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In the spring, James Blair, political director for the Trump campaign, called a meeting in West Palm Beach. The occasion: Marc Elias had changed the world. It was Elias who had petitioned the Federal Election Commission at the beginning of the year to allow a George Soros-funded political action committee to coordinate with campaigns. And the Democratic super lawyer had won. A nine-page advisory opinion followed in March. For the first time, the FEC ruled that federal candidates could coordinate with outside organizations. And now politics would change forever.

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SAN DIEGO, Dec. 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP announces that purchasers or acquirers of Customers Bancorp, Inc. (NYSE: CUBI) publicly traded securities between March 1, 2024 and August 8, 2024, inclusive (the “Class Period”), have until January 31, 2025 to seek appointment as lead plaintiff of the Customers Bancorp class action lawsuit. Captioned Chang v. Customers Bancorp, Inc ., No. 24-cv-06416 (E.D. Pa.), the Customers Bancorp class action lawsuit charges Customers Bancorp and certain of Customers Bancorp’s top current and former executives with violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. If you suffered substantial losses and wish to serve as lead plaintiff of the Customers Bancorp class action lawsuit, please provide your information here: https://www.rgrdlaw.com/cases-customers-bancorp-inc-class-action-lawsuit-cubi.html You can also contact attorneys J.C. Sanchez or Jennifer N. Caringal of Robbins Geller by calling 800/449-4900 or via e-mail at info@rgrdlaw.com . CASE ALLEGATIONS: Customers Bancorp operates as a bank holding company. The Customers Bancorp class action lawsuit alleges that defendants throughout the Class Period made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) Customers Bancorp had inadequate anti-money laundering practices; and (ii) as a result, Customers Bancorp was not in compliance with its legal obligations, which subjected Customers Bancorp to heightened regulatory risk. The Customers Bancorp class action lawsuit further alleges that on April 12, 2024, Customers Bancorp announced that CFO, defendant Carla A. Leibold, had been fired for “cause” for violating Customers Bancorp policy. On this news, the price of Customers Bancorp stock fell nearly 5%, according to the complaint. Customers Bancorp subsequently disclosed that Ms. Leibold’s termination was a “separation by mutual agreement,” according to the complaint. Then, on August 8, 2024, during market hours, the Federal Reserve issued a press release entitled “Federal Reserve Board issues enforcement action with Customers Bancorp, Inc. and Customers Bank,” which attached a written agreement between Customers Bancorp and the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia stating that the Federal Reserve “identified significant deficiencies related to the Bank’s risk management practices and compliance with the applicable laws, rules, and regulations relating to anti-money laundering (‘AML’), including the Bank Secrecy Act,” according to the complaint On this news, the price of Customers Bancorp stock fell more than 15%, according to the Customers Bancorp class action lawsuit. Finally, the Customers Bancorp class action lawsuit further alleges that on August 8, 2024, after market hours, Customers Bancorp disclosed a consent order by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Banking and Securities, Bureau of Bank Supervision, relating “principally to aspects of compliance risk management, including risk management practices governing digital asset-related services; oversight by the Board of Directors of Customers Bancorp and the Bank; compliance with anti-money laundering regulations under the Bank Secrecy Act; and compliance with the regulations of the Office of Foreign Assets Control,” and further stating that “these deficiencies give the Bureau reason to believe that the Bank had engaged in unsafe or unsound banking practices relating to BSA/AML Requirements.” On this news, the price of Customers Bancorp stock fell further, according to the complaint. THE LEAD PLAINTIFF PROCESS: The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 permits any investor who purchased or acquired Customers Bancorp publicly traded securities during the Class Period to seek appointment as lead plaintiff in the Customers Bancorp class action lawsuit. A lead plaintiff is generally the movant with the greatest financial interest in the relief sought by the putative class who is also typical and adequate of the putative class. A lead plaintiff acts on behalf of all other class members in directing the Customers Bancorp class action lawsuit. The lead plaintiff can select a law firm of its choice to litigate the Customers Bancorp class action lawsuit. An investor’s ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff of the Customers Bancorp class action lawsuit. ABOUT ROBBINS GELLER: Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP is one of the world’s leading law firms representing investors in securities fraud cases. Our Firm has been #1 in the ISS Securities Class Action Services rankings for six out of the last ten years for securing the most monetary relief for investors. We recovered $6.6 billion for investors in securities-related class action cases – over $2.2 billion more than any other law firm in the last four years. With 200 lawyers in 10 offices, Robbins Geller is one of the largest plaintiffs’ firms in the world and the Firm’s attorneys have obtained many of the largest securities class action recoveries in history, including the largest securities class action recovery ever – $7.2 billion – in In re Enron Corp. Sec. Litig. Please visit the following page for more information: https://www.rgrdlaw.com/services-litigation-securities-fraud.html Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Services may be performed by attorneys in any of our offices. Contact: Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP J.C. Sanchez, Jennifer N. Caringal 655 W. Broadway, Suite 1900, San Diego, CA 92101 800-449-4900 info@rgrdlaw.comWORCESTER, Mass. , Dec. 2, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. THG announced today its board of directors has approved an increase in the company's quarterly dividend to $0.90 per share on the issued and outstanding common stock of the company, payable December 27, 2024 , to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 13, 2024 . "This is the 20 th consecutive year we have increased our quarterly dividend, demonstrating our commitment to delivering enhanced value to our shareholders," said John C. Roche , president and chief executive officer at The Hanover . "It is a significant milestone for us, underscoring our optimism in the company's future prospects and reinforcing our confidence in our financial stability and growth potential." Forward-Looking Statements Statements regarding quarterly or future dividends, whether regular or special, payable to the company's shareholders, which may be subject to future increases, decreases, or elimination, as determined by The Hanover's board of directors, are forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The company cautions investors that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, including but not limited to, growth, earnings improvement, returns, future dividend payments, or the amount of such payments. Investors are directed to consider the risks and uncertainties in the company's business that may cause actual results to differ and/or affect the board's decision to declare dividends in the future, including those risks which are discussed in readily available documents, such as the company's annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, as well as other documents filed by The Hanover with the Securities and Exchange Commission and which are also available on hanover.com under "Investors." About The Hanover The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. is the holding company for several property and casualty insurance companies, which together constitute one of the largest insurance businesses in the United States . The company provides exceptional insurance solutions through a select group of independent agents and brokers. Together with its agent partners, The Hanover offers standard and specialized insurance protection for small and mid-sized businesses, as well as for homes, automobiles, and other personal items. For more information, please visit hanover.com . CONTACTS Investors: Media: Oksana Lukasheva Michael F. Buckley Emily P. Trevallion (508) 525-6081 (508) 855-3099 (508) 855-3263 Email: olukasheva@hanover.com Email: mibuckley@hanover.com Email: etrevallion@hanover.com View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-hanover-insurance-group-inc-increases-quarterly-dividend-to-0-90-per-common-share-302320134.html SOURCE The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

The tax exemptions provided by the state to households and businesses have reached 18.8 billion euros, an amount corresponding to 28.2% of total tax revenue. Without tax exemptions, tax revenues would have reached €85.5 billion, enabling governments to pursue social policy with targeted actions and permanent measures. According to the Ministry of National Economy and Finance, the value of tax exemptions grew by €3.26 billion last year. The increase in the amount from €12.8 billion in 2021 to €15.5 billion in 2022 is mainly due to the adjustment of the property rates used for taxable purposes (known as “objective values”) and the increase in the tax-free threshold for donations and parental benefits to €800,000. In 2023, tax exemptions numbered 1,106, up from 1,064 in 2022.

Top Democrats say they won’t just ‘Trump-proof’ California — they’ll make it affordable again

SEATTLE (AP) — The Seattle Seahawks took a bumpy path to sole possession of first place in the NFC West. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * SEATTLE (AP) — The Seattle Seahawks took a bumpy path to sole possession of first place in the NFC West. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? SEATTLE (AP) — The Seattle Seahawks took a bumpy path to sole possession of first place in the NFC West. Sunday’s 26-21 win over the Jets featured several special teams miscues, including a 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by New York. On the flip side, the Seahawks got their second pick-6 in as many weeks and just enough production by Geno Smith and the offense. The Seahawks’ uneven performance was characteristic of a season in which they started 3-0, then lost five of six before winning another three in a row to take command of their underachieving division. Seattle (7-5) leads Arizona by one game, with a matchup against the Cardinals looming next weekend. Zach Charbonnet gave Seattle its first lead of the day on an 8-yard touchdown run with 5:37 to go, and the Seahawks’ defense capped another strong outing with a game-sealing stop on fourth down. After a sack by Leonard Williams gave the Jets a fourth-and-15 at the 34-yard line, Aaron Rodgers threw a desperation pass to Garrett Wilson that fell incomplete, giving Seattle the ball with 33 seconds left. What’s working Williams is on a tear. After losing out on NFC defensive player of the week honors last week to teammate Coby Bryant despite 2 1/2 sacks and four quarterback hits, “Big Cat” had an even better game. Williams finished with two sacks, three tackles for loss, a 92-yard interception return for a touchdown that was the longest pick-6 in NFL history by a defensive lineman, and a blocked extra point. The touchdown was the first of Williams’ career. He became the first player since 1982 with multiple sacks, an interception return for a touchdown and a blocked kick in a game. Maybe this week the league will agree he was the NFC’s best defender. What needs help The special teams could not have been much worse in the first half. The Seahawks fumbled three kickoffs, losing two, and allowed Kene Nwangwu’s 99-yard kickoff return for a TD. Dee Williams fumbled on a kickoff in the first quarter to give New York the ball at the 27-yard line, and four plays later, Rodgers hit Isaiah Davis for a touchdown to give the Jets a 14-0 lead. Laviska Shenault Jr. muffed two kicks and fumbled at the Seattle 38-yard line in the second quarter. Seattle also had an extra point blocked. Stock up Smith led his third game-winning drive of the season and his 11th since he became Seattle’s starting quarterback in 2022. Facing the team that drafted him in 2013, Smith went 20 of 31 for 206 yards and a touchdown. For the first time in five weeks, he was not intercepted. The Seahawks trailed by 14 points on two occasions, but Smith brought Seattle back while avoiding the untimely picks that dogged him recently. He threw a 12-yard touchdown pass to A.J. Barner in the second quarter, and led the Seahawks on a go-ahead nine-play, 71-yard touchdown drive late in the fourth quarter. Stock down Coach Mike Macdonald and his staff have to address the problem with their kick returners, Shenault and Dee Williams. Two lost fumbles and several muffs could have easily cost Seattle the game. Injuries WR DK Metcalf left the game briefly with a knee issue but returned. ... P Michael Dickson was unavailable in the fourth quarter because of back spasms. Key number 38 — The Seahawks decided to go for it on fourth-and-6 at their own 33-yard line with 9:34 left in the game. A primary reason was that Dickson was unavailable to punt because of back spasms. Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. The Jets were flagged for having 12 men on the field after sending a punt returner out, which gave Seattle fourth-and-1 at the 38. The Seahawks got a first down after Jets cornerback Quantez Stiggers was flagged for pass interference on Metcalf, and eight players later, Charbonnet scored to put Seattle ahead. Without going for it on fourth down from their own 38, the Seahawks likely would’ve lost. Up next The Seahawks will seek a season sweep of the Cardinals. ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl Advertisement AdvertisementBill Orosco speaks out after being saved from dying in an accident on the Trujillo highway: “Only blows and a big scare” | Shows

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Aniwaniwa Tait-Jones' 21 points helped UC San Diego defeat James Madison 73-67 on Friday night. Tait-Jones also contributed six rebounds for the Tritons (4-2). Hayden Gray scored 16 points and added four steals. Nordin Kapic went 5 of 8 from the field (1 for 4 from 3-point range) to finish with 12 points. Bryce Lindsay led the way for the Dukes (3-3) with 17 points. James Madison also got 13 points and four assists from Xavier Brown. UCSD went into halftime ahead of James Madison 34-28. Tait-Jones scored 14 points in the half. UCSD took the lead for good with 5:46 left in the second half on a free throw from Tait-Jones to make it a 58-57 game. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .JLS Sales Academy's Secret Weapon: Emily Bass Introduces Success through the Power of Scenario Selling 12-03-2024 12:26 AM CET | Associations & Organizations Press release from: Getnews / PR Agency: Brand Featured How Emily Bass and JLS Sales Academy Empower Insurance and Financial Service Agents with Game-Changing Sales Strategies The world of insurance and financial services sales demands a unique blend of skill, knowledge, and unwavering resilience. JLS Sales Academy understands these challenges faced by agents, which is why they offer a comprehensive training program designed to equip them for success. However, JLS Sales Academy is more than just top-notch training. Their team boasts visionary leaders who are dedicated to empowering individuals. Today, the spotlight is on Emily Bass, an executive coach known for her transformative approach and reputation as a game-changer. From Champion Skier to Champion of Potential Emily's journey to becoming a sales powerhouse began on the slopes. A national-level skier and coach, her passion extended beyond personal achievement. Fueled by a desire for inclusivity, Emily spearheaded programs that made skiing accessible to individuals with disabilities. By fostering a supportive environment, she shattered preconceived notions and helped countless people experience the joy of conquering the mountain. A Career Rooted in Social Impact As Emily's career evolved, her focus shifted to nonprofit leadership, where her Master's in Social Work proved invaluable. She played a pivotal role in guiding organizations towards clarity of purpose and maximizing their impact on critical societal issues like substance abuse, child protection, and suicide prevention. Emily brings a wealth of experience in leadership, philanthropy, and personal development to her role at JLS Sales Academy. Empowering Others to Reach Their Peak Performance Emily's diverse experiences have fostered a unique skill set that empowers others to reach their full potential. As a Certified Master Coach and an Advanced Certified Practitioner in various assessments, she leverages her expertise to create a supportive environment for growth. Through executive coaching, evidence-based assessments, and innovative learning strategies, she helps clients overcome obstacles and achieve remarkable results. Through her work, she is making a profound impact not just on individuals, but on the broader business community as a whole. The Power of Belief and Scenario Selling Emily's greatest strength lies in her unwavering belief in people's potential. This belief inspires her clients to push beyond limitations and achieve remarkable results. JLS Sales Academy's scenario selling program is just one example. Through this program, Emily equips insurance and financial services professionals with the tools and strategies needed to excel in their field. Ready to unlock that full sales potential with the help of Emily Bass? To learn more about Emily's impactful coaching and access various recommended assessments, visit her website at https://emilybassstrategies.com/assessments/ . About JLS Sales Academy JLS Sales Academy is a company that offers never-before-seen and heard sales techniques that would prepare aspiring insurance and financial service agents for any sales challenges they may face. Media Contact Company Name: JLS Sales Academy Email: Send Email [ http://www.universalpressrelease.com/?pr=jls-sales-academys-secret-weapon-emily-bass-introduces-success-through-the-power-of-scenario-selling ] Phone: 907-632-1501 Country: United States Website: https://www.jlssa.com/emilybass This release was published on openPR.Since its inception, smart contracts have been synonymous with Ethereum, and have brought revolution to blockchain technology through the use of self-executing agreements without the need for intermediaries. Ethereum has long established itself as the leader in decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible token (NFT) ecosystems, attracting developers over the years in a vast ecosystem of applications. But with time, as the technology for blockchain is improving, Ethereum is losing steam as new platforms are promising faster, cheaper, and far more scalable solutions. This article will investigate whether Ethereum will remain the dominant force or challengers will take its crown. Ethereum’s dominance stems from its early start and Ethereum Virtual Machine ( EVM ) which offers developers an environment for developing decentralized applications (dApp). As of 2023, it dominates over 49% of the smart contracts market, making it the backbone of decentralized finance. Ethereum’s network effect is another critical factor. Ethereum also has the biggest developer community in the blockchain industry, and the richest set of tools, frameworks, and decentralized applications, inspiring new decentralized innovations. Platforms like Uniswap, Aave, and OpenSea are already well-known in the crypto space helping Ethereum solidify its position as a trendsetter. Despite its success, Ethereum has suffered from long-standing problems of scalability and high-proportioned transaction fees. High network traffic emanating from increased activities has pushed up the cost of gas fees making small transactions unprofitable and out of reach for the average user. For example, in 2021, the transaction fee reached more than $50 during high traffic load. Enter the competitors : Such platforms as Solana, BSC, Cardano, and Avalanche have been receiving increasing attention. These networks are faster with transactions than Ethereum and cheaper also solving some of Ethereum’s shortcomings. Solana : With a processing power of over 65,000 transactions per second (TPS), Solana stands to be a high-performance blockchain for projects seeking efficiency and scalability. Binance Smart Chain (BSC) : BSC is one of the popular choices for developers as it has a low transaction fee and works on the EVM Cardano : Cardano has built a reputation as having strict rigorous peer-reviewed research and security-focused projects. Avalanche: With flexible and customizable subnets and transaction finality, Avalanche offers developers scalability and flexibility. Ethereum is not sitting with its arms folded either. It is perhaps one of the most groundbreaking upgrades in the entire history of blockchain technology ever, Ethereum 2.0. The change from proof-of-work (PoW) to proof-of-stake (PoS) is supposed to deal with the crucial problems of Ethereum’s scalability and energy intensity. When it comes to scalability Ethereum 2.0 includes shard chains that split the network into segments making the transaction processing happen in parallel hence enhancing throughput. This upgrade is said to cut transaction costs and at the same time improve the use of the software. For now, Ethereum is also planning to reach more than 100,000 TPS by 2025, coming up to the speed of the recently created platforms . However, the energy consumption of the Ethereum network is expected to reduce significantly in the next few years by about 99.95%. This is in line with global sustainability standards, or what institutional investors have in their minds. The smart contracts market is developing and it was valued at $2.14 billion in the year 2024 and topped $12.55 billion in the year 2032 at a CAGR of 24.7%. This growth is due to the integration of blockchain technology into different industries like finance, health, supply and logistics among others. This simply implies that with the growing market, there is the possibility of having many different platforms, each targeting unique categories of the market. Due to the already created environment around Ethereum and constant development, it has growth potential, although competition remains the factor by which no platform will reign over all applications . Although Ethereum still holds the largest market share in the DeFi and NFT segments, this is fragmenting. Solana is popular among high-frequency trading applications now, and Cardano is used in scientific and sponsor blockchain projects. Being cost-effective, the Binance Smart Chain has been used mostly by small-scale investors. The future is multi-chain, and connectivity is going to be a key determinant of the health of blockchains. Polkadot and Cosmos are connectivity platforms that cross over the chasms between blockchains so that assets and data can transfer from network to network. Therefore, Ethereum has to synchronize itself with this integrated environment to remain useful. Ethereum continues to be the king of smart contracts because of the first-mover advantage, a large developer community, and a fitted ecosystem. Although it has been long on top, it is no longer unparalleled. Competition threats from Solana, Binance Smart Chain, Cardano, and Avalanche are rising as they all attend to problems like scalability and cost to make them attractive destinations for developers and users. The upgrades to Ethereum 2.0 remain a necessity for Ethereum to remain on top, as explained below. If done successfully, it is likely to tackle scalability and environmental issues at the same time strengthen Ethereum as the go-to platform for decentralised development.

TEHRAN – The strategic partnership between Iran and China is described as "ironclad" by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who emphasizes that it is built on deep cultural and civilizational ties and rooted in shared values and common interests. Araghchi, who is currently on an official visit to Beijing, made the statement after a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Saturday. The two ministers discussed a broad range of regional and international issues, including the latest security developments in West Asia. They both agreed that the region should not become a battleground for external powers seeking to advance their own geopolitical agendas. Araghchi and Wang underscored that the future of West Asia must be determined by the people of the region, free from outside interference. Araghchi and Wang expressed mutual concern over the escalating instability and terrorist activity in West Asia, particularly in Syria, and called for efforts to preserve the country’s national unity and territorial integrity. Both ministers highlighted the necessity of a peaceful and inclusive transition in Syria that would reflect the aspirations of all segments of its society. The two diplomats also pledged to strengthen cooperation in the fight against terrorism, which remains a significant threat to regional security. Additionally, they touched on critical international issues such as the ongoing nuclear talks, the lifting of sanctions against Iran, and ways to enhance bilateral cooperation within the frameworks of the BRICS group of emerging economies and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). Araghchi noted that Iran is committed to leveraging every available capacity to deepen its strategic partnership with China, particularly through the landmark 25-year cooperation agreement signed in March 2021. This agreement serves as a solid foundation for expanding ties in various sectors, including trade, energy, and technology. China, which is Iran’s largest trading partner, continues to stand by Iran, particularly in the face of illegal sanctions imposed by the United States. Wang, reaffirming Beijing’s position, declared that China supports Iran’s legitimate rights and interests, especially in the context of the 2015 nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The meeting also provided an opportunity for both sides to assess the progress made in the implementation of the strategic partnership agreement and explore further opportunities for cooperation. The two sides also insisted that the international community must respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of West Asian nations and not allow the region to become a playground for geopolitical competition. Araghchi and Wang also emphasized the importance of resolving regional conflicts through peaceful dialogue and adherence to international law. They particularly stressed the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon and a comprehensive approach to counterterrorism, reconciliation, and humanitarian efforts in Syria. Furthermore, the two ministers called for the international community to support the Palestinian cause by recognizing the legal rights of the Palestinian people and working towards an end to the occupation. They reiterated the importance of humanitarian aid for the region and agreed that peace in West Asia can only be achieved through a political process that respects the rights of all parties involved. In a separate meeting in Beijing, Araghchi also met with Nurlan Yermekbayev, the SCO secretary general. The discussion centered on the growing role of the SCO in promoting multilateralism and securing the political and economic interests of member states. Araghchi highlighted the significance of the SCO, which includes major global players like China, Russia, and India, as a vehicle for enhancing cooperation in areas such as security, trade, and development. Yermekbayev welcomed Iran’s full membership in the SCO, which was granted in 2023, and expressed appreciation for Iran's initiatives to expand the organization’s activities in economic and banking sectors. Both sides agreed on the importance of increasing coordination within the SCO to address global challenges, especially in relation to regional stability. The SCO has increasingly become an influential platform for global diplomacy, offering a counterbalance to Western-dominated institutions. Araghchi’s visit further solidified Iran’s commitment to its partnership with China and its growing role within the SCO. In a message shared on social media, Araghchi also emphasized the deep-rooted cultural and civilizational ties between Iran and China, noting that their strategic partnership is based on shared values and mutual interests. He reaffirmed the joint commitment of both countries to promoting stability and rule of law, particularly in West Asia, which, according to both ministers, must be determined by the people of the region free from foreign interference.

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UConn, football coach Jim Mora agree to contract extension through 2028Jim Harbaugh: Turnaround is about the players, not meNone

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The Hyperallergic Art Crossword: December 2024

Tuesday, December 3, 2024 Southeast Asia’s leading travel platform, Traveloka, is set to deliver unbeatable deals with its 12.12 Last Double Day Deal, offering up to 50% off on flights, hotels, and travel activities. From December 2–13, 2024, this exciting campaign is designed to help travellers across Singapore create their dream holiday, with exclusive coupons worth up to SGD 250 and flash sales featuring savings of up to SGD 175. Whether you’re dreaming of a snowy winter escape, a relaxing beach vacation, or an urban adventure, the 12.12 Last Double Day Deal has something for every traveller. Traveloka’s 12.12 Last Double Day Deal celebrates the diverse tastes of its customers by showcasing trending destinations that cater to every type of holidaymaker: For snow enthusiasts, head to Hokkaido, Japan. Known for its pristine ski slopes, rejuvenating onsens, and stunning mountain views, Hokkaido offers the perfect winter getaway. Alternatively, explore Jeonju, South Korea, where you can wander through traditional Hanok Villages and savour authentic Korean flavours. Looking for a sun-soaked beach retreat? Tasmania, Australia, boasts unspoiled beaches, lush landscapes, and the iconic Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park. If Southeast Asia is more your style, Thailand’s beaches, such as the crystal-clear waters of Koh Lipe and the dramatic limestone cliffs of Railay Beach in Krabi, promise both relaxation and adventure. For urban explorers, Chengdu, China, awaits with its famous Sichuan hotpot and the world-renowned panda conservation center. If you’re seeking a balance of city life and nature, Lantau Island in Hong Kong offers scenic hiking trails and peaceful traditional villages, offering a perfect contrast to the bustling metropolis. The Traveloka 12.12 Last Double Day Deal ensures you get the most out of your travel plans. Take advantage of daily Flash Sales running from December 2–11, with incredible discounts available during two prime time slots: 10am–1pm and 6pm–9pm. And don’t miss the Midnight Flash Sales on December 12–13, where you can unlock up to 50% off and enjoy additional discounts like SGD 80 off flight bookings, 50% off hotels, and exclusive offers for activities from 12am–3am. Singapore travellers can also enjoy up to SGD 100 off on flights with Singapore Airlines, making it even easier to book your next getaway. Want to make your holiday even more exciting? Book during the Traveloka 12.12 Last Double Day Deal and stand a chance to win a travel voucher worth up to SGD 2,000! Simply book your holiday during the promotion period and enter Traveloka’s social media giveaway for your chance to win. Full details and terms & conditions can be found on Traveloka’s official platforms. Don’t miss out on these exclusive offers! The Traveloka 12.12 Last Double Day Deal is your chance to make your dream escape a reality—while saving big on flights, hotels, and activities.

President of theRepublic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree amendingthe "Rules for the Storage, Placement, and Management of CurrencyFunds of the State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan" (SOFAZ),originally approved by the President's decree on June 19, 2001, reports. The new decree outlines significant changes regarding SOFAZ'sinvestment portfolio. The portfolio, divided according to thefund's investment policy, may now include various assets, suchas: - money market instruments with an investment-grade creditrating (from Standard & Poor's, Fitch, or Moody's) and deposits incentral (national) banks; - debt obligations with an investment-grade credit rating; - stocks; - real estate, including infrastructure; - equity interests in alternative investment funds; - gold bars (gold) meeting the standards set by the LondonBullion Market Association; - debt instruments with non-investment-grade ratings or moneymarket instruments, provided that the total value of the investmentportfolio does not exceed five percent, including up to one percentrated at least "B-" (Standard & Poor's, Fitch) or "B3" (Moody's),with the remaining portion rated at least "BB-" (Standard & Poor's,Fitch) or "Ba3" (Moody's).The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. Increases Quarterly Dividend to $0.90 Per Common ShareTEHRAN – The strategic partnership between Iran and China is described as "ironclad" by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who emphasizes that it is built on deep cultural and civilizational ties and rooted in shared values and common interests. Araghchi, who is currently on an official visit to Beijing, made the statement after a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Saturday. The two ministers discussed a broad range of regional and international issues, including the latest security developments in West Asia. They both agreed that the region should not become a battleground for external powers seeking to advance their own geopolitical agendas. Araghchi and Wang underscored that the future of West Asia must be determined by the people of the region, free from outside interference. Araghchi and Wang expressed mutual concern over the escalating instability and terrorist activity in West Asia, particularly in Syria, and called for efforts to preserve the country’s national unity and territorial integrity. Both ministers highlighted the necessity of a peaceful and inclusive transition in Syria that would reflect the aspirations of all segments of its society. The two diplomats also pledged to strengthen cooperation in the fight against terrorism, which remains a significant threat to regional security. Additionally, they touched on critical international issues such as the ongoing nuclear talks, the lifting of sanctions against Iran, and ways to enhance bilateral cooperation within the frameworks of the BRICS group of emerging economies and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). Araghchi noted that Iran is committed to leveraging every available capacity to deepen its strategic partnership with China, particularly through the landmark 25-year cooperation agreement signed in March 2021. This agreement serves as a solid foundation for expanding ties in various sectors, including trade, energy, and technology. China, which is Iran’s largest trading partner, continues to stand by Iran, particularly in the face of illegal sanctions imposed by the United States. Wang, reaffirming Beijing’s position, declared that China supports Iran’s legitimate rights and interests, especially in the context of the 2015 nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The meeting also provided an opportunity for both sides to assess the progress made in the implementation of the strategic partnership agreement and explore further opportunities for cooperation. The two sides also insisted that the international community must respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of West Asian nations and not allow the region to become a playground for geopolitical competition. Araghchi and Wang also emphasized the importance of resolving regional conflicts through peaceful dialogue and adherence to international law. They particularly stressed the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon and a comprehensive approach to counterterrorism, reconciliation, and humanitarian efforts in Syria. Furthermore, the two ministers called for the international community to support the Palestinian cause by recognizing the legal rights of the Palestinian people and working towards an end to the occupation. They reiterated the importance of humanitarian aid for the region and agreed that peace in West Asia can only be achieved through a political process that respects the rights of all parties involved. In a separate meeting in Beijing, Araghchi also met with Nurlan Yermekbayev, the SCO secretary general. The discussion centered on the growing role of the SCO in promoting multilateralism and securing the political and economic interests of member states. Araghchi highlighted the significance of the SCO, which includes major global players like China, Russia, and India, as a vehicle for enhancing cooperation in areas such as security, trade, and development. Yermekbayev welcomed Iran’s full membership in the SCO, which was granted in 2023, and expressed appreciation for Iran's initiatives to expand the organization’s activities in economic and banking sectors. Both sides agreed on the importance of increasing coordination within the SCO to address global challenges, especially in relation to regional stability. The SCO has increasingly become an influential platform for global diplomacy, offering a counterbalance to Western-dominated institutions. Araghchi’s visit further solidified Iran’s commitment to its partnership with China and its growing role within the SCO. In a message shared on social media, Araghchi also emphasized the deep-rooted cultural and civilizational ties between Iran and China, noting that their strategic partnership is based on shared values and mutual interests. He reaffirmed the joint commitment of both countries to promoting stability and rule of law, particularly in West Asia, which, according to both ministers, must be determined by the people of the region free from foreign interference.