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Be Brave, Barb is an upcoming platformer that encourages you to battle against what literally and figuratively brings you down Be Brave, Barb is an upcoming platformer that encourages you to battle against what literally and figuratively brings you down Gravity-based platforming problems Questionable therapist advise Adorable quest to boost your self-confidence Thomas K. Young has announced a brand-new mobile adventure, and oh my goodness, it’s a beautiful, beautiful day. In particular, cactus-themed platformer Be Brave, Barb will be leaping onto iOS, Android, Steam, and the Nintendo Switch on March 12th, and it’s everything I imagine the creator of Dadish would craft next. In Be Brave, Barb, you’ll not only have to deal with the actual force of gravity, but you’ll also have to grapple with your own inner insecurities – talk about things that literally and figuratively bring you down. As you might have guessed from the title, this life-affirming little platformer is all about valuing your self-worth, and as you platform through a hundred different levels, you’ll help Barb regain her lost self-confidence with a daily positive boost. There are, of course, epic bosses that’ll rain on your parade, along with a questionable therapist who seems to be suggesting that underthinking is the solution to overthinking. Now, I wouldn’t say I’d trust that kind of therapist to deal with my self-doubt, but if it helps take King Cloudy and his henchmen down, then I’m all for it. If you’re in desperate need of a little sunshine to brighten up your day, why not take a look at our list of the most hilarious games on mobile to get your fill? In the meantime, if you’re eager to join in on all the fun, you can do so by checking out Be Brave, Barb on the official website. It’ll set you back by $14.99 on Steam and on Switch, but will be free to play on mobile with ads. You can also join the community of followers on the official YouTube page to stay updated on all the latest developments, or take a little peek at the embedded clip above to get a feel of the vibes and visuals. Source link #Brave #Barb #upcoming #platformer #encourages #battle #literally #figuratively #brings Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Morgan Stanley upgrades this chipmaker, sees it rallying more than 20% Morgan Stanley upgrades this chipmaker, sees it rallying more than 20% NXP Semiconductor is headed for better times after a difficult two years, according to Morgan Stanley. Analyst Joseph Moore upgraded the stock to overweight from equal weight. His new price target of $257 implies shares gaining 21.8% from Tuesday’s close. The Dutch chipmaker has lagged the rest of the industry because it held back on shipments to direct customers and distributors, per Moore. Over the past 12 months, shares of NXP have declined 10.9%. Meanwhile, the VanEck Semiconductor ETF (SMH) has advanced 23% during the *******. However, Moore thinks the stock has finally hit its trough. “Cyclical and secular tailwinds [are] aligning,” Moore wrote in a Tuesday note. “With conviction that the [microcontroller unit] cycle is finally bottoming, we see NXPI as the best positioned within our US analog/MCU coverage given the idiosyncratic tailwinds (auto outperformance, GM% expansion).” The company has also made structural improvements that position it for margin outperformance, Moore added. “We have stayed sidelined on NXP until now as while the company has managed the downcycle well we saw the auto semi correction during 2H 2024 to be a challenging headwind for the company,” he said. But “NXP’s cycle management is reflective of the company lowering utilization early (40% internal wafers) and controlling variable cost (70% variable vs 30% fixed).” Shares climbed more than 3% Wednesday before the bell following the upgrade. Year to date, the stock has added 1.5%. Most analysts are optimistic on the stock. LSEG data shows that 21 of 31 who cover the chipmaker rate it a buy or strong buy. The average price target also signals nearly 18% upside. Source link #Morgan #Stanley #upgrades #chipmaker #sees #rallying Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Microsoft finally fixes some of Windows 11’s most annoying problems with new patch Microsoft finally fixes some of Windows 11’s most annoying problems with new patch Windows 11’s February 2025 cumulative update has arrived It packs a host of cures including the resolution of an Auto HDR bug that was messing up colors and causing games to ****** Important audio fixes are also present, and the cure for a ****** problem with webcams Windows 11 has a new cumulative update, and it brings forth some important fixes for bugs that have been annoying a good many people. Bleeping Computer spotted the release notes for the February 2025 update for Windows 11 which emerged yesterday and should be available on PCs now. This is patch KB5051987 for Windows 11 24H2, but if you’re still on 23H2, it’s KB5051989. The update cures one of the (many) bugs that gamers have found seriously frustrating, whereby colors are messed up by the Auto HDR feature. This has now been resolved, as have the crashes in games that were being reported due to this issue, as well. Another major fix here is for the bug that killed the audio output of those using an audio DAC (digital-to-analog converter) with their PC, although this affected other users too (you were just more likely to run into the problem if you use a DAC). DAC or no DAC (I feel a gameshow idea coming on), the bug has been squashed with the new update, as has another audio glitch which caused a ‘This device cannot start’ error to appear (though that was a less common problem, and not one I’ve heard of before). Finally, remember the issues with USB webcams where they weren’t being detected properly? You can kiss goodbye to those camera woes, too, as Microsoft tells us that this bug (caused by the previous January 2025 cumulative update) is now a thing of the past. (Image credit: Future) Analysis: Fixing the holes where the bugs get in… You may recall that the Auto HDR fix arrived in the preview update for January (an optional affair at the end of last month), so the good news is that it hasn’t caused any problems in the final testing stages, and so can now be applied to Windows 11 PCs across the board. Sign up for breaking news, reviews, opinion, top tech deals, and more. Furthermore, it’s worth noting that the compatibility hold which was put on PCs that would’ve been affected by this bug has now been lifted, so if your computer was prevented from grabbing 24H2 due to this gremlin, you should be able to get the big update soon. Whether you’ll want to make that leap yet is another question, of course, as 24H2 has proved quite problematic in terms of various bugs manifesting since its launch. Hopefully we’re over the worst of all that, though, and as we can see here, Microsoft is now working at a fair old pace to resolve the miscellaneous glitches that have affected Windows 11 users who’ve moved to the latest version (which is now underway with a wider rollout). You may also like… Source link #Microsoft #finally #fixes #Windows #11s #annoying #problems #patch Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

In Trump’s Cross Hairs Over Taking Gazans, Egypt and Jordan Try Diversion – The New York Times In Trump’s Cross Hairs Over Taking Gazans, Egypt and Jordan Try Diversion – The New York Times In Trump’s Cross Hairs Over Taking Gazans, Egypt and Jordan Try Diversion The New York TimesGaza’s recovery will take a lifetime – and its people must be allowed to start that now | Lucy Easthope The GuardianIn their own words: What Trump said about Gaza and how top administration officials contradicted him The Associated PressGaza Must Be Rebuilt by Palestinians, for Palestinians The New YorkerFrench President Macron rejects US President Trump’s Gaza proposal, calls to ‘respect’ Palestinians The Jerusalem Post Source link #Trumps #Cross #Hairs #Gazans #Egypt #Jordan #Diversion #York #Times Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Avian flu outbreaks see 1.8 million farmed birds culled Avian flu outbreaks see 1.8 million farmed birds culled Reuters There have been 33 confirmed outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza on *** farms so far Almost 1.8 million farmed and captive birds have been culled in the past three months because of the spread of avian flu across the ***, the BBC has learned. There have been 33 outbreaks of the virus on farms so far, but the risk to humans remains low, with chicken and eggs safe to eat if properly cooked, the government says. Concerns have been raised about the impact bird flu is having on farmers’ mental health, with one saying she was “terrified” of it returning. The government said it had acted quickly to cull all poultry on infected premises “to protect Britain’s food security”, but recognised the devastating impact it was having. Getty Images Biosecurity restrictions are currently in place across England, Wales and Scotland with mandatory housing orders in several counties A spokeswoman for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said the 1.78 million birds culled since the first outbreak on 5 November was a “small proportion” of the industry’s total production, which is about 20 million birds a week. At the beginning of worst outbreak of bird flu, 3.2 million birds were culled between October 2021 and September 2022. One of those farmers affected in 2021 was Lucy Sanderson, from North Yorkshire, who says people are not aware of the mental health impact culling birds had on farmers. “It was awful. I cried for a week – and I thought I was a strong person,” she said. “As well as losing my job, my income, my everyday life, I also ruined my staff’s lives as I had to make them redundant. The knock-on effect was huge. “I am terrified of it returning.” ‘Huge emotional strain’ Gary Ford, of the British Free Range Egg Producers Association, said there was “a lot of worry and concern amongst poultry farmers and, in some respects, panic”. Biosecurity restrictions are currently in place across England, Wales and Scotland as part of an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone, with mandatory housing for all kept birds in a number of counties. James Mottershead, chairman of the National Farmers’ Union poultry board, said bird flu outbreaks were putting a “huge emotional and financial strain on farming families”. “Farmers take such care to protect the health and ******** of their birds and it’s devastating to see that compromised,” he added. A Defra spokeswoman said compensation would be paid to any farmer for all healthy birds that have been culled for disease control purposes. “We know the devastating impact bird flu has had on farmers and poultry producers, which is why we have taken further measures in recent weeks, including introducing housing orders in the most affected areas,” she said. “We have acted quickly to cull all poultry on infected premises to stop the risk of the disease spreading and to protect Britain’s food security.” Source link #Avian #flu #outbreaks #million #farmed #birds #culled Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Up Late: Don’t need a degree to know what happens next! Up Late: Don’t need a degree to know what happens next! In tonight’s show, Harvey identifies five economic signs that should terrify anyone who has bought a house in the past year. Plus why the noisiest suburb in Australia could become a negativity equity ghetto. Source link #Late #Dont #degree Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

This angel investor’s insights on picking startups that soar This angel investor’s insights on picking startups that soar Angel investing is somewhat of a mystery to many. Where does their money come from? How do they spot a good startup? How does the market and politics impact their investments? However, small business owners and entrepreneurs know that an angel investor’s insights might hold the key to their big break. On this week’s episode of Living Not So Fabulously, hosts David & John Auten-Schneider speak with ASTRSK PR Founder & CEO and angel investor Elliot Tomaeno. Tomaeno’s funding and PR efforts focus on startups in the tech industry, working with brands like Groupon, STASH, Prime Video, Primary Venture Partners, Titan, THINX, Misfits Market, Lemonade, and Squarespace—just to name a few. Though there’s no easy road to success, as an entrepreneur and funder himself, Tomaeno pulls back the curtain on the ins and outs of the investing community. His best insight for startup founders in this fickle investor world? Take some risks in being vocal about topics that are true to the core of one’s business. “That kind of authenticity at the early stage and the ability to maybe not be afraid to make some enemies, I think, is something that really stands out as something that makes people successful or makes companies successful.” Tomaeno explains that he wants to work with people and clients that he loves, “working with companies that not only are good to us and our staff, but also don’t make the world a worse place, at the very least.” Furthermore, Tomaeno tries to lift up underrepresented startups, including “BIPOC startups, female founders, LGBTQ+ founded startups, and AAPI founded startups.” For full episodes of Living Not So Fabulously, listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch on our website. Yahoo Finance’s Living Not So Fabulously is created and produced by Rachael Lewis-Krisky. Source link #angel #investors #insights #picking #startups #soar Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Mortgage refinance demand jumps to highest level since October, but homebuyers pull back again Mortgage refinance demand jumps to highest level since October, but homebuyers pull back again Patchogue, N.Y.: A For ***** sign hangs in front of a house in Patchogue, New York, on June 1, 2024. Steve Pfost | Newsday | Getty Images Mortgage rates moved slightly lower again last week, keeping refinance demand on the rise. Applications to refinance a home loan jumped 10% compared with the previous week and were 33% higher than the same week one year ago, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association’s seasonally adjusted index. That came after a 12% gain the previous week. The average contract interest rate for 30-year fixed-rate mortgages with conforming loan balances ($766,550 or less) decreased to 6.95% from 6.97%, and points remained unchanged at 0.64 (including the origination fee) for loans with a 20% down payment. “Mortgage rates moved slightly lower last week, which led to the pace of refinance applications reaching its strongest week since October 2024,” said Joel Kan, MBA’s vice president and deputy chief economist. “The average loan size for refinance borrowers increased, as these borrowers tend to be more responsive for a given change in rates.” Roughly 17% of homeowners with a mortgage have interest rates either at or above 6%, according to Redfin. That’s the highest level since 2016. With rates now near 7%, however, there are still very few who can benefit from a refinance, given both the rate and the cost. The percentage increases may be large week-to-week, but they are coming off a very low volume. Applications for a mortgage to purchase a home declined again, falling 2% for the week. Demand was 2% higher than the same week one year ago. Potential buyers are still facing a pricey and lean market. Most of the activity is now happening on the higher end. “The average loan size for a purchase application increased to its highest level since March 2022 at $456,100, partially driven by fewer FHA purchase applications but more VA loans compared to the previous week,” Kan added. Mortgage rates moved very slightly higher to start this week, according to a separate survey from Mortgage News Daily. Critical data on inflation Wednesday, the monthly Consumer Price Index, however, could make for a more definitive move. “There’s plenty of anxiety over this one as early year inflation data is notoriously more difficult to forecast,” wrote Matthew Graham, chief operating officer at Mortgage News Daily. “In addition to forecasting difficulty, markets are also eager for clarity on whether inflation continues stalling at prevailing levels or begins to make renewed progress toward the 2% target. Needle-threading is always possible, but any major indication in one direction or the other will likely give rates a big push in the logical direction.” Source link #Mortgage #refinance #demand #jumps #highest #level #October #homebuyers #pull Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

The billion-dollar AI company no one is talking about – and why you should care – ZDNet The billion-dollar AI company no one is talking about – and why you should care – ZDNet The billion-dollar AI company no one is talking about – and why you should care ZDNet Source link #billiondollar #company #talking #care #ZDNet Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

I’m Ready to Be Crucified but Connor Had a Much Better Development than the Best Lead of Assassin’s Creed I’m Ready to Be Crucified but Connor Had a Much Better Development than the Best Lead of Assassin’s Creed Look, I know what you’re thinking. How dare I question the legendary status of Ezio Auditore da Firenze, the charming Renaissance assassin who carried Assassin’s Creed through its golden age? But hear me out—because after replaying the series recently, I’ve come to what some might call a rather controversial realization. Sorry Ezio, but perfection isn’t always the best story. | Image Credit: Ubisoft While Ezio’s trilogy remains a masterclass in storytelling, there’s something about Connor’s journey in Assassin’s Creed III that hits differently. It’s messier, more complex, and ultimately more human. And in an era where character development often takes a ********* to spectacle, that complexity feels more relevant than ever. Why Connor’s flaws make him more compelling Sometimes the best stories come from getting things wrong. | Image Credit: Ubisoft Let’s address the elephant in the room: Connor isn’t the most immediately likable protagonist in the Assassin’s Creed series. He’s stubborn, sometimes naive, and lacks Ezio’s natural charisma. But that’s exactly what makes his character arc so fascinating. Comment byu/thekingpawg1 from discussion ingaming This observation hits the nail on the head. While Ezio glides through his character development with the grace of a master assassin, Connor stumbles and falls, making mistakes that have real consequences. His optimistic belief that he can protect his people by helping the American Revolution backfires spectacularly when those same revolutionaries later turn against his tribe. Take his relationship with Haytham, for instance. Connor’s desperate attempts to find common ground with his Templar father, despite Achilles’s warnings, showcase both his greatest strength and fatal flaw—an unwavering belief in the possibility of reconciliation. It’s this same optimism that blinds him to Washington’s true nature until it’s too late. The beauty of Connor’s story lies in its tragic irony. Every decision he makes with the best intentions ends up contributing to his people’s downfall. His journey isn’t just about becoming an assassin; it’s about learning that sometimes there are no right answers, only choices and consequences. The lost art of complex protagonists Will Shadows remember what made its ancestors great? | Image Credit: Ubisoft Looking at where Ubisoft is today, with their focus on “quadruple-A” (that’s four too many A’s) games and increasingly formulaic approaches, it’s hard not to feel nostalgic for the era that gave us characters like Altaïr, Ezio, and Connor. The studio that once revolutionized the gaming industry with Prince of Persia and the early Assassin’s Creed games seems to have completely lost its way. Recent entries in the franchise have given us protagonists who feel more like blank slates than fully realized characters. They’re skilled warriors and capable climbers, sure, but where’s the internal conflict? The moral ambiguity? The painful growth that made Connor’s journey so memorable? Sure, Ezio’s charm and wit made him instantly memorable, but Connor’s complexity made him unforgettable. His story wasn’t afraid to be uncomfortable, to show us a hero who fails despite his best efforts. That kind of storytelling courage seems increasingly rare in today’s market of safe bets and focus-tested narratives. With Assassin’s Creed: Shadows approaching its March 2025 release date (barring any more delays, that is), I find myself still hoping that Ubisoft recalls these lessons. The industry doesn’t need more perfect heroes—it needs more characters who feel real, who struggle, who sometimes fail. Perhaps it’s time for the studio to look back at what made Connor’s story so powerful before moving forward. What do you think? Am I completely off base here, or does Connor deserve more recognition for his complex character arc? Let me know in the comments below! Source link #Ready #Crucified #Connor #Development #Lead #Assassins #Creed Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Petition for Denmark to buy California for $1 trillion surpasses 200,000 signatures Petition for Denmark to buy California for $1 trillion surpasses 200,000 signatures CBS News Sacramento Live A satirical online petition is catching the attention of both Californians and Danes alike. As of Tuesday, the “Denmarkification” petition – which calls for the country of Denmark to buy the state of California – has collected more than 200,000 signatures. The petition comes in response to President Trump’s continued interest in purchasing Greenland, a territory of Denmark. In January, the president even talked about how he hasn’t ruled out using military force take control of both Greenland and the Panama Canal. Greenland’s leader, Múte B. Egede, has rebuffed the US president’s interest, saying his people don’t want to be Americans. Using tongue-in-cheek language, the Denmarkification petition argues that President Trump may be open to selling the state whose political leaders have often stood at odds with his administration. “Let’s be honest – Trump isn’t exactly California’s biggest fan. He’s called it ‘the most ruined state in the Union’ and has feuded with its leaders for years,” the petition states. “We’re pretty sure he’d be willing to part with it for the right price.” Denmarkification organizers have set a goal of crowdfunding $1 trillion to buy California – but the petition is only collecting signatures, not donations. With melting sea ice opening up new Arctic shipping routes, experts say Greenland’s location is of particular strategic importance. If California were to become another territory of Denmark, one city would seem to be a natural capital: Solvang, already known as the “Danish Capital of America.” More from CBS News Cecilio Padilla Cecilio Padilla is a digital producer for CBS Sacramento and a Sacramento-area native who has been covering Northern California for more than a decade. Source link #Petition #Denmark #buy #California #trillion #surpasses #signatures Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Tesla has sued customers and journalists in China — and won most times, review finds Tesla has sued customers and journalists in China — and won most times, review finds Beijing — Zhang Yazhou was sitting in the passenger seat of her Tesla Model 3 when she said she heard her father’s panicked voice: The brakes don’t work! Approaching a red light, her father swerved around two cars before plowing into an SUV and a sedan and crashing into a large concrete barrier. Stunned, Zhang gazed at the deflating airbag in front of her. She could never have imagined what was to come: Tesla sued her for defamation for complaining publicly about the car’s brakes – and won. A ******** court ordered Zhang to pay more than $23,000 in damages and publicly apologize to the $1.1 trillion company. Zhang isn’t the only one to find herself in the crosshairs of Tesla, which is led by Elon Musk, among the richest men in the world and a self-described ” free speech absolutist.” Over the last four years, Tesla has sued at least six car owners in China who had sudden vehicle malfunctions, quality complaints or accidents they claimed were caused by mechanical failures. The company has also sued at least six bloggers and two ******** media outlets that wrote critically about the company, according to a review by The Associated Press of public court documents and ******** media reports. Tesla won all eleven cases for which the AP could track down the verdicts. Two judgments, including Zhang’s, are on appeal. One case was settled out of court. It isn’t common practice for automakers – in China or elsewhere – to sue their customers. But Tesla has pioneered an aggressive legal strategy and leveraged the patronage of powerful leaders in China’s ruling ********** Party to silence critics, reap financial rewards and limit its accountability. The AP review of Tesla’s record in China comes as Musk is wielding significant influence in President Trump’s new administration, leading an effort to rapidly shrink the size of the federal government and oust employees deemed disloyal to the president. His actions have raised concerns that Musk is weakening the U.S. system of checks and balances, in part, to benefit Tesla and his other companies. In the United States, Musk has found a powerful ally in Mr. Trump. Together, they have ransacked the federal government, freezing spending, suspending programs and dismissing prosecutors, government watchdogs and others who’ve traditionally acted as guardrails. Tesla officials in China and the United States didn’t reply to requests for comment. Tesla’s hospitable business dynamics in China Tesla’s record in China shows how Musk has thrived in a system in which regulators, the media and the courts – which must all ultimately answer to the ruling ********** Party are, by design, somewhat intertwined. Tesla has profited from the largesse of the ******** state, winning unprecedented regulatory benefits, below-market rate loans and large tax breaks. With a few pointed exceptions, Tesla has enjoyed largely ingratiating coverage in the ******** press, and journalists told the AP they’ve been instructed to avoid negative coverage of the automaker. Tesla’s windfall has extended to the courts – and not just in legal actions Tesla has brought against customers. In a review of public court documents, the AP found that Tesla won nearly 90% of civil cases over safety, quality or contract disputes brought by customers. “The government gave Tesla a super status that put consumers in a very vulnerable position,” said Qiao Yudong, a former lawyer for American sports car company Saleen Automotive in China. “That’s why some consumers had to resort to extreme actions.” Customer’s tough times One of those desperate customers was Zhang. The February 2021 ****** in central China’s Henan province sent Zhang’s mother and father, who had a concussion, to the hospital for four days, medical records show. Zhang – who was unharmed in the accident, as was her baby niece – wanted to understand what had happened: How could her dream car have turned into such a nightmare? Traffic police determined that the ****** was her dad’s fault because he hadn’t maintained a safe following distance. Zhang, however, insisted that the brakes had malfunctioned, sending the car out of control. She filed a complaint with a local market regulator, requesting a refund and compensation. Teslas are among the most computerized cars on the market, so Zhang asked the automaker to turn over the full pre-****** data from her car, hoping it might help explain what went wrong. Tesla refused. “Tesla’s employees were very arrogant and tough in dealing with my complaints,” Zhang said in an interview. “I was burning with anger.” After weeks of stewing, she draped her damaged car with a banner proclaiming “Tesla brake failure” in front of the Tesla dealership in Zhengzhou, the capital of Henan province, some 124 miles from her home. She sat on the Tesla’s roof and blared her protest through a bullhorn: “Tesla Model 3 brakes failed,” she said. “A family of four almost died.” The next month, she parked her damaged car outside an auto show in Zhengzhou. It was all to no avail – Tesla refused to turn over the full data and mediation went nowhere. Figuring that top Tesla officials would attend an April auto show in Shanghai, she and a friend – who had also had a problem with her Tesla – donned matching T-shirts with the phrase “Brakes fail” and headed for Tesla’s booth, determined to buttonhole executives. The automaker’s officials avoided them, Zhang said, and they couldn’t get anyone to hear them out. Her friend, who was six months pregnant, started shouting, “Tesla brakes fail!” Zhang clambered on top of a shiny red display model and started hollering, too. “Things escalated,” said Zhang. The moment – captured on cell phone videos shot by onlookers – went viral on ******** social media. Burly security guards hauled Zhang out and she was detained for five days. Some observers speculated that Zhang’s protest had been orchestrated — perhaps by a competitor or by the ******** government itself to pressure Tesla to conform with ******** regulations. Tesla alleged that Zhang hadn’t acted on her own. A top executive speculated to ******** media that she “had someone behind her” and said Zhang was making a fuss because she just wanted higher compensation. Zhang insisted she acted on her own – and out of anguish. Outraged, she sued Tesla for defamation, arguing that the executive’s comments unjustly cast her as a troublemaker to deflect attention from the company’s own shortcomings. And then she found herself on the receiving end of a lawsuit filed by Tesla. Tesla said Zhang had deliberately spread false information that damaged the brand and asked for 5 million yuan ($684,000) in damages. The case, which a court took up in October 2021, came as Tesla faced a barrage of criticism in China. Tesla’s numerous alleged issues Dozens of Tesla owners had been publicly complaining about alleged brake failures, battery fires, unintended acceleration and other defects, as well as what they claimed were misleading sales practices. The same month as Zhang’s ******, ******** regulators summoned Tesla to respond to quality concerns raised by such reports. Zhang’s emotional protest sparked a rare burst of criticism of Tesla in ******** media. Under pressure from regulators, Tesla finally released the data from her car, which the company said showed her father had been driving nearly 120 km per hour (75 mph) and that the brakes had functioned to reduce the magnitude of the collision. Tesla had finally given Zhang what she’d been asking for, but they’d published the data publicly and included her vehicle identification number. She said she and her family started getting threatened and doxed online. Besides, she wondered, how could she be sure Tesla hadn’t modified or redacted the data from her car? It was less than the victory she’d hoped for. Feeling besieged, she sued Tesla a second time, in March 2022, for invading her privacy. Zhang lost both cases she brought against Tesla. Meanwhile, the defamation case against her was grinding along. Back in court as a defendant, Zhang was unable to prove that the brakes on her Tesla had indeed failed. In a closed trial, a Shanghai court ruled in May 2024 that Zhang’s public complaints went beyond what magistrates considered reasonable, factual criticism and ordered her to publicly apologize and pay 170,000 RMB ($23,000) to cover damages and the legal costs of the world’s most valuable car company. Zhang appealed the ruling. She maintains that her lawsuit is a cry for transparency and accountability and that a company as rich and powerful as Tesla should be able to tolerate legitimate criticism from its customers. “I refuse to accept it,” Zhang told the Associated Press, “As a consumer, even if I said something wrong, I have the right to comment and criticize. I spoke about my feelings as a user of the car. It has nothing to do with damaging their reputation.” Odds stacked against Tesla owners in court Her odds of winning the appeal against Tesla do not look good. Tesla has not only won the defamation cases it brought against unhappy car owners and critical journalists, it’s also prevailed in lawsuits customers have filed against it. An AP review of a ******** government database of court filings published online found 81 civil judgements in which car owners sued Tesla over safety and quality issues or contract disputes. Car owners won in only nine of those cases. In a statement to AP, the Shanghai High People’s Court said that judgments are the result of a “fair trial” based on “the objective facts of the case.” “It cannot be assumed that the party has received ‘special protection’ or ‘special treatment’ because of their victory,” the court wrote. While some auto industry experts in China say it’s generally difficult for customers to win cases against car companies, others say it’s remarkable for a foreign company to enjoy such blazing success in ******** courts. “For Tesla to win that percentage of the time is an anomaly,” said Bill Russo, founder of Automobility Ltd., an advisory firm based in Shanghai, who also used to be regional head of Chrysler in northeast Asia. “The odds are stacked against you. It’s like going to the casino and winning every hand.” Tesla and Bejing’s win-win Tesla’s commercial and political success in China has hinged on the support of a powerful patron: Li Qiang, the former party boss of Shanghai who is now China’s premier, second in rank only to President Xi Jinping. It was under his watch, in 2019, that Tesla built its first overseas factory on the outskirts of China’s financial capital. With Li’s support, Tesla became the first foreign automaker allowed to retain complete control over its China venture and got low-interest loans and generous tax breaks. China also adopted an emissions credit scheme modeled after a U.S. program that’s generated billions in income for Tesla. In January 2020, one year after breaking ground, Elon Musk unveiled the first ********-made Teslas on a stage in Shanghai. Tesla turned an annual profit for the first time in its history that year, and Musk was declared the world’s richest person in January 2021. China got what it wanted, too: Tesla was a potent catalyst for domestic production and consumption. Before Tesla’s arrival, new energy vehicles accounted for around five percent of China’s auto market. Today, analysts say, more than half of passenger vehicles sold retail in China are powered by an electric motor. ******** battery maker CATL, a key Tesla supplier, has embedded itself in global supply chains to become the world’s largest EV-battery maker. China’s BYD is now the world’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer and a growing competitive threat to legacy carmakers in the West. “Tesla had a large part to play in that,” said Tu Le, the managing director of Sino Auto Insights, a consulting firm. Tu said the way the government smoothed the way for Musk’s factory was critical. “It was a swampy field on the outskirts of Shanghai. A year later, they’re rolling cars off the line,” he said. “I don’t know if that happens anywhere else in the world.” Requests for comment to the State Council, which is run by Li Qiang and oversees China’s government ministries, went unanswered. Musk’s enormous influence in China and U.S. Musk still swings by to meet Li when he goes to China. Their encounters underscore the complexity of Musk’s overlapping interests as a businessman and the most China-friendly member of Mr. Trump’s inner circle. Musk’s “greater objective was winning influence over the people that mattered for him, that enabled him to get things done,” said Russo, the auto strategist in Shanghai. “He’s done a good job of it in China and he’s done it now with the influence he purchased with his relationship with Trump.” Safety advocates worry about the implications of Musk’s proximity to power in the United States. Federal investigations and safety initiatives Musk has long railed against could be easily snuffed out by the new administration. In the U.S., Tesla also has been subject to a raft of customer safety complaints and lawsuits over autopilot function, battery charging, alleged suspension defects, sudden braking or acceleration, faulty airbags and allegedly monopolistic practices on repairs and parts. Judges have dismissed some cases. In others, Tesla settled out of court or paid hefty settlements. Tesla hasn’t publicly sued any of its U.S. customers for speaking out, though in January, Musk said on X that “maybe it is time” to sue media outlets for coverage that could stain Tesla’s brand. His post has been viewed more than 22 million times. Tesla has already successfully done that in China. Tesla targets journalists in China Two ******** journalists based in Shanghai told the AP there is an unwritten rule to avoid critical coverage of Tesla. Both spoke on condition of anonymity, fearing retaliation. “We were told by our editor that we should not write negatively about Tesla because it is a key company that was introduced and protected by the Shanghai government,” a tech reporter told AP. Those who have strayed have found themselves in court. Musk’s company sued media outlets PingWest and ifeng.com over negative coverage. It was unhappy about PingWest’s report that claimed Tesla’s Shanghai factory was a “sweatshop.” The news website ifeng.com drew Tesla’s ire over a story that explored the tribulations of car owners who fought Tesla. PingWest had to apologize and pay Tesla 100,000 yuan ($13,700). AP couldn’t determine the outcome of the case against ifeng.com. Tesla isn’t the only company in its industry to sue its critics. BYD has also aggressively pursued media in court, including an unsuccessful lawsuit against Vice Media in the United States. More recently, electric vehicle makers Nio and Li Auto have stepped up defamation cases against bloggers in China who allegedly spread false information about their companies. Tesla, however, stands out even among its cut-throat ******** competitors – in going after car owners who suffered crashes. “Tesla used their legal advantages to bully ******** car owners and people who speak up for them,” said Feng Shiming, an auto blogger and Tesla owner who was ordered by a Shanghai court last year to pay Tesla 250,000 yuan ($34,200) after he wrote about Tesla’s alleged brake failures. He has appealed the verdict. “Tesla wants to have a chilling effect on society and terrify people so they will be scared to say anything negative about Tesla.” Chen Junyi got the message. He lost control of his Model 3 and plowed into a dozen cars in a parking lot at high speed in August 2020. He claimed the brakes had failed. He told ******** media at the time that he broke his back and four ribs and had to have 12 inches of his small intestine removed. Chen took to social media and warned people not to buy Tesla, raising his shirt to reveal the long, gnarled scar that runs up his abdomen. Tesla maintained the accident was Chen’s fault, citing a technical review that found the car was accelerating and not braking in the seconds before the ******, and sued him for making false claims. “Tesla should proactively respond to consumers instead of using its superior resources and filing lawsuits against consumers who are at a disadvantage,” Chen said in a court statement reviewed by the AP. “I almost lost my life because of the car accident. I lost my job and income. I am under tremendous economic pressure.” Chen declined to speak with the AP, citing fear of retaliation. A ******** court ordered Chen to pay the carmaker 50,000 yuan ($6,800) as compensation – and to issue an apology. “I deeply regret the serious negative impacts I have had on Tesla and its cars,” he wrote. “I hereby sincerely apologize to Tesla and to the people who were misled by my remarks.” A month later, he apologized for his apology, saying the words were not his own. Source link #Tesla #sued #customers #journalists #China #won #times #review #finds Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Syria’s interim foreign minister says Russia-Iran ties to Assad are an open wound after war Syria’s interim foreign minister says Russia-Iran ties to Assad are an open wound after war DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Syria’s relations with Iran and Russia remain an open wound for its people after those nations backed autocratic President Bashar Assad during the long civil war, the country’s new, interim foreign minister said Wednesday. Speaking at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Asaad al-Shibani acknowledged some “positive” signs from both Moscow and Tehran but did not elaborate. However, he underlined the new government in Damascus’ desire to improve relations with the West and get sanctions on Syria lifted so the country could start rebuilding after the ruinous, 14-year war. Trusted news and daily delights, right in your inbox See for yourself — The Yodel is the go-to source for daily news, entertainment and feel-good stories. “Syria has recovered its freedom and dignity” after decades of despotism, al-Shibani said. “It’s a new ******* of peace and peace building.” Al-Shibani’s very attendance and address at the Dubai summit was remarkable, reflecting the efforts by the former rebels who ousted Assad in December to gain new friends on the international stage. Qatar and Turkey, one-time rivals of the UAE over their support of Islamists in the region, had far-closer ties to the rebels who ultimately took over Damascus. The UAE, a federation of seven sheikhdoms, had reopened its embassy in Syria in late 2018 as part of a thaw in relations. Assad then visited the UAE in 2022 as Abu Dhabi argued he should be brought back in from the cold among Arab nations, despite the bloodshed by his forces and allies in Syria. In the immediate hours following Assad’s ouster in December, a top UAE diplomat pointedly refused to discuss whether he was in the federation. Assad was later confirmed to have fled and been given sanctuary in Russia, where Vladimir Putin has long been one of Assad’s closes allies. Among key concerns for al-Shibani are the U.S. and European Union sanctions. Estimates suggest it will cost at least $250 billion rebuild Syria, which has a poverty rate of 90% and a gross domestic product of less than half it was before the war, according to the European Union. The sanctions were imposed on “the Syrian regime as result of its oppressions,” al-Shibani said. “It’s only natural to lift” them now. Al-Shibani, from the northeastern al-Hasakah governorate, is relatively new to the international scene though he attended the World Economic Forum in Davos in January. He had taken part in the 2011 protests against Assad that were part of the Arab Spring uprising, according to a biography published by the Foreign Ministry. During the war, he used several different noms de guerre and as a member of the former militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, once allied with al-Qaida, he was active in Idlib province. He was named Syria’ s interim foreign minister in December after the rebels’ lightning offensive ended the Assad family’s 54-year rule. A new government is set to take over March 1. The interim government’s former ties to al-Qaida are among the West’s concerns with the former rebels and interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa. Al-Shibani also claimed Wednesday that the interim government had “ended all security and Captagon-related challenges ” that strained ties with neighboring Jordan. Captagon, an amphetamine-like stimulant, had been a main source of revenue for Assad. But tensions remain with Russia and Iran. Moscow hopes to maintain its air and sea base in Syria on the Mediterranean Sea. Iran also has used Syria as a transit point to arm Lebanon’s Hezbollah militia and others in its self-described “Axis of Resistance” against Israel and the United States. “Syrian people have wounds and pain that they suffered at the hands of these two countries,” al-Shibani said of Russia and Iran. “In order to restore the relationship, the Syrian people must feel comfortable with this relationship,” he added. Source link #Syrias #interim #foreign #minister #RussiaIran #ties #Assad #open #wound #war Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

All Xbox Exclusive Games Coming to PlayStation & Rumored Releases All Xbox Exclusive Games Coming to PlayStation & Rumored Releases Xbox and PlayStation’s partnership continues to strengthen. To celebrate this, we’ve compiled a list of every confirmed Xbox game coming to PlayStation and every rumored release potentially in the works. I didn’t know anything else other than console wars throughout high school. I was (and still kind of am) a PlayStation fan, and there was always a primal urge to defend the brand. As I’ve grown, I’ve seen the error of my ways and learned to appreciate all aspects of gaming. But so have Microsoft and Sony it seems. PlayStation is releasing exclusives on PC, whereas Xbox is bringing its library to everything. 2025 is set to be one of the most unimaginable years yet. A few Xbox-exclusive launches are penciled in for Sony’s PlayStation consoles, and many others are rumored. Every Confirmed Xbox Exclusive Coming to PlayStation These Xbox games are 100% confirmed for PlayStation. If you own a PlayStation, you can buy and own one of these titles once they finally release. Some you might not have thought possible, but never say never. Certain titles like DOOM The Dark Ages don’t make this list because they’re not released as Microsoft exclusives. It’s a third-party game from day one, although it is tied to Bethesda and Microsoft. Every game on this list isn’t currently available on PlayStation and is already out on Xbox. We’ll continue to update this list as more shocking announcements are unveiled. Forza Horizon 5 PlayStation inherits a classic arcade-racing series. Credit to Playground Games Forza Horizon 5 was rumored to be in the pipeline for PlayStation for a while. A Holiday 2024 announcement was delayed, but January 2025 saw a Spring 2025 release confirmed. Racers feel like a dying breed at the moment, and Gran Turismo 7 is coming up to its third birthday. Forza has always been one of Microsoft’s biggest brands providing authentic simulated racing through Forza Motorsport, and Horizon being the arcade relief. Forza Horizon 5 smashed it when it first came out, so this is a big coupe for the blue brand. Indiana Jones and The Great Circle A playable Indiana Jones film. Credit to Bethesda The PS5 Indiana Jones and The Great Circle launch isn’t exactly a well-kept secret. Since day one of Microsoft’s Bethesda purchase, the gaming community has often wondered which titles are coming to PlayStation. After initially seeming like Xbox would get a ton of exclusives, many are coming to PlayStation after all—and Indiana Jones and The Great Circle is one. Initially, The Great Circle is a timed exclusive. It came out on Dec. 9, 2024, for Xbox Series X|S and PC. But its PlayStation status was quickly confirmed too. It’s set to be an epic PS5 release in 2025, and the more hands on The Great Circle the better. Rumored Xbox Games Coming to PlayStation More exciting than the confirmed Xbox-exclusive games coming to PlayStation are the ones potentially releasing on PS4 or PS5. The rumors pipeline is hectic and chaotic, and it makes for exciting reading. As someone who’s missed out on many Xbox exclusives over the years, it might be an amazing time to be a PlayStation fan in 2025 and beyond. Age of Mythology Not a myth anymore? Credit to Ensemble Studios Jez Corden is one of the gaming industry’s leading insiders. He’s one of the frontrunners when it comes to leaks and rumors, and he’s claimed Age of Mythology is coming to PlayStation at some point in 2025. The strategy title first came out in 2002, and Age of Mythology: Retold came out 22 years later as a suped-up rerelease with all the expansion packs and it remasters the original from the ground up. It would be a great addition to the PS5 catalog and give real-time strategy fans a new universe to explore. Gears of War E-Day Make it happen. Credit to The Coalition Gears of War E-Day coming to PS5 could be surreal. Gears of War was a franchise I was jealous of growing up—not owning an Xbox. It looked cool and brutal, and my Xbox friends all played and basked in its glorious goryness. Using a chainsaw gun to carve up an enemy is the perfect adolescent-enhancing rush anyone could ask for. E-Day is an upcoming prequel set 14 years before the first mainline entry. It brings beloved characters back together, and I can’t think of a better way to start a Gears of War journey than with a narrative chronicling the pre-origins of Gears of War. With Microsoft considering a Gears of War PlayStation release, I think many would be on board. Gears of War Collection What age are we living in? Credit to The Coalition Carrying on the Gears of War narrative is a rumored Gears of War Collection. It would be a whole collection featuring remasters of any of Gears of War 1, 2, 3, 4, and Judgement. It would understandably be a big project —presumably from developer The Coalition—and the PS5 would be a likely destination. As with many entries on this list, it’s speculation and pinches of salt here and there. But don’t be shocked to see at least one older Gears of War title come to PS5. Halo The Master Chief Collection I never thought we’d see the day. Credit to 343 Industries Leaker NateTheHate claims several Xbox exclusives are on the way to PlayStation and the Nintendo Switch 2. Microsoft is spreading the love to everyone at this point. Amongst these rumors is news of the Halo Master Chief Collection heading to PlayStation. Again, the teenage version of myself (and the adult version) can’t wrap my head around this possibility. Halo was Xbox’s premier franchise for years. Halo 3’s launch was historic and all over the news at the time. Granted, its popularity has waned in recent years (Halo Infinite being a perfect example) and a PlayStation launch could give the series a much-needed shot in the Spartan Armor. Senua’s Saga Hellblade 2 It would follow in the footsteps of its predecessor. Credit to Ninja Theory Hellblade 2 carried on Senua’s battle with psychosis in the 9th century. The able-bodied warrior originally debuted as a timed-exclusive on PlayStation and PC, before eventually getting an Xbox port later down the line. The tables most certainly turned with Senua’s Saga Hellblade 2 as it was released on Xbox and PC—not PlayStation. Now, Hellblade 2 is reportedly coming to PlayStation in 2025. Hellblade 2 cost a lot more to develop, and deserves more praise and recognition. A PS5 launch could go a long way to doing this. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 A casual stroll in the sky. Credit to Microsoft Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 had the hard task of trying to better the outstanding Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020. It arrived with a ton of new features and missions, and it was also a Microsoft exclusive. However, PlayStation owners might need to clean off and ready their own cropdusters if gossip is to be believed. The same Jez Corden report about Age of Mythology and Hellblade 2 also mentions Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. Again, there’s no substance regarding a release date or announcement, but a 2025 release of the Xbox game on PS5 a real possibility. Starfield A big occasion. Credit to Bethesda No, you’re not spacing out, Starfield coming to PS5 might not be a rumor anymore. If you don’t believe us, take it from the mouth of Phil Spencer who suggests Starfield is flying to PlayStation 5. Initial suggestions indicated a Starfield PS5 release was never going to happen under any circumstances. When asked about Starfield staying on Xbox, Spencer has an interesting response: “There’s no specific game that I would…This goes back to my redline answer, there’s no reason for me to put a ring fence around any game and say this game will not go to a place that it will find players where we would have business success for us.” It’s not difficult to read between the lines and get our hopes up for Starfield and PlayStation star-hopping together. Are you also finding it hard to accept a world where PlayStation and Xbox finally join forces? If this is only the beginning, which other Xbox exclusives from years gone by do you want to see arrive on PlayStation? PlayStation exclusives could be making the jump too with a Final Fantasy 16 move to Xbox being a major example. SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter to receive the latest news and exclusive leaks every week! No Spam. Source link #Xbox #Exclusive #Games #Coming #PlayStation #Rumored #Releases Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Biogen (BIIB) earnings Q4 2024 Biogen (BIIB) earnings Q4 2024 A test tube is seen in front of displayed Biogen logo in this illustration taken on, December 1, 2021. Dado Ruvic | Reuters Biogen on Wednesday posted fourth-quarter revenue and profit that topped expectations as its cost cuts showed progress and new products, including its breakthrough Alzheimer’s treatment Leqembi, saw growth. But the biotech company’s guidance for the current year missed Wall Street’s expectations. Biogen issued a full-year 2025 adjusted earnings outlook of $15.25 to $16.25 per share, which fell short of the $16.34 per share that analysts were anticipating, according to LSEG. That reflects a foreign exchange headwind of 35 cents per share, Biogen said. Biogen expects revenue to decline by a “mid-single digit” percentage in 2025 compared to 2024, as sales of its multiple sclerosis products fall. That portion of the business has declined for several quarters as some of those therapies face generic competition. But Biogen expects Leqembi, along with its new rare disease and depression treatments, to help offset that sliding revenue this year. Leqembi generated $87 million in revenue for the fourth quarter, including $50 million in the U.S. Analysts had expected the drug to book $67 million in sales, according to estimates from StreetAccount. Leqembi, which Biogen shares with the Japanese drugmaker Eisai, became the second drug proven to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s to win approval in the U.S. in 2023. The therapy’s launch has been gradual due to bottlenecks related to diagnostic test requirements, the need for regular brain scans and the difficulty of finding neurologists, among other issues. Here’s what Biogen reported for the fourth quarter compared with what Wall Street was expecting, based on a survey of analysts by LSEG: Earnings per share: $3.44 adjusted vs. $3.35 per share expectedRevenue: $2.46 billion vs. $2.40 billion expected Biogen booked sales of $2.46 billion for the quarter, which is up around 3% from the year-earlier *******. The drugmaker posted net income of $266.8 million, or $1.83 per share, for the quarter. That compares with a net income of $249.7 million, or $1.71 per share, for the same ******* a year ago. Adjusting for one-time items, including certain restructuring charges and costs associated with intangible assets, the company reported earnings of $3.44 per share. Biogen first initiated a cost-cutting program in 2023. The company expects to generate $1 billion in gross savings, or $800 million net savings, by the end of 2025. Also on Wednesday, Royalty Pharma announced an agreement to provide $250 million in research and development funding to Biogen for litifilimab, a key drug in its pipeline that is being studied to treat lupus. Royalty Pharma, a leading funder of the biotech and pharmaceutical industry, will be eligible for regulatory milestones and certain royalties. Other new drugs Another new drug, Skyclarys, booked $102 million in sales for the fourth quarter, almost double what it reported in the year-earlier *******. Analysts had expected sales of around $112 million for the quarter, according to StreetAccount. Skyclarys came from Biogen’s acquisition of Reata Pharmaceuticals in July 2023. The Food and Drug Administration greenlit Skyclarys in 2023, making it the first approved treatment for Friedreich’s ataxia, a rare inherited degenerative disease that can impair walking and coordination in children as young as five. Zurzuvae, the first pill for postpartum depression, generated fourth-quarter sales of $22.9 million. Analysts had expected it to post $26 million in sales, StreetAccount estimates said. Meanwhile, Biogen’s second-quarter sales from multiple sclerosis treatments fell 8% to $1.07 billion. Source link #Biogen #BIIB #earnings Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Alan Wake 2 has sold more than 2 million copies, Remedy is now making royalties from it Alan Wake 2 has sold more than 2 million copies, Remedy is now making royalties from it Alan Wake 2 has now sold more than 2 million copies, according to developer Remedy Entertainment. In a financial statement summarising the company’s results for the fourth quarter of 2024 (and the calendar year as a whole), Remedy says the game passed the 2 million milestone by the end of the year. Remedy says it’s now starting to make royalties on the game, because it’s now paid off development and marketing costs involved in its making. “Alan Wake 2 sales exceeded two million units during the quarter,” Remedy’s statement reads. “By the end of 2024, Alan Wake 2 had recouped its development fees and marketing investments, meaning that Remedy started to accrue royalties towards the end of the quarter.” Elsewhere in its report, Remedy notes that Control 2 entered full production this month, joining its other titles FBC: Firebreak and Max Payne 1 & 2 Remake, which entered full production earlier. Control is being co-financed by Annapurna Pictures, which Remedy says makes it “able to make Control 2 exactly the game we want it to be”. As part of the deal, Annapurna will also be bringing Remedy IP, including Control and Alan Wake, to “film, TV and beyond”, but Control 2 publishing will still be handled by Remedy despite Annapurna having a game publishing arm. The news of Annapurna Pictures’ funding for Control 2 was followed by a mass resignation at its game publishing division Annapurna Interactive, which saw the entire workforce quitting. Remedy communications director Thomas Puha then posted on X that the mass resignation wouldn’t affect its Control 2 deal, because that was made with Annapurna Pictures. Source link #Alan #Wake #sold #million #copies #Remedy #making #royalties Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

The viral Ninja Creami Swirl ice cream maker is finally on *****, and I can’t wait to start making protein ice cream at home The viral Ninja Creami Swirl ice cream maker is finally on *****, and I can’t wait to start making protein ice cream at home After much teasing, the long-awaited Ninja Creami Swirl soft-serve ice cream maker is finally on *****. A handful of influencers got their hands on the machine early, using it to whip up sorbets and frozen protein desserts in TikTok videos, and now you can get your hands on one too. The Ninja Creami Swirl is an updated version of the original Ninja Creami, with a new soft-serve dispenser and a menu of extra presets including frozen custard, fruit whip, swirled frozen yogurt, regular soft-serve ice cream, and ‘lite’ ice cream. You can still make scoopable desserts like sorbet as well, and the new recipes mean you can now prepare 16 different treats on your kitchen counter. The Creami Swirl is available to buy now direct from Ninja for $349 (about £280 / AU$560 – we’re expecting it to launch outside the US later this year), and should be in stock at other US retailers within the next couple of months. According to Ninja it’s likely to sell out, but the company says it will continue to restock it when it does. Our kitchen appliance expert Karen Freeman is testing the Creami Swirl for TechRadar, and we’ll be sharing her full review very soon, If you can’t get your hands on the Ninja Creami Swirl, take a look at the Cuisinart Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker instead (Image credit: Cuisinart) A Creami alternative As mentioned, the Ninja Creami Swirl is currently only available in the US, leaving ice cream lovers in other countries looking sadly at their empty waffle cones. The soft-serve machine is likely to launch elsewhere later in the year, but if you can’t wait that long then don’t worry, there are other options. If you live in the ***, for example, the Cuisinart Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker is a great alternative, and is currently discounted from £200 to just £150. It doesn’t have as many preset dessert options as the Creami Swirl, but will let you make ice cream, gelato, sorbet, slushies, granita, and frozen yogurt – and it has containers for toppings, and a ‘keep warm’ plate for melting sauces. I’m testing the Cuisinart Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker in my own kitchen right now, and Karen and I will be comparing notes to help you decide whether you should grab one yourself, or hold out for a Creami. Sign up for breaking news, reviews, opinion, top tech deals, and more. You might also like Source link #viral #Ninja #Creami #Swirl #ice #cream #maker #finally #***** #wait #start #making #protein #ice #cream #home Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Kyiv Rocked by Russian Ballistic Missile Attack – Kyiv Post Kyiv Rocked by Russian Ballistic Missile Attack – Kyiv Post Kyiv Rocked by Russian Ballistic Missile Attack Kyiv PostRussia launches deadly attack on Ukraine’s capital, rules out swapping occupied territory CBS NewsUkraine Says Russian Missiles Hit Kyiv Before Bessent Visit BloombergRussian ballistic missile salvo kills civilian in Kyiv, Ukraine says Reuters Source link #Kyiv #Rocked #Russian #Ballistic #Missile #Attack #Kyiv #Post Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

NINJA GAIDEN II ****** ‘New Game+’ and ‘Photo Mode’ update now available NINJA GAIDEN II ****** ‘New Game+’ and ‘Photo Mode’ update now available biomarvel|1d 11h ago |Review|1| ▼ Info Add Alt Source Wow, KOEI TECMO, First Dynasty Warriors and now a stealth drop for NINJA GAIDEN 2 ******. It returns with a new engine and newer, better visuals. Once again, step into the tabi (shoes) of Ryu Hayabusa. NINJA GAIDEN 2 ****** PS5 thumbculture.co.*** Read Full Story >> [Hidden Content] thumbculture.co.*** Source link #NINJA #GAIDEN #****** #Game #Photo #Mode #update Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

ASRock Steel Legend SL-1000G PSU Review ASRock Steel Legend SL-1000G PSU Review ASRock, a prominent name in PC hardware, has recently extended its product portfolio into the power supply unit (PSU) market. As a company whose philosophy revolves around reliability, ASRock aims to provide robust and aesthetically appealing PSUs for high-performance gaming PCs and workstations. The company released four PSU series almost simultaneously – the Taichi, Phantom Gaming, Steel Legend, and Challenger – with the Steel Legend series being the most affordable modular PSUs that the company currently offers. We examine the Steel Legend SL-1000G, a 1000W power supply designed to meet modern ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 specifications. This PSU balances efficiency and performance and is a notable contender to some of the best power supplies in the market. With 80Plus Gold and Cybenetics Platinum certifications, the Steel Legend SL-1000G delivers modern features, aesthetics, and value. Specifications and Design Swipe to scroll horizontally Power Specifications (Rated @ 50 °C) RAIL +3.3V +5V +12V +5Vsb -12V MAX OUTPUT 20A 20A 83.4A 3A 0.3A 120W 120W 1000W 15W 3.6W TOTAL 1000W 1000W 1000W 1000W 1000W AC INPUT 100 – 240 VAC, 50 – 60 Hz 100 – 240 VAC, 50 – 60 Hz 100 – 240 VAC, 50 – 60 Hz 100 – 240 VAC, 50 – 60 Hz 100 – 240 VAC, 50 – 60 Hz PRICE $160 Row 5 – Cell 2 Row 5 – Cell 3 Row 5 – Cell 4 Row 5 – Cell 5 In the Box The ASRock Steel Legend SL-1000G arrives in durable and well-designed packaging, featuring a brushed metal artistic theme consistent with the Steel Legend branding. The PSU is securely placed inside a nylon pouch and reinforced with foam inserts to ensure safe transit. (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) ASRock provides a generous bundle of accessories, including mounting screws, an AC power cable, a jump-starting connector for PSU testing, a few cable ties, and several cable straps, catering to users who appreciate a complete installation package. (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) The Steel Legend SL-1000G includes all-******, individually sleeved cables with flexible, soft wiring for easy management. Notably, the 12+4 pin PCIe 5.0 connectors are partially green, ensuring proper installation by signaling improper connections. The PSU is equipped with three 6+2 pin PCI Express connectors, offering a conservative but functional setup for a 1000W unit. (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) Swipe to scroll horizontally ASRock Steel Legend SL-1000G Connector type Hardwired Modular ATX 24 Pin – 1 EPS 4+4 Pin – 2 EPS 8 Pin – – PCI-E 5.0 – 1 PCI-E 8 Pin – 3 SATA – 9 Molex – 3 Floppy – – External Appearance Measuring 150 mm in length, the ASRock Steel Legend SL-1000G is slightly larger than the standard ATX PSU but the unit should remain compatible with all ATX-compliant tower cases. Only very small HTPC cases or special design may not have enough room for a 150 mm PSU. The SL-1000G boasts an aesthetically striking design. Encased in a matte ****** chassis, the PSU features decorative embossments and stickers on its sides that add texture and visual appeal. The ASRock and Steel Legend logos are prominently displayed. (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) Rounded corners and a distinctive mesh-style fan grille integrated directly into the chassis further enhance the unit’s visual appeal. The integrated fan guard covers the entire bottom panel. Image 1 of 2 (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) The rear panel includes the standard AC input socket, an on/off power switch, and a button for toggling the intelligent fan mode. This mode enables semi-passive operation, where the fan remains idle under lighter loads. Disabling intelligent mode forces the fan to start regardless of load but does not override thermal control, keeping the fan at minimal speeds under low-load conditions. One core difference of this implementation is that the switch activates some sort of offset, forcing the fan to operate continuously under lower loads, but also makes the fan operate at a higher speed than it would with the intelligent mode disabled, sacrificing acoustics in favor of thermal performance across the entire load range. The modular cable connectors are located on the front panel, with clearly marked legends to simplify the installation process. Image 1 of 2 (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) Internal Design The ASRock Steel Legend SL-1000G features a 135mm RL4Z S1352512EH-3M fan, likely manufactured by Globe but rebranded with ASRock’s logo. This fan employs a fluid dynamic bearing (FDB), balancing reliability, longevity, and low-noise operation. (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) The ASRock Steel Legend SL-1000G is manufactured by HEC/Compucase, a well-established OEM with decades of experience in producing power supply units. HEC/Compucase is one of the oldest companies in the PSU industry, known for its wide-ranging capabilities that cover everything from entry-level to high-performance designs, although the company typically sticks to entry-to-medium platform designs. They introduced some platforms meant for performance gaming/workstation PCs over the past few years. Image 1 of 2 (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) Its input filtering stage consists of four Y capacitors, three X capacitors, and two filtering inductors, offering a configuration slightly above the typical for a 1000W unit. Following the filtering stage are two rectifying bridges mounted on a small heatsink. The Active Power Factor Correction (APFC) stage includes three Infineon 60R120P7 MOSFETs and a diode mounted on a large dedicated heatsink across the edge of the main PCB. A classic inductor and a single Nippon Chemi-**** 680 μF capacitor are the passive components. (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) The primary inversion stage utilizes two Infineon 70R099P7 MOSFETs configured in a half-bridge LLC topology. These transistors are mounted on a separate heatsink next to the primary transformer. On the secondary side, the PSU employs six MOSFETs to generate the primary 12V rail. These MOSFETs are cooled by a large, distinct heatsink next to the main transformer. The 3.3V and 5V lines are derived using DC-to-DC converters housed on a vertical daughterboard connected to the main PCB. (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) The capacitors used in the secondary stage are sourced from Nippon Chemi-**** and Rubycon, two highly regarded Japanese manufacturers known for their reliability and performance. These capacitors contribute to the unit’s stable electrical output and durability. Overall, the SL-1000G is entirely built using only top-quality components from reputable manufacturers. (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) Cold Test Results Cold Test Results (25°C Ambient) For testing the power supplies, we use high-precision electronic loads with a maximum power draw of 2700 Watts, a Rigol DS5042M 40 MHz oscilloscope, an Extech 380803 power analyzer, two high-precision UNI-T UT-325 digital thermometers, an Extech HD600 SPL meter, a self-designed hotbox, and various other bits and parts. Image 1 of 5 (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) During cold testing, the ASRock Steel Legend SL-1000G demonstrated an average nominal load efficiency of 90.8% at 115 VAC and 92.8% at 230 VAC. The PSU is 80Plus Gold certified by CLEAResult and Platinum certified by Cybenetics. The unit consistently met 80Plus Gold requirements across its load range and narrowly missed the 80Plus Platinum certification at full load. Efficiency peaked at approximately 40% load, and its performance across the 10-100% load range was within the thresholds for Cybenetics’ Platinum certification. At very low loads, the PSU maintained acceptably high efficiency levels, suggesting strong performance across various operational conditions. The Steel Legend SL-1000G exhibited a good balance between thermal management and acoustics during cold testing. The fan remained off until the load exceeded 350 watts, after which it started at a low rotational speed. As the load increased, the fan speed rose incrementally, but it never reached its maximum rotational speed during cold testing conditions. Internal temperatures were well-regulated, with thermal performance aligning with expectations for its design and specifications. Despite the fan’s operation, noise levels were relatively low, ensuring quiet operation under typical loads. Hot Test Results Hot Test Results (~45°C Ambient) The ASRock Steel Legend SL-1000G exhibited an average nominal load efficiency of 89.5% at 115 VAC and 91.5% at 230 VAC during hot testing. The higher ambient temperatures caused a measurable drop in efficiency compared to cold testing, with the most significant degradation occurring under high loads, suggesting thermal stress when the unit is left heavily loaded for prolonged periods of time. Image 1 of 5 (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) Thermal performance during hot testing showed an anticipated shift in fan behavior, with the fan starting at a load just below 300 watts. The fan speed increased more rapidly compared to cold testing, reaching its maximum rotational speed at approximately 900 watts. Internal temperatures obviously rise significantly higher but the PSU maintained a fairly good balance between cooling and noise output. The unit’s noise levels are moderate, with the SL-1000G managing to maintain very low figures for the first half of its operational range but noise levels rise sharply as the load increases beyond 600 watts. PSU Quality and Bottom Line Power Supply Quality The ASRock Steel Legend SL-1000G demonstrated strong electrical performance in terms of voltage regulation and filtering. Voltage regulation was tight across all rails, with deviations of 0.8% on the 12V rail and 0.4% on both the 5V and 3.3V rails, indicating stable output under varying loads. Ripple suppression was effective, with the 12V rail exhibiting a maximum ripple of 54 mV, the 5V rail 20 mV, and the 3.3V rail 18 mV. While these ripple values are within acceptable limits for a high-performance PSU, they could have been lower, considering the unit’s market positioning. During our thorough assessment, we evaluate the essential protection features of every power supply unit we review, including Over Current Protection (OCP), Over Voltage Protection (OVP), Over Power Protection (OPP), and Short Circuit Protection (SCP). All protection mechanisms were activated and functioned correctly during testing. The SL-1000G’s protection features performed reliably, with Over Current Protection (OCP) limits set at 152% for the 3.3V rail, 150% for the 5V rail, and 134% for the 12V rail. Over Power Protection (OPP) was triggered at 136% during hot testing. The figures are a bit high but not unexpected for a premium ATX 3.1 design that is very likely to be facing massive power excursions. Swipe to scroll horizontally Main Output Load (Watts) 201.97 W Row 0 – Cell 2 503.27 W Row 0 – Cell 4 753.53 W Row 0 – Cell 6 1001.61 W Row 0 – Cell 8 Load (Percent) 20.2% Row 1 – Cell 2 50.33% Row 1 – Cell 4 75.35% Row 1 – Cell 6 100.16% Row 1 – Cell 8 Amperes Volts Amperes Volts Amperes Volts Amperes Volts 3.3 V 1.85 3.38 4.61 3.37 6.92 3.36 9.23 3.36 5 V 1.85 5.05 4.61 5.05 6.92 5.04 9.23 5.03 12 V 15.39 12.11 38.48 12.07 57.71 12.05 76.95 12.01 Swipe to scroll horizontally Line Regulation (20% to 100% load) Voltage Ripple (mV) Row 0 – Cell 3 Row 0 – Cell 4 Row 0 – Cell 5 Row 0 – Cell 6 Row 0 – Cell 7 Row 1 – Cell 0 Row 1 – Cell 1 20% Load 50% Load 75% Load 100% Load CL1 12V CL2 3.3V + 5V 3.3V 0.4% 10 12 14 18 14 18 5V 0.4% 12 12 16 20 16 18 12V 0.8% 18 28 32 54 50 24 Bottom Line The ASRock Steel Legend SL-1000G is positioned as a mid-to-high-end power supply unit, targeting gamers and PC enthusiasts who require a modern PSU compliant with ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 standards. At a price point of $160, it provides features such as modular cabling, 80Plus Gold and Cybenetics Platinum certifications, and native support for high-power GPUs. While reasonably priced for its specifications, the unit faces stiff competition in a crowded market, where established brands offer similar or better performance and efficiency at comparable costs. (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) The SL-1000G’s design and build quality align with ASRock’s Steel Legend branding, emphasizing durability and a distinctive aesthetic. The PSU’s matte ****** chassis, rounded edges, integrated fan grille, and embossed details give it a premium appearance. Internally, the PSU employs high-quality components, including Japanese Nippon Chemi-**** and Rubycon capacitors, paired with a robust platform from HEC/Compucase. Its compact 150mm form factor ensures compatibility with most ATX cases, with the slight increase in size over standard units affecting only very compact cases and custom builds. (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) Performance-wise, the SL-1000G delivers solid efficiency and reliable operation across a wide range of conditions. Cold testing revealed peak efficiency at moderate loads, meeting 80Plus Gold and Cybenetics Platinum certifications. Voltage regulation was tight across all rails, and ripple suppression was within acceptable limits. Hot testing showed a minor efficiency drop, consistent with thermal stress under high-load conditions, but the unit maintained stability. Thermal management and acoustics were balanced, with fan noise remaining moderate even under heavy loads. All protection features performed as expected. (Image credit: Tom’s Hardware) In conclusion, the ASRock Steel Legend SL-1000G is a well-rounded PSU that offers modern compliance, decent efficiency, and robust protection features at a reasonable price. However, while it performs respectably, it does not distinguish itself significantly in a crowded market segment filled with alternatives that offer similar or slightly better performance for comparable prices. While its performance and build quality meet expectations for its class, the unit does not significantly outshine competitors in the same price range. It is a reliable choice for a 1000W PSU with a unique design and a complete accessory bundle. However, those who prioritize certain performance aspects or find another design more appealing may find alternative options more compelling. MORE: Best Power Supplies MORE: How We Test Power Supplies MORE: All Power Supply Content Source link #ASRock #Steel #Legend #SL1000G #PSU #Review Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

US Open: Slam’s decision to hold mixed doubles as standalone event criticised US Open: Slam’s decision to hold mixed doubles as standalone event criticised The US Open has received strong criticism following its decision to hold its mixed doubles competition as a standalone event before the start of the Slam from 2025. Organisers said it hoped the move would encourage top singles players to participate in the mixed doubles, which will be held over two days in the week leading up to the start of the main draw in New York. However, the decision has been described as a “profound injustice” by last year’s winners Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori amid a backlash from players. The US Open mixed doubles will be held on 19-20 August, before the hard-court Slam – which from this year is expanding to a 15-day event – begins on Sunday, 24 August. “Making decisions just following the logic of profit is profoundly wrong in some situations,” Italians Errani and Vavassori said in a joint statement. “In the last few weeks we received the news that the US Open mixed doubles tournament will be completely turned upside down, cancelled and replaced with a pseudo-exhibition focused only on entertainment and show. “We see it as a profound injustice that disrespects an entire category of players. We don’t know at the moment if we’ll have the chance to defend our title but we hope this remains an isolated case.” The US Open organisers said the change would allow “the sport’s biggest stars” to participate in mixed doubles and claimed “excitement is high among the game’s stars who have already expressed intent to compete” in the new format. American players Taylor ******, the men’s world number four, and Jessica Pegula, fifth in the women’s rankings, have both expressed their intention to participate, while Holger Rune replied to the US Open’s announcement on X saying “Interesting”. Source link #Open #Slams #decision #hold #mixed #doubles #standalone #event #criticised Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Restaurant Brands International (QSR) Q4 2024 earnings Restaurant Brands International (QSR) Q4 2024 earnings The Burger King logo is displayed at a Burger King fast food restaurant on January 17, 2024 in Burbank, California. Mario Tama | Getty Images Restaurant Brands International on Wednesday reported same-store sales growth of 2.5%, fueled by the better-than-expected performance from Burger King’s and Popeyes’ U.S. restaurants. Shares of the company rose more than 1% in premarket trading. Here’s what the company reported: Earnings per share: 81 cents adjusted. That may not compare with the 79 cents expected by LSEG.Revenue: $2.3 billion. That may not compare with the $2.27 billion expected by LSEG. The restaurant company reported fourth-quarter net income of $361 million, or 79 cents per share, down from $726 million, or $1.60 per share, a year earlier. Excluding corporate restructuring fees and other items, Restaurant Brands earned 81 cents per share. Net sales climbed 26% to $2.3 billion. Source link #Restaurant #Brands #International #QSR #earnings Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

What Elon Musk’s $100 billion bid for OpenAI is really all about – CNN What Elon Musk’s $100 billion bid for OpenAI is really all about – CNN What Elon Musk’s $100 billion bid for OpenAI is really all about CNNOpenAI’s Altman Says Musk ‘Probably Just Trying to Slow Us Down’ BloombergSam Altman says Musk aims to ‘slow down a competitor’ with his $97.4 billion bid for OpenAI CNBCElon Musk’s OpenAI bid, analyst says, is a ‘distraction’ and his political activity is weighing on Tesla stock Yahoo Finance Source link #Elon #Musks #billion #bid #OpenAI #CNN Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Oasis, Mariah and OutKast nominated for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Oasis, Mariah and OutKast nominated for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Mark Savage Music Correspondent Getty Images The band are due to start their long-awaited reunion tour this summer Manchester bands Oasis and New Order are among the 14 acts being considered for inclusion in the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this year. They’re joined by artists such as Mariah Carey, Cyndi Lauper and The White Stripes on the 2025 longlist. Half of the 14 nominees are first-timers, including English punk star Billy Idol, rock and roll pioneer Chubby Checker, and “mad dog with soul” Joe Cocker. Performers become eligible for nomination 25 years after the release of their first commercial recording. Voting starts now, with the finalists revealed in April. About half of the nominees will ultimately be inducted into the institution later this year. The full list of 2025 Rock Hall nominees:Bad CompanyThe ****** CrowesMariah CareyChubby CheckerJoe CockerBilly IdolJoy Division/New OrderCyndi LauperManáOasisOutKastPhishSoundgardenThe White StripesEPA Mariah Carey is one of the biggest-selling artists of all time It is the second time Oasis have been nominated, having first appeared on the ballot in 2024. Their inclusion comes as the band gear up for a sold-out reunion tour, which kicks off in Cardiff this July. But singer Liam Gallagher has previously criticised the Hall of Fame, saying he wasn’t interested in receiving an award from “some geriatric in a cowboy hat”. He added, perhaps sarcastically, that Oasis didn’t deserve their nomination “as much as Mariah [Carey]”. “She smashed it,” he noted. In the end, both Oasis and Carey were overlooked last year – with voters choosing to induct Cher, Mary J Blige, Ozzy Osbourne and A Tribe Called Quest instead. Asked for her thoughts on the snub, Carey said: “My thoughts are: I didn’t get in. “My lawyer got into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame before me,” she added, referencing entertainment lawyer Allen Grubman – who also represented clients like Madonna, Bruce Springsteen and Lady Gaga. Grubman was inducted into the Rock Hall in 2022 as the recipient of the Ahmet Ertegun Award, which honours music industry figures. Carey is one of the most egregious oversights in the Hall of Fame’s history. With 19 US number one singles, she is second only to the Beatles in terms of chart success – but she didn’t receive her first nomination for the hall of fame until last year, almost a decade after she first became eligible. Other notable artists who have failed to enter the hall include Iron Maiden, Daft Punk, Wu ***** Clan and The Smiths. The White Stripes – Jack and Meg White – are nominated in their first year of eligibility Winners are chosen by an international panel of 1,200 musicians, historians and music industry professionals. Fans also get to vote for their favourites online, with their top five choices becoming a “fans’ ballot” that’s counted as one vote. This year’s selection won’t help to counter criticisms of the institution – where women make up less than 9% of inductees. Only two solo women appear on the longlist. Of the eight bands cited, only White Stripes and New Order have female members. Rap music’s under-representation continues to be a theme, too, with OutKast the sole hip-hop act on the list. Eligible artists without a nomination include Snoop Dogg, De La Soul, Busta Rhymes and The Roots. Big band reunions? British artists get a strong showing this year, with Billy Idol, Bad Company and Joe Cocker all up for consideration. Joy Division and New Order are nominated as a single act. The former, led by Ian Curtis, were one of the most influential bands of the British post-punk scene, with singles like Transmission and Love Will Tear Us Apart. New Order were formed after Curtis died in 2024, adding keyboardist Gillian Gilbert, and shifting their sound to extroverted electronic dance music. Both bands were previously nominated in 2023, but were absent from last year’s ballot. Unlike Oasis, the members are not currently on speaking terms, and have toured without original bassist Peter Hook since 2011. Speaking after the band’s previous Rock Hall nomination, he said the ceremony could be the “olive branch” the band needed to make amends. The ceremony has a history of reuniting feuding bandmates – with Led Zeppelin, Talking Heads, the Police, Simon & Garfunkel and Cream all reforming to accept their honour. Others have failed to put aside their differences. Roger Waters refused to join Pink Floyd for their induction in 1996; and Axl Rose skipped Guns N’ Roses big moment in 2012, saying the ceremony didn’t “appear to be somewhere I’m actually wanted or respected”. Source link #Oasis #Mariah #OutKast #nominated #Rock #Roll #Hall #Fame Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Business Council of Australia: Cutting company tax would bring in investment and boost economy Business Council of Australia: Cutting company tax would bring in investment and boost economy *********** companies need a tax cut and relief from the inflation-driving impacts of ballooning government spending, a top business lobby group has declared. The Business Council of Australia will on Thursday release their pre-budget blueprint to get the economy moving, after growth close to the weakest level in decades through 2024. It comes with a Federal election looming within months and after each ***********’s slice of the pie — GDP per capita — has been shrinking for nearly two years. Cutting company tax and adding a new investment allowance were near the top of the BCA agenda. Aussie businesses pay 30 per cent tax on profit — well above the OECD average of 21 per cent. The lobby group says that high tax rate is a key reason why business investment is close to 30 year-lows, which means slower wages growth. “Australia’s company tax system is one of the most uncompetitive in the developed world,” BCA’s budget submission said. A proposal by President Donald Trump to slash the United States company tax to 15 per cent will add pressure, because investment “all but dried up” when he cut the American rate to 21 per cent in 2017, BCA said. The battle to cut company tax in Australia has been raging since at least 2009 when the Henry Tax Review found high business tax rates would likely lead to lower wages. Amid the political debate, corporate tax bills have jumped 70 per cent since before the pandemic. BCA called for a new investment tax break as a “first step” with an instant 20 per cent deduction for capital spending. That follows similar proposals on both sides of politics in the past 15 years, making the move more likely to score political backing. But it will pit the lobby group against both the Reserve Bank and Treasury, which have expressed scepticism about investment allowances. An RBA paper released last week found tax breaks for investment “seemed of limited benefit” outside recessions. Treasury analysis has favoured a broad company tax cut. BCA boss Bran ****** said the private sector would be key to lift *********** growth following a weak ******* close to 30-year lows. “We need to unleash the private sector because it’s ultimately businesses that generate economic growth and prosperity, which ultimately helps raise the living standards of every ***********,” Mr ****** said. “The next Budget must prioritise making Australia an easier place to do business, attract investment for critical projects and lift productivity. “The need for a new pro-business approach has been sharply clarified by the new US administration, with President Trump intending to dramatically lift US competitiveness with policy aspirations around further company tax cuts and a broad program of deregulation.” Controlling the ballooning growth in government spending will also be on BCA’s wish list. The organisation wants a 2 per cent cap on spending growth, after five years of rocketing outlays which many economists have warned added to inflation. BCA called for an end to the “energy wars” ahead of the Federal Election, warning the sector’s politicisation was chilling investment in the transition. The lobby group said there should be a long-term, bipartisan energy deal with all technology on the table and an expanded Net Zero Authority. But that should favour private investment rather than government spending, the report said. Source link #Business #Council #Australia #Cutting #company #tax #bring #investment #boost #economy Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]