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( MENAFN - PR Newswire) NINGBO, China, Dec. 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Risen energy Co., Ltd, a prominent player in the renewable energy sector, has been distinguished for its efforts in climate action, securing a spot in the 2024 Repository of Outstanding Sustainability Practices for Listed Companies. This recognition, administered by the China Association for Public Companies (CAPCO), marks the fourth consecutive year of the initiative designed to promote and highlight sustainable practices among publicly traded firms. Risen Energy is dedicated to combining technological innovation with green, low-carbon practices to address current climate change and environmental challenges. The company not only prioritizes climate change in its core agenda but has also established a three-tiered governance structure consisting of the Board of Directors, the Office of Strategy and Sustainability, and the Working Group on Special Issues. This framework is designed to comprehensively advance the implementation of the firm's climate change strategy. Risen Energy has achieved significant breakthroughs in the R&D and production of green energy products. As extreme weather events become more frequent and the challenges of global climate change grow more acute, the demand for highly efficient and reliable photovoltaic (PV) modules has surged. The company has focused intently on heterojunction technology (HJT), continually innovating to boost the power output and conversion efficiency of its HJT modules. These efforts have cemented Risen Energy's leadership in the global PV market in terms of overall product performance. Additionally, the firm is also developing next-generation HJT-based PV products, aiming to provide even stronger contributions in combating global climate change. SOURCE Risen Energy Co., Ltd MENAFN19122024003732001241ID1109014674 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.This week, the Federal Reserve made its third consecutive interest rate cut of 2024, lowering the federal funds rate by 25 basis points and leaving the target range at 4.25% to 4.50%. This decision builds on the prior Fed rate cuts conducted earlier in the year, one of which was a 50-basis-point reduction in September and the other a 25-basis-point cut in November. Collectively, these moves have reduced the benchmark rate by a full percentage point, underscoring the Fed's responsive approach to evolving economic conditions. By lowering its benchmark rate, the Fed hopes to stimulate spending while maintaining vigilance over inflationary pressures, which have cooled overall but have been ticking back up over the last few months . But while the Fed's rate decision could provide some relief to borrowers by helping to lower consumer interest rates, making it more affordable to buy a home , take out a personal loan or borrow money in other capacities, the lending landscape isn't the only area that may be impacted by this move. These types of Fed rate shifts can also create a complex environment for investors, particularly those focused on traditional safe-haven assets like gold . So what exactly does the Fed's rate cut this week mean for gold investing? That's what we'll examine below. Find out how to add gold to your investment portfolio today . What the Fed's new rate cut means for gold investing The relationship between interest rates and gold prices has historically been inverse, with lower rates typically supporting higher gold valuations . That's because the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding assets like gold decreases when rates decline, theoretically making the precious metal more attractive with the uptick in demand helping to drive up prices. That said, it's important to understand that while interest rate decisions influence gold prices , the precious metals market operates within a complex web of interconnected factors that extend far beyond monetary policy. Understanding this broader context is crucial for investors considering gold positions in their portfolios. Aside from the Fed's decisions, one of the key factors that influence the gold markets is central bank gold purchases , particularly from emerging economies seeking to diversify their reserves. These purchases reached historic levels recently and continue to provide substantial support for gold prices. Global trade tensions, supply chain disruptions and evolving industrial demand — especially from the technology and renewable energy sectors — also create additional layers of complexity in the gold market. The strength of the U.S. dollar also plays a crucial role in gold pricing. However, factors such as relative economic growth rates, trade balances and international capital flows can override this effect. For example, the dollar might strengthen if other major economies face more significant challenges or if investors seek safe-haven currencies during periods of market stress — even in a rate-cutting environment. Inflation expectations also exert a powerful influence over the gold market. While moderate inflation typically supports gold as a store of value, runaway inflation can shift investment patterns, potentially reducing demand if other assets offer higher returns. Shifts in consumer demand, particularly from major gold-buying nations, can further affect prices, and seasonal trends, such as increased gold purchasing during festivals or weddings in these countries, may contribute to price fluctuations as well. Learn more about the benefits of gold investing now . Is this the right time to invest in gold? Deciding whether to invest in gold depends on your financial goals, risk tolerance and market conditions. However, the Fed's recent rate cut presents a compelling case for adding gold to your investment portfolio right now, especially if you're seeking a hedge against inflation and currency fluctuations. However, you should also consider the potential risks of investing in gold . As noted above, gold prices are influenced by a range factors, and a sudden shift in these variables could dampen gold's short-term prospects. For example, if inflation rises faster than expected, the Fed may reconsider its dovish stance, which could strengthen the dollar and pressure gold prices. Another consideration is your portfolio diversification . While gold is an excellent hedge, it should not dominate an investment portfolio — and experts say it should be limited to a maximum of 10% of your portfolio value . Balancing gold with other assets like equities and bonds ensures that you have a well-rounded strategy in place that mitigates risk and maximizes returns. The bottom line The Fed's recent rate cuts have created a potentially favorable environment for gold investment, but success in this arena will likely depend on careful timing and proper portfolio integration. While lower interest rates traditionally support gold prices, you should avoid making investment decisions based solely on monetary policy changes. A prudent approach is to consider gold as part of a broader investment strategy, taking into account factors such as portfolio diversification, risk tolerance and investment timeline. If you decide that investing in gold is right for you, your asset options range from physical bullion to gold ETFs and mining stocks . Each approach to gold investing offers different advantages and considerations in terms of liquidity , storage and market exposure, though, so it's important to conduct thorough research to determine the most appropriate method of gold investment for your unique circumstances. Angelica Leicht is senior editor for Managing Your Money, where she writes and edits articles on a range of personal finance topics. Angelica previously held editing roles at The Simple Dollar, Interest, HousingWire and other financial publications.
Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, who was fatally shot in Midtown Manhattan on Wednesday in what New York police called a "brazen, targeted attack," was a longtime leader in Corporate America, a model student and star high school athlete – and he had been caught up in a high-profile insider trading lawsuit this year. Thompson, 50, lived in Minnesota and was visiting New York for UnitedHealthcare's annual investors conference before he was killed. Thompson was appointed chief executive of UnitedHealthcare in 2021, and had been at the company since 2004. Prior to being named chief executive of UnitedHealthcare, Thompson worked as CEO of the company's government programs business, which includes its Medicare and retirement businesses. UnitedHealthcare is part of UnitedHealth Group, America's largest insurance company. Prior to joining UnitedHealthcare in 2004, Thompson worked as a manager and practiced as a CPA at PwC for nearly seven years. Thompson graduated from the University of Iowa in 1997 with a bachelor's degree in business administration with a major in accounting. He graduated as valedictorian, according to his LinkedIn. He was a Collegiate Scholar, Carver Scholar, State of Iowa Scholar and Faculty Scholar. Thompson graduated from South Hamilton High School in Jewell, Iowa, in 1993. Thompson was the valedictorian of his class, Heather Holm, the superintendent for South Hamilton Community School District, told CNN. "During his time at South Hamilton, Brian was a star student, athlete, homecoming king, and a respected leader. His achievements and character left a meaningful legacy within our schools and community," Holm said in a statement. "We join all who are mourning in remembering Brian's life and legacy." Thompson is remembered as a beloved leader and friend, according to UnitedHealth Group. "Brian was a highly respected colleague and friend to all who worked with him," the company said in a statement. Thompson in May was sued for alleged fraud and illegal insider trading. The Hollywood Firefighters' Pension Fund filed a lawsuit against UnitedHealth Group, CEO Andrew Witty, Executive Chairman Stephen Hemsley and Thompson, alleging the executives schemed to inflate the company's stock by failing to disclose a U.S. Justice Department antitrust investigation into the company. UnitedHealth Group in 2021 announced it would buy Change Healthcare. The Justice Department sued to break up the deal but a judge ultimately allowed it go through. But the Wall Street Journal in February 2024 reported the Department of Justice re-opened its case, even after the merger went through, to investigate whether the companies properly set up a so-called firewall to prevent customer information from flowing between divisions of the merged company. The lawsuit claimed Thompson knew about the investigation as early as October 2023 and sold 31% of his company shares, making a $15 million profit, 11 days before the Journal publicized the probe. The Journal report sent UnitedHealth's stock sinking 5%. The revelation of the alleged insider trading led Democratic Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey to write a letter to the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 29, calling on Chairman Gary Gensler to investigate UnitedHealth for the executives' stock sales. The senators noted Thompson faced up to $5 million in penalties and 20 years of prison time if convicted. "The reports regarding these trades reveal a disturbing fact pattern," the senators wrote. "The timing of these trades... raises numerous questions." The lawsuit, which remains active, was seeking a jury trial and unspecified damages from UnitedHealth and the executives named in the suit, including Thompson. The Southern District of New York declined to comment. UnitedHealthcare did not respond to a request for comment on the lawsuit. CNN's Kara Scannell contributed to this report.Job market jitters real for some mid-career Minnesotans and recent grads
CEO SSCL inaugurates Intelligent Traffic Management System Aimed to enhance city governance: Dr Owais SRINAGAR: In a significant step towards modernizing urban management, Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) launched the Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) through its Integrated Command & Control Centre (ICCC) located at HMT Zainakote. The system was inaugurated by Dr. Owais Ahmed, Chief Executive Officer of SSCL, with the aim of enhancing city governance through data-driven decision-making in daily operations and crisis response. The ICCC acts as a central hub, integrating applications and services across various departments and agencies. It provides critical infrastructure, including computing power, storage, networking, and security, to support Smart City projects with 24/7 operational capabilities. Key features of the ICCC include a Data Centre, secure server farm offering 2PB storage, hybrid cloud capabilities, dedicated leased lines, and a NOVAC fire suppression system. Network Operations Centre, equipped with a video wall and workstations maintains continuous surveillance for optimal performance. A computational system integrating applications offers secure access, work allocation and KPI monitoring. Additional facilities include a convention centre, war room, multi-communications hub and robust power infrastructure with fail-safe provisions. The ITMS is a cutting-edge solution for improving traffic regulation and enforcement. Cameras have been strategically deployed at 66 key junctions in the city, monitored from the ICCC and the Office of the SSP, Traffic Police Srinagar. Key features and benefits of ITMS Traffic Enforcement Red light violation detection (RLVD) are automatic number plate recognition (ANPR), helmet compliance, seat belt monitoring, and checks on speeding and wrong-way driving. Under this advanced technology, a total of 1,052 cameras, including RLVD (249), ANPR (453), PTZ (101), and box cameras (249), provide comprehensive coverage. Enhanced Safety, introduction of an e-challan system, panic buttons and connectivity through SDNet are other important aspects. Srinagar Smart City Limited remains committed to leveraging innovative technologies to create a safer, smarter, and more efficient urban environment, setting a benchmark for other cities in India.Top Democrats Vow to Make California Affordable Again“The End,” by director Joshua Oppenheimer ( “The Act of Killing,” “The Look of Silence” ), is a gloomy musical about perhaps the only six people left on Earth: an oilman and his trophy wife (Michael Shannon and Tilda Swinton), their bunker-born adult son (George MacKay) and the three aides (Bronagh Gallagher, Tim McInnerny, Lennie James) invited into this underground ark. Something awful is outside. We hear allusions to a blood-red sun, a poisoned sea and buzzards. But this salt mine-slash-sanctuary boasts walls hung with fine art and a dinner table set for wine and Champagne. These survivors have walled-off suffering for more than 20 years. Still, they can’t breathe. Not in the literal sense. The cast has the lung capacity for more than two hours of singing and the songs, which Oppenheimer wrote the lyrics for and composer Joshua Schmidt scored, are flat-out stunners, belted with humble charm. If a voice cracks, it cracks. The emotion holds center stage, backed by adamant violins and horns and sneaky melodies that vault up an octave to hit surprising notes. But there’s not enough air in here for everyone to have a personality. The characters are all rigorously mannered, as though they’re mimicking the mannequins in old film strips of 1950s bomb shelters. In the opening song, people stroll into the living room one by one, casually clutching mugs of coffee, and when they realize the others are already crooning about another perfect new morning, they join in as though to be polite. “We fight through the dark together / our future is bright,” they harmonize, keeping their backs as straight as a church choir. The irony is obvious and for the first hour, that’s all there is. The assured magnate, the superficial wife, the doted-upon child who was raised so cloistered he whistles canary songs to a tank of crawdads and tries to teach pet tricks to a fish. These aren’t full characters — they don’t even merit names — they’re just the clichés we’d expect to see dining on Dover sole while the rest of us are dead. (Plus the workers don’t merit much attention.) Oppenheimer and his co-screenwriter Rasmus Heisterberg have given each family member one flaw that they sing about so incessantly that the running time could be slashed by a third. We get it, bunker life is airless. This house is so gray and cold that something’s got to snap. During the film’s stiff and dull first stretch, the family discovers a young stranger, played by Moses Ingram, who has endured the apocalypse long enough to track the source of their smoke exhaust. If you think that’s implausible, wait til you see how this presumably hardscrabble refugee — a girl who has never before worn shoes — not only arrives with TikTok-trained options about the rights of the working class, but appears unfazed by these opulent digs. Ingram and MacKay start off like the kind of couple you wouldn’t put together even though they truly might be the last fertile singles alive. But they warm to each other enough to sing their own duet, running through the salt mine with their arms stretched wide. (The choreographers Sam Pinkleton and Ani Taj smartly choose liberated movement over precision.) Finally, the film kicks up its heels and becomes something beautiful. Oppenheimer is after something that drives right at the heart of what a musical is. To harmonize means to agree. It’s a public display of solidarity — a pact to parrot the same delusions. Here, it’s only when these characters splinter off on their own that they sing their truth. Even then, they’ve been so suffocated by lies that they can’t always come up with the right words. In one number, Swinton, who goes glossy-eyed to show the cracks in her high-fashion veneer, poses in a transparent rain slicker while bleating raw, yowling noises that blend with the despairing strings. As for the naive son, whom MacKay plays with apple-cheeked precociousness plus a brain worm, during his wildest solo, he thrusts his crotch and goes, “Nyah, nyah!” Lies are to Oppenheimer what the skeleton was to Da Vinci. He’s fixated on understanding how they work, how they evolve and bend, how they wind up controlling the way a person moves through life. When Shannon’s patriarch insists that “drilling for oil was just an excuse for wind farms, clean water, save the chimpanzees,” he’s rewriting history for an audience of no one but himself and how he wants his son to see him. The scale of destruction he has caused is vague and unspeakable. We know riots were involved because he insists they weren’t. Given that our setting is the end of the world and all, we can estimate that his death toll trumps that of Oppenheimer’s breakthrough 2012 documentary, “The Act of Killing,” in which the former soldiers of an Indonesian death squad reenacted their past massacres to shore up their conviction that they were the heroes. That powerful film sided with our desire to punish the aggressors. But when Shannon’s fossil-fuel tycoon rebuts that the rest of humanity drove cars, too, well, he’s got a point. Perhaps out of a shared sense of guilt, Oppenheimer yearns to give these sinners a chance to atone for their mistakes. Alone, they plead for forgiveness, like when Shannon scales a mound of salt clutching a taxidermy bird like he fancies himself the heroine of “The Sound of Music.” Rather than condemn its characters forever, “The End” gives these plastic people the choice to reclaim their humanity. That’s what turns out to be torture. This is a musical that treasures goofy imperfection, a scene where McInnerny does a funny little tap dance, or the joy in Shannon’s hyena cackle. Oppenheimer untethers his script from the responsibilities of explaining how this doomsday manor functions. The food stash, the waste disposal, none of that comes into play, and the characters are wholly incurious about whatever’s going on outside their cave. Instead, all the attention goes to micro-shifts in people’s moods, which, for characters this manicured, are as dramatic as a new ripple in a rock garden. Only Ingram’s home invader can be both happy and sad at once. The girl can’t wall her emotions away and that rattles this bunker to its very foundation. The film around her is itself built on a fault line of contradictions — it’s at once tepid and sledgehammer-insistent, a slab of decadent milquetoast. But you leave thinking about the question the characters never bring themselves to ask or sing: What’s the difference between being alive and living?
