensors, data acquisition, transmission systems, analyzing tools, measuring amplifiers, software, and smart cities applications. The market is segmented into infrastructure projects, aerospace, mining, energy, and others. Governments and private players are investing in SHM technologies for safety regulations and productivity growth. The market is witnessing advancements in wireless real-time measurement, damage assessment, and predictive solutions. However, limitations include the high costs associated with SHM systems and the lack of standardization. The SHM market is expected to grow in Europe , France , Latin America , the Middle East , Mexico , South Africa , and other nations. Key players in the market include Accelent Technologies, Geokon, Sixense, and Geocomp Corporation. The market offers opportunities for sensor technology integration, power plant testing, and repair solutions. Small businesses in growing economies often face budget constraints, limiting their ability to invest in structural health monitoring services from reputable companies. This can lead to the procurement of subpar services, which in turn increases maintenance and operational costs and negatively impacts a company's profitability. Additionally, rising labor costs pose another challenge to the structural health monitoring market's growth during the forecast period. These factors can make it difficult for small organizations to effectively monitor and maintain the structural health of their assets, potentially leading to costly repairs or replacements in the future. Insights into how AI is reshaping industries and driving growth- Download a Sample Report Segment Overview This structural health monitoring market report extensively covers market segmentation by 1.1 Hardware 1.2 Software 1.3 Services 2.1 Wired 2.2 Wireless 3.1 North America 3.2 Europe 3.3 Asia 3.4 Rest of World (ROW) 1.1 Hardware- The structural health monitoring market comprises various sectors, including hardware. Hardware in this context refers to the physical components and devices used to assess the structural health of infrastructure, buildings, bridges, dams, and civil engineering structures. This hardware segment is vital as it gathers data, measures various parameters, transmits signals, and processes information for monitoring purposes. Three significant hardware categories exist within the global structural health monitoring market: sensors, data acquisition systems (DAQ), and communication devices. Sensors are fundamental, capturing data on structural behavior such as strain, vibration, displacement, temperature, and humidity. Common sensors include accelerometers, strain gauges, temperature sensors, displacement transducers, and inclinometers. Data acquisition systems (DAQ) are responsible for collecting, digitizing, and processing data from sensors. They convert analog signals into digital data for further analysis. DAQ systems typically consist of analog-to-digital converters, signal conditioning modules, data loggers, and communication interfaces. Communication devices enable data transmission from the structural health monitoring system to a central monitoring station or cloud-based platform. These devices may utilize wired connections like Ethernet or fiber optic cables or wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular networks, or satellite communication systems. In summary, the hardware segment of the global structural health monitoring market encompasses a broad array of components, technologies, and devices that collaborate to facilitate the monitoring, analysis, and maintenance of critical structures. Advancements in sensor technology, data processing capabilities, and communication systems have significantly boosted the effectiveness and growth of structural health monitoring solutions, driving the expansion of the hardware segment in the forecast period. Download complimentary Sample Report to gain insights into AI's impact on market dynamics, emerging trends, and future opportunities- including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2018 - 2022) Research Analysis The Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) market encompasses sensors, monitoring systems, and technologies used to assess the condition and performance of infrastructure, including bridges, dams, buildings, stadiums, and large machines such as airframes and turbines. SHM focuses on ensuring the safety, reliability, and predictive maintenance of these structures by providing real-time measurement and damage assessment capabilities. Wireless sensors play a significant role in SHM systems, enabling cost-effective and efficient implementation in various segments, including energy infrastructure and smart cities. Advancements in SHM technologies have led to increased adoption and implementation, with a focus on preventing failures and ensuring public safety. Civil engineers and other stakeholders rely on SHM systems to optimize maintenance costs, enhance infrastructure investments, and improve overall performance and safety. Natural calamities have further the need for SHM systems to assess damage and facilitate quick response and recovery efforts. Market Research Overview The Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) market is witnessing significant growth in various sectors including infrastructure, aerospace, mining, defense, and energy. SHM systems are essential for ensuring the safety and sustainability of structures such as bridges, dams, buildings, stadiums, airframes, wind turbines, and large machines. These systems use sensors, data acquisition, transmission systems, analyzing tools, measuring amplifiers, software, and other hardware to monitor the health condition of structures in real-time. SHM systems play a crucial role in public safety, especially in the context of natural calamities and aging infrastructure. The need for SHM systems is increasingly recognized by governments, sports organizations, and industries worldwide. The market is driven by the need for predictive solutions to assess damage and improve reliability, productivity growth, and cost-effective constructions. SHM systems are also being integrated into smart cities and urbanization projects to ensure the safety and integrity of structures. The market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years due to advancements in sensor technology, wireless communication, and energy harvesting systems. However, there are also limitations to the adoption and implementation of SHM systems, including costs and the need for specialized inspection staff. The SHM market is segmented into various applications, including infrastructure projects, buildings and stadiums, vessels and platforms, airframes and wind turbines, large machines and equipments, and power plants. The market is dominated by players such as Geokon, Geocomp Corporation, and Acellent Technologies, among others. The market is expected to grow significantly in regions such as Europe , Asia Pacific , Latin America , Middle East , and Brazil . Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation Component Hardware Software Services Connectivity Wired Wireless Geography North America Europe Asia Rest Of World (ROW) 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio